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Longfellow Life
Our Monthly Newsletter
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A message from Laury Hammel, Longfellow President 
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 Dear Members,
We know that many of our members, staff, and neighbors spent some time without power in their homes after the recent snow storm. We're glad that everyone in our community is now back on the grid and that life is getting back to normal. Fortunately, Longfellow never lost power at our clubs in Wayland, Sudbury, or Natick. However, our sister club, the Adirondack Club in Franklin, did lose power and was forced to shut down the club for two days.
During these power outages some members came into the club to workout and to use the facilities that they couldn't use at home. As many of you know from personal experience, when a crisis happens in our community, Longfellow wants to do what we can to be of service. And, just as we did when the last hurricane struck, after the storm Longfellow opened our doors for our neighbors (whether members or not) to come to the club at no charge and use our showers, WiFi, café, and to charge their cell phones. We want people to know that everyone is always welcome at Longfellow.
I hope that you are as enthusiastic as we are about our campaign to `Make Longfellow Sparkle', and that you are enjoying the changes. Since our last newsletter we have rebuilt the outside stairway from the lower parking lot to the upper parking lot, replaced 7 free weight benches, purchased 2 new weight stacks with all new free weights, and re-lamped the whole club with state of the art lighting that saves energy and provides better light. We're beginning the process of remodeling the locker rooms at the Natick Racquet Club, and keep on eye out for announcements about other improvements that are on the way.
Below is another article to call special attention to two special fundraising events coming up that honor the memory of Lauren Astley.
We at Longfellow wish you and your loved ones a very special Thanksgiving celebration.
With gratitude,
Laury Hammel, President
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| Making Longfellow Sparkle! | |
Beginning in June, the Longfellow Management Team has been working with a management consultant, Alicia Korten, with the express purpose of making Longfellow the best club we can possibly be and to provide extraordinary customer service every day.
At our Management Retreat in June, we began the work of developing a set of core values and finding ways to deepen and further integrate these core values into the life of Longfellow. During this process we discovered that Longfellow is indeed fortunate to have a staff that already embodies the essence of our core values, and we've learned that we can do an even better job. This work has been inspirational for our Management Team and is becoming a game-changer for The Longfellow Clubs. Over the next few weeks we will be announcing our newly established core values and our plans to bring them to life.
We have decided to focus our initial efforts on the core value we've named - Make Longfellow Sparkle! In order to make Longfellow clean as a whistle, to shine and glow, we've created the Sparkle Breakthrough Project. This is an audacious and exciting project, and we've engaged our staff on a daily basis. We welcome your feedback and suggestions and below we've listed some of the things we've done and are planning to do to make Longfellow Sparkle:
At the Longfellow Sports Club:
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New Stairs to upper parking lot!
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- Rebuilt the stairs from the lower parking lot up to the upper parking lot
- Re-lamped the whole club with state of the art lighting that saves energy and provides better light
- Patched and sealed the upper and lower parking lot and painted new lines
- Completed the process of completely replastering the whirlpool and main pool
- Purchased a new pool bubble heater to keep things toasty in the cold winter
- Ordered and received new free weights and additional strength training equipment
- Refinished the Studio One Group Exercise Floor
- Will be ordering new rugs for the men's and women's locker rooms
At the Natick Racquet Club:
 | Painting the outside
of the Racquet Club |
- Re-lamped the whole club with state of the art lighting that saves energy and provides better light
- Painted the stairs in the walkway from the tennis lobby to the tennis bubble
- Finished repainting the outside of the building with a new bright color blue
- Patched and sealed the parking lot and painted new lines
- Removed the old air conditioners outside of the building, and the wooden stairway to the tennis bubble
- Will be removing all metal lockers and have ordered new wooden lockers for both the Men's and Women's locker rooms.
- Will be ordering new rugs in both the women's and men's locker rooms
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The "Turkey Dash" on Saturday, November 19th -
first event in the Longfellow Adventure Race Series!
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The Longfellow Sports Club fitness team is proud to introduce its Adventure Race Series! These events will be fun and challenging obstacle course races. Participants will negotiate obstacles such as hills, stairs, small walls, tires and
 | Longfellow Personal Trainer
Janice Theriaque |
more. Everyone will finish and we will modify if needed. The Turkey Dash will be our first event on November 19th. Heats will begin at 9am and run until 1pm, culminating in an award ceremony, with food and drinks for all participants as they bask in the glory of finishing.
