Walloon Lake
Association
Walloon Lake
Trust and Conservancy
The
VOLUME XLVIII | NUMBER 2 May 2019
Wallooner
Devoted to the preservation and betterment of Walloon Lake
THE DOGS OF WALLOON LAKE Who likes Walloon more – you or your dog? While I treasure my time at the lake, I truly believe my dogs, Annabelle and Maggie Mae, enjoy it more. It always puts a smile on my face to see how excited they get as we are nearing the cottage. As soon as we come into Boyne City, they know it’s going to be Walloon time. They even like it with two feet of snow on the ground; that’s a true sign of love for Walloon. I can’t say the same thing for myself.
A few years ago, I came across the Facebook page focused solely on Walloon dogs; appropriately named The Dogs of Walloon Lake. The pictures and stories posted on the site will brighten up your day. The site is the creation of Betsy Doody, a long time Wallooner and dog lover. She started the site in 2011 to connect with other dog lovers on the lake curious to know how their dogs spent their days on the lake. Since 2011, The Dogs of Walloon Lake has grown from a handful of friends to over 700 followers. The Dogs
Submitted by Danny Fellin, WLA Director Membership Committee, Chairman Communications + Outreach Committee, Chairman
Feature Photo provided by Grace Hughes
of Walloon Lake also has an Instagram page; WalloonLakeDogs. Betsy currently has two rescue dogs – Charlie and Gunner. Charlie was found along the Mississippi River in New Orleans and Gunner was found in a drainage pipe behind a gun shop. One fun aspect about The Dogs of Walloon Lake is its Annual Photo Contest held from July 4th thru Labor Day weekend. Facebook followers post pictures of their dog(s) all summer, with the winner selected from a special committee of dog lovers! If you don’t do social media, you can send a picture of your dog to bark@walloondogs.com. The winner receives a custom oil painting of their dog by Betsy, a very accomplished painter. You can see her paintings on CanineArt.com. Once you check out The Dogs of Walloon Lake, you may agree our dogs love this place more than us humans.
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The Wallooner
Executive Director Letter Dear Wallooners,
The end of a long winter always seems to bring excitement and something new. This year is no exception. In addition to watching it snow virtually every day, one of the most significant undertakings over the last several months has been preparing for the merger between the Walloon Lake Association and the Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy.
• Dave Deal, WLTC President
After having spent the last two years learning about the storied history of Walloon Lake and the Walloon organizations, a line from Muqua Nebis; A Compilation of Legends of Walloon continues to remind me what all of this is for. The book cites among the founding reasons for creating the Walloon Lake Association in 1910 was “to promote the best interests of Walloon Lake and … to defend it against all selfish interests whose sole aim is to derive commercial
• Bob Saddler, WLA Secretary
benefit from the lake at the expense of its beauty.” Very few things seem to live as long as 120 years these days, ideas especially. Then again very few things are as special as Walloon. It has been extremely rewarding to work with the the Past Presidents and Executive Committees of the WLA and WLTC aka the “Transition Team” as they have been laser focused to perpetuate the purpose of protecting Walloon into the next chapter as a single unified Walloon organization. The passion the Transition Team has for Walloon Lake and its watershed is truly amazing. We all owe them a HUGE THANK YOU for their time, effort and dedication to this initiative
Walloon Lake
Association
• Lauren Macintyre, WLA President • George Ash, WLA Vice President • Bob Charlton, WLTC Secretary • John Hegener, WLA Treasurer • Matt Frentz, WLTC Treasurer • Rick Gross, WLTC Past President • Bill Sarran, WLA Past President If you haven’t done so yet, please visit the merger page on our website www.walloon.org/membership/wla-wltc-merger for more information and to submit your vote as a WLA member. As a reminder, we will be hosting a special meeting of the membership on Friday, May 10th at 3:00 PM at the Talcott Center in Walloon Lake Village.
All my best,
Josephine Roberts Executive Director
Walloon Lake
Trust and Conservancy
2 ORGANIZATIONS = 1 MISSION Join us in discussing the merger 3pm Friday, May 10 at the Talcott Center Village of Walloon
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May 2019
WALLOON BRAND TO BE RE-EVALUATED AND REFRESHED Submitted by Bob Charlton, WLTC Secretary, Communications and Outreach Committee Member
The WLA and WLTC Boards are reviewing the “look and feel” of the Walloon brand in view of the impending merger to one organization. “Periodically, all entities need to reconsider their brand identity and update and renew the logo over time,” said Danny Fellin, chairman of the Communications and Outreach Committee (C&OC). “The brand is the graphic signature and reference to readily identify our organization with all of our constituencies,” noted Fellin. The C&OC has been underway through the winter working with a graphics consultant to re-examine the Walloon brand. “The unique and readily identifiable image of the Walloon lake outline is our iconic brand,” said Fellin. “That image will continue to be the centerpiece of our identity.”
