A great pleasure at the Lakes is to look at the big night sky and watch those incredible stars. Away from the city lights we are able to search for falling stars and bright planets, pick out constellations and even trace the paths of orbiting satellites..

This show happens only in the dark. Sadly, our dark skies have been diminishing as the number of outdoor lights increases, To preserve the character of our night sky the SLPOA Board of directors is asking that homeowners take affirmative measures to minimize outdoor lighting.

What about exterior lighting for the snowplows and blowers? Placer Co. Road Maintenance Dept. says lighting is NOT required, but a minimum amount, such as lower voltage motion sensors, or even little Christmas lights, can be helpful, especially on newer cabins that are not yet familiar to the operators.

l. Replace "overkill" sodium and mercury vapor lamps. Without shielding they spill into the night sky and shine into people's windows.

2. Put outdoor lights on a motion sensor. The California legislature is considering a bill requiring all new construction to be fitted with motion sensors for outdoor lighting to save energy.

3. Do not use exterior lighting fixtures where the bulb is visible from neighboring properties. Consider using 30W reflector bulbs (lengthening extensions are available), or fixtures with solid covering on the sides. Lights should point down or reflect back, not shine across the street. Carole Raisbeck (426-0629) and Ann Bowles (426-0690) have 30W bulbs ($3.00) and extensions ($6.00) available for purchase.

4. Use lower voltage bulbs.

5. Reach out to your neighbors and politely explain why they should comply.

Ask your family your friends, and your renters to please turn off those outside lights as quickly as possible. It will save energy, money, and the beauty of our night skies.

For more information go to the California Chapter of the International Dark-Sky Association web site.

Carole Raisbeck