Happy Friday everyone!  Let’s hope that Hurricane Florence not only spares our region but that it does less damage than forecasted for those living along the Carolina and Virginia coast. As we head into the weekend, let’s give some Shout Outs to some of our wonderful Y colleagues. Several of these are about associates who worked at one of this summer’s many Y camp programs and others are about those working now serving people across our community in schools and Ys. Thanks to all of them and to all of you!

 

Tangeria Addison May, Vanessa Holt, Yasmin Jones, Tia McLaughlin (Lead Teacher, Assistant Teacher, Assistant Teacher and Pre-K Teacher, Back River and Merritt Park Head Start Centers)

These Associates transition into their new positions this school year! They are flying high. Keep up the great work. (Submitted by Claudine Grey)

 

Andrew Black (Lifeguard at the Y in Catonsville, the Dancel Y in Ellicott City and the Y in Pasadena)

Andrew has assisted in filling many lifeguard shifts at several centers while maintaining his primary summer role of Camp Counselor. He always makes sure his area is safe and maintains the lifeguard promise. In working at a few centers, it is hard to always know all information about each center. Andrew is always willing to ask any other associate to ensure proper information is given to the members! Thank you, Andrew for keeping yourself informed to keep our members informed and safe! (Submitted by Betsy Kulp)

 

Amy Brannock and Connie Schyan-Cusato (Program Directors, Before and After School Enrichment in Anne Arundel County)

These ladies have worked so hard to prepare for the school year.  They have gone beyond expectations. (Submitted by Sabrina Giglio)

 

Hunter Brown (Swim Instructor, the Walter & Betty Ward Y in Abingdon)

Hunter is always going above and beyond in his swim classes. He is always positive and upbeat. I’ve never seen him not smiling during his lessons. Parents of children in his classes are always super appreciative and giving us great feedback about not only his teaching skills but his overall presence in the class. He is always willing to sub for others when he is available. Thank you for all your hard work, Hunter! (Submitted by Courtney McKearin)

 

Marvin Higgs and Jeremy Kirkpatrick (Swim and Facilities Directors, the Y in Parkville)

Jeremy and Marvin have worked extremely hard during pool shut down. The deck and pool lining looks great! Members have given several compliments and would like to thank you both on a job well done! Your hard work, time, dedication, and newly painted wall has not gone unnoticed! Kudos! (Submitted by Jenn Stallworth)

 

Zalanka Jones (Program and Camp Director, the Greater Annapolis Y in Arnold)

Zalanka is hilarious and always positive. She is amazing with the children; they always seem mesmerized by her voice. She lifts her co-workers’ spirits when camp can start to wear them down. She understands that each of her associates have personal circumstances they are going through and she accommodates everyone. She is someone I would want to work for no matter what the job is, and made camp this summer awesome! (Submitted by Charis Gozzo)

 

Mercedes Lopez (Assistant Camp Director, the Greater Annapolis Y in Arnold)

Mercy knows everything about camp and is willing to answer any question the counselors have, no matter how small. The counselors have relied on her to be there every day. She keeps a positive attitude even though camp can wear you down throughout the summer. (Submitted by Charis Gozzo)

Andrea Menica (Camp Counselor, the Y in Pasadena Camp)

Andrea embodies all the core values of the Y and carries out the mission to its fullest! She is patient with campers and creates a fun and safe environment for all. Andrea shows up every day ready to create a fun day for all the campers! (Submitted by Betsy Kulp)

 

Jennifer Sheckels (Stay & Play Attendant, the Hill Family Y in Westminster)

Jennifer is awesome whenever she is working with the kids. She is attentive to their needs, calm and understanding, and always willing to offer a helping hand to child or coworker. She jumps right in when there is a need, and projects a quiet and peaceful demeanor for any child who is having a problem separating from their parent for their 90 minutes. She is a fabulous addition to our Stay and Play. (Submitted by Jennifer Harvilak)

 

Charli Smith (Lifeguard, the Y in Pasadena)

Charli did not hesitate to assist a hurt member on the pool deck. She immediately took the lead responder role and never looked back. She remained calm and provided appropriate first aid through the entire event. Thank you, Charli for your diligent work to keep our members safe! (Submitted by Betsy Kulp)

 

If you’d like to submit a Shout Out, it’s simple.  Just fill out this online form  Shout Out Nomination Form and I might just include it in my next edition!

 

All the best,

John

John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland