July 2023 Beachcomber

Lake Thunderhead Beachcomber

Volume 32 Issue 6 July, 2023

Stars & Stripes wave over Lake Thunderhead

On Monday, May 29 the Lake Thunderhead community gathered in remembrance of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country and our freedoms. The Memorial Day gathering included the dedication of our impressive new flag pole located on the north end of the dam.

The dedication ceremony included a detail of active military and veterans who lowered the flag to halfstaff at 10 AM. Immediately following taps and a three-

airplane flyover by some of our local pilots, Josh Pearson, Kyle Byrd and Steve Gourley. Rick Clark and Bob Smith, representing Unionville American Legion Post 34 presented the colors to the military detail. The flag was returned to full staff at 12 noon.

Active military, veterans and first responders were recognized for their service by the presentation of a commemorative coin honoring their service. The coins and the new flag were the brainchild of Dick and Janet Hoover, Lake Thunder-

head residents. They imagined this landmark flag nearly seven months ago and began enlisting the assistance of many lake residents: Keith Morris, Clint Heidenwith, Ron Hinkle, Joe Davis and Steve McKnight were instrumental in constructing the flag pole. They were joined by Bill Woods, Paul Koch, Cody and Davin Veach, Fred McElwee, Jeff and Brian Peak, Derek Knowles and Rodney Weir in seeing this project through from start to the flag raising.

The 100-foot flag pole and 20 ft. by 30 ft. flag are very impressive and can be seen from quite a distance.

Team Effort to Control Curly Leaf Pond Weed in the Lake

A 36-inch eagle sits atop the finial ball on the peak of the pole. Private donations and the selling of commemorative bricks helped fund the project If you would like to purchase a commemorative brick, two sizes are available: 4X8” for $150 or 8X8” for $300. You can call the lake office to inquire.

In the closing ceremonies Patrick Pittman played the Star Spangled Banner and the crowd recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

We are all so proud of this landmark achievement for Lake Thunderhead and thank everyone for the patriotism shown during the dedication.

A Friendly Reminder

Please be sure to let the Unionville Republican know of any address change you have. We want you all to receive your Beachcomber. Also, please let us know if you are new to the lake or if you have sold your property at the lake.

Unionvillerepublican@mac.com or 660-947-2222

Thank you, The Unionville Republican

by Bruce Montgomery

Well, this is going to be a bit of an unusual article for us. No real talk of tourneys or the Kids’ Derby, though look for the latter in the next BeachComber. Today we’re going to chat about our recent introduction of Grass Carp to help in efforts to stop the spread of Curly Leaf Pond Weed (CLPW).

In this article, I’ll quote freely from our local state Dept of Conservation Biologist, Daniel Loken, Jr. (DJ). His document is available at the lake office in it’s entirety if you are interested.

In short, CLPW is a nasty weed that can and will take over lake areas under 15 feet in depth. Creating matts so thick some say you can FLOAT on them. Looking at the fish committee, I’d say maybe only a couple could float on them. JUST KIDDING

guys!

But it’s a serious problem for our lake. Fortunately our friends at the Dept of Conservation and some of our fisherfolk here at the lake noticed it early, and our lake management and board, along with the Fish Committee took it very seriously.

Here’s some background from DJ: “While electrofishing for largemouth bass and bluegill on May 8th of this year, I noticed that there was Curlyleaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus L.) growing in several of the bays. After shocking, I went to investigate further and found it on the south end also. Curlyleaf pondweed (CLPW) does

Curly Leaf… Cont. to pg. 10

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” - Unknown –

A large crowd gathered at the lake dam for the flag dedication. Military and Emergency Services personnel were recognized and a very successful Poppy Sales campaign took place by the American Legion Auxiliary.

Part of the dedication included a fly-over by residents pilots.

Corey Mason was recognized as an active member of the military with a flag by American Legion members Rick Clark and Bob Smith as a part of the flag dedication ceremony.

Lake Board Meeting Held June 13, 2023

Meeting was called to order by Cody @ 5:30pm, in attendance, Cody Veach, Kerrie Rose, Tiffany Scovel, Mike Vore, Ced Gilworth & Rodney Weir.

Cody opened by welcoming new Board

Member Mike Vore.

Public Correspondence - None

Secretary Report –Mike motioned to approve Annual meeting minutes; Tiffany seconded.

