The Canadian Laker October/November 2021

Page 1

CANADIAN LAKES, MI

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Meet the CLPOC Board Candidates! PROPOSED AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

The Castle will be lit! canadianlakes.org

ELECTION EDITION


231-972-8300 CBLakes.com School section lake island

This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to own your own private island. Not just any island but a 12+/- Acre Island, plus two shore side lots for access and utility lines. This private paradise sits in the center of pristine School Section Lake. The island has over 2,200 feet of beautiful, firm, sandy shorelines, two cottages, docks and a boat-house. The west shore side lot has a second boathouse and dock for easy access to the island. The cottages offer two bedrooms and one bathroom each and both share dramatic, panoramic views of the water. A very unique and spectacular opportunity for the right buyer... schedule your boat tour and showing today!

MLS #21097116

$1,460,000

Mecosta, MI

We Have Buyers Looking In Your Neighborhood

Kathleen Adams 231-250-3197

Bob Manzagol 231-349-8096

Sue Kempton 231-638-3498

Joe Mako 989-303-8544

Kolina Mako 989-423-0452

Rockie Peacock 231-349-5533

Jim (JB) Bradley 231-598-4640

Peter Taylor 989-857-9017

Todd Lincoln 989-560-4884

Marshall Henry 231-598-0838

Michael Roberts 989-506-4275

Rich Marino 586-630-8773

Rick Kempton 231-349-8300



O C T O B E R / N O V E M B E R 2 0 21

C

an you smell the pumpkin spice yet? Whether you fill your cup with some spice or drink traditional coffee, make sure your cup is full when reading this please. There are two very important things we must go over. One being that this is our election edition, and you must vote soon. We have six candidates running for election this year—a couple new faces and some who are up for re-election. You can read what they have to say on page 16, in Meet the CLPOC Board Candidates. It is that time of year, do your research and make sure you don’t forget to vote. Whether it be an electronic vote or a paper ballot, VOTE. Besides the vast department updates of need-to-know information in here, we also have pieces throughout that sparks intrigue from each of us. The lovely and talented Joyce B. Wilcox has submitted "Joyce’s Choices" for all you book lovers out there. She also has a sweet piece on a hidden treasure called Mema’s Treasures. Chris Zimmerman is back with “Outdoor Mysteries” about pheasant hunting. He really packs a lot of information within his stories and even places you within each story; it’s quite remarkable. Ready for the second important piece we must go over? We want some pictures from our readers. We actually want photos of our readers reading this edition of the Canadian Laker. This is the thirteenth Canadian Laker I have been your editor for, and I am over the moon with how the Canadian Laker has progressed during that time. We cannot keep copies on the shelf. Please take a photo of yourself, your spouse, or your neighbor reading the Canadian Laker and send them to thecanadianlaker@gmail.com. If you need an incentive, the best photo will be announced on our Facebook page during the month of October, and you will win a small prize to be claimed at the CLPOC office. So, give this issue a good read-through, take some photos, and vote in our upcoming election! We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together, happy fall y’all!

2

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


Photo credit: Di Schwartz

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

3


Buying or Selling?

Call Tom Garner Associate Broker

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

FACTS for 2021 Real Estate Market—The real estate market in Canadian Lakes continues to remain strong with all signs showing this to continue for the near future. To date, 99 homes have been sold in CL and Tullymore. There are currently 11 homes for sale in CL and Tullymore with new builds on the rise. Average days on the market is at an all time low and vacant lot sales have increased with more folks looking to build OR just want to experience the amenities in CL. Interest rates remain strong- 15 year mortgage rates at 2.375 and 30 year at 3.125. Call me to discuss any and ALL of your real estate needs.

$599,900

$650,000

Incredible log home with 7 Acres with over 500’ frontage on Lake of the Hills PLUS a Private stocked pond and a 3 stall pole barn.

Little Muskegon Riverfront Estate with 5 acres, 3 barns, ponds incredible house. Additional house and 75 acres available.

S O LD

$124,900

CL Classic Chalet. Near beach, boat docking and More.

$419,900

80 Acre Farmhouse and barn. Great hunting.

S O LD

$39,900

10 Acres in Isabella Co

S O LD

$610,000

Main CL Waterfront home. Sandy Beach.

PE N D I N

$255,000

Ranch house in Canadian Lakes, Open great room. Secluded setting.

$235,000

Lost Canyon spacious home. Wooded setting $5,000 carpet allowance

G

$329,900

40 Acres with ranch house in Lakeview.

$235,000

CL Ranch with Finished Wlk out.

$79,900

Chippewa River fixer upper home. Incredible waterfrontage and views. 3 bedroom house.

S O LD

$117,900

Remus Area home and garage.

S O LD

Royal Golf Front Ranch. Sun Room.

$258,500

$378,000

Main CL Bi Level. Incredible Rental history.

PE N D I N

$59,995

West CL Waterfront lot. Great location! Park your boat.

G

$137,400 Remus ranch style home.

$154,900

4 Acres with 2 houses. Country living on paved road. Great potential.

S O LD

$247,500 First Hole Ranch on the Royal.


The Castle December 2019 Photo credit: Chuck Richardson

Features 12 Proposed Amended

and Restated Articles of Incorporation

O C T O B E R / N O V E M B E R 2 0 21

16 Meet the CLPOC

Board Candidates!

34 The Castle will be lit! 36 Outdoor Mysteries:

Pheasants Fall, but Coveys Rise to the Occasion.

44 Discovering Mema's Treasures

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

5


Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation

In Every Issue

8

From the General Manager

42

Mobile Watch

46 Canadian Lakes

14 From the Board

Yard Waste

20 Marketing

47 CLPOC Board

22 From the CLA 30 Focus on Fishing 38 Canadian Lakes

Safety

Minutes

52 Calendar of

Area Events

54 Let’s Get Social 56 Art Piece

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 Associate Art and Editorial provided by Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation thecanadianlaker@gmail.com Volunteers Joyce Wilcox Chris Zimmerman Photography Chuck Richardson Di Schwartz Deadline Dates April/May – March 5 June/July – May 5 Aug/Sept – July 2 Oct/Nov – September 3 Dec/Jan – November 5 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.

Cover photo Pictured: CLPOC Board Candidates Back, left to right: Jim French, Bob Halpin, Steve Brandt. Front, left to right: Jim Swartzendruber, Linda Tilley, and Shannon Hannon. 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 ©2021 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

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

Guidelines for Photos/Graphics Photos: Digital high-resolution photos. Low resolution photos usually not accepted. Graphics: Submit graphics in .pdf or .jpg format. Get Social With Canadian Lakes canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org 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


Krapohl BODY SHOP

Your experts in

RV repair Whether your RV is headed for winter storage or to warmer climates, Krapohl Body Shop in Mount Pleasant will prepare it for whatever’s next.

• Want an estimate for your RV? We’ll come to you. • Krapohl Body Shop repairs all makes and models of cars, trucks, SUVs and RVs. • We also do classic car restoration work.

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

• Our 4,524-square-foot addition includes two dedicated work bays and a 58-foot paint booth for RVs and semi-trailers.


From the General Manager

A GREG BABBITT General Manager gbabbitt@clpoc.org

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 3 p.m. MEMBER SERVICES Dawn McNeil Faith Markin Jane Hensley Alex Peacock memberservices@clpoc.org

8

nother busy Labor Day weekend has concluded. Hopefully you got a chance to enjoy the Car Show, Dog Show, Book Sale, some boating or golfing, some campground trick or treating, or just some rest and relaxation with family and friends. The community was very busy and it is refreshing to know we have so many supportive members. I hope each of you enjoyed another great Canadian Lakes busy season while you experienced all the great things this community has to offer. I would like to thank my great staff and the many volunteers who continue to devote so much of their time and energy to ensure that we all enjoy our time here. It is through their efforts this past season that we all got to enjoy this great community with our family and friends. It certainly wasn’t without some significant struggles, primarily due to being short-staffed in many areas. But as expected, my staff rose to the challenge to provide members with the best experience possible. As we continue to navigate the off-season, the community’s health I would like to thank my will continue to be our priority. Unfortunately, with COVID-19 great staff and the many variant cases on the rise, we will volunteers who continue to follow any future mandates that may be issued by our local Health devote so much of their time Department. Whether you agree or and energy to ensure that we not, we continue to believe these are important requirements to all enjoy our time here. It is follow. On the financial front, the through their efforts this past current funding plan has thus season that we all got to enjoy far proven to be financially sustainable. Golf courses, pools, this great community with the Royal Grille, the campground, our family and friends. etc., all continue to be busy with usage and generating income. This is all thanks to you and your guests’ support of the amenities. When the plan was developed, there were certainly some educated guesses that were used, but to date the plan has met expectations and, in some cases, exceeded those expectations. Regarding enforcement, we always appreciate all members complying with their deed restrictions. Unfortunately, there are some that refuse to comply even after receiving numerous requests/ mandates from staff. In addition to staff ’s efforts in gaining compliance, we have also enlisted the assistance of the township and county for those violations that are also ordinance related. These joint efforts have proven to be very successful in certain situations. This time of year, I again want to provide the following friendly reminder, if you own a watercraft, please make sure it is removed from the water by November 1. If you own a common area dock or mooring device, you may leave it in the water all year or remove it and haul it away, but you are not permitted to leave it lying on the shoreline/common property. Additionally, if you are using one of our canoe/kayak racks, your watercraft is also required to be removed by November 1. Along with boat removal is the use of a trailer, and I

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


want to remind all members the only acceptable place to store a private trailer on your lot is in your garage. As we head into the end of the busy season, the staff continues to do a great job. We have had challenges, including getting projects completed, not being fully staffed in various areas, poor weather at times, etc. Some projects we have completed or are scheduled to be completed soon are beach rejuvenation, airstrip fence, Pines Park pavilion roof, and Castle beverage cooler/dispenser. Projects we are still planning to get accomplished include asphalt resurfacing of various roads, various cart path resurfacing, replacing entrance signs for The Pines, Royal Canadian North, and Trapper Woods, as well as a new Castle entrance and new garage doors. My staff and I hope you enjoy your fall! With cooler temperatures ushering in, we have property owners who will be ushering out for those southern states known for their winter warmth and sunshine. As always, whether you plan to stay and shovel snow or leave for the heat, please be safe and courteous out there as we all continue to enjoy the GOOD life.

Serving all of Canadian Lakes

Remodel, new construction service and water softeners sales Water heaters | Bladder tanks | Pressure switchs

616-238-7333

oberlinplumbing@gmail.com

CONNECT TO A WORLD OF CARE. mclaren.org/carecentral

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

9


Th NOTICE OF CLPOC ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERS

November 20, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Castle

ALL MEMBERS in good standing are invited to attend the 2021 Annual Meeting of the Members to be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 1 p.m. Currently, the meeting will take place at the Castle, 9400 Pere Marquette, Canadian Lakes, MI, 49346. The CLPOC Board of Directors reserves the right to conduct the meeting remotely or with other restrictions as may be necessary due to COVID-19. THE ANNUAL MEETING IS BEING HELD FOR THE FOLLOWING PURPOSES: 1. Election of Directors to the Board of Directors to hold office for a period of three years, or until their respective successors have been elected and qualified or appointed. 2. Approval of the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes which are available on the member’s website, www. members.canadianlakes.org, or at the CLPOC office.

10

3. Adoption of Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation. The full text of the proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation is available on the Members’ website www.members.canadianlakes. org, or at the CLPOC office. Each of the items are fully described on the ballot sent to all members in good standing as of September 30, 2021, with an official NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERS and official election ballot as required by the governing documents. Each of the candidates has provided answers to three questions asked by the Nominating Committee. Their answers are in this issue of the Canadian Laker on page 16, are posted on the members’ website, and mailed to all members in good standing as of September 30, 2021. If you opted-in for electronic voting, you will not receive the official mailing, but will receive the information via email.

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


hinking of Buying or Selling?

Or know someone who is?

Call us! We don’t just say we have in-depth knowledge & unsurpassed service. We have the absolute best and most experienced agents in the area! From fresh & motivated to 30 years working through market trends. Call us! We are your local professionals, your advocates, board leaders, committee members, your family, your neighbors, your friends…

“For the Best Move You’ll Ever Make!”

