IRS offers tips for year end giving.

IR-2011-118

Full Text:

 

IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Giving

WASHINGTON — Individuals and businesses making contributions to charity should keep in mind several important tax law provisions that have taken effect in recent years. Some of these changes include the following:

Special Charitable Contributions for Certain IRA Owners

This provision, currently scheduled to expire at the end of 2011, offers older owners of individual retirement accounts (IRAs) a different way to give to charity. An IRA owner, age 70½ or over, can directly transfer tax-free up to $100,000 per year to an eligible charity. This option, created in 2006, is available for distributions from IRAs, regardless of whether the owners itemize their deductions. Distributions from employer-sponsored retirement plans, including SIMPLE IRAs and simplified employee pension (SEP) plans, are not eligible.

To qualify, the funds must be contributed directly by the IRA trustee to the eligible charity. Amounts so transferred are not taxable and no deduction is available for the transfer.

Not all charities are eligible. For example, donor-advised funds and supporting organizations are not eligible recipients.

Amounts transferred to a charity from an IRA are counted in determining whether the owner has met the IRA’s required minimum distribution. Where individuals have made nondeductible contributions to their traditional IRAs, a special rule treats transferred amounts as coming first from taxable funds, instead of proportionately from taxable and nontaxable funds, as would be the case with regular distributions. See Publication 590, Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), for more information on qualified charitable distributions.

Rules for Clothing and Household Items

To be deductible, clothing and household items donated to charity generally must be in good used condition or better. A clothing or household item for which a taxpayer claims a deduction of over $500 does not have to meet this standard if the taxpayer includes a qualified appraisal of the item with the return. Household items include furniture, furnishings, electronics, appliances and linens.

Guidelines for Monetary Donations

To deduct any charitable donation of money, regardless of amount, a taxpayer must have a bank record or a written communication from the charity showing the name of the charity and the date and amount of the contribution. Bank records include canceled checks, bank or credit union statements, and credit card statements. Bank or credit union statements should show the name of the charity, the date, and the amount paid. Credit card statements should show the name of the charity, the date, and the transaction posting date.

Donations of money include those made in cash or by check, electronic funds transfer, credit card and payroll deduction. For payroll deductions, the taxpayer should retain a pay stub, a Form W-2 wage statement or other document furnished by the employer showing the total amount withheld for charity, along with the pledge card showing the name of the charity.

These requirements for the deduction of monetary donations do not change the long-standing requirement that a taxpayer obtain an acknowledgment from a charity for each deductible donation (either money or property) of $250 or more. However, one statement containing all of the required information may meet both requirements.

Reminders

To help taxpayers plan their holiday-season and year-end giving, the IRS offers the following additional reminders:

• Contributions are deductible in the year made. Thus, donations charged to a credit card before the end of 2011 count for 2011. This is true even if the credit card bill isn’t paid until 2012. Also, checks count for 2011 as long as they are mailed in 2011.
• Check that the organization is qualified. Only donations to qualified organizations are tax-deductible. IRS Publication 78, searchable and available online, lists most organizations that are qualified to receive deductible contributions. It can be found at IRS.gov under Search for Charities. In addition, churches, synagogues, temples, mosques and government agencies are eligible to receive deductible donations, even if they are not listed in Publication 78.
• For individuals, only taxpayers who itemize their deductions on Form 1040 Schedule A can claim deductions for charitable contributions. This deduction is not available to individuals who choose the standard deduction, including anyone who files a short form (Form 1040A or 1040EZ). A taxpayer will have a tax savings only if the total itemized deductions (mortgage interest, charitable contributions, state and local taxes, etc.) exceed the standard deduction. Use the 2011 Form 1040 Schedule A to determine whether itemizing is better than claiming the standard deduction.
• For all donations of property, including clothing and household items, get from the charity, if possible, a receipt that includes the name of the charity, date of the contribution, and a reasonably-detailed description of the donated property. If a donation is left at a charity’s unattended drop site, keep a written record of the donation that includes this information, as well as the fair market value of the property at the time of the donation and the method used to determine that value. Additional rules apply for a contribution of $250 or more.
• The deduction for a motor vehicle, boat or airplane donated to charity is usually limited to the gross proceeds from its sale. This rule applies if the claimed value is more than $500. Form 1098-C, or a similar statement, must be provided to the donor by the organization and attached to the donor’s tax return.
• If the amount of a taxpayer’s deduction for all noncash contributions is over $500, a properly-completed Form 8283 must be submitted with the tax return.
• And, as always it’s important to keep good records and receipts.

