1-2024 Beachcomber

Lake Thunderhead Beachcomber

Fish Committee Gives Year End Wrap Up To The 2023 Season

Just a quick note to tie up some loose ends for this year, while looking forward to 2024.

2023 was a good year for the fish committee. We had a great turnout and a great time at the Spring Bass Tournament, and lots of 6 fish limits at weigh in. The Kids’ Derby in July was another great time, with a fabulous turnout and lots of kids catching plenty of fish. September’s Fall Bass Tourney was well attended, with some very nice fish at weigh-in, and the big fish going to Thunderhead fishing legend, Bob Bryant.

In late spring we tackled the Curly Leaf Pond Weed infestation with our friends at the Department of Conservation and lake management. We introduced a few hundred Grass Carp as step one in the eradication of the noxious weed. Over the winter we’ll be

working with both entities to tighten up the plan for early, early spring treatment of the weed, and timing for introducing even more Grass Carp to hopefully get on top of the situation. Please keep an eye on the lake’s official commu-

Seeking Candidates For 2024 Annual Election

This May, the members of our Wildflower Community Association will be voting to fill two positions on the Board of Directors and one position on the Election Committee. Now is the time to think about the contribution you can make to our community. If you know someone you think is a good candidate, talk to them about running. Public service is critical to our community life here at Lake Thunderhead.

The Declaration of Candidacy form for the Board of Directors or Election Committee is available at the office. We welcome your participation.

This is also the time to prepare any referendum to be considered by the membership. To be included on the ballot, the referendum must be signed by thirty or

more members who are eligible to vote. The signatures must be printed as well as signed and include lot number (i.e. WB66) for verification by the Election Committee.

Candidates for the Board, or the Election Committee, and any referendums must be submitted to the Election Committee in writing by April 10, 2024. They may be mailed to: WCA Election Committee, P.O. Box 35, Unionville, MO 63565 or left at the Lake Office.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:

Linda Nussbaum

(660) 341-8725

Patti Keinitz

(319) 269-1159

Barb Mothershead

(641) 660-4891

Maggie Jackson

(641)895-1376

nications regarding the treatment plan, and what you should be aware of as a Thunderhead property owner. It’s a situation that affects all lake property holders.

We had a fish survey this fall to determine the health of our panfish population. Unfortunately there was a problem with several of the nets, resulting in an incomplete survey. With luck we’ll be able to give it a try again next fall. Of the few nets that functioned properly, one caught a VERY large walleye, along with several others. There weren’t enough fish to have a legitimate sample size though, so we’ll have to put off drawing any conclusions until the sampling can happen again next year.

Thanks to our many sponsors, whether that’d be tournament sponsors, derby sponsors, folks who donated food to the meals at both tourneys or those who bought 50/50 drawing tickets, or those who partook in the amazing meals for helping us raise funds to support the fish stocking, etc.

This fall we stocked another 4000 walleye to help cutdown on the shad population and also for sport fishing. Our lake continues to yield

Despite problems with several nets resulting in an incomplete survey there were some nice fish caught!

very nice numbers and sizes of walleye. Those 4,000 walleye will grow up fast and be ready to be caught in a year or so. Just as an FYI, it cost $12,000, or $3 a piece, for those walleye. So, as always, thanks for all the donations that allow us to keep up our stocking program.

Recently the late fall weather has been outstanding here and there. Several intrepid fishermen and women have gotten out on the water and taken advantage of the good days. Fishing has been great, especially for crappie. In fact, Jim Woodard caught a 3 pound crappie, which was 18” in length, just a week or so ago. So it’s not too late to get out one of these nice late fall days. You might catch a whopper.

We had an opportunity to get the fish committee, and those who have assisted us along the way this year, together for a fish fry late this fall at Mark & Mary Daniel’s place. Everyone but Larry and Cindy Krous were there. The food was fantastic and the camaraderie was great. Of course we forgot to get a picture. But we’ll try to get

Conservation Department Fish Survey Distracted By Bad Nets

one sometime next year so you can put faces with names. Most importantly, thank you to the entire team for their help, hard work and guidance along the way this year.

