tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40080284234609450442024-03-05T08:55:36.295-08:00Why the YYMCA of the Triangle stories and experiences from members, staff and volunteers.YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-21940840797273327642012-09-07T05:46:00.000-07:002012-09-07T05:46:23.234-07:00Why the YMCA Moved!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We've moved to our new, improved website </span><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">www.YMCATriangle.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRMCU8Gw-tsD6xqbfDuAEL2Z81-kVH3UD2cn3bPc8woNvRhBnkJ65tWL4hL4UWw3MNTLkUZYBO4uK5C0udUgfEfk6wO7FuS3TtDqpEKkK4Pd-AvJYee3ulCShEFdMyp9Gs5BffLj2jtdx/s1600/New+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 180px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 274px;"><img alt="Check out our new website!" border="0" hea="true" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRMCU8Gw-tsD6xqbfDuAEL2Z81-kVH3UD2cn3bPc8woNvRhBnkJ65tWL4hL4UWw3MNTLkUZYBO4uK5C0udUgfEfk6wO7FuS3TtDqpEKkK4Pd-AvJYee3ulCShEFdMyp9Gs5BffLj2jtdx/s200/New+Blog.jpg" title="Check out our new website!" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bookmark our <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/views/blog/y-the-y">new location</a> so you can continue to </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">hear from real people: parents, kids, staff members and volunteers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You'll hear from folks who lost weight and others who gained friends. All can tell you why the Y.</span>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-12635701090133580952012-07-30T06:53:00.003-07:002012-08-01T06:38:32.856-07:00Swim for Life Meet 2012<div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">David Arukwe. You might want to remember the name.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXjOxJvfvb3CtFwyIXgsHs2NPCrCm3QiYDbxmcGMfCrbPRhTfMxReA7aynYnZdoWLAkXqi6yFIa2gPUgZU7F9m_jTxh8aPM1PM9FZAU2_GlgnYiQRIdjeiGSMOHsN4B4Sv2srJ6LJ-axi/s1600/IMG_4941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXjOxJvfvb3CtFwyIXgsHs2NPCrCm3QiYDbxmcGMfCrbPRhTfMxReA7aynYnZdoWLAkXqi6yFIa2gPUgZU7F9m_jTxh8aPM1PM9FZAU2_GlgnYiQRIdjeiGSMOHsN4B4Sv2srJ6LJ-axi/s320/IMG_4941.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two years ago, David didn’t know anything about flip turns, diving blocks or medleys. He also had his dad.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today, the 11-year-old competes on two <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx">A.E. Finley YMCA</a> swim teams, the outreach team and the traditional summer swim team.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">David started learning basic swim strokes at YMCA Camp High Hopes, the A.E. Finley YMCA’s subsidized summer day camp.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Most of these kids, like David, didn’t know how to swim before they came to our Y camps,” said Kendall Harris, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle</a> community outreach director. “At the Y, we consider swimming a life skill. That’s why we incorporate daily swim lessons into our outreach camps.”</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When David’s dad died suddenly last Thanksgiving, time in the pool proved to be a positive distraction.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Where can I start? He comes alive in the water,” says Queen Arukwe, David’s mother. “David wants to be like Michael Phelps. He’s motivating his siblings in the pool too.”</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">David also motivates his teammates. Today, the 11-year-old is developing a strategy to guide his relay team to a victory.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The first or last swimmer has to be a booster,” exclaims David to his team.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“You go first, David. You’re the best,” says another member of the Finley Y relay team.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On July 28, David joined more than 150 YMCA of the Triangle outreach campers who dove into the Third Annual Swim for Life Meet. The event provides an opportunity for campers from the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Alexander_Family_YMCA.aspx">Alexander</a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx">Cary</a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Durham_YMCAs.aspx">Durham</a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kerr_Family_YMCA.aspx">Kerr</a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kraft_Family_YMCA.aspx">Kraft</a> and Finley YMCAs to show off their new skills in a competitive setting.</span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZazK96RsB8YcFekRB7lGJGikdpnU9iY7i05WD2OTEidn3lNi0EMnzYkE384MHQHvfVVoXIhn5v7OIxBWDvdbwziLal_CN64l1Qy3e4h7Y2wsD-FmGhCTTHDMPPQjrjOstmEyW4jg84DgD/s1600/IMG_4578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZazK96RsB8YcFekRB7lGJGikdpnU9iY7i05WD2OTEidn3lNi0EMnzYkE384MHQHvfVVoXIhn5v7OIxBWDvdbwziLal_CN64l1Qy3e4h7Y2wsD-FmGhCTTHDMPPQjrjOstmEyW4jg84DgD/s320/IMG_4578.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Swimmers competed in the breast stroke, back stroke, freestyle and butterfly. The YMCA branch with the most points earned top honors. </span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Organizers say winning isn’t the ultimate goal. </span></div><div class="Default"><br />
</div><div class="Default"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Nearly 60 percent of African-American children can't swim,” said Anthony Hardison, Kerr Family YMCA community outreach director. “According to a <a href="http://www.usaswimming.org/DesktopDefault.aspx">USA Swimming</a> study, white children are twice as likely to know how to swim. Our YMCA strives to break those barriers in the pool.” </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">David broke some meet records, won his heats, earned MVP honors and led the Finley swim team to an overall win.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I wish my husband was here to see this,” said Queen with tears streaming down her face. “But, the kids know he’s proud of them.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So are we. Remember the name. David Arukwe.</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>More than 800 children attend YMCA summer day camp on full or partial scholarship. Swim instruction is a part of each camper’s day. Donations to the YMCA’s Annual </i><a href="http://www.ymcawebuildpeople.org/"><i>We Build People</i></a></span><i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> program fund those opportunities.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12pt;"></span></i></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-54400624859503315642012-07-26T05:49:00.000-07:002012-07-26T05:49:20.313-07:00AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE OLYMPICS<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>As all eyes focus on the <a href="http://www.london2012.com/">2012 Olympics</a> in London, we sat down with </i><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/YMCA_Swim_Team.aspx"><i>YMCA of the
Triangle</i></a><i> (YOTA) Swim Coach Chad
Onken. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXfFinhxOI_Afajtk2_FvfLuK5x3mB6ScZHvbz-i7j5a4VGRColFd5CQXDJDEMWCq5XUTRwLQTUSvWbPrHOc10Das-gHLrICRmG5w_sHbaG-iLglEkv_ImOaqXhnrRHZ1Ow2u4HtsJndz/s1600/16AF08FD2B7142DCAF8114DAF304C146.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXfFinhxOI_Afajtk2_FvfLuK5x3mB6ScZHvbz-i7j5a4VGRColFd5CQXDJDEMWCq5XUTRwLQTUSvWbPrHOc10Das-gHLrICRmG5w_sHbaG-iLglEkv_ImOaqXhnrRHZ1Ow2u4HtsJndz/s1600/16AF08FD2B7142DCAF8114DAF304C146.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">YOTA Head Coach Chad Onken</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After all, nine of his
former and current Y swimmers qualified to compete in the Olympic Time Trials.
