LOWA, Lake of the Woods, Lake Currents - shared w/ you by Kendra Seekins, your local Realtor eXpert by Kendra's

The Official Newsletter of the Lake of the Woods Association, Inc. Vol. 19, No. 20

540.972.2237

LOWA.org

/LOWAssociation

February 11, 2022

Clubhouse Ready for Your Return

by Nancy King, Chair, Clubhouse Committee A new year has started! With the new year come changes, improvements, and renewed hopes for success. While the Clubhouse was closed for most of January, Manager Ryan Richardson was able to check some items off the todo list. So, as you return to your Clubhouse, look for: a freshly painted front door; cleaned and waxed Member’s Lounge and Great Hall floors; painted hallways; steam-cleaned carpets throughout; new energy-efficient recessed lights throughout; replaced and upgraded transformers; and serviced appliances. All these efforts will result in a more efficient food service operation and create a better atmosphere for our members. We also have some notable changes to our Clubhouse team. Long-time Assistant Manager Eric Fieber has headed south and relocated to Florida. We wish him well in his new endeavors. George, also Assistant Manager, has moved on to other adventures. Ryan is on his own right now, but is actively looking for our new team stars. It is a new year, but winter is still here, as Mother Nature consistently reminds us. So, when cabin fever strikes and you want to put up the closed sign in your kitchen at home, make sure to put YOUR Clubhouse on the calendar. Ryan is gearing up for outstanding events in 2022. The first stop is the LOW Lioness Mardi Gras Dinner Dance scheduled for March 5, featuring Reunion Band and a special menu. Also in March, look for bigger and better Section Parties to get to know your neighbors on the second Wednesday of each month. Then, in April, check out the Grand Re-Opening of the Deck for the summer season. No date yet, but watch for details in Lake Currents, flyers, social media, and email blasts.

See

Love Notes

on page 8

President's Letter 2 Agenda 2 Association News 2 - 11 General Manager 3 Board Minutes 3 Calendar 6, 7 Viewpoints 12 Orange County 13 Classifieds 14 - 15 Employment Opportunities 15

Monday, Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day Wednesday, Feb. 16 LOWA Regular Board Meeting 2 PM, Community Center, Zoom Monday, Feb. 21 Presidents’ Day LOWA Offices Closed LOW Trash Compactor Closed

Wednesday, March 9 LOWA Regular Board Meeting 2 PM, Community Center, Zoom LOWA Website Links TEKControl (Visitor Management) LOWA.ORG/TEKCONTROL

Association News Lake Currents February 11, 2022

President’s Letter by Pete Brown

Our Feb. 5 Board of Directors meeting brought us within one meeting of final adoption of our budget. During that meeting, amendments by Cliff Wilks and Walt Diercks had the net effect of lowering our assessment number. These were difficult decisions. We are awaiting an opinion by our insurance adjuster on possible help with the devasting cleanup of Winter Storm Frida. This could lower our assessment a bit more. Our final vote on the budget adoption that sets the HOA assessment is on Feb. 16. Throughout the budget process, we have heard comments about why do we need to give raises? As a point of reference, our Federal Government graciously gave people my age a 5.9% Cost of Living Adjustment to Social Security to help us not lose too much ground against a 7% rate of inflation. We try to do something similar when we give employees a raise. We have good people we want to keep. We had Virginia House Delegate Phil Scott of District 88 speak at our meeting. He is a resident of neighboring Lake Wilderness, where he serves on their Board of Directors and shares some of our concerns as an HOA. When new district lines take effect after November 2023, Delegate Scott would likely run for election as our delegate for District 63. Director Wilks asked him to review any possible changes to the Virginia Property Owners Association Act that could possibly make it less cumbersome for an HOA to address their changing needs without the necessity of a referendum. We approved a new Golf Maintenance contract with IGM. They were the best value and lowest cost by far over the other two bidders. We are confident they will continue to address concerns of the Golf Committee as they work to continually improve our course. Thank you to all who worked on this process. Lastly, we approved agreements for use of our Fitness Center by first responders from County of Orange Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Lake of the Woods Fire and Rescue Company and Allied Universal Security Services, Inc. This was the subject of a lot of misinformation on social media sites. These groups will purchase three each of our proximity cards that can be used by their members when they are on duty, and they sign a waiver. Never more than three members of each group can use them at one time. The cost of these cards is more than our family memberships. I hope the weather soon warms up as we venture into our yards for clean up after the storm damage. Special thanks to General Manager Phil Rodenberg and staff for giving members more time to get their lots back in shape and into compliance with our rules. Many thanks also to our neighbors who continue to help each other in these efforts.

Lake of the Woods Association, Inc.

Agenda (Tentative) Regular Board of Directors Meeting February 16, 2022 2 PM, Community Center 12:30 PM CALL TO ORDER

Zoom information available at www.LOWA.org/Agendas

1. EXECUTIVE SESSION 2 PM 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5

+ 2. OPEN SESSION Pledge of Allegiance Meeting Notice and Quorum Confirmation Approval of Agenda Approval of Minutes: February 5, 2022 Employee Excellence In Service

3. MEMBER COMMENTS ON UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS AGENDA ITEMS AND MEMBER GENERAL COMMENTS 4. REPORTS 4.1 Officer Reports A. Executive Session Actions B. Committee Changes 4.2 General Manager Report A. Coronavirus and LOWA Community Activities and Business Operations B. January Financials and Year End Forecast 4.3 Committee Liaison Reports 4.4 Committee Reports 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1 Status Report on Proposed Amendments to Regulation X, Use of Lakes, Regarding Non-Conventional Watercraft 6. NEW BUSINESS 6.1 Consideration of Adopting the FY 2022-2023 Budget (Resolution 2022-4) 6.2 Consideration of Approving a Friends of Lake of the Woods Project for Two Benches for the Entrance of the Clubhouse Pool/Fitness Center Complex 6.3 Consideration of Adopting a Resolution Regarding the Employee 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan (Resolution 2022-5) 7. DIRECTOR COMMENTS 8. SCHEDULED MEETINGS • Regular Board of Directors Meeting, Wednesday, March 9, 2022, Community Center. 1 PM Executive Session, 2 PM Open Session • Regular Board of Directors Meeting, Saturday, April 2, 2022, Community Center, 9 AM Executive Session, 10 AM Open Session 9. ADJOURNMENT Join Zoom Meeting: Log-in to LOWA.org, go to BoardAgendas, click on Zoom link. Members of record may record any portion of this meeting so long as (1) you first notify the President for an announcement before you begin and (2) you do not interfere with other members or the official recording. (See Administrative Regulation 2016-4.) The Board reserves the right to remove, add and/or relocate agenda items, as necessary.

Board of Directors, LOWA, Inc.

Send email to the Board at: Board@LOWA.org President: Pete Brown Vice Pres.: Teri Vickery Treasurer: Walt Diercks Secretary: Rick Rappoport Directors: Jennifer Zukowski Carl Clawson Clifton Wilks

General Manager:

Phillip Rodenberg (prodenberg@LOWA.org)

Director of Facilities: James "Bobby" Jones (jjones@LOWA.org)

Director of Finance:

Charlie Maneval (cmaneval@LOWA.org)

Editorial Staff President of the Board General Manager Communications Manager: Carolyn Brodeur (cbrodeur@LOWA.org) Communications Assistant: Lisa Naghshineh (lakecurrents@LOWA.org) Copy Editor Dan McFarland (dmcfarland@LOWA.org) Graphics/Layout: Chris Porter (cporter@LOWA.org) LOWA Communications Department: 540-972-2278

Lake Currents is the official newsletter of the Lake of the Woods Association, Inc; all content in this newsletter is published at the discretion of the LOWA Board of Directors and Management (USPS 872-400) and is published bi-weekly for its membership. Nonmembers $20 per year (25 issues). Periodical postage rate paid at Spotsylvania, VA 22553. Visit our web site at: LOWA.org. ITEMS FOR PUBLICATION in the newsletter must be received in the Association office by noon on the Monday after publication for the next publication or by the preceding Friday if Monday is a holiday. All advertising and articles need to be submitted via email to lakecurrents@LOWA.org. The views expressed in guest articles and paid advertisements represent the opinions of authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lake of the Woods Association, Inc. Call the communications office at 540-972-2278 for details about classified and display advertisements which must be prepaid (unless other arrangements are made). POSTMASTER: Send address changes to LOWA, Inc., 102 Lakeview Pkwy, Locust Grove, VA 22508.

Dam Emergency Drill Increases LOWA and Agency Readiness

Regular Board of Directors Meeting February 5, 2022, Unapproved Minutes 8:30 a.m., Community Center Note: These minutes are provided to members for review

Present Phillip Brown, President Teri Vickery, Vice President Walter Diercks, Treasurer Richard Rappoport, Secretary Jennifer Zukowski Clifton Wilks Carl Clawson

Others Phil Rodenberg, General Manager Linda Brooks, Recorder (from 10:00 a.m.)

Call to Order 1. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion by Clawson, passed unanimously, to enter into Executive Session at 8:29 a.m. for the purpose of discussing and considering contracts; and discussing matters involving violations of the Declaration and Regulations for which a member, his family members, tenants, guests or other invitees are responsible. Motion by Diercks, passed unanimously, to exit Executive Session at 9:59 a.m.

4. REPORTS 4.1 Report from Virginia 88th District Delegate Following redrawing of the district maps, Virginia House Delegate Phillip A. Scott will be representing our 63rd district area in Orange County following the next election. Mr. Scott emphasized he wants to develop relationships with his constituents early, and is looking forward to serving LOW residents. 4.2 Report from Orange County Supervisor Lee Frame: No report available. 4.3 Report from Orange County Sheriff Mark Amos: No report available.

