STAUNTON-AUGUSTA YMCA
Summer Camp Counselor Maddox Johnson's superpower is listening to kids. Read more about him on page 6.
NEWSLETTER
June 2026
P. 2 Memorial Race Connects Neighboring Ys P. 4 Finding Strength in Playful Interaction p. 6 Counselors Create Community P. 12 Artistry Shines Through Parkinson's P. 18 Lifeguarding Class P. 22 Cutting through the Hype of GLP-1s
February 1 - May 16
A pair of sneakers hangs in Jacie Grant’s garage with the names of countries handwritten on the fabric and soles. Ireland. Scotland. France. Spain. Greece. Italy. Germany. It’s a catalog of the places she ran while studying abroad as a student at Purdue University. Since then, she has completed 15 half marathons, a few triathlons, and is training for a half Ironman. But on May 16, her focus was local. “I needed to run this week for training anyway, so I thought, ‘Why not do a run with other people in my community who love running?’” said Grant, explaining that the sport has evolved from an individual pursuit to more of a group activity. In the early morning chill of the STAUNTON-AUGUSTA YMCA parking lot, she joined more than 65 other competitors in a poignant tribute to Bobby Fitzgerald, an active member of the SAYMCA family who disappeared in 2012 while hiking in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. Although Grant didn’t know Fitzgerald or his legacy, it was an important chance to be “part of something bigger.” Designed as a way to gather the community at the Y to honor Fitzgerald, the event had a dual purpose, serving to wrap up the main fundraising push for the organization’s Annual Giving Campaign (AGC), which launched in February. The race held personal significance for one small group of longtime local runners gathered near parked cars to stretch and reminisce. Jimmy Atkins, Gary Micheal, and Paul Titus arrived early and donned their bibs with pride. Atkins used to run with Bobby several times a week. "It seems fitting," he said, "for as much as he loved to run." It wasn't long before the trio motioned for Tom Hughes to join them. In addition to his bib, Hughes pinned a large printout - a photo of himself, Fitzgerald, and another runner - to the front and back of his neon green shirt. "I was one of the first to register - wouldn't have missed it," Hughes said. "I think it's great what they're doing. A good way to bring awareness about Bobby's story and to help the Y." Training in Togethernesss The race had less visible outcomes as well: Participants like Grant illustrate a growing collaboration between Y branches in the neighboring cities of Staunton and Waynesboro. Grant is a resident of Waynesboro and her "home Y" is the Waynesboro Family YMCA, which is where she noticed advertising for the 8K. It was an easy "yes" to register, since she was already familiar with the Staunton-Augusta Y. Recently, Grant has been making use of her dual membership while her young daughter attends daycare in town. Anne Hudlow, Executive Director of the WFYMCA, has a front row view of how this cooperation is building a stronger, more efficient network. By leveraging the strengths of each location, encouraging staff members to shadow their counterparts at the other Y, and cross-advertising events and programs, both sites are beginning to expand their reach in the community. "I'm excited to see what growth will come from these initiatives, particularly where we can pool our resources and offer a seamless experience between locations for our members," Hudlow said. "I do believe we are stronger together," she added. In partnership with SAYMCA leadership, Hudlow envisions building on Waynesboro's successful Turkey Trot 5K in November and the Bobby Fitzgerald 8K to establish an annual three-race series that will create a new tradition. "Adding another event - possibly tied to CCC (Community Childcare Center, which operates under the SAYMCA umbrella) - would get awareness of the YMCAs out in the public and bring members together on a regular basis," she explained. Local business owner and certified race organizer Heidi Austin-Cook is on board with that idea. "I know at the local races, it feels like a big family reunion, hanging out afterward, meeting new people," said Austin-Cook, owner of Sole Focus Running store in downtown Staunton. The YMCA reached out to Austin-Cook early on during race planning for her expertise in organizing runs like the popular Firecracker 5K in Gypsy Hill Park. She often looks for a race to enter when traveling, and knows their power to unite a community and show visitors the sites and spirit of an area. "A lot of times, people who don't really consider themselves runners will get out and participate when they have a connection to the organization or person being honored," said Austin-Cook. “What we’re really delivering is that sense of community that organically happens.”
Memorial Run Highlights Personal, Organizational Connections By Dawn Medley
Annual Giving Campaign continues through the end of 2026 There is still time to support our Mission Programs! DONATE now, or PLEDGE and give over time contributions can be added to your MEMBERSHIP DUES Give online at saymca.org or in person today, because no amount is too small!
