| December 2007 |
Vol 1, Issue 1 |
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Spirit, Mind & Body
YMCAs of Cambridge
& Kitchener-Waterloo |
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| Greetings! |
 Hi! Welcome to the first edition of the e-newsletter keeping you in touch with the YMCAs of Cambridge & Kitchener-Waterloo. We've chosen the title "Spirit, Mind & Body" because it captures the YMCA's holistic approach to health as it has since the red triangle was created in 1891 by Luther Gulick.
Please share this newsletter with friends and family that may be interested. You can also use a link at the bottom to update the profile and indicate other interests that we can occassionally keep you informed about. |
| Jingle Bell Run |
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Gore Mutual Insurance Company was proud to sponsor the 17th annual Jingle Bell Run (see photo above), hosted by the YMCA of Cambridge, November 25. With more than 300 participants-runners and volunteers, many enjoyed a 2.5k family fun run/walk, while others chose the 5K race. Funds raised go to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
"We are pleased to announce that we expect to raise more than $9,000 towards the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign once the final results are available," says Joanne Lea, Senior Director of Membership and HFR. "Proceeds from the Jingle Bell Run make it possible for kids, of low income families in Cambridge, to go to YMCA camps, enjoy the benefits of a YMCA membership and participate in international activities. Funds raised from last year's run helped sponsor 47 children in Cambridge to attend 77 weeks of camp and provide 700 Cambridge children with a subsidized YMCA membership." |
| YMCA Peace Medallions celebrated impact of community builders |
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 At the 2007 YMCA Peace Medallion Gala held November 22, the Kitchener-Waterloo YMCA celebrated the efforts by individuals, families and groups who are making our community and world a better place to live. The gala celebrated the impact made by all fourteen nominees for this year's YMCA Peace Medallions.
The 2007 recipients are:
- Strong Kid: Radhika Shankar
- Strong Role Model: Beth King
- Strong Family: The Graves Family
- Strong Community: WAYVE (Working Against Youth Violence Everywhere).
Read our news release for full details on the recipients.
The YMCA of Cambridge awarded its YMCA Peace Medallion to Wake Up World-- a group of dedicated students at Galt Colligate Institute. In existence for three years, Wake Up World brings together a diverse group of youth with one goal in mind - to make the world a better place for everyone. Go here to learn more.
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| Exciting new developments at A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA |
Clicking the image above will take you to where you can learn more about Fitlinxx and when it is available. More details will also be available through the Member Services desk.
Zumba makes exercise a party!
Zumba, the hot fitness trend sweeping the world, premiered first in Waterloo Region at the A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA. This workout that turns exercise into a party is still gathering lots of attention as people of all ages and fitness levels discover the joy of the mix of hot Latin and international music and moverments. The cover of The Record's Life section recently had a large feature article.
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| Build strong kids through positive values |
- Remember that mistakes are part of living and growing
- Show care and concern for your neighbours by offering a helping hand
- Write down what you believe. Post it where you'll see it often.
- Be responsible for all of your thoughts, words or actions.
- Try new things and take on new responsibilities
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| Newsletters share stories about the YMCAs of Cambridge and Kitchener-Waterloo |
- The November issue of the YMCA of Cambridge's YMCA Today newsletter features stories about 25-year YMCA volunteer Ray Murphy and kids going to YMCA Camp.
- Kitchener-Waterloo's YMCA Stories features stories on the YMCA Host Mentorship Program, Peggy Liehs and John Acheson.
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| Exercise and the cold weather |
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It seems Canadians are weather-obsessed but for good reason! Our climate has such great fluctuations, it is imperative that we keep a watchful eye on the forecast just to plan our day. So how should colder weather influence our exercise routine?
When the temperature drops, it may not be as safe to do the usual outdoor routine. In extremely cold weather, the possibility of frostbite is always a concern, plus some people experience temporary breathing trouble while exercising in frigid air. So, if you decide to continue outdoor workouts, choose a time of day when the temperature is more moderate. Look for a route sheltered from the wind and take advantage of the warmer sunny hours of the day. Watch out for that slippery ice on outdoor terrains and make sure you cover your head and wear mittens instead of gloves.
Keeping up our motivation to exercise during extreme weather conditions is tough! But even if we don't do quite as much on those frosty mornings, it is still well worth it! And fortunately, we have a temperature and humidity-controlled Y environment despite the outdoor conditions. Remember: stay fit for life!
Learn more:
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We wish that you share the joy of the holiday season. If in the coming months you are looking for winter activities for you or your family, please take a look at the YMCA Outdoor Centre's offerings.
And though snow may be on the ground and winter just starting, remember that registrations for YMCA Overnight Campsbegin January 2. If you'd like you're child to attend Belwood, Ki-Wa-Y or Wabanaki, register as soon as possible because the most popular programs and dates fill up very quickly. Sincerely,
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James Howe, Director of Communications
YMCAs of Cambridge & Kitchener-Waterloo
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