IRS.gov has Additional information on charitable giving including:

• Charities & Non-Profits
• Publication 526, Charitable Contributions.

On-line mini-course, Can I Deduct My Charitable Contributions?


From the IRS via the Planned Giving Design Center. thanks! 


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Provided solely for informational and educational purposes. Consult the IRS or your tax and legal professionals for more detailed information and how it information will effect your own situation. Always consider future circumstances before making a major gift to the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA.

Your donation is needed!

Y Winter Women's Basketball Schedule

Here is where you will find the 2011/2012 Winter Women's Basketball League Schedule for the Grand Traversre Bay YMCA. Click here

Golden Day for Y

The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, in another day of outstanding giving, received four gifts and pledges of $765,000 in one 24 hour period.

These gifts and pledges are being spurred on by a Challenge Pledge of $2 million to reach $4 million by December 31, 2011. The Campaign had reached the half way point ($6 million) when the Challenge was given.

“We are closing in on our goal,” according to Henry Peet, New Y Capital Campaign Chairperson. “We now have to receive a little over $1.5 million in gifts and pledges by the end of the year. This means nearly $4.5 million has been given since the Challenge was issued. People have stepped up to help us build the New Y.” Over 500 donations and pledges have been given to the Campaign thus far.

Gifts and multi-year pledges are being sought now of any size to fulfill this Challenge Pledge by the end of the year.

You can donate online at www.4good4ever.org or by calling our partner the Community Foundation at 935-4066. More information about the Campaign can be founded at www.gtbayymca.org or 933-9622.

Concept view of New Y Aquatic Center from second level viewing area.

Your help is needed NOW!

YMCA ECEC receives book donation

An anonymous employee group donated a large number of children's books this week to the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC), We are truly thankful for their generosity.

Paul Schmuckal Endorsement of New Y

Paul Schmuckal, Chairman, Schmuckal Oil Company,

Chairman YMCA Corporate Advisory Committee
Chairman, New Y Public Campaign

“The YMCA helps develop children with strong family-based activities. We clearly need an aquatics center, modern fitness and more. There are lots of seniors and plenty of young families who will be part of the new Y. Many people have moved here with expectations of a strong Y and we plan to meet those expectations.”

New Dance! 9th Grade Dance at Y!

Christmas Party at ECEC Family Night

Next Family Fun Night at the Y Early Childhood Education Center, 1100 Woodmere, Ste B will be December 16 from 6 - 8 pm. Play, Pizza, and Christmas Crafts. Call Dagny at 231-421-3568 for more information. This family night is geared to families of pre-schoolers.

The new Y – And Your Year-end Donation!

First published in the Traverse City Record Eagle as a Forum Editorial on Sunday, December 11, 2011.
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The new Y –  And Your Year-end Donation!
By Henry Peet, Chairperson, New YMCA Capital Campaign

Earlier this fall, an anonymous donor - who understands how important the New Y facility is for our region - pledged $2 million toward the campaign if the remaining $4 million needed to complete campaign goal was reached. The 2: 1 challenge requires the goal to be met by the end of 2011.  This donation has inspired and re-ignited the New Y drive – and this is the final month of this very generous challenge.

Since the announcement of this donation, individuals and organizations have been stepping forward with their gifts and pledges. Understanding how vital the New Y is to our community, some have increased their giving above what they had previously pledged. Others have taken advantage of the challenge to make their first commitment. The campaign goal is $12 million to initiate construction for the new Y.  With the $2 million challenge donation, an additional $1.6 million has been pledged as of this printing, leaving approximately $2.4 million still needed.  December 2011 is by far the most important month of the New Y campaign!

The needs for the new Y are well noted.

-          Aquatics: a recent survey indicated 40% of 7^th graders couldn’t swim 25 yards. The New Y aquatics facility will provide them a place to learn.

-          There is no family oriented, full service recreational facility in the 5 county region. The New Y is the facility.