Treasure Report – Tiffany reported we are under budget so far this year, and motioned to approve, Ced seconded

Committee Reports

Election Committee – No report

A&E Committee –

No report

Entertainment Committee – No report

Rules & Regulations

Committee - No report

Fish Committee –Mark Daniels spoke about the kids fishing derby coming up and that Conservation Officer sprayed weeds, Rodney

has committed to trimming around the pond. There will be a fall bass tournament Sept 16

Dock CommitteeNo report

Commons Committee - No report

Special Road District – Gene reports that the asphalt will be done mid July. Gene was questioned about street signs and will get a list together of ones that need replaced.

Gene has requested that the lake contact REC about putting street lights on the north end of the lake. Rodney will work on getting quotes and Gene will bring the map of where these would be placed to office to publish.

Lake Manager Report – Rodney reported that dock work is continuing and to please be patient. There is lily pad spray at office for lake front home owners to check out, please make sure you are very careful as it will kill grass and trees. A short spray

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on each lily is all that is needed, it’s highly concentrated. Reminder that all lots need to be mowed at a minimum of once per month April-Oct. We have already issued 4 mowing violations, a copy of the Resource Sheet is available at the office if you need to find someone to mow your lot. We have only had 5 boat violations this year, he thanked everyone for following the sticker policy and being courteous boaters.

Old Business

Off-site clarification boat stickers/fees – Kerrie & Ced are still working with lawyer. Update on sale of misc. Lake Thunderhead property – Ced reports that about $50K of property is under contract and should close Mid July. They are waiting on the survey company which should happen within the next 10 days, and the cost will be passed on to the buyer.

New Business Disc Golf – Tiffa-

ny mentioned that she’d been asked about the possibility of a disc golf course set up. There are some concerns on where it would be placed that wouldn’t impede on regular golfers or additional lawn maintenance. Kim volunteered to look into costs and how much land would be needed.

Addition of a Bar/ Grill Discussion – There has been some interest in building a year round bar & grill at the lake, and turning the current restaurant into the Community Center for meetings, group gatherings, etc. The Board is just fact finding and discussing at this time. Since funding would be from the sale of the miscellaneous WCA properties & fundraising a special assessment for Capital Improvements would not be required. Some discussion was had about a location. Kerrie had some questions regarding liability insurance and the possibility of it bringing additional law

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enforcement to the area. Since any license would be held by whomever leased the building there isn’t any additional insurance required. Cody closed this discussion with this is the beginning of discussions and the Board welcomes input from members.

New Signage for Golf Course, Beach, Boat Ramp, etc. – how to fund

-Listing rules (Private beach, no dogs, no glass bottles, valid UTV/Golf sticker, etc.) Rodney has ordered some blank signs for Ferne to put wording on for beach areas. There is some discussion about having Joy & Forrest Jones also make some, getting cost estimates. Funds were

raised for a new Office sign and possibly we could continue to raise more money for new signs per addition.

Tiffany wants to address the campground rest rooms again and keep it on the list of old business as we’ve had several complaints. Rodney is going to get some estimates for new plumbing hardware, and possibly remove showers all together as they can use the beach house. A concern about how wet the floor stays in the beach house, so Rodney will get quotes on ceiling fans.

Lot Consolidations/ Inactivation’s - None Misc. items of interest to the Association - None

Leo’s Marina Restaurant

Leo’s Marina Restaurant is open at Lake Thunderhead. Managed by Anna Busker, the menu features a terrific selection of entrees, pizza, salads, sandwiches and more.

Hours of Operation

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FRI & SAT

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Restaurant is closed on Mondays. Let’s support the restaurant, folks!

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Walking Path Dedication

and hard work to bring the path to reality. Following a few words from Cody Veach, lake association president, and a ribbon cutting by Deb Penca who first envisioned the path, a walk along the path was led by long-time lake resident, 93 year-old Jean Grogan and her daughter Mary Comstock.

Benches along the path have been donated by lake residents in memory of loved ones with plaques indicating to whom they are dedicated. Those interested in donating a bench can contact Doris Benson or Deb Penca for information.

“Budlight Bandits” win Volleyball Tourney

culmination of months of fund raising

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Saturday morning, 5/27 a double elimination volleyball tournament was held in the North playground sand courts. 83 people on 11 teams participated with the tournament being won by the “Budlight Bandits”, consisting of Danielle Dyer, Bruce Pollock, Blake Moore, Trent Moore, McKinley Moore and Shelly Seaton. Fun in the sun was had by all. Congratulations “Budlight Bandits.”

