Growing Stronger With Your Community

BAY WINDOWS SPRING 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS Growing Stronger with Our Community

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PLANTING ROOTS

by Anthony Basile

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A RAMP TOWARDS INCLUSION

by Bill Baker with input from Jean Weller

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SLIM POINT IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

by Anthony DeFranco

A PLACE TO GROW

4 by Branden Guerin 5

OUR ANSWER TO YOUR WINTER BLUES

by Nick Lemma

THROUGH FOOD 6 COMMUNITY

by Jon Van Zutphen

PARTNERSHIP IN ACTION

12 by Ken Parlin

13 SILVER BAY COMMUNITY IMPACT

A PARTNER IN GROWTH FOR BAYVIEW LODGE RENOVATION 7 THE

By Stephanie Bandzak 14 TICONDEROGA’S FAMILIES FOR BETTER BALANCE 8 MOVING Testimonials

OUR MISSION:

by James O’Bryan

15 MILESTONES

To cultivate relationships, strengthen communities and nurture spirit, mind and body for all.

OUR IMPACT:

Because of Silver Bay YMCA, connections between people and family are stronger.

People are more connected, respectful and caring. They have the confidence to develop to their full potential and to positively impact the communities in which they work and live. As a result, communities are more dynamic, comprehensive and varied. As stewards of Lake George, we inspire people to be stewards of the environment while they are visiting our magnificent campus and in their home communities.

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PLANTING ROOTS

Growing Stronger with Our Community

Buying a home represents belief - belief in your employer, belief in your community, and belief in the path you’re on. Silver Bay has given me the confidence to invest not only in my career but in my neighborhood. Working with the local teens at our after-school program is by far one of the most rewarding parts of the job. When you feel what you are doing every day has purpose, it carries over into every other part of your life.

You shop locally. You meet your neighbors. You become involved.

You care more deeply.

Anthony Basile teaching a cooking lesson at the Teen Center.

For me, a job is more than just a paycheck - it’s about finding a place where your work matters, and your life can grow alongside it.

When I first arrived at Silver Bay, I was looking for an opportunity.

An opportunity to bring my passion for food and experience in the industry to an amazing property with unlimited potential.

What I found was something much greater: a community strong enough to build a future around.

just between colleagues, but with the surrounding community as well. Over time, those daily interactions with coworkers, guests, and local residents turned into something meaningful.

Today, I’m proud to say I’m not just someone who works here I’m someone who belongs here.

My job has become part of my story, intertwined with the home I’ve built and the life I’m creating in this community. Planting roots means committing to growth personal growth, professional growth, and community growth.

Thanks to the support from our guests, the local community, and my peers that I’ve found here, I’ve been able to do all three.

Three years ago, I was able to take one of the biggest steps of my life: purchasing my first home.

A one-acre plot of land that I have now developed into the most wonderful homestead. That Anthony Basile milestone wasn’t just about real Silver Bay YMCA Food and From day one, this workplace estate - it was about commitment. Beverage Director offered more than employment. It It was about deciding that this provided stability, purpose, and community was where I wanted a sense of belonging. The culture to build my future. It was about here values hard work, teamwork, planting roots, figuratively and and genuine relationships - not literally.

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A PLACE TO GROW Growing Stronger with Our Community

Branden Guerin working in the dining hall.

Silver Bay’s guests and members In October of 2022, Silver Bay while working and interacting YMCA was awarded “Supported Employer of the Year” by Mountain with his fellow coworkers.

Lake Services. This award is a He strives to bring a positive true testament to the beneficial environment to Silver Bay while at relationship between Mountain work. “I bring positivity to help make Lake Services and Silver Bay. Silver Bay succeed,” Guerin stated.

“It’s truly an honor to have an Guerin’s favorite part about employee as positive as Branden Guerin, is a valued member of working at Silver Bay is the people. be part of our team. He’s a hard Silver Bay’s food service team and “The summer there is beautiful worker who is always willing to first started at Silver Bay in 2022 and there are nice people in help. It’s been a pleasure to see as a part-time employee. He the summer. I love making new him grow as an employee, and proceeded to join the year-round friends and seeing all the smiles we’re very thankful to have him on staff,” Silver Bay YMCA Interim staff in 2024. on people’s faces.”

CEO Lucas Callahan stated.

When asked how working for Silver Guerin joined Silver Bay as part Bay made him feel, Guerin replied, of a partnership between Silver Branden Guerin “happy and greatly accomplished.” Bay YMCA and Mountain Lake Guerin enjoys getting to meet Services, a chapter of The ARC Silver Bay YMCA Food Service Utility New York.

