by Lynn Boscher, special contributor
“The Queen of Fitness”, Carol Palmer, retired Friday after 34 years of working at the YMCA of Greater Westfield. (Photo by Lynn Boscher)
WESTFIELD – The Queen of Fitness, a.k.a. Carol Palmer, retired after 34 years of service to the Westfield Y.M.C.A.
About 100 people gathered on Friday morning to honor Palmer on her last day of work. Palmer was honored by being presented a sash, crown, flowers, purple robe, a scepter, a gold watch and a “Lifetime Membership” in the Y.M.C.A.
Harry Rock, former Executive Director said, “We were blessed to have Carol for 34 years for her passion, joy, happiness and love of life that she spread across the YMCA, our community and everyone she touched.”
Past Executive Directors, Harry Rock, John Barclay and Andrea Allard and Vinnie Olinski honor Carol Palmer (center, on throne). (photo by Lynn Boscher)
Vinnie Olinski recognized her as “A breath of fresh air for new ideas with positive energy in everything she did.”
As for John Barclay, former Executive Director “One of the best decisions I ever made was to hire her for the YMCA.”
Andrea Allard, current YMCA CEO praised Palmer. “Carol embraced the YMCA mission in all her endeavors; dedicating her life’s work to creating a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and passion were second to none. She truly impacted thousands of lives and we are a better organization because of her service.”
