Digest
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 10 1999
Deadline for Submissions:
1st of each month
Editors: Maurice & Ruth Dean
147 Foxboro Drive
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Digest VOLUME 5, ISSUE 10 1999 Deadline for Submissions: 1st of each month Editors: Maurice & Ruth Dean 147 Foxboro Drive |
October 27th, started as a normal day in Foxboro Green and turned into a day to be remembered.
Five bovine visitors arrived, completely unannounced. It is believed that they had heard (or should that be "herd") and were intrigued that there was lush landscaping in Foxboro Green. This certainly appears to underline the effectiveness of Foxboro Green Inc.'s advertising.
The five visitors were first seen crossing over the berme which separates the RV compound from the homes on Foxboro Drive. As Carlotte Burnstine observed, "I was in my kitchen on the telephone when I saw them coming over the hill. I couldn't believe my eyes". Calling her husband, he with video camera in hand, alerted us, suggesting that we take a look from our rear window. Upon doing so we were somewhat surprised to be looking into the faces of two steers directly underneath the window.
Graham Macdonald was seen shepherding the herd towards a vacant lot. When Charlotte saw this she wondered if this was a "New Steering" Committee.
Continuing their stroll our visitors crossed over to the north tile bed field to see what goodies it had to offer, pausing momentarily to check out the water in Marcel's goldfish pond. The pond apparently did not meet their quality standards because they drank from a handy birdbath instead. The trip from home, and the attention of what was by this time, a goodly number of residents with cameras, became a bit too much. While the "lush vegetation" did not interest them, probably because the grass wasn't any greener, it was quite good enough for bedding down.
Our good neighbour, farmer Larry Shantz, was quickly on the scene and was able to contact the owner of the herd who had been desperately looking for his wandering cattle. In short order they were "rounded up", although in a rather anti-climatic way, no horses, no lariats.
Before leaving the owner expressed his concern about possible damage. He was assured that there did not appear to be any. However, if any resident has doubts about the benefits of organic fertilization for a lawn he/she can check out the editors' back lawn next Spring.
As a point of interest (highly educational and useful for cocktail conversations) the owner of the cattle was also concerned that the animals would not suffer from being out on the tiles (if you will pardon the pun) as they were not used to being outside all night.
ATTENTIONThis month there will be a Fox Talk supplemental issue.
It will contain late breaking news about
the resignation of the Executive Committee
and an explanatory letter.
The minutes of the annual meeting will also be attached.
The Recreation CentreRon Donaldson was elected Chair of the Committee.
Volunteers have been appointed to most positions required. A list will be posted in the Mailroom soon.
Pool IssuesThe issue of restricting pool use to residents only, at certain times was discussed fully. It was decided no changes will be made at this time other than those approved for fitness groups. Some suggestions were made. Residents are asked to try to avoid bringing guests to the pool during scheduled fitness sessions and during the early evening hours (Monday to Friday) when our working residents like to swim.
At times, congestion in the dressing rooms is a problem. A suggestion to provide additional benches is being explored.
Clothing should not be left in cubicles but placed in lockers provided; lockers are not for extended storage of workout clothing. Taking showers at home before and after swim sessions will ease the situation during heavy use periods.
A revised pool schedule is included in this issue of Fox Talk.
Late Night Centre UseExterior lights and parking lot lights are presently set to go out at 11:30 p.m. If any group activity is expected to go past 11:30 p.m. then the timer needs to be reset and the security system disarmed. Requests should go to Ron Donaldson.
EmergenciesIn case of an emergency at the Centre, one of the following should be contacted:-
Ron Donaldson 634-8592
Eric Plevka 634-9936
Wally Morrison 634-9948
Requests
A file folder labelled Recreation Centre Committee is now in the hanging file in the Mailroom. Please feel free to place any serious requests, suggestions or complaints, into this folder.
Grounds CommitteeThe snow removal contract was awarded to Rod Roth, owner of Roderick's Skid-Steer Service Limited.
