The content in this preview is based on the last saved version of your email - any changes made to your email that have not been saved will not be shown in this preview.
Spring is just around the corner even if the weatherman can’t confirm it. I just checked with Alexa, and she confirmed that March 19 is the official first day of Spring.
It is amazing what you can learn from Alexa just by asking. She also explained to me that the first day of Spring (vernal equinox) is determined when the earth’s equator aligns directly with the center of the sun. At that point, the earth’s axis is not tilted toward or away from the sun, resulting in nearly equal day and night.
You might be wondering why the YMCA Alumni Chapter President is spending so much time worrying about the Vernal Equinox. It means that it is time to start thinking about the Chambers Chapter Spring Reunion in Youngstown May 20-21, 2026.
Reunion planner Connie Clark promises a great time to enjoy “A Taste of Youngstown.” As usual, there will be plenty of time for fellowship and fun, a great time to reunite with old friends and hopefully new members. I have been told the number one reason that members join YMCA Alumni is fellowship, time to connect with former YMCA colleagues, and meet new ones. I did not learn that from Alexa but rather from Dave Patterson, another wealth of knowledge, especially about YMCA Alumni.
By the way, Dave is chairing the Fall Reunion Committee and promises another opportunity for fun and fellowship Sept. 9-11, 2026, in beautiful Sugarcreek, OH. Dave promises great Amish food, plentiful shopping, fun '60’s music by a well-known piano player, and a chance to experience the “Age of Steam.” If you want to know more, ask Alexa or better yet, ask Dave.
One last thing about the Reunions: they provide a great opportunity to sell YMCA Alumni. If you have not invited old colleagues to join, do it now. The deadline to renew is March 1, but you can join at any time; we will just call you a ‘newbie.“
We'll visit Youngstown's top sites and attractions including (bottom row L-R) Mill Creek Park, Lanterman's Working Grist Mill, and the Arms Family Greystone House.
Schedule:
Day 1: 12:30PM -- Lunch in the Garden Café within the DD and Velma Davis Educational and Visitor Center in gorgeous Mill Creek Park. After lunch, alumni can tour the free Fellowship Riverside Gardens within the 12-acre public park or join Tim Shetzer and other Y golfers to experience a Pete Dye-designed golf course within the same park in the afternoon.
4 PM -- Gather at the Doubletree by Hilton Downtown, a restored neoclassical Stambaugh Building, built in 1907, our hub of activity and host hotel. A special rate link is in the registration form for this YMCA Alumni Reunion. You must register by April 20 to get the YMCA Alumni special rate.
6 PM -- We will enjoy an evening meal and beverages in a reserved area at Avalon Pizza, one of Youngstown’s most loved restaurants for authentic Italian food and pizza.
7:30 PM until ? Gather at the hotelfor conversation, games, snacks and re-connecting.
Day 2: 8:30 AM -- Chambers Chapter YMCA Alumni Spring Meeting and Breakfast at the Doubletree Hilton Downtown.Come enjoy an overview of what’s happening at the Youngstown YMCA from Beth Sheller, CEO, and be updated on YMCA Alumni committee activities, and participate in future planning of the Chambers Chapter.
11:45 AM --Meet, enjoy a box lunch, and tour Lanterman’s Working Grist Mill, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and visit the gift shop and explore the adjoining waterfall and covered bridge.
1 PM --Gather for our guided tour of the Arms Family Greystone House, a 1905 Arts & Crafts Historic Home. There are seven different exhibits. Roam at your leisure after the tour and visit the gift shop.
4 PM -- The Spring Reunion is Officially Over with the closing of the museum.
But, not quite over…if you want to get a bite to eat before heading home or to stay another night for more fellowship and enjoy Youngstown activities, we will have a dinner location and, of course, ice cream.
Need more information? Contact: Email Connie Clark or call her at 330-204-7657.