Annual Giving Campaign 2026
Runner Tom Hughes paid tribute to his friend Bobby Fitzgerald with photos pinned to his race shirt.
Waynesboro YMCA member Jacie Grant finishes the Bobby Fitzgerald 8K with a smile. She enjoyed the opportunity to interact with other runners while training for a half Ironman event in the fall.
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Paul Titus, center, ran to a first place finish in 31:39. Full race results are posted at runsignup.com/Race/Results/ Overview/201335
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Last month, I stepped away from writing the Coping Corner because my attention, focus, and mental health needed to be directed elsewhere. As someone who often encourages others to prioritize wellness and self-care, I realized I needed to practice that myself. Sometimes one of the healthiest things we can do is recognize when we need to pause, reset, and allow ourselves space to recover emotionally and mentally. During that time, I spent a lot of time reflecting on connection, community, and the ways we recharge ourselves emotionally. One theme that continued to stand out to me was the importance of play — not just for children, but for people of all ages. When people hear the word “play,” they often think of recess, playgrounds, or children’s games. However, play is much bigger than that. Play can be laughter during a group fitness class, friendly competition in a basketball game, storytelling during an improv activity, riding a bike, playing cards with friends, sharing jokes at the front desk, or simply spending time with people who make us feel welcomed and valued. Play reminds us that joy still matters. In today’s world, many of us feel pressure to constantly be productive. Adults often convince themselves that rest, fun, creativity, or hobbies are “extra” instead of essential. Over time, we can begin to lose touch with the activities that help us feel alive, connected, and emotionally balanced. The reality is that healthy play is not wasted time — it is one of the ways we protect our mental health. Research consistently shows that play and recreation help reduce stress, improve mood, strengthen social bonds, and increase emotional resilience. Activities that involve movement, creativity, teamwork, or shared experiences stimulate areas of the brain connected to emotional regulation and connection. In simple terms, play helps us cope better with life. At The STAUNTON-AUGUSTA YMCA, we see these benefits happen every day. Sometimes it happens through youth sports, where children build confidence and friendships while learning teamwork and communication. Other times it happens in senior fitness classes, where members encourage one another while improving both physical and emotional wellness. It can happen during casual conversations in the hallway, a shared laugh between staff and members, or through community events that bring people together around a common purpose. One of the things I have personally enjoyed recently is helping co-teach an improv class through Silver Line Theatre Exchange. What stands out most to me is not whether someone delivers the “perfect” performance — it is the way people slowly begin to relax, laugh, and feel comfortable being themselves. Improv creates an environment where people are encouraged to participate without fear of judgment. That type of space can be incredibly healing, especially for individuals who struggle with anxiety, self-confidence, or feeling like they don't fully belong. I have seen similar things happen through adaptive recreation and fitness opportunities. For many individuals with disabilities, recreation is not only about exercise — it is about independence, confidence, and feeling included in a community. Activities that may seem small to one person can completely change another person’s sense of self-worth and connection to others. One of the most powerful things about play is that it naturally brings people together. When people laugh together, compete together, create together, or simply spend time together, barriers begin to come down. Age differences matter less. Social status matters less. People begin to see one another as human beings instead of strangers. That is why community spaces matter. The SAYMCA is often associated with physical health, but many of the most important things happening inside the building are emotional and social. Friendships are forming. Confidence is growing. People are finding support systems. Members encourage one another through difficult seasons of life. Young people find trusted adults. Older adults discover renewed purpose and connection. Sometimes the greatest impact is simply helping someone feel seen. As we continue through this month’s theme of “Stronger Together,” I encourage everyone to think about what healthy play looks like in their own life. Maybe it is joining a fitness class. Maybe it is reconnecting with a hobby you once loved. Maybe it is playing a game with your children or grandchildren. Maybe it is attending a community event, trying something creative, or simply allowing yourself permission to laugh more. No matter our age, we all need moments of joy, creativity, movement, and connection. Those moments are not distractions from life — they are often the things that help us continue moving forward. Mental health is not only about managing stress and hardship. It is also about creating opportunities for joy, belonging, and connection. Sometimes healing begins with something as simple as feeling included. And that is one of the ways we become stronger together. Keep the Connection Going — Join the Lunch Bunch! Connection doesn’t always have to come from a big event or formal program. Sometimes it starts with something simple: sitting down together, sharing conversation, laughing, and getting to know the people around us. As we continue this month’s theme of Stronger Together, we invite SAYMCA members and staff to join us for our weekly Lunch Bunch gatherings every Friday at 12:30 PM in the multipurpose room. Whether you bring your own lunch or purchase food from the Unbridled Souls Barbecue truck, the goal is simple: create a welcoming space where people can connect, build friendships, and strengthen our YMCA community. In a world where many people feel isolated or disconnected, even small moments of conversation and community can have a meaningful impact on mental health and emotional wellness. So pull up a chair, meet someone new, and spend part of your Friday with us.
