Lake Carroll News January 2020

Lake Carroll News A publication of the Lake Carroll Association and its Members The Lake Carroll News is online! www.golakecarroll.com www.golakecarroll.com

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January 2020

Tackle Box - Spillway Rescue & More PAGE 4&5B

The Quilt Club Members have been busy!

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BOARD MEETINGS

No Board Meeting in January 2020.

The LC Board is developing a new schedule for their meetings and workshops. Please watch for updates in future weekly emails and newspapers.

PLUMTREE LODGE Hideaway Lounge Weekend Hours Friday: 5:00pm-10:00pm Saturday: 11:00pm-10:00pm Sunday: 11:00am-5:00pm Limited Menu: Hotdogs, brats, pizza, chili dogs, chili, and daily soup.

Hours of operation in effect even if the Tube Hill is not open or operating.

The Barrel Snack Shack is not operational at this time.

Two more holidays at to remember at the PLUMTREE RECREATION AREA Monday, January 20th Martin Luther King Day Tube Hill 10am-4pm ~ Pool 12pm-7pm Monday, February 17th President’s Day Tube Hill 10am-4pm ~ Pool 12pm-7pm

REGULAR OPERATIONAL HOURS

TUBE HILL Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

POOL Mon-Fri Adult 7am-10:30am Open Swim 4pm-7pm Sat-Sun Adult 7:30am-9:30am Open Swim 12pm-7pm NOTE: Tube Hill is conditions permitting.

General Manager’s MESSAGE

Happy New Year! Looking back at the past year there have been many accomplishments and many hurdles to get by. 2019 was a year of many changes…from physical upgrades to mother nature making her own changes, as well as system and procedural changes.

We are moving forward into 2020 to refine these changes and become more efficient Dick Schwalbenberg and responsive to owner needs.

One of our largest projects in 2020 will be General Manager our roads. The Infrastructure Committee has the new road plan and will be determining the best course of action to update, upgrade, and stabilize the roads at Lake Carroll. Additionally, they are working with management and other committees to update our 40-year Fixed Asset plan.

I would like to thank all the committees and volunteers that have help during the year. There is a lot of work to be done and your assistance is greatly appreciated. 2020 will be challenging as we now must refine the changes and move them forward. We are always in need of assistance. If you are interested in volunteering, please go to the website and sign in and under Members select Volunteer. We use this to contact members that are interested in volunteering and it is also a resource for committees looking for new members and volunteers.

We will be doing many min-surveys in the next few months on several topics to gather your opinions to aid in making some decisions on effective communication, amenities, and how best to gather the data we need to make decisions. These surveys will be announced on the weekly eblast as the prior survey results told us that this is the preferred communication method for the owners that responded.

Links to surveys will also be put in the newspaper when applicable.

I also want to thank our staff. These fine men and women come in every day to do what is needed to keep Lake Carroll going. They are a great group of people, and together we work with a great group of owners. We are looking forward to a great 2020.

Vol. 48 No. 1

– NOTICE OF MEETING –

OPEN DISCUSSION ON LAKE CARROLL’S AQUATIC PLANT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Saturday, January 25, 2019 9am-11am Lake Carroll Conference Center Since 2012, we’ve been writing articles on our management plan for aquatic plants. This plan has developed to incorporate chemical treatments of invasive non-native species and mechanical cutting and removal of native plants with our weed harvester equipment. By mechanically cutting, we are able to remove plant biomass (and the nutrients in those plants) while still allowing plants to grow under the water’s surface. The mechanical cutting allows plants to live but have less impact on recreational boating usage. Also, for the past few years we’ve been providing an optional treatment program for lakefront homeowners to chemically treat around docks and shorelines.

The reason we do not chemically treat all of the “plants” (or some say ‘weeds’) we need and want native plants to grow. They utilize nutrients that would otherwise be used for planktonic algae blooms.

They provide habitat for fish, and invertebrates (tiny crustaceans that start the food web for our fish in the lake) as well as produce lifegiving oxygen to the ecosystem of the lake. These are important to our lake’s health. Our program is established to manage native plants, not eradicate them. On the other hand, studies have shown that the non-native plants can be detrimental to the long-term health of the lake, and the fishery. Therefore, we chemically treat these plants to reduce their biomass, while working to manage the beneficial native plants in our lake.

We will be hosting an open community discussion on our current management program and allowing feedback from our members.

Please attend our open meeting to the members on this topic at the Lake Carroll Conference Center on January 25th, from 9am to 11am.

The Giving Tree and Santas for Seniors

Once again this year the Giving Tree at Lake Carroll was a big success. This program, sponsored by the Eastland Council of Churches, distributes Christmas gifts to needy children and their families in our area. The children each received two gifts, one fun gift and one for clothing.

Again, this year we participated in the “Santas for Seniors” program. This works basically the same way as the Giving Tree except the gifts go to residents of the Allure nursing home in Mt. Carroll (formerly Good Samaritan).

Thanks to your generosity 93 gifts were given to seniors and children this year by Lake Carroll members.

The folks at Eastland Council of Churches and Allure of Mt. Carroll want to express their gratitude for your generous support at Lake Carroll, and we thank them for all the work that goes into these programs.

It has been a long-standing tradition for the Fishing Club to coordinate this program here at Lake Carroll. Thanks to all who helped this year and many thanks to all those who contributed gifts for the kids and seniors. We can be sure they are needed and helped them all have a Merry Christmas.

Thanks again and have a Happy New Year from all of us at the Fishing Club.

Tom Stangl Roman Cirignani

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020 General Manager Synopsis - December, 2019 Dick Schwalbenberg, General Manager

DUES LOTS LIP $1.9 million collected

Collected 93.5% dues, 93.9% dues increase & 98.3% fee increase

NICOR

661 homes have paid a total of $177,750

CAMPGROUND CLUBHOUSE COMMUNICATIONS GOLF OPERATIONS LAKE LODGE POOL

No report Busy with holiday parties & functions General information updated on website, newspaper & e-blasts Closed for the season Lake was lowered to the winter elevation, 3 feet below pool

SKI & TUBE HILL TRAILS BUILDING INSPECTOR DAM

6 lots with homes, 14 lots sold (11 of these lots deeded back to LCA) 74 *PO have not paid on their LIP account 188 *PO have paid on their LIP account but considered delinquent & a member not in good standing

As of 4/14/10, the Lodge will close until further notice Outdoor: closed until Memorial Day weekend Indoor: operational with no issues Snowmaking operation will begin December 10th Trails are operational Detailed stats available in the manager report Contractor, permit & impact fees, year to date $20,438.42 The spillway basin was drawn down to perform our dam inspection. The Fishing Club performed a fish rescue for game fish that were in the basin

FISHERIES

Lake Committee voted to stock 5,000 Walleye & 150 Muskie for 2020.

Discussing the addition of Rainbow Trout & Perch to the fishery

MAINTENANCE

The Lodge project is progressing; upon completetion we will have installed 32 new windows & 3 new doors. Exterior lighting is being installed as sections are completed.

MOWING

ROADS

No report 117 letters are being sent after inspections; 55 new letters for repairs and 62 follow up letters from 2019 No report

SECURITY

Detailed stats available in the manager report

RIP RAP

TECHNOLOGY WILDLIFE

Synopsis from reporting officer for calls, on the dates listed, located in the managers report General maintenance, data clean up and continued iMIS reorganization & development

SAVE THE DATE for summertime LC Recreation Camps & Swim Lessons Adventure Camps Session I 6/8-12 Session II 6/22-26 Session III 7/6-10 Session IV 7/20-24 Swim Lessons Session I 6/15-19 Session II 6/29-7/3 Session III 7/13-17 Session IV 7/27-31 Registration Opens April 1, 2020

No report

CUSTOM KITCHEN CABINETRY MADE WITH  DESIGN. DETAIL. QUALITY.

First State Bank Shannon Polo Lake Carroll Announces Promotion of Robin Wilhelms Saar To President and Chairman of the Board Published: November 21, 2019

Shannon, IL, November 21, 2019 The Board of Directors of First State Bank Shannon Polo Lake Carroll, announced the promotion of Robin Wilhelms Saar to President and Chairman of the Board of First State Bank Shannon-Polo-Lake Carroll.

As the 3rd generation of the Wilhelms family, Saar looks forward to continuing the longstanding family tradition of community banking. Robin is succeeding her father the late Omar Wilhelms, and grandfather CT Wilhelms.

“Banking has been an integral part of our family for many years and I will continue to advance our bank into the future built on our solid customer relationships and incredible team.”

Saar holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Purdue University and a graduate of Sheshunoff Graduate School of Banking, Louisiana State University, with a Masters of Banking.

She has more than 22 years of banking experience, most recently served as Executive Vice President and Board Director at First State Bank Shannon Polo Lake Carroll and Senior Wealth Advisor at FSB Wealth Group. In addition to her new role as President, she will continue to serve her FSB Wealth Group clients.

Saar has a strong, long-standing commitment to the area communities, currently serving as President of Timber Lake Playhouse Board. She previously served as Finance Committee member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Shannon, and Highland Community College Foundation Board.

Robin and her husband Jeff, reside full time at Lake Carroll.

Call Wayne for your free consultation

8156315950

24911 PAYNE ROAD, SHANNON IL MCFPCFREEMAIL.COM

SM-ST1730472

Front Desk News Happy New Year! Can you believe a new decade is upon us?

Here’s to good health and happy wishes to you all in 2020.

2020 ASSOCIATION BILLING & INFORMATION SHEETS Let’s cover Dues first, and quickly! ACH information was due to the office by December 31st. Annual payments by cash, check, or credit card (3.5% surcharge will be assessed to all Credit Card payments) are due in the office by January 31, 2020. Monthly payments are only collected by ACH. Late payments will be subject to the Collection Policy that was mailed with your 2020 Dues Sara Derrer Invoice in December.

Office Manager Please make sure you return your 2020 Information Sheet with any corrections ASAP. Decals will not be issued without a 2020 Information Sheet on file.

Changes may also be made on your online account at www.golakecarroll.com. In order to access your account, if you have not already done so, you need to call the Association Office to have your email address put on file. If you make changes online, still please return your Information Sheet to the Office and let them know you made the necessary changes online. A new form will be printed and added to your file.

The photo ID Amenity cards are intended to be used for multiple years. Do not discard them, there is a $25 replacement fee. ID cards will be very important to carry in 2020 to all Amenities in Lake Carroll. Start the habit now of always taking your cards when you adventure out and about at the Lake.

Vehicle decals will not be issued until the year, make/model, license plate have been reviewed and updated. One free decal will be issued for each dues-paying lot. Copies of Current State registration are needed for each new vehicle being registered to your lot. We ask to have updated proof of current insurance policies-$500,000 liability for watercraft, offroad trail vehicles, snowmobiles, & golf carts. Lake Carroll Association must be named as an “Additional Insured” on snowmobile & ATV policies. Copies of current State registrations must be on file for all boats & snowmobiles. Campers and ATVs being registered at Lake Carroll are required to show proof of ownership: Title, Insurance, and/or State License Plate registration. If you have registration & insurance questions, please call the Front Desk at 815493-2552.

BILLING QUESTIONS? If you need any help with understanding your statements, have any questions on dues, the 2020 Fee Schedule, or anything that may be remaining on your 2019 statement, please call the Front Desk during Office hours and we will gladly help you. 815/493-2552.

