YMCA Central Centennial

Open House Sunday Nov. 22, 2015 • 2 to 6 p.m.

YMCA Central Branch 17 N Champion St • Youngstown, Ohio

Sunday, November 15, 2015 • Special Advertising Section I •

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One Hundred Years of Impacting Lives on Champion Street I have heard the most amazing stories of how the Central YMCA on Champion Street has positively impacted those that have lived and worked in Youngstown for the past one hundred years. Well, maybe I haven’t heard them all, or heard as many as I would like from the early years, but it is clear that residents of the valley genuinely have a significant emotional attachment to their Central YMCA. Past leaders have truly blessed us in Youngstown because they had the vision, the passion, and accumulated the resources to create an organization that has ‘changed lives’ in the valley. As we now consider the future of the Central YMCA, and renovate to connect and serve the next generation, we indeed should pause to celebrate not only one hundred years in a building, but the true people impact that was made.

As we celebrate the first one hundred years of the Central YMCA, it is indeed important to pause and reflect on how leaders in Youngstown created the current YMCA in 1915; immediately remodeled in 1926 and again in 1930; a major addition in 1953 that created our deep pool and upper gym, and again a major addition in

1970 that created the shallow/family pool and community gym. As many have said, the Central YMCA was once the largest facility under one roof of any in the United States. We don’t keep that data anymore, but we would still have to be at the top of the list. I applaud the volunteers and staff leaders, the philanthropic donors, and the engagement of members and, of course, how the community has embraced the YMCA. So many individuals did their part, large or small, to create the dynamic, far-reaching community organization today. The Y thrives today because of the dedication, vision, and philanthropy of so many!

And, we have enjoyed some great leaders.

I can’t name them all here. But I believe many current members would agree that Dick Bennett, Ken Rudge, Bob Zajack, Bob Doyle, Mike Shaffer, Maureen Horvath, and others have positively touched our lives. These long-time, dedicated staff have formed meaningful, precious relationships with so many of us. We counted on them in past years and today just like early members counted on early See 100 YEARS, page I-3

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future. For the past several years, the Y Board of Trustees has been researching the best possible way to serve the continued from page I-2 City of Youngstown through a Central YMCA. It is very exciting that volunteers staff members. Many will agree with me have raised the necessary donations that God has blessed our YMCA with some and funding to provide another major of the best staff members and people, that renovation. Beginning in the spring of have ever served the Y movement.

2016 construction will start on a $5 million renovation to the Central YMCA As we celebrate today, one hundred re-purposing our downtown Y for the years in this great historic building, next generation of service. This exciting volunteers are busy focusing on our project will renew and demonstrate

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the same commitment that leaders one hundred years ago believed; that people who live and work in downtown Youngstown are priorities in our community and the YMCA of Youngstown and the Central Y will be there for them.

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new facility which is especially inspiring to me.” We can now celebrate this historic achievement in 2015, one hundred years of the Central YMCA. Let us not forget that it is because volunteer board members and staff provided the work and resources to build our YMCA one hundred I leave you with this. On November 12, years ago. Today I think William Howard 1915, President William Howard Taft, upon Taft would be inspired by all we have done dedicating the ‘new’ Central YMCA building and we continue to do! said, “Association work always makes you think better of your fellow man and what Timothy M. Hilk you have accomplished by dedicating this President/Chief Executive Officer

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The Youngstown Central YMCA: Proud Heritage, Exciting Future I often say that I have the best job in the whole-wide world, because I get the privilege of working at one of the best YMCAs in the entire country. It’s truly a joy to see the smiles on the faces of the kids, adults, and families as they come into the Y! Because when you think about it, everyone that walks into our building is here for a very good reason. It may be to play a game of pick-up basketball with friends; lift weights in our expansive weight rooms; learn to swim

in one of our two beautiful pools; or take an exercise class like “Spinning” or “Zumba” and have fun while you get into better shape.

The Central Y has been a “melting pot” of our community for a century, and we hear so many stories from old and young alike about the great memories and experiences they have had here.

