We're back to more normal temperatures today. I just came back from our Joe's Pond Association Board meeting at the pavilion, and I have to say, I was really glad Fred had a nice fire going in our wood stove. Our meeting was outside, and we were in the sun, but there was still a cool breeze and while the side curtains at the pavilion really helped cut the full blast of the north wind, there were enough "currents of air" flowing about to keep us chilly. At right, Ray Richer, Tom Dente, Diane Rossi (with back to camera) and Ray Rouleau, before the meeting.

A few people showed up thinking this was the regular meeting - bless 'em! That's what's so great about Joe's Pond members - they're enthusiastic. It's always nice to see folks who have been away for the winter - Ray Rouleau, Andre LaPrade, George Anderson and Tom Dente - and this year we hadn't seen much of Dave Parker because of his achilles tendon operation. We firmed up the agenda for next Saturday's meeting (May 30, 10 a.m.) and we're ready to
roll. At right, more of our JPA Board, Andre LaPrade, Dave Parker, and George Anderson.

I took a picture of our new ceiling at the pavilion. It looks very nice. It has a matte finish instead of being shiny as the former metal ceiling was, and personally I think that is much nicer. Even if it doesn't work as well as we hope it will, aesthetically it's a definite improvement - and Larry Rossi said he thinks we'll notice a difference in the noise level. I tried to get Ray Rouleau to yodel to try it out for echo, but he declined, so next week's meeting will be the test. You can see a comparison of the new ceiling in the foreground and the existing section that has a shine. (Click to enlarge the photos.)

There should be a good turnout for our spring meeting. We always look forward to seeing everyone again after the long winter, and hope to see some new faces, too, so even if you don't usually come to the meetings, give it a try. We'll be glad to see you. I noticed on my way down W. Shore Road this morning there are a lot of people here - some will be just for the holiday weekend, but others are here to stay. I heard Ned Hamilton's plane taking off yesterday for the first time, and Ray Richer said the loons have already one egg in the nest - so summer must be here!

Another sign that summer fun has begun - Thursday I had a call from Carolyn Hamilton and also from Shelly Walker saying our aluminum boat loaded with buoys was floating free up the pond from camp. I haven't talked to Bob or Jamie yet, but apparently they had the boat loaded, ready to go out and set the buoys, but then needed to go to get something either in the village or at Jamie's and while they were away the wind took the boat off the beach and up the pond. They were able to retrieve it with no trouble and (I think) got all the buoys placed. I'll be checking with them later today. Thanks to Carolyn and Shelly for sounding the alert. Last year it was our pontoon boat that got away . . . (big sigh!)