“These talented individuals bring energy, experience, and a shared commitment to enriching the recreational offerings available to the community and visitors this summer,” he said.

The hirings include:

— A native of Lake Placid, Erik Smith joins the North Elba Park District as the new Golf Professional at Craig Wood Golf Course. Smith brings a strong background in golf instruction, tournament operations and course management. Previously, he worked at several premier public and private courses across the Capital District. He is a Class A PGA Member, who specializes in growing the game and youth development.

Under his leadership, the town hopes to expand opportunities for youth golf and junior tournaments at Craig Wood.

“It’s an honor to come home and be part of the future of Craig Wood,” said Smith. “I’m especially excited to introduce more young players to the game and create a golf culture that’s fun, welcoming, and community-driven.”

— Also a Lake Placid local, Ellysia Blinn has been named Director of Camp Placid, North Elba’s beloved summer youth program. Blinn holds a BA degree in education from Western Governors University and Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, spent many years as a teaching assistant at Lake Placid Elementary School and is currently a first-grade teacher in Saranac Lake. This year, due to ongoing construction at the North Elba Show Grounds, Camp Placid will be held at the Lake Placid Middle/High School. The program will run from July 8 to Aug. 22 and remains free of charge to families. Online registration is open on the Camp Placid website now until June 1.

In partnership with the Lake Placid Central School District, Blinn is focused on expanding Camp Placid’s offerings to create a more engaging and enriching experience for local youth.

“Camp Placid was a big part of my childhood, and I’m thrilled to now be leading the program,” said Blinn. “We’re building a summer experience that sparks curiosity, creativity and community–and I can’t wait to welcome kids back for an unforgettable season.”

— Rounding out the seasonal leadership team, Jim Grant has been hired as Head Lifeguard for Mirror Lake’s beachfront. With over a decade of aquatic safety experience, including managing waterfront teams and training lifeguards across the Adirondacks, Jim brings both professionalism and a passion for community recreation.

“Mirror Lake is a special place,” said Grant. “I’m looking forward to helping make it the premier family beach experience in the region–safe, clean, and fun for everyone.”

The North Elba Park District is still accepting applications for seasonal camp counselors. Interested individuals can find an application on the town of North Elba’s website.