As six intrepid paddlers faced the odds of returning from a daring outing on Cedar Lake, a lone swimmer emerged from the water and cautioned us about the depths and dangers therein. Not planning to explore the depths, we charged into the lake and then into the serpentine clutches of the creek leading to the even bigger waters of West Bay. All were cautious in the vicinity of the former dry cleaner factory. We knew that toxins had been removed and/or sealed in the land. (Still, are they really sealed? Bay Harbor was supposed to be safe too, you know.) Intrepid or not, the paddlers were forced to retrace their strokes just after they forged their way under the bridge at M-22.
Upon re-entering Cedar Lake, high winds turned the water into spray that cleared our minds of the perilous journey just taken. Undaunted, the group continued its quest to conquer the lake by paddling the perimeter. Frequently dodging a behemoth ski boat, grasping for balance from its wake, watching in amazement as some of the more daring troops flaunted the gods by paddling through the orange and white mine fields, it was every paddler for him or her self. Then, the end was near.
As safety was assured, the group re-assembled and lunch plans quickly came into play. A nearby restaurant provided the perfect safe harbor to discuss our very scary outing on Cedar Lake. Spray? Wasn't really that windy. Orange and white mine fields? Water ski gates for local enthusiasts. Scary? Maybe, if you count getting through the line at Subway.
Intrepid paddlers: Bud Sawyer, Bert Courson, Rob Barker, Ruth Rague, Bob Luoma, Jody Bennett (author)