COPING CORNER: Stronger Together
The Mental Health Benefits of Play and Connection By Brian Ringgold
“I want to be like a beacon. Like a light.” Maddox Johnson loves superheroes and is one in his own right. After overcoming his own obstacles, the 20-year-old Afterschool Adventure Club and Summer Camp counselor is on a mission to spread positivity and a sense of wonder to the youth with whom he works. The Power of Perception When you meet Johnson, you get the sense that there is much more going on beneath the surface. Take, for example, the tattoo of the word “sonder” on his neck. He explained its meaning: “Knowing that everybody around you has the same complex and interesting life as yours.” It’s a reminder he keeps close and a concept that influences the way he builds relationships. “There’s always more than what’s on the surface.” “I had a lot of anger when I was younger,” Johnson shared. It is understandable. He grew up without a father figure because his father was incarcerated for most of his childhood. “That really affected me,” he said. His mother runs the nonprofit Love Forward Foundation, which supports children and families with incarcerated parents. Through herlove and efforts, Maddox attended the overnight camp program All God’s Children, which serves young people impacted by parental incarceration. It was there that Johnson discovered who he really was, thanks in large part to the counselors he met. “They really helped me change and be the best version of myself,” he said. At camp, he learned the power of perception: The way he perceived himself directly impacted the way others perceived him. Before then, making connections had been difficult. “It was really rough for me in schools,” Johnson said. “I pushed a lot of people away that were good for me.” Remarkably, he realized he was the one who needed to change. “Being young and realizing those things about myself has really pushed me to realize those things about other people too,” he said. A Hero Is Born Like many of the superheroes he idolizes, Johnson’s origin story contains pain and loss. But he also had people to guide him. “I thank my counselors every day,” he said. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them.” He also looks to family members such as SAYMCA Teen Center Counselor Lonte Johnson and former Summer Camp and Afterschool counselor Leon Johnson, or “Mr. LJ,” for inspiration. “LJ … he’s probably one of my biggest role models,” Johnson said. Now, “Sonder-Man” is paying it forward. “These kids need someone to look up to,” he said. “All the kids have phones. They know everything they see is fake. When I was younger, I fully believed Spider-Man was a real person.” He hopes to bring imagination back into their worlds through art and creativity. “It’s really mind-pushing,” he said. “It makes them bring out things in their brain they didn’t know were there.” When he isn’t rescuing kids from the doldrums of reality, “Sonder-Man” creates art of his own. Johnson makes colorful, quirky rugs inspired by his love of creativity, comfort, and home. “I see creativity as life,” he said. That same philosophy shapes the environment he creates for children in the Summer Camp and Afterschool programs. “It’s way beyond just watching the kids,” he said. “I want to make a space where these kids can build - they can grow - and they can become the best version of themselves.” Beneath the Surface Johnson is perpetually contemplating and vision-casting. He thinks deeply about the impact he can have. “These kids need someone to look up to,” he said. His superpower is listening and empathizing. “Kids want to be heard,” he said. “I sit there and I listen.” The effect often carries a step further: inspiring them to dream and to wonder - which ultimately leads to understanding not just themselves, but each other. "I have a connection with all these people here." Archer Randolph is growing up at the STAUNTON-AUGUSTA YMCA. This summer, the 16-year-old is making the leap from camper to counselor, stepping into a role that allows him to give back to the community that helped shape him. "It all started because [Eddie Santiago] would ask me to volunteer," Randolph said. With Santiago's encouragement, Randolph began volunteering at YMCA events such as Teen Takeover and holiday programs. Over the years, Santiago has watched him emerge as a young leader. "[Randolph is] very respectful and follows the rules," he said. Now that he is old enough, working for the Y felt like a natural next step. "This is my first job, so I thought it would actually be a good first one," Randolph said. This summer, he will work with younger campers at the McSwain Elementary Summer Camp, where he attended elementary grades. One of those campers is his little sister, Ryder. Although she may cringe now at her older brother being in charge, the experience will positively impact them both for years to come. Taking the Next Steps Santiago