FRONT DESK STAFF UPDATE Now that we have made it to the New Year, we can officially introduce our new staff member at the Front Desk, Mary VanRaden. Mary has brought so much help and insight to the front desk and has been warmly received by everyone. Carly and I are grateful to have Mary on our team!

ASSOCIATION LOT TRANSFER FEES In 2020 ALL transfer fees will return to the $600 fee per the 2020 Fee Schedule. ($150 record transfer fee plus $450 fixed asset reserve fee). The transfer fee and all outstanding dues, fees, or assessments are to accompany the recorded deed and required before new members can be registered.

A&E REMINDERS Beginning in January, A&E will only have 1 committee meeting a month for January, February, and March. Please see the A&E 2020 Calendar on the website for due dates for permits or plans during these months.

Just a brief reminder about the Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting policy. Please make sure your outdoor lights face down, not outwards. More information can be found on the website: Under the Members Tab, select Committees and choose A&E. Under the A&E Committee section there is a link called A&E Specific Committee Forms. Click the link called “Outdoor Lighting Information”.

Please don’t forget you can contact us, or stop into the Association Office Monday-Friday 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. The Front Desk is also open on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and can be reached at 815/493-2552. As always, there is a wealth of information online at www. golakecarroll.com!

Employee of the Month We are celebrating the winners for the last three months of 2019: October – Jelly Acosta, November – Ira Markley, and December – Rick Zimmerman.

Jelly Acosta is an Aquatic Complex employee who helps wherever she can. She is always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of her and takes on extra shifts to help the team. Jelly doesn’t hesitate to take on new projects and is thorough in carrying out her duties.

Ira Markley also works for the Aquatic complex. He leads by example, is flexible, cooperative and is a true team player. His willingness to help whenever and wherever he can, is always appreciated.

Rick Zimmerman is a popular server and an important team player at the Clubhouse. His positive attitude and willingness to do anything and everything he can to help his coworkers and management make him someone who “everyone wants to nominate.” He’s a man with a heart of gold who the customers love.

Congratulations to our end of 2019 winners! We look forward to seeing great things from our staff in 2020. Happy New Year!

PLEASE TAKE NOTE

All articles and letters submitted for publication in the Lake Carroll News MUST BE RECEIVED AT THE ASSOCIATION OFFICE BY THE 18TH OF EACH MONTH.

LAKE CARROLL ASSOCIATION 3-200 Association Dr. Lake Carroll, IL 61046 815-493-2552 Fax: 815-493-2883

110 111 112 113 114 115 117 118 119 120

OFFICE DIRECTORY

Carly Kruse, Front Desk Donna Beyer, Communications Dir. Dick Schwalbenberg, General Manager Lisa Vanderheyden, HR Mgr / Finance Sara Derrer, Office Manager Jessica Boettner, Marketing Director Michelle Burton, Owner Liaison Security (815) 493-2599 or 275-6122 Joyce Stadel, Finance Assistant Mary VanVranken, Front Desk

DIRECT PHONE NUMBERS

Don Aleksy, Facilities Director . . . .

Donna Aleksy, Recreation Dir . . . . .

Lake Carroll Security . . . . . . . . . . .

Doug Rominski, Building Insp . . .

Joe Rush, Lake Manager . . . . . . . .

Deb Stagno, Technology Dir . . . . .

815-291-2898 815-499-5425 815-275-6122 815-821-5296 815-297-5637 815-291-9209

Carroll Co. Sheriff . . . . . 815-244-2635 Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911 Lake Carroll Security . . . 815-493-2552 or 815-275-6122 Association Business Hours Monday – Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm Saturday 8 am to 1 pm

LAKE CARROLL NEWS USPS 008387 The Lake Carroll News is published monthly

by Sauk Valley Media (SVM), 113 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021. It is mailed to all Lake Carroll Association members in good standing and paid for by a portion of the annual dues.

Non-members may purchase the Lake Carroll News for $12/year. Direct subscription inquiries to editor@golakecarroll.com or 815-493-2552 ext 111. Periodicals postage paid at Lanark, IL 61046 and additional offices.

Advertising and Classified deadline is the 15th of each month. Contact Mike Ford at mford@saukvalley.com, 815-632-2559, or mail to Sauk Valley Media, Attn: Lake Carroll News, 113 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021. The Lake Carroll Association and SMV, as agents, nor the printer assume financial liability for production errors in or non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. Corrections will be printed in the following month’s edition, provided the Lake Carroll News does not endorse or guarantee the ads. Advertiser indemnifies and holds harmless the Lake Carroll Association from any and all cost, damage, or loss sustained and caused by or resulting from any false, misleading, or libelous claims made in any advertisement placed by the advertiser.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Lake Carroll News, 3-200 Association Dr, Lake Carroll, IL 61046.

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

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Table of Contents

Administration Front Desk News............................................... 3A GM Message..................................................... 1A Membership ID Cards....................................... 1A Office Hours................................................... - 3A Staff Directory.................................................. 3A Board of Directors BOD Meeting Schedule.................................... 1A BOD Member List............................................ 6A President’s Message.......................................... 2A Treasurer “No Victory Laps”............................ 5A Calendars - Events/Committees/Club.................. 7A Classifieds.......................................................... 14B Clubhouse Breakfast with Mr & Mrs Claus........................ 5A Festival of Trees.............................................. 12A Hideaway Lounge Hours................................ 11A Hours................................................................. 8A Clubhouse Events Upcoming Events Jan-Jul................................. 9A Communication GM Synopsis to BOD....................................... 2A Real Estate Pulse............................................... 5A Standing Committees........................................ 6A Lake & Natural Resources E Fork Watershed Dinner.................................. 1B Fish Tales........................................................ 12B Giving Tree....................................................... 1A Lake & Natural Resources-Perch...................... 2B Lake & Natural Resources-Crappie.................. 2B Tackle Box........................................................ 3B Letter to the Editor John Quilico (25-23)......................................... 1B Rebuttal – Cliff Mortenson............................... 1B Photo Club Photo of the Month – Dave Pacione 1-13....... 13A Prairie Club........................................................ 15A Prairie Club App............................................. 15A Recipe Corner– Trailside................................... 10B Recreation Event Photos..................................................... 4B Extended Holiday Hours – Pool & Tube Hill... 5B Handicap Pool Access....................................... 6B Help Wanted.................................................... 14B Pay It Forward................................................... 1B RecConnect....................................................... 5B Tube Hill Hours................................................ 5B Recreation Classes Exercise (Varies)............................................... 9B TOPS................................................................. 9B Yoga.................................................................. 9B Recreation Events Always something to do…................................ 5B Holiday Family Fun Day.................................. 8B Late Night Tubing........................................... 14B Not So Newlywed Game.................................. 3A Winterfest.......................................................... 3A Safety & Security/EMS Safety First........................................................ 1A Security Fines.................................................... 4A Security Notes................................................... 4A Security Low Temperature Program................. 4A Thank You Lanark Transformers......................................... 1B The Giving Tree................................................ 1B Women’s Club.................................................... 14A Women’s Club App......................................... 14A

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Lake Carroll News welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters must be received at the Association office by the 18th of each month unless otherwise specified due to altered deadlines and adhere to the following guidelines: 1. Writers must be LCA members in good standing, reflect their viewpoint, focus on the issues and/or must be of interest to the majority of Lake Carroll members.

2. Letters should not contain personal attacks against any individual(s) or businesses and may not express personal grievances or conflicts.

3. Letters containing libelous material or statements, derogatory remarks or obscenities will not be published or are subject to editing after consultation between submitter and editor.

4. Constructive criticism is acceptable; suggestions on alternative solutions to the concerns are appreciated.

5. Letters are limited to 400 words or less.

6. All letters must bear a signature and LCA section and lot numbers.

7. The Editor, General Manager, and LCA BOD reserve the right to review to accept or deny publication of any Letter to the Editor and to offer a rebuttal within the same issue.

8. The Editor will provide an explanation in writing to those submitters whose letter is not published.

EDITORIAL & PHOTO GUIDELINES It is each organizations responsibility to publicize and cover their events for the Lake Carroll News. If you need assistance, please contact the office.

Any written articles, committee or club ads, or photos submitted for publication in the Lake Carroll News must be received at the Association office by the 18th of each month unless otherwise specified due to altered deadlines and adhere to the following guidelines: 1. Be of interest and benefit to Lake Carroll Members.

2. Purposes for articles published are to inform and educate.

3. Articles containing libelous material or statements, derogatory remarks, obscenities or anything deemed inappropriate will not be published or are subject to editing after consultation between submitter and editor.

4. Hard copy photos will be scanned and available for pick up one week following publication.

5. Special announcements (ie: wedding/anniversary/births/graduation, etc) may submit a single photo (published size to be determined by staff) and text of 100 words or less.

Submissions: An electronic file is the preferred method of submission. Files may be submittedvia email or provided on disk. Photos may also be submitted via email. Please make electronic submissions to editor@golakecarroll.com. The Editor will send a “received” confirmation email.

The Editor, General Manager, and LCA BOD reserve the right to review to accept or deny publication of any submission for publication in the Lake Carroll News. Items submitted that are not in compliance to these guidelines will not be guaranteed publication.

Any questions please contact the Editor at 815-493-2552, ext. 111. Editorial Policy adopted 2/22/05.

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Lake Carroll Security/EMS Corner Available 24/7 at 815-493-2599 or 815-275-6122

Safety First

Security Stats for November 2019 House Checks - 2950 Amenity Checks - 955 Service Calls - 259 Complaints - 7 Deliveries - 80

Assist Motorists - 6 Alarms - 1 Ambulance Calls - 3 Activated Low Temperature Lights - 7

Luke Fossett Security Supervisor I hope you and your family had a joyous holiday season.

WINTER AT LAKE CARROLL Tube Hill With our winter season comes the opening of our Tube Hill. Please use caution when tubing.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Moving towing parts and other tubers can suddenly become an obstacle. Be patient with other tubers, but most of all enjoy the hill.

Roadways When the snow flies at Lake Carroll, please slow down while driving. Many times, our roads will not be completely clear of snow and ice like the highways you travel to get to Lake Carroll.

Our roads receive much less traffic than the highways, lack of traffic causes a longer time for our roads to clear up completely. When a significant snowstorm hits Lake Carroll and you do not need to travel stay home, give our maintenance department time to clear the roads properly before venturing out. Give our snowplows plenty of room while clearing snow, many times their vision is impaired due to the snow, let’s have a safe winter driving season.

Ice Caution A couple of years ago a tragedy occurred in Sabula Iowa on Sabula Lake it is located about 20 miles west of Lake Carroll. Two ice fishermen fell through the ice only one was rescued. If you are an ice fisherman, please use extreme caution when heading out on the ice.