Former YOTA Swimmer <a href="http://www.charliehouchin.com/">Charlie Houchin</a> will swim alongside Ryan Lochte and Michael
Phelps in a quest for a gold medal in the 800 Free Relay.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What do you say to a young swimmer
who wants to be the next Michael Phelps, Ryan Lochte or Charlie Houchin? </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Focus
on your own development in the water. It's not a race against other people in
your event. Our goal is to help our athletes eliminate their weaknesses and
expand their own strengths. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nine YOTA athletes qualified for
the Olympic Time Trials. Can you put that in perspective? <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not
every team in the country had athletes at this meet -it's quite a privilege to
have one swimmer at Olympic Trials. Keep in mind, in 2000, YOTA didn't have a
qualifier. In 2004, we had one. In 2008, we had a small group of former YOTA swimmers
at the meet, but none representing YOTA. We are blessed to have nine athletes who
qualified for this year’s event.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is the recipe for YOTA
success in the pool?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It
really is a team effort. First, I credit the culture of the YMCA. We have a <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">team-first
focus that has created a family atmosphere. We work hard on the long-term
development of our athletes. Our coaches are ridiculously talented. They really
are the best coaching staff in North Carolina. It also helps that we have great
athletes who are very goal-oriented. They simply get the job done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #222222;">The success of the YOTA Swim Team makes spectators wonder if there
is something special in the water.</span></b><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish
it were that easy. I'm proud of the YOTA organization and everyone who is
involved with what we do. I'm even more excited for the 2016, 2020 and 2024
Olympics. I feel confident that the YMCA will be sending even more athletes! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This summer has been amazing for
the YOTA Swim Team. How proud are you?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Outside
of the actual Olympic Games, the Olympic Time Trials in Omaha was the largest
stage for our sport. It was amazing to have so many YOTA athletes represent us
there. Many of these athletes have been swimming with the Y since they were
very young. It makes me feel good about the YOTA program and what we’re doing.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-81733639309326223202012-07-24T06:14:00.000-07:002012-07-24T06:14:52.831-07:00July's Best Snack<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is more to celebrate this July than our
nation’s birthday. It’s also National Blueberry Month! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 12pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCWc87rf-kaE-OqkfZ7RcJQRqcXfBhSgo65i4r4PPFmSN-hgnWAzo71J85DJ28UqZw1E5mxciYWBHSqXx7jystJcAaWQUrC2V7G__SNT6DSul7mVsZt-ccn8FZXoWhxcOhccQzGZ_pwOZ/s1600/090419170112-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCWc87rf-kaE-OqkfZ7RcJQRqcXfBhSgo65i4r4PPFmSN-hgnWAzo71J85DJ28UqZw1E5mxciYWBHSqXx7jystJcAaWQUrC2V7G__SNT6DSul7mVsZt-ccn8FZXoWhxcOhccQzGZ_pwOZ/s200/090419170112-large.jpeg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Did you know that blueberries are one of the
best sources for vitamins A, C and E? The little berries contain antioxidants
and can boost health, helping to prevent internal infections, and even cancer. <br />
<br />
Here are some quick, easy recipes to make the most of this summer fruit:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Smoothie:</b> Blend low-fat organic vanilla yogurt,
ice, and fresh fruit for a refreshing snack this summer. Combining
blueberries with other favorite fruits will produce you the perfect sweet
treat. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Yogurt Parfait:</b> Mix low-fat organic vanilla yogurt,
granola and blueberries for a protein-rich snack. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Salad:</b> Spruce up your favorite salad for sweet
option. Top off with a light poppy seed dressing.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So celebrate the red, white and blueberries. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-2808603150940566342012-07-13T12:06:00.001-07:002012-07-13T13:11:50.047-07:00YMCA Healthy Communities Day 2012<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we say we strengthen the foundations of the community, we
mean it at the Y.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33ulCJY6gtWRq6MkRsEslUCwHUEsFcl_WVdBFg_oFEBp0VmlFBfSmqzP5R-eJnO-Xj43_C9HizLWdObpx6SD59DQaKQG43_VRK37vtCHi489cXHH2tzN2C1up2DqWWmyGqDlVWC4kITUj/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33ulCJY6gtWRq6MkRsEslUCwHUEsFcl_WVdBFg_oFEBp0VmlFBfSmqzP5R-eJnO-Xj43_C9HizLWdObpx6SD59DQaKQG43_VRK37vtCHi489cXHH2tzN2C1up2DqWWmyGqDlVWC4kITUj/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our YMCA Healthy Communities Day is one of the easiest ways to
show you how we focus on youth development, healthy living and social
responsibility.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">On July
12, we joined forces with our community health partner, </span><a href="http://www.wakemed.org/"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">WakeMed</span></a><span style="background-color: white;">, to provide free medical screenings to children who need them most. In
fact, this is the fourth year we've hosted the event.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We couldn't offer this gathering without the help of <a href="http://www.st-aug.edu/"><span style="color: blue;">Saint Augustine’s
University</span></a>, the permanent home of our largest outreach camp, the
Alexander Family YMCA’s Camp High Hopes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Here's a look at the numbers.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More
than 850 children in YMCA Camp High Hopes, the YMCA’s subsidized summer
day camps, received free health screenings<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Participating
branches included the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">A. E. Finley YMCA</span></a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Alexander_Family_YMCA.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Alexander Family YMCA</span></a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Cary Family YMCA</span></a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Durham_YMCAs.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Durham YMCAs</span></a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kerr_Family_YMCA.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Kerr Family YMCA</span></a> and <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kraft_Family_YMCA.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Kraft Family YMCA</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Health
screenings included blood pressure and scoliosis checks by WakeMed, vision
checks by <a href="http://www.eyecareassociatesnc.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Eye Care Associates</span></a> and dental checkups
by <a href="http://www.rwcds.org/wake/"><span style="color: blue;">Wake
County Healthy Smiles</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Educational
exhibits provided by the <a href="http://www.raleighnc.gov/safety/content/Police/Articles/PoliceRecruitment.html"><span style="color: blue;">Raleigh Police Department</span></a>, <a href="http://www.nc4h.org/"><span style="color: blue;">4-H</span></a>, <a href="http://www.foodshuttle.org/"><span style="color: blue;">Interfaith
Food Shuttle</span></a>, <a href="http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/SafeKids/sk_OperationMedicineDrop.asp"><span style="color: blue;">Safe Kids</span></a> and the <a href="http://www.poehealth.org/"><span style="color: blue;">Poe Center</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
YMCA of the Triangle’s annual <a href="http://www.ymcawebuildpeople.org/"><span style="color: blue;">We Build
People </span></a>campaign allows more than 1,100 children to
participate in YMCA Summer Day Camps, Y Learning and other Y programs
regardless of their ability to pay.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The numbers are impressive. But, the results of Healthy
Communities Day are simply amazing.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-71700831334972581172012-07-05T05:52:00.001-07:002012-07-05T05:52:20.813-07:00FAMILY FUN: JUST ADD WATER<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer trips to the pool
are a great way to dive into some old-fashioned fun with your family.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Practice basic swimming skills
like kicking or floating with your younger kids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qltRQ0nMtpd9_XEurJxS6HSMAzL_kwNLBa6oRzz3n-UkaQKXNczq6ySUiEAGl3p_BAXZ0V3iIzTNvsqu236l0bRTtdH9ERe9fG6COqCYsCSEYb2JUG8d3ITAO8bAQITOBNffRQgPgu77/s1600/AQUATICS_YMCA2011_19+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qltRQ0nMtpd9_XEurJxS6HSMAzL_kwNLBa6oRzz3n-UkaQKXNczq6ySUiEAGl3p_BAXZ0V3iIzTNvsqu236l0bRTtdH9ERe9fG6COqCYsCSEYb2JUG8d3ITAO8bAQITOBNffRQgPgu77/s320/AQUATICS_YMCA2011_19+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If your children are
capable swimmers try some of these classic pool games. If you don’t remember
the rules, don’t worry. We’ll catch you up on the basics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Marco Polo<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who doesn't love
this fun water game of tag? One person is ‘it’ and counts (usually underwater)
as the other participants scatter around the pool. When the person who is it
comes up, she yells ‘Marco,’ keeping her eyes closed. The other participants
respond with Polo! This call and response continues until the person who is
‘it’ tags someone. <br />
It only takes two to play this classic
pool game, but the more the merrier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Simon
Says<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This traditional game
takes an exciting twist when you’re in the pool. Players all line up with the
exception of one player who is designated ‘Simon.’ Simon calls out directions
for the other players. (Some examples of commands are jump, twist, dunk
underwater, or cannonball in the pool). Players who don't follow Simon's orders
are eliminated. The last player standing wins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">London Bridge <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two players stand in the water holding each other's hands shoulder
level forming a 'bridge'. The other players then walk below the bridge one by
one. Each time a player passes under the bridge, the bridge is lowered.
Eventually the players must swim under the water to cross the bridge. This
helps strengthen your child’s agility, concentration and coordination. It’s
also a lot of fun!<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sharks and Minnows<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the pool version
of tag. One player is designated the chaser and must count to a certain number
before chasing other players. The player tagged by the chaser then becomes the
new chaser. Just remind your children to be mindful of other’s space in the
pool. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pool Rule<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember, only play these pool games with a lifeguard or
responsible adult watching.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We hope to see you at one of our Y pools.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-54384881339353017052012-07-05T05:52:00.000-07:002012-07-05T05:52:11.067-07:00Chick-fil-A President Unveils Leadership Toolkit at YMCA<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Few entrepreneurs attend business seminars armed
with a Slinky, a runner's baton, and an 18" pepper mill. Dan Cathy,
however, arrived with all three—and a large fuzzy cow.</span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOD0Nhg9D91eMorw5nq6yPLaReIvAPvAMJa_6VwJWPwPbH6cvLNNEYH-RLVQwfi1jafY9dPkfK7OHUlT5A3ZcJCXFKAHtMErFNkqF89kMbekZWtY46qfnEYd5P59CNFfGqANFivq6bpEUt/s1600/547224_452100404807641_1289047509_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOD0Nhg9D91eMorw5nq6yPLaReIvAPvAMJa_6VwJWPwPbH6cvLNNEYH-RLVQwfi1jafY9dPkfK7OHUlT5A3ZcJCXFKAHtMErFNkqF89kMbekZWtY46qfnEYd5P59CNFfGqANFivq6bpEUt/s320/547224_452100404807641_1289047509_n.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy shares his leadership <br />toolkit at an Alexander Family YMCA luncheon.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<br />
On June 21, <a href="http://www.chick-fil-a.com/">Chick-fil-A</a> president and
COO Dan Cathy shared his unique approach to leadership at a luncheon at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Alexander_Family_YMCA.aspx">Alexander Family
YMCA</a>. While nearly 300 of Raleigh's business leaders watched, Dan unveiled
a brown leather satchel containing the secrets to his success, his personal
toolkit for effective leadership.<br />
<br />
"When I get home this evening," Dan said, "I'm going to jump on
my lawnmower and cut grass for a few hours to recover from all this extroverted
interaction!"<br />
<br />
<b>The Leadership Toolkit</b><br />
A self-pronounced introvert, Dan counterbalanced his quiet nature by developing
an intentional approach to leadership. To prove his point, Dan pulled a
railroad spike from his brown satchel.<br />
<br />
"Stay on track," Dan said. “Every time a Chick-fil-A customer says
'thank you,' every one of our employees always responds with 'my pleasure’—a
custom my father established through persistence."<br />
<br />