Kelley Reitzel, Associate Broker Laura Veersma, REALTOR® Sue Bean, REALTOR® Kayla Kesting, REALTOR® Randy LaPreze, REALTOR® Kathy Fleming, REALTOR® Steven Malloy, REALTOR® Mark Wentland, Broker/Owner Carol Betts, REALTOR® 202 S. State St, Big Rapids MI 49307 · www.bigrapidsrealty.com

231-250-4417 231-598-1519 231-580-9546 231-527-5371 231-349-1395 231-388-2454 231-218-4605 231-598-4871 231-250-5285


Proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation Submitted by Jim French, Chair, jbf.clpoc@gmail.com; Dan Rice, dozerrice1960@gmail.com; Steve Wilcox, doctorw.clpoc@gmail.com

T

he CLPOC Articles of Incorporation (AOI) are one of the most important documents of our community. They set forth the rules, rights, and obligations of the Board of Directors and the CLPOC members. The original AOI were created and filed in 1994 and have been updated and revised many times over the years. In early 2019 it came to the attention of the Board of Directors (Board) that the AOI contained several inconsistencies, lacked necessary provisions to comply with changes in the law, and, in short, needed a major overhaul. The 2019 Board authorized a full-scale review of the AOI. This was a time-consuming task that was attempted by the Board in 2008 but was never completed due to the enormity of the task and other challenges. After months of diligent review and evaluation the Board is proud to bring to you for approval the proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation. The proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation contain three categories of changes: (1) substantive amendments, (2) amendments to comply with changes in Michigan nonprofit law, and (3) amendments to clarify and reflect current operations. A detailed, marked up version of the proposed changes is available at www.members.canadianlakes.org, or at the CLPOC office. To clarify the areas of changes, we are providing this additional abbreviated summary prior to the vote. Substantive Amendment. The substantive amendment to the AOI will require 500 members (currently 100 is required) to sign a petition to attempt the removal of a member of the Board of Directors. Amendments to Comply with Michigan Law. To comply with Michigan Nonprofit Law, a preamble was added as is required when restating articles of incorporation. The personal liability protection of directors, officers and

volunteers was expanded to the maximum extent allowable in the Michigan Nonprofit Act (the “Act”). Additionally, the proxy procedure, the rights of members to examine books and records, and the interested director provisions were all updated to comply with the Act. Amendments to Clarify and Reflect Current Operations. In the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, Canadian Lakes is now defined as the “Canadian Lake Community” instead of “Canadian Lakes Development”. The definition of “owner” is amended to provide that in the event of foreclosure on a lot or unit, the foreclosing party must pay all membership fees, maintenance fees and other dues. The wording relating to maintenance and membership fees is also revised so it is consistent throughout the Amended and Restated Articles. The mail-in ballot procedure, the notice procedures and the donation procedures are clarified and updated. The annual budget process and the financial process used to select the CPA firm are both clarified to reflect the process currently in place. Additionally, amended language clarifies the General Manager’s ability to hire and remove CLPOC employees and to fix CLPOC employee compensation and the Board has the ability to terminate the General Manager at will. Lastly, typos and incorrect references were corrected and language no longer relevant or required by the Act was removed. As of this publication several meetings have been held to provide membership a clear understanding of what they will be voting on. If you were unable to attend any of the meetings, and after your review of the full version of the proposed Amended and Restated Articles, you have questions you may contact any member of the AOI committee.

Big Rapids Walk-In Clinic When you need care. Sometimes immediate health needs don’t follow a doctor’s schedule. That’s when Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital Walk-In Clinic has you covered. Whether you’re a current patient or not, get the care you need at our Walk-In Clinic, and we’ll coordinate with your provider. It’s convenient care—close to home, and when you need it.

Here when you need us. 12

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

Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital Walk-In Clinic 650 Linden Street, Suite 1 Big Rapids, MI 49307 231.796.3200 spectrumhealth.org/walkin


231-796-3717

stratzheatingandcooling.com

Proudly servicing the Canadian Lakes area for over 50 years. 24/7 Service

Mention this ad to receive up to $150 off a new system

Prepare your vehicle for Winter

We are only 1 of 3 shops in Michigan to win this award 2 years in a row!

Import & Domestic

14905 220th Ave.

• Night Drop Box • State-of-the-Art Facility • Most Extended Warranties Honored • 2yr/24,000 Mile Warranty • Clean, Comfortable Waiting Area • Wi-Fi

just west of US 131

MON - FRI: 8AM -5:30PM

231-796-8320 • WWW.QUALITYCARANDTRUCKREPAIR.COM

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

13


From the Board

A President Paul L. Szymkowicz

CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS board@clpoc.org OFFICERS President Paul Szymkowicz pls.clpoc@gmail.com John Colley Vice President jacclpoc@gmail.com Treasurer James French jbf.clpoc@gmail.com Secretary Linda Tilley ltilley.clpoc@gmail.com DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE Dan Altier altierdt@gmail.com Daniel Rice dozerrice1960@gmail.com Bob Halpin rbobhalpin@aol.com Jerry Juncker juncker.jerald@yahoo.com

s the summer season here in Canadian Lakes came to an end, the community enjoyed Labor Day weekend. As with all major holidays in our community, members from all over the country arrived to enjoy our amenities. Our lakes were more congested, our golf courses stayed busy, and the Royal Grille and the campground saw an increase of membership use as well. I know that our members will always be understanding to staff if delays occur. Canadian Lakes, like so many other places, has had difficulty in hiring enough staff. I must really commend all our staff for working as hard as they have all summer. I was invited to and attended this year’s Mobile Watch Annual Picnic. This is a group of truly dedicated people that patrol our neighborhoods twice a day, all year long. I am not sure how many members attended, but it was a large turnout and everyone had a good time. I would like to thank Mobile Watch for the invitation and the valuable service they provide our community. We always talk about how Canadian Lakes is a great community, but what makes it such a great community? We have a general manager, controller, safety director, facilities and compliance director, marketing director, Royal Grille managers, golf and maintenance superintendent, and a PGA professional. We also have a staff of employees who do an incredible job for us. They deserve a special shout-out for the exceptional job they have done in keeping things normal as we continue to experience the worker shortages created by the pandemic. Who assists them? Volunteers. Volunteers are virtually in every aspect of our community. Here are just some of the areas you will find them: general manager committees, board committees, Mobile Watch, the campground, Flower Power, the CLA and all their committees, and the CLPOC Board of Directors. I think that sometimes our volunteers do not get the appreciation they deserve, so from the bottom of my heart and with great gratitude, I wish to thank each one of you for helping make Canadian Lakes the community that it is. This issue of the Canadian Laker is our election edition. Every year three positions become available on the Board of Directors. This year, six members in good standing have completed the required steps to be placed on the ballot for the memberships’ consideration. Please take the time to become familiar with this year’s candidates. I would like to personally thank these individuals for volunteering their time and expertise to our community.

Steve Wilcox doctorw.clpoc@gmail.com 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

14

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


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: • The natural beauty of the area and its desirability as a place to live • Outstanding recreational and social activities • Financial soundness and sustainability • Protection of property values through disciplined growth and the development and maintenance of a high quality infrastructure.

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

L ak keeside Pizza & Gr Grinde inderrs ORDER ONLINE! PIZZAGRINDERSNW.COM

14”

1 Item

Pizza $7.99

Not valid with other coupons or offers. No cash value. Expires 11/5/21.

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

Canadian Lakes

231-972-1000

OPEN at 7 am EVERYDAY Order ahead and pickup at our drive thru window.

15


MEET THE CLPOC

Board Candidates!

T

he Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation (CLPOC) Nominating Committee is pleased to announce that six members have met the qualifications to have their names placed on the ballot for election to the Board of Directors. These members are seeking election to fill the seats of Robert Halpin, Jim French and Linda Tilley, whose terms of office expire on December 31, 2021. Bob Halpin, Jim French and Linda Tilley have chosen to seek re-election. Steve Brandt, Shannon Hannon, and Jim Swartzendruber are seeking first-time election.

16

Election ballots for the CLPOC Board of Directors will be sent this month to all property owners in good standing as of September 30, 2021, who DID NOT opt in for electronic voting. Please return your ballot in the envelope provided with your signature on the top left-hand corner of the envelope. Those members who opted in for electronic voting will receive a link via email to vote. Please be sure to vote in this important election. Election results will be announced November 20, 2021, at the CLPOC Annual Meeting. For more information about the Annual Meeting of the Members see page 10.

Steve Brandt

Jim French

My wife (Alice) and our dog (Dumars) and I have been enjoying the Good Life since we bought our property in 2014 and moved here permanently in 2017. I’m running for the BOD to further contribute to the community. In addition to my BS in Accounting from Oakland University I hold the professional designations of CPA, CPCU, ARe and ARM. I’ve held numerous CFO and Treasurer level positions in the insurance industry. I currently serve on the CL Finance Committee, Morton Township Planning Commission as well as being the Treasurer of New Hope Church. I enjoy golf, pickleball and softball.

The Canadian Lakes Community is the good life. I marvel constantly at all the beauty that surrounds me and the people of make life here something special. As a member of the board, I am honored to serve the community and help make us even better. I am confident that through working with staff and my fellow board members we can do much for Canadian Lakers. I am running for a three-year term to see the current funding plan through and maintain the current positive financial momentum. I ask for your vote so that I may continue to serve.

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


Bob Halpin

Jim Swartzendruber

My wife (Beth) and I have been homeowners in Canadian Lakes since early 2018, after my retirement in late 2017. I worked for over 37 years at IBM, where I held various management and executive positions for nearly 30 years. I have served on the CLPOC Board as a Director since January 2019 - having been a member of the Architectural Control and Strategic Planning Committees, while chairing the Nominating and Lot Default Committees. My Board Director focus has been on the structural & financial health, continuous improvement, and strategic future of Canadian Lakes.

Sue and I have been property owners for ten years and full time residents five. During that time we’ve fallen in love with the community and the membership. In the last five years, I served on the BoD in several functions, Mobile Watch, and Yard Waste. I’ve adopted Lookout Point Park, keeping it clean and looking nice. I pledge to be dedicated to the Mission Statement of the community with honest, dedicated, and sound decisions for members. I’ve served on two school boards obtaining great understanding of board functions and responsibilities. We can all work together for the same goals.

Shannon Hannon

Linda Tilley

I want to run for the CLPOC board to build on the good work that has been done while setting a vision for the next 15-20 years. I have been a property owner since 1998 and moved here full time in June 2018. Canadian Lakes has been a very big part of my life, spending time here with family and friends enjoying our lakes, restaurant & golf courses. A family wedding at the castle and more recently encouraged two former neighbors from down state to buy/build in Canadian Lakes.

My husband Patrick and I, Michigan natives, became Canadian Lakes homeowners in 2017. Every year we appreciate the amenities and residents more and more. In 2011, after 22+ years of service, I retired from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association as its CFO. I’m an active volunteer, including current service on the CLPOC Board and the Executive Committee, where I am also Board secretary. Recently I joined the organization’s Architecture Control and Strategic Planning Committees. I value my work with CLPOC and ask for your vote to continue my service.

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

17


School Days Fingers wrapping, fists are squeezing, Arms move to and fro; Trying to stay within the lines, Coloring as we go.

Fingers grasping, lines connecting, Pencil moves across the page; Students struggle to make letters, Printing’s awkward at this age.

Hands are clapping, heads are bobbing, Shoulders sway side to side; Piano notes fill the air, Children sing with mouths so wide.

Counting marbles, counting cookies, Even counting teddy bears, Math is always in the classroom, Math is everywhere.

Some blocks falling, some blocks listing, Some blocks stacked just right; Castles soaring on the table, Some are reaching quite a height.

Tying shoes, zipping jackets, Then putting on our hats; Time to gather all our papers, And put them in backpacks.

Edges touching, corners framing, Most fragments hard to place; Puzzles slowly come together, Every piece finds its place.

Lining up straight, standing still, Saying goodbye to friends; Teacher leads us out the door, Tomorrow we will start again.

Books are opened, words are flowing, Every picture is shown; Teacher reads at story time, All children’s senses honed.

Joyce B. Wilcox // Writer’s Quest

18

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


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

Lake Laura Lot Canadian Lakes $39,900

Little Muskegon River Lot Canadian Lakes $24,900 PR I C E D R E DUCE Lake Access Lot Canadian Lakes

Canadian Lakes - Lake Access Golf Course View

Canadian Lakes Lake Access. Water View.

I want to Sell Your Property. PLEASE Call ME!