Be Prepared…

Its wintertime please take the time to look over the Illinois Emergency management winter preparedness guide that is located at https://www2.illinois.gov/iema/Prepardness/weather/winter LOCAL EMERGENCY AND MEDICAL PROVIDERS I have put together some local numbers and distance to each; I hope they may be useful: Local Hospitals: Distance from Lake Carroll Freeport Memorial 19 Miles 1045 W. Stephenson St. Freeport, IL. 61032 CGH Medical Center 31 Miles 100 E. LeFevre Rd. Sterling, IL. 61081 Mercy Medical Center 37 Mile 1410 N. 4th St. Clinton, IA. 52732 Local Clinics: Distance from Lake Carroll FHN Lanark 6 Miles 602 W. Olympic Dr. Lanark, IL. 61046 FHN Mt. Carroll 13 Miles 1120 Healthcare Dr. Mt. Carroll, IL. 61053 FHN Lena 16 Miles 160 W. Main St. Lena, IL. 61048 FHN Forreston 16 Miles 803 First Ave. Forreston, IL. 61030 CGH Milledgeville 18 Miles 601 E. Old Mill St/ Milledgeville, IL. 61051 FHN Savanna 22 Miles 2107 Chicago Ave. Savanna, IL. 61074 FHN Stockton 23 Miles 725 N. Pearl St. Stockton, IL. 61085 Pharmacies: Distance from Lake Carroll Lanark Pharmacy 6 Miles 102 N. Broad St. Lanark, IL. 61046 Pharmacy Center 13 Miles 101 W. Market St. Mt. Carroll, IL. 61053 Lena Drug Store 16 Miles 154 W. Main Lena, IL. 61048 Stouts Drug Store 22 Miles 217 Chicago Ave. Savanna, IL. 61074 Pamida Pharmacy 22 Miles Local Law Enforcement: Lake Carroll Security (815) 275-6122 Carroll County Sheriff (815) 244-2635 Lanark Police Station (815) 493-6931 Shannon Police Station (815) 864-2776

251 S. 4th St. Savanna, IL. 61074 Miscellaneous: Lanark Fire Station Shannon Fire Station Poison Control Center Road Conditions

(815) 599-6000 (815) 625-0400 (563) 244-5555

(815) 493-2831 (815) 244-4181 (815) 369-3300 (815) 938-3130 (815) 225-5040 (815) 273-3323 (815) 947-2155

(815) 493-2080 (815) 244-2171 (815) 369-4111 (815) 273-2713 (815) 273-3581 (815) 493-2341 (815) 864-2142 (800) 942-5969 (800) 452-4368

CONTACTING SECURITY The security phone number (815) 493-2599 is a landline. It is received by a phone at the office that is set up to forward those calls to a cell phone that is carried by Security 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When there are issues with the landline phones, you can call the Security cell phone directly. That number is (815) 275-6122. We recommend this direct number be saved in your phone, both landline and cell, for contacting Security.

When you call the Lake Carroll the Association office, you may push 4 to be forwarded to Security. Please be aware that when Security receives this call, because it is a landline it will not display the number you are calling from as our cell phone would. There have been a few instances where this has hindered the officer being able to update the subject that called security.

RESIDENTIAL HEAT LIGHT PROGRAM With winter’s cold upon us you may want to consider utilizing the low temperature light program the Security Department offers. Several homes experienced major water damage at Lake Carroll over the last several years during the harsh winter months. Our program is simple.

The homeowner places a light in a window visible from the street with a colored bulb. The light is plugged into a low temperature switch (winter watchman). When the temperature in the residence falls below a preset temperature the light is activated and will be viewed by Security.

Security will then contact you or other contacts you have provided. (See more information about this program elsewhere in this publication or contact me if you have any questions) I have seen the devastation water can do to homes here at the lake because of a broken water pipe… something to consider.

I would like to wish all the property owners and their guests a safe and enjoyable winter season and DON’T’ FORGET YIELD TO YELLOW!!!

If you have any questions, complaints or compliments please feel free to contact me at (815) 493-2552 ext.118 or e-mail me at lfossett@golakecarroll.com.

If the Security Department can be of any assistance to you, we may be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (815) 493-2599 / (815) 275-6122.

Matt Ripplinger, Member of the Safety Committee JANUARY WINTER SAFETY…

…ON THE LAKE I know we are having a late start to our winter, but with a couple snows under our belts and looking forward, there’s no reason for us to not be reminded of winter safety around the lake.

By mid-January when you’re reading this article we may have enough ice on the lake to go ice fishing. If you’re going ice fishing, be sure to check the ice thickness wherever you go, and it’s a good idea to take along a fishing buddy, or two, in case one of you falls through the ice. Use of the frozen lake is at your own risk. And with the mild winter we’ve had so far it may be quite some time before the lake has ice on it. You can walk out on our docks, and drill a hole right beside the dock, so you’re able to sit on the dock to fish, and you don’t even have to stand on the ice. Be sure and tell someone you’re going ice fishing. …ROADWAYS When driving on snow, start out slowly and drive slower than you normally do. Remember on snow, a car takes much more distance to stop than it does on dry pavement. For those of you with four-wheel-drive vehicles, you can start out very quickly on the snow, but you can’t stop any better than a 2-wheel drive car. Don’t be overconfident just because you have fourwheel-drive. Beware of ice on the roadways and when you apply your brakes, steer in the direction you want to go.

Use caution on many of our hills and curves. Many people still walk in the winter, but they cannot always get as far off the roadway as they can in the summer. If you’re driving on a snow covered road you just can’t steer around them as well as you can on dry pavement.

Please be on the lookout for pedestrians, and the fact that they may have a dog on the leash with them. Watch out for the dog as well. …BE PREPARED Your mother always told you dress properly, so let’s be sure to wear a coat, boots, hat, gloves, and a scarf. At least have them in your car ready to go in case you’re stranded or have a flat tire and really need them. Have you checked your car lately? Is the battery OK? Do you have good tires? Do you have some salt, sand, or kitty litter in the trunk in case you get slightly stuck on the ice or snow? Are all of your lights working and are your brakes in good order? Do you have new windshield wipers, emergency kit, and an extra coat in the trunk?

Remember you can call Security if you run off the road and get stuck in the snow, and they will help you out of your car, but they cannot tow you out. They will help you arrange for a tow truck though. …SLOW DOWN The most important words when driving in winter is slow down. Give yourself extra time.

Let’s be safe out there and get to our destination safely. It’s a beautiful time of year especially out here at the lake. …SNOWMOBILERS Please be cautious, and exercise some courtesy as you’re going from your home to the nearest trailhead. Do not cross people‘s driveways or their yards. Drive on the roadway or in the ditch. Even if there’s plenty of snow on their driveway or yard, do not go through their yard or across their driveway. The Carroll County Trail system does go through Lake Carroll, and utilizes our trails, so be aware of other snowmobilers on the trails. Those of you in a car seeing a snowmobile ahead of you, please be cautious. The snowmobiles don’t have the best rearview mirrors, so sometimes they come out of the ditch around a mailbox, and you don’t want to accidentally have them hit you, or you hit them with your car. Always remember, if Snowmobiler is sitting along the trail it is common courtesy to slow down and make sure they are OK. If they give you the thumbs up you can continue to drive by them. If not, stop and see if they are broke down. It is also illegal to ride across lots in Lake Carroll, or on the golf course. ATVs or UTVs are no longer allowed on our trail system in January when there’s snow on the ground.

Let’s all be safe out there and have fun this winter. Try out the ski hill, and especially the tube hill. You’ll have fun on the tube tow whatever your age. Think snow! *** LAST Heflin Heflin Heflin

December 2019 - FINE ASSESSMENTS FIRST SEC LOT VIOLATION Terry 26 64 Illegal Hunting Over Bait Terry 26 64 Failure to Register Deer With State of Illinios Terry 26 64 Illegal Cutting of Trees Hunting Privileges Revoked for 3 Years

FINE $150.00 $150.00 $200.00

DID YOU KNOW: DID YOU KNOW: Snowmobiles have a speed limit in Lake Carroll of 30 miles per hour. Snowmobiles are prohibited from crossing private lots and can only use Lake Carroll roadways to access the trail system. This information in located in the Lake Carroll Governing Documents: Title V. Rules and Regulations, Chapter 53.03 (B)(4) & (E)(2).

DID YOU KNOW: It is illegal to let you dog or cat roam freely at Lake Carroll.

Please be courteous to your neighbors. Even if they are not at their Lake Carroll residence your pets should not be making a mess on their property. Please review the rules regarding pets in the Lake Carroll Governing Documents: Title V. Rules and Regulations, Chapter 50.06 (H).

DID YOU KNOW: All garbage receptacles must be returned to residence within 24 hours of garbage pickup. All garbage must be placed in a proper receptacle to avoid the garbage being distributed throughout the area by local wildlife. Moring Disposal offers receptacles and residential garbage service that will return your receptacles to your property. This information is in the Lake Carroll Governing Documents: Title V. Rules and Regulations, Chapter 50.06 (F)(2).

President’s Message

Dear Fellow Lake Carroll Members, Happy New Year. What a difference a year makes. This year finds six of the seven Board members returning. This is a good position to be in, and with the addition of Betty Carrubba, we feel we once again have a diverse group that will represent all of the Lake Carroll community.

Our General Manager, Dick Schwalbenberg, has a year of experience with our Association under his belt and we have a budget that was ratified by membership at our annual meeting. We are off to a good start.

Tom Bogusevic Thank you to all of our members who supported our budget and Board President believe in what this Board is doing. To our members that couldn’t support the budget, we will work even harder to earn your support this year.

We are already experiencing a seamless transition between Boards and there is no disruption to our management team or the operations. Last year our objective was to understand our Association and work towards stabilizing it, both financially and operationally. This year we believe the focus is going to be on operational execution in all areas.

As an example, several projects have already been started: • The Zier Road project, a part of our Lake Improvement Project, finally began in December after a 2 1/2-year delay in the permitting process by the Army Corps of Engineers. We were made to jump through many hoops including, among other things, performing an archeological survey to determine if the ground was an ancient Indian burial site. (No ancient Indian burial site was discovered.) To refresh your memory, the project will more efficiently reduce material and sediment flow into our Lake by rerouting the creek to increase its sinuosity. The hard structures and rerouting of the creek will be done this winter. The seeding of the area will be completed next fall.

• The emergency repairs to the Three Tubes area of our Lake began before Christmas.

Widening of the channel and installation of new riprap will be completed before Spring. Reseeding of the area will happen in the Spring.

• The Lodge Renovation project, which includes residing and new windows, is moving along and should be completed soon.

In addition to these larger, more prominent projects, we are going to continue to monitor and build upon the initiatives that were begun last year in our backroom activities. Daily cash receipt reporting by department, aged accounts receivable reports, on-line account payments, streamlined payroll information and other timely data is now available, or will soon be available to help managers make better business decisions.

In mid-January a Marketing Plan will be presented to our Board for review. Implementation should begin shortly thereafter. We are also going to begin discussion about Strategic Planning at our Board retreat on January 17.

Last year is behind us. Our foundation has been laid. There is much work to be done this year. We are prepared.

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

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Please ensure you have a valid LCA Member ID card

We had a reorganization of our membership database system this past year which requires an update to some ID cards. To confirm your LCA ID Card is current and usable, please compare the number next to the barcode on the back of your card is the same as the ID Barcode Number found on your online account. If they are the same, you’re all set to use our amenities. If not, please contact the office (M-F 8am-4:30pm & Sat 8am-1pm) to have your card updated.

To check your other family members, their card numbers are listed under the first adult member listed on your account (this is the same person your statement is mailed to) under the FAMILY tab (as seen in the menu bar below). Please also verify their card numbers. We don’t want anyone to get to an amenity for some fun and relaxation and not gain access due to an unusable old ID card.

No Victory Laps

January, 2020 We are grateful that Lake Carroll voted to approve our 2020 budget. The process was long, tedious and for many, exhausting.

