Life enriching Activities • Beauty/Barber shop services
Caring
Registered
Visiting
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2024
Photography by Di Schwartz
Hello Canadian Lakers, welcome to fall in Canadian Lakes! I’m not sure if this year will be comparable to last year’s colors but if it is, we are in for a treat. The fall colors of last year were abundant and breathtaking no matter which area of Canadian Lakes you live in.
Fall is now upon us; we have closed down our seasonal amenities and are gearing up for the winter events. Winter events will include but not be limited to the CLA Winter Carnival, Nights of Lights at The Castle, musical events at the Royal Grille, and the Snow Angel Fat Tire Bike Race put on by Angels of Action. These are just a few things the CLPOC, the CLA, and other organizations put on each winter to help us Canadian Lakers get through the cold season.
Each and every year, the CLA and its many volunteers along with the CLPOC staff and department heads help organize, facilitate, and set up all these wonderful events for our members. We are all dedicated to making Canadian Lakes the best it can possibly be, in every way, and in each year.
Aside from reading your Canadian Lakers, you may also find valuable information in our Members Bulletin and on our members website. If you are not yet signed up to receive the Members Bulletin, please do so now so you too will be in the know. You may stop by the office and fill out a form, or you may email me at lhalcomb@clpoc.org to request to be added to the Members Bulletin distribution. We do not offer an online option for the signup as we must validate that you are a Canadian Lakes Member before you are given access to a Members Only publication.
Lastly, I would like to encourage all members that have a question about the community, about management, or about anything you think we could possibly answer for you to stop into the CLPOC Main Office and see Tara at the front desk. If she is not the person to answer your question, she will gladly find the appropriate person for you to speak with to get your questions answered. Our main office has staff who have lived here and worked here for many years and each one of us has a wealth of knowledge to help you with your questions. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve seen a question asked on Facebook and the person asking receives the wrong answer; please come get your answer from the source. We are all just a phone call, an email, or a stop at the main office away. You can also find our contact emails on the members website if that makes it easier for you.
We hope you enjoy this issue of the Canadian Laker; we put in a lot of effort in each issue that we publish. Go grab a cup of joe, a glass of wine, or a cold beer and read about the wonderfulness of the great community we live in, it truly is the GOOD life.
For all your REAL ESTATE NEEDS, Contact Tom Garner Associate Broker 231-629-6006 tgarner.c21@gmail.com
If you have considered selling your current property or looking to purchase something please let me know. I am well versed in all aspects of real estate with over 34 years serving Buyers and Sellers in Canadian Lakes and surrounding areas.
$339,900 Ranch home in Canadian Lakes. Across St from Lake of The Clouds.
$2,000,000
Southwoods Restaurant in Northern Michigan. Very positive cash flow.
$1,399,000
Magnificent Home on Main CL. One of a kind settings with custom finishes throughout. Irish Pub, outside putting green, waterfall. A MUST SEE! Major price improvement
$349,900
Spacious ranch on Winters Creek. Finished Walk out.
$149,900 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch home in Big Rapids.
$249,000 House/garage and pole barn Plus 5 Acres.
$659,900 Main Canadian Lakes Waterfront home.
NEW
$255,900
Highland Golf Front Chalet. Wooded/Generator. Cute/Cozy.
$249,000 Lost Canyon chalet with water view of Lake.
$1,150,000
$369,900 Custom home on the Royal Golf Course. Barrier free.
$140,000 Vacant lot on 90th Ave. build a pole barn or store your boat?
Affordable ranch home in Sunset Shores. Call for pricing details. Motivated Seller.
$44,900 Best price vacant waterfront lot on Canadian lakes waterway.
$254,900 Log home ranch in Canadian Lakes. Walk out.
$259,900 Ranch home in Big Rapids. 1+Acre and basement.
Spacious home with sandy beach on Canadian lake. Ski off your dock and enjoy this spectacular home. Finished walk out. 2 private deck sitting areas. COMING SOON
$389,900 New Construction. Ranch home on Royal Golf Course. Barrier Free. Call for Details.
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.
Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation
PUBLISHER
Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation 10690 Pierce Road
Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
P 231-972-7651 canadianlakes.org
PRODUCTION & ADVERTISING
SVK Multimedia & Publishing PO Box 586
Hudsonville, MI 49426
616.379.4001
SVKmp.com • jolsasvk@gmail.com
EDITORIAL
Lindsay Halcomb, Marketing Director
Art and Editorial provided by Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation thecanadianlaker@gmail.com
VOLUNTEERS
Joyce Wilcox
Chris Zimmerman
Cora Foley
PHOTOGRAPHY
Chuck Richardson
Di Schwartz
Dan Strandt
Candy Parnell
DEADLINE DATES
Feb/March - January 3 April/May – March 3 June/July – May 2 Aug/Sept – July 1 Oct/Nov – September 2 Dec/Jan – October 30
SUBMISSIONS
Canadian Lakes sanctioned groups and outside organizations are encouraged to submit articles, pending approval by CLPOC Board. Submit all copy as an email attachment to Editor at thecanadianlaker@gmail.com. Credits are noted with articles and photos.
GUIDELINES FOR ARTICLES
Submit in Microsoft Word®, double spaced, preferably in Calibri font 11pt. or Arial font 11pt. For complete guidelines, contact thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.
GUIDELINES FOR PHOTOS/GRAPHICS
Photos: Digital high-resolution photos. Low resolution photos usually not accepted. Graphics: Submit graphics in .png or .jpg format.
GET SOCIAL WITH CANADIAN LAKES canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org
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From the General Manager
Greg Babbitt General Manager gbabbitt@clpoc.org
CLPOC OFFICE
10690 Pierce Rd. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
Phone: 231-972-7651
OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
MEMBER SERVICES
Tara Schweitzer memberservices@clpoc.org
What a great weekend to end our proverbial season with! So many members, family, and guests were here enjoying all that the GOOD life has to offer. We had all the traditional events going on, Patriot Day Scramble, Campground Trick or Treating, Cruisin’ At The Castle Car Show, Dog Days, Book Sale, beach, boating, swimming, and some good ole rest and relaxation.
With Labor Day weekend marking the close to another enjoyable and successful season, I want to thank you the members, for another tremendous success. Our amenities, restaurant, golf courses, and pools are experiencing some record usage. Your use of these amenities, along with your guests, is the main reason for our success.
As I usually do, I also need to recognize the many volunteers, too many to name for my article but you know who you are, and I personally want to thank each of you for your efforts. I also want to thank my dedicated staff for all they did during this extremely busy season. Staff is led by my Department Heads, Kim Dowell, Casey Smith, Dennis Wolfe, Bill Hull, Lindsay Halcomb, Kristin Wilcox, Ryan Rasmussen, and Shayna Hancock. These individuals spend many summer days and evenings devoting their talent, time, and energy to their respective departments.
As for the naysayers on social media, as you continue to judge and ridicule my staff with such posts that are inaccurate and demeaning, PLEASE STOP! I believe my staff always attempts to do their best whether you agree or not. All that I request is to be civil when posting and refrain from inappropriate or harmful posts.
Again, this year, and probably every year, I would like to inform you of some friendly seasonal reminders. If you own a watercraft, please make sure it is removed from the water by November 1st. 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 do not leave your dock or mooring device lying on common property. Additionally, if you are using one of our canoe/kayak racks, your watercraft is also required to be removed by November 1st. Members complying with their Deed Restrictions and Rules are always appreciated. Along with boat removal is the use of a trailer and I want to remind all members the only acceptable place to store a private trailer on your lot is in your garage.
With fall upon us, staff will continue to be busy. Some projects we are planning to get completed are Alpine Haus deck, The Pines Clubhouse, Royal Grille Kitchen a/c, and The Pines pump station. We will also be dealing with our computer operating system, Northstar Software, as they are doing an upgrade to what they call “Nexus.” The staff is excited about this upgrade as it will provide us with even more tools we can use.
Fall is a wonderful time here in the community with the color changes, football, apple cider, pumpkin patches, scenic drives, and taking care of leaves (just kidding).
With the cooler temperatures, some of you will soon be heading for those locations down south known for their warmth, sunshine, and snowbirds. I want to wish you safe travels and I look forward to seeing you in the spring.
Whatever your plans are, please have fun out there, be safe, and enjoy your fall GOOD life, as this is an amazing place!
FALL TIME REMINDER
From the Board
Paul L. Szymkowicz
President pls.clpoc@gmail.com
This is a very important issue of our Canadian Laker magazine. It has become known as the “Election Edition”. This year the three Board members whose term are ending on December 31st are Jim French, Shannon Hannon, and Liberty Gray. I would like to thank these individuals for sharing their time and expertise in making Canadian Lakes a better place to live. It has been my pleasure to work with all of you during your time on the Board.
This year we have seven members of our community in good standing that have decided to run for the CLPOC Board of Directors. I would like to thank, Jim French, Shannon Hannon, Marty McGuire, Andreas Shavalia, James Swartzendruber, Julianna Turner, and Lois Vega for all stepping forward to serve our community.
CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS board@clpoc.org
OFFICERS
President Paul Szymkowicz pls.clpoc@gmail.com
Vice President Steve Wilcox doctorw.clpoc@gmail.com
In the following pages you will find an article from the nominating committee introducing these members that are willing to put forth their time and expertise in making our community a better place to live. Please take the appropriate time to review their information. Remember, the successful candidates will be your board representees for the next three years.
The nights are getting cooler, days are getting shorter, and Labor Day weekend is behind us. Unfortunately, this can mean only one thing. Our summer season has come to an end. Soon the fall colors will arrive and one by one our summer amenities have closed for the season.
Treasurer James French jbf.clpoc@gmail.com
Secretary Steve Brandt abrandtcl@gmail.com
DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE
Dan Rice dozerrice1960@gmail.com
This summer has really been something special. The campground remained at seasonal capacity all season. I happened to be in the campground on Saturday August 31st for their version of “Trick or Treat”. The place was absolutely packed. It seemed like everyone was having a great time. I would like to thank everyone that was involved in putting on this event.
The momentum that the Royal Grille established last winter carried over throughout the spring and summer. We appreciate all their hard work and wish them great success in the upcoming fall and winter months. Thank you to all our golfers this year, you truly helped make this season a great success. It has been nice to see the membership taking advantage of both pools this summer. It seemed like there were members enjoying the pool every time I would drive by. All of our amenities showed a marked increase in use over last year and what a wonderful thing that is to see.
For those of us that have friends and family that leave our community during the winter months, I wish you safe travels and look forward to your return.
I would like to thank our staff, both our full and part-time employees, and all our countless volunteers that helped make this summer the very best that it could be for all of us. Keep up the good work.
Liberty Gray libertygray.clpoc@gmail.com
Shannon Hannon shannon.clpoc@gmail.com
Matt Stifter matt.clpoc@gmail.com
Dan Tunacik dtunacik@comcast.net
CLPOC BOARD MEETINGS
Regular Monthly Board Meeting Fourth Saturday 9 a.m., Highland Haus
• 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.
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.
MEDICARE MADE
BETH BLOEDEL
As high season winds down, the Board of Directors would like to take this opportunity to recognize the many contributions of the CLPOC staff that truly make this the GOOD life.
A thank you goes a long way! It is important to understand that it’s the hardworking and dedicated staff that allow us to enjoy these great amenities. For those who have enjoyed the lakes and beaches this year, please remember to thank those that made this possible. Let’s tip our hats to the staff who groom the beaches, run the Truxor, and maintain the grounds that also make Canadian Lakes the great community it is. Give a high five to the staff in the office who greet you all so pleasantly and the staff behind the scenes that keep the operations humming. If you enjoy the campground, think about what it takes to make this possible. Express your appreciation to the staff that maintain the bathrooms, the grounds, and the campground office staff who all make your campground experience so wonderful.
We are also proud to have some of the finest wellmaintained golf courses. This would not be possible without the staff who take care of day-to-day operations, and the maintenance staff who keep the greens, fairways, and bunkers in pristine condition. We are privileged to have a Safety Department that responds to members concerns. They patrol our roads 18 hours a day during high season and respond to calls for assistance from the membership. Let us not forget our restaurant staff that provide us with excellent food offerings and a great atmosphere to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
We need to recognize our leadership team of General Manager Greg Babbitt, Controller Kim Dowell, Facilities
and Compliance Director Casey Smith, Maintenance Superintendent Bill Hull, Safety/IT Director Kristin Wilcox, Golf Pro Dennis Wolf, Royal Grille Front of the House Manager Shayna Hancock, Royal Grille Back of the House Manager Ryan Rasmussen, and Lindsay Halcomb Marketing Director. Finally, we must not forget the numerous full-time and seasonal staff who help bring it all together.
The Board of Directors would like to recognize one more group of staff. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, World War I came to an end in 1918. Since then, we have celebrated every 11th of November to honor all veterans who selflessly contributed and sacrificed for our freedom. We owe a massive debt to veterans. These people were called to be part of something bigger than their personal goals. These were ordinary people who stepped up extraordinarily. Let us recognize our CLPOC Veterans:
Anthony Leonard, United States Army
Carl Reynolds, United States Marines
Duanne Morelan, United States Army
Jeff Wilson, United States Air Force
Joel Thornsberry, United States Army
Kristin Wilcox, United States Coast Guard
Mickey Rudzis, United States Navy
As we close out another impressive season, take the time to say thank you to the many who make the GOOD life possible.
Gratefully Submitted CLPOC Board of Directors
Meet the 2024 CLPOC
THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE is pleased to announce that seven members have met the qualifications to have their names placed on the ballot for election to the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation (CLPOC) Board of Directors. These individuals are seeking election to the CLPOC Board of Directors to fill the seats of Liberty Gray, Shannon Hannon, and Jim French, whose terms of office expire on December 31, 2024. Shannon Hannon and Jim French have chosen to seek re-election this year, so the seven members seeking to serve the three-year term are:
I have been a property owner at CL since 1979. My wife and I raised our two daughters on holidays and weekends at our first vacation home. Now we spend our summers enjoying our lake home and the Good Life! My career was spent in the construction industry both as a contractor and a consultant. I have been engaged as an arbitrator and participated in other facets of the legal system related to construction. My involvement with the CLPOC includes participation on committees and the board of directors as well as performing the duties as Treasurer of the corporation.
I’m a full-time resident, occupation is financial advisor and current board member. Canadian Lakes is a beautiful & peaceful community with great amenities and natural resources. It offers something for everyone in a very affordable package. I want to continue to serve on the CLPOC board to build on the good work that has been done while setting a vision for the next 20 years. Canadian Lakes has been a very big part of my life, spending time here with family and friends over the years, enjoying our lakes and golf courses.
Education Central Michigan University,1975 B.S., 1985 Masters in Public Administration. Work History City of Midland 1977-2007 Retired, Director of Public Services, responsible for divisions of Parks and Recreation, Forestry, Cemetery, Golf Course, Street Maintenance, Sanitation, Fleet Management and Dial-A-Ride. Dow Gardens 2007-2014 Managing Director. In 2008 we purchased a cottage in Canadian Lakes and have witnessed the change from primarily a retirement community to a more diverse younger population with remote working now available. I believe my background will assist the board in facing the challenges brought on but this transition by providing clear communication and transparency.
Jim French
Shannon Hannon Marty McGuire
Board Candidates!
James French
Shannon Hannon
Marty McGuire
Andreas Shavalia
James Swartzendruber
Julianna Turner
Lois Vega
I, Andreas E Shavalia have been in the window cleaning industry for over 37 years. I owned and operated Superior Window Cleaning in San Jose, CA for 25 years. A few of my clientele included Intel Corporation, Hewlett Packard, and Facebook (All accounts were World Headquarters). I also did work for Chuck Reed, the Mayor of San Jose at the time. My morals, ethics, honesty, and hard work is part of the reason I was able to service these world-renowned companies, along with God’s grace. I believe my background in business ethics would be an asset to the community.
Election ballots for the CLPOC Board of Directors will be sent out in October to all property owners in good standing as of September 30, 2024, 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 soon receive a link via email to vote electronically. Please be sure to vote in this important election. Election results will be announced November 16, 2024, at the CLPOC Annual Meeting. Below are the bios each candidate sent in for your review. Please note that each candidate was limited to 100 words.
Hello, I have resided in CL for six years and owned property for twelve. I will put the vision and mission statements first in all my decisions. Place fairness, respect, citizenship, and responsibility at the top of my governance duties. Having served on several BofD in the past I’m familiar with a working knowledge of Board operations and duties required. I love this community and what it represents and it should be protected. Believe that all members should be represented in CLPOC operations with the preservation and improvement of CL being vital to all. I ask for your vote. Jim
My husband and I relocated to Canadian Lakes in October 2023. Being a yearround resident, I am both interested and available to work with the board and supporting committees to assist with the needs of our members. I believe my experience in management and accounting would be an asset to the board. In my previous experiences as a business owner, general accountant, catering and kitchen manager, and a project manager for a large health company, I developed strong interpersonal skills and business acumen. I look forward to serving our community to make Canadian Lakes a great place to live.
My husband and I have been property owners in CL since September 2018. We were year-round residents for almost two years until we purchased a second house in Rockford. I am currently controller of Republic Holdings Corporation, a real estate development company with offices on both coasts. I am treasurer of Los Gatos Rowing Club, a nonprofit organization in California. I have been the owner of two CPA firms with over eighteen years of experience in public accounting. I am running for the Board because I believe my background and experience as a CPA will be an asset to the board.
Andreas Shavalia James Swartzendruber
Julianna Turner
Lois Vega
CANADIAN LAKES
ASSOCIATION
I hope this letter finds you all doing well, your cider and donuts are delicious, your leaves on the trees are full of colors and beautiful (and not yet littered all about your yard waiting to be raked), and the fresh cool breeze coming through your window at night brings you deep, peaceful sleep.
