The Canadian Laker - February/March 2024

CANADIAN LAKES, MI

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

The Festival of The Arts 2024

A Doozer of a Dozer’s Another Opening...

Another Show

canadianlakes.org

2023 RED KETTLE RESULTS FOR CANADIAN LAKES

231-972-8300 CBLakes.com

WEST CANADIAN LAKE 6 Bdrm – 2 Full / 1 Half Bath $749,000 w/79 Ft Frontage #23028873 CANADIAN LAKES

TAMARACK LAKE 2 Bdrm – 2 Full Bath $499,900 w/819 Ft Frontage #23135629 LAKEVIEW

NICE RANCH ON 1+ ACRE 3 Bdrm – 2 Full Bath $239,000 #23142412 WEIDMAN

4+ ACRE HOBBY FARM 3 Bdrm – 1 Full Bath $234,000 #23026555 BLANCHARD

160 ACRES BARRYTON Agriculture, Recreation, Wildlife & Wetlands $729,500 #22026192

3+ ACRES - MUSKEGON RIVER The Bluffs Subdivision Big Rapids $65,000 #22023877

COLDWATER LAKE 4 Bdrm – 2 Full / 1 Half Bath $469,000 #23144915 WEIDMAN

CANADIAN LAKES ACCESS 3 Bdrm – 2 Full Bath $319,900 #23137964 CANADIAN LAKES

HARDY DAM POND ACCESS 3 Bdrm – 2 Full / 1 Half Bath $259,000 #23134151 WHITE CLOUD

COMMERCIAL BUILDING $224,900 #23145425 REMUS

CITY OF BIG RAPIDS 3 Bdrm – 3 Full Bath $219,900 #23136935 BIG RAPIDS

MOVE IN READY 2 Bdrm – 1 Full / 1 Half Bath $129,900 #23145006 EVART

CANADIAN LAKES ACCESS Camper, Pontoon Boat, Golf Cart, Row Boat & CL Lot *$32,500 #23030743

CANADIAN LAKES ACCESS 35 Ft Franklin Park Model with Canadian Lakes Lot **$22,000 #24001981

HORSESHOE LAKE Partially Wooded Bldg Site Reed City $21,900 #22018260

NEAR M20/M66 INTERSECTION

Canadian lakes access lots HVE 205 - $32,500 *See Above LKCL 399 - $22,000 **See Above LL 835 - $12,000 Pinecrest Dr LKCL 258 - $5,000 Huron Ct RS 139 – $2,900 White Birch Dr LOCY 352 - $2,495 Red Feather LOCY 374 - $1,500 Mountain View

waterfront Lots

Becky Young 517-899-7698

Sue Kempton Kathleen Adams Desiree Winans 231-638-3498 231-250-3197 310-488-5536

Jake Matthews 989-309-0340

Rich Marino 586-630-8773

Kolina Mako 989-423-0452

The Manzagols

Bob & Sally 231-349-8096

Todd Lincoln 989-560-4884

Mike Roberts Jim “JB” Bradley Denise Young 231-598-4640 248-770-7822 989-506-4275

Rick Kempton 231-349-8300 Broker/Owner

HVE 124 - $58,900 - East Canadian Lake RS 658 - $43,000 - Fawn Lake RN 213 - $19,900 – Little Muskegon River

Golf course Lots RS 562 - $10,888 – Royal G/C RN 61 - $8,995 – Royal G/C RN 92 - $7,000 – Royal G/C RN 83 - $6,500 – Royal G/C RN 122 - $3,500 – Royal G/C

Marshall Henry 231-598-0838

Assisted Living

Services and Amenities Three home-cooked meals per day Housekeeping and Laundry Services Nutritional snacks provided throughout the day Life enriching Activities • Beauty/Barber shop services Caring Personnel 24 hrs per day Registered Nurse on Staff Visiting Physician Services

9100 Buchanan Rd., Mecosta (Canadian Lakes Area)

231-972-6600 R lmgmt.com

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

W

e hope that this issue of The Canadian Laker finds you well. We are off and running into the New Year and just as in years’ past, we are all excited for what’s to come. Winter has finally arrived in Canadian Lakes. What an extreme way to show up with those back-to-back storms carrying over a foot and a half of snow. Geez Mother Nature, at least let us get our feet wet. After many days of digging ourselves out, I see we have all adjusted to winter life again.

By the time you read this, we should be close to the CLA Winter Carnival. The CLA Winter Carnival is a wonderful family event hosted by the CLA with a variety of fun things to do for all ages. It’s really a great day out for the kids and a wonderful way to meet new people in the community. The Winter Carnival is February 10th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the CLA has a fun lineup of activities and food for all to enjoy.

Enjoy this issue of The Canadian Laker. You will see fun features, corporation news, and some handy social calendars. If you have a submission or photo for The Canadian Laker, please send it to thecanadianlaker@gmail.com for consideration. We love highlighting the community’s writing and photography in each and every issue.

2 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

Photography by Lindsay Halcomb CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 3

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Features FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

Photography by Lindsay Halcomb

18 A Doozer of a Dozer's 26 Another Opening...Another Show 37 2023 Red Kettle Results For Canadian Lakes

44 The Festival of The Arts 2024 ON THE COVER Winter Has Arrived Photography by Lindsay Halcomb

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 5

In this issue FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

8 From the General Manager 12 From the Board 14 Marketing 16 From the Canadian Lakes Association 22 Life On Our Links 24 Focus on Fishing 30 Outdoor Mysteries 33 Joyce's Choices 40 Mobile Watch 42 Canadian Lakes Yard Waste 48 CLPOC Board Minutes 53 Calendar of Area Events 54 Let's Get Social 56 Art Piece

Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation PUBLISHER Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation 10690 Pierce Road Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 P 231-972-7651 canadianlakes.org PRODUCTION & ADVERTISING SVK Multimedia & Publishing PO Box 586 Hudsonville, MI 49426 616.379.4001 SVKmp.com • jolsasvk@gmail.com EDITORIAL Lindsay Halcomb, Marketing Director Art and Editorial provided by Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation thecanadianlaker@gmail.com VOLUNTEERS Joyce Wilcox Chris Zimmerman Cora Foley PHOTOGRAPHY Chuck Richardson Di Schwartz Dan Strandt Candy Parnell DEADLINE DATES Feb/March - January 3 April/May – March 3 June/July – May 2 Aug/Sept – July 3 Oct/Nov – September 1 Dec/Jan – November 2 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.

Low resolution photos usually not accepted.

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

GET SOCIAL WITH CANADIAN LAKES canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org

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 ©2024 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.

6 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

twitter.com/canadian_lakes facebook.com/campcanadianlakes facebook.com/canadianlakes facebook.com/castleincanadianlakes facebook.com/royalgrille facebook.com/theroyalcanadianlakes facebook.com/thehighlandscanadianlakes facebook.com/thepinescanadianlakes canadianlakes_mi

Crowded again.

Check out the inventory!

Delivery trucks are rolling in at pre-COVID levels, and Krapohl’s lot is flush with more new and used vehicles than we’ve had since 2019.

1415 E. Pickard in Mount Pleasant 989-773-3105

•

Explore our inventory online, stop by, text or call to discuss options.

•

Don’t see what you want?

We’ll help you order your dream vehicle or track it down elsewhere and bring it to you.

From the General Manager

Greg Babbitt

General Manager gbabbitt@clpoc.org

CLPOC OFFICE 10690 Pierce Rd. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 Phone: 231-972-7651 OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

MEMBER SERVICES Tara Schweitzer Kathy Graham memberservices@clpoc.org

I

t’s the New Year and I hope that 2024 has found you all healthy and happy. I like to view the beginning of each year as an opportunity for improvement over the prior year. I do not always accomplish this, but I do try, and it remains an annual goal. Hopefully by the time you are reading this I will be seeing many of you at the Winter Carnival enjoying the festivities.

MEMBERSHIP • Your annual statement(s) were mailed in mid-January along with your 2024 Membership Form. Your annual Membership fee is due March 1st. If you have not received your statement, please contact the office.

• I would also encourage each of you to return your membership form to the office after you have corrected any inaccurate or missing information and verified that all the information is accurate. PLEASE MAKE SURE ALL OF YOUR IRS DEPENDENTS AND THEIR REQUIRED INFORMATION ARE LISTED ON THE FORM. • If you have not created a profile at members.canadianlakes.org, we encourage you to do so. Communication with our members is a vital component of our strong organization. To ensure that you receive all corporation news, including the Member Bulletin, please contact Members Services for assistance at memberservices@clpoc.org.

FINANCE We have three months remaining in the current Fiscal Year 2024, ending March 31st, and based on recent operating projections, we are anticipating finishing on budget. We also intend to make full contributions to both the Replacement Reserve and Capital Improvement funds.

On page 10, you will find a copy of the ProForma Budget for our upcoming Fiscal Year 2025. We have continued to build upon a successful funding plan by again using conservative estimates.

It remains a fiscally sound budget and we will need to continue to operate conservatively in order to achieve a positive outcome. Realizing continued increased usage of the inclusive 8 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

amenities, we will still need to rely on significant member and guest support of all the amenities.

The Budget Hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget will be February 24th at the regularly scheduled Board Meeting, where there will be an opportunity for member's comments regarding the proposed budget.

WINTER SPORTS PARK As I write this article, we have yet to be able to fully open the Winter Sports Park at the Highland Haus. The ice rink, crosscountry ski trail and the Tubing Tow have not been able to be open due to lack of sufficient snow and cold temperatures.

However, the long-range forecast is calling for some significant snowfall for the community, so hopefully these amenities will be operating soon. As a reminder, the Tubing Tow requires a significant amount of snow and a good base. In addition, we need significant snow for building a proper discharge at the top of the hill, so tubes are correctly discharged from the tow cable. There is snow in the forecast so hopefully by the time you read this, we will have plenty of snow along with cooler temperatures, so members can enjoy these activities all winter long.

IN CLOSING Let us make the most of this exciting and promising New Year by making sure we all continue to work collectively to keep improving our great community and moving it forward. We have some exciting things that will be happening this year so stay tuned for further updates.

Without working collectively and your positive contributions and support, it can certainly be more difficult to get things accomplished.

With so many different points of interest from the community it is sometimes difficult to keep all of you as informed as I would like. So, 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.

Dan Bollman Associate Broker

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

Thinking of selling your home or cottage?

Please call me for a free market evaluation…you might be surprised at your value…in today’s high demand market!