But, we believe the results have helped to light a path to a more stable future. While the votes have been counted, the path is only beginning and will take years and patience to fully implement.

Our budget was built on our 4 shared major pillars: 1) Eliminate the need to use dollars from the next year’s dues to pay this year’s bills. This part of our plan is expected to take 3-4 years to catch up.

Stephen Mack 2) Have a plan for future replacement of our current fixed assets.

Board Treasurer The plan is to look forward and to not add significantly to new amentities as we save and prepare for our known expenses in coming years.

3) Fixed asset replacements needed in 2020.

4) Operational expenses to be paid in 2020.

We now move into the execution stage of the budget. And, as our association implements the plan, we will look to monitor its success, evaluate our process and refine our future financial goals. Our work continues.

As a reminder, while we hope our budget process used in 2019 will adequately address issues Lake Carroll faces in coming years, emergencies cannot be predicted that could alter our planning.

Leveling dues. Although we heard some indicating dues would be increasing at the same rate as 2020 in future years, this was never our objective. After identifying the significant issues Lake Carroll faces in coming years, our stated goal was to reset to a more appropriate dues structure and to then attempt to stabilize in the 4%-6% level as the plan above unfolds.

Budget begins… Again. It seems budgeting is an endless job. Tracking, assuming, implementing, reacting and evaluating. 2020 is just starting. Our budget process will begin again mid-year 2020 for 2021 and we look to again be as open and transparent as in 2019. We all share the same goals of a healthy community, both financially and operationally.

No Victory Laps. For some, seeing funds come in, balances rising and the potential of adding to our savings, may mean a victory for future spending plans. That was never the target. From the beginning, our stated goal was to build a plan that stabilizes our association fostering a healthy future for our community. We have much more to work towards. Yes, we look to enhance Lake Carroll. However, at this point, concentration will continue to focus on efficiencies and progress towards a more effective business operation.

2020 Financial goals. We are keenly aware that some of our members did not believe in our vision and chose to vote no on the budget. We must acknowledge and respect this group and strive to satisfy their goals, where possible, as well.

Lot values. Our real estate values are divided into two distinct sections. Developed properties with houses and undeveloped properties, lots. Our undeveloped properties consist of geographically local and further out owners who pay dues but, in many cases, simply do not have the same ability to enjoy our recreational community. We must recognize our distinct differences in order to improve our values of all Lake Carroll properties. In addition, we are continuiing to monitor the health of our real estate sales and values and how these impact our future.

As 2020 ramps up, our Board, General Manager and committees are examining where we were and what was accomplished over the past 12 months. This will help to clarify where we are heading and our ambition to consider a long-term strategic plan. Never forget, we enjoy a wonderful Premier Lake Community. For now, we still have much to do. No victory laps!

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020 Lake Carroll Association

ND STA

ING COMMITTEE

S

a & e committee by-laws committee campground committee clubhouse committee finance committee golf committee infrastructure committee lake conservation committee marketing committee safety committee recreation committee steering committee wildlife mgmnt committee For additional information go to

www.golakecarroll.com 2020 committee board liaisons

A&E By-Laws Campground Clubhouse Finance Golf Course Infrastructure Lake and LIP Marketing Recreation Safety Steering Wildlife Mgmnt

Cliff Mortenson Ryan FitzSimmons Tom Bogusevic Betty Carrubba Steve Mack Tom Bogusevic Cliff Mortenson Ryan Fitzsimmons Alan Cazzato Betty Carrubba Steve Daugherty Steve Mack Alan Cazzato

2020 Lake Carroll

BOAR

Letter to the Editor

Letter to Editor - REBUTTAL

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Lake Carroll Members, Among the governing documents for Lake Carroll is the Contiguous Lot Agreement. You will not find it in the documents list it although it effects all contiguous, or lots next to other here at Lake Carroll, owned by the same person. I have asked the General Manager to include it in the Governing Documents for all to access. Dick our General Manager and Tom our Board President informed me that this agreement was added as a sales tactic to sell the very small lots in the “density sections” at the Lake. The agreement allows those lot owners to combine up to three lots into one single dues paying lot. It also requires the payment of back dues, fees if changed back into single lots. Yet if you read the rules and regulations our previous board in 2016 in it’s wisdom added the rule that lots 1/2 acre or more if combined are required to pay additional dues for the combined lots. This was a revision by the board at that time and to my knowledge not presented to the membership to vote upon. But that’s another issue I think should change.

Two sets of rules for lot owners which I believe is a violation of the By Laws which states “... obligations of the membership and board of directors...” “Enforce the declarations equitably and uniformly”. Allowing one group of members to combine their adjacent properties without added dues and requiring another group of members to pay additional dues forever if they combine their properties violates that By Laws provision.

I have sent a letter to the Board along with the By Laws and A&E committees requesting the rule be changed. It is my opinion the rule be changed to mirror the existing contiguous lot agreement allowing all lot owners the same equal treatment.

I hope you will agree a change is needed. I hope you will contact me with your opinion and include our Board President, Tom Bogusevic (tomb@golakecarroll.com; 708-269-2137) and General Manager, Dick Schwalbenberg (dschwalbenberg@ golakecarroll.com; 815-493-2552 x112).

John Quilico, 25-23&24 johnquilico@frontier.com; phone 815-821-3009

D OF DIRECTORS

Tom Bogusevic, (31-10) President Term: 2019-2021 #1 708-269-2137 tomb@golakecarroll.com Alan Cazzato (5-260) Vice President Term: 2018-2020 #1 312-446-2950 acazzato@sbcglobal.net

3rd Thursday each month at the Lodge

6:30PM

Fair is Fair I thought it would be a good idea to respond to Mr. Quilico’s letter to the editor in an effort to clarify some of the points he stipulated. Mr. Quilico is correct the term “contiguous lot agreement” (CLA) is not recognized in the definition portion of our governing documents because this was a sales tactic used by the original developers to sell lots and is no longer entered into as an effort to sell property.

If a property owner has an existing CLA in place that covers multiple lots in excess of 1 acre, they only pay one set of dues.

They can enjoy their expanded property within the limits spelled out by the A&E Rules and Regulations.

The drawback to the CLA is that if they choose to break it apart, they will have to comply with the rules and pay the back dues and fees.

The replat rules are part of the A&E Rules and Regulations, which have been recommended by the A&E Committee and adopted by the BOD annually. The current rules allow for up to 3 platted lots, within the density sections, to be replatted into a single lot and pay only single annual dues. One of the reasons for this is because of the septic field restrictions in the current building codes. It currently requires at least ½ to ¾ of an acre to build a home. The replat rules for non-density sections allow contiguous lots to be replatted, but if the area exceeds1 acre, then multiple annual dues must be paid. These rules do not unfairly favor one group of property owners over the other.

There really isn’t any reason to include the CLA in the governing documents since those that exist have them and no new CLA are being created. Mr. Quilico’s statement that it “effects all contiguous, or lots next to others here at Lake Carroll, owned by the same person”, is not true. The CLA only applies to and impacts those lots currently covered by a fully executed and recorded CLA. The BOD in 2016 did make a clarification to the rules in regard to this issue but the BOD does have the authority to establish and adopt rules and regulations without membership approval. These rules do not treat members differently. The rules limit the number of density sections lots to three, which in most situations will be 1 acre or less. The non-density sections have many lots that are one-half acre or larger and many that are larger than 1 acre. To allow these larger lots to be replatted into single lots in excess of 1 acre without paying multiple dues would treat the density section members unfairly. I hope this clears things up.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this topic, please feel free to contact me at Cjmort1@aol.com or 630.768.0454.

Cliff Mortenson Board Director Board Liaison to A&E Committee Former A&E Committee Chair

Cliff Mortenson (16-167) Secretary Term: 2020-2022 #1 630-768-0454 cjmort1@aol.com Steve Mack (28-31) Treasurer Term: 2019-2021 #1 847-657-6600 x106 Steve@mackTracks.com Betty Carrubba (17-145) Director Term: 2020-2022 #1 847-903-3681 bettycarrubba@comcast.net

Bring your home and car insurance under the same roof.

Steve Daugherty (24-92) Director Term: 2019-2020 #1 630-546-2303 sdaugherty@currenttech.net

If you insure both your auto and home with me, I can make sure you have the proper coverage and save you up to 15% with our Multi-Policy Discount.

Ryan FitzSimmons (16-159) Director Term: 2019-2021 #1 847-772-7883 fitzsir@icloud.com

Rhett Coatney Financial Representative Lanark, IL 61046 (815) 493-2544 SM-ST1730164

Dick Schwalbenberg General Manager LCA: 815-493-2552 ext 112 Cell: 815-297-5021 dschwalbenberg@golakecarroll.com

Call me today to see if you qualify.

Amount and availability of discounts varied by state.

Auto and Home insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company ®, COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company ® or COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company ®, Bloomington, IL. 0819-503HC-16697-11/12/2019

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus December 15th

Sunday February 2, 2020

Saturday, January 25th 8PM-12AM Lake Carroll Clubhouse

4:00PM-10:00PM Club Room

THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO AT LAKE CARROLL CLUBHOUSE ~ January - July 2020 JANUARY Saturday, January 11, 2020 Saturday, January 25, 2020 FEBRUARY Sunday, February 2, 2020 Friday, February 14, 2020 Saturday, February 15, 2020 Sunday, February 23, 2020 Saturday, February 29, 2020 MARCH Saturday, March 7, 2020 Saturday, March 28, 2020 Sunday, March 29, 2020 APRIL Saturday, April 4, 2020 Sunday, April 12, 2020 Sunday, April 26, 2020 MAY Saturday, May 2, 2020 Sunday, May 3, 2020 Sunday, May 10, 2020 JUNE Saturday, June 20, 2020 JULY Saturday, July 4, 2020

Boogie Woogie Bingo Karaoke Night

2:00pm - 5:00pm 8:00pm - 12:00am

Bar Bar

Super Bowl Party Valentine's Dinner & Dance w/Spotted Dog Valentines Dinner & Dance w/Better Late Than Never

4:00pm-10:00pm 5:00pm - 7:00pm Dinner 7:00pm - 11pm Band 5:00pm - 7:00pm Dinner 7:00pm - 11:00pm Band

Bar Dinning Room & Club Room

Open Mic Night Roaring 20's Murder Mystery

4:00pm - 8:00pm 4:30pm - 8:30pm

Bar Club Room

Music Trivia w/ Ron Hennings Boogie Woogie Bingo Open Nic Night

7:00pm - 9:00pm

Clubroom

2:00pm - 5:00pm 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Bar Bar

Boaters Safety Course Easter Brunch Open Mic Night

8:00am - 4:30pm 10:00am - 2:00pm 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Clubroom Dinning Room Bar

Kentucky Derby Party

4:00pm - 7:00pm Party 7:00pm - 11:00pm Band 1:00pm - 3:00pm 10:00am - 2:00pm

Bar & Patio

Father's Day Cookout

11:00am - 2:00pm 7:00pm - 11:00pm Band

Club & Patio Rooms & Patio

4th of July Celebration & Fireworks

All Day

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Spring Fashion Show Mother's Day Brunch

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Dinning Room & Club Room

Club & Patio Rooms & Patio Dinning Room

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$196,500

Waterfront double lot in Lake Carroll with panoramic views of the lake by the west marina! 88’ of frontage with docking space to pull your boat right up. Some landscaping and retaining walls already put in with rock and a sandbox area. Part of the lot is level on top that would be a great location for a garage and then slopes down to the water to make a great building spot for a walkout. Over half of the lot has very mature trees. Perk test has been done.

