Y Life Birmingham

Spirit Huddle up

Body making it personal

Circuit Connecting You to the Y January-February 2009 | Volume 4 Issue 1

Inside this issue:

1884-2009

2008 Annual Report Branch Volunteers of the Year

There’s never been a better time to be a member of the YMCA. Thirteen years after the City of Birmingham was founded, community leaders established the YMCA to serve its young citizenry in spirit, mind, and body. In 2009, as the community based, nonprofit association celebrates its 125th anniversary; our volunteer leadership has set as our vision for the future, to lead “The Magic City” to become the healthiest community in America.

Here are four ways to thank you for your loyal membership; four ways to help you continue to achieve your mission.

2

New household membership categories introduced.

Each one will welcome more families, more children, neighbors, friends, and colleagues to join us all. From families that span generations, to single parent households, to seniors; there are more ways to make membership in the Birmingham YMCA affordable for everyone. Our membership directors are ready to welcome new households, like these!

n ependent Childre One Adult Plus D

Two Seniors Plus Dependent Child ren

1

No dues increase in 2009!

Scholarship assistance is available.

3 4

People of all faiths, races, abilities, and incomes are involved in the Birmingham YMCA. It is always our goal that “within available resources no one will be turned away from participation at the YMCA program due to financial inability to pay the fee.” We’ve been with you for 125 years, and we want to be with you now and into the future.

Ask the Membership Director at the YMCA branch in your community how we can help.

Refer a new member in January and you both benefit.

When they join, we’ll thank you both with a $50 YMCA Referral Gift Certificate to use as you choose!

Two Adults

ren Dependent Child Three Adults Plus (Offer valid through January 31; gift certificates expire April 30, 2009.

Ask any Membership Director for details.)

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16

17-21

25

26

Checking In

Circuit

Up To Date

Kid’s Page

My Mission

January February To do List 10 action steps to take in this issue

1

Convert your friends! Learn about the YMCA referral program. (p 2)

2 3 4

Take part in Scale Back Alabama weight loss initiative. (p 4) Thank you! See how your efforts helped ‘share the warmth.’ (p 4)

Huddle Up! Read how T-Mobile employees and volunteers helped give the Western Area branch a much-needed facelift. (p 6)

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Read about the YMCA’s branch volunteers of the year. (p 7)

Put white stuff on your nose.

Sign up for a lifeguarding class this winter. (p 16)

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Get over the winter blahs! Sign up your kids for Summer Day Camp 2009. (p 17)

8

Dancing in the Street. Or at least in Homewood. Enroll your child in a dance class at Shades Valley. (p 19)

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No more time out! Choose your favorite sport and sign your chlid up for winter youth leagues. (p 22)

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Make plans to attend the 2009 Birmingham YMCA Annual Meeting. (p 28)

125 years of service

The City of Birmingham was founded in 1871; thirteen years later, in 1884, community leaders established the YMCA in answer to a community concern - the fate of young men thrust into the rough world without training or supervision. In the 125 years since that beginning, the specific programs and facilities of the YMCA have changed, but not the basic purpose of service to community needs.

In fact, as we celebrate the association’s 125th year in “The Magic City,” the Birmingham YMCA is positioned to make its largest contribution to the community ever. With the adoption Wayne Houston, Board Chairman of a new strategic plan, our Birmingham Metropolitan YMCA volunteer leadership working Jim Lombard, President & CEO with staff, has set our sights Birmingham Metropolitan YMCA toward this vision: “We will lead our community to become the healthiest in America.” Read more about this bold, pioneering, collaborative effort on page 11.

We are informed by our history, we are led by our mission; in this annual report issue of YLife Birmingham, we have followed up with members from across the communities we serve to find out how the YMCA helped them achieve their own personal missions in 2008. Meet Reyna Garcia. She tells how the YMCA’s “English as a Second Language” program is helping her youngest child get ready to begin school in America. Charles Jager is likely on the links today, but his game is more fun than ever thanks to his participation in the YMCA “Do It Right” diet and exercise program. He’ll update you on his progress, if not his golf handicap.

And then there are the folks who make everything we do work for us all: the men, women, and young people of the YMCA, whether member or program participant, who have found a volunteer niche at their community YMCA. They are the folks who bring character values to life, and who make sure that spirit, mind, and body have meaning every day. They are our Volunteers of the Year. Read about the impact they make, and then join us in thanking them when you see them at your YMCA next time.

We’re 125 years young, and we’re stronger than ever; helping Birmingham’s residents envision a healthier tomorrow -- indeed, leading Birmingham to become the healthiest community in America - achieve personal missions, all the while keeping the Birmingham YMCA as a part of their life.

Life Notes

‘As we celebrate the association’s 125th year in “The Magic City,” the Birmingham YMCA is positioned to make its largest contribution to the community ever.’

January•February 2009 | Y Life 3

January | February 2009 Volume 4 | Number 1

Birmingham Metropolitan YMCA Officers J. Wayne Houston, Chairman J. Stephen Smith, Vice Chairman Mike Temple, Treasurer Ann Huckstep, Secretary Board Members Clarence Blair Tim Blair Joseph S. Bluestein Cecil Bostany Milton Bresler William N. Clark Charles DeBardeleben Jason Dill Ann Haas Robert Holmes, Jr. Joseph Jackson Frank S. James, III Anthony A. Joseph Tom L. Larkin Mallie I. Lynn Ken Maluff Harrison Manning Joseph Mays, Jr. Yvonne McBeth Ann D. McMillan Ron Mims Malcolm Morrow Judge John E. Ott Phyllis Paramore Henry Ray Allen D. Rushton Lloyd Shelton James W. Shepherd Walker Sorrell Cedric Sparks Edd Spencer Mike Suco Scott Vowell David Woodruff Phyllis Wyne President and CEO James N. Lombard YLife birmingham Staff Loyd McIntosh, Marketing Manager David G. Hill, Marketing Director YLife birmingham is published five times a year by the Metropolitan Birmingham YMCA. Copyright 2006 by the Metropolitan Birmingham YMCA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the Birmingham Metropolitan YMCA. YLife birmingham welcomes letters and story ideas. Please send them to: YLife Birmingham 2101 4th Avenue North Birmingham, Alabama 35203 or by e-mail to ylife@ymcabham.org.

Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Vision: We will lead our community to become the healthiest in America.

4 www.ymcabham.org

Checking In Half a million pounds in 10 weeks?

News from around the Birmingham YMCA

Birmingham YMCA to be an a official location for Scale Back Alabama The Birmingham YMCA will be an official weigh-in site for the 2008 Scale Back Alabama initiative. During the weeks of January 1016 and March 14-20 individuals and teams participating in the statewide weight-loss initiative can come by any member branch and weigh in as part of the weekly contest requirements.

Each YMCA branch will record participant data and chart progress during the ten-week campaign. This year's goal is encourage Alabamians to lose a half million pounds.

Scale Back Alabama is a statewide campaign held the first of each year to encourage Alabamians to get healthier by losing weight and exercising. It is a joint project of the Alabama Hospital Association and the Alabama Department of Public Health, with generous underwriting from Barber's Dairies, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.

To learn more about Scale Back Alabama or to form a team, go online to www. scalebackalabama.com. For weigh-in days and times, look for inforamtional posters around your branch or go to your branch's webpage online at www.ymcabham.org.

Shirts off your backs Thousands of garments donate to Greater Birmingham Ministries

In November, Birmingham YMCA members gave the coats, off their backs to our Share the Warmth Campaign to benefit Greater Birmingham Ministries. ‘Gently loved’ coats, hats, scarves, gloves, socks, blankets, and quilts

were donated for the city’s neediest citizens.