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The Walking Path dedication on Saturday morning, May 27 was the

Cody Veach, Deb Penca and Rodney Weir, lake manager cutting ribbon for Walking Trail

Jean Grogan (left) and daughter Mary Comstock led a walk following the dedication

Kim and Chris VanRees shows off one of the trail benches. A family comes in off the trail having had a great time!

Wildflower Community Association Annual Meeting Minutes 2023

Call to order- President Cody Veach

Secretary’s ReportKathie Steveson took time to thank all volunteers. Kathie motioned to approve all minutes for year, Tiffany seconded, motion carried.

Treasure’s ReportTiffany Scovel reviewed April report as she was absent. Tiffany motioned to approve April, Kerrie seconded, motion carried. Annual Budget was drawn up by Linda Klosterman who we contract with, and the Board made decisions regarding employee benefits and number of employees that resulted in cost savings to Association. Tiffany wanted to point out that while we have kept our spending down, we still have inflation costs to deal with. Tiffany closed with thanking everyone for their support while she’s been on the board and hopes to continue.

Committee Reports

A&E CommitteeConsists of Paul Koch, Steve Benson, Cody Veach, Clint Stobbe, Jeff

Koontz, Brian Erickson & Fred McElwee. Brian joined in 2023 after expressing interest. Thank you. Typically meets every Friday March – Oct and as needed thru winter months.

98 reviewed/91 approved (Some permits were for multiple projects)

House – 9

Home Additions – 2

Garage - 11

Deck - 13

Driveway/Concrete6

Docks - 24

Camper – 2

Camper Shelter – 3

Firepits – 6

Sheds – 15

Shore Line altercation - 1

Lot: 3-consolidation

5–deconsolidation

New Chairman Brian Erickson will become effective immediately, Fred has enjoyed serving as Chairman of committee for last 3 years and will continue to be on the committee.

Can Committee –Steve Benson says they are planning to do a bocce ball court (looking

for volunteer to head the project) and some additional benches around playground.

Commons Committee – no report

Dock Committee –11 docks have been added to the dam area (earlier than expected). South beach should be ready in July. Still approximately 75 people on waiting list.

Entertainment Committee – Fred is absent, but Cody reported 17 teams for Golf yesterday (record), 11 for Volleyball (record), this weekend, band tonight with bonus fireworks, and the flag dedication on Monday. Bricks are still available to order thru the office or the website.

Fish CommitteeMay 15 tournament was a great turnout, kids tournament is Father’s Day pre-registration strongly recommended. Looking for volunteers for that day.

Rules & Regulations Committee – No report

Special thanks to Keith & Renee Morris for the breakfast burrito’s & Bloody Mary’s, money raised will go towards replacing the Lake Office sign and landscaping near the flag pole at office.

Special Road District- Gene started by welcoming 2 new com-

missioners to the SRD, Keith Morris as President, and David Welder as Secretary. 4 miles of roads were chip sealed in 2022 at 40% cost increase. 69 tons of cold patch were purchased, 231 tons of road gravel 15 ton of 3” rock and 28 tons of 6” rock. North Wildflower poured 60’ pad of cement and seems to have improved the area that always ruts out.

Areas of Spring Beauty Dr. & Bufflehead Dr. are where we are currently working on improvements. $50 road assessment from last summer was approved for 4 years, and we also receive money from House & Garage permits as well as funds from the Golf cart/ATV stickers. Hopefully in June/ July we will have a Hot asphalt overlay done at the main entrance to lake on Wildflower and hopefully to Golden Aster Dr.

Thank you for being patient about the potholes on Wildflower. As always, we appreciate the donations we receive as that goes to additional gravel and cold patch.

Lake Manager’s Report - Rodney Weir recapped some great improvements of 2022: Marina Road and Parking, Walking Path, maybe extend it beneath dam in future, as a safety to

keep people off the roadways. Thank you for the support you’ve shown Rodney, the Board and the volunteers. We really appreciate everyone who stops and picks up trash along the roads and walking path. Rodney also wanted to take a moment to remember John Worley, Bryan Reckrodt, and Tod Brodrick who we’ve lost in the past year.

Lake Security Report – Cameron has been visiting with people about golf cart and ATV stickers, asking them to go to office and purchase, including campers who are on WCA property. Please be careful on the roads, make sure old enough to operate, and not being reckless.

Old Business

Office software update – Nabr Network, working well, stop in office with questions.

Off-site clarification boat sticker fees – No update, clarifying with lawyer.

Update seasonal storage – please make sure to get a tag for your property, anything not tagged is subject to be removed.

