West side versus east side. It’s a common rivalry in cities across the nation with the dividing lines sometimes being obvious and other times not so much. Take a trip to the Iowa State Fair on East Side Night, and you will see the pride. Talk with Des Moines natives who refuse to go past 63rd Street into the suburbs. Listen to those who reside on the western portion of our state about how their needs and priorities differ from those who live on the eastern side. And even at Lake Panorama, there is a friendly rivalry among those who choose to live on the west side of the lake versus those on the east.
I often say those who choose to live on the west side of Lake Panorama are seeking nature and solace while those on the east side want the country club lifestyle. Some of you may agree, and some certainly disagree. Neither choice is wrong; it just depends on what you want out of lake life. And it has changed over the years. Some of us complain about how long it takes to drive from one side of the lake to the other, but imagine doing so on dirt roads.
I can’t help but wonder what life was like in the early years of Lake Panorama. Before the conference center and party cove. Before smooth roads and GPS. Before the multi-million dollar homes and foreign sports cars. Before massive wake boats and jet skis.
Lake life had to have been much simpler, more family-focused, and humble. Many of the changes have been wonderful improvements, and I enjoy and appreciate the modern amenities much like many of you. Even so, it’s a healthy practice to look back at the early years and appreciate the efforts so many made to build Lake Panorama to what it is today.
Like many of you, I have listened to and read stories about the West Lodge with its swimming pool, ping pong and pool tables, and snack shop. It was a popular gathering place for lake residents and an important part of the lake’s history and culture. In this month’s cover story, we take a look back at those simpler times and the wonderful structure and grounds that are now the home of the St. Thomas More Center and the Catholic Youth Camps.
East. West. Somewhere in the middle. In the big picture, it really doesn’t matter. Those before us made it work so well, and their efforts are a wonderful reminder for us to work to improve all aspects of Lake Panorama for the benefit of everyone.
Have a great month and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Lake Panorama Times
641-332-2707
shane@gctimesnews.com