FEATURED HOMES

Mecosta County Tri-Lakes — Blue Lake Waterfront $599,900

Canadian Lakes Lake Access

Canadian Lakes Sunset Shores

$244,900

Canadian Lakes Lot Lake Access

$3,900

$179,500

Canadian Lakes Ranger Lake Waterfront

$98,500

Little Muskegon River Lot Canadian Lakes

$24,900

Canadian Lakes St. Ives Golf Lot

$69,900

The ProForma Budget Fiscal Year 2025 Beginning April 1, 2024 INCOME Maintenance Fees Billed Membership Fees Billed Speciall Assessments Billed Annual Assessments Billed Amenities Fees Interest Income (investment Interest) Other Income Facilities Rentals TOTAL INCOME

FY 24 Budget % Of Budget $ 0.00% $ 3,435,706 57.02% $ 0.00% 0.00% $ 2,444,053 40.56% $ 7,000 0.12% $ 114,840 1.91% $ 23,625 0.39% $ 6,025,224 100.0%

FY 25 Budget % Of Budget $ 0.00% $ 3,637,421 55.28% Member $ 0.00% Contribution 0.00% $ 2,748,309 41.77% To Budget $ 40,000 0.61% $ 130,225 1.98% MEMBERSHIP $ 23,625 0.36% FEE $ 6,579,580 100.0%

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

$ 1,932,637 $ 498,139 $ 32,386 $ 390,111 $ 510,000 $ 120,000 $ 290,633 $ 68,875 $ 252,317 $ 71,829 $ 80,936 $ 12,720 $ 17,305 $ 321,656 $ 10,684 $ 100,825 $ 96,615 $ 290,923 $ 5,098,592

32.08% 8.27% 0.54% 6.47% 8.46% 1.99% 4.82% 1.14% 4.19% 1.19% 1.34% 0.21% 0.29% 5.34% 0.18% 1.67% 1.60% 4.83% 84.62%

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

2,111,310 539,720 37,575 408,640 537,067 120,000 318,780 77,200 275,482 70,197 83,178 14,000 19,000 388,800 10,684 100,825 97,615 356,574 5,566,646

32.09% 8.20% 0.57% 6.21% 8.16% 1.82% 4.84% 1.17% 4.19% 1.07% 1.26% 0.21% 0.29% 5.91% 0.16% 1.53% 1.48% 5.42% 84.60%

$268.75 $68.70 $4.78 $52.02 $68.36 $15.27 $40.58 $9.83 $35.07 $8.94 $10.59 $1.78 $2.42 $49.49 $1.36 $12.83 $12.43 $45.39

Less Membership/Assessments not paid AVAILABLE FOR FUND CONTRIBUTIONS

$ $

(254,633) 672,000

$ 15.38% $

(290,934) 722,000

15.40%

$128.94

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

$ $ $ $

(622,000) (50,000) -

$ $ $ $

(672,000) (50,000) -

BALANCE

$

0

$

0

$837.52

The annual membership fee for 2025 calendar year is $837.52 per the 2020-2024 new funding plan.

Document Notes: 1. The Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Hearing will be held on February 24, 2024, at 9:00 am, during the Regular Board of Directors meeting.

2. A detailed budget is available from the CLPOC office.

3. Maintenance Fees contribute 0.00% of the total cost to operate the communtity with the amenities 4. Membership Fees contribute 55.28% of the total cost to operate the community with the amenities.

5. Assessment Fees contribute 0.00% of the total cost to operate the community with the amenities.

6. Amenity Fees contribute 41.77% of the total cost to operate the community and the amenities.

10 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

The sign you want.

The agents you need.

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Contact our team TODAY!

Kelley Reitzel 231-250-4417

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Steven Malloy 231-218-4605

Mark Wentland 231-598-4871

Carol Betts 231-250-5285

Jamie Myers 231-349-7462

Kathy Fleming 231-388-2454

From the Board

Paul L. Szymkowicz President pls.clpoc@gmail.com

CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS board@clpoc.org OFFICERS President Paul Szymkowicz pls.clpoc@gmail.com Vice President Steve Wilcox doctorw.clpoc@gmail.com

12 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

Happy New Year 2024

I

hope that everyone had a nice holiday season. Last year was an extremely successful year for our community and I see no reason the momentum will not carry over this year.

The CLPOC held its first workshop on Wednesday, January 10th and welcomed our newest board members, Matt Stifter and Dan Tunacik. We look forward to working with both Matt and Dan over the next three years.

I would like to introduce to you your 2024 Executive Committee members.

Serving as President- Paul Szymkowicz, Vice President- Steve Wilcox, TreasurerJim French, Secretary- Steve Brandt. We are all very excited to continue to serve our community over the upcoming year.

The annual membership dues mailing will be going out to members around January 19th. If you do not receive it in a timely fashion, please contact the office for assistance. Please have all your credentials in order so that our staff can assist you properly and you can receive all your stickers. Please remember to be civil to our staff and employees, they have a job to do and are just following the procedures that they have been given.

Let’s talk about the weather. Canadian lakes received back-to-back snowstorms totaling between 18 and 24 inches of snow. If anyone has ever had a “trial by fire” initiation it is certainly our new

Treasurer James French jbf.clpoc@gmail.com Secretary Steve Brandt abrandtcl@gmail.com DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE Dan Rice dozerrice1960@gmail.com

snowplow company. Please remember that the previous company has been servicing our roads for several decades.

They knew our roads like the back of their hand. I am confident that over time, the new company will provide the same level of service that we have grown accustomed to. During the first snow fall their services were hampered by several hundred trees that fell across our roads throughout Canadian Lakes. They just seemed to get caught up and we were hit by the second storm. I would like to thank Classic Property Management for doing their best during difficult circumstances to keep our roads open. I noticed a big improvement in their services between the two storms.

I would like to acknowledge our staff and employees for their long hours and dedication to our community. Our Compliance Director, Casey Smith, Safety Director, Kristen Wilcox who were the lifelines with the snowplowing crews constantly patrolling our roads to report ones that were missed or had fallen trees on them. The entire Safety Department for keeping our staff updated on developing issues. Maintenance Superintendent, Bill Hull and his crews for removing the trees that have fallen across our roads. The list of staff and employees that worked above and beyond are too numerous to list. Canadian Lakes would not be what it is today without the dedication of our staff and employees.

THANK YOU for all you do.

Let’s all work together so we can all enjoy the GOOD life.

Linda Ricketts linda.clpoc@gmail.com Shannon Hannon shannon.clpoc@gmail.com Matt Stifter matt.clpoc@gmail.com Dan Tunacik dtunacik@comcast.net

CLPOC BOARD MEETINGS Regular Monthly Board Meeting Fourth Saturday 9 a.m., Highland Haus Workshop Board Meeting Second Wednesday 5:30 p.m., CLPOC Office Conference Room

CORE VALUES

MEDICARE MADE CLEAR

• Our heritage: We value our history and its ideals of friendliness, mutual support, affordability, and shared responsibility for our natural environment.

Specializing in Medicare Supplements, Part C & Part D Licensed Michigan Agent 25 Years Turning 65 or retiring?

• Participating in the activities we love: We value participating in activities we love with our friends and neighbors and supporting the diverse and changing interests of our members.

• Protecting property values: We value taking proactive steps to protect and enhance the investment members have made in their homes and in community amenities.

• Financial soundness and sustainability: We value a financial structure that enables us now and in the future to meet community standards for the quality of our properties, membership programs and services and safety.

• Shared governance: We value and depend on the leadership and participation of members in the governance activities of the community and on an informed membership.

• Volunteerism: We value the active volunteer community service of our members, both in Canadian Lakes and in the surrounding communities.

• Leading into the future: We value careful planning, openness to change, and taking proactive steps that will ensure our best future as a community.

BETH BLOEDEL

Canadian Lakes resident Beth@ShorepointeBenefits.com 231-920-1716 Office • 313-690-5723 Cell In person or virtual meetings available

ShorepointeBenefits.com

CANADIAN LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS VISION STATEMENT Canadian Lakes is a premier recreational and residential community set in West Michigan’s scenic heartland. As a unified community of private property owners offering an unequaled quality of life, Canadian Lakes fulfills the diverse needs of all members in a natural setting for present and future generations to enjoy. This Core Vision is characterized by:

Remodel, new construction service and water softeners sales

• The natural beauty of the area and its desirability as a place to live

Water heaters | Bladder tanks | Pressure switchs

• Outstanding recreational and social activities • Financial soundness and sustainability

Serving all of Canadian Lakes

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oberlinplumbing@gmail.com

• Protection of property values through disciplined growth and the development and maintenance of a high quality infrastructure.

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 13

Marketing

Lindsay Halcomb Marketing Director lhalcomb@clpoc.org

Canadian Lakes Brought The Holiday Spirit To Local Schools

E

ach year, to kick off the winter season Canadian Lakes hosts Century 21 White House Realty’s Nights of Lights at our very own Castle. Each Friday and Saturday the Castle is illuminated with over 100,000 led lights that dance to the music during our scheduled shows. Most years we keep to tradition. We have scheduled

• Morley Stanwood Class of 2026 • Chippewa Hills Middle School Honor Society • Big Rapids Middle School • MCYAC (Youth Advisory Counsil of Mecosta County) • Barryton Elementary • St. Michael School

We buy whole peppermints and crush them ourselves to save money for our non-profits.

Assistant Webmaster Lee Ann McCormick canadianlakes.org

GET SOCIAL WITH CANADIAN LAKES canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org twitter.com/canadian_lakes Instagram: canadianlakes_mi

14 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

shows at 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 8:30pm with the exceptional holiday shows. We also host a series of non-profit cocoa bars during the Nights of Lights (NOL) season.

This year we decided to open the Castle doors during the light shows that had a scheduled cocoa bar. There was a lot of extra planning, a lot of extra supplies, and a whole lot of extra help involved this year. Century 21 White House Realty’s Nights of Lights has grown in popularity more than we could have ever imagined and I can safely say on any given weekend night during NOL with the extra festivities, we had 2000+ visitors.

Between our rising popularity and the intrigue of the Castle, Canadian Lakes helped our local schools raise money this holiday season. By opening our doors, extending the opportunity of the cocoa bar fundraiser, and offering the muscle we were able to help the schools listed below earn $17,614 in total.

facebook.com/campcanadianlakes facebook.com/canadianlakes facebook.com/castleincanadianlakes facebook.com/royalgrille facebook.com/theroyalcanadianlakes facebook.com/thehighlandscanadianlakes facebook.com/thepinescanadianlakes

This kind of success doesn’t happen without hard work. There was a small team of us to make sure these cocoa bars went smoothly. Michelle Howarth, Cocoa Bar Chair/NOL Committee, Kristin Wilcox, CLPOC Safety Director, and the whole Safety Team, Bill Hull and the CLPOC Maintenance Team, and myself. We built stanchions, bought decorations, purchased supplies, pulled trash, set up, and took down based off of the Castle’s usage. There’s a lot of preparation and planning to make these nights a success and if it wasn’t for the team we had this year, it would not have been the success it was.

Thank you to those I work with and those who volunteer to work with us! You make a crazed, stressful season fun to work each year. Another special thank you goes out to the two gentlemen who came out as Santa and the Grinch. Thank you for playing the roles perfectly during the last cocoa bars. You made so many children happy and it was special to see. Hands down, one of my favorite memories from the holiday season.

The CLPOC would also like to thank the schools that signed up and ran each cocoa bar. We were glad you took us seriously about the volume of visitors and came prepared to share the holiday spirit with your enthusiasm and wonderful crafts & treats. We were glad to be a part of a successful fundraiser, to welcome visitors to our beautiful Castle, and to show everyone what Canadian Lakes is all about. We had the most amazing holiday season and we thank each of you that were involved, came out to visit, and offered your time.

This concludes Century 21 White House Realty’s Nights of Lights for the season, job well done!

Michelle Howarth contacted local school’s art departments to arrange for the classes to paint cutouts for this year’s NOL season. Michelle arranged the whole project and even picked up and dropped off the supplies. She also sweet-talked Santa into building stands for the cutouts. The children truly enjoyed these.