Update policy 209 Non-Standard Motorized Vehicles – WCA can enforce on our property, including Campground, beach parking, golf course, this also includes

members own property as it’s part of WCA. Law enforcement could issue a fine on the county roads if we asked them, per SRD.

Marina Restaurant –Leo’s Marina Restaurant is open, please let Rodney know if you have any issues.

New Business Misc. items of interest to the Association – No comments

Election Committee Report/election results –

Vickie Wright started with thanking the committee who helped her make the election counting run smoothly. New Committee Chairperson is Linda Nussbaum for 2024.

Results:

788 ballots mailed 381 Eligible counted 48% voted, 5% increase from last year

Board of Directors

Tiffany Scovel 226

Kathie Steveson 207

Mike Vore 274

3 Write in candidates, of which 1 received 2 votes.

Election Committee

Maggie Jackson 195

Team of Quint, Quint, Quint and Sherman Wins Four-Person Golf Tournament

Safety Never Takes a Holiday!

ON LAND:

•Please observe the 25 MPH speed limit on all lake roads.

•All boats, cars and golf carts, side by sides and ATV’s MUST be stickered as directed by the lake guidelines. Stickers are available in the office and are for ALL our safety.

•Respect private property and use good judgment in all areas.

•Breakdown cardboard before placing in the recycling trailer AND do not put plastic bottles and cans in bags for recycling.

ON WATER:

•Please observe the NO WAKE zones, not only for our safety but also for the protection and preservation of our lake.

•Jet skis are allowed on the lake between the hours of 10 AM and 7 PM.

•Downed skiers and rafters should have orange flags displayed when downed people are in the water

•NO guest boats. NO exceptions.

•You MUST be 14 years of age to operate a boat or personal watercraft.

•Observe other watercraft fishing or trolling by allowing 100 feet distance when passing.

A four-person Best Ball golf tournament kicked off at 9 AM on Saturday 5/27. The First Place Team; Carson Quint, Tanner Sherman, Brian Quint and Carter Quint. Winners received a Bluetooth koozie and Lake Thunderhead caps.

Second Place Team; Kelly Novak, Stephanie Shockey, Dan Shockey, and Fred Hinnen. Winners received a box of golf balls.

With the busy holiday weekend coming, let’s all be good neighbors and practice the safety guidelines.

Grass Carp Introduced To Lake

The July 4th tradition at the lake promises something for everyone

Saturday, July 1 starts with a golf tournament; four person best shot at 9 AM. The band, One Eye Open, will perform Saturday evening at the North Beach bandstand at 7:30 and that will be followed by the lake fireworks display at 10 PM. Feeling competitive? Join everyone Sunday morning, July 2 for the Cornhole Tournament at North Beach starting at 10 AM.

That evening, Ian Gilworth and family are hosting a fireworks display for lake residents at 10 PM off their point. Professionals recom-

mend locating your boat at least 200 feet away from the point We are all grateful to the Ian Gilworth and his family for this holiday treat.

The City of Unionville will host a traditional Fourth of July Celebration Tuesday, July 4.

Starting at 6:00 p.m. the American Legion will lead the big parade from the City Park to

the square and back to the park. Beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the City Park there will be activities for the children and a Kiddie Parade at 7:30.

A Glow Parade will be held at 9:45 with the National Anthem and Fireworks following. The StoneHouse Band performance will start at the park as well.

Be safe everyone!

He’s definitely not acrophobic

The dictionary defines the word “daredevil” as someone who is “reckless and daring.” And that, says the Association of American Citizens [AMAC], describes Brazilian tightrope walker Rafael Zugno Bridi. His latest achievement – a not-so-casual stroll on a cable between two hot air balloons 6,236 feet in the air. The International Slackline Association verified the feat and, as a result, Rafael now has the distinction of being a Guinness World Record holder. Is there anyone out there who might want to try taking that award from him?

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F r o m l i s t i n g c o n s u l t a t i o n s , g o a l s e t t i n g , s t a g i n g , t a r g e t e d m a r k e t i n g s t r a t e g i e s , c o n t r a c t s , a n d c a p i t a l g a i n s c o n v e r s a t i o n s w e ' r e b y y o u r s i d e t h r o u g h c l o s i n g a n d b e y o n d W i t h K e l l e r W i l l i a m s o n e o f t h e w o r l d ' s l a r g e s t r e a l e s t a t e c o m p a n i e s w e h a v e t h e t r a i n i n g t o o l s a n d t e c h n o l o g y t o b e t t e r s e r v e y o u a n d a c h i e v e y o u r r e a l e s t a t e g o a l s

Rick Wulf directs traffic at the Grass Carp release.