Thanks to your efforts, well over 1,000 pieces were dropped off at area YMCA branches and donated to Greater Birmingham Ministries, an ecumenical and interfaith organization that provides financial help, personal assistance, and other support for families and individuals in economic crisis.

Community partner YMCA & Fitness Systems team up to provide shoes for needy children

Thank you to Fitness Systems, Inc. for its generous $2,250 contribution to area YMCA branches’ Strong Kids & Communities financial assistance fund, opening YMCA doors to neighbors who otherwise couldn’t afford to participate in our programs. Pictured with appreciative YMCA kids are (back row, left to right) YMCA Branch Executives Cham Norman and Andrew Freeman, Chris Talbird, Fitness Systems Commercial Equipment Consultant, and YMCA Branch Executive Terri Nevett.

In addition, Talbird and Fitness Systems have teamed up with the YMCA to support Soles4Souls, a non-profit organization with the mission of donating shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Many YMCA branches participated in shoe drives during the fall to benefit Soles4Souls activities. To learn more, go online at www. soles4souls.org.

Life Skills

greystone

1. Ask for help

Greystone After School children have completed their first month of peer mediation. It is inevitable the children get into fights and disagreements.

Friendly resolutions

Afterschool program teaches kids proper conflict resolution

3 ways to enjoy your ymca membership Many folks who join in January find themselves overwhelmed, like a fish out of water, and give up before achieving their mission. Instead of keeping that frustration bottled up, seek out your Membership Director. We can help you find the right class, put you in touch with a buddy, or just listen.

2. Create a healthy habit

General consensus suggests that a daily habit is created in 21 days. On the other hand, most new health seekers give up on their mission within the first six weeks.

Let us help you jump over the hurdles, with e-mail encouragers, phone calls, or a complimentary fitness orientation.

3. Join a community within the community of the Y

At Trussville, early morning members regularly enjoy a conversation and a cup of coffee after working out, while members at Vestavia often get together for community volunteer projects. At Northeast members volunteer their time to lead Bible studies with kids in Afterschool, while Downtown members get together to jog the city streets during their lunch break. Take a look around and find that community within your YMCA community.

Dawn Pilleteri is the Membership Director for the Shades Valley Family Branch YMCA.

The goal of peer mediation is to teach the children selected as mediators to assist other children in finding ways to resolve their conflict. The children are encouraged and empowered so that they feel like they can solve their problems without constant adult intervention.

The mediators are selected based on their behavior and accomplishments in after school. They are trained and serve as mediators for a month.

If a disagreement erupts, the mediator team is called together to meet with the children independently and then together.

The children take this role very seriously and are all working towards being selected themselves.

January•February 2009 | Y Life 5

Spirit Community

T

he Western Area Family Branch was a flurry of activity in mid-November with dozens of people painting murals, enjoying arts and crafts, laughing, joking and generally having a great time. No, it wasn’t a day out of school for area kids, it was all part of T-Mobile's Huddle Up community service program.

Over 100 T-Mobile employees converged on the YMCA branch to help create a more inviting, fun, and safe place for children served by the Midfield facility. In addition, T-Mobile donated $10,000 for the Strong Kids & Communities financial assistance campaign and to complete and expand projects begun on that special day.

In 2006, T-Mobile USA launched T-Mobile Huddle Up, a national community outreach program that connects kids, primarily from single-parent families in highneed, urban communities to positive people, places, and programs.

“Criminal activity is a concern in this area and our facility gives kids a safe, fun place to spend their time after school,” said Terri Nevett, Executive Director of the Western Area Family Branch.

“Poverty is an issue in the community as well and many of the children who attend this facility are from low-income families.

Our Afterschool program offers parents in this community an additional and affordable option.”

“We are excited that TA T-Mobile employee paints a mural along an interior wall at the Mobile has acknowledged Western Area Family Branch. these critical issues in our area and is working with us to address them,” Nevett added. “Our community is transitioning and redeveloping. This revitalization by T-Mobile will energize our diverse community.”

Huddle Up! T-Mobile employees team up to enhance Western Area Branch

‘We are excited that TMobile has acknowledged these critical issues in our area and is working with us to address them.’

Projects completed on T-Mobile’s Huddle Up day include:

— Terri Nevett

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR WESTERN AREA FAMILY BRANCH

• Gymnasium painted with positive character development words on walls • Murals painted on dugout walls and baseball field raked and infield dirt smoothed • Lower parking area painted and parking horses installed to keep cars out of play area.

• Murals painted along hallways of the main building • Locker rooms painted with athlete and inspirational sayings quotes • Quotes by Martin Luther King Jr. painted on lobby walls • Patio painted with half-basketball court, four-square, hop-scotch, and musical balls • Created Huddle-up room which includes computers, 32-inch flat screen televisions, two Wii games with Wii fit, two printer/fax/ copiers, new carpet, board games, microwave, school supplies, two V-Smiles, and lots and lots of paper, pencils, and crayons.

6 www.ymcabham.org

The original YMCA in downtown Birmingham transitions into to our newest facility, the downtown Youth Center.

The Birmingham Metropolitan YMCA 1884-2009

2008 Annual Report Branch Volunteers of the Year

January•February 2009 | Y Life 7

Annual Report

Here’s how the Birmingham YMCA was a part of the life of members and their personal missions this past year: spirit, mind, and body.

Western Area’s Augusta Morrison said the The Birmingham YMCA is full YMCA “revolutionized my life. It helps me spiritually, mentally and physically and to just of people who have told us improve my overall health. Life now is just so their story of accomplishing much better.”

Members of the Classic Group Exercise a mission. Whether they already Class at Mountain Brook said it is “a knew what their mission was before wonderful experience, not only for the expert physical exercise, but also for the friends made. they walked through the doors of the The class is welcoming and makes us all feel very much a part of a community.”

Y for the first time or they figured it Northeast teen Jerome Tyler likes to “work out along the way, they have told us with little kids and help them with their homework. When I was in middle school I their stories: serious or funny, they had YMCA counselors who helped me with my homework and make sure I had a good have all inspired. time.”

When Dorothy Smiley comes to the Downtown Branch she likes “to sweat. It helps me. I tell anybody and everybody to exercise, because it’s really good for you. And, at my age (81) I know it’s good for you.”

Vestavia Xpress member Cynthia Ryan used therapeutic water aerobics as she recovered from breast cancer. “One session in the pool and I was hooked. The water soothed my aching arm, and rejuvenated me physically and emotionally. My mission was clear …” at the YMCA. Angie Dormuth’s mission took her from group exercise instructor to Greystone group member. “I really enjoy the camaraderie of a group exercise class,” she said. “I like getting to know each other. Class members miss you when you’re not there and they ask you about your kids. I really like that about the Y.” And for reviving youthful zest, you only have to talk with Trussville’s Yolanda Fisher. She’s the one wearing that ‘little black dress’ “I have not been able to wear in over 20 years,” she said. “I was not living a healthy lifestyle.” She joined the YMCA, began working out and eating healthy. “I feel great; like I am in my twenties again.”

Yolanda Fisher Trussville 8 www.ymcabham.org

Cynthia Ryan Vestavia Xpress

Charles Jager Mountain Brook

Augusta Morrison Western Area

‘When I was in middle school I had YMCA counselors who helped me with my homework and make sure I had a good time.’

Jerome Tyler

Angie Dormuth Greystone

Jerome Tyler Northeast

Annual Report

Early intervention and education are keys for children to keep up with their classmates once they reach kindergarten and first grade.

