Canal Walk Newsletter August 2013
From the Board of Directors
We hope everyone is having an enjoyable summer. We look forward to seeing you at the pool or at one of the many picnics in the community. MANAGING CANAL WALK In addition to our management team, we also have at our disposal, professionals who we retain to assist with important legal and financial issues. At our open Board Meeting on June 6th, we were asked if we were going to form a committee of homeowners to assist the Board through the transition process. In January, the Board passed resolutions creating both a Finance Committee and a Transition Committee/Team in Executive Session. These decisions were discussed with many clubs and were ratified and explained at our March 7, 2013 Open Board meeting. For those who may have missed one of these meetings, and for those of you who are new to the community: OUR TRANSITION TEAM IS: 1. FWH - Our transition engineering firm provides services for over 40 communities. 2. Ed Wilkin, - is a principal in Wilkin & Guttenplan, one of NJ’s top 20 accounting firms with a specialization in Residential Communities such as Canal Walk. 3. Hubert Cutolo - A managing partner in Cutolo Mandel LLC - a law firm which is prominently recognized for its expertise in community association law. 4. Bonnie Bertan, President, Association Advisors,(AA) 5. Tom Merklinger, Canal Walk, Community Manager,(AA) Association Advisors is a leading management company for Condominium and Community Associations. They provide an experienced managerial and financial staff with a hands-on approach for a community like ours. They also have been Canal Walk’s management company since the outset. As such they provide us much needed historical perspective. 6. Jim Lyttle - Board Member – Former Director, Weichert Relocation Company, Sales/ Marketing/Planning Manager, Exxon-Mobil. 7. Bernie Worst – Board Member – Former Director of Engineering for ADT Security Services, Inc. 8. Nick Iorio - Board Member - Former Environmental and Regulatory Engineer for Exxon-Mobil. 9. Bob Rossomando - Board Member - Currently President and Chairman of Pan Technology Inc., Carlstadt, NJ.
Page 1 During July we should receive preliminary drafts of Stage One Transition and an Updated Reserve Study. We plan to have a status report for the October Board Meeting.
FINANCE COMMITTEE: Our Finance Committee consists of the above individuals, with the exception of FWH and Bonnie Bertan, and with the addition of Richard Hausler, Vice President Wealth Management, UBS Financial Services. QUESTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS We are an involved community and many residents have good suggestions and requests. In order to provide responses in a timely manner, please submit your questions in writing, using the form at the Clubhouse or send an email to the Community Manager. In this way we can track requests so that you can be assured that our management team or a member of the Board is looking into the issue. RULES AND REGULATIONS REMINDER Whenever we receive complaints, it is usually about some violation of our “Rules and Regulations.” Keep in mind that the “Rules and Regulations” are not “Law.” They are guides; they are suggestions for how to live together and be respectful of each other. However, there is a $50 fine, per day, for each serious infraction if the issue is not resolved. ACTIVITY STUDY Work is progressing on this project and the results should be available within a month or so. The Board has met with our consultants and with the leaders of most clubs, committees and activities to keep them up to date. PARKING We have noticed a few people parking in the Clubhouse parking lot for several days without permission. Except for people going on Canal Walk sponsored trips, this is not permitted. This regulation also applies to the second Clubhouse which will be coming on line soon. So please honor this rule. It will be enforced. We also have noticed that there are many cars which do not have Canal Walk stickers. Many of us get new cars and forget to register them. We are creating a new data base for all cars and they should be registered immediately. It will allow us to identify all cars here regularly and will eliminate fines or towing. There is no cost to register at the office. THINGS THAT FLY – RUMORS: THAT IS If you hear rumors or information that is unclear or raises a question in your mind, satisfy your inner desire to know by asking the Community Manager and/or a Board member. That is the only way to get first hand information immediately. Of course, the Newsletter is the next best choice. We will all do our best to answer you promptly. ENERGY $$ SAVINGS PROGRAM We have received a rebate of $12,950 from the NJ Clean Energy Program for installing 370 LED energy efficient lights in the Clubhouse. Since our cost for the bulbs was approximately $16,000, there was a net cost of $3,050. Over a five year period, we anticipate a total saving of $30,000 in electricity and replacement bulb costs.
Page 2 CPR/DEFIBRILLATOR TRAINING We are pleased to announce that representatives of the Millstone Emergency Squad will be conducting classes at Canal Walk on Saturday, September 21st. A maximum of 24 applications will be accepted, and they will be available at the Clubhouse after August 1st. Next open Board meeting is Thursday, October 3rd, at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early in order to sign in. Thank you for being such polite and cooperative neighbors.
Jim Lyttle, Bob Rossomando, Bernie Worst, Nick Iorio
CANAL WALK’S OWN WEBSITE Canal Walk residents can check on what activities are planned and sign up for activities right from their home computer. Just type this address and you will get to our Canal Walk Website: http://www.Canalwalkhoa.com The Website hosts a "Residents’ Bulletin Board." Guidelines for the ads are on the Website and also in the Clubhouse. This Newsletter also appears on the Canal Walk Website with a special thanks to Howard Kliger of the Website Committee.
TO SEE CLUBHOUSE ACTIVITIES ON YOUR TV: NOW ON CHANNEL 8 IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN HD CABLE BOX OR USE CHANNEL 281 IF YOU DO HAVE AN HD CABLE BOX
From the Enclave Board Summer finally came, and we hope you are making use of the new benches, which are nicely set up outside your building, enjoying the sunshine when we get it. Construction on the fifth building directly in front of the Bristal will begin very shortly. Obviously, there will be a lot of heavy equipment coming into that area and using Massachusetts Way and Enclave Circle. We suggest residents in the Astor and the Bristal begin using the parking lot behind the Astor instead of in front or the side of the buildings. In this way, they will avoid possible damage to their parked cars. This could happen should soil or other debris be scattered about by the wind or rain. If you have not yet received a letter concerning your dryer vents, you will be soon. These need to be cleaned every two years because there is a potential fire hazard should one become blocked. We have performed a walk-through for all the condo buildings and made a list of problems, most of which, happily, are cosmetic. They will be addressed in due course by the Property Manager, the Construction Manager or the Customer Service Department.
Page 3 Nice new notices have gone up on the trash rooms, and we hope you will comply diligently with the requirements for trash disposal. This is a way in which we can act as good neighbors and help to keep our buildings in the best possible condition. There has been a slight delay in the final version of the Rules and Regulations for the Enclave, but we hope to have it ready by the time you receive your September Newsletter. We would like to remind you that you should call the Freehold office to request a work order if it’s an issue needing immediate attention. Submit a complaint form and leave it for AG in his box in the Clubhouse if the matter can wait. (Refer to the letter you received a few weeks ago.) This is also the most expedient manner for Enclave residents to receive help in an emergency situation, such as needing an exterminator right away. AG is not always available to us because of his other responsibilities, and we do not want any unnecessary delays. There is no need to contact Bernadette or Brigid about non- emergency issues: that is why we have the Association Advisors in Freehold and a Property Manager. They will advise us of problems with copies of the work order status report, and we can then monitor the action being taken. Enjoy our lovely outdoor pool, TGIFs and the rest of the summer! Bernadette Lombardo and Brigid Brown
Covenants Committee During this past holiday season some issues came up regarding acceptable decorations for the community. In an effort to clarify the situation, an addendum to Part VIII, D of the Rules and Regulations have been prepared and approved by the Board. Again, these changes are designed to more specifically spell out what is acceptable in the community for holiday decorations. These changes go into effect immediately. Dave Lyttle
Part VIII D. Location of Decorations 1. The location of decorations and lights shall be limited to the following areas: a. Builder’s mulch bed area located in the front of the house adjacent to the foundation. b. Mulch beds that go around to the side entrance of a house. c. Front doors, windows and porches. d. Garage doors and the area around them, including the peak over the garage. e. Mulch beds adjacent to the foundation in side yards and back yards that face a street or unoccupied open area.
2. Decorations and lights are NOT permitted in the following areas:
Page 4 a. On trees/shrubs in lawn areas and in the mulch beds around them including those installed by the builder. b. In mulch beds extending down the sides of driveways. c. On lawns, driveways, roof tops, roof edges (other than exception stated in D.1 above) and Common Property. d. Any other area not specifically mentioned in paragraph D.1.d
3. One deviation from the size of decorations for the holiday period only. Decorations are allowed up to 24” x 24” x 24”. E. Violators will be subject to a $50 fine per day if they do not comply within 10 days of receiving a violation letter.
Canal Walk Reservation Policy Sign-ups are required for most events at Canal Walk (unless otherwise stated). Each community sponsored event requires sign-ups and prepayment with check payable to C.W.H.O.A.A.F. Residents at Canal Walk will have first opportunity to reserve a space for an event. Events will be open to guests providing that the event has not been sold out. Notice will be given when the event is open to guests. As always, each event is first come, first served.