Finally, as always a big thank you to our donors and sponsors. Every dime spent on a meal, 50/50 ticket or sponsorship/donation helps us keep our lake fishery in tip top shape. We truly couldn’t do it without you.

If you’d like to donate

to our cause, feel free to drop off a check or several bars of gold if you have extra lying around, at the office. Kim and Ferne will be sure to accurately log it in, let us know about it, and get the funds into our checking account so we can do more good work next year. Thanks again everyone. We truly hope you have a safe and joyful holiday season!!

Tight lines, everyone!!

Jim Woodard caught a 3 pound crappie, which was 18” in length

Results of the 2023 Strategic Planning Committees

In the last several weeks member volunteers, making up four different Strategic Planning Committees, met to create a plan that the Wildflower Community Association can use as a guide going forward. The four Committees are:

Infrastructure

Office

Recreation

Building and Grounds

The Strategic Plan is a significant list of projects and ideas in each of the above areas with priorities assigned by the respective Committee Members. Although this list has many urgent issues, that need attention soon, it also has many casual ideas that can make Lake Thunderhead a more attractive place to be. The Committees are also aware that there will

AP

ROLL - OFFS

Commercial & Residential

15 and 20 Yard Dumpsters

Portable Storage

Austin Peters ~ 641-856-9988 aprolloffs1@gmail.com

Dennis’ Small Engine Repair & Service

We are now an ECHO Dealer!

Gas powered Chainsaws, Weed Trimmer and more....

Dennis Kroemer 27051 226th St. Unionville, MO (just 5 miles south of Unionville in Lemons, MO.)

Debt/Credit Accepted

We Appreciate your business!

Office: 660-344-2254

Dennis Cell: 785-294-8059

Automotive

• Automatic Transmissions

• Engines ~ Gas and Diesel

26432 210th St. Unionville, MO 63565

Nick Miller, Owner ~ 660-344-2204

be other non-recognized emergencies that will come up in the future that will take priority over the Strategic Plan.

Member Volunteers that helped in developing this plane are Ellen Gordon, Keith Morris, Joy Jones, Doug Hoch, Steve Benson, Kurt Kienitz, Kathie Steveson, Patti Kienitz, Fred McElwee, Steve McKnight, Lake Manager Rodney Wier,

and Mike Vore. Thank you all for participating and bringing your ideas to light.

High Priority Projects

Identified by Planning Committee

Upgrade Electrical and Lighting in Maintenance Bldg

Purchase a better Scanner to digitize files currently kept in a nonfiresafe cabinet

Find a quality Point of Sale system that will integrate with Tops1 Accounting software

Find a person or local company to provide

Ace Tree Trimming

55’ Bucket Truck Stump Grinding

FREE Estimates

Dwaine Andrews 660-216-9069

Phone and IT Support

Level ground in Beechnut Circle where we borrowed dirt for the walking path

Upgrade path from So. Wildflower to the fish cleaning station

Review the price of Hay and renegotiate deal with current tenant

Add more RipRap to shoreline near Campground

Repair Storage Building by Condos Build New Storage Building(s)

Paint Maintenance Building

Fence In Maintenance

Shop Yard

Establish and fund a Reserve Account for water & sewer repair and improvement

Implement a Water Valve insertion and replacement project

Investigate Cost vs Benefit for Radio Read

Water Meters

Start collecting data to determine “Unaccounted For” Water

Strategic Committee… cont. to pg. 6

CRZ HVAC

Heating & Cooling, Electrical, Plumbing, Small Appliances, Heat Pumps, & Grinder Pumps

Jared Chapman, owner 816-518-1361 or 660-947-2402

910 S 21st St - Unionville, Mo crzhvacelectricalplumbing@gmail.com

Mary Frank, Agent 122 S. 17th Street Unionville, MO 63565 660-947-2827

Morgan’s Tree service

• Complete Tree Removal/Trimming

• 55’ Bucket Truck w/Chipper

• Stump Grinding

• Fully Insured

• Free Estimates

Justin Morgan ~ 660-292-2638

STATELINE

Miller & Son’s Lumber

It’s Been a Great Year at The Lake!