The Greystone Family Branch and the Alabaster Community Branch have reached out to this burgeoning by offering weekday programs The day that “hola” becomes community for the pre-school aged children of Hispanic residents. The program’s objective is to help “hello” at the YMCA, is a these children learn rudimentary English landmark cultural education skills, make friends and have a good time. The program was created at the request of the Shelby County School system which offers an ESL for two groups of Hispanic (English as a Second Language) program for children.. Culture and language Hispanic adults.

“The primary goal for this program is to help barriers are difficult to overcome for these children develop their English skills so they can be better prepared when they enter adults. But for a young child, those kindergarten and first grade,” said Rev. Tom Rains, Birmingham YMCA Chaplain and the barriers can be almost impossible to program’s coordinator.

Alabaster Executive Director Gwen Hatcher conquer. says helping these children get ahead is a service her YMCA is glad to provide.

“Because the Hispanic community is a growing community we feel that it’s important to provide a service that will allow these children to enter kindergarten at the same level as children native to the area.”

Update for 2009 My name is Reyna Garcia. I am from Mexico. I have been in the United States for 12 years. My son Alexis is two years old; he needed to go to a good preschool class to learn English and his letters and numbers. The YMCA started a preschool class with great teachers who can teach Alexis. They sing songs and play games and they speak in both English and Spanish so that Alexis can learn. Because of the YMCA preschool, when Alexis goes to school, he will understand his teachers. He will be able to learn just like the other children.

8 www.ymcabham.org

“The primary goal for this program is to help these children develop their English skills so they can be better prepared when they enter kindergarten and first grade,” Rev. Tom Rains Birmingham Metropoitan YMCA Chaplain

January•February 2009 | Y Life 9

Annual Report

At 73, he decided to aim lower; 20 pounds lower, in fact. His wife Rosemary knew of the UAB “Eat Right” program; she had been through it. When that program aligned Charles Jager is a hearty, with the YMCA, adding an exercise comporobust fellow. At 73, he decided to nent and becoming “Do It Right,” she suggested that he sign up. aim lower; 20 pounds lower, in fact.

Each 90-minute weekly class offers an hour of “Eat Right,” led by a UAB nutritionHis wife Rosemary knew of the UAB ist, followed by 45 minutes of exercise “sam“Eat Right” program; she had been pling” by a YMCA personal trainer.

Jager formed a small square with his hands through it. as he described what he’s learned about portion control. “I make it a point not to get such a large portion of lasagna,” he said. “I start the meal with a large salad.” He laughed when he talked about his love of Publix fried chicken. “Instead of eating four strips every week, I can eat two strips … occasionally,” he said he learned.

As Jager was heading to the next-to-last session, he was thinking about what he will take with him when the class ends. “The information about eating properly is excellent,” he said. “When I am through with this I will get a personal trainer.

“I don’t like to exercise,” he confided. “But if I have a trainer two days a week, play golf once a week, and walk another two days, that’s five days of exercise.

“I know that I’m going to have to combine diligent exercise with the eating,” Jager concluded. “Then I’ll look to set a new goal of 20 pounds. When I get down to 200 pounds that will be good.”

Update for 2009 When we caught up with Charles Jager, he was on a golf course in Florida. He said that he had lost 30 pounds. After he finished the “Do It Right” class, Jager said he continued to work out and lose weight, engaging a personal trainer. Now, he said he exercises regularly, and especially enjoys playing golf. The best thing is, he has his tools for a healthy lifestyle and knows how to use them.

Since “Do It Right” began in March, 2008, over 50 people have learned healthy living through diet and exercise. The program has expanded, and is now offered at three branches: Mountain Brook, Greystone Family, and Shelby County.

10 www.ymcabham.org

‘I know that I’m going to have to combine diligent exercise with the eating. Then I’ll look to set a new goal of 20 pounds.

When I get down to 200 pounds that will be good.’

Annual Report

Our Vision We will lead our community to become the healthiest in America.

Who we serve and what we do We support healthy lifestyles for individuals and families, develop healthy, YMCA’s whole kids, and strengthen families in spirit, mind and body.

The Birmingham newly approved strategic plan is a comprehensive

Strategic goals Participation: We will expand and deepen participation in YMCA prostrategy to help achieve the goal of grams.

Education We will intentionally design YMCA making Birmingham the healthiest programs that expand the building blocks of healthy human development: spirit, mind and city in America. Its’ key messages: body.

Collaboration We will actively seek credible partners with similar community interests to accomplish the vision.

Inclusion We will commit ourselves to inclusion in our programs, in our branches and in our communities.

Facilities: We will prove our commitment to quality and excellence for all through effective stewardship of our resources.

Update for 2009 YMCA of the USA added The City of Birmingham to its list of “Activate America: Pioneering Healthier Communities” in 2008. The project has the Birmingham YMCA serving as a “connector” to bring together high-level representatives from the government, non-profit, and private sectors to drive meaningful change locally towards active living and healthier eating. The association joined with the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham to organize a team of community leaders who will work on public policy initiatives through Jefferson County’s “Roadmap to Health - Health Action Plan.”

‘We support healthy lifestyles for individuals and families, develop healthy, whole kids, and strengthen families in spirit, mind and body.’

January•February 2009 | Y Life 11

Annual Report

2008 Branch Volunteers of the Year

Alabaster Community Branch

Adult Volunteer of the Year Elizabeth Ziers teaches English in the branch’s International Children’s Initiative classroom.

Leader’s Club President, and Youth Volunteer of the Year Taylor Gallups shines when he helps the branch’s special needs kids get into the pool and swims with them. Taylor leads by doing the right thing when no one else is looking.

Scott Kenny Taylor CampGallups Cosby Alabaster

YMCA Camp Cosby

Adult Volunteer of the Year Scott Kenny spent his youth working at YMCA Camp Cosby during the summers as a counselor and later with the mini-bike program. He now serves on the Board of Directors, but keeps his passion alive by rebuilding camp’s minibikes.

Youth Volunteers of the Year Nancy Acevedo and Morgan Henson have spent the last seven and six summers respectively at YMCA Camp Cosby as Counselors in Training. Both have been named Honor C.I.T.s by cabin and activity directors.

Downtown Branch

Matt Minner Adult Volunteer of the Year has been on hand to help with the branch’s special events all year.

Greystone Family Branch

Adult Volunteer of the Year Amy Lewis inspires swimmers through her positive and caring relationship as volunteer coach for the year-round swim team.

Year-round swim team member Kendall Lawrence epitomizes the YMCA spirit with her efforts to promote the team, welcome new members, and manage the team web site. For that, she is the Youth Volunteer of the Year.

Kendall Lawrence Gryestone

Kendall Lawrence has been an active member of the Greystone YMCA Waverunners year-round swim team since its inception in October of 2007.

Hargis Retreat

Involved with Hargis Retreat for most of her life, Adult Volunteer of the Year Elizabeth Carpenter led the facility to its most successful Strong Kids and Communities Campaign in 2008.

Nancy Avedo Camp Cosby

Elizabeth Ziers Alabaster Taylor Gallups Alabaster 12 www.ymcabham.org

Amy Lewis Greystone

Annual Report

2008 Branch Volunteers of the Year

Mountain Brook Branch

Instrumental in developing the idea as well as helping bring to life, the fund-raising “YOne Extravaganza,” Adult Volunteer of the Year Sherry Colgin also has a passion for helping disabled people develop skills in biking, swimming, running.

Childcare center Youth Volunteer of the Year Marianna Issa engages with the kids at the branch through play and activities.

Mariana Issa Taylor Gallups MountainAlabaster Brook

Northeast Family Branch

Over eleven years ago, Adult Volunteer of the Year JoAnne Seales had a desire to teach young people how their lives could be better as a result of living Christian principles. She has brought those messages to the afterschool program since then through a creative, interactive “story time.”

