Canadian Laker

CANADIAN LAKES, MI

Curtain up, light up the lights Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Hearing

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

Festival of the Arts Commemorative Garden canadianlakes.org

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F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H 2 0 19 Welcome to your first issue of The Canadian Laker for 2019.

Although it’s the dead of winter here and some would refer to this as our “off season,” there’s so much going on in and around Canadian Lakes. Long-time property owners will remember that one could shoot a cannon through Canadian Lakes in February and no one would ever know! Fast forward to today and more families are here year-round, businesses remain open, the CLA is in full event planning mode, and the CLPOC is gearing up for the “busy season.”

These days, a cannon going off in February would definitely be heard and it surely would be the big talk on Canadian Lakes News and other unofficial Canadian Lakes social platforms. Not only is the hustle and bustle going on in Canadian Lakes, it’s going on all around us, too! In addition to the articles about the recent stocking of tiger muskies in our lakes and more Castle history, turn your attention to our feature article about Festival of the Arts—a month-long arts festival that normally takes place in Big Rapids but this year is being shared a bit in Canadian Lakes.

If you’ve never heard of Festival of the Arts or know just enough about it to wonder what it is exactly, article author Roxanne Cullen will completely fill you in. From artistic workshops you can participate in to performances by the Grand Rapids Symphony, Festival of the Arts is becoming a countywide event that pleases everyone. This year is especially exciting because a small portion of the festival will take place right here in Canadian Lakes and will feature awesome Canadian Laker talent. Read and see all about Festival of the Arts on page 12. Be sure to visit the Festival of the Arts website, www.brfota.org for February’s full schedule of events, performances, workshops and more.

The CLPOC hopes you enjoy this year’s first edition of The Canadian Laker! We continue to receive rave reviews on its look, feel and content. Please send us your articles and feature ideas at thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.

Welcome February and welcome 2019. Canadian Lakes is ready for you to bring us many blessings, good health and prosperity.

A Bright Spot in Winter Photo Credit: Di Schwartz

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c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

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Dan Bollman Associate Broker

23I-629-2680 Over 30 Years Experience | dan@century21whitehouse.com

Lakefront Lot Canadian Lakes

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Riverfront Lot Canadian Lakes

Lake Isabella Lakefront

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Waterfront Lake Laura

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St. Ives Golf Course Canadian Lakes

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Lakefront Lake Mecosta

$349,900

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$49,900

Lakefront Lot Lake Laura/Canadian Lakes

$25,000

Lakefront Lot Lake Laura/Canadian Lakes

$22,900

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Lakefront Lot Tullymore Area

$29,900

CONTENTS February/March 2019

10

Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Hearing

12

Festival of the Arts

24

“Curtain Up, Light the Lights”

26

A Castle for Canadian Lakes

30

Commemorative Garden

32

God’s Helping Hands of Mecosta County

36

The Tigers Have Arrived

38

Celebrations to Expel Those Winter Doldrums

42

Would You Like a Pickle With That?

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Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation

In Every Issue

8 From the General

52 Calendar of

14 Marketing

54 Let’s Get Social

Manager

16 From the CLA

Area Events

56 Art Expression

20 Safety

Publisher Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation 10690 Pierce Road, Canadian Lakes Michigan 49346-9761 P 231-972-7651 • F 231-972-8884 canadianlakes.org Production & Advertising SVK Multimedia & Publishing PO Box 586 Hudsonville, MI 49426 616.379.4001 SVKmp.com Editorial Art and Editorial provided by Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation Estelle Molitor thecanadianlaker@gmail.com Photography Chuck Richardson and Candy Parnell Volunteer Staff Josh Howard, Marilyn Yvon and Nancy Wallace

22 Focus on Fishing

Deadline Dates Feb/Mar Issue - Dec 27 Apr/May Issue - Feb 26 June/July Issue - May 4 Aug/Sept Issue - July 6 Oct/Nov Issue - Sept 6 Dec/Jan Issue - Nov 6

44 CLPOC Board Minutes

Submissions Canadian Lakes sanctioned groups and outside organizations are encouraged to submit articles, pending approval by CLPOC Board. Submit all copy as an email attachment to Editor at thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.

Credits are noted with articles and photos.

Guidelines for Articles Submit in Microsoft Word®, double spaced, preferably in Calibri font 11pt. or Arial font 11pt. For complete guidelines, contact thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.

Guidelines for Photos/Graphics Photos: Digital high-resolution photos or photo prints saved to CD. Low resolution photos usually not accepted.

Graphics: Submit graphics in .pdf or .jpg format.

Cover Photo: by Di Schwartz

Get Social With Canadian Lakes The Canadian Laker is owned and published bimonthly by the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation (CLPOC) as its official magazine and is mailed at standard rate to each property owner of record to the address on file with the corporation. The Canadian Laker is a trademark of the CLPOC. Copyright ©2019 by CLPOC, all rights reserved.

Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content published in The Canadian Laker, the CLPOC cannot assume any responsibility for content, warranties, and representations made in advertisements herein. Advertisements or sponsor recognition appearing in The Canadian Laker is not an endorsement or recommendation of the advertiser’s product or service by the CLPOC. All warranties and representations made are solely those of the advertiser and any such claims regarding an ad’s content should be addressed directly to the individual advertiser.

CLPOC reserves the right to refuse publication of any editorial content, advertisement, or unsolicited material.

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org twitter.com/canadian_lakes facebook.com/campcanadianlakes facebook.com/canadianlakes facebook.com/castleincanadianlakes facebook.com/royalgrille facebook.com/theroyalcanadianlakes canadianlakes_mi

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From The General Manager

A GREG BABBITT General Manager gbabbitt@clpoc.org

s 2019 has begun, I hope the New Year has found you all healthy and happy.

GENERAL As always, your annual statements were mailed in early January along with your 2019 membership form. Reminding each of you to send your payment by the March 1st due date using the bank envelope provided or you can pay via credit card on our website, canadianlakes.org, and select the “Account” tab. I also encourage each of you to return your membership form to the office after you have verified that all the information is accurate and/or corrected any inaccurate or missing information.

Also, please ensure that we have your e-mail address; this way you can be assured you will receive the Member eNews in which pertinent information and announcements are e-mailed directly to you.

WINTER TIME FUN The tubing tow is currently prepped and ready for action. In past years, I have seen users both young and older enjoying this. The ice-skating rink and cross-country ski trail are also ready for action. We also have a new and improved fire-pit to keep warm by. Hopefully by the time you read this we will have some snow along with cooler temperatures, so members can enjoy all of these.

As a reminder, here are a couple of the basics we follow for the tubing tow operation, weather permitting: • The tow rope is operated on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Each day will be broken into two 3-hour shifts, 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

FINANCE Later in this edition you will find a copy of the ProForma Budget for next fiscal year, Fiscal Year 2020. Hopefully each of you read the CLPOC Funding Status document that was sent in the annual mailing. Each year it is always challenging to develop a fiscally balanced budget that provides adequate income while keeping expenses minimal. We operate

OFFICE 10690 Pierce Rd. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346-9761 Phone: 231-972-7651 Fax: 231-972-8884 8

very efficiently on a tight budget. Currently, it takes almost 4.4 million dollars yearly to operate the community, and I understand that no one wants to pay more than they have to.

For potential new owners and positive impacts on property values we want to be as amenity diversified as possible. Closing amenities is not in the best interest of the community because, as the saying goes, you can’t cut your way to prosperity. Unfortunately, there will always be members who will continue to criticize, particularly in social media. Some members struggle with the concept of amenities being supported by yearly fees. Some of our amenities individually are subsidized. Please understand that community living involves maintaining amenities that serve a diverse group of people with varying interests; and no matter where you go, if it is a community association, its operations are supported.

Our current 7-year funding plan expires this year, December 31, 2019. With input from members and hard work from the staff, ad-hoc Funding Committee, Finance Committee, and the Board, you will once again be presented with another long-term funding plan. For our future financial sustainability, it is important this community has an approved funding plan in place. I am not asking you to vote yes or no with the next proposed funding plan, and I am not trying to initiate a debate. I am only asking you to consider your vote in terms of what is best for our entire community’s future, as well as future property values. As members of Canadian Lakes, you may not like certain things, but most would rather not be anywhere else and understand what a great place this community is to live and enjoy for the amount of money needed.

CLOSING We have some exciting things that will be happening this year, so stay tuned for further updates. Let’s make the most of this exciting and promising New Year by continuing to work collectively to keep improving our great community. If any of you should ever have any questions, you should always feel free to contact me. I am always willing to listen and will do my best to accommodate each of you.

OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

MEMBER SERVICES Jill Warners Elizabeth Hohne Paige Terry memberservices@clpoc.org

Spring Market Coming Soon...

Inventory in our overall market area is at an all-time low!!! If you’ve been thinking about selling –CALL US – Our agents have strong community ties as well as networks spanning far & wide!

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Fiscal Year 2020 Budget

FISCAL YEAR 2020 BUDGET HEARING

P

ursuant to Article XII(c) of the Articles of Incorporation, the CLPOC will have a fiscal year 2020 budget hearing during the February 23, 2019 Board meeting at the Highland Haus beginning at 9 a.m. The budget hearing portion of the meeting is conducted to provide the membership an opportunity to obtain information and make comments on the proposed budget. A summary of this budget was mailed to all members as part of the recent annual mailing and appears below.

The Fiscal Year 2020 ProForma Budget, which runs from April 1, 2019 through March 31, 2020, contains total income of $4,814,800 and total operating expenses of $3,802,354. The proposed Replacement Reserve Fund, New Capital Fund, and Future Operating contributions are $540,000, $50,000 and $666,446, respectively. Also, as part of the

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budget process, the Board will be approving, in principle, the proposed Replacement Reserve expenditures.

This ProForma Budget depicts certain income line items and the percentage of each item as it equates to our total income. It also depicts certain operating expense line items and the percentage of each item as it equates to our total operating expenses. In addition, this budget provides a breakdown using $638.20 for the Membership/Assessment Fee regarding the amounts applied to each operating expense.

The Finance Committee has recommended to the Board this balanced budget for fiscal year 2020. The Board will continue to discuss this budget and may make changes prior to its adoption. It is intended that the CLPOC Board of Directors will be adopting a final fiscal year 2020 budget at its March 23, 2019 meeting.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

The ProForma Budget Fiscal Year 2020 Beginning April 1, 2019 Approved 12/15/2018 INCOME Maintenance Fees Billed Membership Fees Billed Speciall Assessments Billed Annual Assessments Billed Amenities Fees Interest Income (investment Interest) Other Income Facilities Rentals

FY 19 Budget % Of Budget $ 0.00% $ 2,354,155 55.43% $ 383,793 9.04% 0.00% $ 1,682,172 39.61% $ 15,000 0.35% $ 72,549 1.71% $ 5,800 0.14%

Less Membership/Assessments not paid TOTAL INCOME

$ $

(266,110) 4,247,359

-6.27% $ 100.0% $

(376,750) 4,814,800

-7.82% 100.0%

OPERATING EXPENSES Salaries and Wages Benefits and Payroll Taxes Other Employee Related Costs Repair and Maintenance Outside Services (Contracted Services) Bad Debts Utilities (Electric, Gas, Phone, etc.)

