A treat for the kids!

December 11 is the date for this year's "BREAKFAST WITH SANTA." Tickets may be purchased through December 3. The cost is $5.00 for kids 12 or under and $7.00 for adults. There is limited seating so purchase them as soon as possible.

So what can you expect?...... A big pancake breakfast and of course Santa will be there to distribute gifts to all the kids 12 and under plus they will have time to talk to the jolly old man. Craft decorating is another activity for the youngsters.

Two times are available for the event. Pick from 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. Another event put on by your Candlewick Lake Association for the enjoyment of the community. Thank you so much to those donating their time and talents to accomplish this event.

Posted by Ken Dillenburg

Sometimes a tough nut to crack

The Rockford library has somewhat the same situation as we have here with the Dockside Grill. If every facet doesn’t fall into place it just doesn’t work. Borders is about three blocks away and does a great business in the coffee shop area. Why did this happen? In my opinion it is because of the library hours, opening around noon and short hours in general. The place looks closed even with the Daily Grind open. See the article excerpt below.

From the Saturday Register-Star online

ROCKFORD — Rockford Public Library is looking for a coffee shop operator to replace Meg’s Daily Grind at the East State Street branch.

Meg’s lost money at the 6685 E. State St. library location, said owner Jodi Erickson, and will not renew its contract with the city’s library system.

“It just didn’t work,” Erickson said. “The people at the library are just fantastic, but it just wasn’t the right blend for us.”

Meg’s last day of operation at the library is today. The library put out a request for proposals earlier this month to find an operator for the 1,800-square-foot coffee shop inside the East State branch.

“We really like the idea of a coffee shop in our library,” said Emily Hartzog, library spokeswoman. “Our goal is to enhance the experience of the library user.”

The library owns all the equipment and furniture in the shop, Hartzog said, so all it needs is an experienced and licensed operator to come in and run the business.

“They pay the library to be there, but the space itself and the equipment belongs to the library,” she said. “It is a great example of a public-private partnership.”

Meg’s contract with the library calls for it to pay the library 10 percent of its net profit each month. Library officials could not specify this week how much revenue the contract has provided.

posted by Ken Dillenburg

Sunday positive thoughts

Attitude is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than what people do or say. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill.

The remarkable thing is, we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day.

We cannot change our past. We can not change the fact that people act in a certain way. We can not change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude.

by Charles Swindoll

Being happy doesn’t mean that everything is perfect. It means that you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections.

posted by Ken Dillenburg

Government problems compound

From the Rockford Register-Star (online excerpt)

BELVIDERE — The Boone County Board by a 6-5 vote approved a balanced fiscal 2011 budget plan this evening, and it had to slash $400,000 in spending and recalibrate its various tax levies to get there.

You have to love the wording used to make actions seems less ominous. Recalibrate?

Do you suppose that could possibly mean raise the levies? Taxing bodies, let’s report the facts without the political spin. That is one of the problems with politics, few simple facts in plain English. Ken

OTHER NOTES:

Roscoe is cutting back their road repair budget by $100,000.00 this year so they can afford to buy road salt. Good for them, working with available funds. That is a problem now for almost all cities, not enough funding.

Poplar Grove is scrambling to find a way to continue the contract with the sheriff’s department for extra protection after the question of a tax increase was voted down by the residents. Tough times for all.

Rockford is in such bad financial shape they are going to lay off many police officers. The firemen have asked for over a 14% increase in pay after refusing requested concessions. Without concessions even more police will have to be let go. Could get ugly!

These are just some of many, many examples of financial crises most cities face. Candlewick does not need to be among their number. Vote NO on the question regarding incorporation you will be receiving soon in your mail box and urge your friends and neighbors to do the same. Let’s stay safe and solvent.

Ken Dillenburg

The chainsaw's roar and the smell of pine

That pretty well describes this morning's experience if you add in the smell of wood smoke. With about 30 people showing up at the farm at which I was working the amount of clean up accomplished was really something to behold. Everyone was working as a team, each with their own abilities. I saw several familiar Candlewick faces so we were well represented as usual. It was very cold but the camaraderie kept us in good humor.

The sign-up area was at the Countryside strip center but the actual staging area was at Louie Rowe Jr's farm on route 76. That farm had substantial damage but they had a full crew on hand. I was sent to another farm on Collinsville road, almost within sight of the Rowe farm. Just as a side note, Louie Rowe Sr. used to be my next door neighbor here in Candlewick and now lives across the street from the grain bins in Caledonia of all places. His home is fine but his son's was also in the line of fire and was not as lucky.