Youth Volunteer of the Year Brianna Vines has only been around the branch for a year, but her presence is undeniable. She has served as a paperwork organizer, a childcare assistant, a photographer, and as president of the new Youth and Government program.

Shades Valley Family Branch

Brianna Vines Northeast

Adult Volunteer of the Year and board member Britney McKim led the branch’s Strong Kids and Community Campaign to its most successful finish ever.

Fifteen-year old David Johnny, Youth Volunteer of the Year, helped close the gap between parent and staff communications during Summer Camp. He has become an extension of the staff in both child care and aquatics programs.

Sherry Colgin Mountain Brook

JoAnne Seales had a desire to teach young people how their lives could be better as a result of living Christian principles.

Shelby County Branch

Steve Bottchen has been involved with the YMCA for over 25 years. The Adult Volunteer of the Year offered his services as a Head Starter for the branch swim team.

Even as a camper, Youth Volunteer of the Year Dalila Bourque demonstrated outstanding leadership and responsibility; she always wanted to help the younger campers. As a camp volunteer, she was chosen for her go-getter attitude and outstanding teamwork.

JoAnne Seales Northeast

Dalia Borque Shelby County

Britney McKim Shades Valley

Steve Bottchen Shelby County

David Johnny Shades Valley January•February 2009 | Y Life 13

Annual Report

2008 Branch Volunteers of the Year

Trussville Family Branch

Paul Ott Carruth coordinates McCullough Oil’s contribution to the Strong Kids and Communities Campaign. That commitment led to his being named Adult Volunteer of the Year.

Robert M.Moss Moss Robert TaylorM. Gallups Vestavia Xpress Alabaster Western Area

Vestavia Express Branch

Inaugural branch board member and Adult Volunteer of the Year Robert M. Moss has helped with special events, assisted with the strategic planning process, and championed the Strong Kids and Communities Campaign, and offers budget guidance.

Youth Volunteer of the Year Stephanie Cosby offers an extra hand in the branch Child watch area; serving at Parent’s Night Out, and planning special activities for the children.

Western Area Family Branch

YMCA foot soldier Reynard McMillian participates in any community event or occasion where the branch needs a presence. The Adult Volunteer of the Year supports the staff, raises friends and dollars for the branch, and helps increase awareness of our facility and programs in the community.

Ten-year-old Bria Dozier exemplifies “starting early;” she is an official Afterschool care helper. The Youth Volunteer of the year even assists her peers and younger children with their homework.

Birmingham YMCA Youth Center

Ryan Waguespack turned his love of aviation and children into an unforgettable experience for Youth Center summer campers. The Adult Volunteer of the Year also helps bring in professionals to talk with students about careers.

Raynard McMillan Western Area

Ryan Waguespack turned his love of aviation and children into an unforgettable experience for Youth Center summer campers.

Y Achievers

Deborah Arrington receives special consideration for her work in support of Y Achievers, the teen community service program based out of the Youth Center. Deborah regularly volunteers her time registering program participants, organizing meetings and sharing scholarship information with college-bound teens.

Ryan Waguespack Youth Center 14 www.ymcabham.org

Stephanie Cosby Vestavia Xpress

Deborah Arrington Y Achiever

Body Annual Wellness Report

I

n 2008 Personal Trainers throughout the Birmingham YMCA helped over 2,000 members set and achieve personal misssions of health and well-being. As we attract more health seekers in the coming years, the YMCA remains committed to helping personal training clients achieve health of spirit, mind and body.

In an effort to improve our services in 2009, the Birmingham YMCA has made several enhancements to the Personal Training program.

This year, YMCA Personal Trainers are going one-on-one with members, tailoring personal, buddy, and group programs to meet your needs. Whether in 30-minute intervals, or over an hour, the YMCA is putting ‘personal’ in your ‘training.’

Check with your branch for details.

Savings are available through 10 and 15session packages. We also have developed new 30-minute options ($33 per session) that are affordable and just right for clients wanting personal support in a shorter period of time. A recent survey indicated that the YMCA remains an affordable personal training option.

“Our new YMCA personal training rate structure ensures that all training clients get the highest level of personalized service available no matter what their fitness level,” said Alison Ziegler, Fitness Director of the Greystone Family Branch. “The new structure is easy to understand, and includes new options, that we believe will meet the needs of all of our members seeking personal training services.”

The primary goal of the the YMCA is to offer the best possible training to build healthy spirit, mind and body in each member. The fitness staff at your neighborhood branch is committed to serve you with caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Making it personal

FITNESS PROGRAM CHANGING TO MEET INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

‘Our new YMCA personal training rate structure ensures that all training clients get the highest level of personalized service available no matter what their fitness level.’

— Alison Ziegler

FITNESS DIRECTOR GREYSTONE FAMILY BRANCH

January•February 2009 | Y Life 15

Training

Donors open doors to others

E

very year, donor’s dollars are turned into life-changing, daily events for our community’s children and families. Through your generosity, our neighbors are learning to swim, finding a safe place in Afterschool care, experiencing week-long stays at YMCA Camp Cosby, and even continuing a healthy lifestyle when they are going through tough times financially.

“I’ve been a member of the Birmingham YAchievers program for two years. Now I know what leadership is all about and I’ve learned about teamwork, too. I’ve also learned how to give back to my community and know that I can even help make a difference by helping with afterschool care and summer day camp.”

— Angela, Age 16 “When my husband died and I suddenly became a single parent of two boys, my financial situation significantly changed. Through financial assistance, my children have been able to continue in YMCA Sports programs. They’re still in the presence of positive adult male role models.”

— Shantae, YMCA Program Mom “I started going to YMCA Camp Cosby when I was six. Since then, I’ve learned to speak some French, learned not to be afraid of heights, and I have more confidence. And now, I’m a Counselor in Training!”

— Beau, Age 13

‘In 2008, generous Donors contributed over $530,000, providing financial assistance for 4,000 children, teens, families and adults.’

LeighViceCollins President for

Financial Development

16 www.ymcabham.org

Lifeguard training

Here is your chance to build your resume and show the world what you can do. Prepare for college and a career by developing leadership and communication skills, and learn skills such as first aid and CPR. Shelby County 01/28-02/01 | 02/04-08 | 02/18-22 Wed-Fri. 5-9 p.m. | Sat 9-5 p.m. | Sun 1-6 p.m.

Cost $70 non-refundable deposit due at registration $150 due on the second day of class.

Contact Jennifer Dick at 664.9622.

Lifeguard Training Instructor (LGI) 02-3-26 | Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5-10 p.m.

The American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Instructor is an intense training program that shows you how to teach the skills of the Lifeguard class and to teach CPR and First Aid skills.

Cost $250 Contact Jennifer Dick at 664.9622.

Trussville 01/07-11 | 01/28-02/01 | 02/04-08 | 02/18-22 Wednesday – Sunday W-F 4-9 p.m. | Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Cost $70 non-refundable deposit due at registration $150 due on the second day of class.

Contact Carla Holloway at 655.2224 GREYSTONE 01/14-18 | 02/26-03/01 Cost $70 non-refundable deposit due at registration $150 due on the second day of class.

Contact Susan Becker at 981.0144

AQUATICS

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Your Strong Kids & Communities Campaign dollars make a difference.

In 2008, generous Donors contributed over $530,000, providing financial assistance for 4,000 children, teens, families and adults. Open a YMCA door to someone today, and help the YMCA keep its promise to never turn anyone away due to inability to pay.

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Friendraising

Connecting you to the Birmingham YMCA branch by branch.

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Masters SwiM | GREYSTONE M, W, and F | 5-7 a.m.

The Greystone Family Branch continues to offer our successful Masters Swim Program for Adults.

