Y Life Birminghamn - January-February 2012

YLife Birmingham

January-February 2012 Volume 7, Issue 1

Blueprint 2011 an n Ua L r E P O rT

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILTY

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YLife

Lifenotes

Birmingham

as you could imagine, blueprints have become a really big deal around the greater Birmingham YmCa recently. after years of planning and dreaming, we welcome a brand new branch to the association in hoover. also, in 2012 we will begin vital construction projects at alabaster and Shades Valley, revitalizing and expanding both branches to help them meet the specific needs and desires of their respective communities.

From creating an enormous and exciting childcare space at hoover, to fashioning a spectacular outdoor pool area at Shades Valley, to expanding the group exercise room for the Zumba- crazy members at alabaster, it’s a wonderful time to be a part of the YmCa. Of course, with each project comes a vast array of blueprints.

Construction, engineering, and architecture forums know first-hand how rewarding it is to see these drawings come to life right before your eyes. it’s akin to watching a child grow into an adult.

Even more rewarding: no blueprint, or branch, is the same from communityPhyllis hall, Board Chairman, Birmingham metropolitan to-community, each one has its own YmCa and Jim Lombard, President & CEO, Birmingham personalities, gifts, and characteristics. no metropolitan YmCa. group exercise class is exactly the same; no child care program is exactly to same; no room, space, corner in any branch is exactly the same. however, as different as our branches are, they all share some intangible features in common. all our branches have a core of energetic and vital people – whether they are staff, volunteers, members, or program participants – who see to it that their neighborhood YmCa is a cornerstone of a strong community. it’s that diversity that we celebrate in this issue of Y Life Birmingham.

Take a few minutes to learn about how within each of our branches, members have found that room, space, or corner, that helps them achieve their goals, create a sense of community, or spend a moment in quiet reflection. We think you’ll be inspired. Let us help you create your own blueprint for success.

Join Me at the Y

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2011 Annual Report

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Circuit

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January-February 2012, Volume 7 issue 1

YMCA of Birmingham Officers CHAIRMAN Phyllis hall VICE CHAIRMAN Joseph mays, Jr. TREASURER michael Temple SECRETARY David Woodruff

Board Members Tracy morant adams Charles Ball Tim Blair Cecil Bostany Libby Carpenter Denise Dauphin Courtney French harold goings ann haas roderick hawkins robert L. holman Wayne Houston mallie ireland Lynn Jones anthony a. Joseph robert E. Kelly Scott Kenny Tom L. Larkin John Lauriello alan Lott harrison manning Yvonne mcBeth ann D. mcmillan Judge John Ott rick Player Leigh Davis Perry henry ray, Jr. allen rice Joey ritchey Lloyd Shelton reeves Sims, Jr. Steve Smith Walker Sorrell Judge andra Sparks Cedric Sparks michael Suco Jami Wadkins Chip Watts Board of Trustees CHAIRMAN anne huckstep VICE CHAIRMAN Bill Clark

Joe Bluestein Frank James allen rushton James W. Shepherd Judge Scott Vowell President and CEO James n. Lombard YLife Birmingham is published five times a year by the YmCa of Birmingham.

Copyright 2006 by the metropolitan Birmingham YmCa. all rights reserved. no part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the YmCa of Birmingham.

My Mission

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YLife Birmingham welcomes letters and story ideas. Please send them to: YLife Birmingham, 2101 4th avenue north, Birmingham, alabama 35203 or to ylife@ymcabham.org.

YLife Birmingham Staff

VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS David g. hill MARKETING MANAGER Loyd mcintosh DESIGNER Tracy Thomas

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.

United Way Partner.

Joinme at the Y

Hoover YMCA Debuts On 5 a.m., Thursday, December 15, the doors of the new YmCa hoover branch opened to the public for the first time, and for the branch’s charter members, the long wait is over. Located in the former Bruno’s Supermarket on John hawkin’s Parkway, the YmCa hoover is a full-service family branch offering an array of group exercise classes, health and wellness programs, and children’s activities all under one roof. hoover staff and volunteers from other Birmingham YmCa branches guided members on tours of the building, answered questions, and helped members find their sweet spot on equipment and in group exercise classes. The response to the new facility has been universally positive.