has worked with hundreds of young people during his career. Randolph is one of the teens who stands out. "Archer is probably one of the top kids that I know will succeed in life," Santiago said. For Randolph, the role is an opportunity to give back. "I feel like I can relate to them," he said. Having spent years in YMCA programs himself, he understands the emotions many campers experience when trying something new. "I feel like I would be able to get them engaged and calm down if they're a little stressed or overwhelmed with something," Randolph said. The position is also an opportunity to develop skills that will serve him in the future. The rising high school junior is looking forward to meeting new people, creating better bonds with those people, and working on communication skills, teamwork, and leadership. Full-Circle Family For Randolph, the YMCA has always felt like home. His younger sister, Ryder, attends, too. "I've always loved being here," he said. After years as a camper, youth athlete, Teen Center participant, and volunteer, Randolph is preparing to help younger kids create memories and connections of their own. For Santiago, witnessing that journey is personally meaningful. "Watching Archer grow into someone who can mentor others is one of the best parts," Santiago said. "It reminds me that mentorship isn't just about helping one person succeed - it's about creating a ripple effect that continues long after I'm gone."
Mission Program is Part of the Legacy of Mentorship, Finding Purpose By Eleanor Rixey
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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: Summer Camp Counselors
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Upon completion of their desired weight bracket, SAYMCA members will receive a t-shirt and their club card displayed in our Wellness Center.
Before joining the SAYMCA Powerlifting Club, Harold Wells was struggling to lift 350 pounds, but the group support has helped him now crush 1000 pounds.
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Some lifters chase numbers. Harold Wells chased a second chance. When Wells recounts his powerlifting journey, he doesn't start with trophies or titles. His story begins with something much more simple: curiosity. Growing up “small-framed but strong,” Wells always wondered just how far his strength could go. In his late 20s and early 30s, he started gaining weight, and lifting became a way to take control of his health. What began as a way to slim down quickly became a passion. "I got addicted to lifting weights”, he said. But even the strongest lifters face barriers. For Wells, that wall was the 350-pound level. At 5’7" and 53 years old, lifting nearly double his body weight wasn’t just a challenge; it was a test of discipline. “That’s when I knew I needed more structure and community,” he explained. Breaking big numbers requires support. Joining the STAUNTON-AUGUSTA YMCA's active Powerlifting Club gave him exactly that. He became more focused, learned new techniques, corrected old habits, and trained with people who pushed him to grow. The moment he knew the club was truly changing him came when he reached 450 pounds, a milestone that still makes him proud. But Wells' story holds a deeper layer. He survived two widow-makers, a type of heart attack that is often fatal. Doctors told him a birth defect caused it, but Wells believes weight training is what kept him alive. The strength he built didn't just change him; it protected him. The Powerlifting Club matters to Wells because it builds confidence, bone density, and everyday strength - the kind that helps you lift mulch or move furniture without fear of injury. When asked for advice to anyone unsure about starting, his guidance is straightforward: Find someone who lifts, learn from them, and don't go it alone. Strength grows best in community, and Wells believes that taking that first small step can open the door to a completely different version of yourself. Just a few months ago, in March 2026, he completed the 1000-pound powerlifting challenge, proving that sometimes all it takes is continuing to show up until you realize that you’re capable of far more than you imagined.
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Harold Wells
Understanding True Power By Aidan Johnson
Volleyball Camp
Swim Lessons
Summer Youth Programs
Fees: Members: $67/ Non-members: $82 All levels and times.
Youth Boxing
Tuesdays June 30 - July 21 1 - 2 PM Ages 6 - 11 Members: $70 Non Members: $85 Registration open!
Tuesday/Thursdays June 16 - July 9 Member registration opens June 4 at 5 PM Non Member registration opens June 5 Registration closes June 11 Saturdays June 29 - August 1 Member registration opens June 6 Non Member registration opens June 7 Registration closes June 13
Registration opens June 3
Register online at saymca.org or in person today! Siblings get 10% off!
Registration open!