Ever wonder how much cocoa we go through on a busy night...you are looking at it. I order and pick up all the supplies needed to run the cocoa bars. The non-profits receive all the profits for their scheduled night minus the cost of goods.

Each of the schools brought sweet treats or crafts for donation. It was such a great addition this year and we made sure their tables were always lit up.

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 15

S E K A L N N A O I I D T A A I N C CA ASSO

Photography submitted by Harold Wolf

16 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

Good day my fellow Canadian Lakers!

I hope 2024 is off to a GRRREAT start! If you are one of the 100 people who came to our CLA New Year’s Eve Masquerade Dance Party at the Castle, then you definitely got 2024 started off right.

We had great music with lots of dancing, wonderful food ~ thanks to Antler’s who catered ~ and a whole lot of fun fellowship with our Canadian Lakes neighbors. It’s hard to beat bringing in the New Year in a beautifully lit up Castle; not many people can say they did that.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 10th, for our CLA Annual Winter Carnival. We will have crafts and tattoos for the kids, Jim Perry the Balloon Guy entertainment, wagon rides for the entire family, a Closest to the Pin Contest (all proceeds from this will be donated to God’s Helping Hands), and of course, lots of food.

This Event is one of the CLA’s signature Events, so you will want to make sure and COME JOIN THE FUN. Watch for additional details in the CL News, and in our February Lite Lines newsletter.

Do you ever spend much time thinking about world events, or even what is going on in our own country? I have spent a lot of time watching the news and reading my daily newspaper over the years, and I have to say it can be quite overwhelming at times.

So, I decided years ago to not worry about the things that are beyond my control. Instead, I began focusing on local needs in my community ~ places where I could do good and have a positive impact. That mindset is what brought me to the CLA Board. I wanted to give back to a community that has meant so much to me and my family over the years (since 1968 to be exact). I know our CLA Board makes a positive difference on this community every day, but we cannot accomplish that alone. It takes money to put on and sponsor all the events we do throughout the year. Better than half of the funds we collect each year comes from Canadian Lakes property owners choosing to support the CLA by becoming CLA members for only $30 a year for your entire household.

If you have been a CLA member this past year but have not renewed for 2024, you will not receive your monthly newsletter in February. If you have never been a CLA member, let me share

IN O J ME

UN F E TH

CO

with you all you are missing. You will receive our Canadian Lakes Association Directory and Buyer’s Guide. You will receive our monthly newsletter, the Lite Lines which keeps you informed of the many CLA events taking place in Canadian Lakes.

We also have over 40 Sanctioned Clubs for you to enjoy. You will receive a CLA Membership Card that gets you into all our events and gives you the opportunity to enter our “CLA Members Only” Contests and qualifies you to win door prizes for CLA members only at most of our events. We give away over $2,000 annually in prizes to our CLA members. You will also get the pride and satisfaction of knowing you are supporting your Canadian Lakes community. Don’t wait! Either renew or join the Canadian Lakes Association today! I promise you, your CLA Board will continue to put on all the fun, entertaining and educational events you have grown accustomed to.

Speaking of your CLA Board and focusing on the things you have control over, we need a couple of new Board Members. We had a couple board members leave the board this year due to term limits (no more than two, three-year terms).

If you are that person with a volunteer’s spirit, please contact me. I would love to explain what being a CLA board member entails. My contact information is below. Email, call or text me. There is no better way to start the New Year than to COME JOIN THE FUN by becoming a CLA Board family member!

Harold Wolf

President haroldwolf63@gmail.com

Photography submitted by Harold Wolf

Harold Wolf CLA President 269-209-9871 haroldwolf63@gmail.com

Photography submitted by Harold Wolf CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 17

A Doozer of a Dozer’s

BY JOYCE B. WILCOX

S

omething that you should probably know about us is that my husband and I love to take drives and explore small towns for mom-and-pop restaurants and shops as we search for unusual finds. Dave and I also actually both enjoy antiquing, so we frequently choose to venture to the out-of-way and oneof-a-kind types of businesses as part of our Michigan adventures. Meandering through these small villages and shops can eventually make you hungry, so we often dine at some interesting family-owned restaurants, too.

Sometimes these delicious finds are tucked away, and sometimes they are front and center on street corners. The latter was true for our first trip to Dozer’s a few years ago when we were returning home from one of these roundabout routes and stopped to investigate and to eat.

Okay, I have to admit it, the first time my husband and I saw the name Dozer’s in 2021 on the marquee of the deli and creamery located on the western cusp of Mt. Pleasant, I mispronounced the name. I read the sign as Doozers. That’s because the

18 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

first thing that came to mind was the name of the six-inch-high little creatures living and working underground in Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock, a television show that my daughter watched as a child. I was curious about the connection that this newly named restaurant could possibly have to Doozers and this 1980’s program.

My civil engineering husband just chuckled and said that my explanation was a bit far-reaching. He thought the name probably had to do with a construction company and that it was more logically short for bulldozer. I still liked the idea that the restaurant might be magically connected to Fraggle Rock. I also disliked the thought that he might be right and I might indeed be wrong. Needless to say, we pulled into the parking lot to explore our new find and settle the debate.

Now I should probably also explain that long before it became Dozer’s, we noticed the building on the corner of No-Where and Where-Are-We, located on the western periphery of Mt. Pleasant, sat vacant and untouched for several years. We know this

because since 2007, for about ten years, we drove from Livonia to Canadian Lakes and back for three out of four weekends a month. We watched excitedly as a second Mitchell’s Deli & Market, related to Shepherd, Michigan fame, emerged on that corner in 2018, opening their satellite location on the outskirts of Mt. Pleasant.

Mitchell’s thrived for about three years until deciding to sell when brothers Rick and Chuck McGuirk bought it. Dozer’s was born. Oh, and that corner of No-Where and Where-Are-We added a few adjacent buildings and is now better known as E. Remus Road (M-20) and S. Lincoln.

According to Dozer’s general manager Angie Powell, when they opened in 2021, the McGuirk brothers wisely kept Mitchell’s idea of selling gourmet deli sandwiches, pizzas, and Mitchell’s gourmet chocolates. They also added an extensive take-out ice cream window, and some inviting outdoor seating for the warmer weather. “The market for us was already here. The McGuirks just expanded things, including the menu, seating, and merchandise,” said Powell.

And if anyone should know about Mitchell’s Gourmet Deli or Dozer’s Deli & Creamery, it’s Angie Powell. After all, she’s been in food service for almost thirty years. She’s quite proud of the fact that she worked at Mitchell’s for ten years before becoming the general manager of Dozer’s. In talking with Powell, I sensed she had an incredible understanding of the business, their products, the staff, and their clientele.

Dozer’s menu offers quite a variety of delicious choices. Known for their gourmet sandwich offerings on the menu board, you really can’t go wrong. One of my personal favorites is the Hippie Chick, with shaved chicken, avocado, spinach, Swiss cheese, and honey Dijon dressing on a brioche bun. Of course, there’s always their best seller, the Italian Stallion, with ham, pepperoni, salami, Muenster cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and Italian dressing on an Italian roll. There are ten other listings on the sandwich board, including additional meat choices of roast beef, corned beef,

Photography Joyce B. Wilcox

or bacon offered with a variety of cheeses, veggies, dressings, and breads.

“You can also make any sandwich a special order. We’re here to please our customers,” Powell said.

In addition to the traditional chef salad and tossed salad offerings, Dozer’s offers you a personalized salad selection with a choice of meat, four veggies, one cheese and any dressing. Again, this personal touch of cherry-picking your choices permits you to make your meal to your liking. Pizzas may also be built to order, offering a variety of choices of toppings with their hand tossed signature crusts. Did I mention that there were homemade bread sticks with dips, scrumptious breakfast sandwiches and wraps, and even soups of the day?

“We’re mostly a call ahead, quickdrive-and-go type of place. We have some seating available inside, but it’s limited and most of our clients phone in their orders and do take-out,” Powell said.

That doesn’t mean you can’t just do what the Wilcoxes usually do, which is park, walk in, place an order and after just a few minutes bring the order back to the car to eat or take it elsewhere. We usually stop for an on-the-road breakfast or lunch on our way downstate or while out and about antiquing. For the warmer

weather, Dozer’s has several outdoor picnic tables situated around the building for additional seating, ideal for meals or some of their fabulous ice cream.

“In addition to a great menu and great food, our business is special because of our customer service. We have a lot of repeat customers so we try to remember names and even special orders so that we can personalize the service,” said Powell.

“Basically, once you’ve tried Dozer’s, it’s definitely worth a return trip.”

And if you’re not coming back for another meal, then you’re probably returning for any of Dozer’s vast assortment of Michigan products already packaged for your easy access. Many of these foodstuffs are just perfect to keep on hand, give as gifts to family and friends, or arrange into specialty gift baskets. The choices are yours and the possibilities are endless.

There are wines from Michigan wineries such as Grand Traverse Red, MI Awesome, and selections from Bowers Harbor Vineyard, as well as beer from several Michigan breweries. If you’re Metro-Detroit born and raised like me, you’ll appreciate the step back in time to a variety of pops from Faygo, including Rock & Rye and Red Pop, as well as Detroit’s Town Club’s Michigan Cherry and Vanilla Cream.

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 19

Photography Joyce B. Wilcox

And with the direct link to Mitchell’s in Shepherd, there are also assortments of Mitchell’s specialty chocolates, cookies, flavored popcorn, caramel nut clusters, and Mackinac Island fudge.

Did you want any American Gourmet pretzels or Great Lakes chips to go with that? Or how about some specially made pickles, asparagus, or beets? And don’t even get me started on the endless jars of every kind of salsa imaginable. As a matter of fact, there are too many kinds of salsas to count and list, but Dave and I have put a dent in the sampling of them and gave them all a thumb’s up.

I should also mention that Dozer’s does an incredible job of catering parties and gatherings with an enormous assortment of either sandwiches, wraps, or the make-your-own sandwich deli trays. You can also order an assortment of their other products such as bags of chips, salsas, or cookies to accompany 20 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

your feast. And if you’re thirsty, remember there are plenty of options.

Apparently, they are able to accommodate large groups because I learned that they provided sandwiches for the entire CMU football team & staff for the full football season. Oh yes, they also fed them pre-season breakfasts after each practice. “The team especially enjoyed our Firecracker which is two buffalo chicken strips wrapped in cheese in a tortilla shell,” Powell said.

But just to let you know, the CMU football team loved these meals so much they also asked for Dozer’s boxed lunches for away games. Since I’ve had brothers, nephews, and a husband who played football in community and high school games, I know that this can be a discriminating group of diners, as well as an all-consuming assemblage of athletes.

Go Team Dozer!

As to our quest for the origin of the

name Dozer’s? I learned that while the relatively new owners, brothers Rick and Chuck McGuirk, are indeed in construction and are also the proprietors of McGuirk’s Sand & Gravel in Mt. Pleasant, the Dozer’s Deli and Creamery was actually named after one of their dogs. By the way of a technicality, I only halfway conceded to my husband being correct about the origin of Dozer’s name. After all, I may have been half right, too, since the Doozers were also in construction, even if they were only knee-high to a Fraggle.

Contact info: Dozer’s Deli & Creamery at 1982 East Remus Road, Mt. Pleasant, MI. Phone: 989-317-8388 Winter Hours: M-Th 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., F-Sat 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., closed Sunday.

