Fox Point Update: June 2023 Edition
- On June 4, 2023
President’s Letter
By Abe Ryder | Email
Greetings Fox Point neighbors,
The Fox Point pool is open – the official start of summer in Fox Point! Like so many of you, this is one of my favorite moments of the year in the neighborhood. It is that meeting spot where so many of us come together and reconnect after so many months indoors. Take a moment to enjoy each other’s company, relax and have fun at the pool! Once again, a BIG THANK YOU to our Pool Chair, Criss Chang who has been working behind the scenes over the winter months with our vendors to get the pool painted, perform routine maintenance, and set up our Omnify pool reservation system (see Criss’s report for the link). This moment does not happen alone, and all of your Board Members have contributed in some way, shape or form to create the pool experience for the neighborhood. When you see a Board Member, please say “thank you.” Those words will go a long way. Those registered in the Omnify system, please take some time to review the Fox Point pool rules and behaviors to ensure that we have a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Speaking of the pool, we have a contingent of more than 90 swimmers registered for the Fox Point Dolphins Swim Team who will represent our neighborhood against five other swim clubs that make up the North Shore Swim Conference. We encourage the neighborhood to come out and cheer on our Dolphins at the home meets – read on for a link to their website. Go Dolphins!
While the Card Party is in the rear-view mirror – again, what a great time to get neighbors together, more social activities are in the pipeline for this summer. Check out Melissa Pohl’s report. There are so many wonderful activities from the Senior Car Parade (congratulating our graduating high school Seniors) to music and food trucks at the pool to Fox Point yeti swag – yes, what a way to represent Fox Point! Cannot tell you how many times my Fox Point yeti has been a conversation starter about our neighborhood.
Have you been to Lake Louise lately? Our Lake Committee, headed by Steve Kipferl, has been sharing many videos and pictures of the great fishing – including some bass of up to 18”. In addition, the water clarity at this time of the year has been some of the best in years. This is due to our investments in the lake and the hard work of our Lake Committee, present and former Chairs, over a few years. A special thanks to Jeff Dahnke again, as he plays behind the scenes to advance the health of Lake Louise. While algae blooms are likely to surface now and then during hot summer days, it does appear we are headed in the right direction. Between your breaks at the pool, stop by the lake.
With all the upcoming activity at the lake and pool, please remember your speed in the neighborhood, as foot and bike traffic will increase – especially at the boat dock and pool areas. Remind those guests visiting the neighborhood from afar as well! Furthermore, the Village of Barrington repaired the street lighting at the intersections of our streets, so get your yard lamps repaired and lit to promote a safe neighborhood and provide that extra light to those on foot in the evenings. Read on for more information in Bill Graf’s Safety and Welfare report.
In summary, we are halfway through the year and the Fox Point Board has delivered and will continue to deliver a community experience that is second to none. My thanks to our Board Members and all of the volunteers and vendors who help us behind the scenes to make our neighborhood a special place to be. Enjoy the summer kick-off!
As always, we welcome attendees at our monthly board meetings. For June, we plan to go back to the Fox Point pool – bringing the board meeting to you (the next one is Monday, June 19th @ 7 pm). Please attend. We welcome ideas, suggestions, and feedback as we all have a vested interest in this community we call home.
All the best.
Safety & Welfare
By Bill Graff | Email
Summer is here, yeah!! I’m happy to report that the new “bridge” for the playground has been ordered, and I will use Next Door to update everyone when the work is complete! Thx to all of the board members for their help, and quick decision-making, to get this project done! Another item of note is that we have discovered an additional vendor to repair your gas lights! That vendor is Fred’s All Safe at 847-751-0533, ask for Todd, he’d be happy to help. The first vendor mentioned in the newsletter was Grove Products, ask for Steve, and that number is 847-639-2544. Enjoy every day of this great season in FP and as always. SLOW DOWN, lots of kids and neighbors are on the roads!
THE SPEED LIMIT IS 25 MPH.
Tennis Report
By Taylor Shanfeld| Email
The courts were professionally cleaned the past few weeks and looking much better without the mold, mildew, and algae buildup.
PICKLEBALL
We are excited to announce beginner pickleball lessons offered on our courts with Coach Neal on 4 consecutive Thursday evenings 6-7:30 pm beginning 6/8! Limited to 8 players.
Sign up: FP Beginner Pickleball
Please note that the Pickleball courts will be in use Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6-7:30 for lessons. There are two p-ball nets available (thank you Kerekes and Powal families!) at the courts for anyone who would like to play Pickleball!
