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WXXI News

What's new and what's next at the YMCA of Greater Rochester?

By Evan Dawson, Megan Mack

April 29, 2026 at 1:34 AM EDT

12:00: What's new and what's next at the YMCA of Greater Rochester?

1:00: Spring planting questions? We have the answers.

We sit down with the leaders of the YMCA of Greater Rochester. It has been nearly two years since we last spoke with President and CEO Ernie Lamour and Chief Experience Officer Pam Cowan. Since then, the nonprofit has enacted a new strategic plan that emphasizes community partnerships. From a food pantry and clothing closet, to DMV and tax prep services, to a nationwide basketball tournament, our guests explain the Y's role in meeting the needs of the rural, urban, and suburban areas it serves. In studio:
  • Ernie Lamour, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Rochester
  • Pam Cowan, chief experience officer for the YMCA of Greater Rochester
Then in our second hour, spring has (sort of) sprung! Fluctuating temperatures and unseasonably cold and wet weather have created challenges for people making plans for their lawns and gardens. As we head into the heart of planting season, our guest helps us understand everything we need to know to help our flowers and plants survive and thrive. Our guest:
  • Petra Page-Mann, co-founder, friend, and neighbor of Fruition Seeds
  • Evan Hoyt, grower, amateur seed grower, and researcher at the University of Vermont

"Connections" is livestreamed each day on the WXXI News YouTube channel. Watch here.