Most of us have had mentors and role models on our quest to become our best selves. We have looked to these people for guidance, inspiration, and strength, not just to be better people but to make the world around us better, too. I had Dick Bennett Sr., a YMCA legend in leadership, vision, and professionalism. He died this past January.
Dick began his YMCA career at the Youngstown YMCA following graduation from Kent State University. As a leader and visionary in Leaders' Training School (LTS) in 1962, Dick moved LTS from the limited resources at camp settings to a college campus. He approached his alma mater, Kent State University, and was enthusiastically welcomed to campus. This transition made it possible for LTS to expand its potential with greater resources and possibilities for youth leadership development.
LTS on a college campus meant that staff and other outside professionals could exhibit, teach, and train young leaders in a variety of sports, such as gymnastics, aquatics, and track and field. In 1963, Dick became the school director and included values education as part of the curriculum, an important foundational piece that remained throughout the history of Leaders’ School. He expected all staff to model high personal values at all times. In just those two years, Dick Bennett created a profound and positive impact on the lives of everyone connected with LTS for years to come.
Dick Jones, retired National Field Consultant, knew Bennett well, beginning in his early days as a youth in the Y and leadership development. Bennett took Dick Jones and three other young guys to the second LTS at Camp Moores in Zanesville, OH. Jones recalls Dick taught his leaders how to teach, then turned the classes over to the leaders – first observe, then practice, then teach.
It was a great way to build skill and confidence in leaders, “come to learn; return to serve” in action at the local level. Jones recalled that Dick Bennett Sr., created and led the Director in Training Program at the Youngstown Y, a summer-long training. He hired Jones and a few others to help train these young people in the program.
That experience helped Jones in his first Y job, enabling him to be able to run the physical education departments at the Middletown, OH YMCA. Years later, when Dick Jones went to West End Willoughby as executive director, the women and girls director there told him she had attended a training event led by Bennett.
“Dick Bennett,” she said, "sounded just like you, Dick Jones!” Jones replied, “No, I sound just like him!” Jones shared that Bennett set an excellent example of professionalism and service. Jones recalled there were quite a few Y directors, at least 10, who began their careers at the Youngstown Y under Bennett and went on to successful careers across the country. Dick Jones recalled, “Dick Bennett was helpful to my success in serving the YMCA through various jobs over the years. I am deeply grateful to him.”
Yes, Dick Bennett Sr. was a creative innovator in LTS history and the local YMCA. He was open-minded about new programs, including aquatics for community schools, and welcomed women and girls’ programming into a traditional men’s Y. He was the Executive Director at the Youngstown Y when I was the Women’s and Girls' Director. Dick could relate to anyone, regardless of age, abilities, or needs. When it came to getting the work done, being professional and living a life of service, Dick led the way. Honestly, I didn’t always meet his bar of excellence, and on those occasions, he guided me to understand how I could be better and do better. He was firm, professional, and always helpful.
When large groups of school kids came for gym and swim classes, Dick showed up in his shorts and t-shirt, ready to help with set-up and tear-down. It didn’t matter that he was the CEO; he was part of the team and modeled what he expected of us. As staff, we always knew he had our backs. He was a legend for his ability to nurture and train young YMCA staff who then went on to serve with excellence across the country.
When Dick told me I was going to LTS in 1974, I had no idea what that was all about until I got there. LTS changed my life forever. I told Dick I planned to go back to LTS the following year. He told me I could go back if I started a Leader’s Club that year. No worries…. done! His commitment to our youth Leaders and LTS was inspiring and motivating for me. His service, gifts and skills touched countless lives and the ripple effect to those touched will continue forever in our hearts and actions. Welcome home, Dick Bennett Sr. Your work here was done well. Now rest in peace.
(Janie Ehrman worked for YMCAs in Northeast Ohio for several years and remained active with Y Leaders Clubs and LTS for many years afterwards, including sending all three of her teens to LTS.)