From “Lad-Dad” nights when fathers and sons would have a fun Friday night See CENTRAL, page I-5

Congratulations YMCA On Your 100TH Anniversary From The Youngstown Lions Club

C LU B O F Y OU NGSTOWN Congratulations To The Central Ymca On Its 100TH Anniversary.

From The Youngstown Kiwanis Club Celebrating Our 100 Year Anniversary On July 29, 2016.

Our Club Has Met At The Central YMCA For 100 Years.

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teaching the community to swim The Central YMCA has been an important part of the community for decades. The Neptune swim team has been one of the biggest programs run by the Y since 1954. With over 230 members of the 2015 team, the Neptunes are the largest team in the Northeast Ohio Swim League.

Swimmers aged 5 to 19 practice 5 days per week to remain a competitive team, with both YMCA and USA Swimming memberships.

are offered throughout the year for persons from six months of age to older adults. With the new Youngstown Swims Program, residents of the City of Youngstown can enjoy free swim lessons if they cannot afford them.

Each June, the Central Y offers a week long water safety program free to the community. Throughout the school year, students from Youngstown City Schools, Montessori, Campbell Elementary School, and more are able to come to the Y from school to learn to swim.

Residents of the greater Youngstown area can use the two pools at the YMCA Tara Bishop for more than swim team. Swim lessons Aquatics Director

CENTRAL, continued from page I-4 together at the Y, to “Super Saturdays” when kids would ride the city bus downtown and spend the whole day going from one activity to the next, then ride the bus home.

of some outstanding people who were pillars of the community. The “C” in the YMCA here in Youngstown is something that we’ve been renowned for in the past and present, and hopefully future.

Our Y’s leaders of today are just as committed as our predecessors to seeing the Y’s mission accomplished: “Putting Christian principles into action through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”

This YMCA has been building the foundations of community for 100 years, and our current staff and volunteers Mike Shaffer realize that we stand on the shoulders Central YMCA Executive Director

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CONGRATULATIONS YMCA On 100 Years!

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Congratulations to the Youngstown YMCA

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Congratulations!

100 Years of Building Strong Kids, Strong Families and a Strong Community

YMCA of Youngstown

On 100 Years

1 W Federal St. Youngstown, OH 44505

(330) 747-5055

A Vast and Storied History As the YMCA celebrates 100 years at our Central downtown YMCA location, we must also celebrate the many historical moments that have taken place at 17 North Champion Street during the last century.

In 1913, fundraising started for a new YMCA building to replace the old one at the corner of Federal and Champion Streets. Once the money was secured, construction started in May of 1914.

Many materials were hauled to the job site by horse and wagon. On September 29, 1914 the cornerstone was laid.

Construction continued through the Fall and Winter of 1914-15.

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On November 12, 1915, the new $340,000 YMCA building was dedicated by former President William Howard Taft. The new YMCA boasted a swimming pool, gymnasium with indoor running track, four lane bowling alley, the Garden Inn Restaurant, dorm rooms, and at least four working fireplaces.

For nearly 25 years, WKBN Radio was housed on the third floor at Central.

The first broadcast was December 28, 1926, and the final one, July 6, 1951.

October 1, 1931 the YMCA expanded its education department with the newly constructed Institute of Technology, later to become Jones Hall and the birth of YSU.

and now included basketball, volleyball, fencing, squash, handball, wrestling, judo, boxing, and square dancing.

Along the way, many celebrities would pass through our doors either to work out, or give an address to our association. Warren G. Harding, Hubert H. Humphrey, Art Linkletter, Jim Brown, Paul Warfield, Earle Bruce, Joe Paterno, Buster Crabbe, and Jim Nabors (T.V.’s Gomer Pyle) just to name a few.

In late 1968, it was once again time to grow. A two million dollar capital campaign had begun. On April 23, 1972 the dedication was held and a new six lane pool, youth lobby, and large community room were on display to the public. With seating for over 500 people, many events have taken place here over the last 43 years, including the annual Good Friday Breakfast.

