Lovin’ Lake Effect

By Sandra Scott

John and I live in a snow belt on the lee of Lake Ontario. Lake effect is a phenomenon that we have learned to deal with. A lake effect snowstorm is more than just a lot snow; it is a lot of snow all at once. A lake effect storm can deliver one to three feet of snow in a couple of hours. It snows so it is impossible to see across the street – basically everything comes to a stop. Schools close, events are cancelled, and people try to get home to wait it out.

Lake effect happens when cold air passes over the warm waters of a Great Lake and picks up moisture. When the air hits land, it rises and drops the moisture in form of snow. When we are home with no place we have to go, a lake effect snowstorm can be enjoyable. A time to snug in and wait it out. When it is over, the world is beautiful with everything covered in a thick mantle of white. However, when we have to drive somewhere it is a major concern. When we set out for Ohio the lake-effect phenomena had been in operation for several days dropping record snow on the east sides of Lakes Ontario and Erie, both of which were on our travel route.

Luckily the great snow-making machine took a rest, so it was clear roads all the way to Erie, Pennsylvania. With a sigh of relief we checked into the Sheraton Bayfront, feeling we had dodged the snow bullet. A welcoming fire was blazing in the lobby fireplace. We headed for the Lobby Lounge and commented to the bartender, “We are so thankful that we made it without experiencing any more lake effects.”

“We have a lake effect every day. Why don’t you try our Lake Effect - a Lake Effect Cocktail,” she countered.

My, oh, my! It was worth the drive to sit by the fire sipping a Lake Effect Cocktail made with 1.5 oz Absolut Vanilla, 1.5 oz Kahlua, and 1 oz of half and half, well shaken and served in a chocolate-lined martini glass.

The Sheraton Bayfront has long been our favorite midway stop when heading west. Located on the shore of Lake Erie, the view is impressive year round. Each season offers a different perspective. In the winter the sweeping view of frozen Lake Erie and Presque Isle make the hotel seem very cozy.

We can always count on a wonderful meal in the Bayfront Grill. Chef Michael Cerrie created a menu that was a delight for the palate. The meal started with an appetizer of Duck Ravioli followed by a yummy Sweet Potato Soup and Salmon with Wild Mushroom Risotto. We ended our dinner with another Lake Effect Cocktail in front of the fireplace.

“I wish a lake effect storm would roll in across Lake Erie this evening,” commented John. “Then we would have to stay another night.” With a clink of our glasses I agreed.

Visit www.sheraton.com.

Sandra Scott is a frequent contributor to travel publications and to Creators Syndicate
and has co-authored two books on local history. She lives in Mexico, NY.

Photos by J. J. Scott.

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