President’s Message – Bruce Bassett
I trust this past year has been good to you. We at DLPOA are generally pleased with the progress we have made and hope next year will be as fulfilling.
Hopefully at this time next year you will see progress toward paving South Wood Shores Rd, as a result of a grant from the State and through the efforts of the Stevens County Road Engineers. We are currently working with Stevens county on a proposal that will lead to the reconditioning of East Deer Lake Rd.
At this point in time I would like to personally thank all of our Directors, Officers and past Officers for all of their time, energy and efforts that they have donated to our community. We would also like to thank our Stevens County commissioners, Sheriff, county Engineers and all the others who have helped out. It takes a combined effort from all of us and your future input will make Deer Lake better for all.
The You Done Good Award goes to Jerry McBride and a large turnout of enthusiastic volunteers who showed up for the Annual Deer Lake clean up and chili Feed. Over two tons of litter was picked up around the lake and hauled to the county landfill.
Thanks to the Olson Bros. Sanitation for allowing us to dump the litter for free. We do appreciate your contribution to the effort.
A special thanks to all those who prepared the chili feed – it was Delicious !! And also thanks to everyone for their great help and efforts in making this a positive affair for Deer Lake.
Road Committed Report – Jack Low
The cvounty road department is aware of the deterioration of North Deer Lake Road and has promised to do the necessary patching and some ditching to improve the situation. Unfortunately, as is usually the case, budgetary problems have forced the department to delay any resurfacing of the road until next year.
The application for a state grant to improve Southwood Shores Rd is complete and awaiting approval. We should hear the final decision by the State in October. Engineers have investigated the problems on East Deer Lake Rd and they seem interested in helping us out.
Be assured that your DLPOA board is concerned about the condition of all our roadways and is doing what it can to effect improvements. Your contacts with the county road department are important also. They do listen and they are influenced by reasonable dialog.
Fisheries – Bruce Bassett
How’s Fishing? Fishing has been fun but catching is another story altogether.
In May of 1995 the Fish & Game Department released into Deer Lake 10,000 Rainbow fingerlings and another 15,000 Rainbow in September 1995. This spring we released 15,000 Rainbows and Fish & Game released 20,000 as well. Where are they? The water temperature is now round 45 degrees. Rainbow like temperatures around 55 - 60 degrees. If we get a rise in air temperatures, we could have a great fishing year. GOOD NEWS!! Kamloops are coming in around 8lbs but don’t be surprised to hook a 10 pounder. Good Fishing!!!!
Emergency Services – Gerry Block
I am asking for volunteers for Fire Station #15. It is time for some new members who are willing to dedicate a part of their life to the Deer Lake Fire Station.
The "good old days" are long gone when a telephone call would alert the folks at Haney’s Resort that help was needed and everyone cleared out that was able to us a shovel, axe, hose, etc. and a fire crew responded to the call for help. Back then, I met our Fire chief while responding to a fire on Buck Creek Rd. wearing shorts and a tee shirt while Jerry Brinkman was still wearing a dress from work. Our new chief was gracious enough not to mention a word about the improper attire his crew was wearing. It is comical to think bout that first meeting.
Changes are needed as new rules are formed to protect both the public as well as fire personnel. It takes dedication and time to volunteer and if you want to join in please contact the district office at 233-8015.
Legislative Committee – Don Stragis
Stevens county selected a new county Co9mmissioner on April 23rd. Fred Lotze was sworn in to replace Commissioner Alan Mack who passed away recently.
State, county , and citizen committees are still working on the Shoreline management Program and the Critical Areas Plan which have been mentioned previously in our Newsletters. State mandated Growth Management Plans are also being developed for the county. These plans will govern and manage the urban and rural development across our state when they are put into place in their final form.
There has been significant debate and discussion concerning our local fire district. Numerous volunteers have resigned over policy issues and the DLPOA board is concerned about fire and medical protection services in our area. We will continue to monitor and address these issues and urge you to get involved and express your opinions.
Water Safety – Mike Phillips
Think Positive!! It is going to warm up and we are going to have a safe and fun summer. The patrol boat is about to be launched and the patrol volunteers are gearing up for what we all hope will be an uneventful summer. The volunteers assisting the regular deputies are Doyle Knight, Wayne Crockett and Don Hanna. If you need to contact the authorities, please do so by calling the Dispatch Center at 1-800-572-0947.
If anyone has questions or concerns regarding water safety or laws, come to the DLPOA annual meeting on June 22 for answers.
Citizens Action Team – Floyd Stewart
The SCCAT program is off and running with patrols being dispatched at irregular times and days to check and observe both Loon Lake and Deer lake areas. Patrol vehicles are clearly marked – watch for us, we’ll be watching out for you. It is believed that this effort will make our community a safer place to live. Sheriff Thayer will be in Loon Lake for our open house on Saturday, June 1st.
If you wisht o help, volunteer your time, your talents,, and/or your money, please call or write to volunteer or to send a contribution:
SCATT Box 504 Loon Lake, Wa 99148.