In my mid-January column on Winter Storm Frida, I promised to recap the Dam Emergency Drill that LOWA hosted on Dec. 29. Such drills increase the readiness of LOWA and the county and state agencies that respond during dam emergencies. The Jan. 3 snow event dumped 14 inches on the community. LOWA incurred approximately $120,000 in expenses related to the Winter Storm Frida clean up. Now about the drill: • The purpose of the Dec. 29 drill held at the Clubhouse was to verify and update contact information of the agencies that support LOWA, so that we at LOWA can increase our effectiveness during an unusual event to either the Veterans Dam or Keatons Dam. • The drill was led by LOWA Environmental Resources Manager Nick Blankenship. • There were 19 participants representing LOWA Board, Management and Departments, Orange County Fire & Emergency Medical Services, LOW Fire & Rescue Company, LOWA Security, Spotsylvania Fire & EMS, Virginia Department of Transportation, Virginia State Police, and Virginia Department of Emergency Management. What kind of dam emergencies are there? Emergencies can be manmade or natural, but we tend to think of natural disasters following large weather events. Working with Don Rissmeyer, P.E., our dam engineer from A. Morton Thomas and Associates, LOWA has actions and alerts that are tied to the three levels of dam emergency: • Level 1: Non-emergency, unusual event, slowly developing • Level 2: Potential dam failure situation, rapidly developing • Level 3: Urgent; dam failure appears imminent or is in progress Prior to the drill: • At 10 AM on Dec. 17, the Orange County Emergency Communications Center, in coordination with LOWA, sent an Orange County alert as a test of the Rave Alert System to lot owners in the Veterans Dam and Keaton’s Dam Inundation Zones. The Veterans Dam Inundation Zone includes lots in the 100, 200 and 400 Blocks of Lakeview Parkway and LOWA Section 16 on Rapidan Road. We want to do these test alerts at least once a year to raise awareness of lot owners, including new lot owners, who are downstream from the Main Lake and Keaton’s Lake. Here are the statistics from the alert: o Phone calls: 65 of 84 messages were answered o Emails: 23 of 25 emails were opened o Texts: 24 of 37 text messages were opened

See General Manager on p. 4

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

2. OPEN SESSION Pledge of Allegiance 2.1 Motion by Wilks, passed unanimously, that the Board enter into Open Session at 10:09 a.m. and affirm that the Board met earlier today in Executive Session for the purpose of discussing and considering contracts; and discussing matters involving violations of the Declaration and Regulations for which a member, his family members, tenants, guests or other invitees are responsible. 2.2 Confirmation of Quorum and Meeting Notice Secretary Rappoport confirmed that a quorum is present and proper notice made to all members of record. 2.3 Approval of Agenda Motion by Vickery, passed unanimously, that the Board approve the Agenda. 2.4 Approval of Minutes of January 19, 2022. Motion by Rappoport, passed unanimously, that the Board approve the minutes of the January 19, 2022 Board meeting. 3. Member Comments on Business Agenda and General Member Comments Members offered comments on the employee Covid Policy, Fitness Center usage policies, the proposed addition of a second stormwater work crew, and the assessment increase.

by Phil Rodenberg, General Manager, ® CMCA, ® AMS, ® PCAM

Association News

Lake of the Woods Association, Inc.

See February 5 Board Minutes on p. 9

Member Services/ Holcomb Building: 540-9722237, press 0. Email: Frontdesk@ LOWA.org M-F; 8:30 AM-5 PM; Sat. 9 AM-1 PM Limited Walk-in service Vehicle Bar Code Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri: 2-4:30 PM Tues, Thurs, Sat: 10 AM-noon

Amenities

ECC Office: 540-972-2211 M-F, 7 AM-3:30 PM

Equestrian Center: 540-972-2238 M-F 8:30 AM-5 PM (Appt. required) Sat/Sun 9 AM-5 PM Lessons/Pony Rides by appt.

Clubhouse: 540-972-2221 Office Hours: W-F, 9 AM-5 PM Dining Room: Wed 5-9 PM; Th-Fri 5-10 PM; Sat 11 AM-10 PM; Sun 1-4 PM Sun Brunch, 10 AM-1 PM Menu: www.LOWA.org/Clubhouse

Fareways Café: 540-972-2216 M, Tu, F, Sat, 8 AM-7 PM W, Th, 8 AM-9 PM Sun: 8 AM-6 PM *Last order will be taken 1-hour before closing time. Last call for alcohol will be 30 minutes before closing. Menu: www.LOWA.org/Fareways

Community Center: 540-972-9680

Fitness Center: 540-412-6016 Daily: 5 AM-11 PM

Golf Pro Shop (Woods Center): Daily 8:30 AM Reserve a tee time 540-972-2230 Golf Course: 9 AM daily Maintenance Office: 540-972-2223; M-F, 7 AM-3:30 PM 9.9 Leaf/Brush Area: Daily: 7 AM-5 PM Closed Wednesdays Pickleball: Paul Jacobson, 630-715-5657 Outdoor Courts available 7 AM-11 PM

Tennis: Alice Mote 540-424-8004 Courts available 7 AM-11 PM Trash: LOW Compactor Site 540-672-9600 M, TU, TH, F, 7:30 AM-7 PM Sat 8 AM-5 PM; Sun 9 AM-5 PM Closed Wednesdays and holidays County Waste: 540-727-0887 Curbside trash recycling/collection: Wednesdays

Security/Front Gate: 540-972-2210 or 540-972-2020 LOWA.ORG/TEKCONTROL 3

Association News

Delegate Scott Visits LOWA

by Carolyn Brodeur, Communications Manager Delegate Phillip A. Scott, Virginia House of Delegates, 88th District, visited LOWA during the Feb. 5 Board of Directors meeting. He took the opportunity to introduce himself and to offer his services to LOWA members. He noted that LOW is not currently in his district, and the redistricting doesn’t take effect until 2023, but he will eventually be representing the 63rd District, which will include Spotsylvania and Orange Counties. Delegate Scott explained, “I am excited to represent Photo provided Lake of the Woods going forward.” 88th District Delegate He also stated, “My door is open,” Phillip A. Scott and encouraged LOW Members to contact him at his official email address. He can be reached at DelPScott@house.virginia.gov.

Lake of the Woods Storm Cleanup

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

by Matilde Barone, Site and Covenant Inspector

Lake of the Woods was hit hard by our recent snowstorm that left many trees broken off or down. Our Roads crew continues to work on the cleanup of Association property. Please note that debris that residents place onto Association property, such as the ditch line near the road, will not be cleaned up, but be left for the resident to take care of. The cleanup is proving to be quite a task for the Roads crew, and they are working hard each day to complete the work. We will start to enforce regulations for resident lots starting on April 1. By that date we will expect all residents to have had enough time to complete the cleanup of their lots from the storm. Our Restrictive Covenant 8.A.(l) states: All lots, whether occupied or unoccupied, and any improvements placed thereon, shall at all times be maintained in such manner as to prevent their becoming unsightly by reason of unattractive growth on such lot or the accumulation of rubbish or debris thereon. Our Restrictive Covenant 10.D. states: On each lot, the rights-of-way and easement areas reserved by Declarant or dedicated to public utilities purposes shall be maintained continuously by the lot owner but no structures, plantings or other material shall be placed or permitted to remain or other activities undertaken which may damage or interfere with the installation or maintenance of utilities, which may change the direction of flow of drainage channels in the easements, which may obstruct or retard the flow of water through the drainage channels in the easements, or which damage or interfere with established slope ratios or create erosion or sliding problems, provided, however, that where the existing location of a drainage channel would hinder the orderly development of a lot the drainage channel may be relocated as shown on the recorded plat by drainage arrows, provided, such relocation does not cause an encroachment on any other lot in the Section or Subdivision. Improvements within such areas shall also be maintained by the respective lot owner except for those for which a public authority or utility company is responsible. Our Regulation V.F. states: 1. Improved and unimproved property will be maintained in a neat and orderly condition. a. Dead trees (whether standing, leaning, or lying on the ground), tree cuttings, piles of underbrush, unstacked rotting or decayed logs, or any debris or items other than natural growth, must be removed 3.b. When tree stumps are not removed from the property, they shall not be left higher than 12 inches above the ground. All downed trees, limbs, etc., must be removed from each lot. Any stumps that remain will need to be no higher than 12 inches from the ground. Residents with drainage easements on their property will be expected to have them cleared of any debris to allow orderly flow water. We do appreciate the efforts of each resident to accomplish this task in the time allowed. For your convenience, remember that we keep a list of contractors that do this kind of work at the ECC office.

General Manager from p. 3 • On the afternoon of Dec. 17, the LOWA Maintenance Department performed a Level 2 in-house drill replicating a seepage of Keaton’s Run Dam. It was an All-Hands Event for all divisions to bring equipment and manpower to the Keaton’s Run Dam to slow or stop the seepage. It took 23 minutes from the time of the radio notification for all hands to arrive with all required equipment and materials. It is important to run these drills on a frequent basis to make sure all, including new employees, understand their roles in a dam emergency. Want to learn more? See the Dam Emergency Action Plans on www. LOWA.org under the “About” tab. Want to get county alerts? Sign up for Rave Alert notifications through the Orange County website at www.orangecountyva.gov/ravealert. What’s next? In 2022, LOWA plans to do a tabletop exercise with a scenario and another all-hands drill in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.

LOWLINC Speaker Series: 20th Anniversary of Village Movement

by Carolyn Rourke, Member, LOWLINC On Feb. 15, you are invited to join LOWLINC to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Village Movement as our popular Speaker Series returns after a long hiatus imposed by the pandemic. From its beginnings, when a small group of Beacon Hill neighbors established the first Village in Boston in 2002 to a thriving network today of more than 300 nonprofit, community-based Villages across the country (including LOWLINC), the Village model has been established as a costeffective, sustainable solution for healthy, vibrant aging – a milestone worthy of celebration! Tuesday, Feb. 15, will be celebrated as National Village Day. The celebration will include a Zoom online seminar, organized by the national Village to Village Network, that will tell the Beacon Hill story of how it all began, trace key developments in the Village Movement, highlight stories from several Villages representing different models, and feature special appearances by representatives of the Village Movement. LOWLINC will livestream the event at the Community Center. We are pleased to offer this free presentation to all Lake of the Woods residents as part of our Speaker Series. The presentation will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, from noon to 1:30 PM. Please arrive by 11:45 AM for a prompt start at noon. Attendees will be required to have been vaccinated for COVID-19, and to wear masks. You may register for the presentation at lowlinc.org. In case the presentation must be canceled because of COVID, please check our website on the day of the event to confirm it will be held. If you cannot attend, a recording of the event will be available on our website. “We are delighted to celebrate this 20th anniversary of Beacon Hill Village and the Village Movement,” said John Beisheim, president of LOWLINC, the Village that serves older adults at Lake of the Woods. “Villages are a costeffective care model for our rapidly aging society that increasingly recognizes the benefits of home and community-based care for older adults.”

