And then there is Hawaiian shirt wearing, Harley Davidson riding, Harry. Each month, one of the Board of Directors has been given the opportunity to be in the spotlight, and October is my turn. I would like you to know a little about my personal life, of which Woodhaven has been, and will continue to be, a big part. I am the first generation of my family born in the United States; both parents emigrated here from Germany in 1958. I was born in Chicago and am the eldest of three sons, and my first language was German. 

The first time we went camping, I was eight years old, and my father had a job to do in Iowa. The five of us camped for the very first time ever in a tent for four weeks straight! This was the best time of my life, and I caught my first fish, although my mother might not have agreed. I was also in the Cub/Boy Scouts for eight years and went on many camping trips, and my mom was the Den leader. That is where my love of the outdoors began. My parents purchased a lot at Woodhaven from the original developer in 1969, from a door-to-door salesman. I have fond memories of catching frogs in Mallard Pond with my little brothers and fishing at Sunset Lake, hiking, swimming, bike riding, stargazing, and campfires. Over the last 50 years, I have enjoyed the many activities offered here; initially with my parents, siblings, uncles, and cousins; then my wife and our four children; now with our nine (going on 10!) grandchildren; and the many friends we have made over the years, and dear old friends that have purchased here also. I have witnessed the facilities grow and the entertainment change to appeal to all age groups and become what Woodhaven is today.   

I worked hard for many years at my father’s business, building custom architectural woodwork for the hospitality industry. Moving up the ranks and earning every wrung; eventually, I became the company’s project manager, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Finally, I took over the family business and have since retired. Now that I am retired, I am able to volunteer my time and talents with others.    

I served as a Section Representative for Section 5 and on the ESAC Board of Review, both working hand in hand with staff and Property Owners. Last August, I was elected to serve on the Association Board of Directors, named the board liaison to the Public Safety Board of Review, and recently appointed the Co-Chair of the Deer AdHoc Committee. This first year on the Board has been exciting, to say the least. I have met many new people and made some wonderful new friends along the way.    

Fall Fest is rapidly approaching, and I hope that you can come out and enjoy all that Fall Fest has to offer. Pony and Wagon Rides, the Great Pumpkin Hunt, Petting Zoo, Caramel Apples, Haunted House, and Food Fair. There is surely something for everyone to enjoy. The park is so beautiful this time of year with the cooler temperatures and leaves changing color. The smell of campfires, hot cocoa, and popcorn.    

For many, this is the end of their camping season. If you are among those, I wish you a safe and healthy off-season and look forward to seeing you next year. I would like to remind you as you are emptying your cabinets, canned and boxed goods that have not expired may be placed in the Lakeview Building. All donated items will be delivered to the food pantry in Mendota or Amboy. 

If you see me around, please stop and say hi.  I enjoy hearing how all of you came to Woodhaven and how much you love it like I do.