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Thank you to all who participated in the Lake Carroll Clubhouse Festival of Trees. We loved every one of them.

Judging was held on Sunday, December 15th, following Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The winners are...

“Most Unique” - Lake Carroll Prairie Club “Most Votes” and “Best Themed” - Lake Carroll Fishing Club

We can’t wait for next year!

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Lake Carroll Quilt Club

By Loretta Dick

The Lake Carroll Quilt Club met on December 3rd at the Lodge for their annual potluck meeting. Fourteen of us met at noon and ate a delicious variety of sandwiches, salads and sides. After our meal we gathered around to share the various projects we have been working on. The talent, imagination, and skill that goes into them is inspirational!

Please join us on February 4, 2020 as we start off the year. We meet on the first Tuesday of ten months, (no Jan or July), at 1pm at the lodge. All crafts and skill levels are welcome and appreciated! You do not have to be a quilter. If you knit, crochet, sew, or build we look forward to meeting you. Come even if you just want to be inspired! We are happy to get you started in some area of crafting.

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Page 11A

What about the open-ended comments from the August 2019 survey?

Well, they have been analyzed and here is an update. First, if any comment addressed multiple factors (e.g., the clubhouse, the lake, and the pool), the comment was broken into smaller pieces and placed in the appropriate bucket. Then each comment was evaluated for sentiment (e.g., either positive or negative).

In the end, we had 188 comments and approximately 85% (157) were negative in sentiment. The top 5 categories (62% of the feedback) were: Clubhouse (20%) Dues (18%) Experience (10%) Lake (9%) WiFi (6%) And 22 categories comprising the other 38%) Below are some updates for 4 of these top 5 categories. The other category (experience) will be addressed in next month’s article.

The word cloud at the start of the article represents (visually) the key words of your feedback. Words that appear more frequently have a larger font size.

CLUBHOUSE A new Clubhouse Manager, Dee Kuhlemeier, was hired in July of 2019. With a strong background in restaurant management, Dee has been focusing on filling open staff positions, staff training, improving customer service and improving the quality and consistency of the food served by the Clubhouse. In October of 2019 a new Clubhouse Head Cook, Mel Clegg, was hired. Mel is returning to the Clubhouse kitchen where she previously served as Head Cook and her food was well liked by Clubhouse patrons.

Finally, in response to concerns from patrons about inconsistent Clubhouse hours of operation, the decision was made to keep the Clubhouse open seven days a week year-round.

DUES Our treasurer, Steve Mack, spent a great deal of time in 2019 trying to explain the current state of our financial situation and the challenges facing us. He used multiple approaches in trying to communicate the message and be as transparent as possible – the LCA newspaper, e-mail blasts, budget forums, and a series of ad hoc one-on-one meetings.

We believe that the passing of the 2020 budget is an indicator that he was successful in communicating with most of our members. He is now trying to figure out how to enhance those communications for those who voted against the budget.

LAKE There was no single theme that stood out as the feedback for our crown jewel ranged from “Lake looks the best it has in years” to requests to address the beach, marina services, the number of boat slips, the algae blooms, and enforcement of the lake rules.

While most of the feedback has already been discussed at the Lake Committee, important, newer topics for further committee review are boat ramp repairs, the lighting of those ramps, and more security on the lake at high volume times as well as near and after dusk. Anticipated discussion topics for 2020 also include (a) Swimmers Bay being too crowded and (b) a boat washing station (although it is unlikely that any new, non-essential capital projects will be approved in the foreseeable future).

Updates to some of the specific comments: Surf Boats and Erosion. A sub-committee was formed in 2018 and its recommendations were published after several months. The Lake Committee continues to monitor the situation.

Adding Boat Slips. It is only recently that demand exceeded supply, so various alternatives have been discussed. One factor that needs to be at the forefront is that any addition would be a rather major capital expense. Another consideration is the amount of boat traffic on the lake, which has also increased in recent years. The Lake Committee continues to discuss alternatives and the pros / cons of each.

Algae Blooms. Algae blooms have two issues: (1) BAD blue green algae produces the toxins that provide concern for human and animal health. It is very difficult to deal with and the reason we want plants in the lake to use nutrients that would otherwise be available to algae. (2) Green algae (not bad, but aesthetically cause recreational use concerns). While people don’t like to see, it, it is NOT ‘unsafe’ and potentially toxin producing. As noted previously in newspaper articles, the algae blooms are mostly out of our control. That said, moving water helps mitigate the risk. And with the grouting of the dam reducing loss, normal rainfall will help move excess water over the spillway.

Aquatic Plants. While multiple steps have been taken, the weed situation is closely tied to our weather (e.g., temperature, rainfall, and cloud cover) and upstream agricultural runoff. We need to continue to understand that ‘plants aren’t bad’ and we need to continue to maintain a level of tolerance of aquatic plants. For example, the plant community also helps with reducing algae growth because the ‘food’ for plants is used by algae when plants are not present. The new harvester (purchased through the LIP) helps as does the option for private owners to pay for extra treatments at their property. Our Lake Manager (Joe Rush) actively monitors the weed situation and adjusts his strategy as the situation dictates.

And for the last 2 items, our watershed activities will definitely help reduce sediment and nutrients that will have negative impact on our lake. We will post updates as we progress with this collaborative effort with the Environmental Protection Agency and neighboring farmers.

We are also working with upstream landowners on a grant project funded through Trout Unlimited; more to come on this initiative.

A reminder that members are welcome to attend the Lake Committee meetings, which meet the 1st Monday from April to November at 6:30 PM. A dial-in number is available.

Wi-Fi Yes, we know this is a sore point. The multiple approaches / attempts to resolve the issue have not yielded fruit. We will continue trying.

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LAKE CARROLL LOTS 1-111 Captains Dr. - Good water view from this .31 acre corner lot. 30’ grassed greenway one side. Broker owned. $19,900 1-189 Old Wharf Rd. - .26 acre lot on knoll with water view. Wooded area to the front and rear.

Broker owned. $4,900 17-27R Lakeview Dr. - Replat of lots 27 & 28. 1.17 acres gently sloping to treed rear.

Conventional septic. Broker owned. $14,900 17-36 Lakeview Dr. - Fully wooded .62 acre situated one lot off of the water. Broker owned. $14,900 GOLF COURSE LOT WITH DEEDED BOAT SLIP 23-123 Lake Carroll Blvd. - 1.06 acre Golf Course lot with Deeded Boat Slip. Backs up to the 18th tee boxes. Only golf course lot on the market with a deeded boat slip. Broker owned. $19,900 WATER VIEW LOTS 4-140 Beachcomber Ln. - 2nd Tier gently sloping .26 acre lot with great water view. Broker owned. $19,900 16-157 Stonehedge Dr. - 2nd Tier gently sloping .26 acre lot with great water view overlooking the point. Broker owned. $14,900 WATERFRONT LOTS 4-39 Grandview Dr. - .5 acre gently sloping waterfront lot with 130.18’ of shoreline. Quiet bay with nice view of lake. Suitable for walkout basement.

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Page 12A

Lake Carroll News, January 2020 Well, here we are in the middle of December, rapidly approaching Christmas. What have we been doing?

Quite a bit really!

Prairie Club: After our meeting in November, some stayed behind to make the ornaments for the club Christmas tree (you can see it at the clubhouse lower level) but four of us went to the Lake Carroll Blvd prairie and scouted for invasive woody plants. In the photo (right), Tom Young and Becky Janopoulos remove some re-sprouts of a black locust from around the stand of black locust trees we removed last year. In addition, a honeysuckle bush that was over- looked, and a couple of young multi-flora roses were also removed.

All were cut and treated with herbicide to prevent regrowth. This is the perfect time of year to be removing woody invasive plants. Other than these, the unit has remained fairly clear of woody invasives.

We also did a little work on our remnant. We caged the short green milkweed (asclepias viridiflora), to protect it from harm and planted the seeds from the one pod we obtained from that plant this year. Several plantings around the parent plant were done, as well as planting several directly across the quad trail from the parent. In this area, we noted what appears to be a young short green milkweed. We can’t be sure but it is in the area where we placed four of the seedlings produced from the pod the year before. We will know more definitively in the spring when it begins to grow again. It could just be a survivor from the young plants produced from the seed from last years’ pod.

Our plan for the winter months is to continue removing woody materials from the remnant and establishing a fire break on the northern half, to prepare for a prescribed burn in the spring. The Illinois State Heritage Biologist has recommended we not try and seed any missing species into the remnant until we get a prescribed burn through it. That will tell us if there are any seeds of these missing species in the seed bank.

Edgewater Planting: The next stage in the planting is to burn off the annual fox tail grass that has grown from the residual seeds in the soil. With the copious rains that we received, it has thrived exceedingly well and as such we had to have maintenance mow it to around 8-10 inches high. This has resulted in a lot of material at the surface that needs to be removed. This will be done via prescribed burn to facilitate good ground contact with the seeds we will sow following the burn. As such, we are watching the weather closely so that when the conditions warrant, we can light it up and plant our wildflower seeds. Everything is weighed out and ready to go. Conditions are critical in making that decision. We obtain this data from the U. S. weather website. Typical information found are Dewpoint/Temp (see example), Gusts/ Surface Wind, Relative Humidity, Wind speed/direction, etc.

With this information, we can make our determination if the conditions are right for the prescribed burn. To date, it has not been dry long enough to warrant attempting the burn. Not to worry though, we can plant the seeds up to early spring and have them cold stratify and begin to grow.

Watershed Committee: We also participate on the watershed committee. The committee met last month and had very good representation of both farmers and LC residents. The focus is on various projects involving both the landowners as well as residents and obtaining funding for those projects. The prairie club is involved in education and working to establish rain gardens and aiding with native plantings in problematic areas within the association. We are looking at how we can obtain funding for these projects through grants etc.

Seed Sharing: The prairie club was invited to a seed sharing event, hosted by Josh Clark, who brought together representatives from various organizations from Winnebago, Jo Daviess, McHenry, Kane, Stevenson, Carroll, DeKalb, Cook, Ogle, Lake, Boone, and DuPage counties. There we had a potluck, following by sharing of native plant seeds that were collected by the various organizations that attended. We obtained 29 varieties of plant seeds.

We can use these in existing plantings as well as in future planned units. This is something we can also do here at Lake Carroll. Pick, process, and share seeds from the various units we have, to use in future plantings here at the lake; such as watershed projects, private gardens, and other ventures. This year alone, we have collected nearly $2000 in seeds, some of which we have used in the campground planting and will use in our Edgewater Circle planting. Next fall the plan is to distribute free seed packets to our LC members for your local gardens. This shows that together, we can make a difference!

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020 Page 13A In last month’s issue of the LCN, we shared with you the generosity of one of our Lake Carroll members, John Esposito. John saw a need for a portable chair lift at the Aquatic Complex and offered the funds needed to purchase it and have it installed. John’s hope is that the community will take advantage of the lift, whether it’s to rehab an injury or surgery, or to use as assistance in and out of the pool. The chair lift is available for use anytime the pool is open, simply ask the pool attendant for assistance.