“The YmCa really adds to the quality of life in our community and it’s fantastic for every member of your family,” said charter member Linda Sewell. “i have an 83-year-old mom who can come and walk and i have two little kids who will fit in to the children’s programs. It’s close to home but it has something for everyone. it’s a real jewel.”

“Some of our members joined way back in the summer and they’re so excited to see it. They’ve

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been commenting on how beautiful it is,” said YmCa hoover Executive Director Julie Broday. “i had one family where the dad brought in his two kids before school because they just wanted to see it. They’re just so happy we’re open because they’ve been anticipating it for so long.”

LifeSkills Three Reasons You Should Become CPR Certified 1. You Can’t See Into The Future. a medical emergency can

PAVEThEWAY! The Shades Valley YmCa renewal construction begins soon! honor or memorialize family, friends, organizations, pets and pals with YOUr personalized paver or brick. Call Dawn Pilleteri at 803-1804 or e-mail pavetheway@ymcabham.org.

TOYSFOrTOTS how many volunteer elves does it take to bring a smile on Christmas morning?

Just one; so imagine the smiles on kids faces last month after over 200 volunteers joined with the YmCa’s support of the marines’ Toys for Tots effort. in the association’s eighth year to provide volunteer hands and feet to help sign up, bag, and distribute holiday toys, over 5,500 kids under 12, from more than 2,200 families across the greater Birmingham region smiled Christmas morning.

Volunteers came from schools, churches, businesses, and youth groups; the new volunteer Junior Board of the YmCa also played a prominent role.

Thank you, all; now we’re smiling!

happen to anyone at any time, and it’s important for everyone to know what to do if and when a loved one, or complete stranger, were to stop breathing. That’s why all YmCa staff are trained in CPr and First aid, not just the fitness staff or lifeguards.

2. Time is of the Essence. Permanent brain damage can occur within 4-6 minutes after a person has stopped breathing, and it can take up to 15 minutes for paramedics to arrive in many cases. a victim’s best chance of survival comes if CPr is performed within the first few minutes and continues until medical help arrives.

3. Becoming Certified is Simple and Easy. Learning to save a life by becoming CPR certified doesn’t take a huge time commitment.

I was certified on a weekday morning and was back in my office working by lunch. also, as long as you pay attention to your instructor, perform the tasks, and score an 80 or above on the multiple choice exam, you can get your certification.

Leigh Allen is an Accountant in the YMCA Business Office and is certified in CPR and First Aid.

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 5

Blueprint 2011 a n n UaL r E PO rT

Alabaster Child Care Branch

PREPARING CHILDREN FOR GREATER SUCCESS Tucked away on a side street by the railroad is the alabaster Childcare Branch; a small, wood-frame, one-story building at the end of a cul de sac. From the outside, it doesn’t look like much, but looks belie experience. inside, more lives have been changed for the better than, perhaps, at any other YmCa. Child care remains the primary focus of the branch that, for 40 years, has been one of the few places in central Shelby County where children can learn, grow and be cared for in a safe, positive environment. and, while the alabaster Child Care Branch has been a leader in summer programming and afterschool care throughout its history, the branch is now ground zero in an innovative program called the international Children’s initiative.

Charged with helping the mostly hispanic preschool-aged children of immigrants be ready for kindergarten, staff and volunteers help children improve their English speaking skills, learn to follow directions, work with others, and expand their abilities to make friends. Since launching in the fall of 2007, the program’s reputation for helping children of diverse backgrounds learn and develop has grown exponentially throughout the education community in Shelby County. most importantly, however, the children—and their parents—love coming to the YMCA. “my child’s experience in the program has helped improve her social skills,

as well as helped teach her younger sister the things she learns at school,” said parent Andrea Wallace. “gabrielle has always been excited about learning new things. This program has helped bring out more of her curiosity,” added Stephanie reynolds, the mother of four-year-old garbrielle. “She’s excited to go to school each day and excited to be with her teachers and friends. She’s getting better with every aspect of learning.”

Alabaster Family Branch

MY GROUP ExERCISE ROOM IS SO SMALL …

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as a child you were always told ‘honesty is the best policy.’ Keeping that lesson close to heart, it’s time to be completely honest about something. The group exercise room at the alabaster YmCa is small. really small. how small is it? it’s so small, when we put a key in the keyhole, we break a window. The group exercise room is so small, we put a welcome mat inside and now we have wall-to-wall carpeting. And, finally, the group exercise room is so small you have to go outside to change your mind.