Fuel (Gasoline and Diesel) Supplies Information Technology Insurance (Property and Liability) Canadian Laker Property Taxes (Equipment & Land) Cost of Goods Sold Contingency Legal Fees Awareness Committee/Marketing All Other (Leases, Postage, etc) SUBTOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

1,310,559 379,009 15,034 297,869 417,350 109,204 260,337 52,100 169,507 65,501 12,180 15,423 165,000 20,000 25,000 90,366 257,998 3,662,437

30.86% 8.92% 0.35% 7.01% 9.83% 2.57% 6.13% 1.23% 3.99% 0.00% 1.54% 0.29% 0.36% 3.88% 0.47% 0.59% 2.13% 6.07% 86.23%

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

1,377,242 428,011 14,489 289,530 422,850 111,388 264,759 51,500 180,850 21,152 66,873 12,180 15,423 175,000 20,000 25,000 88,450 237,656 3,802,354

28.60% 8.89% 0.30% 6.01% 8.78% 2.31% 5.50% 1.07% 3.76% 0.44% 1.39% 0.25% 0.32% 3.63% 0.42% 0.52% 1.84% 4.94% 78.97%

$182.55 $56.73 $1.92 $38.38 $56.05 $14.76 $35.09 $6.83 $23.97 $2.80 $8.86 $1.61 $2.04 $23.20 $2.65 $3.31 $11.72 $31.50

AVAILABLE FOR FUND CONTRIBUTIONS

$

584,922

13.77% $

1,012,446

21.03%

$134.20

Replacement Fund Contribution New Capital - Fund Contribution Current Operating Contribution Future Operating Contribution

$ $

(514,922) (70,000)

BALANCE

$

$

0

FY 20 Budget % Of Budget $ 211,757 4.40% Member $ 1,854,476 38.52% $ 0.00% Contribution $ 1,152,264 23.93% To Budget $ 1,846,930 38.36% $ 16,720 0.35% ASSESSMENT/ $ 95,305 1.98% MEMBERSHIP $ 14,098 0.29% FEE

$ $ $ $ $

ONLY

(540,000) (50,000) 244,000 (666,446) 0

$638.20

Document Notes: 1. The Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Hearing will be held on February 23, 2019, at 9:00 am, during the Regular Board of Directors 2. A detailed budget is available from the CLPOC office.

3. Maintenance Fees contribute 4.40% of the total cost to operate the communtity with the amenities 4. Membership Fees contribute 38.52% of the total cost to operate the community with the amenities.

5. Assessment Fees contribute 23.93% of the total cost to operate the community with the amenities.

6. Amenity Fees contribute 38.36% of the total cost to operate the community and the amenities.

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Festival of the Arts

Grand Rapids Youth Symphony

BY ROXANNE CULLEN

F

estival of the Arts (FOTA) is a month-long arts festival held each February in Big Rapids. The festival originated in the 1960s as a Ferris State University campus event held annually for more than two decades. In 2006, President Eisler of FSU asked then faculty member Bruce Dilg to resurrect the festival but this time make it a joint venture between the city of Big Rapids and the university. The festival has evolved into a much-anticipated winter extravaganza offering entertainments and workshops every day of the month, all free of charge (with the exception of some workshop fees for materials).

A board of volunteers works year-round to create a schedule of events that will appeal to all age groups and cut across multiple genres. Some acts appear annually, such as the Grand Rapids Symphony (or Youth Symphony), a swing dance night with the Flat River Band, and the Ferris State Bands and Orchestra; but generally the board tries to incorporate new acts and artistic opportunities. The program booklet (affectionately referred to as “that little book”) is available at various locations in Big Rapids as well as the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation office and is also available on the website at BRFOTA.org beginning in mid-January. The booklet describes each day’s activities, as well as including a table of contents by genre, a table of contents by day, a map to all the venues, and a list of upcoming events throughout the remainder of the year.

Picture from last year’s Accessorizing workshop at Serendipity.

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This year we are fortunate to have an event at Canadian Lakes on Wednesday, February 13 at Antlers. It is a Readers Theater Event called “Love, Loss, and What I Wore.” The cast consists of several Canadian Lakers: Gloria Wheeler, Emily Garlic, Jo Meyer Gray, Lori Taylor, and Suzette Compton, directed by Ginny Kerwin.

As with most of our events, this play is free.

Each year the festival board also contributes a piece of art to the community. Examples are last year’s mural on the Fairman building in Big Rapids, the mural at Curry’s gas station on Maple Street, the mural facing the city parking lot in back of Artworks, and the fish sculpture at the back lobby of the Artworks building. This year, Ivan Iller is creating a sculpture to be installed on the Muskegon River island in back of the

middle school in Big Rapids.

The unveiling of the sculpture on February 28 at 5 p.m. at Artworks will close this year’s festival.

The festival is truly a cooperative venture involving various clubs, organizations—both community and Ferris student—the Downtown Business Association, the City of Big Rapids, and Ferris State University. It is through the generosity of these supporters as well as numerous businesses and individuals that makes the festival possible.

Be sure to pick up your catalog so you can start planning which events you would like to attend. We will have catalogs available at Hixson’s, Flair for Hair, Lakes Realty, Isabella Bank, White House Realty, and our Canadian Lakes Pharmacy.

Who said that February is a cold, boring month?

Author of Back Roads of Michigan will be a part of the festivities.

Voices of Freedom

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Marketing

Canadian Lakes Marketing

H

2019!

ere we are— As we begin another season at Canadian Lakes, the past year has brought us triumphs and fails; but regardless, we continue to tell as many people as possible all about our GOOD life here in Canadian Lakes.

Our advertising message over the past few years has remained very simple, direct, and to the point: “Canadian Lakes, Michigan—find your good life at canadianlakes.org.” This consistent and frequent message has sent all traffic to our website where analytics report our success.

Here’s a snapshot of the inquiries we’ve received through our website in 2018.

These users hear or see our message and then share their contact information to receive more information about Canadian Lakes.

JESSICA SLENDAK Marketing Director jslendak@clpoc.org

2018 brought us growth again with 171 people connecting directly with us. Volunteers, our real estate agents, and I host visitors here to Canadian Lakes. In 2019 we plan to promote a more structured visitor program that will make tracking more efficient.

Not everyone is ready to share all their contact info with us though, yet we still see them in our website analytics. Analytics show that we had a slight increase in users on canadianlakes.org from last year. Just over 33,000 people visited our site in 2018; and best of all, a majority of them were new to our website.

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Looking closer at the website traffic, we can see the amount of inquires each month here. April was our strongest month. You can see the spike.

Here’s the daily website traffic. April 30 was our strongest day of the year.

All our media buys began in April in 2018, and April 30 was the day that the “Win Mojo’s Lakehouse” contest was launched on iHeart radio’s Mojo in the Morning radio show in Detroit, Toledo, and Grand Rapids. That giveaway promotion was extremely successful, exposing us to more than 1 million people through radio airwaves, social media, the website, and the iHeart listening app. The promotion itself cost Canadian Lakes very little for the exposure we received. We are able to partner with iHeart radio and get all this free airtime because we invest in a paid airtime radio schedule throughout the season on their stations, currently in the Grand Rapids market. You can clearly see when all our media buys start because website traffic begins to grow in April.

Keep in mind that our buying cycle is long. People who inquire with us do not become members the next week, let alone the next month. It takes months and sometimes years to see an inquiry actually become a property owner.

Looking to 2019, our advertising will begin again

in March and April. Radio and search engine marketing will top our list of media buys. Our message will change to promote visits to Canadian Lakes through a “test drive” concept. It’s planned that interested people will be able to purchase a short-term stay package with accommodations right here in Canadian Lakes.

They’ll be given all the Canadian Lakes info and will have a “community ambassador” to show them around when they visit. It could be a realtor, me, or one of our awesome volunteers.

We also plan to do more internal marketing as well to our members and employees. Members and employees are our front-line people. It’s these people who come in contact with prospective members first and most often. Through internal marketing, I hope to make them even more proud to be a part of Canadian Lakes and want to share the GOOD life we have here.

Here’s to another successful year in 2019! Cheers to you all and many blessings for a healthy and prosperous new year!

GET SOCIAL WITH CANADIAN LAKES Marketing Director Jessica Slendak jslendak@clpoc.org Assistant Webmaster Lee Ann McCormick canadianlakes.org

canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org twitter.com/canadian_lakes facebook.com/campcanadianlakes facebook.com/canadianlakes facebook.com/castleincanadianlakes facebook.com/royalgrille facebook.com/theroyalcanadianlakes Instagram: canadianlakes_mi

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From the CLA BY EARL CHRISTIANSON President 313-204-0877 eande751@sbcglobal.net

1St

I

hope you had a wonderful holiday season. Now let’s get ready for all the fun events that the Canadian Lakes Association will provide in 2019. I’ve covered several topics in this article.

First, I hope you had the opportunity to travel around the Canadian Lakes community to enjoy the homes that were decorated for Christmas. Our CLA Annual Christmas Home Decorating Contest resulted in 14 entries. (Three other entries were not CLA members, which has always been a requirement for this event.

Sometimes we do things just for our CLA members as a way to say “thank you for supporting the Canadian Lakes Association.”) This year’s winners were Dave and Mary Jane Kurdziel in first place; Jeff and Alison Jenerou in second place; and third place went to Jeff and Jill Kisil and their daughter, Kaitlin. Congratulations to our winners and thank you to all our contestants. The winning homes are shown in this edition of The Canadian Laker. I also hope you visited The Castle while it was decorated for the holiday season thanks to the generosity of Century 21 White House Realty.

Next, I want to tell you about the CLA Buy-A-Brick Program. If you have been to The Castle, you’ve seen the engraved bricks and short walls surround-

ing the American flag in front of the entrance. This Commemorative Garden was started in 2012 by the Canadian Lakes Association Board of Directors (12 people pictured in red shirts) and funded through the Canadian Lakes Association. These good-quality, laser-engraved bricks can be purchased so you can proudly display your family name and the date you purchased your property, in memory of a loved one who has passed on, an important date such as a wedding anniversary, or maybe a phrase that has a special meaning to you. Bricks are 4 x 8 inches for $43 or 8 x 8 inches for $75. For more information, contact Liz Dean at 231-972-8576. These bricks also make nice gifts. Liz has certificates that she or you can send to your gift recipient. Liz was on the CLA Board of Directors at the time that the Garden was developed, and she can give you more background on the project. The 2012 CLA Board members pictured from left to right are: Jerry Woerner, Peggy Foley, Elaine Pickles, Jan Campbell, Kathy Towne, Sandy Mayo, Janice Middlestadt, Liz Dean, John Fields, Elayne McCollum, Jerry Switzer and Janice Covey.

Did you ever wonder what we do with the $25 per family yearly CLA membership fee, or the money earned from table sales at the craft shows, or the money from yellow page advertising sales or brick sales?

Here’s what we do. Let’s assume that you

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are a family of four; you, your spouse, and a couple of kids. Over the course of 12 months, we reinvest that money, so you and your family have the opportunity to enjoy the following, at no charge except as noted. This list doesn’t include all events, but here are some of the best: • Attend the CLA Annual Winter Carnival that provides hot dogs, chips, a side dish, cookies, hot chocolate, coffee, door prizes, a balloon clown, kids’ crafts, kids’ tattoos, use of the snow tube tow (courtesy of the CLPOC), ice skating, a snow sculpture contest, a golf contest, and a horse-drawn wagon ride • Attend a pot-luck dinner in March where you can spend time with old friends and make new friends. The CLA supplies coffee, dessert, and door prizes • Attend an Easter Egg Hunt for kids 12 years old and under and for adults over 60, to gather candy-filled eggs, maybe win a prize, and meet the Easter Bunny • Come to the Canadian Lakes airstrip and pick up a kite to fly, enjoy cookies and lemonade, and have some fun (for CLA members only) • Attend a Community Newcomers’ Get-Together (new name pending) to learn about our community, our sanctioned clubs, local and area businesses and services, as well as a chance to make more friends and enjoy a snack and a beverage • Attend a summer picnic with

more food, ice cream, lemonade, a bounce house, horse rides, lawn games, a live band, kids’ tattoos, and a balloon clown • Come to an Ice Cream Social and enjoy a bowl of ice cream and topping, cookies, and coffee; and have a chance to win a door prize • Attend the Canadian Lakes Annual Dog Days activities • Attend a Classic Car Festival at The Castle • Go to a Halloween Dance for adults—at a nominal charge • Dress up yourself and the kids and go trick-or-treating at the Canadian Lakes Castle • Enter or just come and enjoy the CLA Annual Cook-Off where contestants do their best to win prizes—at a nominal charge per person. CLA members only to enter contest; all others welcome.