MIKE LIEBER:
A SPIRITUAL MOMENT
Marla and I went to the movies and saw "I Can Only Imagine 2" last
week. The basic premise of the movie surrounds the next phase of life
for the members of Mercy Me, a contemporary Christian music band, and their leader, Bart.
We are reminded that life is not always easy, even if you sold over 5 million copies of your hit, I Can Only Imagine. Bart's very young son is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. This requires blood monitoring and shots for the rest of his life. As Bart and his son work through their relationship, it becomes clear that tough times lay ahead for the family.
This leads to the formation of a new hit single, Even If. Bart
realizes that God remains in the fire with you, no matter what the
troubles, "I know you are able, and I know you can save through the
fire with your mighty hand, but even if you don't, my hope is You
alone".
So, I encourage all of us to remember that we are not alone and that
God is the perfect father and we must base our hope in Him alone.
Following the movie the band proceeded to sing, "It is well with my soul," and the entire theater congregation stood and sang with the band.
No one left! What an awesome response.
That's Tim at the top left with his team in Jerusalem.
COACHING BASKETBALL IN JERUSALEM
By Tim Shetzer
I had the good fortune to start working at the Jerusalem International YMCA in the fall of 1983 for two years. One of my responsibilities was coaching a 6th-grade boys’ basketball team. It was quite a challenge because my command of Hebrew was limited, and most of the boys knew only a little English. We practiced on a small outdoor court for most of the season because the YMCA had only one indoor gymnasium.
I especially enjoyed practices on Fridays. After the boys left for home in the early evening, the Jewish side of the city would start to quiet down for the holy day of Shabbat. It would officially begin as soon as the sun set and the first three stars were visible in the night sky. I’d stay after practice and shoot baskets, and look for the first three stars. I’d then walk the two miles back to our flat (apartment) on the Palestinian side of town because there were never any buses or taxis on the streets. We didn’t own a car during our time there.
I think that to be successful in most endeavors, you have to be humble and keep your sense of humor. It’s easy to think this way, but more difficult to practice. I certainly had the opportunity to be humble on many occasions coaching basketball.
One day, the boys were scrimmaging five-on-five. One of the boys asked me about how much time was left to play. I looked at my watch, and there were 10 minutes left. I yelled out “esar dagim.” One boy started laughing so hard he had to hold onto the fence around the court so he wouldn’t fall down. Another boy actually fell down laughing. I was thinking fast, trying to figure out what was so funny.
Then it dawned on me. Instead of saying “esar dokot”, which means ten minutes in Hebrew, I had told them ten fish! How embarrassing. I’m sure they all went home that night and had another good laugh with their parents about what their American coach said at practice.
Every year in Jerusalem, a huge youth basketball tournament was held. One year, the YMCA staff registered our team to play in it. The atmosphere throughout the tournament was really exciting to say the least. Believe it or not, we found ourselves in the championship game at the end of the tournament. The score was very close throughout the contest, and at the end of regulation, it was tied up.
The tournament director decided, instead of an overtime period, as is played in the U.S., it would be a shoot-out like in a tied soccer match. I had to choose five players to shoot free throws, alternating one by one with the other team. It was a unique basketball experience, and very nerve-wracking. It went slowly back and forth until our last player was on the free-throw line with a chance to win.
Even today, if I close my eyes, I can see the players excitedly jumping up and down in celebration after we won. I still have the championship medal from the tournament in a box stored upstairs in the closet. What a memorable YMCA experience.
(Tim Shetzer spent two years of his more than 40-year YMCA career working with the Jerusalem International YMCA.)
WAYNE UHRIG
URUGUAY, SIBERIA, MEXICO AND MORE
ISC continues to move forward with several opportunities. After talking with the staff and board in Uruguay, we are now discussing a Strategic Plan rather than just individual Program Development. They have many challenges, and without funds to hire a CEO, this is their best option for now.