Since alabaster opened its doors in October 2010, and a need for intense group exercise classes was uncorked, this little room in the back corner of the branch has transformed into one of the hottest spots in town. Even though it can be difficult to get into a class at times—Zumba is especially popular—and class participants are packed in like sardines, many members say that close proximity to each other makes classes more enjoyable.

Camp Cosby

PUTTING YOUR FLYING DISCS INTO ONE BASKET

Sports writer, John Feinstein, once wrote a book about the sport of golf called A Good Walk Spoiled. For you who are golfers, you undoubtedly have experienced the rage-inducing vagaries of the game, and no doubt agree with that sentiment. Whether or not that title would work for the up and coming sport of disc golf is anyone’s guess, although there is nothing that could spoil the walk through the woods on Camp Cosby’s new disc golf course.

Located in the tree lined natural areas on the banks of Logan martin Lake, the nine-hole course at the YmCa’s residence camp gives young campers a chance to test their flying disc skills while spending some time in the great outdoors with friends. Disc golf is played much like real golf only with special flying discs and stationary baskets for the holes.

Camp Cosby is overflowing with spectacular views of the lake and outdoor activities, such as canoeing, motorbike riding, and horseback riding. however, the disc golf course is an ingenious way to get kids on existing trails at the camp without it feeling like an old-fashioned hike.

“There is lots of camaraderie among the kids and since much of it is done running from throw to throw there’s lots of exercise, too,” said Sabrina mcClain, Summer resident Camp assistant Director.

“Even though we’re close together, it makes it more fun. The energy level is higher,” said alabaster member Sally Lagrande.

“You have to get here 30 minutes ahead of time, but the instructors are great.”

Part of what makes classes in the group exercise room so much fun is the personal relationships that develop. in this case, being close in a physical sense helps people grow closer emotionally. “i’ve met a lot of friends here. Coming to a class here is more motivating to me than independent exercise,” said alabaster members michelle Pendleton. “This is very good for my wellbeing. i’m very fortunate that i can come and exercise and see these people.”

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 7

Blueprint 2011 a n n UaL r E PO rT

Downtown

A PLACE FOR qUIET INTROSPECTION it may surprise some, but at the epicenter of the bustling metropolis of downtown Birmingham, amidst a YmCa branch filled with members, there is still a place to find a few moments of peace. Tucked into the heart of the branch is the Chapel, no more than about 4 steps wide, another 8 steps long, and surrounded by warm wood paneling. The moment anyone steps into the room, they shed the whirlwind of glass skyscrapers; it feels like home. in early 2011 Board member, Tom hale, recognized a void. There had been no Chapel in the branch for nearly five years, and he felt the building was missing something. With the help of many loyal board members and volunteers, a new chapel was created for the visitors of the Downtown Y. it was a careful, painstaking process; the Pastor who built the room inscribed Scripture all along the edges of the ceiling, concealing the messages with crown molding. now, the Chapel serves as a space for the members of the YmCa to come breathe, relax, read a book, or just simply take a moment with their thoughts. many people come to sit and cool down after a workout or unwind from their day with a few minutes of inward focus. Executive Director of the Downtown Branch, andrew Freeman, noted how the space has allowed him to connect with his members: “it’s amazing how people you never really connected with will tell you about what brings them here to the Chapel.”

The Downtown Branch Chapel feels like nowhere else in the building, and truly is its heartbeat.

(By hunter hollis, marketing intern, junior at Jefferson County international Baccalaureate School)

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Greystone

THE REAL BRAINS OF THE OPERATION many of you may know that the greystone Branch is a very busy place. it is home to the largest membership base in Birmingham, located in one of the busiest parts of town, and a stone’s throw from the busiest highway in the city.

What some of you may not know is that Greystone hosts the busiest—and largest—swim team in the city as well.

Over 300 kids currently participate in greystone’s swim team, descending on the pool daily for practice with one of about a dozen volunteer coaches. Weekend meets at the branch are an exercise in controlled chaos, as a network of buses shuttle swimmers and their families to and from the branch and parking lots up and down highway 280, and a network of volunteers shuttle athletes and their families to and from the pool deck. Organizing all this pandemonium is a monumental task fitting of a command and control center rather than the small, closet-sized office at the heart of the program.