Since becoming CLA President, I write a lot (and I mean holy cow, a lot). Every month I must write my Lite Lines letter, and every other month, I write my Laker letter. Over the years, I have written a lot about Marsha and myself and our family members, both our blood family and our CLA Board family. Both mean the world to me. Oh yes, and Agnes gets in there once or twice as well! Sometimes it can be a bit challenging for me to find new topics to write about (you see old Harold is not the most creative person). So, in this letter I thought I’d share my thoughts and concerns as to where we are as humans (I know, pretty deep). But I am old enough to remember a time when we were just friends, neighbors and family and it did not matter who you voted for, who you prayed to (if you prayed at all), who your favorite sports team was, whether you preferred golf, boating, tennis, pickleball, hunting, hiking, feeding the deer, or eating the deer (or both, like me). All that mattered was how you treated one another (treat others as you would want to be treated yourself).
We now live in a polarizing world in which any topic can be divisive these days it seems. I personally believe most, if not all, of this can be blamed on social media and the 24-hour news cycle, along with the lack of trust that comes with it. Who can you believe, what can you believe? It can be overwhelming most of the time. Unfortunately, I do not see any change to this in sight, but we as humans have our own choices to make. I choose not to sweat the stuff I cannot control, and instead focus on the things I can control. For example, how I treat others and how I give back to my community. These are both very much within my control.
Being the CLA President gives me a unique opportunity to get to personally know the many people who run the day-to-day
Photography by Melanie Wolf
Photography by Melanie Wolf
minded people in Canadian Lakes, with their main goal to produce the best quality of life possible for every member in Canadian Lakes. But sadly, we all know it’s not humanly possible to make everyone happy all the time. But that does not stop most of the folks charged with operating, maintaining, or entertaining this wonderful community from trying. Every policy, project, or event is carefully planned and executed with our members in mind. The goal is to maintain and enhance the GOOD life we have come to expect.
However, no matter how well intended any of us are, we will make mistakes, because after all, we are all human. I would encourage everyone reading this letter to stop by the CLPOC Office and introduce yourself. And not when you are upset about something, but maybe with a smile and some donuts and get to know the people who serve you. It is amazing how a Conley’s donut can bring people together. And just so you know, the folks in the Maintenance Barn are not opposed to donuts either! Your CLPOC Board members golf, fish, boat, play tennis, play pickleball or have lunch and enjoy a beer just like the rest of us. There is nothing quite like meeting someone face-to-face to get to know them. After all, they are your neighbors and they love Canadian Lakes just like you do.
And lastly, you get to see your CLA Board at the many Events we put on throughout the year. But always feel free to come up to any of us and introduce yourself. We always welcome and enjoy meeting our neighbors.
Please get involved in your community. Get to know all the people who help make Canadian Lakes the GOOD life! You will realize we all want the same thing!
Stay Healthy, Safe and Strong!
Harold Wolf, CLA President Cell 269-209-9871 haroldwolf63@gmail.com
Photography by Melanie Wolf
Photography by Melanie Wolf
SA LETTER OF APPRECIATION
ometimes it takes someone from “outside” for us to realize — and appreciate — what we have. A few weeks ago, we hosted friends from our life before Canadian Lakes, who confirmed what we often take for granted. We love living in Canadian Lakes and take advantage of all this community has to offer. But even we can forget all of the exceptional resources and amenities that fall under the umbrella of everyday life in Canadian Lakes.
While serving as tour guides through the lakes on our pontoon, through the tree lined roads to the Castle, Highland Haus, and Alpine Haus on a side-by-side, and even through the pickleball and tennis courts and the golf courses, we shared story after story of all the special events, clubs, amenities and programs available to Canadian Lakes members. Over dinner at the Royal Grille, we told of all the fun people we have met who have become friends through golf and billiards leagues, theater and art groups, and classes. We highlighted many of the CLA activities, from Halloween and New Year’s dances to ice cream socials and winter carnivals.
We explained that a group of volunteers from the CL Mobile Watch program daily patrols the community to provide a blanket of protection for residents. We illustrated this through an example of how Mobile Watch, partnered with Canadian Lakes Safety, went above and beyond for our neighbors.
Last winter, after high winds and snow befell our area, we were contacted by Canadian Lakes Safety. They said Mobile Watch was patrolling our area and noticed a tree had fallen on our neighbor’s roof. Safety was unable to contact the neighbors directly. Our neighbors were out of town. Eventually, we were able to reach them, and a contractor was dispatched to assess and address the damage. The actions by that one Mobile Watch patrol saved the day.
Our friends were amazed.
We all could take a page from that. Mobile Watch and
Canadian Lakes Safety make our community an even greater place to live. And yes, they are amazing!
Mobile Watch volunteers and Canadian Lakes Safety are visible for 4th of July celebrations, races, picnics, and every event in our community. They greet residents and guests with smiles while directing traffic and offering help. Mobile Watch and Canadian Lakes Safety work to ensure that all of the opportunities that the Canadian Lakes Association enrich our lives with are safe and positive experiences.
A debt of gratitude for the success of these programs goes to their leaders, namely Roger Stobert and Kristin Wilcox, as well as their incredible teams. They are the “unsung heroes” of Canadian Lakes.
Before leaving at the end of the weekend, our friends claimed, “You live in a Hallmark movie.” And they were right.
Thank you, Roger Stobert, and Kristen Wilcox, for all you do. Please extend our sincere thanks to your teams as well. We know that your commitment to Canadian Lakes is more than a job — it’s your life. And, because of your efforts, we all can live “the GOOD life.”
— Gary and Kay Wejrowski
FOCUS ON
fishing
Last Fishing Club Meeting of The Year
Wednesday, October 9, 2024
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. Election of officers for 2025 will be held. As always, members will share their recent fishing trips, the good, the bad, and even the ugly. Remember to release all largemouth bass and muskies and any pike which are 24” and over.
Dale Doepker
For questions about the Fishing Club or about fishing in Canadian Lakes, contact Dale Doepker at dtroutman97@aol.com or 231-972-8663
19th Annual Bullhead Tournament Results
FIFTEEN ADULTS and eight youth registered for the Bullhead Tournament on August 2-3, and brought 63 fish to the weigh-in. The adult winner with the most weight was John Eberhardt, with 11.7 pounds, 16 bullheads. The largest bullhead was 1.5 pounds by Rich Jaskot (see photo). Winners in the youth category were Carter Rosoloniec with largest fish and Sol Sylvester with most total weight, and all four received cash prizes. Deep fried bullhead, tartar sauce, bottled water, cole slaw, and snack bags were provided. Thanks to Sue Glazier for hosting, George Groll, assisted by Don Durham for cooking, Dan Lee, Jeff Woodward, and John Fisher for cleaning the fish, and Dale Doepker the weighmaster.
Rich Jaskot, holding the largest bullhead
22nd Annual Young Angler’s Contest Results
THE YOUNG ANGLER’S CONTEST was very successful this year, with over 120 kids registering for the fishing and awards. We gave out 120 gift bags and 24 awards to kids who fished. Included in their gift bag was an MDNR magazine and banner, MUCC Tracks magazine, small flag from Coldwell Banker, fly and bobber for casting, and a Ziploc bag for the fish entry. Also, the Mecosta County Optimist Club generously provided a great picnic lunch and refreshments. The largest bluegill entered was 9.25 ounces by nine-year-old Emery Bowers in the 8 to 10 age group. Sylvia Fredline, age five, was the winner with 8.3 oz in the 5 to 7 age group. Emma Felix, age 13, was winner in the 11 to 16 age group with 7.8 ounces. In the 2- to 4-year-old group, Carter Malinczak, age three, took first place with 7.6 ounces (see photo). We sold several Canadian Lakes Fishing Club tee shirts and caps. A hearty thanks to all of the 17 volunteers from the Fishing Club and 12 volunteers from the Optimists Club who gave their time and effort to make this annual event a success.
20th Annual Pike Tournament Results
NINETEEN ADULT ANGLERS
along with five youth anglers registered and fished in the Pike Tournament on Saturday, August 24, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and then everyone enjoyed pizza, and awards. The longest fish award went to Pete Mooney with a 29-inch tiger muskie (see photo), The prize for most total inches of pike 24” and over with three pike totaling 72.5 inches went to Ryan Hulce. The prize for most pike caught of any size by a single angler went to Dale Brewer with 13. The second largest fish award went to Jeff Woodward with 25.5 inches. There were 75 total pike caught with 11 being 24” and over. Thanks again to Jeff Abel for organizing and directing this tournament.
Annual Youth and Largest Fish Contest Final Reminder
Get your entries in by the deadline of October 10. We encourage all youth 14 and under who caught any fish this year to enter this contest for a trophy. Both the Youth Fish and Largest Fish of the Year Contest run all year, from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, and there is one entry form for both. If it is an entry for the Youth Fish Contest,14 years and under when caught, the information for the angler must be filled in as to age, etc.(Kids love these trophies!!)
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 are 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 Main Office kiosk. Keep track of your catches and take photos if possible, so you can enter them by the deadline of October 10, 2024.