$1,950

Lakefront Lot Canadian Lakes $29,900

$5000

$1,750


Canadian Lakes Marketing

T JESSICA SLENDAK Marketing Director jslendak@clpoc.org

Marketing Associate Lindsay Halcomb lhalcomb@clpoc.org Assistant Webmaster Lee Ann McCormick canadianlakes.org

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

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

Instagram: canadianlakes_mi

20

his summer season has been like no other. This high season we have not been allowed to do person-guided visits with those interested in Canadian Lakes, but still, more visitors than years before have come, and all have been very impressed with what they have seen. This is great news! I, along with Yeoman Photography, and out-of-this-world volunteers such as Fran Voci, Shannon Hannon, Mark Zaun, and CLA President, Harold Wolf developed a virtual visit video that has received rave reviews. Our website, canadianlakes.org, has received a complete makeover with a full explanation of the member inclusive amenities along with great photography. Radio and TV ads, along with search and display internet advertising, all continues to enforce our brand and maintain that awareness we have reached in the Grand Rapids Designated Marketing Area (DMA). The Canadian Lakes momentum continues and the GOOD life buzz is stronger than ever. It’s my plan to maintain that momentum in the 2022 season. I’ve seen (and have been a part of) marketing and advertising plans where the focus was to maintain the awareness in the current DMA while embarking on the next or nearest DMA to begin conquering the market with the message. While this has always been my grand master plan, things have changed. I will have been with the corporation six years this October and I have noticed a whole heck of a lot of things need to be buttoned up and perfected on the inside before we move to another DMA. I can see that there’s simply no way we can bring more and more new people to Canadian Lakes if we simply do not have a rock-solid new member intake process. In no way can we still have new members not knowing they need vehicle stickers. Each week, I hear members in the office confused about the difference between the corporation and the CLA, and Tullymore and The Royal. I remember the new members who thought their annual fee was $25! While yes, some people simply cannot be helped, all these issues really revolve around internal marketing that I am responsible for. For all this time, efforts have been focused externally before I even arrived a year after the Marketing Department was formed. The cart before the horse, if you will, and that concept stops at the end of this high season. I do plan to maintain our momentum in the Grand Rapids DMA, but instead of beginning to conquer the next DMA, I plan to conquer our own little new member “Canadian Lakes DMA.” I’ll turn my sights to internal marketing while maintaining our awareness in the Grand Rapids DMA. Internal marketing generally involves employees, but in our case, I’m referring to members. Internal marketing means, in my case, the promotion of a company’s objections, products, and services to members within the organization. With that being said, here is what’s on tap for 2022. I’ve already started with perfecting our corporation logo and simplifying its use. Our corporation stationery has been updated and it’s already beginning to be used. Our Style Guide has also been updated. Relationship marketing will begin with real estate offices (near and far), title offices, chambers, and other relative businesses to educate them on who and what Canadian Lakes is. I’ll know who is buying property and will be connecting with them as soon as title work is ordered. I’m working with my fellow department heads to develop quarterly new member events in efforts to inform and educate new members about where and who to go to for what. Annual meetings are being planned to meet with local stakeholders and governmental agencies, to update them on new happenings here in Canadian Lakes.

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


Virtually Invisible Hearing Technology Once we are all buttoned up inside and our intake processes are running like a well-oiled machine, we can go back to bringing more new people in and they’ll know how things work in Canadian Lakes! This will take time and won’t happen overnight. It will take consistency and persistence, but it will hit and will eventually take shape with good planning and support. I ask that once you see the internal marketing, you spread that word to your neighbors. Be consistent with what you see in the marketing message. Use terms correctly when referring to the corporation and when referring to the association. They are two very different organizations. Tell visitors to go to canadianlakes. org for information and tell members to go to members. canadianlakes.org for information. It takes a community to make this happen and I’ll take the bull by the horns to start it all. Your support is greatly appreciated! Stay tuned!

• Hearing Consultations • Demonstration of new technology • It may just be wax? • Accepting most insurance • Device for every budget

Dr. Beckie Kaczmarski Dr. Angela Barton

Canadian Lakes/Mecosta Office

10857 90th Ave • MECOSTA, MI 49332 EVERY THURSDAY

Metro Health Village

2225 Main St. SW, Ste.140 • WYOMING, MI 49519

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!

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

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

21


From the CLA

G by HAROLD WOLF President haroldwolf63@gmail.com canadianlakesassociation.org

ood day my fellow Canadian Lakers! As I write my Laker letter, I am in a pop-up blind in Northwest South Dakota, near a little town called Camp Crook, hunting antelope. It is 11 a.m. August 31 and the temperature is already 90 degrees. I am hunting over a watering hole that looks pretty inviting right about now! I am here with my son, Curtis, son-in-law, Chris, and grandson, Kyle. Marsha enlisted the “hunting trip expertise” of Curtis (he has been on many), to put this trip together for my retirement from my grooming shop in Battle Creek. So far, it has been AMAZING! Yes, I am still working in Canadian Lakes and have been since we moved here three years ago, but I did retire from my shop in Battle Creek after 38 years there. When Marsha and I moved here permanently, being able to be a fulltime member of Canadian Lakes was truly a blessing with everything it has to offer—golf, boating, fishing, CLA Sanctioned Clubs, restaurants, wonderful neighbors, friends, and all of the people we have met and continue to meet—there is no place we would rather be. It is hard to believe that by the time you receive this Canadian Laker it will be October, and I will be ten months into my first year as CLA President. What a great year it has been. Just the pure joy of being able to schedule, plan, and actually put on the CLA events again has been wonderful, not to mention seeing all of our Canadian Lakes neighbors having FUN! I would like to recognize and thank my fellow CLA board members for your extreme patience with your new president. I greatly appreciate you all! It’s that time of year again where we will soon be saying “goodbye” to a couple of our CLA board members who have both given six years to our Canadian Lakes’ community. They are Tom Gawenda, our Sanctioned Club Director, and Robin Bielby, our current Volunteers and Food Service Director. A very sincere thank you for all your time and devotion to the CLA. As current board members are leaving, we need a little bit of your time. If you are gifted with computer skills, food service, or think you would be interested in our next Sanctioned Club Director position, I can assure you the joys of serving your Canadian Lakes community are immense. To date, there have been 179 CLA members who have proudly served our community over the past 41 years as CLA board members. Many of the traditions that were started in 1975 as the “Year Rounders Club” are still present to this day. Please step up and help this current board keep the CLA going strong.

CLA Ice Cream Social

22

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


Marsha and I enjoyed our first Ice Cream Social on September 8 (which had to be rescheduled from August). Fall in Michigan is beautiful, especially at the Castle overlooking Canadian Lakes where the event was held. I am beginning to realize that Canadian Lakers really enjoy events where we serve free food and door prizes (we are giving out 10 of We had our membership table there to sign up them)! new CLA members, as well as some renewals. This is the perfect time of year to become a new CLA Member. You will receive the remainder of 2021, as well as the entire 2022 membership, for your $25. You will also receive this year and next year’s Membership Directory, our monthly Lite Lines, our CLA Membership/Discount Card, and a chance to win monthly prizes, which are for CLA members only. If you were not able to attend the Ice Cream Social, CLA membership forms are in the CLPOC office, or you can get one online at www.canadianlakesassociation.org. We also have two more CLA members-only contests we are running this fall. First, is our second CLA Shopping Spree Contest, which goes until Monday, November 29th. Shop at any of the businesses who advertise in our directory (in the yellow pages), save your receipts, print your name on the back of them, and drop them in one of our three receipt collection boxes located at Canadian Lakes Pharmacy, Hixson’s Family Market, or Canadian Lakes Ace Hardware. Each receipt enters you into a drawing for a chance to win one of the amazing prizes. Two winners will be randomly drawn and will win either an overnight stay and dinner for two at Two Hats Ranch in Big Rapids, or an overnight stay, dinner for two, and breakfast for two at the LOJ Bed & Breakfast in Morley. Our other contest (participants had to be 21 or older to

enter) was our second Poker Run Contest, which ran from August 27 through September 12. Participants had to visit the participating businesses who each had a sign-in sheet and a deck of playing cards. Participants were to draw one card per business, per CLA member. Another two awesome prizes were awarded—for first place, “best poker hand,” and second place, “most cards collected.” The first-place winner received a Jim Beam Liquor Gift Basket (valued at over $300), and second place received an annual membership to the Haymarsh Hunt Club (valued at $250). These contests are two more examples of the value of your $25 CLA membership since they are for CLA members only. With all the above going on, there is no better value for $25, and you also feel the pride of knowing you are supporting your Canadian Lakes community. The Canadian Lakes Association’s plan is to finish the year strong. During the weekend of October 22 to 24, the CL Players will be putting on another one of their fabulous productions. October 30 is our Halloween Costume Dance, and October 31 is our Trick or Treat for kids. In November we will have our annual Cook-Off on the 4th, Gals Night Out on the 8th, and our Christmas Craft Show on the 27th. In December we will have our Christmas Concert, our CLA Home Decorating Contest and our New Year’s Eve Party. Watch for details of all these FUN events in our CLA Lite Lines. As you can see, we have your entertainment needs covered this fall and winter. As always, I want to thank our loyal volunteers for your continued support. You always step up when we need you, and without you, we could not have these amazing CLA events throughout the year. Best wishes to you all for a safe and fun fall in Canadian Lakes! Stay healthy, safe, and strong!

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

23


616-977-7200 | www.monicasgourmet.com | 3668 29th St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512


Summer Concert Series Ends On A Hight Note By David Spieker, of Lakeside Motor Sports Summer Concert Series Committee

THIS SUMMER’S Lakeside Motor Sports Summer Concert Series was a success despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to four entertaining bands, enthusiastic crowds, and committed concert series committee members, the Reuther Pavilion was alive with music, singing, and dancing. While the series was shortened and delayed, it was worth waiting for. Beginning with the stirring—and a bit comedic—presentation by the 126th Army Band, through the toe-tapping sounds of SwingShift, the stylings of Atomic Annie, and concluding with the always-popular Kari Lynch Band, the 2021 concert series was an undeniable hit. These shows were presented courtesy of our title sponsor, Lakeside Motor Sports; our concert sponsor, Ice Mountain; and the free-will donations of attendees. We appreciate the generous support. Of course, concert series committee members—Dave Spieker, Danielle Maneke, Susan Morris, Diane Spieker, Kathleen Reau, Jim Benoit, Jim Brakora, and Marilyn Yvon were instrumental in bringing the concerts to fruition and taking care of the details on concert nights. Before long, the committee will begin work on the 2022 concert season and are anticipating a full schedule. To those who attended this year’s concerts, thanks for coming out. To our entire Canadian Lakes community, we hope you’ll join us next year and enjoy a good time with good friends and great music.

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

25


Royal Grille

KYLE PERRAULT Royal Grille Back of House Manager kperrault@clpoc.org

KENDALL OUWINGA Royal Grille Front of House Manager kouwinga@clpoc.org

IF YOU HAVE BEEN to the Royal Grille in the past few months, there is a good chance you’ve seen a couple new faces. Whether it be in the kitchen, in the dining room, or behind the bar, we've gone through quite the change! Due to state restrictions, things started out quite slow here at the beginning of the season. Seating was limited, hours were shortened, and staffing was low, but we made it through! Between our new menu, our fantastic team of staff, and our amazing guests, I don’t think we could have asked for a better summer! Now, going into the fall season, some major changes have already begun to take place in both the front and back of house. Let’s start with what’s happening in the front of house. If you don’t know me yet, my name is Kendall Ouwinga, your new Front of House Manager. I have been bartending here at the Royal Grille since April and have enjoyed every minute here. I attended school at Ferris State and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Marketing. During those four years of school, I bartended at Antler’s Fireside Grill, where I had the pleasure of getting to know many of you who frequently come in to the Royal Grille! My family has had a cottage here in Canadian Lakes for about 14 years, so I am very familiar with the area, and I am ecstatic about my new position here. My favorite thing about working here has most definitely been the amazing people I have gotten to know so far. Although I have not been in this new position long, I am beyond grateful for the many restaurant guests and Canadian Lakes staff members who have been here to offer support and guidance along the way. Faith Markin, a very familiar face here at the Royal Grille, has willingly stepped up as Assistant FOH Manager! Faith has gone above and beyond to help with planning weddings and special events, serving behind the bar, keeping our restaurant tidy and inviting, and so much more. Both Faith and I are passionate about working here and are grateful to have an amazing group of staff working alongside us. We can’t wait to show the Canadian Lakes community what the Royal Grille has to offer! As for the back of house, the new menu was released earlier this summer and has so far been a major hit! This long-awaited menu featured many new options, including mouth-watering burgers, melty flatbreads, fresh salads, and delicious starters. Be sure to like our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/royalgrille.com, to view our daily specials. Although the season is slowing down and the menu has shortened, it is still full of

Pictured: Kendall Quwinga and Faith Markin Photo credit: Lindsay Halcomb

26

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


many of our most popular, delicious options! Staffing in the kitchen has also gone through many shifting changes throughout the past few months. As many of you know, Kyle Perrault has returned as the back of house manager, and has a fantastic new team of experienced individuals working hard to serve hungry guests with delicious food and exciting weekly specials! Kyle is excited about returning to the Royal Grille after a few months off and will continue to focus on creating new dishes as well as new menu varieties for catering and special events. Despite all the changes we’ve gone through this season, one thing remains the same—the Royal Grille is still a great place to enjoy cocktails with friends, have dinner with family, or throw back beers with buddies after a round of golf. Our goal is to offer a relaxing, laid-back environment that makes our guests feel at home.

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 PM

KATHY ADAMS, REALTOR Experience, Service, Results Kathleen Adams 231-250-3197

Sue Kempton 231-638-3498

Kolina Mako 989-423-0452

Coldwell Banker Lakes Realty 2020 Top Sales Professional

Jim (JB) Bradley 231-598-4640

231-250-3197 Direct 231-972-8300 Office www.canadianlakeshomes.com

Rockie Peacock 231-349-5533

Peter Taylor 989-857-9017

Todd Lincoln 989-560-4884

Michael Roberts 989-506-4275

Bob Manzagol 231-349-8096

Joe Mako 989-303-8544

Marshall Henry 231-598-0838

Rich Marino 586-630-8773

kadamsCBLakes@gmail.com

I STRIVE TO BE YOUR REALTOR CHOICE!