Photo by Vicki Avila

Wednesday, March 9 2 PM LOWA Regular Board Meeting, CC, Zoom

February 11 – February 17 8 AM

LOWA Regular Board Meeting – February 5

12 PM

SCAMS 2021

1 PM

Real Virginia

2 PM

Dementia - Seasons of Change

5 PM

LOWA Regular Board Meeting – February 5

Committee Meetings: Meetings are subject to change; contact the Committee Chair for current information. Visit www.LOWA.org/ Committees. For schedule updates, check online at www.LOWA.org/ Calendar. Fareways Café: 2/11, 2 PM, Zoom Pickleball/Tennis: 2/14, 1 PM, Zoom Rules: 2/15, 3 PM, Zoom LCC Meeting: 2/16, 7:30 PM, CC LCC Hearing: 2/16, 8 PM, CC ECC: 2/17, 9 AM, CC Communications: 2/23, 3 PM, Zoom External Affairs: 2/23, 3 PM, Zoom Planning: 2/24, 3 PM, Zoom Investment/Treasurer’s Mtg: 2/28, 1 PM, Zoom Golf: 2/28, 3 PM, Zoom Lakes: 2/28, 7 PM, Zoom

February 18 – February 24 8 AM

LOWA Regular Board Meeting – February 16

1 PM

Real Virginia

5 PM

LOWA Regular Board Meeting – February 16

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Deposits are FDIC-insured up to $2.5 million ($5 million for joint accounts of two or more people). Amounts that exceed the program’s FDIC coverage limits will be removed from the program and invested in the Edward Jones Money Market Fund, unless you opt instead to deposit such amounts in an Excess Bank as outlined in the program disclosure. More information about the Insured Bank Deposit Program, including the program disclosure, is available from your financial advisor or at www.edwardjones.com/bankdeposit. For more information about FDIC insurance, go to www.fdic.gov.

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Lake Currents February 11, 2022

• Board Meetings: View online at www.LOWA.org/Videos. To join the Zoom meeting, visit www. LOWA.org/BoardAgendas, for Zoom link. Member Log-in Required. For assistance with logging on to the website call 540-972-2278. For assistance accessing Zoom meeting call 540-972-9680 or email ZoomHelp@LOWA.org.

Meeting Facility Key: CC Community Center CCCR Community Center Classroom CR Community Center Craft Room CH Clubhouse CHGH Clubhouse Great Hall CHPR Clubhouse President’s Room EQ Equestrian Center FW Fareways Cafe FC Fitness Center HF Hollyfield Park LGES Locust Grove Elementary School (Rt. 20) LLCH Lower Level Clubhouse LOWC LOW Church MCR Maintenance Conference Room RR Holcomb Building Reading Room SB Sweetbriar Park ULH Upper Level Holcomb WC Woods Center

Association News

Wednesday, February 16 2 PM LOWA Regular Board Meeting, CC, Zoom

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Association News

Friday, February 11 4:30 PM Nutrition and Well-Being Presentation (CC). Info: Julie 540207-9700.

Calendar of Events SPORTS & EXERCISE (subject to change) Location

Monday, February 14 Valentine’s Day 1 PM LOW Garden Club (CH).

Aerobics

Basketball Seniors 50+

Tuesday, February 15 12-1:30 PM LOWLINC Presentation (CC). Info: LOWLINC.org.

Monday, February 21 Presidents’ Day LOWA Offices Closed LOW Trash Compactor Closed Thursday, February 24 7 PM LOW Veterans Club (LLCH). Info: lowvets.club Friday, February 25 4:30 PM Nutrition and Well-Being Presentation (CC). Info: Julie 540-207-9700.

Day

9:15-10 AM

M, W, F

Church 540-972-9060

11:30 AM-1:30 PM

Al.goodwyn@gmail.com

12:30 PM

TU, TH

Alison 703-347-5280

Line Dancing

LLCH

4-7 PM

Christine 703-674-7451

Pickleball Lessons

10:10-11:45 AM

Renee 703-405-7687

Praise & Worship Dance

LOWC-WC

10 AM-12:30 PM

Sonja 540-972-1734

Senior Softball 50+

9 AM

Barry 540-972-8964

Square Dancers Club

7:30-9:30 PM

2nd/ 4th/5th F

Dick 703-298-6254

Stretch and Flex

8:30-9:15 AM

M, W, F

Frances 540-972-5435

Walkers & Joggers Club

Varies

9 AM

M, W, SA

Diane 540-388-2930

Walkers Meetup Group

LLCH, p. lot

8 AM

M-F

Vassaatthelake@gmail.com

Water Fitness (seasonal)

CH Pool

9 AM & 10 AM

M, W, F

Carol 540-972-6739

Yoga

9:15 AM (varies)

FB Group: LOW YogaBonnieBell

Yoga Gentle

10:30 AM

Rebekah 908-358-8406

Yoga Chair

10:30 AM

Rebekah 908-358-8406

Yoga Flow

9 AM

M, W

Rebekah 908-358-8406

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, BRIDGE & FUN (subject to change) Location Time Day Deadline for submissions to the Feb. 25 issue of Lake Currents is Feb. 14. Deadline for submissions to the March 11 issue of Lake Currents is Feb. 28.

Contact

AARP Meeting

9:30 AM

3rd M

Carolyn 540-972-3306

Bridge, Sunday Duplicate

7 PM

Joe 540-972-8052

Bridge, Wed Ladies

9 AM-3 PM

Mary Ann 540-412-6757, 540-850-2620

Bridge, Friday

1-4 PM

Toby 540-972-8251

Bocce Club

CC, Rm. 1

7 PM

3 TH

Dirk 540-402-5557 Lowbocce@gmail.com

Book Club, LOW

Wilderness Lib.

1 PM

2nd W

540-972-9284

Chess Club

Advertising Info: Call 540-972-2278 or email LakeCurrents@LOWA.org Media Kit online at LOWA.org

Kurt 703-401-8592

Childhelp Auxiliary

LOWC

10 AM

Karen 540 972 9043

1st W

Civic Club Meeting

Pat 540-735-7998

Civil War Study Group

Charles 540-972-2401

Closet Quilters

Maureen 540-972-7010

Craft Group

LOWC

DAR Susannah Chandler Democratic Club

CC CC

9:30-11:45 AM

Debra 540-399-1210

1 PM

2 SA

Betty Larson 540-661-7202

Kerry 540-220-8547

1 PM

2 W

Fire & Rescue Auxiliary

Marguerite 540-972-3681

Friends of Wildlife (FOWL)

7 PM

4th W

FB: livingwithwildlifeatlow

Fun Bunch 55+

10 AM-1 PM

John 540-972-5611

Garden Club

12:30 PM

2nd M

Jan 540-972-1630

Around LOW

9 AM

3 SA

Happy Tails Dog Club

info@happytailsdogclub.net

Litter Pick-up in LOW

Questions about buying or selling a home?

2 PM

1 M

Terry 760-459-9213

LOW Hooks & Needles

9-11 AM

Sharon 540-812-5652

LOW Lioness Club

1440 Central Park Blvd., Fredericksburg

Paid Advertisement

Living & working at the Lake since 2014

Jan 540-972-1630

Donalda 540-412-2857/Jan 540-755-2696

1 TH

Linda 571-328-9247

LOW Players

7 PM

2 W

Dave 540-972-6289

Mahjongg

1-4 PM

Debby 540-412-5240

Mothers of Preschoolers

LOWC, Founders

9:15 AM

1 /3 W

Kristen, mops@lowchurch.org

Photography Club, LOW

7 PM

4th M

Bill 540-834-9866

6:30 PM

2 /4 TU

Pick & Sing

janicejohnston.samsonproperties.net

LOW Arts

LOW Lions Club

Janice Mae Johnston, RENE, MRP (434) 258-1617 JustAskJaniceJ@gmail.com

Contact

Forever Fit

Wednesday, February 16 2 PM LOWA Regular Board Meeting (CC), Zoom. Info: 540-972-2214.

Time

Republican Club, LOW

Veterans Club Wilderness Toastmasters Woodworkers Club

FB Groups/lowpickandsing

7 PM

2 M

Dave 703-618-3658

LLCH

7 PM

4 TH

Mike 571-235-5313

Zoom

6:30 PM

1 /3 TU

WildernessToastmasters@gmail.com

7 PM

4 TU

Glynn 703-625-3849

nd th st

Please refer to meeting room location key on previous page

LOW Veterans Club by Fred Pulis, Member

Garden Club: The Joy of Spring by Karen Kovarik, Publicity Chairman

So many of us crave a healthier way of eating. We want to feel in control of what we put into our bodies. We want to know that we are optimizing benefits while minimizing harm. We want to overcome undesirable – and even destructive – eating habits. We want to look and feel better and be energized and excited about life and our place in it. Yet, despite our efforts and best intentions, we too often live in a chronic state of discouragement and defeat. Day in and day out. We’re exhausted and often just plain fed up with not knowing what to do or where to begin. It doesn’t have to be this way. We don’t have to live in constant frustration with food and eating. But how could we even begin to change? I’d say, “This time, let’s start with what To Do: design and incorporate a few simple, strategic habits we can begin to master and build on.” For this proposed success startup, I suggest three basic Additions to our regular diet (assuming they are lacking): Four cups of purified water (pre-poured and placed strategically the night before). Raw leafy vegetables (ideally, organic) (pre-washed and pre-chopped for the week), ready to be taken out of a resealable bag or container by the handful – to be eaten alone, as a salad or mixed into other foods. Two handfuls. Organic baby carrots. One handful. Recipe: Consume these once a day for a week, tracking your progress as you go. To find out more about this “add on” strategy and where to go from here, join us at one of our two presentations on Nutrition and Well-Being. Free to all and all welcome on Feb. 11 and Feb. 25, from 4:30 to 5:30 PM, in the Community Center. Questions? Contact Julie at 540-207-9700 or send email to NewHopeNutr@gmail.com. See you there!