Carter Malinczak, age 3 who had the largest bluegill entered in his age group
Peter Mooney holding his 29 inch tiger muskie
MYS T ERIES
Trout Fishing In Wild Rose Country: Alberta
Sometimes when I wake up early, go outside and fill my lungs with the mild spring or summer weather, I think to myself, smells like trout fishing. Of course, warm, Mecosta County air is laden with pollen. Pollen means insects, and insects mean trout. Trout love insects.
By Chris Zimmerman
When I rolled out of bed last summer in downtown Calgary, it didn’t smell anything like trout fishing. In fact, the hustle and bustle of the big city was quite an adjustment compared to the peaceful lifestyle we all enjoy in Canadian Lakes.
But alas, trout fishing was in order. After a ten-minute drive from Calgary’s sky scrapers, cowboy boot-n-hat wear’n locals, my wife and I met up with trout fishing guide Logan Whitehouse. A transplant from New Brunswick on Canada’s eastern seaboard, Whitehouse takes people fishing on one of Alberta’s most famous trout streams.
The Bow River stampedes east from Banff in the Canadian Rockies, through Calgary, and eventually north to Hudson Bay. For comparison’s sake the Bow is about the size of the Muskegon River in Big Rapids. It’s wide and swift, with a rocky bottom and a checkerboard of islands here and there.
Unfortunately, the Bow was high and dirty while we were there, which wasn’t the best of conditions for fly fishing.
High, chalky water didn’t dampen Whitehouse’s spirits — nor mine — as we launched his drift boat and began our day-long float. Whitehouse said the trout would be tucked along the
edge of the river and out of the raging flow in the center. Our game plan was simple enough: Whitehouse tied on a big, gaudy grasshopper fly, and 20-inches below that, a rather small pheasant tail nymph. That set up is called a “hopperdropper.” The hopper acts as a bobber and will dip under the surface when a trout takes the nymph. With Mrs. Zimmerman on the bow, Whitehouse rowing in the center, and myself in the stern, we began firing our flies towards the river’s grassy edges. “The closer to the bank, the better,” Whitehouse said.
After a half hour of casting, mending the line, and intently watching the hopper, Whitehouse said, “Let me show you a little casting tip.” I handed him my flyrod. Whitehouse peeled a bit more line off the reel. He false casted a couple times before dropping the hopper several inches from the grassy bank. Sure enough, before he could say, “that’s a reach cast” the hopper dipped below the surface as if it had been lassoed by an underwater wrangler.
Canadian guide Logan Whitehouse with a typical Bow River Rainbow trout
A beautiful Bow River brown trout
“Fish on,” he said, handing me the rod. I laughed at our good fortune, but my attention turned to the bucking bronco at the end of my line. After a couple magnificent leaps and a powerful, splashy run, Whitehouse slid the net under my first Bow River trout. It was a rainbow, 21 inches long. As the trout gasped for life in the net, I marveled at its sleek colors of cobalt green and rose.
Alberta is known as “Wild Rose Country” not necessarily because of the faint horizontal stripe on their rainbow trout, but rather, their flowers. Dainty small, and a charming pink, I learned to smell a patch of wild roses before actually seeing them. They’re very, very fragrant and extremely pretty. Somehow, they scratch out a living amongst the scraggy, poor soil and Alberta’s short growing season.
As Whitehouse rowed us into position for more action, I took a minute to soak in the surroundings. The Bow brings life to the plains of cattle and grain country. Virtually treeless, and hotter than a biscuit the day we were there, I told Whitehouse that I could almost imagine a herd of buffalo grazing on the plains above.
“Strange that you mention that,” he said. “Up ahead, I’ll show you a buffalo jump.” Before I had the chance to ask what that meant, Whitehouse took a few minutes to explain. “Hundreds or thousands of years ago, Indian tribes used to mount their horses, and run at the herd of buffalos. The buffalos ran away, but didn’t always notice which way they were running. The Indians succeeded in herding them off the edge of a cliff, which lead to their demise at the bottom.”
Sure enough, when we floated past a rather sizable “jump” we saw buffalo bones scattered amongst the scree of rocks and gravel. It was easy to make out the femurs and jaw bones, stark white from baking in the sun.
“That would be a good spot to look for arrowheads,” Whitehouse said. “The warriors must have had to finish off the buffalo at the bottom of the jump.”
That grisly scenario played through my head as we rounded the corner and into a wide, flat spot on the river. A small, wooden cottage distracted our attention. It was the first cabin-looking
structure we had seen in more than an hour. “That’s a movie set above the river bank,” Whitehouse said. “If you’ve ever seen the series Hell on Wheels that’s where it was filmed.”
Heck yeah, I’ve seen Hell on Wheels. It’s a western, alright, set in the 1800s. The movie tells the story of how the railroad companies laid tracks from one side of North America to the other. Eventually, the two construction companies meet in the middle of the continent, connecting the east coast with the west. Full of betrayal, back stabbing, and jerks by the score, it’s really a fantastic series. If I were Canadian, I might call it one of my favorites.
As for the fishing, I ended up with a Bow River hattrick — brown trout, rainbow trout, and mountain whitefish. Almost all the fish we caught were over 20 inches, which is a very respectable length. In Michigan, trout that size are few and far between. For the folks who live in beautiful Alberta, Canada, trout that size are just one more reason to visit “Wild Rose Country.”
Chris Zimmerman is a Canadian Lakes resident, an independent insurance agent, author, and recently elected as Mecosta County Commissioner.
Wild roses blooms in mid summer
A TUITION TOUCHDOWN “TakeMoney!”My
An event so fun it will have you yelling, “TAKE MY MONEY!”
St. Michael School is hosting their 29th Annual Alleluia Auction on October 26, 2024, and this year’s theme is “Tailgate Party.” The event will feature a live auction, silent auction, games, raffles, prizes, tailgate, open bar, and so much more! The Alleluia Auction is St. Michael School’s biggest fundraiser each year, and this year is anticipated to be our biggest touchdown yet!
TAILGATE
The 2024 Alleluia Auction will start at 3:00 p.m. with a tailgate in the parking lot of St. Michael School in Remus. The tailgate fun begins with a 3-hour cornhole tournament put on by the Barryton Bags Cornhole Club. The public is welcome to sign up for this tournament. You can also snuggle up next to the bonfire and watch live football on a big screen. There will be warm cider, hot cocoa, and snacks available for your dining pleasure.
St. Michael’s School will have merchandise for sale during this event. Stop in to get some logo wear in this unique apparel sale. Decorate your tailgate for a chance to be entered in a drawing to win a prize! Raffles sales will begin during the tailgate. Prizes
include University of Michigan apparel and merchandise, Michigan State apparel and merchandise, St. Michael apparel and merchandise, and a raffle for the BIG SCREEN outdoor viewing system!! Don’t forget to snap a photo at the football photo booth and tag the Alleluia Auction for more chances to win!!
ENTRANCE
At 6:00 p.m. the doors will open to the Alleluia Auction! Patrons can step inside and be welcomed into a University of Michigan vs. Michigan State themed party. Entrance tickets and bid cards will be available as you stroll through to the event areas. Hang up your jacket and find a seat to begin. Tickets may be purchased ahead of time at the St. Michael School office for only $45, or at the door on October 26th for $50. Tickets include entry to the live and silent auction areas, dinner, and open bar. This event is for ages 21 and up.
FOOD AND DRINK
Head over to the bar to get one of the signature U of M or MSU drinks of the evening. These festive beverages will have you coming back for more and more! The open bar will have beer on tap, and a variety of wine and spirits. Beverages are included with the purchase of your entrance ticket. Also included
is a delicious dinner! The dinner menu this year is featuring the finest tailgate food favorites, such as BBQ ribs, chicken wings, and plenty of delicious sides and appetizers to go with that!
SILENT AUCTION
Next head straight to the silent auction area and start bidding! Silent auction items range from vintage items to collectibles, sports memorabilia, new products, homemade and handmade items, and everything in between! This year there has been an addition to the silent auction. Bidders who hit the “Lucky Line” amount will be entered into a raffle! Also new this year, there will be an entire silent auction bakery section for those who love their sweets! Decadent cakes, cookies and the like will all be available to bid on.
GAMES AND RAFFLES
Upon walking into the party, there will be a cooler of beer. Purchase a beer there for a chance to win a cooler full of beer! Next head to the front to get in on the giant “Squares” game that will be up on the wall, or try your hand at winning with our other football tailgate themed games. There will
be several chances to win at the 50/50 raffles throughout the evening. You can also get entered into a chance to win the 2024 Polaris Ranger raffle.
LIVE AUCTION
The Live auction portion of the evening will begin at 7:00 p.m. with a prayer and
several chances to win during crowdinclusive games such as Head or Tails and The Blitz. There will be between 40-60 live auction items, which will include items such as exclusive seating at the 4th of July Fireworks, a firetruck ride home, party bus events, adorable St. Mike’s classroom art projects, a lottery tree, airplane ride, autographed items, and more. The live auction portion of the evening will be hosted by Phil Currie, a long-time St. Michael auction supporter and fantastic auctioneer.
