The warmth of Summer and the beautiful colors of Fall have disappeared. Now November brings thoughts of thankfulness. With Veterans’ Day just ahead, I would like to extend a thank you to all our WLA family members who have served or are currently serving our country. Your service is appreciated!
The Fall newsletter has been mailed. I hope you found it informative. If anyone has ideas or would like to contribute an article for the Spring newsletter, please contact me. Thank you again to Mark Field for taking the content submitted and creating a nice looking newsletter.
In mid October, sporadic outbreaks of cyanobacteria appeared along different shorelines of the lake. I want to thank the residents who contacted me about these outbreaks. I spoke with Amanda McQuaid numerous times concerning these outbreaks. She indicated it is not unusual to see outbreaks into November. She came and sampled an area of Griffin Beach. Although cyanobacteria was noted, it was not present in enough concentration to place an advisory. However, The Franklin Animal Shelter was to hold a “Plunge for Paws” fundraiser on November 2nd. Amanda was concerned that cyano could be more prevalent on the day of the event. As a public awareness effort, I spoke with two board members of the animal shelter. They understood the concern and appreciated my phone call. Together we determined we would observe the water on that morning and determine if “plunging” would be safe. Amanda retested the beach on Friday, Nov 1st and no cyano was found. On Saturday morning, the skies were clear and so was the water. The temperature was in the mid 30’s and 15 brave “plungers” and 4 dogs entered the water! A bonfire, music, food and many spectators made for a great event. The Franklin Animal Shelter hopes this will become an annual event.
As you turned the calendar over to November, you may be enjoying a photo of Webster Lake. This is a reminder that the 2020 WLA calendar is now on sale. It is filled with some beautiful photos once again. Please go to http://www.createphotocalendars.com, click the “shop” button, then type WLA in the search field. Three versions of the calendar should come up on the screen. Holiday shopping has started and these calendars make great gifts.
The lake is pretty quiet these days. Cottages are closed up for the season, boats and docks are out of the water and wrapped, and the water level is quite low. Walks give me time to reflect on what I am thankful for this Thanksgiving. The Perkins family is very blessed! I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. May you find many reasons to be thankful!
Sincerely,
Val