Canal Walk Refund Policy
Refunds will ONLY be given under the following circumstances: The resident is hospitalized. There is a death in the immediate family. Canal Walk Activities Director finds it possible to resell the ticket or bus seat. The event is cancelled by Canal Walk.
ACTIVITIES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
TRIPS August 20th - Matilda, Kinky Boots (Sold Out) Two Buses 7:00 pm show August 22nd - Yankees vs. Toronto (Refreshments Included) August 27th - Motown the Musical August 29th - Pippin October 12th - Joan Rivers with special guest Steve Tyrell October 30th - Josh Groban Prudential Center November: Disney Ice Show and possibly Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Paper Mill Playhouse Honeymoon in Vegas with Tony Danza, Oliver, South Pacific, Grease.
Page 5 Please check flyers for details. I am waiting for Paper Mill confirmation which comes out in late July. All shows on Thursday or Saturday Matinees; some shows will have two shows due to popular demand. Just a reminder: when signing up, please indicate person you wish to sit with. Submitted By Bill Corson
FRANKLIN SCHOOL NEWS It's been a while since I submitted an update to the community members, but I would just like to give you some highlights: l. This spring, I attended some wonderful plays given by the students in the district. I hope some of you used your senior cards to see them also. 2. In May, the Board President, Vice President and I were driven in my husband's 1986- 600 Dodge convertible during the Memorial Day parade. It was great waving to all the citizens along the route to the Memorial Building. 3. The school board members awarded diplomas to approximately 525 students graduating from Franklin High School on 6/27 at Sun National Bank Center in Trenton. The class of 2013 received approximately 4.3 million dollars in scholarships and scholastic awards. If anyone would like to view a list of the colleges/universities students have been accepted to, just contact me. (Franklin High School also has one student accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.) 4. There has been some good news to report on the referendum which was scheduled for public vote in September. Gov. Christy has released grant funds to school districts for new schools, additions, repairs and renovations. We had submitted our referendum for a vote in September but now we have resubmitted our proposal for a September grant submission. There is a possibility that we could get 40% of our requested budget for additions, repairs and renovations and 20% of our budget to build a new school. The state will review all proposals and notify us of the results in November or December. After notification, we will go out to vote in January or March. We now have a steering committee of volunteers with the motto of "One Less Move." We will, however, need more people to help educate the public on the referendum, pass out flyers, and make phone calls. The motto of "One Less Move" is important for everyone to understand. Presently, students are in one school from K-4th grades, then they are moved to another for 5th and 6th grades, then they move to another school for 7th and 8th grades and finally to the high school for 9th through 12th. Our data shows that with every transfer our students' test scores go down while they adjust to the new school and its surroundings. Also, with the new school and additions, our students will no longer be in portable educational units (trailers). I will continue to provide information as it becomes available. 5. This summer we have teachers distributing books in 4 Franklin parks. This is a reading program to get books into the homes of our students, and keep them reading during the summer months. We could use your help with donations of books from preK-8th grades. Maybe your children or grandchildren have used books they no longer need or want. Give me a call, and I will pick up whatever donations you have even if it's after the summer season. They will be distributed during the year. The School Board continues to hold meetings during the summer. If you have any questions, come out during the public comment portion of the agenda and communicate your concerns. Thank you. Submitted by Betty Whalen 732-560-8387
Page 6 FRANKLIN CULTURAL ARTS CALENDAR Events for August, 2013 Week of the People: “Community in Unity” August 4 - 10, 2013
Sunday August 4th (rain date August 11) Kick-off Community Family Day Out Cookout Time: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM Cost: FREE (serving hot dogs and hamburgers) Location: Naaman Williams Park on Matilda Avenue in Somerset
Wednesday August 7th Interfaith Dialogue - “Movie Night” Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Location: SCAP Belmont Building, 113 Belmont Ave in Somerset
Thursday August 8th Diversity Leadership Breakfast Time: 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM Location: Franklin Township Senior/Community Center, 805 De Mott Lane in Somerset
Saturday August 10 New Dawn Music Festival-Summer Fun Concert Time: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM Location: John’s Plaza, 720 Hamilton St., Somerset
Bring lawn chairs to all out-door events. For more information contact Percy Sanders at 732-247-9733 Facebook: Week of the People Somerset Submitted by Donna Scher for the Council
BOWLING I hope everyone is enjoying the summer. In the blink of an eye, September will be upon us and our 2013/2014 season will be underway. We will be starting this season on September 9th, at Strike 'N Spare Lanes in Green Brook, at 10:00 sharp. The only change this year will be the cost of bowling. It has gone from $7.50 to $7.75 in total for the three games. I will be trying to contact everyone before the season starts to see if everyone who regularly bowls with us on Mondays will continue to do so. As of this writing, I do not have any space for additional bowlers. If there is a change in the membership numbers, I will put that information into the next Newsletter to inform the community of any openings that might be available.
Page 7 Looking forward to seeing everyone in September. Enjoy the rest of the summer. Joanne Perzi
QUILTERS CLUB The Quilters are having ONE meeting in August on Monday the 12th at 1:00 in the Café. July saw interest in color selection and appliqué, so look for meetings focused on those topics in the fall. Meanwhile, go through your stash and select some fabrics to bring as we try out a variety of palettes. We will go back to two meetings in September. All levels of quilters are welcome. Happy Stitching. Sue Watt
CANAL WALK WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY So many of us feel we are quite familiar with the Bible stories, such as Samson and Delilah, or David and Goliath. But as we watch the History Channel’s series “The Bible” each week, and then search out the accuracies and intricacies from “The Holy Bible,” we realize there are so many more things to learn from these stories. We are continuing on this journey for the next several weeks. Each Tuesday at 4:00, you are welcome to join us in the Club Room as we watch the movie for approximately 20 minutes, and then discuss what we’ve seen, comparing it all to the truth of God’s Word. We may come from different backgrounds and different religions, but we are blessed as we meet each week and study this very special book. Feel free to pop in! For more information, please contact Gail Tornquist, g.tornquist@comcast.net or 732-560-7246; or Vickie Raspa at [email protected] or 732-302-2521. Gail Tornquist
TRAVEL CLUB TRIP TRIP TO VERMONT AND NEW HAMPSHIRE It was raining when 52 people left Monday, June 3, for a four day tour of Vermont and New Hampshire, but the skies cleared by the time we reached Albany, New York, and it was blue skies after that - and Green and White mountains! Roz and Mark Strauss, and Gloria and Chet Trechock, organized the trip with White Stars Tours with the very professional and informative driver, Alan. We stopped at Grandma’s in Albany for a home-style lunch, and then drove on to the Mendon Lodge in Killington, Vermont. The Lodge’s deck looked out on the Green Mountains, and we enjoyed drinks and a welcome reception in the warm sun there. We dined at the Swiss Farm Inn where Roger, the owner, hosted our lively group and told us about life in Vermont. Breakfast the next morning featured a full hot buffet and a sunny view of the mountains. We met our local guide, a Vermont native by the name of PJ, and set out for Plymouth Notch, the birthplace of Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President, and also the place where he was sworn in as President on August 3, 1923 - by his own father.