-          Youth obesity, leading to type II diabetes, is rising. The New Y will give youngsters a facility and instruction to achieve better fitness.

-          Indoor Tennis: At the Y, tennis provides a healthy activity that serves all age groups from young to experienced.

-          Teens need a safe, fun place to congregate and grow. The New Y is that place. There is no other full service facility where everyone is welcome regardless of their ability to pay. The New Y will continue the “no one denied” financial assistance program.

For those that have made 2011 donations - regardless of charity – please consider a PLEDGE for 2012 in response to the Y challenge.  Future pledges will be accepted and counted!  Please consider your gift or pledge now so we can complete the challenge in 2011 and begin construction of the new Y in 2012. 

Now is the time for people of good will and means to step up to the plate. Your pledge will help to make the New Y a reality.

Contact the Y at 231-933-9622 for more information or visit the Community Foundation at www.4good4ever.org  to make your pledge. Now is the time to make a commitment. Your year-end donation is needed at the Y! Thank you for your support.

Henry Peet is the volunteer chairperson of the New YMCA Capital Campaign and lives in Traverse City.

Christmas Camp 2011

Elks Lodge Gift to New Y!

Gary Horn (left), Past Exalted Ruler and Chairman of the Elks National Foundation Committee presents a gift to Tom Van Deinse (center), CEO, Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, from the local Elks Lodge in Traverse City for the New YMCA Campaign.  Hugh Hall (right), is the current Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge. Both organizations share a passion of helping children to grow.   (Photo by John Russell)

If you would like to make a donation toward our $2 million Challenge Pledge, call our partner the Community Foundation at 231-935-4066 or on-line at www.4good4ever.org . You can receive more information about the New Y Campaign and any of the 65 programs at the Y by clicking  www.gtbayymca.org . 

In support of the New YMCA in Traverse City

There is no greater visible sign of a region's commitment to family values than the existence of a local YMCA.

- Rick & Kate Dahlstrom, Traverse City
in support of building a new YMCA
December 2011

Gymnastics win in Grand Rapids

Davis, Jackson Win “On the Grand”

(Pictures added to bottom of article.)


The YMCA Level 6, 7, and 8 gymnastics teams competed at the Grand Rapids Gymnastics “On the Grand” Meet at DeVos Place this past weekend and came away with nine first place gold medals, including all-around gold medals for Patricia Davis and Kayla Jackson. 

“It was a good meet for us to see where our strengths and our weaknesses are,” said coach Jennifer Van Deinse, “especially since so many of the girls are competing at a higher level this year.”

Patricia Davis won her level 7 all-around championship by placing 1st on beam, and 2^nd on bars, vault, and floor, en route to a meet-high score of 37.3.  Twin sister Amy Davis placed 2^nd on beam, 3^rd on bars, and 4^th on floor and vault to place 2^nd all-around with a score of 36.425.  With a 4^th place all-around finish by Francie Flores, including a gold medal 9.4 floor routine, and a 7^th place all-around finish by Rachel Ovalle, the YMCA girls secured 2^nd place in the level 7 team scoring.

“Patricia and Amy have beautiful lines,” commented coach Betsy Van Deinse.  “It’s no surprise they took 1^st and 2^nd all-around.  They’re both such strong competitors.”

Kayla Jackson won the “Xcel platinum” division, with an all-around score of 36.275 by placing 1^st on vault, beam, and floor, while landing in 8^th place on bars.  “Kayla had a great meet,” said coach Jennifer Van Deinse, adding, “As she continues to improve her bars, she’s going to be tough to beat this year.” Olivia Flores also competed for the Y Xcel team, turning in a 6^th place all-around performance.

Jade Turner led the Y’s level 6 team with a 2^nd place all-around score of 35.350, including a 9.25 beam routine.  The level 6 team also captured 3^rd, 5^th, and 10^th place individual all-around medals with strong performances by Darby Drake (1^st place vault), Kayla Brady, and Annemarie Jenkins.