LOW Players

by Sandie Frame, Member, LOW Players Auditions are over, the cast has been selected, and rehearsals are underway for our spring play, Foxfire. Foxfire, the story of an elderly Appalachian widow’s life and memories, is based on the Foxfire books about culture and traditions in north Georgia and the struggle to keep those traditions alive. Hume Cronin and Susan Cooper wrote the play, with songs by Hume Cronin, Susan Cooper, and Jonathan Brielle. We listen while “Annie” reminisces with her ghost husband, enjoys songs by their son and watches the land developer try to get their property. Performances will be on April 1, 2, 8 and 9 at 7:30 PM and matinees on April 3 and 10 at 2 PM. Tickets are $22 for adults and $18 for students. Tickets will go on sale Feb. 27 starting at 9 AM. We are always looking for new members to join our group. If you are interested in seeing how a play is put together and, maybe, in volunteering, please come. Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 8, in the Community Center, classroom 1, starting at 7 PM.

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

The LOW Garden Club’s next regular meeting is this Monday, Feb. 14, at 1 PM. All club meetings are held in the Clubhouse, and we welcome visitors. The subject of the February program is Aging and Gardening. Garden Club member Donna Chernowetz, a Master Gardener, will be speaking, and will give us ideas for tools and resources. Attendees are invited to bring soup and/or crackers, which will be donated to our food bank. The Joy of Spring is the theme for the Garden Club Spring Flower Show to be held in the Clubhouse on Saturday, April 30. It is free and open to the public, so invite your family and friends. This small floral design show offers two creative ways for members to participate: floral design and displaying plants in the horticulture exhibit. Do note plants in the horticulture exhibit must have been in one’s possession for the past 90 days, so it is too late to purchase one. Our second floral design workshop will be offered on April 22 at 1 PM in the Community Center. The focus is on miniatures. We know it doesn’t seem like spring is just around the corner, but it is time to start thinking about what you can have ready for the Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, May 14. The LOW Garden Club is a member of the Shenandoah District of the Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs, as well as the National Garden Club. It is through the National that we participate in Penny Pines. At each meeting we collect pennies for the purchase of plantations of seedlings to be planted in our national forests to replace trees lost due to fire, drought, or other natural disasters. Our Club’s donations are earmarked for Virginia, but individuals may donate a plantation for any state they choose.

by Julie Buhite, Nutrition Coach/Strategist

LOW Community

The LOW Veterans Club will have a special member guest speaker at the Feb. 24 meeting at 7 PM in the lower level the Clubhouse. Our guest speaker will be retired military aviator Colonel Bob Boucher. He is a former Chief of Staff for Marine Corps Base Quantico, including a tour as a presidential helicopter pilot. Boucher will be giving a presentation on the White House Military Office which supports virtually everything the President of the United States does on a daily basis. Please join us for a fascinating look inside two different administrations, with a few funny experiences that Boucher encountered on the job. The LOW Veterans Club is proud to announce that the Memorial Walkway has been in various stages of planning, development, and approval for the past nine months, and this month the LOWA Board of Directors and Management have given the project their final stamp of approval. The Memorial Walkway will be located at the Clubhouse flagpole site and will incorporate the existing Korean War Memorial Plaque into the new design. The club is preparing to submit its first order of 150 bricks to the brick company. These bricks will help fill the designed space for the Veterans Memorial Walkway in time for the Memorial Day 2022 dedication ceremony. We were fortunate to receive an anonymous donation, enabling us to purchase 21 bricks for WWII and Korean War veterans who reside at the lake. Any bricks that are ordered in the second shipment probably will not arrive in time for the Memorial Day ceremony, so time is of the essence. If you are interested in purchasing a brick ($50 for the 4”x 8”) or ($100 for the 8”x 8”), please visit the Veterans Club website at www.lowvets.club. Simply click on the Brick Project Update link and either download the form or go directly to the brick site and order online. Make your check payable to “LOW Vets Club” and mail to Mike Landers, 109 Green Spring Road, Locust Grove, VA 22508.

Eating Well: Where Do I Begin?

Love Notes: Classified Ad Special Feature! To JOE & GAIL Sauro - You are both my Valentines! Your hearts are huge, and I thank you for being such wonderful friends and constantly making me feel loved. Becoming 80 was a breeze with your humor and care by my side. Much love. ~Barb

CATHERINE HILLIS, hugs for being our Valentine in our new home. We love you to the moon and back and will forever. Love, John and Biscuit

Love Notes

DALE-- HAPPY Valentine’s Day to my best friend and soulmate for 45 years. Here’s to a new journey at Lake if the Woods! Love you. ~Opal

WARM FUZZIES to all of the incredible, dynamic women of the LOW LGA. ~Anonymous HAPPY VALENTINE’S Day Joy! Love, Herbie

DEAR SCOTT, Cheyenne, Liam, Allie, SJ, and Bailey... All six of you keep my life so crazy but absolutely amazing at the same time. I cannot imagine what one day would be like without our chaotic family. I love each and every one of you with every piece of me. I hope you all have an amazing Valentine’s Day! Love you always, Yo Wife/ Mommy

To my NEW FRIEND Megan Brown - you are the coolest, most fun person I have met in a really long time and I am so glad that you are here for this moment in time. I feel blessed to have met you and to get to spend time with you. You are a wonderful, brilliant person - Happy Pal-entine’s Day! ~Sharla

To CAROL BROWN - thank you for being so thoughtful always… and keeping me in your heart and mind. It means so much. Inviting me over for dinner and games or asking me to go with you all to the party… these things matter. Thank you, thank you. XOXO ~Sharla

HAPPY VALENTINE’S Day Cookieman! I Love You! HAPPY VALENTINE’S to the General Manager, Board of Directors, and all LOWA personnel who work so diligently every day to make this a wonderful community in which to live. ~Anonymous

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

HAPPY VALENTINE’S Day John. Love you! ~Nadine

To my SECOND MOM, Linda Gegg - who is also my new bestie… I adore you and would be lost without you. You have helped me with everything from planting things and trying to kill moles to picking out my new puppy and bringing him home… who do I go to for input on pretty much everything? You. I love you. ~Sharla

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A BIG EMBRACE to my bowling buddies, Kitty & Kerry - Let’s roll to victory - or at least keep having fun! ~Nadine DEAREST SUSAN - 54 years of will you “Be My Valentine,” Love, G To my SUPERHERO NEIGHBOR Joe Gegg what would I do without you? You have helped me out of countless homeowner situations where I needed a hand and some problem solving advice. And thank you again and again for sharing your boat with me!! Can’t wait to repay the favor!! ~Sharla HAPPY VALENTINE’S Day Brian and Herbie! Love you both. Looking forward to all our adventures and rest at the lake and everywhere else this year. Big love, Colleen TO MY Friends, Wanda Gonzales and her Mama - You two have done so much for me and managed to stay cheerful through it all. Amazing! Thanks for all you do and for caring for me. Much love, Barb To my PICKLEBALL FRIENDS: Gail MacMillan, Toni Keating (2), Jean Westholt, Mary Ann Schoenfeld, Juli Schafer, Betsy Burgett, Renee McGinnis, and Megan Brown - Thank you so much for welcoming me into the pickleball fun and joining me in all the laughs we have had so far! I cannot wait to have even MORE fun together!!! ~Sharla

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NANCY and ED Curtis - Happy Valentine’ Day. So glad for our new move to Lake of the Woods and being neighbors. Here’s to all the fun and exciting plans ahead! Love Opal and Dale HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Freddie! Love, Herbie HUGE HUGS for the incredible LOW Fire & Rescue Team - you rock (and save lives!). ~Anonymous TO MY Superhero Neighbor Pete Brown what would I do without you? You have been there to help me break into my own house, fix my lake pump, invite me over for the Most Amazing shrimp and grits Ever, help my mom string up her fishing rod, give me advice on everything LOW, and so much more… You are a true prince among men. I feel so lucky to have met you and to live so close to you. ~Sharla HAPPY VALENTINE’S Day to Carolyn Brodeur and the entire Communications Office staff for keeping us in the know. ~Anonymous HAPPY VALENTINE’S Day, Clark! For Always. Love, Julia JIM MCMANUS You’re my everything, here’s to more adventures! ~Christy

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not begin until April 1 due to the difficulty members are having finding contractors to remove debris. 4.9 Committee Reports A. Safety and Security Chair Larry Morlan reported on Committee membership and significant actions the Committee took last year. Topics currently under discussion include a third entry gate, proposals to address speeding on the roads, improvement in house numbering, identifying road hazard areas and installing roadway markings, and lake safety issues.

February 5 Board Minutes from p. 3 4.4 Report from Allied Universal Security Chief Scott Walker reported that in January Security staff received 192 calls for service and issued 44 summonses. Of note, there were two incidents of vandalism, three motor vehicle accidents, four medical responses, one incident of drug activity and 6 animal complaints. There was a significant increase in welfare checks due to the snowstorm and loss of power which lasted 2-5 days for some residents. There has been a slight increase in vandalism in the Sweetbriar Park area, and additional patrols are monitoring the situation. Security had a smooth transition over to the new P25 Public Safety Communications network which will significantly improve communications between law enforcement and emergency services throughout the County. 4.5 Report from LOW Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Inc. President Dan Cianci reported staff is working more closely with Orange County Fire & Rescue and Orange County Fire Chiefs Association, mutual aid partners, on volunteer organization. An EMT class started this week to train local volunteers, some of whom have come from Germanna Community College in the past, another partnering relationship. It is estimated there are about 20 Fire and Rescue volunteers who are not residents of LOW who would be interested in using the LOWA Fitness Center. This would save Fire & Rescue from having to spend money on equipment for their limited exercise facilities. 4.6 Report from Orange County School Board Representative Jim Hopkins: No report. 4.7 Reports from LOWA Officers President Brown reported that after a two-year hiatus, plans are being made for our annual Independence Day parade and celebration on July 2. The Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer had no report. A. Executive Session Actions Motion by Wilks, passed unanimously, that the Board suspend the privilege to use Sweetbriar Park, including the Community Center, for two weeks through February 19, 2022 for the minor in Case #22-01-02. B. Committee Liaison Reports: None. C. Committee Changes Motion by Vickery, passed unanimously, that the Board approve the Committee changes as presented on the Committee Change List dated February 5, 2022: (D-22-14) Action Alternate Resigned Voting Voting

Committee Legal & Compliance Legal & Compliance Legal & Compliance Legal & Compliance

6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6.1 Consideration of Publishing in Lake Currents for Member Comment Proposed Amendments to the LOWA Bylaws and Associated Administrative Resolution Regarding Entirely Virtual and Hybrid Board of Directors and Committee Meetings. (D-22-15) Motion by Rappoport, passed unanimously, that the Board approve publishing in Lake Currents for member comment proposed amendments to the LOWA Bylaws and associated administrative resolution regarding entirely virtual and hybrid Board of Directors and Committee meetings. 6.2 Consideration of Approving a Revised LOWA Employee Covid-19 Policy. (D-22-16) Motion by Wilks, passed unanimously, that the Board approve the revised LOWA Employee Covid-19 Policy dated February 5, 2022. 6.3 Consideration of Approving Agreements for Fitness Center Use by County of Orange Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Lake of the Woods Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, Inc., and Allied Universal Security Services, Inc. (D-22-17) Motion by Zukowski, passed unanimously, that the Board approve agreements for use of the Fitness Center to the County of Orange Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Lake of the Woods Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, Inc., and Allied Universal Security Services, Inc, and authorize the General Manager to execute the agreements.

