‘Friends Of The Lake’ Seeks Members

By Kendra Bobowick

Scott Conant approached the Parks and Recreation Commission Tuesday looking for advice. As a member of the Friends of the Lake (Lillinonah) Executive Board, he explained the upcoming Lake Lillinonah Family Day the Friends have planned to raise membership. The group is considering town property to host lake-related activities from as early afternoon through the evening of August 25, tentatively.

“The boat launch came to mind, so I am here for guidance,” Mr Conant said. He hopes to kick off the first Family Day at the Newtown Boat Ramp with potential activities including water skiing demonstrations, a boat parade, vendors, and more.

The commission greeted him with the advice he sought, and a few hints.

Assistant Director of Parks Carl Samuelson suggested giving boaters fair notice. “Put up signage to warn people about the event,” he said.

Assessing the proposed day of activities at the launch, commission Chairman Edward Marks said, “I don’t think there will be much conflict.” Director Barbara Kasbarian indicated that Mr Conant should be aware that certain vendors might require permits. He also considered shuttling guests from the Pond Brook boat launch and lot off of Hanover Road. Ms Kasbarian was concerned about parking near the Lake Lillinonah boat launch.

She said, “One thing to watch out for, no parking on Hanover. It’s not fair to [residents].”

Referring to the steps he will need to take prior to the Family Day, Mr Conant said, “We’ll get it done; it’s nothing insurmountable.”

Who Are Friends

Of The Lake?

According to the newsletter Lilly’s Letter the Friends of the Lake, founded in 2003, has been asking, “How Green is my lake?” followed with another question, “How can we fix the problem?” Mr Conant told the Parks and Recreation Commission, “Our purpose in life is to clean up the lake, clean up pollution and increase safety.”

The newsletter, printed several times throughout the year, states, “Wouldn’t it be nice…to enjoy a lake free from manmade and wood debris? Swimming and boating in clean, clear water? Simply stated, that is the goal of Friends of the Lake?”

The Friends of the Lake website, www.friendsofthelake.org, states the group’s mission as, “Friends of the Lake is a nonprofit organization founded in 2003 to improve the conditions on Lake Lillinonah for the recreational enjoyment for those who use it, and for the long-term environmental protection of this beautiful section of the Housatonic River.”

Just as Family Day is meant to draw new members, the newsletter also makes an appeal.

Stated on page one of the eight-page brochure detailing the Friends’ background, upcoming goals, and lake status, is the invitation. “Please get involved, and encourage your friends and neighbors to join us.”

Prior to the Family Day is the fourth annual Save The Lake Day on May 12 from 9 am to 1 pm. The day is a chance for residents to join in a trash and debris cleanup around Lake Lillinonah. The event will start at the Route 133 state boat launch in Bridgewater. Supplies and food will be provided. Contact event chairperson Nora Allen at 860-210-8064 or e-mail volunteers@friendsofthelake.org.

The Friends of the Lake is a nonprofit organization with roughly 100 members currently enrolled, said Mr Conant. More information is available on the website.