It will be an interesting year

These people are obviously nuts. I am sure I would not make it out of the water!

It will be fun to watch though. I'll try to get pictures.   Ken

Tom Pinkowski..Candlewick Anglers update

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL,

Right to the point --

The calander on the last page of the Jan CWL paper shows a Candlewick Anglers ice fishing clinic on Thursday from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the rec ctr. WE had planned to do a hands on clinic on the ice, however as you all know, the ice condition is in question, not to mention we did not take into account the darkness,  Sooooooo that is cancelled !

Next,

The Candlewick Anglers ice tournament is still planned, Sat, Jan 14th,   (see the paper for info)  

PENDING ICE CONDITIONS.

Chuck and I will monitor the ice on a daily basis and you will be advised by e-mail if it is a go or not.

 

Please watch your e-mails for future updates and pass this info on to anyone you know how may be interested.

 

Thank you,    and    THINK ICE !!!!!!!   as we are planning more tournaments.

 

The Candlewick Anglers.

Weekly Public Safety report...short & sweet...the way we like 'em!

Candlewick Lake Public Safety

 

WEEKLY REPORT

Week Ending 12/25/2011

　

Animal Related Issues

Public Safety observed a loose dog in the area of the 100 block of Hastings. Public Safety subsequently located the owner and the dog was returned. The owner was issued a warning citation for violating the pet maintenance policy.

Rescue Calls

Public Safety responded to a call of a subject having an allergic reaction in the 100 block of Spinnacre.
Public Safety officers will always remain with a subject suffering from a medical condition until emergency personnel arrive.

Criminal Damage / Theft / Burglaries

Public Safety responded to a residential burglary in the 2400 block of Candlewick Dr. The matter is under investigation and suspects have been identified.

Have a wonderful and safe new years holiday

　

Citations Issued 13

Warnings Issued 15

 

We thank you for taking the time to read these important updates.

Being informed is half the battle.  

We need a good turnout on this issue

CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR WATER/SEWER BILLS?

Plan to attend the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) Public Forum at the Candlewick Lake Recreation Center being held on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at 7:00pm.

The forum is for the purpose of receiving public comment concerning the proposed general increase in water and sewer rates proposed by Aqua Illinois, Inc.

Any questions, please contact Mary Budreau, CWL Aqua ad hoc Commission Chairperson, at 815-765-0323.

Christmas...the true meaning

Gifts, great meals, family, glad tidings........all are great but let's remember what it is really about. Jesus's birth. The real gift to all mankind.
posted by Ken

From a message board...I didn't write this. Ken

Passing of time...

I am anciently old... old...
but only in age.

Most think I am much younger than I am. Could be my positive outlook... or my corny jokes... or my good health... with a very VERY HEALTHY EGO !!

While this board and others are focus on wealth and income... I often feel outside the center here.
Perhaps it has been because I have been desperately poor for long periods of time.... modestly wealthy at other times but mostly between these two extremes most of the time. I now have lived long enough and lived in the peaks and pits of experience to realize something about myself ... something many here would think ... what took you so long .
I have never had a fancy racy or expensive car. I have always thought of just getting from point A to B in a safe and reliable way. Basic transportation... and never letting my ego dictate what that would be. I would rather have the extra money for real estate and stock investments.
I live a spartan life ... not by need anymore but by choice.

Also... as strange as it might sound... Money is not caught up with who I am. I am the same fuzzy forest creature regardless of how fat or skinny my piggy bank is. So once the basic necessities of life are met ... the surplus is invested. Money does not make you a better person in spite of the fact that money seems to give folks a higher stature within the community.... that does not make you a better person.

Desperation can make poor folks do acts they never would do if they had a few bucks in their pants. Poverty and desperation are twins full of mischievous intents. So money might do some good at times to keep honor and integrity intact. A small amount of money invested in you fellow man might be the best investment you ever make.

I often feel aloof from money and content with those things that money cannot buy. I cherish most my friends... more so than most my relatives ... after all I picked out my friends... relatives were accidents of births ... and only a few remain on my Christmas list. As I get older, I surprisingly have become more sentimental ... something I use to laugh at in my youth. But now I face the sad fact all old folks do... most of my good friends have died off and each year the list dwindles down to fewer names. Here, luckily, I have followed my own advice which I now give to you...
It is the same advice I have often told you... please take it to heart while there is still time to do so... Life is all too short and brief... and the future unknown.

Like many things profound and important, it is brief and deceptively simple...