SUPPORT
Proceeds from the auction help provide a quality education for all the students at the St. Michael Catholic School. Families and businesses have the opportunity to support St. Michael School’s Alleluia Auction by becoming a sponsor or donating an item for the silent or live auction. All donations can be made to St. Michael School Office and the sponsor levels are as follows:
Platinum Sponsor - $2000+
• 3’ x 6’ signage
• Half-page logo in event program
• Four Facebook posts
• Four complimentary tickets to the Alleluia Auction
Gold Sponsor - $1000+
• 2’ x 4’ signage
• Quarter-page logo in event program
• Three Facebook posts
• Three complimentary tickets to the Alleluia Auction
Silver Sponsor - $500+
• 1’ x 2’ signage
• Eighth-page logo in event program
• Two Facebook posts
• Two complimentary tickets to the Alleluia Auction
Sponsor - $250+
• Mention in sponsor listing
• One Facebook post
• One complimentary ticket to the Alleluia Auction
St. Michael School hopes to see you on October 26th for a tailgate party to remember! As always, thank you for your support! Questions, comments, donations, and ticket sales should be directed to St. Michael School Office at (989) 967-3681 or 8944 50th Ave, Remus, MI 49340.
Wear blue or green to support your team! OCT 26 6 PM $45 in advance or $50 at the door
Our House is Divided but Our Hearts are United
St. Mikes
Title Sponsor:
Joyce's Choices
HAPPY HUNDREDTH
BY JOYCE B. WILCOX
Dear Readers,
From the first Joyce’s Choices article entitled “Have You Read Today?” that appeared in the 2021 August/September Canadian Laker issue to this 2024 October/November issue, you and I have journeyed a long way! If you’ve kept up the pace with my reviews and include these Joyce’s Choices’ selections, you will have actually read one hundred and two books. That’s because for two of those years I slipped in an extra book review for your enjoyment at Christmas time as my gift to you. For the record, please note that I’ve always attempted to skew each book selection to the particular magazine issue or season of the year. This translates to mean that when I’m recommending your next Christmas novel, I’m probably reading those books while on the porch or at the beach several months earlier. It’s nice to know that all of my earlier years of writing classroom lesson plans and creating advertising campaigns prepared me well for meeting my current deadlines with the Canadian Laker.
Bear in mind, that although I review at least thirty books a year for this magazine, in order to do so, like many or you, I actually read somewhere between forty and fifty novels annually. Yes, I truly do cross books off my “must read list” every month. Some books just don’t make the grade, for a variety of reasons, at least in my grade book. You may not enjoy every book I’ve recommended, but I’ve been comfortable in giving the nod to my selections. My goal has always been to recommend your next read, not highlight books that I feel you should avoid. I leave that to you.
Please keep in mind that Joyce’s Choices also tries to be eclectic with an assortment of authors, genres, and styles. My selections are just examples of novels I feel have checked most of the boxes that I look for in a good read. They’re hopefully well-written, creative in their style, true to their genre, have depth to their characters that you either love or hate, and are penned by authors able to grab and take hold of their readers. You may not always agree with my selections, but similar to choosing a pair of shoes, we both know that not every style necessarily is for every individual. Sometimes you just have to try something on in order to appreciate what it has to offer. And sometimes it fits perfectly and sometimes you just cast it aside and go barefoot!
If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you know that I eventually get to the point, and so I guess I’m there now; I’ve selected five very distinct genres for your enjoyment for this special issue containing the one hundredth book reviewed. I’m hoping you’ll possibly discover a new genre or author to
explore. Your choices range from literary fiction/humor to a coming-of-age/southern novel; from a suspenseful domestic fiction to a Sherlock Holmes-type-of-mystery; and last, but certainly not least, to a WWII historical fiction novel. While I’m not sure which book should actually qualify for your one hundredth selection, I’m comfortable leaving the honor of that title selection resting with you. Personally, I’m hoping that you’ll try on all five and they fit perfectly, just like that comfy pair of shoes you enjoy so much!
The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin
For me it was another colorful road trip, another pop-in visit to Horizon Books in downtown Cadillac, another recommendation from that store’s local book club, and yet another fabulous find of fiction! The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin manages to cast a spotlight and bring unending rays of sunshine to what could otherwise be a dreary tale. These two very unlikely and newly found friends, who, despite the vast disparity in their ages, manage to bridge the gap and redefine companionship, perseverance, and purpose. Delightfully funny, remarkably resilient, and lastingly loving; there was never a doubt that I would be including this book for this issue of Joyce’s Choices.
Photography by Joyce B. Wilcox
The reader is instantly introduced to the plucky, resourceful, and delightfully opinionated seventeen-year-old Lenni as she is learning of the new counseling services available to her as a patient at Glasgow Princess Royal Hospital. Lenni is observant, bright, and never misses an opportunity to hurl her sarcastic adolescent humor at the rest of the world. As she meets and interacts with various hospital staff, readers are treated to her never-ending escapades and witty barbs. She enjoys two especially touching relationships, one with an elderly patient named Margo, and also one with the hospital’s chaplain, Father Arthur, who assists her during her stay.
Shortly after readers meet Lenni, they’re introduced to the marvelous Margot, an eighty-three-year-old-patient who wears purple pajamas and can hurl her own rebellious retorts with authority as well as stretch the rules to the max. Lenni and Margot bond and discover that they have more in common than just their brassy, sassy personalities. At eighty-three, Margot is nearing the end of her life with health concerns and at seventeen years old, Lenni is diagnosed as a terminally ill patient. The two decide that since between them they’ve lived one hundred years, they’re going to leave their mark in the world by joining a hospital crafting class and will create one hundred paintings showcasing each year of their lives. Their quest to capture their life stories is a race against the clock; however, these two are adept at making use of their time and talents. Reading The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot is an endearing and surprisingly uplifting time well spent.
Under the Magnolias
by T.I. Lowe
If you’re looking for a great read saturated with compassionate characters, expressive prose, and some southern sass, then look no further than Under the Magnolias. T. I. Lowe will steal your heart and deposit it on an emotional roller coaster ride as she masterfully introduces you to a fractured, dysfunctional family attempting to survive all that life has thrown in their path.
You’ll travel the highs, the lows, and the anxious plateaus of life as you discover all that a loving family, caring community, and strong faith can do to apply the necessary band aids for survival. You’ll also discover the need to read another book by this remarkable author.
The prologue is set in 1987 and places the action in Magnolia, South Carolina where the reader absorbs the essence of this small town, its eccentric residents, and the tenacious and unconventional Foster family. T. I. Lowe brilliantly transports the reader in time to where the farmer/ minister’s almost-adult-daughter, Austin Foster, sits tending to her six siblings during a church service. It’s here that Lowe also manages to tantalizingly describe the townsfolk and foreshadow the book’s compelling storyline.
In chapter one, readers quickly learn that in 1980 while Austin was on the cusp of adolescence, her mother died during
childbirth after delivering twins, leaving her to step up and raise this loving, but troubled family. She is forced to grow up literally overnight in order to tend to her six siblings, her depressed father, and the family farm, all while struggling through her teenage years. The harshness of the problems and conditions of the time may seem overwhelming, but are more than offset by the heart rendering resilience exhibited by family and townsfolk. In other words, although the author paints a bleak Foster family portrait under the magnolias, she uses lighthearted strokes, an empathetic brush, and a durable canvas. Lowe managed to capture my curiosity and my heart, and hopefully, she’ll do the same for you.
A Very Inconvenient Scandal
by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Drama, deception, and inexplicable deaths; what more would you expect from adult domestic fiction and suspense writer Jacquelyn Mitchard? Yes, New York Times bestselling author of The Deep End of the Ocean has written yet another page-turning, mind-boggling, disheartening saga of a dysfunctional family trying to find their way without further fractioning. A Very Inconvenient Scandal supplies the reader with enough intriguing characters, bizarre plot twists, and relentless drama to fill an entire season of a long-running daytime soap opera. What more can I say other than All My Young & Restless Children in the Dark Shadows on the Edge of Night of General Hospital will enjoy this book.
Frankie Attleboro, acclaimed underwater photographer, returns home to Cape Cod after a one-year absence in order to visit her widowed sixty-year-old marine biologist father and her brother. She’s come to inform them that she’s in love and soon to marry Gil, a man she met while on assignment. She’s also excited to share her thrilling news that she and Gil are expecting a baby. Her news is quickly overshadowed with her father’s revelation that he, too, is soon to marry. Only he’s marrying his daughter Frankie’s best friend, Ariel, who is shortly due with his child. Cue the soap opera theme music because the drama’s just begun.
Everyone seems to have overlapped careers and troublesome personal lives, including some interesting and mysterious townsfolk, as well as family, friends and neighbors. The drama continues when Ariel’s peculiar and estranged mother returns to the area after deserting Ariel ten years prior and leaving her to be raised by her grandmother. It seems no one is sure of what has really happened in the past or what they truly want in the future. Changes in wills, travels with perilous jobs, and revealing stories from old newspaper articles sprinkle the plot with new surprises. Lives are changed, lives are threatened, and lives are lost. And all the while you’re focused on turning page after page; after all, with all of this drama, such are The Days of Our Lives in the midst of A Very Inconvenient Scandal.