A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Natick Food Pantry. Come join in the fun. Limited to the first 100, and spaces are filling fast. Please contact Fitness Co-Director Dan Salerno to sign up.
Please congratulate Dan Salerno, Janice Theriaque and her son Connor for completing the Rugged Maniac! This is a running event combining the most rugged terrain and burly obstacles, allowing those with a sense of adventure to define themselves. All three completed the challenging course in great times!
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Lauren Astley Fundraisers
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 We'd like to let you know about two upcoming events that will be supporting the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund. On Saturday, November 26th from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, at Sandy Burr Country Club in Wayland, there will be a fashion show and silent auction to celebrate the life of Lauren Dunne Astley. The title of the event is "Keep on Sparkling: Moving Forward in the Spirit of Lauren Dunne Astley". All proceeds will go directly to the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund her parents set up in her honor. The Fund's mission is to promote dynamic educational programs, particularly those in the areas of the development of healthy teen relationships, the arts, and community service. Longfellow is also planning on holding an event to support the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund. It will be held on Monday January 2nd, at the Longfellow club in Wayland.The exact program of the event is being determined in the upcoming days, and we will keep you informed of the exact details as the we get closer to the date.
We invite all of our members to attend one or both of these events, in order to continue keeping Lauren's sparkling spirit alive in our hearts.
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Longfellow on FaceBook!
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Do you like to be inspired and have your day uplifted!
Join the Longfellow Facebook Page and be inspired every Monday with a Quote of the week.
The Longfellow Facebook page continues to gain interest as more and more people "like" it. You can find us on Facebook under "The Longfellow Clubs - Wayland and Natick." "Liking" the Longfellow page means you'll have access to an excellent resource to support your health and fitness goals and give you a boost of inspiration.
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Sheila Weinstock Leads the US Senior Team to Victory
at the Senior World Championships!
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Sheila (2nd from left) with her winning team!
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Sheila Weinstock, Manager of the Natick Racquet Club, recently returned from captaining the United States Women's Team in her age group at the International Tennis Federation World Team Championships held in Turkey in October. Sheila's team consisted of two players from California, one player from New Jersey, and Sheila, from Massachusetts. Each match consisted of two singles and one doubles. Sheila and her partner played the doubles and won every match, winning the finals in a close three setter. Her team won the Althea Gibson Cup, which is the cup given to the winner of her age group. There were over 700 super-senior men and women tennis players from 38 different countries represented at the competition. Sheila's team did not lose one match on their way to the finals. They were winners over Canada, Finland, Great Britain and beat Germany in the finals. Sheila, you did Longfellow, New England, and the US proud! Not only are you a world-class player, but you are a world-class captain!
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Water Exercise News
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 The pool looks beautiful, the water temperature is perfect and it's time to reestablish your fall routine. We welcome back Gentle Joints with Ginni Burton every Wednesday at 10:15 am. Gentle Joints is a fabulous workout that can be modified for all levels of ability. Ginni is a former competitive swimmer, and participated in the Olympic trials. She brings to the pool life-long aquatic expertise and a wonderful, positive spirit. This combination guarantees that you will leave Longfellow feeling like you just "won the gold"! Join Ginni or any of our other fabulous teachers for great workouts and great fun!
 It is with great sadness that we grieve the loss of Judie Joline. Judie was a loyal class participant and a close friend to so many of us. Let's celebrate her life, her kindness and the love she had in her heart as we continue to come to class feeling her spirit among us. It was terrific to see the large number of participants and instructors who traveled together and attended Judie's funeral as a group. We will be sending a card and a food arrangement to her family. Any contributions can be given to Jane Polley. Thanks to everyone for being a part of our wonderful Water Exercise community-our relationship goes much deeper than the depth of the water!
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Longfellow Tennis Parents Meet David Benzel,
a Leading Sport Family Coach!
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On Wednesday night, November 2, 2011, over 50 parents of Longfellow tennis juniors attended an inspiring and educational seminar presented by Longfellow that featured David Benzel is an author, athlete, sport family coach, and professional speaker
Parents left David's presentation having been challenged to take a look at how they parent and they he offered them specific techniques and helpful attitudes they might adopt that will support their children in winning the game of life as well as the game of tennis.