Page 8 This state historic site has a new visitor’s center where we heard how Vice President Coolidge took the Oath of Office in the sitting room of his father’s modest house after learning that President Warren G. Harding had suddenly died. The house, the church, a cheese factory and other buildings are remarkably unchanged nearly a century later. It was like stepping back in timed to see the idyllic hamlet where Coolidge grew up. For lunch, we drove to the town of Woodstock, famous for its pretty village green and covered bridge. Vermont still boasts 106 covered bridges, and we got to view and photograph a number of them. Next, we drove up a twisty mountain road to Sugarbush Farm, a family-run operation that makes and sells maple syrup and cheese. We were shown how they gather sap and boil up the syrup and were taught how to appreciate the authentic stuff. We also learned about the cheese making operation. Many of us bought blocks of cheese to take home. Then we drove to Quechee Gorge, a great photo stop. The Ottauquechee River bends to reveal a legacy of the Ice Age. That evening, we dined at Charity’s Restaurant, a favorite of skiers in season. When we returned to the Lodge, Adam Rosenberg entertained with silly jokes and fun songs. Wednesday we set off for the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We stopped at the Brick County Store in Bath, NH, where they enticed us with fudge, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, and a life style from long ago. We also enjoyed the local art gallery where artist Craig Pursley told us about his inspiration from the scenery. The covered bridge here was shrouded by a construction crew who was rebuilding it, but the church offered nice photo opportunities. We drove on to Littleton, a charming NH town that places pianos on street corners for passersby to play. Their motto is “Be Glad, Make Music.” Littleton had a mill on the Ammonoosuc River, and some of our group enjoyed lunch on the deck overlooking the rushing waters. Another covered bridge invited more photos. Chutter’s General Store here is home to the longest candy counter in the world! Who could resist the licorice, jelly beans or gum drops? For a thrill ride, we rode New Hampshire’s longest scenic gondola up Loon Mountain for spectacular views from the top. Then we drove to Meredith along Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in the state with a 283-mile shoreline. We took a train ride around the lake, and, while we rode, we ate a full turkey dinner with the turkey carved tableside by the two Theresas. Wednesday evening, we checked into the beautiful Fireside Inn on Lake Winnipesaukee in Gilford, NH, with enough daylight left to enjoy a walk in the gardens. Later, the weather being variable, we gathered around the fireplace in the lobby. After breakfast on Thursday, we boarded our Classic Tour motor coach for the ride home with pleasant memories of scenic New England. Richard & Susan Pohli
Page 9 ACTING UP Acting UP-- where characters are welcome. Canal Walk residents gather in the Craft Room at 7:30, the first Tuesday of each month to read short scripts from plays, radio/TV shows and melodramas. We have a few laughs and contemplate the wonders of the amateur acting and comedy worlds. No previous stage experience is needed to join, just an open mind and a wish to have fun. In fact, most of us have never been on a formal performance stage before joining Acting UP but have overcome great fears to entertain our Canal Walk neighbors. Bruce Davidson
ITCH'N' TO STITCH All stitchers, knitters, crocheters and quilters meet every Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Craft Room. There are no dues -- only a desire to create something out of yarn or fabric. Help available for novices. Call Gloria at 732 537 9160 if you have a question. Gloria Sipos
CANAL WALK TRAVEL CLUB The trip to Vermont and New Hampshire was a great success as evidenced by a great picture montage at our last meeting. Want to hear more about our wonderful trips? We meet the third Tuesday of each month to discuss ideas for upcoming trips. On the horizon now is a trip to the Canadian Rockies in August. Twelve members will be escorted by Collette Tours for this 8 day trip to the Rockies and Glacier National Park. Also, on the Eastern side of Canada is a 6 days, five nights trip (September 21 - 26, 2013) to the Island of Coudres, Quebec and Ste. Anne de Beaupre. The cost for this trip is $679, which includes transportation, 11 meals and hotels. In November we have scheduled a long weekend at Woodloch Pines. This is a favorite destination for our travelers, and a $50 deposit will hold your room. Dues are $5 for the year. For more information about this and other trips, call Roz at 732 563 0201. Gloria Sipos
Canal Walkers in China: Leonor and Harry Zapolsky.
Page 10 Potala Palace, residence of the Dalai Lama, Lhasa, Tibet
Panda breeding center, Chongqing
CLUBHOUSE ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE The Committee has planned two final T.G.I.F. gatherings: August 9th and August 23rd. Returning for a second performance this summer will be music and song by "The Hip Replacements," on August 9th. These events are open to Canal Walk residents only. There is no preregistration required. But, to participate, bring a dinner entrée to serve 6-8 people, to share. NO DESSERTS or SALADS please. The committee will supply desserts and salads. Wrist bands will be distributed at entry and are to be worn to ensure participation. Flyers are now available in the Clubhouse and outline the changes to the "rules" of participation. September 20th - Experience Enchantment and Wonder, Magic & Mentalism with Kirsch the Mentalist. This is a return engagement based on rave reviews. Kirsch combines eye-popping magic, mind-blowing mentalism and surreal comedy to create a theatrical performance. Come open your mind and allow it to be read. Kirsch has been an entertainer of the stars: Oprah Winfrey, Howard Stern, Derek Jeter, Donald Trump and more. October 18th will bring The Kootz band back to Canal Walk. It's the "Rock n' Roll with Fiber" world of this group of Jersey-guys and the musical friends who just can't seem to retire their guitars. The band has a collective passion for classic rock, soul and blues. The Kootz performed at Canal Walk two years ago to a sell-out crowd. Don't miss this rock'n good time. Elaine Whelan
HADASSAH Here we are in the middle of a very hot summer, enjoying the swimming pool, the beach or our air-conditioned homes, and waiting for the relief of autumn. Canal Walk Hadassah Chapter, though, is still busy planning activities which will further our social and fund-raising goals. In July, our national organization initiated a Heart Health Program which will offer guides to educate our membership on cardiovascular health through the Hadassah Hospital Heart Institute. We try to stay up-to-date on every issue of interest to wellness efforts. We look forward to our annual Luncheon/Card Party to take place on Tuesday, August 13, at 12:00 noon. The community is invited to join with friends and neighbors for a delicious catered lunch, followed by an afternoon of games, refreshments and door prizes. Flyers are in the Clubhouse, or
Page 11 contact Beverly Robinovitz at 732-271-4345 for reservations. And remember, our Outreach Program will be collecting school supplies for our Elizabeth Avenue Pre-K to Fourth Grade students. A theatre party is planned for Tuesday evening, September 24, at 8:00 PM at the George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, Tickets are $29.50 through Sue Nacson at 732-564-1296. This NJ centered musical comedy celebration tells the story of a garage-band getting back together for an epic battle of the bands. We look forward to a beautiful fall trip to Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate in Tarrytown, NY on Wednesday, October 16. This Hudson Valley landmark will feature the architecture, gardens, art, history and spectacular scenery of this home to four generations of the Rockefeller family. Flyers are available for sign-ups. Save the date for an author brunch on Sunday, November 17, 11:00 AM at the Regency Heritage Home, 300 DeMott Lane, Somerset. The $15 per person cost covers a delicious brunch with Aili McConnon, a journalist who has written for Business Week, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and the Guardian. She has appeared on ABC, MSNBC, and CNN. She tells the story of Gino Bartali, the cyclist who made the greatest comeback in Tour de France history and secretly aided the Italian resistance during World War II. Her book "Road to Valor" is an epic tale of courage, resilience and redemption. All Canal Walk residents are welcome to attend. Our next meeting is on September 10 at 7:30 PM. Kathy Kleeman, from the Eagleton Institute, will speak on the topic of "Women and Politics." Prospective members are welcome to attend. Our Membership Vice-presidents are Bonnie Shrager and Pam Green, both of whom will be glad to answer your questions. Edna Stone and Anne Roman, Communication Vice-Presidents
TALK OF THE WALK MERRY RESNICK of Hardenbergh Street is proud of her granddaughter, JULIANA RODRIGUIES. She was selected to represent her high school at an International Conference on Peace, sponsored by the Rhodes Foundation. This will take place in Colorado. ROSEMARY STEVENSON of Farrington Plaza would like to extend sincere and heartfelt gratitude to friends and neighbors for expressing sympathy and condolences on the loss of her husband, ROBERT "BOB" STEVENSON. The cards, donations and warm sentiments were very comforting at this sad and difficult time. Many thanks to all of you. FRAN WEIGMANN of Hardenbergh Street will surely be missed by her friends and neighbors. She will be remembered for her kindness, thoughtfulness, and benevolence. She leaves behind
Page 12 her four children, her grandchildren and her great grandchildren. Fran was a wonderful person with an uplifting character. Her friends and neighbors regret her passing. Our dear friend and neighbor, FRED HELLER of Jacob Road, passed away on June 27. Fred was a truly gentle man, who will always be remembered for his wonderful smile and great sense of humor. Fred was a member of the Canal Walk Veteran's Club and the Men's Club. It is with great sadness that the friends and neighbors of MEL SILVERSTEIN of Hardenbergh Street send their condolences to EVELYN and family. Mel was loved and respected by all who knew him. He will be missed by all of us at Canal Walk.