• Attend the CLA Christmas Craft Show • Enter a Christmas Home Decorating Contest to win a cash prize (CLA members only) • Attend a New Year’s Eve Party at The Castle—at a very reasonable cost • Maybe win a $10 gift card. One drawing a month. (CLA members only) But that’s not all we do with what we earn. You also get: • Non-scheduled entertainment or educational events that the CLA Board may provide throughout the year • The monthly, 16-page Lite Lines that gives you all the information on upcoming CLA events as well

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

as other local and area events, club activities, contact information and much more • The annual Canadian Lakes Association Membership Directory and Buyer’s Guide complete with a yellow page section We also make donations to local

17

clubs and organizations, the Gifts and Memorial Fund, and the Canadian Lakes Fourth of July fireworks display.

Now consider this: take your family of four to a professional sports event or to a fast-food restaurant or to the movies and see what $25 will buy you for just one outing. Consider as well that you can bring your extended family and friends to the events listed (the free ones) at no charge. The CLA is basically a self-funded association, although we do receive some donations in the way of cash, services, or products from some of our local and area businesses for certain events.

Finally, did you know that the CLA currently has 46 Sanctioned Clubs of various interests that you can join?

All clubs need to be sanctioned (approved) by the CLA Board of Directors. We do this to ensure that each club is headed up by a Canadian Lakes property owner and that they agree to the conditions required to become sanctioned. Once sanctioned, a club is allowed to use any of the facilities of Canadian Lakes at no charge as long as the day and time of the week are arranged through the CLPOC front desk. You can play bridge, pinochle, or euchre. You can play table tennis or play dominos or shoot pool. You can sing in a ladies’ or men’s chorus. You can aquacise in one of our pools, practice yoga, dance for exercise, or walk inside The Castle in the winter. Maybe get involved with the Garden Club, the Dog Club, the CL Cruisers, or the Airport Club. How about joining the Quilt Club or the Sewing Club? You can become part of one of our Book Clubs. Not enough for you? How about joining the CL Players and perform in a play on stage or work behind the scenes in sound, lighting, make-up, props, or a wide variety of other jobs? If fishing is your enjoyment, join the Fishing Club—this group almost always has something going on for its members or the community. This is just a sample of some of the clubs we have to offer. If you don’t see anything that appeals to you, think about starting your own club. We will need to sanction you and there is a form to fill out, but as long as you meet the guidelines, you can start a club.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President - Earl Christianson Vice-President - Robin Bielby 231-823-4302 | rbielby3@gmail.com Secretary - Sharon Schmidt 517-483-3182 | schmidts55@yahoo.com Treasurer - John Loy 616-481-4000 | jloy@carlsonwagonlit.com Jo Alex 847-754-8137 | jolalexclakes@comcast.net Mike Burke 231-359-1114 | mburke890@charter.net

18

I’ve covered a lot of territory in just a couple pages.

The thing is—the Canadian Lakes Association (CLA) is a significant part of Canadian Lakes and has been since the early 1970s. Along with planning and working at all the events, the CLA Board of Directors and I (and we are all volunteers) feel that it is our responsibility to the Canadian Lakes community to continue on with the purpose of the CLA that is detailed in our By-Laws.

We work to maintain the traditional events, as well as develop new events as our population changes. I feel that doing so helps increase the value of Canadian Lakes to the members and may also help attract potential property buyers to our community.

If you are a current CLA member, thank you. If you are a current Canadian Lakes property owner (CLPOC member) but not a CLA member, please consider supporting all that the Canadian Lakes Association does for this community by joining us. Keep in mind that your $25 CLA membership fee is not included with your CLPOC annual dues. Membership forms are available on the kiosk inside the CLPOC Office and on our website at www.canadianlakesassociation.org; or you can contact our Membership Director, Jo Alex at 847-754-8137 and she can send you a membership form.

I hope to see you at many of the events that the CLA presents throughout the year. Our next big event is the CLA Annual Winter Carnival on Saturday, February 9 at the Highland Haus and the Alpine Haus from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our Annual Pot-Luck Dinner will be held in March. Watch the Lite Lines, the CL News, and the Member eNews for more information. If you have questions about the CLA or how to join the CLA Board (if you are a CLA member), contact me at 313-204-0877 or eande751@sbcglobal.net. You can also check out our website at www.canadianlakesassociation.org or contact one of the current CLA Board members listed on the back of the Lite Lines.

DIRECTORY AD SALES Bill Kerwin LITE LINES Elaine Christianson 313-204-7751 | eande751@sbcglobal.net MEDICAL SUPPLIES Sharon Schmidt Mike Burke Bob Teeter 231-972-0072 | bobteeter1@gmail.com

DIRECTORY WHITE PAGES/MEMBERSHIP Jo Alex

NEWCOMERS Earl Christianson Elaine Christianson

DIRECTORY YELLOW PAGES Earl Christianson Bill Kerwin 231-972-8918 | billkerwin35@gmail.com

PURCHASING John Loy Mike Burke

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SANCTIONED ACTIVITIES - SIGNS Tom Gawenda 231-557-4776 | btgawenda@charter.net SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Peggy Brohl 901-831-1673 | msbrohl@comcast.net Lou Preston 248-420-8811 | louispreston6@gmail.com VOLUNTEERS Robin Bielby 231-823-4302 | rbielby3@gmail.com WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR Lee Ann McCormick BRICK SALES Liz Dean 231-972-8576 | ldean710@charter.net

2018

RED KETTLE RESULTS for Canadian Lakes

BY DALE DOEPKER Total for all locations for 2018 = $5,503 (Slightly ahead of last year’s $5,399 total) Refuse Center Kettles only = $4,271 Lakeside Motorsports Kettle = $552 The photo shows four who came for our annual photo, on Sunday, December 23, taken by Tim Cook. (Lee Wolken, Ron Winter, Rick Kempton and Dale Doepker)

E

ighteen different bell ringers dedicated 82 total hours of ringing. Ten bell ringers did multiple shifts—six rang three and four rang two; and eight rang a single shift. Thanks to all 18 who helped ring this year. A special thanks to Tim and Michelle Cook at the Refuse Center for their help, with aid of the owner Bob Doerr. Also, thanks to Ed Richter at Lakeside Motorsports for his 120% match of that kettle. Thanks to Gail Hixson and Tim Conley for

Hixson’s Counter Kettles = $594 Conley Bakery Counter Kettle = $86 encouraging their counter kettles. Our collection this year was greatly helped by a $200 check, several $100 checks and several $50 donations, plus the many $20, $10, $5, $1 and loose change donations. A special thanks to those volunteers who attended the kettle for three shifts: Rick Kempton, Gloria Parker, Mary Barnes, Frank Schultz, and Jeff Hylek.

Winter Car nival Ev ents Satu rday, February 9, 2019

•FOOD AT THE HIGHLAND HAUS | 11 A.M. – 3 P.M. or UNTIL WE RUN OUT (hot dogs, baked beans, chips, hot chocolate, lemonade coffee and cookies)

•WAGON RIDES PROVIDED BY THE HEALY’S OUTBACK RANCH | NOON – 2:30 P.M. •KID’S CRAFTS AND TATTOOS AT THE ALPINE HAUS | 11 A.M. – 3 P.M. •DEE JAY THE CLOWN AT THE ALPINE HAUS | 12:30 P.M. – 3 P.M. with a special show at 2 P.M. •ICE SKATING | 11 A.M. – 3 P.M. (for everyone’s safety, no hockey please) •DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS FOR CURRENT CLA MEMBERS | ONLY AT 1 P.M.

if w e hav e snow, th er e will be:

•A SNOW SCULPTURE CONTEST AT THE DRIVING RANGE

(register inside the HIghland Haus and bring your own tools, props etc.)

•FREE USE OF THE SNOW TUBE TOW FOR HALF AN HOUR

(must call the CLPOC Office 231-972-7651 to register number of spots and desired time if available)

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19

Safety

Canadian Lakes

Safety...

ROB MICKEY Director, Canadian Lakes Department of Safety rmickey@clpoc.org

A

s I write this article, I look back at 2018 and what a year it has been! Since I took my position this past August, I have had the opportunity to meet and talk with so many people and be a part of several activities within our community.

Thanks to all of you for your kind words, and I’m truly looking forward to what 2019 brings.

I just wanted to take a minute and touch on a topic that the Safety Department focuses on this time of year; our “Red Light” program. In a nutshell, people that participate in this program purchase a “Winter Watchman” box that plugs into a standard outlet, then is connected via extension cord to a red light bulb and placed in a visible window. If the temperature falls below the desired setting in the house, the red light comes on to alert somebody that there may be a problem with the furnace, etc. We have a list of people that participate in this program and this list is generated by the homeowner coming in to the CLPOC office each year to register; your registration does not carry over between years. In the vast majority of red-light activations, it is an improper setting as the winter watchman boxes and their temperature dials are not an exact science.

The following may provide those with a box some valuable info: I have found that generally a setting between 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit on the dial to be adequate, leaning more towards the lower 30 degrees end. Again, it’s not an exact science, but this info may help alleviate some false activations. Rest assured both our Safety officers and our dedicated Mobile Watch volunteers are always on the lookout to help keep your house safe. Please feel free to give us a call with any questions you may have!

For those of us willing to brave this cold weather we have a few months left to go, but we all know that seems to make the warmer months that much sweeter. Again, thank you for all of the waves and welcoming me this year, it’s nice to serve such a great community.

Enjoy your winter!

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21

Fishing CL Fishing Club 2019 List of Events

BY DALE DOEPKER Questions about fishing in Canadian Lakes or the Fishing Club, call Dale Doepker, dtroutman97@aol.com, 972-8663

22

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Year-round Big Fish Contest Reminder This year’s contest runs from October 1, 2018, to September 30, 2019.

There is one entry form for both youth and adults so far. If the entry is a young angler, the information for the angler must be filled in as to age and so forth. All entries are eligible for the Largest Fish of the Year award if the minimum length is met. The new entry forms are available on the website and at the CLPOC Office.

Please make sure that the form used is for the current year, 2018 to 2019.

15th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby The 15th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby will be Saturday, February 9, the same day as the Winter Carnival, from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring the kids for a fun time ice fishing, whether or not they have done it before. No registration needed, just show up.

Fishing rods, bait, holes, shelters, underwater video, fish finders, bonfire, hot chocolate and donuts provided free. Canadian Lakes Fishing Club members will give instruction and assistance in catching fish. In past years, more than 100 kids have caught hundreds of bluegill and perch, plus several pike. Location is on the Main Lake, just south of Buchanan, off West Royal, with parking alongside the pickleball courts. We will also have a free raffle for the kids with more than a dozen great prizes at 10:30 a.m. Adults are welcome to come and learn the techniques.

If you have any questions, call or email Dale Doepker at dtroutman97@ aol.com or 972-8663.

two tackle boxes, to the Big Rapids Salvation Army Angel Tree for kids’ Christmas presents.

Throughout the year, the Canadian Lakes Fishing Club donates dozens of used fishing rod/reel combinations, which are made available to clients of God’s Helping Hands who can use them. Don Charles reconditions them for use. Frequently a purchased new reel is added to a good used rod.

If you are interested in donating or helping, contact Dale Doepker at dtroutman97@aol.com.

Canadian Lakes Fishing Club loves to give to the community.

In December, the Canadian Lakes Fishing Club donated eight kids’ fishing rod and reel combinations, plus

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23

“Curtain Up, Light The Lights”

The Canadian Lakes Players Present The 2019 Youth Theatre Camp | Wednesday, July 3 – Saturday, July 6, 2019

BY LIZ DEAN

O

nce again, the men and women of the Canadian Lakes Players have stepped up to offer the children, grandchildren, and guests (ages 8-16 yrs. old) of all CLPOC property owners in good standing a chance to learn the ins and outs of the theatre.

