Lake Conversations: One Last Request...

 This is our last "Lake Conversations" discussion board—starting next week, we begin the rotation of regular summer features.  So for our last topic, we ask you: what is one thing you can't miss doing during the summer?  A sunset boat ride?  A particular kayak ride?  An early-morning fishing trip?  Tell us something you don't miss doing at least once every year.  And cheers to that summer season beginning!
Do You Remember Where You Were?...

 We here at Joe Mahoney would like to pay tribute to the lives lost in the events of September 11th and thank all of those who sacrificed their lives to help those in need on that day.
Then and Now: Mira Lacum...

 For our final "Then and Now" of this off season (as we gear up for our regular summer features), we bring you a building that hasn't changed much over the years, and commands the lake with one of the most extraordinary facades on the water: the home once known as Mira Lacum.
Twenty Questions: Grace Murphy...

 It was the first time she sailed by herself all season, and she was moving. Grace Murphy, 7, sailed in her first Halsey Island Race last week—an annual Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club event that dates back to 1938—and won.
Friday Quiz: Name the Location...

 You cruise, sail, kayak, swim, waterski, wakeboard, and JetSki through them all the time. But out of context, would you be able to distinguish one cove from another? Below are ten landscapes from around the lake—try to name the location. If you need a hint, there's a list of all ten shown, in alphabetical order, below the photos. And the answers are at the very bottom, below the montage photo. Good luck!
Day Trip: Ready to Ride...

 The nature of Lake Hopatcong makes it a little difficult for scenic bike trips. The terrain is steep and the roads can be curvy, and most of the lake views are taken by the homes that line most of the shore. But as the fall weather kicks in and water activities fade out, taking a bike trip around parts of the lake isn’t an impossible venture.  Here are a couple of trips you can try…and then go explore on your own. With all of the little winding roads in the lakeside communities, you’re sure to discover new corners of the lake—and some serious butt-kicking hills.
Green Scene Special: Hitchhikers...

 Ah autumn, that's one of the best times to enjoy the lake and pursue the vast fishing opportunities, as the trophies that lurk below begin to fatten for the coming winter. Unfortunately, we're not going to discuss the great fishing, beautiful fall colors and how pleasant the lake becomes as the big boats begin their hibernation.
Lake Living: The Moorings...

 Since 1893, this stone house has been perched on the western shore, overlooking the main lake. Nestled among the trees with breathtaking views, the two-story residence is an icon symbolizing the glory days of lake living.
Freshwater Faces: Willa Scantlebury...

 Living on the lake is all about nature—at least it is for Willa Scantlebury and the critters she crosses paths with. By simply appreciating the environment around her, Willa observes the nuances of nature that many may never notice. Armed with a camera and a keen eye, she captures striking images of animals, birds, butterflies, and insects.
Getting Into Gear: Auto vs. Marine Gasoline...

 Every other Friday, Paul DeRosa answers your motorboat questions.  If you have a question to submit to Paul, email it to editor@lakehopatcongnews.com.
How to... Grow Your Own Garlic...

 Growing produce in your own backyard is not only convenient, it's also great for the environment (as long as you use lake-friendly, phosphorus-free fertilizer, or none at all!).  You reduce car trips to the store and avoid supporting commercial monoculture—plus, the food tastes better and you might save some money.  No one knows this better than Jo Ann and Dave Gardner of Mt. Arlington, who practically have a farm in their backyard. (You might know them as the owners of Knolls Beach in Mt. Arlington, or you might recognize Jo Ann as one of our Freshwater Faces this summer.)  It's impossible to impart all of Jo Ann's accumulated wisdom in one story, but she's got a good start for you: growing your own garlic.  Great for your appetite, pocketbook, and—in an indirect way, perhaps—the lake environment.  So give it a try, starting this fall!  Here's Jo Ann's "How To":
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