Lake Doster Homeowner’s Association Newsletter

June 2005

The Annual Meeting of the Lake Doster Homeowner’s Association will be held

on June 13 at 7:30pm at the Lake Doster Clubhouse. The Clubhouse has graciously provided a room. The Board is not serving refreshments, but you may like to come early and order a meal or drink and visit with friends prior to the meeting.

Red, White & Blue

We Salute You!

The Fourth of July Party will be on Monday, July 4^th kicking off with the Children’s Parade, then a party and games at the beach.

The parade will start at 12:30 pm at Horseshoe Court and end at the beach where food and fun will go on until 4pm. Food will be $2.50 for hot dogs or sausage, $0.50 for chips and $1.00 for pop and water. Beer will be available for a donation.

The theme for this year’s boat parade will be “Red, White and Blue, We Salute You!”

WE REALLY NEED VOLUNTEERS! About 30 volunteers are needed to set-up, serve food, organize games and activities, and clean-up. The number of activities is dependant on the number of volunteers available. Please call Diane Burrows at 664-3593 or Kevin Koch at 664-6096 to volunteer. We need your help!

GO FISH!

The Lake Doster 2005 Resident Fishing Contest will be held on Saturday, July 2.

All residents and family members are invited to participate. Sign-in will at 7:00 am at the beach. Fishing starts at 7:30 am. Weigh-in will be at noon. Call Larry Kunkle at 664-5320 for additional information.

This summer – have fun but be safe!

Lake Rules are for everyone’s safety – please clip the rules on page 5 and place in a visible place. Get a boating certificate – classes are offered by the Allegan Sheriff’s Office – see page 5 for information. Drive slowly! – children are playing and everyone is bicycling and walking.

Calendar of Events:

· LDHA Annual Meeting is June 13, 2005, 7:30pm, Lake Doster Clubhouse.

· Lake Doster Lake Association monthly meetings (lake acquisition) - fourth Wednesday of each month; 7:30pm; at the Lake Doster Clubhouse. For further info see website: lakedoster.org

· Second Annual Lake Doster Community Garage Sale: Saturday, June 18, 2005- Contact Ed Giffels at 664-5205 for information.

· Annual Fishing Contest – July 2, 2005 7:30 am at the beach

· July 4^th Party – July 4, 2005; 12:30pm to 4pm at the beach – see details at right.

· Boat numbers – Call Dave Hurwitz at 664-5364.

· Recycling: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Gun Plain Township only.

· E-mail comments to: ldha@charter.net

· LDHA Website: ldha.homestead.com

· Webmaster e-mail: dfortune@chartermi.net

· Newsletter Editor e-mail: jana_edwards@ charter.net

LDHA BOARD MEETING of May 9, 2005:

Board members present: Brian Mullally, Dave Hurwitz, Jana Edwards, Ray Dertz, Suzanne De Jong, Diane Burrows, Kevin Koch, Marilyn Brainerd, Nancy Watson, Dave Fortune, Casey Jones. Residents attending: Howard Brainerd, Jennifer Collins, Lisa Torres.

Minutes of the April 11, 2005 meeting: The minutes incorrectly stated that the Lake Doster Lake Association meetings are held on the 4^th Monday of the month – they are held on the 4^th Wednesday of the month. Two residents voiced concern about a statement in the “Safety” section of the minutes where residents asked not to go too slow just to prove a point. They felt this sent the wrong message -that drivers should be urged to slow down and that slower is always better, especially to protect children. The board agreed that preventing speeding is the highest priority, but felt that corrections to the minutes were not required. The minutes were approved as corrected, Ray moved, Marilyn seconded, all in favor.

Treasurer’s Report (Brian Mullally): In the last month, there were $ 1,798.63 in expenses. The current balance of the checking account is $1,965.86, and the savings account is $ 2,331.74. In regard to purchases, the non-profit ID number should be provided – Brian has this number. In response to a call from a resident, the checking balance is at a low point due to the November party and other expenses. Member dues are coming in and should restore the balance.

Front Entry Sign (Dave Fortune): Plans are being reviewed with the LDDC and the Lake Doster Golf Club and should be finalized soon.