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

CBLAKES.COM 8520 100th Ave. Canadian Lakes, MI

27


@C21WHITEHOUSE /Century21WhiteHouseRealty

Scan for complete and current listings.

ALL THE UPGRADES

CUSTOM LOG HOME

HIGHLANDS GOLF COURSE

TULLYMORE COMMUNITY

GRAND RAPIDS LUXURY

Managing Broker CANADIAN LAKES

LAKE ISABELLA

BLUE LAKE

2 HOMES ON 80 ACRES

231-629-2683

INVENTORY IS LOW! BUYERS ARE WAITING! LIST YOUR HOME TODAY! LAKEVIEW LIVING

GORGEOUS CANADIAN LAKES RESORT COMMUNITY

STANWOOD


Associate Broker OFF GRID

PRIME LOCATION

HANDYPERSON SPECIAL

RANCH HOME

616-890-9346

CONVERT THIS FORMER CHURCH INTO AN AWE-INSPIRING DREAM HOUSE /CHUCKAMESC21

@CHUCK.AMES PENDING SALE

HOUSE HUNTING ON YOUR BEHALF IN MECOSTA COUNTY - AND BEYOND! Realtor

989-309-9094

CAPTIVATING ESTATE ON 2.5 ACRES OVERLOOKING BIG RAPIDS

/BROOKE EDISONREALTOR @BROOKE.M.EDISON

PENDING SALE

PENDING SALE

PENDING SALE


FOCUS ON

FISHING Bullhead Tournament Results

BY 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

30

Seventeen people registered for the Bullhead Tournament and thirteen people brought fish to the weigh-in. The winner of most weight was John Eberhardt with 17.37 pounds and 25 bullheads. Coming second in weight was 6.64 pounds with seven bullheads and ranked third was 5.48 pounds with seven bullheads. The largest bullhead was 1.26 pounds, caught by Chris LaFave, pictured below. The second largest was 1.185 pounds and the third was 1.180 pounds. A total of only 62 bullheads were brought to the weigh-in, totaling 49.13 pounds. Bottled water and snack bags were provided and enjoyed. Next year, the Bullhead Tournament will be August 12-13, and bullheads cleaned at the weigh-in will be given to the volunteers as bullhead cooks are no longer available. Again, we will have bottled water and snack bags available for participants and onlookers. Thanks to Sue Glazier for hosting the tournaments. Chris LaFave with the largest bullhead from the Bullhead Tournament.

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


Annual Youth and Largest Fish Contest Final Reminder

Get your entries in by the deadline of October 10, 2021. We encourage all youth, ages 14 and under, to enter this contest for a trophy. Both the Youth Fish and Largest Fish of the Year Contest run all year, from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. There is one entry form for both contests. If you are entering for the Youth Fish Contest, 14 years and under when caught, the information for the angler must be filled in as to age, etc., on the entry form. Every youth who enters, regardless of fish size, will receive a trophy, so long as it is for a species trophy they do not already have. All entries will be eligible for the largest fish contest trophy if the minimum length is met. Entry forms are available on the CLA website and at the CLPOC office kiosk. Keep track of your catches and take photos if possible so you can enter them by the deadline of October 10, 2021.

Last Fishing Club Meeting of the Year, Wednesday, October 13, 2021

Everyone interested in fishing is invited to attend our last meeting of the year at the Alpine Haus. At this meeting we will have a recap of all our events in the past year and consideration of next year’s events. Results of the September 11 Pike Tournament and winning lures will also be discussed. Election of officers for 2022 will be held. As always, members will share their recent fishing trips, good or bad. Remember to release all largemouth bass, muskies, and any pike that are 24” and over.

Fishing Fun Nights Recap

Henry Singer hooked this 31-inch tiger muskie. Photo provided by Henry Singer

Tiger Muskie Catch!

This summer we scheduled Fishing Fun Nights for the fourth Wednesday of every month: 5/26, 6/23, 7/28, and 8/25. Unfortunately, the turnouts for respective nights were only 4, 2, 11 and 4 people. This will cause us to reconsider if we have them at all next summer, or make some significant changes.

On the morning of Labor Day, new member and angler Henry Singer hooked this 31-inch tiger muskie from (main) Canadian Lake. Henry and his wife, Jordan, just became members, however their grandparents, Stanley and Iris Singer, have been members since 1985, making Henry, pictured above, no stranger to fishing here. Congratulations, Henry!

FINAL LOON OBSERVATIONS We had one loon baby from the East Lake nest and Far West Lake nest produced two baby loons. The Lake of the Clouds nest was not successful this year. By the time you receive this article, the adult loons will have already left for the season, and the juveniles may have already left as well. Apparently, the adults give their babies directions on where to migrate before they leave. Photo credit: Di Schwartz

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

31


2021 Junior Golf

in Canadian Lakes

W

ith the gentle nudge of junior golf mentor and good friend, Judy Smarch, I enrolled my son in this years’ junior golf league and junior golf camp. We could not have been happier with how the season went. My son, Owen, had an absolute blast this summer with both events. He learned much about golf, made friends of all ages, and learned a couple things about how to be a gentleman as well. If you haven’t heard much about these golf programs for our children than you might be missing out on one of the most bang-for-yourbuck summer treats Canadian Lakes has to offer. There is a fee of $50 each for both the junior golf league and the junior golf camp, plus the cost of golf for the junior golf league if you are not a property owner. This year, junior golf league at The Pines started on June 18. Our junior golf league is for players ages seven to seventeen. Every Friday, they played The Pines golf course with tee times assigned starting at 10 a.m. Each group was provided a mentor to help with rules and etiquette. Carolyn Allingham, LPGA Professional, goes on the course to provide advice and encourage-

2021 Junior Golf 32

Picnic Fun

By Lindsay Halcomb

ment to the kids. Carolyn is a major player to these kids— she talks, and they listen. Between Carolyn and all the mentors, I was able to watch from the sidelines, and your children couldn’t be in better hands. Junior golf league’s mentors provide each group of children answers to questions regarding rules and etiquette. Mentors also help find golf balls that don’t land in the fairway. Being a mentor requires about a two-hour commitment on Friday mornings and more if you are a volunteer, like Sue Malzahn. Sue is a well-oiled machine when it comes to organizing the junior golf league. Sue manages all the communication for junior golf, she provides tee times and any changes that might occur due to weather, group changes, etc. She has been involved with the league for many years and has great fun watching the kids progress as golfers and grow as individuals. It takes a great group of Canadian Lakes volunteers to host Junior Golf League and we are so thankful for all of you. It was a great time had by all. Enjoy the photos of a great summer of golf for those that were able to participate!

2021 Jun

ior Golf

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

Carolyn Allingham pres entin a trophy to Nicole Dagl g ey


Carolyn sharing her excitment

Junior Golf 2021

Mentor, Tom Foster watching his junior golfers

Emily W and Nico altz le Dagley

ddies, Junior Golf Bu en Anakin and Ow

Mentors, Rose Groat . the kids and Colleen Ligtvoet vs c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

Golf takes fo

cus

Mentor Jud y Sma vs. the kids rch

Sue Malzahn in th sure the award e background making ceremony was perfect 33


The Castle will be lit! by: Jessica Slendak

C

entury 21 White House Realty’s Nights of Lights is a go for the 2021 season, although there are some changes that need to be shared. 2021 will be our fourth season holding this event which has proved to be very successful and beneficial to Canadian Lakes. By the time you read this article, Christmas Décor’ by Devries will already have the lights on our Castle. Each year thousands of visitors come to Canadian Lakes to see the castle by obtaining a vehicle pass. The CLPOC marketing department continues to build a list of those visitors and we connect with them after the event. Hundreds of members have their friends and family visit specifically to see the Castle. The 2021 season will certainly be as popular as past years. There are some changes to our traditional planning. Allow me to explain the traditional “Members Night of Lights” first. Before the pandemic last year, the entire event would always kick off with a member-only evening held the Friday before the event opened to all. Members Night of Lights was held inside the Castle where event goers enjoyed food, drinks, and socializing. The night included small welcome and thank you speeches and then members would gather outside as the Castle

34

would be lit for their viewing pleasure. Due to staff and volunteer shortages, the members-only event will not look like past years before COVID-19. We certainly hope to bring the traditional inside event with food, drinks, and fun back next year, but an event chairperson and additional volunteers are needed to make this happen. Allow me to explain what the 2021 event will look like. Members Night of Lights this year, will take place on Friday and Saturday, November 19 and 20. Members and their guests are invited to enjoy the Castle, lit with music from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This is an outdoor event this year, for you to enjoy as you are. There will not be an inside event with speeches and drinks, however Bubba-Q Food Cart will return, so get ready to enjoy more of their famous walking tacos! Socializing will still take place, but simply outside between members and their guests. Remember, if your guests are driving their own vehicle, please obtain a guest pass for their vehicle. After the members-only event, the Castle will be open for all to enjoy each Friday and Saturday night, beginning November 26 through January 1. Tell everyone you see to come visit the Castle during that timeframe. Visitor passes will be available at nightsoflights. T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

org for them before opening night on November 26. Bubba-Q Food Cart will also be there all season – thankfully! In the 2019 season, we were able to add a hot cocoa bar, but like the traditional inside members’ event, the lack of staff and volunteers has made the hot cocoa bar impossible for this year. We hope to bring this element back next year as well. If you, like us, are hoping these events come back full-force and then some, consider joining the planning committee. Canadian Lakes has the VERY best army of volunteers seen today. This committee needs your help, so contact me by email at jslendak@ clpoc.org to get involved. In closing, all event info can be found at nightsoflight. org or on Facebook by searching NightsOfLightsMI. The page name is Nights of Lights, Canadian Lakes MI. Although we are not able to deliver the full effect, the Castle will still be lit and enjoyed! I plead again for you to consider being on the planning committee. We truly hope you once again enjoy the Castle this year! It’s certainly an amazing landmark we all are proud of! Post your pictures on your social media as well as the Nights of Lights, Canadian Lakes MI Facebook page. Use #NightsofLightsMI and #CanadianLakes as tags!



Outdoor Mysteries

Pheasants Fall, but Coveys Rise to the Occasion

BY CHRIS ZIMMERMAN

Leslie Zimmerman from Canadian Lakes and her Brittany, “Miss Kitty” teamed up to bag this Iowa rooster.

36

IMAGINE, IF YOU WILL, late October 1953. Dwight D. Eisenhower was President of the United States. A postage stamp cost three cents and a gallon of gasoline, twenty-nine cents. A dozen eggs would set you back seventy cents while the average cost of a new home was sixteen thousand dollars. Now imagine an informal family reunion in a rural community. Folks from the city reconnected with relatives who lived in the country. Back then, pheasant season didn’t officially start until 10 a.m., so there was plenty of time for great conversation and a hearty breakfast round the kitchen table. Stories persisted of excellent wing-shooting from that time, and rightfully so. That year, 500,000 small game hunters killed a record 1.1 million pheasants in Michigan. Compare that to 2017—the last year the Department of Natural Resources kept a tally of birds killed—when only 13,000 wild roosters were bagged. Almost 70 years after the epic harvest of ’53, the mystery still remains: What happened to all our pheasants? “Habitat loss,” says Adam Bump, the DNR’s furbearer and upland game bird specialist. “Fencerows are gone. Wetlands and cattails have disappeared. Haying practices have changed. It all adds up to smaller and smaller pheasant numbers in the bag.” Bump says that the southern third of the state is traditionally the best pheasant hunting area, although Mecosta County does have pockets of birds. “It’s rare to find large areas T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

of pheasant cover anywhere in the state,” Bump said. “Where you find cover, you’ll find birds.” Since their introduction into Michigan in 1893, pheasants have always scratched out a living by taking advantage of farming’s inefficiencies. There isn’t much inefficiency any longer. Farm fields have been drained; their water dumped into creeks that have been dug out, straightened, and had all their cover destroyed. Fencerows have been ripped up and cattail sloughs plowed under. You can’t blame the farmer for wanting to get the most production out of their property. They make their living by feeding the world. I’m old enough to remember pheasant hunting with my dad at the tail end of the pheasant hunting heyday in Michigan. The long walks, the chilly, late October air, and our hustling, inquisitive pointer of ours, made it fun. I’m sure dad never realized those adventures when I was a kid would sow the seeds of a lifetime of chasing pheasants as an adult. Even though there may not be many wild birds to chase in our area, there is still one place nearby that offers sportsmen the opportunity to tangle with the wily pheasant in a natural setting. The Haymarsh Hunt Club is located just a few miles south of Canadian Lakes at 11959 Jefferson Road in Morley. They have 760 acres total that are split into eleven 40-acre fields. Members have access to the property and can reserve the fields for hunting privileges.