If you are interested in driveway snow clearing, you can contact Darryl Livingstone of B & D Property Maintenance, St. Agatha - 634-5060, for services available and pricing.
We now have a back-up person for Richard Shantz (our primary contact with Rod Roth). Harold Koerber has volunteered to assist Richard this winter. If you want or need more information about this season's snow removal program, contact your condo president, Richard 634-5081 or Harold 634-9783.
The "summer" work load is over. The homesite irrigation system was shut down on October 27th, the swans will be leaving soon for their winter home in New Hamburg and many of our neighbours are heading south.
It's been a busy year but Y2K will be even busier. Foxboro Green Inc. should complete their business in our community by mid-year. The processing of property turnover to Foxboro Green Homeowners' Association will begin and we will be responsible for the maintenance of all aspects of our 102 acre community.
New programs are planned for the future as well as continuing current programs:
Plant-a-Tree Adopt-a-Bed
Feed the Swans Pathway Engineering
Garden Plots Regional Reps
A Tree Farm & Nursery
It's no wonder the Grounds Committee needs more hands-on volunteers. Think it over and consider joining our team to keep Foxboro Green in "tip-top shape".
Have a good winter.
See you in April.
Food for Thought
AQUA WALKINGWEDNESDAYS
1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
As the weather deteriorates
it won't always be possible to walk outside.
We invite you to experience walking
in the swimming pool.
There are several ways to do this.
We break up the boredom by introducing
an assortment of
jogging and walking moves
done to music.
Both men and women
benefit from this type of exercise.
Half an hour of walking in the pool is equal to
one and one half hours of walking on land.
You work at your own speed.
It's your own heart for which you are working.
For more information, call
PAULINE TICKNER
634-5164
Operation Christmas ChildThis operation was started nine years ago in North Wales, England, by people who had a concern for children living in countries ravaged by war, poverty and natural disasters. The concept of "OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD" is very simple. You are asked to take an old shoe box and fill it with small gifts such as toys, school supplies, hard candy and gum, personal needs (tooth brush, tooth paste, soap, combs, etc.), socks, hair clips for girls, T shirts, flash lights. This is so much more rewarding than sending a cheque, which will be reduced by 50% in administrative costs before ever benefiting a needy child.
A shoe box gift costs so little in time and money but sends a very personal message to those children who never see the kinds of things that we take for granted.
This year, the boxes in our area will be going to children living to the south of us, in warm climates, therefore, mitts and toques, etc. would not be appropriate. For your further information, there are brochures on OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD, in the mail room.
Maureen Wills (634-9865) and Willie Lootens (634-9784) are the organizers for this project. Boxes should be dropped off at their homes before the end of November. Maureen and Willie will see that they are forwarded to the central warehouse in Canada. From there they are flown to their ultimate destination for distribution before Christmas.
Thank you in advance for your participation.
Keeping In TouchWelcome cards and Recreation Centre information were given to our new residents Arthur & Joan Willan, William & Elaine Simpson, Michael & Pat Courtney, Robert & Lillian Good, Dick & Adelaide Riordan, Stan & Marg Harris, Don & Gail Ruppe, Paul & Elizabeth Jesson.
Flowers and a card were given to Bill Winterbottom following his hospitalization and a card to Pam Linnemann following her hospital visit.
In memory of Marg Magnun, a donation was made to the Cancer Society. A large thank you to the many residents who assisted in the memorial reception for Marg in the Recreation Centre.
A card and flowers were given to Helga Stamm on the loss of her mother.
A sympathy card was given to George Usaty on the loss of his only sister.
A reminder to all: remember to keep us your care committee coordinators aware of illnesses and bereavements so that we may acknowledge such events on behalf of the community. Marg Macdonald & Eileen Fairweather thank you for your help.
Social CommitteeIt is with regret that we have to accept the resignation of Joan Roberts as president of the Social Committee. Joan has served this committee well, for over two years and feels it is time for someone else to "take up" the reins.