Annual Meeting Planning: Four members of the board have finished their terms or resigned. The board is urged to ask neighbors to join the board. There was a discussion about methods for continuing community services after the lake is acquired. There has been no final decision but we have been working with the idea of having two organizations – one to manage the lake and enforcement issues, and one to plan social activities. Some board members felt that, given the difficulty of getting residents to volunteer on the board, it may be better to combine the two organizations. Another possible approach is to keep the organizations separate, but reduce the number of people on the LDHA (as it will be addressing fewer matters). An ‘ad hoc’ committee was formed to review the issue and report back to the board. The board will seek the opinions from residents at the Annual Meeting.

Gun Plain Township (Casey Jones): There will be two boat safety classes offered by the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office on May 21 and June 11, 2005. Details will be provided in the newsletter (see page 5). Casey also noted that the mowing and clearing on road sides is done by the County only on County roads.

Maintenance (Ray Dertz): The April 30^th Spring Clean-up day was not well attended only one couple came out to help, and another helped on the following day. Others noted that they cleaned the beach and other areas on other days. It was also noted that many residents are constantly picking up trash while out for walks. The board thanks all residents who make this extra effort. The need for a spring clean-up day will be reviewed at future meetings. Ray received a question as to whether there could a dumpster in the spring as well to hold yard debris. The board felt it was too expensive to do twice a year. Lake-friendly “Weed and Feed” is still available although several have been sold. The buoys and rafts should be installed this week. An anchor was lost in the lake over the winter – a diver may try to retrieve it. Empty plastic Clorox and large orange juice bottles are useful for marking equipment – if you have any please get them to Ray. The tent needs repair – Ray will get quotes for repair, replacement, or renting from an outside company. The tent is available to residents for parties at no charge, but you must be an LDHA member (dues paid) and cannot take the tent out of the community. Contact Ray well in advance of your party to schedule use of the tent. Thanks to Howard Brainerd for cutting up the dead trees on Midlakes Blvd.- someone is coming to pick them up.

Social (Diane and Kevin): The next social event is the Fourth of July Party – Volunteers are really needed – it takes about 30 people to set-up, cook and serve food, direct games and activities, and clean-up. Last year there were not enough people to direct activities and some had to be dropped – so please try to help this year. Larry Kunkle has set the fishing contest for Saturday, July 2 – details for both events will be in the newsletter.

Water Quality (Dave Fortune): Water quality will be tested this month. Lake spraying will be done by the LDDC by the end of May – notices will be posted in the neighborhoods.

Membership & Dues (Nancy Watson): As of May 8^th, $1500 in dues has been received. Please send in your dues ($30) if you have not yet done so. Thanks to all who responded to the request to correct personal information for the directory! Carole Kellogg’s effort to insert individual tags in the newsletter seemed to catch attention - the response was good.

Newcomer’s (Marilyn Brainerd): Marilyn has just returned and will be catching up with greeting newcomers. If you know of new families in your neighborhood please contact her at 664-3388.

Lake Acquisition (Brian Mullally): The LDLA has received $4000 in the last month; the lake acquisition fund now has about $25,000. There is still a significant deficit for the fund, which is being used to conduct the necessary surveys, title searches and other legal matters to transfer the ownership of the lake. For more information on the lake acquisition effort, go to the website at lakedoster.org. Contributions should be mailed to P.O. Box 125, Plainwell, MI 49080. There have been three meetings in individual subdivisions and more are coming up. Also monthly meetings of the LDLA are held every 4^th Wednesday of the month. All are welcome and urged to attend.

Other notices: A trash receptacle will be placed at the beach for the summer but a Port-a-potty will be brought in only for the 4^th of July and End-of- Summer parties.

Respectfully submitted, Jana Edwards

Tennis Anyone?

Women’s Groups:

Currently meet on Tuesday evenings and Thursday Mornings. Both groups could use substitute players. Call Karen Urban (685-6291) for Thursday morning play and Lib Wittwer (685-6190) for Tuesday evening play.

Form a new group – get four players together and have fun! Need help identifying players? Call Karen Urban at 685-6291.

Men’s Groups:

Monday nights a group of men are gathering to play – no schedule, just go if you can. For information, call Roger Krahn at 685-6342.

Form a group- get four or more players together for and have some fun. Need help identifying players, call Roger.

Couples Night:

Friday nights about 6:00 or 6:30 pm, couples gather to play a few games. No reservation needed. Join others for some fun tennis and meet some new people at the same time.