For all your REAL ESTATE NEEDS,

Call Tom Garner Associate Broker

231-629-6006 tgarner.c21@gmail.com

THANK YOU BIG

I am VERY GRATEFUL for your business, support and Referrals which helped make 2023 a Fantastic year.

Should you know of any Friends, Family or Co-Workers who are looking to make a move in 2024. The greatest Compliment I could hope to receive is for you to refer my services.

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Life on Our Links

Dennis Wolfe

PGA Golf Pro 231-972-8979 dwolfe@clpoc.org If you have questions about golfing in Canadian Lakes, call Dennis Wolfe at The Royal Golf Shop.

(231) 972-8979 9775 Club House Dr E Canadian Lakes, MI 49346

22 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

GOLF TOURNAMENTS We offer a wide variety of events for our members and their guests. The spectrum runs from competitive, charitable, social, and just plain fun. We also conduct these events using all of our golf courses. The following is a list of our 1–2-day events for the upcoming season.

Apr. 10 Chip Hills Boys Golf 2-Man Scramble @ The Royal Apr. 13 Green Jacket Betterball @ The Royal May 4 Derby Dash Scramble @ The Royal May 8 Remus Lions Golf/Bowl @ The Royal May 15 Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce @ The Royal May 18 Match Play Blitz @ The Royal May 26 BIG CUP Family Scramble @ Pines June 5 Tri-Lakes Golf Benefit @ The Royal June 8/9 Canadian Lakes Classic June 12 Chip Hills Sports Boosters @ The Royal June 19 Habitat for Humanity @ The Royal June 26 Morley Stanwood Girls Basketball Outing @ The Royal July 6 Firecracker Open @ The Royal July 10 St. Mike’s on Spikes @ The Royal July 17 9-Hole Ladies Invitational @ The Royal July 20 Match Play Sixes @ The Royal Aug. 3/4 CL Men’s Invitational @ The Royal Aug. 7 Angels of Action LaSenorita Scramble @ The Royal Aug. 8/9 Junior Club Championship @ Pines Aug. 14 WCAR Outing @ The Royal Aug. 17/18 Club Championship Weekend Aug. 21 Gals on the Green @ The Royal Aug. 28 Mobile Watch Outing @ Pines Aug. 30 CL Kings & Queens @ The Royal Aug. 31 Patriot Golf Day Scramble @ Highlands Sept. 4 Ladies Cup Matches @ The Royal Sept. 12 Canadian Lakes Cup Matches @ The Royal Sept. 21 Forward Tee Open @ The Royal Oct. 19 Chili-Dog Scramble @ The Royal Oct. 31 Last Day of the Season Some of these events are restricted to members only and some require a USGA index.

We will facilitate entry into club events online using our Northstar technology.

For complete details checkout the golf page on members.canadianlakes.org or contact The Royal Golf Shop (dwolfe@clpoc.org).

(231) 972-7155 11560 Belle Isle Canadian Lakes, MI 49346

(231) 972-2900 10690 Pierce Rd Canadian Lakes, MI 49346

GOLF LEAGUES We have several golf league opportunities to participate in. Almost all require a USGA Index to participate. Some have a structured format while others are available for your participation when it is convenient for you. The following is an outline by day and course.

You can find more details for each league on the golf page at members.canadianlakes.org.

DAY

LEAGUE

COURSE

MISC.

Monday

18-Hole Men

Royal

t-times, no dues, flighted, weekly entry

9-Hole Ladies

R/H/P

2-player match play, dues, structured

18-Hole Ladies

Royal

t-times, dues, flighted

9-Hole Men

Pines/High.

t-times, no dues, weekly entry

9-Hole Men

Royal

2-player match play, dues, structured

Wednesday

9-Hole Ladies

Pines/High.

social, casual, no dues

Thursday

9-Hole Ladies

Pines/High.

dues, flighted

Thursday

9-Hole Men

Royal

Drop-In Scramble, shotgun start

Thursday

9-Hole Men

Royal

2-player match play, dues, structured

Friday

Jr. Golfers

Pines

t-times

Tuesday

GOLF HANDICAP SERVICE As you have read, many of our tournaments and leagues require a USGA Index. We are a Golf Association of Michigan Club and they facilitate our golf handicap service. We charge a seasonal fee ($35/player) to manage your account. You need a minimum of three 18-hole scores (six 9’s) to establish your Index. You can register for this service after March 1st at any of our golf shops.

GOLF INSTRUCTION & GOLF SERVICES Golf instruction is provided by PGA Professional Dennis Wolfe and LPGA Professional Carolyn Allingham. Instruction is provided at The Highlands Driving Range or at The Royal when developing your short game. The range at The Highlands offers range balls by the bucket ($6 each) or you can purchase value cards (15 buckets/$60 or 50 buckets for $150). Club Repair services are also available at The Royal Golf Shop. In many cases we can offer overnight service on regripping.

Carolyn offers a Women’s Player Development Program that begins in May. She has had great success over the years introducing or reconnecting women to the game of golf.

For more details on our Women’s Player Development Program send a request to dwolfe@clpoc.org.

We also offer week-long Junior Golf Camps in June and July. This summer the dates are June 17/18/20/21 and July 1/2/3/4. The camps are designed for players aged 7-15. We provide equipment for players as necessary.

WHAT IS THE CANADIAN LAKES CUP AND HOW DO I MAKE THE TEAM? The Canadian Lakes Cup is a Ryder Cup style match that we play annually against our neighbors from St Ives. It is one of the most unique golf events that an amateur club member can compete in (ask any former Cup Player). The team consists of 12 players and one alternate. We offer 5 events in the qualifying process. These events are as follows: The Match Play Blitz Men’s Match Play Championship (season-long) Team Match Play Championship (season-long) The Match Play Blitz Men’s Club Championship Match play is the foundation of virtually all this qualifying. Players/ teams are awarded points for all their victories in these events. A Cup Team qualifying package has been put together that provides full details on all these events. Request your package via email by contacting dwolfe@clpoc.org.

CANADIAN LAKES GOLF WANTS YOU! We have plenty of employment opportunities in our golf operation. For the upcoming season we are looking to fill these positions: golf shop customer service, player assistant, golf cart attendant and golf maintenance crew. If you are interested in golf maintenance positions, please contact Bill Hull (bhull@ clpoc.org). If you are interested in golf operation positions, contact Dennis Wolfe (dwolfe@clpoc.org).

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 23

FOCUS ON

fishing

Dale Doepker

For questions about the Fishing Club or about fishing in Canadian Lakes, contact Dale Doepker at dtroutman97@aol.com or 231-972-8663

19th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby Saturday, February 10, 2024, 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, bonfire, are all provided free. The Optimists Club will be providing free hot chocolate and donuts. CL Fishing Club members will give instruction and assistance in catching fish. In past years, kids have caught hundreds of bluegill and perch,

plus several pike. The location is on the Main Lake, just south of Buchanan, off West Royal with parking east of the Dog Park. We will also have a free raffle for the kids with over a dozen great prizes at 10:30am. Adults are welcome to come and learn the techniques. Questions, call Dale Doepker, dtroutman97@aol.com, 231-972-8663

Fishing Club Donations THE CL FISHING CLUB donated eight rod/reels to the Big Rapids Salvation Army, which were distributed to kids for Christmas, along with other Angel Tree gifts. They also donated 40 annual subscriptions to the MUCC Tracks Magazine to area schools, Morton Township Library and Cranhill Ranch.

Donate Surplus Fishing Tackle IF YOU HAVE ANY SURPLUS usable fishing rods or reels, please consider donating them to the CL Fishing Club. Mark Ouderkirk, (616-454-9868) reconditions them as needed and they are donated to worthy causes. The club also purchases new reels as needed, to put on good used rods.

Photography by ????

24 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

Year-Round Youth & Largest Fish Contest Reminder THIS YEAR’S CONTEST runs from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.

There is one entry form for both youth and adults. If the entry is a young angler the information for the angler must be filled in as to age, etc. 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 web site and at the CLPOC Office.

PLEASE make sure that the form used is for the current year.

Fishing Club Meetings MEETINGS ARE HELD on the second Wednesday of each month from April to October, 7:00 pm, at the Alpine Haus. The 2023 officers are continuing for 2024. Everyone interested in fishing or helping kids get involved in fishing is invited to attend.

Some Ice Fishing Reminders MICHIGAN REQUIRES that tipups must have the owners name and address affixed and be under immediate control.

Ice Shanties which are unmanned or left overnight must have the owner’s name and address on it in at least 2” high letters. Shanties on our lakes must be removed by midnight on March 15. All pike which are 24” and over are requested to be released live by the CL Fishing Club.

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 25

“ANOTHER OPENiNG...

ANOTHER SHOW” 2024 Canadian Lakes Players Youth Theatre Camp Wednesday, June 26 – Saturday, June 29, 2024 8:00am – Noon At The Castle

BY LIZ DEAN THEATRE CAMP REGISTRAR

ONCE AGAIN, the Canadian Lakes Players will open the Castle for a 4-day Youth Theatre Camp, a fun-filled and informative workshop for youngsters ages eight to sixteen who are interested in the theatre. The Theatre Camp, which has been in existence since the summer of 2008, is open to the first 50 applicants, made up of children, grandchildren, and guests of CLPOC members in good standing. They will participate in three separate age groups: 8-9-yrs. old, 10-12yrs. old and 13-16-yrs. old. Starting on June 26th, young voices will be heard throughout the Castle, auditioning for parts in the group’s production or rehearsing the songs for their opening and closing numbers.

On Wednesday, June 26th, the campers will assemble at 7:45 am in the Castle for orientation and group pictures. Then it will be ‘off to the races’ with tryouts for the different parts for their group production, which will be presented on stage for their family and friends on Saturday, June 29th.

But like all good things that are done for our great community, ‘It takes a Village.’

This year we are spreading the word throughout that we need help. With the

passing of time (and doesn’t time seem to pass more quickly lately?), we have lost quite a few of our ‘seasoned’ members, and we find ourselves looking for some new/young blood to help with the Theatre Camp. Even if you have never participated in anything such as this, it’s not hard and it leaves you with such a good feeling watching what these young people can do once they get the chance.

In addition to helping the Leaders, there is always a need for help with makeup, wardrobe, music, refreshments, etc. And don’t worry — you won’t be ‘thrown to the wolves’ on your own. Some of our ‘seasoned’ players have offered to mentor anyone interested in helping this year. So ... all you Moms, Dads, Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents (even GREAT-Grands), why not try your hand in helping some young ‘thespians?’

You don’t have to have a ‘Camper’ in the group, just a desire to help! It may only be four (4) half days out of your life (8 amNoon), but it could very well make a BIG difference in some young person’s life.

If you think this is something you might like to help with, please contact Elaine Cox at 231-598-2432 or by email at eecox42@gmail.com for more information.

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26 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

2024 CANADIAN LAKES PLAYERS’ YOUTH THEATRE CAMP Wednesday, June 26, 2024 – Saturday, June 29, 2024 At The Castle: 8:30am – Noon

Registration: $25 per Camper. 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 6, 2024.