Hug a friend and tell them you love them.
Man or woman in your life but especial the men... our society mores exclude men from displaying emotion. Hugging might surprise them. ... but you never know who you might touch their heart and this simple act remembered forever.

I know this is true. It has happened to me... rarely has someone hugged me.. but I cherish the memory to this day. We too often fail to express our thoughts and feelings and then it becomes too late to do so when they are gone. An opportunity lost forever. Do not let this happen to you.

And a pet peeve of mine is that an acquaintance is not a friend but often called one. But in the name of Christmas Spirit it might be OK the blur the meaning of the two.
I do love "Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward Men"... I only wish we could have more of both all year long. One takes everyone's effort, the other only takes yourself to make happen.

So for those who are left reading this sentimental note...
Happy Holiday ...
I do wish you all a bright future. 

Click on the link for our Christmas card to you.

Click below...........
http://ak.imgag.com/imgag/product/preview/flash/bws8Shell.swf?ihost=http://ak.imgag.com/imgag&brandldrPath=/product/full/el/&cardNum=/product/full/ap/3132942/graphic1

Just to be clear….

During the open forum at the December board of directors meeting a question was asked referring to the Pride website you are reading now. As was stated after the question was asked, this website has no affiliation with the Candlewick Lake management or board. It is a privately operated blog that simply provides information publicly available to those attending various association meetings.

Occasionally as the online editor I will provide personal opinions on Candlewick topics as well as other subjects completely unrelated to Candlewick but none of this is privileged information. To be clear, the writing I post has nothing to do with my being on the board. This blog started long before the last board election and has continued in the same form. The Pride Group will continue to provide what we feel is relevant information to the citizens of Candlewick Lake.

Ken Dillenburg

Employees of the quarter (S)

The beginning of the last board of directors meeting included a time to give awards to outstanding employees of Candlewick Lake for the previous two quarters of this year. The employees selected by department managers, the General Manager, and board members displayed characteristics of performance above and beyond expectations. More were nominated and had been model employees but the selection had to be narrowed to one per quarter.

The winners of the awards were Gary Loofboro from our Public Safety department and Mark Helmer, our I.T. head. We thank them for their service and dedication to you folks here in Candlewick Lake.

Ken Dillenburg

Tickets available now to December 26 so jump in!

                      Remember, the ad date is wrong and should read purchase by December 26!

Unofficial Minutes for the Board Meeting Dec 20, 2011

During the Open Forum Rich Witt suggested we have a Polar Dip on January 1, 2012 at 9:00 at the beach. The board agreed so see you there! Questions were asked regarding the pool drain issue. The board indicated since this may be in litigation they were asked by our attorney not to address the issue.

**Jeff Lutzow (teasurer) reported the reserves and operating fund still have solid balances.

**Pam Cangelosi reported cement blocks will be used as fish structure. They will be placed on the lake when frozen then allowed to sink with the thaw. Positions will be marked with GPS and locations will be available for the fishermen to use. Blocks have holes in which small fish can hide and nest so it will be excellent structure.

**Ken Dillenburg reported the road project is on hold for a couple months as bids specs will be sent to contractors the end of January or early February so the project itself can start in May when the surfaces are warm enough to be usable in the process.

**Sandy Morse reported 27 people came for line dancing and many are signing up so that went over well. She and Bonnie Marron handled the “Neighbors helping Neighbors” program that supplied food and gifts for fourteen families this year. It was a lot of work but very rewarding with many volunteers showing up to help separate and prepare the product for delivery.

**Bonnie Marron reported the legal committee has not met during the last month but the ballots have been coming in nicely with over 900 now arriving and only 31 voting no to the main provision so things are going well. January nine a meeting has been scheduled with Scott Pointner (our attorney). Since our attorney will be here anyway the board has decided to set aside one hour for any questions from any property owners in attendance not completely clear on some of the CC&R provisions. This must be held to an hour due to the cost involved so please be ready with clear and concise questions.

**Bonnie Marron reported for the AQUA commission headed by Mary Budreau. Candlewick will be hosting an open forum with a representative from the ICC to hear comments from the public regarding AQUA’s request for a rate hike. It is important we have good attendance and concise factual comments for the ICC to make a difference. Simple complaining will not do the job. They hear comments like “we can’t afford it” all the time on every issue coming forward so we need good facts. Kudos to the committee for their hard work getting this together. This is our chance so show the ICC we care. January fifth is the date. It is to be held in the gym. Watch for the time to be posted.