The rusty railroad spike was followed by a parade of humorous but poignant
visual aids. A Slinky—admonishing leaders to "go first" into new
territory; a runner's baton--reminding the audience to groom successors; a
pepper mill—stressing the value of quality service; and a conductor's baton to
illustrate the importance of planning, practice and skill (an appropriate
analogy for Dan who has played the trumpet for nearly 50 years). <br />
<br />
<b>Lasting Impressions</b><br />
The lunch included a debut of the Chick-fil-A cow mascot, snippets of
Chick-fil-A's newest commercials, and even a video of S. Truett Cathy, Dan's
91-year old father and the company founder. But Dan's closing remarks contained
what may have been the event's most memorable moments.<br />
<br />
Producing a cell phone and a small Bible from his coat pocket, Dan said,
"Don't become so enamored with technology and business that you forget
what really matters. Be bold. Be strong. Be courageous."<br />
</span>
</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;">
</span>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-65040946073174114262012-06-26T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-28T14:16:46.229-07:00LIVESTRONG at the YMCA: A Survivor's Story<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Last summer, the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle</a> launched <a href="http://www.livestrong.org/What-We-Do/Our-Actions/Programs-Partnerships/LIVESTRONG-at-the-YMCA">LIVE<b>STRONG</b> at the YMCA</a> at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx">Cary</a> and <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Alexander_Family_YMCA.aspx">Alexander Family YMCA</a>s. Since then, nearly 60 cancer survivors have participated in the 12-week health and fitness program. </i><i>Specially trained Y staff lead the twice a week sessions. Here’s the amazing part - this program is free to participants. This summer, we’re launching the program at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kraft_Family_YMCA.aspx">Kraft</a>, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx">Finley</a> and <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Lee_County_YMCA.aspx">Lee County</a> YMCAs!</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the Y, we’re committed to supporting our friends, families and neighbors in their fight against this disease. After you read Debbi Braswell’s story, you’ll know why.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-----------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It took a few years and lots of twists and turns before I started volunteering at the Y.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When my family joined the Cary YMCA in 2008, we never connected with anyone. We came. We worked out. We left. My husband, Kevin, and I are both introverts, so it takes a lot to draw us out. (Our 10-year-old son, Alexander, on the other hand, has never met a stranger!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fast forward to 2009. That’s when Kevin was laid off. We thought about giving up our Y membership to cut back, but we decided our health was too important. Four months later, I learned that I had stage III breast cancer.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryB8YGRfT3SrAgETA6NfkT_7EG7KV8MhNINm0EfoURqemrYWttvSDnwHhfM2POqhHE05qHyIDfG1wrv7eJCPEFErGn_IdjaGSQYQJCTEazGFK-mpXIqtAHt6gz9ksCC2aw6kZJR6IqAZu/s1600/Group+shot+2-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryB8YGRfT3SrAgETA6NfkT_7EG7KV8MhNINm0EfoURqemrYWttvSDnwHhfM2POqhHE05qHyIDfG1wrv7eJCPEFErGn_IdjaGSQYQJCTEazGFK-mpXIqtAHt6gz9ksCC2aw6kZJR6IqAZu/s320/Group+shot+2-001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Debbi (top row, far left) and her LIVE<b>STRONG </b>group.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God has seen me through the struggle of my </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">life, including three surgeries, four months of chemotherapy and radiation. I was severely anemic, but I did my best to walk with a friend. Sometimes I had to sit on a curb to rest.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eventually I returned to the Y, feeling lonely and lost. I didn’t know how to go about my recovery. How much exercise – and what kind - was too much and how much was too little? Finally one day I asked Cheryl Dichard, who had given me my orientation, if the Y had any help for cancer survivors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was shocked to learn that Cheryl was a 16-year cancer survivor! She told me that the Cary Y was preparing to launch a pilot program for <a href="http://www.livestrong.org/What-We-Do/Our-Actions/Programs-Partnerships/LIVESTRONG-at-the-YMCA">LIVE<b>STRONG</b> at the YMCA</a>. It’s a 12-week program designed to help cancer survivors improve not only the functioning of their bodies, but also the quality of their lives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was in! I scheduled an upcoming surgery so that I could start LIVE<b>STRONG</b> a few weeks post-op. I even postponed the next surgery so I could finish the program. I loved it! Cheryl and Beth Blount gave us just the right mixture of encouragement, instruction and challenge. We all wore yellow LIVE<b>STRONG</b> T-shirts and called ourselves The Killer Bees!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I went on to recruit a good friend and fellow cancer survivor who joined the group. About that time I was invited to volunteer with the group. You might think I would pounce on the chance to stay involved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I considered the time invested. And I wondered – what could an introvert like me contribute to LIVE<b>STRONG</b>? That’s when I had my epiphany. Knowing that God had allowed me to go through the dark valley of cancer, I realized it would be selfish not to share the strength, encouragement and perspective He’s helped me gain through the journey.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I volunteered, and I will be forever grateful. I still cannot believe the incredible people who joined the third LIVE<b>STRONG</b> group. Some were quiet, some were funny, some had hair, some were growing their hair back. We all jelled! You wouldn’t believe how much fun we had – or how hard we laughed! Sometimes visitors looked a little baffled by us. Was this really a <i>cancer</i> support group?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s true that our group struggled through some awful times. Some people like my dear friend Jessi had their cancer recur. She started as a volunteer with me, but she needed to become a participant again. She is a <b>STRONG, STRONG</b> woman! Another amazing woman named Lindy got worse and died. Lindy had a beautiful personality and none of us will forget the day she gathered two people to join her in doing the “Monkees walk.” (If you didn’t grow up in the ‘60s, look it up on YouTube!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">LIVE<b>STRONG</b> has been a wonderful way to feel a connection – to share a common experience. Although the group spent serious time working out, Beth and Amanda Dismukes made sure there was also time for talking and reflecting. This investment of time has resulted in enduring ties. Although this group finished a couple of months ago, the participants still email each other. One person held a fancy tea for the group. Most people attended Lindy’s funeral.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My official volunteer duties weren’t very challenging. I wiped weights and helped stack chairs. The most difficult task, at first, was talking to participants while they did their cardio workouts. I thought, me, an introvert making small talk? What on earth could I say? But apparently even an introvert can make a workout more tolerable. I guess all a volunteer needs to be is herself.</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>If you’re interested in participating or volunteering, contact us at </i></b><a href="mailto:LIVESTRONG@ymcatriangle.org"><b><i>LIVESTRONG@ymcatriangle.org</i></b></a><b><i>.</i></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-84887525810129582022012-06-25T11:00:00.001-07:002012-06-26T08:41:18.099-07:00YOTA: GOING FOR THE GOLD<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The nation’s best swimmers are competing in Omaha,
Nebraska June 25 – July 2 to determine who will represent the USA in the
<a href="http://www.london2012.com/">Olympic Games in London</a>. Seven current and former <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/YMCA_Swim_Team.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle Area</a>
(YOTA) swimmers are diving into the action.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“At the YOTA Swim Team, we have a
team-first focus. We work hard at the long-term development of our athletes,”
says Chad Onken, YOTA Swim Team Head Coach. <span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">YOTA Swimmer Charlie Houchin </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">2010 GETTY FILE PHOTO - GETTY IMAGES</span></div>
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</span>The success of the YOTA Swim Team makes
spectators wonder if there is something special in the water. Head Coach Chad
Onken laughs off that theory. He credits some old-fashioned methods for the
team’s lightning speed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“We have the best coaching staff in
North Carolina. And, our goal-oriented athletes simply get the job done.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Those athletes are <b>Sabrina Benson, </b><b>Charlie
Houchin, </b><b>Dominick Glavich, Joe Bonk, Zach McGinnis, Colin Ellington </b>and<b> Nick Walkotten, </b>who
also serves as an assistant coach of the YOTA Swim Team.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I am a
coach first and an athlete second, says Walkotten, “It has been a juggling act
to make sure I'm prepared to coach my groups and also find enough time to train
myself. Wearing both hats has allowed me to maintain my athleticism by training
smarter, not just harder.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The competition is fierce. More than 1,800 swimmers are vying
for 26 slots on the men’s team and 26 slots on the women’s team. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I'm
even more excited for the 2016, 2020 and 2024 Olympic Trials,” says Onken. “I
know YOTA will be taking even more athletes.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For
a schedule and results go to <a href="http://usaswimming.org/">usaswimming.org</a>. You can also keep tabs on our YOTA swimmers on the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/YMCA_Swim_Team/8E5A772C821D4492982771EE0ACDCDB2.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle website</a>.<span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-50954288379933324062012-06-19T12:57:00.000-07:002012-06-21T05:57:38.279-07:00GET HOOKED ON TRX<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who knew that two straps
with handles could provide a great workout? The <a href="http://www.sealswcc.com/seal-default.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Navy
SEALs</span></a> did, and that was the beginning of <a href="http://www.trxtraining.com/"><span style="color: blue;">TRX</span></a>. Now
you can try it, too!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44vXtBuAshBmqVjUbnNiYlGom_ESOu0dClIoSHInjeyBByQ3bkG2jGGLKBxTtOSr_BOY1Nq5KK_-fWLhr1Fsoab2ZdZwlAfoztNzpwbw-9HfnX0NONDD_RgTLSSJKxPNxp_lqcjoKh6ZZ/s1600/AE+Finley+1+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44vXtBuAshBmqVjUbnNiYlGom_ESOu0dClIoSHInjeyBByQ3bkG2jGGLKBxTtOSr_BOY1Nq5KK_-fWLhr1Fsoab2ZdZwlAfoztNzpwbw-9HfnX0NONDD_RgTLSSJKxPNxp_lqcjoKh6ZZ/s320/AE+Finley+1+copy.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Y branches offer the TRX
Suspension system and free training on how to use it. Members hook it to a
secure place and work their muscles while using their own body weight as
resistance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TRX workouts improve
strength, flexibility and balance. “Using TRX works your core and functional
muscles,” says Romain Marriott, a personal trainer at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Cary Y</span></a>. “You develop muscles that you use every
day.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“It’s great exercise because it’s body weight exercise,” explains
Cary Y Wellness Director Amanda Dismukes. “A lot of our members love it. It’s
popular with our members in their 20s, 30s, 40s and fit 50s.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Interested? Complete a TRX
training session at the Y. You’ll learn TRX exercises and proper technique. It
might not be long before you get hooked!</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44vXtBuAshBmqVjUbnNiYlGom_ESOu0dClIoSHInjeyBByQ3bkG2jGGLKBxTtOSr_BOY1Nq5KK_-fWLhr1Fsoab2ZdZwlAfoztNzpwbw-9HfnX0NONDD_RgTLSSJKxPNxp_lqcjoKh6ZZ/s1600/AE+Finley+1+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-48717967848284326412012-06-15T05:56:00.000-07:002012-06-15T05:56:15.747-07:00CELEBRATING DAD AT THE Y<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Did you know that Father’s Day got its start at the <a href="http://ymca.net/">YMCA</a>?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAiTAmGT70EsawaFP4Tg8HufVybzh96F_5rK_ZAN0HoK8TjEc91yli4yl_qnykeVkchNDSsrB8cfs62hctl131pDLW4YG1bPBwx8RpIbCTs9ENr-knjxF2_lVMFH7lKQ-ZsO2pgwV_ZjM/s1600/SILHOUETTE_FAMILY_YMCA2011_05+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAiTAmGT70EsawaFP4Tg8HufVybzh96F_5rK_ZAN0HoK8TjEc91yli4yl_qnykeVkchNDSsrB8cfs62hctl131pDLW4YG1bPBwx8RpIbCTs9ENr-knjxF2_lVMFH7lKQ-ZsO2pgwV_ZjM/s320/SILHOUETTE_FAMILY_YMCA2011_05+copy.jpg" width="248" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In 1909, <a href="http://www.fathersdaycelebration.com/sonora-louise-smart-dodd.html">Sonora Smart Dodd</a> heard a sermon honoring mothers.