With the emerging one new organization of WLA+WLTC, plans are to revitalize the brand with a fresh energy. The new logo and brand element will consistently represent the organizations anywhere and everywhere…on printed materials, signage, clothing and internet communications. “We are one Walloon…and our lake brand identity will shout out a clean look and feel consistent with our pristine water and the beauty of the watershed,” said Fellin. The new brand will be unveiled to members, donors, and community stakeholders once the merger of the two boards is completed.
Walloon Lake
Association
NOTES FROM THE FIELD Heather Huffstutler, Director of Conservation Programs
Wildwood Harbor Preserve is a beloved community space in the Wildwood Harbor area along Wildwood Harbor Road. The winding country roads open up and lead to a sloping parking area, and a sign that reflects the mission of the Conservancy and the preserve alike: “Donated by Many, protected for All.” In the spring, Wildwood Harbor is a delight to watch come back to life. Lake Evangeline, a groundwater spring fed lake on the southern edge of the preserve is home to waterfowl and migrating birds that prefer edges to interior forests. The edge of this small lake is almost entirely bog, a special wetland type that is much more acidic than others. This bog surrounding Lake Evangeline boasts an insect-eating plant called the Pitcher Plant! These are viewable in the summer from the dock/overlook at Lake Evangeline. Spring wildflowers abound here; a hike through the rolling hills in May will reward you with trillium, jack-in-the-pulpit, red baneberry, wild leek and my personal favorite sharp-lobed hepatica.
Walloon Lake
Trust and Conservancy
REMINDER
If you are sending in your membership dues and donations directly from banks or foundations, please be sure that they have our new address for mailing: P.O. Box 579, Walloon Lake, MI 49796
Honorarium Donations
For the birders (or learners, like me!), this preserve is a great place to catch spring migrating warblers and other songbirds. In particular, for several years in a row we’ve seen American redstarts close to the trailhead - which is a very dynamic bird dressed in black and orange/yellow.
Did you know that you can make donations in honor of birthdays, marriages, milestones and everything in between? Donations to the Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy are a special way to honor the ones you love, as well as the land and lake that we care so deeply about.
If you don’t already have one, I encourage you to grab an “Experience Walloon” Field Guide. Get your hiking boots on and get outdoors!
To make a donation in honor of someone you love, go to our website, www.walloon.org
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The Wallooner
Calendar of Events SATURDAY, MAY 11TH | 9 AM - 12 PM
Vernal Pool Monitoring - Volunteer Opportunity! at Talcott, Walloon Village What do you get when you combine a herpetologist, a botanist and a conservation director? An exciting day in Walloon Lake that focuses on vernal pools (seasonal wetlands in our forests.) Learn how to spot a vernal pool, identify the functions they provide in the ecosystem, and recognize their importance. Taught by Yu Man Lee and Phyllis Higman from Michigan Natural Features Inventory, this workshop will give participants hands on practice identifying key indicators, such as fairy shrimp and/or evidence of amphibian species breeding activity. Participants will also learn how they can contribute to a pool mapping and monitoring program for the Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy. This opportunity is perfect for all ages! We are hoping for volunteers who can visit the pools in the spring and the fall. To sign your team up, email the office at wla-wltc@walloon.org.
TUESDAY, MAY 14TH | 7 AM - 8:30 AM
Government Affairs Committee Annual Meeting - WLA - WLTC Office Township and County officials welcome.
FRIDAY, MAY 17TH | 9 - 11 AM
Wander Walloon - Birding with Petoskey Audubon at Cherry Lane Nature Area Join Tracy Datlen of the Petoskey Regional Audubon Society (PRAS) and WLTC staff on an early spring hike through the blooming woodlands of Cherry Lane Nature Area. We’ll be looking for migratory birds, listening for warblers and watching the forest floor for some early blooms as well! As a friendly reminder, dogs are not allowed on PRAS field trips.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 29TH | 9 - 11 AM
Wander Walloon - Birding with Petoskey Audubon at Postle Farm Preserve Birding with Petoskey Regional Audubon Society (PRAS) and WLTC. Wander through the woodlands and grasslands at the Postle Farm Preserve. We’ll be watching and listening for migratory birds. This is a great place for beginners and kids to learn a few birding basics! As a friendly reminder, dogs are not allowed on PRAS field trips.
THURSDAY, JUNE 6TH | 9 - 11 AM
Wander Walloon - Birding with Petoskey Audubon at Fields Preserve What could be more relaxing than enjoying a beautiful summer morning at the WLTC Fields Preserve? Join WLTC Staff as we go birding with Petoskey Regional Audubon Society (PRAS). This is a wonderful event for beginners and enthusiasts of all ages. As a friendly reminder, dogs are not allowed on PRAS field trips.