Whether they have never participated in a production before or are “old hands” at performing, all our welcome.

This year, because of conflicts in availability of The Castle, the camp will take place the week of July 4. Who knows, this might even make attendance to the camp possible for those campers spending the holiday week with family and friends in Canadian Lakes.

After three days of learning the different aspects of performing, the campers will put on a production at The Castle on Saturday, July 6, for their relatives, friends and neighbors.

If you have someone in mind for this year’s camp, please fill out the registration form and mail it along with a check for $15 for each camper to the address on the form. The camp is open to the first 50 applicants.

If you are registering more than one camper, please copy the form and fill out one form per camper. You may pick up additional application forms in the kiosk in the CLPOC Office.

Any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at ldean710@charter.net or 231-972-8576.

Liz Dean

Camp Registrar

24

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

2019 Canadian Lakes Players’ Youth Theatre Camp Wednesday, July 3, 2019 – Saturday, July 6, 2018 At The Castle – 8:30am – Noon Registration:

$15 per Camper. Please make your check out to “C.L. Players” and send with this application to the address below. Application and check must be received no later than May 1, 2019. If a Camper ‘drops out’ after June 1, 2019, registration fee will be forfeited.

Eligibility:

Open to the FIRST 50 children, grandchildren, and guests, ages 8-­‐16 yrs. of Canadian Lakes Property Owners in good standing who are interested in performing on stage. All information noted below MUST be filled in. Omission of ANY information will result in DELAY of Camper’s timely registration. *****************************************************************************************

Last Name: _____________________________________ First Name: _______________________ _______ ________

Male Female Address: ______________________________ _______ ______ _____/_____/______ ________________________ Street State Zip Camper’s Birthdate List Allergies ________________________________________

____________________________ __________________________

Parent or Guardian’s E-­‐Mail Parent or Guardian’s Phone # Relationship To Camper Parent or Guardian’s Signature: _______________________________________

Parent or Guardian’s Signature: ______________________________________

Your signature gives consent for Camp Staff to seek emergency medical or first aid for the Camper.

This person will be the first one contacted in case of an emergency.

Your signature gives consent for your Camper to be filmed and/or photographed for Theatre Camp use.

T-­‐SHIRT SIZE Children’s

Adult

Small ___ Med. ___ Large ___ X-­‐Large ___

Small ___ Med. ___ Large ___ X-­‐Large ___

____________________________________________ Alternate Contact/Relationship

____________________________________ Alternate Contact’s Phone #

Please mail this application, along with a check for $15 per camper (made out to CLP Theatre Camp) to: Liz Dean

9277 Elmwood Ct. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346

s .o r g c a n a d i a n l a ke

2019 Theatre Camp Application 25

A Castle For

B

Canadian Lakes

y the early 1970s, Canadian Lakes was 10 years old. Developer Don Bollman had studied the land he had assembled for Canadian Lakes. He knew that the high sandy ridge which today runs parallel to Pere Marquette Drive offered something special to the community. At the north end of the ridge was the premier building site in the development. It offered an expansive view down the valley created by the Cedar Creek. You could see to Lake of the Clouds and beyond. His initial impulse was to reserve that site for his personal home, but he abandoned that thought to consider a building that the entire community would enjoy.

Don was a successful business owner from Shepherd, Michigan. One Sunday he rose early and sketched out a large building that resembled a castle.

He was well aware that a castle would be a great marketing icon. After thinking of using this building for a swimming pool or restaurant, he settled on a large gathering space for community use.

With his pencil sketch in hand, he tried to find someone to build his castle. After a number of attempts and being stymied multiple times, someone suggested a Michigan firm that built grain storage silos. Through a difficult process, a structure with poured concrete walls anchored by 13 silo structures rose on the site. As The Castle was being built, a rooftop apartment for Don and his family became part of the plan.

26

BY FRAN VOCI

The Castle was completed in 1972 to much fanfare in downstate newspapers. Major newspapers ran full page stories filled with photos and quotes. It was free advertising across the state. The Castle cost was $500,000 to build. The equivalent in 2018 dollars is $3,000,000.

Over the years, The Castle has become the hallmark of our community, a source of pride for members who eagerly bring their guests to see it. It has been used for gatherings of all types: dinners/ potlucks, parties and dances, weddings and proms, concerts and plays, meetings, and even bingo and ice cream socials.

Like all things, The Castle was not new forever.

By 2007, its age was showing. Significant repairs and renovations were required. The rooftop apartment was no longer used and had fallen into disrepair.

Over a period of a couple years, the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation spent close to $400,000 to rescue the property. This included new windows, exterior seal coating, the rooftop apartment removal, a new roof, interior painting, and new restrooms. The beautiful new patio and landscaping were also part of the renovation.

In 2012, the Commemorative Garden and its flag pole were constructed at The Castle entrance. This was a cooperative effort between the Canadian Lakes Association, the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation, and support from community members.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Commemorative bricks can still be ordered for placement in the brick-paved courtyard. Order forms are available at the CLPOC Office.

In July 1972, Don Bollman wrote, “It’s going to be quite a sight, I believe… and worth all the effort we put into it.

It’s being built to endure, and someday will afford a great deal of pleasure and comfort to everyone here.” Indeed, it has become a community icon, a symbol of Canadian Lakes’ strength and endurance through the 46 years since it was constructed. Pictures of The Castle have been and are regularly used in marketing our community.

The recent addition of the holiday light and sound display at The Castle is evidence that Don Bollman’s marketing instincts were true. Other places in the United States boast of having a castle, but none is as unique as ours. Our community loves its Castle and uses it regularly for community enjoyment.

Photo credit: CHUCK RICHARDSON

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27

BY LIZ DEAN

30

I

n 2012, the Canadian Lakes Association (CLA) took on the project of planning and funding a Commemorative Garden, complete with a high-flying American flag, at the entrance of The Castle. The CLPOC Maintenance Department was put in charge of placing the bricks for all in our community to enjoy. In July 2013, the Canadian Lakes community came together at the site, with Ginny Kerwin leading the community in singing the National Anthem and past CLA President John Fields, whose inspiration started this venture, along with 2013 CLA President Liz Dean, doing the honors of cutting the ribbon.

Over the years, many bricks have been sold, but there’s always room for another message—your message. For a nominal fee, a brick can be placed with an engraved message of your choice: weddings, anniversaries, births, deaths, or just a message to all in your own words. If you haven’t had an opportu-

nity to stop by The Castle and see the Commemorative Garden, why not take a ride by and see for yourself? Who knows, it might give you an idea of what message you would like to leave for your friends, neighbors, and loved ones.

If you would like to purchase a brick for yourself or as a remembrance of that special someone, you can pick up an order form in the kiosk in the CLPOC office (to the left when you come in the front door), find the form on the CLA website (www. canadianlakes.org), or email me at ldean710@ charter.net and I will send you one. Prices and engraving information are indicated on the form, as well as the address to which you should send your order. Upon receipt of your order, you will be sent a certificate with your engraved message on it for keeping or for presentation. Think of what a great gift this would be for that person who has everything!

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

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If it i has h ou oour ur name ur nam na ame me on on it, it, you have our word on it!

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31

God’s Helping Hands OF MECOSTA COUNTY

God’s Helping Hands of Mecosta County is a charitable organization that was started in 1998, with the Mission Statement: “A community coalition dedicated to helping the poor and the needy through emergency food services.” The Board of Directors is comprised of two representatives from each of nine participating churches that administer this local charity.

Day-to-day operations are managed by an Executive Director, Deputy Director and Treasurer.

There are approximately 40 of the registered 60 volunteers who work at the facility each Tuesday and Friday. The IRS recognizes GHHMC as a 501(c)(3) charity and it is a non-profit corporation recognized by the State of Michigan. It does not accept any state or federal funding. A majority of their funding comes from the sale of donated items, but donations of funds and food from within the community are also an important source of revenue.

The approximately 50,000 square foot facility is located at 8760 50th Avenue, just south of M-20. It is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon for food distribution, donations and sales. In 2017 there were

32

BY DALE DOEPKER

1,629 food allotments given out, which included 92,000 meals to 615 different households. They also have a Christmas food box distribution for 300 families, which includes a complete meal and plenty of extras. Each fall they have a school supplies and shoe drive which this

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

continued on page 34

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33

continued from page 32

year was provided to over 50 families.

A major portion of their facility is dedicated to resale of donated items from all around the community. Items in the resale store include all types of furniture, appliances, tools, hardware, yard equipment, housewares, toys, books, videos, jewelry and all types and sizes of clothing and shoes. They can provide free pick up of large donated items in good usable condition and delivery of large sale items for a monetary donation.

Services are mainly for Mecosta County residents, but no one is turned away. Everyone in Mecosta County is encouraged to come visit the facility, to see what they have and hopefully make purchases. Prices for resale items are generally lower than can be found anywhere else and sales tax is included. Credit cards are not accepted but personal checks are welcomed.

Currently the resale store is over-stocked, and more buyers are needed. Additional volunteers are always needed and welcomed for working one or two days a week. Check out their Facebook presence at God’s Helping Hands of Mecosta County, Michigan.

God’s Helping Hands Store Front

Inside the store

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

LIST YOUR LOT! The CLPOC Board is excited to announce that members can now list their unimproved / vacant lot(s) for sale on canadianlakes.org!

Each year, Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation invests thousands of dollars into advertising that drives traffic to canadianlakes.org.

Canadianlakes.org averages about 3,500 users each month.

Members can now list their vacant/unimproved vacant lot(s) for sale at canadianlakes.org for just $4.00 a month for each listing.

Things you need to know:

o You are responsible for your own listing and Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation assumes zero responsibility and liability. o If you are listing more than one lot, you must complete the entire posting process for each lot. You will continue to re-list your lot(s) in this manner as many times as you like. o When you enter a listing, billing will begin, so make sure you give all info including price, email address and/or phone number for a buyer to contact you. No credits will be given.

Visit members.canadianlakes.org to list your unimproved / vacant lot.

You must have a user profile to access the website.

After you log in, simply click the LIST YOUR LOT link on the right side of your screen. Fill in the fields and upload your pictures.

Credit card payment is required through PayPal. You’ll be responsible to log back in and relist your property after 30 days if it doesn’t sell. REVIEW TERMS AND USE. Property of Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation | Copyright 2018

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

35

THE TIGERS HAVE ARRIVED!

BY DAVE BAKER

36

N

o, Detroit hasn’t gotten all its all-star baseball players back from other teams —we’re talking about “tiger muskies.”

In 2017, under advisement from the Lakes and Environmental Committee and our lakes manager Joel Steenstra, Canadian Lakes started the process of restocking tiger muskies in our lakes. With the combined efforts of the Canadian Lakes Fishing Club BYand ASHLEY I. JOHNSTON the CLPOC, $5,000 was raised to stock additional tiger muskies in our lakes.

Studies have shown that similar stockings in other lakes have improved the size and quantity of pan fish and bass. This happens because tiger muskies help reduce stunted fish due to limited forage food.

Not only will the size of these fish increase, stocking tiger muskies will also provide the very exciting opportunity to catch one of

these monsters that can reach 50 inches or more in length!

We were disappointed last fall when the fish vendor’s ponds froze over before he could deliver them, and we came close to another cold snap disaster this year.

On Monday, November 19, Joel Steenstra headed out at 4:30 a.m. to meet the vendor’s stocking trucks in the Chicago area. Our 500 little tiger muskies were transferred into the CLPOC trailer tank with the circulators running (to keep the water oxygenated), and the race was on to Canadian Lakes.

All arrived alive; and starting with Lake of the Clouds, holes were chopped in the ice and fish were transferred from the tank with nets and rushed to the water for release. Fishermen take note: fifty-five of the 12- to 14-inch toothy predators were

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

released in Lake of the Clouds, 20 in Lake Laura, 5 in Sunset Lake, 20 in Fawn Lake, and 100 in West Canadian (across from the boat launch). The remaining 300 were released in the Main Lake by the boat launch. Only one fatality was noted in the entire operation in spite of the net handling—fortunately it was a fish and not the old guys chopping and running with nets full of fish.

