President’s Corner

1999 has passed and the Y2K Bug sure was much to do about nothing. Now that 2000 has arrived we can return our assets from under the mattress, back to the bank, because all the efforts we made to be Y2K compliant sure paid off. Now to the serious stuff.

This Christmas season I hope, was a joyous one. Our annual Christmas get together was a huge success and you can read about all that you missed in Carol's article. We were the recipients of some wonderful holiday spirit, when a few Christmas elves hooked up electricity to our Christmas tree at Mill's. See Charlotte's article for the detail's.

Our Association was saddened to accept the resignation of Sharon Pittinger as both advisor for her district, and Vice President of our Executive Board. Family matters need her attention at this time. She will be missed! Sharon was one of the founding members before being elected to our board. Mike Crofoot and Charlotte Fletcher have stepped up to help out until a replacement for her advisor's position can take over. We are pleased to welcome Alice Ann Troy to our Executive Board. She has graciously agreed to join the board for the remainder of Sharon's term. Welcome aboard Alice Ann!

We have a full year of events for 2000 and the first is our semi-annual road clean up, on Saturday, April 29th. Please mark you calendars, as we need your help to keep the roads surrounding Baldwin Lake clean. One project we dropped was our annual "boat inspection day" (lights, horn, life jackets, etc). This event, we felt, was both helpful and beneficial, but due to the small number of inspection's, we did not want to waste the time of the Marine Patrol. We have had a few inquiries as to it's future, so the board is now asking for your input. Please let us know your thoughts on this matter. Call your advisor, a board member or E-mail us, and let us know at: baldwin-lake-366@mlswa.org

Check out our web site! Scot Billings, our resident computer whiz, has now put links to all of our elected officials-from township, to U.S. Senators and Representatives. He has also included information about the vote for the new court house and repair of the old court building. We hope to provide all information on issues that affect our lake community, on our web page, and we hope you visit it regularly. (Bookmark this page http://www.mlswa.org/baldwin-lake-366 Great job Scot, and thanks for all your work.

In closing, if you have purchased a computer or have gone on-line this past year, please join our E-mail Crime Watch list. We only send out information that people in the lake community may not hear about any other way, concerning any problems that may affect you or your neighbors.

See you on the lake.

Don Henke, President
 
 
 
 

Coe's Coo's

By: Coe Strain

WINTER IS BACK! After several unbelievable weeks of anything but winter, we are this morning about 4" deep in the white stuff, and so far, it is almost unmarred--at least on the lake side. From our front room I can see the snow on the ice in Little Baldwin and in the yards across the lake. The birds are flocking to the feeders and our heated bird bath on the railing (cardinals, titmice, nuthatches, chickadees, pine siskins, and lots of gold and red finches) and it's Christmas card perfect--as long as I don't have to go anywhere in it.

The geese have gathered along the shore right in front of our house. There must be a couple of hundred anyway, and a few lingering coots as well. Trying to count them is futile (Been there, done that). Early January, Jack and I watched a solitary swan swim leisurely up this side of the lake until he vanished around the bend. We saw him (generic term for both sexes) again in mid-January, flying low across the lake. I don't know if he is still up there or if he flew away, but we could not help wondering if he were the mate to the one caught in the ice up there last year. Or perhaps he might have been the offspring of the couple who traveled with a lone offspring last year. Regardless, he was beautiful, and a joy to see through the snow. We also had a large red-tailed hawk perched on the railing on our deck for about 20 minutes, just long enough for Jack to get the video camera out and get the plug in...and away he went, flying majestically north.

I've really missed the migrating ducks this year. They have been really scarce-a few buffleheads, one group of golden-eyes, two pairs of grebes, one loon one day, and of course, lots of coots. I can't be sure, but I think there were a few mergansers one day-too far away to be certain. I hope we see more of them come spring. Let's just hope it's this squirrelly weather.

That's a good seguel to Ron Alexander's "bunny squirrel". He pronounced it a cross-breed, but then admitted it was really a squirrel with just a stub of a tail. But he and Avis Tassin both swear it acts just like a bunny. So far, no confirmation from here.

Sue and Milan Sicko told me they had blue birds stop by their blue bird house and check it out on December 1. On their patio, though just a few feet from the grill, the blue birds moved in and raised at least two sets of babies earlier in the year. It's great to know these beautiful birds are back in the area. Perhaps with the disappearance of so many sparrows (thanks to the house finches), there is hope that more of us can fill our blue bird houses.

A last observation-a big thank you to all those of you around the lake who spent time and energy to light the night for the holidays. I hate to see the plugs pulled so soon when it is so dark this time of year. Looking across at the houses along Sunset, Treasure Isle and Hartshorn has been a delight, and traveling up and down Hilltop resembled the Vegas Strip at times. Especially the Linzy household where Keith goes all out for holiday decorations, and the Stewards trimmed the three fir trees in their side yard with the larger colored lights. It certainly does make for a bright and joyful season. I won't let Jack pull our plugs until we have a few more hours of sunlight. This is the last year for a real tree for us--too much hassle for old folks. The dry tree has been hauled out to the deck and left there with its lights still plugged in. I like it.