Children are welcome to play on the courts if a family has membership.

Clearly, tennis is a family activity. You can play with family members, and/or play in one of the groups above. All are welcome! Tennis membership at Lake Doster is still one of the best bargains going. To get your tennis membership and take advantage of the opportunities above, fill out the form below:

Tennis Association Membership Form

Tennis memberships permit unlimited play at no additional fee and no reservations needed. Upon receipt of your membership fee a key will be dropped off at your home or you may call 685-6342 (Laurie Krahn) or 685-6291 (Karen Urban) to make arrangements to get a key. A family must belong to the Lake Doster Homeowner’s Association, to be eligible for membership in the Tennis Association.

Name____________________________________

Tear off and mail with proper fee to:

Family Membership $ 125 □ Laurie Krahn

Couple Membership $ 115 □ 334 Lakeview Lane,

Single Membership $ 100 □ Plainwell, MI 49080

Tennis Court Update:

Once again, we are delighted to report that the two south courts at Lake Doster have weathered the winter well and are in perfect condition. We’re excited that “Armour Crack” has held!!! We hope in the future to do something with the other two courts as well. We are delighted to report that the loan funding the cost of repairs has been paid in full. Current fees are listed on the membership form on page 3. Many thanks to Karen and John Urban for all their efforts to keep the courts clean and nets in good repair. -The Tennis Association

For Sale/Wanted

Save your empty pop cans and printer cartridges!: I am going on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic this summer and am raising all the money myself to go. I am collecting empty pop cans and used printer cartridges to help fund my trip. If you have any of these items, I am willing to come to your home to pick them up, whenever it is convenient for you – just call Jenna at 664-5810. Thanks so much!

For Sale: 2001 Manitou Pontoon Boat, great condition, 90 hp Mercury Motor. Asking $10,000. Call 664-3557

Lost in Lake: Canoe Paddle. It floats, is black and silver and it says “Rogue River” on it. Please call Bryce at 664-5181 if found. Thanks!

For Rent: Pressure Washer. Great for spring cleaning! $ 40 for 24 hours (It’s $50 to rent one in Plainwell) Call Rich at 664-5299

For Sale: 1990 Ski Challenger, comp ski boat, 351 inboard V-8, low hours, looks great! $7,400 Barbie Powerwheels, hot pink jeep, two seater, excel. Cond. $95 Contemporary glass dining room table (72x40) and 4 plush chairs, beautiful set: $450. Call 664-6414

Creative Memories: Scrapbook supplies conveniently located in your neighborhood. Home-based business offers personal shopping, crops and home demonstrations. Call for new catalog, crop dates, personal shopping appointment, or home demonstration. Call Sharon at 664-4883 or email: bnsschmidt@worldnet.att.net Memory keeping at its best!

Invitation Imagination – Planning a graduation party, birthday party, bridal shower or baby shower? We have a large selection of invitations and party accessories We also have personalized stationery if you are looking for a unique and personalized gift. Call Leslie Jo Hurwitz at 664-5364.

Piano and Voice Lessons: Janet Richards KAMTA, 275A Fairway Ct, 664-5380

For Sale: Silk arrangements for all occasions: oriental, nautical, etc: centerpieces and gift items. Call Mary Jane at 685-8287.

Neighborhood Handyman available (landscaping, tile work, shelving, etc.). Call Chuck Gregory on Horseshoe Court at 685-5032 or cell phone #501-7706.

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 (1/13/93)* 664-5658

Ariel Gray (10/27/89)* 664-5195

Michael Haas (7/26/92) 664-5417

Abby Murray (3/14/88) 664-6643

Sarah Myles 664-3059

Jenna Sheets (5/10/90) 664-5810

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 (1/13/93) 664-5658

Ariel Gray (10/27/89) 685-5195

Gena Haas (9/1/90) 664-5417

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:

Michael Haas (7/26/92) 664-5417

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.

Boat Safety Classes

There will be two boat safety classes offered by the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office. Boat safety certificates are required for boaters from 12 to 15 years of age, and for anyone born after December 31, 1978. It is also required for anyone supervising a child age 12 or 13 in operating a personal watercraft.