Home by Nightfall
by Charles Finch
I have to admit that I felt a little like Sherlock Holmes myself when I stumbled upon Home by Nightfall by Charles Finch at a recent used book sale. Perusing through endless boxes for the perfect solution to my quest for a previously untried genre, I had my own Holmes-elementary moment when this book found its way to my stack of must haves. Steeped in delightful nineteenth century British expressions, descriptive characteristic scenery, and deliciously endless wit, the novel unfolds as a charming tale you wish would never end.
With a story set in 1876 in both London and the small village of Markethouse, an upper-class British detective as a main character, and a series of seemingly unrelated petty thefts threatening to turn deadly, I was intrigued. Within the first few pages, the reader learns of the disappearance of a visiting foreign pianist who simply vanishes backstage. Of course, the services of the gentleman sleuth, Charles Lenox, are needed in London to lead the investigation into this seemingly impossible crime. As the pianist case slowly starts to evolve, Lenox is suddenly summoned to his boyhood countryside village by his recently widowed brother in order to assist with a series of trivial, but alarming thefts. Between attempting to solve the two cases there are missing persons, missing bottles of sherry, vanishing produce, bizarre and intentionally deposited clues,
intriguing suspects, and discovered bodies. Lenox has his hands full as you’re reading an eyeful.
I was amazed that Charles Finch, a very talented twenty-first century writer, would choose to emulate Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes nineteenth century character. Having seen and enjoyed old Sherlock Holmes films years ago on television on Sunday afternoons with the likes of John Barrymore, Raymond Massey, and Basil Rathbone, I fell in love with this book. I found it witty, not stuffy; compelling, not boring; and overflowing with the nuances of 1876 London. And yes, I will no doubt be reading more of the Charles Lenox Mystery Series.
The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan
Much like the memorable librarians of The Underground Library, I was very surprised and pleased to have discovered a book with such a fascinating tale. Rich in history, traditions, and strong characters, it captures the fighting spirit of a London community struggling to survive during The Blitz of World War II. Acts of bravery, relentless effort, and labors of love shape the core of this story and place the reader into the action on every page.
Jennifer Ryan manages to take her readers above and below ground, as well as deep within the hearts of her three main characters: Juliet, Katie, and Sofie. The three very different women are bound together in 1939 through their ties with London’s Bethnall Green Library, their love of books, and their tumultuous, but unrelated pasts. At age twenty-six, single, and beginning a new life after word of her missing in action fiancée, Juliet has left her small village to accept a position as deputy librarian in London. Katie is excited about having a part-time job at the library before she’s about to start college when she receives word of her boyfriend’s death on the front line and her world changes. Sofie flees Berlin as a Jewish refugee, but has to leave behind family to work as a domestic servant to a miserable older man in London, and she uses the library as an escape whenever she can. And they’re all living at a time when women weren’t wanted in the workforce; they couldn’t support themselves; and they had few resources to turn to for assistance.
As bombs start to fall, paths cross, lives mix, and secrets are revealed. To save themselves, the community, the library, and the books, all are moved to the local Underground station. But what do they all have to do in order to survive and save the library? Only the author and the reader know for sure. Thank goodness not only does author Jennifer Ryan have her roots in England, she also had a grandmother who lived in London during WWII. She also presently lives in the Washington, D.C. area with her husband and children where she finds time to write her historical fiction full time. Readers don’t have to go far to discover the remarkable story of The Underground Library.
Whew! What an exciting, interesting, and entertaining journey of one hundred books that we’ve taken together. I’ve enjoyed the trip and hopefully, so have you. Let’s keep turning the pages together as you join me for the next one hundred books!
“It’s a Won de rful Lavende r Life”
Experience the magic of lavender, where personalized lavender gi s make the perfect holiday surprise! From delightful chocolate boxes to the comfort of a stuffed Xander Friend, we have something special for everyone on your list. Plus, with every purchase, you help bring joy and comfort to children in foster care. HERE AT LAVENDER LIFE FARM.
Meet Xander the SUPER-SOFT, LAVENDER STUFFED BUNNY, (Buy one and we give one to a child in foster care!) XANDER BUNNIES
Through The Eyes Of An Intern
BY MELANIE WOLF
In February, I accepted an opportunity to become the Marketing Intern for Canadian Lakes starting in May. I was incredibly excited and grateful because this would be my first job that was not your classic fast food or retail job. This would be a wonderful way for me to get my foot in the door of the career I want after college and help me build my experience. Going to school in Big Rapids at Ferris State University and spending summers with my grandparents here, I was already familiar with the area and the activities offered in Canadian Lakes. I remember swimming with my little sister in the indoor pool, going to the lake with my cousins and grandparents, and going to numerous events like Dog Days (one of my personal favorites). But as I grew up and got into college I stopped coming as often and spent most of my summers working small jobs instead. I never would have thought that accepting this internship would have not only helped me make new memories but help rekindle the old ones of my childhood.
in Canadian Lakes. But I enjoyed being able to have that freedom to take pictures of what I liked and put it into a publication for others to appreciate. Whether it be something as small as changing the Canadian Lakes News cover picture every week to having a photo of mine on the front cover of The Canadian Laker.
As my time here has increased, I have been exposed to numerous events and activities around Canadian Lakes. I have found various places I like to go to and hobbies that I now enjoy doing, all thanks to my internship and being thrown out into the community to explore. I know which beaches are my favorite to swim at, the perfect spot for watching the Castle 4th of July fireworks, and the perfect time to hit the driving range where I can work on my swing. I have also made many different connections with so many individuals within the community who have not only helped grow my circle, but also pushed me to come out of my shell and become more extroverted. Whether they just pop into the office to say hi, or they see me when I am out to catch up, I feel like I am less of an intern and more of a member in the community.
When I first accepted this internship, I was incredibly nervous. In the weeks leading up to my start date, I doubted if I even had the skills to complete the tasks. On my first day I stressed about what to wear and what to say. I hoped everyone would like me and that I would do an excellent job. When I arrived for my first day, everyone was very welcoming and treated me nothing short of amazing. I ended up having a wonderful first week and found out quickly the ways that I was able to express my creativity.
On one of my first days, I was handed a camera and told to go out and take pictures of what I liked because we needed more pictures for different articles in The Canadian Laker. That was also the day that I found out very quickly just how little I know where everything was
Overall, life as an intern has been quite an adventure that I am happy and grateful to be along for. I have learned so much in my brief time here and I cannot wait to see what is still in store for me. Being a part of the CLPOC has not only helped me with experience and starting new connections, but also helped me grow my bonds with my grandparents and allowed me to spend more time with them for which I will forever be thankful. I was lucky enough to get offered a position as an employee that I happily accepted, and I am excited to experience life in Canadian Lakes during the fall and winter months. I hope to continue meeting more people and making connections, and I hope you are all as excited as I am about what is in store for the future.
FALL COLORS IN THE STATE OF MICHIGAN
I was watching a young child paint today as she discovered something she’d never seen.
She mixed together both blue and maize and she made the color green!
Now, I ask you in the state of Michigan, exactly what does this mean?
Does it mean that deep within each Spartan fan there lies a Wolverine?
Or does it mean that every Michigan fan is just waiting to wear his green?
The answer seems uncertain now, we’ll have to wait ‘til she’s a teen.
The child’s mother is a Spartan, you see, and her father’s a Wolverine.
And they’ve both stated their preferences, suggesting the school where each has been.
But of one thing they each are certain, it’s OSU of which neither is keen.
So for now she has her choice ahead of her, be she a Spartan, or be she a Wolverine.
Or perhaps she’ll just settle the argument and select a school without a Big 10 team!
JOYCE B. WILCOX//WRITER’S QUEST
Roger Stobert Mobile Watch Coordinator 231-288-0148
spankky@charter.net
Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch Appreciation Golf Outing and Picnic
THE CANADIAN LAKES MOBILE WATCH (MW) held the 2024 Appreciation Golf Outing & Picnic on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, for the current Mobile Watch Volunteers and for the Canadian Lakes Safety Officers to demonstrate the community’s gratitude for their service. 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 Mobile Watch would like to thank the volunteers
who assisted with the Golf Outing & Picnic. Canadian Lakes Safety and the Mobile Watch would also like to give a special thanks to Dennis & Georgette Zywica, Tim & Barb Collinge, Phil & Sherry Little, Tim & Shannon Hannon, Joe & Sue Slayton, Rick Polhill, Tony Mac, Mike Burke, Jim Heinrich, Gene Maloziec, Roger & Tracie Stobert, Casey Smith, and Bill Hull and the maintenance and facilities teams for their assistance with the picnic preparations, conduct, and cleanup. Another special thanks to Diane and the deli staff at Hixson’s. 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:
Ace Hardware-Canadian Lakes
Beachside Nail & Spa (formerly Amy’s)
Bollman Enterprises (Antlers, CL Pizza, & CL Gas (Shell))
Century 21 White House Realty
Chrouch Communications
Cisco Services
CL Eyecare
CL Handyman
CL Pharmacy
CLA CLPOC
Coldwell Banker Lakes Realty
Dr. Nevins – Dentistry
Flair For Hair
Gingrich Tire Center
Graphic Specialties
Hansul Marine
Hixson’s Family Market
Isabella Bank
Lakes Rental & Barkley’s Pet Care
Mancino’s Lakeside Pizza
Orange Sky Counseling
Radle Custom Cabinetry
Royal Grille
Sweeney-Holbeck-Edison Insurance
Twisted Tree Landscaping
Joe Rausch gave the Invocation. Kristin Wilcox, Canadian Lakes Safety Director, and Harold Wolf, CLA President were guest speakers recognizing the Mobile Watch for their volunteer service to Canadian Lakes.