Term-End Date February 4, 2025 February 4, 2025

7. NEW BUSINESS 7.1 Consideration of Awarding a Multi-year Contract for Golf Course Maintenance. (D-22-18) Motion by Zukowski, passed unanimously, that the Board award a multiyear contract to International Golf Maintenance, Inc. of Lakeland, FL for Golf Course Maintenance as follows: Amount Year 2022 $453,083 2023 $475,119 2024 $491,155 With an option to extend in one-year increments to: 2025 $516,637 2026 $540,367

See February 5 Board Minutes on p. 13

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Lake Currents February 11, 2022

4.8 Report of the General Manager A. LOWA Amenities, Events, Meetings and Offices: Update on Covid-19 Status. Management is recommending that Committees continue to meet via Zoom in February (except ECC and LCC) and anticipate a return to inperson meetings in March. B. Lakes Management Report Maintenance crews will be removing trees that fell into the lake during the January 3 storm after the roads and common areas are cleared of tree debris. There was no dredging activity in January as all maintenance staff was needed for storm cleanup. C. Other Business A multi-department staff work group will meet this month to start planning for the July 2 Independence Day celebration. After adoption of the new budget on February 16, the Board will be asked to consider an increase in LOWA’s employer matching portion of the Employee 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan. Reflective speed limit/curve signs were installed at the 200 block area of Westover Parkway to improve driver safety entering the curve/dip. A revised estimate of the costs of damage to LOWA property and cost of cleanup from the January storms is now $120k. LOWA’s financial obligation to cover all the costs could be mitigated following a visit from the insurance adjuster next week. ECC enforcement of unsightly lots will

LOW Community

Name Bonnie Jackson David Gardner Jean Westholdt Rodney Lackey

5. PRESENTATION – Golf Maintenance Contract Award: Recommended Finalist After comparing all contract bids for pricing and services provided, management recommends the Board consider securing a 3-year contract with IGM, our current golf course maintenance provider, with an option to extend the contract for two additional years in one-year increments. IGM was considered to be the best overall value for experience, cost and services. IGM Regional Manager Tyler Minamyer reviewed details of IGM’s professional management, accomplishments, expertise and initiatives provided over the last 15 years as LOWA’s maintenance partner, keeping our golf course in excellent shape. Without objection, President Brown took up a vote on Item 7.1 on the Agenda at this point to award a multi-year contract for golf maintenance.

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by Mary Kay Wilks, Fundraiser Coordinator Darlene Young was grand prize winner of the Quilt by Carolyn Bohling of the Fredericksburg Modern Quilt Guild. Cause 4 Paws congratulates the winners and generous donors for their continued support. Please continue to support our mission in 2022. Contact us on Facebook at cause4paws Locust Grove VA, to view our most recent newsletter and cats/kittens available for adoption.

Here is a fun activity to do, alone or in a group. The Great Backyard Bird Count is a community science project that has been held every year for 25 years, sponsored by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. To participate, choose a location and watch for 15 minutes or more, at least once between Feb. 18 and 21, and make a list of the birds you see or hear. You can find more information and register for a Feb. 16 online seminar to help you get started, as well as some great apps to help with identification and Photo by Tina Nord recording on the website: https://www. birdcount.org/participate/. You can begin entering bird lists at midnight local time on the first day of the count, anywhere in the world. Data entry is open until March 1, but the information you enter should only be from the four days of the Great Backyard Bird Count. It’s a fun activity and a great way to support the science and understanding of birds, including population trends. Happy birdwatching!

Mardi Gras Dinner Dance Sold Out by Julie Phend, Lioness Member

We are currently Sold Out! However, if you would like to be put on the waitlist, please call Nicki Buell at 703-2175615, or Ellen Bearden at 540-222-7390. The Dinner Dance takes place on Saturday, March 5, beginning at 6 PM, in the Clubhouse. Entrées include: Chicken Jambalaya, Southern Fried Catfish, Flank Steak with Wine and Mushroom Gravy, Vegetarian Etouffée. In addition, the menu includes Mardi Gras appetizers, salad, and a dessert buffet of New Orleans favorites. The Reunion Band will play from 8 to 11 PM for your dancing and listening enjoyment. Dress is semi-formal, with Mardi Gras masks optional. As well as being loads of fun, this festive event raises money for the Lioness Foundation, which supports local causes including Wilderness Food Pantry, Living Waters Free Health Clinic, Piedmont Dental Clinic, LOW Fire and Rescue, SAFE House, and scholarships to local students, as well as the Lions Hearing Foundation, Sight Foundation, LOVF Disaster Relief, and others. There will be a silent auction and some exciting raffles for items donated by local businesses and individuals in our community. For further information, questions regarding ticket purchase, or to be placed on a waiting list. please call Nicki Buell at 703-217-5615, or Ellen Bearden at 540-222-7390.

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• Cat & Dog Bags filled w/goodies donated by Drs. Amy and Andy Photo provided Olson, Lakewood Animal Hospital – Grand prize winner Darlene Patty Ashenfelter, Melissa Vedel. • (2) One round of golf w/cart for two Young displays her quilt. and lunch at Fareways, LOWA – Mary Ann Schofield, Gary & Lynn Neighbors. • Gift box with a $65 certificate, All Fur Pet Grooming – Kendra Trembley. • (2) Seasonal Wreath made and donated by Darlene Agsten – Karen Elmore, Sandra Michutka. • Free Oil Change, Breeden’s Auto Repair - Ruth Childers. • (2) $35 embroidered Cat Blanket made and donated by Harper Gallagher – Leah Samuels, Barbara Spadaro. • (2) $20 and (1) $10 gift card to Mama’s Pizza – Linda Goodwin, Ann Tyree, Hector Elmore. • Gift certificate for 50% off full grooming at Shaggy Shears, Fredericksburg – Erin Frey. • (3) $25 gift certificates to Clearwater Grill – Mary Beth Logan, Phyllis Sakole, Ed White. • $10 gift certificate to 2 Brothers Italian Restaurant – Teresa Giesting. • Cat decorated Spoon Rest, Oven Pads, Hand Towels donated by Rita Wilks – Harry Kelley, Mary Beth Logan, Meg Wagner . • A beautiful Irish Wool Shawl/Sweater donated by Marie Gordon – Robert Pesky. • (2) Brunch for four at LOW Clubhouse – Sharon Gammill, Melissa Verdel. • Vera Bradley purse and handmade purse donated by Laurie Miller – Judy Booe, Beth Schroeder. • (2) $50 gift certificate toward a pair of eyeglasses at 20/20 Vision Center – Sharon Gammill, Darlene Young • $40 gift certificate to LOW Hair Studio, Locust Grove – Janet Skidmore. • $30 gift card and $20 gift card to Red Lobster – Jodi Jameson, John Sawyer. • Three autographed Mystery Novels by author Melinda Crocker – Michelle Layne. • (4) $25 gift card to any of Tim’s Restaurants – Regina Byrd, Linda Goodwin, Harry Kelley, Kathy Thornhill. • $25 gift card to Ace Hardware Store – Lee Frame. • $10 gift card to Guacamole Mexican Restaurant – Phyllis Sakole.

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Lake Currents February 11, 2022

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Alcoholics Anonymous: Meeting every Monday at 7 PM at LOW Church (Rm 210). For other local online AA meetings go to http://d39. wildwoodweb.com/Meetings.shtml. Info: LOW Church 540-972-9060. Cancer Support Group for Women and their Caregivers: Meetings are held at LOW Church. Please contact Suzanne Lentine for meeting dates/time or for more information, 540-972-9060. Dementia Memory Café: This is a social event where the person with dementia and/or the caregiver(s) are welcome to come discuss issues. Contact Bonnie at 540-547-4824 or bonnired@comcast.net. Regional Resource Guide for Older Adults can be viewed online at agingtogether.org. Divorce Care Support Group Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30 PM, at the LOW Church Library. For more information, contact Mike Lemay at 540-972-9060 or email mike@ lowchurch.org.

LOW Lions Medical Equipment: Durable medical equipment is available for temporary loan to those with needs. Currently loans are being made by appointment only. Please call 540-388-0110. Orange County Free Clinic: Offers primary medical care and prescription assistance to the uninsured in OC. Medical care available Mon. through Thurs., by appointment. 101-C Woodmark Street, Orange. Info: Dorren Brown, 540-672-0793. Parkinson’s Support Group meets the second Thursday of each month at The Lake of the Woods Church at 4 PM. Contact Lee Moore at 540-972-0395 with any questions. Red Cross Blood Drive: From noon to 6 PM, in the Community Center. Usually fourth Tuesday every other month (call to confirm date). You must be generally healthy and 17 or older. Go to www.redcrossblood. org for schedule and more detailed information. Make an appointment online or call 1-800-733-2767. Making an appointment saves you time! Walkins accepted, on space available basis. Info: Ginny, 540-848-5829 or Carol, 540-972-0664. Seeking Counseling? The LOW Church offers affordable counseling for all persons by appointment. Info: Church, 540-972-9060. Rappahannock Rapidan Community Services Care-AVan will provide transportation to health care (including picking up prescription medications) and legal appointments for senior citizens (over 60) and persons (over 18) with physical disabilities. Available Mon-Fri. with minimum of 48 hours’ notice. Free Service (donations accepted), Call 540-825-3100 ext. 3358 or 3013. Vision Impaired Support Group. Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 10 AM, Community Center, Room 1. Sponsored by the LOW Lions. Contact: Gail Sauro, 540-972-1629 or Gail.Sauro@ yahoo.com.