FRIDAY, JUNE 14TH | 4- 6 PM
Volunteer Fair at the WLA/WLTC Office in Walloon Village Stop in the WLA/WLTC office to learn about all of our wonderful volunteer opportunities for the season!
SATURDAY, JUNE 22ND | 10 AM - 2 PM
MSU Extension Mobile Boat Wash at Jones Landing Clean, Drain, Dry – Mobile Boat Wash Station Demonstration at Jones Landing Park. If you’re launching your boat or have boating friends visiting, send them to Jones Landing to learn about the Clean, Drain, Dry initiative to stop aquatic invasive plants from entering inland lakes!
MONDAY & TUESDAY, JULY 15 - 16 | 10 AM - 2 PM
Walloon Rangers Program Two Sessions Available! Sign up for one or both! Geared for kids ages 6 – 12, we’re offering two days of programming at the Postle Farm Preserve. Your kids will explore the preserve with Amalia Fernand, a talented local environmental educator. They’ll learn about warm–blooded animals, cold-blooded animals and all the fun stuff that helps these animals thrive and receive a special field guide written by Amalia! *Pre-registration is required, as space is limited. Call our office at 231-535-6112. Kids must bring a water bottle and bag lunch.
FRIDAY, JULY 19TH | TBD
Walloon Women’s Breakfast Save the date and be on the lookout in our e-blasts and on our website for additional information.
SATURDAY, JULY 27TH | 10 AM - 2 PM
Celebrate Walloon, Melrose Township Park This Walloon tradition will be sure to be one of many great highlights of your summer Up North! Walloon Art Club, games, food, friends and family! Come celebrate everything we love about Walloon Lake summers.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9TH | 3 - 5 PM
Walloon Lake Association Annual Meeting at the Talcott in Walloon Village
REGISTRATION IS APPRECIATED, PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE AT 231-535-6112 OR EMAIL US AT WLA-WLTC@WALLOON.ORG.
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May 2019
PROTECTING WALLOON
2. Sweeping up and disposing of any leftover piles of salt and other deicers, gravel, sand and other remnants from your winter-long effort to keep ice under control.
Whether you live year-round or are a seasonal resident, you know how fortunate you are to be a Wallooner. With outstanding water quality, excellent fishing, boating, paddling, swimming, wildlife and much more, Walloon Lake has everything one could want in a lake. You also know that something so special is worthy of protection. Lake protection can come in many forms. From something big and broad, like permanently protecting land that is critical to the health of the Lake, to something small and simple, like eliminating the use of fertilizers. While we can’t, as individuals, do everything necessary to protect Walloon, we can certainly all do something. So as warmer weather nears and you anticipate those first weeks of springtime, consider what you can do for Walloon.
3. Fixing any engine leaks to keep toxic fluids from collecting on the ground and washing away in storm water.
Submitted by Jen Buchanan, Watershed Protection Director Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council & WLTC Trustee
Got Greenbelt? If you have been thinking about creating or enhancing your shoreline’s greenbelt, Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council has numerous resources that can help you understand what makes a good greenbelt at www.watershedcouncil.org. You can also start the conversation with a landscape designer or nursery Photo by Mary Richardson who can help make a greenbelt happen. If you are more inclined toward DIY-type projects, refer to the Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership resources at www.mishorelinepartnership.org. If you want to better understand what you can do around your entire lakefront property to protect Walloon, refer to the Michigan Shoreland Stewards program at www.mishorelandstewards.org.
Clean it up! Now is the time to observe where and how runoff is entering the Lake from your property. Snow melt and spring rains flush a winter’s worth (and then some), of contaminants like sand and road salt into the Lake. Known as nonpoint source pollution, these substances come from sources all across the landscape and include nutrients, sediments, toxic substances, bacteria and other materials that compromise water quality, degrade habitat, and can jeopardize public health and safety. Limit any possible contributions from your property (and encourage your neighbors to do the same) by: 1. Picking up your pet’s waste and disposing of it in the trash. Pet waste can be a major source of bacteria in storm water.
Slow it down! Beyond the pollutants carried with the runoff, storm water Continued on Page 6
WALLOON MARKETPLACE NOW OPEN! The Walloon Lake Association’s Facebook Marketplace, available to members only, is now up and running. This group is the perfect place to buy, sell and trade with your neighbors and friends. To start, search “Walloon Lake Marketplace” on Facebook and request to join. It’s that easy!
PAGE 6 Continued from Page 5
can be problematic because a larger volume of water is flowing faster across the landscape due to the addition of impervious surfaces and removal of trees, shrubs and other vegetation. This can result in flooding, erosion and sedimentation in receiving waterways. So once you’ve cleaned up the obvious sources of pollutants, it is time to think about slowing down the runoff. Vegetation, like thick groundcovers, shrubs, native grasses and other plants that can intercept runoff before entering the Lake can be effective, as can coarse materials, like cobble, whose rough surface reduces the amount of energy in runoff through friction.
