Baldwin Lake Association Newsletter
An Anchor for our Community
April 2005 Volume 12 Issue 2
President’s Corner
Winter is reluctantly releasing its grip on us and it will be spring-like soon, even though it is cold and windy today. Spring and summer will bring busy times to the lake area and the waste disposal system construction will bring challenges to the folks on the east side of the lake.
With that in mind, Spring Clean Up Day will be less organized this year and I am encouraging residents to clean up the roads and surrounding areas as they see the need. Areas unaffected by the construction can organize and clean up as desired.
The annual Four Lakes Garage/Yard Sale will be June 11th. Plan ahead to clean out houses, garages, and storage sheds to get ready for the sale and take advantage of the publicity that will be put in the Elkhart Truth.
The annual meeting of the Association will be Saturday, July 16th at the Cass County Conservation Club with the BLA Picnic to follow in the afternoon. Weldon and Mary Lou Parks have generously volunteered the use of their lawn again for the event.
Kits for home water testing can be picked up on that day. Details for that are included in this newsletter.
Plans for the annual Holiday Dinner Dance are being made for December 3rd at the Cass County Conservation Club. The dinner will be catered and there will be a DJ to play for those who enjoy music and dancing. It is our hope, with it being on Saturday and so close to home, that there will be a big turn out. Please circle that date on your calendar and join us ushering in the 2005 Holiday Season.
Since the last newsletter we have collected some donations for mosquito spraying. But not so much as will be needed to keep the pests away all summer! Since we cannot use general funds for this project, we are relying on your donations. A form and envelope has been included for your convenience.
Once again I would like to invite you to attend the meetings of the advisors held at the CCCC on the 3rd Monday of every month except December and July at 7:00pm (Ind. Time)
For information on Boating Safety Classes watch our web site or check the Cass County Sheriff’s site at www.ccso.info and click on "marine division".
Have a great spring at Baldwin Lake.
Alice Ann Troy
BLA President
Home Drinking Water Test - - Reserve your kit by July 1st!
The EPA recommends testing your drinking water-about every 2 or 3 years, especially when (1) Density of homes is high, with several drawing from the same aquifer, (2) Wells are less than 70" deep or (3) Soil-type allows quick passage of contaminants into wells. As an individual, you can contact a lab to do the tests for you, but the cost would be higher than what the lake association can offer. Our bulk rate is passed on to members. The cost for the test will be only $55.00 for members and $75.00 for non-members. Test kits can be picked up at the Annual Lake Association meeting held on Saturday, July 16th or at the picnic on the same day. Payment by check or cash is needed at time of pickup of the kit.
What do we test for?
Coliform Bacteria: These bacteria are abundant in human and animal waste and generally are found in wells located too close to septic systems or livestock areas. Elevated counts can cause a variety of recurring illnesses with symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. Particularly susceptible are young children and older adults.
Nitrates: Elevated nitrates can be caused by improperly operating septic systems. Additionally, fertilizers contain nitrogen compounds which may break down into nitrates. Of particular concern in our area are the homes bordering agricultural areas, since fertilizers are frequently applied. This may also be true in our own lawns and gardens and is dependent upon the types and rates of chemicals used, methods of application, soil type, topography, and seasonal precipitation. Consumption of nitrates contributes to a number of illnesses and disabilities, including gastrointestinal problems leading to liver or kidney damage.
Lead: Underlying rocks and soil may contain heavy metals but rarely are found at levels that present a problem. However, activities such as construction (i.e. increased excavation) can release larger amounts into nearby groundwater. Of primary concern is lead used in pipes, solder, or fixtures, especially in homes built prior to 1988. Only homes built or replumbed before a 1988 lead-solder ban are affected. Even copper pipes soldered with lead could be a problem due to a corrosive process caused by the acidity (PH), temperature, and mineral content of your water. Some brass-plated submersible pumps can leach lead into wells. Consumption of these by-products, even at relatively low amounts, can be harmful. Possible health threats include mental disorders in all ages, premature birth problems and other health risks, including retardation. Lead is a toxin, and a suspected carcinogen.