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Fundraisers LOW F&R Phone Directory. The 2021 Directory is available for $10, cash or check only, at LOWA Member Services, Holcomb Bldg. Sales benefit LOW Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company. If you have changes, corrections, or deletions, please email: LOWFRTREASURER@gmail.com. Cause 4 Paws. We need volunteer foster homes, monetary donations, and donations of the following: Purina Kitten Chow, Purina Cat Chow, Friskies Pate canned food and Fancy Feast Kitten Wet Food. Proceeds benefit feline rescue. Donations may be tax deductible as we are a 501(c)(3) charity. Donations may be mailed to Cause 4 Paws, P.O. Box 301, Locust Grove, VA 22508. For more info, see us on Facebook: causefourpaws Locust Grove VA or call LA, 540-485-4181 or Darlene 540-972-8038. LOW Lioness Book Sale. Used books will be sold on the last Saturday of the month (Feb.Nov.) from 8:30 AM to 1 PM at the Ferris Building. Proceeds go to the Benevolence Fund. Book donations are accepted the day of the sale. No reference or textbooks, please. Info: Ann, 540-972-4338; Sherri, 540412-9854; or Helene, 540-412-0798. LOW Lions Medical Equipment Loan Program seeks donations of wheelchairs and rollators in working condition to share with neighbors in need. Donate at Velona Building (by compactor) any Saturday from 9 AM-noon. Call 540-388-0110 to schedule a pick-up. If you or a family member needs a walker, shower bench, bedside commode, or other medical equipment, the Lions are here for you! Lions Furniture Pickup and Yard Sale. The LOW Lions accept donations of furniture and merchandise at the Velona Building (Shoosmith Road, near the trash compactor). Donations accepted Saturdays from 9 AM to noon. To arrange for donation pickup, call Doug at 540-495-0640. The Lions are a 501(c)(3) charity; donations may be tax deductible. The Lion’s Yard Sale at the same location is open every Saturday from 10 AM to 1 PM.

Grief Support Group: Griefshare is a free worldwide Biblebased support group to help you through your grief journey after the loss of a loved one. We meet twice a year for 13-week sessions of videos and discussions at the LOW Church. Info: 540-972-9060 or www. lowchurch.org. Living Water Community Clinic in Locust Grove Town Center (32345 Constitution Hwy, Suite P) offers free medical care, dental care, and prescription assistance to the eligible uninsured in Orange, Spotsylvania, and Culpeper counties. Medical care available on 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th Thursdays from 5 to 8 PM. Medical and dental care available on the 2nd Saturday from 9 AM to noon. Call 540854-5922 for medical appointments. Call 540-854-5923 for dental appointments. Volunteers Needed. Info: 540-854-5922, Suzanne. LOWLINC - Non-profit membership service organization dedicated to enabling seniors at the lake to continue living fully and independently in their homes. Volunteer services provided: transportation, light home maintenance, computer assistance, check-in calls, friendly visits and referrals to screened service providers. Fee-based. Opportunities to volunteer, too. Info: 1-855-LOWLINC or visit lowlinc.org. LOW Lions/Lioness Wilderness Food Pantry: Located behind Locust Grove Town Center, Route 20. The pantry is open several times a month to provide food to qualified persons/families in Orange County. Please call 888-508-9274 for the schedule of openings and other information about the pantry. LOW Lions rely on Federal food programs, local retail stores, community food drives, and financial donations to feed the hungry in our community. Lions Wilderness Food Pantry, P.O. Box 605, Locust Grove, VA 22508. Info: Nicki, 703-217-5615.

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

The LOW AARP TaxAide site will be scheduling appointments Feb. 12-Apr. 15 from 9 AM-1 PM. Please pick up your information packet from the Wilderness Library lobby and call our scheduler at 540-318-0345, once you receive all your tax forms. Lost or Found Pets in LOW can be posted on facebook.com/ LOWlostandfoundpets. Hearing Aids/Eyeglasses Recycled: Place used hearing aids and eyeglasses in LOW Lions boxes at the Ferris Building & Holcomb Building.

Orange County Humane Society of VA. Our TNVR (trap, neuter, vaccinate, return) feral, free roaming cat program needs canned and dry cat food as well as monetary donations. All food donations may be dropped off at Locust Grove Vet Clinic. Monetary donations are needed for all our programs, including our Pets In Place program for pet dogs and cats in need. Mail donations to: OCHSVA, PO Box 852, Locust Grove, VA 22508, or send through Paypal. Remember when shopping with Amazon, select us as your charity of choice. OCHSVA is a 501(c)3 charity, your donations may be tax deductible. Please Like us at Orange County Humane Society VA Facebook. Call 540-672-0069, for questions about our TNVR community cat program (that we affectionately call Andi’s Cats), and our Pets In Place program.

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Lake Authors of the Wilderness Announces Children’s Book Signing Event The Lake Authors of the Wilderness announce an upcoming children’s book signing, featuring one of our members. Spelled Ink Bookstore will host Lois Griffin Powell for a reading and signing of her picture book Samantha’s Big Challenge. Her other picture books, Samantha’s New Friend, Samantha’s New Baby, and her young adult fantasy/mystery book The Curse of the Artifacts, will also be available for signing. The event will be held on Presidents’ Day, Monday, Feb. 21. Spelled Ink is located at 132 W. Main Street in Orange. To keep the groups manageable, the readings will take place at three times: 11 AM to noon, 1 to 2 PM, and 3 to 4 PM. The event is free and open to the public; however, it is requested that you reserve tickets ahead of time at spelledink.com. The event is also available for virtual viewing. Interested in learning more about our group or joining us? Contact us at lakeauthors@gmail.com.

Supreme Court Ruling Affects Childhelp

Masks, vaccines, and mandates have been huge issues in our society lately — an understatement, to say the least. Whether people agree with vaccines or masks, whether they should be mandated and under what conditions, whether reporting vaccine status should be required — all these topics have been subjects of debate and disagreements. On Jan. 13, a Supreme Court ruling upheld the administration’s vaccine mandate for any provider that receives Medicare or Medicaid funding. Childhelp relies on Medicaid for most of its funding. Therefore, to continue receiving its funding, Childhelp requested that all its administrators, employees, and volunteers report their vaccine or exemption status by today, Feb. 11. Because the LOW Auxiliary has dues-paying members with access to the Village, we are also covered by this ruling. I want to commend our LOW Auxiliary members for stepping up to meet this request from Childhelp by the deadline. We recognize the importance of Medicaid funding, of course. Equally important, regardless of our individual feelings about vaccines, mandates, or reporting our status to any organization, we understand the phrase “for the love of a child” that opens the door to the Alice Tyler Village, and the implied phrase that comes before — “what you are able and willing to do.” Our members care so deeply, they do not hesitate to put the children first. The LOW Auxiliary members come through every time. Take a bow, please. Frontline heroes, you demonstrate strength and compassion and what we will gladly do for the love of a child. Thank you, every one of you.

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by Barbara Robinson, LOW Childhelp Auxiliary

Deadline for submissions to the Feb. 25 issue of Lake Currents is Feb. 14.

Viewpoints

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

by Sharon Lyon, Steering Committee Member

Deadline for submissions to the March 11 issue of Lake Currents is Feb. 28. Advertising Info: Call 540-972-2278 or email LakeCurrents@LOWA.org Media Kit online at LOWA.org

Right Angle Renovation LLC Chris Brooks Handyman

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February 5 Board Minutes from p. 9 Recess President Brown called for a short recess at 11:35 a.m., and called the meeting back into Open Session at 11:47 a.m.

8. Director Comments Director voiced appreciation of the Treasurer and Finance staff keeping us solvent during the pandemic, and keeping the new Assessment as low as possible. Members were reminded to avoid depositing tree and limb debris in the ditches, but must dispose of it themselves. 9. Scheduled Meetings • Regular Board of Directors Meeting: Wednesday, February 16, 2022 in the Community Center. Executive Session: 12:30 p.m. Open Session: 2:00 p.m. • Regular Board of Directors Meeting: Wednesday, March 9, 2022 in the Community Center. Executive Session: 1:00 p.m. Open Session: 2:00 p.m. 10. Adjournment Motion by Clawson, passed unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 12:52.

by Terri Bevers, Member Engagement Specialist

The redistricting for state and federal elected officials was not completed when Orange County completed its redistricting process. After the state delegate boundaries were enacted, those boundaries resulted in the precincts for Orange County Districts 2 and 3 being split into two different Virginia State delegate districts. Such a situation (called a split precinct) could result in a particular polling place with two different ballots, a ballot that includes local officials and one delegate and different ballot for local officials and the other delegate. Depending on where a voter lived in the precinct, the polling officials would have to determine which ballot to provide to the voter. This provides a situation that could lead to confusion and errors. To preclude this, Virginia statutes do not allow split precincts. As a result, the Orange County Supervisors had to realign the precincts in Districts 2 and 3 so that each precinct will have its own distinct ballot. Voters in these two districts will have similar local officials, federal officials, and state senators on the ballot, but the two precincts in these districts will list different state delegates. Fortunately, the delegate boundaries did not affect county district boundaries calling for a more significant redistricting effort. I mentioned in a previous article that the new Public Safety Building had been placed into service. One of the spaces located in the PSB is the Supervisors Boardroom, where Orange County Supervisors are now holding their regular meetings. This boardroom can accommodate many more citizens who desire to attend these meetings. The boardroom also serves as the Emergency Operations Center and has been used for this purpose during the recent snowstorms. Staff using the EOC were pleased with its ability to support emergency operations. The PSB is located east of the Town of Orange, just off Route 20 near the airport. It is about four miles closer to Lake of the Woods and shortens my commute to Supervisor meetings. As one of the Supervisors’ goals to make Orange County more transparent, open, and accessible to the citizens, the county has implemented the Civic Clerk system. This provides easy access to agendas, information packages provided to each Supervisor in advance of meetings, minutes and videos of past meetings and meetings in progress. To access this information, go to the Orange County website and click on agendas and minutes, then select the desired date. Agendas and information packages for future meetings are usually provided three to four days in advance of the Supervisor meetings. If you see something of interest in the agenda or information package, you can watch the meeting real time or watch later where you can advance through the video to the segment of interest. The agenda also indicates when there are public hearings or public comment periods where you can come to the meeting and present your views. If you have questions about county government or want to let me know your feelings on specific issues, you can contact me at lframe@ orangecountyva.gov.