We've all survived Y2K, and I'm glad not to hear about it any more. I, for one, am sure that it's a good sign we will all have a great 2000! HAPPY NEW YEAR.

P.S. Saw a huge bird with a wing span as large as my arm span. Eagle?? Scot Billings says he saw an eagle on the lake picking at a carcass (or something). Any of you see this?
 
 
 
 

District Highlights

By Coe Strain

District one encompasses Little Baldwin, from the point on Pleasant, to Michigan Avenue, and also Sunset through the curves. Charlotte Fletcher on Pleasant and Stacy Dolph on Sunset are the advisors for this group of folks, approximately 50-60 homes and cottages. It's neither possible nor appropriate to try to feature all these folks, but several of them are very interesting. I asked both advisors for information about the area and some of the folks there, (with a special emphasis on humor). There isn't much of that, but I learned some very interesting things in the process.

Charlotte Fletcher has been the driving force behind getting the Christmas tree planted at the corner of Mills grocery lot, with the blessing of Bill Butler. But electricity seemed too expensive until Pat Richards and some friends agreed to do the work for nothing when they saw the tree unlit. Now the association has a special Christmas decoration, which Charlotte keeps watered, that will shine through these dark nights for years to come.

There are several new folks in the Pleasant section this past year, the newest being Ron and Marie Davis, who come from Middlebury. Ron is a member of the Bristol Beagle club and Marie, who works at Bayer, spends most of her spare time doing crafts.

One of the folks who has lived here a long time is Betty Schieber. Betty and her daughter had a business making appliquéd sweatshirts in original designs for several years, and both are excellent seamstresses. Her son, Fred, is the carver who created the seagull sculpture that was the door prize at the annual meeting a couple of years ago. Betty knows a lot about the early days in this area.

Several folks there are great gardeners. If you have not seen the tulips at the home of Jess and June Monroe in the spring you have missed a spectacular sight. Jess is retired from Elkhart Schools where he was first a teacher and then an elementary principal. When the UVA (Union Victims Assistance Fund) drive began after the Hilltop Laundry Robbery and shooting, Jess and June had a craft sale and donated all the proceeds, one of the first contributions to that fund.

Another spectacular garden is at the home of Lou and Mary Gaspar. A lot of time and effort have gone into the landscaping with paths and stones and plantings of all kinds. Both residents and boaters can enjoy this lovely garden during the growing months. The Gaspars are also regulars at our blood drives,

This district recently made news when the Reese family, Mark and Jill, and their three daughters, Christina, Elizabeth and Barbara, the family dog and three cats lost their home and belongings in a devastating fire. That night, the Kowalski's of South Bend offered to let them stay in their summer cottage until they can rebuild in the spring. Another example of good neighbors making good communities!

Lots of "things" happen around there. One morning as Stacy was having breakfast, she thought it quite odd to see something short and blue running down the street. To satisfy her curiosity, she decided to join it. As it turned out, they had a peacock loose, running down Sunset, with her chasing it!!

Stacy's mom Valerie, is not only a crafter, but also a dog person, rescuing and fostering homeless animals. At the moment there are three dogs in the family, and Val works at finding homes for others, as well as helping out at the Elkhart animal shelter. Small chance of sneaking up to their front door. You are sure to be greeted by much barking, in different keys, but all intense.

The Fessler family has been here for a very long time, some thirty plus years. Edith loves to travel to see her children. Every summer the family gathers for a week of boat rides, sun tans, and lots of fun with all the grand children. Frank, Jr. and Julie Fessler became associate members this year, from St. Charles, MO, because of their concern for preserving the lake. They and their children Frank II and Tess are here with Edith frequently. Both children have had serious heart problems since birth. Both have had multiple open heart surgeries and are now poster children for the St. Louis Children's Hospital. Frank II got to throw out the first ball at a Cardinals' game this summer too.

Across from Dolph's house is a stone wall which is part of the landscape for houses on Ridgeway. This wall has been a nemesis for several speeding drivers over the years. Along with the channel being right on the curve too, they have seen their share of accidents. Vans have gone through garages, trucks have spun into the culvert, and cars have smashed into that wall. Thankfully, no serious injuries in the recent past. Stacy finishes by saying, "We have a great little community here on Little Baldwin. This summer when you're out in your boats, come visit us, just through the channel!"
 