The husband-and-wife team of Ashley and Ben Covey own the club and release pen-raised pheasants into fields reserved by the members. Just because their pheasants are penraised, doesn’t mean they’re not a worthy adversary. They run like wild pheasants, hide like wild pheasants, fly like wild pheasants, and for those sportsmen who love to cook what they kill, taste like wild pheasants. I joined Haymarsh when my twoyear-old Brittany, “Miss Kitty” was just a pup. The experience she gained by interacting with pheasants as a puppy has proven to be invaluable for her as an adult. Even at the tender age of two, she’s a superstar pheasant hunter when we travel to North Dakota or Iowa. Because it’s a hunting preserve, hunters who are on Haymarsh’s property don’t have to abide by all the rules set forth by the DNR for wild birds. For example, in much of the state, wild pheasant season runs from October 20th to November 14th. At Haymarsh, the season has already started and lasts until April 30th. An article or two of orange clothing is still required at Haymarsh, but a small game license is not. When hunting wild pheasants, only roosters may be killed. At Haymarsh, both hens and roosters are fair game.

Haymarsh Hunt Club offers individuals and families the opportunity to chase pheasants without having to travel long distances.

After taking in a hunt, the clubhouse is perfect for relaxing. They have a full kitchen and several nice sofas on which to cool your heels. “We have about 100-150 members,” Ashley said. “Some of them are businesses who like to entertain clients at our club. We hope to shoot about 12,000 pheasants this season.” Those birds that escape the weekend fusillade can be hunted by members on Mondays and Tuesdays in what is known as a “scratch hunt.” That term refers to hunters’ “scratching up” the stragglers, which presents an uncertainty that most resembles a natural hunting experience. After all, when hunting wild birds, you never know how many are in the field. There is one difference between wild birds and the liberated ones at Haymarsh. Most wild roosters crow in the springtime, and occasionally in the fall. The roosters at Haymarsh aren’t the least bit shy about using their vocal cords. That raspy, doubletap pheasant crow is music to most pheasant hunter’s ears. If your dog is attuned to that sound, they’ll perk their ears and cock their head as if it triggered some sort of primal instinct. Michigan will surely never have the good old-fashioned pheasant hunting that it did in yesteryear, but that doesn’t mean hunters can’t experience a smidgeon of what the good ol’ days were all about. Instead of traveling hundreds of miles to outof-state destinations, and spending big dollars in non-resident license fees, give Haymarsh a try. Their rates are reasonable, and the setting is comparable to a real pheasant hunt. A half-day hunt with your favorite bird dog and maybe a youngster in the family is fun and enjoyable, especially in the beautiful fall weather. I highly recommend it. To reach the Haymarsh Hunt Club call (989) 352-7050. Chris Zimmerman is a resident of Canadian Lakes and the author of six Michigan based novels. Look for his “Outdoor Mysteries” installments in the Canadian Laker magazine. c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

Frosty mornings, a favorite gun, and a pleasant stroll through the heartland is part of the allure in hunting pheasants.

Michigan will surely never have the good old-fashioned pheasant hunting that it did in yesteryear, but that doesn’t mean hunters can’t experience a smidgeon of what the good ol’ days were all about.

37


Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch Appreciation Golf Outing and Picnic

BY ROGER STOBERT

MOBILE WATCH COORDINATOR SPANKKY@CHARTER.NET

CANADIAN LAKES MOBILE WATCH (MW) held the 2021 Appreciation Golf Outing and Picnic on Wednesday, August 25, for the Mobile Watch volunteers and for the Canadian Lakes Safety officers to demonstrate the community’s gratitude for their good work. Their daily patrols, constant vigilance, and assistance help to make our community safe and promote the well-being of our residents. Canadian Lakes Safety and the Mobile Watch would like to thank the more than 100 volunteers who attended the picnic. Canadian Lakes Safety and the Mobile Watch would also like to give a special thanks to Dennis and Georgette Zywica, Tom Gawenda, Gene and Fran Maloziec, Chuck Adams, Roger and Tracie Stobert, Casey Smith, Bill Hull, and the maintenance and custodial teams for their assistance with the picnic preparations, conduct, and cleanup. Thank you, Diane and the deli staff, at Hixson’s Family Market for the extra effort under difficult conditions. As a result, great food and fellowship were had by all. Our deepest gratitude is also extended to the following sponsors for their generous support of the Mobile Watch. Through their benevolence numerous prizes were presented to the MW volunteers: Amy’s Nail & Spa Antlers Fireside Grill Century 21 White House Realty Canadian Lakes Ace Hardware Canadian Lakes Eyecare Canadian Lakes Pharmacy CL Pizza Canadian Lakes Shell CLA CLPOC

Coldwell Banker Lakes Realty Dennis Wolfe Flair for Hair Gigi’s Hixson’s Family Market Isabella Bank Lakes Rental Lakeside Pizza Mercantile Bank Royal Grille

Rev. Tom Keef gave the invocation. Rob Mickey, former Canadian Lakes Safety Director, Paul Szymkowicz, CLPOC Board President, and Harold Wolf, CLA President, were guest speakers recognizing the Mobile Watch for their volunteer service to Canadian Lakes. Dennis and Georgette Zywica, Ken and Kathy Towne, and Barb and John Cruden were inducted into the Mobile Watch Decade Club, joining the other 57 previous volunteers who have been in the MW for ten years or more. They were presented with a certificate and recognized for their service, sacrifice, and dedication to the Mobile Watch and Canadian Lakes. Their faithful efforts are a tribute to their conscientiousness and compassion for the community and their fellow residents. It is with gratitude and pride that we honor and thank them along with the previously inducted MW Decade Club members. Finally, we wish to give special thanks to all the Mobile Watch volunteers, including the area captains, backup captains, and patrollers, who make the Mobile Watch possible. Their continued contribution and support help to ensure the safety of our community. If you believe the safety of your community is important and are interested in becoming a prestigious Mobile Watch volunteer, please contact Roger Stobert, Mobile Watch Coordinator, 231-288-0148 or spankky@charter.net. 38

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


NOW BUILDING IN CANADIAN LAKES MAYFAIR DRIVE

-

SAINT IVES

-

SLEEPY HOLLOW -

WAIVING AVE

/2</ + 0(6

Your eyes are amazing, keep them healthy!

Fall for Cleaner Air

$30

AIR DUCT CLEANING

OFF

Comprehensive eye exams and full optical services offered!

Honesty | Integrity | Quality

SERVICES OF $350 OR MORE

Get those air ducts cleaned out before winter sets in and your furnace is constantly running and pushing all that dirt, dust & dander throughout your home! *cannot be combine with other coupons or specials EXPIRES 12/1/21

Most insurances accepted. Schedule your appointment today!

231.972.EYES (3937)

10085 Buchanan Rd. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 www.canadianlakeseyecare.com

Mary E. Miller, O.D. c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

39


Joyce’s

CHOICES BY JOYCE B. WILCOX

Question: What do two professional assassins, three recently relocated British households, a 16-year-old Montana homesteader in 1918, a film star and her special needs nephew, and a former NFL third-string quarterback from Cleveland have in common? Let’s read and find out, shall we? The Hit by David Baldacci If you’re looking for an explosive thriller that manages to hit it out of the park this fall, look no further than The Hit. This espionage extraordinaire captures at lightning speed throughout each well-crafted chapter. With his complex characters, twisting turns of events, and close encounters of the clandestine kind, this is Baldacci at his very best. This page-turning, action-packed thriller contains not one, but two incredibly skilled assassins working for the U.S. government and traveling around the globe executing their solo missions. Jessica Reel and Will Robie have been equally trained to be proficient and professional in their pursuit of evil. Enemies of the state have much to fear from these two until Reel inexplicably turns rogue and sets her sights

40

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

on members of her own agency. Why did she turn? Who will be her next target? Robie is given a new mission of bringing in Reel, dead or alive. The two are pitted against each other as secrets are slowly revealed, other assassinations occur, and the safety of the entire world is threatened. A perfectly paced plot with captivating characters, the reader is entertained and entranced from first sentence to finale. The Hit is a hit. The Woman I Was Before by Kerry Fisher Although the title sounds as though this book is an autobiography, Kerry Fisher has actually crafted a captivating mainstream novel of fiction about three women experiencing life’s challenges during early adulthood. Written from the alternating points of view of each of the women, the plot is well-developed, easy to follow, and spellbinding. Taking place in England, this compelling read is seasoned with intriguing plot twists, dashes of colloquial British expressions, and sprinkles of delightful humor. As these three families simultaneously move in as neighbors, the reader


is presented with their developing friendships and their overlapping interactions, as well as their relentless struggles in life. Kate is an EMT and a divorced mother trying to start fresh with her teenage daughter as they attempt to escape Kate’s past. Gisela is married to a successful small businessman and seems to be living the perfect life as a stay-at-home mother of two teenagers. Sally and her husband, while married ten years and childless, appear to be enjoying life with their respective careers as they travel the globe. But all three families have secrets. As their friendships evolve, their secrets unravel and the reader is riveted. Kerry Fisher definitely knows the secret to writing a good book and she’s telling. Playing for Pizza by John Grisham If you’re looking for a quick, comical read with a touch of quirky, why not sample this out-of-the-courtroom and onto-the-football-field fiction by John Grisham? With the beach reads tucked away in the sandbox, perhaps some fine fall fluff is just what the librarian recommended before transitioning into the heavier book jackets of winter. Try on John Grisham’s departure from the courtroom for size and see how this football farce fits. The field is set as Rick Dockery’s life is forever changed after his horrendous performance as the called upon third-string Cleveland Brown quarterback in the final minutes of the AFC Championship game. In three passes he single-handedly causes his team to lose their 17-point lead, the game, and their chance to play in the Super Bowl. As Dockery struggles to recover from injuries, he finds that he’s been cut by the Browns, shunned by other teams, threatened by fans, and forced to leave the country—and that’s chapter one. The fun begins as Dockery accepts a contract as quarterback for the Panthers of Parma, Italy. Never mind that he’s never been to Europe or that he doesn’t speak Italian. His world soon evolves into all things Italian from parmesan to pigskin. This includes an introduction to modified American

football games complete with want-tobe football teammates working other day jobs and a translator in the huddles echoing the calls. Did I mention the deliciously described multi-course meals following all practices or the vivid tours of the historic and picturesque countryside? While Playing for Pizza is not Grisham’s usual legal thriller, it is his nineteenth novel, proving that he is an author who can still deliver even when it’s pigskin pizza. Welcome to the Great Mysterious by Lorna Landvik Well-known for her strong characters, her wit, and her warmth, Lorna Landvik’s background in stand-up comedy and acting is ever present in her voice as a writer. As one of her biggest fans, I’m thrilled she continues to entertain us from the written page as well as from the stage. With Welcome to the Great Mysterious she has proven that she can handle depth to her characters, while offering a small-town perspective to life’s bigger issues. Geneva Jordan is a sensational star of stage, screen, and television living a New York life of luxury and excess. She is also the sister of a fraternal twin, aunt to her sister’s only child, and that child’s godmother. Geneva finds herself on an unexpected hiatus from work when she is summoned for a command performance in Minnesota to look after her 13-year-old nephew who has Down syndrome, while her sister and husband travel abroad. What follows is Geneva’s adventure into reality like no other as she learns how to come out of the spotlight and bask in the glow from the heart of a special needs child. Landvik assists Geneva, as well as her readers, with understanding all that is truly important in life, all the while permitting us to laugh as we learn. Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson While reading this remarkable work of historical fiction you’ll find yourself saying things like, “I’m not sure if I could do that,” “I know I couldn’t do that,” and “there’s no way you could get c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

me to do that.” But Hattie Big Sky does all that and more at a very young age. Modeling Hattie after her great-grandmother’s incredible life journey, Kirby Larson brings history to life in this true coming of age novel. With a compelling and unfolding plot accompanied with a knack for placing the reader in the action on the page, Larson has created big fans with Hattie Big Sky. The story begins in 1917 when Hattie is 16 years old, and the reader discovers that she has been orphaned since the age of five and shuttled from one older relative to the next. Currently living in Iowa with a distant cousin, life hasn’t been easy as no one can afford to keep and raise an extra child. One day, Hattie unexpectedly receives a letter informing her she has inherited her little-known uncle’s homestead claim in Vida, Montana and summons the courage to strike out on her own. She boards a train, heads west, and takes on the world. Her inheritance includes a drafty shack, an outdoor privy, a cow, and 320 undeveloped acres of land. She also discovers that in order to secure the claim she has 10 months to accomplish the following tasks: cultivate and harvest 40 acres, set 480 rods of fencing, and pay the required fees. And yes, Hattie has arrived in the middle of nowhere in January where it is 40 degrees below zero with several feet of snow already on the ground. Relentless complications, endearing friendships, unforeseen tragedies, and unparalleled perseverance, all peppered with the author’s sense of humor, make this novel an extraordinary tale. Answer: The answer to my previously asked question as to what links these individuals is actually your choice. Either it’s an incredibly diverse guest list of people to be invited to your next dinner party, or to be on the safe side, my suggestion to you would be that they become the characters you invite into your home when you read and enjoy these five recommended books.