(If a Camper ‘drops out’ after May 13, 2024, 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

List Allergies: ___________________________________________________________

(PRINT)______________________________ Parent/Guardian

_________________________ E-Mail Address

________ /________ /________ Camper’s Birthdate

______________ Returning Camper

________________ Phone #

_____________ New Camper

_________________________ Relationship to Camper

(All correspondence concerning Camp will be sent to this email address) Parent or Guardian’s Signature: �����������������������������������

Parent or Guardian’s Signature: �����������������������������������

T-SHIRT SIZE

Children’s Small ___ Med. ___ Large ___ X-Large ___

________________________________________ Alternate Contact/Relationship

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.

Adult Small ___ Med. ___ Large ___ X-Large ___

________________________________________ Alternate Contact’s Phone #

Please mail this application, along with a check for $25 per camper (made out to CLP Theatre Camp) to: Liz Dean 9277 Elmwood Ct. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 27

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Technology & Our Pets

MY

STERIE

S

By Chris Zimmerman Photography submitted by Chris Zimmerman

30 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

I

t is often said “necessity is the mother’s milk of invention.” No truer words have ever been spoken, especially when it comes to technology, our loved ones, and our pets.

While on a bird hunting trip to Iowa last fall, my wife realized that she had lost her cell phone. She had it in her back pocket but somehow, it fell out during an afternoon hunt. We had been hunting for at least an hour, and her phone could have been anywhere. Of course, I wanted to help her...but how? Instead of jumping out of the truck and following her into the sea of cover, I pulled out my phone and proceeded to call her. The idea was that she might hear her phone ring. Of course, the ring feature on her phone wasn’t loud enough to overcome the windy conditions. Instead, I turned the crank on a seldom-used app on my phone called “Life 360.”

Life 360 lets you know where your loved ones’ phones are, assuming that your loved ones have their phones on them. It’s a fantastic way to know where the other person is.

My experience with Life 360 has been in generalities. In other words, if she’s at Hixson's Family Market, I don’t need to know if she’s picking out a delicious pizza in the back of the market or if she’s in front, checking out the vast quantities of suds inside the beer cave. The test of Life 360’s accuracy was this scenario in Iowa. Generalities weren’t going to help me find her phone. I needed to find out exactly where it was. Slowly, I headed into the field, while trying to zoom in closer and closer to her phone. My wife’s phone showed up as an “L” on the screen. The more I walked in L’s direction the closer it appeared on my phone.

It felt like a treasure hunt. Instead of an “X” marking the spot, it was an “L” for Leslie. After about five minutes of walking — and following my phone’s guidance — I figured that I was awfully close to her phone. And so, I moved my eyes from my phone to the earth below. There, amongst the foxtail and nutgrass, was her phone. I picked it up and looked at the screen. One

Jiobit’s electronic beacon attaches to a dog’s collar.

missed call, it read, from some guy named Chris Zimmerman.

Thank you, Life 360. You saved the day.

On the way home, while Leslie slept in the seat next to me, my mind began to consider solutions to a problem I had been having with my diminutive, little Brittany, Miss Kitty. She only weighs 30 pounds but she races through the woods and fields like a cheetah. She ranges near and far, combing hill-N-dale in her insatiable quest to find game. When she goes on point — be it in the grouse woods of Mecosta County, or the fields of Iowa — there are times when I can’t find her.

To be an effective hunter, or responsible pet owner, it’s important to know where your dog is. That’s where “necessity is the mother’s milk of invention” comes into play.

While Leslie slept, I thought about duct taping her phone to Miss Kitty’s collar the next time we go hunting. With the help of Life 360, I could pinpoint the dog’s exact location when she pointed a bird. Kitty’s so smart she could probably send me a text: Hey guy, I’m on point. Shake a leg, will ya?

After doing a little internet research, I discovered there are a few companies

that offer technological solutions to track a dog’s location. My first purchase was Jiobit, which is associated with Life 360.

Its advertisements suggested exactly what I was after: a way to pinpoint the dog with the help of an iPhone. Instead of duct taping a phone to Miss Kitty’s collar, Jiobit has a gizmo the size of a matchbook that can be affixed to her neckwear. After downloading the app and affixing the hardware to Kitty’s collar, I was anxious to give it a try. Several days of experimentation yielded a disappointing result: it didn’t work as well as Life 360, especially in areas that didn’t have cell phone coverage. Moreover, the battery associated with the transmitter lost its power relatively fast.

Someone else suggested I try Apple’s Air Tile that is available at most big box stores. It features the same type of concept as the Jiobit; however, its range is only 100 feet. Even Miss Kitty knows that 100 feet is only 33 yards, which isn’t very far at all when you’re scrambling through the pucker brush. I returned the Air Tile with hopes that something else would fit the bill.

Granted, I could drop $800 on a collar and transmitter. The transmitter can deliver an electronic pulse to the collar in the event

woods. It’s one more thing to lose, or get caught on branches and twigs, or serve as a distraction from the hunt.

We all love our pets, especially cats and dogs. It breaks my heart when I see posts or fliers regarding dogs that have been hit by a car or run away from home.

Underground and electronic dog fences help set boundaries for my dogs when they’re outside in the yard. Miss Kitty understands where it’s safe to run and play and where it’s not. The issue for me and the dog is finding her when we’re on a walk outside, off the property.

One thing’s for certain...I love my dog and will solve the mystery of where she is in the field without breaking the bank or carrying a lot of extra equipment into the field.

Nothing better than spending a beautiful fall day while in the company of a canine companion

the dog disobeys a command or is headed for a dangerous situation, like a busy road.

It hangs on a lanyard that dangles from the operator’s neck, which is less than ideal.

Aside from the steep price tag, I’m not crazy about bringing more baggage into the

Chris Zimmerman is a Canadian Lakes resident, a professional insurance agent, and the author of six Michigan-based novels. His email address is chris@ chriszimmermaninsurance.com

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W W W. L A V E N D E R - L I F E . C O M

Joyce's Choices ICY, DICEY, & SPICY

BY JOYCE B. WILCOX

B

y the calendar hanging on the wall above my office desk, I see that winter is nearly half over. After all, New Year’s Eve celebrations have ended, bowl games have been won or lost, and Valentine’s Day is within reach. However, by the calendar of Michigan memories suspended in my mind, as a true Michigander, I know that we have many more weeks of this fabulous frosty phase to enjoy. So, whether you’re cozy with a quilt in Canadian Lakes or baking on the beach in states below, browse through these reviews and select from one to five books and enjoy these icy, dicey, & spicy reads this winter.

Deception Point

by Dan Brown What could be more chilling for a winter issue selection than a chiller-thrillersuspense novel taking place in the Arctic Circle, and written by bestselling author Dan Brown?

Because I’ve read several of Brown’s novels, I was surprised that this one escaped me years ago. But since it had slipped through my fingers, I was happy to find Deception Point at the used book sale at The Castle and even happier to have read it. Brown’s novel serves up a frosty fiction mixed with hostile history, precarious politics, and sprinkles of science. Imaginative and instantaneous intrigue on ice!

Photography by Joyce B. Wilcox CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 33

The story begins with the United States and the rest of the world riveted to news of a NASA satellite discovering an astoundingly rare find buried in the Arctic Ocean. With a presidential election on the immediate horizon and the uncertain future of the struggling NASA program, the White House sends intelligence analysts to verify the findings. As a reader of much less technical novels, I was leery of being left in the dark with this plot, but was remarkably and comfortably kept in the loop by this talented author.

In a well-paced, riveting, and easily comprehendible fashion, readers learn about the intriguing ins-and-outs of NASA, Congress, and the White House, while discovering step-by-step the controversial truth of the find. There is plenty of intrigue to carry the story along with contentious politicians, deadly teams of assassins, scientists fleeing for their lives, and the possible sparks of a romance. I hope you’ll consider reading Deception Point this winter because I’m certain that you will find yourself entertained on the edge of your seat as characters are suspended over the edge of icy cliffs.

The Rainbow

by Carly Schabowski Between the books lining the shelves of some of my favorite bookstores and libraries, as well as the randomly chosen selections by my book club, some incredibly well-written sagas about WWII keep emerging. And just as incredible, I’ve not only thoroughly enjoyed the stories but I’ve also appreciated being exposed to different points of view, new facts and figures, and some amazing storytellers. The Rainbow

by Carly Schabowski is no exception as it managed to pique my interest, sustain my level of engagement, as well as break and mend my heart. If you think you already know all there is to know about WWII, think again; this rainbow is worth chasing.

The story is told from dual timelines by young adult granddaughter Isla in present day and by her loving grandfather Tomasz during WWII. During her entire life Isla has heard delightful family tales of 34 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

Tomasz growing up in Poland, and later how he bravely fought the Germans in the war. Her grandfather tells of young love, love of family, and love of country. But life is never that simple and not everything is as it seems.

When Isla is in town to help celebrate her grandfather’s 95th birthday, she makes a startling discovery. She finds a newspaper clipping of Tomasz wearing a Nazi uniform and is horrified. Which story should she believe? When Isla’s grandmother refuses to reveal answers to questions that her grandfather can no longer explain due to his advancing dementia, she travels throughout Europe to discover the truth. Tomasz’s past is slowly and creatively revealed through Isla retracing her grandfather’s steps, questioning survivors, as well as through snippets from Tomasz’s memory.

Much like Isla’s journey, this novel is an emotional, heartbreaking, but also touching love story worth following.

Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand

by Helen Simonson Yes, for those of you wondering, Joyce has yet again found another British author she truly enjoys and wishes to share with you.

Discovering British authors isn’t a quest on my part; these delightfully talented and intriguing authors just keep turning up and then magically finding their way into my home and my heart.

Helen Simonson’s Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand was a recent find at the Morton Township Library’s used book sale at The Castle before relocating to reside in my home. This romantic tale of ageless love is tenderly woven with charm, tradition, dignity, humor, and just the right amount of a British barbed bite.

Retired and widowed Major Ernest Pettigrew resides in a small village where he is a respected and opinionated character embracing a proper British lifestyle. Leading a life of rules and decorum, Major Pettigrew is completely thrown off track with his younger brother’s unexpected death. Confused, Pettigrew seeks solace in the unexpected friendship

of a local and culturally traditional Pakistani shopkeeper, also widowed, Jasmina Ali. She helps her distressed neighbor through his troubled times with a listening ear and assistance with driving. Their friendship flourishes over their love of books, long drives, and their appreciation of a proper cup of tea.

Along with those many cups of tea, trouble brews in their families and the village as their relationship blossoms.

Jasmina’s world is one which prohibits women from inheriting their husband’s businesses, so her nephew seeks to take charge of her life and relegate her to taking care of nieces and nephews. Major Pettigrew’s family seeks to meddle in his friendship because Jasmina is seen as a foreigner trying to defraud him. The village is appalled by their friendship, and the local gossip tries to ruin their relationship and shame them with mockery. Much like an older Romeo and Juliet, both Major Pettigrew and Jasmina are tested and pushed to the brink due to their cultures, traditions, and families. This is a winsome love story filled with humor, heartbreak, and hopeful perseverance.

The Giver of Stars

by Jojo Moyes Jojo Moyes manages to deliver the trifecta of fiction in her incredibly dramatic novel, The Giver of Stars, by weaving it as domestic fiction, historical fiction, and a romance novel. Not many authors could achieve checking all three of these genre boxes for the same book and emerge with readers laughing, crying, and cheering on the characters, but Moyes is not like many other authors.

She seems to be able to succeed in revealing both sides of social issues which are well engrained in history, while simultaneously playing with our heartstrings.

