Lake Doster Homeowner’s Association Newsletter
September 2004

Lake Doster residents ‘lasso’ the last days of summer
 at the Country-Western BBQ

Over 200 gathered at the beach on Sunday Sept. 5th – our biggest turnout ever for the end-of-summer party!  We enjoyed roast pork with many delicious side dishes and desserts provided by residents.  We took our 
last dips in the lake, played volleyball and gathered round the bonfire, overall a perfect day!

The winner of the 50/50 raffle was Howard Brainerd -many thanks to Howard for contributing $25 of his winnings to the party costs!  And special thanks are due to all who helped make the end-of-summer party a success, by planning the party, setting up, serving food, cleaning up and contributing firewood, including: Howard Brainerd, Dianne, Steve and Mackenzie Burrows, Suzanne and Tom DeYoung, Ray Dertz, Pam Fodell, Dave Fortune, Joe Gentile, John Howe, Judy and Dick Joslin, Kevin Koch, Brian Mullally, Tom and Beth Raich, Del Van Bruggen.  Your efforts helped create a perfect party!  Please call Diane at 664-3593 if you left any dishes or clothes at the party.

Calendar of Events:
•	Next LDHA Board Meeting: October 11, 2004, 7:30pm, Lake Doster Clubhouse.
•	Lake Acquisition Organizational Committee: Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:30pm, Lake Doster Clubhouse
•	Next Social Event: Newcomer’s Party, November 6, 2004, 7:30pm, Lake Doster Clubhouse
•	Recycling: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Gun Plain Township only.
•	Large Trash Pick-up: 2nd Tuesday of each month; April thru October, except July, Gun Plain Township only
•	Boat Numbers: Call Dave Hurwitz at 664-5364 or e-mail at davehurwitz@earthlink.net
•	E-mail comments to:  ldha2003@charter.net
•	LDHA Website: ldha.homestead.com
•	Webmaster e-mail:  dfortune@chartermi.net
•	Newsletter e-mail:  lemmingsrus@aol.com

2004-2005 LDHA Board of Directors	 Phone

President:    	Brian Mullally (2005)     	685-1913 
		E-mail: bmullally@charter.net	
Vice-Pres.:    	Dave Hurwitz (2007)       	664-5364
		E-mail: davehurwitz@earthlink.net
Co-Secretaries:    Michael Hills  (2005)    	664-3482
		E-mail: mhills@ameritech.net
	     	Jana Edwards  (2006)    	664-3122	
		E-mail: lemmingsrus@aol.com
Treasurer:     	Everett Harpole (2006)       	664-3059
		E-mail: everett.harpole@jda.com
Maintenance:  	Ray Dertz (2006) 		685-2776
		E-mail: RED@kalnet.net
Safety:            	Suzanne Runyon (2007)	685-8829
		E-mail: ptrainersmr@yahoo.com
Social:             	Diane Burrows (2005)	664-3593
		Kevin Koch (2006)    	664-6096
		E-mail: cbkoch@hotmail.com
Newcomers:   	Marilyn Brainerd (2007)   	664-3388
		E-mail: lovebirdz@charter.net
Membership:  	Nancy Watson (2006)       	685-5768
		E-mail: nanawatson8@charter.net
Water Quality:      Dave Fortune (2007)	685-1066	
		E-mail: dfortune@chartermi.net   
Gun Plain Township:  Casey Jones           	664-5362
		E-mail: jcjones@accn.org

LDHA BOARD MEETING MINUTES FROM:  September 13, 2004

The meeting was opened at 7:35 pm by Dave Hurwitz (Vice-Pres.) at the Lake Doster Clubhouse. Board Members Present: Dave Hurwitz, Jana Edwards, Everett Harpole, Ray Dertz, Kevin Koch, Marilyn Brainerd, Dave Fortune, Nancy Watson, Casey Jones.  Also present: Niles Kevirn (MLSA), Howard Brainerd, Nancy Kablitz and Gene Vogan. 
Special guest Niles Kevern of the Michigan Lake and Stream Association gave a presentation on the benefits of membership in MLSA.  The MSLA was formed to protect riparian rights and water quality, and has over 300 lake associations as members. They provide information in a monthly magazine, other publications, a website and an annual conference.  They provide water quality monitoring, and advice on handling weed control, pollution and land use issues.  After discussion, the board decided to order a subscription of the magazine and defer a decision on joining to the future lake management entity. (Dave H. moved, Ray seconded, all in favor). 
Secretary’s Report:  Jana Edwards:  The minutes of the meeting of August 9, 2004 were approved (Marilyn moved, Nancy seconded, all in favor).  Jana noted that the newsletter publishing coordination went smoothly last month.  Jana had a request from a non-resident who wanted to place a paid ad in the newsletter.  The board affirmed the policy of publishing advertisements for LDHA members only.
Treasurers Report, Everett Harpole:  Everett reported that additional contributions have been received for the Property Management Fund.  The current balance (as of 8/31/04) of the Property Management Fund is $16,388.31 (details shown below).  The current total balance (as of 8/31/04) of the LDHA checking and savings accounts is $11,766.70 (details shown below).  Membership payments were more prompt this year.  Required data has been provided to the tax preparer. The budget was approved (Kevin moved, Dave H. seconded, all in favor). 
Checking Account	Savings Account	Property Management Fund	
 Beginning Balance	$   9,646.85	 Beginning Balance	$  2,325.60	Beginning Balance	$ 18,283.35	
Deposits	$      664.80	Deposits	$         0.00	Deposits	$   1,150.00	
Total Expenses	$      870.55 	Total Expenses	$         0.00	Total Expenses	$   2,824.54	
Adjustments	$         0.00	Adjustments	$         0.00	Adjustments	$          0.00	
Ending Balance	$   9,441.10 	Ending Balance	$  2,325.60	Ending Balance	$ 16,608.81	