41


Canadian Lakes Safety

W

e find ourselves at the end of another awesome fun-filled summer season here in Canadian Lakes; now it is time to turn our attention to getting ready for falling leaves, pumpkins, and trick or treating! With the turning of the season, here are just a few friendly reminders from our safety team: Boat Owners — We ask that you please remember that as of Labor Day each year, the main ramp no longer has an attendant and the gate is locked. We ask that you please call ahead of time to schedule a time to remove your boat as this will allow us to set up blocks of time and remove long waits and missed times. Although we would like to be able to respond to the boat ramp for last minute calls, with the call volume that we receive and the size of the area that we must cover, the chances are incredibly slim you will get immediate service. To give you an idea of what this looks like, this past summer season more than 1,550 boats launched over the summer at the main boat launch; there are times during that we had upwards of 150 going in and out on the same day. I know that many of you have your boat pulled by one of three boat companies— you do not have to make arrangements for this. If you are pulling your boat yourself or having the help of a friend or outside company, please contact our safety team for an appointment ahead of time. Lastly, all watercrafts MUST be off Canadian Lakes waters by November 1. RV and Trailer Owners — If you are the owner of one or more of these, we ask that you please make sure they are moved to a proper storage location per your subdivision deed restrictions. As with the turning of the leaves, so turns the weather. In preparation for the winter months our team actively conducts dedicated sweeps during the fall months to identify RV’s and trailers in violation of the subdivision deed restrictions. If you are unsure of the deed restrictions in your Medicare Supplement Accredited Advisor area, they can be found on the members website, Over 20 years insurance industry experience, members.canadianlakes.org, listed under governing, specializing in the Medicare market documents and forms. Vehicle Parking — A friendly reminder there is absolutely NO overnight or long-term parking allowed within right of ways in Canadian Lakes. In recent weeks, our team has noticed that people have been using these areas for overflow parking. It is a safety hazard to not only other motorists, but also to the vehicle owner. Please remember that we share this beautiful place with lots of wildlife, they do not stop to check for traffic before darting out between parked cars. Let’s work together to keep everyone safe while enjoying yet another beautiful season here in Canadian Lakes! Finally, a quick safety stat of the last month completed at the time of print for this article, August 2021: Over the course of 31 days, 3,613 patrol miles were driven, with 146 calls for service. Thank you all for a great summer! BETH BLOEDEL KRISTIN WILCOX Interim Safety Directorr rmickey@clpoc.org

Shorepointe Benefits, LLC

Canadian Lakes resident Beth@ShorepointeBenefits.com 231-920-1716 Office • 313-690-5723 Cell Turning 65 or retiring ? Our services are free ...

ShorepointeBenefits.com 42

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


The CLA Christmas Craft Show BY: SUE DESTRAMPE

THE CANADIAN LAKES craft shows have been going on in Canadian Lakes for the last 30 plus years. The first craft shows were the Saturday after Thanksgiving at the Castle. The craft show was on the upper level and a wild game dinner was on the lower level. When I started as chair organizing the craft show 12 years ago, it was called the “Fall Craft Show.” Now it is called the “Christmas Craft Show,” or “Holiday Craft Show.” The show is the Saturday after Thanksgiving and the hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The last few years the attendance has been well over 1,000 people. At least 35 crafters are in attendance, of which most are returning crafters, as well as a few new. Most crafters pay for their table for the next year the day of the show. I receive calls all through the year from people

wanting to know if I have space for them. We are normally full by the first week of March. We have many items for sale from Christmas wreaths, jewelry, candles, doll clothes, etc. New crafters are required to send a picture of their items. That way, we can see the quality, as well as make the decision of if we have too many of one thing. This is my last year chairing the craft show, because my family is moving to Florida. I will miss chairing the event, but the reins are being turned over to Tricia Donegan, who I know will do a great job. I want to thank everyone from the CLA, CLPOC, and all attendees for making our show one of the best in the area. This year’s CLA Christmas Craft Show will be held on November 27 at the Castle.

Pictured: Sue Destrampe Photo credit: Elayne McCollum

Always interested in new homes!

Micki Armon

lakeslodging@gmail.com

231 972-8303 8510 100th Avenue Canadian Lakes, MI 49346

Individual attention at booking & check-in is the step above that makes the difference, Let’s Talk!

lakeslodging.com Always looking for good rental homes

Vacation and Long Term Rentals

Professional Property Management

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

43


Discovering Mema’s Treasures by Joyce B. Wilcox

44

WHENEVER I AM DOING research I often do things the old-fashioned way, so it shouldn’t surprise you when I say that I know for a fact that Mema’s Treasures isn’t in the dictionary. However, if Noah Webster was alive today and penning his first dictionary, I know that somewhere between the words mem and member he would have alphabetically positioned the idiom Mema’s Treasures. I also know that he would have defined Mema’s Treasures as “the valued, appreciated, cherished, or dearly held items belonging to a grandmother.” And just like the rest of the words in his dictionary, Webster would have been spot on. Now, if you’re physically trying to locate Mema’s Treasures, I can help there too. For those of you familiar with the area, you’ll know what I mean when I say that Mema’s Treasures is located just east of Canadian Lakes on 9 Mile Road, between Williams Kitchen & Bath and Prudential Advisors, and across from Hansul Marine. For those of you using MapQuest, the address is 7042 9 Mile Road in Mecosta. If you’re driving in the area Wednesday

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


through Friday between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or Saturday between 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. just look for the large, flapping Mema’s Treasure flag off 9 Mile. When proprietor Jennifer Vaal and her shopkeeper mom, Linda Vaal (Mema) opened their doors in December of 2020, they weren’t sure what to expect. “It’s one thing to start a new business; it’s another to open during a pandemic,” Jennifer Vaal said. “One thing for sure, we’ve had fun. The people of Canadian Lakes have been fabulous to us. Other merchants have been very supportive in assisting us with the details of the business and providing referrals.” Jennifer Vaal was quick to explain the evolution of Mema’s Treasures. She said she’d been living and working downstate in the Troy area for several years when her mother had a stroke recently and her parents needed her assistance here in Canadian Lakes. She was able to work out an arrangement with Prudential Advisors, her employer, so that she could open up a satellite office in Mecosta. She needed space for her additional personal furnishings when she moved and the adjacent office space was available, so she leased it for temporary storage. Not everyone would have taken the next step, but the idea for opening

Pictured: Linda and Jennifer Vaal Photo credit: Joyce B. Wilcox

the shop in that adjacent storage space came quite naturally to this closely-knit family. Seeing how remarkably well Linda Vaal was responding to physical therapy, but understanding that she’d have some limitations, the family began planning for life after her stroke. Mema’s Treasures was born. “I wanted to be here for my parents,” Jennifer Vaal said. “They’ve been active in Canadian Lakes for 30 years and they’re very social. Staying here just seemed right. This way my office can be right next door and I can be there as needed.” It’s truly a family enterprise and not just a mom-and-daughter business. Jennifer Vaal’s dad (Linda Vaal’s husband, Tony) is sort of the silent employee working behind the scenes. He has built shelves, created movable sectional room dividers out of wooden doors, and continues to assist with the inventory. “My brothers and their families all had a part in this too,” Jennifer Vaal said. “They’ve been very supportive and we even voted online to select the name and logo for the store.” The name of the shop truly says it all and once you walk through the doors, Mema’s Treasures continues to speak to you. “We remodeled so that customers can see everything on display as soon as they walk in,” Mema Linda Vaal said. “We want folks comfortable shopping here.” They’re able to showcase an inventory that boasts antiques and collectibles as well as items which are new, repurposed, or refurbished. There is really something to catch the eye of everyone. The shop features an eclectic assortment of unique gifts for men, women, children, and yes, even for dogs. The inventory is constantly evolving with additions coming from estate sales in the area as well as from downstate. They feature some items on consignment, and of course, from the Vaal family’s personal collections. Mema’s Treasures not only knows which merchandise their customers want, they understand how to feature it. Great care is taken to display quality crafts and products throughout the c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

Inside Mema's Photo credit: Joyce B. Wilcox

shop’s 1,500 square feet without overcrowding the items or the customers. Their merchandise is also reasonably priced and competitive. Creative touches have been added throughout the store so that shoppers are enticed to browse, explore, buy, and revisit. Whether you’re looking for cottage chic, grandma’s parlor, or something in between, you need to look no further than Mema’s Treasures. But don’t take my word for it, or Noah Webster’s word for that matter. Visit Mema’s Treasures and let the ambiance and the Vaal family speak for themselves. 45


Canadian Lakes Yard Waste Information

C BY ROGER STOBERT YOUR VOLUNTEER YARD WASTE COORDINATOR

231-288-0148 spankky@charter.net

anadian Lakes Yard Waste is open on Wednesdays and Sundays,10 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through November. Our last day open in 2021 will be Sunday, November 28, weather permitting. Several requests have been made to allow the facility to be opened at other times. Due to the disposal of trash and other materials not allowed, facility access other than those times and days listed above is not allowed. Canadian Lakes Yard Waste was established to provide a place for Canadian Lakers to dispose of yard waste since burning or dumping it on neighboring lots or common areas is prohibited in Canadian Lakes. One errant smoldering leaf could spell disaster if open burning were allowed. Canadian Lakes Yard Waste is located on the south side of Pierce Road between 110th Ave. and Tullymore Drive. Items allowed include tree and shrub branches, limbs less than 4” in diameter, and plant-based materials normally associated with residential yard maintenance such as grass clippings, leaves, and discarded mulch. Do NOT leave materials outside the gate when the site is closed. Items NOT allowed to be left at the site include campfire ashes and garbage, such as food scraps like rinds, peels, cores, etc. Other prohibited items include metals, paper, plastic, and styrofoam products, including yard waste containers of any type. To gain access, attendants (all volunteers) will check for a current CLPOC ID, vehicle sticker, or guest pass. You may be asked to uncover your waste to allow for inspection. Contractors doing yard maintenance for members may also use the facilities, but they must provide the CLPOC ID, guest pass, or the lot number and member’s name to gain access. When depositing your yard waste, please place them behind or on top of already deposited materials rather than in front or on the access road to minimize the number of times we need a “push back” to allow access to the road and turnaround. Your compliance with this request reduces the number of push backs required thus keeping membership costs for operating the site as low as possible. Should you have any questions regarding Canadian Lakes Yard Waste, the attendants will be pleased to help you, or you may contact Roger Stobert, Yard Waste Coordinator, at 231-972-1232, 231-288-0148, or spankky@charter.net.

Photo credit: Melinda Zimmerman-Boehler 46

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


CLPOC Board Minutes CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Saturday, July 24, 2021 (Highland Haus) 1. Call to order: The meeting was called to order by Paul Szymkowicz, President at 9:00 a.m. Board members present were: John Colley, Vice President, James French, Treasurer, Linda Tilley, Secretary, Dan Rice, Dan Altier (via Zoom), Jerry Juncker (via Zoom) and Steve Wilcox. Director Bob Halpin was absent. 2. Staff members: Greg Babbitt, Kim Dowell 3. Approval of the Agenda: Motion by French / Support Wilcox Approved 7/0 (Halpin absent) AUSTIN AND MORTON TOWNSHIP REPORTS: Austin did not submit a report. Morton Township Supervisor, Mark Klumpp presented his report. They have hired a new building inspector, formerly the assistant building official for Mecosta County. The township purchased CPR mannikins for training to be offered to the public. Awaiting garage door and lot paving for the recycling center. The community wide clean-up day will be August 14 at the recycling center. The new bike trail at 90th Avenue is open, the State of Michigan is putting trails along M20 and the new bike trail from the village of Mecosta along the old rail line is nearing completion. Gypsy Moth advice has been sought from Neil Swanson, a biologist and Greg Lucas of the Forest Service. At this time, there will be no action on the issue. 1. President’s Report: President Szymkowicz Summer is in full swing, the members are out and enjoying the newly redone beaches. The Pickleball Tournament is continuing today, please stop by and give them your support. 2. Financial Report: Controller Dowell reviewed the draft financial statements. Canadian Lakes remains on track financially. Note: As of the end of June, 242 lots have outstanding 2020 balances and 171 lots have outstanding balances from 2019. Efforts to collect are ongoing. Audit is still ongoing, no audit adjustments have been made as of this date.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: 1. ACC: Secretary Tilley reported that three requests for new homes were reviewed and approved by email this month. Casey Smith is kept busy with the many requests for approval of new siding, roofing, deck replacement and new fences. 2. CLA Liaison: Director Rice reports previous events: CLA Craft show held on June 26, due to rain moved into the Castle, 38 vendors participated. Summer Picnic, July 3 at the Highland Haus, had many forms of entertainment. Fun was had by all. Upcoming event is the Ice Cream Social on August 11, come and enjoy your favorite flavor of ice cream and socialize with your neighbors. While you are there, become a new member of the CLA and enjoy member benefits for the remainder of 2021 and all of 2022. Member Appreciation winners for July were L.Wayne and Linda Jackson. The CLA currently has 913 members, please consider joining this organization to help meet the goal of 1,000 members this year. 3. Executive: The committee met to discuss several items including the Gypsy Moth situation. The possibility of consulting an arborist is under consideration. There will not be an executive session after today’s meeting. 4. Finance: Treasurer French discussed the budget. The annual audit in underway and progressing well. The membership reports show that the amenities are well-utilized. A Replacement Reserve sub-committee is meeting to review the policies and content of the fund. The Funding Plan sub-committees is meeting to review the progress and will report to the membership in November. 5. Lot Default AdHoc: Director Halpin was absent, no report provided. 6. Nominating Committee: President Szymkowucz, reported that 5 petitions have been handed out and 2 have been completed and c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