 
 
 

Holiday Spirit Lights Our Christmas Tree

By: Charlotte Fletcher

Last summer, at a Baldwin Lake Advisory Meeting, the planting of a Christmas tree, to be enjoyed by the entire lake community, was suggested. At the next meeting, the idea was approved, and the corner of Pleasant Drive and Sunset Boulevard was chosen. Bill Butler, owner of Mill's Grocery Store, ok'd the planting of an evergreen on his property.

The next step was finding an appropriate tree. After many considerations, a 6½' blue spruce was located at the tree farm of Mr. Chuck Davis, on the Indiana State line. It was determined that for now, putting electricity to the tree would not be possible. The Baldwin Lake Association decided to plant the tree and decorate it this holiday without lights. In mid-October, the blue spruce was planted by Blooms Tree Nursery.

The day after Thanksgiving, the tree was decorated with silver garland and red bows. Carol Morris made ornaments that the birds could eat, and a sign was put beside the tree asking the whole community to help trim it. Several people added ornaments. Although the tree looked festive during the day, with no electricity, it did not show up after dark.

What happened next attests to the Christmas spirit of our community! Bill Butler arranged for electricity to be installed. Jim Dygulski and Ron Jones helped lay the underground wiring. Pat Richards installed the outlet, and Don and Bev Henke donated the lights. With so many people helping, it truly became our "community" Christmas tree. On the evening of Saturday, December 11th, our Christmas tree was lit! It continued to add holiday cheer throughout the Christmas season.

Since blue spruce grow about 8" a year, in a few years our tree will be quite large. The lake association hopes it becomes a focal point of our community for many Christmases to come. Thanks again to all who helped begin this holiday tradition. This is truly a story of how the holiday spirit of the Baldwin Lake Community, lit our Christmas Tree-and we hope it's lights shine brightly for many holidays into our new century.
 
 
 
 

Dinner Dance

By: Carol Morris

The evening was great-we couldn't ask for anything better! Old acquaintances were renewed, and new friendships were formed. Everyone looked festive in their holiday finery. Each couple won a door prize, donated by our very generous local businesses.

The restaurant was decorated in a holiday theme, the food was great and our musical entertainment kept us moving. Jeff Henke-resident comedian,(and Don and Bev's son) had us roaring in laughter. Wasn't it funny when another restaurant patron came over and put a dollar tip in Jeff's water glass?!

Thanks to all for coming and sharing the holidays with us! (And thanks for all the encouraging calls on how great an evening it was.)
 
 
 
 

Editor’s Notes

Patti Haynie

The newsletter has a new look and will probably continue to change as I experiment with different styles. Let me know what you think.

This is your newsletter. What would you like to see in it? Do you have any issues that you want addressed?

E-mail me at: baldwinlake@hotmail.com
 
 
 
 

Court House Update

Several years ago the Board of Commissioners began a plan to renovate and update the present courthouse. Primary concerns were security, safety, hearing rooms, holding areas and waiting areas for all the courts. Architects came in and did a feasibility study of renovating and doing what needs to be done to make a safe, secure and functional courthouse. They came back with a recommendation to tear down the north building and add on a wing to accommodate the courts. After much discussion and thought, it was decided to look at building a new Law and Courts Building out near the jail.

The financing plan includes a property tax millage of 0.8 of a mill. Due to expiration of the Medical Care Facility millage next year and the County jail millage the following year, taxpayers would see no increase in property tax rates during 200 and 2001. Total county tax rates will go down in 2002.

The 100 year old courthouse will not be abandoned, but will be renovated as well, and used for less secure functions, not closely related to the courts.

Special election March 21 regarding the 0.8 mill

Questions: Call John Gore 616-445-2048 or Terry Proctor 616-663-2666
 
 

CLASSIFIEDS

Four Square Restaurant

Famous Fish and Chicken

Carry-out Available

Owners are BLA Members

663-9901 Edwardsburg

Benson's Soft Water Shop

Water conditioners, drinking water systems,

Sales/rental service, salt delivery

Brad Benson

641-7416 800-268-0354

Wertenberger Insurance Agency

All types of insurance available

from several companies

641-5995

15429 US 12 (next to Post Office)

Carpet Plus Carpet Cleaning

Autos, upholstery, drapes, spills cleaned

John Heckman

641-7510 219-536-7510 (cell #)

VigorTone Dog Food

Almost a century making animal feed

40# sack is $20 (including tax)

(Southern end of lake on Sunset)

641-5336

Advanced Images

Specializing in Computer design,

layout & installation

Signs and lettering

Portable sign rentals

641-2149 Robert Long

13856 US 12E

Jon's Septic Service

Plumbing, Roto-rooting

Jon Stone

663-8896 Edwardsburg

Tile Installation

Also: Wood, Vinyl, Ceramic

Call for information and estimates

641-5963

Double D's Ice Cream and Grill

641-7475 15604 US 12

Therapeutic Massage

Susan Sicko RN/Massage Practitioner

Member ABMP

641-7610