She wondered why there was no similar tribute for fathers. Dodd’s father,
William Jackson Smart, was a Civil War veteran who raised his six children on
his own after his wife’s death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Smart Dodd launched the first Father's Day celebration at
the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910. In 1972, President Nixon signed Father’s Day
into law. The day dedicated to Dads has become an opportunity to lavish gifts
and loving gestures on one’s father. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today, fathers play an enormous role in the lives of their
children. We see them daily, acting as coaches, teachers, role models and confidants.
Our Y, as a leading community service organization, is totally committed in
supporting and reassuring them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On June 17, the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle</a> joins the nation in
celebrating Father’s Day and recognizing the impact fathers and adult male role
models make in children’s lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks, Sonora. And, thank you, Dad.</span><o:p></o:p></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0Raleigh, NC, USA35.772096 -78.638614535.565965999999996 -78.9544715 35.978226 -78.322757500000009tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-49437117754490761342012-06-12T08:50:00.000-07:002012-06-18T14:03:11.942-07:00Super Foods: What They Are and How They Work<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Imagine a super food--not a drug--powerful
enough to help lower cholesterol, reduce risk of heart disease, cancers,
anti-inflammatory and as an added bonus--helps improve mood. <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx">A.E. Finley YMCA</a>’s
Registered Dietician Sarah Schroeder offers some great advice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I tell my clients to choose foods that work for them and with them. Choose
foods you consume them on a regular basis that will help control or lower your
risk for heart disease, cancers, osteoporosis, Type II diabetes and
hypertension.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>NOT AN INSTANT FIX</b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Choosing these foods on
a regular basis may impact the above health conditions. And unlike any
prescription pill, there is no long list of side effects. So it’s a win-win for
you and your body!<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Here’s my list of Super
Foods in no particular order. I have tried to add the benefits or the key super
nutrient in each food.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Avocados</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> High in
monounsaturated fats Omega 3’s, high fiber, high in potassium.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Beets</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Nature’s multi-vitamin.
Beets provide a greater range of nutrients ounce for ounce than virtually any
other fruit or vegetable on the planet. High in antioxidants (found in the deep
red pigment), beets also help lower blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
risks and aid in cleansing the body of harmful chemicals of processed foods,
such as nitrates. <br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Photo Source: About.com</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Berries</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Forget the high
priced acai, we have an abundance of berries right here in our back yard. High
in antioxidants, it’s best to eat a variety because one doesn’t contain all you
need.<br />
Strawberries - Vitamin K <br />
Raspberries - Vitamin C <br />
Blueberries - Packed with antioxidants and phytoflavinoids high in K and
Vitamin C, and high in fiber, also an anti-inflammatory.<br />
Blackberries - Vitamin E <br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Cabbage and cruciferous veggies</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">
Broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. Cabbage is the best. Cabbage reduces risk of
certain cancers including breast, stomach, lung and prostate. Helps reduce
heart disease, gastrointestinal issues, Alzheimer’s and protects joints and
risk of osteoarthritis. High in Vitamin A, C, and K.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Fish</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> The best choices are
fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids and low in contaminants. Generally these are
cold water fish. Salmon, halibut, rainbow trout, herring, sardine, and
mackerel. Avoid tilapia (if you have high cholesterol) because it’s very high
in Omega 5 fatty acid (the bad oil). Fish lowers blood pressure and reduces
inflammation. The oil in fish itself nourishes the brain and can slow the
mental decline associated with aging. Packed with Calcium, Vitamin K and Omega
3’s. <br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Tomatoes</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> High in lycopene.
Regular consumption of tomato products can reduce risk of cancer and heart
disease. Cooking enhances the benefits and makes them more easily absorbed.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Spinach</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Consider this
kryptonite to cancer cells. Spinach is filled with anti-oxidants, equivalent to
2-3 servings of a vegetable and scores high in the USDA measure of foods able
to rid the body of free radicals. <br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Lentils</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> A near perfect food,
when mixed with rice, they form a complete protein. No cholesterol, high in
soluble and insoluble fibers that help manage blood sugars, lower cholesterol
and aid in digestion. All beans are high in fiber.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffBq5ge-i3gaRLiELvcdAhCIJJOJva04pJp2bCfgqN9dkmlhA7NhTd7hDnzx8g9qRiQ6vOxaLynW5qKCzycPXEO7W16BVbByTlW981Nt9-2dGve8tUO7e_4xdyHPIghDHcKyiJT-b4RRO/s1600/nuts.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffBq5ge-i3gaRLiELvcdAhCIJJOJva04pJp2bCfgqN9dkmlhA7NhTd7hDnzx8g9qRiQ6vOxaLynW5qKCzycPXEO7W16BVbByTlW981Nt9-2dGve8tUO7e_4xdyHPIghDHcKyiJT-b4RRO/s200/nuts.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Photo Source: EveryJoe.com</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Nuts</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Almonds, cashews,
hazelnuts and walnuts may be your best choices. These are full of heart-healthy
fats which boost good cholesterol. Regular nut consumption actually makes
people less likely to gain weight. Pistachio is the lowest in calories of the
nut family.<br />
<br />
<b>Chia and flax seeds</b>: High in
Omega 3’s, reduce inflammation and help fight off effects of aging. Chia seeds
are hydrophilic or hold 10 times their water weight. High in antioxidants. <br />
<br />
<b>Quinoa</b> (keen-wah): This grain comes closest to supplying all
essential life-sustaining nutrients than any other food on the planet. Very
high in fiber, protein and minerals and very low in calories and fat. <br />
<br />
<b>Soy</b>: Tofu, soy milk, or edamame.
