Canadian Laker

CANADIAN LAKES, MI

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021

Fiscal Year 2022

BUDGET HEARING

CHOCOLATE!

WE BOUGHT A FARM canadianlakes.org

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F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H 2 0 21

W

hat a difference a year makes. It has been almost one year since our world changed drastically. I would love to say the worry and heartache have subsided, but that’s not the case.

This pandemic has taken lives and changed people in ways we could have never imagined. I would love to say that we ALL came together for the greater good, but that’s not the case either. Where do we go from here? We rise up. We help our fellow neighbors. We take pride in what we do. We take care of each other, now and always. I don’t know how many times over the past year I have said I’m thankful I live here in Canadian Lakes—dozens at least. Our community is small but mighty and something to be proud of.

To all those who feel like the past year has just swallowed them whole, it’s time to shake it off. Time to adjust to our new normal and be hopeful of the future. I look to my kids for inspiration. At eight and ten years old, their perspectives are beyond delightful. Our weekends are no longer filled with play dates and sporting events, but instead we have days of sledding on our neighbor’s hill and sleepovers in mom and dad’s bed. Said sledding and sleepovers might wreck my back for two days following, but it is one hundred percent worth it! My daily walks with the family dog have turned from a hustled chore to wonderful nature hunts. Things have certainly changed, but we Canadian Lakers are taking it in stride, we will prevail, and we will come out stronger. Hang in there—we have got this, and remember it’s okay to ask for help. For all those who are struggling, I see you, I see your heartache; but with each passing day things will get better. I’ll leave you with a quote by Connor Franta, because let’s remember the kids are watching and all they are looking for is to see us smile

"Let your smile change the world but don't let the world change your smile."

– CONNOR FRANTA

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Photo credit: Di Schwartz

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

3

Dan Bollman Associate Broker

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In This Issue

12 Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Hearing

CONTENTS F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H 2 0 21

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

14 Board Director Spotlight 20 We Bought a Farm 32 Chocolate!

5

Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation

In Every Issue

8 From From the the General General Manager Manager

10 From From the the Board Board 16 16 Marketing Marketing 18 From From the CLA CLA 24 Focus Focus on on Fishing Fishing 26 26 Life Life on on Our Our Links LInks 26 30 Life From onaOur Canadian Links Lakes Kitchen

24 Focus on Fishing 34 Canadian Lakes Safety 30 From a Canadian

Kitchen 36 Lakes Mobile Watch 34 Lakes 38 Canadian Canadian Lakes Safety Yard Waste

36 obile Watch 44 MCLPOC Board Minutes 38 Canadian Lakes Waste 52 Yard Calendar of Events 44 Board 54 CLPOC Let's Get Social Minutes

56 Calendar Art Piece of Events 52 54 Let’s Get Social 56 Art Piece

Publisher Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation 10690 Pierce Road Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 P 231-972-7651 canadianlakes.org Production & Advertising SVK Multimedia & Publishing PO Box 586 Hudsonville, MI 49426 616.379.4001 SVKmp.com | jolsasvk@gmail.com Editorial Lindsay Halcomb, Marketing Associate Art and Editorial provided by Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation thecanadianlaker@gmail.com Assistant Editor Nancy Wallace Photography Chuck Richardson Di Schwartz Deadline Dates April/May – March 5 June/July – May 5 Aug/Sept – July 2 Oct/Nov – September 3 Dec/Jan – November 5 Submissions Canadian Lakes sanctioned groups and outside organizations are encouraged to submit articles, pending approval by CLPOC Board. Submit all copy as an email attachment to Editor at thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.

Credits are noted with articles and photos.

Guidelines for Articles Submit in Microsoft Word®, double spaced, preferably in Calibri font 11pt. or Arial font 11pt. For complete guidelines, contact thecanadianlaker@gmail.com.

Guidelines for Photos/Graphics Photos: Digital high-resolution photos.

Low resolution photos usually not accepted.

Graphics: Submit graphics in .pdf or .jpg format.

Get Social With Canadian Lakes

canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org

Cover photo credit: Lindsay Halcomb The Canadian Laker is owned and published bimonthly by the Canadian Lakes Property Owners Corporation (CLPOC) as its official magazine and is mailed at standard rate to each property owner of record to the address on file with the corporation. The Canadian Laker is a trademark of the CLPOC. Copyright ©2021 by CLPOC, all rights reserved.

Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content published in The Canadian Laker, the CLPOC cannot assume any responsibility for content, warranties, and representations made in advertisements herein. Advertisements or sponsor recognition appearing in The Canadian Laker is not an endorsement or recommendation of the advertiser’s product or service by the CLPOC. All warranties and representations made are solely those of the advertiser and any such claims regarding an ad’s content should be addressed directly to the individual advertiser.

CLPOC reserves the right to refuse publication of any editorial content, advertisement, or unsolicited material.

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

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HERE!

From the General Manager

I

hope that 2021 so far has found you all healthy and happy.

To say there are lessons to be learned from the collective experiences and challenges of 2020 is an understatement.

Everyone had to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic to stay safe and healthy. And even though it is now a new year and the pandemic continues for who knows how long, expect these safety aspects to remain paramount. While we do not know the unforeseen challenges we will yet face, we can be confident that the resourcefulness and resilience demonstrated throughout this past year will help us navigate this new year successfully.

GREG BABBITT General Manager gbabbitt@clpoc.org

GENERAL • Your annual statement(s) was mailed in early January, along with your 2021 Membership Form. Your annual membership fee is due March 1.

If you have not received your statement, please contact the office.

• I encourage each of you to return your Membership Form to the office after you have verified that all the information is accurate or have corrected any inaccurate or missing information.

• Please be sure to go to the website, members.canadianlakes.org, and provide your e-mail address. This will ensure you will receive the Members Bulletin in which pertinent information and announcements are e-mailed directly to you.

OFFICE 10690 Pierce Rd. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 Phone: 231-972-7651 OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MEMBER SERVICES Meghan Andersen Faith Markin Jane Hensley memberservices@clpoc.org

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FINANCE Later in this edition you will find a copy of the Pro Forma Budget for Fiscal Year 2022. This is the second budget being prepared as part of the 5-Year Funding Plan. Even in the midst of the pandemic, the new funding plan proved to be successful in its first year. We continued to build on this plan by again using conservative estimates for the second year. It remains a fiscally tight budget, and we will need to continue to operate conservatively in order to achieve a positive outcome. Realizing continued increased usage of the inclusive amenities, we will still need to rely on significant member and guest support of The Royal golf course and the Royal Grille.

The Budget Hearing for the Fiscal Year 2022 budget will be February 27 at the regularly scheduled Board meeting. Members will have an opportunity to share comments concerning the budget.

WINTER SPORTS PARK We have been able to open the Winter Sports Park at the Highland Haus. The ice rink has received some use, depending on the weather, as has the cross-country ski trail. The tubing tow has been operated for a couple of weekends. The tubing tow is now inclusive with payment of membership fees. As a reminder, the tubing tow requires a significant amount of snow and a good base. This is because when tubes are towed up the hill, they wear a path and cannot be towed on grass or dirt, as this will create additional drag on the equipment and pose potential damage. In addition, we need significant snow for building a proper discharge at the top of the hill so tubes are correctly discharged from the tow cable. There is a very nice fire pit to keep warm by. Hopefully, by the time you read this we will have even more snow along with cooler temperatures, so members can enjoy all these amenities all winter long.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Here are the basics we follow for the tubing tow operation, weather permitting: • The tow rope is operated on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Each day will be broken into two 3-hour shifts, 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Depending on demand, these may need to be adjusted.

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IN CLOSING Whatever this year brings our way, rest assured we will continue to evolve as a community. There is a saying something to the effect, “You are either moving forward or you are moving backward.”

Certainly, we want to continue to move this great community forward. We want to become a more desired destination and increase the demand for memberships, which will improve both lot and home values. With all the many different points of interest our community provides, I am looking forward to this year’s evolvement.

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c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

9

From the Board

Out with the old (GOODBYE, 2020!)

In with the new President Paul L. Szymkowicz

CLPOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS board@clpoc.org OFFICERS President Paul Szymkowicz pls.clpoc@gmail.com John Colley Vice President jacclpoc@gmail.com Treasurer James French jbf.clpoc@gmail.com Secretary Linda Tilley ltilley.clpoc@gmail.com DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE Dan Altier altierdt@gmail.com Daniel Rice dozerrice1960@gmail.com Bob Halpin rbobhalpin@aol.com Jerry Junker juncker.jerald@yahoo.com Steve Wilcox doctorw.clpoc@gmail.com CLPOC BOARD MEETINGS Regular Monthly Board Meeting Fourth Saturday 9 a.m., Highland Haus Workshop Board Meeting Second Wednesday 5:30 p.m., CLPOC Office Conference Room

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(HELLO, 2021!)

I

would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

It has been my honor and privilege to serve as your CLPOC president for the past five months and I am excited to continue.

Last year was very challenging and also very rewarding. Just over four years ago, if people had told me that I would be elected to the Canadian Lakes Board of Directors and one day be its president, I could not have possibly believed them.

I have great hopes that in 2021 we will slowly return to some sense of normality. With two new vaccines becoming available and possibly one or two more being developed, things are starting to turn around.

The CLPOC Board of Directors, general manager, and staff would like nothing more than to be able to open all our amenities on time and at full capacity.

This past year has certainly had its issues. Constantly changing guidelines and state-mandated restrictions played havoc on the corporation, its staff, employees, and the membership. Our amenities were forced to stay closed or, at the very least, opened behind schedule for the season. I would like to thank General Manager Babbitt and his staff for making our community’s health and safety their number one priority throughout these trying times.

With all that has happened this past year, there are still several bright spots to look back on. Eventually all our amenities were able to open, even though some still have restrictions. Five of our main beaches are scheduled to have the sand replaced in the swim areas this spring. Rounds of golf at The Pines and The Highlands courses were up dramatically. The Royal course also showed a marked increase in the number of rounds played. The center bathhouse in the campground has been repaired and newly remodeled and should be opening soon. The Royal Grille is open for curbside service, and it is fantastic to see the membership supporting its efforts.

The Castle was also lit for the holiday season. The tubing tow and ice-skating rink have been opened. Fifteen new homes were approved by the Architectural Control Committee, one of the highest

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

increases in recent years. Existing home sales have also been at new levels; in some instances, homes were sold before being listed on the market.

An independent market study is under way and being handled by the Lot Default Committee. It will be very informative to see the committee’s findings and recommendations to help move our community into the future. The Finance Committee has been working hard during the past year to ensure that our community remains in good financial shape and is continually monitoring how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting Canadian Lakes. The Strategic Planning Committee is working on the Community Planning Process and has also formed an IT subcommittee.

This year I look forward to having our workshops and board meetings face to face and make 100 percent Zoom meetings the exception and not the rule. Also, being able to open our amenities on time for all the membership to enjoy. We look forward to seeing all the CLAsanctioned clubs getting back to full operation. Just being able to get back to a sense of “business as usual.”

This year promises to be a busy and exciting year.

CANADIAN LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS VISION STATEMENT Canadian Lakes is a premier recreational and residential community set in West Michigan’s scenic heartland.

As a unified community of private property owners offering an unequaled quality of life, Canadian Lakes fulfills the diverse needs of all members in a natural setting for present and future generations to enjoy.

This Core Vision is characterized by: • The natural beauty of the area and its desirability as a place to live • Outstanding recreational and social activities • Financial soundness and sustainability • Protection of property values through disciplined growth and the development and maintenance of a high quality infrastructure.

CORE VALUES • Our heritage: We value our history and its ideals of friendliness, mutual support, affordability, and shared responsibility for our natural environment.

• Participating in the activities we love: We value participating in activities we love with our friends and neighbors and supporting the diverse and changing interests of our members.

• Protecting property values: We value taking proactive steps to protect and enhance the investment members have made in their homes and in community amenities.

• Financial soundness and sustainability: We value a financial structure that enables us now and in the future to meet community standards for the quality of our properties, membership programs and services and safety.

• Shared governance: We value and depend on the leadership and participation of members in the governance activities of the community and on an informed membership.

• Volunteerism: We value the active volunteer community service of our members, both in Canadian Lakes and in the surrounding communities.

• Leading into the future: We value careful planning, openness to change, and taking proactive steps that will ensure our best future as a community.

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11

Budget Hearing

FISCAL YEAR 2022 BUDGET HEARING PURSUANT TO ARTICLE XII(C) of the Articles of Incorporation, the CLPOC will have a Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Hearing during the February 27, 2021 Board meeting.

The Board meeting will be virtual and

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4/3/18 7:44 PM T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

begins at 9 a.m. The Budget Hearing portion of the meeting is conducted to provide the membership an opportunity to obtain information and make comments on the proposed budget. A summary of this budget, pro forma, was mailed to all members in the recent annual mailing and is also in this edition of The Laker.

The Fiscal Year 2022 Pro Forma Budget, which will run from April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022, contains total income of $4,943,808, and total operating expenses of $3,995,523. The Replacement Reserve Fund and New Capital Fund contributions have budgeted contributions of $592,000 and $50,000, respectively. It also contains the dollar amount expected for unpaid membership fees during the fiscal year of $306,286. Also, as part of this budget process, the Board will be approving, in principle, proposed Fiscal Year 2022 Replacement Reserve expenditures.

This pro forma budget depicts certain income line items and the percentage of each item as it equates to our total income. It also illustrates certain operating expense line items and the percentage of each item as it equates to our total operating expenses. In addition, this budget provides a breakdown of the “weighted average� for the membership fee regarding the amounts applied to each operating expense.