Last, but not least…
The Wallooner important things you can do when it comes to protecting Walloon Lake. These steps are just a few on the tall ladder of things you can do to protect Walloon Lake. If you are interested in learning more or if you want to get involved, contact Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council at (231) 347-1181 or visit www.watershedcouncil.org. Thank you for doing your part in protecting what we all love! Celebrating its 40th year anniversary in 2019, The Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council has spoken for Northern Michigan’s waters since 1979. We are dedicated to protecting our lakes, streams, wetlands, and groundwater through respected advocacy, innovative education, technically sound water quality monitoring, thorough research, and restoration actions.
When was the last time you had your septic tank cleaned or inspected? Might it be time? A failing or maxed-out septic system may discharge some degree of nutrient and bacteria-laden septic leakage to the Lake. Oftentimes, it is months or even longer before the contamination is detected. At that point, the nutrients released into the Lake have likely accelerated the growth of Cladophora, or some other type of algae. Practicing the axiom made famous by Ben Franklin “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” when it comes to septic system maintenance is perhaps one of the most
PLEASE PUMP YOUR SEPTIC TANK! Submitted by Mary Pat Goldich, WLA Director Government Affairs Committee, Chairman
As a property owner, the most effective way you can contribute to clean water efforts in Walloon Lake is to ensure that your septic tank is in proper working order. Routine pumping and inspection of your septic tank by a licensed operator is imperative. With pumping, the filter should be checked, cleaned and replaced, if necessary. Your tank should have a tee/baffle on the outlet that is in working order to prevent scum from clogging the disposal field. Research suggests that the number of people in your household, the amount of wastewater generated and the volume of solids in wastewater (increased by garbage disposal use), determine the frequency of scheduled pumping. Your licensed operator, knowing your tank size, will be able to recommend your pumping frequency and it is usually every 2-3 years. A 2018 study conducted by the Health Department of Northwest Michigan and Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council noted
that “Michigan is the only state in the nation without uniform standards for how on-site septic systems are designed, built, installed and maintained.” What this means is that once a system is built, counties do not follow up to make sure those systems are functioning properly. This lack of follow up results in a potential threat to public health and water resources. It is easy to maintain your septic tank. Please add septic tank pumping/inspection to your Spring chore list. If problems are found, please schedule the necessary repairs. Septic tank seepage into Walloon Lake can be averted by this simple task. For Melrose Township homeowners on North Shore Drive, between First and Fourth Streets, there is an opportunity to hook into the Township sewer system. Contact Melrose Township for further information.
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May 2019
FOREST MANAGEMENT - FOR RECREATION AND HABITAT Submitted by Heather Huffstutler, Director of Conservation Programs
Who’s walked through a heavily-wooded preserve in the last few years and thought, “wow….it kinda looks like a tornado came through here?” We have too! Our woodlands are special places, dedicated to us through donations or purchases from donated funds. Conservation of these woodlands is job #1 -- that often means making decisions to respond to threats and changes occurring in them. Threats to our woodlands include deer herbivory, changes in climate which create stronger storms, lack of management for 50+ years and invasive forest pests. American Redstart (wikipedia)
In response to these threats, the Conservancy contracted with a well-respected forester to survey some of our preserves with an eye toward forest management planning. Bryce Metcalfe of Metcalfe Forestry worked with the Stewardship Committee and our board for 2 years before beginning a survey in 2018. The Stewardship Committee considered many aspects of forestry management including protecting old-growth areas, protecting wetlands, donor intent and the aesthetic impacts that management may have. Following the lead of our colleagues at Little Traverse Conservancy, we have created a plan that supports smart ecological management and safe recreational access to some of our more beloved areas. We’re incorporating surveys of vernal ponds, natural features and stream monitoring data into our decisions about where and how a particular tract of forest is managed. Ensuring that our trails are safe from wind-throw and that migrating birds have habitat is a balancing act that experts are helping us tackle. This summer, we’ll hold public field trips with our consulting forester, Bryce Metcalfe, so that you may explore along with us the woods we plan to manage and understand the reasons for this management.
Hepatica (at North Shore Preserve)
The first workshop will be held in partnership with the Charlevoix Conservation District on Thursday June 6th at 5:30 pm at David Skornia’s protected working forest on Camp Sherwood Road. Please call the office at 231.535.6112 if you’d like to join. Additionally, our Forest Management Plan will be available on our website and is approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Forest Stewardship Program.