The Social Committee is made up of a team of coordinators who look after all our Social Activities, Care Committees, Recreation Centre Liaison, Treasurer and Fox Talk publication.
The job of the president, therefore, is one of delegation; coordinating different groups and presiding over a monthly meeting. Joan did this well and would be very happy to meet with anyone who would like to accept this position, thereby enabling that person to fully understand how the committee functions.
PLEASE CONSIDER FILLING THIS VACANCY.
We need someone to take over before the end of November. Calls should be directed to Joan at 634-5226.
On behalf of the community, THANK YOU JOAN, it was a pleasure to serve on the committee with you.
New Hamburg Food BankTo all of our residents who generously donated to the Harvest Food drive, many thanks.
Betty Spencer
Craft CornerDate: Wed. November 24th
Time: 1:00 p.m.
This month we will be making Christmas ornaments out of mini clay pots. Easy to do, come and "join in". Please see sample in the Craft Room.
There will be no Craft Session the last Wednesday in December.
There will be a Ladies Social afternoon of fun and a "Cookie Exchange" on December 7th at 1:30 p.m.
Volunteers Needed!
Looking for someone to do a craft session in January and
one in February. Share an idea with the group, it would be greatly appreciated. If there are no volunteers obviously
there would be no Craft Sessions for two months.
Please call Rosanna at 634-9780 if you can help us out.
Hats Off to the Men of Foxboro GreenTo those who served a scrumptious Pancake Breakfast to 120 residents and guests. If these guys are as good at home as they are in the Rec. Centre kitchen, then the Foxboro ladies are really spoiled!
Profit from the event was used to purchase a griddle and other items for the Centre. Approximately $100.00 was turned over to the Social Committee for community use.
The next Pancake Breakfast will be in May when the Snowbirds return. Rumour has it that one of the changes for next year is the addition of Canadian Maple Syrup. Watch these pages for further details.
Meanwhile, thanks to all who participated.
Ron Wilkinson and Al Keith
Editors' Note:
To Ron and Al, our thanks for spearheading such a great event. Keep up the terrific work.
Community Calendar
SwimmingAnother Aquafit Session on Fridays: With Wednesday afternoon pool cleaning, time is now available on Friday for another session of aquafit. Men and women are welcome. Time: 9:30 to 10:30. Everyone has to be out of the pool areas by 10:45. Thank you Jack Davis for adapting your schedule to provide this extra time.
To say that aquafitness is popular is an understatement. Gord and Janet Gardner have 13 to 15 at every session and the later sessions have equal numbers. Tuesday and Thursday's Water Aerobics averages 11 at each session. I believe that there are easily 100 residents involved in the various swim programs and we welcome newcomers anytime! Join the fun and get fit!
Ladies Social - Cookie ExchangeThis will be taking place on December 7th . The idea is that you bring two, three or four dozen home-made cookies, then exchange them for an equal quantity.
You are asked to bring four extra so that the party can begin.
Special Events
On October 15th, 50 residents whooped it up at Oktoberfest. The Transylvania Club had fabulous music, German and Canadian bands, pigs feet with sauerkraut and to drink, the best you know what (Beer!). After singing and dancing half the night everyone was delighted to have a pancake breakfast served to them the morning after! Thank you to Blanche Douey who organized Oktoberfest.
Race night!Believe it! Christmas is coming. Your Special Events Committee has exciting plans.
Partylites
Sunday November 6 at 2 p.m. Susan McLeod (Bill and Elsie Hall's daughter) will be introducing us to Partylites latest products, candles, candle holders, wall mounts etc. This will be your golden opportunity to pick up that special gift for Christmas. This is also a great opportunity to meet new residents and catch up with friends you haven't seen for days! See you there.
Make-up DemoWednesday November 24th at 2 pm, Jennifer Zehr, cosmetologist at Westmount Pharmacy and nominated as woman of the year, joins us to demonstrate make-up techniques. She will not sell anything and will help anyone to deal creatively with any damage resulting from medical treatments or injury. This is her specialty. There are only 20 spots available. This activity is better if the group is small so there will be a sign-up. There will be a reserve list so that if there is enough interest we will invite her back (as many times as needed).