There were many requests for a return engagement by David to enable him to share more of his knowledge to both parents and juniors. The tennis staff is now addressing how we can best utilize the considerable knowledge and skills of this strong proponent of supporting young people to experience success through their involvement in sports. Keep an eye out for future announcements.
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Nutrition News
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Living In Balance for Teens is a group that promotes healthy eating habits, fun with physical activity, and a healthy body weight. The next sessions start on Tuesday, Nov. 8th in Wayland. The class includes 1 hour of nutrition followed by 1 hour of a relaxed swim workout. The facilitator is Janna Yamron, MS RD, LDN. Janna is friendly, professional and personable. She is filled with information & strategies that will help your child succeed. For more information and pricing, please contact Jane Polley at jpolley@longfellowsportsclub.com or call (508) 653 4633.
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Natick Racquet Club News
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 | | NRC member Ruby Curtis |
 Natick Racket Club member Ruby Curtis teamed up with Carolyn Fournier (Falmouth) to win all 3 of the New England Slam tournaments in the 60s doubles division. The first was held in June at Yale University on hard courts. The second was on clay in August at the Beverly Golf & Tennis Club. And the third was at the International Hall of Fame, Newport, RI on grass in September. Ruby & Carolyn have held the New England #1 60s doubles ranking in New England for the past two years and are currently ranked 15th nationally.
The Racquet Club has been buzzing with activity this fall with the 4 yr. old Zip Tennis classes, on up to the high school classes and the Academy. Both weekday and weekend women's teams are in full swing, as well as the men's team play.  | | (In back L-R) Sarah Bargamian, Danny Silverston, Arda Cataltepe, Rod Rofougaran, Jack Kannam, David Arango, Spencer Shade, and Logan Brand. In front - Zak Jacobs. |
The third Wilson Junior Grand Prix was held Friday night, November 4th. The Grand Prix is for 10 and under juniors who are able to participate in match play. There were 16 players who played games in a compass draw format. Each player scores points by playing and winning, as well as showing up for the play. Players are divided into flights with each flight winner scoring additional grand prix points. Arda Cataltepe won the Stefan Edberg Flight and Jack Kannam won the Pete Sampras Flight. Magnus Nicklasson, who is the director of our junior excellent program ran the Grand Prix night and reported that the matches were very good, all players worked really hard and they had lots of fun. Great sportsmanship was shown by everyone.
The winter session of junior clinics will be starting mid-December. Anyone interested in joining the junior program, should call Erin Reeves at the Racquet Club at 508-653-4606. The junior clinic schedule is also posted on our website: www.longfellowclubs.com, or click on this link to access the schedule directly: Junior Clinic Schedule The annual Oxfam Mixed Doubles night will be held at the Racquet Club on Sunday, Nov. 27th from 6 - 8 p.m. All proceeds are donated to OxfamAmerica. Any tennis player who is interested in playing is invited to call and sign up for play.
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Aquatics News
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Activities are ongoing at the Longfellow Natick Pool! Classes are busy and people are getting back into their Fall schedules. We are making progress on swim coaches for the Master's program. Terri Valentine is returning on Thursday mornings to coach from 9:00-10:00 am. We are still looking for coaches for Tuesday and Thursday mornings 6:15-7:15 am, and Monday and Wednesday evenings, 6:30-7:30 pm. If you know of anyone qualified who may be interested, please have them contact Longfellow at 508-653-4633 for more information.  Swim team just began again , so make a note that there is no free swim Wednesdays from 4 pm to 6 pm. There will be a lane available for lap swimmers during that time, and the kiddie pool and hot tub will remain open. We would like to start a stroke clinic for those members who would like to brush up on their strokes and technique. We would like to offer one morning class and one evening class on a drop-in basis if there is interest. Please email longfellowaquatics@gmail.com if you would like to see this class on the schedule. You can register for the second session of swim lessons at any time now. This session will begin the week of January 2nd, 2012 and will run 10 weeks. Register early to reserve your spot for the winter. Thanks to all of our members who have been patient as we work out the kinks in the new air heater system. Hopefully work will be complete by the time you are reading this as Myke has been working hard to resolve this issue. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
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Group Exercise News
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 Longfellow's new fall schedule is out and under way!! Looking for a Yoga or Pilates class early morning?