TENNIS
Kids’ tennis lesson sign-ups are below! Lessons begin the 2nd week of June.
Lessons are taught by the staff of the Barrington Area Tennis Association (BATA), a community not-for-profit association created to promote the development of tennis as a means of healthful recreation and fitness for Barrington area residents. BATA is a member organization of the United States Tennis Association and follows the USTA guidelines for youth instruction.
Lessons are $100 for 6 one-hour lessons with the option of Monday or Wednesday afternoons. You are welcome to sign up for one or both days of the week. Players will be divided by skill level!
Mondays | Ages 5-10 |
2-3 pm |
Beginner/Advanced Beginner | REGISTER |
Wednesdays | Ages 5-10 |
2-3 pm |
Beginner/Advanced Beginner | REGISTER |
Mondays | Ages 11-14 |
3-4 pm |
Beginner/Advanced Beginner | REGISTER |
Wednesdays | Ages 11-14 |
3-4 pm |
Beginner/Advanced Beginner | REGISTER |
LADIES’ NIGHT CORKS ON THE COURT – JUNE 23
Join the ladies for an evening of round-robin tennis and socializing on Friday, June 23!
Sign up: Ladies Corks on the Court June 23
Please reach out to me at tennis@foxpoint.org with any questions or concerns!
Social
By Melissa Pohl | Email
THE SENIOR CAR PARADE IS THIS WEEK!
The annual Senior Car Parade is taking place on June 1st, at 7:30 pm and will begin at the boat docks. PLEASE MOVE YOUR CARS INTO YOUR DRIVEWAY and be sure to come outside with bells and whistles to congratulate our Fox Point High School Seniors! E-mail Laurie at morchfam4@aol.com for questions. The route is posted here!
SUMMER WELLNESS SERIES
We have three amazing powerhouse women who have dedicated their time to Fox Point to get us in SHAPE! Please review the Sign-Up Genius to enroll ASAP for their classes. ALL instructors have a 5-6 participant minimum to host the class. Our classes are scheduled through August, so if you missed some, there is still a chance to join! Want to know more about the instructors?! Check out our social media!
NEW FOX POINT GEAR IS HERE! THE ORDER DEADLINE IS 6/15/2023!
Check out our NEW Fox Point Gear! I’m so excited this came to fruition and hope you enjoy all our branded swag! Shirts for all are here! Hats are here!
YETI SWAG IS HERE!
Purchase your NEW and exclusive Fox Point engraved YETI gear for the summer! The order form is here! We are running LOW on stock for some items and added new SLIM CAN HOLDERS!
SWIM TEAM
Thank you, Andrea Clementi, Lindsay Keenan, Brooke Kipferl, Melissa Mickey, and Valerie Chang for organizing! Practice begins on 6/5! Check out more here. Go Dolphins!
TRIATHLON
July 16th is our annual kids’ SAVE THE DATE! It is a HIT! Thank you, Valerie Chang and the committee for organizing this amazing event. A flyer with details should be available at the Pool this weekend. The sign-up genius to follow SOON! DO NOT MISS this incredible event!
FOX POINT FOOD TRUCK AND MUSIC SUMMER SERIES
GET YOUR TICKETS: July 7th! 5-8 pm, Fox Point’s Food Truck and Music Summer Series (Thank you, Brian Vasquez and Tom Kloss, for taking this on!). Please sign-up ASAP to participate in our all-you-can-eat taco truck! Each adult ticket price is $26 and covers food plus the cost of our musician on the pool patio, and each child ticket is $6!
UPCOMING EVENTS: flix and floats, lake nights, teen events, carp derby, and our progressive dinner!
As always, please stay “in the know” for more information as detailed in our social media posts. Facebook: Fox Point Homeowners Association; Instagram: Fox Point Barrington; Nextdoor: Fox Point and opt-in for our social emails!
Civic Affairs
By Mark Villalovos | Email
As the vibrant colors of spring transition into the warm embrace of summer, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the cherished Fox Point values that unite communities across this beautiful Midwestern region. Known for their friendliness, warmth, and a strong sense of community, Fox Pointers have long been celebrated for their neighborly spirit. This post aims to explore how we can further cultivate and embrace neighborliness here in Fox Point, highlighting some quintessentially Midwestern qualities.
Embrace the Time-Honored Tradition of Front Porch Conversations:
One of the defining features of Midwestern communities is the front porch—a place where neighbors gather to unwind, exchange stories, and build lasting friendships. With summer upon us, let’s dust off our porch swings and invite our neighbors for an evening of shared laughter and heartfelt conversations. These simple interactions foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities to deepen connections within our communities.
