HELLO FELLOW DEER LAKERS
The final long weekend of 2021 is upon us, which for some means the closing of our cottages for the rest of the year. Where did the year go?
I would like to extend a sincere thank you to Pete Benninger for hosting our successful Labour
Day BBQ and 2nd Annual AGM. We had about 75 confirmed guests and great weather at this year’s annual event. A personal shout-out to my son Connor for a great job on the BBQ this year! It was great to see the number of new Deer Lakers who came to enjoy the festivities and the short presentations. We’re looking forward to Jeff Bird’s band joining us at next year’s event!
Another thanks is extended to 50/50 winner Jerry Buryta for generously donating back his winnings. The 50/50 draw generated over $600 to the Deer Lake coffers. THANKS JERRY!! (A reminder that every dime collected from dues & donations is spent on the lake.) Thanks also to Geordie Allen for preparing and presenting the Sustainability Guide, and to Heather Barker for raising the “No Wake” issue.
FODL Treasurer Jack Ledrew has done a wonderful job of managing our money. Jack will be reaching out to provide a reminder to members who have not yet submitted dues for 2021. Your membership fees support our efforts to maintain our exceptional lake. I would also like to thank Cindy VanSickle as she continues to maintain our membership information. Keeping your contact info up to date ensures that everyone can be contacted about Friends of Deer Lake (FODL) business and events as they come up.
A number of FODL members have asked about purchasing T Shirts and Hoodies for the Christmas season. We will be placing an order by early November to be certain that we can fill all orders in time to get that apparel under the Christmas tree.
Let me know what you need and FODL will make it happen.
In other news: The Lake Capacity Study is available on our FODL Website. This objective scientific report is a tool to protect our lake from becoming stressed due to over-development and ecological infractions. At our 3rd Annual AGM I’m hoping our biologist will be able to give an overview of the report. He will also be presenting to Central Almaguin Planning Board (CAPB), which is the governing body that issues permits for new property developments in and around our lake.
Together we are STRONG!
FODL has about 70 members (and growing) and almost 200 followers. In only two short years we have become a united voice protecting our beautiful lake and surrounding area. As a group we must remain vigilant about protecting the jewel that is Deer Lake! Conservation and preservation of the water should be a priority for all cottagers, as it allows us all to enjoy our beautiful environment for now and for future generations
Finally, I would like to thank every one of you for allowing me to represent the FODL as your “Head Loon”. It is an honor and a privilege. I have met most of you, but I intend to try and spend time with everyone throughout the coming year. Please, tell your neighbors about FODL. Each new member helps us inject new ideas to the group goals, and everyone is welcome. A number of you asked if you could help with the FODL cause. Thanks for reaching out folks; many hands make light work.
Please “stay safe” and enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend!
Dave McAllister
Head Loon