Contact Susan Becker at 981.0144.

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Up To Date | 01/01-05

01/01 | Shades Valley After School Care Monday – Friday; 3-6 p.m.

If you are looking for a safe, educational, and fun environment for you child during the after school hours, check out the Shades Valley After School program. Transportation from your child’s school, an afternoon snack, and a wide variety of activities are all provided. Swim lessons are also available at an additional price.

Cost $151 YMCA Members per month $216 Non-Members per month Contact Mallory Smith at 870.9622.

01/02 | Alabaster Mother’s Day Out January - May | Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday This program is a kindergarten readiness program for preschoolers (4 year old).

Cost $90 YMCA Members | $125 Non-Members Contact Tracy Canaday at 663.6504.

01/05 | VESTAVIA XPRESS Personal Training Pilates and Yoga Cost Individual Private Lesson $25 YMCA Members | $35 Non-Members Group Lesson $40 (group of two) | $50 (3 to 5 people) Contact Kristen Rowland at 823-0144.

01/05 | Shades Valley Fun Club 01/05, 02/16, 02/17 | 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

If your child is out of school, the Shades Valley Family Branch will be open all day for child care.

We will have a full day of activities planned for your child to enjoy, even swimming!

Circuit Cost $25 YMCA Members | $35 Non-Members $35 After School participants $20 YMCA Members | $30 Non-Members Contact Mallory Smith at 870.9622.

01/05-02/2 | SHELBY COUNTY Homeschool P.E. Mondays and Wednesdays | 1-2:30 p.m.

Get your children moving in Homeschool P.E. The classes are designed to teach not only physical fitness and sports, but also teamwork and confidence. Staff structures each class toward the level and age of the participants. Limited space available. Register online at www.ymcabham. org.

Cost $20 YMCA Members | $35 Non-Members Contact Rhonda Williams at 664.9622.

01/05 | Greystone Fun Club 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Spend your school holiday at the YMCA. Children will participate in a variety of activities such as sports, games, and crafts. Space is limited.

Register online at www.ymcabham.org.

Cost $27 YMCA Members | $40 Non-Members Contact Tanya Hiers at 981.0144.

01/05 | Alabaster Holiday Camp January 5 | 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Children will participate in a variety of activities such as swimming, sports, games, and crafts.

Space is limited. Register online at www. ymcabham.org.

Cost $23 YMCA Members | $35 Non-Members Contact Emily McClain at 663.6504.

01/02 | multiple branches Summer Day Camp Registration Begins On-going until camp starts Sign up early for Summer Day Camp.

Camps will fill up fast so don’t miss out on a fun-filled summer for your child. Visit www.ymcabham.org for more information or to register.

directory

Alabaster Community Branch 11th Avenue and 7th SW Alabaster, AL 35007 205.663.6504 Branch Hours Monday - Friday: Noon - 6 p.m. September - April 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. May - August Director of Camping Services Gwen Hatcher

YMCA Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road Alpine, AL 35014 256.268.2007 Executive Director Kevin Casey

Downtown Branch

2101 4th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 205.324.4563 Branch Hours Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Sunday: Closed Executive Director Andrew Freeman Membership Director Shelly Mitchell

Greystone Family Branch

5414 Highway 280 Birmingham, AL 35242 205.981.0144 Branch Hours Monday - Thursday: 5 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Childwatch Hours Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday: 2 - 6 p.m.

Executive Director Pat Tate Membership Director Kristin Harris

Hargis Retreat

928 Hargis Drive Chelsea, AL 35043 205.678.6512 Branch Hours Monday - Saturday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Director of Camping Services Kevin Casey

January•February 2009 | Y Life 17

Chaplaincy

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aquatics

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Here’s to another 125 great years Thirteen years after the City of Birmingham was founded, community leaders established the YMCA to serve its young citizenry in spirit, mind and body.

W Splish, splash, plop!

Swim lessons continue throughout the winter

Group Swim Lessons MULTIPLE branches 01/5-29 and 02/02-26 The YMCA has been teaching people to swim for over 100 years, providing individuals the opportunity to enjoy the water in a safe and fun environment. Swimming provides the best bilateral exercise of any sport, developing all muscles evenly. Skills will dwindle if swimmers only practice these skills in the summer! Kids need year-round swim lesson to progress. Classes are offered mornings, afternoons, evenings after work and Saturdays for all age groups.

Cost $54 YMCA Members | $87 Non-Members Contact your local YMCA for information and availability.

Private Swimming Lessons MULTIPLE branches The Birmingham YMCA offers private lessons for 3 and up to adult’s skill levels. These 30 minute lessons are customized to meet individual needs of every swimmer. Anyone wanting to further advance their or their child’s swimming will benefit from private lessons.

Cost per child Private Lessons $90 YMCA Members | $108 Non-Members Semi Private $70 YMCA Members per child | $90 Non-Members Contact your local YMCA for complete information.

ith this mandate, some forward-thinking folks began this mission 125 years ago.

Contemplating the century and a quarter that has passed, we look back in gratitude to these founders and their vision. It was a vision for the future by people whose eyes were on the horizon.

Yet, while we look back at this great moment, these founders could only have been looking forward - forward to the needs of this community, forward to serving the hundreds of thousands who have lived here for generations.

It has been said that Birmingham has one foot planted in the past and one planted in the future. That may be so. But, unless that foot planted in the past is not lifted up and swung forward, we make no progress. We are forever stuck.

We love our history and it is fun to look back at what has gone before us: What has the Y done to serve this community? What did the people who lived generations back do to make the Y what it is today? What has changed over the years? We are a product of that past and in large part it defines who we are today.

But, while the past influences us and we are wise to be instructed by it, we no longer live there. While our history tells us in part who we are today, we are no longer surrounded by that heritage. We live in the present. And, if we adopt the attitude of those founders 125 years ago, we live with our eyes set on the distant horizon. We live in the present and with our history at our back, we look to serving this community long into the future.

Rev. Tom Rains Birmingham YMCA Chaplain

18 www.ymcabham.org

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Up To Date | 01/05-16

01/05-02/28 | Shades Valley Drop & Go Monday and Wednesday | 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ages 5 weeks to 5 years We offer a fun, safe, and loving environment for your kids to stay while you are on the go. Available to YMCA members only.

Cost Up to 2 hours $10 for first child | $7 for each additional child 2-5 hours $15 for first child | $12 for each additional child Contact Mallory Smith at 870.9622.

01/12 | Shades Valley Latin Language Classes Mon, Tue, and Thur | 4:15-4:45 p.m.

Learn Latin with Kay Reyes, certified Latin teacher. The award-winning LATIN LIVES!

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program makes use of games, songs, pantomime, etc, to teach. Grades K-5.

Monthly Cost $30 After School participants $35 YMCA Members $35 Non-Members Contact Mallory Smith at 870.9622.

01/16 | Alabaster Parent’s Night Out 6:30-11 p.m. | Ages 2-14 Need a night out with your special someone?

Children can participate in a variety of activities such as sports, games, crafts and more! Space is limited. Dinner is provided. Register online at www.ymcabham.org Cost $8 YMCA Members | $13 Non-Members Contact Emily McClain at 663.6504.

directory

Mountain Brook Branch

2401 20th Place South Birmingham, AL 35223 205.870.0144 Branch Hours Monday-Thursday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday: 5 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Childwatch Hours Mon – Thursday: 8:15 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday: 8:15 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Saturday: 8:15 a.m.-Noon Sunday: 2-6 p.m..