Tofu takes on the flavor of marinades. High in calcium, protein, and low in
fat.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Tea</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Green or black, tea
equals antioxidant power and it’s 0 calories unless it’s sweet tea.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Calcium</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Recommended
~1000-1200 mg daily. Your brain and heart receives the first priority of calcium
received and then your bones get what is left over. You can never make up for
lack of calcium intake for a day prior. You must consume the amount above
daily. I will focus on Calcium in one of my future articles since it is such an
important mineral that all of us need daily.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpFjkCH1Fces2jQPrT9rvfTHn2MT0lrQ8H3Ev9LC0lMs2lv-AvAWoNjCCFSaljhKnjMj7GM5dnxyOj-blW19w9Sn5Iq2IiPjs9o6BoXIaSv7G_8GgIQakHcPMo2UIuMXEwNbj_0JROveV/s1600/080923104408-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpFjkCH1Fces2jQPrT9rvfTHn2MT0lrQ8H3Ev9LC0lMs2lv-AvAWoNjCCFSaljhKnjMj7GM5dnxyOj-blW19w9Sn5Iq2IiPjs9o6BoXIaSv7G_8GgIQakHcPMo2UIuMXEwNbj_0JROveV/s200/080923104408-large.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Source: sciencedaily.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Dark chocolate</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Packed with
antioxidants, lowers blood pressure, 60% or higher cocoa content. Results in lower
rates of: obesity, breast cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes and has
some weight loss benefits.<br />
<br />
<b>DEFINITIONS</b><br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Soluble fiber</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Keeps
cholesterol levels in check, lowers risk of heart disease, blood sugar
regulation. Examples: grain and cereal foods, i.e., oatmeal, barley, rice,
corn, beets, carrots, avocados, bananas, applesauce, nuts. Think of “gummy” and
absorbs water.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Insoluble fiber</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Passes
through the body very quickly, does not absorb water. Examples: leafy greens,
whole grains, celery, seeds and nuts, fruit skins.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Antioxidants</b>:</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> Fight off free
radicals that attack the body’s cells that lead to aging and fight heart
disease and cancer. <br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>RECOMMENDED PORTIONS</b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
<b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Daily</b><br />
Dark leafy greens<br />
Nuts<br />
Carrots<br />
Green or black tea<br />
Whole grains<br />
Fruits<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>3x Per Week</b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
Yogurt<br />
Cauliflower and broccoli<br />
Sweet potato<br />
Avocados<br />
Oily fish<br />
Tofu<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>Reduce Intake</b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
Red meat<br />
White starch<br />
Desserts<br />
Sodas and diet products<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>About Sarah</b>: </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Sarah is a Registered Dietitian at the A.E. Finley YMCA. Sarah leads
the Y Weigh weight loss class, nutrition seminars for marathon trainers,
participates in health fairs and offers private consultations. Her expertise
lies in weight loss, women and nutrition, osteoporosis, cholesterol and heart
disease and, most importantly, healthy eating for you and your family.</span></i><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-19604692237070177822012-06-06T07:17:00.000-07:002012-06-06T07:17:08.126-07:00SEVERE WEATHER POOL POLICIES<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Everyone out of the pool! That’s the last thing you want
to hear on a hot, summer day at the pool. But at the Y, safety is our top
priority. That’s why we want to remind you of our indoor and outdoor pool
policies when it comes to severe weather.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08umdMicy_lBZrYrkvmmJc4pGt3QLPPoGabqkTPxRMJkaLdYTUnUe2elV9yK38bwBo99aoRI70XpPbBHNuHpS8BMMh1If_0_lJ4N3NkhatIL-YXXq_W1C9Vemaf-VHuW1KsSsMC7pfA02/s1600/AQUATICS_YMCA2011_05+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08umdMicy_lBZrYrkvmmJc4pGt3QLPPoGabqkTPxRMJkaLdYTUnUe2elV9yK38bwBo99aoRI70XpPbBHNuHpS8BMMh1If_0_lJ4N3NkhatIL-YXXq_W1C9Vemaf-VHuW1KsSsMC7pfA02/s320/AQUATICS_YMCA2011_05+copy.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.ymca.net/">YMCA of the USA</a> and the <a href="http://www.lightningsafety.com/">National Lightning Safety Institute</a> recommend that both outdoor and indoor pools be cleared during a
lightning storm. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333;">We follow the 30-minute rule at all of <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle</a> pools. </span><span lang="EN" style="color: #2c2c2c;">All Y pools (indoor and outdoor) close for 30 minutes after the last clap
of thunder.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“A lot of members want to know why we close our indoor
pools during a storm,” says George Allen, vice president of risk at the YMCA of
the Triangle. “Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Just because a
pool is surrounded by a structure does not make it safe during a storm.” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some facts about lightning:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; text-indent: -0.25in;">13% of all lightning incidents involved
swimming, boating or fishing.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; text-indent: -0.25in;">Thunder is usually heard up to 12 miles
from a lightning strike. In other words, if you can hear thunder, you’re in
danger of lightning.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; text-indent: -0.25in;">Lightning strikes can reach up to 10 miles.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We want everyone to have a fun, safe summer at our YMCA
pools!</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-33981760573004913792012-06-04T06:08:00.000-07:002012-06-18T14:03:32.069-07:00THE YMCA TAKES ON BULLYING<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bullying
is an age-old problem getting a lot of new attention. Cyberbullying is a
regular part of our vocabulary. The documentary,</span><b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <a href="http://thebullyproject.com/">Bully</a>, </b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">is required viewing in some communities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">Now, the Y
is taking bullying head on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWHwCtTD876vkkl1MHPEpAROQqQqi2ENyd-fX86WOJkaks9a_HdVtm43KWSA9iUze8PPCrYeYNyq5kcsocTMhjgMLTGG6VFAYWA8CNvq17wlO8jSMajxvtZmfQtoQWDlAENoilIcheqvB/s1600/jruss_041.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWHwCtTD876vkkl1MHPEpAROQqQqi2ENyd-fX86WOJkaks9a_HdVtm43KWSA9iUze8PPCrYeYNyq5kcsocTMhjgMLTGG6VFAYWA8CNvq17wlO8jSMajxvtZmfQtoQWDlAENoilIcheqvB/s320/jruss_041.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dr. Joel Haber, the Bully Coach, speaks to YMCA youth </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">leadership staff about how to identify and prevent bullying.</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN">“At
the YMCA, our top priority is the safety of children in our care.</span><span lang="EN"> W</span><span lang="EN">e always want to provide our youth leaders and counselors
with the tools to do their jobs effectively,” said Betsy Peters, <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle</a> regional vice president. “We can’t allow bullying to interfere with
children enjoying camp to the fullest.”</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">National surveys
indicate that as many as half of all children are bullied at some time during
their school years. At least 10% are bullied on a regular basis<span style="color: #534741;">.</span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> That’s why the YMCA of the Triangle invited the nation’s
leading bullying prevention and solutions expert, <a href="http://respectu.com/">Dr. Joel Haber</a>, to lead
summer day camp trainings.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“We’re proud to say we’ve never tolerated
violence in YMCA youth programs. Our counselors requested specific training on
how to stop bullying,” said Marco Ramirez, associate
director of the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kraft_Family_YMCA.aspx">Kraft Family YMCA</a>. “It seemed logical that we would want to
learn about bullying prevention from the best.<span style="color: #2b7c13;">"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dr. Haber, The Bully Coach™, is
the <a href="http://www.acacamps.org/">American Camp Association</a>’s (ACA) official bullying consultant. He helped
set the standard for anti-bullying prevention for all accredited summer camps
that went into effect this year.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On June 1 and 2, Dr. Haber led sessions
with YMCA youth leadership staff, YMCA Summer Day Camp staff and <a href="http://www.wcpss.net/">Wake County Public School</a> leaders. He offered tips on how counselors and other campers can
identify bullying and how to stop it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“A camp counselor’s job is to be a hero,” said Dr. Haber.
“Discussing camper rules and role modeling good behavior lets campers know that
bullying is not tolerated.”<span style="color: #231f20;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Respect U Camp Program</b> helps camp personnel identify
potential bullies in their staff or campers and "hot-spots" where
bullying occurs. His program includes the specific tools needed to reduce
bullying: hurtful gossip, relational aggression, sports bullying and
cyberbullying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://respectu.com/">Learn
more</a> about the Respect U
program. There’s still time to register for YMCA Summer Day Camp. <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Home_Page/E858DE59F00646BEAD47498232131350.aspx">Check
out</a> the possibilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-50036604273466779332012-05-29T10:34:00.000-07:002012-06-18T14:56:18.390-07:00HOPE COMES TO PAMLICO COUNTY<b><i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While many of us folks celebrated the unofficial start of summer with a trip to the pool or the beach, more than 1,200 volunteers spent the holiday helping rebuild homes that were devastated by Hurricane Irene. Many of those volunteers are staying at Camp Sea Gull for boys and Camp Seafarer for girls , the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx">YMCA of the Triangle</a>'s overnight camps located on the North Carolina Coast.</span></i></b><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIpbidDX3HSy-dp9dgXbMPDTprKxHSiR47MVFl4t2liZFPHkMPPFGxjGV28f623q66LhHLmBCXfoAOukq76joXANIpn8IvYwxBLryaKjbYH5Vdqq_Q9gNw-oRVERpZpGziPeMiFvetp-M/s1600/Praise+and+worship+at+Camp+Seafarer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIpbidDX3HSy-dp9dgXbMPDTprKxHSiR47MVFl4t2liZFPHkMPPFGxjGV28f623q66LhHLmBCXfoAOukq76joXANIpn8IvYwxBLryaKjbYH5Vdqq_Q9gNw-oRVERpZpGziPeMiFvetp-M/s1600/Praise+and+worship+at+Camp+Seafarer.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-size: small;">Eight Days of Hope volunteers worship at <br />Camp Seafarer before getting to work. </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There's an invasion in Pamlico County. They came from Iowa, Mississippi, Louisiana, Ohio, Tennessee, North Carolina and beyond. They represent more than 45 states, all denominations and every age.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For eight days (May 26 - June 2), these volunteers are fanning out in Pamlico County repairing, and in some cases, rebuilding homes destroyed by Hurricane Irene. It's called <a href="http://www.eightdaysofhope.com/">Eight Days of Hope</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“It's sort of like 'Extreme Makeover,' just consider it the Christian version,” said Steve Tabor, the leader of Eight Days of Hope. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Mississippi faith-based disaster recovery group began after Hurricane Katrina. Since then, thousands of volunteers travel the nation to rebuild homes after natural disasters. In January, Eight Days of Hope announced Pamlico County as the latest recovery mission. But where do you house nearly 2,000 volunteers? Enter <a href="http://www.seagull-seafarer.org/">Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“We were so excited to help with this incredible effort,” said Elayne Steinman, associate director of Camp Seafarer. “There are still so many folks in need in our community. This is just one way we can support them.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In fact, Camp Seafarer and Camp Sea Gull have been supporting the community since Hurricane Irene hit last August. Within days after the storm, National Guard units used the camps as a staging area. Red Cross crews bunked on the grounds. And, staff members who lost their homes lived at camp for months.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dawn Baldwin Gibson, chair for the Pamlico County Disaster Recovery Coalition, is coordinating recovery efforts with Eight Days of Hope. Dawn was also a Camp Seafarer counselor in 1990.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The Camps are such an asset to the community,” said Dawn. “The facilities are incredible, the summer programs are awesome, but the people are even more amazing. The staff, especially Elayne Steinman and Lynn Moss (Camp Seafarer Director), are always looking for ways to give back to the community.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I knew that Camp Seafarer and Camp Sea Gull would be the perfect place for the volunteers to stay. Eight Days of Hope directors said they'd stayed at camps before. I told them they've never seen camps like these. When leaders saw the facilities and met the staff a few months ago, they were blown away!”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But would those facilities be available so close to the start of the summer season? Dawn says Lynn Moss and Elayne Steinman made it happen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“We prayed and prayed. Now thousands of folks are here for eight days. What a blessing. We can never thank Camp Seafarer and Sea Gull for this opportunity.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dawn estimates that more than $1 million dollars in manpower will be donated over the eight days effort. She can't put a price tag on the hope that is being generated.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can follow the volunteer efforts on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Eight-Days-of-Hope/143511279018933">group's Facebook page</a>. Be sure to check out the pictures on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SeaGullSeafarer">Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer's Facebook page</a>.</span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-82102665246867246082012-05-22T06:00:00.000-07:002012-05-25T06:08:07.167-07:00LIGHTNER Y ACHIEVER: CATCHING UP WITH ZACH HINTON<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We develop the next generation of leaders at the Y! Last year, Zach Hinton <a href="http://www.newsobserver.com/2011/05/31/1237061/ready-for-success.html">was featured</a> in this