Longfellow now offers Yoga on Tuesday mornings at 7:45-8:45 am with Stacia, and Pilates on Thursday mornings at 7:45-8:45 am with Lisa. Come start your morning the right way!
Do you like to dance? Come try one of our may Zumba or Funky Groove classes offered many times through the week. Check out the schedule today!
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Community Service at Longfellow
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Our children's department has three community service drives in November. In our main hallway we have:
- A Penny Drive for Buddy Dog in Sudbury
- A Coat Drive for Coats for Kids.
- A Food Drive for 'A Place to Turn' food pantry in Natick
 Please bring in those pennies from your car, a coat for kids that you no longer need, or some toiletries or canned goods for the food pantry!
Community Service
Makes You Feel Good!
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Little Longfellows
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Discovery Toys After Thanksgiving - watch for the "Toys for Tots with Discovery Toys Drive!" Do some of your holiday shopping for the kids, while at the same time see the proceeds go towards the purchase of new gifts for Longfellow's annual 'Toys for Tots' Drive! |
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Birthday Parties
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Longfellow Sports Club offers an amazing party environment.
From swimming to sports, arts to dance, we have something for every age. Our staff takes care of everything, from activities to paper goods.
Longfellow has an experienced team that will set up, clean up and help serve refreshments - just bring your birthday child and kids ready to party and play, and we'll do the rest!
To reserve a party or get more information, call Lisa Furdon at Longfellow, 508-653-4633.
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Massage at Rebound Physical Therapy
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 Rebound has recently expanded its services and facility to better meet
the needs of our clients. We believe in getting to the whole root of a problem, enabling you to bring out the best in yourself. Though originally established as a physical therapy practice, we know that feeling better is not just about joint health, diet, and exercise. Your well-being involves the whole package. That is why we have added this special team of Massage Therapists to our group in Natick.
Differing from businesses that offer a 'ready-to-order' menu of therapeutic styles, at Rebound we know that  your needs can vary   from day to day. We recommend your therapy involves having an ongoing consultation with your therapist to determine the optimal mix of techniques and therapeutic approaches needed to best address your unique situation and symptoms. Our therapists have extensive experience and certifications in a vast variety of advanced massage techniques. These toolboxes enable each of them to always be ready to provide the optimal response to your body's needs.
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 Add a Free Month or Two
(or more)
to your Membership! |
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Did you know, if you refer a friend to join our club for an annual membership, you get a free additional month on your membership. The more you refer, the more months you get FREE. Your friend just has to mention your name when they join. |
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Save $20 on
ANY Birthday Party!
Have your child's Birthday Party at the Longfellow Sports Club!
Dance, Yoga, Munchkin, Arts and Crafts, Sports or Pool Parties!
Call Lisa @ 508 653 4633 for more details.
Coupon Expires 12/31/2011
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Our Values |  The Longfellow Purpose:
- To build a world where everyone's basic needs are met, and people experience love, happiness, and satisfaction.
- To create a model organization, through the development of successful health and recreation businesses, that works toward the fulfillment of our global vision.
The Longfellow Mission Statement:
The Longfellow Clubs are a locally owned and independent business committed to the health and well being of our community, and provide extraordinary fitness, recreational, and educational programs for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
We honor all Longfellow stakeholders and appreciate all they do to make us the vibrant community we are. All management decisions consider the needs of Longfellow stakeholders and it is our intention to: - Love and care for our customer and to create a caring and compassionate culture that is committed to providing the highest level of customer service by exceeding expectations and saying yes if we can.
- Support every staff member in reaching their full potential as human beings - physically, mentally, and spiritually. We engage them in the management process and make every effort to pay a living wage with fair benefits to all staff members.
- Preserve our environment, minimize our carbon footprint, and join with others in our community to build a sustainable and just world.
- Work closely with individuals and nonprofit organizations to promote healthy, sustainable, and inclusive communities.
- Support the locally owned and independent business partners in our community and in our industry so that they can be financially successful and outstanding community citizens.
- Manage a profitable business that is a leader in our industry and provides a fair return to the owners and investors.
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