The Finance Committee has recommended to the Board this balanced budget for fiscal year 2022.

The Board will continue to discuss this budget and may make changes prior to its official adoption. It is intended that the CLPOC Board of Directors will be adopting a final fiscal year 2022 budget, including contribution amounts to the Replacement Reserve and Capital Improvement Funds, at their March 27, 2021 meeting.

The Pro Forma Budget Fiscal Year 2022 Beginning April 1, 2021 INCOME Maintenance Fees Billed Membership Fees Billed Special! Assessments Billed Annual Assessments Billed Amenities Fees Interest Income (investment Interest) Other Income Facilities Rentals TOTAL INCOME

FY 21 Budget % Of Budget 0.00% $ 62.52% $ 3,023,175 0.00% $ 0.00% 34.50% $ 1,668,206 30,000 0.62% $ 93,484 1.93% $ 20,675 0.43% $ 100.0% $ 4,835,540

FY 22 Budget % Of Budget 0.00% 3,106,889 Member 62.84% 0.00% Contribution 0.00% 1,708,870 34.57% To Budget $ 12,000 0.24% $ 96,674 1.96% MEMBERSHIP $ 19,375 FEE 0.39% $ 4,943,808 100.0% $

OPERATING EXPENSES Salaries and Wages Benefits and Payroll Taxes Other Employee Related Costs Repair and Maintenance Outside Services (Contracted Services) Bad Debts Utilities (Electric, Gas, Phone, etc.)

Fuel (Gasoline and Diesel) Supplies Information Technology Insurance (Property and Liability) Canadian Laker Property Taxes (Equipment & Land) Cost of Goods Sold Contingency Legal Fees Awareness Committee/Marketing All Other (Leases, Postage, etc) SUBTOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES

$ 1,450,936 413,799 $ 14,401 $ 306,230 $ 428,416 $ 125,000 $ 254,377 $ 53,100 $ 186,380 $ 24,612 $ 67,573 $ 12,180 $ 17,305 $ 192,920 $ 20,000 $ 30,000 $ 89,702 $ 235,724 $ $ 3,922,655

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Less Membership/Assessments not paid

$

(298,885)

AVAILABLE FOR FUND CONTRIBUTIONS

$

614,000

Replacement Fund Contribution New Capital - Fund Contribution Current Operating Contribution Future Operating Contribution

$ $ $ $

(564,000) (50,000)

$ $ $ $

(592,000) (50,000)

BALANCE

$

0

$

(0)

30.01% 8.56% 0.30% 6.33% 8.86% 2.59% 5.26% 1.10% 3.85% 0.51% 1.40% 0.25% 0.36% 3.99% 0.41% 0.62% 1.86% 4.87% 81.12%

$ $ $

$ 18.88% $

-

1,485,440 422,121 14,975 326,810 431,278 120,000 256,882 45,700 189,150 26,526 71,740 12,180 17,305 194,428 15,000 30,000 90,972 245,016 3,995,523

30.05% 8.54% 0.30% 6.61% 8.72% 2.43% 5.20% 0.92% 3.83% 0.54% 1.45% 0.25% 0.35% 3.93% 0.30% 0.61% 1.84% 4.96% 80.82%

$217.43 $61.79 $2.19 $47.84 $63.13 $17.56 $37.60 $6.69 $27.69 $3.88 $10.50 $1.78 $2.53 $28.46 $2.20 $4.39 $13.32 $35.86

19.18%

$138.80

(306,286) 642,000

-

$723.63

**

The annual membership fee for 2021 calendar year is $717.26 per the 2020-2024 new funding plan.

**Weighted average of April-Dec. 2021

at $717.26 and Jan.-March 2022 at projected $742.75

The Jan.-March 2022 projection at this point is only a consersvative estimate based on economic variables.

Document Notes: 1.The Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Hearing will be held on February 27, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., during the Regular Board of Directors meeting.

2.A detailed budget is available from the CLPOC office.

3.Maintenance Fees contribute 0.00% of the total cost to operate the communtity with the amenities.

4.Membership Fees contribute 62.84% of the total cost to operate the community with the amenities.

5.Assessment Fees contribute 0.00% of the total cost to operate the community with the amenities.

6.Amenity Fees contribute 34.57% of the total cost to operate the community and the amenities.

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

13

BOARD DIRECTOR SPOTLIGHT BOARD MEMBER

Dan Rice

Sincerely,

W

elcome to 2021! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

For the people who don’t know me, I am Dan Rice, one of the Board of Directors at Large for CLPOC. I moved to Canadian Lakes in April 2015 from Lakeview after living there for 19 years. Then after more than 37 years with Dow/ DuPont working in their Electronics Division at Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation, responsible for managing application engineering and technical service for our global electronics and photovoltaic product markets, I decided to retire in February 2018 to enjoy “full time” this wonderful community we are all members of.

Canadian Lakes was the perfect place in my eyes to call home and become a member of a very special place in Mecosta County, Michigan.

During January 2019, I was asked to become a member at large of the Finance Committee by Director/ Treasurer Jim French. Also, at the same time I was assigned to a subcommittee team of the Finance Committee to help develop the next funding plan for CLPOC. The three-person team worked closely with Treasurer French, General Manager Babbitt and his department heads, Controller Dowell, the other Finance Committee members, the Board of Directors and many members of our community.

The rest is history. The new fiveyear funding plan was overwhelmingly approved by the membership, with an approximate 3:1 margin, and CLPOC has a solid funding plan that started in 2020 and runs through 2024. It has several features and mandates that support our membership and community. This includes a detailed review of the new plan’s performance at

14

In the next few issues, The Canadian Laker will spotlight two board members. As president, I would like to give each one of our directors the opportunity to tell a little bit more about themselves. For this issue I give you Dan Rice and Steve Wilcox.

Paul Szymkowicz, CLPOC Board President

the end of the two-year mark to ensure the plan stays on track to achieve the objectives it was designed for.

Later in 2019, I was elected to the Board of Directors. I just completed my first year of the three-year term.

I continue to be a member of the Finance Committee led by Director/ Treasurer French, a member of the Lot Default Committee led by Director Halpin, a member of the subcommittee to help navigate CLPOC finances successfully through the COVID-19 pandemic, and a member of the subcommittee to work with our general manager, controller, and Finance Committee to strengthen the Replacement Reserve Asset Master Spreadsheet.

So that is a little background on me.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me at dozerrice1960@gmail.com.

Well, what a year of challenges and accomplishments for our community here at Canadian Lakes.

There were so many positive accomplishments in a very challenging year for all of us. I think the updates that Treasurer French, Controller Dowell, General Manager Babbit, and Architectural Control Committee Chair Jim Swartzendruber, Executive Committee Chair Paul Szymkowicz, Lot Default Chair Bob Halpin, and Strategic Planning Chair Dan Altier provided during the December 2020 Board of Directors meeting really highlighted all the positive accomplishments but also clearly stated the challenges we face going into 2021.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

(All of that information can be viewed on the member website.)

However, the challenges we will continue to experience for some months are being faced with CLPOC being in a strong financial position. Our new funding plan is working well with tight expense control while providing increased monies for both the capital and replacement reserve funds.

Canadian Lakes is experiencing increased activity in home construction while doing this in a managed pace so as to not negatively impact the natural beauty, wildlife, and “feel” of our outdoor community.

Reductions in lot default numbers, capital projects and improvements throughout our community moving forward, positive teamwork, property value increases, and our general quality of life here at Canadian Lakes continue to move forward.

Sadly, there is still a virus causing a global pandemic that has taken a toll on all of us. But I believe this community really pulled together to try to balance between keeping our members and neighbors as safe as possible and providing as much as the authorities would allow us to so we could make the best of the year 2020.

My hope and prayer for our community, state, and nation is that early in 2021 we will have turned the corner even more on this pandemic and come spring be in a much better position for the health and strength of all of us. Please hang in there and stay strong so we can come out on top of these challenges we have been facing.

I am certainly blessed to be working with so many talented, hardworking people here at Canadian Lakes, and the volunteerism throughout our membership is outstanding.

BOARD DIRECTOR SPOTLIGHT BOARD MEMBER

Steve Wilcox

H

ello to my fellow Canadian Lakes members who, like myself, are “living the GOOD life”! I am proud and honored to be able to once again serve the community as a Director of the CLPOC. I originally became a part of the CLPOC Board as a way to give back to my community. I have been a member since 1992 and a full-time resident since 2010. My passion for the continued success of the CLPOC, combined with my past work experience and education, gives me the ability to represent the members of Canadian Lakes on all levels. I have a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, an education specialist’s degree, and a doctorate. I was an educator for 42 years, having taught K-9 and undergraduate and graduate university studies. I was also a director of Human Resources for ENTECH Corporation for a time. These work experiences and education prepared me for working with a diverse group of people and a broad range of challenges.

As most of you know, this is not my first go-around on the Board of Directors. I previously served for six years. I have been fortunate to have served on and chaired all board committees except Finance, but I served for three years as a member of that committee. I also served as

vice president and president. This experience has allowed me to focus on my goals in the immediate term this year and will serve as a basis for my goals going forward.

Serving on the Board has been truly a wonderful and rewarding experience.

The people I have met and the opportunities for learning and helping in this community have been priceless.

As I approach this term, my goal for this year is the Future Funding Plan.

As one of the architects of the plan, I want to monitor its implementation with all due diligence. This plan was designed to provide long-term, stable, and sustainable revenue. We believe that through the approach of this plan not only can we provide members manageable membership fee increases, but also allow for the growth and development of the community. This plan will provide abilities to deal with membership delinquencies and defaults as well as, through its many component parts, stem the tide for both.

One of the most important components of this five-year plan is the second year to review and assess the viability of the component parts for the remaining three years. This review will include but is not limited to the critical measurements of fiscal factors, social factors, demographic factors, and growth factors to provide the most

One little poke can go a long way to protect you, your family and the community. The more people that are vaccinated, the more we build our strength in numbers to fight the flu together.

comprehensive view possible. The Board will have the ability, within the confines of the Articles of Incorporation, to make critical adjustments, with the approval of membership.

It is my hope and sincere desire to be an integral part of this review. I believe my time away from the Board has given me a valuable perspective of this plan and its potential successes.

This year has been one of great challenge for this plan. The issues of COVID-19 shutdowns and a myriad of operating regulations have placed a huge burden on each of us individually.

The indomitable spirit and enduring fortitude of the membership have been unparalleled during this pandemic.

The support and patience have buoyed our employees and each other as we navigate these uncharted waters.

Together we will see this through to the other side. I feel honored to once again be a part of the CLPOC Board of Directors and a proud fellow member living “the GOOD life”.

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We’re ready for you.

It’s safe. It’s easy. It saves lives.

It’s more important than ever.

Learn more: spectrumhealth.org/flu

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

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Marketing

Canadian Lakes Marketing

JESSICA SLENDAK Marketing Director jslendak@clpoc.org

H

appy New Year, Canadian Lakers!

It’s a new year! A new you, new beginning, new goals, new insurance carrier, new resolutions, new house–maybe new car or even a new spouse? I just had to throw that in there in hopes of creating a chuckle for readers. I think the new year is a good time to remind you of the Canadian Lakes members’ website again.

First, if you are new to Canadian Lakes and have not yet connected with Member Services to get membership cards, please call the office at 231-972-7651.

Marketing Associate Lindsay Halcomb lhalcomb@clpoc.org Assistant Webmaster Lee Ann McCormick canadianlakes.org

GET SOCIAL WITH CANADIAN LAKES canadianlakes.org members.canadianlakes.org

twitter.com/canadian_lakes

If you do not have a profile on the members website, go sign up now—today, right this moment. I can lead the horse to water, but I can’t make him drink it. Visit www.members.canadianlakes.org and click the “click here to register” link. Fill out the fields; and after you submit the information, you’ll receive a temporary password to log in. You may keep the temporary password, or you may change it under the account tab.

Quick tip: Use a laptop or desktop computer to explore the website first and familiarize yourself with it. Cell phones, iPads, and tablets are NOT computers. I cannot stress this enough! They are mobile devices; therefore, you will see the mobile version of the members website when using mobile devices. The mobile version will condense information and show you a different layout. It will have menus and tabs in different locations. Use your phone or iPad after you are familiar with the site. It too, like the desktop version, works beautifully.

Once logged in (on a desktop computer or laptop), you’ll first most likely see the Bulletin Board on the home page.

facebook.com/campcanadianlakes facebook.com/canadianlakes facebook.com/castleincanadianlakes facebook.com/royalgrille facebook.com/theroyalcanadianlakes facebook.com/thehighlandscanadianlakes facebook.com/thepinescanadianlakes

Instagram: canadianlakes_mi

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The Bulletin Board is a running feed of recent news from the corporation. This feed is divided into eight categories: Board, Golf, Royal Grille, Lakes, Safety, Marketing, General, and Events. The buttons for these categories are located right at the top.

Every recent news post will be related to one of these eight categories.

You can view all the posts based on date or category. Board agendas will appear under the “Board” button.

Royal Grille weekly specials will be under the “Royal Grille” button. If you want to know what the latest information is at one of the golf courses, simply click the “Golf ” button.

To see all the recent news, just scroll down through the “Bulletin Board,” which is in order of the date it’s posted.

Now at the very top of the page, there are seven tabs. The tabs are Governing, Administration, Community, Amenities, Venues, Lots, and Store.

Hover over the Administration Tab and then click on the “Meet our People” link.

