Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1439352
10 | OHCC LIVING | JANUARY 2022 | The Community Image and Marketing Committee As you drive through the front entrance to our community, you've probably noticed a lot of changes going on and work being done. That's because the initial work to redesign our Front Entry has finally begun. Currently, the old monuments are having their tile removed, being re-stuccoed and repainted in order to transform them into planter retaining walls in anticipation of our new monument's arrival on Dec. 15. Turf removal to accommodate the new monument will also be done, as well as moving the existing ground light fixtures to highlight plantings. You may also see work in the median area, where the existing three flag poles have been reduced to just one that will fly the American flag. Painting and work around the Guard House is also on-going. We are all very excited to see this long-awaited project take shape and to enhance our beautiful community. The Committee continues to meet regularly each month to address issues and suggestions from residents and committees. Recently, we worked with ARC to recommend a new color for awnings, a beautiful blue color that will continue our Greek/Mediterranean theme. We also worked with staff on new holiday decor for the Clubhouse and entry/exit gates. We continue to work closely with the HOA to enhance and improve our community image, to ensure consistency of our message, and protect home values. The Committee welcomes all residents' observations and comments. We wish everyone happy holidays! From the members of the committee: Tom Murphy (Co-Chair) twmmurphy@gmail.com, Judy Caston (Co- Chair) Jeff Mowers (Vice-Chair), Christy Cooper, Christine Ross, Marcy Samoiloff and Nancy Trimino Landscape Committee The Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia Tirucalli) sometimes called the "Firestick Plant," is related to the Poinsettia. The Poinsettia, however is much less toxic due to it's lesser amounts of sap. The Pencil Cactus is extremely toxic to humans, cats, and dogs because it contains copious amounts of a milky latex sap capable of causing serious stomach, eye, and skin injury. There is no safe part of the Pencil Cactus. Any time you handle any part of it; you run the risk of coming into contact with the sap. If you are going to prune this plant, be sure to wear disposable gloves and eye protection. If you are allergic to latex, stay away from the sap because it is latex based. It has been known to cause anaphylactic shock, which is life threatening. An allergic reaction can be treated with an anti-histamine, or a trip to the emergency room. Symptoms of skin touched by the Pencil Cactus sap: • Severe irritation of the skin • Redness and burning of the skin Symptoms of eyes exposed to the Pencil Cactus sap: • Light sensitivity • Redness of the eye • Swollen eyelids • Blurred vision • Bleeding of the eye Symptoms of ingestion of the Pencil Cactus sap: • Burns on mouth, lips, and tongue • Extreme salivation • Stomach cramps • Vomiting Treatments for exposure to the Pencil Cactus sap consists of thoroughly washing the affected area for about 15 minutes. Sluice the area with chilled water. Be vigilant not to spread the washed sap to any unaffected area of the body. Beware of the Pencil Cactus, also known as the Firestick Plant