It has been a long time coming, but I want to thank all the people who supported this effort with time, money, and enthusiasm. Special thanks to Joel Steenstra who routinely goes above and beyond for our community, to Greg Babbitt and the Lakes and Environmental Committee for their guidance and support, to Dale Doepker and the Canadian Lakes Fishing Club, and to Mary Barnes for her assistance with the fundraising. Mary even took an ice cold, double boot soaker to save a tiger that got trapped on top of the ice.

The tiger muskies weren’t the only ones getting wet

Careful Handling

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37

Celebrations

TO EXPEL THOSE WINTER DOLDRUMS

by Marilyn Yvon

I

t may seem as though the winter months drag on with little to celebrate. You’ve made it through January, but two dreary months loom ahead before you can even begin to hope for spring.

Fear not! Somewhere in the world, just about every day something is being celebrated. Why not join in? We’ve selected just a sampling of the holidays—some weird, some wonderful—from which you can choose.

FEB. 1 – National Freedom Day (U.S.): This day recognizes the signing of our 13th Amendment, which outlawed slavery. It is also a day for all to celebrate freedom. Read the U.S. Constitution today.

FEB. 2 – Groundhog Day (U.S. and Canada):

Will the groundhog (Punxsutawney Phil being the “official” one in the U.S.; Wiarton Willie, an albino groundhog, representing Canada) see his shadow, portending six more weeks of winter?

No shadow forecasts an early spring.

FEB. 5 – Chinese New Year:

This begins the Year of the Pig. Celebrate with take-out Chinese food.

FEB. 5 – World Nutella Day:

Another reason to celebrate this date. Originating in Italy, Nutella is now sold in more than 75 countries. So spread some on your breakfast toast.

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FEB. 9 – National Pizza Day: What could be

better than having a day dedicated to nature’s most perfect food, the pizza? Think of it: a wheat crust, tomato sauce, cheese (dairy), vegetables such as green pepper and onion, and even pineapple (but why would you?), and you have all the food groups in one easy-to-eat, delicious pie.

FEB. 15 – Singles Awareness Day (also known as Singles Appreciation Day): The day following Valentine’s Day—that day of rejection for those who don’t know someone who will buy them candy or flowers to gain temporary favor. This day celebrates singlehood and the many perks that brings: eating out of the pan to save the time and bother of washing plates, binge watching Hallmark movies, having a beer with the boys (those who are also single) almost every night—to name just a few.

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FEB. 17 – Random Acts of Kindness Day:

Be nice to someone today, even if you’re in a bad mood.

Doing something kind for a stranger might even get you who celebrated Singles Awareness Day a date. This holiday originated in New Zealand, where people are generally kind to begin with.

FEB. 18 – National Drink Wine Day: Seems like a good excuse to indulge—“I’m just having a glass of wine so the other people celebrating this day don’t have to drink alone.”

FEB. 20 – National Love Your Pet Day: Of course

you love your pet every day, but pets just wanted to have a special day of their own—sort of the equivalent of the humans’ Valentine’s Day.

FEB. 22 – National Margarita Day: This is actually celebrated in a number of countries. Although the origin of the drink and the day are unknown, one suspects both were gifts from south of the border.

MAR. 1 – It seems everyone around the world

likes the first of March—numerous holidays fall on this day; for example: Heroes’ Day in Paraguay, Patriots’ Day in Mongolia, Yap Day in Micronesia, and National Pig Day in the U.S. Surely you can find something to celebrate today!

MAR. 2 – Dr. Seuss Day:

Read “The Cat in the Hat” or “Horton Hears a Who.”

MAR. 5 – Fat Tuesday:

Eat your fill today, for tomorrow begins the Christian period of fasting.

MAR. 10 – International Pay Telephone Booth

Day: On this date in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell made the first phone call, uttering the famous words, “Mr. Watson, come here. I want to see you.” In 2018, a man in Rochester, NY, chose this date to memorialize the rapidly disappearing phone booth. Spend this day searching for a phone booth; and if you find one, use your

Of course, here in Canadian Lakes, we have a variety of events and activities to chase away those winter doldrums.

The Winter Carnival on Feb. 9 is a great way to enjoy winter with family and friends. See all the details on page 19.

Join one of the many clubs sanctioned by the Canadian Lakes Association (CLA). Whether you like to play cards or games, enjoy dancing, love to

cellphone (the device responsible for the booth’s demise) to take a photo of it.

MAR. 15 – The Ides of March: You may have

heard of this, but do you know what it’s about?

It is the day Julius Caesar was assassinated and is associated with bad luck (well, it certainly was for Julius). “Ides” is a Roman method of keeping track of the days in a month, counting backward to figure out the date (no wonder the Empire fell).

MAR. 20 – International Day of Happiness: Don’t worry—be happy! The United Nations declared this day in 2011.

MAR. 21 – World Poetry Day: This day, begun in 1999 by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), is to encourage people to read, write, teach, and enjoy poetry and its contribution to society. So try writing some haiku or iambic pentameter today!

MAR. 25 – Waffle Day (the food): This is celebrated in Sweden and several other countries. In the U.S., National Waffle Day is Aug. 24. Why not celebrate both days? Pour on the maple syrup and enjoy!

MAR. 30 – Earth Hour: Join people all over the

world in turning off lights and not using electrical appliances for an hour as a show of support for environmental responsibility. Iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building participate.

MAR. 31 – National Crayon Day: Exactly when and where crayons originated has not been established. The word “crayon” has been used since around the 1650s. The iconic Crayola brand was introduced in 1902. Color away!

HAPPY CELEBRATING!

sing—or have just about any interest—you’ll find a welcoming group of people with similar interests.

See the Let’s Get Social page for a list of groups.

Get some exercise while making new friends.

Walk at the Castle, swim or use the exercise equipment at the Fitness Center, or join a yoga or exercise class. Check the list of activities on the Let’s Get Social page.

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39

Canadian Lakes

Mobile Watch

BY ROGER STOBERT

What does the Mobile Watch Do on Patrol?

So, what does the Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch do on patrol? We do a lot of looking, listening, and reporting. A Mobile Watch volunteer will drive fewer than 20 miles once a week in one of nine designated areas within Canadian Lakes; typically, in one’s own neighborhood. Our goal is to have two patrols per day in each of our areas, although we fall short of this goal in many areas.

A kit (aka bucket) is a five-gallon paint bucket containing everything a patroller needs to do a patrol, which is usually dropped off at the patroller’s home that day or the day before the patrol. The kit includes a radio, charger, magnetic Mobile Watch signs and cloths for cleaning the signs, an amber light, and so forth. Just prior to heading out on patrol, we place the magnetic Mobile Watch signs on our vehicles and the amber lights, which plug into a car’s 12-volt DC outlet, on the vehicle roofs. We then contact Canadian Lakes Safety on our provided radios informing Safety that our area patrols a starting.

We then drive around our areas, usually at about 10 to 15 mph, watching for anything suspicious or unusual. We watch for open garage doors at residences where it appears no one is home. We watch for stranded motorists, whether residents or visitors. We watch for lost walkers, hikers, bicyclists, visitors, and even lost residents driving around who flag us down because they have lost their way. And this happens more often than most think. In the warmer months, some of us even do these patrols using our bicycles, golf carts, or quads.

In the winter, we also watch for red lights in the windows of residents’ homes that indicate a possible heating system malfunction. Sometimes it’s difficult to differentiate between a bona fide “red light” and a red Christmas light. If we can’t determine which, we call it in. Better to be

40

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safe. We watch our fellow Canadian Laker homes for anything out of the ordinary.

What do we do if we see something?

We contact Canadian Lakes Safety via the radio included in our kits. We’re not supposed to leave our vehicles unless it is absolutely necessary or if requested by Safety or law enforcement personnel, and then only if we feel comfortable doing so.

We never confront or provoke people or intentionally place ourselves in danger.

If we come upon a crisis situation requiring immediate attention, such as an auto accident, fire, medical assistance needed, or any other similar circumstance where time may be critical, we call 911 first and then contact Safety.

At the end of a patrol, we radio Safety that we have completed our area patrol. We remove all the Mobile Watch equipment and place it carefully in the kit after any needed cleaning (mainly the signs). We then drop the kit at the next patroller’s home.

Before doing a patrol on our own, all the above (and more) is discussed during a “tabletop” orientation followed by a practice patrol with our area Captain, which is scheduled sometime later and includes going over all the equipment contained in the kit. We are provided with literature that includes all the information needed to do a patrol. This information is also included in the kit.

Has the Mobile Watch done any good patrolling? You might be surprised by some of the stories we tell about experiences we’ve had on patrol. One of our patrollers happened upon a resident who had slipped on the ice near his mailbox and couldn’t right himself. This event could have turned into a tragedy, as the resident lived on a little-traveled dead-end street.

A similar event involved a resident who, while ice fishing, fell on the ice, dislocating his shoulder, and couldn’t get up. Another patroller came upon a rather secluded

residence where a stranded worker was marooned on the roof because his ladder had fallen and he was unable to get down. These are just a few of our stories.

We’ve been called upon to assist Safety, the Michigan State Police, and Mecosta County Sheriff in searching for an elderly individual who had wandered away from home; and, on another occasion, looked for young children who had gotten lost in the woods east of Canadian Lakes. We only do these non-patrolling activities if we have authorized the Mobile Watch to contact us and are available at the time. We identify and report literally hundreds of red lights each winter. Nobody knows how many vandalisms and burglaries have been prevented.

So, are you interested in becoming a Mobile Watch patroller? You are supplied with everything you need, except you provide your own vehicle. We can’t fulfill our mission without continued community support and participation.

While we have many volunteers of all ages (a few over 90!) and genders, some having been on the Mobile Watch for over a decade, there are still areas that need patrollers just to have one patrol per day. Please understand that the commitment is small. While the above may sound complicated, it is quite easy. It only takes about an hour per week. If you are interested, even if only part time, please contact Roger Stobert, Mobile Watch Coordinator, at 231-972-1232 or at spankky@charter.net, or just call Canadian Lakes Safety at 231-972-8555.

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c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

Mary E. Miller, O.D. 41

Would You Like A Pickle With That?

I

t seems to have become a standard to get a pickle with any sandwich you order at a restaurant in the United States. Dan, the Royal Grille’s general manager, once said he believes you can tell a lot about the restaurant by the pickle on your plate. That is probably because it is one of those items that doesn’t get a lot of attention. Customers expect one but most of the time don’t eat it; employees rarely forget to add one to the plate, but it’s never listed on the ticket; and it seems to be one of those items you just never run out of either. So why is this simple, underappreciated item such a part of our dining experience?

It turns out this tradition began in New York City when the first delis were opening.

Many immigrants from Eastern Europe used the pickle as a palate cleanser after their lunch. The acidity and sharpness of the pickle were believed to allow the diner to fully appreciate the flavor of the sandwich. It must work, because here we are today, still honoring this technique from so long ago. In fact, there is even a festival in NYC honoring this tradition every October.

Pickles are not only used as a side item,

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BY CARLY ROBERTS Royal Grille Assistant Manager

though. Pickle juice is said to be a folk remedy to relieve muscle cramps, sooth sunburn, and even cure a hangover. Maybe that is why most Bloody Marys are served with a pickle.

Some unique recipes use pickles, combining flavors you would never believe; for example, a dill pickle and hamburger pizza, pickle soup, and I even saw pickles with peanut butter as an appetizer. Not sure we will be trying any of these out at the Royal Grille, but interesting, nonetheless.

Another interesting fact about pickles is that, botanically speaking, they are actually a fruit (who knew?). Not to get too technical, but, since vegetables are grouped according to the portion of the plant that is eaten, anything with seeds is considered a fruit. Seems a little funny when you think of spaghetti being served with fruit sauce, doesn’t it?