Volunteers Wanted Don’t forget to stop in our office on Friday, June 14th from 4 - 6 PM to learn all about the different ways you can get involved with the Walloon Lake Association and the Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy. We’re seeking volunteers of all ages for the following programs: • Lake Ambassadors (Neighborhood Representatives) • Water Quality Monitors - May - August, collecting weekly water quality measurements • Safety Committee • Environmental Impact Committee • Preserve Monitor • Vernal Pool Monitor - Check out our workshop on May 11th! • Kestrel Nest Box Monitor • Clean Boats/Clean Waters - Mobile Boat Wash • Special Events Including: Celebrate Walloon, Walloon Rangers, Annual Meeting, Woman’s Brunch Come learn about these great opportunities and more!
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CHARTER PRIMARY GUARDIAN CORNER: WALLOON INSIGHTS FROM RALPH AND PATTI MIESEL As a result of the need to create a multiyear, sustainable fund development plan, in 2018 the Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy added the “Charter Primary Guardian” giving level to the annual campaign. Patti and Ralph Miesel This giving level is a pledge to the Conservancy for $2,500 or more every year for the next three years. Members of the Fund Development Committee have been busy spreading the word of the organization’s need to increase support through “Friends of Walloon” gatherings that will continue throughout the summer in an effort to recruit at least 100 Charter Primary Guardians by the end of 2019. Here are some insights from Ralph + Patti Miesel:
1. What is your Walloon story? Generational history/how did you discover the lake/what does being a “Wallooner” mean to you and your family? Ralph: When I was young camper attending Camp Charlevoix in the late 50’s I had a cabin mate over the years, Howie Davis, who’s family as I recall had some ownership in Vernor’s Ginger Ale in Detroit. His parents would come to visit and they would stay on Walloon. Howie would tell us stories of his family experiences on the lake, and those stories turned out to be the beginning of my dream of having a place for our family to spend time in the summer together. That dream became a reality in 1984 when we built our first Town and Country Log Home on the west shore of the West Arm of Walloon. Patti: Our Walloon story began 35 years ago. It was a rainy fall day and we wandered into The Town and Country model on US 131. After meeting with the sales rep for an hour, we said we might be interested in building a log home on Walloon Lake. He indicated they owned a lot on the West Arm of Walloon and gave us directions to the very undeveloped site. We had never been on the lake let alone gone for a boat ride, yet, I felt it called to me. We moved ahead and built our home on a two rut road that was eventually named Fox Run. The thought of that first boat ride still brings back memories of how special we realized the lake was and still is today. Our daughters always called that house “The Memory House.” To me that is what Walloon is all about…making memories to last for lifetimes.
The Wallooner
2. As long-time supporters, what are the programs or projects that keep you motivated in investing in the Walloon organizations’ missions, year after year? Ralph: Simply stated, the historic work of the WLA and the Conservancy have been the cornerstones for holding together the complexities and dynamics surrounding the shores of Walloon. From the five different townships and governing guidelines to the nearly 30 miles of shoreline monitoring, safety seminars, building relationships with local businesses as well as the Sheriff’s Department and DNR officials to the land stewardship of 2,075 acres in 45 Preserves in the Walloon Lake watershed and annual water monitoring and much more…consider where we would be without the leadership of these two great organizations that blend perfectly together. Patti: The Conservancy’s commitment to protecting water quality of the lake is most important to all of us. From stormwater runoffs to pollutants - there needs to be an awareness.
3. What are the most critical or urgent results you expect our organization to produce in the near future? Ralph: Unlike many other lakes, Walloon doesn’t have major surface water sources to provide a constant source of freshwater. At its elevation of about 100 feet above Little Traverse Bay and Lake Charlevoix, Walloon receives most of its water from the watershed. Because of the lake’s dependency on groundwater, the relatively slow rate of which the water is “turned over” or replaced with fresh water is critical. This makes Walloon more vulnerable to pollutant inputs from the watershed. This underscores the importance of funding and gifting to the Guardian Fund and Endowment Fund so we can continue to purchase and protect ecologically important parcels of land in the watershed from further development and future conservation. Patti: I expect the WLA/Conservancy to continue its due diligence and information sharing so that we may prevent the claims put forth by the Odawa Indians from ever being recognized.
4. If you could gift one thing to your great-great grandchildren’s generation of Wallooners, what would it be? Ralph: The importance of understanding the dynamics of the lake itself and ongoing stewardship and active involvement of education to all lake residents. Patti: I would love for my great-great grandchildren to enjoy the lake and surrounding areas as we enjoy them today. I would also like them to know that they have been blessed to be a part of a lake that has been appreciated and taken care of by so many generations. With all of the building going on around the lake it is more important than ever to protect our natural areas and our water quality. I would like future generations to realize they have a responsibility to be part of the stewardship of the lake. Continued on Page 9
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May 2019
5. Tell us something no one else knows about Walloon. In 2014, we purchased the Premo property on Indian Garden Rd., long recognized as the original white log cabin built by the Beeman Gum family in 1926. The home was in the Premo family for 49 years and lovingly maintained. We totally renovated the home but thanks to the Premo family’s attention to any condition that arose over the years, the foundation, logs, roof and other aspects had stood the test of time. The family wanted the preservation, if possible, of the home and grounds. We feel blessed and most fortunate that we can continue the tradition and family experience that the Premo family had and we continue to
make great memories for our family on Walloon. If you would like more information about becoming a Charter Primary Guardian or would like to host a “Friends of Walloon” gathering please contact Josephine Roberts at josephine@walloon.org or by phone 231-535-6112. Ralph and Patti were most recently, among the biggest champions of the M-75 Project, now the Norcross Family Preserve. Ralph sits on the Conservancy’s Fund Development Committee and together, Ralph and Patti volunteer their time to our annual Celebrate Walloon event.