In an effort, to repay John for at least a part of what was invested in the chair lift, a Halloween Party fundraiser was held. A HUGE Thank you to all who donated and/or attended the party, the proceeds totaled $1,800! Additionally, the LCN Photography Club heard about the fundraiser and presented us a check for $1,000! When the $2,800 was given to John as an offering of thanks for his generosity, he had another idea for the money. A new PreCor 932 Treadmill for the fitness center!

As John puts it, “I’m Paying It Forward” . . . and he is challenging you to do the same. When an item such as a portable chair lift or a treadmill is purchased for Lake Carroll it takes the burden off the budget for other things that may come up during the year. What are some of the things you would like to see done around Lake Carroll? Send me your ideas. Philanthropy is contagious – CATCH THE BUG! Donna Aleksy – donnarec@golakecarroll.com

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Security Residential Checks & Low Temperature Light Checks Submitted by Luke Fossett, LC Security The Lake Carroll Security Department offers a Home Inspection that requests our officers to routinely take a visible check of your home while you are away.

Members of the Lake Carroll Security Department carry out these checks, twice a day on a daily basis. The officer on patrol will do a drive by of your home looking for anything out of the ordinary such as open doors and lights left on. The times when the officer does this will be documented on a daily log sheet; this helps our department establish a time frame in case a problem arises. When something out of the ordinary is found the officer on duty will contact you to rectify the situation.

The Lake Carroll Security Department also has a Low Temperature Light Check. The same things are looked for during this check as are during the Home Check. We also look for a low temperature light that is placed in a specific window in the home. These low temperature switches can be purchased at most home improvements stores. Locally, they may be purchased at Menards. The Security Department recommends the use of a colored bulb. These lights work by being plugged into an outlet and the lamp is placed into a window.

When the temperature in the home falls below a certain preset temperature the light will turn on. This will let the officer know that the home has a furnace problem or is out of LP. The officer will then contact the homeowner. The Lake Carroll Security Department recommends the use of these lights in all homes that are left unattended during the winter months.

The Lake Carroll Security Officer on duty will not normally leave the vehicle while doing these checks. However the officer will leave the vehicle if anything is found out of the ordinary or the homeowner contacts the officer with something specific to check such as a door that may have been left unlocked. *All residential driveways must be cleared of ice and snow. If this is not done, we may not be able to check your home properly, or at all.

The fees for this service are as follows: 1. $10.00 a week 2. $30.00 a month 3. $180.00 a year A form must be filled out if you are interested in these programs. The form can be picked up at the Association Office, from a Lake Carroll Security Officer, or at www.golakecarroll. com (Resources> Document Library>Security Forms).

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Page 15A

Thanks for Your Support

The Transformers would like to express our deepest appreciation to all those whose generous gifts of time, goods, and funds made both our Christmas with a Cause and Breakfast with the Grinch so successful.

Donations given at Santa’s Workshop combined with Michelle Brennan’s offer of 30% of sales at her Discovery Toys booth enabled us to provide a sturdy educational toy or game for every classroom at Eastland Elementary and Little Sprouts, and one for Kids Club.

We were able to offer Breakfast with the Grinch to 190 people, about half of whom were children, because of contributions of food from Casey’s, WinnPrairie Assisted Living, and Transformers members. We wish to recognize Crista Floming, who stepped in as our substitute cook, and Becky Swalve’s contribution of time and effort. Eastland FFA and Student Council members, with their advisor Cindy Feltmeyer, went all out, dressing up as characters from the Grinch to serve the eager guests.

Our thanks also extend to those who participated in all our events this year and dropped something in our donation jars to help us continue to offer a variety of events and projects that enhance Lanark.

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Page 1B

“Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly”

By Bonnie Ewing

The ladies of the Lake Carroll Women’s Club were gifted this year with a beautiful luncheon at the Plumtree Lodge on December 12th. The committee of women, under the direction of Donna Aleksy and Lana Soldat, really out did themselves! The room was decked out with twinkling lights, festive trees, and absolutely gorgeous tables set by a very creative group of women. JJ & Freddies catered the event with a delightful buffet of salad, chicken, stuffed shells, and peach cobbler. Our own Melissa tended bar, providing the group with several exciting holiday cocktails!

Following the luncheon, the Eastland Jazz Band, under the direction of Sara Swart, entertained the women with a variety of songs, including several holiday selections.

President Gael Will called the meeting to order at 1:55. The membership committee chairperson, Pat Bykowski, reported that sixty-seven ladies attended the luncheon, which included four guests. Rosanne Stangl, Treasurer, shared the current balance. The club is in very good shape financially in preparation for their spring allocations and donations with a few future fundraisers planned!

Maureen Unser reminded the ladies that we continue to collect pasta and sauce for the food pantry and Loretta Dick asked for volunteers to sew for our blanket project. She already has some blanket materials ready to go and will have more prepared after the holidays.

Gael reminded members of the board that she will be calling a meeting in January. Board members are asked to send her dates when they will be available.

The next club meeting will be on Thursday, January 9, at 1:00 at the Lodge. Donna Aleksy will present a program on personality profiling and how it is used in the workplace. We hope you will be able to join us! The meeting was adjourned at 2:10.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

Page 2B

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Lake and Resources

This month we’re going to learn about another one of the fish inhabiting the waters of Lake Carroll. The Perca flavescens, or also known as the yellow perch or ring perch.

While these fish are not known for their aggressive fight, they are known for their delicate white, flakey fillets and are excellent table fare, and considered a delicacy by some.

Joe Rush Lake Manager

These fish don’t get very big, with most fish averaging between 7 and 10 inches.

However, they have been known to reach sizes upwards of 15 inches. My family actually caught one here at Lake Carroll a few years ago that was nearly 14” and full of eggs during the pre-spawn! She was released, unharmed, back into the lake to spawn. Yellow Perch also have a relatively short lifespan, and usually live less than 7 years. They are also known to over-populate and stunt at a small size, so management of these fish can sometimes be difficult.

With the short life span, yellow perch reach maturity and begin to reproduce around 2 or 3 years of age. They spawn very early in the spring, normally right after the ice leaves the lake, when water temperatures are around 44F to 52F, and spawning can last into early May. The males are first to arrive on at spawning sites, and they prefer to spawn on submerged vegetation or brush but will also spawn on the gravel, or rubble on the bottom of the lake. Interestingly, one female perch can be attended by as many as 15 to 25 males, swimming below or behind a female in

a very tight school. They spawn by broadcasting, and the eggs are stringy strands of gelatinous masses that look somewhat like an accordion in shape. Some of these strands can be over 7 feet long and over 200,000 eggs! However, the average strand has around 30,000 eggs. The number of eggs in the strand is directly related to the

age and size of the female fish laying the eggs. The eggs masses float freely in the water until becoming stuck on the weeds or lake bottom. Unlike the bluegill and bass, the perch doesn’t guard the eggs, and they are left alone to hatch and survive.

When fishing for yellow perch, the action can be fairly good since these are a schooling fish, and they are persistent and aggressive eaters. To actively fish for perch you need to understand their habitat preferences. The perch are a schooling fish, so where you find one you are likely to find many. They are primarily a bottom feeder, feeding near or on the bottom. Start fishing there. If you aren’t having success, pull you bait up a few feet and see if you can find the school suspended.

Pay close attention to the depth when you find your first fish as the school will be at that depth consistently. Another tip is that the schools are usually all close in size.

Therefore, if your only catching small perch, it is likely that it consists of smaller fish and you may want to look for another school to catch your ‘keepers’. Another tip is that yellow perch feed during the day, and especially early in the morning and late afternoons. They become inactive at night. Once you get into a biting school, you need to be patient on your hook-set as these guys are notorious for nipping the bait, and it’s easy to pull your hook away too early.

Yellow perch are also fun fish for the ice fisherman because perch remain active all winter long. However, they often move down to the deeper parts of the lake, feeding exclusively off the bottom.

There are mixed reviews on the yellow perch in that they are very hungry aggressive feeders, eating nearly anything an angler will put in front of them. Which some anglers enjoy, but some anglers also don’t like them because they are constantly nipping baits, and known as ‘bait stealers’, which is considered a nuisance by some.

This nipping trait, however, is what makes the anglers that like them… REALLY like them! Perch are pretty dependable when it comes to biting on the hook.

Beyond providing angling opportunities for the members, or the opportunity for an occasional meal, the yellow perch is also a forage fish for some of our predators.

Yellow perch are not known to be exceptional swimmers, so they make an easy meal for a hungry walleye. Happy Fishing…

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Lake & Natural Resources Showcase – Crappie

By Joe Rush, Lake Manager In this month’s article we’re going to showcase one of the fish species at Lake Carroll and educate our members about them. This species is a main staple for the angler that likes to have a fish fry, they are extremely aggressive during the spawning season and create some great fishing memories for seasoned anglers as well as the novice, and they are readily caught through the ice during the winter.

It’s the crappie.

Most people that fish the lake talk about ‘crappie’ fishing, but many are not aware that there are two species of crappie; the black crappie and the white crappie. The white and black crappie are also capable of hybridizing to make a cross, but it doesn’t happen that often. In most instances, if you catch a crappie at Lake Carroll, it will be a black crappie. However, as stated, there are two species of present. When black and white crappie are in the same

body of water, the black crappie normally out competes the white crappie, therefore dominating the fish generally caught by the angler.

While both black and white crappie are very similar in appearance, there are some visual differences that can give you an indication as to which species you’ve caught.

The white crappie has visible dark vertical bars along the body while the black crappie has more of a mottled black over white appearance. However, to be sure which species you’ve caught, you can count the number of dorsal spines on the fishes back to be sure. The white crappie will have 5 to 6 (rarely 7) spines while the black crappie will have 7 or 8 dorsal spines.

Crappie are a predator species, normally occupying open water areas with submerged timber or aquatic plants.

Their diet consists of zooplankton, aquatic insects and small crustaceans and fish. Young crappie feed primarily on the zooplankton and insect diet but as they mature into

Page 3B

adults, they feed primarily on fish but can also feed on insects. Therefore, minnow type baits, such as jigs, are effective for catching crappie.

Crappie usually mature in 2 to 3 years and have an average life expectancy of about 7 years. Average size of the black crappie is 4” to 8” while white crappies are known to have a larger average size at 9” to 10”. However, black crappie are generally thicker and heavier than white crappie of the same length. We currently see a strong year class of black crappie at Lake Carroll that are averaging over 10” but we also see multiple strong year classes coming up in the future.

In the spring, as the waters warm in the shallows to about 60 degrees (Usually around Mother’s Day here in Northern Illinois) the male crappie will move into shallow water and build a nest for spawning. One female can spawn with several males. Black crappie females can produce between 11,000 to 188,000 eggs and the white crappie can produce between 2,900 and 91,700 eggs!

That’s a lot of eggs! However, keep in mind that many of the young are food for other predators and don’t make it to adulthood. Once the eggs hatch (3 to 5 days) the males remain on the nest to protect the developing fry until they disperse. The female moves back into deeper water after spawning and anglers will commonly target drop offs into deeper water to catch the big females when the males are guarding nests.

Crappie are known to have very cyclical spawns where year classes are either weak or very good, and that spawning is dependent upon environmental factors as well as crappie population density. They are known to overpopulate and have fairly fast growth rates.

The next time you have a crappie on the line, you’ll probably find yourself asking, “How many spines on a black crappie compared to a white crappie?”