Maintenance:  Ray Dertz: The new buoys for Sheltered Bay have been received and will be installed next summer.  The raft and buoys will remain in the lake as long as the weather is warm – Ray will need help with removal.  The tent is in storage.  Ray noted that the tent has several small holes and a rip – to be repaired for now.  In the long-term the board may want to consider replacement.  Two more bags of fertilizer were sold – next year we will try to get the ‘weed and feed’ type.  Some residents have requested bush removal next to the beach to allow room to park more boats.  It was noted that the vegetation provides a natural buffer for the lake. 
Front entry sign:  The board has agreed (with the permission of the LDDC) to provide new “Lake Doster” signage at the main entrance. Dave F. will be getting information from a sign company for discussion at the next board meeting.  
Social:  Kevin Koch:  The “End of Summer Picnic” held on Sunday, September 5 was a big success – we had the biggest turnout ever – over 200.  The party charges vs. cost were almost even with about $20 left over.  Food amounts were about right also – few leftovers.  Kevin and Diane want to thank the many volunteers.   Kevin and Diane are exploring the idea of a chili cook-off – possibly next month.  Otherwise the next event is the Newcomer’s Party, which is set for November 13th.  The board discussed ways to contact and bring more newcomers to the party – to make all feel welcome. 
Membership: Nancy Watson:  Membership dues payments have been more prompt this year. Nancy sent out a second notice to those who have not yet paid dues, the response has been good -over half have been paid.  
Water Quality:  Dave Fortune:  Dave F. and Kevin have remediated some purple loosestrife found on the lake – the amount was small and will be addressed again next year. 
Newcomer’s:  Marilyn Brainerd:  There is still an opening for a new board member, who would assist Marilyn in greeting new residents.

Gun Plain Township: Casey Jones:  Residents’ winter tax bills may contain a survey asking if there is support for a vote on a road millage in 2005.  The latest estimate for completion of the M-89 Bridge is November 15.    Casey is continuing to review information on sewer capacities rights in the township.  Certain Lake Doster residents who were previously given a five-year grace period on hooking up to the sewer should now be connected to the sewer lines.  Approximately 235 homes within Lake Doster are now on sewer, including all homes with lakefront.  Allegan County has faced many challenges recently in criminal activity, but there have been successes in reducing drug-related crime. 
Safety. Jana Edwards:  Jana reported another accident has occurred to a Lake Doster resident attempting to turn from Doster Road onto Heron Court.  Residents along Doster Road, Drake Court and Heron Court have frequently reported concern about the hazardous conditions created by the sharp curves, and blind spots created by dips and peaks north of these intersections.  The Allegan County Sheriff’s Department has recently made concerted efforts to control speeding along Doster Road, which has been helpful.  However, some residents feel that the problem cannot be addressed without regrading the road, or lowering speed limits.  Apparently Barry County is responsible for maintenance of the road.  Nancy Kablitz has addressed Gun Plain Township on this issue and read a letter that she received in response, citing efforts to control speeding. Casey noted that they township may acquire a speed sign indicator.    
The remainder of the agenda was tabled until the next meeting.  The meeting was adjourned at 10:00pm.  Respectfully submitted, Jana Edwards.   
IMPORTANT NOTICES FROM THE BOARD: 

The bridge on M-89 In Plainwell will be completely closed to traffic (in both directions) due to construction from Monday, September 27th through Friday, October 15th, 2004.  

Thanks to all those residents who promptly sent in your Membership Dues – it is greatly appreciated!
If you have not yet paid your dues, please send them to Nancy Watson at 350 Lakeview Lane.

Attention Snowbirds – If you are planning to be away this winter, add this to your checklist:  Call Nancy Watson at 685-5768 to give her an address (and dates away) so that you can continue to receive the newsletter.