We were working on cleaning up debris as well as cutting up the many trees that had fallen and lugging them to a spot to be picked up to burn. One huge oak tree had fallen next to the driveway and it was the last to be handled. One pine limb I picked up had been obviously twisted off rather than broken, you could tell from the circular pattern of the break. The yard as well as the fields were strewn with shingles, pieces of tin siding, roofing metal, and of course limbs........everywhere limbs.

Edward's Orchard owners brought us some hot cider donuts and kept saying how sorry they were. They know the feeling from experience. Coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks were offered as well but the real reward was watching the area transform into a much cleaner sight. Not the same, but a lot better. It will take some time for the farm to return to normal, but it will.

Ken Dillenburg

Tornado clean-up help needed

"Volunteer crews needed this Friday to help families affected by the tornado with clean-up. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. on Friday at Immanuel North located at 13525 Route 76, Poplar Grove IL in the Country Side Mall (between OSF & RE/MAX). Dress in layers and wear work boots if you have them. You may also bring a rake, wheel barrel, and/or a chainsaw."

I drove through Caledonia Wednesday afternoon and a thumbs up to those folks. You can see a lot of damage but one heck of a lot of clean-up has already been accomplished. Talk about a can-do attitude, they have it as well as a real work ethic. Caledonia, you should be proud.

See you tomorrow! Ken Dillenburg

Thanksgiving greetings and pumpkin pie

Be sure to click on the link at the end

to get your Pumpkin Pie!

TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING,
BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP.
I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS,
I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP.

THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED -
THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE,
BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION
WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT.

TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION,
THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION.
SO, I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR,
AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIES GALORE.
GOBBLED UP TURKEY AND BUTTERED POTATOES,
PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES.

I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND,
'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THE GROUND.
I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, FLOATING INTO THE SKY,
WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE.
BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES....
HAPPY EATING TO ALL - PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE.



MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY,
MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP.
MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP.
MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS.
MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,
MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS!!


HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL


for Pumpkin Pie click below!
http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=HY27482779

Our new security chief

The Candlewick Pride would like to welcome Kelvin Martin to our association as our new chief of security. He has been busy this week making the rounds, getting to know the gate operations as well as the patrol duties. I am sure he will put his three years of supervisory experience to work right away with scheduling and management of the department.

Kelvin has had ten years of security/law enforcement experience including the three years in supervision as I mentioned. He also has a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice. I am sure he will have a good working relationship with Sheriff Wirth’s county force, continuing the cooperative efforts that have been working so well this year.

Currently Kelvin resides in Bolingbrook, a southwestern suburb of Chicago. He has been involved in coordinated justice investigations with the Chicago police department. Chief Martin will be a fine addition to our force. Be sure to make him feel welcome.

Ken Dillenburg

No serious injuries!

I am so happy to report it appears none of our friends from Caledonia (or the area in general) were seriously injured in this disaster. If there is anything good about this that is it.

Thankfully posted. Ken Dillenburg

Pray for Caledonia

Our friends have suffered serious damage to their village. Please pray there are no personal injuries. There is major property damage. It was about 3:00 p.m. when I watched the tornado pass CWL and it was large. Ken

The business plan

One of the Pride members brought this thought to a recent Pride board meeting and I thought it to be significant. It is a very good analogy that I will try to relate it half as well as she did.

Consider a business going to a bank in need of a loan. They go in to the loan officer and say something to the effect…..I am really not sure what the numbers will be or the effect it will have on my business and it may very well make my business less friendly and attractive plus less secure to outside bad acts but I want you to trust me and give me the loan on a hunch. Oh, and I can tell you a lot of bad things about my business right now if that will help your decision to be yes!

This is very close to what we, the property owners here in Candlewick, are being asked to do. The group that thinks more government is the answer to all problems has this gut feeling incorporation is a really good idea. Sure, there has been some poor information provided by them before and solid numbers are not possible and the state government where we hope to get funding is broke and our association is in solid financial shape, but this place is really bad according to them and they want you to vote yes to an uncertain future that many feel will be devastating to our way of life. This is the presentation you are given hoping for a yes vote to incorporation. HUH?

Good Grief! Ken Dillenburg

A Sunday contemplation

The House of 1000 Mirrors (Japanese folktale)

Long ago in a small, far away village, there was place known as the House of 1000 Mirrors. A small, happy little dog learned of this place and decided to visit. When he arrived, he bounced happily up the stairs to the doorway of the house. He looked through the doorway with his ears lifted high and his tail wagging as fast as it could. To his great surprise, he found himself staring at 1000 other happy little dogs with their tails wagging just as fast as his. He smiled a great smile, and was answered with 1000 great smiles just as warm and friendly. As he left the House, he thought to himself, "This is a wonderful place. I will come back and visit it often."