There’s a plaque at the new flag pole which reads,”If you’re lucky enough to live at the Lake, you’re lucky enough!” We can all count our blessings living in such a wonderful community on such a

beautiful lake. Here are a few of the highlights of 2023:

1. On Memorial Day, a new 100’ flagpole was erected for our 20’ by 30’ flag to majestically fly.

2. After Mother Nature doubled the flagpole

over on June 28, a very determined and talented group of men resurrected a new flag pole in time for the lake Fourth of July celebration.

3. Our main road was resurfaced from the Main Entrance to the dam greatly improving the drive.

4. Laker Lades sponsored the Summer Bash on Aug. 5 and raised

more than $2,000 to purchase new picnic tables.

5. The Lake Can Committee used funds raised from can and bottle donations to do the following:

a) Purchased six new benches which were positioned at the tennis courts and the golf course.

b) Purchased two additional picnic tables

c) Contributed funds to the Fish Committee which annually hosts two fishing tournaments and restocks our lake with walleye.

d) Contributed funds for our annual July Fourth fireworks show

e) Contributes to the PC Cafe in Unionville

f) Purchases gift cards for lake employees

6. A new bocce ball

and horseshoe court were added at the north playground.

7. The new Walking Path was dedicated on Saturday, May 27.

8. The annual Bloody Mary and Burrito Breakfast raised nearly $1,800 to fund the new Lake

Year In Review…

…cont to pg. 6

25052 Magnolia Road $650,000 - Listing Agent: Shelly Seaton

This picturesque home offers a blend of modern comfort and natural beauty, making it a dream destination for those seeking tranquility and year-round enjoyment. This property features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and sits on nearly an acre (.99 acres), offering plenty of room for relaxation, recreation, and entertaining.

Gorgeous bamboo hardwood and stunning concrete floors seamlessly flow throughout the 2800 square feet of living space. The master shower is a sanctuary in itself, featuring a walk-in design, double shower heads, and a soothing rain sprinkler shower head for an indulgent spa-like experience. A dual-purpose tankless hot water heater efficiently provides heating and domestic water supply, reducing energy consumption and costs. Enjoy the peace of mind of new installations in 2023, including a grinder pump and an outside A/C unit. Embrace the luxury of heated floors in both the basement and garage, allowing you to stay cozy and comfortable in every season. This property boasts a common dock and day parking facilities, ensuring effortless access to the lake for fishing, boating, and water activities. A concrete driveway and Diamond Kote siding not only adds durability to your property but also makes maintenance a breeze, along with a sprinkler system for

32254 Mallard Drive $239,000 Listing Agent: Shelly Seaton

Nestled within the serene beauty of Lake Thunderhead this exceptional lakefront lot at 32254 Mallard Drive presents a rare opportunity to create your dream home in an idyllic setting. This private oasis offers not only a prime location but also a thoughtfully prepared canvas for your vision. This lot is primed and ready for your architectural masterpiece. The convenience factor is undeniable, as critical utilities have already been thoughtfully installed. Imagine the ease of planning your build with gravity flow sewer, water, and electric connections readily available, allowing you to seamlessly bring your construction plans to life. Beyond the practical features, this property also boasts a few indulgent extras that truly set it apart. A private dock beckons you to embrace the tranquil waters of Lake Thunderhead at your leisure, whether you’re a fan of boating, fishing, or simply basking in the soothing ambiance of the water. Additionally, a shed provides a space for storage or creative pursuits, adding functionality to the property.

22005

The lot comes complete with all the essential amenities, including electricity, water, and a shared grinder pump, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable living experience. No need to worry about setting up utilities; everything is ready to go from day one. As an added bonus, a 2015 Keystone Cougar 32’ camper is included with the lot. This camper is thoughtfully designed with three slide-outs, providing ample space for relaxation and entertainment. Inside, you’ll find a cozy queen bed, a convenient sofa pull-out couch, and a charming fireplace. The table and four chairs will be reinstalled before closing, currently serving as space for a pack n’ play. Outside, the lot features a relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate. A well-maintained shed equipped with electricity offers additional storage space, perfect for stowing away lake gear

Your Association Needs YOU to Serve!