June 22 - 25 3 - 5 PM Ages 8 - 14 Members: $60 Non Members: $80 Meets on the Basketball Courts
Homeschool Tennis
Thursdays June 18 - July 9 5:30 - 6:30 PM Ages 13 - 17 Members: $50 Non Members: $65 Meets in the Rock Steady Boxing Studio
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Win this painting! A raffle drawing will be held on July 31 for the painting below, Cheerful Daisies, by Jill Haines All proceeds benefit Rock Steady Boxing
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She's not afraid of color — or Parkinson’s Disease, for that matter. Not all fighters use the same weapons. Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) participant Jill Haines fights back against Parkinson’s with boxing gloves, Bible verses and a paintbrush. Armed with creativity and grounded in discipline, the 70-year-old is redefining what it means to live with Parkinson’s. Discovering New Layers Haines’ journey as an artist began years before her Parkinson’s diagnosis. During an introductory art class at a community college in Beaver, Pennsylvania, an instructor immediately recognized her natural talent. ''You got it,'" she recalls him telling her. He encouraged her to go outside and observe nature to develop her skill further — advice that continues to shape her work today. Over time, painting became more than a creative outlet. It became a way to manage one of Parkinson’s most recognizable symptoms: tremors. “As soon as I start focusing on what I’m doing, the tremor stops,” Haines said. She believes creativity itself plays a therapeutic role. “Anything that’s creative, anything that’s artistic, helps rewire those pathways in your brain,” she said. Diagnosis Devoid of Color In 2011, Haines experienced a frozen shoulder, which she now believes was the prodromal event that led to her Parkinson’s diagnosis eight years later. As a former pharmacist, she was already familiar with the medications commonly prescribed after diagnosis. Around that same time, she joined the SAYMCA Rock Steady Boxing program. “This is a very robust program,” Haines said. “The coaches are exceptional, and they have our best interests in mind. Exercise is the only modality proven to slow the progression of Parkinson’s.” Through the class, she found not only physical support, but also a community where she could thrive despite her diagnosis. Illuminating Purpose After her diagnosis, Haines quickly realized that Parkinson’s care often felt two dimensional. Wanting to learn more, she began asking doctors for educational materials and support resources. “I asked my doctor, ‘Do you have any literature? Any websites, anything that I can use as a resource on my own?’” she said. “No, nothing.” Unsatisfied with that answer, Haines began building her own network of resources and support systems — resources she now shares freely with other patients and families. “I am a Parkinson’s navigator,” she said. “I help folks navigate through a new diagnosis and empower them to fight this progressive disease.” Her mission extends beyond education. “I give them hope,” she said. Linking Her Passions Haines sees her art as a form of outreach. Behind every painting, postcard and greeting card is a larger purpose: raising awareness and encouraging others living with the chronic condition. She hopes her work reminds people of what remains possible after diagnosis. “If you have Parkinson’s, there are things you can do,” she said. “Celebrate what you can do.” Another unexpected tool in her fight against Parkinson’s is scripture. “I memorize Bible verses as I walk to keep cognitively sharp,” Haines said. Those walks through nature now inspire both her paintings and her faith, grounding her creatively, spiritually and mentally. The tenets of Christian faith have also become central to her work supporting others with Parkinson’s. “I consider Parkinson’s a gift,” she said. “It has increased my ministry and influence more than I could ever imagine.”
Artist Uses Creativity, Faith to Combat Parkinson's By Eleanor Rixey
Raffle tickets can be purchased at the front desk now through July 31. Cash or checks made out to SAYMCA accepted.
SPECIAL FEATURE: Jill Haines
Corner
1 for $3 3 for $5 10 for $20
Brian Lee, pictured with Jill Haines, is a volunteer corner coach with Rock Steady Boxing. Lee brings his mother-in-law to the program, and he offered to frame Haines' original paintings. Both coaches and participants perpetually find new ways to connect with and support each other.
CONNECT WITH US!
CPR and First Aid Training Does your job require you to be CPR/FA certified? Do you need to keep your certification current? Interested in learning how to save a life? We offer a four-hour class that will give you the tools you need. June 13 | 8AM - 1PM $85 Members/ $100 Non-members
We are so excited about our new website: SAYMCA.ORG It integrates with the software we use to manage memberships and program registrations. Members and program participants can: Join online Access their account through the website Register for programs online with ease Your experience matters to us! Email Eleanor Rixey at eleanor@saymca.org with any questions or concerns.