In this same village, another little dog, who was not quite as happy as the first one, decided to visit the house. He slowly climbed the stairs and hung his head low as he looked into the door. When he saw the 1000 unfriendly looking dogs staring back at him, he growled at them and was horrified to see 1000 little dogs growling back at him. As he left, he thought to himself, "That is a horrible place, and I will never go back there again."

All the faces in the world are mirrors. What kind of reflections do you see in the faces of the people you meet?

As Told by Chris P. Cash

posted by Ken Dillenburg

The sun sets on CPAC

I will admit I write this with very mixed feelings. No one likes to see an organization that started with donations from our community so many years ago be dissolved. The Candlewick Political Action Committee (CPAC) at one time did a lot of good for our association. That should not be diminished. The early founders and members were responsible for routing the effluent out of our lake, getting Candlewick residents elected to county positions so we would be well represented, they held meet the candidates events, and accomplished much more. They deserve our sincere thanks for their efforts.

Unfortunately CPAC became embroiled in the effort to try to incorporate Candlewick as a city rather than simply research and report to the property owners as was the mandate from the board. It’s mission became extremely controversial to say the least and took it’s toll.

A few months ago there was an election for two of the five officers of CPAC and as reported here two of our Pride board members were elected by those in attendance to fill those open officer’s seats. We were hoping CPAC could be brought back to it’s original purpose but that wasn’t in the cards.

CPAC went out on a very good note, with the vote to dissolve and donate all remaining unspent community donations to the food pantry for the needy. It started well and it ended well. Almost $1,700 was donated to the pantry.

Ken Dillenburg

CC&Rs and the incorporation vote

As I indicated a couple weeks ago here my initial reaction to the mailing of both was to just throw them away. Spur of the moment thoughts are not always the smartest. Upon further consideration it will be better to send them in as no votes.

You may wonder why I have changed my opinion. It boils down to cost. Anyone not mailing these back will cost the association additional postage and this can add up to a significant amount. Our association does not need to be in a position of spending more of our money than necessary to accomplish the goal.

Do I agree with three mailings and the cost incurred? Absolutely not, but that was the decision made by the board. Those with strong feelings on the issues will return the mailings on the first request. Others that really do not have an interest may vote and return subsequent mailings just to make them stop arriving in the mail. Think what would happen in regular board elections if this procedure was undertaken. There is a reason it is a one shot deal in other cases.

Our management is currently in the budgeting process for the next fiscal year and any unnecessary expenditures simply makes it more difficult to keep our dues stable. Something to consider going forward.

Ken Dillenburg

Credit where credit is due

Probably everyone knows by now there was a serious house fire on Candlewick Drive a few weeks ago in the northwest end across from the lake. Many of you may not know the whole story.

It was in the middle of the night when the occupants next door happened to notice it was far too bright outside for night. Upon looking out their window they realized the home next door was on fire. They tried to call their neighbors living there but there was no answer. They knew the neighbors were home.

Geraldine Guy, the neighbor, went to the home that was burning and could hear the smoke alarms going off but everyone in the house was asleep and the alarms had not wakened them. Geraldine took it upon herself to get into the burning home, wake the occupants, and get them out of the house.

If this isn’t watching out for your neighbor I don’t know what is. Her selfless act of bravery probably prevented something from happening none of us even want to think about.

Our congratulations to her as well as our thanks, Geraldine, for showing what being a neighbor and friend should be. You are quite a lady we can all be proud to say is a Candlewick resident.

Ken Dillenburg

As a side note, this was caused by a chimney fire. The rebuilding time on this home has been remarkable. Driving by one would hardly know it had happened.

Board meeting of November 20 notes

Once again a pretty decent attendance, indicating an increasing interest in current board actions. This is a good thing. The property owners are seeing for themselves how the system works.

Although this was far down the agenda, it was obvious it was the driving issue that brought many folks to the meeting so we will cover it first. The board had a vote as expected to address to the property owners the question of moving forward with an attempt to incorporate. There was a lot of discussion of the wording, timing, number of attempts, and more…….as expected. It appears you will get the question included with the mailing asking for your vote on the CC&R rewrites probably being mailed around December 15. It will come as no surprise to any of you the Pride strongly recommends a no vote on both issues. If you do not send in your vote you will continue to receive the mailings a total of three times, costing your association considerable expense so we would ask you to return your no votes the first time to save money for all of us. I believe there will be a postage paid envelope for the return so it should be a quick and easy act. Be sure to urge your friends and neighbors to do the same. Let’s kill this thing right away and stop the divide in our community.