Silver Bay YMCA is a place where many individuals come to grow. Whether that’s spiritually, personally, or professionally is up to each individual and the journey they are on. For Branden Guerin, who started working at Silver Bay in 2022, he’s grown professionally and personally during his time on staff.

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OUR ANSWER TO YOUR WINTER BLUES Growing Stronger with Our Community

In December, January, February and March we have played a number of pickleball matches with our local picklers in what we refer to as the ‘North Pole’ given that the main gym is definitely not heated. But with wearing plenty of layers of ski wear it is doable. Our big thrill has been to challenge our adult kids and their spouses to pickleball there over holiday breaks. Thrilling because it is something we are competitive with the next generation!

FISHER GYMNASIUM Summer up here at Silver Bay YMCA is totally heaven with swimming, boating, tennis on the red clay courts, and pickleball on the four new pickleball courts.

Also, we enjoy watching the kids play soccer, beach volleyball, softball, etc. And spring and fall still avail you with boating and racket sports with friends who have not yet gone south. But when it comes winter…. you must be a hardy soul to live up here in the Adirondacks.

My wife, Kathleen, and I are now retired and spend most of the year living next-door to Silver Bay, in Arcady Bay. We are very thankful for Silver Bay’s generosity to

The big news is that Silver Bay has received a $1 million grant to insulate, heat and air condition the entire 109-year-old building open up Fisher Gymnasium to the in the near future. This will not locals free of charge, a wonderful only increase the number of those gesture that we don’t take for using the gym year-round but will granted. It is always refreshing make them more comfortable. to reconnect with friends and other health-conscious locals So, when the winter blues hit, who decide to stay and enjoy the please head over to the Fisher winter months in the area.

Gym…. we will be there either working out or chasing the On cold winter days we go over pickleball around the gym. We and use the exercise room with look forward to seeing you. the machines and free weights.

Whether it be a cardio workout or body building, the gym offers a Nick Lemma complete exercise program. And Community Member there is also the rock climbing wall if we want to add some variety and/or another challenge. That’s on our bucket list!

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COMMUNITY THROUGH FOOD Growing Stronger with Our Community

try something new. This variety mirrors the people who come to Silver Bay - each bringing their own traditions, perspectives, and tastes.

Ultimately, food at Silver Bay YMCA is not just about nourishment it’s about connection. It creates space for people to slow down, engage with one another, and build relationships that often extend far beyond their stay. In sharing meals, guests also share pieces of their lives, strengthening the sense of community that defines Silver Bay. Being able to truly put a smile on our guests’ faces when they eat a meal at Silver Bay, or try new foods is what motivates me, and many individuals in food service, Jon Van Zutphen cooking during Dinner from Around the World. to continue striving to do their Silver Bay YMCA has long been Each meal creates an opportunity best. The honor of being able to a place where people gather not for conversation. A simple serve the Silver Bay community just for recreation and retreat, breakfast can turn into a and see the effect each meal we but for connection. At the heart meaningful discussion about life put out has on them, motivates me of that connection lies something experiences, while dinner often to keep thinking of new meals and simple yet powerful: food. becomes a time of reflection, offerings we can bring to the table. laughter, and storytelling. In a Meals at Silver Bay are more world where people are often The tables at Silver Bay are more than just a daily routine - they rushed and disconnected, these than a place to eat; they’re a are a shared experience that moments of intentional gathering place where community is built, one meal at a time. brings people together across feel especially meaningful. generations, backgrounds, and stories. Whether it’s families Food also reflects the diversity of Jon Van Zutphen returning year after year, first- the Silver Bay community. From time visitors, or staff members classic comfort meals to dishes Silver Bay YMCA from around the world, the dining inspired by different cultures, the Sous-Chef hall becomes a central hub of menu offers something familiar community life. while also inviting guests to

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THE BAYVIEW LODGE RENOVATION Growing Stronger with Our Community

BAYVIEW EXTERIOR RENOVATION DRAWING

As Silver Bay YMCA continues to grow with our community, thoughtful investment in campus facilities is essential to ensure this special place remains vibrant and welcoming for generations to come. One of the first steps in this effort is the planned renovation of Bayview Lodge, a guest accommodation building located along Silver Bay’s scenic lakefront.

Constructed in the 1970s, Bayview has served an important role on campus, but its design and condition no longer reflect the character of Silver Bay’s historic architecture or the expectations of today’s guests. As part of a comprehensive property evaluation conducted by facility planning consultants Gro, Bayview was identified as the most strategic starting point for a series

Equally important, Bayview establishes the standard for future improvements across campus.