Will Rich gets a kick out of helping stock the Grass Carp!

The fish committee is introducing Grass Carp to Lake Thunderhead to get rid of excess grass growing in the lake. The committee asks that you not take any grass carp you may catch, but release them back into the water.

Breakfast Burritos and Bloody Mary’s

Lake residents purchased breakfast burritos and Bloody Mary’s Saturday, 5/27 at the North Beach Pavilion. The crowd enjoyed the morning sunshine as they gathered to help raise funds for new lake signage. Fun was had by all, judging by the smiles and jokes circulating. Approximately $1,700 was raised through the sale of 200+ burritos and Bloody Mary’s.

“Kitchen’s Closed”

Come join your friends and neighbors Thursday evenings at 5 PM for a community dinner. During the summer friends meet at the marina at 5 PM for good food and even better laughs and conversation!

“Widows by the Water”

Originally started by Mary Schaffner and Judy McDonald and under the coordination of Vicky Wright the group of women gather at 5 PM on the third Tuesday of each month for shared dinners, pontoon rides and other fun activities year round. For more information, please call Vicky Wright at 319/230-4563.

Also, if you know of any women who have lost their partner, please notify Vicky so they can be invited to join the goup.

Poker Runs

Whether by golf cart or by boat this event always delivers laughs and shared good times! On Saturday, July 22 the themed boat poker run will be “Christmas in July.” Prepare your boat decorations and costumes now for a fun afternoon on the water collecting poker hands, prizes and fun!!!

Steve McKnight working the grill for the Breakfast Burritos and Bloody Mary’s fundraiser.

Paul and Lynn Koch serving Bloody Mary’s.

Renee Morris and Cindy Foulke making burritos

Keith Morris, Steve Foulke and Steve McKnight cooking meat and eggs.

Ready To Serve

Board Meeting Minutes May 9,2023

Cody Veach called the meeting to order at 5:30pm, Kerrie Rose, Kathie Steveson, Ced Gilworth, and Rodney Weir were in attendance, Tiffany Scovel was absent.

Public Correspondence – Shelby Daniels had concern regarding lots for sale near Falcon/ Cemetery Rd. Rodney addressed the gravel path area as something that isn’t a SRD road or WCA road, houses in that area should have a driveway off Falcon. Tabled to be discussed later in meeting.

Secretary Report –Kathie motioned for April minutes to be approved, Ced seconded.

reminds everyone to attend annual meeting on May 28 @ 1pm.

A&E Committee –Fred reported permit approvals for 6 decks, 7 garages, 3 houses, 5 sheds, 1 house addition. He also asked the Board to approve Brian Erickson to the committee, Cody motioned, Kathie seconded.

Rules & Regulations Committee – No Report

Fish Committee –Bass tournament on 5/13/23 with lunch around 11:30, everyone is welcome

Dock Committee –No Report

Commons Committee – No report

the bid and tentatively scheduled for June, he will also fill the potholes during asphalt project from entrance across dam. Keith Morris working on Bufflehead with ditches and trying to smooth road to build a better base. Paul Koch thanked Keith Morris for the work done on Cemetery Road where it connects to Wildflower making it a lot better than in past.

one on each side, if found with only 1 sticker you may be fined. Ron Hinkle has been doing some lawn work and, new drainage tubes will be installed near North Beach area to make it more level. Rodney would like to thank Linda Klosterman for all the work she has done to hold us accountable to the budget which allows for us to continue to improve our lake community and her continuing assistance to the office staff.

After hours, please contact Jake Rouse at 660/2990439 or Gage Duvall at 660/2992338

Treasure Report – In Tiffany’s absence Kathie reviewed the report, AR report includes unpaid dues which are now past due and will be assessed a late fee, income repairs are high due to labor & materials for rock on Marina road. The motion was tabled for next month.

Committee Reports

Election Committee –Vickie Wright reported a good return on ballots &

Entertainment Committee – Sat. golf cart poke run sign up at 2:15, 1st place $300 gift certificate to Riverside Casino, 2nd place $100 gift certificate to Marina. Winners announced around 8pm at the band stand before Jim Bishop & Patrick Pittman play. Memorial weekend Breakfast & Bloody Mary’s, Walking path dedication, golf tournament Saturday. Sunday Volleyball tournament & Richie Lee at bandstand. Monday will be flag pole dedication at 10am. About 55 bricks have been bought and will be installed soon. Sales are ongoing, we will continue to add them as orders are received.