Speaking of the CC&R rewrites, the lawyer is in the process of producing another amended copy before the mailing. The mailings cost us about $1.00 each and going to almost 2400 lots you can do the math. I suggested just dropping this thing completely and amending the current CC&Rs but I was told it couldn’t be done so with three mailings we will be looking at several thousand dollars spent possibly on this attempt at passage not including the substantial attorney fees now approaching $15,000.00 with postage. Money well spent? You be the judge. I once again must say I feel there are some very good provisions in the rewrites but just too much verbiage subject to interpretation. Simply too dangerous for a yes at this time. I wish I could suggest a yes vote with all that money spent but I can‘t.

Some quick actions……….

~The board voted to write off $5,740.36 in bad debt from bank foreclosures. Too bad but no recourse. These are tough times.

~Our new head of public safety will be announced next week.

~There are several inquiring about taking over the Dockside Grill so that should move forward soon.

~The dredging is completed as we reported earlier and most of the payments have been made to cover that expense.

~Our current cash on hand is $3,375,062.83 so we are still looking very good going forward. Solidly in the black.

~Help is needed for the next leaf drop off next Saturday in the maintenance area, especially young folks to smash down the leaves. Show up to help if possible.

~There are currently 154 rentals in Candlewick and there was some discussion on limiting the number of rentals allowed in our community.

~January first through the fifteenth will be the time frame for dropping off filing information for those wishing to run for the next board terms. Further information and forms will be in the next newsletter.

Now a couple important recognitions...............

There was a house fire a few weeks ago on Candlewick Drive. It was announced last night there was heroism involved. I will be sure to pass along the name of the persons involved which were not available at the meeting but it seems the residents inside the burning structure were not aware of the fire and were sleeping through the smoke alarms. A next door neighbor noticed the light from the fire, called 911, and got into the home, evacuating the sleeping people possibly saving lives. Talk about neighbors watching out for each other, this is truly a wonderful act that needs recognition and they will get it here.

Also an example of a long term selfless volunteer was recognized. Bruce Rushton has spent eighteen years on the ECC committee as well as other duties. That is one big chunk of his time and he deserves a pat on the back for his service to Candlewick. Others were mentioned as well but frankly I can only make notes so fast so I missed some names and my apologies go to them for not publishing there names here. It will all be in the Candlewick newsletter.

This was an orderly meeting, well run with a lot of input allowed from attendees and no loud outbursts even on the hot button issues. That was nice to see. Please remember these comments are from personal notes and not intended to be a finalized set of minutes from the meeting. Check the CWL newsletter for complete coverage.

Ken Dillenburg

And the trashing continues

I am told those for incorporation have once again started reporting with smiling faces everything in Candlewick that could be considered negative. It was wrong when they stood before the surrounding villages doing the same and it was wrong when they were quoted in the media. No city, village, or association is perfect but purposely trying to make your own community look bad is just inexcusable. I hope all our readers remember this. Even unfortunate domestic (relationship) violence situations are being brought up as if it makes us a less desirable community.

A lot of people, myself included, love Candlewick and do not appreciate all the negative comments. All it accomplishes is hurting our community reputation and in turn property values. Some must think this is the proper way to conduct a campaign. Most do not.

Ken Dillenburg

A friendly reminder

Tomorrow (Tuesday) night will be the board meeting as usual at the rec center. The wording, mailing, timing, and specifics of the inc. ballot should be on the agenda as well as other items of interest. The meeting is at 6:30 and you can expect a synopsis here in case you are unable to attend.

Ken Dillenburg

Be very thankful....

This coming Thanksgiving we should all feel especially blessed that we are an association that is in good financial shape and not a city that like most is unable to pay it's bills and supply the residents with adequate essential services.

Ken Dillenburg

Your Sunday smile...

A young man's parents were trying to figure out what their son's future career would be so they decided to give him a test.

They took a twenty dollar bill, a Bible, and a bottle of whiskey, and put them on the front hall table. Then they hid, hoping he would think they weren't at home. The father told the mother, "If he takes the money he will be a businessman, if he takes the Bible he will be a clergyman but if he takes the bottle of whiskey, I'm afraid our son will be a drunkard."

So the parents took their place in the nearby closet and waited nervously. Peeping through the keyhole they saw their son arrive home. He saw the note they had left, saying they'd be home later. Then, he took the twenty dollar bill, looked at it against the light, and slid it in his pocket. After that, he took the Bible, flicked through it, and took it also. Finally, he grabbed the bottle, opened it, and took a whiff to be assured of the quality. Then he left for his room, carrying all the three items.

The father slapped his forehead and said, "Darn, it's even worse than I could ever have imagined..."

"What do you mean?" his wife asked.

"Our son is going to be a politician!" replied the very unhappy father.

posted by Ken Dillenburg

Strategic Planning (and CC&Rs)

Some time ago I urged the strategic planning group to simply disband due to inaction after being in existence for some time with no published product. Last Thursday night I decided to attend a meeting along with some other members of the Pride group.