Whoa! All the department heads and their contact information are right there! Click on their photos to send them emails directly. Have a question about installing a fence at your home?

Click on Casey Smith’s photo. Dennis, our golf pro, has the whole scoop on every golf outing we host–just click his photo to get in touch with him.

Connect with each department with a simple click or tap.

Explore other tabs by hovering over them with your mouse to get a dropdown menu, or simply click the link for a page full of related information. You’ll find financials under the Governing tab, digital versions of The Canadian Laker under the Community tab, and a ton more. Need to know the hours of the indoor pool? Click on the Amenities tab. Maybe you’re planning your son’s graduation open house and you want to see if the Highland Haus

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

is available to rent in June. Just click the Venues tab. It’s all that simple; you just have to check it out and do some exploring first. Under the “Governing” tab, click on Documents and Forms and the deed restrictions for all our different neighborhoods will appear.

This same page has many office forms, such as those for a change of address, golf, and Canadian Lakes rules.

Another cool element of the website is that once a member is logged in, he or she can watch Board meetings and Board workshops right on the home page. Simply log in and you’ll see the video on the right side of the webpage.

If you want to watch past meetings and workshops, click the Governing tab and choose “Watch Board Meetings and Workshops” from the drop-down menu. To get the password for a video, read the page of instructions before you click a video to watch. When you are done at any point on a certain webpage and want to start over, click the “home” link and you’ll be right back to the home page.

Your account is available to you in the top right-hand area of the window. Just click Account. Access it by scrolling down on the home page and clicking any links under Account Management. You’ll also see the Happenings scrolling news function. Dates of upcoming events are found here; and with one click on any of them, you’ll be taken to that event's full details.

Hopefully, this quick rundown of the members website provides you with guidance on how to use the site and where to find information. I cannot stress enough that the information is there–you just have to do yourself a favor and invest some time in looking around the site to see where things are.

Familiarize yourself with the site, and life will be GOOD!

17

From the CLA

G

ood day, fellow Canadian Lakers! I hope you have had a good start to the new year!

It is my great pleasure to be writing this letter to you as the new CLA president. I follow a long line of wonderful Canadian Lakes members who have volunteered their time to make our community the incredible place it is today, the most recent one being Earl Christianson. He and Elaine gave selflessly to our community for the past seven years. Please make it a point to thank them for their commitment to our great Canadian Lakes community by the next time you see them.

HAROLD WOLF Whoever coined the phrase “living the good life” couldn’t have President said it better. Whether we find ourselves pulling one of our 12 haroldwolf63@gmail.com grandchildren on a tube behind our pontoon, watching them land their first bass, or pulling our boat up to Antlers and getting pizza and wings to take out on the water, our lake life is always beautiful.

I had the honor of representing our Canadian Lakes Cup golf team this last summer. What an amazing experience of fellowship, fun, and competition it was, all rolled into one. There are so many things to see and enjoy year-round in our great community. I truly feel blessed that Marsha and I have such a wonderful place to share with our family and friends.

Now that brings me to the CLA. For more than 40 years now, this organization has been Whoever coined the phrase providing our members with an assortment of educational, and entertaining events. Over “living the good life” couldn’t fun, this last year, due to COVID-19, we haven’t been have said it better. Whether we able to provide many of the events we are all so to. This led our CLA Board to discuss how find ourselves pulling one of used we can provide our members with more value, our 12 grandchildren on a tube in addition to receiving the monthly Lite Lines and the annual CLA Membership Directory and behind our pontoon, watching Buyer’s Guide. We wanted to show our members them land their first bass, or how much we appreciate your continued support.

To that end, new in 2021, when you join/rejoin pulling our boat up to Antlers the CLA you will receive a membership card. card will not only be your pass to get into all and getting pizza and wings to This the CLA events, it will also serve as a “discount take out on the water, our lake card” to use at many of our local businesses who advertise in our directory. It will enable your $25 life is always beautiful. membership fee to actually turn into a moneymaker for you. Because of the ongoing pandemic, when we are eventually able to gather in large groups again, it will be important for us to know who attends our events and to be able to monitor the number of attendees for possible contact tracing. We are trying to be as proactive as possible with COVID-19 so we are able to hold events while making them safe for our community.

If we haven’t already given you enough exciting news, the CLA Board has organized new contests for our CLA members. The first contest will be a CL poker run. CLA members will receive a list of participating businesses that will have a deck of playing cards and a

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Plan for Winter driving before it’s too late sign-in sheet. When you visit the business, you will pull one card from the deck and sign your name on the sheet along with the playing card drawn.

You can receive one playing card, per member, per participating business. The contest will run two full weeks, and at the end we will award a prize to each of two winners: one for best poker hand and another for most cards collected.

Not only have we spent the past year finding ways to give our members more, but we also realize this last year has been brutal for most of our local businesses.

Therefore, our contests are geared to create more foot traffic in our advertising businesses to show them how much they are appreciated. You have heard the phrase “We are all in this together.” That couldn’t be truer than here in Canadian Lakes. Our second contest will be a CL shopping spree, which only requires you to shop at local businesses that advertise in our Membership Directory and save your sales receipts.

We will have drop boxes at a few locations around Canadian Lakes. You simply sign your name on the back of your receipt and drop it in one of the boxes.

We plan to have two shopping sprees over the course of the year and will draw two winners from each one.

As you can see, your CLA Board members have been working behind the scenes to do our part to help make sure 2021 will be a fun-filled year—one way or another. As always, the CLA will need your continued support, so please consider joining or rejoining the CLA. We are also always in need of volunteers to help at our many events. Please volunteer when you can.

Together we will make 2021 a fun, rewarding, and memorable year. Stay healthy, safe, and strong!

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19

STILSON FAMILY FARM AND BAKE SHOPEE: HAVE YOU HEARD OF THEM? It’s my nature to get excited when other people are excited about finding a great deal, especially when it comes to food. Most people follow their hearts; I follow my stomach. A friend mentioned a breakfast bundle at a local farm in Morley. She said the bake shop at Stilson Family Farm often offers breakfast bundles that include a couple dozen eggs, a pound of breakfast sausage, and baked goods such as cinnamon rolls. She had me at cinnamon rolls, but what she said after that had me intrigued for different reasons. She said someone should write a story about the family behind the farm. Why, I wondered; and what’s so fantastic about them? As I learned more about the Stilson family, it was clear their way of life and their day-to-day operations were a unique and inspiring story. So now I am excited about a new farm to visit that sells bundles I can get after, and I’m excited about a possible

feature for The Canadian Laker. A few days later, I spoke with Niki Stilson. It took only a few minutes before I realized she was going to be the one to tell her family’s story.

Niki is an intelligent, caring, selfless, savvy force of a being—wife and mother of seven (soon to be eight), businesswoman, teacher, and all-around good human. The values Nikki and her husband Jeremy instill in their children and in their daily lives are timeless and genuine. And the knowledge of their craft, care of the animals and land, and meticulous methods will go on to benefit generations for years to come. But you don’t have to take my word for it—read for yourself. Meet Niki and Jeremy of Stilson Family Farm and Bake Shoppe.

– EDITOR, LINDSAY HALCOMB

Jeremy and Niki Stilson

We Bought a Farm BY: NIKI STILSON

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TEN YEARS AGO, we bought a farm. We were happy to have space for the kids and some hunting land. Our cousins from whom we purchased the farm had left two bred heifers in the pasture while they were getting set up at their new place, if they didn’t sell them first. We had four kids in tow, Jeremy worked out of town, and farming was a thing but certainly not for us.

Flash forward a few months. I started watching food documentaries.

Then reading books. Then I forced Jeremy, who was always working on a project when he was home, to sit down so I could show him the highlights of all the shows and my research. His response: “Buy the cows NOW.” He’s a man of few words, but when he speaks, he speaks with logic and well-thoughtout reasoning. And truthfully, months had passed with the heifers on the property and I had barely noticed.

They ate grass and drank water out of a self-filling hydrant. Many months of admiring their beauty cast across our pasture, and we would get to have a freezer full of grass-fed beef? Yeah, we can do that. There’s a little more to it than that, but it seemed logical, especially since we were set up for it and making healthy food choices was very important to us.

Inside the home is where most of the changes happened. They didn’t happen overnight. They didn’t happen without hard work. And they certainly didn’t happen without blood, sweat, tears, and the opposite, too—laughter, joy, and the grace to know that the journey to getting to where you want is the best part of the story. After all my research, I threw away all of our overly processed and packaged food.

Basically, all of our “food.” Yes, I know, I could have donated it to a ton of places; but I felt so guilty feeding my family that stuff for eight years, it felt like I was also poisoning others, so to the trash it went, you know— for the greater good of humanity. I quickly had to learn how to shop to make meals and how to cook from scratch. I had to learn all the stuff our grandparents were just raised knowing because small-scale farming was commonplace back then. It’s

truly interesting just how far-removed society is from understanding where our food comes from. At this point, I have spent months researching food ingredients and preservatives and the toxic effects they can have on the human brain and body. After all that research, it just seems best to avoid anything with more than five to ten ingredients and just stick with homemade and whole foods.

Jeremy’s months of research narrowed down what we would farm and how we would farm it. Pasture Based Regenerative Agriculture is what our sign out front says. While raising a nutrient-dense animal for meat, we aim to restore the soil in the process. Years and years of commercial farming has left almost all of America’s soil depleted of nutrients. Therefore, the things grown in the soil are not growing, not growing well, or have little to no nutritional value remaining. It didn’t take long for friends and acquaintances to hear what we were doing, understand the difference, and want some of our products. Five years into farming we had surely outgrown our farm. In that time Jeremy’s grandparents had passed on and their 80-acre farm became available, so we made the 1,500-foot move. I assure you it was just as much work as moving 1,500 miles.

Now if you follow Stilson Family Farm through Facebook, as I encourage you to do, we aren’t shy to share our story with anyone. All our trials and triumphs. In the mix of all this farming and food revelation Jeremy and I were deep in prayer and he decided to quit his job. Now from the outside looking in we looked crazy, but we decided to put that all in God’s hands, assuming, based on His word, that our home life was surely disrupted by the rat race of working out of town for years. So, just c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

like that, he quit his job and we waited... and waited. A few months later, a simple purchase on our end turned into a ten-year-and-going-strong career of Jeremy working from home using his welding and fabricating skills to make outdoor wood boilers.

It was a wonderful and true God-send, but Jeremy and I had a crash course in owning a business, adding on a ton of farming, and learning how to be married fulltime. He basically worked out of town for eight years and then was home every second of every day.

Now along the way of business ownership, farming as a business, and keeping our home in order, we were struggling with our kids being in the school system. We tried public, private, and charter. All left us questioning: what they were being taught, why they were being taught that, who says they need to know those things. and why is it so important for them to know this right now and not later if they’re struggling? So the kids sent in their resignation letters and we began homeschooling. The struggle for any teacher anywhere is dealing with many personalities and learning styles all in one classroom, and it’s no different at home. Years of continued struggle with homeschooling and a quick look into state law led us to our version of unschooling. Unschooling is an informal learning that advocates learner-chosen activities as a primary means for learning. Although we do like to stick with a written curriculum for math and English, the rest we leave to learning as a family while doing life together. Many studies have shown that when a child shows interest in an area and is self-driven to learn, he or she is more likely to retain all that is learned. To be self-driven also inspires a lifelong desire to learn and learn independently. Many children with an unschooling background are college-ready with their peers and are just as successful in the future.

At first it was an interesting step out to just wait and see what would come of it. Years later, as our teens are now attending a local tech center, it has been a smooth transition, and they are at or above level with their peers. We see 21

Livestock at Stilson Family Farm.

that as success. The lack of traditional schooling demands has allowed them many hours in a day to be able to learn many hands-on skills and develop their own areas of interest. Our three oldest sons are now part-time employees under Jeremy and are doing life in the shop alongside him now. They are 14, 15, and 16 and know how to build and rebuild engines of various sizes, are able to do almost any vehicle/tractor repairs on gas and diesel alike, as well as weld, use torches, plasma cutters, and grinders; and they have various wiring and metal working skills. They have also been alongside Jeremy and me as we have done a full renovation on half of the farmhouse, gaining many construction skills.

One of the biggest things we have learned since they’ve been home with us all day every day is how to do life with them. Previously we always would find a way to keep them busy or occupied while we try to get stuff done.

Although we admit it makes any job 22

longer and sometimes it will cost you more money, allowing your children to be involved in what you’re doing is the best way to prepare and educate them for the future and independent lives. In addition to the boys and their solid work, the girls and I certainly have our to-do lists and our list of accomplishments. We’re quite proud of our ability to serve. The girls, ages 1, 3, 5, and 10, are no stranger to a day of hard work.Together we cook, clean, garden, can food, and keep the boys fed and errands run to keep this farm running like a well-oiled machine. All the skills the ladies will acquire during their childhood will prepare them to be wonderful wives, homemakers, and mothers to their very own children someday. On a good day we are out in the field chasing pigs and moving cattle, too. Most Fridays we’re in the kitchen all day preparing for baked goods sales because any business needs many legs to stand on. Many hands make light work, and work doesn’t feel like work T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

when we do it together and make it fun.

Time has gone on and we have reached the ten-year farming mark, 18 years of marriage; and we have seven children (three boys and four girls), with number eight arriving this August.

We have spent the last five years at this new farm; and with the help of our favorite authors and their helpful tips, we have created a farm to fit the needs of what we feel is the most nutrientdense food we can provide.

I hope I have kept your attention this far, because this is where it really gets good.