PICKLEBALL See Basketball Court Schedule Free for members. $10 Drop in rate for non-members.
Update to win! Current and new members who login and verify their emails with us will be entered to win a drawing for a $20 gift card.
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ADULT PROGRAMS
EQUIPMENT ORIENTATION Free for ages 15+ Sign up at the front desk today!
BIBLE STUDY 11 AM Mondays Multipurpose Room
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MAHJONG 10:30 AM Fridays Multipurpose Room
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IMPROVED COMMUNICATIONS!
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Text SAYMCA to 545-39
Barre with Melissa
LAND and WATER GROUP FITNESS
Arms & Core Bums &Tums (BB Court) Barre Fit 4 Life (BB Court) Lift & Pump Muscle Max Senior Fitness Step Strength Tabata Zumba
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Adaptive Yoga Tai Chi Chu'an Chair Yoga Vinyasa Yoga Gentle Flow Yoga Pilates Men's Yoga PACE Wall Yoga (Racquetball Court)
NOW HIRING!!
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GROUP FITNESS CLASSES IN THE CARDIO/STRENGTH STUDIO
GROUP FITNESS CLASSES IN THE MIND-BODY STUDIO
CERTIFIED AQUATIC G.F. INSTRUCTORS!!
Cycling classes available in the Cycling Studio Mondays and Wednesdays at 6 PM
Group Fitness
Print outs available at the front desk with class descriptions on the back. Challenge yourself to try to attend 3 classes a week!
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Group fitness classes are included with your membership! Non-members can purchase a pass of 10 classes for $90.
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
AQUAFIT 9-9:55 AM Peggy
AQUA YOGA 9 - 9:55 AM Karen
AQUAFIT 10-10:55 AM Peggy
SPLASHBURNER 10 - 10:55 AM Karen
AQUA YOGA 11 - 11:55 AM Karen
GENTLE AQUAFIT 11:15AM - 12PM Joyce
SPLASHBURNER 6:05 - 7 PM Karen
FRIDAY
SPLAHBURNER 9-9:55 AM Karen
AQUAFIT 10-10:55 AM Karen
SPLASHBURNER 6:05 - 7 PM Jenn Joyce (26)
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If you’ve spent even a little time at the STAUNTON-AUGUSTA YMCA pool, chances are you’ve met the unofficial "pool dog," a100-pound Rottweiler named Xena. Xena dutifully watches over the aquatics area, occasionally patrolling around the pool keeping everyone in line. As the daughter of Aquatics Director Beth Valentine, Xena's owner, Riley Valentine, has been coming to the Y since she was an infant. It seemed a natural fit to have her become a part of the Y staff in 2023, first as a lifeguard and swim instructor and transitioning in August 2026 to Aquatics Assistant. Her job responsibilities are numerous, but the primary one is scheduling, hiring, and overseeing all lifeguards. That includes stepping in at a moment’s notice to substitute for a lifeguard who is unable to work their shift. Valentine also troubleshoots any problems at the pool, such as regulating the pool temperature and jump-starting the temperamental hot tub. In fact, Riley considers tangling with the hot tub to be the worst part of her job. Her favorite part about her position is the sense of community that surrounds the Y: “So many people know who I am and I get to hold conversations with them on a regular basis.” Keeping a watchful eye on the busy atmosphere in the pool area is stressful work, but Valentine mirrors her mom's strong “can do” spirit and remains upbeat during challenging situations. Xena plays a large role in Valentine's resilience. Adopted when she was a mere right weeks old, Xena has been Valentine's constant companion for almost two years. Their bond is built on mutual love and trust of each other. “She’s my soul buddy,” Valentine smiles. Valentine provided Xena with foundational obedience training, and is now pursuing getting her certified as a service dog. She demonstrated by giving Xena some commands which Xena performed effortlessly, her body erect, her head up and all attention. Because of her “service dog in training status,” Xena is allowed to go anywhere Riley goes. “I wish people could see how great she is,” Riley said. “I’m never worried about anyone messing with me; no one bothers me with her around.” One look at Xena's discerning face and muscular build, and you believe her. Xena is cuddly and playful with people she gets to know, but she can be intimidating when needed. However, her soft side is most often on display at the Y, which draws children to her and means she gets plenty of belly rubs and hugs. When the duo is away from work, they enjoy a lot of walks and Xena loves to run alongside Valentine as she rides her longboard. “Don’t let her serious work behavior fool you. She is the craziest dog with the wildest zoomies!” she said. It's hard to imagine one without the other. After Xena's recent surgery, Valentine carried all 100 pounds of pup up the stairs to their apartment. “I wasn’t sure I could do it but I knew I had to try, and I managed it,” she said. “I know I will always have someone that loves me for me,” she added. Valentine enjoys her work and plans to stay at the Y for a long time, not ruling out the idea of following in her mom's footsteps to become Aquatics Director. “I don’t really think about the future or the past,” she said, “I live in the present and just live the best life I can.” Having Xena by her side definitely makes that a little easier.
