A beautiful summer day was reason enough for ladies from Boultbee and McCarthy roads to enjoy an English afternoon tea on July 29. Hostess Marguerite Neill poured the first cup of tea for each of the ladies who enjoyed a variety of traditional foods brought by the guests. The mandatory scones, served with Devonshire cream and preserves, were delicious, as were the savory Cornish pasties. The selection of finger sandwiches, such as cucumber, egg salad, asparagus and roasted turkey, were almost too decorative to eat. There were far too many options for dessert pastries and fruit to allow a sampling of each. A special thank-you goes to the many ladies who took the extra effort to prepare gluten-free goodies for a very appreciative neighbour coping with celiac disease.
Night shows
Most residents agree it was a toss up as to which light show was more spectacular on the August long weekend – the fireworks launched from a boat in the big lake, or the lightning bolts that flashed from every direction. Both got a thumbs-up for their entertainment value.
Mushroom hunting
Puffballs and shaggy manes are easily identifiable fungi growing abundantly in our area this time of year. Our fields and forests are filled with a surprising number of highly-prized and delectable fungi for those inspired to learn how to identify and hunt for them. Like bird watching, it is the search for some of the rarer species that enthusiasts find so invigorating. With mushrooms, however, the bonus is you can often eat your find, with due care of course.
Boaters beware
Boaters around the lake have spotted several partially submersed logs. Speed boats, skiers and towable craft are the most at risk and must be mindful of these deadheads, which seem to be moving with the wind and are not flagged.
Algae bloom
August typically brings the thick blanket of unsightly algae that clings to parts of the shoreline around the lake. Residents have been advised this algae is a sign of good health for the lake; however, it does pose a hazard in many ways. To motorized craft, it can clog water intakes and impede propeller rotation. Kayakers and canoeist will attest that it wraps itself around paddles and rudders making self-propelled watercrafts difficult to maneuovre. Waterfowl avoid it, as should dogs and swimmers, since it impedes movement. Because the algae floats, it picks up impurities as it travels on the lake, which is the source of its unpleasant odour. Removal of floating algae is not considered detrimental to the lake and is an acceptable solution for continued enjoyment of private property.
Wildlife sightings
On Aug. 7, a black bear was spotted at the east end of Boultbee Road and evidence of a bear was found at the west end. It might be the same bear, or there are at least two in the vicinity. Ripening twin and Saskatoon berries are likely drawing the bears back to the area. Evidence of wolf has been reported at the east end of Boultbee and several badgers have been excavating ground squirrel holes all along the hillside. An elk was observed at Birch Lake by longtime residents, confirming these animals are moving back into the area. Several mule deer does are raising their fawns in the relative safety of the Boultbee neighbourhood and are a treat for those residents lucky to witness their movement in the mornings.