When I am wrong I will admit it. This group is simply in the process of putting together plans for the future that can be implemented with the prerequisites of available cash and the support of the property owners. This is not a bad thing. Currently there is no money being spent on the planning by any outside service, this is all in house by those volunteers involved.

A lot of the discussion revolved around how to get community input for ideas as well as their opinions on possible future projects to make our association an even better place to reside. I have to admit I was impressed with the discussion and left with a new attitude, learning once again not to prejudge without actual observation. These are good people trying to formulate a plan we can look at and make our decisions, not trying to mandate new programs.

A new subject…….A few days ago I asked anyone who felt the CC&R rewrites should be supported and given a yes vote to drop us an email. The number of positive responses…..ZERO. That should be the icing on the cake. These are toast. We should not waste the postage expense of mailing these out for a vote. Cut the losses, tell the attorney to cease all further work on them, and we should make amendments as necessary to existing documents.

All copy above regarding strategic planning is my personal opinion and may or may not reflect the opinion of the Pride group as a whole.

Ken Dillenburg

Realize what you are actually voting on

When our board of directors decided they want a vote of the property owners to finally put the incorporation debate behind them and hopefully end the divisiveness of the issue as well it makes it necessary that all of us truly understand the consequences of a yes vote.

What you are being asked is if you want to end our association and our lifestyle as it now exists. The board may after the vote take steps to attempt make that happen if that appears to be the wish of he majority of the property owners. There is a strong possibility your dues money will be spent on lawyer fees to investigate means to this goal. Do you want your dues spent in this economy on something that at the very least has unknown consequences ? It is very important for you to let them know this is not the way you want your community to proceed.

We could end up with a city with government mandates, taxing authority, bonding authority, a court appointed first governing body that would set your tax levy and budget even though they were not voted in, attorney fees and other large expenses that come with setting up a new layer of government, possible loss of our gates, privacy, and public safety, politics the likes of which Candlewick has never seen, possible legal battles from property owners, city ordinances that could conflict with association rules if the association still exists in some form, and many more negatives too numerous to mention. The law does not provide for a "shell city" as some try to say. We will either be a city or not, pure and simple. Think about it. If it came to a standard vote it would be yes or no to forming a city. A fully functioning taxing body.

Don’t be fooled by those who will try to convince you of all the wonderful things they can provide through one more layer of government. Those who believe more government is the answer to all problems will be pressuring you to vote yes but you know the truth. This is a terrible idea with terrible possible consequences. Our association is moving forward in a positive manner and should be supported.

Ken Dillenburg

A very personal Veteran's Day post

This one is for you, Dad.

My father served in the Philippines during WW2, during which time he learned the value and the price paid for freedom. He spoke little of his war duties but in his last years he began to tell me of some of the experiences. He had an American flag he wanted me to put in his casket upon his passing, telling me he knew I would do it.

When Dad passed a few years ago I tucked the flag next to him as he wished. The playing of TAPS always had an major effect on him so TAPS was played at his burial and his casket was flag draped. I now have that flag along with the memories of the man who never asked for or expected thanks for his service.

This is my thank you, Dad, as well as a thank you to all the veterans who served us so bravely. May you all be richly blessed for your bravery and service, those who are still with us and those up there with Dad.

With profound respect,

Ken Dillenburg

Candlewick Flu Clinic

Saturday, November 20 from nine to eleven a.m. we will be holding a flu clinic at the rec. center. Everyone six months of age or older should get the vaccine according to the health department. The flu can be especially dangerous to those with breathing difficulties, heart patients, an others with chronic conditions.

The cost will be $25.00 for adults and $15.00 for those aged six months to eighteen years of age. Payment may be made by cash, check, or credit card. Also accepted are Medicare part B and public aid participants.

I had my flu shot about a week ago.....have you?

Ken Dillenburg

A request regarding CC&Rs

Yesterday some of the Pride group were having a discussion of the CC&R document re-writes and one thing became very obvious. Different people can read these and come up with different interpretations of the meaning of the wording. I have spoken here before about the legalese used in these documents and this points out even more clearly the problem.

We understand the attorney is currently changing some of the provisions again and a newly passed state law will probably dictate even more changes. To make matters worse, the legislature is expected to make revisions to the new law, making even the new documents possibly not in compliance…….meaning more changes. This seems to be accomplishing nothing more than lining the law firm’s pockets. I personally feel it is time to just trash this whole idea and either make small changes to the existing documents that we can all read and understand or live with the existing ones. Save the postage and further legal expenses and cut the losses.

Even though we understand we have not received the final draft, I would like to ask for a response from our readers. If any of you intend to vote for the re-writes please drop us an email at cwlpride@gmail .com. We will not be contacting you in an attempt to change your mind on the issue, we simply would like to know if there is any intention by anyone to give them a thumbs up. Thanks for your help.