Planned next steps include renovations to other cherished facilities such as Hepbron Hall and The Inn - ensuring these historic spaces can continue serving the The planned renovation will community for decades to come. transform Bayview both functionally and aesthetically. Through thoughtful planning Improvements will include new and investment, Silver Bay is universally accessible lodging strengthening its campus for the options, additional conferencing future while honoring the legacy and meeting space, air that makes this place so special. conditioning , and inviting outdoor gathering areas. Modernizing this Stephanie underutilized building will enhance the guest experience, expand the Bandzak flexibility of accommodations, Senior Architect at Gro and help place Silver Bay on a stronger financial footing. of campus-wide improvements.

While the building occupies one of the most beautiful locations on campus, its exterior appearance, interior finishes, and amenities currently make it one of the least appealing lodging options.

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MOVING FOR BETTER BALANCE Tai Chi Class Testimonials

“The Tai Chi class offered by Silver Bay as part of its community outreach is a fantastic opportunity.

We are all well into the senior citizen range (except for one) and have a range of abilities, but we are all concerned about improving balance and flexibility. Sam is an amazing instructor - he explains things very clearly and has unending patience working us through the moves. When we started the course, he showed us the routine we would be learning, and I thought ‘He doesn’t know what a bunch of mis-fits he has’ - but he has done it!! We are all actually moving together and mastering the routine. Sam is a born teacher and it is wonderful that Silver Bay is providing this opportunity.”

Linda Cunningham

“The Silver Bay YMCA has initiated a Tai Chi class [Moving for Better Balance]! The class is conducted in a positive and comfortable environment, which is key to encouraging clear understanding and enjoyment. The instructor uses purposeful, sequential instruction that builds skills step by step, making it easy for participants to follow along.

Rather than focusing on perfect precision, praise is given generously to boost confidence and motivation!

There is a very social element to this Tai Chi class, making it much more than just a workout. Participants not only learn the gentle, flowing movements of Tai Chi, but also enjoy connecting with others in this friendly and very encouraging environment while strengthening the body and improving balance!

Ultimately, the combination of clear explanations, encouraging feedback, and social interaction creates a welcoming space where students feel inspired and comfortable to grow at their own pace.

Before the first class, prospective students may have felt a mix of curiosity and uncertainty; by the conclusion of that inaugural session, those initial questions gave way to clarity and excitement!”

Jim Cunningham Moving For Better Balance was developed by Fuzhong Li, PhD at the Oregon Research Institute with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

[YMCA] and the National Council of Young Men’s Christian Association of the United States of America (“YMCA of the USA”) are committed to supporting healthy lifestyles through the Moving For Better Balance program but do not guarantee any specific outcomes for program participants.

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A RAMP TOWARD INCLUSION Growing Stronger with Our Community

The lower Boathouse dock where the ADA Dock will come out.

One of the many charming qualities about Silver Bay YMCA is that it’s cherished by many. Silver Bay has, and always will be, a crossroads where generations coalesce for vacations, conferences, spiritual guidance, and much more.

One area that still has room for improvement regarding accessibility is the Boathouse. This concern was originally brought to my attention by my friend Jean Weller, whose son – Paul – must use a power wheelchair to get around.

Silver Bay YMCA members and guests encompass a wide range of physical abilities. Their needs should be met in their accommodations and at all other locations on campus.

Silver Bay has helped address accessibility concerns by adding ramps to buildings, automatic door openers, and by installing grab bars in the showers.

Paul’s wheelchair is unable to safely navigate the rocky incline from the walking path along the shore of the lake to the Boathouse dock – where the Silver Spirit is moored, leaving Paul unable to participate in Silver Spirit tours.

This is when I first recognized the need for a safe, durable ramp at the Boathouse. Not only for individuals with disabilities, but so that any

differently abled individual can easily access the fun to be had on the lower level of the Boathouse.

With Paul in mind, I began donating, along with other Silver Bayer’s, towards the construction of a ramp connecting the shore path to the dock and Silver Spirit.

Silver Bay’s willingness to grow and develop the accessibility of its campus and amenities, gives me hope that other Silver Bayer’s won’t have to miss out due to accessibility challenges in the future.

Bill Baker

with input from Jean Weller Bay Windows | Spring 2026

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SLIM POINT IMPROVEMENTS Preserving Legacy and Lake Stewardship

For generations, Slim Point has been one of the most recognizable and beloved areas of the Silver Bay YMCA campus. Overlooking Lake George and easily identifiable from the water, the Slim Point beach, lawn, and the Brooks Pavilion have served as gathering spaces for recreation, reflection, education, and community connection. As both a landmark and a functional outdoor venue, this area plays a vital role in the Silver Bay experience.

The Slim Point Area Outdoor Improvements Plan was developed to serve as a thoughtful, longterm guide for enhancing Slim Point while preserving its historic character. The intent is not to reinvent Slim Point, but to strengthen it, ensuring that it continues to serve future generations while expanding opportunities for programming,

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accessibility, and environmental Central to this effort is the renovation of the Brooks Pavilion. stewardship.

Improvements will honor the The overarching goal of the plan is structure’s historic character to improve, preserve, and expand while enhancing its appearance the use of Slim Point, including the and increasing programming Updated finishes, beach, lawn area, and the Brooks flexibility.

Pavilion. Through collaborative improved functionality, and subtle discussions with Silver Bay architectural refinements will leadership, a set of clear objectives allow the Pavilion to accommodate was developed. These objectives a wider range of events and shaped a comprehensive site seasonal uses. plan that balances architectural enhancements, improved access, Proposed upgrades to the space and environmental improvements. include the creation of a formalized accessible vehicular drop-off area, One of the primary objectives is regrading portions of the lawn to better integrate Slim Point to reduce slope challenges, and with the broader Silver Bay YMCA installing a new ADA-compliant campus. While Slim Point has walkway. These changes will long functioned as a destination improve access from the parking space for swimming, there is area to the beach and the Pavilion, opportunity to strengthen both making events and daily use more physical and visual connections comfortable for guests of all ages to other campus facilities. and mobility levels.

SLIM POINT IMPROVEMENTS Preserving Legacy and Lake Stewardship

Sunrise looking toward Silver Bay by James DeFranco.

By addressing accessibility proactively, the YMCA reinforces its commitment to inclusion and community engagement and reinforces connectivity between the campus areas.

A key element of the improvement plan focuses on increasing flexibility and expanding the variety of programming options available at Slim Point.

The proposed updates include renovation of the Brooks Pavilion, relocation of the existing volleyball court to create an adaptable lawn space, and the relocation of the fire pit for improved flow and safety.

Addressing drainage challenges with current storm water measures will further enhance the site’s usability by preventing water accumulation and maintaining healthy turf conditions. Strategic planting of native plantings in storm water retention areas around the Pavilion and walkways,

by enhancing accessibility, expanding programming potential, and reinforcing environmental stewardship — all while honoring the history that makes Slim Point so meaningful. This plan emphasizes responsibility Additional improvements include environmental replacing aging benches, removing and lake stewardship with the dead trees and eliminating the surrounding landscape. many invasive species that can be found in the fringes of the wood Collectively, these improvements lines, managing underbrush, and allow Slim Point to serve multifuture stabilizing eroding shoreline generational guests, educational areas. Shoreline stabilization programs, recreational activities, is particularly important for special events, and community preserving the integrity of the gatherings with efficiency and shoreline and protecting the long- comfort. Through careful planning and phased implementation, term health of Lake George.

Silver Bay YMCA can ensure that These environmental upgrades Slim Point remains not only a ensure that enhancements feel recognizable landmark from the authentic to the site’s historic lake, but a vibrant and functional character while strengthening space for generations to come. ecological resilience. will protect Lake George from storm water runoff, enhancing the seasonal beauty of Slim Point while supporting pollinators and reducing long-term maintenance.

Anthony

Slim Point has long been a place of gathering, recreation, and DeFranco reflection. This improvement DeFranco Landscaping Inc. plan builds upon that legacy Bay Windows | Spring 2026

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PARTNERSHIP IN ACTION

Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center and the Northern Lake George Foundation

“By working together, the Early Learning Center and the Northern Lake George Foundation are not only supporting children and families - they’re strengthening the entire community.”

Strong communities grow through partnerships. A collaboration between the Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center and the Northern Lake George Foundation (NLGF) is helping families, children, and the broader community thrive.

children a strong educational expand opportunities for young start while enabling parents to people throughout the region. participate fully in the workforce. Its leaders believe investing in children - from the earliest years When St. Mary’s School closed, it forward - is one of the most created an opportunity for Silver effective ways to build a stronger Bay YMCA to repurpose the space community. Fundraising has been for childcare. That commitment not central to that mission. Through only helped address the region’s the leadership of Foundation board childcare shortage but also ensured members Kathleen Coffman, Ken the building continues to serve the Parlin, and Bobby Porter, NLGF has community. Today, the facility can helped mobilize local donors and host additional programs such as community partners to support the Tai Chi classes offered by Silver Bay Early Learning Center’s programs - demonstrating how thoughtful and long-term sustainability. partnerships expand opportunities for wellness and connection.