returned to the office. If you are interested in serving on the board, please contact the office. All completed petitions must be returned to the office by close of business on August 31. 7. Strategic Planning: Director Altier reported that the committee met to review the future planning challenges. Staffing and efficient technology are both critical to move forward. This Fall there will be several software solutions identified, following that the staff will be asked to view software demos. GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT: 1. The Agenda packet contains reports on amenity usage and safety activity. 2. Each month one of the department heads will attend the board meeting to present their reports in person. This month Rob Mickey reported on the Safety Department. 3. Please note: The departmental reports, normally listed here, have been posted on the Canadian Lakes website for your convenience. 4. Community buildings are now open and following current COVID guidelines. 5. General Manager Committees meetings are underway. 6. The beach renovation project is underway. As of today, three beaches have been completed. The final two beaches will be done next week. 7. The Fawn Lake dam engineering review will begin next week. 8. Consent Calendar: The minutes from the Board Workshop Meeting June 9, 2021 and Board Meeting June 26, 2021 and the receipt and filing of the June, 2021 Check Disbursements were presented for approval. Motion by Tilley, Support by Wilcox Approved 7/0. (Halpin absent) 9. Members Comments on Items for action or discussion: None. ITEMS FOR ACTION: 1. Members in Good Standing. The date for determining that members 47


CLPOC Board Minutes of record in good standing will be entitled to notice and to vote at the Annual Meeting of the Members. The standard date is September 30, 2021. Motion by Tilley, Support by Rice Approved 7/0 (Halpin absent) ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: 1. Resolution to approve the Michigan Liquor Control Commission Liquor License. 2. The Event is the CLA New Years Eve Party at the Castle. The Board is being requested to approve this event application for a special license to serve alcohol at this location on the requested date. 3. Move to suspend the rules by French, Support by Wilcox Approved 7/0 4. Move to approve the above stated special liquor license by French, Support Wilcox Approved 7/0 (Halpin absent) 5. Replacement Reserve Approval Practice. The proposed change is to institute as policy that once the Replacement Reserve list is approved in March by the Board of Directors, a second round of approval will be unnecessary. This change will facilitate more efficiency and has

the potential of cost savings for each project. 6. Replacement of the Airstrip Fence. The wooden fence structure was constructed in two sections. The southern section was treated lumber, the northern was not. We will replace the north section completely and the rails only for the southern section. The cost will be $22,873.00. 7. Move to suspend the rules by Wilcox, Support by Rice Approved 7/0 (Halpin absent) 8. Move to approve the replacement of the airstrip fence, at not to exceed $22,873.00 by Wilcox, Support by Rice Approved 7/0 (Halpin absent) 9. Members’ Comments: Ron Austin asked for clarification of policy on campground late night parties and noise. Debbie Kirby brought the concerns of her neighborhood about the traffic problems outside the Canadian Lakes Refuse Center at certain times. Cathy Merdzinski commented on deed restriction violations, junk in yards and unlicensed cars. Concerns of staffing shortages and salaries. 10. Directors’ Comments: Wilcox: some of the concerns about traffic

are on public right of way. Colley: appreciation for every coming to the meeting and bringing up the issues of concern to each member. French: there is a committee tasked with updating and correcting the Articles of Incorporation. The changes will be presented to the members this year and will be voted on in November. Rice: thanks to the members for the funding plan and apologized for the delay in the beach repairs. Juncker: thanked Jim Swartzendruber for his time and support. Altier: thanked Mark Klump for coming to the meeting and presenting. 11. Member Communication Requirements: None 12. Executive Session: None needed. 13. Adjournment: Adjourned at 11:00 a.m. Motion by French, Support by Wilcox, Approved 7/0 14. Notes: The next Board Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at the CLPOC office, beginning at 5:30 p.m.; the next scheduled Board Meeting is at the Highland Haus beginning at 9:00 a.m. on August 28, 2021. Respectfully submitted by Linda Tilley (Minutes are printed as submitted.)

CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Saturday, August 28, 2021 (Highland Haus) 1. Call to order: The meeting was called to order by Paul Szymkowicz, President at 9:00 a.m. Board members present were: John Colley, Vice President, James French, Treasurer, Linda Tilley, Secretary, Dan Rice, Jerry Juncker (via Zoom), Bob Halpin (via Zoom) and Steve Wilcox. Director Dan Altier was absent. 2. Staff members: Greg Babbitt 3. Approval of the Agenda: Motion by French / Support Wilcox Approved 7/0 (Altier absent) AUSTIN AND MORTON TOWNSHIP REPORTS: 1. Austin did not submit a report. Morton Township: During power outag48

es, Fire Station Number 1 will have a power strip for charging electronics and an outside hose available for water filling. The community wide clean-up was successful, the Township is looking for feedback from the residents for the preferred season for next year. If you prefer Spring or Late Summer, please let your representatives know. The upgrades to the CSX Trail are complete. A new official name will be announced soon. The Township purchased a used forklift and carboard compactor for use at the recycle center. New building/zoning inspector will begin work on September 1. 2. President’s Report: President Szymkowicz thanked all the members atT h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

tending the meeting or watching at a later date. Summer is winding down, during the Labor Day holiday many members will be arriving to enjoy all Canadian Lakes has to offer. Please be patient with the congestion. The October November Canadian Laker is the election issue. Candidates for the board will be highlighted in that issue, please take the time to read about each candidate. Have a safe and happy holiday. 3. Financial Report: Controller Dowell was absent, the report was presented by General Manager Babbit. Canadian Lakes Note: As of the end of July, 234 lots have outstanding 2020 balances and 170 lots have outstanding balanc-


CLPOC Board Minutes es from 2019. Efforts to collect are ongoing. COMMITTEE REPORTS: 1. ACC: Secretary Tilley reported that approval of the requests for two new homes, a garage and some sheds were made this month. The Committee requests that owners read and understand their deed restrictions before planning a new home or additions. If there are questions, owners are asked to contact Casey Smith at the CLPOC office. 2. CLA Liaison: Director Rice reports the Ice Cream Social on Wednesday, September 8, come and enjoy your favorite flavor of ice cream and socialize with your neighbors. Please remember to bring your membership cards for the CLPOC or CLA. Become a new member of the CLA and enjoy member benefits for the remainder of 2021 and all of 2022. Member Appreciation winners for August were Gary and Debbie Newman. The CLA currently has 921 members, please consider joining this organization to help meet the goal of 1,000 members this year. The second Poker Run Contest is underway, please check the CLA website for details. CLA Dog Days will be held on Saturday, September 4, 11am-2:30 pm. Classic Car and Bike Show Saturday, September 5 at the Castle 11 a.m.-3 pm. Pike Tournament September 11. See the CLA website for details of these and other activities. 3. Executive: The committee met to discuss legal and financial issues.

4.

5.

6.

7.

There will be an Executive Session after this meeting. Finance: Treasurer French reports the committee reviewed the status of the Capital Account, 2022 Budget, in the midst of our annual audit. Bids have been solicited for the guardrail on East Royal. Director Wilcox reminded the board that the funding program put in place 18 months ago has been performing well. Lot Default AdHoc: Director Halpin reports the final report should be available to the Board before the September meeting. Nominating Committee: President Szymkowicz, reported that the Committee is reviewing the 3 questions all candidates will be asked to answer and the procedures for the Meet the Candidate event. Six forms have been handed out and three have been returned as of today. All completed petitions must be returned to the office by close of business on August 31. Strategic Planning: Secretary Tilley, filling in for Director Altier, reported the committee is narrowing down the software options for Candian Lakes. The LDC preliminary reports have been reviewed and the findings are often parallel to the Management team’s ideas.

GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT: 1. The Agenda packet contains reports on amenity usage and safety activity. 2. Each month one of the department heads will attend the board meeting to present their reports

3.

4.

5. 6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

in person. Bill Hal was scheduled for this month,but was not able to attend due to some maintenance and staffing issues. Please note: The departmental reports, normally listed here, have been posted on the Canadian Lakes website for your convenience. All 5 beaches have been rejuvenated with new sand. Appreciate all the members cooperation during the process. Golf Bunkers have been started. Fawn Lake Dam project engineering tests have been completed. The soil taken will be analyzed. A topographical and seepage and stability review will be collected. The results will be shared with the State. The final report should be returned by late September. Building and Grounds Committee discussed painting and repairs at the Castle, Fawn Lake dam progress and the asphalt maintenance plan. Lakes and Environmental Committee met to discuss the lake treatments, Timberland motor repair and Truxor usage. Our Lake Manager reported that the lakes are in very good condition. Golf Committee discussed the need for electronic tee sheet, July usage statistics, cart path repairs and the need for members to post their scores for handicap. Marketing Awareness reviewed the Pickleball Tournament, success of the marketing community promotional items, new look of the public website, Night of Lights and the upcoming Special Olympics softball event.

ALL SEASON RV &

BOAT STORAGE

Shrink Wrapping Winterize Inboards & Outboards Short & Long Distance Hauling

Dave & Kacy Dertien

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

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

231-972-4813 www.emsboatstorage.com

49


CLPOC Board Minutes 11. Restaurant Committee met to discuss the July financials, staffing changes, potential Karoke night, Dueling Pianos scheduled for September 24, food specials and menu ideas. 12. Consent Calendar: The notes from the Board Workshop Meeting July 14, 2021 and Board Meeting July 24, 2021 and the receipt and filing of the July, 2021 Check Disbursements were presented for approval. Motion by Tilley, Support by French Approved 7/0. (Altier absent)

13. Members Comments on Items for action or discussion: None. 14. Items for Action: REPLACEMENT RESERVE APPROVAL PROCESS, SECTION 35.2 OF ACCOUNTING MANUAL: 1. Motion to approve the replacement reserve approval prolicy as stated in the white paper provided. Motion by Wilcox, Support by French Approved 7/0 (Altier absent).

“Let me help you through your next door!” Sue Kempton

ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: 1. Resolution to approve the Michigan Liquor Control Commission Liquor License. 2. The Event is December 11, 2021 Wedding at the Castle. The Board is being requested to approve this event application for a special license to serve alcohol at this location on the requested date. 3. Move to suspend the rules by Wilcox, Support by Rice Approved 7/0 (Altier absent) 4. Move to approve the above stated special liquor license by French, Support Wilcox Approved 7/0 (Altier absent) ASPHALT MAINTENANCE PLAN: 1. 2021 Asphalt Maintenance needs. Roads needing undercuts and asphalt resurfacing are: Timberlane (Sable to Red Feather), Red Feather to Hayes Rd, Old Pierce (Pierce to dead end), Stonebridge (Marywood to North Royal) and Stonebridge to Aberdeen. 2. Move to suspend the rules by French, Support by Wilcox Approved 7/0 (Altier absent) 3. Motion to approve the asphalt maintenance plan from the Replacement Reserve Account, cost not to exceed $208,112. Motion by French, Support Wilcox Approved 7/0 (Altier absent)

231 638 638-3498 8-3 3498 suelakesrealty@gmail.com

Service Beyond the Sale

Call for a free market analysis!

50

GOLF COURSE CART PATH ASPHALT MAINTENANCE PLAN: 1. Motion to approve the Golf Course Cart Path maintenance plan for 2021, in an amount not to exceed $33,014. Motion by French, Support by Rice Approved 7/0 (Altier absent)

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

APPOINTMENT OF ELECTION INSPECTORS: 1. Appoint Election Inspectors to serve at the 2021 Annual Meeting of the Members pursuant to Article IX(N) of the Articles of Incorporation. This will be presented and voted on during the September Board Meeting. 2. Members’ Comments: Ken Swath-


CLPOC Board Minutes wood RS210 requests a list of Canadian Lakes lots held at the State Land Bank. Expresses his concern that golfers sometimes drive into his yard to retrieve or hit their ball. Picking up golf balls is OK, not driving carts onto private property. Jim Swartzendruber CL279 was concerned that his position on a situation was misrepresented to other members by a current member of the board. 3. Directors’ Comments: Director Juncker thanked Mr. Swathwood for helping to market lots. Director Halpin was also concerned about being misrepresented to members of the CLA by a board member. Director Rice thanked the members for stepping up to pay dues on time and noted our department heads have done an outstanding job during this stressful time. There will be Ladies Cup matches this week, 14 ladies playing for Canadian Lakes. Compliments to Strategic Planning Committee for IT upgrade priority. Treasurer French thanked the Director Rice for spearheading the beach project to completion. Vice President Colley thanked Members for coming out, also the staff for their dedication. He expressed concern about civility to the staff and others. Secretary Tilley thanked Vice President Colley for the comments and thanked members for coming. 4. Member Communication Requirements: Tuesday Member News to inform members of deadline for board election petitions. 5. Executive Session: Adjourned to Executive Session at 9:56 a.m. 6. Adjournment: Adjourned at 11:04 a.m. 7. Notes: The next Board Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at the CLPOC office, beginning at 5:30 p.m.; the next scheduled Board Meeting is at the Highland Haus beginning at 9:00 a.m. on September 25, 2021. 8. 8 members attended todays meeting, 6 viewed live online Respectfully submitted by Linda Tilley (Minutes are printed as submitted.)