We started the farm with Scottish Highland cows. We have since crossed them with Shorthorn. All of our research has shown that grain/cornfeeding cattle is not the way nature intended and is not the healthiest form of feed for cattle. It certainly can make them big and fat; but we are after healthy, not mass production. So, our path chosen is to rotationally graze them, and here is why. We go beyond the term of grass feeding because there is a science behind the grass/ fescue they are eating. One hundred percent rotational grazing means moving them from small paddock to paddock each day, so they are not only eating grass but eating grass within its proper growth stage, which is the highest nutritional range. Not all types of grass/fescue are created equal, and the roots and tips are not as healthy as the mid-section. That is why the timeline that they are in a paddock is important. When we move them, the previous grassed area can go through a rest cycle before it starts regrowth.

This also stops the land from being overstepped on and destroying the grass root and turning into a mucky, grassless pasture. Another benefit of them being moved daily is they are constantly and naturally spreading their manure, which fertilizes the ground, putting the nutrients from the manure back into soil to rebuild and nourish it.

During the cold weather months when fresh forage is not available, our cows remain on pasture eating dry hay only from neighboring farms.

Jeremy and the boys constructed a mobile egg-laying coop that travels a few days behind the cattle rotation. It is 9x16 and built on a hay-wagon frame.

It’s like any other chicken coop except it has a built-in rainwater collection unit for watering the chickens and it has a thick metal mesh floor that allows air to flow through it and chicken manure to fall through to the ground.

The chickens naturally go in the coop at night and come out in the morning.

When they are ready to lay their daily eggs, they use the ramp and go back into the nesting boxes. The rest of the day they are on pasture. Some benefits to chickens being on pasture behind the cows are that the chicken manure ends up all over the fields and they spend most of their day pecking at the cow pie maggots. That is a very nutrient-dense meal for the chickens; and it breaks up the cow pie, spreading it over many square feet instead of it being in a clump that chokes the sun and oxygen away from our grass, destroying the roots. Rotating the chickens is a very beneficial step in the production of grass-fed beef. We aren’t too specific about the type of egg layer we use. In order to keep the age known, we typically choose a new, easily distinguishable breed, so we know the age since the average egg layer only lays for about two years.

In addition to layers, we also raise Freedom Ranger meat chickens. They are always on pasture in what is referred to as a chicken tractor. A chicken tractor is basically a 12x12 shed-type structure that stands about two feet tall with mesh sides for air flow. It is on pasture 24/7 and gets moved once or twice a day. It is the safest and easiest

way to raise a free-range meat bird and keep predators away. Again, it allows the manure to get directly to the ground to help rebuild the soil, and moving it helps the chickens have access to fresh grass and bugs daily. Along with fresh pasture to aid in nutritional needs our chickens, both layer and meat birds, are also fed non-GMO grains fortified with naturally occurring minerals for a wellrounded diet.

Last but certainly not least, we take much pride in our pastured pigs. Pigs have a filthy name given to them by confinement raising—raised in a barn stall coated in muck. We feel all animals are only as healthy as the environment they are grown in. What’s healthier than outdoors with fresh air and sun?

So that’s what we do. Given enough space, pigs are very clean animals and will always dedicate a certain area for their manure. Although that model doesn’t necessarily jive with our evenly broadcasted manure and soil rebuilding efforts, it truly is best for the pig; and the flavor differences in the pork is nothing short of instantly noticeable by many. We call that a win. Typically, we put the pigs in paddocks down the center of the farm in our fence row.

They do not get moved daily; they get moved when their job is done. Any pig’s job is to root and flip the soil in search of bugs and vegetation. This is a natural instinct for the pig and healthy for the soil, but leaving pigs in an area too long can cause microbial damage and that is when they are rotated to new land. Like the chickens, our pigs also have free c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

choice to non-GMO grains.

Now having a large family and larger farm, we have taken to the agritourism industry—using agriculture to promote tourism. For the past five years, starting small and slowly growing, we have hosted our annual October weekends pumpkins patch. We have sold Christmas trees, as well as hosting farm tours, having local school classes come out to maple syrup processing days, and, from time to time, selling farm-fresh baked goods using quality ingredients. All this aims to add hope and inspire everyone to reach out to their inner farmer. This year we plan to teach classes including canning basics, Kombucha making, and sourdough making, as well as general farm tours and farm informationals. If you want to farm, we want to help. If you don’t want to/can’t farm but need a source for quality goods, we can help.

Many people who follow us want to know what a day on the farm looks like. Well, we wish we had a sharable answer. It looks like chaos wrapped in love. It looks like grace and patience.

We know many large families, many of which are Amish; they all say once you have five children, the way you do everything changes. We make lists and we prioritize. We know what must be done each day, we know what should be done each day, and we know what can be done. We work hard and do the best we can. We meet up in the kitchen for three quality meals and one snack a day because our food is our fuel, and we have lots to get done. At that time, we go over what’s been done and plan the next leg of the day. We pray over it and get after it.

At the end of the day, we rejoice in knowing we did the best we could amid the trials we faced. We knew none of this would be easy, but we knew it would all be worth it.

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FOCUS ON

FISHING Canadian Lakes Fishing Club Activities in 2020

BY DALE DOEPKER For questions about the Fishing Club or about fishing in Canadian Lakes, contact Dale Doepker at dtroutman97@aol.com or 231-972-8663

FISHING CLUB MEETINGS Meetings are normally held on the second Wednesday of each month from April to October at 7 p.m. This past year, the meetings for April through July were cancelled due to covid-19. The meetings for August through October were held outdoors, but attendance was very low.

In 2021 we are hoping to get back on our regular schedule at the Alpine Haus, but this will be determined in early April.

The 2020 officers will continue for 2021.

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• Feb. 8: Forty kids participated in the 16th Annual Ice Fishing Derby. The Fishing Club furnished all tackle, bait, and holes, and gave out 16 free raffle prizes plus hot chocolate and donuts.

• The Annual Young Angler’s Contest, largest event of the year, was cancelled due to COVID-19.

• June 22: Fourteen boats participated in the Bass Tournament. The total weight winner for five bass was 19.44 pounds.

• Aug. 7-8: The 16th Annual Bullhead Tournament had 29 fishermen, and 171 bullhead weighed in. The winner had 25 bullheads weighing 22.45 pounds. The picnic was cancelled due to COVID-19.

• Sept. 14: In the 16th Annual Pike tournament, 12 anglers caught and released 79 pike. The largest was 29 inches.

• Seven 3-hour Fishing Fun Nights were scheduled, May through September.

• Little Pine Island Salvation Army Youth Camp was closed all summer.

• The Club purchased 25 subscriptions to MUCC Tracks Magazine for area kids.

• Six fishing rods and four tackle boxes were donated to the Salvation Army Angel Tree.

• The Club donated eight fishing rod/reels to God’s Helping Hands clients.

• In the Youth and Big Fish Year Around Contest, eight trophies were awarded.

• The Club maintained an annual membership in the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly and Keep America Fishing.

• Pizza was provided to entrants in the Fun Nights and the Pike Tournament.

17th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby Saturday, Feb. 13, 9 a.m. to noon

This year’s contest runs from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. There is one entry form for both youth and adults.

If the entry is a young angler, the information for the angler must be filled in as to age and so forth. All entries are eligible for the Largest Fish of the Year award if the minimum length is met. The NEW entry forms are available on the website and at the CLPOC office. PLEASE make sure that the form used is for the current year, 2020 to 2021.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Donate Surplus Fishing Tackle

If you have any surplus, usable fishing rods or reels, please consider donating them to the Canadian Lakes Fishing Club.

Don Charles (231-359-1367) reconditions them as needed and they are donated to worthy causes. The Club also purchases new reels as needed, to put on the used rods.

Year-Around Big Fish Contest Reminder

Bring the kids for a fun time ice fishing, whether or not they have done it before. No registration needed; just show up.

Fishing rods, bait, holes, shelters, underwater video, fish finders, bonfire, hot chocolate and donuts provided free.

Canadian Lakes Fishing Club members will give instruction and assistance in catching fish. In past years, many kids have caught hundreds of bluegill and perch, plus several pike.

Location is on the Main Lake, just south of Buchanan off West Royal, with parking alongside the pickleball courts. We will also have a free raffle for the kids with more than a dozen great prizes, at 10:30 a.m. Adults are welcome to come and learn the techniques. Masks are suggested.

If you have questions, contact Dale Doepker at dtroutman97@aol.com or 972-8663.

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Life on Our Links

Golf Tournaments

WE OFFER A WIDE VARIETY OF EVENTS for our members and their guests.

The spectrum runs from competitive, charitable, and social to just plain fun. We also conduct these events using all of our golf courses. The following is a list of our one- and two-day events for the upcoming season.

DENNIS WOLFE PGA Golf Pro If you have questions about golfing in Canadian Lakes, call Dennis Wolfe at The Royal Golf Shop.

231-972-8979 dwolfe@clpoc.org

Apr. 10 May 1 May 12 May 22 May 26 May 29 May 30 June 5/6 June 9 June 23 June 26 July 3 July 14 July 21 July 24 Aug. 4 Aug. 7/8 Aug. 12/13 Aug. 21/22

Aug. 25 Aug. 25 Sept. 2 Sept. 3 Sept. 4 Sept. 5 Sept. 15 Sept. 25 Oct. 16 Oct. 31

Green Jacket Betterball @ The Royal Derby Dash Scramble @ The Royal Remus Lions Golf/Bowl @ The Royal Match Play Blitz @ The Royal Dates & Mates Scramble @ The Royal BIG CUP Family Scramble @ The Pines Closest to Pin Contest @ The Royal and The Highlands Canadian Lakes Classic @ The Royal, The Pines, & The Highlands Tri-Lakes Golf Benefit @ The Royal Habitat for Humanity @ The Royal Kings & Queens @ The Royal Firecracker Open @ The Royal St. Mike’s on Spikes @ The Royal 18-Hole Ladies Invite @ The Royal Match Play Sixes @ The Royal CL Cancer Benefit (new event) @ The Highlands and The Royal CL Men’s Invitational @ The Royal Junior Club Championship @ The Pines Club Championship Weekend @ The Royal, The Pines, & The Highlands Gals on the Green @ The Royal Mobile Watch Outing @ The Pines Ladies Cup Matches @ The Royal Who Cares We Care Event @ The Royal Patriot Golf Scramble @ The Highlands Closest to Pin @ The Royal and The Highlands Canadian Lakes Cup Matches @ The Royal Forward Tee Open @ The Royal Chili-Dog Scramble @ The Royal Last Day of the Season

Some of these events are restricted to members only and some require a USGA Index. For complete details, check the golf page on members.canadianlakes.org or contact The Royal Golf Shop (dwolfe@clpoc.org).

Canadian Lakes Golf Wants You!

We have plenty of employment opportunities in our golf operation.

For the upcoming season we are looking to fill these positions: golf shop customer service, player assistant, golf cart attendant, and golf maintenance crew. If you are interested in golf maintenance positions, please contact Bill Hull (bhull@clpoc.org). If you are interested in golf operation positions, contact Dennis Wolfe (dwolfe@clpoc.org).

26

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Golf Handicap Service

What is the Canadian Lakes Cup and How Do I Make the Team?

THE CANADIAN LAKES CUP is a Ryder Cup style match that we play annually against our neighbors from St Ives. It is one of the most unique golf events that an amateur club member can compete in (ask any former Cup player). The team consists of 12 players and one alternate. We offer five events in the qualifying process, as follows: Match Play Blitz Men’s Match Play Championship (season-long) Team Match Play Championship (season-long) Match Play Blitz Men’s Club Championship Match play is the foundation of virtually all of this qualifying. Players/teams are awarded points for all their victories in these events. A Cup Team qualifying package has been put together that provides full details on these events. Request your package via email by contacting dwolfe@clpoc.org.

Golf Leagues We have several golf league opportunities for you to participate in. Almost all require a USGA Index. Some have a structured format, while others are available for your participation when it is convenient for you. The following is an outline by day and course.

You can find more details for each league on the golf page at members.canadianlakes.org.

DAY

LEAGUE

COURSE MISC.

Monday

18-Hole Men

Royal

tee-times, no dues, flighted, weekly entry

9-Hole Ladies

Royal

2-player match play, dues, structured

Highlands

2-player match play, dues, structured

Pines

2-player match play, dues, structured

Tuesday

18-Hole Ladies

Royal

tee-times, dues, flighted

9-Hole Men

Pines

tee-times, no dues, weekly entry

Highlands

tee-times, no dues, weekly entry

9-Hole Men

Royal

2-player match play, dues, structured

Wednesday

9-Hole Ladies

Pines

social, casual, no dues

Highlands

social, casual, no dues

Thursday

Pines

dues, flighted

9-Hole Ladies

Highlands

dues, flighted

9-Hole Men

Royal

2-player match play, dues, structured

Friday

Jr. Golfers

Pines

tee-times

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

AS YOU HAVE READ, many of our tournaments and leagues require a USGA Index. We are a Golf Association of Michigan club, and the association facilitates our golf handicap service. We charge a seasonal fee ($30/player) to manage your account. You need a minimum of three 18-hole scores (six 9’s) to establish your Index. You can register for this service after April 1 at any of our golf shops.

Golf Instruction and Golf Services GOLF INSTRUCTION is provided by PGA Professional Dennis Wolfe and LPGA Professional Carolyn Allingham.