article by Stacy Chandler in the News & Observer's Thumbs Up section. The
<a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Y_Achievers/FEDA7029BE9A49F2B575E107B90B15B9.aspx">Clarence E. Lightner YMCA Achievers Program</a> is a leadership development program
for area middle and high school teens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t4fAUTwAqRVNwbOS7VdvjrFBACtuQuDpwvex-nyzwHB6yuv-Lg5D80ih48xqi2m5N0EbcCpRWEaA2_tqtrux9VsZXs0SeCs-T2QRlzQ-ZT44nCaT4UGCK0E61I7GjdsjY1IXheseeJOR/s1600/Zach+Hin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t4fAUTwAqRVNwbOS7VdvjrFBACtuQuDpwvex-nyzwHB6yuv-Lg5D80ih48xqi2m5N0EbcCpRWEaA2_tqtrux9VsZXs0SeCs-T2QRlzQ-ZT44nCaT4UGCK0E61I7GjdsjY1IXheseeJOR/s320/Zach+Hin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Zachary Hinton graduated from <a href="http://www.srhs.net/">Southeast Raleigh High School</a>
last year with a number of academic scholarships and big dreams. He credits the
Lightner Y Achievers program. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During his four years in the local Lightner YMCA Achievers
Program, Zach met community leaders, traveled to regional colleges and polished
his interview skills. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"It's a program that tries to help a minority kid to
make it in the global arena," he explained. "I thought that was
really cool, to see someone that looks like me and they were doing well in
society," Zach said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along the way, he also learned a thing or two about
leadership while serving as the chapter's president. Zach was selected for a
national YMCA Five-Star Ambassador Award, which came with a $10,000
scholarship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Zach just finished his freshman year at <a href="http://www.hamptonu.edu/">Hampton University</a>
in Virginia. He sent one of his Lightner Y Achievers advisors this update.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I just wanted to update you on a few of the activities I've
been doing here at Hampton University,” wrote Zach. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I earned a 4.03 GPA which allows me to be a part of the
Hampton University Honors College. I just received acceptance for an internship
in robotics at <a href="http://www.rice.edu/">Rice University</a> in Texas. The internship is all expenses paid,
and I will receive a stipend at the end. So, I am basically living the life!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would like to thank you not only for the scholarships
(that have helped me greatly), but also for continuing the Y Achievers program.
I really appreciate what all of the Y Achievers volunteers have done for me. I
am very excited another student can also fulfill their dreams through this
program.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In 2010, the YMCA of Triangle Y Achievers Program and the
Clarence E. Lightner Youth Leadership Foundation joined forces. The Lightner
Foundation was founded to pay tribute to the life of Clarence E. Lightner, the
first African-American mayor of Raleigh. In continuing his positive community
efforts, the Clarence E. Lightner Leadership Endowment Fund was established to
provide leadership development programs aimed at making a positive impact on
youth throughout the Triangle region. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-67281854689311866262012-05-18T05:00:00.000-07:002012-05-21T06:08:35.732-07:00ONE HUNDRED HOLES OF GOLF BENEFIT ONE GREAT CAUSE<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On May 8, Moss Withers
checked something off his bucket list. And, he did it for a great cause – the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx">Cary</a>
and <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kraft_Family_YMCA.aspx">Kraft Family YMCAs</a> Golf Marathon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwunUw98X7Do3K7TZ7uItR5LnrpB-I79Kg5DOSAMgPwrrblxaRvNr8TFNKOmYMSTf33bY7yc2V9G0qluFpmiFbzREItcJD1c25TSuZdhbniTtN9i6Z5EbgkTdNff1oc7FFyJKovGOxGdiH/s1600/MossWithersGolf%252520Tournament.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwunUw98X7Do3K7TZ7uItR5LnrpB-I79Kg5DOSAMgPwrrblxaRvNr8TFNKOmYMSTf33bY7yc2V9G0qluFpmiFbzREItcJD1c25TSuZdhbniTtN9i6Z5EbgkTdNff1oc7FFyJKovGOxGdiH/s320/MossWithersGolf%252520Tournament.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Moss Withers (far left) celebrates his big win!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“It’s a finish attitude
out here and not about the score,” Withers remarked. “You get excited to play
because it’s such a unique event.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since 1992, YMCA members,
like Withers, have hit the links to raise money for the YMCA’s
<a href="http://ymcawebuildpeople.org/">We Build People</a> program. Participants
spend a fun (and exhausting) day playing 100 holes of golf as part of an alternative
fundraiser. In case you wondered, 100 holes of golf equals five times around
the course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year the weather
conditions at <a href="http://www.playcrookedcreek.com/">Crooked Creek Golf Club</a> in Fuquay-Varina were perfect. Fifty-one golfers teed it up and
raised more than $67,500 - surpassing the goal by more than $12,000.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each year, 100% of the
proceeds from the event allow thousands of children, families and adults to
participate in life-changing YMCA program regardless of their ability to pay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moss Withers, a member of
the Kraft Family Y, serves as volunteer chair of the golfing event. In fact, he’s been part of the marathon since
its start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I got involved because of
my dad, Tony, who has been doing this since the beginning,” Withers said. “When
I was a kid I used to come out here with him and drive the cart and spend time
on the course. As soon as I got old enough I started playing and raising money
on my own and being involved with the event.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On May 8, Withers shot a 351. That’s four under par for
100 holes. But, the real winner was the YMCA’s We Build People program.</span><o:p></o:p></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-34471191518456872242012-05-15T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-12T14:09:46.698-07:00YMCA BUS ROADEO<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You may never meet some of the Y’s most
important employees – our YMCA bus drivers. Thirty-five staffers log more than
350,000 miles a year driving day campers, overnight campers and tracking out
students throughout the region. Their main priority is safety. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMUhQ1AdjJIU0B4nVQCbS3i5nzBRhAnlurIigsObJBUyUcfrtMSnBPdZBviL5jYiJq8CoD1bve4CO0bFUbfcX51JzgSRMbd1wOSFcWHB0DvJ8M0-MvVgGhft8FGAuDQWsJvQzndVdp4sq/s1600/The+Group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMUhQ1AdjJIU0B4nVQCbS3i5nzBRhAnlurIigsObJBUyUcfrtMSnBPdZBviL5jYiJq8CoD1bve4CO0bFUbfcX51JzgSRMbd1wOSFcWHB0DvJ8M0-MvVgGhft8FGAuDQWsJvQzndVdp4sq/s320/The+Group.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fourteen
of those drivers put their skills to the test in the First YMCA Bus Roadeo on
May 5. Organizers, led by<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kraft_Family_YMCA.aspx">Kraft YMCA</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Transportation Coordinator Cyndy Paciocco, based the Rodeo
course on a Wake County School Bus competition. This year’s theme was “We’re in
control. That’s how we roll.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“As a whole, our drivers have a great safety
record,” said George Allen, YMCA of the Triangle Vice President of Risk
Management. “We wanted to celebrate their skills and give them a chance to
spend time together.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The drivers from the Alexander, Finley, Cary,
Kraft, Kerr and Lee County YMCAs were judged on how well they completed basic
driving tests such as left turns, right turns, backing up, offset alley,
diminishing clearance, and the stop line. That’s where YMCA Transportation
Coordinator Johnny Elliott was stationed with measuring tape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“This is fun, but it also lets us know how
they’re doing,” said Johnny.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The goal for a driver was to attain the lowest
score possible. The sense of friendly competition was obvious as drivers made
their way through the course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The ones who’ve driven tractor trailers have
the edge,” predicted Bud Schlademan, a<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Lee_County_YMCA.aspx">Lee County YMCA</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Driver.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I’ve been driving a bus for 20 years in Wake
County and never got a ticket,” exclaimed another driver. “That’s my test!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“This is a fun obstacle course. You got to get
your slow on,” said Cynthia Benjamin, a driver for the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Alexander_Family_YMCA.aspx">Alexander FamilyYMCA</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>since 2003. “It's
nothing like being on the road. Every day is an adventure.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mike Moody from the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx">Finley Y</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>won the overall competition and took
the grand prize – the golden safety cone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
drivers can’t wait until the competition next year. But, they’re even more
excited about the start of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Home_Page/E858DE59F00646BEAD47498232131350.aspx">YMCA Summer Day Camp</a></span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in a few weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I could drive anywhere else,” said Cynthia
Benjamin. “I love the Y kids. The best part is the kids.”</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-55816167847752771772012-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:002012-05-11T06:09:34.116-07:00YMCA OF THE TRIANGLE LEMONADE DAY<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Five-year-old Breanna developed a keen marketing strategy to
sell lemonade. She dressed up as a princess and set up her stand outside the
Kroger in Garner. It was unusually hot on May 5, which increased her sales.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“That’s what princesses do,” exclaimed Breanna. “They give
back.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Breanna wasn’t kidding. She raised more than $130 in just
two and a half hours. She donated part of her proceeds to a family friend who
has mounting medical bills. Breanna was just one of nearly 2,000 children who participated
in Triangle Lemonade Day. The <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx" target="_blank">YMCA of the Triangle</a> sponsored the event in this
region.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The YMCA of the Triangle has a long history of developing young
leaders,” said Dawn White. Dawn is a youth programs director at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx" target="_blank">Cary FamilyYMCA</a> and led the Triangle Lemonade efforts for the YMCA of the Triangle. “Our Y
encourages young people to be civic-minded, socially responsible and to learn
new skills. The Lemonade Day program aligns perfectly with our efforts.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lemonade Day was created in
Houston in 2007. This nationwide free, fun, learning program teaches kids how
to start, own and operate a business – a lemonade stand. Children learn
goal-setting and problem-solving skills. Children are also encouraged to give a
portion of their proceeds to a charity of their choice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The YMCA of the Triangle is just one of 31 cities who participated
in National Lemonade Day 2012. Visit <a href="http://triangle.lemonadeday.org/">LemonadeDay.org</a> to learn more and check out
the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgc8wslKRSE&feature=relmfu">video on YouTube</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Breanna felt confident about the return on her investment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I have magical lemonade,” said Breanna. “But, I can tell
you. It’s strawberries.”</span><o:p></o:p></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-11774139514462479102012-05-02T06:00:00.000-07:002012-05-11T06:10:07.162-07:00Y LEARNING SOCCER TOURNAMENT<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shymel has plenty of
reasons to be proud. On April 28, the 10-year-old played goalie for the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Kerr_Family_YMCA.aspx" target="_blank">Kerr Family YMCA</a> Weasels soccer team. During the tournament, Shymel made 12 saves
and won MVP honors. It’s hard to believe this is the first year he played the
game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shymel is one of more than
100 children in the YMCA’s Y Life and Y Learning tutorial programs who participated
in the Second Annual Soccer Kids of America and Y Learning Soccer Tournament.