The YMCA has been the anchor of downtown Youngstown for nearly 133 years, the last 100 in the same building.

It is a testament of the commitment the YMCA has to our valley. Thousands have passed through our doors and continue to do so. We are here to stay.

As the YMCA prepares to expand for the next generation, our message is as prominent as ever, to make sure every man, woman, and child who enter those By 1948, membership had increased, and doors at 17 North Champion Street, a one million dollar expansion campaign leaves stronger in Spirit, Mind, and Body. got under way. In 1954, a new pool with a diving well, and a larger gym Al Leonhart were added. Programs were expanded YMCA Historian

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Committed to the Community’s Health and Wellness for over a Quarter Century The Youngstown Area Community Cup has come a long way since former YMCA CEO, Dick Bennett, originally had the idea. Bennett appointed Tom Grantonic, now the Davis Family YMCA Executive Director, to put his idea into motion. Grantonic implemented the first Community Cup back in 1990.

Fast forward to this past September 2015 when the Community Cup, under the direction of Cup Director Jennifer Quinlan and Assistant Director Julie Walker, completed its 26th season. The Community Cup is a program of the YMCA of Youngstown that has involved over 80 businesses and organizations and thousands of employees. Over the past quarter century, the three goals of the Community Cup have remained the same. The Community Cup aims to create an awareness of the importance of physical fitness for individuals and the participating companies.

The program also creates an attitude of teamwork and pride within each sponsoring organization. Additionally, it promotes community spirit throughout the Youngstown area.

The Community Cup is a corporate athletic challenge in which area organizations compete in a series of athletic and non–athletic events. Teams are comprised of adult employees and their spouses of the participating companies. Retirees and interns are also eligible to participate. The YMCA offers a free three month membership to the Central YMCA during the Cup season so that participants can train for the events of the Cup. There are 18 various events of the Community Cup. Now, several of the events have come and gone over the years, but there remains a good mixture of competitive and non-competitive events so that all ages can participate.

Currently, the events include: banner competition, pep rally/cheer competition, bocce tournament, kickball tournament, basketball hot shot, four swimming events, golf scramble, bowling, volleyball tournament, 10K relay, time prediction walk, time prediction bike, obstacle course, tug-o-war, and the Youngstown Meltdown.

Of all the events, the tug-o-war is the most popular, while the Cup’s weight loss event, the Youngstown Meltdown, has the most participants of all the events. In fact, this year there were 420 participants that lost a total of 2,011.2 pounds in a four month period.

Congratulations Central YMCA on 100 Years!

Current and former CEOs of the YMCA enjoying themselves at the 2011 Youngstown Area Community Cup. Pictured from left to right are Mr. Dick Bennett (1976 to 1991) Mr. Ken Rudge (1991to 2011) and Mr. Tim Hilk (2011 to Present).

The individual who lost the most weight of all the participants lost almost 40 pounds. “The Meltdown has had a positive effect on my agency. It has brought people together to help one another eat better and exercise. We’ve been able to motivate one another and there are numerous people eating better and exercising more now...even people that are not involved with the Community Cup,” states Marisa Litch team Captain of the Mahoning County Children Services Board team.

All participating teams are divided into three different divisions, Red, White, or Blue, based on factors that are set forth by the Community Cup’s Rules Committee. Teams are not required to participate in every event, but have a better chance to win their division’s Cup if they do. Mary Thompson, Captain of the Zidian Group states, “The Cup is helping bring all of our employees together as one. Something that has been hard to do since we have four buildings and quite a few employees who don’t work in all of the buildings daily.” Participation has remained steady over the years, with 2015 having 24 teams. The division winners for 2015 included: Farmers National Bank, Red Division champions; Cohen & Company in the White Division; and finally the Blue Division champions, D&E Counseling. Major sponsors for the 2015 Community Cup were Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Mercy Health.

The Community Cup is always looking for new companies and sponsors.