The Zoom calls and connections I made a few years ago with youth and their leaders in Siberia continue to go well. We've lost a few but gained several more, most recently, the youth through the YMCA in Rockford, Illinois. We currently have two volunteers who will return to the Czech Republic later this year and have one position to fill. If you are interested, please let me know and I will get you the details.
Fundraising training in Mexico City was completed in late January, and additional small-group training is forthcoming. Mexico has a lot of work to do to get their board and staff working, and one of their board members kicked off their campaign with a 5,000 peso commitment.
The border coalition had met on February 19 and continues to move forward with the development of the first international YMCA collaboration.
Debbi Zvanut and I will continue to work with them to see how it moves forward, and how ISC can help. The good news is we've already been to Tijuana, so we have a real good idea of what is needed. Other potential opportunities include Albania (second trip), Tijuana (second trip), and the possibility of them needing laptops as we sent to the Dominican Republic. We are also continuing our follow-up with contacts in Germany.
ISC is working on either a webinar or some presentation to send to the full membership. This will highlight where ISC started n 1982, where we are today, and our plans for the future. We also need to do a better job explaining the differences between ISC, a program of YMCA Alumni, and World Service, a program of Y-USA.
We all know we have several campaigns throughout the year, and distinguishing between them has been a challenge for many members. With that said, we greatly appreciate the support of the Chambers Chapter Board and several members.
Please email or callWayne Uhrig(740) 398-2830 for more information.
TONY DELISIO
WORLD SERVICE: WE CONTRIBUTED
Thank you for your generosity and compassion for others. Oftentimes, we do not know those we are helping through our giving.
That’s how it is when we choose to support YMCA World Service. I propose that it’s better that way. That said, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the 23 Chambers Chapter members who contributed $6,425 to World Service in 2025. In total, YMCA Alumni donors gave $215,215 in 2025, while overall $2,010,026 was raised for World Service last year.
One example of YMCA World Service in action in 2025 involved the Glacial Community YMCA (WI) and the YMCA of Valpariso, Chile. Combining cross-cultural learning with hands-on service – supporting projects at YMCA Jorge Williams School – teaching activities with vulnerable youth and preparing community meals with young YMCA leaders.
This exchange not only strengthened relationships and deepened mutual learning, but it also demonstrated how global collaboration helps build meaningful global connections rooted in service. For more information about YMCA World Service, check out our World Service Linktree.
Finally, be sure to check out the World Service Appeal Letter and Case Statement Brochure when it’s delivered to your home this March. Thanks again for your generous support of YMCA World Service last year. We hope you all will join us in giving this year.
Click HEREto pledge. Click HERE to donate. Donate by Mail: Send checks to: Y-USA World Service, P.O. Box 7411037, Chicago, IL 60674-11037.
Thank you for Changing the World for Good!
MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS
Welcome new member Jon Vance (photo). Jon is a transfer from the Weatherford Chapter, so we would like to welcome him to the Chambers Chapter.
Now is the time to follow up with members who haven’t yet renewed for the year. Contacts were made by email and/or phone calls, thanks to the Chambers Executive Committee for assisting with these calls. As of this writing, we are anticipating a couple more renewals in addition to the numbers below.
The book “Manhood Factories – YMCA Architecture and the Making of Modern Urban Culture” by Paula Lupkin was published in 2010. At the time the book was published, Paula was an assistant professor of architecture at Washington University in St. Louis. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Art History at the University of North Texas. Attempts to contact the author for background on why she wrote the book were unsuccessful. The following paragraphs are primarily excerpts from the book.
The book provides a detailed look at the construction of more than 1,000 YMCA buildings between the Civil War and World War I, 1865-1915. At the end of the Civil War, “YMCAs were struggling for money, for members, and for a clearly defined purpose. This was due to most of its members joining the Army, leaving their local Associations 'bereft' and often bankrupt.