More bad debt was written off due to foreclosures and other circumstances making the debt uncollectable. The economy is taking a toll even though your board is using all legal means to collect your money.

A policy was read to reinstate the $50.00 stipend for board members per month if they attend at least one meeting. This was the first reading so no action was taken. This had been the policy until the last year when the CICA law passed.

The health insurance low bid was accepted by the board for employees of CWL.

Golf cart rental contracts were reviewed and the low bidder was accepted for a three year contract with an escape clause under certain circumstances.

Allowing employees to use the fitness center at no charge regardless of their usage was discussed but the motion failed. Currently there is a program for free usage if they use it a certain amount of documented times per month to promote physical fitness among employees.

A tree spade and truck were sold along with an extra unused patrol car. All went to the highest bidder. This is an effort to unload excess equipment and put the assets to better use. This netted us around $3,400.00.

It was an interesting meeting with for the most part a very cordial tone. We seem to be evolving into a much more comfortable atmosphere and that is good to see. Compliments to the attendees. We are all in this together.

Weekly Public Safety report

Important Candlewick Lake Information

Candlewick Lake Public Safety

 

WEEKLY REPORT

Week Ending 12/18/2011

Animal Related Issues

Public Safety responded to a report of a dog that had gotten loose and entered a neighboring residence causing damage in the 100 block of Minarette. The owner was issued a warning for the violation and advised of the policy regarding loose dog issues.

Traffic Related Incidents

Public Safety responded to a call of a traffic crash at Lamplighter Loop and Candlewick Blvd. Public Safety remained with the occupants of the vehicles, provided traffic directions and turned the matter over to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.
Public Safety responded to a call of a vehicle on its side at Candlewick Dr. and Talladega. Public Safety contacted the Boone County Sheriff’s Office when it was determined there was no driver present. The vehicle was subsequently removed by a tow truck.

Rescue Calls

Public Safety officers responded to a call of an out of control subject in the 100 block of Ambrose. Public Safety remained on-site until the Boone County Sheriff arrived.
Public Safety responded to a call of a possible stroke in the 100 block of Hastings.

Public Safety officers will always remain with a subject suffering from a medical condition until emergency personnel arrive.

Criminal Damage / Theft / Burglaries

Public Safety responded to a report of a burglary to motor vehicle in the area of the 200 block of Thornhill. The matter is under investigation.
Public Safety responded to a report of a burglary to motor vehicle in the 100 block of Pembroke. The matter is under investigation.
Public Safety responded to the 200 block of Picadilly for theft of light bulbs. Public Safety has developed suspect information and the matter is under investigation.
Public Safety responded to a report of a broken mailbox in the 200 block of Picadilly. A report was taken and an extra patrol was provided to the area.
Public Safety responded to some damage to the restrooms at friendship park. Public Safety notified maintenance for some minor repairs to the frame of the door.
Public Safety responded to a report of light bulbs being thrown at a residence in the 200 block of Picadilly. Public Safety checked the area and was unable to locate suspects.
Public Safety responded to a report of damage to a vacant home in the 400 block of Redman way. The homeowner was notified as well as the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

***Please remember to always lock the doors to your vehicles***

Citations Issued 14

Warnings Issued 12

 

We thank you for taking the time to read these important updates.

Being informed is half the battle.

The presence of presents

Christmas is the time of year we all think about gifts and the holiday season. This brought the thought to mind of the gift I remember most from my childhood. It happened it was not a Christmas gift, but a birthday gift as I recall.

As with most kids, I had been given gifts of toys, a BB gun that was my treasure, and assorted other normal fare. Times were tough for the family but they always managed to find enough resources to provide gifts for my sister and me. Most were quickly forgotten but one stuck with me to this day.

I came into the kitchen and Mom told me Grandma had brought over a gift for me. There, sitting on the table, was a small plant. Mom said Grandma had “started” the plant for me for my birthday. It had wide green leaves and for some reason I was taken with it and can picture it to this day. Why a ten year old kid thought so much of this gift I will never know but I did. I doubt I even took care of it but it was mine, and my Grandma, who had quite a “green thumb”, had started the plant from “a slip.” I assumed and still do that meant from some sort of cutting.

That proves to me it is not the gift that counts so much as the thought. I will probably always remember Grandma’s gift.

I know most people really dislike having things they write put up for scrutiny by readers. That being said, if any of you have any stories of special gifts you would like to share, please send them to the Pride email address. This is the season for sharing and all would love to hear your story. Think of it as just telling your story to a friend. Getting people to do this is like pulling teeth but please consider sharing your story.