For further information on how your

company can be a part of the 2016 Community Cup, contact the Community Cup office at the Central YMCA. Jennifer Quinlan Community Cup Director 330-742-4794

Best Wishes for Continued Success!

17 North Champion St. Youngstown, OH 44503

(330) 743-0920 Inside the YMCA 2nd Floor

645 Market St. Youngstown, OH

(330) 744 4375

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CENTRAL YMCA RE-COMMITS TO YOUTH The Central YMCA was without a full time Youth Director from 2006 until 2013. A significant donation from Jim and Jan Springer allowed the Central Y to hire a Youth Director; Joselyn Parker, a Youngstown native.

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CONGRATULATIONS ON THE CENTRAL YMCA’S 100TH ANNIVERSARY! E. Carroll Thornton, Jr. Jeffrey D. Heintz Martha L. Bushey James G. Floyd Stephen T. Bolton Thomas J. Lipka Leo J. Puhalla Robert S. Fulton Timothy J. Jacob Brent E. Baker Curis J. Ambrosy Doralice Tavolario Edwin Romero Ricchiuti C. Scott Lanz Catherine M. Stone David A. Detec Thomas F. Hull, II Adam V. Buente Joseph M. Houser

Of Counsel: Alfred J. Fleming

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back to their community.

Joselyn led a Vocal Ensemble Program where students learned technique and vocal skills, but more importantly shared their talents by performing at local nursing homes, churches, and youth Joselyn and her staff at the Y are making programs. a difference and impacting young lives in our community. With a focus on Summer Day Camp was a huge hit with Youth Development, children and teens 72 participants this year. With a focus on are experiencing the benefits of Y Summer Learning Loss, teachers reported programming and values. that the children came back to school more prepared than ever.

Leaders Club has given seventh through twelfth graders the chance to learn the See youth, page I-9 importance of volunteering and giving

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YMCA Youth Sports: Everyone plays, grows and learns!

Thousands of kids in our valley get their very first competitive sports experience here at the Central Y. Whether it’s basketball (a YMCA invention, by the way!), soccer, or tee-ball, our characterbuilding sports leagues remain one of the most popular things that we do. For decades, the Youth Basketball League has been one of the largest in the country, with the Winter League reaching as high as 1,200 kids. A unique feature of the sports leagues here at the Y is that we intentionally place kids from diverse parts of our community together on a team, so that the youth

learn far more about life than just basketball skills. Everyone plays equal time, the rules are adapted to be more kid-friendly, and our experienced staff and volunteers ensure a positive and fun experience.

YOUTH,

after school activities, including Youth Fitness Program, encompassing swimming, boxing and weight training, as well as Hip Hop Dance.

continued from page I-8 After School Programs such as the TOP Program (Teens of Promise) focus on academics, health & wellness, and character development. Eighty-nine students benefited from these important

Our Youth Sports League Director, Ms. D’Nelle Seiple, was a star basketball player at both Austintown Fitch and Miami University (Ohio). She brings her great experience and passion to see kids get stronger in every way to these wonderful programs that are a hallmark of what the Y does in this community.

Teen SPEAK (Silence Prevents Education and Knowledge) Nights are held once a month, and feature positive role models with speakers, games, and relationship building.

The Dearing Family would like to congratulate the entire staff of the YMCA for their 100 Years of Continued Success!

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Success after 6 This year, the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley asked the YMCA of Youngstown to be the lead partner in a new initiative called Success After 6, which is being piloted at the Youngstown Community School.

generous donors, and volunteers, we are able to impact the lives of youth in our community.

YMCA Success After 6 Counselor Jasmine Jackson says “I love my job, I enjoy working with the children As a part of the new initiative, the YMCA and I know that this is my calling. I is heading up the after-school program, appreciate the opportunity to make which serves 100 kindergarten through an impact on these young lives.” The 3rd graders. Monday through Thursday Success After 6 After-School Program the students receive homework is just one example of how the YMCA of assistance, enjoy active play, educational Youngstown is helping our youth achieve games, field trips, and enrichment more. activities. They are fed a warm meal before being bused home. Thanks to Laura Dooley the partnership with the United Way, YMCA After-School Site Administrator

Pictured left to right: Damon West, Reggie Ware, and YMCA Counselor Jasmine Jackson hard at work during homework time.