Enjoy your time on the water and remember to take a kid fishing…

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Happy New Year and Welcome 2020. January ushers in a new year, a new decade and an extremely busy time for the Fishing Club. Before details of this year’s schedule is shared, there is one last activity from 2019 to report. That activity was the Spillway rescue of game fish combined with catch and release fishing in the dam basin.

The Spillway Rescue was conducted on Wednesday November 20th. This rescue was only possible because of a mandatory inspection of the dam. That inspection required the use of a large pump which lowered and controlled the water level in the basin. With the water level lowered, the club was able to push Seine nets through the basin and capture all game fish. Prior to the spillway rescue, the Fishing Club solicited the association to approve catch and release fishing in the basin. This request was only considered because the planned spillway rescue had to be cancelled due to continual rain. The results of catch and release fishing combined with the rescue operation were impressive. A total of 434 game fish were rescued and returned to Lake Carroll. Part of the grand total included 3-Muskie, 144-Walleye, 93-Small Mouth Bass, 40-Large Mouth Bass and many panfish and catfish. Saving game fish in the spillway is always a priority for the club.

The club wants to say thanks to the association for allowing catch and release fishing and all the volunteers who helped with the rescue.

The spillway activity ended the 2019 fishing club activities. With 2020 now on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to mark your calendar for a year filled with Fishing Club activities. And since this year is just beginning, some activities have assigned dates, others still need to be planned. Watch for additional information on all events, and in some cases, the need for volunteers. Consider reserving some time to enjoy these activities and all the entertainment possibilities they provide.

JANUARY - Sink the Tree Contest and Snow Golf These activities are weather dependent, watch for email blasts about dates and information.

FEBRUARY & MARCH – Structure and Hatchery Start-Up - Structure is necessary to create habitat for fish. The materials needed to build the 4’ x 4’ x 4’ Georgia Cubes has been ordered, delivered and is stored in the hatchery.

- Hatchery Start-Up activities are necessary before the Spring Walleye Harvest begins. The start-up requires the hatchery be thoroughly cleaned, equipment inspected / repaired, nets be located in the lake and staffing of work boat crews be coordinated.

Watch for email blasts on both activities.

APRIL & MAY – Hatchery Operations, Hatchery Open Houses and Goose Egg Oiling - Hatchery Operations include tasks where daily boat crews check nets for walleye, harvested eggs are fertilized and newly hatched Fry are released. This operation begins around April 1st.

- Hatchery Open Houses are scheduled for two Sunday’s in April on the 19th and 26th from 10:00am to 2:00pm. These open houses provide an informative explanation on the mechanics of a working hatchery. Guests observe game fish in holding tanks and participate in some hands-on demonstrations. Consider volunteering, both operations have many satisfying benefits.

- Goose Egg Oiling is performed in early Spring. This activity helps reduce the gosling population.

JUNE - Kids Annual Fishing Derby Saturday, June 20th from 9:00am to 12:00pm has been reserved for this year’s derby. The day’s activities include fishing, games, award presentation, a raffle and lunch. Lots of volunteers are needed to assist with this event.

AUGUST - Couples Fishing Tournament and Golf Outing - Couples Fishing Tournament will be held on Monday, August, 3rd from 9:00am to 12:00pm. A grill out and prize presentation is held after fishing concludes.

- Golf Outing tee off time is Saturday, August 29th @ 1:00pm. Dinner is served after everyone completes 18 holes of a team scramble. Both outings are great fun.

SEPTEMBER - Rolling Hills This “Day at the Lake” was a huge success in 2019. Rolling Hills has expressed interest for another day of boating, fishing, games and lunch. The day is extremely rewarding for the clients and volunteers.

OCTOBER - Pig Roast / Bonfire and Spillway Rescue - Pig Roast / Bonfire get-together is planned for late October. This well attended event is a crowd pleaser enjoyed by all who attend.

- Spillway Rescue of game fish may happen this month. Weather and water flow down the dam spillway will dictate the feasibility. Based upon weather conditions, the rescue could be moved into November as it was in 2019.

NOVEMBER - Fawn Pond Netting and Giving Tree - Fawn Pond Netting and the recovery of young walleye will begin as the pond is drained. Prior to the start of netting the FC Board will decide if Fawn Pond can support the growth of young Fry. Based upon the results of this review, the netting activity in November may happen in Fawn Pond or in another location where young Fry were released. Details on where Fry are released will be announced later this year.

- Giving Tree is an annual activity which benefits less fortunate people. Your support is always appreciated to help everyone celebrate the holidays.

PROJECTS - Bass Fishing Tournaments are sponsored by the Fishing Club. If you are an avid fisherman who enjoys the competitive challenge of catching fish, consider participating. Watch for details.

- Construction of the Handicap Fishing Pier is undoubtedly the biggest activity this year. The Club has approved the design, the location, a preliminary cost, a material supplier and the need for volunteers to help with construction. Much work still needs to be done to complete the planning and execution phases of this project. Consider helping with either phase. This pier is an important addition to Lake Carroll. It will make fishing assessible for everyone.

ADDITIONAL EVENTS The Fishing Club conducts Board meetings on the 1st Wednesday of every month.

General Membership and Potluck Meetings are scheduled for the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Members and guests are welcome to both meetings. Additionally, the club schedules a few seasonal day trips throughout the year. All trips are planned on interest received from the membership and destination availability.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR 2020 is shaping up to be a year filled with many Fishing Club events. It’s now time to open your calendar, jot down some notes, consider volunteering and plan to have a good time. The Club organizes all activities to be fun, rewarding and family orientated. For our members who help, we always appreciate your support. If you’re not a member or not an avid fisherperson, don’t agonize, many members join the club for the camaraderie, fellowship and participation opportunities. All that’s needed to help is a desire to enjoy family, friends and a good time. Happy 2020 from the Fishing Club.

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

The Spillway Rescue – Wednesday November 20th

Page 5B

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

REC CONNECT

COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY “Each New Year, we have before us a brand-new book containing 365 blank pages. Let us fill them with all the forgotten things from last year—the words we forgot to say, the love we forgot to show, and the charity we forgot to offer.� Peggy Toney Horton Such an appropriate quote as we begin 2020 with 2 New Board Members: Betty Carrubba and Cliff Mortensen; an Approved Budget and a New Vision and Optimism for Donna Aleksy Recreation Director Lake Carroll!

My commitment to you for 2020 is to continue to ‘CREATE COMMUNITY’ through the events and happenings within all departments, committees and clubs at Lake Carroll. 2019 provided many opportunities for me to work with you, your children and grandchildren. I am blessed and reminded of a simple life lesson, ‘every child needs to learn how to love, accept, forgive and most importantly, be kind to others’ . . . a lesson for our entire Lake Carroll community to live by!

Allow me to again share with you the Lake Carroll Woman’s Club Collect, which is read at the beginning of each meeting: “Keep us, O God, from pettiness; let us be large in thought, in word and in deed. Let us be done with fault-finding and leave off self-seeking. May we put away all pretenses and meet each other face to face, without self-pity and without prejudice. May we never be hasty in judgement and always generous? Let us take time for all things; make us to grow calm, serene, and gentle. Teach us to put into action our better impulses, straight-forward and unafraid. Grant that we may realize it is the little things that create differences, that in the big things of life we are as one. And may we strive to touch and to know the great common human heart of us all, and, O Lord God, let us forget not, to be kind!� Mary Stewart Lake Carroll is a special place, filled with special people. Let us strive to live up to this expectation!

RECREATION UPDATE We held two fun events at the end of 2019. First was the Little Elves Workshop on November 30th. Kids made gifts and had them wrapped and ready to put under their Christmas trees for their family members. We hope everyone enjoyed their special homemade presents. Second, on December 14th we had our Holiday Family Fun Day. We had games and crafts for the whole family. Participation was low for both of these events. We may look at moving them to another time of the year. What was clear is that everyone who attended had the Christmas spirit and a good time.

The Tube Hill opened for the season on December 21st and those who used it would say “it’s a slippery slope.â€? Everyone is having a great time zooming down the hill. This year our maintenance department, who have done a superb job at creating snow where there was none, have made two downhill lanes. One up, two down‌it keeps the tubers moving. When you’re ready to relax you will find the Plumtree Lodge Hideaway Lounge is open on Saturdays and Sundays. You can find the hours for the Lounge, as well as the regular and special holiday hours for the Tube Hill and Pool elsewhere in this publication. Making Memories that Last a Lifetime.

Friday, Feb. 14th – 7pm-11pm

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Page 7B

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

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Page 9B

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Meeting times: Mondays at 10:00am.

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Classes PLUMTREE FITNESS at the CENTER Lodge

Page 11B

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Snowmobiling outside of Lake Carroll

RECIPE CORNER

By Tom Wienecke LCA Member & Sno-Pearls Treasurer

The snowmobile trails to Lanark, Shannon, Pearl City, and over to Freeport are managed by the Pearl City Sno-Pearls and should be marked by this time. The Lena club, as well as other clubs, should also have their trails identified.

There are many nice rides you can take. Just north of a Pearl City is Lena. A stop over could be at Rafters or Coaches, a place we’re there is always a lot of sledders. From there you can head north through Nora and Warren before heading into Wisconsin. Just remember you must also have a nonresident snowmobile sticker to ride the Wisconsin trails; the DNR checks for them.

Another nice ride is the Jane Adams Trail, which is a converted railroad bed used in the summer for hiking and bicycles. It goes from Freeport to Orangeville, with a turn off to McConnel and back to Lena. Once in Orangeville you can gas up before entering the Cheesehead Trail. There are a couple places for eating and taking a break in that area, as well.

Trails are open from December 15th thru March 15th with a minimum 4” snow on the ground.

If there’s not enough snow here, it’s usually good in Wisconsin and the up of Michigan. Think Snow!

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 7PM-11PM LAKE CARROLL CLUBHOUSE 4-H VISUAL ARTS- PAPER SPIN CLUB NEXT DATE – JANUARY 12-3:30-5:30PM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, THOMSON Youth ages 8-18 are invited to attend a new visual arts paper club starting monthly through July 2020 at the United Methodist Church in Thomson. This group will meet the second Sunday’s of the month from 3:30-5:30 and will enjoy leaning and creating fun activities such as; gift bags, cards, scrapbooks, and more. There is a membership fee of $20 for non-4-H members. For more information contact the Carroll County Extension office at 815-244-9444. Register online at go.illinois.edu/CLWPaperSpin

DRIED FLORAL WINTER WORKSHOP, JANUARY 18-10A.M.-NOON-WHITESIDE COUNTY EXTENSION OFFICE, STERLING Join the Whiteside County Master Gardeners on a brief lesson on harvesting and drying flowers for arrangements. Participants will then enjoy creating their own entry way or home seasonal dried arrangement. Supplies provided but you may bring your own dried goods or container. Workshop is limited to 12 participants and has a $10 supply fee. Register online at: go.illinois.edu/whitesidefloral or by calling Mary Nelson at 815-632-3611.

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Highland’s CollegeNOW program continues to grow with the addition of Eastland

The Highland Community College Board of Trustees has approved an agreement with Eastland High School to be among 11 area high schools to participate in the CollegeNOW program. The program allows high school students to take college-level classes to earn both a high school diploma from their school and an Associate’s Degree from Highland simultaneously.