Instruction is provided at The Highlands Driving Range or at The Royal for developing your short game. The range at The Highlands offers range balls by the bucket ($5 each) or you can purchase value cards (15 buckets for $45 or 50 buckets for $120). Club repair services are also available at The Royal Golf Shop. In many cases, we can offer overnight service on regripping.

Carolyn offers a Women’s Player Development Program that begins in May. She has had great success over the years introducing or reconnecting gals to the game of golf. For more details on our Women’s Player Development Program, send a request to dwolfe@clpoc.org.

We also offer week-long Junior Golf Camps in June and July. This summer the dates are June 21, 22, 24, and 25 and July 5, 6, 7, and 8.

The camps are designed for players ages 7-15. We provide equipment for players as necessary.

27

Family Family FamilyReunions, Reunions, Reunions,Graduation Graduation GraduationParties, Parties, Parties,Golf Golf GolfPackages Packages Packagesand and andMORE! MORE! MORE! Family Reunions, Graduation Parties, Golf Packages and MORE! Family Reunions, Graduation Parties, Golf Packages and MORE!

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Text: RBFMDFL Text: Text: Text: RBFMDFL RBFMDFL RBFMDFL toto52187 to52187 52187 Text: RBFMDFL to 52187

$214,900 $214,900 $214,900 $214,900 $214,900

$75,000 $75,000 $75,000 $75,000

Call for Details Call Call Call for for for Details Details Details Call for Details

Text: RBFSTCT to52187 52187 Text: Text: Text: RBFSTCT RBFSTCT RBFSTCT toto to 52187 Text: RBFSTCT to52187 52187

OFFICE 20+ Acre Hobby OFOFFICE FICE 20+ 20+ 20+ Acre Acre Acre Hobby Hobby Hobby Farm, Farm, Farm, Fixer Fixer Fixer Bi-Level, 2.5 Acres Bi-Level, Bi-Level, Bi-Level, 2.5 2.5 2.5 Acres Acres Acres OFOFFICE 20+ Acre Hobby Farm, Fixer Bi-Level, 2.5 Acres 4 Bedrooms • 1 Bath 44Bedrooms • 1•Bath 4Bedrooms Bedrooms 1 Bath 44Bedrooms Bedrooms 22Baths Baths 44Bedrooms ••2••2Baths Bedrooms Baths IS 4 Bedrooms • 1 Bath LOLO4 Bedrooms • 2 Baths ISISIS LOLake Lake Lake Newaygo Newaygo Newaygo Newaygo IS LOLake Newaygo $75,000

Business Opportunity Business Business Business Opportunity Opportunity Opportunity

Business Opportunity 20 Parking Spaces • 5,720 SQ FT 20 20 20 Parking Parking Spaces Spaces Spaces • •5,720 •5,720 SQ SQSQ FT FTFT 20Parking Parking Spaces •5,720 5,720 SQ FT Big Rapids Big Big Big Rapids Rapids Rapids Big Rapids

$599,000 $599,000 $599,000 $599,000 $599,000

2.5 Acre Estate 2.5 2.5 2.5 Acre Acre Acre Estate Estate Estate 2.5 Acre 5 Bedrooms Baths 55Bedrooms 5Bedrooms •••5•55Baths 5Baths Baths 5 Bedrooms Bedrooms Big Rapids Big Big Rapids Rapids Big Rapids Big

$599,000 $599,000 $599,000 $599,000 $599,000

Text: RBGFSGG toto 52187 Text: RBGFSGG 52187 Text: Text: Text: RBGFSGG RBGFSGG RBGFSGG toto52187 to52187 52187 Little Muskegon River, 341 ft Little Muskegon River, 341 Little Little Little Muskegon Muskegon Muskegon 341 341 341 ftft ftft 2+ AcresRiver, •River, 2River, Lots

Text: RBGFVWN toto52187 Text: RBGFVWN 52187 Text: Text: Text: RBGFVWN RBGFVWN RBGFVWN toto52187 to52187 52187

$39,900 $39,900 $39,900 $39,900

$139,500 $139,500 $139,500 $139,500 $139,500

2+Acres Acres •2Lots 2Lots Lots 2+ 2+2+ Acres Acres ••2•2Lakes Lots Canadian Canadian Lakes Canadian Canadian Canadian Lakes Lakes Lakes $39,900

Lake Access Lake Access Lake Lake Lake Access Access Access 2 2Bedrooms • •2 2Baths Bedrooms Baths 22Bedrooms ••2Lakes 2Bedrooms Bedrooms •2Baths 2Baths Baths Canadian Canadian Lakes Canadian Canadian Canadian Lakes Lakes Lakes

Text: RBGDVYM to 52187 Text: Text: Text: RBGDVYM RBGDVYM RBGDVYM to to52187 to 52187 52187 Text: RBGDVYM to 52187

mile from Bud Lake 111mile 1mile mile from from from Bud Bud Bud Lake Lake Lake 1Bedrooms mile from•••Bud Lake Baths 333Bedrooms 3Bedrooms Bedrooms 22•2Baths 2Baths Baths 3 Bedrooms • 2 Baths Harrison Harrison Harrison Harrison Harrison $142,000

$142,000 $142,000 $142,000 $142,000

PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING

Lake Access Lake Lake Lake Access Access Access Lake Access 5 Bedrooms Baths 55Bedrooms Bedrooms ••••44•44Baths 4Baths Baths 55Bedrooms Bedrooms Baths Canadian Lakes Canadian Canadian Lakes Lakes Canadian Lakes Canadian Lakes

$250,000 $250,000 $250,000 $250,000 $250,000

Chip Issette Chip Issette Chip Chip Chip Issette Issette Issette Managing Broker

Managing Broker Managing Managing Managing Broker Broker Broker 231-629-2683 231-629-2683 231-629-2683 231-629-2683 231-629-2683

toto52187 Text: Text: Text: RBFGFKD RBFGFKD RBFGFKD 52187 to52187 52187 Text: RBFGFKD to 52187

&&Golf views Water Water Water &Golf Golf views views views Water &dream Golf views Build your home Build Build your your dream dream home home home Build your dream home Lakes Canadian Canadian Lakes Lakes Canadian Lakes Canadian Lakes $39,000

$39,000 $39,000 $39,000 $39,000

Text: RBGDLVM to Text: Text: Text: RBGDLVM RBGDLVM RBGDLVM to to52187 52187 to 52187 52187 Text: RBGDLVM to 52187

Summerhill Site, Cul de sac Summerhill Summerhill Summerhill Site, Site, Site, Cul Cul Cul de dede sac sac sac Summerhill Site, Cul de sac Buildable •••Wooded Buildable Buildable Buildable Wooded • Wooded Wooded Buildable • Wooded Canadian Lakes Canadian Canadian Lakes Lakes Canadian Lakes Canadian Lakes

$15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000

Chuck Ames Chuck Ames Chuck Chuck Chuck Ames Ames AssociateAmes Broker

Associate Broker Associate Associate Associate Broker Broker Broker 616-890-9346 616-890-9346 616-890-9346 616-890-9346 616-890-9346

W W W aa a

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ac

Text: RBFZTYV to 52187

St.Text: IvesRBFZTYV Golf Course to 52187 Spring Lake View St. Ives Golf Course Canadian Lakes Spring Lake View $10,000 Canadian Lakes

$10,000

Text: RBGCQPR to 52187 RBGCQPR to 52187 TheText: Royal Golf Course

Panoramic ViewGolf 1stCourse Hole The Royal Canadian View Lakes1st Hole Panoramic $17,500 Canadian Lakes

$17,500

PENDING PENDING Duplex

3 Bedrooms •Duplex 1 Bath ea.unit 3 Bedrooms • 1 Bath ea.unit Big Rapids

Big Rapids $85,900 $85,900

Text: RBGGDNC to 52187 Text: RBGGDNC to 52187 Tullymore Golf Resort - Hamlet Lake Tullymore Golf Resort - Hamlet Lake 3 Bedrooms • 2 Baths

3 Bedrooms Stanwood• 2 Baths Stanwood $440,000

$440,000

Text: RBFTYLP to 52187

Text: RBFXBDF to 52187

Newer Metal Roof Text: RBFTYLP to 52187 3 Bedrooms • 1 Bath Newer Metal Roof Barryton 3 Bedrooms • 1 Bath $45,000 Barryton

$45,000

SOLD InvestmentSOLD Opportunity

2Investment Bedrooms Opportunity • 1 Bath Big Rapids 2 Bedrooms • 1 Bath $69,900 Big Rapids

$69,900

SOLD SOLD Lake Laura Waterfront

Lake Laura•Waterfront 4 Bedrooms 2 Baths 4Canadian Bedrooms • 2 Baths Lakes Canadian Lakes $259,500

$259,500

Text: RBFQKKH to 52187 Text: RBFQKKH to 52187

TBB, St. Ives Golf Course TBB, St. Ives GolfBaths Course 5 Bedrooms • 3.5 5 Canadian BedroomsLakes • 3.5 Baths Canadian Lakes $450,000

$450,000

Muskegon River Waterfront Text: RBFXBDF to 52187 3 Bedrooms • 2 Baths Muskegon River Waterfront Stanwood 3 Bedrooms • 2 Baths $174,500 Stanwood

Text: RBFNPYY to 52187

Main Canadian Lake Views Text: RBFNPYY to 52187 Direct access to sandy beach

MainCanadian CanadianLakes Lake Views Direct access to sandy beach

$69,000 Canadian Lakes $69,000

$174,500

Text: RBFSHDY to 52187 Text: RBFSHDY to 52187

SOLD

TBB, Rush Lake 3 Bedrooms • 2Lake Baths TBB, Rush 3 Canadian BedroomsLakes • 2 Baths $214,900Lakes Canadian

SOLD Lake Access 4 Bedrooms • 3 Baths Lake Access Canadian Lakes 4 Bedrooms • 3 Baths $184,900 Canadian Lakes

Text: RBFHXKF to 52187 Text: RBFHXKF to 52187

Text: RBDBFJR to 52187 Text: RBDBFJR to 52187

$214,900

St. Ives Golf Course St. Ives Golf Course View of Spring Lake View of Spring Canadian LakesLake Canadian $19,900Lakes

$19,900

Text: RBFQVZF to 52187 Text: RBFQVZF to 52187 120 ft, Lake of the Clouds 120 ft, Lake of the Clouds 2 Buildable, Wooded Lots

2 Buildable, CanadianWooded Lakes Lots Canadian $74,000Lakes

$74,000

$184,900

St. Ives Golf Course St. Ives Golf Course 5 Bedrooms • 5.5 Baths 5 Bedrooms 5.5 Baths Canadian •Lakes Canadian Lakes $689,900

$689,900

SOLD SOLD

2 Story Contemporary 25 Story Contemporary Bedrooms • 4 Baths 5 Bedrooms • 4 Baths Big Rapids Big Rapids $310,000

$310,000

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10060 10060Buchanan BuchananRd. Rd.Canadian CanadianLakes, Lakes,MI MI

(231) (231)972-7676 972-7676

FROM A CANADIAN LAKES KITCHEN

BY BILLY ABBOTT

Welcome 2021 HELLO, CANADIAN LAKES FRIENDS! It is that time of year to watch your favorite shows or grab a good book and cozy up with your comfiest blanket. This is also a good time to have easy, hearty recipes on hand for when you are spending much needed family time inside and outside. We are lucky to live in this beautiful area with lots of outdoor activities available all year around.

You can hit the sledding/tubing slopes or have a family round of hockey; and do not forget about fishing on the ice. If you are like Keri and me, we like to take in the scenery by taking walks down by the lake with our pup to enjoy the beautiful nature all around us.

Whether you are staying in or meandering about outside, this recipe will delight your senses. The aroma from your oven will make everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appetite awaken!

Here is one of Keri and my favorite pot roast recipes. (Watch the Chef Des Lacs Facebook page for the paczki recipe in celebration of Mardi Gras.):

Beef Roast 2 tbsp olive oil 2-4 lbs. beef roast 16 oz packaged mushrooms, washed 6 cloves of garlic, peeled 2 cups diced carrots, peeled 1 cup diced onion (Chef prefers green onion) 4 potatoes, washed and cut into wedges 1 cup beef stock 1/2 cup red wine SEASON the beef well with 2/3 of the seasoning.

IN A LARGE SKILLET on medium heat, sear the seasoned roast in olive oil.

Sear all sides of the beef and make sure it has some browning color.

REMOVE FROM THE PAN and place in a roasting pan with a lid.

30

Seasoning 1 tsp granulated sugar 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp ground black pepper 1 tsp thyme or herb of your choice 1 tbsp salt

ADD the garlic, carrot, onion, and mushrooms to the skillet and sautĂŠ for 2 minutes.

MIX well in a bowl.

Let rest for 25 minutes before devouring!

DEGLAZE with the red wine, making sure to stir and scrape the pan.

STIR in the beef stock and pour over the roast.

ARRANGE the potatoes on the top and sprinkle with the remaining seasoning.

COVER with lid and place in 275-degree preheated oven for 4.5 hours.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Chocolate!

BY: KATHLEEN JOHNSTON

“ALL I REALLY NEED IS LOVE, BUT A LITTLE CHOCOLATE NOW AND THEN DOESN’T HURT!" — CHARLES SCHULZ

32

HOW FITTING THAT in last year’s February/March edition of The Canadian Laker there was an article relative to love and Valentine’s Day. Love is (supposed to be) in the air right now. Flowers, candy, jewelry, sappy love notes, and greeting cards are being exchanged among lovers and friends alike. Cupid became linked to Valentine’s Day due to his love-creating abilities. He flies around shooting magical gold-tipped arrows that pierce the hearts of humans, causing them to fall deeply in love. And while a “love” feature is so fitting in this edition, T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

how about I deliver to you an article that is still relative to Valentine’s Day and actually all about one of my most favorite things?