Christmas DecorationsSunday December 5 at 2 p.m. all residents are invited to decorate the community. This is always a very special event as we gather together and all together transform Foxboro into a forest of bows, and lights 'til there are sparkles everywhere. Doreen & Dick Dean, Rita & Don Hill are our leaders. After all this creativity we celebrate with cider, cheeses and other gourmet surprises! Helen Lumby & Ken Smith rally the gang into the exercise of voices in Christmas song. Don't miss this!
Put a decoration on the tree.
As a part of our Christmas celebrations we will be collecting gifts for Wilmot Family Services under the Christmas tree. Look for more information on gifts needed on the bulletin board in December.
Christmas DinnersThree Christmas dinners will be held this year so that all residents can attend. We hope to keep nightly attendance close to 70 rather than 80 plus. The salon acoustics inhibit conversation when we exceed 80. Angies will again cater these dinners.
Dates: Thursday December 9, Friday December 10, Saturday December 11. Please plan now with your friends the night most convenient to you. Another objective should be to meet some new residents at this celebration.
Menu: New this year - turkey with dressing and all related goodies. we will again have Angie's beef, salad and choice of 2 desserts.
Entertainment: For the first time a minstrel will join us each night and surround us with music!
Cost: $23 per person. As always everyone will bring their own drinks.
This promises to be the best yet so don't miss the fun.
We will post the "sign-up" sheet in the mailroom on Wednesday, November 10th.
Planning for other seasonal events is well underway. Yes, we will gather on New Year's Eve.
See your next Fox Talk for more news.
To Our Dog OwnersSome dog owners seem not to know that this community is supposed to be a "Stoop and Scoop" community.
It has been brought to our attention that there are some owners who ignore the above rule or perhaps they feel that this surely does not apply to them.
Please, for the pleasure of all here at Foxboro Green, keep our pathways and gardens free from unpleasant dog deposits.
We thank you and your dog, in advance, for keeping our village clean.
Care Committee Report
Wellness Day: October 1
Enthusiastic crowds were in attendance throughout "Wellness Day". According to Isobel Smith's count an average of 50 residents were present at each session. The organizing committee Marg Wendland, Hugh Bird and Marg Macdonald worked hard to make the day a success. Members of the Care Committees acted as hosts and guides through the day. Thank you all.
Wellness Highlights
From Margaret Alfieri, dietician, we learned about diet and heart health especially about fats what are the good fats (HDL) and the bad (LDL)! The amount of meat we need every day is an amount the size of a pack of cards! Polyunsaturated fats are heart friendly! Flax seed, freshly ground 2 tbsp./day is good fat and fabulous fibre! Avoid hydrogenated foods. Then she spoke about the prevention of osteoporosis. In fact she pointed out that osteoporosis is completely preventable. Recommendations: always take calcium in conjunction with Vitamin D. Most milks now have Vitamin D added. Trucalcium milk products are excellent as they have increased calcium content. Remember if you don't like plain milk but like chocolate, drink the chocolate because calcium is a vital ingredient in the prevention of osteo and reduction of fractures! Excellent Osteo centres: St Mary's Kitchener and St Joseph's Hospital London. Should you need practical, sensible advice on your dietary habits or in adapting to a dietary restriction Margaret would be happy to help you.
What rich resources we have in the activities and services offered by the 3 senior centres (55+) in Kitchener, from bits and bites the computer club, through discount meals, concerts, dance, woodworking, art classes etc. They also offer special exercise groups, for general fitness and for those with arthritis. The 2 program coordinators eloquently described their services and left behind lots of information and discount cards.