Ken Dillenburg

Thinking about the Dockside Grill

The question of whether or not it was a good idea to have a restaurant as part of the rec center is no longer relevant. It is here and we have to deal with it one way or another. It is not truly an amenity in my opinion, but a business. The Candlewick Lake association should not be trying to run a restaurant. Some will argue Savannah Oaks is also a business but it is really more of an amenity.

Let’s look at the history of the Dockside. We had a fine lady (forgot her name) that handled the start-up well. She put it together and had a wonderful personality for that position. She put her all into it and the result? She left and the Dockside (originally Candlelight Café) was unable to attract enough business to be viable. Next came Tom James, who has extensive experience in the dining and catering business. He also gave it his all and was given outstanding employee awards here. The result was the same. Fine food, a good menu, and not nearly enough business. Next came Biantis. Again they tried their best and no luck.

It is no secret restaurants have a huge failure rate. This does not mean the operators didn’t go all out. It means the competition is fierce and the pie is only so big and can be cut into a limited number of slices. If one is not offering either very competitive pricing, a unique product, has built in traffic flow for exposure, has convenient parking, gets a good reputation, and gets repeat business, the die is cast. Failure is almost certain.

My opinion is our association should never let the grill become a drag again on our finances. It should be leased, be it on a seasonal basis or a full time operation by new lessees. Possibly simply a hamburger, hot dog, brats type summer business with ice cream and summer treats. Maybe a breakfast bar with coffee, sweet rolls, other breakfast selections and newspapers to read over coffee. Maybe a sandwich franchise would have an interest. What ever it is the association goal should be simply a break even situation. No drag on our finances and just a nice place to have a bite and shoot the breeze with friends if we wish.

If that can not be accomplished we should just leave it closed except for special association occasions. We gave it a shot. Cut our losses and move on.

My opinion only. Ken Dillenburg

Your Sunday smile...have a great day

Here are some Actual Announcements Taken From Church Bulletins.

• Don't let worry kill you -- Let the church help.

• Thursday night -- potluck supper. Prayer and medication to follow.

• Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and the community.

• For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.

• The rosebud on the altar this morning is to announce the birth of David Alan Belzer, the sin of Rev. and Mrs. Julius Belzer.

• This afternoon there will be a meeting in the south and north ends of the church. Children will be baptized at both ends.

• Tuesday at 4:-00 p.m. there will be an ice cream social. All ladies giving milk will please come early.

• Wednesday, the Ladies Liturgy Society will meet. Mrs. Jones will sing "Put Me In My Little Bed" accompanied by the pastor.

• Thursday at 5:00 p.m. there will be a meeting of the Little Mothers Club. All wishing to become little mothers, please see the minister in his study.

• This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs. Lewis to come forward and lay an egg on the altar.

• The service will close with "Little Drops Of Water," One of the ladies will start quietly, and the rest of the congregation will join in.

• Next Sunday, a special collection will be taken to defray the cost of the new carpet. All those wishing to do something on the new carpet will come forward and get a piece of paper.

• The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind and they may be seen in the church basement Friday.

• A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.

• At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What Is Hell?" -- come early and listen to our choir practice.

Dredging completed

I spoke to one of the crew today (Gary) and he told me they have it all wrapped up and should be leaving Sunday. One of the big hold ups was the number of large rocks they encountered when agitating and pumping. That had not been anticipated and it took a toll on time and equipment.

The inlet by the dip (they called it the west bay) had about 2500 yards more sediment than anticipated as well. The inlet channel was about thirty feet wide and the bottom was ten feet of pure mud that had to be dredged and pumped.

This has taken longer than we expected but at least it is done and next year the lake should be back ready for normal usage as well as being much cleaner. I am sure we all prefer they took the time needed to do the job correctly rather than a rush job just to get out of here.

Ken Dillenburg

If you missed it...meat sale from a CWL email

***CANDLEWICK LAKE MEAT SALE FORM***

Held in a non-profit raffle format

Here’s your chance to purchase some quality meat for the holidays or any other time!

Candlewick Lake is emptying the freezers from when the Association owned the restaurant

In order to have a chance to purchase any or all of the lots you need to complete the form below and return it to the Administrative Office no later than noon on Tuesday, November 9^th. The evening of November 11^th at 7:00pm at the Rec Centera raffle will be held at which resident will be selected to purchase each lot. You do not have to be present at the raffle as each winner will be contacted by phone. The meat pick-up will take place on Saturday, November 13 from 1:00pm – 2:00pm at the pool house. This is a cash only transaction. You will be given a receipt.

SALE IS OPEN TO RESIDENTS ONLY.