Twelve teams from the Alexander, Cary, Durham, Finley, Kerr and Kraft YMCAs
faced off at West Cary Middle School to put their new skills in action. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Most of these kids hadn’t
even seen soccer game a few months ago. Their families couldn’t afford to sign
their children up for area soccer leagues,” said Michelle Rhino, a YMCA
Outreach Director at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Cary_Family_YMCA.aspx" target="_blank">Cary Family YMCA</a>. “This tournament is a fun, exciting
way for the kids to play this game and show their new skills to their families.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Over the past few months,
students in the Y Learning program have been getting some extra tutoring in the
game of soccer. Y Learning is a fully subsidized, after school tutorial program
for children in grades 3 – 8. School counselors identify children who need
academic assistance. Currently, more than 1,100 students participate thanks to
contributions to the Y’s <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Helping_Others/WeBuildPeople.aspx">We Build People</a> campaign.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two years ago, the Y
teamed up with <a href="http://www.soccerkidsofamerica.org/">Soccer Kids of America</a>. The organization teaches character development
and soccer skills at after school sites throughout the country. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Anthony Hardison
heard about the program, he knew the Y and Soccer Kids of America were a
perfect fit. Anthony is the community outreach director at the Kerr Family
YMCA. Soon, Y Learning sites throughout
the Triangle incorporated the soccer program into their curriculum. This
partnership gives kids exposure to a popular sport that helps them get active
and have fun. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“It’s crazy how excited
the kids are,” exclaimed Anthony. “They are just pumped!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even the professionals
were pumped. The <a href="http://www.carolinarailhawks.com/">Carolina RailHawks</a> conducted a clinic for players in between games. The
two teams that advanced to the championship game won RailHawks tickets for the
players, coaches and families. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-22927013393497293642012-04-30T08:26:00.000-07:002012-05-11T06:12:39.555-07:00YMCA HERO: JONATHAN BUNZEY<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seventeen-year-old
Jonathan Bunzey lost his ability to speak when he contracted encephalitis as a
toddler. But that didn't silence his passion for making sure all kids are
included in everyday activities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_ZsBj0KWOeIwOnLzdef6v20uefaak-BEx21cKOmgDSjRYwh_LJno5x49kXrdCtnOWPMAsp1g-FCf-EMnjNSxUzaOFqrFr8YvMXZWJ3GvNmC24bEB_BeGluJI-kFHgfMendr8FgSgzl89/s1600/JonBunzey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_ZsBj0KWOeIwOnLzdef6v20uefaak-BEx21cKOmgDSjRYwh_LJno5x49kXrdCtnOWPMAsp1g-FCf-EMnjNSxUzaOFqrFr8YvMXZWJ3GvNmC24bEB_BeGluJI-kFHgfMendr8FgSgzl89/s400/JonBunzey.jpg" width="245" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">April 28, he
stepped up his enthusiasm on the dance floor by participating in “<a href="http://www.inclusionproject.org/level_2.php?id=21">Dancing Like the Stars</a>”
at the Southern Women’s Show. The event was sponsored by the <a href="http://www.inclusionproject.org/">National Inclusion Project</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He knows
first-hand that confidence, learning and leadership develop through inclusion
opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jonathan
started as a camper at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx">A.E. Finley YMCA’s</a>
summer camp. The National Inclusion
Project provided an interpreter so he could be participate with other kids.
Today, Jonathan works at Finley Y’s after school program and summer day camp. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">In 2007, Jonathan won the Champion of Change award for his
work for kids in the Raleigh area. To date, he has raised more than $20,000 for
inclusion projects. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">And,
he donates the majority of that money to the Finley Y's <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA/WeBuildPeople.aspx" target="_blank">We Build People</a> program</span> and <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA/Programs/Youth/Summer_Day_Camp/D256D95C4ABB46AF96307719D26D5E96.aspx" target="_blank">Camp G.R.A.C.E.</a> for autistic children.<br />
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Jonathan is such a star that he was featured in <a href="http://m.newsobserver.com/observer/db_111686/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=ijyo7tlm&full=true#display" target="_blank">The News & Observer</a> on the day of the competition. While Jon didn’t win the
overall competition, but he and the dancers raised more than $18,000 for the
National Inclusion Project. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The National Inclusion Project
was founded by American Idol star and former YMCA staff member Clay Aiken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-47307528054983729272012-04-26T05:55:00.001-07:002012-05-11T06:11:45.861-07:00A.E. FINLEY YMCA SPOTLIGHT: GRANNY'S GOT GAME<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Angela Alford is no slouch on the basketball court, but it seems that she may have met her match in the Senior Women’s Basketball team at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/A.E._Finley_YMCA.aspx">A.E. Finley YMCA</a>. Alford, a standout basketball player for Vanderbilt and USA Basketball in the 90s, is now taking on a role off the court. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KpH92KmM2a8aX6abxlPICauDZxqzt28yaYEojL6arc2-D9btlUhQSBgrM7I-Vz5xwxDui5Bhig_iER6ipp4UOPGB8-NsDXtcscqy4iNsJIxM2xabxULOaxigmwhZfi74S2OeGCZsanYg/s1600/granny+bball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KpH92KmM2a8aX6abxlPICauDZxqzt28yaYEojL6arc2-D9btlUhQSBgrM7I-Vz5xwxDui5Bhig_iER6ipp4UOPGB8-NsDXtcscqy4iNsJIxM2xabxULOaxigmwhZfi74S2OeGCZsanYg/s320/granny+bball.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Alford returned to school to earn a film degree, she chose the Senior Women’s team as the subject for a documentary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Alford started going to the “Fabulous 70s” practices, following them to their games and learning their stories. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I thought I would find genetic wonders,” she recalls. “But what I found were people who were dealing with cancer and heart disease just like everyone else. The difference was that these women were fighting it together, encouraging each other. Basketball was keeping them active, independent and believing they could do anything they wanted to do.” </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Alford spent more than a year with the team filming the documentary. She even traveled with them to the 2011 National Senior Games in Houston. After getting funding, she hopes to make “Granny’s Got Game,” into a full-length movie.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She hopes the film will inspire others to honor and celebrate older athletes, change the perception of the capabilities of the elderly and contest negative stereotypes. In addition, she hopes it will help younger viewers appreciate today’s sports opportunities, highlight the support women get from being part of a team and inspire people of all ages to stay active. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“I thought my glory days were over. Then I met this team. These women helped me remember how much I loved to play and how much I enjoyed being part of a team,” says Alford.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Fabulous 70s recently participated in the Raleigh Wake Senior Games. To learn more, view the film’s trailer and find out how you can help Alford raise funds to complete the project, visit</span><span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> her <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/GrannysGotGame" target="_blank">website</a></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.</span></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-72280021613304026242012-04-19T07:26:00.001-07:002012-06-18T14:03:56.762-07:00SWIMMING SAFETY<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We can’t
wait to dive into summer at the Y! There’s nothing like that cool dip in the
pool. But we want it to be a safe, fun experience.<span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkgcOupd8f_bTaTjlY8cfb5qmBomb4JIQBswOBCDrsFzK7SfgNdSa7uW4238CAd5v7eQvL5dRxvBVXpWDVGGUWupjiYyxCdhipvSIf1m6iX9AFh7Neg0kqKhiHOXpZoFNlNaAkYDUlfgb/s1600/YMCA-3-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkgcOupd8f_bTaTjlY8cfb5qmBomb4JIQBswOBCDrsFzK7SfgNdSa7uW4238CAd5v7eQvL5dRxvBVXpWDVGGUWupjiYyxCdhipvSIf1m6iX9AFh7Neg0kqKhiHOXpZoFNlNaAkYDUlfgb/s400/YMCA-3-002.jpg" width="266" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We hate
to brag, but the YMCA has been stressing the importance of swim lessons and
swim safety since <a href="http://www.ymca.net/history/1900-1950s.html"><span style="color: windowtext;">1909</span></a>. More than 100 years later,
swimming remains a core program here at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/home.aspx" target="_blank">YMCA of the Triangle</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the Y,
we believe swimming is a critical life skill for everyone in the family. That’s
why we offer a wide variety of swim classes and <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/YMCA_Swim_Team.aspx"><span style="color: windowtext;">swim teams</span></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext;">.</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“YMCA swim lessons are successful because of the
relationships developed with children and families in our communities,”
explains A.E. Finley YMCA Aquatics Director Justin Guest. “Children, and
adults, learn more when they have a relationship with their instructor. They
also know that relationship is built on the Y’s core values: respect, responsibility,
honesty, caring and faith in God.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Justin
urges you and your child to remember these <a href="http://kidshealth.org/kid/watch/out/swim.html"><span style="color: windowtext;">important safety tips</span></a> before you dive into the water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Never swim alone.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Children
(and adults!) should only swim under the supervision of a lifeguard or an adult
who is a confident, experienced swimmer. Even in a shallow pool or lake,
swimming alone is dangerous. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Only dive or jump into the deep