Pictured left to right: D’Mya Irby, Rashad Harris, Chase Corther, Deon’Dray Richard, Dez’Siray Richard, and Christopher Velazquez enjoying dinner.

Pictured: 1st grader Zy’Airah Jones enjoying a swim on her field trip to the YMCA.

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CENTRAL 1915 2015 CENTENNIAL Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Youngstown’s Central Y

REUNITE REMINISCE CELEBRATE Central Centennial

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 22, 2015 2:00 - 6:00 pm Self Guided Tours • Memorabilia Old Time Movies • Hotdogs • Cherry Cokes Former Y Staff & Friends

YMCA Central Branch 17 N. Champion St Youngstown, OH 44503

Historic Building Tours - 2:30 pm & 3:30 pm Special Program/ Presentation - 5:00 pm

Join us in celebrating the GRAND OLD CENTRAL YMCA!

Many past and present staff members will be available to share memories and to swap stories-Bob Doyle, Bob Zajack, Dick Bennett, Al Leonhart, Barry Rose, Findley Boyd, Maureen Horvath, Ellen Wakeford-Banks, Janie Pernotto Ehrman.

Also, Chuck Stepan, Ed Drennen, Anthony Worrellia, Rich Hahn, Emma Blackstone, Dean Ferris, Dee Ferris, Pat Desimone, Terry O’Halloran, Andrea Linnelli, and Jim Evans will be on hand.

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JOIN THE YMCA OF YOUNGSTOWN! When you join the YMCA, you are coming together with men, women and children from your community who are committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

The YMCA of Youngstown remains true in its dedication to Christian principles and ideals that have been a cornerstone throughout its history. Through a variety of programs, facilities, connections and resources, the Y is committed to maintaining the balance of the triangle that represents spirit, mind, and body.

With a focus on developing the potential of kids, improving health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our neighbors, your membership not only brings about meaningful change in yourself but in your community, too.

The YMCA of Youngstown offers Membership categories and a variety of programs to meet the needs of individuals, families, and children.

MEMBERSHIP ADVANTAGES “ B`OW\SR O\R Q][^SbS\b abOTT [S[PS`a eV] O`S `SORg b] OaaWab you in achieving your goals. “ 1ZSO\ eSZZ [OW\bOW\SR TOQWZWbWSa eWbV []RS`\ Êb\Saa S_cW^[S\b “ /QQSaa b] R]hS\a ]T T`SS U`]c^ Êb\Saa QZOaaSa Ob P]bV G;1/ of Youngstown facilities. “ /QbWdWbWSa O\R ^`]U`O[a T]` _cOZWbg TO[WZg bW[S “ A^SQWOZ [S[PS` `ObSa ]\ OZZ ^`]U`O[a W\QZcRW\U Ac[[S` 2Og 1O[^ A^W\\W\U >WZObSa @ST]`[S` 3f] 1VOW` /`b 6c[O\WbWSa ^`]U`O[a G]cbV :SOUcSa O\R AeW[ :Saa]\a) Ê`ab QV]WQS ]\ OZZ program enrollment before the general public. “ /QQSaa b] P]bV G;1/ ]T G]c\Uab]e\ [S[PS`aVW^ TOQWZWbWSa “ Membership Reciprocity Program – use of all YMCA facilities in Ohio.

YoungstownYMCA.org

Stop in today and take a tour of our facilities!

Central YMCA

17 N. Champion St. PO Box 1287 Youngstown, OH 44501 330.744.8411

Davis Family YMCA 45 McClurg Rd. Youngstown, OH 44512 330.480.5656

Camp Fitch YMCA on Lake Erie 12600 Abels Rd North SpringďŹ eld, PA 16430 814.922.3219