Competing in their first year at level 8, Annie Gerstner and Kendra Benak won 2^nd and 4^th place all-around honors.  Benak took 2^nd on floor and 3^rd on beam, while Gerstner’s 1^st place gold medal vault qualified her for the individual event championships held Sunday, where she placed 2^nd among all individual champion competitors.  “Annie continues to dominate the state on vault,” commented coach Gina Van Deinse, “despite the fact that this is her first year at level 8.  We’re so proud of her, and all the girls.”

With 26 level 3 – 5 gymnasts, the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA also brought one of the state’s largest “fun meet” teams to Grand Rapids.  Competing at the event were Amanda Sweeney, Olyvia Galton, Hadley Hilner, Erin Evans, Dahlia Evans, Jordyn Fortier, Julia Tabaczka, Seryna Javin, Malorie Hood, Sophia Thompson, Ciarra Reicha, Maddie Bies, Aiden Warren, Kora Voss, Norah Galton, Emily Laferriere, Tabitha Fouch, Meredith Gallagher, Ava Wendel, Ella Wendel, Haley McClellen, Elzaya Williams, Avery Wisniewski, Allie Corpus, Xue Ferguson, and Samantha Berta.

The next meet for the YMCA gymnasts is the Twistars Invitational to be held January 6 – 8 in Lansing.

For more information about Y Gymnastics contact Betsy Van Deinse at 929-2869 or visit www.gtbayymca.org.


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Level 6's: Annemarie Jenkins, Kayla Brady, Darby Drake and Jade Turner

Level 7's: Francie Flores, Rachel Ovalle, Patricia Davis and Amy Davis

Level 8's: Annie Gerstner and Kendra Benak

  

Pick a gift! Help someone!

The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA hosts its annual gift tree in the lobby of the main facility and at the Y Early Childhood Education Center. This provides an opportunity for members and friends to pick and purchase a gift for a family in need. Each ornament is a tag describing the kind and type of gift you can give.

Please have your wrapped and tagged gifts back at the tree no later that Monday, December 5 at NOON.

Thanks to Women's Resource Center of Traverse City in facilitating this giving opportunity.

Merry Christmas to us all!

Sign up for Y gymnastics

The Y’s gymnastics program coaching philosophy is based on teaching values.  “We teach every kid to be the best they can be,” says Gym Director Betsy Van Deinse.  “From recreational level beginners to elite level competitors, we teach the highest level gymnastics the kids are capable of learning, and let them all progress at their own pace.”  She adds, “Through rigorous training, fun, and competition, we give all our gymnasts the skills they need to succeed.”

That gymnastics coaching philosophy has shown the same kind of success as for the tennis program.  “Last year we won 14 individual state champions,” beams co-coach Gina Van Deinse, “and with over 40 girls now enrolled on our competition team, we’ve got a good chance to continue that success again this season.”

Y Gymnastics first and foremost is about teaching kids to grow up physically, mentally, and spiritually strong and confident, but the YMCA’s coaching philosophy to give kids at an early age all of the technical skills they need to succeed, to embrace competition, and to have fun, has been a proven formula for success.

Sign up now for the next sessions of Y gymnastics. Click here to download a registration form.  Call the Y Gymnastics Center at 231-929-2869.

Family Fun Night at Y Main Facility

This event will be held at the Main YMCA, 3000 Racquet Club Drive, Traverse City. Call Erica at 231-933-YMCA for more information.

Basketball Skills in TC

BASKETBALL SKILLS PROGRAM

GRADES K – 2, 3-5

Well rounded skills program where children learn this popular sport in the context of the YMCA’s four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Kids should bring a water bottle. Program is held at YMCA Main Facility (just south of S Airport Road). Class meets Wednesday for 6 weeks. This is the only skills program provided in Traverse City.

Registration Deadline: Dec 26

Season: Wednesday, Jan 11 for approximately 6 weeks

Time: Grades K-2 meets 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

 Grades 3-5 meets 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Y Member Fee:  $25

Non-member fee:  $60

Click here to download registration form. Please bring form and fee to the Front Desk, Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, 3000 Racquet Club Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684. More information at 231-933-9622 or www.gtbayymca.org .

Pee Wee Sports - Soccer

Y PEE WEE SPORTS/SOCCER

AGES 3 – 5 YEARS

Pee Wee Sports/Soccer provides a variety of sports - soccer, basketball, and many more. This program is for pre-school kids ages 3 - 5 years. This class will meet weekly for 6 weeks. Parent encouraged being involved and playing as family.