Babied, Beloved, & Bronzed Residing majestically like an award statuette They adorn the antique roll top oak desk Having earned their placement years ago Beside pictures, paperweights, and pens. Glistening in the sunlight like sea glass treasures on a beach The smoothed, worn edges shimmer Having earned their creases years ago Amidst creeping, crawling, and crying. Revealing tiny ripples like grandma’s laundry room washboard The tongue stretches out over the eyelets Having earned its function years ago Between fingers, fasteners, and feet. Protecting miniature toes like a chrysalis for a moth The sole insulates the delicate underbelly Having earned its landmark years ago Beneath leather, laces, and limbs. Basking in metallic splendor like sculptures in a museum The bronzed shoes stand planted firmly Having earned their right to honored habitation years ago Within household, haberdashery, and heart. Joyce B. Wilcox // Writer’s Quest

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

51


CALENDAR EVENTS of AREA

October

52

November

4-7 Fall Musical at the Williams Auditorium 1 4 Who’s Live Anyway 5 4 CLA Annual Cook Off 7 5 Mercy Me 2 6 Dave Matthews Band Summer Tour 2 6 The Great Divorce 5 6 Nelly & Twista 6 6 Euchre Tournament 7 8 Gals Night Out 7 10 Statue Unveiling - Veteran’s Memorial Park/Holland Park American Legion 4 10-14 Little Shop Of Horrors, Presented by CMU School of Music and University Theater 3 11 Symphony Band Concert 1 12-13 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 12-13 GR Symphony Presents Sights and Sounds of Scotland 5 12 Travis Tritt with special guest Aaron Tippin 6 13 HUNKS The Show 6 14 West Central Concert Band 1 14 Home Free 5 15 Fall Band Music Concert 1 17 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 17 GR Symphony Presents Sights and Sounds of Scotland 5 19 Trevor Noah: Back to Abnormal 2 19 Holiday Market 4 19-20 Nights of Lights for members and their guests @ the Castle 20 Alabama 50thISAnniversary INFORMATION FROM THETour 2 21 FSU Orchestra Concert 1 FOLLOWING WEBSITES: 26 Nights Lights Opening Night @ the Castle 1. Ferris StateofUniversity — www.ferris.edu/arts 2 26Van Grand Griffins 2. Andel Rapids Arena, Grand Rapids — vanandelarena.com; 27616-742-6600 For King & Country’s A Drummer Boy Christmas 2 3. University — cmich.edu/Calendar 27Central Bela Michigan Fleck My Bluegrass Heart 5 4. Big Rapids area — cityofbr.org, Community Calendar; 27 The Temptations and The Four Tops 6 231-796-7640 7 27DeVos CLA Performance Christmas Hall, CraftGrand Show 5. Rapids — 29devosperformancehall.com; Broadway Grand Rapids Presents 35th Anniversary 616-742-6500 5 Soaring Mannheim Steamroller Christmas 6. Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant — 5 30soaringeaglecasino.com; Straight No Chaser 888-732-4537 7. Canadian Lakes Association — T h e C a n adcanadianlakesassociation.org i a n L a ke r 8. Art Works, Big Rapids-www.artworksinbigrapids.org

1 & 2 GR Symphony Presents Grand Rapids Symphony LIVE! 5 1 Barenaked Ladies 6 2 Bourbon & Bacon 6 1 Youth & Large Fish Contest 7 3 Dan + Shay The (Arena) Tour 2 3 Chelsea Handler 5 5-9 GOOD NIGHT, TYLER presented by CMU University Theater 3 9 Ice Cube 6 8-10 Monster Jam Triple Threat Series 2 13 Foreigner – The Hits Orchestral 2 15 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 15 Fall Festival 4 15 & 16 GR Symphony Presents The Joy of Mozart 5 16 Mike Epps: In Real Life Comedy Tour 2 16 Fall Festival Parade 4 16 REO Speedwagon 6 21-24 CL Player Production 7 22 & 24 Opera GR Presents Don Giovanni 5 22 Goo Goo Dolls 6 23 Kumbia Kings 6 25 Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 5 27 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 29-30 Fall Festival 4 29 & 30 GR Symphony Presents Russian Celebration 5 30-31 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 30 Boyz II Men 6 30 CLA Halloween Dance 7 31 CLA Trick or Treat 7


DAR EVENTS of AREA

December

2 Hypnotist Tom Deluca 1 2-5 GR Symphony Presents Metro Health - University of Michigan Health Holiday Pops 5 3-4 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 3 Dustin Lynch 6 5 Trans-Siberian Orchestra 2 5 Christmas Concert 7 7 Holiday Jazz Concert 1 9-10 CLA Christmas Home Decorating Contest 7 10 James Taylor & His All-Star Band w/ special guest Jackson Browne 2 10-12 GR Ballet Presents The Nutcracker 5 12 Symphonic Santa Sunday Holiday Music Concert 1 13 An Evening with David Sedaris 5 17-19 GR Ballet Presents The Nutcracker 5 17 The Beach Boys: Holiday Harmonies 6 18-19 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 18 Jonathan Antione’s ChristmasLand Live 6 21-22 GR Symphony Presents Cirque de Noel 5 22 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 30 Jam at the Van 2 31 Grand Rapids Griffins 2 31 New Year’s Eve Party 7

Daggett-Gilbert

Funeral Home Inc. 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids, MI 49307

231-796-3611 Christine Daggett Manager-Director Holly Holstrom-Director Gary Gilbert-Director

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

• Funeral Services • Cremation Services • Pre-Planning • Monuments Daggett Family CL owners since 1976

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

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

53


Let’s Get Social, Canadian Lakes

DAY TIME

MONDAY 2nd TUESDAY 2nd 2nd 2nd WEDNESDAY 1st 2nd 3rd 2nd 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 4th THURSDAY 1st, 3rd FRIDAY 1st SATURDAY 4th 2nd

9:30 am 1 pm 3:30-5 pm 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 9 am 1 pm 7 pm 7 pm 7:30 pm 2-3 pm 9-11 am 10 am 9:30 am 10 am-4 pm 11:30 am 12:30 pm 1 pm 1 pm 4:30 pm 4:30 pm 7 pm 7 pm Variable Variable 7:30 am 10-11 am 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm-3 pm 7 pm-8:30pm 9-11 am 11:30 am 3:30 pm 9 am 1:00 pm 1-3 pm

ACTIVITY

NOTE: All activities are open to Canadian Lakes property owners, family members, and guests. Property owners are asked to obtain guest passes from the CLPOC office.

SEASONAL

LOCATION

Melody Makers (ladies) Apr-Jul/Sept-Dec. Highland Haus Dotted Cubes (bunko) Alpine Haus Canadian Lakes Men’s Chorus Apr-Dec. Highland Haus Euchre Club Alpine Haus Camera Club Every other Mon Highland Haus Morton Township Meeting Odd months 290 Main, Mecosta Pool Cue League Oct-Dec/Jan-Mar. Member homes Table Tennis Alpine Haus Morton Township Meeting Even months 290 Main, Mecosta Austin Township Meeting Monthly 14132 Pierce, Stanwood Exercise/Dance Class Alpine Haus Drop-In Mixed Tennis Seasonal Alpine Haus Courts Garden Club Apr-Nov. Highland Haus Book Babes Book Club Apr-Dec. Member Homes Quilt Club Highland Haus Mah Jongg Apr-Oct. Alpine Haus Mixed Bowling Sept-May Remus Lanes Duplicate Bridge Weekly Alpine Haus CLPOC Workshop/Agenda Mtg Main Conf. Room Girl Scout Troop 4788 Alpine Haus Canadian Lakes Players Highland Haus Canadian Lakes Fishing Club Apr-Oct. Alpine Haus Morton Twp. Planning Comm. Jan/Apr/Jul/Oct 290 Main, Mecosta Treasure Seekers Destinations Vary Fishing Fun Night May-Sept. Main Beach Men’s Christian Book Study June-August Royal Grille Exercise/Dance Class Alpine Haus Needles and News See Lite Lines Alpine Haus Drop-in Bridge Model Yacht Club Apr-Oct. Edgewater Park Ultimate Frisbee Apr-Oct. Behind Legacy Park Drop-In Mixed Tennis Royal Courts Mah Jongg Apr-Oct. Alpine Haus Writers Quest Alpine Haus CLPOC Monthly Board Meeting Highland Haus Euchre Tournament Oct-April Highland Haus Model Yacht Club Apr-Oct. Edgewater Park

Indoor Pool & Fitness Area - 972-2123 (CLOSED on Tuesdays) Lap Swimming: Mon, Wed-Fri 7-8 am Adult Open Swim: Mon, Wed, Fri 9-10 am, Thurs 7-9 am Open Swim: Mon, Wed, Fri 11 am-8 pm, Thurs 7-9 am, Sat, Sun 9 am-8 pm Outdoor Pool/Pines Pavilion - 972-4462 May 28-Sept. 7, 11 am-6 pm Pickleball - Contact: Jeff Butzin 586-599-9684 Legacy Park Daily 9am - 12pm (Apr.-Oct.) Tennis - Open play daily at all courts (see above for drop-in mixed tennis) Thursday Ladies 9-Hole Golf - Contact: Sandy Engott 848-933-0759 jengott@aol.com Ladies 18-Hole Golf - Contact: Deb Macaddino 231-972-4874 Euchre Tournament - Contact: Kathy Lawyer 231-972-3054 vklaw@charter.net Alternate contact: Diane Kennedy 231-972-3176 Writer’s Quest - Contact Joyce Wilcox: 734-223-7841 joycewilcox@gmail.com Alternate contact: Griz Holbrook 231-972-1947 grizh@yahoo.com

54

Canadian Lakes Weekly Scheduled Activities

CONTACT 231-796-2460 586-549-7705 231-359-1114 231-972-7920 989-560-2124 231-972-7138 231-972-7327 231-408-7716 231-972-7138 231-972-7472 231-972-0029 231-408-8801 231-972-5702 231-972-8869 616-581-6734 231-972-1115 231-215-5556 231-972-4858 231-972-7651 231-629-2259 231-972-7447 231-972-8663 231-972-7138 616-443-9207 TBA 231-972-5132 231-972-0029 231-598-2203 TBA 231-629-1004 231-246-6181 231-408-8801 231-972-1115 734-223-7841 231-972-7651 231-972-3054 231-629-1004

Girl Scout Troop 4788 Club - Contact: Jennifer Cady 231-629-2259 cady-jb@hotmail.com Alpine Haus 4:30pm-6pm meets bi-weekly (Oct.-June) Men’s Tuesday 9-Hole League - Contact: Tim Hannon 248-231-2990 timhannon@comcast.net CL Camera Club - Contact: Daniel Strandt 916-258-5619 remlin@gmail.com MARSP - Contact: Mary Salisz 231-972-8084 marysalisz@gmail.com Alternate contact: Chris Wernette 231-972-7336 chrisandsandy@yahoo.com Canadian Lakes Dog Club- Contact: Jim Ashbaugh 231-359-1464 jimash550@yahoo.com Great Ideas - Contact: Dave Fisher 810-919-1765 ppwig@aol.com Monday Men’s 18-Hole Golf League - Contact: Larry Klein 231-9728361 larev@charter.net Canadian Lakes Optimist Club - Contact: Michelle Kauffold 313-5106300 newmichelle@att.net

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


Retirement Community 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

9100 Buchanan Rd., Mecosta (Canadian Lakes Area)

231-972-6600


Oliver! | Acrylic on stretched canvas 12” x 12

Artist Jim Carroll, Fine Artist | The Pet Impressionist jim@petimpressionist.com | 630-677-9773 | www.petimpressionist.com Follow on Facebook & Instagram @petimpressionist

56

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


OUR SERVICES • Plumbing Service & Installation • Drain Cleaning & Sewer Jetting Maintenance • Camera Inspection, Locating & Recording • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Water Treatment Systems

Sterling Water Equipment

616-866-5134

canadianlakesplumber.com



Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.