Cultural Arts It's summer time, but the work goes on. Looking for good performers for next year is a study in frustration. We always try to reach for the stars but very soon have to come back to earth. Our 300 seats can't pay the fees of many good entertainers unless we raise our ticket prices, which we are reluctant to do. And some of the ones we have asked to appear here have gotten such rave notices that they now appear in large venues around the country. A case in point is a singer we discovered a few years ago. We saw her in several places and spoke to her and her agent several times in person. He never would agree on a date. Well, she now is appearing all over the USA with symphony orchestras and personalities like Michael Feinstein and the famous Steely Dan ensemble. She is a jazz, blues, gospel singer like Sarah Vaughn when she was young. Nevertheless, we keep trying to get the best for you to enjoy even if we have to stretch our budget! The singers we bring here range from opera to swing and jazz, but they all have different styles. If you are familiar with the music of Peggy Lee, you would see that our last performer sang in the same manner: a quiet style which all cabaret singers do. She is not a knock your socks off vocalist. So, some of you may have been disappointed. But if you keep an open mind to all types of performers, we're certain our concerts will be satisfying. We like to vary what we present. An article in a magazine this week reported that all over the world dance studios are opening to teach the Lindy Hop. Yes, folks, swing is back and bigger than ever. Cultural Arts is right on the money - on September 28th, we will bring you The Midiri Brothers Band: this sextet (and their vocalist) are outstanding swing musicians. Their arrangements of songs you know are in the style of Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw and others of the Swing Age. You will want to get up and dance, but we hope there won't be any room for that. Buy your tickets early. Lucille Taub
Women’s Club
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT As we are now half way through summer, can thoughts be far behind to the coming Club year. Of course, first on the list is our upcoming fund raiser to benefit The Steeplechase Cancer Center at Somerset Medical Center. This will be an Oktoberfest on October 26 with catering by Pheasant's
Page 13 Landing. Flyers are in the Lobby for this exciting evening of fun, music, food and prizes. Tickets are limited to the first 150 people. Other thoughts: By now you should have received a request to be included in our Block Ad Program. This is a donation to the Steeplechase Cancer Center. It can be for any amount, and your name will be included in our Program Book, listed with your neighbors under your street name. Specify how you would like your name to appear (i.e., Mrs. & Mrs. Jones, Jane & John Black, Mary Smith), or you can list it as a memorial (In Loving Memory of Mom.) There are additional forms in the Clubhouse if you have misplaced yours. Simply fill out the form, attach a check payable to the Canal Walk Women's Club, Charity Account and return it to your block captain or the Management Office. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT. If you know of anyone willing to donate a prize for the Oktoberfest (favorite restaurant, beauty salon, etc.), or maybe you know someone, or you yourself would be willing to offer a service (lawyer, accountant), please see Gloria for a letter of introduction. Their name and business will also be included in our Program Book. Our upcoming program in September is by author Gwen Cooper, whose books on cats are amusing and insightful. I have a copy of her book, "Love Saves the Day" if anyone is interested in reading it before the meeting. Also, whoever has the copy of "Homer's Odyssey," please return it to me. Sunday, November 10, will be our annual Vendor's Fair. Please see Ronnie Bayer if interested in renting a table. Saturday, November 30, will be our Annual Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Please consider a position on the Women's Club Board. We will be asking for volunteers to serve on the Board and/or the nominating committee at upcoming meetings. Gloria Sipos, President
MEETINGS AND EVENTS No meeting in August September 18 – Book Reading by Gwen Cooper, New York Times Bestselling Author, who has a cat theme throughout her books. No charge. October 26 – Oktoberfest - Our big fundraiser. This event will be in the evening. Save the date. Flyers are now out in the Lobby of the Clubhouse. November 10 – Vendors Fair November 30 – Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting We are in the process of planning many programs starting in September. The following are being considered: Randy Riggles - nostalgia show, Alisa Duprey, Know Your Town, Raconteur Radio, and Pampered Chef. DUES ARE $10 FOR THE YEAR AND CAN BE PAID AT ANY MEETING OR LEAVE A CHECK IN THE MANAGEMENT OFFICE. NEW MEMBERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOMED. Marie Lyttle
Page 14 Men’s Club
MEETINGS There will be no meeting in August, and we will resume on the second Monday of September. There will be a video presentation for that meeting entitled, “Every Day is a Holiday.” This is a truly inspiring story about what it means to be an American. Sometimes we all forget about how great this country is and the opportunities that are available. This story will renew your faith in the United States of America. Don’t miss the next meeting. Meanwhile, stay cool and enjoy the rest of the summer.
MEMBERSHIP If you’re not yet a member, join the club. Enrollment is open all year round for new members. Call either Bruce Davidson at 732-469-6987 or Charlie Okun at 732-790-5688 for more information. Come join us at our next meeting and see what we’re all about. You can also go to our website at http://canalwalkhoa.com/.
MEN’S CLUB, IACC & VETERANS’ CLUB JOINT DINNER This year’s joint dinner with the IACC will also be with the Veterans’ Club at the Café Graziella (BYOB) on Aug. 14th, 7:00 PM. With a limited capacity of 90, this dinner event will be on a first come- first served basis.
CANAL WALK MEN’S SPORTS With the “Golf Gods” looking over us and controlling the weather, the June outing at Beaver Brook CC was as good as it gets. Eighty-four of Canal Walk’s golfers participated in three flights, with the winners in each flight pictured below. In addition to CW logo golf shirt prizes being awarded to the winners, prizes were also awarded to Len Cohen and Stephen Gottlieb for closest to the pin and Mel Goldstein for straightest drive. Our next scheduled event is September 11th at Royce Brook CC and will be the exact same format as we played at Beaver Brook. Cost is $95. Sign-ups will start August First. A reminder, your input and suggestions for our first annual “Big Balls“ award is encouraged.
Winning team in the "A" flight, L-R, Steve Reichman, Winning team in the "A- Minus" flight,
Page 15 Bob Greenbaum, Ashok Kamerkar, Frank Aiello L-R, Elliott Dorfman, Mel Goldstein, Mike Bober, Ira Herman
Winning team in the ”B” flight, L-R, Al Esporrin, Sal Martino, Bob Melillo, Joe Maiorana
The September outing is scheduled for Wednesday, the 11th, and will again be held at Royce Brook’s West Course with a modified shotgun start at 8:00 AM: “A,” “A Minus” and “B” flights, scramble format followed by hotdogs/burgers lunch. Cost to be $ 95. Signups start now. Checks made out to me and are due by Aug. 5th. Please don’t make me have to chase you. Call if you have any questions. Ron Lerner
Canal Walk Tennis Club
AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM The next AARP Driver Safety session will be on Monday, Sept. 30th and Tuesday, Oct. 1st. This will be the last one for 2013. Refer to the flyers at the Clubhouse for further details or call Bob Cohen at 732-356-1013.
OTHER ON-GOING PROGRAMS Thank you Canal Walk Residents Once again Canal Walk Residents have come to the aid of the Franklin Township Food Bank. In conjunction with the annual Men’s Club picnic, the community has contributed 890 lbs of food and
Page 16 $815.00 to the Food Bank. The Food Bank is truly appreciative of the efforts of such a generous and caring community. Thanks again to all who made this possible. Let’s be reminded that the Franklin Food Bank is always in need of our support year round. Monetary contributions can be mailed to: Franklin Township Food Bank P.O. Box 333 Somerset, NJ 08875-0333
The Good and Welfare Committee sends the collective well wishes of the Men’s Club to members in need. Please let Gil Selvin (732-356-3269) or Sal Saladini (732-271-5110) know about members who are ill, hospitalized or recuperating. GO GREEN Hazardous Waste: The next Hazardous Waste Day will be on Aug. 7th at the Franklin Township Sewerage Authority, located at 70 Commerce Drive, Somerset, NJ. They are open from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Additionally, the county recycling center on 40 Polhemus Lane, Bridgewater is open the first Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. Electronics Recycling: Newtech Recycling located at 600A Apgar Drive, Somerset, NJ 08873 is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. They are open every 1st Saturday of the month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. Call 732-564-3110 for more information. Proper Disposal of Medicine: Unwanted, expired or unused medicines, including prescriptions, over-the-counter and pet medicines (excluding syringes) can be properly disposed off at the Sheriff’s Office. This is located at the lower level of the Somerset County Administration Building on 20 Grove St., Somerville. For more information, call 908-231-7140 ext. 9. The website is www.nj.gov/oag/ca/meddrop. CFL Recycling: We continue to collect compact fluorescent light bulbs for recycling at the Clubhouse Crafts Room. These are then brought to the Home Depot for recycling.
Jay del Prado
Veterans’ Club As we observed our Independence on July 4th, I was mindful of the truism that "freedom isn't free." I thought of all our fallen heroes, and especially those of our Canal Walk veterans. This piece was written for one member but applies to all our departed heroes. Gentlemen, we thank you for your service. Linn H. Smith Cmdr.