Location:  YMCA Main Facility, 3000 Racquet Club Dr, TC

          (just south of S Airport Road)

Dates/Sessions:  Wed, Jan 11 for approximately 6 weeks

Times:  4:30 - 5:30 pm

Registration Deadline:  Dec 26

Y Member Fee:  $25

Non-member fee:  $60

Click here to download registration form. Please bring form and fee to the Front Desk, Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, 3000 Racquet Club Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684. More information at 231-933-9622 or www.gtbayymca.org .

Girls Basketball League

GIRLS BASKETBALL LEAGUE

GRADES 2, 3, 4, 5

A basketball league where teams are formed generally by school. Games are officiated. All players get a t-shirt. 11 players per team maximum.

Registration Deadline: Dec 30

Season: Saturdays, Jan 14 approximately 6 weeks

Fee: $35 Y Members $70 Non-members

Location: Y Main Facility, 3000 Racquet Club Drive, Traverse City, MI

(just south of S Airport Road)

Clickhere to download registration form. Please bring form and fee to the Front Desk, Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, 3000 Racquet Club Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684. More information at 231-933-9622 or www.gtbayymca.org .

Thanks Traverse City State Bank!

Thanks to Traverse City State Bank for the generosity and support of the New YMCA! Here is a copy of an article to appear in their next customer newsletter. Make your donation to the New Y at www.4good4ever.org or calling 231.935.4066.

Why a New YMCA?

First published in the Grand Traverse Insider.

Concept of new entrance to the New YMCA!

Why a New YMCA?
Dave Eitland, New YMCA Campaign Director

It has been said that anything that happens that changes a culture happens when a small group of people band together to make it happen. Why? Because that is the way it has always been done. The building of the New YMCA to meet critical needs in health, fitness, and aquatics will be built the same way… with a dedicated people making it happen. Here are some thoughts of the over 400 individuals, companies, and foundations who have contributed so far to make the New Y a reality.

“The YMCA is a community asset that has served us well for decades. It is critical that the fund drive for the new facility be completed now.”

Jim and Sue Dutmers

“As a former member of my high school swim team, and an avid water sports person, I have a strong passion for the mission of the YMCA! I learned to swim in a YMCA pool downstate Michigan, and believe that swimming provides positive character skills beyond the health benefits including discipline, self confidence, safety awareness and teamwork. The greater Grand Traverse area needs and will greatly benefit from the addition of a full service YMCA including the new Y pool! The time is right to complete this project – Please join me in supporting the Capital Campaign for the New Y!”

Marc Judge, YMCA Board of Directors Chair

“The new YMCA facility will fill a tremendous need in our community. People of all ages will benefit from the expansion of both the Y’s facilities and programs. We know the Rotary Charities gifts will have a significant impact on the quality of life in our region.”

Marsha Smith, Rotary Charities of Traverse City

“As a kid, I spent countless hours at “the Y” participating in everything from basketball and swim teams to camps and the “Hi-Y” organization.  I know first hand how valuable the Y can be in providing young people a positive environment in which they can grow and thrive.

“Maureen and I believe that the new YMCA is a critically important component of what makes the Grand Traverse area a great place to raise a family.”

Ralph Cerny

“When I was a child growing up in Saginaw, the Y had a wonderful community pool that enabled learning to swim and a competitive swim league.  This was among the only public facilities for teaching swimming and water activities.  In Traverse City we have lots of places to swim, but lots of children don’t know how.  The Grand Traverse Y has for years been the primary supplier of organized recreational activities and teaching of recreational skills (think soccer and kinder-kicker, think gymnastics, tennis, lacrosse just to name a few).

“In this community of limit-less facilities and lots of competitive options for recreational interests, an aquatic center at the new Y will combine exquisite programming expertise with a much needed place to learn.  Let’s all pitch in to help the Grand Traverse region acquire this wonderful dream combination.”

William Northway

“From an early age, taking swim lessons at a Detroit “Y” Center and as a cabin counselor at summer camps, to coaching my sons’ soccer teams and playing in an adult tennis program, the Y has been an important part of my life.  I am a strong supporter of the Y program for its emphasis on healthy, character-building programs for the entire family. 