Ken & Sue Cisek and Jeff Horler were inducted into the Mobile Watch Decade Club, joining the other 66 previous volunteers who have been in the MW for 10 years or more. This year was special again in that the MW also has 20-year veterans, Joe & Doris Lanz and Bob Herndon. Those present were awarded 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 the Mobile Watch honors and thanks them and the previously inducted MW Decade Club members.
In addition, Area 9 Captain & Assistant MW Coordinator, Chuck Adams, retired from the Captain & Asst. Coordinator roles. Chuck has been an outstanding Captain since 2009 (15 years) and Asst. Coordinator since 2014 (10 years). In his role as Asst. Coordinator, Chuck was instrumental in the creation of the current Uniform Kits (buckets), upgrading the MW Manual, the creation of the MW Area Patrol Instructions, and maintaining the MW Equipment. He also provided, many times at his own expense, spare bucket equipment such as sign cleaning towels and labels. Chuck was at all the MW functions and when MW assistance was needed for recruiting events, traffic
control, Independence Day parades, Fireworks, MW Golf Outings, MW Picnics, and many others. Chuck’s excellent recruiting is exemplified by the fact that Area 9 has almost twice as many patrollers as any other MW Area, meeting the MW goal of two patrols every day.
Chuck and his support as Asst. Coordinator will be missed very much. He does remain on the roster as a MW patroller.
Phil Little volunteered to be the Area 9 Captain and Eric Richards has taken the role of Backup Captain of Area 9. Area 2 continues to look for an Area Captain; Areas 2 & 5 continue to seek Backup
Captains, and we continue to seek a new Coordinator and Asst. Coordinator to replace Roger Stobert and Chuck Adams, respectively.
Finally, a special thanks to all the Mobile Watch Volunteers, including the Area Captains, Backup Captains, and Patrollers, who make the Mobile Watch possible. Their continued involvement 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.
CANADIAN LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS CORPORATION
Gifts & Memorials
BY THE GIFTS AND MEMORIALS COMMITTEE
The CLPOC Gifts & Memorials Committee has been the depository for funds given by members of the Corporation since 1995.
The funds are in honor of an individual, a memorial, or for a designated purpose.
The donations given have allowed the committee to purchase benches to be placed on the golf courses, and in other areas within the community. Trees, sculptures, statues have also been placed throughout the community. Picnic tables at two golf courses and one at Legacy Park. The cabanas located at the main beach, pavilion by the outdoor pool and the starters building located on the first tee at The Royal Golf Course were placed by the committee, through donations from the members of the community. The committee works closely with
Bill Hull and Casey Smith for placement of any items within the community.
A new fund has been created within Gifts & Memorials, “The Golf Course Tree Replacement Fund.” Contributions to this fund will be used by Bill Hull to purchase and plant trees on the CLPOC Golf Courses at locations best suited to the courses.
Envelopes for contributions to Gifts & Memorials are available, located on the small round table to the right of the entry door in the CLPOC Main Office. Be sure to indicate on the envelope the contribution is for The Golf Course Tree Replacement Fund.
Should you have any questions, please contact current members of the Gifts and Memorials Committee: Kathy Trombly, Sue Malzahn, Debra Olson, Ron Stickney, and Ken Swathwood.
Safety
Kristin Wilcox Safety Director kwilcox@clpoc.org
Safety Team
DARE I SAY
the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air? We find ourselves at the end of another impressive, fun filled summer season here in Canadian Lakes. Now it is time to turn our attention to getting ready for falling leaves, pumpkins, trick or treating, and giving thanks to family and friends! Here are just a few friendly reminders from the Safety Team:
BOAT OWNERS
This year we are attempting to keep the main boat ramp open through the end of October each Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, 10am – 6pm. This will depend on several factors, one being the availability to staff the ramp, the next and biggest is the weather. Since there is no power to the boat ramp shack, there is no heat, therefore if the temperature drops below 50 degrees, it snows, or it is pouring down rain we will not be staffing the boat ramp.
If you need to remove your watercraft and the gate is locked, please contact Safety at 231-972-8555 or 231-629-2717 to have them open it. 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 avoid 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 entails, this past summer season more than 2,137 boats launched over the summer at the main boat launch. There were times during the high point we had upwards of 193 boats 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 with Safety for this. If you are pulling your boat yourself, or have a friend or outside company, please contact our Safety Team to check to see if the ramp is staffed that day, or to schedule an appointment ahead of time.
Lastly, all watercraft MUST be off Canadian Lakes waters by October 31, 2024. All Kayaks, Canoes, and Paddleboards MUST be removed from the community racks by November 1, 2024. Watercraft are not allowed to be stored on common property and must be removed by November 1, 2024.
INTENTIONAL VANDALISM OF COMMON PROPERTY
I want to just take a minute and talk about the intentional vandalism of common property that occurred not only over the Labor Day weekend this year, but throughout the summer. The legal definition of vandalism is the willful destruction or damaging of property in a manner that defaces, marks, or otherwise adds a physical blemish that diminishes the property’s value. According to Michigan Law MCL — Section 750.377a the punishment for this ranges from fines and restitution to felony imprisonment depending on the severity of the damage.
Here in Canadian Lakes, we have the ability to levy fines and restitution as defined in our CLPOC Rules Penalty Schedule which can be found in the back of the CLPOC rule book, suspend or revoke membership privileges, or press charges depending on the severity and frequency of the vandalism. Proper Usage of Off-road vehicles can be found in the CLPOC rule book Article IX, Section 9.12
(page 32). Common Space is defined as but not limited to the roadways, right of ways, parking lots, parks, dog park, walking trail, green belts, bodies of water, boat ramps, marinas, beaches, Castle, clubhouses, swimming pools, fitness center, tennis courts, pickleball courts, golf courses, airport runway, easements, yard waste, storage facility, campground, etc. This behavior will no longer be tolerated in Canadian Lakes, CLPOC staff and
volunteers work hard daily to keep this community looking nice. Let’s keep it that way. See something, say something. You can submit, videos, and pictures of individuals causing damage to common property to kwilcox@clpoc.org.
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. 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 of your area, they can be found on the members website, listed under Governing and Documents.
VEHICLE PARKING
A friendly reminder from November 1 through March 31 of each year, between the hours of 10:00pm and 10:00am, vehicles will be prohibited from parking on the roadway, and road shoulder. Exceptions may be granted by contacting the CLPOC Safety Department at 231-972-8555. Failure to comply may result in the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense.
Let’s work together to keep everyone safe while enjoying yet another beautiful season here in Canadian Lakes! As always, we thank the volunteers of Mobile Watch for all their hard work and dedication, without them our job would be much more difficult!
Roger Stobert
Volunteer Yard Waste Coordinator
231-288-0148
spankky@charter.net
Canadian Lakes Yard Waste Information
CANADIAN LAKES YARD WASTE will be open on Wednesdays and Sundays,10 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through November. Our last day open in 2024 will be Wednesday, November 27, weather permitting. Due to the disposal of non-allowed materials and not putting the waste on top of or behind existing wastes, facility access other than those times and days 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 Dr.
Items allowed to be brought to Canadian Lakes Yard Waste include tree and shrub branches and limbs less than 4” in diameter and plant-based materials normally associated with residential yard maintenance such as grass clippings, leaves, and discarded mulch. Do NOT leave materials outside the gate or throw them inside the gate when the site is closed.
Items NOT allowed to be left at the site include food waste (rinds, peels, cores, gristle, etc.), household trash (paper, plastic, Styrofoam, etc.), construction debris (nails, shingles, broken concrete, wood scraps, etc.), campfire ashes, and containers used to transport yard waste.
Volunteer attendants will check users for a current CLPOC ID, vehicle sticker, or guest pass. To allow for inspection of truck beds and trailers, attendants may ask users to remove tarps or other coverings. Concealing contents from or misrepresenting contents to the attendants or failing to comply with an attendant’s request may result in a banning from the Canadian Lakes Yard Waste.
To gain access, the volunteer attendants will check for a current CLPOC ID, vehicle sticker, or guest pass. They should ask you 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 it behind or on top of already deposited materials rather than in front or near 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 the Canadian Lakes Yard Waste, the attendants will be pleased to help you, or you may contact the volunteer Yard Waste Coordinator, Roger Stobert at 231-288-0148, or spankky@charter.net.