Special Road District – Gene 4/21/23 meeting, bids were opened Norris $190,000 & WL Miller $170,000, Miller won

Lake Manager Report – Rodney reported a lot of dock damage this year due to winds and maintenance is working as quickly as possible to fix. We will also be reinforcing docks with steel braces ongoing. Costs to replace a 5 bay dock is approximately $25-30K so going in that direction would greatly increase rental fee’s. Thanks for your patience as rebuilding is done between gale force wind days. Please make sure if you have a request to call office and have a work order done, Rodney is human and gets overwhelmed with requests which can get forgotten, please call office. Reminder of mowing per amended covenants, lots need to be mowed once a month beginning in April thru October. Reminder on boat policy, please go in a counter clockwise direction, make sure your younger operators know the rules and are courteous to other boaters. Make sure you put both stickers on your boat by your state registration,

Old Business Marina Restaurant – Now Open. Thank you to Laker Ladies for cleaning before opening, it was appreciated.

Gas & Bait is open as well and the young men are enthusiastic, please make sure to get your gas & bait here this year.

Off-site clarification boat stickers/fees – Call with attorney had to be rescheduled, Kerrie will update once she has information.

Launching of Nabr Network Platform (office) – Call or stop by office with questions. Sorry for their name change so soon after launch, please check your Spam box to make sure you are receiving emails you’ve signed up for. We will resend the welcome email for those of you who missed the original.

Update seasonal storage – Have a few campers that still need to be removed, should have done by next meeting. Please make sure to regMay Board Mtg Cont. To Pg. 10

Be sure to stop in at the boat launch to hi to Gage Duvall (left) and Jake Rouse (right). These two entrepreneurs are ready to meet your fuel and bait needs.

May Board Meeting…

Continued From Pg. 9

ister your trailer/storage item at office.

New Business Discussion policy 209

Non-Standard Motorized Vehicles – Kerrie received calls questioning the policy, if we can force someone to buy the stickers. Since roads are county roads how can we enforce? Asked attorney if we had authority to enforce policy, we can’t enforce on the county roads but we can enforce on

WCA property, such as Marina Rd., trash area, beach roads & parking, etc. This is actually an SRD policy, as the county commissioner turned it over to them. The Board concluded that for side by sides, golf carts, etc. to park or be on our property we can enforce a sticker. The Board will work with the SRD about rewording the enforcement of the policy.

Update on sale of

Annual Meeting… …Continued From Pg. 4

Renee Morris

173

0 write in SRD $50 increase (for a total of $100 per year)

2/3rd approval needed

Yes 265

No 113

Passed with 70%

Cody Veach addressed everyone that it takes a village of volunteers to run this lake, there are too many to name but he especially wanted to thank Rodney, Kim and Ferne who without them this lake would be in big trouble. He also wanted to thank Kathie Steveson for all she’s done, and we will definitely call on her in the future.

Cody motion to adjourn the Annual Meeting, Kerrie seconded, motion carries, meeting

adjourned.

Called to order Board Meeting to elect officers.

• Cody Veach – President

• Kerrie Rose – Vice President

• Tiffany Scovel –Treasurer

• Mike Vore – Secretary

Motion to adjourn by Cody, Second by Tiffany. Meeting adjourned.

misc. Lake Thunderhead property – Ced wanted to apologize for lack of communication on this project. About a year or so ago a homeowner on Falcon wanted to buy the property behind their home that adjoins Lupton Cemetery path. Some of this land is small strips, some are more like normal size lots. The Boards thinking is this could potentially generate funds to put towards potential new Community Center or updating restaurant.

Emails and letters are going out to owners in front of those parcels, they have the first right to buy them.

Some of the lots that are big enough (.25-.4 acres) to be a stand-alone lots, the 1st right of purchase goes to adjoining property owners, then we may open up to general public. The board will need to figure out road and utilities before selling as stand-alone lots. The property owner will be responsible for having it surveyed and it would be included as part of

their property which will be reflected in the deed for the property (filed with county).

Could some of the smaller parcels be sold and not developed so owner would have lake access, similar to being a lot owner/membership owner. Owner would be responsible for real estate taxes. “Deed restricted” parcels.

Trevor Hawkins –Proposal Restricted Commons

Prairie Rose Commons #1

Selling property –proposed new owner wants confirmation they can use the dock 24/7. An agreement has been written up and signed by owners who adjoin Commons property. Ced would like the agreement to be recorded at the Courthouse to be entered onto the property deed.

Ced clarified “Commons” in hopes of clearing some confusion.