Executive Director Michelle Oliver Membership Director Kristi Nix

Northeast Family Branch

628 Red Lane Road Birmingham, AL 35216 205.833.7616 Branch Hours Monday & Tuesday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Wednesday-Friday: 5 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday 7 a.m. - Noon Executive Director Terri A. Nevett

Shades Valley Family Branch 01/12 | Shades Valley Dance and Cheerleading Classes

by Birmingham School of Dance Monday and Tuesday Dance and Cheerleading classes offered during Afterschool hours for ages 5 and up. Students will learn short routines to fun music like “High School Musical” and “Hannah Montana!”

Students learn cheers, jumps, and get an introduction to tumbling.

Dancenastics: Mondays- 4:45-5:30 p.m., Tuesdays- 3:15- 4 p.m.

Ballet-Jazz Combo: Mondays – 5:15-6:05 p.m.

Hip-Hop/Ballet Combo: Tuesdays - 4-4:50 p.m.

Monthly Cost $36 YMCA Members $45 Non-Members Second class and siblings are half price!

Magic City Youth Organization Performance Classes Thurdays Dance Team – 4-4:45 p.m. | first grade and up Students learn fundamentals of ballet, jazz, modern and hip-hop, while working together as an ensemble.

Boy’s Hip-Hop Crew – 4:45-5:30 p.m. | first grade and up Teaches fundamentals of dance mixed with hip-hop, stepping, and creative movement.

Color-guard – 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Co-ed fourth grade and up Fundamentals of flag work, marching, and dance.

Cost $109 YMCA Members | $125 Non-members 12 week session | $15 discount for second and third siblings.

Contact Mallory Smith at 870.9622.

3551 Montgomery Highway Birmingham, AL 35209 205.870.9622 Branch Hours Monday -Friday: 5 .a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 - 6 p.m.

Executive Director Cham Norman Membership Director Dawn Pilliteri

Shelby County Branch

2610 Pelham Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 205.664.9622 Branch Hours Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 - 6 p.m.

Child Watch Hours (School Year) Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 3:30-7:45 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. -12 p.m.

(Summer) Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7:45 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Executive Director Lane Vines Membership Director Beth Wilson

January•February 2009 | Y Life 19

Bon Appetit Nutrition and Fitness program

gears up for 2009.

Do It Right Do It Right is a proven, twelve week program for adults 18 years and older who are interested in learning to make healthy lifestyle changes regarding nutrition and old habits, plus getting fit for life. Weekly classes include the care and expertise of a Registered Dietitian from UAB and a Certified Personal Trainer from the YMCA of Birmingham.

Schedule

Mountain Brook & Shelby county | Wednesdays 6-7:45 p.m.

GREYSTONE | Thursdays 6-7:45pm Cost $295.

Financial assistance is available.

Contact Caroline Bundy at 447.9457.

01/13-03/17 | MOUNTAIN BROOK Healthier Weigh Healthier Weigh is a proven, nine week program designed to help adolescents ages 12 to 18 at risk for being overweight learn to make healthy choices for a lifetime.

Emphasis is placed on the entire family’s involvement and support for a healthy change. Family access to the YMCA is included for the duration of the sessions for non-members. Weekly meetings will include behavioral and nutritional components led by a Pediatric Psychologist or a Registered Dietitian from The Children’s Hospital of Alabama. A certified Personal Trainer from the YMCA of Birmingham will add a fun, weekly exercise component.

Cost $450 YMCA Members $399 | $450 for Non-Members.

Cost includes the adolescent participant and a caregiver.

Financial assistance available.

Contact Caroline Bundy at 447.9457.

Shades Valley Eat Healthy Plus Nutrition & Fitness Program led by Kim Darnell, a registered clinical dietitian and group exercise instructor for over 10 years.

Registration ongoing Monday | 9:30-10:45 a.m.

Monday & Thursday | 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Cost Group $375 Group (6 week program) Individual $475 Individual (6 week program) $150 for additional 4 weeks Contact Jerry Wrenn at 870.9622 or Kim Darnell at 305.6706.

ymca vision

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healthy lifestyles

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The last frontier The Birmingham community has been chosen through a competitive application process to be a Pioneering Healthier Community for 2009. This is the fifth year that an elite list of communities has been selected to step up to the challenge of working to improve the overall health of the community through policy and environmental changes.

This year the Birmingham YMCA and our partner coach – The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham will convene a diverse group of community leaders to serve on a leadership team that will seek to further the goals of the Jefferson County Health Action Plan. The initiatives provide training, technical assistance and funding for local communities to incorporate evidencebased strategies that build sustainable healthy communities.

Pioneering Healthier Communities is supported by the Centers for Disease Control as well as corporate and foundation donors and expert advisers. The underlying goals for these efforts is to engage all sectors of society in ways that will affect the nation’s chronic disease crisis resulting from 3 major, lifestyle risk factors: physical inactivity, unhealthy eating and tobacco use.

The Leadership Team for this effort will travel to Washington, DC in December for training.

This team represents local leadership from a variety of sectors like – business, community, notfor-profit and academia.

Team Members Include: Jim Lombard - YMCA Lisa Jones - YMCA Webb Lyons Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham Rev. Ronnie Williams - Congregations for Public Health Allison Grayson United Way of Central Alabama Beth Curry - Lakeshore Foundation Binnie Myles - Birmingham Water Works Dr. Teri Chafin Jefferson County Health Department Jennifer Kilburn - Children’s Policy Council Charley Lockhart - Vulcan Materials Dr. Josh Klapow - UAB School of Public Health

Lisa Jones

20 www.ymcabham.org

Director of Association Advancement

Up To Date | 02/09/16

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02/09-03/04 | SHELBY COUNTY Homeschool P.E. Mondays and Wednesdays | 1-2:30 p.m.

Get your children moving in Homeschool P.E. The classes are designed to teach not only physical fitness and sports, but also teamwork and confidence. Our staff will structure each class toward the level and age of the participants. Limited space available. Register online at www.ymcabham.org Cost $20 YMCA Members | $35 Non-Members Contact Rhonda Williams at 664.9622.

participate in a variety of activities such as sports, games, crafts and more! Dinner is provided.

Space is limited. Register online at www. ymcabham.org Cost $13 YMCA Members | Non-Members $20 Contact Emily McClain at 663.6504.

February 14 | Alabaster Holiday Camp 5:30-11:30 p.m. | Ages 2-14 Parents, when was the last time you had a night out with your special someone? Children can

02/16 | Alabaster Holiday Camp 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Spend your school holiday at the YMCA. Children will participate in a variety of activities such as swimming, sports, games, crafts and more!

Space is limited. Register online at www.ymcabham.org.

Cost $23 YMCA Members | $35 Non-Members Contact Emily McClain at 663.6504.

YMCA Fun Clubs

directory

Trussville Family Branch

5920 Valley Road Trussville, AL 35173 205.655.2224 Branch Hours Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 7 p.m.

Childwatch Hours Monday – Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

Executive Director Mike Tsimpides Membership Director Cecelia Lowe

Vestavia Xpress Branch

2086 Columbiana Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205.823.0144 Branch Hours Monday - Thursday: 5:15 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday: 5:15 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Childwatch Hours Monday & Wednesday 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.-8 p.m.

Tuesday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., 3:30 -7:30 p.m.

Thursday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., 3:30-7 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 3:30- 6 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Sunday: 2-5:30 p.m.

Executive Director Shon Torgeson Membership Director Cindy Reams

Western Area Family Branch

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childcare

02/16 | Greystone 7-6:30 p.m.

Spend your school holiday at the YMCA. Children will participate in a variety of activities such as sports, games, crafts and more! Space is limited.

Register online at www.ymcabham.org Cost $27 YMCA Members | $40 Non-Members Contact Tanya Hiers at 981.0144.