Ken Dillenburg

My kind of "flash mob"

What a surprise for the Christmas shoppers. I would love to see one of these surprise visits.
http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/holiday11/

posted by Ken

Neighbors helping neighbors 2011

 Volunteer helpers Mary Budreau, Ellen Steiskal and Pat Vistine.

 Karl Steiskal and board member Sandy Morse along with a resident looking over the surplus food which was donated to the food pantry.

 Jim Brefield dropping off his donations.

 Ellen Steiskal and Pat Vistine filling Christmas stockings for the 46 children.

Board President Bonnie Marron with residents














Neighbors helping Neighbors is a program that helped fourteen families this year right here in Candlewick, supplying a great Christmas meal for those families with a combined total of forty six children. That is forty six kids who will wake up Christmas morning with gifts under their tree that would not have been possible without the generosity of the Candlewick residents. As always you came through to be sure they will have a Christmas to remember. May you all be blessed for your generosity, giving from your heart for others.
Thanks to Barb Appelhans for the pictures...........posted by Ken Dillenburg

Your Sunday Smile

Adam's counter offer

God looks down and notices that Adam is all alone while all the animals have companions, so he decides to create a companion for man as well. He comes to see Adam and says to him, "Adam, you are my greatest creation and therefore, I am going to create for you the ultimate companion. She will worship the very ground you walk on, she will long for you and no other, she will be highly intelligent, she will wait on you hand and foot and obey your every command, she will be beautiful, and all it will cost you is an arm and a leg." Thinking for a few moments, Adam replies, "What could I get for a rib?"

Good luck with the ice! Here's hopin'

1ST ANNUAL CANDLEWICK ANGLERS

ICE FISHING TOURNAMENT

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14TH, 2012    8AM T0 12 NOON

SAFE ICE PERMITTING.

REGISTRATION IS $10.00 PER PERSON AT 7:30 THE DAY OF THE TOURNAMENT.

THERE WILL BE A 10 PANFISH LIMIT, BLUEGILL, CRAPPIE, & PERCH, TO BE MEASURED AT THE END OF THE TOURNAMENT (NO BASS) WITH THE WINNER BEING THE LONGEST PANFISH IN LENGTH. FISH ARE TO BE KEPT IN A COOLER/BUCKET WITH WATER ONLY, NO FROZEN FISH WILL BE MEASURED. IN THE CASE OF A TIE, THE TOTAL LENGTH OF ALL 1O FISH, OF THE PERSONS TIED, WILL BE USED.

ALL STATE AND CANDLEWICK FISHING RULES APPLY.

ALL FISH CAUGHT CAN BE KEPT BY THE ANGLER.

Support Savannah Oaks new hours!

The Dockside Grill

Any of you folks who have not tried “the Grill” are missing out on some really good food. Fran and I have been trying different dishes and all have been good. So far we have tried the pulled pork, patty melt, grilled cheese, pork tenderloin, nacho grande, and last Friday I tried the fried cod. I can tell you it was great and others have told me they loved the fish fry as well. One had walleye and the other baked cod and both were exceptional. You have to try their home made potato chips. They are crispy and perfectly seasoned. The chips come with most sandwiches. My favorite? I would have to say it was the pork tenderloin that is huge and hangs over the edges of the bun. Gotta’ try it!

The Grill, as with any new business, needs our support so if you haven’t already been there give it a shot. My bet is you will return.

Ken Dillenburg

Congratulations!

HOLIDAY LIGHT CONTEST WINNERS

1st Place $75.00 125 Columbia

2nd Place $50.00 113 Chanticleer

3rd Place $25.00 211 Carthage Ct NW

Congratulations to the winners 2011 Holiday Lights Contest

Thank you to everyone who participated

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Events Committee (posted by Ken)

Let’s wrap it up

Anyone who reads the Pride Group’s blog knows the ballot for the CC&R restatement must be passed. Probably everyone reading this has sent in their ballots to keep our association from spending any more money on labor and postage. Those who chose not to send theirs in have now received letter number two with the ballots asking for their return. Please, if you have not mailed yours in, do so and stop more of your dues money being spent on this. We are so close…..much closer than most thought we would be after the first ballot. Let’s bring it home and move on.

Ken Dillenburg

Weekly Public Safety report

Important Candlewick Lake Information

Candlewick Lake Public Safety

WEEKLY REPORT

Week Ending 12/11/2011

Animal Related Issues

Public Safety responded to found dog complaints in the 200 block of Ambrose, 100 block of Pembroke and the 1600 block of Candlewick. Animal control was contacted.