end.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jumping or
diving into shallow water can result in hitting the bottom of a pool. This can
cause a number of injuries including neck and back injuries. You should also be careful because you don’t
want to land on another swimmer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Swim near the shore.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s a
good idea to make sure that you can always touch the bottom of the ocean while
your head is above water. Because of strong currents and tides, going out too
deep is dangerous. Young swimmers should never go into the ocean without an
adult.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don’t swim in a thunderstorm.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Water is
dangerous when lightning is in the area. Pools are required to close during
thunderstorms. If you’re at the beach or a lake, it’s up to you to get out of
the water when a storm rolls in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wear sunscreen.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s easy
to forget about sunburn when you’re splashing around in the water, but don’t
forget to apply sunscreen regularly. And make sure to allow your sunscreen to
sink in before jumping back in the water. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Practice!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The only
way to become a confident, skilled swimmer is to practice, practice, practice. Don’t
be afraid to use floatation devices – whether a life jacket in a lake or
floaties in the pool – to help as you learn. If you’re looking for more
organized swim instruction, talk to someone at your local YMCA branch about the
best class for your child.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now that
you’re armed with these swimming safety tips, you and your kids are ready to
dive in! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What
water adventures are you and your family looking forward to this summer?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-72123608697690250492012-04-04T14:06:00.001-07:002012-05-11T06:13:49.689-07:00ALEXANDER FAMILY YMCA SPOTLIGHT: HEYWARD HAMMES<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>April is <a href="http://www.autism-society.org/about-us/national-autism-awareness-month/" target="_blank">Autism Awareness Month</a>. This is a wonderful piece written by Cherith Mangum, Director of Communications at the <a href="http://www.ymcatriangle.org/Alexander_Family_YMCA.aspx" target="_blank">Alexander Family YMCA</a>. Learn more about the impact that the YMCA has had on one very special little boy.</i></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s truly heart-warming to see Karen and
John Hammes spend time with their only child, 11-year old Heyward. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Laughter, hugs, high-fives, encouraging words. The small
family shares a strong bond that you might experience in your own home—one
filled with love, loyalty and just plain fun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFtBVtxdyrBLsz6VeY1fbJFQzp5lLBJKO6c3RD-7au1awITxbti4XgU3PUUywCQCrO90Apdmbr_DbLs2irSWxswDG-PXobUhCEHGwVGgIOJ6OtL5kCJln_q5zvYspiSFE47-4f8d4gimu/s1600/Hammes,+Heyward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFtBVtxdyrBLsz6VeY1fbJFQzp5lLBJKO6c3RD-7au1awITxbti4XgU3PUUywCQCrO90Apdmbr_DbLs2irSWxswDG-PXobUhCEHGwVGgIOJ6OtL5kCJln_q5zvYspiSFE47-4f8d4gimu/s320/Hammes,+Heyward.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, a small difference characterizes the Hammes’
relationship. Heyward is a young boy with
autism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A 9-YEAR SEARCH<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“When he was diagnosed at age 2,” Karen recalled. “It was
very hard to see him struggle with just the basic skills in life.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the last 9 years, Karen and John have worked to find
an effective developmental program for Heyward. While Heyward has strong
athletic skills, he possesses limited language capabilities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Public places and noises cause him to easily go into sensory overload,” Karen said. “So he needs to have a very specific kind of environment
to learn and grow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While they kept searching for an ideal location, Karen and John assembled a team of
professionals to help them teach and nurture Heyward. However, it wasn’t until the family found the Y last fall
that Heyward’s progress skyrocketed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">FINALLY MOVING FORWARD<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The Y has finally given us a safe,
consistent place to help Heyward grow,” Karen said. “And since we’ve been members, Heyward’s
learning has gone from 0 to 60 in just a few months!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Three times a day, like clockwork, Heyward and one of his
mentors come trotting into the Y for an hour of fun activities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You might find them walking the track, playing a game of
basketball or exercising in front of the mirrors in the fitness studios.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">According to Karen, consistent exercise helps Heyward
develop his language skills. Throughout every activity Heyward does around the
Y, his mentors are able to connect his physical actions with words. Playing
sports? Heyward can identify each of the sports balls by name!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> “We never had one
place that we could visit to do all of our activities,” Karen said. “But after
the consistency of the Y, Heyward’s expressive language has grown by at least
150%!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A PLACE TO BELONG<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Familiarity. Consistency. The Y has provided Heyward and
his family with a stable environment to learn, grow and succeed. But more importantly to Karen, the Y has become a place
for Heyward to belong. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“We’ve been blown away by how warm and accepting people
are at the Y,” Karen said. “We feel like the staff—and even other members—rally
around Heyward to help him succeed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The staff know Heyward’s name. They give him a high-five
when he comes in.” Karen continued. “And they’ve been so patient and supportive
of any needs we might have.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A big smile. A friendly high-five. To Karen and her
family, the YMCA serves as much more than a workout facility. For Heyward, the
Y has become a community of support and a safe haven during a difficult time of
growth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Every night in Heyward’s prayers, we thank
God for the YMCA,” Karen smiled. “We feel like we belong here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4008028423460945044.post-22171949981182280302012-03-27T14:05:00.000-07:002012-05-11T06:14:05.862-07:00RAINY DAY REMEDIES<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember the old saying “April showers bring May flowers”? Before we can enjoy summer fun, we have a month of rainy days to endure. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrfbMrOhmQkVDQiWQFpPhNFEIRxZOimZtrJ4ymu1IV3VhZ5ftlyYl_gOH5LdHvFBJnOBa5xYHw7CSQi5cQeiTj8XSDujN7ZIqlaxJwnBgg1qylH_l5HhkasrU_jB_rM-yieQXfmFCl2l21/s1600/kids-indoor-play-300x207.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrfbMrOhmQkVDQiWQFpPhNFEIRxZOimZtrJ4ymu1IV3VhZ5ftlyYl_gOH5LdHvFBJnOBa5xYHw7CSQi5cQeiTj8XSDujN7ZIqlaxJwnBgg1qylH_l5HhkasrU_jB_rM-yieQXfmFCl2l21/s1600/kids-indoor-play-300x207.jpeg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photo Source: http://www.procareblog.com/</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keeping your kids entertained inside is no easy task, but we’ve got a few ideas that might do the trick. So put away the iPads and turn off the Wii. It’s time for some old-fashioned fun!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Put on a Talent Show<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s can be your own version of <i>America’s Got Talent</i>. Challenge your kids to find something that they love to do and show it off. Little kids can say their ABCs, and older kids can do a dance or sing a song. Encourage them to dress the part and have the other kids serve as “judges” – but positive feedback only! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Break out the Games<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nothing beats a good game of Candy Land or Go Fish. Your kids will enjoy the competition and this is a good way to work on skills such a patience and communication.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get Creative<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Paint, crayons, play-doh – Kids love it all. Give them a chance to be creative, and they’ll be busy for hours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Play Dress Up<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Playing dress up is always fun. This time, have them dress up in their real clothes – not costumes. When you find clothes that don’t fit, set them aside to be used as hand-me-downs or donated to folks who need them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cook Up a Storm<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get your kids in the kitchen. It’s a great chance to teach them how to eat healthy and stay busy. Here are some <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Top-10-Recipes/Top-10-Healthy-Recipes-for-Kids">kid-friendly recipes</a> to try. Who knows? You may even have a chef on your hands!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get Out and Explore!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.marbleskidsmuseum.org/">Marbles</a>, <a href="http://www.monkeyjoes.com/raleigh">Monkey Joe’s</a><span class="MsoHyperlink">,</span> <a href="http://www.kidzuchildrensmuseum.org/">Kidzu</a> or the <a href="http://www.ncmls.org/">Museum of Life and Science</a>? In our area, the possibilities are endless. There are plenty of great places in the Triangle to explore with your kids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hit Up the YMCA<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A trip to the Y is sure to cure cabin fever. Play some hoops or a game of Marco Polo in the pool. This is a great way for your kids to get some exercise without having to brave the rain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope you enjoy these 7 easy ways to beat the rain and enjoy those April days. What’s your favorite way to spend a rainy day?</span><o:p></o:p></div>YMCA of the Trianglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14326916148181870156noreply@blogger.com0