In Memoriam
If you have a loved one who has recently passed and would like to submit a memorial story in the next issue of the Wallooner, please let us know.
James Kurtz Gery, 1968-2019 James Kurtz Gery was born February 20, 1968 in Indianapolis, went to North Central High School, graduated from the University of Michigan, and earned his MBA from the University of Chicago. He had a bunch of great jobs, but none of that defined him. Jim lived for his family and friends. Lori IS his true love and his perfect person. He loves and respects her with every ounce of his being. His son Will (aka “Willie”) is his utter pride, his mini-me, “exactly like me” he would say with a smile. And Jim met his match with his best girl, Lilah, his “Hootie Hoo”, his sports star and TV watching pal.
SHARE YOUR WALLOON TRADITION
Memorial Day weekend and July 4th week are special times on the lake. Many of us have special traditions that we honor and look forward to every year. Please take a few minutes and pass along your holiday tradition, which we would like to share in upcoming Wallooners. Capture your tradition in a few sentences and maybe a picture or two, then email it to wla-wltc@walloon.org.
His band of brothers is vast – Mike, Kip, Ted, Thad, his River Forest posse, his college crew and countless more. He had an unparalleled level acceptance of others. He did not allow complaining and freely shared gratitude for his life. “Truly blessed” he would say, with an element of sarcasm. Walloon Lake was his happy place. He loved nothing more than our new “little house”, his snowmobiles, a boat cruise to the Barrel Back and golf at the WLCC. It was there that he died in a snowmobile accident on March 15, 2019. He is survived by his parents, Lee & Ellis Gery, his sister Shawn (Dave) Trippel, his beloved Aunts Marilyn (Phil) Parker, Diann (Bobby) Walker, and Carolyn Kurtz. His in-laws Pat (Harriet) Brazil, Sister-inlaw Maria (Bruce) Ianni, and his beloved Isabelle, Mack and Matia. Be “Jim Gery-like” (pronounced Jim Gerry-like), live, laugh and love deeply. Be grateful. Be kind.
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WALLOON YACHT CLUB
Join the Walloon Yacht Club for sailing, racing or socializing this Summer. Stop by an event or give us a call to join the fun. The WYC sailing season starts on June 15th with a 2 pm start in the Main Body of the Lake. The club will race each weekend into August including a weekend series on July 4th weekend. Saturday’s races generally start at 2 pm and are in various locations around the Lake as shown below. Sunday’s races will all be in the Main Body starting at 1:00 pm. A second annual distance race will start in the Main Body near the Village, go West to a mark near Eagle Island and finish back at the Village. We’ll help ‘Celebrate Walloon’ with multiple races near the Village to make it more of a spectator event. The Summer season concludes with the Commodore’s Cup on August 10th followed by a Dinner and Awards party. WYC will host ONE Sunfish/Laser/small boat Regatta on July 12th. We’ll have several short races and a party with awards afterwards. For more information contact David Rentschler, (513) 608-6646 or davidnrentschler@aol.com.
The Wallooner JULY 9TH
Walloon Sailors Family & Adult sailing lessons with WYC sponsored BBQ to follow
JULY 12TH
Sunfish/Small boat Regatta
JULY 13TH
West Arm Series & Classic 17 Race and Party afterward
JULY 16TH
Moonlight Sail starting at 10pm off Pine Pointe
JULY 20TH
End of the North Arm Race
JULY 27TH
Celebrate Walloon Regatta
AUG 9TH
Single Handed Race at 5:00
AUG 10TH
Commodore’s Cup at 1:00 Dinner & Awards Party at 6:00
A detailed schedule, racing results and more info are available on our web site www.walloonyachtclub.org, and during the summer in our box on the side of Tommy’s/Barrelback in the Foot.
Our Social Chair for the 2019 season is Kerrie Peterson. Please call her if you’d like to join us for a Social Event, (313) 418-1856. Join our growing membership by contacting our Membership Chairman, Randy Adolphs, d.randy@sbcglobal.net or (608) 334-9673.
