Dear Editor:

I am totally dismayed, concerned, and mystified at the elimination of the wellness director’s position at the YMCA and the dismissal of its director, Mary Baudo. In my opinion, Mary is the most talented and well informed staff member that Boothbay has ever been so fortunate to have. In the eight years that Mary has been at the YMCA, we have had exceptional programming by a certified, knowledgeable instructor, who has kept abreast of the latest programs in exercise catering to all age groups and abilities. One had only to step into her classes and observe the number of participants to see the success she achieved.

Our family joined the Y because of Mary. When I first came to the Y in Boothbay 10 years ago, they had no certified instructors, so I had to drive my little brother Howard, who was Down syndrome, to Augusta every day for his exercise program. When I heard about the new wellness director at the Boothbay Y and investigated her qualifications, I immediately joined. I was overjoyed when Howard started working with Mary as her program with him was outstanding and he flourished under her direction. She was instrumental in him losing weight and becoming active at the Y. I have also been an active participant in her program.

The elimination of her position is a great loss as she has been extraordinary to all of us who have been a part of her wellness program. The YMCA is a very important nonprofit organization in Boothbay, along with many other organizations. They all depend on donations for their survival. Our family has been a substantial contributor to the YMCA. However, the handling of this situation will force me to reconsider where I see my contributions best invested.

Myrna Snider
East Boothbay