Traffic Related Incidents

Public Safety responded to a call of a hit and run that damaged a stop sign at Benedict and Pembroke. Several pieces of a vehicle found and the matter remains under investigation.

Public Safety responded to a traffic crash that damaged a stop sign at Rt. 76 and the entrance to Candlewick. Public Safety located the driver who parked his vehicle in the Administration Office parking lot, found him to be intoxicated and contacted the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

Rescue Calls

Public Safety and the Boone County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 300 block of Picadilly for a report of an attempted suicide.

Public Safety officers will always remain with a subject suffering from a medical condition until emergency personnel arrive.

Criminal Damage / Theft

Public Safety responded to a call in the 200 block of Picadilly for a report of missing light bulbs.

Community Service

Public Safety observed an open garage door in the 40 block of Wenatchee and contacted the owner of the property

Open Doors/ House Checks

Public Safety checked several abandoned residences and found several open doors. Public Safety contacted the Boone County Sheriff’s door and assisted them in securing the residences.

Boone County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch

The Boone County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 500 block of Lamplighter Loop for a report of a domestic dispute involving an intoxicated female brandishing a knife.

The Boone County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 200 block of Briarcliff for a report of unlawful use of a credit card.

Citations 16

Warnings 12

We thank you for taking the time to read these important updates.

Being informed is half the battle.

Those who set the rules…

I found out only a very short time ago that insider trading is legal for those in Congress. Congressmen (and women) are the only people on earth allowed to legally trade U.S. stocks with insider knowledge without facing legal consequences. I couldn’t believe it!

Let’s say you work for a company and you are involved in negotiating a buyout of another company at a price far above the current selling price of their stock. For you to buy their stock knowing it will be rising due to the buyout is completely illegal. O.K., now you are a congressman who sits on a regulatory committee that is to rule on regulations regarding fracking of natural gas wells. You know the regulations will be minimal and the EPA will rule there is no danger to drinking water aquifers. The companies involved in fracking activities will enjoy a big bump in their stock price when the decision is announced. You, as a congressman, can buy stock in those companies and enjoy the gains and it is perfectly legal. Talk about no level playing field.

The way I found out about this was from an article indicating a whistle blower had made this known to the public so there was to be a vote making insider trading illegal for congressmen as well. No surprise….the House Financial Services Committee just cancelled the vote saying more study was needed.

Is there no shame or accountability at all in our government?

Ken Dillenburg

Thanks for the pics Barb Appelhans***Breakfast with Santa!

Your Sunday smile

The chocolate chip cookies

An elderly man lay dying in his bed, Suddenly death's agony was pushed aside as he smelled the aroma of his favorite homemade chocolate chip cookies wafting up the stairs.

Gathering his remaining strength, he lifted himself up from the bed. Leaning against the wall, he slowly made his way out of the bedroom, and with intense concentration, supported himself down the stairs, gripping the railing with both hands. In labored breath, he leaned against the door frame, gazing wide-eyed into the kitchen.

There, spread out on the kitchen table were literally HUNDREDS of his favorite chocolate chip cookies!

Was it heaven? Or, was it one final act of heroic love from his devoted wife, seeing to it that he left this world a happy man?

Mustering one great final effort, he threw himself toward the table, landing on his knees in a rumpled posture, one hand on the edge of the table. The aged and withered hand quiveringly made its way to a cookie near the edge of the table; feeling the warm soft dough actually made the pain of his bones subside for a moment. His parched lips parted; the wondrous taste of the cookie was already in his mouth; seemingly bringing him back to life.

What, then, was this sudden stinging that caused his hand to recoil?

He looked to see his wife, still holding the spatula she had just used to smack his hand.

"Stay out of those!" she said, "they're for the funeral."

Posted by Ken Dillenburg

The time is coming!

Anyone who has an interest in running for a board seat should be preparing to send in their applications. January first will be the beginning of the application period. Below is a little perspective from the inside.

Being on the board doesn’t mean just showing up for one meeting each month and voting on the agenda issues. It is very time consuming, involving taking phone calls and emails from residents, doing research and preparing for the meetings, attending assigned committee and commission meetings, attending special board meetings and workshops, participating in board activities such as the road clean up and volunteer appreciation dinner, and more.