Canine Companion Brings Joy to Aquatics Assistant, Pool Visitors Alike By Karen Landers
STAFF FEATURE: Riley Valentine and Xena
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MISSION STORY: Todd Eisgruber
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Congratulations to Linda Hamrick for winning the May MMHC swag drawing! Each month we draw a new winner!
Get Moving, Stay Motivated
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT: GLP-1 Medications
Congratulations to Linda Hamrick! Linda is the winner of the May MMHC. She has been consistent - completing all challenges thus far for the year! Way to go Linda! Add quote:
GLP-1 medications are everywhere. From our social media feeds and celebrity headlines to conversations between friends and commercials during your favorite TV show, medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have quickly become a hot topic in health and nutrition. With that attention, has come a lot of confusion and misinformation. That’s exactly why I chose this topic for this month’s article. As interest in GLP-1s continues to grow, so does the amount of conflicting information surrounding them. A more balanced understanding of how these medications work and what still matters alongside them is important. GLP-1 medications are a class of drugs originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes. Versions of these medications have actually been around for years, but we’re hearing so much more about them now because they’ve gained widespread attention for their role in weight loss. These medications work by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which naturally occurs in the body and helps regulate blood sugar, digestion, appetite, and feelings of fullness. In simple terms, they slow digestion and help people feel fuller for longer, while also reducing “food noise,” or cravings, that many people experience. For those reasons, these medications can be an incredibly helpful tool for some individuals. But there is word in that sentence that shouldn't be overlooked: tool. One of the biggest misconceptions about GLP-1s is the idea that they somehow “fix” health on their own. While these medications can support weight loss, they don’t automatically build healthy habits, improve nutrition quality, increase strength or fitness, or undo years of unhealthy eating patterns. They also don’t teach long-term sustainability. This is important because rapid weight loss doesn’t just result in body fat loss. It can also contribute to muscle loss and may negatively affect bone density, particularly in women. That’s one reason why nutrition and exercise remain such important pieces of the conversation around GLP-1s, and, more specifically, why protein intake and strength training should be major priorities for anyone taking these medications. Protein is so important because many people taking a GLP-1 unintentionally under-eat, particularly when it comes to protein-rich foods. But protein plays a major role in preserving muscle mass, supporting recovery, maintaining energy levels, and helping the body function optimally overall. Strength training matters for many of the same reasons. During rapid weight loss, the body can lose muscle along with body fat, particularly if muscles aren’t being challenged regularly. Strength training helps preserve muscle mass while also supporting metabolism, mobility, balance, and bone health. The goal isn’t perfection, and it isn’t simply seeing the number on the scale go down as quickly as possible. The goal should be improving overall health while protecting and caring for the body in the process. That’s also why building healthy habits while taking these medications matters so much. If someone loses weight quickly on a GLP-1 without developing sustainable nutrition and exercise habits, there’s a much greater chance the weight will return if the medication is stopped. Long-term health still depends on the daily habits that provide its scaffolding. In the end, I don’t believe that GLP-1s should be viewed as “good” or “bad.” They are simply one tool that may be appropriate for some individuals depending on their health history, goals, and medical needs. Because at the end of the day, no medication replaces the importance of learning how to care for your body in a way that supports your health. The conversation around GLP-1s will likely continue to grow, but the foundation of good health hasn’t really changed: nourish your body well, move consistently, and build habits that support your life long-term.
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June's Mini-Movement Health Challenge Master the sit-up
What They Are, How They Work and What You Need to Know By Jess Wiley, MS
What still matters while taking a GLP-1? ✔ Adequate protein ✔ Strength training ✔ Balanced nutrition ✔ Sleep & stress management ✔ Sustainable habits Why do these matter? Preserve muscle mass ✔ Support bone health ✔ Maintain energy ✔ Build habits that support health beyond medication
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