“Due to a concern by society of how young men were spending their leisure time after the war, there was a movement by cities and towns to build community centers. The model created by private, religious groups like the Y was adopted by civic authorities in the service of a new, secular faith: civil religion. One of the major tenets of this was the productive use of the “right kind of leisure.” Beginning in the larger cities, the YMCA was reborn and transformed into “a dynamic force in the cultural and economic reconstruction of the United States. Theodore Roosevelt called the YMCAs 'Manhood Factories.'
“The YMCA had the process of building social centers down to a science, with formulae to determine size, expense, and type of facilities appropriate to communities of different populations with varying needs and real estate values. They had long ago identified the problems of supervision, of maintenance, and of circulation for each class of building (small, medium, large cities), and had the benefit of testing many different solutions in their buildings across the country.
“The Y was proud of its record of producing buildings that did not coerce, attempting to shape the behavior of free individuals through persuasion.” The YMCA model also spread around the globe, including Canada, Philippines, Japan, Korea, India, Middle East, Portugal, Russia, China and the West Indies. “Even though there are differences between the sacred books used in these other countries, there is no difference between the basketball rule books used in their gymnasiums.
"The YMCA’s remarkable ability to adapt to changing circumstances, including war, immigration, and the rise of mass culture, ensured its continued relevance throughout the vicissitudes of late-nineteenth and early-twentieth-century American life. Only one challenge proved impossible to overcome – the Great Depression. This brought an end to the YMCA’s massive and ambitious building program, and when funds became available again after World War II, the city was no longer the YMCA's primary focus. As the middle class migrated to the suburbs, the YMCA followed.
"This national organization’s influential building program helped to define the concept of productive and respectable leisure, easing the transition of American culture from theocracy to the mass market.”
LOOKING AHEAD
FALL REUNION IN AMISH COUNTRY
Activities for this reunion include visits to the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock, Pianomania at the Amish Country Theater, Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, David Warther Carvings Museum and lodging at the Berlin Resort.
Don’t miss the GREATEST REUNION OF ALL TIME!
More information with registration form, reunion fee, hotel reservations, meals, golf, and daily schedule will be e-mailed to all Chambers Chapter members on April 1. Participation is limited, so register early. Click the button below for more activity details.
JOIN US AS THE CENTRAL REGION HOSTS THE 2027 YMCA ALUMNI REUNION. WATCH FOR DETAILS IN THE CONNECTION, ON OUR WEBSITE, FACEBOOK, AND IN CHAMBERS CHATTER.
EDITOR'S NOTE
SUE SMITH
Is it Spring yet? This weekend’s temperatures sure make it feel like it is, and the clock change with the extra hour of daylight at the end of the day will definitely make it feel like it’s finally here.
I shouldn’t really be complaining about the weather, though, because I had the chance to escape the winter for several weeks and enjoy time with friends and family in Florida – although it wasn’t as sunny and warm there as I had hoped!
The time spent with those special people in my life was worth more than words can explain. We are blessed with longevity on both sides of the family, and I was able to visit with aunts and uncles who are well into their nineties and still enjoying full, active lives.
I also had the chance to spend a couple of days at the beach with two cousins that I haven’t seen in more than 20 years – there were lots of laughs and stories to tell, it’s funny how you can just pick up where you left off as though you had just seen each other last year.
So, my hope and prayers for us all as we live through these turbulent times is this: don’t wait to reach out to those family members or friends that you haven’t spoken to in a while, share those memories and those moments of joy, let them know they are loved, and hold each other close.
IMPORTANT NOTE:Please think twice when unsubscribing to any unsolicited email. If it has been sent to you by Constant Contact, they are not allowed, by law, to send any more emails to you, including from YMCA Alumni. Just flick away emails you don't want -- but please don't "unsubscribe." We can get you re-subscribed ONLY ONCE. Send us an email if you are not receiving our newsletters or you have accidentally unsubscribed and we will try to reinstate you. --editor