“And I am excited about the completion of the capital campaign that will give this community an exceptional multi-purpose facility for the benefit of kids and families.  Through a very generous pledge, we have an opportunity to bring this project to reality NOW.  Please join me in making it happen.”

Bruce Falconer

“The New Y represents the most critical resource for children, youth, seniors and families in our region and creates tremendous opportunities for health and wellness.”

Dr. Phil Ellis, Community Foundation

The New Y Capital Campaign has an incredible opportunity. If the campaign can raise the balance of multi-year pledges and gifts to reach the campaign goal, an anonymous donor will contribute $2 million to complete the campaign and allow the Y to begin building in early 2012. If we do not raise the funds by December 31, 2011, the donor will withdraw his pledge. More than any other time, your pledge or donation is vital to build the New Y. On-line donations and pledges are accepted at www.4good4ever.org . Consult the YMCA website at www.gtbayymca.org for more information about the New Y.

Dave Eitland is the Campaign Director for the New Y Campaign. He can be reached at 231-933-9622 or dave@gtbayymca.org .

YMCA Contract Tennis Sign-up

Contract Tennis Time

Winter: Week of Jan 2 - Week of Apr 23, 2012 (17 weeks)

Registration Deadline: Dec 9

Click here for registration form.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA

This Thanksgiving, the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA gives thanks for…


…the 1,029 individuals (400 families) who have asked us for help through our “No One Denied” scholarship assistance program this year. It’s difficult to ask for help, but by doing so they’ve made their lives better and have strengthened their families and communities.

…the 229 donors who have thus far this year contributed more than $160,000 to “Invest in Youth” so that we can offer that scholarship assistance.

…the 60 families at our Early Childhood Education Center, where we teach our Christian values to tomorrow’s leaders.

… the 465 donors who have contributed more than $9.2 million to our New Y campaign. We are especially thankful for local support from the Oleson Foundation, Dave and Beth Howard, the Art and Mary Schmuckal Family Foundation, Richard and Diana Milock, and Rotary Charities who supported us early in our campaign, kept up that support in mid-campaign, and have now stretched to help us reach the finish line.

…our dedicated staff who have made programs like Y Tennis, Y Gymnastics, Y Camp, YMCA Pop Warner Football, Y Basketball, Y Child Care and all 65 YMCA programs top notch champion-building programs.

… our $2 million anonymous challenge donor, and to Meijer, the Towsley Foundation, Traverse City Swim Club, Casey Cowell, Hank and Sue Johnson, Tom’s Food Markets, Bill Marsh Auto Group, Paul and Barb Bandrowski, Jim Munson, Robert and Pauline Young, Munson Medical Center, Robert T. Hughes Fund, Pat and Leslee Heintz, and Bishop & Heintz, and so many more contributors who have demonstrated their trust in the Y.

…359 volunteers, who last year donated 28,349 hours of their time to help Y Kids, especially our New Y Campaign Steering committee volunteers led by Henry Peet and our board volunteers led by Marc Judge. We're thankful also for our past presidents and past staff and volunteers who got us to where we are today.

Happy thanksgiving to all of you from the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA!

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

FOR HEALTHY LIVING

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Tom Van Deinse, CEO
Grand Traverse Bay YMCA
3000 Racquet Club Drive
Traverse City, MI 49684

YMCA GYMNASTS SWEEP OPENER

The YMCA Level 7 and Level 8 girls gymnastics teams captured top spots at the Judge’s Cup season opener in Ypsilanti last weekend.

Patricia Davis led all competitors with a 37.325 all around score at Level 7 by taking first place gold medals on bars, beam, and floor, while placing second on vault. Twin sister Amy Davis turned in a 36.625 performance for a second place all around silver medal, while Francie Flores and Rachel Ovalle captured third and fourth place all around. Flores recorded a team high 9.375 vault to claim the gold medal on that event.

At Level 8, Annie Gerstner won the all around award by taking the gold medal on bars, beam, and floor while placing second to teammate Kendra Benak on vault. Benak collected the all around silver medal by placing second to Gerstner on bars, beam, and floor.

