A: December 10, 2004 the lake level was at 894.1.

July 4^th is just around the corner so here are some helpful hints to help you get started a little early.
 

HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT 4^th of July Weekend

Fourth of July typically conjures up images of fireworks, hamburgers sizzling on the grill and homemade ice cream. But if you like to get out of town, you probably also think of traffic, overcrowded resorts and long lines.  With a bit of extra planning, however, you can avoid some hassles and have a pleasant holiday.

1)      Start thinking (preferably in May or early June) about what you are looking for over the weekend. Is it a secluded wooded spot or a lake busy with water traffic?  Either way the earlier you decide the better.

2)      Buy a travel guide to the area you will be visiting and read it thoroughly.

3)      Research the best restaurants, things to see and do, and recreational opportunities at your destination.

4)      Plan ahead. Buy tickets, make hotel reservations, secure a camping or picnic site, or anything else you think you'll need, early on.  Even if you're planning only a day trip, organize your schedule ahead of time to avoid glitches.

5)      Make a list of all the items you'll need for your weekend, including a map, sunscreen, sunglasses, travel guide, camera and film.  Give yourself plenty of time to buy anything you may be missing.

6)      Consider toting along your own bike, rollerblades or any other equipment to save rental fees.

7)      Pack your suitcase or backpack a few days before you leave in case you need extra time to purchase any last minute items.

8)      Try to leave for your weekend destination as early as you can to avoid traffic.  If possible, set out the night before.

9)      Time your return home as early as possible, too, to avoid the holiday weekend traffic crunch.

 

HOW TO GO GREEN FOR THE FOURTH OF JULY

A highlight of summer is throwing a great Fourth of July party for family and friends.  Celebrate Independence Day by saving a little of the environment this year.  Wasted electricity and paper goods are only part of the equation. Learn how to make your next Fourth of July eco-friendly.

1)      Party before the fireworks.  Consider a daytime party so you can make the most use of natural light.  If you do need to run into the evening hours, consider soy candles placed strategically to add ambiance without the expense or the waste.

2)      Take it outdoors.  Don't bother renting a room that needs to be decorated with paper and plastic.  Use your yard for the party setting and let your landscaping be the décor.  Choose a corner of the yard where guests can find some shade to set up chairs and tables to party the day away.

3)      Paper or plastic.  Use neither, in this case.  Depending on the type of party you're throwing, you can decide in your good glass or china dishware will work.  Using everyday reusable dishes instead of paper or plastic throw-away types cuts out he waste and usually sets a prettier table.  If kids are attending then consider hard-plastic reusable plates instead of glass.  The same goes for cups and cutlery.  If you want to have theme colored plates, consider white plates with interchangeable red and blue cloth napkins, or red and blue reusable cups.

4)      Independent decorating.  Making a centerpiece that wows your guests can be as simple as floating candles in a few wood bowls with some rose petals or a bunch of daisies artfully arranged in a small, wicker basket or a simple glass vase.  You can buy small American flags at the dollar store and plant them in with the flowers for a festive addition.  You can always reuse them next year.

5)      Fresh fare.  Show your greener side and have plenty of organic veggies and fruits for your guests, along with whole food dishes.  Avoid prepackaged foodstuffs and much as possible to cut out the waste as well as the calories and fat.  Your guests and the environment will thank you later.