REC would like to thank our members in Lake of the Woods for their patience and understanding during Winter Storm Frida. The damage from this historic storm was devastating. At the peak of the storm, over 100,000 REC members were without power with over 1,200 individual locations of damage. The repairs took anywhere from an hour to a full day depending on the nature of the damage and equipment needed. We know how cold and miserable it was to be without power and we greatly appreciate your support and kindness while crews worked tirelessly to restore power.

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Lake Currents February 11, 2022

REC Thanks LOW Residents

by Lee Frame, District 5 Supervisor

Orange County

7.2 Consideration of Amendments to the General Manager’s Revised LOWA FY2022-23 Budget. (D-22-19) Motion by Vickery that the Board accept the General Manager’s final revised Budget changes as detailed in the Summary of Budget Changes Schedule dated January 28, 2022. Motion by Wilks, passed unanimously, to amend the Fee Schedule as detailed in the Fee Schedule in Amendment #1. Motion by Diercks that the Board approve deleting the proposed addition of the three-person Stormwater Management Crew from the 502 Grounds Operating Budget. Vote: Yea: Wilks, Rappoport, Brown, Vickery and Diercks. Nay: Clawson and Zukowski. Motion passed 5 to 2. Vote on the original motion as amended passed unanimously. At this point, the revised annual member assessment fee is estimated to be $1846, or an increase of 6.14% over last year. The General Manager will prepare a General Resolution for consideration of the Board at the next Board meeting. Pending any interim adjustments, the Resolution will set the annual member and tenant assessments, the operating budget, CTR and capital spending, and authorize staff to carry out the FY2022-23 budget. 7.3 Consideration of Authorizing the Sale of LOWA-owned Lot 13-25, 110 Chesterfield Court. (Resolution 2022-3) (D-22-20) Motion by Clawson, passed unanimously, that the Board adopt Resolution 2022-3, an Administrative Resolution, regarding the sale of LOWA-owned Lot Section 13, Lot 25, 110 Chesterfield Court.

Orange County Supervisor’s Letter

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Lake Currents February 11, 2022

Services

$100 CASH GIVEAWAY for Roof Replacement Referrals leading to a signed contract. Is Your Roof 15+ years old or Leaking? Shingles Damaged, Missing, Deteriorating? Moss/Algae Growing? Ceiling/Attic Water Stains? We are GAF & Owens Corning Certified Class “A” Roofers and Insurance Claims Specialists. All our roof systems come with a Nonprorated 50 Year Material and Labor Warranty & 10 Year Workmanship Warranty. All Warranties are Fully Transferable Greatly Increasing the Value & Sell-ability of your Home. We will beat any roof replacement bid from equally licensed and certified roofing contractors using comparable material / warranties. Check out our Stellar 5 Star HomeAdvisor Reviews at AskLukeZello.com. 100% Zero Interest Financing Now Available! Free Inspection, Repairs and Replacements, Call 540-406-3589. 1 CALL ABOVE All A+ BBB Rated, Ask Luke Zello Takes Care of It All. A Best of the Burg multiple category Top 5, HomeAdvisor Top Rated & Elite Pro, Home Depot Pro Referral, Class A Licensed & Insured family operated company, 20+ year LOWA residents. Our professional tradesmen love to work and we donate heavily to a home in India that rescues the smallest victims of human trafficking. Protect yourself. Before you hire, verify licensed contractors at www.dpor. va.gov/LicenseLookup. See All of our classifieds & give us a call. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. 2 CHICKS and a BROOM Cleaning Service. We will clean your house top to bottom. Reasonable prices, call Patti at 252-455-4947. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY Service and Storm Damage Repairs. We work with your insurance! Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. 25-YEAR NO Clog Guarantee Aluminum Gutter Guard Installation. Ask Luke Zello, 540-460-3589. 30+ YEARS RESIDENT. Animal Care and House Cleaning. Call Linda 540-220-2138. A/C & HEATING Installation/Repair - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. A-1 JUNK REMOVAL Service - 10% of our profits go to cancer treatments and helping families rebuild their lives from tragedies. Powered by Johnny B Quick, 540903-5369. A-1 PAINTING SERVICE -10% of our profits go to Cancer Treatments and helping families rebuild their lives from tragedies. Call PJ at 540-903-5369. ABOVE ALL Else, Professional Tree Surgeon, 540-729-3128. ADDITIONS, ROOF Replacement, Kitchen/Bath Remodel, Deck. Class A Contractor. 540-845-1047. 35 years at LOW.

AIRPORT CONNECTIONS We drive you to/from IAD, DCA, RIC, BWI airports. Reliable service. Reasonable rates. 540-460-3603. ALL HOME IMPROVEMENTS, all flooring, decks, basement finishing, roofing, painting, bath and kitchen remodeling, power washing, house and garage cleanouts, additions, house building. Gutter Cleaning and Install Seamless Gutters. Have small backhoe for digging drain pipes and drain tiles. Licensed and insured. Call Jerry at 540-840-2248 for free estimates. ASK LUKE ZELLO - Inside and Out Home Improvement and Repairs, 540-406-3589. ASPHALT Sealing, Repair - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. BOAT COVER Repair & Custom Boat Covers. We would love to create Custom Boat Covers, seat covers, and any Boat upholstery needs including repair. Affordable and High Quality. Call Sam 570449-4540. BOBCAT WORK - Lot Clearing, Grading, Gravel Driveway Spreading. Professional Tree Surgeon, 540-729-3128. BRICK/STONE Masonry - Patios, walkways, porches, retaining walls. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. BROADUS PROPERTIES Home Improvement: Carpentry, sheetrock repair, painting, fencing, deck repairs, gravel, mulch, and sand delivery, shed gravel site pads, shed repairs, and more. Steven, 703-969-0827. BULLDOG CONSTRUCTION Services - Home Renovations, Kitchens, Baths, Roof Replacement, Decks, 703-474-8966. CHIMNEY REPAIR - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. CLEANING - PROFESSIONAL Service. Excellent References. Call Lourdes, 703-795-5184 or KandHCleaningServices@gmail. com. CLEANING by BARBARA Harris. Move-in, Move-out, one-time or regular basis. Baths & Kitchens a specialty. 540-672-8069. CONCRETE MASONRY Driveways, Patios, Walkways, Hardscaping - Ask Luke Zello, 540406-3589. CONCRETE PATIOS and stamped concrete patios. 540-8451047. Class A Contractor, LOW resident. CONTRACTOR - CHECK http:// www.dpor.virginia.gov to verify licensed contractors. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. CRAWLSPACE WATER Issues? Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. CULVERT CLEANING or Replacement. Call Larry 540-2227948. CULVERT REPLACEMENT Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. DAN The HANDYMAN Carpentry, painting, power washing, and gutter cleaning. Free estimates.540-841-7450.

DAVE THE MOVER LLC. 20 years experience. Local and distant. 540-229-9999. DECK STAINING - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. DRAINAGE ISSUES? Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. ELECTRICAL ISSUES, Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. FALL/WINTER SERVICES: Seasoned Firewood, Leaf Removal, Tree Removal, Fertilization, Bobcat Services, Driveway Restoration, & Miscellaneous Clean-up. Free estimates, Stanley Lawn Care, 540308-8072. FOUNDATION REPAIR - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. GUTTER CLEANING/Guard Installation - Ask Luke Zello, 540406-3589. HANDYMAN PLUS - 34 year LOW resident and Licensed Contractor. Serving LOW over 20 years. I don’t claim to know it all, and I can’t do it all, but what I can do, I do well. To inquire and for a free estimate, call Erich 972-2664. HANDYMAN SERVICES. Local and Reasonable Prices! 35+ years. Skilled and Experienced. Everything on your “To-Do-List.” Call Raymond at 540-604-1343. HOME IMPROVEMENT: Carpentry, sheetrock repair, painting, fencing, deck repairs, gravel, mulch, and sand delivery, shed gravel site pads, shed repairs, and more. Steven at Broadus Properties, 703-969-0827. HOME REPAIRS - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. JORDANS TREE & Landscaping - Yard Clean-up Specials! Any of your lawn, landscape and tree needs. Leaf Removal, Gutter Cleaning, Pressure Washing, Tree Removal. Call 540-229-2678. JUNK HAULING - Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. JUNK REMOVAL Service 10% of our profits go to cancer treatments and helping families rebuilding their live from tragedies. Powered by Johnny B Quick, 540903-5369. JUNK REMOVAL, Clusterducksjunkremoval.com, we are quick, reliable, affordable, and we always show up! Licensed and Insured. Call 571-409-0211. LANDSCAPING HARDSCAPING, Retaining Walls, Patios, Walkways. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. LEAF REMOVAL, Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. LOT CLEAN-UP. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. MEDICAL AIDE Caregiver. Homeward Bound Care, LLC. Nursing Aide/Certified/Insured. Assisted living in your home. Short or long term care, day or night. Can manage all the patients needs. LOW resident. Excellent References. Diane Clauson: 540-388-2930.