Jade Turner’s second place bars routine helped catapult her to third place all around at Level 6, followed closely by Kayla Brady’s fourth place all around performance. Darby Drake placed fourth on vault and Annemarie Jenkins placed fifth on beam to round out the YMCA’s Level 6 team scoring.

Summer Bennetts took home a gold medal for her beam routine in her first Level 5 meet, and added a third place medal for floor and a fifth place medal for bars. Ryan Zrimec also competed for the Y team at Level 5, placing fifth on beam and seventh on floor.

The next meet for the YMCA gymnasts is Grand Rapids’ On the Grand Invitational, December 2 - 4.

For more information on Y Gymnastics or any of the over 65 programs, click on our website at http://www.gtbayymca.org/ .

Thanksgiving Day Closed & School's Out Program

The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2011 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Y will reopen at 6:00 am on Friday morning.

The Y offers a School’s Out Fun Club on days when schools in the TCAPS area are not in session (half days, full days, some holidays, and even cancellations like snow days!).

Our trained staff  keeps your child busy and having fun with games, crafts, sports, and outside play. We provide an afternoon snack but ask that each child brings a pack lunch, water bottle, and appropriate clothing for our outside experiences.

School’s Out Program will be held for a half day on Wednesday, November 23, at its main facility. Full day School’s Out program (6:30 am – 6:00 pm) will be held on Friday, November 25, and Monday, November 28.

Contact Erica Wilson, Y School Age Program Supervisor, at 933-9622. A Program guide is available for download at www.gtbayymca.org . Watch for our daily updates to Facebook and Twitter.

The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA is for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Rotary Charities Commits $1 million to New Y

ROTARY CHARITIES COMMITS $1 MILLION TO NEW YMCA BUILDING PROJECT

Concept drawing of new entrance to YMCA

Today the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA is one step closer to realizing the dream of a new YMCA. In a special board meeting this morning, the Rotary Charities Board voted to add $425,000 dollars to their past grants, bringing Charities’ total commitment to $1 million for this project.

The additional gift answers the challenge of an anonymous donor who has committed $2 million if the YMCA can raise the final $4 million by December 31, 2011. If successful, this will accomplish their $12 million, multiyear capital campaign to build a new Y in Traverse City. 

Bob Portenga, chairperson of the Rotary Charities’ board, noted “this facility is clearly needed in our community. Having a YMCA that can service area families and youth is critical to the quality of life in our region.  Our YMCA impacts thousands of area youth and people of all ages, providing quality programs from sports and recreation, to daycare.  We challenge other individuals, Rotarians, businesses and foundations to join us in meeting this lofty goal.”

Multi-year pledges and gifts can be made to the New Y Capital Campaign through the Community Foundation on-line at www.4good4ever.org or calling 231-935-4066. More information about the New Y Campaign can be found at www.gtbayymca.org or calling the Front Desk at the Y at 231-933-9622.


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NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM

The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA

CONTACT: Tom Van Deinse, CEO, tvd@gtbayymca.org , 231-933-9622 or Dave Eitland, New Y Campaign Director, dave@gtbayymca.org, 231-933-9622

Can you Invest in Youth?

Thank you to the TC Record Eagle for their donated ad!

Click here to download a donation form and mail it to:

Invest in Youth

Grand Traverse Bay YMCA

3000 Racquet Club Drive

Traverse City MI 49684

or call 231.933-9622 for more information

YMCA 2011-2012 Women’s Winter Basketball League

What:     YMCA Women’s League Basketball

Cost:      $425.00 team sponsor fee plus $25.00 per player fee

When:    Week of December 11, 2011 to March 2012

Where:   Sunday evenings in TC area gyms

Registration Deadline: December 2, 2011

Format: Round robin league format.

Registration may be started by completing the form below and returning it along with $425.00 team fee to the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA 3000 Racquet Club Dr. Traverse City, MI 49684. Click here for form

Call Barb Beckett 231-933-9622 for more information.

Y School's Out Fun Club

Click here for registration form and information

New Y Fitness Schedule

Click here for the current Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Fitness Class Schedule.

Most fitness classes free to members. Call for a membership at 231-933-9622 or www.gtbayymca.org 

Y Youth Basketball League Schedule

Click here for the schedule for the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Youth Basketball League Schedule for this session.