You will also find that almost every vote you make will irritate some residents no matter which way you vote. This is very difficult because some of those folks are your friends. The phone calls and emails are sometimes complimentary but for the most part they are from people angry about a board action, complaining about some service, or wanting something changed in our community. That is fine, it is why we are on the board, but you need to be thick skinned when fielding the input.

You will also be involved in some heated debates between board members. Anyone on the board must not be shy about speaking in public and giving their opinions on issues. The meek may inherit the earth but they will not make good board members.

You will be privy to information that must be kept confidential due to legal or personnel content when you would love to be more open in your comments.

There is also an upside to the board seat. When you truly feel you are making a difference and your community is moving in the right direction it makes it all worthwhile. If you run be prepared, it can be quite a ride!

Ken Dillenburg

Want a real "downer"?

This graph shows money velocity, meaning the speed at which money travels through the economy. Anyone else see a really disturbing trend without any gain? This graph to me does not show a recovering economy no matter what our "leaders" are telling us.

Ken Dillenburg

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

The "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" Holiday Dinner and Gifts Program has moved into Phase II which is a food drive for non-perishable items, especially those which cannot be purchased through the WIC Program or food stamps. These items would include anything non-edible including toiletries and cleaning products.

CWL residents have signed up to assist 14 families in need who reside within CWL by providing the makings of a holiday dinner along with gifts for children. For those who could not part participate in this portion of the program, but would still like to help you may donate an item or two which will added to the dinner boxes. Containers will be in place at the Administration Office, Savannah Oaks and the Recreation Center through December 16^th.

Any items not included in a Candlewick dinner will be taken to the Belvidere/Boone County Food Pantry for distribution.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY!

Bonnie Marron

Slow news day...so some useless facts

Today Minnesota has 20 million more large trees (more than 19" in diameter) than it did 50 years ago.

The Green Bay Packers have sold out every home game since 1960 and they have a waiting list of 88,000 names for tickets.

New York City requires a “medallion” in order to operate a taxi. The number of medallions is tightly controlled and currently they sell for $678,000.00 each.

The human brain is shrinking. In the last 20,000 years the size of an adult human brain has lost an amount equal to about the size of a tennis ball. This is a world-wide phenomenon.

Early studies point to schizophrenia as actually being a brain disease caused by a viral infection early in life. Babies born in winter and early spring have a higher chance of contracting the disease.

The human body contains ten times as many bacteria cells as human cells. Bacteria cells are much smaller than human cells but they still make up three to five pounds of body weight on an average person.

The reason scratching an itch feel so good is the scratching produces enough pain stimulus to cancel out the itch.

Last year Walmart had a net profit of $7,804 per employee. That is net income, not sales!

Ken Dillenburg

Exercise with a little fun built in!

Another scam surfaces...be aware!

If you've ever wanted to be a secret shopper, or if you need a part-time job paying an extra $500 or more a week, this is not your chance.

Unfortunately, authorities say hundreds of people have fallen victim to a scam in which they think they're signing up to be "mystery shoppers" - regular folks who are paid to evaluate retailers. Some have lost thousands of dollars after cashing counterfeit checks and wiring money back to scammers, usually in Canada or another foreign country.

The Pennsylvania attorney general's office said it began receiving complaints late last year about such schemes, and the pace of the complaints has picked up since. It issued a warning to consumers last month to be wary of the offers.

The letters or advertisements look official, containing telephone contact numbers and more. The names of the fake companies vary - scam letters have borne "Express Shoppers" and "Mystery Shopper" company logos - and may even mirror the name of a real company.

Victims who received checks were told to cash them and then wire money as part of a training mission to evaluate a Western Union or check-cashing outlet at a Wal-Mart. But the checks have bounced, leaving the victims on the hook for the amount of the cashed checks.

ABCNews Photo Illustration

"It would be a financial education for most people who fall for it, but it's not the kind of education that people want," said spokesman Nils Frederiksen of the attorney general's office.

Harold Cameron, a Scranton man who runs a consumer help Web site, said he has been contacted in recent weeks by people from at least a half-dozen states, from Nevada to Michigan, who were scammed by or saw advertisements by a company called "Master Research Inc."

In October, the Mobile, Ala., police department reported it was investigating an alleged secret shopper scam involving fraudulent checks sent out by Master Research that were cashed at a pawn shop.

No one answered a call from The Associated Press on Thursday to one of the company's advertised telephone lines in Alberta, Canada.

At another number, also in Alberta, a woman answered and said the number was for Master Research. Told the company was being connected to a scam involving fraudulent checks, she hung up. A second call went unanswered.