It is that time of year when Association members are encouraged to participate and run as a candidate for the Board of Directors. Association members will be filling two Board of Directors vacancies and one Election Committee

vacancy at the Annual Meeting scheduled for 1:00 pm on the 4th Sunday in May, in Putnam County, Missouri, as per the By-Laws. This year the 4th Sunday is May 26, 2024.

If you are interested in running for the Board

or the Election Committee and would like further details, you may contact the Lake Manager, a current Board member, or an Election Committee member. The Declaration of Candidacy form is available at the lake office. The

Lake Receives New Stock

A bucket brigade was set up and they stocked another 4000 walleye to help cutdown on the shad population and also for sport fishing. Thanks to the many donors the Fish Committee was able to stock these $3.00 each fish for the enjoyment of the Lake Thunderhead residents!!

deadline to run for Board of Directors, or the Election Committee, and to submit referendums is April 10, 2024.

In accordance with Article III, Section 8 of the Association ByLaws, the Election Committee will be administering the election of members to the Board of Directors, or the Election Committee, and any referendum by the membership. Any member of the Association who is eligible to exercise voting rights may become a candidate for the Board of Directors or Election Committee. Such members shall declare their intention to be a candidate to the Election Committee in writing on or before April 10th prior to the annual election.

The Election Committee shall publish and mail to all members of the Association by May 1, 2024, prior to the election a listing of all declared candidates, any question to be ratified by referendum, an election ballot and a return envelope. The candidates shall be listed on the bal-

lot in alphabetical order, with incumbents identified by an asterisk by their name.

Members shall receive and may vote one ballot for each parcel they own in the Community, as specified in Article II, Section 3, of the By-Laws. To be eligible to vote, the member must have paid all Association assessments then due by close of business, of the Wildflower Community Association Office, the Saturday before the Annual Meeting.

In order to appear on the annual ballot, a referendum must be signed by thirty (30) or more members who are eligible to vote and must be submitted to the Election Committee on or before April 10th. All referendums will be reviewed by the Association attor-

ney before placement on the ballot. All signatures will be verified by the office for eligibility. If you are submitting a referendum, please have members both print and sign their names, and include their lot numbers. Please consider submitting your referendum early. Signatures must be on the final referendum as submitted to the Election Committee. All ballots must be received in the Election Committee post office box by Saturday prior to the Annual Meeting.

Election Committee members are:

Linda Nussbaum (660) 341-8725

Patti Keinitz (319) 269-1159

Barb Mothershead (641) 660-4891

Maggie Jackson (641)895-1376

Tri State Lake Property Management

Peace of Mind Property Management

•Landscaping

•Boat Maintenance

•Construction

•Monthly and Yearly Services

Contact us for details at: 515.442.5339

tstatelakepm@gmail.com

Lake Thunderhead Beachcomber

Strategic Committee…

West Side sewer system that runs under Dam needs attention

Marina Kitchen Remodel

Lake Security needs to be on he Water full time in the summer months

Golf Course Improvements, Redo Hole 8, Repair Tee Boxes, Fix erosion problems with sand greens, Repair Hole 5, Trim Trees

Establish Pickle Ball court rules and create an online reservation system

Intermediate Priority Projects Identified by

cont. from pg. 2

Planning Committee

Add a small storage building by Office

Identify parking spaces in Seasonal Storage Lots

Chip and Seal all of the Walking Path

Build Handicap Accesible Ramp to the Bandstand

Add a kayak launch in the Marina area

Build more Pickle Ball Courts

Landscpe the Playground by the Maintence Shop

Add removable canvas cover or pergola to

the Bandstand Patio

Low Priority Projects

Identified by Planning Committee

Build a Miniature Golf Course

Resurface Tennis Courts and Shuffleboad pad

Construct grass greens on the Golf Course

New Office/Community Center

Repair Office Foundation

Year In Review…

…cont. from page 3

Office sign.