ONLY ONE ADDRESS PER LOT WILL BE ALLOWED, BUT YOU ARE ALLOWED TO SIGN UP FOR ANY NUMBER OF INDIVIDUAL LOTS.

ALL INFORMATION NEEDS TO BE PRINTED LEGIBLY. IF THE FORM CANNOT BE READ, YOUR NAME WILL NOT BE ENTERED

ALL SALES ARE FINAL!

NAME: ________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________________________

CONTACT PHONE NUMBER: ___________________________________________________

ALTERNATE PHONE NUMBER: _________________________________________________

Please place an “X” next to the lots you would like to select:

LOT #1: _____ Price: $40.00; Includes: 10 lbs Bratwurst, 3 lbs Breaded Coconut Shrimp, 4 Misc. Steaks (individually wrapped),

2 lbs Sliced Cooked Beef, 2 lbs Bacon, 1 Rib Slab

LOT #2: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 5 lbs Bratwurst, 3 lbs Breaded Coconut Shrimp, 4 Misc. Steaks (individually wrapped),

2 lbs Sliced Cooked Beef, 2 lbs Bacon, 1 Rib Slab

LOT #3: _____ Price $35.00; Includes: 5 lbs Bratwurst, 3 lbs Breaded Coconut Shrimp, 4 Misc. Steaks (individually wrapped),

2 lbs Sliced Cooked Beef, 2 lbs Bacon, 1 Rib Slab

LOT #4: _____ Price: $25.00; Includes: 10 lbs Bratwurst, 5 lbs Cooked & Sliced Italian Beef, 1 Rib Slab, 1 lb Bacon

LOT #5: _____ Price: $40.00; Includes: 5 lbs Large Shell-On Tiger Shrimp, 5 lb Tube of Ground Beef, 5 lb Bratwurst, 1 Rib Slab,

2 Lbs Bacon

LOT #6: _____ Price $30.00; Includes: 10 lb Tube of Ground Beef, 5 lbs Bratwurst, 2 lbs Sliced Cooked Beef, 1 Rib Slab, 2 lbs Bacon

LOT #7: _____ Price: $30.00; Includes: 5 Rib Slabs, 5 lbs Bratwurst, 2 lbs Bacon

LOT #8: _____ Price: $15.00; Includes: 15 lb Pit Ham

LOT #9: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 12 lb Boneless NY Strip Loin

LOT #10: _____ Price: $30.00; Includes: 8 lb Whole Beef Tenderloin

LOT #11: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 15 lb Whole Prime Rib Roast

LOT #12: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 15 lb Whole Prime Rib Roast

LOT #13: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 15 lb Whole Prime Rib Roast

LOT #14: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 15 lb Whole Prime Rib Roast

LOT #15: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: Box of 11 (12 oz each) NY Strip Steaks (individually wrapped)

LOT #16: _____ Price: $30.00; Includes: 8 lb Whole Beef Tenderloin

LOT #17: _____ Price: $30.00; Includes: 8 lb Whole Beef Tenderloin

LOT #18: _____ Price: $30.00; Includes: 8 lb Whole Beef Tenderloin

LOT #19: _____ Price: $20.00; Includes: 20 lb Whole Brisket

LOT #20: _____ Price: $35.00; Includes: 15 lb Whole Prime Rib Roast

Please note that some weights are approximate and cuts of meat when it comes to NY Strip Loin, Whole Beef Tenderloin and Whole Prime Rib have been identified to the best of our ability, but are one of these three cuts.

Any questions please contact Bonnie Marron at 815-765-203
0

A "TIMELY" MESSAGE FROM AP

A great idea for Thanksgiving

CWL Meat Sale to take place on Saturday, November 13th…

The contents of the freezers, from when the Association operated the Dockside Grill, are being sold to residents. Everything is being sold in lots at prices varying from $15.00 to $40.00 per lot. Items to be sold include whole beef tenderloins, whole prime rib roasts, pit ham, NY strip steaks and mixed lots which include such items as shrimp, bratwurst, ground beef and bacon. All forms need to be completed and returned to the Association office no later than noon on November 9th. Please see the November edition of the CWL newspaper for the entire list of items, prices, and how you can have a chance at buying one of these great deals.

Submitted by Bonnie Marron

So how’d the workshop go?

The workshop started with Rich Witt stating the ground rules for the meeting, which included as we have stated here before no audience input unless specifically asked because this was just a working meeting with no votes taken. Approximately 20 people were in attendance besides the particpants.