Set in 1937 during the Great Depression, Moyes tells the tale of Alice Wright, as she escapes her oppressive life in England by marrying the son of a wealthy American coal mining industrialist and relocates to rural Kentucky. Alice is looking for a life with

purpose, hope, love, and achievement.

It doesn’t take long for her to realize that her marriage has led her from the frying pan and into the fire with her authoritarian husband and his overbearing family. The social issues of the day combined with the oppressive mining conditions cause Alice to rebel, speak her mind, and stand her ground.

When Alice hears of a new outreach program started by Eleanor Roosevelt, she ignores her husband’s protests and joins this remarkable team of women known as the Packhorse Librarians of Kentucky. The librarians are tasked with distributing books, knowledge, and hope to the otherwise unreachable poor families throughout the hills in all weather. These brave women grow in character and bond as a team as they also develop lasting relationships with the families they’re servicing. While there is considerable hardship and hazard to overcome, the Packhorse Librarians of Kentucky discover that they not only love their job, but that they’ve been given the opportunity to learn what true love is truly about.

brainstorms with the church’s outreach members because something different and exciting is needed to attract new members, and their wallets.

Gone are the Pyrex dishes of bubbling tuna fish casserole fundraising dinners.

No more Spam, potatoes, and condensed cream-of-mushroom soup luncheons.

Even the canning and fermenting seminars were cancelled. All Souls cooks up a controversial fundraiser which sets the congregation stewing. They will assemble a unique recipe book offering suggestions on how to spice up the romance in the bedroom. The ladies

attempt to keep a lid on their new recipe book as they each write their anecdotes and suggestions as the reader learns the story behind the story of each of the main characters. Pastor Pete has her hands full with this group as the rest of the congregation slowly uncovers their endeavors and attempts to put a halt to the book’s publication. Lorna Landvik has proven once again that she can take humor and romance to a whole new level by simply permitting her characters to be their outlandish, devious, and delightful selves.

Let me help you through your next door!

Last Circle of Love

by Lorna Landvik Only a gifted storyteller could compose a narrative spanning the ages of puppy love, passionate love, and pensioner love, and weave it with wit, warmth, and wisdom. But then again, we’re talking about the same author of Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons, Once in a Blue Moon Lodge, and Welcome to the Great Mysterious.

Landvik’s readers have come to expect each chapter to be extraordinarily funny and heartwarming.

Kittleson, Minnesota sets the stage for this novel with the feisty postmenopausal church ladies of steadily shrinking All Souls and the up-and-coming haughty church ladies of Prince of Peace. Both congregations are battling to increase membership and participation, but little does anyone realize that All Souls has a secret younger ingredient: newly installed Mallory “Pastor Pete” Peterson. Pastor Pete is open to new ideas when she meets and

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2023 Red Kettles RESULTS FOR CANADIAN LAKES

BY DALE DOEPKER

Total all locations for 2023: $6,979 Refuse Center only: $5,319 Lakeside Motorsports: $1,023 Hixson’s Counter Kettles: $637

W

e had 23 different Bell Ringers who attended the kettles for 37 shifts this year.

Thanks especially to the volunteer couple who took six shifts and the volunteer young man who took five shifts, plus nine others who also took multiple shifts.

Couples covered many shifts. The grand total was well above last year, but still a little below 2020. Thanks to all who helped ring this year, especially Tim Cook at the Refuse Center for all his help and taking the photo, plus approval and help from the owner Bob Doerr.

Thanks to Ed Richter at Lakeside Motorsports for allowing us to ring at his open house and for his $500 matching donation to that kettle. Thanks to Gail Hixson for encouraging his counter kettles. Also, thanks to Tim Collinge for driving me to Big Rapids twice.

Bell Ringers who did not make it to the group photo were Joni Sandy, Tricia Donegan, Karen Schultz, Gloria Parker, Tim & Barb Collinge, Tim & Karen VanAntwerpen, Mike Sylvester, Lee Wolken, Ed & Donna Vanderhoff, Theresa & Lillian Frederick, Rick Kempton, and Pam Stirn.

All the other volunteers are shown in the group photo: Sandy Wier, Michelle Kaufold, John Tunacik, Dale Doepker, Pat & Kerry Rhoderick.

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What Does Mobile Watch Patrol?

Roger Stobert

Mobile Watch Coordinator 231-288-0148 spankky@charter.net

40 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

WHAT DO THE CANADIAN LAKES MOBILE WATCH (MW) VOLUNTEERS DO ON PATROL? Volunteers do a lot of looking, listening, and reporting. Patrollers drive less than 20 miles once a week in one of nine designated areas within Canadian Lakes, typically, in his/her own neighborhood.

Mobile Watch’s goal is to have two patrols per day in each of our nine areas.

Each volunteer begins his/her patrol by using “the Kit” which is a white fivegallon bucket containing everything a patroller needs to perform their duties. The Kit includes a radio, a radio charger, magnetic MW signs, an amber light, important patrol literature, and seasonally, a Winter Watch list.

Prior to each patrol, each MW patroller attaches the magnetic Mobile Watch signs to his/her vehicle and then places an amber light on the roof. The patrol volunteer then logs-in by radio to Canadian Lakes Safety.

Volunteers patrol their assigned area watching for anything suspicious or unusual. Patrollers also watch for open garage doors at residences where it appears no one is home. Open garage doors provide easy access for wouldbe thieves. While on patrol, Mobile Watch volunteers are prepared to assist stranded motorists, or to come to the aid of lost visitors and, on occasion, even lost residents!

In the winter, MW volunteers keep a keen eye for red lights in the windows of residents’ homes indicating that there may be a possible heating system malfunction.

Residents can help MW and Safety in its Winter Watch mission by registering their homes each year prior to their departure for warmer climates using the Residential Vacation Form. Registration provides Safety with the essential information to remedy a potentially serious situation.

These forms can be obtained at the CLPOC office or on the CLPOC website.

WHAT DOES A MOBILE WATCH VOLUNTEER DO WHEN HE/SHE SEES SOMETHING UNUSUAL? Each patroller is trained to contact Canadian Lakes Safety via the radio included in the MW Kit. Patrollers do not leave their vehicles to investigate situations unless it is absolutely necessary, or if requested by Safety or law enforcement personnel, and then only if the volunteer feels comfortable doing so. Patrollers never confront, provoke, or intentionally place themselves in danger.

If volunteers come upon a crisis situation requiring immediate attention, such as an auto accident, fire, medical emergency, or any other similar circumstance where time is critical, patrollers are trained in the proper protocols of immediately notifying 911 first and then Canadian Lakes Safety. At the end of their patrol, each volunteer radios Safety that the patrol has been completed in the assigned area.

MW equipment is removed from the volunteer’s vehicle and placed in the Kit (white bucket). The Kit is then dropped off at the next patroller’s home.

All recruits receive a “tabletop” orientation explaining the procedures and protocols of Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch. The tabletop talk orientation is followed by an actual practice patrol with the area captain. During this patrol the captain demonstrates to the recruit the practices necessary for the new volunteer to be an effective part of the Canadian Lakes MW team.

HAS MOBILE WATCH REALLY IMPACTED THE CL COMMUNITY? Residents might be surprised by some of the events that MW has participated in. Mobile Watch came to the aid of a resident who had slipped on the ice near his mailbox and couldn’t right himself. This resident lived alone on

a lightly traveled dead end street. Had MW not patrolled this day, this incident could have ended tragically given the brutally cold weather. A similar slipping incident 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 away from the house. Yelling for help was futile until his voice caught the attention of a keen-listening MW volunteer.

In the past, Mobile Watch was called upon to assist Safety, the Michigan State Police, and Mecosta County Sheriff in searching for an elderly resident suffering from dementia who had wandered away from his home.

Mobile Watch came to the aid of county neighbors east of Canadian Lakes when the Sheriff ’s Department asked for assistance in looking for young children who wandered away from home into

a deeply wooded area. As many of you already know, Mobile Watch literally reports dozens of red lights each winter.

DOES MOBILE WATCH DETER VANDALISM AND HOME INVASIONS? Studies show that in other communities where neighborhood watch organizations like Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch exist, complaints of criminal activity are significantly lower than in areas where there are no active civilian law enforcement assistance groups.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE OVERALL SAFETY OF CANADIAN LAKES? You can be if you become a Mobile Watch patroller. You are supplied with everything you need, except you supply your own vehicle. We can’t fulfill our mission without continued community support and participation. While we

have many volunteers of all genders and ages (a few over 90!), some having been MW Patrollers for over a decade and a few over 20 years, 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 challenging, it is in fact 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 231-2880148 or at spankky@charter.net, or just call Canadian Lakes Safety at 231-9728555 to volunteer and help keep our community safe.

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C Roger Stobert

Volunteer Yard Waste Coordinator 231-288-0148 spankky@charter.net

42 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

anadian Lakes Yard Waste will reopen Sunday, April 3, 2024, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will be OPEN every Wednesday and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., April through November 27, 2024, weather permitting.

As open burning of yard wastes is not allowed in Canadian Lakes, and to preclude the dumping of these wastes on neighboring lots and common areas which is prohibited, the yard waste site was established to provide CLPOC members in good standing with a place to dispose of their residential yard waste.

Canadian Lakes Yard Waste is located on the south side of Pierce Road between 110th Ave. and Tullymore Dr. To gain access you will need a 2024 CLPOC ID, vehicle sticker, or guest pass.

Items allowed to be brought to the Canadian Lakes Yard Waste include tree and shrub branches and limbs less than 4” in diameter, and plant-based materials normally associated with residential yard maintenance such as grass clippings, leaves, and discarded mulch and plants.

The following are NOT allowed to be left at the Canadian Lakes Yard Waste: household wastes, food wastes (including rinds, cores, peels etc.), construction debris (shingles, wood scraps, nails, broken concrete, etc.), fireplace or campfire ashes, and containers of any kind used to transport yard waste.

Also, do NOT deposit your yard wastes outside (or inside) the gate when the site is not open.

When depositing your yard wastes, please place them as far off the road as possible, and on top of or behind previously dumped wastes. This helps to minimize the number of times that “push backs” are needed, thus minimizing operational costs.

If your vehicle sticker is easily visible, the attendant will give you a friendly wave when you enter, but will stop you if he/she doesn’t see the sticker on your vehicle or if the sticker is not current.

These friendly site attendants are all volunteers and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Please drive slowly (<5mph) when entering and exiting the facility to prevent dangers to other users and to minimize the raising of dust.

We can always use additional substitute volunteers to fill our 2024 schedule.

Should you have any questions related to the Canadian Lakes Yard Waste, or should you want to volunteer to help at the site, please contact Roger Stobert, Yard Waste Coordinator, 231288-0148 or spankky@charter.net.

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FESTIVAL ARTS 2024

OF THE

BY CORA FOLEY

T

he Big Rapids Festival of The Arts (FOTA) runs February 2nd through February 25th, 2024. This is the seventeenth annual full-month arts and cultural festival celebration in Big Rapids showcasing talents from visual arts and performances, to interactive workshops.

The FOTA calendar is full of concerts, lectures, exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops for you to take part in and enjoy — more than 60 events packed into the shortest month of the year. And other than some workshop fees for materials, all of the events are presented free of charge!