Berlin Gardens Patio, Deck and Dock Furniture
We race 17 Square Meters and an Open Class Fleet which uses the Portsmouth Handicapping system for any and all sailboats. All sailboats are welcome. For sailing and racing information contact:
Co-Rear Commodores:
Jim Ringer (815) 341-4428 or james.ringer@firstmidwest.com Carl Lundell (313) 618-9147 or sealundell@gmail.com
Commodore:
Bill Bray (231) 535 – 2323 or (832) 702-6227
Long Lasting Polywood Superb Amish Made Quality Come experience the best!
Key Dates JUNE 15TH
First fleet race – Main Body, Party to Follow at the Peterson’s
JUNE 22ND
Eagle Island Race
JUNE 29TH
John Kirk End of the Lake Race, starting at 11 at the Foot
JULY 2ND
Couples Race
JULY 4TH - 7TH July 4th Series
Organic Produce / Produce Memberships Local Artisan Food and Gifts Flowers, Patio Pots and Hanging Baskets and now...Deck Furniture that will have you amazed!
...all with beautiful views of Walloon Lake 4160 US Highway 131 (231) 347-0011 Coveyouscenicfarm.com
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May 2019
WA L LO O N S A I LO R S CO ME SAI L WITH U S O N WA L LO O N L A K E YOUTH PROGRAM Children 7+ Jun 24 - Aug 16 Mon - Fri l 10 - 12:30
FAMILY PROGRAM
Walloon Sailors + Walloon Yacht Club
KEY DATES
Jul 24 l Venetian Cup Jul 26 l Parent Child Jul 29 - Aug 2 l Walloon Cup Jul 30 l 17 Day Aug 6 l Peabody Novice
Families, adults, and/or young sailors Jul 2 -Jul 30 Tues & Thurs l 2-4 pm $30/skipper and $10/crew member
Cookout sponsored by the Walloon Yacht Club will be held after the July 9th Lessons
SMALL OUTBOARD MOTOR OPERATION LESSONS Jul 1 - 29 Mondays - times to be determined
COST OF LESSONS
5 REASONS THAT YOUR KIDS SHOULD LEARN TO SAIL
All Walloon Sailors Instructors are US Sailing Certified
1. Self Confidence 2. Spatial Awareness 3. Sense of Direction 4. Weather Knowledge 5. Shipshape Habits
$30/day or $120/week
Meet at the WLCC for lessons
ALL WELCOME, COME TRY THE EXCITEMENT AND FUN OF SAILING WITH US
For more information about our programs: (843) 816-2253 or www.walloonsailors.com
PAGE 12
11TH ANNUAL KAYAK FOR A CAUSE ON WALLOON LAKE TO BENEFIT THE CAMP DAGGETT ADVENTURE CENTER (CDAC) Camp Daggett invites kayakers to join the team at the 11th Annual Kayak for a Cause on Walloon Lake, Saturday and Sunday, July 20-21, 2019. Camp Daggett would like to recruit 30+ kayaking enthusiasts to participate in the event. Beginners and advanced adult kayakers will paddle the 30 miles along the beautiful Walloon Lake shoreline and raise much needed dollars to support the Camp Daggett Adventure Center (CDAC) programs for children, students and adults. Begun in 2009, Kayak for a Cause was the brainchild of the CDAC Director, Karen Marietti. She single-handedly kayaked the 30 miles of shoreline and raised $2,000 that first year! Since then more than 30 kayakers have joined Karen, many who return each year. In addition, the Walloon Lake residents have purchased custom designed flags to display on their docks since the second year, and others have supported the event by their donations and sponsorships. Funds raised have totaled over $180,000!! Every successful team needs a crew, and there are three easy and fun opportunities to be a member of the Kayak for a Cause Land Crew. Supporters may make a pledge to a kayaker on the team,
The Wallooner purchase a dock flag, or become a sponsor for the event. For more information, contact Karen Marietti, CDAC Director at 231-347-9742 ext. 117 or at karen.marietti@campdaggett.org. You may also contact Grace Ketchum, Development Director, at 231-347-9742 x 118 or at grace.ketchum@campdaggett.org. Kayakers may choose a one-day paddle or a two-day paddle. Cost for a kayaker to participate is $50.00. To register online go to this link: www.campdaggett.org/register-online-cause. Don’t have a kayak? Ryde Marine rents kayaks at a very reasonable price for this event. The event begins and ends at Bear Cove Marina. Not a kayaker? Go online and support a team member, purchase a dock flag for $50.00 or simply support the event with a donation. It’s easy! Go to www.campdaggett.org/team-kayak-cause. If you would rather send a check to Camp Daggett, or call in a donation or flag purchase, you can do that as well; the telephone number is 231-347-9742 x 118.