The classes will be offered on May 21 at 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, and June 11 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm- you need only attend one class to receive your certificate. The classes and materials are free of charge. Both classes will be held at the Allegan County Human Services Building located at 3255 122^nd Avenue in Allegan. Bring a pencil and a sack lunch. Pre-registration is required as classes are limited to 40 persons. To register, call Kari at (269) 673-0500 X4234.

Lake Doster Safety Rules

NO high-speed boating between the hours of 8:30 pm until 8:30 am.

Speed Limit is 35 mph

All boats operating in open water must move in a counter-clockwise

direction.

No water skiing/wakeboarding/tubing is allowed in Trout Cove (marked by “No Skiing” buoy). No wake is allowed beyond Parkway Point (past the boat ramp at the west end of the lake).

Absolutely NO traffic between rafts and shore (including fishing vessels).

All boats must have a wearable life jacket for each person on board in accordance with Federal Safety Rules. Children under 6 must wear their life jacket.

Operation of a boat under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance is prohibited.

Sitting on the back or a seat, or on the side or front of a boat, while moving is prohibited.

Waterskiing/Wakeboarding/Tubing: Allowed only between the hours of 8:30 am and 8:30 pm. All participants under 12 must use a life jacket. All boats shall at least one observer. Skiing/wakeboarding/tubing is limited to the main body of the lake. No riders shall come closer than 100 feet to any anchored boat, dock, raft or marked swimming area (except when starting or ending their ride).

Young Boat Operators: Children under 12 years of age must be directly supervised by someone 16 years old or older. The boat must not have a motor or motors totaling more than 35 horsepower. Children 12 to 15 years of age must possess a boating safety course certificate or be directly supervised by someone at least 16 years of age

It is highly recommended that all persons between the ages of 12 and 18 have a boating Safety Certificate. Boating safety classes provide young and new boaters with the knowledge to be safe and responsible boat operators. Call the Sheriff’s Department for information on local classes.

Order of Right of Way: Swimmers, Sailboats; Non-powered boats; Power boats with a waterskier, wakeboarder, or tuber; Power boats.

Swimmers Rules: No swimming beyond floats. No swimming outside designated swimming areas. No swimming across main body of the lake unless accompanied by a boat.

Scuba Diving/Snorkeling: Limited to daylight hours; required to place buoy flag at or near the point of submergence. The buoy flag is to be a red flag with a white stripe running from the upper corner diagonally to the lower corner.

Lake Doster Usage Rules: A Quick Review

Only residents who own lakefront or have deeded lake access may put a boat on the lake. Boats must be registered or owned by the resident. Visitors’ or guest’s boats are not permitted.

“Jet skis’ and other Personal Water Craft are prohibited on the lake.

All boats operated on the lake are to be identified by numbers supplied by the LDHA and placed on the right rear of the boat. To receive your boat number, call Dave Hurwitz at 664-5364 (or E-mail: davehurwitz@earthlink.net). All boats over 16 feet must also be registered with the Secretary of State office and registration number displayed per state regulations.

It is the residents/operators responsibility to be familiar with Lake Doster rules and regulations and the Michigan State laws relating to operations of vessels. For everyone’s safety, these rules will be enforced.

Fishing is restricted to Lake Doster residents with lake access rights and their guests. Guests must be accompanied by a Lake Doster resident. No fishing is allowed with the designated swimming areas.

Swimming is restricted to authorized residents and their guest only in designated swimming areas (i.e. beach and resident dedicated access areas). Guests must be accompanied by a Lake Doster resident.

Beach and Dedicated Access Areas: Not all properties have the same lake privileges.

All residents with Lake Front Property have lake access between their respective side lot lines.

Residents with Deeded Lake Access have access solely as stated in their respective subdivision descriptions. Check your subdivision description and map for detailed information.

Residents with Golf Course Properties are limited to swimming access at the Dam Beach on Midlakes Blvd. All Lake Front Properties and Deeded Lake Access lots also have swimming access at the Dam Beach on Midlakes.

If you have any questions about your lake access privileges, please call Dave Hurwitz at 664-5364.

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

Secretary: Jana Edwards (2006) 664-3122

E-mail: jana_edwards@charter.net

Treasurer: (Position open)

Maintenance: Ray Dertz (2006) 685-2776

E-mail: RED@kalnet.net

Safety: Suzanne DeJong (2007) 685-8829