1195 Bessemer Road Birmingham, AL 35228 205.923.1195 Branch Hours Monday - Thursday: 6 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Executive Director Terri A. Nevett

Birmingham YMCA Youth Center 2400 7th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 205.324.1643 Branch Hours 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Program Executive Chris Oldenburg

02/16 | SHELBY COUNTY 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Spend your school holiday at the YMCA. Children will participate in a variety of activities such as swimming, sports, games, archery, crafts and more!

Space is limited.

Cost $22 YMCA Members | $36 Non-Members Contact Rhonda Williams at 664.9622.

January•February 2009 | Y Life 21

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No more time-outs!

Find inspiration and motivation in youth sports this winter and spring

youth sports

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When you sign up your children to participate in a Birmingham YMCA Youth Sports program, you are guaranteed that your child will play in every game. There are no try-outs, no bench warmers, practice just one day a week, play games on Saturday. Rather than putting the emphasis on winning, we emphasize teamwork, good sportsmanship, selfesteem, and learning how to respect and get along with others.

01/02 -02/21 | Shades Valley Youth Youth Lacrosse Girls & Boys ages 7 to 10 Lacrosse is fast excitement for all girls and boys. The game combines speed, skill, and high intensity and remains one of the fastest sports played today.

Cost YMCA Members $112 | Non-Members $132 Contact Jerry Wrenn at 870.9622.

01/02 -02/14 | Shades Valley Girls Volleyball Our program focuses on the basics of volleyball as a building block toward self confidence and excellent sportsmanship.

Teams play in a fun, low pressure environment with girls between the ages of 8 and 14.

Cost YMCA Members $82 | Non-Members $108 Contact Jerry Wrenn at 870.9622.

01/02-02/24 | Shades Valley Youth Soccer Ages 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14 Boys and girls learn how to play as a team and have fun doing it. Volunteers teach the fundamentals of the game of soccer once a week. Games are played on Saturdays.

Cost $82 YMCA Members | $108 Non-Members Contact Jerry Wrenn at 870.9622.

01/02-02/24 | Shades Valley Flag Football Ages 7 - 14 Allow your boy or girl the opportunity to play fast and furious flag football. Participants learn similar fundamental techniques required for football with NO contact in a low pressure environment. Don’t miss it!

Cost YMCA Members $82 | Non-Members $108 Contact Jerry Wrenn at 870.9622.

22 www.ymcabham.org

01/12/02-07 | Alabaster Soccer, Flag Football, Girls Volleyball Ages 3-12 Cost $75 YMCA Members | $100 Non-Members (ages 3-6) $85 YMCA Members | $110 Non-Members (ages7-12) Contact Gwen Hatcher at 663.6504.

01/05/02-07 | Northeast, mountain brook, trussville, youth center, western area Spring Basketball Camp Important Dates Coaches & Parents Meeting: 02/14 Camp Dates: 02/28-04/24 Cost $50 Contact Joe Brown at 823.1195 01/05-02/07 | Northeast, Youth Center Spring Soccer League Important Dates Coaches & Parents Meeting: 02/14 Camp Dates: 02/28-04/24 Cost $75 YMCA Members $100 Non-Members Contact Joe Brown at 823.1195

more aquatics

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aquatics

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Blended Learning Online CPR/AED Adult, Child, Infant and First Aid

Winter water land New swim team sessions begin in January

YMCA Swim Team is a year-round competitive team for ages 5-18. To participate in the 8 and under groups, your child must be able to swim at least on length of the pool doing freestyle/front crawl and backstroke/back crawl. Nine and older must do 2 lengths of the pool doing freestyle/front crawl and backstroke/back crawl.

Greystone Winter session 01/05-05/22 Costs $75 Annual Fee (Includes USA Swimming registration, T-shirt, and a cap).

Session Fees (4.5 months)

Supersquad Bronze

Silver

Gold

Pre-Senior

Senior

Home School After School Sports

Members Non-Members $195 $247 $220 $280 $270 $345 $295 $377 $320 $410 $345 $442 $220 $280 $270 $345

Contact Susan Becker at 981.0144.

Shelby County Practice Times: Home School Group | 7:15-8:15 a.m. M-F Guppy Group | 4-4:45 p.m. Tu, Th Red Group | 4-5 p.m. M, W, and F Black Group | 4:30-6 p.m. M-F Cost $75 Registration fee (this fee includes the $50 USA Swimming Registration and a team cap) Home School Group $200 YMCA Members | $260 Non-Members 2 Days a week $160 YMCA Members | $208 Non-Members

3 Days a week $175 YMCA Members | $227 Non-Members 5 Days a week $250 YMCA Members |$325 Non-Members Prices are based on how much your child is in the water. Financial Assistance is available.

Trussville Winter session begins 01/05 Costs Varies based on level.

Contact Carla Holloway-Watson at 655.2224 Stroke Team This team is for kids who have come out of our Swim Lesson Program and are ready for the next challenge. This team is designed to help swimmers learn all the strokes for swim team, what a practice is like, and they will get to participate in a swim meet that will only have swimmers just like them.

Shelby County Practice Schedule Monday,Wednesday | 6-6:45pm.

Children will work with USA Certified Swim Coach.

Cost $135 YMCA Members $150 Non-Members Contact Jennifer Dick at 664.9622.

Trussville 01/12-04/08 Practice Schedule Mondays & Wednesdays | 4-5 p.m.

Cost $135 YMCA Members $150 Non-Members Contact Carla Holloway-Watson at 655.2224.

In the continuing collaboration between our association and the American Red Cross, an online-experiential "Blended Learning First Aid/CPR/AED" certification program is now available. The program is designed to prepare individuals to respond to life-threatening emergencies through a combination of online (web-based) lessons and traditional instructor-led training. Blended Learning participants complete the knowledge portion online at home and at their own pace, and then demonstrate those learned -skills in a special class at the Shelby County Branch.

This "blended" program is for group exercise, child watch, Afterschool, front desk, housekeeping, maintenance, and day camp staff. All aquatics staff, including Water Aerobics Instructors, need to take "CPR for the Professional Rescuer." That course is not available in this "blended" format.

Blended learning is self-paced. After completion of the online portion, learners participate in a skill session class and to perform those skills.

How to register for and complete this class Step 1 Contact Jennifer Dick at jdick@ ymcabham.org Step 2 Receive you an ID number and enter it online Step 3 Take the class at your own pace.

Read the review questions, and then take the test.

Step 4 Once the class has been passed, print a CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION (This certificate is your entry into the onsite skills session class; it does not mean that you are certified.) Bring it to the skills session within two weeks of passing the online class.

Step 5 Perform your learned-skills in a class setting.

Step 6 YOU ARE CERTIFIED! Contact Jennifer Dick at 664.9622 for registration and scheduling information.

January•February 2009 | Y Life 23

Net gain!

Vestavia Xpress

New weight loss champ crowned

Vestaiva Xpress member Sharon Hudson captured the title of champion in the 2008 Biggest Loser weight-loss competition. Sharon lost 26 pounds during the 12-week program and always “came in with a smile and worked like a machine at every training session,” said Kellie Wigley. Faith Ingram came in second place, losing 16 pounds.

The fall competition was a spectacular one for the 25 participants and personal trainers. Training sessions included team competitions, interval cardiovascular training, strength training, outdoor workouts, and more. The teams acted as cheerleaders for one another, providing motivation to press on toward their goals.

Look for information around the branch for the spring weight-loss competition or contact Kellie Wigley at 823.0144.

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Y-One Extravaganza

Make plans to participate in the Y-One Extravaganza during February and March at the Mountain Brook Branch. All events support the Strong Kids & Communities Campaign.