David Kruk and Billy Cheung complemented their presentation on osteoarthritis and osteoporosis with colourful computer generated overheads. They emphasized the fundamental actions necessary to prevent or reduce disability in both these disorders, balanced diet, daily vitamins (Vitamin D and folic acid) and exercise. In osteoarthritis exercise in the area of disease produces pain while in osteoporosis exercise loosens the affected areas nonetheless in both one must exercise. They also brought excellent pamphlets about both diseases and these are available in all their pharmacies.
The VON explained services that they can offer us in Foxboro Green in health education. If enough residents were interested and would pay a small fee, the VON would come in monthly for some hours. This would be to either provide group education or to see residents for individual problems about diet, drugs, would draw blood, check blood pressure, check for diabetes. Residents exhibited enthusiastic interest in Anne Runstedler's information on the value of care to the feet. Shoes were off and feet displayed, shoes critiqued. Those who are interested in having regular foot care onsite please look for a "sign-up" sheet in November.
Also very well attended was the video on prostate provided by Hugh Bird. Husbands and wives watched with rapt attention and many would have liked to ask questions and discuss this further. Perhaps the VON and some of our residents who have experienced prostate disease and treatment could provide an educational session in the new year.
Lori Kraemer from the University of Waterloo demonstrated the fact that exercise is now a science, (what muscle types require what kind of exercise). At their centre at the U of W they can do personal assessments and set up an exercise routine for each individual to ensure overall fitness. Information is available from Marg Wendland.
As the Grand Finale, Jerry Szeps in his usual relaxed style addressed issues related to the eye. He began with an explanation of what an ophthalmologist is (a medical doctor who has specialized in the prevention, treatment and correction of diseases of the eye). Only the ophthalmologist can dilate the eye, which is essential to accurate diagnosis of eye disease. Only the ophthalmologist can diagnose and treat disease or perform surgery to correct abnormalities. The optometrist is able to check visual acuity and determine the amount of correction needed in lenses. Jerry suggests that every person over 60 years of age should have at least one assessment by an ophthalmologist to be certain that no disease is present or beginning. Really we all should see an ophthalmologist regularly. If an optometrist suggests that something may be abnormal get a referral at once to an ophthalmologist. Reduction in vision can occur gradually over time so we must be alert as we get older and take good care of our eyes. A question about macular degeneration from the audience led to the following recommendation. If there is a history of macular degeneration in your family then take Icap or Ocuvites (pills), one a day. Both these drugs are available over the counter and are not expensive. There is substantial evidence that taking a daily dose of one or the other can help prevent or help slow the progression of this serious disorder.
We would like to thank our speakers who gave us a program that was both stimulating and entertaining. We, the Care Committee, have received very positive feedback. We will plan another educational day next fall. In the meantime we will arrange educational programs from time to time based on interest expressed by you, our fellow residents. If you have suggestions please call one of your Care Coordinators or myself.
Cardiopulmonary ResuscitationOn October 18th another 6 Foxboro residents earned their certification in CPR. Congratulations Marg & Doug Wendland, Lucille & Bill Balcomb, Corrie Fournier and Stewart Bowring.
Aimee Surette, our St. John Instructor is looking forward to seeing last years CPR certified residents as they seek to be recertified for the new year. Everyone should renew their certification every year. Look for sign-ups in January. The sessions will be about 4 hours long, on Sunday or Monday depending on your availability and there will be a small cost.
8:30 - 9:30 Aquafit |
9:00 - 10:00 Water Aerobics |
8:30 - 9:30 Aquafit |
9:00 - 10:00 Water Aerobics |
8:30 - 9:30 Aquafit |
9:30 - 10:00 Lap Time |
9:30 - 10:00 Lap Time |
9:30 - 10:30 Aquafit |
10:00 - 11:00 Aquafit |
10:00 - 11:00 Aquatone |
10:00 - 11:00 Aquafit |
10:00 - 11:00 Aquatone |
10:45 - 12:00 Closed for Cleaning |
11:00 - 12:00 Aquatone |
11:00 - 12:00 Aquatone |
1:30 - 2:15 Water Walk |
2:00 - 3:00 Aquafit |
Residents or Residents with Guests