MOVING - DAVE THE MOVER LLC. 20 years experience. Local and distant. 540-229-9999. MULCHING (DELIVERY/ SPREADING). Ask Luke Zello, 540406-3589. NOTARY LOW- Mobile Local Services- Saturdays and evenings upon request. Beth 540-226-2402. NOTARY SERVICES – LOW. Onsite, will travel. Sherri Lahay Lasover, 540-412-9854 or 202-288-8564. NUTRITION-FOOD Coaching/ Consulting. Adherence to medicallyprescribed diets. Transitions to gluten-free; clean eating; sugar-free; vegetarian. Kitchen makeovers. Grocery planning/trips. Overcoming food addictions/bulimia. StrategiesSolutions-Support. Call/text for free consultation: 540-207-9700. Julie at New Hope Nutrition, Locust Grove. PAINTING SERVICE -10% of our profits go to Cancer Treatments and helping families rebuild their lives from tragedies. Call PJ at 540903-5369. PAINTING/STAINING, Interior/ Exterior. Drywall Repairs. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. PATIOS, WALKWAYS, Retaining Walls - Ask Luke Zello, 540-4063589. PET-SITTING / DOG Walking. Lisa Ward of “Ward of the Dogs” specializes in Lake of the Woods dogs. Your house or mine. To discuss your pet-sitting needs, call 520-612-5190. PRESSURE WASHING. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. ROOF REPLACEMENT Bulldog Construction Services, Licensed and Insured. 703-4748966. ROOFING and REPAIRS - See our first classified ad. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. SNAPPER JACK Yard Care, LLP - Complete yard care, mulch, powerwashing, grass trimming and pruning. LOW homeowner. 540-287-7143, David Wilkinson; 540-907-5800, Billy Jack. snapperjackyardcare@gmail.com. Fully insured and Free estimates. Veterans 10% off. SNOW REMOVAL - Professional Tree Surgeon, 540-729-3128. STAINLESS STEEL Wire Railings, New. 540-845-1047. TREE REMOVAL, Any size, anywhere. Fully insured. Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. TREE SERVICE - Professional Tree Surgeon, 540-729-3128. TREE SERVICE - Specialize in Tree trimming, pruning, and tree removal. Jordans Tree & Landscaping Call 540-229-2678. TUTOR – EXPERIENCED English/Math, Alan Greenbaum, MBA, sogren241@yahoo.com. WATER / SEWER LINE replacement and repair. Class A Contractor. 540-845-1047. 35 years at LOW.

WATER MAIN Leak Repair/ Replacement, Ask Luke Zello, 540-406-3589. WINDOW & DOOR Repairs and Replacement. Class A Contractor. 540-845-1047. 35 years at LOW.

Deadline for submissions to the Feb. 25 issue of Lake Currents is Feb. 14.

LOWA Employment

For Sale

Advertising Info: Call 540-972-2278 or email LakeCurrents@LOWA.org Media Kit online at LOWA.org

FIREWOOD - PROFESSIONAL Tree Surgeon, 540-729-3128. FIREWOOD Seasoned oak, hickory, etc. $160 per face cord. Delivery available, call 540-406-7177.

Employment CAREGIVER FOR elderly couple in LOW. Meal prep, meds assistance, light housework; $18/ hour; background check required. Regular shift and/or occasional, as needed. Please call 703-624-1044 for additional information. NEED A BABYSITTER? Available weekdays from 4 PM-8 PM and weekends from 9 AM-10 PM. Reliable, experience, Rate: $10+. For more information: call or text Jennifer Benedetto at 540-3089962 or email jenbenedetto04@ gmail.com.

Ruthan O’Toole

2nd Generation LOW REALTOR ®

Misc.

Cell: 540.661.6811 RuthanOtoole.com

4456 Germanna Hwy Locust Grove, VA

Your trusted Real Estate Resource for Life!

James M. (Hutch) Hutchison Obituary

James M. Hutchison (Hutch) of Locust Grove, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, January 8, at the age of 78. Hutch died peacefully following a two-year battle with cancer. Hutch was born in Denver, Colorado on July 18, 1943 to Robert and Betty Hutchison. He graduated from Oklahoma Military Academy and attended Fort Lewis A&M graduating with a Bachelor of Arts. He married the love of his life, Judy (Rusty) Johnson, on December 12, 1966. He joined the US Army and attended Officer Candidate School before deploying to Vietnam in 1970. Hutch served 30 years in uniform until retiring as a Colonel in 1992. Following his retirement from the Army, Hutch worked with Israeli Aircraft Industries until 2008. Hutch is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rusty; sister Jill Hutchison; daughter Shannon Hutchison-Kreiter and her husband Tibor; daughter Heather Myers and her husband Ken; grandson Corey Kreiter and his wife Amber; granddaughter Erin Kreiter; grandson Kenneth Myers; granddaughter Mackenzie Myers; and great-grandson Sawyer Kreiter.

General applications are always welcome. All Pay Market Competitive. Submit applications and resumes to HR@LOWA.org or fax to 540-972-2243. All positions must be able to pass a criminal background check and have a valid Virginia driver’s license. More information regarding these positions is available in the Human Resources Department. EOE.

Cruz Tree & LandsCaping Tree Removal, LEAF REMOVAL, Brush Removal, Mulching, Tree & Hedge Trimming, Yard Work, Mowing, Retaining Wall, Gutter Cleaning, Power Washing, Junk Car Removal

1943-2022

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Hutch will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. The family will host a “Celebration of Life” at the Lake of Woods Clubhouse February 26th at 2 PM.

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NURSE AIDE COURSE. $1800 includes tuition, books, PPD, background check, drug screening, CPR, uniform, B/P cuff. Info/Start Dates: www.careernursingacademy. com or Call/Text 703-402-2509. FREE CHIHUAHUA’S to loving home. One male and one female. 540-412-0775.

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Office: 540.972.1234 C21Otoole@gmail.com

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

CLUBHOUSE. Accepting applicants for Part-Time positions: • Servers. Successful candidates must have excellent customer service skills, enthusiasm, and energy. Work schedule includes the hours of 4 PM to 10 PM Wednesday through Sunday, along with some holidays. If you are 18 and older, have a positive, out-going personality, and are a team player, this job is for you. Some restaurant experience preferred • Host/Hostess to welcome/greet guests, manage timely guest seating, some computer knowledge. • Banquet Captain to assist in supervising/coordinating banquet events with service staff, oversee setup, breakdown, cleanup, and reset of club functions. Knowledge of procedures and equipment used in preparing and serving large gatherings required. • Banquet Servers needed to provide excellent customer service when serving guests and assist with banquet set up and tear down. Must be able to work flexible hours. • Banquet and Lounge Bartenders. Must be at least 21 years of age and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays. Must mix and serve beverages and possess superb customer service skills. TIPS certification will be provided. One–two years experience desirable. • Dishwashers to remove soiled dishes from tables, sanitize tables, ensure silverware, glassware, napkins, condiments are available for patrons. Load, run and unload dishwasher. • Expeditors to bring food from the line to the table in a timely and organized manner. CLUBHOUSE. Full-Time Salaried Assistant Clubhouse Manager. The ideal candidate will oversee and coordinate the planning, organizing, training and leadership necessary to ensure highest guest service satisfaction and assist in achieving company objectives in meeting sales goals, maintaining food quality, and ensuring that all safety, sanitation, and food handling standards are consistently met. The successful candidate will ensure all State laws pertaining to alcoholic beverages are strictly adhered to including staff training and certification. Excellent customer service skills essential. A minimum of 5 years progressive experience in similar food and beverage operation is required. Qualified candidates are invited to submit resumes. EQUESTRIAN CENTER – Part-Time Stable Worker to assist with barn chores, including cleaning stalls and paddocks, cleaning and filling water tubs, feeding the horses, and blanketing when weather requires. Some assisting with pony rides, trail rides, and helping with special events. Previous experience working with equines required. FAREWAYS CAFE- Accepting applicants for Part-Time positions: • Servers are needed to assist with Café operations. Candidates must be 18 years or older and able to work flexible hours including weekends. Some restaurant experience preferred. • Line Cooks needed to accurately and efficiently prepare hot food products as well as prepare and portion food prior to cooking. One year experience is preferred and ability to work flexible hours. MAINTENANCE – Accepting applicants for Full-Time hourly positions: Custodian. Be part of the custodial team responsible for ensuring employees and residents have a clean environment to work and live in! Responsible for keeping assigned building clean and pleasant for workers and residents. The majority of work is performed in LOW facilities and common areas. Some prior experience is preferred. Grounds. Join the crew and assist in performing general landscaping maintenance tasks for routine and special events. Must have experience in operation of basic grounds care equipment. Position requires heavy lifting and working in all weather conditions.

Deadline for submissions to the March 11 issue of Lake Currents is Feb. 28.

Silvestre S. Cruz

CeLL: 540-718-7119 Fully Insured & Licensed 24/7 Service

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The State of Real Estate at the Lake 2021

LOW Community

2021 proved to be a great year for Lake of the Woods real estate! Year-over-year, home sales were up, median sold price was up, days on the market were down, and average sold to original list price ratio was above 100%! Let's look at our growth! In 2018, 234 homes sold, which was an 8% decrease from 2017. The median sales price rose to $249,900. In 2019, we realized a 28.63% gain in home sales over 2018, with a total of 301 selling. 2020 showed a slight gain in sales at 313, yet the median sold price increased 7.87% to $291,250, up from $270,000 in 2019. And then came the 2021 market: a whopping 14.7% increase in the number of homes sold and a median sold price increase of 15.9 percent over 2020.

Average days on the market (DOM), the number of days it takes from the time a property is listed until it goes under contract, has steadily declined from 93 in 2017 to 16 in 2021.

Lake Currents February 11, 2022

A significant number of lots have sold in the past five years. From January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2021, a total of 196 lots sold: 24 in 2016; 37 in 2017; 45 in 2018, 41 in 2019; 49 in 2020; and only 24 in 20201. Coincidentally, 2016 and 2021 realized the identical number of lot sales (reported in the MLS). There simply are very few lots left in LOW.

New construction numbers have varied. 2017 saw 20 new construction homes sales; 2018 dipped to only 11; 2019 realized 31; 2020 sales jumped to 41, and 2021 ended at 37. There simply aren’t many lots left in LOW, which, of course, will impact new construction sales in the future.

Another truly notable statistic is the dramatic rise in average sold price to original list price ratio. It has steadily risen from 95.5% in 2017 to 100.9% in 2021.

According to Freddie Mac and the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage rates are expected to rise and end 2022 in the 3.754% range for a 30-year fixed. Today, it is possible to obtain a 15-year fixed rate just under 3%. The prognosis for 2022 is excellent! In LOW, there are 15 homes active on the market as of 1/26/2022. Low rates and hopefully more inventory should propel us to experience another year of healthy sales and appreciation, although appreciation is expected to return to a more normal rate from what we've experienced the last two years.

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LOWA, Lake of the Woods, Lake Currents - shared w/ you by Kendra Seekins, your local Realtor eXpert

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