East Gull Lake History Update Spring 2016

While this spring's history project update is being composed, a two man crew outside is sawing down dead and injured trees. Heavy machinery assists with stacking salvageable timber logs while smoke drifts up from carefully tended piles of burning debris. This scene in various forms took up ongoing transient residency after last July’s mega storm blew in for a visit, forever changing historic landscapes. Four seasons later, rolling prairie-like hills replace forests that stood for decades. Lights from houses formerly hidden in the woods are now shining through the surrounding branches which remain. During this interim, work on gathering history all but ground to a standstill. Residents grappled to assess damages and tackle clean up following the history making “Land Locked Category II Hurricane” as the storm was dubbed. Some who grew up here said they went out to survey property damage and actually got lost navigating terrain long familiar. But now spring returns with its ritual greening. Docks re-appear on ice free bays to reassure that some things really do stay the same. The humming sounds of boat motors compete with and replace chain saw buzzing as a “new normal” gains familiarity. “Before” and “after” photos are being posted on the city website to document the way views have changed via road entrances around the city. You can check these out by clicking “History” then choosing “photos” followed by “events” as drop downs appear. It seems every drive into, out of or around the city produces noticeable changes grabbing attention. Diligent cleanup efforts continue, showing the pride, strength and determination of city residents and businesses to prepare for another summer of unforgettable memory making. Website pictures show that signage, like the city itself, remains intact. The fact that there was no loss of life is miraculous. This point was again brought home a month after returning from a mission trip among the gracious people of Ecuador. This past April 16th a 7.8 earthquake forever changed the before and after history of the people, infrastructure and coastal/mountain regions of that beautiful South American Country. The variable forces of nature continually change the world, leaving generations of survivors to report and preserve historical heritage via photos and stories. Any pictures you have that portray property changes are welcome if you’re willing to share and post. Please email your photos to the address below, or bring copies to City Hall for scanning and adding to the website. History committee meetings will resume once winter snowbirds return. If interested in joining the committee, please know you are welcome! For more information contact City Hall or Linda Engel: (435.714.0618/ email: olesengel@gmail.com) East Gull Lake History Update