The checks may look authentic and may even bear the name of an actual bank or credit union and a telephone number where the person answering supposedly verifies that the check is valid.

One credit union whose name has been used, Countryside Federal Credit Union in Syracuse, N.Y., returned four checks Thursday morning as fraudulent, said president and chief executive officer Gerd Henjes.

"The question is, did the financial institution on the other end put the appropriate financial holds on it?" Henjes said.

An industry group, The Mystery Shopping Providers Association, says real companies do not pay anyone before they do actual work, and that mystery shopping is not a way to make a large sum of money quickly.

The Dallas-based organization also provides information on how to become a mystery shopper on its Web site, www.mysteryshop.org, and a list of its members. Master Research is not among them.

Authorities have made some inroads.

On Feb. 21, Canadian authorities announced the arrests of two scam operators, but estimated that hundreds of U.S. residents lost at least $150,000 to the scammers.

James O'Doherty
Deputy Chief
Patrol Operations
Candlewick Lake Association

Weekly Public Safety report

Important Candlewick Lake Information

Candlewick Lake Public Safety

WEEKLY REPORT

Week Ending 12/04/2011

　

Suspicious Incidents

Public Safety responded to a call of a subject yelling in the area of Ambrose and Candlewick Dr. Public Safety found the yelling to be from several juveniles in the area.

Public Safety responded to the 1800 block of Candlewick Dr. for a report of a suspicious vehicle parked in a common area containing several subjects. Public Safety dispersed the subjects and advised them of the time parks close within Candlewick Lake.

Public Safety observed a suspicious vehicle in the 100 block of Hastings. Public Safety met with the occupant who related they were waiting for someone because they had run out of gas. Public Safety remained with the subject until their assistance arrived.

Juvenile Issues

Public Safety received a call of juveniles gathering around the bathrooms at friendship park. Public Safety responded and found the juveniles had left the area.

Public Safety observed juveniles throwing items (plastic bags) into the lake near the recreation center. Public Safety advised them to remove the items from the lake. They complied and were warned of their actions.

　

Rescue Calls

Public Safety responded to a call in the 100 block of Lamplighter Loop for a subject having difficulty breathing.

Public Safety responded to a call in the 100 block of Valhalla for subject having a seizure.

Public Safety responded to a call in the 1600 block of Candlewick Dr. for a report of a subject vomiting blood.

Public Safety officers will always remain with a subject suffering from a medical condition until emergency personnel arrive.

Criminal Damage / Theft

Public Safety responded to a call in the 100 block of Galleon Run for a report of a residence that had eggs thrown at it. In addition, the same residence had light bulbs thrown at it a few days prior.

Public Safety responded to the 300 block of Bounty for a report of theft of light bulbs and a damaged garage door.

Public safety responded to a call of stolen light bulbs in the 1800 block of Candlewick Dr.

Community Service

Public Safety officers in early A.M hours noticed interior dome lights on in vehicles and notified respective owners in the 20 block of King Henry, 200 block of Thronhill, 200 block of Winsap and the 1500 block of Candlewick Dr.

Open Doors/ House Checks

Public Safety checked several abandoned residences and found several open doors. Public Safety contacted the Boone County Sheriff and assisted them in securing the residences.

Animal Complaints

Public Safety responded to a call of a loose dog in the area of the 100 block of Galleon Run and the 100 block of Kingsbury. Animal control was contacted.

Disorderly Conduct / Trespassing

Public Safety while on patrol observed a vehicle parked by the west gate for an extended period of time. Public Safety met with the subject who indicated he was a former resident and was waiting for another subject to meet with him. The subject became uncooperative then fled. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office was called on the matter.

Boone County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch

Boone County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 100 block of Spinnacre for a report of a domestic dispute, the 110 block of Rockaway for telephone harassment and 133 Liverpool for a domestic dispute.

The Boone county Sheriff’s office and Public Safety responded to a rescue call at 111 Prince Ct. In summary, it was determined that there was a Female shot multiple times and a Male subject deceased with a gunshot wound. The matter is currently under investigation by the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

　

Citations 14

Warnings 12

　

Have a wonderful and safe holiday season

We thank you for taking the time to read these important updates.

Being informed is half the battle.

A warning from Karl Steiskal

Just something to pass on, there is a official looking letter going around in the mail. It says a round trip for 2 from U.S.Airlines. It is a scam. We looked it up on line and there are warnings out there. Do not call or answer!! Just in case anyone else gets one in Candlewick.