We, members of the Canal Walk Veteran’s Club, wish to pay our respects on the passing of Robert Stevenson, our friend, our neighbor and a founding member of our organization. We wish to
Page 17 extend our sincere condolences to Rosemary and family and to offer them our utmost sympathy and our complete support. We are all familiar with Bob’s service record and remember with pride the words read from his daily diary compiled while flying bombing missions over Germany. How, on the first day, they carried 500 lb. bombs and encountered heavy flack over Germany. On his last trip they carried 1000 lb. bombs and met little or no flack. How, after his last trip, he kissed the ground when he landed to show his thanks and eternal gratitude for making it through 60 missions. However, it is we, you and I, who should honor and show our gratitude for Bob’s service; a true hero and a proud member of the “Greatest Generation.” As men like Bob are taken from our midst, we come to realize that the greatest generation is slowly disappearing, and it should not! It is the story of Bob Stevenson and so many others like Bob that must be told, memorialized and passed on to future generations lest we forget their valiant efforts and heroic sacrifices. And so, Bob, as fellow members of the Veteran’s Club, we salute you and wish you God Speed on your new mission. Sal Saladini, Chaplain
Operation Shoebox As we continue to heat up here in New Jersey, I read about the temperatures in Iraq and the plains of Afghanistan. We don't have it so bad! Our troops face temps of 125 degrees or better, and they carry 50-75 pounds of equipment as well. The letters from these young (and not so young) soldiers indicate the pleasure they get from the packages we send, thanks to your donations and supplies. It is nice to see our friends and neighbors don't forget while on vacation---the motel size toiletries fit nicely into our packages. THERE IS A SCHEDULED PACKING ON AUGUST 3rd STARTING AT 11:00 AT T.D.BALL PARK (home of the Somerset Patriots) Please think about joining us. Linn H Smith
Singles Club On June 12, Singles Club members enjoyed some crispy pizza and good company and then settled in to watch the Robert Redford version of The Great Gatsby. A young Robert Redford is certainly easy on the eyes. This was our last meeting until September and it was a great way to welcome summer. Reminder: If you haven’t paid your 2013 dues yet, you can drop your check in the special Singles Box in Tracey’s office (on your left as you walk in her door), or bring your check to our next meeting. Please, no cash, to ensure the validity of our records. Going forward, all checks for our club events (trips, dinners, etc.) should be dropped off in the special Singles Box in Tracey’s office, but you may still bring checks to our meetings for payments. Again, checks only, no cash.
Page 18 Coming Events: For reservations or questions regarding any event or info about our Singles Club, please contact Lonnie Wootton at 732-563-9191 or Nanda Cotturone at 732-302-0156. And look for flyers at our meetings or in the Clubhouse. Meetings are always the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7 PM in the Ballroom. Dinner events begin earlier at 6:30. No meetings in July & August
August 22, 2013 – Bus Trip to Culinary Institute of America This day trip will include a tour of the Culinary Institute of America, lunch at Ristorante Caterina de’ Medici at the Culinary Institute (Italy’s authentic flavors in a Tuscan villa setting.), followed by a stop at Sunnyside, Washington Irving’s Home in Tarrytown, NY. Trip closed: waitlist only. The bus will depart at 7:15 AM, returning at 6:30 PM. For reservations and information, contact Lonnie Wootton (732-563-9191).
September 11, 2013 – Meeting Night with Speaker (TBD) – Nominations for Officers - 7:00 PM. More information to follow.
September 27-29, 2013 – Weekend Trip to Gatsby’s Gold Coast (The Hamptons) Step back into the 1920’s as we visit elegant homes immortalized by F .Scott Fitzgerald in the Great Gatsby. We will visit Old Westbury Gardens, the Phipps Mansion, Vanderbilt’s “Eagles Nest,” Oheka Castle, Old Bethpage Village Restorations and tour summer castles on Long Island’s “Gold Coast.” Trip closed: waitlist only. For those who have signed up and have confirmed reservations, final balance for the trip is due by August 1, 2013. For reservations and information, contact Lonnie Wootton (732- 563-9191) or Seena Allen (732-564-5457).
October 9, 2013 – Welcome Back Dinner Meeting – 6:30 PM (Paid Members Only) More information to follow.
November 13, 2013 –Pot Luck Dinner - Elections – 6:30 PM (Paid Members Only) More information to follow.
December 7, 2013 (Saturday) – Holiday Party 5:00 – 8:30 PM (Paid Members Only) More Information to follow.
Be sure to check future Newsletters for additional trips and events. Submitted by Phyllis Chiavetta
Italian American Club
Page 19 Last month, we had our annual picnic at the Clubhouse. Hot dogs, sausage and peppers, and a good time was had by all. We made a day trip to Hopewell Valley Vineyards where we had a wine tasting and tour. It was an absolutely beautiful location and an enjoyable day. During the month, we also visited the Feast of Saint Ann in Hoboken. It was Italian Night and great food was plentiful. This month, on Saturday, August 3, we have the very exciting show of Joey Armenio and the Family. They are very talented entertainers and put on a wonderful show. Please pick up a flyer at the Clubhouse. This event is open to the entire community so get your tickets soon. In addition, we have the joint dinner with the Men’s Club, and this year we’ve invited the Veterans Club to join us. The date is Wednesday, August 14, 7 p.m. at Café Graziella. Seating is limited to club members only and a total of 90 guests. Flyers will be available at the Clubhouse. Next month, on Saturday, September 7, we have another hit show of “Joey and Mary’s Irish/Italian Comedy Wedding.” See the Clubhouse flyers for details. We will continue our day trips with several in the planning stages. These are open to all Club members on a first come basis because the Jitney can carry only 20. We’re also planning to have another BOCCE TOURNAMENT sometime in September. This year the IACC awarded $4500 in scholarships to students from Manville and Hillsborough High Schools. There are no regular meetings in August or September. Ciao, Mike Palmieri Joy Pellegrino and Janice Herterich, representing the Italian American Club of Canal Walk, presented a $2,000 scholarship to Michelle Ciccotelli, and a $500 scholarship to Angelica Rubino at the Hillsborough High School Senior Awards night on June 6, 2013.
From left to right: Joy Pellegrino, Michelle Ciccotelli, Angelica Rubino, and Janice Herterich. Newsletter Committee
The deadline for all material is the 8th of the previous month. Please submit your articles on time. All submissions must be emailed with the author clearly stated. The deadline for the September Newsletter will be August 8th. LATE ARTICLES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please send us articles about past events as well as future plans for your group or club. In addition, send photos to go with your articles. Items for Talk of the Walk, theatrical reviews, restaurant reviews and Health Hints should be sent to Ellen Catalina at [email protected], Recipes and What's Happening sent to Ronnie Bayer at [email protected]; and Home Hints and photos sent to Sid Toby at [email protected]; Club
Page 20 Activities and Announcements and Poetry sent to Susan Smith at [email protected]; Meet Your Neighbor sent to Abe Kleinberg at [email protected]; articles about pets and questions for Design Solution to Judy Gottlieb at [email protected]; Calendar Coordinator is Sam Abraham at [email protected]. All articles received by any member of the committee are acknowledged either by email or phone. Please note: If you didn't get a confirmation, it means that we didn't get it. Carry-overs may not be included. You should submit a new article each month. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject submitted material. Do NOT submit serious looking material from the Internet unless it has first been checked as authentic with Snopes.com or a similar web-checking site. Ronnie, Sid, Susan, Abe, Ellen, Judy, Sam
"GOD BLESS AMERICA" Do you remember Kate Smith? Frank Sinatra considered Kate Smith the best singer of her time, and said that when he and a million others first heard her sing "GOD BLESS AMERICA" on the radio, they all pretended to have dust in their eyes as they wiped away a tear or two. The link at the bottom will take you to a video showing the very first public singing of "GOD BLESS AMERICA." But before you watch it, you should also know the story behind the first public showing of the song. The time was 1938. America was still in a terrible economic depression. Hitler was taking over Europe, and Americans were afraid we'd have to go to war. It was a time of hardship and worry for most Americans. This was the era just before TV, when radio shows were HUGE. American families sat around their radios in the evenings, listening to their favorite entertainers, and no entertainer of that era, was bigger than Kate Smith. Kate was also large; plus size, as we now say, and the popular phrase still used today is in deference to her, "It ain't over till the fat lady sings." Kate Smith might not have made it big in the age of TV, but with her voice coming over the radio, she was the biggest star of her time. Kate was also patriotic. It hurt her to see Americans so depressed and afraid of what the next day would bring. She had hope for America, and faith in her fellow Americans. She wanted to do something to cheer them up, so she went to the famous American song-writer, Irving Berlin (who also wrote "White Christmas") and asked him to write a song that would make Americans feel good again about their country. When she described what she was looking for, he said he had just the song for her. He went to his files and found a song that he had written, but never published, 22 years before - way back in 1917. He gave it to her, and she worked on it with her studio orchestra. She and Irving Berlin were not sure how the song would be received by the public, but both agreed they would not take any profits from "GOD BLESS AMERICA." Any profits would go to the Boy Scouts of America. Kate Smith introduced "GOD BLESS AMERICA" on her radio show on Armistice Day on November 11, 1938. Over the years, the Boy Scouts have received millions of dollars in royalties from this song. The video indicated below begins with Kate Smith coming into the radio studio with the orchestra and an audience. She introduces the new song for the very first time, and starts singing. After the first couple of verses, with her voice in the background still singing, scenes are shown from the 1940 movie, "You're In The Army Now." At the 4:20 mark of the video you see a young actor in the movie, sitting in an office, reading a paper; it's Ronald Reagan.