It seems the pickle wears many hats and deserves its special place on every sandwich plate. I hope next time you come for lunch, you savor the time at the end of your meal to cleanse your palate with one of the hardest working ingredients in the kitchen—the pickle!

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Hold the Chicken, Chicken Salad

By: Carly Roberts, Royal Grille Assistant Manager

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to try new things.

Below is a recipe to not only challenge what you’re used to, but, to surprise your taste buds with something scrumptious (& healthy too).

This makes a large enough batch to serve at least three and if paired with whole wheat bread makes a complete protein, so you really don’t have to miss the meat. Hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:

5 baby carrots chopped

1 jalapeno diced

½ red pepper diced

3 celery stalks chopped

½ green pepper diced

1 cucumber diced

1 green onion diced 1 dollop of mayonnaise

1 can of chickpeas Salt & pepper to taste

(you can choose vegan or avocado oil based for a healthier option here)

Directions:

Warm and mash chickpeas in large bowl. Add all of prepped ingredients

and mix together.

come &

EAT

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- Sweet Chili Salmon -

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c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

43

CLPOC Board Minutes We’ve condensed Board meeting minutes published here in The Canadian Laker for faster reading and to keep printing costs of this publication as low as possible. Full Board meeting minutes are located on the members website (www.members.canadianlakes.org) under the governing tab. You’ll also find full videos of the meetings under the governing tab and in the Canadian Lakes Property Owners private group on Facebook. Like always, full minutes are available at the CLPOC office.

CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Saturday November 17, 2018 1. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Steve Wilcox at 9:00 am.

Board members present: James French (Skype), Jan Watts, Paul Szymkowicz, John Colley (Skype), Jim Brakora, and Jim Swartzendruber Board members absent: Dan Altier and, Beckie De Young (Counting ballots) Staff present: Greg Babbitt, Estelle Molitor and Kim Dowell 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIENCE: Members and Directors.

3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Szymkowicz moved to approve the agenda. Motion passed unanimously.

4. AUSTIN TOWNSHIP REPORT: None 5. PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Wilcox did not have anything to report.

6. FINANCIAL REPORT: Kim Dowell reviewed the financial information for the month of October 2018. Currently 422 lots have outstanding 2018 fees totaling $209,438.

7. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Committees reports as follows: a. ACC: (Paul Szymkowicz) • Committee did not meet last month as there wasn’t any new or old business to address. b. CLA Liaison: (Jan Watts) • November winners of the CLA $10 member appreciation drawing are Raymond and Cathy Rezek.

• Upcoming events are: i. The annual craft show will be November 24 ii. The CLA will host an appreciation lunch for the CLPOC operational maintenance department staff. iii. There will be a home decorating contest for CLA members. iv. The New Years Eve party will be at the Castle.

44

• Stated her appreciation for all the CLA does every year. c. Executive: (Wilcox) • Discussed items on the agendas for the two meetings today. d. Finance: (Jim French) At their November meeting the committee: • Reviewed the FY2019 budget year statistics and projections • Discussed the 2019 proposed fee schedule which will be presented to the Board at the November monthly meeting.

• Kim Dowell presented an update on the small claims actions. Two batches have been submitted to date. Program has been very successful with two batches of 10 submitted and have collected significant funds.

• Discussed a Small Claims Assistant • Received an update on the Ad Hoc Funding Committee.

• Received brief update on the Strategic Planning Committee work.

• Were updated on Membership ID System and accounting software status.

• Discussed alternatives if the Green Plan fails • Reviewed information from the BAG Committee on converting the yard waste area to a storage area or creating more storage area e. Ad Hoc Funding: (Jan Watts) • Committee’s work is coming to an end.

• Watts stated her appreciation for the dedication of the committee and felt honored to have participated with the committee members. Thanked them and the membership for their participation. f. Strategic Planning: (Jim Swartzendruber) • Committee met the past month • They continue to evaluate facility usage with orientation towards utilization management as it relates to that capacity.

• Committee is broken up into two broad categories:

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i. The Alpine Haus, the Highland Haus, and the Pool and Fitness Center ii. The Castle • They have nearly one year’s data on cost related to utilization and are starting to capture the reserve spending. Once they understand annual cost to keep these building open they will start looking at formulating recommendations for utilization, consolidation, and re-purposing these facilities to bring them into full capacity usage. Will not do this without full cooperation, input, and data with people currently using those buildings.

•The biking/hiking trail is close to fruition with continuing discussion. Looking to share information and plans with the membership in January.

• They are considering strategic matters related to facility usage, lakes, golf, physical activities, and various community matters.

• Committee questions themselves -- is there a better way for us to drive efficiency, drive capitalization of our professional staff, enhance the sense of community, spur continuity thru various community initiatives?

8. GENERAL MANAGER REPORT (Greg Babbitt) a. Marketing Update: (Jessica Slendak) • Members have the option to list their unimproved lots for sale on the CLPOC website. There will be a $7.00 charge because there is a charge to have the application created and maintained.

• The Canadian Laker will be out the first week of December. Received positive comments on the last issue.

• The Marketing Department has plans for 2019 but waiting for the result of the vote before they can solidify plans based on money. b. Community Projects Update: • The East Royal Bridge bids exceed $500,000. Our engineer is currently investigating options to lower the cost

CLPOC Board Minutes including alternatives to the bridge such as filling it in or using a culvert type structure.

• Cart path paving and the maintenance building roof projects have been delayed by the contractors due to the weather and are postponed until Spring. c. Maintenance Items: • CL Excavating was scheduled to do last winter road grading before snowplowing but had to start snowplowing yesterday.

They will do the last winter road grading prep work if warm weather melts this snow.

• Thanked members for their prompt boat removal from our lakes. The one boat that didn’t meet the deadline was also finally removed after some direct contact from staff. a. Staff has been doing some roadside trimming in some of our worst areas in preparation for winter snowplowing. d. Amenity Update: • Restaurant off-season off to a good start with Taco Tuesday experiencing success.

The Bourbon tasting event was a big success. There will be a Christmas Elvis performance on December 15.

• October was not a good month for the golf course as it was our third worst October since 1995. Earlier in the year, April was our worst April ever. Still, when the golf season officially ended October 31st income is still projected to be on budget.

Dennis also reported on a new concept regarding a potential Jr. Golf League opportunity with other local courses.

• Bill Hull reports that bow hunting on the Pines this year has seen the most members ever. Informed of some near misses but still no direct hits. e. General Manager Committee Update: • BAG: Will meet in two weeks • Lakes & Environmental: Finished meeting for the year.

• Golf: Finished meeting for the year.

• Marketing & Awareness: Discussed the Members’ Night of Lights event and the upcoming edition of the Laker • Compliance: Will meet in two weeks • Restaurant: Scheduled to meet again in early December f. Seasonal Activities: • Department Heads have completed

their proposed FY2020 operating budgets based on the Green Plan being approved.

Will be reviewing Replacement Reserve items scheduled for next year. This proposed budget was presented to the Finance Committee at their November 14th meeting.

• Staff has been busy prepping both the tubing tow and ice-skating rink for the upcoming season. g. Enforcement: • Continue to pursue abandoned vehicles that we are requiring to be removed from

members lots. Those that did not meet the deadline were turned over to Morton Township for potential fines.

• Went thru first round of six camping units on members lots. All members complied except one who has been referred to our attorney for legal action. Since then, we have identified an additional three camping units. They will receive a letter starting the process and if not removed by the deadline these will be forwarded to our corporate attorney for potential legal action.

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c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

45

CLPOC Board Minutes h. Recognized and thanked Fran Voci for all her efforts in organizing last night’s Members Night of Lights.

9. CONSENT CALENDAR: Wilcox moved to approve the October 27 , 2018 Board Meeting minutes as well as receive and file the October 2018 check disbursement. Motion approved unanimously.

10. MEMBERS COMMENTS ONLY ON ITEMS FOR ACTION ITEMS OR ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: None 11. ITEMS FOR ACTION: None 12. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: a. An Item to Approve the Proposed 2019 Fee Schedule: The Finance Committee discussed the proposed schedule at their November meeting based on the principle that the Green Plan would be approved. Publication of the schedule is being withheld pending the funding vote. As part of developing a balanced budget process, more discussion would be required if the Green Plan is not approved. Once the fee schedule is finalized it will be sent to the Board for review and approval at the

December 15 meeting. If the Green Plan is not approved, the revised fee schedule will be discussed at the December 5th workshop. b. An Item to Approve the Fiscal Year 2020 Proforma Budget: Discussed in conjunction with the proposed 2019 fee schedule. Management developed a FY2020 budget based on the passage of the Green Plan with operating expenses not to exceed 1.5%. Board will be reviewing and discussing FY2020 budget prior to approving it at the December 15 Monthly Board meeting. c. An Item to Approve the Asphalt Maintenance Plan for 2019: It is at this time of the year that the Asphalt maintenance plan for the next year is prepared and presented to the Board for their approval in order to get on the contractors schedule early the next year. The plan can include chip sealing, overlay, and chip/ fog seal improvements. The locations and complete recommendations will be given to the directors for next month’s meeting.

The budget for FY2020 is $194,610.

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5/19/18 1:52 PM

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d. An Item to Revise the CLPOC Mission Statement: As part of the Board’s ongoing review of the governing documents, at the November 7 Board Workshop, a revision to the Mission Statement was discussed.

This led to the recommendation to revise it to the following: The mission of Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation is to provide governance, financial stability and sustainability, along with opportunities for educational, social, recreational interests, while still protecting the area’s natural environment and member investment. The Board intends to continue looking at the governing documents every month at their workshop meetings.

This will be brought up for approval at the next monthly Board meeting.

13. MEMBERS COMMENTS: None 14. DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: a. Brakora: Emphasized the need for more volunteers to help the CLA on an ongoing basis. b. Watts: Time of year to give thanks.

She feels blessed to be living in Canadian Lakes and is appreciative of the CLA and all they do, the Board and the operational staff for all they do to make Canadian Lakes a beautiful place. c. Szymkowicz: On the behave of the Nominating Committee and the Board, wished the four candidates for the Board the very best of luck in the election. d. Swartzendruber: The vendors and businesses support Canadian Lakes in a tremendous way as shown in the Member’s Night of Light event. Gave them a big shout out to those behind the scenes that make events special. e. Wilcox: In the six years he has served on the CLPOC Board, it has been a privilege and a true honor to serve with the dedicated group of people. He gave a thank you to all the current Board members and the ones he has served with in the past for the opportunity to be a part of this group as well as a special thank you to Babbitt. Let’s continue to make this place great. Watts responded with her appreciation for having Wilcox on the Board and his support of all the other Board members.

15. MEMBER COMMUNICATIO N REQUIREMENTS: a. Proposed Mission Statement revision 16. EXECUTIVE SESSION: None

CLPOC Board Minutes 17. ADJOURNMENT: Brakora moved to adjourn at 9:42 am with support 18. NOTICE OF FUTURE MEETINGS: a. The Board of Directors will hold a meeting on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 in the CLPOC Conference Room, 10690 Pierce Road, Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 beginning at 4:30 p.m. b. The Board of Directors will hold a meeting on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at the Highland Haus, 11560 Belle Isle, Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 beginning at 9:00 am.

in third batch 7. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Committees reports as follows: a. ACC: (Paul Szymkowicz) • Did not meet last month • Szymkowicz thanked the committee members and Casey Smith for their service over the past year. b. CLA Liaison: (Jan Watts) • Listed the new officers.

• CLA membership is up by 37 members.

Respectfully submitted, Beckie DeYoung, CLPOC Board of Directors Secretary

• December winners of the CLA $10 member appreciation drawing are Darrel and Sue Somers.

(board minutes are printed as submitted)

• Named the winners of the Christmas decorating contest are: • Upcoming events are:

CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Saturday December 15, 2018 Highland Haus 1. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Steve Wilcox at 9:00 am.