PERSONAL NOTICES:
eIt’s a boy!  Welcome to our brand-new resident, Nicholas, who was born to Kevin and Keri Countryman on August 16, 2004.  Congratulations Kevin and Keri!

eThe Board would like to extend condolences to the family and friends of John A. Workman, who passed away on September 13, 2004 in Plano, Texas.  John had previously lived in Lake Doster for many years.  He was an optometrist and devoted family man who loved flying, sailing and traveling, and was an active member of the Baptist Church.  Donations in his honor can be made to the John Workman Scholarship fund, Prestonwood Christian Academy, 6801 W. Park, Plano TX 75093.

e The Lake Doster Neighborhood Prayer Group meets on the1st and 3rd Friday of the month at 9am, (beginning October 1) at Lieve Brusselmans’ house at 151 Parkway Lane.
All you ladies are invited!  Do you ever feel overwhelmed with all your daily jobs and responsibilities as wives, mothers and employees?  Come check us out.  We pray for each other, for our community and for our nation. 
If you can’t make it, but still would like us to pray for you and you family, just call and we will ring heaven’s bells on your behalf.  Questions or comment?  Please call one of us:
		Susan Adams 	  @ 685-6183		Lieve Brusselmans	@ 685-9913
		Laurie Palanca  @ 664-6009		Rene Saar		@ 664-4778

For Sale/Wanted

Lost:  Child’s blue and red neoprene life vest.  Lost at the main beach on Midlakes Blvd.  Please call the Brady’s at 664-4890.
Invitation Imagination – Unique invitations, announcements and stationery.  Home-based business offering personalized service.  10% off sale on all holiday cards ordered by Nov. 15, 2004.  Large selection of photo cards and boxed greeting cards.  We are happy to make special orders with minimum quantities. Lines include Noteworthy, Sweet Pea, Checkerboard, Cross My Heart, Ink Well, Embossed Graphics and others.  Call Leslie Jo Hurwitz at 664-5364 for appointment.
Wanted:  Set of junior golf clubs.  Please call 685-8892.
Wanted:  Person to do light housework once a week.  Willing to pay $10 per hour.  Please call Lisa at 664-4789 if interested.
For Sale:  200 Manitou 21 Legacy Pontoon Boat, 90hp Mercury, $11,900.  Call 664-3557. 
No time to get out to the gym?  Certified personal trainer available for home training on Tuesdays & Thursdays.  If interested – or for more details, call Suzanne at 685-8829.
Piano and Voice Lessons:  Janet Richards KAMTA, 275A Fairway Ct, 664-5380
For Sale:  Silk arrangements for all occasions: oriental, nautical, etc. as well as centerpieces and gift items.  Call Mary Jane at 685-8287.
Home Interiors and Gifts. If you would like to host a party or see a catalog, please call Amie at 664-6868.  I can talk to you about earning free items. 
House Plants for Sale:  $10 to $25.  Several 6’ to 10’ dieffenbachia, mother-in-law’s tongue, peace lily’s, 2’ to 6’ cactus, X-mas cactus, goosefoot, snake plant and many more.  We have about 20 healthy plants to sell.  Please call 664-3277.
Neighborhood Handyman available: - Call Chuck Gregory on Horseshoe Court at 685-5032 or cell phone #501-7706.  Landscaping tiles, tile work, shelving...if you are thinking of it...just ask if to see if he can do it.
Work Wanted—Yard work, odd jobs, animal sitting and walking, etc.  Please call Tom Richmond at 664-3277
Neighborhood Services
Baby Sitters:
Emily Burley (4/2/90)* 		664-6969
Erin Cool (1/2/88) 		664-3613
Helen Dolley (1/13/96)		664-5658
Ariel Gray (10/27/89)* 		664-5195
Abby Murray (3/14/88) 		664-6643
Sarah Myles 			664-3059
Branden Stewart (10/11/88)	664-3613
Sarah Skocelas (5/25/89)* 	664-4181
Katy Whited (5/10/90           	664-5500
    *Red Cross Certified

Pet Sitting:
Erin Cool (1/21/88)		664-3613
Helen Dolley (1/13/96)		664-5658
Ariel Gray (10/27/89) 		685-5195
Jenna Sheets (5/10/90) 		664-5810
Sarah Skocelas (5/15/89)	664-4181
Abby Murray (3/14/88)		664-6643
Zach Saar (6/22/93)		664-4778
Branden Stewart (10/11/88)	664-3613

Yard Work:
Zach Saar (6/22/93)		664-4778

Advertisements and personal notices should be submitted by the second Wednesday of the month.  Anyone submitting an ad or notice must be a member of LDHA.  Include your name, address, phone number and birthday (children only).  Please be brief—two or three lines.  Unless you specify otherwise, ads or notices will run for two months. 
Contact Jana Edwards by phone (664-3122) or e-mail (lemmingsrus@aol.com) to submit an ad or notice.
Welcome to the following recent arrivals to the neighborhood!

We hope you and all new residents within the last year will join us at our Newcomer’s Party on November 13, 2004 at 7:30 pm so that we can get acquainted!

Ken and Cintia Pace	
36 Eagle Greens Court

Curtis and Lori Powell
77 S. Lake Doster		

Jason and Richelle Preus	
7 Heron Court

Deborah Linden
28 Terrace Court 

Chris Harris and Julie Pallantee
14136 E. Parkway