Extend a Helping Hand:
Midwesterners are renowned for their willingness to lend a helping hand. Whether it’s offering assistance with yard work, lending tools, or providing a comforting meal during challenging times, acts of kindness go a long way in fostering a tight-knit community. This summer, let’s proactively reach out to our neighbors and offer our support whenever needed. By doing so, we create a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and cared for.
Embrace Potluck Culture:
Food has a remarkable ability to bring people together. Midwesterners have perfected the art of potlucks, where neighbors come together, each contributing a homemade dish to create a diverse and delicious spread. This summer, organize a neighborhood potluck picnic or barbecue where everyone can share their culinary skills and enjoy the flavors of the season. Such gatherings encourage camaraderie, foster cultural exchange, and create lasting memories.
Celebrate Local Traditions and Festivals:
The Midwest boasts a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and vibrant local festivals that reflect the diverse heritage of its residents. By actively participating in these events, we not only celebrate our regional identity but also strengthen the sense of community. Attend county fairs, cultural festivals, and community parades to experience the joy and unity that these events bring. Encourage your neighbors to join, supporting local artisans, musicians, and vendors who contribute to the unique fabric of our Midwest communities.
Conclusion:
As summer unfolds here in Fox Point, let’s seize the opportunity to cultivate a stronger sense of neighborliness within our community. Together we can foster a spirit of unity and kindness that will enrich the lives of all who call Fox Point home. As we embark on this journey, may our actions inspire others to join us in building a more connected and neighborly community.
Pool
By Criss Chang | Email
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, for the Fox Point Poolgoers. The pool opens on Memorial Day weekend and we’ll have 102 days to enjoy it from sunrise to sunset. Here’s a few reminders about what’s happening at the pool this summer:
REGISTER – go to https://foxpoint.getomnify.com to verify your profile. If you didn’t sign in last year, you will likely need to receive a link to sign in. Please send an email to pool@foxpoint.org and our admin will get you access. Active accounts and family members are required to gain access to the pool. This is our way of ensuring neighborhood security over unauthorized attendees and trespassers.
PROGRAMS –
- Swim Team – Schedule details can be found at this link
- Swim Lessons – classes for children aged 3-7 will follow the swim team on weekdays and a Saturday class is planned. Registration will remain open through June, see this link to sign up
- Water Polo and Dive Teams – we are working to bring these programs back. More information to come on this.
- Awning Rentals – Reserve your awning to host parties by logging into the Omnify System and choosing your date. See this LINK for the schedule. 5 awnings are available twice daily. Here’s a MAP of the awning numbers and locations.
- Barrington Masters Swim – Begins May 30 open to Fox Point residents, no registration is needed, just show up, schedule is: Tue/Thu/Sat 6 am-7:30 am and Mon/Wed 8 pm-9 pm.
- Lap Swim – as always, 2 lanes are dedicated to lap swim during all general open swim times
- Kids Triathlon – Back for another year. Join in on the fun and speed. Participate, volunteer, and cheer on the Fox Point kids as they swim, bike, and run their way through the neighborhood. The event date is targeted for July 16th. Valerie Chang will host a series of Friday afternoon training camps in June and July to help kids prepare for the race. Registration details will be posted in early June.
Common Grounds
By Jay Roberts | Email
Happy Summer Everyone!
As we get into the summer months, I will be riding around the neighborhood, checking to make sure our grounds are in order. A point of focus this year will be the cul-de-sacs. Typically, they can be harder to maintain and are sometimes forgotten. General maintenance will be performed on a weekly basis which includes weeding of the beds. Down the road, some of the plantings will need to be replaced once our budget allows. In the meantime, we can pull any dead plants and look at some alternatives to keep the areas looking as nice as possible. Some are in better shape than others.
Another point of interest this summer will be the bleachers by the tennis courts. A couple of years ago, we created a new space for the bleachers and want to ensure that it looks neat and free of debris. If you ever see any trash or bottles over by that area, please be a good neighbor and discard them.
During the first week of the pool opening, we will also be putting down some new mulch over by the pool, tennis courts, and cul-de-sacs. In addition, like I mentioned last week, we have also started our annual mosquito spraying for the season.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!
Secretary Report
By Lindsay Keenan | Email
Summer is here and soon we will be updating the Fox Point Directory. Please send an email to secretary@foxpoint.org if your contact information has changed or if you have recently moved to Fox Point and would like to be included in the 2023 directory.
Thank you!