Second to loooove, Valentine’s Day makes me think of chocolate.

Mmmm, chocolate, chocola, czekolada, cioccolato, Schokolade, choklad. No matter the language, chocolate is good–quite glorious, as far as I’m concerned. About 70 percent of the world’s cacao beans comes from the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. From there, the top four chocolate-producing countries are the

United States, Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium. That’s all the stats you’ll get here, because stats are boring and this article is about our local “candy man” or ‘Willy Wonka” (haven’t figured out yet what I’m calling him) not chocolate stats.

Carrying on ... I love chocolate and I can’t possibly think of a better way to explain and showcase chocolate than to tap my resources and drive straight to our very own local gem–Kilwins Chocolates in downtown Big Rapids.

Have you ever visited? If not or if it’s been some time, continue reading. I’m thinking you’ll be going for a short drive to Big Rapids when you read the last paragraph of this article.

COVID-19 still looms in our world these days. Because of the virus, the back entrance at the Old Pioneer Store and Emporium/Kilwins Chocolates remains locked, so you have to use the front entrance. The silver lining is that you get the full effect of Kilwins only if you use the front entrance off Michigan Avenue.

The storefront of Kilwins is so inviting.

The store is literally on the sidewalk, because the storefront is all glass, including the door itself. How perfect for the patron to see all the wonderful goodies without having to open the door! Owners Carlleen and Brian Rose do a wonderful job with décor, and the large window to the right is always perfect. To the left there, at the candy helm(I call it), you can usually see him–our very own chocolatier, Brian Rose, aka the Kilwins Chocolate Man. Brian’s height is average but his smile is giant. His black-rimmed glasses, bald head, and signature Kilwinslogoed apron make him a welcoming staple in the store, along with the awesome aroma of confections in the air as soon as you enter. Brian often is found working at the large marbletopped table rolling fudge, drizzling strawberries, sprinkling on pecans, spreading caramel corn, or dipping apples. Just past Brian is the helm of chocolate: the case is about five feet tall and six feet wide filled with Kilwins chocolates—chocolate covered everything from mints to truffles

to coconut cremes to caramels and pretzels, seafoam, nuts, turtles, clusters, and barks. If I could bury my face, well, really bathe in this case of chocolatefilled deliciousness, I’d quite possibly feel like I was in heaven, although Brian and Carlleen would surely have a ton of product loss. Not good, so I refrain, although truly difficult.

Brian started making chocolates at Kilwins 29 years ago. His ultimate favorite chocolates to eat are the truffles, particularly the classic chocolate truffles and also the hazelnut truffle. The busiest chocolate holiday at Kilwins is in fact Valentine’s Day, although all holidays make the store quite busy. Valentine’s Day for Brian is quite intense as he’s hand dipping strawberries and making love apples. I just figured out what I’m getting my Valentine this year–love apples, for sure!

Carlleen tells me that this past year, they introduced their Kilwins ice cream cakes and they have been a hit in the store. Can this place come up with any more perfect sweet treats to fulfill our sweet cravings? I’m sure they can. The sea salt caramels and seafoam are the real favorites in their shop. Put my name on the sea salt caramel list. Brian makes over 25 different flavors of not only the fudge, but also the caramel corn, peanut corn, cashew corn, and many different varieties of brittles–all as seen from the front window of the store with pure entertainment for those passing by outside. It’s a shame, however, if they pass by. Coming into the store is the real experience. Brian also makes chocolate krisp pies and turtle marshmallows, and he makes all the ice cream toppings.

Chocolate is also shipped to Kilwins prepackaged and is beautifully displayed to the right of the candy and ice cream counter. Prepackaged Kilwins chocolates are on display ready for purchase or ready to be included in one of the many gift baskets that go out the door each week.

One tends to step back in time to the feeling of being in an old-fashioned candy shop. "Townies" gather around c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

Owners Brian and Carlleen Rose

small, quaint ice cream parlor tables and chat about local happenings.

Most times, although not with COVID-19 right now, Carlleen offers all store guests a sample of fudge from a neat silver tray stowed behind the main counter. She knows I always take two and then ask for a third.

Without hesitation, she holds out the tray toward me again. She knows my sweet tooth and she knows my love of chocolate.

Small businesses like the Old Pioneer Store and Emporium/Kilwins Chocolates are so important these days and are a huge part of the backbone of our small communities. Small business owners like Brian and Carlleen Rose work so hard to breathe life into our local economy by keeping dollars local and employing our community members. It’s Valentine’s Day–show some love to our local businesses.

Go right now and get some Kilwins chocolates for your Valentine and say hi to our very own local candy man, Brian. Tell him The Canadian Laker sent you. Show him some love!

33

Safety

Canadian Lakes Safety

H

ROB MICKEY Safety Department Director rmickey@clpoc.org

ELLO 2021! Fingers crossed this time!

I would like to extend my annual round of thanks to the members of our Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch program.

They are always an asset to our department, but it’s during the cold and dark months that their dedication and involvement shine.

They are crucial in helping our red light program succeed, as they are out daily covering every road in our development and spotting issues before they become costly problems to homeowners.

Our volunteer patrollers brave some nasty weather to keep the program going and are willing to use their time in conditions where we would all rather be inside. And this past year, many have been our “frontline” workers doing their part to help. It is truly nice to know there are people willing to make a difference in the community. It is also worth noting the effort and time the program director and area captains put in daily with organizing schedules, recruiting, and attending meetings.

This winter you can count on the volunteers of the Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch program to remain vigilant and ready to help.

And as always, please don’t hesitate to contact the Safety Department at 972-8555 if you see a red light or have any other winter-related safety concerns.

Quick winter reminder ABSOLUTELY no ATVs, snowmobiles, or other motorized vehicles are permitted to be used on ANY golf course or common area. This includes the hills around the Castle, Highland Haus, and Alpine Haus. The existing “trails” were created over the years by riders without permission. Even though some people still choose to abuse this area, motorized vehicles are not allowed and the rule will be enforced.

Ice safety Please use common sense when on our lakes. All it takes is one weak spot to cause a life-threatening accident. While we will assist wherever possible, the Canadian Lakes Safety Department is NOT equipped to perform water rescue operations, and any person in that situation will have to rely on the response time of our local authorities.

As a year-end recap, I’d like to share our Safety Department stats from December. It was a busy month! patrol miles driven: 2,618 total calls for service: 102 red light responses: 14 Mecosta EMS/law enforcement assist: 4

34

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Buying or Selling?

Call Tom Garner Associate Broker

231-629-6006 tgarner.c21@gmail.com

There were 139 homes sold in Canadian Lakes in 2020, with the average sales price significantly up from past years to $236,000. Values have continued to appreciate and we expect this to continue as 2021 evolves. If you have considered selling your property, want to know the current value of it OR just want to understand this unique market, please call me. I am very diversified and understand the complexities of today’s legal and every changing real estate market.

Having a Real Estate Expert, like myself, represent your interests is more important today than ever. You will NOT find a better qualified Realtor to assist you with all your real estate needs. I look forward to hearing from you.

$299,900

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New Listing - Tullymore Golf Front Condo. Master suite looking onto course. Open great room with easy access to patio/grilling area.

Finished Lower Level

Magnificent Estate overlooking Big Rapids. Fully stocked lake.

26 rooms with Fitness room, Fully fenced and gated yard, Full house generator. Incredible one of a kind opportunities.

S O LD

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80 Acres with private lake and cabin. Canadian Lakes Ranch home/finished Chippewa Twp. Mecosta Co. walk out. Across St from St Land

$325,000 75 Acres with Ranch home.

S O LD

$183,900 River Ridge home in CL

S O LD

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Muskegon River waterfront lot.

Wooded and great building site.

$129,900

Affordable living!! Ranch home near Horsehead lake.

S O LD

$74,000

Lake of the Clouds wooded building site.

S O LD

$135,000 Sunset Shores home

$144,900

Ranch home with pole barn Remus area. Great BUY!

$160,000 Royal Canadian South home

NE W

$144,900

Ranch home in Remus. 2.5 acres with 3 beds. Affordable home!

$149,900 St Johns Dr. home

NE W

$6,900

St Ives Golf Front building site.

S O LD

$335,000 56 Acres with with barns.

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Highlands Golf Front home.

Finished lower level. Major updates.

S O LD

$200,000 Highlands Golf Front home

What Does the Mobile Watch Do on Patrol?

BY ROGER STOBERT MOBILE WATCH COORDINATOR

From the Mobile Watch Coordinator Are you interested in becoming an integral part of Canadian Lakes security? You can be if you become a Mobile Watch patroller.

You are supplied with everything you need, except you supply your own vehicle.

We can’t fulfill our mission without continued community support and participation. While we have many volunteers of all ages (a few over 90!), some having been patrollers for over a decade, there are still areas that need patrollers just to have one patrol per day.

Please understand that the commitment is small. While the above may sound challenging, it is in fact quite easy. It only takes about an hour per week. If you are interested, even if only part time, please contact Roger Stobert, Mobile Watch Coordinator, at 231-288-0148 or at spankky@charter.net, or just call Canadian Lakes Safety at 231-972-8555.

36

WHAT DOES THE Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch do on patrol?

Volunteers do a lot of looking, listening, and reporting. Patrollers drive fewer than 20 miles once a week in one of nine designated areas within Canadian Lakes; typically, in his/her own neighborhood. The goal of Mobile Watch is to have two patrols per day in each of our nine areas.

Each volunteer begins his/her patrol by using “the kit,” which is a white five-gallon bucket containing everything a patroller needs to perform his/her duties. The kit includes a radio, a radio charger, magnetic Mobile Watch signs, a rotating amber light, important patrol literature, and, seasonally, a Winter Watch list.

Prior to each patrol, the patroller attaches the magnetic Mobile Watch signs to his/her vehicle and then places an amber light on the vehicle’s roof. The patrol volunteer then logs in by radio to Canadian Lakes Safety.

Volunteers patrol their assigned area, usually traveling at 10 to 15 mph. Volunteers watch for anything suspicious or unusual.

They also watch for open garage doors at residences where it appears no one is home. (Open garage doors provide easy access for would-be thieves.)

While on patrol, Mobile Watch volunteers are prepared to assist stranded motorists or to come to the aid of lost visitors and, on occasion, even lost residents!

In winter, Mobile Watch volunteers keep a keen eye out for red lights in the windows of residents’ homes that indicate possible heating system malfunctions. Residents can help Mobile Watch and Safety in the Winter Watch mission by registering their homes each year prior to their departure for warmer climates using the Residential Vacation Form. Registration provides Safety with the essential information to remedy a potentially serious situation.

These forms can be obtained at the CLPOC office or on the CLPOC website.

What does a Mobile Watch volunteer do when he/she sees something unusual? Each patroller is trained to contact Canadian Lakes Safety via the radio included in the MW kit. Patrollers do not leave their vehicles to investigate situations unless it is absolutely necessary or if requested by Safety or law enforcement personnel, and then only if the volunteer feels comfortable doing so.

Patrollers never confront, provoke, or intentionally place themselves in danger.

If volunteers come upon a crisis situation requiring immediate attention, such as an auto accident, fire, medical emergency, or any other similar circumstance wherein time is critical, patrollers are trained in the proper protocols of notifying 911 first and then Canadian Lakes Safety immediately thereafter.

At the end of the patrol, each volunteer radios Safety that the patrol has been completed in the assigned area.

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

Mobile Watch equipment is removed from the volunteer’s vehicle and placed in the kit (white bucket).

The kit is then dropped at the next patroller’s home.

All recruits receive a “tabletop” orientation explaining the procedures and protocols of Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch. The tabletop talk orientation is followed by an actual practice patrol with the area Captain. During this patrol, the Captain demonstrates to the recruit the protocols necessary for the new volunteer to be an effective part of the Mobile Watch team.

Has Mobile Watch really impacted the Canadian Lakes community?

Residents might be surprised by some of the events that Mobile Watch has participated in.

Mobile Watch came to the aid of a resident who had slipped on the ice near his mailbox and couldn’t right himself. This resident lived alone on a lightly traveled dead-end street. Had we not patrolled this day, this incident could have ended tragically, given the brutally cold weather.

A similar slipping incident involved a resident who, while ice fishing, fell on the ice, dislocating his shoulder, and couldn’t get up.

Another patroller came upon a rather secluded residence where a stranded worker was marooned on the roof because his ladder had fallen away from the house. Yelling for help was futile until his voice caught the attention of a keen-listening Mobile Watch volunteer.

In the past, Mobile Watch was called upon to assist Safety, the Michigan State Police, and the Mecosta County Sheriff ’s Department in searching for an elderly resident suffering from dementia who had wandered away from his home.

Mobile Watch came to the aid of county neighbors east of Canadian Lakes when the Sheriff ’s Department asked for assistance in looking for young children who wandered away from home into a deeply wooded area.

As most of you already know, Mobile Watch literally reports dozens of red lights each winter.

Does Mobile Watch deter vandalism and home invasions? Studies show that in other communities where neighborhood watch organizations like Canadian Lakes Mobile Watch exist, complaints of criminal activity are significantly lower than in areas where there are no active civilian law enforcement assistance groups.

