Greetings Friends and Neighbors:
Beginning July 1st we will be entering another phase of returning our YMCA to some sort of normalcy when we will open our locker rooms and shower areas to members and allow non-members to pay the daily guest fee. In order to take these steps, we will follow the guidelines set forth by the CDC. Protocols can be found at defymca.org/facility-safety-protocols.
Our Youth Sports programs will also begin their return to programming under tight CDC protocols in July. Ellsworth and Bucksport will begin with sports clinics. Unfortunately, space will be limited but keep your eye on Facebook and our website for details.
Updates on our reopening progress:
June 1st
The YMCA’s child care program opened without a hitch. Greeting our kids and families in person after 11 long weeks of contact through social media and email was enjoyable for all. The kids transitioned back like the troopers they are. Yes, there was an occasional tear, mainly from staff and parents, however the kids are back to their routines. The YMCA can now allow new families to register. Interested families can contact Shauna: [email protected].
June 15th
Summer Camp started at Camp Discovery on Webb Pond and Young Bucks Camp in Bucksport. The new protocols put into practice for the safety of our kids, staff and families also went extremely well. Campers are enjoying their summer with friends while keeping safe in the great outdoors. Summer Camp is open for registration by contacting the YMCA – Ellsworth: 667-3086 or Bucksport: 469-3518. Registration is also available through our web site – defymca.org/summer-camps.
June 15th
The Wiggins Center and Blue Hill Y re-opened our fitness centers and expanded our class schedules. Fitness classes are offered indoors and outside depending on the weather. The YMCA also launched our new APP for members to navigate their usage of our YMCA. Contact the YMCA to get set up or visit our web site for a tutorial at defymca.org/app.
Finally, our pool issue should be resolved soon. It is difficult to target a specific date but we are hopeful for July 6th. The good news is that the YMCA Board authorized the expenditure of the new state of the art air handling unit for the Wiggins Center. The present unit has been struggling to say the least and has been a challenge for a long time. Replacement should occur by September.
Transitioning from being closed for 11 plus weeks to open has been one of great anxiety and concern; however there is a tremendous feeling of satisfaction of a job well done. I would like to compliment the staff, YMCA members and the community for their patience as we worked to reopen. Thank you for “Staying with Us.”
Until next week, thank you on behalf of the YMCA for doing your part by following the CDC guidelines to keep our community healthy and safe. The increased visitors during the summer months with will be our next challenge to overcome. We cannot let our guard down!
Until the next update!
Thank you.
Peter D. Farragher