Commons – Anyone can use, if there is a dock you can’t tie up to the dock overnight.

Restricted Commons – Only lots that adjoin the borders can use the

area, if there is a dock no boats can be tied up overnight.

Restricted Commons with agreement - Owners with lots that adjoin the

borders of commons area have a written agreement between all owners pertaining to dock & usage. Those owners can leave their boats 24/7.

Catches First ‘Keeper’ Walleye

Braxton Schwebach caught this keeper walleye about 19” off the dock at his grandfather, Jim Schwebach’s property! Great Job Braxton!!!

Curly Leaf… Continued From Page 1

not get the tag invasive here in MO yet, but it is definitely a non-native, super aggressive, submersed plant species.

CLPW has an interesting life history. It starts to grow during September and will grow until water temps get below 40-45 degrees and then will over winter at 1-2 feet in height. Once water temps reach that same temperature in the spring ti will start growing again. This gives it a 2-3 foot head start on other plants like coontail, American pondweed, etc. CLPW has been documented to grow in up to 20 feet of water, but 1-12 feet is the most common. In Lake Thunderhead my estimate would be 8-10 ft will be the deepest that it grows due to clarity and light penetration. CLPW will start setting Turions, or seed like structures, during late April early May.

CLPW will be the most prevalent during late May and early June. Most years in north Missouri it has completely finished its yearly cycle by the 4th of July and will be dying off.

Issues with CLPW are both biological and social. It will create a solid ring of vegetation from shoreline to 12 feet of water so dense that fishing it is nearly impossi-

ble, and swimming is totally out of the question. It also grows so dense that largemouth bass will not be able to feed on crappie and bluegill in it. Once it dies off it also creates an issue with low dissolved oxygen in the lake. While aquatic plants are growing, they create oxygen but when they die off and decompose, they use oxygen and create CO2. Dissolved oxygen swings during warm water times are the leading cause of fish kills.

Treatment options are usually very expensive. Chemical treatment is the best bet in ponds, but it will cost roughly $1,000 per acre per year for a minimum of 3 years. That is not an option at Lake Thunderhead. Grass Carp as a management tool is also an option. Grass Carp love it. The issue is that we need to get enough Grass Carp to suppress growth but not too many where they create an issue with muddying the lake, while they look for food once they do their job. Grass Carp should not be able to spawn successfully in a lake setting so they will die off in roughly 15 years.”

Officer Loken presented his findings to the Fish Committee, along with Lake Man-

ager Rodney Weir and Board President Cody Veach a couple weeks ago. The group listened intently and asked lots of good questions of Office Loken. In the end, everyone agreed with his assessment that introducing Grass Carp to help get this weed under control and keep it that way, was the way to go, and fast.

By about 3 days after his presentation, the Fish Committee had arranged and executed, with the help of a surprising amount of volunteers on such short notice, introducing 900 Grass Carp in the lake. They are already at work chowing on the CLPW. Grass Carp shouldn’t reproduce in our lake, which is a good thing, as we are in control of their population that way. Plus, they will not interfere with our sport or other fish population, as they really love to eat grass and delicacies (to them) like CLPW.

One thing to note here. The Fish Committee works diligently with our state biologist to optimize our lake’s fishery. No species of fish is introduced on our lake without extensive discussions with Officer Loken to determine the short and long term effects on our current and future fish population, and the overall effect the introduction would have

on the lake in general.

Please, please do not ever take it upon yourself to introduce ANY fish of any kind into our lake. You might think it’s only a couple of fish, but a deadly pathogen might also be introduced, or from just two fish an entire population can emerge. Think Adam & Eve or Noah’s Ark for example. Some fish, could cause immediate and long term negative effects on our lake. Please do not introduce fish to the lake.

Now back to the CLPW. The lake is working now with the Department of Conservation to create a plan to double down on eliminating this plant. Expect to hear from them in the next few months regarding the possibility of spraying for them in early spring next year. We’ll also be stocking another 900 Grass Carp next year and 500 in 2025. We’ll work with the Dept of Conservation along the way to tweak the program so it’s most effective.

What can you do now if you have CLPW along your shore? You may pull it out and remove it from the lake. That will free up the area this year, but will not eliminate it next year, as it’s seeds will most likely have already dropped for the year. BTW, we fully expect CLPW to actually

INCREASE in the lake before the carp get it under control and/or spraying helps knock it down next year. The weed increases it’s coverage by 4 times over the prior year’s infestation. So for example, if you have a 4 foot x 4 foot area of it this year. It’ll likely be 16 x 16 feet next year. This explains why this was such an immediate priority. Much credit to the lake, Fish Committee and the Dept of Conservation for teaming up to fight this. The good news is that we believe we caught it early.