Schedule

02/09 | Treadathon All day in the fitness center 02/22 | Cycle Marathon 1:30-5:30 p.m. in the cycle classroom 02/28 | Group Exercise Classes

Tennis camps and clinics resume in January

Fall 2008 Biggest loser champ Sharon Hudson, left, Vestaiva Xpress Fitness Director Kellie Wigley, center, and second place finisher Faith Ingram.

Extreme Conditioning with Sandra 8:30-9:30 a.m. & Yoga with LeAnn 9:4511:15am. Both classes held in the gym 03/02-06 | Fitlinxx Activity Challenge Fitness center 03/07 | Swimathon 8 a.m.-Noon & 1-5:00 p.m. in the pool.

Event details will be posted throughout the branch prior to the events.

Greystone

New group classes begin Be on the

lookout for Zumba (dance based aerobics class), Cycle 101, TaiChi-Yoga Combo Class, Family Yoga and Fitness classes and much more to kick off the new year!

We are now offering private yoga training sessions, in addition to private Pilates and reformer training. Contact Renae McCullough at 981.0144.

Relax with aquatic massage shelby county

Aquatic Massage is a gentle form of body therapy performed in warm water. It combines elements of massage, joint mobilization, shiatsu and stretching.

Aquatic Massage participants do not need to know how to swim. Ear plugs are encouraged to keep water out of ears, but participants will not be in water over the head. Swim suit is required. Each session will be in the therapeutic pool.

Therapist Windy Wills Dodson, LMT | AL 485 Cost $45 per 45-minute session Contact Jennifer Dick | 664.9622 24 www.ymcabham.org

tennis

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group ex & fitness

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greystone Afterschool Tennis Camp Come learn the game of tennis while having lots of fun. This after school tennis program is designed for beginner level junior players. Players will be getting lots of tennis instruction, playing tennis games, competing against players of the same level and ability, and also getting to hit a lot of balls with the Teaching Professional. If you are looking to get your tennis going, this is where you can get started!

Beginners Tennis Camp Monday, Wednesday | 4-5 p.m.

Cost: $15 per session | $115 per month Intermediate/Advanced Tennis Camp Tuesday, Thursday | 4-5:30 p.m.

Cost: $15 per session | $115 per month Contact Cain Mashego at 981.0144.

TRUSSVILLE & MOUNTAIN BROOK Leagues and clinics for men, women and children continue throughout the winter and spring. Call the tennis pro at your branch for details.

Kid’s Page

Add It Up! Number Puzzle 3 2

2

5

5

5

20

5 21

1

5

3

2

6

6

5

6

2

20 22

3

28

1

4

17

4

1

2

1

15

4

3

6

2

21

21

21

24

16

14

Fill in the missing numbers. The missing numbers are integers between 1 and 6.

The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right. The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the totals to the right.

To see the solution, go online to www.ymcabham.org and click the link Y Life Digital.

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Kid Talk

Jabari Drake | Youth Center Age | 6 School | Epic

What do you like most about the YMCA? I like to play, and eat snacks, and play with people and I just want people to be good.

Who is your favorite counselor?

Mrs. Bethany What do you want to be when you grow up.

I want to be a person who works hard, like a fireman.

Looking for an easy and fun way to celebrate your child’s birthday? Half of the YMCA pool during regular business hours or after hours, and a lifeguard and/or building supervisor will be provided for water games and recreational time.

A picnic area or a room will be provided for opening gifts, playing games, and enjoying cake and snacks.

Partiers get one hour of recreational swimming (swimming is done first) and one hour at the picnic area or in the room.

Parties are offered on a first-come, firstserve basis. Contact your neighborhood branch for more information and to reserve a date.

Training

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Splash Parties at the y

CPR Classes Shelby county 01/10 | 9 a.m.-1p.m.

(Adult, Child, Infant, First Aid, AED) 01/22 | 5-9 p.m. (Adult CPR and AED) 02/21 | 9-1 p.m. (Adult, Child, Infant, First Aid, AED) Blended Learning Skills Sessions only 01/13 | 5 p.m.

02/17 | 5 p.m.

Cost $30 Adult CPR | $60 Full Class Contact Jennifer Dick at 664.9622.

Greystone 01/22 | 5-8 p.m.

02/19 | 5-8 p.m.

Cost $35 Contact Susan Becker at 981.0144 .

TRUSSVILLE 01/26 | 5-9 p.m.

02/16 | 5-9 p.m.

Cost $35 for CPR only | $60 for CPR and First Aid Contact Carla Hollaway at 655.2224 January•February 2009 | Y Life 25

My Mission:

L

ongtime Vestavia resident Willard Brooks is a charter member of the Vestavia Xpress Branch, joining before its official opening 25 years ago, and about a year after suffering a serious back injury.

“I used to show horses and back in 1982 I fell off a horse and broke a vertebra in my lower back," Willard said. It was the T-12, the last vertebrae connected to the ribs. The injury caused the vertebra to begin to disconnect from his rib cage, causing pain, lack of mobility and even balance problems.

“I limped around on it for about a year and started putting on weight for the first time in my life,” Willard said. “Just stepping down from a curb took a lot of effort.

Because that vertebra is close to my ribs, it would make me feel like the whole top half of my body was going to topple over.”

To recover, Willard began a fitness regime that focused on the whole body -- not just his back and torso -- and that included both free weight and cardiovascular training. Now, at age 65, Willard is in great physical shape. What lingers is an inherited history of heart disease that helps keep him motivated to live a healthy lifestyle.

“By the time my father was my age he had already had two bypasses. My brother, who is four years younger than me, has already had a stint put in his chest,” Willard said.

“So, I have that family history as motivation.”

Willard is one of Vestavia’s regulars; he works out most every day, sometimes twice a day. He frequently walks to the branch from his home nearby before warming up with a cardio routine then working out with a personal trainer, a process he says has helped him understand how to maintain his strength and avoid injury.

“I really like the personal trainers here. They listen to you and they push you, but not farther than what you’re capable of,” Willard said. “That used to be my biggest problem. I‘d work out on my own and be sore two days later.”

Now retired, Willard is busy renovating a guest house vestavia xpress on a plot of family property. His wife, Joan, is also a Vestavia member, participating in water aerobics on a regular basis.

. . . to get back where I belong

Willard Brooks

26 www.ymcabham.org

Our Mission:

! y it n u m m o c r u o n e To help strength Our Goal:

$561,000 Help us reach our 2009 campaign goal, helping us continue to keep our promise that no one is turned away due to inability to pay.

In 2008 alone, YMCA friends raised over $530,000 through generous gifts, but the YMCA provided $850,000 in financial assistance to over 3,100 children and adults. Please help us continue to keep our promise: send your tax-deductible donation to YMCA Office of Financial Development, 2101 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203, or visit www.ymcabham.org and click "Donate."

Give generously to the 2009 YMCA Strong Kids & Communities Campaign.

February 1 - March 15

. d o o g o D . d la Eat a sa il 17, 2008 March 1 – Apr

ur Buy any salad at yo and neighborhood Moe’s portion Moe’s will donate a every of the proceeds of ng Kids purchase to the Stro aign. & Com mu nities Ca mp

The Birmingham Metropolitan Young Men’s Christian Association invites you

Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center 1200 Tenth Avenue South 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Free parking available across the street

Dinner by

Kathy G

with recipes from Cooking Light Magazine Awards Presentation Jemison Concert Hall Including Volunteers of the Year

$30 per person

2009 Annual Meeting Monday, January 26

Metropolitan Birmingham YMCA 2101 Fourth Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 www.ymcabham.org

Tickets available at any YMCA branch, or at the event

RSVP: annualmeeting@ ymcabham.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 1072 Birmingham, AL

May•June 2006 | Y Life 28