Page 21 To this day, "GOD BLESS AMERICA" stirs our patriotic feelings and pride in our country. Back in 1940, when Kate Smith went looking for a song to raise the spirits of her fellow Americans, I doubt whether she realized just how successful the results would be for her fellow Americans during those years of hardship and worry.....and for many generations of Americans to follow. Now that you know the story of the song, I hope you will take the time enjoy it and treasure it even more. GOD BLESS AMERICA! http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?feature=player_embedded&v=TnQDW-NMaRs#! Submitted by Ronnie Bayer
Meet Your Neighbor Say “Hello” to GARY and KATHY CHANOWICH Gary was raised in Monmouth Count and Kathy in Mercer County. They first met in Washington, DC, while earning their graduate degrees. After they married, they spent most of their lives in Roxbury in Morris County where Kathy taught French and Spanish. Gary worked in the Solid Waste Management Industry. He felt that it was an occupation that made his days interesting. He had the knowledge of all aspects of trash: how it was collected; where it goes to be treated or dumped; and all other aspects of trash collection. He had a broad spectrum of customers. Some mornings he might be talking to the owner of a gas station and that afternoon, he might be speaking to an executive from a firm like Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. It was interesting to Gary to hear people’s reactions when they heard the word “garbage” used in a conversation about Waste Management. Gary was successful in selling Waste Management services. He retired as a sales manager. Kathy took early retirement, and they decided that their desire was to live in a tropical area. Six years ago, they moved to Costa Rica which met their expectations. They lived in San Jose where the temperature was about 80 degrees year round. It went down to 60 at night so they rarely used their air conditioner. The area they lived in attracted people from different countries. Kathy’s knowledge of French and Spanish helped her speak to people who spoke those languages and make new friends for them. During their stay in Costa Rica, they traveled through Central and South America. They went to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, an island off the coast of Columbia, Peru, Panama, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. They cruised to Greece and visited Vienna. They like to travel and hope to continue travelling to many other places in the world. Conditions in Costa Rica are changing, mostly security and some other problems. They decided to move back to NJ to be closer to their son Eric, his wife, Jennifer, and their grandchildren. Kate is 3 years old, and Madeline is 3 months old. They live in Randolph, NJ, about 45 minutes from Canal Walk. They chose Canal Walk because it has indoor and outdoor pools, and Kathy is used to swimming daily, year round.
Page 22 They have met many nice people at the pool. Right now, they are living out of cartons and waiting for their furniture to arrive. Gary likes to walk, and he has another member of their family with him. So, when you say “Hello” to Gary, also say “Hello” to Christopher, the family’s Wheaten Terrier. He is getting used to walking on a leash. In Costa Rica, he had a large yard to run around in. He is well behaved, and after the excitement of seeing new people, he becomes relaxed. In retrospect, Gary feels that married people should live in a new environment to enrich their lives and learn about another culture. Abe Kleinberg
Shown below are Joe and Bernadette Lombardo whose photo was inadvertently left out of the Meet Your Neighbor article last month. Please accept our apology.
Historical Trivia Early politicians required feedback from the public to determine what the people considered important. Since there were no telephones, TV's or radios, the politicians sent their assistants to local taverns, pubs, and bars. They were told to 'go sip some Ale and listen to people's conversations and political concerns. Many assistants were dispatched at different times. 'You go sip here' and 'You go sip there.' The two words 'go sip' were eventually combined when referring to the local opinion and, thus we have the term 'gossip.' In the late 1700's, many houses consisted of a large room with only one chair. Commonly, a long wide board folded down from the wall, and was used for dining. The 'head of the household' always
Page 23 sat in the chair while everyone else ate sitting on the floor. Occasionally a guest, who was usually a man, would be invited to sit in this chair during a meal. To sit in the chair meant you were important and in charge. They called the one sitting in the chair the 'chair man.' Today in business, we use the expression or title 'Chairman' or 'Chairman of the Board.' …taken from the Internet
The Animal Corner REMEMBER SUPER STORM SANDY? We’re coming up pretty fast to hurricane season, and while we may not have another storm like Sandy, it’s a good idea to be prepared and safeguard our four-legged family members from storms, blackouts, fire or anything that makes you flee your home. First, be sure Fluffy and Fido have some ID, whether it’s an implanted microchip, tattoo, or waterproof pouch with contact info attached to his collar. Next, figure out who can take your pet in an emergency. Find out if your vet has boarding recommendations or if a nearby animal care center provides emergency shelter. Then prepare a pet emergency kit with two weeks of pet food and water, dog wee- wee pads, and cat litter/scoop. Add all pet meds (recording the dose and frequency for each drug), along with a pet first-aid kit. Add a vet/friends/family contact list. Pack a leash, collar, harness, toys, treats and blanket, along with a dog muzzle (to prevent Fido from biting strangers who handle him). Have a collapsible cage with bedding that is labeled with identification info, proof of ownership, and pet description. Take a pix of your pet and include it in the kit. Yes, it’s a lot of stuff but if you store everything in a carton in the garage, it’s ready on a moment’s notice. I have my cat emergency kit in the cat carrier, and I’ve set a reminder on my calendar to change the food, water and treats every few months. It’s one less thing to think about when moments count. Compiled from WebMD.com. THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER: On those steamy and humid days when Fido and Fluffy are struggling with the heat, here are a few cool and comfortable alternatives until fall weather kicks in. Frosty Bowlz ($32 at frostybowlz.com) has a non-toxic frozen center core to keep pets’ water cold all day (cheap alternative: place lots of ice cubes in the water bowl every morning). How about a reusable, hand-washable cooling neck bandana that is filled with non-toxic polymer crystals that
Page 24 provide hour of cooling relief ($5 at drforstersmith.com). Don’t forget Fluffy for a frozen kitty treat of Whiska’s Cat Milk ice cubes ($1 at most supermarkets). Just fill and freeze an ice cube tray with the treat and plop one in a dish for all day enjoyment. Compiled from NJ.com/Inside-Jersey. ONE SCOOP OR TWO? We all accumulate lots of stuff for our pets and it’s lovely to be able to share something with another Canal Walk resident. Bea Cohen at Yates Avenue has two extra, almost brand new, litter boxes for adoption. She can be contacted at (732) 356-1885. DON’T YOU LOVE FREE? How about the 95th Annual Mercer County 4-H Fair on August 3rd and 4th at the Howell Living History Farm? There’s free admission and parking (suggested donation of a canned good in support of Rutgers Against Hunger). The Fair includes 4-H animal shows and exhibits; food and homemade ice cream; hay rides; pony rides; music; farm tours and demonstrations; milking demonstrations; spinning, felting, and fiber demonstrations; egg grading demonstrations; children’s crafts and activities; and displays by the Master Gardeners of Mercer County and the Mercer County Equestrian Center. For additional information and directions in nearby Lambertville, click on http://mercer.njaes.ru 3tgers.edu/4h/fair/index.html. The Plainsboro Preserve in Cranbury is having an Observe And Catalog Butterflies Event on August 3rd. Click on www.community.njaudubon.org for more information. Back to Cranbury on August 10th for the 10th Annual Because Your Dog Is Worth It Too event at the L'Oreal facility. Dogs and their owners can participate in costume contests and racing events, while enjoying activities, demonstrations, vendors and food. Click on www.yourdogisworthittoo.com. Can’t get enough butterfly watching? How about the 12th Annual Butterfly Festival in nearby Pennington, also on August 10th. There’ll be nature hikes, guided tours of the butterfly house, live entertainment, food, kid’s activities and demonstrations. Click on www.thewatershed.org for more info. YOU GUYS ROCK! Canal Walk residents are donating more and more to The Franklin Township Animal Shelter, located at the Municipal Complex on Demott Lane, (732-873-2500, ext. 6255). Dry dog/puppy/cat/kitten food and toys, clean/worn towels/blankets/sheets, paper towels/sponges, flea medications, Q-Tips, catnip and bleach are just a few of the items getting to the homeless animals. Want to rock too? You can visit the shelter from: Monday – Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. and Thursday 7:30 -9:30 p.m. If you cannot get to the Shelter, please contact me (Judy Gottlieb) for pickup/drop-off of your donated items at (732) 356-0023 or at [email protected]. Please add your name and address to the package for a tax contribution response letter. The Shelter appreciates the generosity of Canal Walk residents. Thank you for sharing and caring. Judy Gottlieb
Staying Healthy Brain Fitness: 6 Steps to A Stronger Memory
Approximately 5.4 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's disease and researchers say the number will nearly triple by 2050. A depressing thought to be sure but what, if anything, can we do to possibly prevent or delay such an event? Well, according to The Neurology Institute for Brain Health and Fitness which is located near Baltimore, MD, there may be some steps we can take. The Institute is run by Majid Fotuhi, M.D., Ph.D., a neurologist who is pushing his colleagues to change the way we think about thinking. They have begun to home in on how peoples' lifestyles and daily routines affect