9. 45 new trees were purchased and planted at the lake and with the dedication of Renee and Keith Morris, Tim and Lisa Messman, and others we had a successful season of extensive watering and fertilizing.

10. The Fish Committee hosted two adult fishing tournaments and

the annual Kids’ Fishing Tournament.

11. At least nine different bands performed for us all at the Band Stand at North Beach

12. Five golf tournaments, one volleyball tournament and one cornhole tournament were held in addition to our first pickleball clinic and tournament.

12. The restrooms at the campground were remodeled..

13. Improvements were made to the silt retention ponds near the Marina and at the north end of the lake.

14. Before year’s end, gravel will be added to the campground lots to make them more obvious and enable campers to pull in on gravel instead of dirt.

Don’t Be Caught Off Guard

Know the hazards associated with carbon monoxide gas.

It’s colorless, odorless, tasteless, and potentially deadly.

CO is a common hazard resulting from the incomplete burning of carbon-containing material, such as natural gas, gasoline, kerosene, oil, propane, coal, or wood. To avoid breathing in toxic levels of carbon monoxide, be aware of how this gas is generated and take steps to prevent it.

On the farm, common sources of CO include internal combustion engines such as portable generators, vehicles, lawnmowers, and power washers.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 170 people die yearly from CO produced by non-automotive consumer products.

These products include malfunctioning fuelburning appliances such as furnaces, ranges, water heaters, and portable heaters. Fireplaces and charcoal burned in homes and other enclosed areas can also produce CO. In 2005, CPSC staff documented at least 94 generator-related CO poisoning deaths. Among them, 47 were known to have occurred during power outages due to severe weather.

Other CO deaths can occur because of vehicles left running in an attached garage. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) estimates that several thousand people visit hospital emergency rooms every year seeking treatment for CO poisoning.

Symptoms of CO poisoning include:

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea

• Dizziness

When CO levels in a person’s body are high, the person may experience:

• Mental confusion

• Vomiting

• Loss of muscular coordination

• Loss of consciousness

• Ultimately death

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), carbon monoxide, when breathed in, displaces oxygen in the blood and deprives the heart, brain, and other vital organs of oxygen. Large amounts of CO can overcome a person in minutes, resulting in loss of consciousness and suffocation.

Initial symptoms may

cause chest pain in individuals with angina. During prolonged exposure, symptoms may progress to vomiting and muscle weakness. Symptoms can vary widely from person to person. They may occur sooner in young children, the elderly, people with lung or heart disease, people at high altitudes, or those who already have elevated CO blood levels, such as smokers. CO poisoning also poses a particular risk to fetuses.

The impact of CO inhalation depends on the length of the exposure and an individual’s health condition. CO concentration is measured in parts-per-million (ppm). CO levels of approximately 1 to 70 ppm may not result in any symptoms for most people. However, heart patients may experience an increase in chest pain.

As CO levels increase and remain above 70 ppm, symptoms may become more noticeable.

inside a house or other enclosed areas with high levels of CO could result in death.

It’s also crucial to consult a physician for proper diagnosis and medical attention. If CO poisoning is confirmed, ensure any appliances that were a CO source are repaired or replaced. If the incident occurred inside an improperly vented enclosure, update the venting.

To help prevent CO poisoning:

• Ensure appliances are installed and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use qualified professionals for installation. Have heating systems professionally inspected and serviced annually to ensure proper operation. The inspector should also check chimneys and flues for blockages, corrosion, partial and complete disconnections, and loose connections.

• Only service fuelburning appliances if you have the proper knowledge, skills, and tools. Always refer to the owner’s manual when performing minor adjustments or servicing fuel-burning equipment.

When discovered in time, CO poisoning can be reversed. However, in acute poisoning cases, permanent damage may occur to parts of the body that require a lot of oxygen, such as the heart and brain.