Results: Approximately 2 weeks after testing, each individual household will receive a printout with explanation and interpretation of each test and what action, in any, should be taken. By our request, these results are CONFIDENTIAL, to you only!
Pickup: Saturday, July 16th, at annual meeting or picnic
DropOff: Sunday, July 17th (noon ‘til 3pm MI –11am ‘til 2pm IN time) at Scot Billings’ house on Sunset.
Detailed written instructions provided at the time of pickup. You should reserve your test kit soon but definitely before July 1st! Please contact Alice Ann Troy (phone number on back cover) or by e-mailing us at baldwin-lake-366@mlswa.org, with the following information.
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Home Drinking Water Test Kit Reservation
Pick up July 16
Name ______________________________________ Member ___ Non-member ___
Address_____________________________________________________________
Phone_______________________________________________
Nature Calls
By Mike Crofoot
Today (3/26) is the 5th day of spring. It is snowing and we have four inches of "good" ice left on Baldwin Lake. Even though ice fishing here was particularly good this year, I think all of us are ready for some normal spring-like weather, if that’s possible, in the state of Michigan.
Mother Nature presented us with another unique winter, judging by they types of wild life that was observed this year. I saw several Robins in January, feeding off the last of our Crab apples; they rarely come to the bird feeders. There was one Chipmunk I observed, scurrying around at this time, along with skunks in February, who are also true hibernators, seldom out this early. I also observed and counted at least seven pairs of Cardinals visiting the feeders. These, of course, are easily spotted because of the bright red males. The "black birds" were also back fairly early this year. I’ve seen Grackles, Starlings and Redwing black birds starved at the feeder for the last month or so. Even with ice on the lake, we have Mallard ducks coming to the feeder seed on the ground. Some duck and geese never even migrate.
I went through 300 pounds of birdseed and suet blocks for the birds again this year. Not all the birds enjoyed this, though, because a small, swift hawk, called a Sharp-Skinned Hawk, which is similar to a Falcon, took a few of them away. And don’t forget the Blue Jay’s, who are nature’s true instigators, which "bully" and block others from enjoying the feeders.
Other spring indicators are pleasant reminders that we all look for at this time of year The Finches that we provide for all winter are turning to their bright spring-summer yellowish gold colors. We, too, have crocuses and daffodil flowers popping up to add more color to the winter-like landscape.
The frost is also leaving the ground. Though it’s still about six inches below the surface, we already are observing another one of God’s creatures moving around. This is the common ground mole, which, like the winter squirrel has a war started at the Crofoot household!
We hope everyone is enjoying being on or around the lakes all year, like we do, and can’t wait to see everyone soon.
First Aid for Minor Summer Maladies…
By your neighborhood nurse
For minor burns apply cold compresses for 30 to 45 minutes or until the pain has subsided. If the site is cooled sufficiently it could greatly reduce the chance of blistering. The same treatment is appropriate for sunburn. It is important to never apply ointment to a minor burn. Oily, greasy, or petroleum products hold in the heat. Extreme caution should be taken in using any "caine" products. Many people have allergies to these "numbing" agents. If blistering should occur follow instructions for "Blisters".
Sprains and contusions (bruises) should also be treated with cold compresses for 20-30 minutes at a time and regularly thereafter for 48 to 72 hours. I cannot stress enough that judicial use of cold applications can greatly affect the recovery. The area should be rested and supported. Do not use elastic wraps unless you are sure they are not too tight. An effective and inexpensive cold pack is package of frozen peas or corn. They are available in large and small sizes and can be reused. They should be marked with a sharpie so they will not be consumed after repeated uses (or use a frozen vegetable your family does not like). No cold pack should be applied to bare skin. Always warp the pack before using. After 72 hours warm compresses or soaks can be applied to help the blood and fluids reabsorb.
Minor cuts and scratches should be cleaned with soap and water, making sure to rinse thoroughly. Bandage with dry dressing or you can use an antibiotic ointment if it is not outdated. It is not necessary to use harsh chemicals such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other "antiseptics" which cause pain and irritate tissues. Watch for signs of infection any time the skin is broken. Some signs are redness around the wound (some redness occurs naturally in the first 24 hours), drainage, bad odor, and red streaks radiating up from the wound and should reported to your physician.