Call Rob at 231-933-9622 or our website at www.gtbayymca.org for more information.

The Y is for Youth Development.

Thanks to our New Y Donors

Thanks to the over 400 donors who have contributed to the New YMCA. Here is a concept drawing for the new front entrance of the facility. Click here for current donor list.

To make an on-line donation - Click here.

To read about our $2 million Challenge Pledge - Click here.

Call Dave at 231-933-9622 or e-mail at dave@gtbayymca.org with your questions.

Only you can help build this New YMCA!

Picture Gallery for Jensen Tennis Event

Here is the public link for the Facebook gallery showing about 50 pictures of the Jensen Brothers Tennis Exhibition on Sunday, November 6, 2011 at the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA.

Jensen Facebook Public Gallery .

Fun had by all!  Thanks to all of the volunteers who helped to make it happen!

Adult Tennis Clinic participants

Y School's Out Program

When TCAPS is not in session, the YMCA has a School's Out Program for kids to come and be with others. Here are the kids gathered this morning. Next School's Out will be held on November 25.  Watch for information on Christmas Camp!

Also happening at the Y today are fitness classes, education of preschoolers, gymnastics, pickleball, tennis lessons and leagues, sports skills programs, volunteers raising money for the New YMCA and Invest in Youth and much more. Check out the web site at www.gtbayymca.org  or call 933-9622 for more information.

Few Tickets left for Jensen Event for Sunday

As of Thursday, 11/3/2011 @ 7:00 pm

ONLY 7 ADULT TICKETS REMAINING FOR THE JENSEN TENNIS EXHIBITION THIS WEEKEND (Sunday, November 6)! For the benefit of the New YMCA Tennis Center


ONLY 31 Youth tickets remain!

The Youth Clinic is SOLD OUT!

ONLY 3 tickets remain for the adult clinic!

Hurry in to the Y to get your tickets before we're sold out, or call 933-9622 to purchase tickets by credit card. You won't want to miss this event!

Thanks to our sponsors:

ESPN 1310 AM, the Paul & Barb Bandrowski Family, Jones Center for Pain Management, the Tom & Laura Danz Family, the Jim & Kirsten Pappas Family, the Lundmark Family, the Jack & Stefee Roberts Family, Traverse Bay Family Magazine, the Van Deinse Family, David & Leslie Heimburger, Lou Anne Ford, Coldwell Banker Schmidt, Jim Fowler, USPTA, Seung Ni Tae Kwon Do Academy, Cooley Construction.

Thanks to Jill Jones for heading up the "Our Serve" tennis support committee, and for a great job of sponsor sales! Thanks also to all the "Our Serve" committee members!

Thanks to Julie Friley for a great job at ticket sales!

Thanks to everyone for supporting Y tennis and the New Y project!

Tom Van Deinse
CEO
Grand Traverse Bay YMCA

Teen Dance on Sat Nov 5 at Y

Y TEEN DANCE SATURDAY NOV 5

Listen to your favorite music, dance the night away, or challenge some friends to a game of basketball and use the Y facilities! The Teen Dances at the YMCA provides a fun, safe place for teens to hang out and just be themselves. The dance is open to grades 6 – 8. Invite 5 friends!

The next Teen Dance will be on Saturday, November 5, from 7-10 pm. Admission is $8/per non-member and free to YMCA members. The price includes pizza. ID, proper dress, and conduct required.

The dance is at the YMCA Main Facility at 3000 Racquet Club Drive in Traverse City, just off South Airport Road behind Logan’s Landing office complex.

Adult volunteers always needed. Parents are welcome to chaperone.

For more information on any of the Y Teen programs, contact Erica Wilson at wilsonerica2@gmail.com or call the Y at 231-933-9622.

The Y is for youth development.

Why should I Invest in Youth?

Click here to Download a donation form and mail to: Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, 3000 Racquet Club Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684.

More information at 231-933-9622 or http://www.gtbayymca.org/annual.php .

New Fitness Schedule

Click here for the updated fitness schedule at the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA. Call 231-933-9622 or http://www.gtbayymca.org/ for more information.

Record Eagle Cheers Editoral

Part of the Aquatic Center at the New Y

Lap swimming, fitness, learning to swim, competition