WALLOON LAKE
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY The annual “Welcome Gathering” for the Walloon Lake Women’s Bible Study will be held Monday, June 17 from 10 to 11:30 AM at the Walloon Lake Country Club. Walloon lake residents, neighbors, and friends are welcome to attend this meeting. At that time, we will introduce our 2019 Study, the apostle Paul’s letter to his friends in Philippi. The Letter to the Philippians is perhaps Paul’s most tender and intimate communication with one of his churches. It has important theological affirmations of Christ’s love for us and our own tasks as evangelists. The Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday classes begin the following week. Do contact the three leaders if you have questions: • Cathie Merritt, Monday afternoons, 810-225-5065 • Nancy Morris, Tuesday afternoons at the club, 317-696-0049 • Holy Lambert, Thursday mornings at WLCC, 317-371-7644.
2019 SNOWFALL CONTEST RESULTS! Submitted by Pam Roudi, WLTC Trustee, C+O Committee
GREAT DOCKS GREAT SERVICE
INDIAN RIVER 231.238.4490
Custom designed dock systems, head houses & boat lifts. Also vinyl railings & vinyl decking.
ELK RAPIDS 800.968.2299
MichiganLakeProducts.com
Specializing in docks since 1990
Walloon’s #1 Real Estate Company. Nobody Knows Walloon Lake Like We Do!
Looking to sell? Looking for results?
231.439.2800
I have buyers . . .
Curious how many potential buyers are looking for a home like yours? I excel in connecting the right buyers to the perfect property. Our premier resource allows us to give you a glimpse into the profiles of buyers looking for properties just like yours.
Blaine Bradford
228 E. Mitchell Street Petoskey, MI 49770
231.758.7007
www.kiddleavy.com *All Statistics from NMMLS
blainebradfordrealtor.com
Es FRE tim E ate s
Do you have moss, lichen or black streaks on your roof? We have the solution.
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• Roof Cleaning
• Roof Cleaning
• Housewashing
• Housewashing
• Commercial & Residential
• Commercial & Residential
• Building Exteriors
• Building Exteriors
• Concrete Cleaning
• Concrete Cleaning
• Decks
• Decks
• Cedar Shakes
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INSURED & WORKER’S COMP
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231-548-2008
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BEAR COVE MARINA ON WALLOON LAKE
Reginald E. Whitcomb, D.D.S. James S. Clement, D.D.S.
Good People• Full Service Quality Products • INSIDE OR OUTSIDE STORAGE • INSIDE STORAGE •• CUSTOM CUSTOMDESIGNED DESIGNEDDOCKS DOCKS • DOCK INSTALLATION & REMOVAL • BOAT RENTALS • APARTMENT RENTAL • COBALT BOATS, HARRIS PONTOONS, SHORESTATION AND HOISTS • BOATDOCKS RENTALS
3052 ST. HILTON LANE • PETOSKEY, MI 49770 03039 LOUIS CLUB RD. • PETOSKEY Wayne Hilton, Owner
U.S. 131 South
email: wayne@bearcovemarina.com
347-2100
We Welcome New Patients 1301 US 131 South • Petoskey www.petoskeydental.com
on Rd.
347-1994
“Emergencies seen promptly”
Anders
Call for Winter Hours
N Sheridan
Hobby Lobby
Petoskey Dental Associates
Long time Walloon Lake resident, selling the Walloon Lake lifestyle. I invite you to give me a call.
- Carol
231.330.0876
Carol@CarolFay.com www.CarolFay.com 420 Howard Street | Petoskey, MI 49770
Enjoy our active community and extended golf season!
Our private club offers outstanding golf and dining options May through October in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Our clubhouse is available for weddings, showers, celebrations, business, and organizational meetings.
Memberships available,
CALL TODAY! 231.526.9000 ¡ Cottage-Company.com
(231) 347-2402 ¡ www.pbvcc.com 2328 Country Club Rd., Petoskey
The Wallooner is published four times per year, in February, May, July and November, by the Walloon Lake Association and the Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy, 4060 M-75 N Suite 102, P.O. Box 579, Walloon Lake, MI 49796 Phone (231) 535-6112; Fax (231) 535-6114; E-mail wla-wltc@walloon.org; Web www.walloon.org. ©Copyright 1975 Walloon Lake Association and Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy
Walloon Lake
Association ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Walloon Lake Association Directors Lauren Macintyre, President George Ash, Vice President Bob Saddler, Secretary John Hegener, Treasurer Greg Adams Jim Anderton
POST OFFICE BOX 579 WALLOON LAKE, MI 49796
Marianne Barry Mike Eberhart Danny Fellin Mary Pat Goldich Terry Marrs Bill Sarran
Walloon Lake Trust and Conservancy Trustees Dave Deal, President Bob Charlton, Secretary Matt Frentz, Treasurer Betony Braddock Jennifer Buchanan Connor Dennis Michael Hatch
Russel Kittleson John Marklewitz Judy Reynolds Pam Roudi
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 217 Petoskey, MI 49770