The mailing of the CC&Rs and BYLAWS for the property owners vote was discussed. We still have not received the final versions from the attorney so Tracy will be contacting him to see why the hold-up and push for a target date. New state laws passed have made it more difficult to finalize the documents. There was also discussion about possibly having a separate mailing and vote on the two issues since one needs a 50% plus one property owner vote to pass and the other a simple 30% vote. It seems all know the CC&Rs are going to be in rough water regarding passage but it was stated by Don P. the legalese is necessary and common language is not acceptable in this type document. He may be right but it makes passage difficult when indecipherable by most property owners who must live by the new rules.

The new lake management charter was discussed in some detail regarding the makeup and selection of members of the different groups of responsibility inside the large committee. No final determination regarding how to select whom is on the different internal groups. Again simply discussion with no final resolution but possible action to be taken during the next regular meeting of the board.

The property owner survey regarding their feelings about incorporation was also discussed. The conversation seemed to be it should be a separate mailing one time only with the necessity of a fifty percent plus one of the property owners necessary for a mandate to the board to attempt incorporation even though it has been denied by all three surrounding villages. If this were to pass the board would contact the villages to let them know the majority of CWL property owners were in favor. It was stated the board simply needs direction from the property owners to finally put this issue to rest. If the needed votes are not forthcoming after thirty days the issue is dead. (You all know what we as the Pride group would like to see happen. Rest in peace, incorporation! This question needs to be a solid no vote.) The mailing may be in the form of a postcard with a separable part to mail back in or drop off. The next board meeting should have a form ready for the final vote on verbiage and mailing date.

The question arose about the reason for the strategic planning committee after all the years in existence and nothing to show for it except now a wish for outside expenditures to hire experts to make forward plans. A personal observation…..if nothing has been accomplished for years and it was admitted this is a constantly changing area why are we going to spend our dues for a document that will be meaningless as time progresses. My view…All major plans are already in place going forward by the board and those funds should be retained to keep our dues at the current level as long as possible. No extra unnecessary spending should be allowed and this seems to be a program without merit. All “expert advice” on such matters needs to immediately stop. We can handle this internally.

The Candlewick newsletter revamping was discussed, making a new masthead and better readability starting in the January issue. This should be a good move.

Videotaping of the board meetings was discussed with the possibility of being able to view the meetings on the Candlewick website. Simply discussion with possible action later. This seems like a good idea for those unable to attend meetings. Discussion continues.

A resolution by the board is necessary to avoid further taxation of the restaurant and golf course. It needs to be stated it is a private course only. That means residents and their guests could still golf and use the restaurant but it is not open to outside usage. Really no change, just documentation of intention. Tax starved governments are looking for ways to increase revenue and our restaurant and golf course have been singled out so we must act to save around $20,000.00 in yearly taxes. We are stuck currently with the tax but an appeal is probable.

The closing of Binanti’s Dockside was discussed but we covered that here yesterday so no further comment.

This is simply a compilation of the meeting discussion from personal notes and should be received as such. No official minutes of the meeting implied.

Ken Dillenburg

Binanti's Dockside Grill

We have learned that the grill is closed. There are not a lot of details available at the time but the Binantis have decided this is just not the location for them. We wish them the best in their future endeavors. With the walking distance from the parking area being tough on seniors and winter coming it would probably get even harder to succeed.

Investigation is already underway to make a decision whether to find a new operator (there is interest) or simply run it as a seasonal unit with for the most part limited menu. As the situation develops we will of course keep you informed.

Tonight is the board workshop at 7 P.M. at the rec center. Public input is normally not allowed but anyone interested in the board topic discussions are welcome to attend. Anything of substance will be reported here as usual.

Ken Dillenburg

Please cast your ballots

Today’s the big day!

This is the chance for all of us to exercise our right to choose those who will lead us for the next terms in office as well as for some the opportunity to vote up or down tax increases for specific uses. We all should by now have studied the issues and know who we feel best reflects our views and the route which we want taken.

Many have fought and fallen for these rights we take so for granted. Please make their sacrifices not be in vain. This is the time to be counted. Today…..Tuesday…..November 2. Show it matters.

Ken Dillenburg

The road plan advances

We all know there is a group of volunteers along with the board and management looking at the way to handle our eventual need to repair our roads as they deteriorate. A new twist has come along that could save us quite a bit and allow more rebuilding sooner than anticipated.

As is our website posting policy this will be a short explanation without all the long winded details. The process involves grinding the existing road material then mixing with a cement like substance and using it as a solid base upon which a new couple inches of paving can be installed, completing the entire rebuilding process with a better base as well as more quickly and at substantial savings. This process has been used elsewhere for some time with good results.

Also being considered is road usage. The main thoroughfares obviously need to be constructed to accommodate the heavier traffic load while the less used streets can be constructed accordingly. Makes sense to all.

Congratulations go to our leaders and volunteers for looking for ways to be frugal in our expenditures. It is appreciated.

Ken Dillenburg