The programming includes many favorites, such as a concert by the Grand Rapids Symphony, Rod Lawrence’s

44 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

wildlife drawing workshop, Corewell Health’s heart-healthy diet presentation, Wee Wonders art for toddlers, and Ferris State University’s (FSU) band, orchestra, and choir Festival-closing concert. And of course, there are lots of new events and presenters — the Rollie Tussing Trio, Michigan’s Comic Opera Guild, jazz musicians Cliff Monear and Miguel Gutierrez, author Molly Harper, Chef Lincoln Alexander’s amazing cakes, and much, much more!

This year will include several events featuring the talents of some amazing young artists — trumpet virtuoso Morgan Harae, students from Morehead State University’s Kentucky Center for Traditional Music, vocalist, instrumentalists, and actors from

the Big Rapids Public Schools, Ferris State University Theatre students, jazz musicians from Michigan State University (MSU), award-winning guitarist Matt Thomas, Ferris Esports teams, and MSU’s spicy Salsa Verde ensemble.

Workshops that you can participate in include baking pies, coin collecting, floral arranging, guitar, photography, sculpture, textiles, and wildlife drawing. There will also be many demonstrations by a wide variety of artists. The venues are scattered across Big Rapids, from Artworks, churches, Public Library, schools, and university buildings, to various businesses throughout the community.

For more information on the Festival of the Arts visit the website at www.

BRFOTA.org. There you can view the

events calendar or peruse the complete digital event booklet complete with artist and workshop descriptions, locations, and maps to take advantage of this wonderfully enriching local festival.

We know that February always has the potential to surprise us with inclement weather, and while FOTA will do their best to keep to the schedule, they also want all presenters and attendees to be safe. As such, you are encouraged to check the festival website BRFOTA.org, as well as their Facebook and Instagram pages for up-to-date cancellation information.

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CLPOC Board Minutes

Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation Board of Directors Meeting November 18, 2023 @ 9:00 a.m.

Attendee’s Paul Szymkowicz John Colley James French Steve Wilcox Dan Altier Steve Brandt Shannon Hannon Jerry Juncker Linda Ricketts

Role

Present Zoom (Z) In Person (IP)

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Director Director Director Director Director

IP Z Z IP X IP IP X X

Absent

Others in attendance – Greg Babbitt - General Manager, Kim Dowell – Comptroller, and Lindsay Halcomb – Marketing.

AGENDA TOPIC’S AND DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance – Meeting called to order

by President Szymkowicz @ 9:00 AM and Pledge conducted.

2. Pledge of Allegiance – above 3. Agenda Approval – Motion by Director Hannon Support Treasurer French passed unanimously 4. Austin and Morton Township Reports – Morton Township advised they are hiring a fulltime firefighter 5. Presidents Report – President Szymkowicz updated on current activities in Canadian Lakes 6. Financial Report – Controller Kim Dowell updated information in packet COMMITTEE REPORTS 1. ACC Committee – No update 2. CLA – No update Director Ricketts absent 3. Executive Committee – President Szymkowicz advised they received and operational update from GM and several legal updates.

4. Finance Committee – Treasurer French provided updates on Audit, small claims, proposed FY25 budget, proposed fee schedule, Food Trailer, 48 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

5.

and Strategic Planning initiatives Strategic Planning Committee – Secretary Wilcox updated on all current SP initiatives

GENERAL MANAGERS REPORT a. Amenity Usage Report – In packet b. Departmental Report – In packet c. Reserve and Capital Project Update – Asphalt work is completed d. Genrrsl Manager Committee Updates – Compliance and Restaurant Committees met e. Miscellaneous Items – Staff working on budgets, Gold did excellent, Boats removed timely, Bow hunting, Winter Sports park, Annual Meeting 1. Consent Calendar – Motion by Secretary Wilcox to Approve the Notes of October 11,2023 Workshop Meeting and Minutes of the October 28, 2023 Board Meeting and to Receive and File October 2023 Check Disbursement Support by Director Hannon passed unanimously 2. Member Comments on action or discussion items – None 3. Items for Board Action – None 4. Items for board discussion – 5. 12a – AN ITEM TO DISCUSS PROPOSED BNY LAW

AMENDEMNETS – Presented by Secretary Wilcox, no discussion 6. 12B – AN ITEM TO DISCUSS THE CALENDER YEAR 2024 PROPOSED FEE SCHEDULE – Presented by Treasurer French, no discussion 7. 12C – AN ITEM OT DISCUSS THE PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2025 PROFORMA BUDGET – Presented

by Treasurer French, no discussion 8. 12D – AN ITEM TO DISCUSS A CLPOC STRATEGIC PLAN DOCUMENT, STRATEGIC INITIATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS – Presented by Secretary Wilcox, no discussion 9. Member Comments – None 10. Director Comments – Vice President Colley, Director Brandt, and President Szymkowicz 11. Member communications – None 12. Moved to executive session – None 13. Adjournment – Motin by Director Brandt, Support by Director Hannon ;passed unanimously Respectively submitted by Steve Wilcox, Board Secretary.

(Minutes are printed as submitted.)

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Call for more details on rates & how buy/sell in 2024

Medicare Made Simple Turning 65 or Newly Eligible?

Overwhelmed? Confused?

Work with a LOCAL expert with over 18 years experience who can guide you through the complicated process.

• Medigap Supplements • Medicare Advantage Plans • Part D Prescription Drugs Call Nancy Courser for a no cost, personalized consultation:

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Comprehensive eye exams and full optical services provided, including a large selection of sunglasses!

ncourser@cornerstone-rp.com 8515-100th Ave., Stanwood, MI 49346

(616) 401-0750 We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 10 organizations which offer over 70 products in your area. Please Contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all your options.

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 49

CLPOC Board Minutes

Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation Board of Directors Meeting December 16, 2023 @ 9:00 a.m.

Attendee’s Role Present

Zoom (Z) In Person (IP) Paul Szymkowicz John Colley James French Steve Wilcox Dan Altier Steve Brandt Shannon Hannon Jerry Juncker Linda Ricketts

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Director Director Director Director Director

Absent

IP X Z Z Z IP IP Z IP

Others in attendance – Greg Babbitt - General Manager, Kim Dowell – Comptroller, and Lindsey Holcomb – Marketing.

AGENDA TOPIC’S AND DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance – Meeting called to order

by President Szymkowicz @ 9:00 AM and Pledge conducted.

2. Pledge of Allegiance – see above 3. Agenda Approval – Motion Director Hannon Support Director Ricketts approved unanimously

4.

5.

6.

Austin and Morton Township Reports – None Presidents Report – President Szymkowicz Financial Report – Controller Kim Dowell, in packet

COMMITTEE REPORTS 1. ACC Committee – None 2. CLA – Director Ricketts upcoming events

Virtually Invisible Hearing Technology

Dr. Beckie Kaczmarski Dr. Angela Barton • Hearing Consultations WE’VE MOVED! • Demonstration of new technology • It may just be wax?

• Accepting most insurance • Device for every budget

Canadian Lakes/Mecosta Lakes/Stanwood office Canadian Office

8540 105th AveAve • CANADIAN LAKES, 49346 10857 90th • MECOSTA, MIMI 49332 EVERY THURSDAY

Metro Health Village Grandville

2225Wilson Main St. MIMI49519 4555 AveSW, SWSte.140 Suite 3 ••WYOMING, GRANDVILLE 49418

Grand Rapids Office

2020 Raybrook Drive SE • GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546

Walker Office

523 Wilson Ave. NW • WALKER, MI 49534

Call (231) 972 - EARS (3277)

today or visit us online at www.KaczmarskiHearing.com

Locally owned and operated!

50 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

© 2017 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 4/17 53096-17

3.

4.

5.

Executive Committee – President Szymkowicz Finance Committee – Treasurer French – 2024 FY Budget, Reserve Replacement, Audit, Small Claims, Proforma Budget and Fee Schedule Strategic Planning Committee – Secretary Wilcox

GENERAL MANAGERS REPORT a. Amenity Usage Report – In packet

CLPOC Board Minutes b. Departmental Report – In packet c. Reserve and Capital Project Update – No update d. General Manager Committee Updates – No reports e. Miscellaneous Items – Holiday office hours, NOL update, Winter sports park prep, Annual bills prep 1. Consent Calendar – Motion by Secretary Wilcox to approve Notes of the November 8, 2023 Workshop and the Minutes of the November 18,2023 Board Meeting and to Receive and File the November 2023 Check Disbursements Support Treasurer French approved unanimously 2. Member Comments on action or discussion items – None 3. Items for Board Action 4. 11A – Motion by Secretary Wilcox to Adopt Bylaw amendments as Proposed Support Director Hannon approved unanimously 5. 11B – Motion by Treasurer French to Adopt the 2024 Fee Schedule as attached for the period of January 1st, 2024 through December 31st 2024 Support Director Brandt approved unanimously 6. 11C – Motion by Treasurer French to Adopt the Fiscal year 2025 Proforma Budget as attached Support Director Hannon approved unanimously 7. 11D – Motion by Secretary Wilcox to approve the four Strategic Plan Prioritized items stated above via drawdown of the Capital Improvement Fund in the amount not to exceed $185,000 Support Director Hannon approved unanimously 8. Items for board discussion – None 9. Member Comments – Dan Rice RS 395 10. Director Comments – Director Hannon, Director Ricketts, Director Brandt, Treasurer French, Secretary Wilcox, Director Juncker, and Director Altier 11. Member communications – Repost Bylaw Amendments 12. Moved to executive session – 8:32/8:39 13. Adjourn – Motion Director Hannon Support Director Brandt approved unanimously 8:39 Respectively submitted by Steve Wilcox, Board Secretary.

(Minutes are printed as submitted.)

PASQUALI LAW OFFICES Mid-Michigan’s source for elder law, trust and estate services

Thank you Isabella County for voting Pasquali Law Offices as one of the best Attorneys in the year’s People’s Choice Balloting! Our attorneys and staff have the tools and specialization to handle all your planning needs. Our team looks forward to continuing to serve the needs of Mid-Michigan families — thank you again for supporting me and my team!

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(989) 400-4646 www.pasquali.law

Canadian Lakes Excavating 10817 Pierce Road • Stanwood, MI 49346 Residential & Commercial Services Licensed & Insured Lice

Gravel, Fill, Topsoil • Site Development Septic Systems (New & Replacement) Clearing Land • Digging Basements

231-972-8986 CLExcavating_1.3v_CL0607.indd 1

5/19/18 1:52 CANADIANLAKES.ORG | PM 51

TRY SOMETHING NEW FOR DINNER THIS WINTER

WEDNESDAY

TEAM TRIVIA AND

WING NIGHT

THURSDAY

PASTA NIGHT

Bring your friends and enjoy great deals on wings and beer!

Create your own or enjoy a family feast that serves four!

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

ALL YOU CAN EAT

F ish Fry

Choose from perch or shrimp – or enjoy both!

PASSPORT NIGHTS Enjoy special themed menus that change every month!

PUBLIC ALWAYS WELCOME Learn more about our specials on Facebook or at TullymoreGolf.com | (231) 972-4837 Now is a great time to think about a Golf Membership that includes both Tullymore and St. Ives!