Page 25 their minds. The research represents a radically different approach to the study of the brain. Fotuhi and his team work with therapists, a physiologist and a technician to treat a wide range of people from college students with concussions to people in the late stages of cognitive decline. The following 6 steps are generally what they recommend for a stronger memory. 1) Learn something, preferably something new. Try to do crossword puzzles or learn some new vocabulary. Learn a new language or take up a musical instrument you have never played before. 2) Sleep. Getting fewer than 6 hours sleep at night can raise the risk of stroke and affect your memory. 3) Eat Right. More than half your plate should be filled with green leafy vegetables. Eat plenty of fish, nuts and olive oil. This kind of diet may help ward off Alzheimer's. 4) Challenge yourself. The number one memory complaint people have is that they can't remember names. Memorize three names a day- such as those of an announcer on TV, a person you work with and a key player on your favorite sports team. This is Dr. Fotuhi's prescription. Train yourself to memorize people, places or things you tend to forget. 5) Walk with a friend. It gives you a cardiovascular workout as well as stress - relieving social interaction and mentally stimulating conversation. This is a triple threat against Alzheimer's disease. 6) Meditate. This reduces anxiety, improves blood flow to the brain. A quick calm- me-down: inhale for a count of seven, hold for a count of seven, exhale for a count of seven. Repeat seven times daily. submitted by Ellen Catalina
Home Hints #110
More on Peachtree windows As mentioned last month, I had a problem with one of our Peachtree kitchen casement windows: the crank handle would not open or close the window. Tightening the screw in the handle didn’t help. Peachtree Windows went out of business in 2008, but their website gave the names of firms who still sell replacement parts. None of the firms is nearby, but I phoned Shamrock Windows & Doors in Parlin (732 546-4914) and explained the problem. I spoke to someone who said that the gear mechanism had almost certainly worn out and a new one would have to be ordered. They could order the part and installing it required removing part of the window frame. At that point, I decided that it was not a job for me and told them to go ahead. About ten days later the part came in, and two repairmen from Shamrock arrived to make the repair. It did not take long; the bill was $75 for the gear mechanism plus $80 for the service call. The window now works fine, and I was told to always turn the crank handle gently when opening or closing to avoid unnecessary wear on the gear mechanism. I bring this to your attention. Air Conditioner tubing insulation There is a foam plastic sleeve over the wider of the two refrigerant tubes between the house wall and the air-conditioner compressor outside the house. In my case, after more than nine years the sleeve was rather tattered with bare metal showing. This would reduce the efficiency of the air conditioner, so I replaced the sleeve with a self-seal piece of insulating tubing from Home Depot costing $7.50. Sid Toby
Page 26 Design Solution This month, we’re showcasing Sue and Don Watt’s home on Patriots Way that combines coziness and classicism as key components that make her home timeless and traditional. You know this home is going to be special before you enter the front door. The spacious porch has comfortable seating and an antique garden sculpture among abundant blooming flowers welcoming you. This is a great way to greet and spark curiosity that there is a special place beyond the front door. You enter into the hallway and are greeted by a vintage curio cabinet filled with Waterford crystal, Venetian glass and stunning cobalt blue, Bohemian cut crystal dishes. Smart way to use sparkling and reflective objects to bring light to a corner of a hallway. Continue into a home that is filled with American heirlooms passed down by family members. Your eye is drawn to the antique New England church pew in the hallway – a great place to pause with the mail or sit with the grandkids for some story telling. Further down the very wide hallway is a new, large, custom-built storage/bookshelf/étagère unit. While it’s one of the few pieces of furniture in the home that is not antique, it fits in well because Sue wisely placed an antique spinning wheel near it, understanding that traditional means familiar and comfortable but never predictable. As you continue through the house, your eye stops at the antique inlaid wood nesting tables, a tramp steamer and sturdy walking stick handed down from the great/grandparents to the Watts. Sue and Don value the antiques but they are being used – not just for show, but also for storage or as a side table holding a lamp. The Watts understood that ‘hard goods’ also need softening and so the house has abundant plants, including a large weeping fig tree that goes from garden to house seasonally. Sue wisely softened the straight lines of the home’s walls by building curved arches leading to the dining and living rooms. The Watts re-used the rich fabric valences from their previous home in these rooms and paired it with coordinating new fabric drapes. Smart way to incorporate a memory and not waste expensive purchases. A wood shelf, stretching from one wall to the other in a guest bedroom, holds miniature lighthouses that the Watts have accumulated in their travels. Wise to use a horizontal piece of wood ‘stretching’ across a room, not taking up floor space but making it appear larger than it is. There are cottages and sea views paintings by Sue’s mother on that same wall – lovely way to make a collection cohesive, even if the items are not all the same, but are subject related. Having these items front and center in the home continues making memories everyday for the family. Sue used the long wall in the family room to showcase her Creation Series of needlepoint. They’re beautiful, well executed and identically framed – making a warm statement and drawing the eye
Page 27 up. The Watts home exemplifies an all-American way of living – classic, timeless but with fabulous style. Well done! This column is for your home decorating questions and to celebrate your own design solution. Each month, Canal Walk residents may submit a decorating question and get a Design Solution in the Canal Walk Newsletter. You can even be featured each month with a decorating solution that you’ve already accomplished. Email me at [email protected] for your Design Solution! Judy Gottlieb
Poetry Corner Bed in Summer by Robert Louis Stevenson
In winter I get up at night And dress by yellow candle-light. In summer, quite the other way, I have to go to bed by day. I have to go to bed and see The birds still hopping on the tree, Or hear the grown-up people’s feet Still going past me in the street. And does it not seem hard to you, When all the sky is clear and blue, And I should like so much to play, To have to go to bed by day? Submitted by Betty Whalen
Joke Corner A sales rep, and administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, “I’ll give each of you just one wish.” “Me first! Me first,” says the administration clerk. “I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speedboat, without a care in the world.” Poof, she’s gone. “Me next! Me next!” says the sales rep. “I want to be in Hawaii, relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, and endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life.” Poof! He’s gone. “OK, you’re up,” the Genie says to the manager. He says, “I want those two back in the office after lunch.” Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say. submitted by Joan Springle
Page 28 Recipes The following two recipes would make a delicious light lunch or dinner on a hot summer day: SHRIMP STUFFED TOMATOES Hollowed-out tomatoes were the secret to elegant lunches in the '50s - and they deserve a comeback today. Look for bright red, aromatic tomatoes without any mushy spots or discolorations. . Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the salad (Step 1). Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
INGREDIENTS 1 pound peeled cooked shrimp (21-25 per pound; thawed if frozen), tails removed, chopped 1 stalk celery, finely diced 1/4 cup minced fresh basil 10 Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped 1 medium shallot, minced 2 tablespoons reduced-fat mayonnaise 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar Pinch of freshly ground pepper 4 large ripe tomatoes, cored
DIRECTIONS Combine shrimp, celery, basil, olives, shallot, mayonnaise, vinegar and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir to combine. Carefully hollow out the inside of each tomato using a melon baller or small spoon. To serve, fill each tomato with a generous 1/2 cup of the shrimp salad.
TUSCAN TUNA SALAD
This streamlined version of a northern Italian idea is perfect for a summer evening: no-fuss, no- cook and big taste. You can even make it ahead and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for several days. Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
INGREDIENTS 2 6-ounce cans chunk light tuna, drained 1 15-ounce can small white beans, such as cannellini or great northern, rinsed (see Ingredient Note) 10 cherry tomatoes, quartered 4 scallions, trimmed and sliced 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon salt Freshly ground pepper to taste
Page 29 Ingredient Note: When you use canned beans in a recipe, be sure to rinse them first in a colander under cold running water, as their canning liquid often contains a fair amount of sodium.
DIRECTIONS Combine tuna, beans, tomatoes, scallions, oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir gently. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serves 4 Submitted by Ronnie Bayer
Theatrical Reviews (Broadway, concerts, local theater, etc.)
