After 10 years of frustration, we finally have a super-fast internet connection to the outside world through Vianet. It’s like we’ve gone from dial-up to fibre! (a dedicated, bidirectional 100Mbps connection for the geeks out there)Read More →

Today we applied a solution of Magnesium Chloride to minimize road dust. We did this last year and it was very effective. As anybody who visited Bare Oaks in the last week has certainly noticed, we also did a lot of work this week on the main road to improve drainage. About Magnesium Chloride: Unlike other dust control agents (e.g. Calcium Chloride) it: Generally does not cause skin irritation Is less toxic than regular salt or baking soda Does not damage plants (except if sprayed directly on the leaves — like any fertilizer) Will last the entire season with only one application An MSDS sheetRead More →

There is now an old school video game machine downstairs in the clubhouse. The game may be old school but the system is all new. So instead of just one game, you have the choice of 12 licensed Classic 80’s video games such as Pac-Man, Galaxian and Galaga. Unlike modern video games, these are very easy to understand. And unlike handheld games, the large console is not isolating. Everyone gets to watch and cheer you on! …or criticize your technique 🙂 Retro games should have retro prices so each play is 25 cents. We’re not likely to ever make any money this way. But neitherRead More →

Bare Oaks is considering installing a dedicated fibre-optic internet feed. That would provide speeds of more than 1,000 megabits per second which is more than enough bandwidth for everyone to watch video services like Netflix. But the cost is very high. So before we proceed, we need to make sure that there is enough demand to cover the expense. Please help us by answering a few questions. Take the survey: http://skyclad.me/internetRead More →

The new mini-golf is now open! Everyone is welcome to play.  Putters and golf balls are available in the office. This was not a Bare Oaks undertaking. Rather, it is the fulfillment of 3 years of dedication and perseverance by several Bare Oaks members who wanted to create a project that would enhance their park. Paul, one of the main organizers, tells the story as follows: The idea germinated during discussions between members during the summer of 2008. Fundraising started September 2008 and ran through May 2010.  The money was raised though numerous dances and casual meals offered by members over the winter seasons.  TheRead More →