Operated by Silver Bay YMCA, the Early Learning Center opened in 2024 to address a critical shortage of childcare in Ticonderoga and nearby communities. Local leaders recognized that the lack of reliable childcare was affecting working families, employers, and Ken Parlin the region’s long-term economic vitality. By providing a nurturing The Northern Lake George Northern Lake George environment for infants, toddlers, Foundation was created to Foundation Board Member and preschoolers, the center gives strengthen youth development and

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COMMUNITY IMPACT Growing Stronger with Our Community

COMMUNITY DINNERS

COMMUNITY WELLNESS

SWIM LESSONS

EMPLOYMENT

PASTORAL RESPITE

LOCAL BOARDS

SCHOLARSHIPS

RESPITE GUESTS

Over 630 participants Spring 2025 to Fall 2026

Over 100 lesson sessions Estimated Full Value $8,371.00

1,069 guests served

213 individuals with Silver Bay memberships

84 year around employees 2025 Increase of 8 over 2024

9 Silver Bay staff volunteers

Provided 18 Children from Hague Silver Camp Scholarships. Silver Bay funded $14,695.00

188 guests served by the cancer, first responders, foster/adoptive, and military respite programs

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140

Children from Ticonderoga attended Children’s Camp

Children enrolled in the Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center

Teens enrolled in the Teen Center from Spring to Fall 2025

A PARTNER IN GROWTH For Ticonderoga’s Families

to help with local organizations and events like the Chamber of Commerce, parades, and other local non-profits.

JAMES O’BRYAN Photo provided by: Shaundra Bartlett Yaw

Silver Bay is always willing to sit down and talk about improvements and how their resources may be able to help. I’ve had several productive conversations with the dedicated staff at Silver Bay to talk about ways their team can use its YMCA resources and staff to further improve how it serves the youth of our community.

They go to our local churches.

They shop in our stores. They eat in our restaurants. We are all neighbors and we support one another.

Bottom Line, Silver Bay is not only a great asset, but also a great friend to the Ticonderoga Region.

One I can’t wait to continue developing and growing our relationship with.

Jim O’Brian

Supervisor Town of Silver Bay is a friend to the Ticonderoga community, and we know them, and they know us. Many of their staff live in the local community.

First and foremost, Silver Bay puts family and children first. In all the youth programming that I see in the Ticonderoga area Silver Bay and its staff make our children a priority. From the Ticonderoga Teen Center, to the newly opened Early Learning Center, to its summer camp at the Silver Bay campus, children are welcomed, cared for, and encouraged.

Silver Bay is also there for the entire community, working to support a stronger region. Its Early Learning Center provides essential childcare for working families. Without an available workforce, our community could not grow economically. Its staff also gets involved and pitches in

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Children at the Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center.

MILESTONES

Growing Stronger with Our Community

Donald “Don” Blanchard McLellan Passed away Aug. 13, 2025 Born Nov. 13, 1928 Emps Fellowship, Emp Alumni, Donor.

Sara Lee Lehman Sanborn

Passed away June 26, 2025 Born on July 5, 1936 EMP Fellowship, EMP Alumni, Donor.

Ann Barber

Passed away January 16, 2026 Born March 11,1936 EMP Fellowship, EMP Alumni, Donor, Council member, White Birch Member.

Robert Allen Jr.

Passed away February 17, 2026 Born July 21, 1941 Former Trustee – 1997 to 2002 and 2005 to 2007, Council member, EMP Fellowship, EMP Alumni, Donor.

Peter R. Doliber

Passed away March 6, 2026 Born April 18, 1955 Former Silver Bay YMCA CEO, EMP Alumni, Major Donor.

Do you have a loved one you would like to be acknowledged in future Bay Windows?

Please email: development@silverbay.org

Emily Winslow Goddard

Passed away December 26,2025 Born February 24, 1945 Council member, Donor, Emp Alumni, Emps Fellowship.

WHAT IS WHITE BIRCH? This symbol depicts a White Birch Member.

Formed in 1976, White Birch is a caring group of individuals who have decided to make a gift to Silver Bay YMCA through a planned or deferred gift, in the form of an estate bequest, a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy, a charitable gift annuity, a charitable trust, or a gift of stock, real estate, or other assets.

To learn more about becoming a White Birch Member please contact: Development at development@silverbay.org.

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SILVER BAY YMCA 87 Silver Bay Road Silver Bay, NY 12874 www.silverbay.org