Wednesdays at 10

Do you have something you wish to discuss with our Chief of Public Safety Roland Wood? He has begun attending morning coffee, which is held at the rec center every Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. This is your chance to meet and get to know the Chief. You will find he is very anxious to hear your comments on how Public Safety is doing and any areas you feel are still a concern. This is a very community minded individual who is determined to provide a safe, secure place for us all to reside. (You will find he is also just a heck of a nice guy!)

Ken Dillenburg

Your Sunday smile

A little girl was sitting on her grandfather's lap as he read her a bedtime story. From time to time, she would take her eyes off the book and reach up to touch his wrinkled cheek. She was alternately stroking her own cheek, then his again. Finally she spoke up, "Grandpa, did God make you?" "Yes, sweetheart," he answered, "God made me a long time ago."
"Oh," she paused, "Grandpa, did God make me too?" "Yes, indeed, honey," he said, "God made you just a little while ago."
Feeling their respective faces again, she observed, "God's getting better at it, isn't he?"

Posted by Ken Dillenburg

No need for concern

This is not a news release from Candlewick, simply from my observation of news reports.

When an unfortunate incident such as this shooting occurs there is no way Public Safety or our gated status can make any difference. The Rockford T.V. stations are reporting this as an attempted murder/suicide and one station indicates there is no search for suspects, meaning the same thing. This has been a tough holiday season for our community with the fire fatality and now this. We are all saddened.

We are still just as safe as we were prior to the shooting. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. May they find comfort and peace.

Ken Dillenburg

Press release regarding the shooting

PRESS RELEASE

　

DECEMBER 2, 2011

　

IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS OF FRIDAY DECEMBER 2, 2011, A SHOOTING INCIDENT OCCURRED WITHIN A RESIDENCE LOCATED IN THE CANDLEWICK LAKE COMMUNITY. AS A RESULT OF THIS TRAGIC EVENT, TWO RESIDENTS WERE INJURED, ONE FATALLY.

DEPUTIES FROM THE BOONE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT ASSISTED BY THE CANDLEWICK LAKE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CAPRON RESCUE RESONDED TO THE RESIDENCE. ONE VICTIM WAS AIR LIFTED BY LIFELINE HELICOPTER FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.

THE BOONE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT IS CURRENTLY CONDUCTIING A THOROUGH INVESTIGATION INTO THIS INCIDENT. IT WILL BE SEVERAL DAYS UNTIL ANY RESULTS WILL BE AVAILABLE. AT THAT TIME, THE SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT CAN BE CONTACTED FOR FUTHER INFORMATION.

THE RESIDENTS OF CANDLEWICK LAKE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR. THERE IS NO THREAT TO OUR RESIDENTS. IT IS BELEIVED THIS WAS AN ISOLATED INCIDENT WHICH IS NOW CONTAINED AND BEING INVESTIGATED.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

　　

CHIEF ROLAND WOOD

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

　

TRACY CARTER, CMCA, AMS

GENERAL MANAGER

Developing story...a shooting

News reports say there was a shooting Thursday night on Prince Court here in Candlewick. Preliminary reports say there were multiple shots fired with two victims that have possible life threatening injuries. I will add public information as I receive it.

Ken Dillenburg

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

Christmas Dinners & Gifts

Update as of December 1, 2011

Candlewick Lake’s Neighbors Helping Neighbors Program is providing a holiday turkey dinner as well as two new gifts for children of 14 Candlewick families. As of today there is a one turkey, one dinner and 5 gifts which are still in need of being selected. These items can be signed-up for at the Recreation Center Activity Desk for sign-up during normal business hours. Sign-ups will continue through December 5^th or until all the families, which have been assigned to Candlewick, have been provided.

Once all these items have been selected Candlewick residents will have provided dinners to feed 83 residents including gifts for 49 children. In these trying times it is wonderful to see so many step-up to assist their neighbors.

For those who would like to help but cannot provide a dinner or a gift beginning December 6 there will be containers located at the Administration Office, Recreation Center, and the Savannah Oaks Clubhouse where you can drop off non-perishable food items which will be included with the dinners. These can be everyday food items such as peanut butter, jelly, soup or mac ‘n cheese. You can also donate toiletries or household cleaning products. Anything and everything will be distributed and appreciated

Should you have any questions please contact either Bonnie Marron at (815) 765-2030 or canoe@ameritech.net OR Sandy Morse at (815) 765-2377 or cwlmorse@gmail.com.