Board members present: James French (Skype), Jan Watts, John Colley (Skype), Paul Szymkowicz, Jim Brakora, Beckie De Young and Jim Swartzendruber Board members absent: Dan Altier Staff present: Greg Babbitt, Estelle Molitor and Kim Dowell Members at Large in attendance: 22 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIENCE: Members and Directors.

3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Szymkowicz moved to approve the agenda. Motion passed unanimously.

i. The New Years Eve party at the Castle. ii. The Winter Carnival is in the planning stage. c. Executive: (Wilcox) • No report as items they discussed are in the action and discussion items later on the agenda. d. Finance: (Jim French) At their December meeting the committee: • Reviewed the corporation’s financial status thru November. Are on track to stay on budget.

• Reviewed the FY 2020 ProForma Budget.

• Discussed the 2019 proposed fee schedule which will be presented along with the ProForma Budget to the Board at their December workshop for approval at the December monthly Board meeting.

4. AUSTIN TOWNSHIP REPORT: None

• Kim Dowell presented an update on the small claims actions and the successes using it.

5. PRESIDENT’S REPORT: None

• Discussed the Small Claims Assistant

6. FINANCIAL REPORT: Kim Dowell reviewed the financial information for the month of November 2018. Of the two batches submitted to small claims court, have collected over $11,000 on the first batch and over $19,000 from the second batch to date. Are getting ready to send

• Discussed Replacement Reserve projects including the East Royal bridge.

• Talked about the potential of increasing the storage spaces and relocating the yard waste area to accommodate that. Will be discussed further.

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• Discussed the ongoing Royal deck replacement project to be done in the spring.

• Accounting Department going thru an update to the server and the accounting software. e. Strategic Planning: (Jim Swartzendruber) • Committee met the first week in December.

• Reviewed the proposed biking/hiking trail. Information on location and size coming out in January.

• Working to develop closer relationship with the CLA. • Planning teams will start working with group teams in the golf and lake preservation areas.

• Next meeting is January 8 at 5:00 pm in the CLPOC office.

8. GENERAL MANAGER REPORT (Greg Babbitt) a. Marketing Update: (Estelle Molitor ) • Currently gathering 2018 statistic for a full report at the January meeting.

• Working on 2019 plans to involve more internal marketing for members • Estelle submitted her notice and will be leaving CLPOC shortly. Babbitt said she has done a great job and will be missed. b. Community Projects Update: • The East Royal Bridge replacement will be discussed later on the agenda.

• The Royal deck replacement is an ongoing project. Hoping to have something official on it for discussion at the January Board meeting c. Maintenance Items: • CL Excavating has maintained the roads during recent ice and snow conditions.

Snow plowing can cause some turfing until the ground is frozen.

• Staff has done some roadside trimming in worst areas and decorating of areas for the holidays. d. Amenity Update: • Restaurant: Taco Tuesday experiencing success. Food specials and upcoming special events will be announced in the 47

CLPOC Board Minutes eNews including bringing back a comedian. e. Indoor Pool and fitness: Doing well and are busy. f. General Manager Committee Update: • BAG: Done officially meeting for this year but still developing proposals for the new yard waste area and the Royal deck.

• Lakes & Environmental: Finished meeting for the year.

• Golf: Finished meeting for the year.

• Marketing & Awareness: Did not meet this month.

• Compliance: Did not meet this month.

Will resume in January • Restaurant: Scheduled to meet next Thursday. g. Seasonal Activities: • Staff has the winter sports area prepped.

Tubing tow ready to go. Ice rink still needs work. Cross country ski area needs snow to be able to groom h. Enforcement: • Thanked members who compiled by removing RV camping trailers from various lots. Except for one, all those previously identified have been removed. That one has been referred to our attorney.

9. CONSENT CALENDAR: De Young to approve the November 7 Workshop Notes and the November 17, 2018 Board Meeting minutes as well as receive and file the November 2018 check disbursement. Motion approved unanimously.

10. MEMBERS COMMENTS ONLY ON ITEMS FOR ACTION ITEMS OR ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: • Joe Lanz (WF 36): Re Item 10b The current Mission Statement focused on the community; proposed Mission Statement based on functions of the Board of Directors and the corporation. Will not know what is the mission of the community.

• Wally Kardosh (NS 56 & 57): Re Item 10a It is important for the membership to know that the Board has sited authorization per AOI Article XIII I in the white paper. The last two paragraphs of the Article clearly states the authorization the Board has to levy special assessments

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without the vote of the membership. Recommended members read the complete AOI Article XIII (I).

Pointed out that there is “fuzzy math” in the fee schedule, pointed out there is a current funding plan in place. He questioned the numbers presented in the FY 2020 ProForma Budget.

11. ITEMS FOR ACTION: a. Approve the 2019 Fee Schedule & resulting FY 2020 ProForma Budget: French moved to adopt the 2019 Fee Schedule for the period of January 1st through December 31st, 2019 and to approve the proposed Fiscal Year 2020 ProForma budget.

• French recommended the Amenity Transfer Fee be reduced from $50.00 and after discussion, the fee was changed to $30. The process and the fee was explained to members in the audience and watching on Facebook. Extensive discussion followed.

• Among other things, Brakora stated the Board was doing things that he had argued against. He didn’t challenge the dollar amounts as they are accurate and thinks there is a great need for a significant dollar amount in billings to the membership in an ongoing basis. Doesn’t challenge the motives behind the plan but feels faith with the community is being broken. In the past, major changes in budgeting or authority to charge fees has gone to the membership for their approval. Talked about past plans and about checks and balances. This is a change in philosophy and re-interpreting something that he thinks is legally defensible but he doesn’t think is right.

Proposed the Board take a second look at the proposed fee schedule, eliminating the $255 assessment, billing only $543 with the understanding that we will be coming back to the membership for special assessments because the $543 doesn’t provide enough funds to get thru the year. Believes it could pass and the right course of action is to proceed under the auspices of the current plan in place for 2019. Have three months to analyze the fees and budget. Could easily put an addendum on the ProForma Budget for a balanced budget thru 2019 but still would

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

not have enough money for the first 3 months of 2020 without a special assessment. Deal with 2020 as a special election and possibly a special billing in August or September to get thru the rest of the year. What is being looked at now is only a proposed ProForma Budget, open for comments. Should give the membership the opportunity to vote on funding. . Referring to the $160, stated a fund to cover future shortfalls has not been a part of our planning in the past which De Young disputed.

• Wilcox presented a question for clarification verification saying the attorneys clearly stated the proposed assessment is legal so what is the difference between different assessments and what are the Board’s responsibilities. In response, French clarified the difference between different fees and how all these were addressed in the CLPOC governing documents.

• Babbitt explained the budget process and stated a January billing of just the $543 Brakora advocated would create a cash flow problem and offsets would have to be found to balance the budget.

• French, De Young, Colley, Watts, and Szymkowicz comments addressed the Board’s role and responsibility in presenting a balanced budget per the AOI. Although the Board members did not like this fee decision, their leadership role required them to decide today based on today’s known facts and not based on hopes for the future. They must make their decisions to do what is best for the CLPOC after financial analysis and looking at the risks. If Board does not ensure there are funds to operate with, they put themselves and the corporation in a very precarious situation. The proposed fees and ProForma Budget are a stopgap measure to get thru 24 months of solid funding. Ways of cutting and eliminating items from the budget had been considered to make up the shortfall. This board anticipates the new board will go to the membership the first part of the year with a new funding plan for membership approval.

• Swartzendruber stated his position on motion, the $160 assessment and concern for the community. Essentially, he agrees

CLPOC Board Minutes with the ProForma Budget as presented and, the basic fee structure but not the $160 assessment.

• Wilcox asked Babbitt the financial impact if a plan doesn’t get passed for the following year. Babbitt responded that if the $160 was not charged, for the following fiscal year the CLPOC would be looking at an extremely large deficit.

• Watts made a motion to call the question. Motion passed with Brakora and Swartzendruber dissenting.

A roll call was taken on the original motion. Motion passed 5 to 2 with Brakora and Swartzendruber dissenting. b. Approve the Revised Mission Statement: Swartzendruber made the motion to approve the revised Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation Mission Statement as stated above. Stated the Board of Directors has been looking at all the governance documents to assure they are up to date. Process will be ongoing evolution over next several years. They proposed revising the Mission Statement to read “ The Mission of the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation is to provide governance, financial stability and sustainability, along with an opportunity for educational, social, and recreational interests, while protecting the area’s natural environment and member investment.” Will continue this process for the next several years. Brakora said thinks it is a good idea to clarify exactly what the mission of the CLPOC is. In reference to Lanz’s comment, reminded everyone that the community is the CLPOC. It kept the elements of the earlier mission statement.

Motion passed unanimously.

12. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: a. East Royal Bridge Replacement: An Item to expend $546,900 for the replacement of the East Royal South Bridge.

The replacement of the bridge has been discussed for quite some time and is the Replacement Reserve Plan for this year. Received 5 bids on the project. The best bid was about $547,000 but only $289,000 is in the Reserve Fund for the project, $44,000 of which has already been spent on engineering services. The issues is the attempt to maintain the

Reserve Fund at the Board’s agreed upon level of 20% funded of the assets. If $546,000 were spent, it would drop the level to approximately 16%. The Finance Committee discussed options for to maintain the 20% level and is recommending the Board approve this replacement. The Finance Committee will have more discussions on how to fund the project including borrowing. There is a January19th deadline to respond to the low bidder. French gave the history of the construction of the bridge. The engineer will not give an opinion certifying the bridge’s safety and recommended the load limit be reduced to 10 ton creating a difficulty for school busses and other heavy vehicles. Other alternatives to the bridge were considered but ruled out.

Colley agreed it should be authorized from the standpoint of safety and asked the Board to consider authorizing Greg to update expected major costs of future replacements. Finance Committee to be asked to come back with a recommendation on how to handle the $300,000 funding difference. Szymkowicz made a motion to suspend the rules in order to take action on this item. Motion passed unanimously. Brakora made the motion to approve the General Manager proceeding with discussions and acceptance of the low bid for replacement of South East Royal Bridge. Motion passed unanimously. b. Accounting Software Upgrade: An Item to Expend $7,500 from the Replacement Reserve Fund for the upgrade of the office accounting software. Current Great Plains software will no longer support the report module used to produce all financial reports. The upgrade will brings us up to date and allow continued software support from the TM Group that provides us with all our accounting and virus software support. The budgeted expenditure in $8,731. The bid is only good for 30 days. French made a motion to suspend the rules in order to take action on this item at this time. Motion passed unanimously. Brakora made the motion to authorize the drawdown of the Replacement Reserve Fund on the amount of $7,500 to expend for upgrading the office accounting software.

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

Motion passed unanimously.

13. MEMBERS COMMENTS: • Bruce Vergoti (Crazy Horse Trail): Asked who is the engineer for the bridge.

Was told it is OHM which is independent from the company getting the bid.

Wilcox was not selected for bidding.

Questioned if it would be advisable to have second engineering opinion for the bridge. Babbitt replied the engineers on the BAG Committee are comfortable with OHM’s qualifications therefore do not intend to get a second opinion.

• Kay Johnson ( CL 104 & 109): Appreciated Brakora’s comments and thinks he has more faith in the membership that the rest of the Board members as they have always come thru to keep Canadian Lakes running efficiently.

Objects to the $160 escrow and wondered if it could not be due until later time in 2019 after the vote for the new plan.

Wilcox replied the new Board would have to take that up.

Have to have budget plan passed next year but many do not understand funding plan is ending in 2019. Need to put something out in very elementary language explaining why money is needed.

Asked about changing the Articles of Incorporation to allow multiple funding options on the ballot where the plan with the majority of votes wins. Was told the nonprofit act requires that the ballot includes the choice of “no” so just adopting the majority winner of multiple plans is not legal and the problems caused by this.