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

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C

BY ROGER STOBERT YOUR VOLUNTEER YARD WASTE COORDINATOR

231-288-0148 spankky@charter.net

38

anadian Lakes Yard Waste will be open Wednesday, April 7, 2021, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will be OPEN every Wednesday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through November 28, 2021.

Open burning of yard wastes is not allowed in Canadian Lakes and dumping these wastes on neighboring lots and common areas is prohibited. The yard waste site was established to provide CLPOC members in good standing with a place to dispose of their residential yard waste.

Canadian Lakes Yard Waste is located on the south side of Pierce Road between 110th Ave. and Tullymore Dr. To gain access, you will need a 2021 CLPOC ID, vehicle sticker or a guest pass.

Items allowed to be brought to Canadian Lakes Yard Waste include tree and shrub branches and limbs less than four inches in diameter and plant-based materials normally associated with residential yard maintenance such as grass clippings, leaves, and discarded mulch and plants.

The following are NOT allowed to be left at Canadian Lakes Yard Waste: garbage, including food scraps such as rinds, peels, cores, etc.; fireplace or campfire ashes; and yard waste containers or plastic bags.

Also, do NOT deposit your yard waste outside the gate when it is not open.

When depositing your yard wastes, please place them as far off the road and on top of or behind previously dumped wastes. This helps minimize the number of times that “push backs” are needed, thus minimizing operational costs.

If your vehicle sticker is easily visible, the attendant will give you a friendly wave when you enter but will stop you if he/she doesn’t see the sticker on your vehicle or if the sticker is not current.

The friendly site attendants are all volunteers and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Please drive slowly when entering and leaving the facility to prevent raising dust and endangering other depositors.

We are currently in need of additional volunteers to fill our 2021 schedule. It’s only two hours a month, with no physical work involved. Everything you need will be provided.

Should you have any questions related to Canadian Lakes Yard Waste or should you want to volunteer to help at the site, please contact Roger Stobert, Yard Waste Coordinator, at 231-288-0148 or spankky@charter.net; or visit members.canadianlakes.org

T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

DELICIOUS

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2020 Red Kettle Results for Canadian Lakes

BY DALE DOEPKER

Thanks to all who helped ring this year, and especially Tim Cook at the Refuse Center for all his help, plus approval and help from the owner Bob Doerr. Also, thanks to Ed Richter at Lakeside Motor Sports for allowing us to ring at his open house, as well as his $500 donation to that kettle. Thanks to Gail Hixson and Tim Conley for encouraging use of their counter kettles. Bell ringers who could not make it to the group photo were: Gloria Parker, Frank Schultz, Joni Sandy, Tim Collinge, Les Pernia, Megan Pernia, Sandy Marfilius, Lee Wolken, Frank Schultz, Theresa Frederick, Jerry Frederick, Trish Donegan, Rick Kempton, and Lillian Bukowski Total all locations for 2020 – $7195 compared to $5837 for 2019, a fantastic increase!

Refuse Center only – $5202 vs. $3996 last year Lakeside Motor Sports – $906 vs. $1037 last year Hixson’s Counter Kettles – $1036 vs. $718 Conley Bakery Counter Kettles – $52 vs. $86 We had 20 different bell ringers who attended the kettles for 71 total hours this year.

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My Family Quilt Love is the thread which binds together multiple familiar fabrics into a randomly assembled quilted cloth One stitch at a time.

Showcasing the home The old quilt resides reverently, ever present Serving as each individual’s focal point One day at a time.

Adored hand-me-down, Like a comfy pair of slippers never to be tossed, Cherished for fit and revered for longevity One step at a time.

Closely regarded, Each square, ever so different from the other, Stitched tightly together and attempting to blend One quadrate at a time.

Patterns contrasting, Horizontal and vertical stripes juxtaposed Between plaids and ornate blossoms, striations in stress, One stroke at a time.

Telling a tale, Each generation’s story begging to be heard, Converging points of view in contrast throughout placement, One verse at a time.

Patched old and new, Enduring repairs and additions through the years By multiple crafters, the first quilters long gone, One breath at a time.

While close inspection Reveals discord, viewed from arm’s length, the old quilt Exudes tenacious harmony and soft texture, One touch at a time.

Joyce B. Wilcox // Writer’s Quest 42

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ALL GOLF BALLS NEED TO BE PERSONALIZED. CONTACT THE GOLF SHOP FOR MORE DETAILS. Program window: 3/19/20 – 4/19/20. Limited time offer. Restrictions apply. While supplies last. Limit of 1 free dozen per customer. Lead-time: delivered within 5 weeks. A $1.00 per dozen fee will apply to same play number orders. A $2.00 per dozen shipping and handling charge will be applied to all dozens. Quantities requested above the program 3+1 will be entered as a separate, order subject to standard imprinting and shipping/handling fees based on quantity. ©2020 Acushnet Company

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43

CLPOC Board Minutes CANADIAN LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS CORPORATION Board of Directors Regular meeting November 21, 2020 @ 9:00 AM (Virtual - Zoom Meeting) Attendees Role Present Absent Paul Szymkowicz President X Vice President X John Colley James French Treasurer X James Swartzendruber Secretary X Dan Altier Director X Robert Halpin Director X Director X Dan Rice Linda Tilley Director X Seth Wenger Director X Others in attendance – General Manager Greg Babbitt, Marketing Director Jessica Slendak, Zoom Manager Lindsay Halcomb, and Controller Kim Dowell AGENDA TOPICS AND DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Call to Order – President Szymkowicz called the meeting to order @ 9:00 AM and welcomed all that are attending. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

2. Agenda Approval – Motion by Director French to approve the

agenda as presented with support from Director Tilley. Approved 3. Township Reports – General Manager Babbitt shared the Morton Township report with the directors and no report was received from Austin Township for this month.

4. Presidents Report – President Szymkowicz shared that some restrictions have been put back in place and thanked the community for their cooperation. That the Night of Lights was in operation and even if it is somewhat different it was still a remarkable show. That

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45

CLPOC Board Minutes golf was still active on the Pines for members because of the weather and that he was enjoying the early house decorations and wished everyone a happy holiday.

5. Financial Report – Comptroller Dowell reported that the corporation total net worth and liabilities was ahead of last year’s by a total value of 1.4 M. That we will be at budget for Capital deposits as well as Replacement Reserve for this year. That outstanding dues are below this time last year.

6. Committee Reports – ACC, Director Swartzendruber reported that the ACC had approved five new constructions at the last meeting, two garages additions and three new home builds.

7. CLA Liaison – Director Swartzendruber shared that CLA activities in the building have been suspended because of Covid by the MDHHS for the next several weeks. Those meetings in the Alpine Haus, Castle and Highland

Haus will not take place. Also that this restriction applies to the Medical Supply Room as well.

They will keep everyone posted and changes to come. The CLA home decorating contest was still being held with first prize @ $100.00, second prize @ $75.00 and third prize @ $50.00 for this year. You may register with Peggy Brohl by calling 901-831-1673, or by e-mail msbrohl@comcast.net.

Forms can be picked up at the CLA information center in the CLPOC office as well. Please have your lights on from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Dec 11 and 12 for judging by a team of CLA members. They wanted to remind everyone that it’s time to renew your membership to the CLA for 2021. Applications are available at candainlakesassocaiton.org or at the CLPOC office CLA information center. They are also in the last issue of Laker Magazine.

You can receive one by mail from

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The CLA would like to congratulate Sue and Mike Carrey as this month’s 40th Anniversary winner; they will receive a $40.00 gift card as this month’s winners. They would like to thank them and all that support the CLA. 8. Executive Committee – President Szymkowicz reported that they discussed legal issues of the CLPOC, the Marketable Title Act status, how to take live comments at the Annual Meeting and rules enforcement at the CLPOC. This work is still on-going.

9. Finance Committee – Director French reported that the team reviewed this year proposed budget audit and that it falls in line with projections. The final audit has not been presented yet.

Small claims action continues with courts that are open virtually and judgments are coming in. Shared that the PPP (payroll protection program) status has not been received but all indications are that this will be converted to a grant for the CLPOC. The proforma and fee schedule are to be covered in the next meeting of the board and up for approval at the meeting after that. Committee reviewed the Capital and Replacement reserve spending projections for the remainder of this year.

10. Lot Default Committee – Director Halpin shared that the committee has not met recently and that meetings are set for Dec 15 and Jan 19 for continued work.

11. Strategic Planning Committee – Director Altier reported that the community planning process was in full swing with department heads and that we will soon have an overall review meeting with them. This will take place in mid January. Work was progressing well with the IT group and that they will have recommendation coming. Reported that they will also be taking a look at overall community IT effectiveness in the future.

12. General Manager’s Report –

CLPOC Board Minutes General Manager Babbitt shared items on overall operations, amenity usage, seasonal activities and miscellaneous items. For his full report see the CLPOC website.

13. Consent Calendar – Motion made by Director Swartzendruber to approve the Notes from the October 14, 2020 Workshop Meeting & Minutes from the October 24, 2020 Board meetings as well as Receive and file the October Check Disbursements.

Supported by Director French and was approved.

14. Member Comments – None received by email or live on Zoom 15. Items for Action – Election of Board Officers Procedure, Director Halpin made a brief introduction to the process and asked if there were any further questions.

Director Swartzendruber shared that if no person desired to become an officer that those that may be term limited may return to that position for an additional year. Question called by Director French and supported by Director Rice. Roll Call Vote: Altier- Yes, Colley – No, Halpin – Yes, French – No, Rice- No, Tilley – Yes, Wenger- Yes, Szymkowicz – No, Swartzendruber – Yes. Motion Fails 5-4. This required a majority of six directors to pass per the bylaws. Selection of the Board Executive Committee Membership Procedure, Director Halpin introduced the proposal and asked if there were any further questions.

Motion by Director Halpin supported by Director Swartzendruber to move the question.

Roll Call Vote. Altier – No, Colley – No, French – No, Halpin – Yes, Rice – No, Swartzendruber – Yes, Szymkowicz – No, Tilley – No, Wenger – No. Motion Fails 2-7.

This required a majority vote of six directors to pass.

16. Item for Discussion – General Manager Babbitt introduce the process we will use to review and approve the ProForma Budget and Fee Schedule for next year.

That at the next workshop meeting the proposed numbers will be presented for review by the directors with approval at the next regular meeting of the Board. You should have those numbers well in advance of the workshop meeting for your review.

17. Member Comments – None 18. Director Comments – Director Altier stated that he saw value in the proposed bylaw changes and thanked Director Halpin and

Swartzendruber for their work.

Wished all a Happy Holiday, Director Colley also saw value in the changes presented but thought they needed some refinement and want all to be safe. Director Rice thanked the membership for their support this year and that the community was great.

Director Halpin thanked the board for the process used on the proposed amendments and thanked the entire staff for all the

NEW TO CANADIAN LAKES? Welcome! If you haven’t

already, please contact Member Services at 231.972.7651 or memberservices@clpoc.org to schedule your appointment to get membership cards, vehicle stickers and any other amenities privileges you’d like.

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please visit our members’ website at members.canadianlakes.o rg . to register. You’ll find a ton of great, useful info and you’ll automatically be signed up to receive the Members’ Bulletin email.

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

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CLPOC Board Minutes hard work. Director Szymkowicz thanked the staff for their compliance efforts as well as the membership. Stated that we don’t need bylaw changes to achieve director development.

19. Member Communications – Director Altier requested an

update to the membership on the beach project.

20. Executive Session – Motion to move to executive Session by Director Swartzendruber supported by Director Rice, Approved. Moved to executive session @ 9:47 AM. Returned to

regular session @ 9:58 and Adjourned the meeting.

21. Meeting online attendance – 21 Respectively submitted by Jim Swartzendruber (Minutes are printed as submitted.)

CANADIAN LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS CORPORATION Board of Directors Regular Meeting December 19, 2020 @ 9:00 AM (Virtual - Zoom Meeting) (Unapproved Minutes) Attendees Role Present Absent Paul Szymkowicz President X John Colley Vice President 9:13 AM James French Treasurer X James Swartzendruber Secretary X Dan Altier Director X Robert Halpin Director X Dan Rice Director X Linda Tilley Director X Seth Wenger Director X Others in attendance – General Manager Greg Babbitt, Controller Kim Dowell, and Zoom Manager Lindsay Halcomb.

AGENDA AND DISCUSSION TOPICS 1. Call to Order – President Szymkowicz called the meeting to order at 9:02 AM and board completed the Pledge of Allegiance.

2. Agenda Approval – Motion by Director French for approval as presented, support by Director Wenger and Approved.

3. Austin and Morton Township Reports – GM Babbitt shared their wish for the best Holiday for all members from both townships.

4. Presidents Report – President Szymkowicz shared some of the successes for this year, the five year funding plan, our battle with the pandemic and how great everyone responded to the support of the community, and the handling by the staff with such adversity. He stated that it was regrettable about some loss of services that the members had to endure. Shared that it is important that we continue to support our amenities 48

so that they may continue to serve as all. He wished everyone a great holiday.

5. Financial Report – Comptroller Dowell shared the financial status of the corporation with the directors, stating that our total liabilities and net worth have improved by over one million dollars from a year ago. Her complete report may be viewed at the CLPOC website. Shared that outstanding membership payments number of 164 for 2018 and 248 for 2019.

COMMITTEE REPORTS 1. ACC – Director Swartzendruber reported that no activity has taken place for the ACC this month.