CO alarms are designed to sound before potentially life-threatening CO levels are reached. Safety standards for these alarms have continually improved, and current alarms are more reliable than those used in the past. Install an alarm according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and never ignore a CO alarm. While an alarm provides some added protection, there is no substitute for proper use and upkeep of appliances that can produce CO. Interconnected CO alarms offer the best protection. When one sounds, they all sound. Ensure that the alarm is not located in a space that can be covered by furniture or draperies.

Activities that may put people at risk include:

• Never operate a portable generator or any gasoline engine-powered tool in or near an enclosed space such as a garage, house, or other building. Even with open doors and windows, these spaces can trap CO and allow it to build to lethal levels quickly.

Whenever CO poisoning symptoms are experienced, getting to fresh air is critical. If the symptoms occur inside the home, get outside and call 911. Remaining

• Welding

• Mechanic work in an unvented garage

• Firefighting

• Diesel engine operation

• Operating a forklift

• Only use portable fuel-burning camping equipment inside a home, garage, vehicle, or tent if it is specifically designed for use in enclosed spaces and provides instructions for safe use in an enclosed Carbon Monoxide…

Cont. to pg. 8

Can You Negotiate When Your Car Is Totaled

Yes, you can negotiate when your car is declared “totaled” (or a total loss) by your insurance company. An insurance company will normally provide you a settlement based on the market worth of the car, less the deductible and occasionally salvage value if they find that the cost of repairing your car will exceed its actual cash value. However, this initial offer may not always reflect the full value of your vehicle or account for certain factors that can increase your settlement. Here’s how you can negotiate a better settlement for a

totaled car:

Know Your Car’s

Value: Before accepting any offer, it’s essential to understand the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle. You can research your car’s value by checking reputable sources like Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides, or local classified ads to get a sense of what similar vehicles are selling for in your area.

Document Your Vehicle’s Condition: Provide evidence of your car’s condition before the accident. Collect maintenance records, receipts for recent repairs or upgrades, and photographs

Carbon Monoxide… Cont. from pg. 7

•

•

• Never use gas appliances such as ranges, ovens, or clothes dryers to heat your home.

Find additional details at https://www.cdc.gov/ co/copoisoningfactsheet. html.

Funding for this educational article comes from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Tree

Tree

STump

of the vehicle from various angles. This can help demonstrate that your car was in better condition than the typical model of its age and mileage.

Consider a Second Opinion: If you believe the initial valuation is too low, you have the right to seek a second opinion. An independent appraiser or mechanic can assess your vehicle’s value and condition. Their report can serve as evidence in your negotiations.

Highlight Custom Upgrades: If your vehicle had aftermarket modifications or custom upgrades, inform the insurance adjuster about these additions. Aftermarket parts and upgrades can increase your car’s value, so make sure to document and provide receipts for these modifications.

Negotiate the Salvage Value: In cases where the insurance company retains the salvage rights to your totaled car, you may have the option to negotiate for a lower sal-

vage value, which could increase your settlement. Salvage value is the amount the insurer expects to receive when selling your car for scrap or parts.

Check for Gap Insurance: If you have gap insurance, it can assist in covering the difference between the ACV settlement and the amount you still owe on your car loan. Ensure that the insurance company properly considers this coverage when settling the claim.

Discuss Diminished Value: Some states allow you to claim diminished value, which is the reduction in your car’s value after an accident, even after it has been repaired. Be aware of your state’s regulations and discuss this aspect during negotiations.

Be Persistent and Polite: When negotiating with the insurance adjuster, remain persistent but polite. Present your evidence and arguments clearly, emphasizing the reasons your vehicle’s value should be higher.

Consider Arbitration:

If negotiations stall or you’re not satisfied with the settlement offer, some insurance policies include an arbitration provision. This allows an impartial third party to review the case and make a decision on the value.

Legal Action as a Last Resort: If all else fails, you may have the option to pursue legal action against your insurance company. Consult with an attorney experienced in insurance disputes to

explore this option.

Remember that insurance companies have a legal obligation to handle claims in good faith, which includes providing a fair settlement for your totaled car. While negotiation is common and can lead to a better outcome, it’s important to understand your rights and the terms of your policy. Consulting with an attorney or a public adjuster can be helpful if you’re facing challenges in the negotiation process.