Asked if Board has had discussions of what type of plan they are going to present in 2019. Wilcox said that type of discussion will take place after the new Board is seated but thinks that will be item number one on their agenda. Wants Board to keep in mind the two tiered funding system and the prepaid amenities plans were both voted down twice.

Recognized difficulties in budgeting amenities. Most have early explanation. Wilcox and De Young explained the timing schedule for an election. Told board to have faith in the membership and suggests an early vote.

49

CLPOC Board Minutes • Wally Kardosh (NS 56 & 57): Suggested billing the $160 as an option.

Asked what AOI article gives the Board the authorization to do what they are doing today. Wilcox replied Article XIII Section I. 14. DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: In addition to holiday wishes by the directors, a. Colley: Thanked fellow Board members and the community members for the efforts to deal with the difficult

situation in challenging times. b. De Young: Appreciates the work that has been put by the membership and the Board over the past year. Getting the members involvement has been intense and an intense time for the Board. Glad to have served with this Board which has been a great group for the amount of work they have put in and the knowledge they have. c. French: Agreed with previous comments. Thanked Wilcox for his dedicat-

ed efforts to the community over the last six plus years and wished him the best. d. Brakora: There will be a bill at the first of the year totaling $793 as members’ assessment for next year. e. Szymkowicz: It has been an amazing learning experience, even overwhelming at times. Thanked the membership and the rest of the Board for their support. f. Watts: Ditto to the other directors’ comments. Said Wilcox will be missed g. Wilcox: Thank you to the membership and the Board who allowed him to serve the last six plus years. Said it has been an honor and a privilege. He does have faith in the community to do what is right as a community.

15. MEMBER COMMUNICATIO N REQUIREMENTS: a. The earlier items of action.

16. EXECUTIVE SESSION: None 17. ADJOURNMENT: Brakora moved to adjourn at 10:52 am with support 18. NOTICE OF FUTURE MEETINGS: a. The Board of Directors will hold a meeting on Wednesday, January 9, 2019 in the CLPOC Conference Room, 10690 Pierce Road, Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 beginning at 4:30 p.m. b. The Board of Directors will hold a meeting on Saturday, January 26, 2019 at the Highland Haus, 11560 Belle Isle, Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 beginning at 9:00 am.

Respectfully submitted, Beckie DeYoung, CLPOC Board of Directors Secretary (board minutes are printed as submitted)

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Calendar of Area Events Information is from the following websites:

1. Ferris State University — www.ferris.edu/arts 2. Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids — vanandelarena.com; 616-742-6600 3. Central Michigan University — cmich.edu/Calendar 4. Big Rapids area — cityofbr.org, Community Calendar; 231-796-7640 5. DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids — devosperformancehall.com; 616-742-6500 6. Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant — soaringeaglecasino.com; 888-732-4537 7. Canadian Lakes Association — canadianlakesassociation.org 8. Art Works, Big Rapids-www.artworksinbigrapids.org

February

1-2 GR Symphony Presents Harry Potter &

the Goblet of Fire 5 9 The CLA Annual Winter Carnival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Highland Haus 7

9 14th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby 7 9 Clown Craft for Kids 7 17 John Mellencamp 5 24 Winter Festival of the Arts Band &

April

9 Ferris State University Spring Choir Concert 1 11 Central Michigan University Spring Dance Concert 3 18 Ferris State University Jazz Band Concert 1 20 Josh Turner and Scotty McCreery 6 26-28 James and the Giant Peach 8

May

Orchestra Concert 1

28-March 3 Disney on Ice: Frozen 2

March

1-17 Mama Mia! 8 5 Potluck 7 8-10 GR Symphony Presents Pirates of the

Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl 5

30 GR Symphony Presents Ferdinand the Bull 5 31 Dan + Shay with special guest Chris Lane 6 31 Easter Egg Hunt 7

2-5 James and the Giant Peach 8 5 Newcomers Party 7 7 Derek Hough: LIVE The Tour 5 10-12 Grand Rapids Symphony Presents Sci-fi and Superheroes 5 17-20 Canadian Lakes Players Production 7

23 An Evening with Neil deGrasse Tyson 5 23 Bass Fishing Fun Night 7 25/26 Communitywide Garage Sale 7 28 Memorial Day Program 7

ALL SEASON RV &

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FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1984 SERVICING THE CANADIAN LAKES AREA

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Repair and Service Work Custom Canvas Covers Harbor Master Docks Boat Detailing

EMS Boat Storage

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

231-972-4813

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Buying or Selling?

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THANK YOU for making 2018 a prosperous and productive year. Canadian Lakes continues to be a vibrant and exciting community to live and work in. Please call me for your real estate needs. Please support those that support Canadian Lakes.

FEATURE $379,900

Main Canadian Lakes Waterfront home. Spectacular setting and water views of main lake. #18056883

$169,900

$539,900

21 Acres with ranch home and pole barn. Mecosta. School Section lake deeded access/boat docking. Clean and neat home. #18041961

120 wooded acres with spectacular ‘’ESTATE’’. This is a one of a kind properties. #18058719

$129,900

$49,900

$134,900

$499,000

$174,900

$169,900

$129,000

$299,900

Canadian Lakes Chalet on West Royal.

Business Adventure Awaits. M-20 Great price and location. Across St Frontage. 4 buildings. Fenced acreage from park. 4 Season Room. #18053357 areas. #18042651

Canadian Lakes Ranch style home. School Section Lake Waterfront cottage.

Sandy waterfront beach area. Mature East Clubhouse Dr. Lake Laura park and view across St. Price just woods. Classic up north cottage. Garage with sleeping areas. #18037937 reduced by $10,000. #18040369

Canadian Lakes Chalet w/ garage. 4 bds 2 Great opportunity with this 5 acres Muskegon River frontage and 37 acres. waterfront home on Canadian Lake. bths, full basement. Wooded setting, walk parcel. Paved Rd frontage and lots of Great building sites. Existing well on This location offers the Best of both to beach, boat docking. #18032005 potential for build site. #19000285 property. Exceptional hunting. Located worlds!. #18058843 between CL and the Tri Lakes. #17040913

$7,900

Great building site for house or pole barn.

Located between Canadian Lakes and Stanwood. #18057630

$147,900

20 Acres with Chalet home. Blanchard MI. Wooded with great hunting. #18055042

$249,900

One of a kind settings on Blue Lake.

Located on the Tri Lakes waterway. #18056456

$42,900

2018 FACTS AND FIGURES for the Canadian Lakes home market.

52 SOLD Waterfront homes. 15 current home listings.

21 SOLD Golf front homes. 3 current home listings.

59 SOLD NON Water/Golf front homes. 13 current home listings.

Average Days on market for SOLD homes = 119 days.

The current demand for homes in CL continues to improve and with the current inventory being a all time low, values should continue to appreciate. If you are considering selling your property OR just want to know the value, please give me a call. You will not find a more qualified Realtor to represent your interests.

Call 231-629-6006 or email tgarner.c21@gmail 18 Acres with Hunting cabin.

Rodney area. Great hunting. Woods and wetlands. #18055038 c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

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Let’s Get Social Canadian Lakes

DAY TIME

ACTIVITY

Canadian Lakes Weekly Scheduled Activities NOTE: All activities are open to Canadian Lakes property owners, family members, and guests. Property owners are asked to obtain “Guest Passes” from the CLPOC office.

SEASONAL

LOCATION

CONTACT

MONDAY 8:30 am Yoga Club Oct-Apr Alpine Haus 231-408-8801

9 am Mah Jongg Highland Haus 972-3054

4th 9:30 am Melody Makers (ladies) Apr-Jul, Oct-Dec Highland Haus 796-2460

2nd 1 pm Dotted Cubes (bunko) Alpine Haus 972-7920

2-4 pm Canadian Lakes Men’s Chorus Apr-Dec Highland Haus 231-359-1114

5:30 pm-9 pm Euchre/Pinochle Club Alpine Haus 972-5661

Alternate: Howard and Trish Hendrix 231-250-1926 TUESDAY 2nd

2nd

2nd

9 am 10 am-12 pm 1 pm 7 pm 7 pm 7:30 pm 2-3 pm 9-11 am

Morton Township Meeting Odd months Women’s Bible Study Sept-Oct Pool Cue League Oct-Dec/Jan-Mar Table Tennis Morton Township Meeting Even months Austin Township Meeting Monthly Exercise/Dance Class Drop-In Mixed Tennis

290 Main, Mecosta Highland Haus member homes Alpine Haus 290 Main, Mecosta 14132 Pierce, Stanwood Alpine Haus Alpine Haus courts

WEDNESDAY 1st

2nd

3rd

3rd

2nd

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

4th

9 am 9:00 am 9:30 am 9:30 am 10 am-4 pm 12:30 pm 1 pm 1 pm 4:30 pm 6:30 pm 6:30 pm-9 pm 7 pm 7 pm Variable Variable

Garden Club Apr-Nov Bible Study Book Babes Book Club Novel Friends Book Club Quilt Club Mixed Bowling Sept-May Bridge (duplicate) CLPOC Workshop/Agenda Mtg Canadian Lakes Players Bridge (duplicate) Mah Jongg Apr-Oct Canadian Lakes Fishing Club Apr-Oct Morton Twp. Planning Comm. Jan/Apr/Jul/Oct 290 Treasure Seekers Fishing Fun Night May-Sept

Highland Haus Alpine Haus Member homes Member homes Highland Haus Remus Lanes Alpine Haus Main Conf. Rm. Highland Haus Highland Haus Alpine Haus Alpine Haus Main, Mecosta destinations vary Main beach

972-7138 972-5132 972-7327 972-7749 972-7138 972-7472 972-0029 408-8801 972-5702 972-8084 250-6319 972-7140 972-4039 231-215-5556 972-2855 972-7651 972-4257 972-2855 972-3054 972-8663 972-7138 231-359-1023 972-8663

THURSDAY 10-11 am Exercise/Dance Class Alpine Haus

1st, 3rd 1 pm Needles and News - See Lite Lines Alpine Haus

1 pm-3 pm Model Yacht Club Sept/Dec Edgewater Park

7-9 pm Social Dance Club Mid-Sept—Apr Alpine Haus/Castle

972-0029 972-2685 231-629-1004 231-359-1355 517-262-3475

FRIDAY 9-11 am

1st 3:30 pm

Royal courts Alpine Haus

231-408-8801 734-223-7841

Highland Haus Highland Haus Ann Mead Edgewater Park

972-7651 972-7201 231-972-2722 231-629-1004

Drop-In Mixed Tennis Writers Quest

SATURDAY 4th 9 am CLPOC Monthly Board Meeting

2nd 12:30 pm Euchre Tournament Oct-April

1-3 pm Model Yacht Club Apr./Oct. Indoor Pool & Fitness Area - 972-2123 (CLOSED on Tuesdays) Lap Swimming Mon, Wed-Fri 7-8 am Water Walking (mixed) Mon, Wed-Fri 8-9 am Aquacize Mon, Wed, Fri 10-11 am Adult Open Swim Mon, Wed, Fri 9-10 am

Thurs 7-9 am Open Swim Mon, Wed, Fri 11 am-8 pm

Thurs 7-9 am

Sat, Sun 9 am-8 pm Outdoor Pool/Pines Pavilion - 972-4462 May 28-Sept. 7

11 am-6 pm 54

Pickleball - Mon-Sat 9-11 am - New Hope Methodist Church Angela O’Toole, 248-761-7494, aotoole11@aol.com canadianlakespickleballclub.com Tennis - Open Play Daily at All Courts (see above for drop-in mixed tennis) Ladies 9-Hole Golf - 248-765-0680 Ladies 18-Hole Golf - 972-3054 Tournament Bridge Club - Contact Karen Melson, 972-2855, karenincanlakes@gmail.com; days, times and locations vary Silver Spokes - Contact James Diehm, 598-0383, jim-diehm@cmsimter.net

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

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