At the November board meeting, trustees approved the agreement with Eastland and continued the agreement with Aquin Catholic High School, Forreston High School and Freeport High School for the 2020-2021 academic school year. Other participating schools are Dakota, Durand, Lena-Winslow, Orangeville, Pecatonica, Pearl City, and Warren.

“CollegeNOW is a great program for students who want to challenge themselves and get ahead start on their college academics,” said Vicki Schulz, Highland student advisor. “The program gives the students a chance to take on rigorous courses in math and science so that they are well prepared to transfer to the four-year university.”

The CollegeNOW program at Highland provides students with an opportunity to enroll in college-level courses full-time while earning dual credit toward a high school diploma and an associate’s degree. The program has grown from one participating high school in the Fall Semester of 2012 to 11 participating high schools for the fall semester of 2020. The first class graduated in May 2014. Around 34 high school students from the College’s district take advantage of this opportunity.

For more information on CollegeNOW, contact Vicki Schulz at vicki.schulz@highland.edu or call 815-599-3664.

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Page 13B

Call for entries for Highland’s 51st District Juried Art Exhibit

Highland Community College has a call for entries for the 51st District Juried Art Exhibit, which will recognize and celebrate northwest Illinois artists. Work is due Jan. 30 from 9 a.m.

- 6 p.m. in the west wing of the Ferguson Fine Arts Center, Highland Community College, 2998 W. Pearl City Rd., Freeport, Ill. This exhibition is designed to recognize local artists in the district, and to celebrate their visual contribution to the community. Submission of works of art are open to all artists, ages 18 and older, residing in the Highland district, as well as all currently enrolled HCC students.

Artists may submit up to three separate works of art with a nonrefundable fee of $3 per work.

The entry form is available at highland.edu/finearts/highland-gallery/. The form and fee are due upon delivery of work.

“The dedicated artists from our district should be commended for their ability to encourage and support the arts; especially in a time where Fine Arts are increasingly challenged to defend their existence. Indeed, this exhibit symbolizes the importance and role of the arts as a symbol for the direction of any given community,” said Robert Apolloni, Highland Gallery director.

The exhibit will display in the Highland Gallery from Feb. 13 - Mar. 4 with an opening reception and awards presentation from 4:30 - 6 p.m. on Feb. 13. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information about this exhibit or the Highland Gallery, contact Bill Buehler at 815-599-3490 or bill.buehler@highland.edu or go to //highland.edu/highland-gallery.

Highland agriculture shines bright at Illinois PAS Conference Highland agriculture students came away numerous awards at the Illinois Professional Agriculture Students (PAS) Conference at Lincoln Land Community College on Nov. 22-23 in Springfield.

The 22 Highland students are part of a national student organization that provides opportunities for college agriculture students to experience individual growth, leadership and career preparation through competition and cooperative activities.

Over the two-day conference, students competed in individual and team contests highlighting a variety of agriculture career opportunities. The students also networked with industry professionals and other Illinois college students.

“I’m excited for all the students that participated in the conference,” said Justin Ebert, Highland Agriculture instructor. “Each student’s accomplishments are a reflection of their time and commitment to achieving career success in the agriculture industry.”

Individual competitions, Nov. 22 results In the days leading up to the competitions, students prepared resumes, career planning projects, lesson plans, and sales presentations. During the conference, students then spent the day showcasing their talents to a panel of judges in their respective career areas. Listed below are Highland student participants, their hometown and awards they received.

- Charleese Faulkner, (Milledgeville), Agribusiness Management Plan, 3rd Place - Danielle Hagemann (Mt. Morris), Administration Interview – 3rd Place - Gwen Heimerdinger (Pearl City), Agricultural Education Demonstration – 1st Place Agricultural Education Interview – 2nd Place Collegiate Discussion Meet - Katie Hoffman (Savanna), Feed & Animal Health Interview – 3rd Place - Brooklynn Hollis (German Valley), Dairy Production Interview – 1st Place - Rebecca Hough (Mt. Morris), Agricultural Sales Presentation – 1st Place - Alec Tipton (Savanna), Agribusiness Management Plan – 2nd Place - Natalie Wilkinson (Thomson), Agribusiness Sales Interview - Benjamin Woessner (Shannon), Livestock Production Interview - Hannah Woessner (Shannon), Ruminant Animal Systems Plan – 1st Place - Ana Zinke (Winslow), Non-Ruminant Animal Systems Plan – 2nd Place Team competitions, Nov. 23 results During team competitions, students took individual exams in their subject area and worked with their teammates to respond to current event issues, make presentations on controversial topics, and solve industry specific production problems. Below are the Highland teams, individuals with home town, and awards: - Dairy Specialist, 2nd Place--Jared Dickman (Lanark), 2nd Place Individual; Brooklynn Hollis (German Valley); Carli Reeverts (Dakota) - Equine Specialist, 1st Place--Katie Hoffman, Savanna, 1st Place Individual; Kristy Kruger (Scales Mound) 2nd Place Individual; Kassandra Heitkam (Dakota) - Landscape Horticulture – 2nd Place Natalie Wilkinson, Shelby Judd (Milledgeville), Rebecca Hough, Kassandra Heitkam - Soil Specialist --Leland Houzenga (Fulton), Shane Houzenga (Fulton), Reid Huneke (Lena), Kristy Kruger, Andy Gustafson (Byron), Lucas Boomgarden (Freeport) - Crop Specialist--Natalie Wilkinson, Leland Houzenga, Lucas Boomgarden, Charleese

(left to right): Ana Zinke, Natalie Wilkinson, Hannah Woessner, Ben Woessner, Katie Hoffman, Reid Huneke, Charleese Faulkner, Elizabeth Oltmanns, Jared Dickman, Leland Houzenga, Carlie Reeverts, Kristy Kruger, Shane Houzenga, Brooklynn Hollis, Andy Gustafson, Kasi Heitkam, Danielle Hagemann, Rebecca Hough, Gwen Heimerdinger, Shelby Judd, Lucas Boomgarden Faulkner, Shane Houzenga, Reid Huneke - Floriculture Specialist – 2nd Place Shelby Judd, Rebecca Hough, Elizabeth Oltmanns (Oregon) - Beef Specialist --Danielle Hagemann, Benjamin Woessner, Hannah Woessner - Swine Specialist – 3rd Place -- Ana Zinke - 1st Place Individual, Gwen Heimerdinger, Katie Hoffman Election of PAS Officers Students held a business session and elected officers for the upcoming year. Gwen Heimerdinger, Pearl City, was elected as the 2019-2020 Illinois PAS Presidents. Gwen and her officer team will spend time throughout the year promoting PAS at colleges and businesses across the state of Illinois. Gwen is a sophomore student at Highland Community College majoring in Agricultural Education. She plans to transfer next year to complete her bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education.

“It is an extreme honor to be elected to a state office and Gwen will do a tremendous job advocating for agricultural education,” said Monica Pierce, Highland Ag instructor.

Highland Community College Agriculture students participate in PAS through membership in the Highland AG Club. The AG Club meets monthly to discuss upcoming activities, agricultural awareness, and career exploration.

If you would like more information about Highland Agriculture including the Highland AG Club, please contact Justin Ebert at justin.ebert@highland.edu or Monica Pierce at monica.pierce@highland.edu.

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

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LOCAL EMERGENCY AND MEDICAL PROVIDERS

Lake Carroll Clubhouse celebrates Valentine’s Day

on two days 2/14 & 15 with Dinner & Dancing!

Friday, February 14th – 7pm-11pm

Local Hospitals: Distance from Lake Carroll Freeport Memorial 19 Miles 1045 W. Stephenson St. Freeport, IL. 61032 CGH Medical Center 31 Miles 100 E. LeFevre Rd. Sterling, IL. 61081 Mercy Medical Center 37 Mile 1410 N. 4th St. Clinton, IA. 52732 Local Clinics: Distance from Lake Carroll FHN Lanark 6 Miles 602 W. Olympic Dr. Lanark, IL. 61046 FHN Mt. Carroll 13 Miles 1120 Healthcare Dr. Mt. Carroll, IL. 61053 FHN Lena 16 Miles 160 W. Main St. Lena, IL. 61048 FHN Forreston 16 Miles 803 First Ave. Forreston, IL. 61030 CGH Milledgeville 18 Miles 601 E. Old Mill St/ Milledgeville, IL. 61051 FHN Savanna 22 Miles 2107 Chicago Ave. Savanna, IL. 61074 FHN Stockton 23 Miles 725 N. Pearl St. Stockton, IL. 61085 Pharmacies: Distance from Lake Carroll Lanark Pharmacy 6 Miles 102 N. Broad St. Lanark, IL. 61046 Pharmacy Center 13 Miles 101 W. Market St. Mt. Carroll, IL. 61053 Lena Drug Store 16 Miles 154 W. Main Lena, IL. 61048 Stouts Drug Store 22 Miles 217 Chicago Ave. Savanna, IL. 61074 Pamida Pharmacy 22 Miles Local Law Enforcement: Lake Carroll Security (815) 275-6122 Carroll County Sheriff (815) 244-2635 Lanark Police Station (815) 493-6931 Shannon Police Station (815) 864-2776

th

251 S. 4 St. Savanna, IL. 61074 Miscellaneous: Lanark Fire Station Shannon Fire Station Poison Control Center Road Conditions

(815) 599-6000 (815) 625-0400 (563) 244-5555

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Lake Carroll News, January 2020

Page 15B

Betty Moorhead, Broker Assoc.

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Page 16B

Lake Carroll News, January 2020

RE/MAX Town Lake & Country 21-78 LAKE CARROLL BLVD • LAKE CARROLL, IL

815-493-SOLD Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

RE/MAX SOLD THESE PROPERTIES IN 2019 WE ARE NOW TAKING LISTINGS FOR 2020 SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

LD

SOLD IN 2019

LD

SOLD IN 2019

LD

LD

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SO

SO

SO

5-100 Topsail

1-66 Captains Dr.

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5-96 Oak Ct.

CLOSED NOVEMBER 2019

CLOSED MAY 2019

CLOSED SEPTEMBER 2019

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LIST PRICE $629,000

LIST PRICE $629,000

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

D

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L SO

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SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

D

SOLD IN 2019

D

L SO

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D

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L SO

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CLOSED APRIL 2019

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LIST PRICE $465,000

LIST PRICE $389,000

LIST PRICE $349,900

LIST PRICE $329,000

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

LD

LD

SO

SO

LD

LD

SO

LD

SO

SO

28-52 Southview

25-68 Cottage Hill

5-114 Chadbourne

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CLOSED JUNE 2019

CLOSED JUNE 2019

CLOSED NOVEMBER 2019

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LIST PRICE $269,000

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SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

SOLD IN 2019

D

D

D

D

L SO

L SO

L SO

L SO

LD O S

16-200R Boxwood

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CLOSED SEPTEMBER 2019

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LIST PRICE $164,500

LIST PRICE $137,000

Julie Wenzel

Managing Broker

Broker Associate

815-541-1001

815-266-4020

juliewenzel@remax.net

For the latest LAKE CARROLL Real Estate info at RE/MAX TOWN LAKE & COUNTRY SM-ST1730484

Patti Kloepping pattik@remax.net

email us at: BuyLakeCarroll@yahoo.com

www.BuyLakeCarroll.com

Tim Steidinger

Broker Associate

815-631-5741

timsteidinger@remax.net