From the General Manager

October

From the General Manager, Mark Reid

When we talk about what is important to the members of the Lakewood Community, lakes and trees generally top the list. As most of you know, we have had to evolve this year in our methods for controlling aquatic growth in the lakes. Warm water, lots of sunshine and lots of nutrients created perfect growing conditions for the aquatic plants. This was seen in many areas throughout the United States and some severe cases of algae growth and fish kill in California. We will continue our program into next year to assure that we are ahead of the problem.

Trees are not as fortunate. Currently, the stress of drought and disease is negatively affecting some of our mature trees. When I walk some of the common ground areas and see the number of trees that are being attacked by bores, carpenter ants and other insects, I find it concerning. For now, we are focused on the management of the diseased elm trees and the ash trees that are being killed by the ash borer. I want to be clear that I wish we never had to take down a single tree. But it is our duty to remove the diseased and dying trees and then replace them with native trees that will thrive in our regional climate.

The LPOA maintenance department has a schedule of trees that are to be removed. We have been working with arborist contractors to remove the tree on the schedule. If you see the contractors and have a question or concern about a tree, please contact me at the office 816-373-4327 or email me at mark@lpoa.com. It is very important that members do not go onto the common ground and try to direct the contractor or stop their work. Additionally, our maintenance personnel have their job to do and should not be chastised for performing that work.

I look forward to another wonderful fall season and our Lakewood trees are what provide the awesome colors that we enjoy so much, whether that be a mature tree or a newly planted tree that will provide for the next 50 years plus of enriching our environment.

In This Issue

5 From the General Manager 6 From the Boardroom 6 Board Meeting Minutes 8 Calendar of Events 9 Event Calendar 10 Welcome New Residents 11 Not-So-Scary House Hunt 13 Poinsettia Sale 16 Artist Series 20 Clubs 21 Resource Directory 22 September Maintenance Update 22 August Community Service Report