2. CLA – Director Swartzendruber gave a report for the CLA activity for the last month, sharing the following. There was no meeting this month but reports were given by email to the Directors. Current CLA enrollment for 2021 is at 943 T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

and that is down 25 from last year but that there was eight new members in that number. The CLA hopes that everyone will enroll soon. The monthly appreciation drawing winner for December was Mark and Tambi Zaun. The Lite Lines publication will come out for the month of January for its members and they should look there for a membership application if needed. The Christmas decorating contest has concluded and that they had 25 entries this year and that is the most in five years. All the entries will be posted on the CLA face book page along with the contest winners. The winners will also be posted at the CLA webpage. The directors for the CLA have been elected and next year President will be Harold Wolf. The entire list is on the CLA webpage @ Canadian Lakes Assoc.org. Liaison Swartzendruber thanked Earl and Elaine Christianson for the many,

CLPOC Board Minutes many years of dedicated service to the CLA. They have been major role players in the success the CLA has had. They will not be strangers in anyway, but have decided to reduce some of their activity. Even this small change will greatly missed by the members of the CLA. 3. Executive Committee Report – President Szymkowicz reported that they continue to review legal matters with our attorney, and we will continue to have remote meetings going forward if the law allows. The Marketable Title act has had no changes but expects it to be extended by the state government.

4. Finance Report – Director French reported that the finance committee has finished the review of the current budget and that we should come in very close to the budget numbers projections for 2020. The team reviewed the 2020 Annual

Audit and our small claims activity that is ongoing. He reported that our PPP loan has been converted to a grant and that we will not have to repay that loan. The committee completed final review of the ProForma Budget and the fee schedule for the board meeting. They received reports on the LDC and SP from member Directors. Shared that the restaurant is under a lot of pressure and needs the community support to keep it moving along.

5. LDC – Director Halpin shared that the committee did meet this month and that they reviewed viable options for lot owners and visitors to stay while at Canadian Lakes. That data gathering continues in this area. That they are starting to look at some lot development options and cost related to those options. That the lot data base with various aspects is 95% completed and how it will help with recommendation

c a n a d i a n l a ke s .o r g

coming. That the committee will receive a Marketing Study update in January and a report will soon come to the board after that report on progress.

6. Strategic Planning – Director Altier shared that the Community Planning Teams will make a first proposal rollout in mid January to the Strategic Planning Committee and fellow department heads.

This will be the initial go at the planning process and be an ongoing plan. He will share the ideas with the board after that meeting. Dan commented on how well the progress was going with the IT team and that they should be coming soon with some initial ideas for strategic planning to look at. He thanked members of his team for all of the wonderful progress that has been made during 2020 and sent special thanks to members Joe Lisuzzo, Dick Stockmar and Eileen Osborne

49

CLPOC Board Minutes for their significant contributions to the team during the year.

These members departed for time constraint issues and living location and will be missed. Thanked Joe Lanz for his community wisdom and contributions as well.

Dan completed his report with the announcement of a new IT member Jeff Woodward of the CLPOC. 7. GM Report – General Manager Babbitt made his report related to CLPOC operations and activities at this time. This entire report may be viewed online at the CLPOC webpage. GM Babbitt did get questions from Director Altier about outdoor activities continuing, Director Halpin about any county directives related to Covid and from Director Colley about the possibility of online billing for membership dues to save cost.

8. Consent Calendar – Motion

by Director Swartzendruber to approve the notes from the

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November 4. 2020 Workshop Meeting and the minutes from the November 21, 2020 Regular Board Meeting and to receive and file the November 2020 Check Disbursement. Supported by Director French and approved.

9. Members Comments on Action and Discussion items – No comments were received by Secretary Swartzendruber for this meeting.

10. Action Items – Approval of the 2021 Fee Schedule, moved by Director French with support from Director Rice and was approved.

Approval of the 2020 ProForma Budget moved by Director French with support from Director Rice and was approved.

11. Discussion Item – GM Babbitt shared that we need to replace the entrance door to the Castle facility along with the outside garage doors. Shared the current conditions and how much they may cost. It is in the future RR

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budget for next year but may exceed the projected cost. GM Babbitt presented the Annual Audit to the directors to be received and accepted for fiscal year ending March 31, 2020. Director Swartzendruber commented that we have four comments on the audit that should be reviewed by our finance committee and that recommendations should come for the correction of these items along with action plans to prevent reoccurrence. GM Babbitt shared that his staff is preparing some recommendation at this time.

12. Member Comments – None received prior to the meeting by Secretary Swartzendruber.

13. Directors Comments – All Directors shared their wishes for all to have a great holiday as well as the following. Director Wenger thanked everyone for their hard and dedicated work. Director French thanked Director Wenger

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CLPOC Board Minutes and Swartzendruber for all that they have done for the CLPOC. Director Halpin shared the same thoughts. Director Colley commented on what a year we have had and how well it has been handled and that we have great group of people. Director Altier thanked the staff, Director Wenger for his contributions, Director Tilley for work on SP, Director Colley and Director Swartzendruber for same.

Director Rice shared similar comments and thanked the membership for the great support this year. Director Swartzendruber shared that he has made many new friends in the last three years and that is the greatest gift you can receive. Director Szymkowicz thanked all for the last four years and welcomed new members Wilcox and Junker to the Board starting next year.

14. Member Communications – share the new fee schedule with

the membership and send holiday greetings.

15. Executive Session – Board moved to Executive session @ 9:54 AM to discuss legal matter and GM Evaluation. Left executive session @ 10:50

16. Adjourned – @ 10:51 AM Respectively submitted by Jim Swartzendruber.

(Minutes are printed as submitted.)

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51

BofI GAREA RAPID REED CITY EVENTS

April

CALENDAR 3 Easter Egg Hunt 7

23 GR Symphony Presents Lights, Camera, Music! feat. works by John Williams and more 5 25 Spring Band & Orchestra 1

March

February 13 13 26

28

1 Pot Luck 7 12 Grand Rapids Symphony Presents The Art of Dance With the Grand Rapids Ballet 5 21 Home Free 5 25-28 Spring Play 1 26-28 Monster Jam Triple Threat Series 2

CLA Winter Fun Day 7 17th Annual Youth Fishing Derby 7 Grand Rapids Symphony Presents The Soldier's Tale 5 Winter Band & Orchestra Concert 1

April 3 23

25

INFORMATION IS FROM THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

Easter Egg Hunt 7 Grand Rapids Symphony Presents Lights, Camera, Music! featuring works by John Williams and more 5 Spring Band & Orchestra 1

1. Ferris State University — www.ferris.edu/arts 2. Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids — vanandelarena.com; 616-742-6600 3. Central Michigan University — cmich.edu/Calendar 4. Big Rapids area — cityofbr.org, Community Calendar; 231-796-7640 5. DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids — devosperformancehall.com; 616-742-6500 6. Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant — soaringeaglecasino.com; 888-732-4537 7. Canadian Lakes Association — canadianlakesassociation.org 8. Art Works, Big Rapids-www.artworksinbigrapids.org

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616-742-6600 INFORMATION IS FROM THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

3. Central Michigan University — cmich.edu/Calendar 4. Big Rapids area — cityofbr.org, Community Calendar; 231-796-7640 5. DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids — devosperformancehall.com; 616-742-6500 6. Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant — soaringeaglecasino.com; 888-732-4537 7. Canadian Lakes Association — canadianlakesassociation.org 8. Art Works, Big Rapids-www.artworksinbigrapids.org

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T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r

S R E A L T Y, I N B ICG R A P I D S R E Y R E A L T Y , I N CR E E D C I T Y R E B I G R A P I D S R E A L T Y, I N C R E E D C I T Y R E A L T Y, I N C

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Let’s Get Social, Canadian Lakes

DAY TIME

ACTIVITY

Canadian Lakes Weekly Scheduled Activities NOTE: All activities are open to Canadian Lakes property owners, family members, and guests. Property owners are asked to obtain guest passes from the CLPOC office.

SEASONAL

LOCATION

MONDAY 9:30 am Melody Makers (ladies) Apr-Jul/Sept-Dec. Highland Haus

2nd 1 pm Dotted Cubes (bunko) Alpine Haus

3:30-5 pm Canadian Lakes Men’s Chorus Apr-Dec. Highland Haus

6:30 pm Euchre Club Alpine Haus

6:30 pm Camera Club Every other Mon Highland Haus TUESDAY 2nd 9 am Morton Township Meeting Odd months 290 Main, Mecosta

1 pm Pool Cue League Oct-Dec/Jan-Mar. Member homes

7 pm Table Tennis Alpine Haus

2nd 7 pm Morton Township Meeting Even months 290 Main, Mecosta

2nd 7:30 pm Austin Township Meeting Monthly 14132 Pierce, Stanwood

2-3 pm Exercise/Dance Class Alpine Haus

9-11 am Drop-In Mixed Tennis Seasonal Alpine Haus Courts WEDNESDAY 1st 9 am Garden Club Apr-Nov. Highland Haus

2nd 9:30 am Book Babes Book Club Apr-Dec. Member Homes

3rd 9:00 am Novel Friends Book Club Apr-Dec. Member Homes

3rd 10 am-4 pm Quilt Club Highland Haus

11:30 am Mah Jongg Apr-Oct. Alpine Haus

12:30 pm Mixed Bowling Sept-May Remus Lanes

1 pm Duplicate Bridge Weekly Alpine Haus

2nd 1 pm CLPOC Workshop/Agenda Mtg Main Conf. Room 231-972-7651

4:30 pm Girl Scout Troop 4788 Alpine Haus

1st 4:30 pm Canadian Lakes Players Highland Haus

2nd 7 pm Canadian Lakes Fishing Club Apr-Oct. Alpine Haus

3rd 7 pm Morton Twp. Planning Comm. Jan/Apr/Jul/Oct 290 Main, Mecosta

4th Variable Treasure Seekers Destinations Vary

4th Variable Fishing Fun Night May-Sept.

Main Beach THURSDAY 10-11 am Exercise/Dance Class Alpine Haus

1st, 3rd 1 pm Needles and News See Lite Lines Alpine Haus

1 pm Drop-in Bridge

1 pm-3 pm Model Yacht Club Apr-Oct. Edgewater Park FRIDAY 9-11 am Drop-In Mixed Tennis Royal Courts

11:30 am Mah Jongg Apr-Oct. Alpine Haus

1st 3:30 pm Writers Quest Alpine Haus SATURDAY 4th 9 am CLPOC Monthly Board Meeting Highland Haus 231-972-7651

2nd 1:00 pm Euchre Tournament Oct-April Highland Haus

1-3 pm Model Yacht Club Apr-Oct. Edgewater Park

Indoor Pool & Fitness Area: 972-2123 (CLOSED on Tuesdays) Lap Swimming: Mon, Wed-Fri 7-8 am Adult Open Swim: Mon, Wed, Fri 9-10 am, Thurs 7-9 am Open Swim: Mon, Wed, Fri 11 am-8 pm, Thurs 7-9 am, Sat, Sun 9 am-8 pm Outdoor Pool/Pines Pavilion: 972-4462 May 28-Sept.

7, 11 am-6 pm Pickleball: Contact: Jeff Butzin 231-972-0456 Legacy Park Daily: 9am-12 pm (Apr.-Oct.) Tennis: Open play daily at all courts (see above for drop-in mixed tennis) Thursday Ladies 9-Hole Golf: Contact: Sandy Engott 848-933-0759 jengott@aol.com Ladies 18-Hole Golf: Contact: Deb Macaddino 231-972-4874 Euchre Tournament: Contact: Kathy Lawyer 231-972-3054 vklaw@charter.net. Alternate contact: Diane Kennedy 231-972-3176 Writer’s Quest: Contact Joyce Wilcox: 734-223-7841 joycewilcox@gmail.com. Alternate contact: Griz Holbrook 231-972-1947 grizh@yahoo.com Girl Scout Troop 4788 Club: Contact: Jennifer Cady 231-629-2259 cady-jb@hotmail.com Alpine Haus 4:30pm-6pm meets bi-weekly (Oct.-June)

CONTACT 231-796-2460 231-972-7920 231-359-1114 231-972-7920 989-560-2124 231-972-7138 231-972-7327 231-408-7716 231-972-7138 231-972-7472 231-972-0029 231-408-8801 231-972-5702 231-972-8869 231-972-4246 616-581-6734 231-972-1115 231-215-5556 231-972-4858 231-629-2259 231-972-7447 231-972-8663 231-972-7138 231-359-1023 TBA 231-972-0029 231-598-2203 TBA 231-629-1004 231-408-8801 231-972-1115 734-223-7841 231-972-3054 231-629-1004

Men’s Tuesday 9-Hole League: Contact: Tim Hannon 248-231-2990 timhannon@comcast.net CL Camera Club: Contact: Troy Smith 989-560-2124 smithtd1969@gmail.com MARSP: Contact: Mary Salisz 231-972-8084 marysalisz@gmail.com Alternate contact: Chris Wernette 231-972-7336 chrisandsandy@yahoo.com Novel Friends Bookclub: Contact: Dee Gilkerson 231-972-4246 dhgilkerson@aol.com Alternate contact: Julie Quick 231-972-7140 julaneq56@gmail.com Canadian Lakes Dog Club: Contact: Jim Ashbaugh 231-359-1464 jimash550@yahoo.com Great Ideas: Contact: Dave Fisher 810-919-1765 ppwig@aol.com

Please confirm before you plan to partake in any Canadian Lakes function as COVID-19 may affect meetings, events, and operations.

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SOLD

65

CLOSED

338 deals

45 million

million

338 deals

2019

2020

2019

445 deals

445 deals

2020

Home Values are HIGH and we have ACTIVE BUYERS!

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