Zero Dark Thirty Another of the films nominated for the Oscar as Best Film of the Year, Zero Dark Thirty, is now widely available on DVD. The film is difficult to characterize and, for some, perhaps difficult to watch. It portrays the 10 year effort to get Osama bin Laden, culminating in his death at the hands of Navy Seal Team 6 in May of 2011. This narrative is seen through the eyes of a young female CIA operative, played excellently by Jessica Chastain, a rising star who has obtained many roles in very good films in recent times. She was nominated for best actress in this film. The film begins with the interrogation of a terrorist suspect at various CIA "black sites" in foreign countries. These scenes are not pretty. They are brutal and realistically portrayed. They show the suspect being beaten, water boarded, strung up in painful positions, and deprived of food, water and sleep, among other things. These torture scenes, although not the heart of the film, have engendered much controversy. The reason is that the extreme interrogation techniques shown seem, in the end, to be portrayed as productive and as resulting in useful information that supplies pieces to the jigsaw puzzle the intelligence services must construct to locate bin Laden. This is controversial because there is still a raging debate in political and media circles as to whether it was necessary to resort to such methods to find bin Laden and whether, in fact, these methods produced any useful information. The film, being mere entertainment, will not settle this debate. It may never be settled. The director, Kathryn Bigelow, has been accused by some critics as having made a film that supports the use of torture. She and her writers have denied any such intent. I must say, myself, that the interrogation scenes, unpleasant though they were to watch, did not seem to me to be exploitative or overdone for sensationalism. The reason for even mentioning these things, however, is to warn the prospective audience that the film is tough and that some may wish to skip it for that reason. For those who don't decide to skip it, the film has many rewards. The director, Kathryn Bigelow, is an excellent one and she has made a career of producing somewhat "macho" war oriented films that are tough and realistic with plenty of action and suspense. Her last major film, The Hurt Locker, won 6 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director in 2008. This film also received numerous nominations but only won one. It is, however, an outstanding film.
Page 30 The reason I dubbed it difficult to categorize is that it's not a conventional film that gets you into characters, their lives and developments. Being based so much on authentic facts, it's more like a docudrama, but not as stiff as that label would suggest. The performances are good but the audience is less drawn into the characters than into their quest which becomes, more and more, a kind of crusade for the heroine as frustrations, difficulties and dangers mount. From the beginning, she becomes convinced that the key to finding bin Laden is finding the courier who delivers messages to and from him. That arduous and frustrating task stretches on for years with false trails and leads galore, bureaucratic delays and the constant danger of violence. The chess game with Al Qaida goes on until the whereabouts of the man is established. The actual military operation is enacted in highly realistic and exciting fashion, and the suspense is white knuckle throughout, as well as at earlier parts of the film. Though not everyone's cup of tea, the film is well worth seeing. The film is rated R Submitted by Frank Catalina
WANTED: Please note: We have broadened this section to include any kind of theatrical experience. Reviews of all kinds are wanted from the residents of Canal Walk! Please send your submissions with your selection, your opinion of it, and any other information you feel is pertinent. Send to [email protected] or drop it in my mailbox at 7 Jays Corner. THANK YOU! Ellen Catalina .
Restaurant Reviews Buffalo Wild Wings Restaurant On a recent trip to visit our daughter and family in New Hampshire, and after eating in some pretty fantastic restaurants, my daughter and I found ourselves shopping in Rochester, NH. Jim met up with us, and our daughter wanted to try their new Buffalo Wild Wings Restaurant. As you probably know, we have two franchises here in our area. The food is good, the portions ample, and it’s a grade above fast food. They have an incredible selection of hot and BBQ sauces. Just be aware – when they say hot, they mean HOT. It’s a sports bar with lots of TVs, so be aware it’s pretty noisy.
Page 31 As it turned out, none of us ordered wings. Jim, who loves both wings and burgers, surprised me by ordering their Hot Dog Slammers with chili and cheese (3) and French fries. It’s under “Sharables & Sides,” and at $8.38, was a real bargain. He brought one of the hot dogs back for our grandson. They’re definitely not mini. Catherine enjoyed the Buffalo Ranch Chicken Wrap, $8.99, and I loved the Fish Tacos, also $8.99. You can customize your food with any of their dozen plus sauces and seasonings. I thought I was being good by ordering their mild Asian Zing, which definitely had ZING. I also had an Asian Zing side salad, which was also a little spicy for me. Why am I writing about a restaurant we went to in NH – because they’re a chain and have many of them in NJ and as I said, two close by? At one time, I tried submitting the restaurant our grandson had his wedding reception at in Raleigh, NC, but our committee thought it too far – so therefore, this one. Enjoy friends. Submitted by Marge Heffernan
Pan Asia Thai-Chinese Fusion Grill 2 JFK Boulevard, Somerset Tel. 732-325-0040 Fax 732-325-0190 www.panasiagrill com For those of you who like Chinese or Thai cuisine, I think you will enjoy PAN ASIA Thai- Chinese Fusion Grill. The decor is modern and warm with soft lighting and gold and rust colors predominating. The tables are black wood with comfortable seating. The staff provides pleasant service. On a rainy spring afternoon, two Canal Walk friends and I enjoyed a delicious lunch. The menu is varied and abundant. Prices range from $11.99 to $24.99 for your choice of entree featuring chicken, duck and lamb, seafood, vegetarian and rice and noodles. There is a large variety of appetizers as well as soups and salad. Catering is available. To begin, we shared a very delicious appetizer, Honey Crispy Chicken at $6.99. We chose the Lunch Special at $9.99 including soup and white or brown rice. We each selected a different entree: Basil Ginger Chicken, Sweet and Sour Chicken and Chili Chicken. We all enjoyed our meal and had extra to take home. The desserts at $6.99 sounded wonderful! After some discussion, we decided to share the Chocolate Mousse Cake. It was more than enough for three people and most delicious! All in all, the meal was delightful! We all agreed that we would return and would probably take our spouses!
Carol Cheetham Ellery’s Restaurant & Pub Ellery’s Restaurant & Pub at 701 Lincoln Boulevard in Middlesex is now an “Authentic Irish Pub” with classic Irish dishes. Dinners run up to $20, and if Gordon and Jackie and Jim and I can judge, well worth the money. Jim decided he was happy with the Marinated Flat Iron Steak ($18.90), Gordon with the Bangers and Mash ($12.90), Jackie with a special of Chicken Marsala which she requested be served over penne and I could not help myself. Whenever I see Irish Fish and Chips – that’s what I’m going to have. They were delicious. (Actually I skipped on the chips which are house fried and got a small salad instead.) I think the fish was $14.90.
Page 32 Ellery’s advertises that they specialize in catering services either at their large facility or if you choose at your home. A Clam Bar is offered on Thursday’s 4:00 – 9:30pm for $9.50: raw or steamed. On Friday’s they have a Fish Fry for $9.99 from 4:00-10:00 pm for $9.99. The patio is opened on Thursday and Friday nights. Give it a try. It’s practically in our backyard. We’ll go back and try some of their other tempting dishes.
Submitted by Marge Heffernan
I am sure that many of you go out to dinner from time to time - we would like to hear from you so that we can pass on your good or not so good recommendations. Many of us come from all over New Jersey and others from out of state and do not know the area or where to dine - your input would be so very helpful. Please try to include the following: Name of Restaurant – Address - Telephone Number and Prices. Submit to Ellen Catalina at [email protected] or drop it in my mail box at 7 Jays Corner. Ellen Catalina
What’s Happening
NJ STATE THEATRE 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick – (732) 246-7469 Aug 10 3 PM La Bayadere in HD (Captured live from the Bolshoi Ballet) Aug 10 8 PM Sound City in HD Aug 14 8 PM Toni Braxton Aug 24 3 PM Don Giovanni in HD (Captured live from
Page 33 La Scala) Aug 24 8 PM Peter Gabriel: New Blood in HD Aug 29 8 PM Salt-n-Pepa
HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE (Dinner Show) 88 Route 173 West, Hampton – (800) 447-7313 Jul 9 – Aug 24 The Great American Songbook 4 (Mon – Sat 11 AM; Sun 2 PM; Sat Eve 6:30 PM)
VILLAGERS THEATRE 415 DeMott Lane, Somerset – (732) 873-2710 Jul 26 – Aug 11 Legally Blonde (Fri & Sat 8 PM; Sun 2 PM)
PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE Brookside Drive, Millburn – (973) 376-4343 Aug 2 & 3 Swing Awakening (Fri & Sat 8 PM; Matinees & Sun 2 PM)
THE SUMMIT PLAYHOUSE 10 New England Avenue, Summit – (908) 273-2192 Jul 20 – Aug 4 Shrek The Musical (Fri & Sat 8 PM; Sun 2 PM)
SOMERSET VALLEY PLAYHOUSE 689 Amwell Road (Route 514), Hillsborough – (908) 369-7469 Jul 19 – Aug 4 The Frog Princess (Fri & Sat 8 PM; Sun 2 PM)
BUCKS COUNTY PLAYHOUSE 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania – (215) 862-2121 Jul 25 – Aug 11 Summer of ‘42 Aug 15 – Sep 1 The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife
THE OFF-BROADSTREET THEATRE 5 Greenwood Avenue, Hopewell – (609)-466-2766 Aug 2 – 11 Fiddler on the Roof (Fri & Sat 8 PM; Matinee: Sun 3 PM)
Page 34 Compiled by Ronnie Bayer
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