Blisters are nature’s way of padding and protecting raw areas and should never be broken. For friction blister apply a protective dressing. If a blister is broken the area should be treated as an open wound and cleaned, dressed, and observed as above trying to keep the skin over the wound. Blistering over a large area needs to be reported to a doctor.
A physician should treat all animal bites. Insect bites and stings should be treated like wounds; cleaned and antibiotic ointment application. 1% hydrocortisone cream can be used if there is a mild itchy reaction.
A word about Tetanus immunization. The immunization prevents tetanus, commonly called “Lock Jaw” and not any other infections. Puncture wounds are particularly susceptible to the tetanus spore, which likes to grow in wounds without oxygen. Anytime the skin is broken the status of you tetanus immunization should be evaluated. Your family physician will determine the frequency of the need for boosters. Be aware that going barefoot, wading and swimming in the lake makes one vulnerable to this kind of injury, so keep your tetanus immunization current
It is easier to prevent poison ivy that to treat it. The rash is an allergic reaction to the oil of the plant. If you wash with soap and water after exposure you can prevent or reduce the reaction. You must remember that the oil can be on your clothes, shoes, work gloves, tools, and even you pet. Removing a tee shirt with oil on it can spread the exposure to your face, etc. Try to envision everything the oil might be on and wash it. The rash cannot be spread to other sites or other people with the liquid from the blebs. Small areas of reactions can be treated with over the counter topical products or 1% hydrocortisone cream. Do not drive (boat or car) if taking Benadryl as it can make you drowsy. If a large area of the body is affected you will need to see a professional health care provider.
JUDY’S JOTTINGS…..
Submitted by Judy Kankel
Some things you want to know, but don’t need to know:
AT THE FEEDER:
IN THE KITCHEN:
A FAVORITE RECIPE: This is so easy and always gets compliments!!
KEY LIME PIE
1 purchased graham cracker crust
½ cup key lime juice
3 egg yolks
1 can sweetened condensed milk
Cool Whip for topping
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine lime juice, egg yokes and milk with wire whisk until smooth. Bake 10 minutes . Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before refrigerating. When cool, cover with Cool Whip. Enjoy!
In The Garden
I can’t wait until 5/15 (our frost-free date) to plant our tomatoes and peppers outside. If you plant anything before that date without protection, especially tomatoes and peppers, the plants are at great risk. The exception would be peas and potatoes, which usually are planted in March. I am planting a super mammoth elephant ear bulb this year – the bulb itself is bigger than a softball. I will keep you posted on its’ progress.
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Ten common fishing terms explained
Catch and Release - A conservation motion that happens most often right before the local Fish and Game officer pulls over a boat that has caught over it's limit.
Hook - (1) A curved piece of metal used to catch fish. (2) A clever advertisement to entice a fisherman to spend his live savings on a new rod and reel. (3) The punch administered by said fisherman's wife after he spends their life savings (see also, Right Hook, Left Hook).
Line - Something you give your co-workers when they ask on Monday how your fishing went the past weekend.
Lure - An object that is semi-enticing to fish, but will drive an angler into such a frenzy that he will charge his credit card to the limit before exiting the tackle shop.
Reel - A weighted object that causes a rod to sink quickly when dropped overboard.
Rod - An attractively painted length of fiberglass that keeps an angler from ever getting too close to a fish.
School - A grouping in which fish are taught to avoid your $29.99 lures and hold out for spam instead.
Tackle - What your last catch did to you as you reeled him in, but just before he wrestled free and jumped back overboard.
Tackle Box - A box shaped alarmingly like your comprehensive first aid kit. Only a tackle box contains many sharp objects, so that when you reach in the wrong box blindly to get a Band Aid, you soon find that you need more than one.
Test - (1) The amount of strength a fishing line affords an angler when fighting fish in a specific weight range. (2) A measure of your creativity in blaming "that darn line" for once again losing the fish.