Maples residents host their own Olympic Games

Residents of Maples Retirement Residence gather after competing in the Maples Olympics. Seated, from left, are Jean Cook, Mary Brenneman, Howard Kropf, Marjorie Skinner, Maddie Cormier (RPN), Sabina Bowman (activity coordinator), Tom Benny, Liz Neidig, Susie Elzinga and Lorraine Bender. Standing, from left, are Raymond Ramseyer, Shirley Weicker, Deanna Witter, East Zorra-Tavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer, Mary Shantz, Bruce Brenneman, Doreen Wagner, Janet Liddell, Raymond Ruby, Elma Yantzi, Marcia Wilson (director of care), Rosalind Sim, Laura Drake, Bheumika Modi and Yoli Sanchez. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Residents at Maples Retirement Residence on William Street in Tavistock embraced the spirit of the Winter Olympics last week, hosting their own in-house games complete with medals and plenty of laughs.

From family birthdays and anniversaries to seasonal celebrations, there is always something happening at the Maples. With the Winter Olympics underway in Italy, staff decided it was the perfect time to bring a little friendly competition to their residents.

Executive director Joan Hergott said staff thought it would be a great idea for residents to participate in their own Olympic Games and have fun doing it.

With a laugh, Raymond Ruby and Raymond Ramseyer joked they would not be attempting ski moguls or ski jumps, medals or not. The pair are well known for bringing humour to Maples activities.

Residents took part in a variety of safe and spirited events, earning points toward gold, silver and bronze medals, along with certificates presented during a special ceremony.