How did it get here? May have been migratory birds. Could possibly have been brought in via boats that haven’t been properly cleaned prior to coming to the lake.

Here’s a quick link on how to clean your boat (and this applies to ALL watercraft, not just fishing boats, particularly those with ballasts, etc) to help prevent introduction of unwanted species into the lake: https:// www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/preventspread_

watercraft.html

So, in sum, we have an unwanted plant(Curly Leaf Pond Weed) beginning to take hold in our lake. The Dept of Conservation, the lake and the Fish Committee are on top of it. No doubt the lake will be sharing further information on spraying for the weeds when that plan is fully developed. We’ll do our best to keep you informed as well. In the meantime, if you’d like more information, Officer Loken’s full information sheet is available in the office.

Oh yeah, one last thing. Please do not keep these carp if you catch them. They are over $5 a piece and they have work to do. In time, they will grow to be as large as maybe 40 lbs. At that point, as they age, they won’t be such good eaters. We may have a plan to cull the larger ones at that point, but that’s years away.

Tight lines everyone! But please catch and release these if you happen to catch one.

A very, very pricey taste

The rare, fragrant, flavorful and extremely expensive white truffles that grow in Alba, Italy can put you back nearly $7,000 a pound. It’s the reason why Japanese company, Cellato, broke the Guinness record for the world’s priciest ice cream, a brand called Byakuyathat would set you back $6,696 per serving. According to the company, “It took us over 1.5 years to develop, with a lot of trials and errors to get the taste right. Achieving a Guinness World Records title made the effort all worth it.”

Additional Photos From the Flag Dedication Ceremony

Right Photo: Each veteran was given an honor coin in appreciation for their service. Left Photo: An impressive view of the new flag from the lake. Fundraiser bricks are available at the Lake Office for those who would like to support this project and establish a maintenance fund for future needs. This is an excllent opportunity to honor a loved or respected person in your life.

Featured Lake Thunderhead Properties

32042 Falcon Drive $ 23,500

Listing Broker:

Ced Gilworth

Lake lots for sale at Lake Thunderhead in Unionville, MO. Two lots located in the Prairie Rose addition. These are 2nd tier lots with utilities at the road. The property is adjoining to commons ground, giving a lot more privacy. With two lots, you can build your lake home, or create a camper pad area, while giving you privacy that is sometimes hard to find at the lake. Also there are several trees on the property along with cover on the commons ground behind. For more information call Ced Gilworth at 660-626-8445.

22022 Blazing Star Court $350,000

Listing

Broker:

Ced Gilworth

The property is situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in a well-established neighborhood, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. This is a bare lot, with utilities already on the lot with a shared grinder pump. The waterfront is 106’ wide and at the road is 20’ and the sides are approx 300’ long. The two campers on the lot are not included in the sale of the property. Main body lots are hard to find these days at Lake Thunderhead. When you consider neighboring private lakes, the values at Lake Thunderhead are still less than many of the lakes around. The Wildflower Community Association dues are $810.00 per year. https://wcalakethunderhead. com/ Overall, 22022 South Blazing Star Court is beautiful and perfect for those who seek a peaceful and serene lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Give us a call today to set up a showing, Ced Gilworth 660-626-8445.

NOTE: Campers and the dock in pictures and videos are not included in the sale of the property

17220/17222 Hickory Court $59,000

Listing Broker:

Darl Davis

Lots for sale located at 17220/17222 Hickory Court at Lake Thunderhead. This property has two adjoining lots with utilities already installed, making it ready for summer! There

As you pull in the driveway, there is a landing that has been landscaped at the road for more parking. Then as you come down the driveway to additional parking closer to the home, the main entrance has a deck running the full length of the house with a covered roof over the entrance. As you enter the home, an open concept allows for you to see the lake when you step in the door with the large windows on the waterfront side. There are 3 bedrooms on the main level, along with 2 bathrooms. The stairway takes you to the basement family room area, three more additional bedrooms, and a bathroom that is not completed. There are a few other items left to do in the basement such as trim. Out the basement door you go to a concrete patio and just steps away from the dock and lake time. Included in the sale of the property is the dock, jet ski lift, boat lift and kitchen appliances. The home is approximately 2800 square feet and was built in 2003. The seller is aware that their home is in need of some finishing touches, landscaping, work in the basement, etc.