CALENDAR EVENTS of AREA

February

MARCH 3 Grand Rapids Gold 2 MARCH 3 Intocable

FEBRUARY 1-4 Disney On Ice 2 FEBRUARY 2-3 GR Symphony Presents: All-American Masters 5 FEBRUARY 7-8 Grand Rapids Gold

MARCH 29 GR Symphony Presents A Night of Symphonic Boy Bands 5

5

MARCH 5 Grand Rapids Gold 2

MARCH 30 Grand Rapids Gold 2

MARCH 5-10 Broadway GR Presents Les Miserables 5

MARCH 30 CLA Easter Egg Hunt 7

2

FEBRUARY 9-10 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 FEBRUARY 10 GR Symphony Presents Symphony with Soul: Leela James 5

MARCH 7 Bert Kreischer 2 MARCH 8 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

April

MARCH 9 Grand Rapids Rise & Grand Rapids Gold 2

APRIL 1 Grand Rapids Rise 2

FEBRUARY 10 CLA Winter Carnival 7

MARCH 10 Winter Jam

FEBRUARY 11 Grand Rapids Gold 2

MARCH 11 Bert Kreischer

FEBRUARY 12 Grand Rapids Rise

MARCH 12 Dr. Jordan Peterson 2

APRIL 5 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

FEBRUARY 13 Grand Rapids Symphony Performance 1

MARCH 12-13 Paw Patrol Live Great Pirate Adventure 5

FEBRUARY 13 Dancing With the Stars 5

MARCH 14 Dan + Shay 2

APRIL 5 Grand Rapids Comedy Festival Featuring Sommore, Lavelle Crawford and More 5

FEBRUARY 14 Grand Rapids Gold 2

MARCH 15 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

APRIL 6 Grand Rapids Rise 2

FEBRUARY 16 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

MARCH 15 TESLA 6

APRIL 6 Ira Glass 5

FEBRUARY 16-17 GR Symphony Presents Black Panther in Concert 5

MARCH 15-16 GR Symphony Presents Celtic Landscapes with Eileen Ivers 5

APRIL 9 Celtic Woman 5

FEBRUARY 18 Grand Rapids Rise 2

MARCH 16 Grand Rapids Gold & Griffins 2

APRIL 12-13 GR Symphony Presents: A Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus Celebration 5

MARCH 16 PETER FRAMPTON 6

APRIL 13 Grand Rapids Rise 2

2

FEBRUARY 20 Pantera 2 FEBRUARY 21 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 FEBRUARY 22 Sam Hunt 2 FEBRUARY 23 Elevation Nights 2 FEBRUARY 23-25 GR Ballet Presents Sleeping Beauty 5

2

APRIL 3 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 2

APRIL 3 Brit Floyd: P-U-L-S-E 5

MARCH 17 Grand Rapids Rise 2

APRIL 14 AJR 2

MARCH 17 Joe Gatto’s Night of Comedy MARCH 19 Grand Rapids Gold

APRIL 12 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

5

2

MARCH 22-24 Monster Jam 2

APRIL 18 Grand Rapids Rise 2 APRIL 19-20 Opera Grand Rapids Presents La Boheme 5

FEBRUARY 27 Bryan Adams 2

APRIL 20 MARCH 22-23 Singles Mingle 7 GR Symphony Presents: Beethoven’s 5 INFORMATION IS FROM THE Eroica Symphony APRIL 21 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

FEBRUARY 28 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

MARCH 26 Fall Out Boy 2

FEBRUARY 24-25 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

APRIL 23-28

1. Ferris State University — www.ferris.edu/arts Broadway GR Presents Harper Lee’s To Kill A 5 2. Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids Mockingbird — vanandelarena.com; MARCH 28 Grand Rapids Gold 2 616-742-6600 APRIL 27 GODSMACK VIBEZ TOUR 6 3. Central Michigan University — cmich.edu/Calendar MARCH 28 4. Big The Rapids area — cityofbr.org, Community Calendar; MARCH 1-2 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 GR Symphony Presents Gilmore 231-796-7640 in Grand Rapids: Jean-Yves Thibaudet 5 MARCH 1-2 GR Symphony Presents: 5. DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids — Prokofiev Symphony No. 7 5 devosperformancehall.com; 616-742-6500 6. Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant — soaringeaglecasino.com; 888-732-4537 7.

Canadian Lakes Association — INFORMATION IS FROM THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES canadianlakesassociation.org 1. Ferris State University: www.ferris.edu/arts 6. Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant: soaringeaglecasino.com; 8. Art Works, Big Rapids-www.artworksinbigrapids.org 2. Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids: vanandelarena.com 888-732-4537 MARCH 27 Grand Rapids Griffins 2

March

3. Central Michigan University: cmich.edu/Calendar

7. Canadian Lakes Association: canadianlakesassociation.org

Artr Works, Big Rapids: www.artworksingbigrapids.org 524. Big Rapids area: cityofbr.org, Community Calendar; 231-796+7640 T h e C a n a d i a n L a8.ke 5. DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids: devosperformancehall.com; 616-742-6500

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 53

LET’S GET

SOCIAL

CANADIAN LAKES

Looking for something to do? Check out the social opportunities happening in Canadian Lakes below, based on the day of the week!

Monday MELODY MAKERS (LADIES) 2:30 pm-4:30 pm April-July/September-December Highland Haus Millie Gillies: 231-796-2460 Cell: 231-598-0872 milliegillies91@gmail.com DOTTED CUBES (BUNKO) 1 pm • 2nd Monday Alpine Haus 586-549-7705 CANADIAN LAKES MEN’S CHORUS 3:30-5 pm • April-December Highland Haus 231-359-1114 EUCHRE CLUB 6:30 pm Alpine Haus 231-972-7920 CAMERA CLUB 6:30 pm • Every other Monday Highland Haus 916-258-5619 MEN'S 18-HOLE GOLF LEAGUE 8 am • May-September The Royal Golf Course 989-513-9561 SILVER SPOKES 9 a.m. • April - October David Skaja: 847-367-0534 davidskaja@gmail.com MEN'S/WOMEN'S TO AQUACISE 9 am to 10 am Monday, Wednesdays & Fridays Alice Slezak: 231-404-1045 jaslezak50@gmail.com

Tuesday ASPIRING ARTISTS 1pm - 5pm Highland Haus Cora Foley Tealpaca@icloud.com POOL CUE LEAGUE 1 pm • October-December/January-March Member homes 231-972-7327

54 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

EXERCISE/DANCE CLASS 2-3 pm Alpine Haus 231-972-0029 DROP-IN MIXED TENNIS 9-11 am • Seasonal Alpine Haus Courts 231-408-8801

GREAT IDEAS 2 pm • 2nd & 4th Wednesday Highland Haus 810-919-1765 or ppwig@aol.com MEN'S/WOMEN'S TO AQUACISE 9 am to 10 am Monday, Wednesdays & Fridays Alice Slezak: 231-404-1045 jaslezak50@gmail.com

MEN’S TUESDAY 9-HOLE LEAGUE 8 am • May-September The Highlands or The Pines 248-231-2990 or timhannon@comcast.net

Thursday

WOMEN'S 18-HOLE GOLF LEAGUE 8:30 am The Royal Golf Course 231-250-1257

MEN’S CHRISTIAN BOOK STUDY 7:30 am • June-August Royal Grille 231-972-5132

Wednesday

EXERCISE/DANCE CLASS 10-11 am Alpine Haus 231-972-0029

QUILT CLUB 10 am-4 pm • 3rd Wednesday Highland Haus 616-581-6734

LADIES 9-HOLE GOLF LEAGUE Toni Sessoms: (989) 824-3174 tls-franklin@hotmail.com

MAH JONGG 11:30 am • April-October Alpine Haus 231-972-3054

NEEDLE & NEWS 1 pm • 1st & 3rd Thursday Alpine Haus Hazel Scheiderer: 231-598-2203 dendwi@charter.net

MIXED BOWLING 12:30 pm • September-May Remus Lanes 231-972-0700 CANADIAN LAKES PLAYERS 4:30 pm • 1st Wednesday Highland Haus Elaine Cox: 231-972-4257 mizzelaine@msn.com CANADIAN LAKES FISHING CLUB 7 pm • 2nd Wednesday • April-October Alpine Haus 231-972-8663 TREASURE SEEKERS Variable • 4th Wednesday Destinations Vary 616-443-9207 FISHING FUN NIGHT Variable • 4th Wednesday • May-September Main Beach TBA

SILVER SPOKES 9 a.m. • April - October David Skaja: 847-367-0534 davidskaja@gmail.com MARSP 11 a.m. • 3rd Thursday of May - July - September Alpine Haus Chris Wernette: 231-972-7336 chrisandsandy@yahoo.com CANADIAN LAKES YACHT CLUB 1-3 pm • April - October Lake Laura Barb Szymkowicz: 989-330-6804 barbathome1@juno.com MEN’S 9 HOLE DROP IN SCRAMBLE 9 am Check in • May & September 8 am Check in • June, July, August The Royal Golf Course Roger Barr 248-675-7971

Friday DROP-IN MIXED TENNIS 9-11 am Royal Courts 231-408-8801 MAH JONGG 11:30 am • Apr-October Alpine Haus 231-972-3054 WRITERS QUEST 3:00 pm • 1st Friday Alpine Haus 734-223-7841 MEN'S/WOMEN'S TO AQUACISE 9 am to 10 am Monday, Wednesdays & Fridays Alice Slezak: 231-404-1045 jaslezak50@gmail.com

Saturday MONTHLY EUCHRE SOCIAL CLUB 1:00 pm • 2nd Saturday (Sept. thru April) except for November. rbielby3@gmail.com 231-823-4302 CANADIAN LAKES YACHT CLUB 1-3 pm • April - October Lake Laura Barb Szymkowicz: 989-330-6804 barbathome1@juno.com

Get your social gathering listed here!

You must be a CLA Sanctioned Club and you must meet regularly.

Simply send an email to thecanadianlaker@gmail.com for more details. If your group info is incorrect, please update us by also sending an email to thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.

ALL SEASON RV &

BOAT STORAGE

Short & Long Distance Hauling Custom Canvas

Dave & Kacy Dertien

Repair and Service Work Shrink Wrapping Winterize Inboards & Outboards

231-972-4813 www.emsboatstorage.com

CANADIANLAKES.ORG | 55

Seamus on Witches Lake | acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas 14” x 18” x 1.5” Artist: James Nelson Carroll Email: jim@petimpressionist.com Phone: 630-677-9773

56 | THE CANADIAN LAKER

Embrace Life, Secure Tomorrow

Enjoy the moments that matter, while building a strong financial foundation.

At Isabella Bank, we offer a range of savings options tailored to fit your needs. Whether it’s building an emergency fund, planning for your dream home, or ensuring a comfortable retirement, we are here to help!

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We are committed to you!

Visit isabellabank.com or your local branch to start your savings journey today.

isabellabank.com 01/24

Member FDIC

800.651.9111

Equal Housing Lender

TRUST THE OFFICE THAT KNOWS CANADIAN LAKES BEST

Canadian Lakes- 2023 91 HOMES SOLD IN 2023

$303,698 AVERAGE HOME PRICE

65% were brokered by Century 21

17 HOMES SOLD OVER $400,000 11 were brokered by Century 21

Up 48% over the last 4 years!

"Sell Confidently With The #1 Office In The Area, Delivering Unparalleled Proven Results!"

Interested in how your own Canadian Lakes neighborhood performed this year? Call us today for your own personalized report!

(877) 972-7676