CLPOC Board Minutes
Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation
Board of Directors Meeting July 27, 2024 @ 9:00 a.m.
Attendee’s Role Present Absent Zoom (Z) In Person (IP)
Paul Szymkowicz (PS) President IP
Steve Wilcox (SW) Vice President IP
James French (JF) Treasurer IP
Steve Brandt (SB) Secretary IP
Dan Rice (DR) Director IP
Matt Stifter (MS) Director IP
Liberty Gray. (LR) Director IP
Shannon Hannon (SH) Director IP
Dan Tunacik (DT) Director Z
Others in attendance – Greg Babbitt (GB) - General Manager, Lindsay Halcomb (LH), and Kim Dowell (KD) – Comptroller.
AGENDA TOPIC’S AND DISCUSSION ITEMS
1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance – Meeting called to order by President Szymkowicz (PS) @ 9:00 AM and Pledge conducted.
2. Agenda Approval – DR / SH 9-0
3. Austin and Morton Township Reports – MK from Morton Township, in person, talked about upcoming election, need to reup on millage for Fire Department. Updating of Township Master Plan.
4. Presidents Report – PS, Very busy high season, amenities are thriving. CLA summer picnic and CLPOC fireworks were both home runs. Numerous rules and deed restriction violations. Thank you to staff and volunteers.
5. Financial Report – KD, reviewed the financial results and position and compared them to prior periods.
6. COMMITTEE REPORTS –
ACC Committee– SB, We did meet, approved 4 new homes and 1 garage. Update from KW on Northstar upgrade and how it will impact ACC, STR and compliance issues. Finally, discussed in
detail the potential deed restriction vote for the Mayfair Subdivision.
CLA – SB,
• WOW, Summer picnic, they had to go back and buy 200 more hot dogs. Changes to format were well received. Just a great time for all leading up to the CLPOC fireworks.
• Ice Cream Social, August 7th, some club awareness tables. Root beer floats, Kick off of the renewal season for the CLA. Best 30 dollars you will ever spend.
Executive Committee – PS, Rec’d operational updates, updates from all committees, operating and legal updates, Other topics included Social Media harassment, Kitchen AC, Pine Pro Shop, Royal Express license status and Pontoon boats on Lake Laura. Finally, discussed in detail the potential deed restriction vote for the Mayfair Subdivision.
Finance Committee - JF, Did not meet this month. Committee members reviewed financial information prior to board meeting.
Nominating Committee: Nominations open through 8/31. Will be in attendance at CLA Ice Cream social.
Strategic Planning Committee – SB, Met Tuesday, Review current status of multiple projects, land bank update, top 10 list. Formed a committee to work with / review the new Morton Township Master Plan as it is developed. Gong to take a break while multiple projects are still in process. KW Northstar upgrade update
7. GENERAL MANAGERS REPORT –GB reported
Amenity Usage Report – Included in the board package Departmental Report – Included in the board package. There are campground spaces available.
Reserve & Capital Project Update – Updates on Beach sand sifter, Pines irrigation system, Pines Pro Shop site plan, Kitchen A/C and Food Trailer license.
General Manager Committee Reports – All GM committees are meeting now. Miscellaneous Items. Beach raking schedule (once a week). Other topics included no wake reminder and lake
harvesting update. Lake levels and boat washing station.
8. Consent Calendar – Motion made to approve the notes of June 12, 2024 Workshop Meeting & Minutes of the June 22, 2024 Board Meeting as well as receive and file June 2024 check disbursements. SB / SH 9-0
9. Member Comments on action or discussion items – No comments from the audience
10. Items for Board Action –a. None
11. Items for board discussion –a. Member in Good Standing Date, GB, date is 9/30/2024. Suspend rules DR / SB 9-0, Vote on Motion DR / SB 9-0
12. Member Comments – None
13. Director Comments – SH: Ask me anything about being a CLPOC Board Member
14. Member communications – Lake Treatment schedule, Member of Good standing date
15. Moved to executive session – There was an executive session from 10.07
to 11:00, upon exiting from the executive session, a discussion was held on amending Bi-laws to include a requirement for running and / or being on the board is the execution of a Confidentially Agreement. Motion to suspend the rules, SW / SB 9-0, Motion to amend the Bi-laws, SW / SH 9-0
16. Adjournment – 11:12 JF / SH 9-0,
Respectively submitted by Steve Brandt, Board Secretary. (Minutes are printed as submitted.)
Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation
Board of Directors Meeting Meeting August 24, 2024 @ 9:00 a.m.
Attendee’s Role Present Absent Zoom (Z) In Person (IP)
Paul Szymkowicz (PS) President IP
Steve Wilcox (SW) Vice President IP
James French (JF) Treasurer IP
Steve Brandt (SB) Secretary IP
Dan Rice (DR) Director X
Matt Stifter (MS) Director IP
Liberty Gray. (LR) Director IP
Shannon Hannon (SH) Director IP
Dan Tunacik (DT) Director IP
Others in attendance – Greg Babbitt (GB) - General Manager, Lindsay Halcomb (LH), and Kim Dowell (KD) – Comptroller, Kristen Wilcox (KW), Safety and IT .
AGENDA TOPIC’S AND DISCUSSION ITEMS
1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance – Meeting called to order by President Szymkowicz (PS) @ 9:00 AM and Pledge conducted.
2. Agenda Approval – SH / SW 8-0
3. Austin and Morton Township Reports – No reports
4. Presidents Report – PS, Labor Day weekend around the corner, amenities are thriving. Thank you to the membership, staff and volunteers. Lake pumps running after our 2nd weed harvesting.
5. Financial Report – KD, reviewed the financial results and position and compared them to prior periods.
6.
7. COMMITTEE REPORTS –
ACC Committee – SB, We did meet, approved 1 new home, 1 shed, 2 remodels and 2 garages. Discussed in
detail the Summerhill boundary issue.
CLA – SB, Ice cream social was a huge success. Looking forward to Dog Days and Car Show. Drawing winner Kathy Tyler. Membership is at 852 as of 8/1/2024.
Executive Committee – PS, Rec’d operational updates, updates from all committees, operating and legal updates, Other topics included Social Media harassment, Kitchen AC, Pine Pro Shop, Royal Express license status and Pontoon boats on Lake Laura. Finally, discussed in detail the status of audit(s), auditor resignation and recommendation of new auditor.
Finance Committee - JF, Did meet this month. Reviewed budget v actual results. Status of Audit(s), auditor resignation, new auditor recommendation, cost of running pumps on lakes.
Nominating Committee: Nominations open through 8/31.
Strategic Planning Committee – SW, did not meet, a number of projects currently in process. Lake article on Strategic Planning accomplishments
8. GENERAL MANAGERS REPORT – GB reported Amenity Usage Report – Included in the board package
Departmental Report – Included in the board package. Additional report by KW. KW attended Northstar conference in Atlanta and KD and KW will attend another conference in San Antonio to prepare for the system upgrade. Safety staff, 6 officers, golf cart / ATV issues, bev cart credit card update and other safety statistics.
Reserve & Capital Project Update –
Asphalt maintenance program, Pines Pro Shop site plan, Kitchen A/C, Food Trailer license, pines parking lot and castle entrance.
General Manager Committee Reports –
All GM committees are meeting now. Miscellaneous Items. Labor Day activities. Other topics included no wake reminder and lake harvesting update. Lake levels and boat washing station (no one attended).
9. Consent Calendar – Motion made to approve the notes of July 10, 2024
Workshop Meeting & Minutes of the July 27, 2024 Board Meeting as well as receive and file July 2024 check disbursements. SB / SH 8-0
10. Member Comments on action or discussion items – No comments from the audience
11. Items for Board Action –a. None
12. Items for board discussion –a. Mayfair subdivision deed restriction issue, a rather lengthy discussion including all board members occurred
b. Approval of new auditor and three year contract. After discussion, suspend the rules, SW / SB, 8-0. Motion to approve SW / SB 8-0,
13. Member Comments – None
14. Director Comments – Nothing Material
15. Member communications –Member of Good standing date, gift cards, departmental updates
16. Moved to executive session –Executive session 10:26 to 11:01
17. Adjournment – 11:01 SH / LG 8-0,
Respectively submitted by Steve Brandt, Board Secretary. (Minutes are printed as submitted.)
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The Fraternal Order of Eagles People Helping People ... Since 1898
Monday, Wednesdays & Fridays Alice Slezak: 231-404-1045 jaslezak50@gmail.com
Saturday
MONTHLY EUCHRE SOCIAL CLUB
1:00 p.m. on 2nd Saturday (Sept. thru April) except November Sue Powers: 616-550-8871 powersdensue@yahoo.com
CANADIAN LAKES YACHT CLUB
1-3 pm • April - October Lake Laura Barb Szymkowicz: 989-330-6804 barbathome1@juno.com
Get your social gathering listed here! You must be a CLA Sanctioned Club and you must meet regularly. Simply send an email to thecanadianlaker@gmail.com for more details. If your group info is incorrect, please update us by also sending an email to thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.
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