I know now a dozen zucchini bushes, thriving in a late season growth spurt, are about ten too many for a family of two. Those extra plants however, will quite adequately satisfy a whole neighbourhood. The creativity among the neighbours is amazing as they look for ways to utilize these healthy and abundant vegetables. Zucchinis have been barbequed, deep fried, baked, boiled and nuked – alone, marinated or stuffed with complimentary seasonings. They have been hidden in omelets, muffins, loaves and a chocolate cake. They have been eaten as raw sticks, pickled chips and my favorite, an appetizer made of dried chips sandwiching a thin slice of old cheddar cheese. What a creative lot we are when faced with such a healthy crop of healthy food. Now we just have to find ways to prepare all those spaghetti squash and pumpkins that are growing like mad.
H:Winter storage rule important
D:2011-09-28
As residents secure their homes and cabins for the winter, they should note there are specific regulations governing dock placement. On the big lake especially, damage from shifting ice has many residents pulling wharves up onto the shore or moving them to sheltered areas. Among the many do’s and don’ts, location and number of docks at a private lot are addressed, as well as certain permitting conditions. More information is available at http://www.agf.gov.bc.ca/clad/tenure_programs/programs/privatemoorage/reqs_best_mgmt_practices.pdf.
Article clarified
In response to an item in my Sept. 14 column, headlined Emergency response requested, Interlakes Volunteer Fire Depart-ment chief Doug Townsend says it is unnecessary for citizens calling 9-1-1 for an ambulance to ask for a first responder, as was suggested in the column. A call to 9-1-1 for an ambulance automatically results in two actions by the 9-1-1 operators. First, they will call for an ambulance dispatch, and second, they will call for a first responder dispatch. Many factors can affect the response times from either service, particularly the originating location of the ambulance, so a first responder may not always be first on the scene.
Recycling
Residents should learn more about the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) plan for solid waste management. There are changes planned that will affect all property owners in both the service and the funding. One of the several open-house meetings is scheduled for Oct. 18 at the Interlakes Community Hall, where residents can learn about the changes and provide input into several garbage and recycling options being considered. The CRD website www.cariboord.bc.ca is a good resource for rural residents.
Market closed
Despite the excellent response to the planned tour on Sept. 24 of the new vegetable farm above the rest stop at Lac des Roches, the lack of vegetables not yet harvested forced its postponement until next year’s planting season. The Bridge Lake Community School Society will reschedule a tour and coffee social at the Rosely Farm for next May.
Wood burning
Chimney maintenance should not be overlooked before the wood-heating season is here in full force. The sudden dip in nighttime temperatures during September had most residents firing up their wood burning stoves and furnaces a little earlier than expected. With the return of the warm weather, there is still time to ensure chimneys and vents are free of creosote, vermin nests, dust and ash.
Book review
A dozen women gathered at Lac des Roches on Sept. 10 for snacks and a discussion on the novel for the month, The Last Time I Saw You, by Elizabeth Berg. The next meeting will be in 100 Mile House on Oct. 1 to discuss Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay. Call Wendy at 250-593-4538 for more details.
Friends gather
Mark your calendars for Oct. 12 when Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake holds its annual general meeting at the Lac des Roches Resort at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. A $10 annual membership is required to vote on executive positions and other society business.
Anniversary
Special congratulations to our friends and neighbours John and Elsie Clarkson who wed 50 years ago on Sept. 30. The neighbours will help them celebrate in early October.