Regardless of its size, the aquatics office at Greystone is the heart and brain of the program, and one of the only places around the entire association where members, staff, and volunteers interact daily. Leading the swim team troops like a general is volunteer Kerrie Johnson. Without Kerrie organizing the action behind the scenes, the Greystone Swim Team wouldn’t be the well-oiled machine that it has become, and the aquatics office wouldn’t be such a fun place to hang out.

“Kerrie spends countless hours behind the scenes to make sure everything goes smoothly for our swim team,” says swim team parent and greystone member, Ellen Brown.

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 9

Blueprint 2011 a n n UaL r E PO rT

Hargis Retreat

A SPECIAL LANDMARK ANCHORED IN ROCK Driving on highway 280, as anyone knows, can be a harrowing experience.

The bumper-to-bumper traffic, the constant stopping and going, the headaches, you know the drill. however, there is a spot just a few minutes from the highway from hades that will make you feel you’re a million miles away at the very least.

Located in the Chelsea area of northern Shelby County, YmCa hargis retreat is like a virtual oasis in the middle of the chaos that surrounds our lives. hargis’ grounds are not only beautiful, but there is plenty of activity there for visitors to the grounds. For instance, there are hiking trails, a lake for fishing and canoeing, and fields for games and activities. You can play outdoor basketball or volleyball, or go swimming in the pool from may to September.

There are plenty of special places throughout hargis that allow a visitor to enjoy a moment or two for prayer, meditation, or just a few minutes of peace and quiet. The most unique spot might be at the base of the cross at hargis, which has an amazing history unto itself.

“The parents of a fallen soldier placed the cross high on the hill, to honor the sacrifice that Christ made for each of us, and it also reminded us of the sacrifice of our military for all Americans,” said Libby Carpenter, a member of

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the hargis Board.

Over the years, the trees grew up around the cross blocking its view from most points around the property. however, that changed in 2008. “The hargis advisory Board used donated resources to cut the trees in front of the cross and expose its beauty once again,” Carpenter said. “always a popular hiking destination for campers, the newly exposed rock face led to the birth of hargis’ popular rock climbing specialty camp.”

Hoover

THERE IS ExCITEMENT IN THE AIR December 15, 2011 was the day. after over a year of planning, careful consideration, discussions, and construction, the hoover Family Branch YMCA finally opened, and what a glorious day it was. In the months leading up to the branch’s opening, over 1,100 households joined as charter members, many of whom had only seen the former supermarket building from the outside.

While filling out the proper paperwork they learned about what the hoover YmCa would eventually offer from membership Director, Cindy Reams, from inside her temporary office, located in a tiny trailer in the parking lot. To say she is excited to finally be in the newly constructed branch is an understatement.

“There were times when i didn’t think this day would ever come. now that it’s here and the new hoover YmCa is open, it’s so exciting. it turned out better than i could have ever imagined,” said reams. “The members love it, the staff loves it, and the community loves it. i’m looking forward to seeing this branch serve the hoover community for many, many years to come.”

For a few weeks prior to the opening, charter members were treated to a few behindthe-scenes tours during the final stages of construction. The response was

overwhelmingly positive, and some members even took the time to share their thoughts in e-mails to the staff. here is a sample of what they said: “i’m excited about using all the brand new fancy equipment,” said charter member Carol Lowe. “all the staff are very friendly and welcoming. i already feel at home.”

“The tour was great. We are sooo excited,” wrote charter member Linda Sewell. “i’m looking forward to getting to know you and the team better, too.”

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 11

Blueprint 2011 a n n UaL r E PO rT

THAT’S THE WAY THE BALL BOUNCES Mountain Brook Every so often we talk to our members and ask them to describe their branch, or to tell us about their favorite workout spot or exercise activity. it’s not uncommon to hear them say something along the lines of “there is nothing else like it in Birmingham.” in the case of the indoor tennis courts at the mountain Brook Branch, it’s true. not only are there no other indoor tennis courts in Birmingham, there are no other publically-accessible indoor courts anywhere south of Birmingham either. During the winter months—and hot summer months—tennis players throughout the community flock to the branch to hone their skills yearround.

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“a lot of the better players in Birmingham have a Y membership simply to take advantage of the indoor courts. Being able to play inside during periods of inclement weather helps you maintain the consistency everyone wants,” said mountain Brook member Charlie ingram. “it sure beats not having access to indoor facilities and being forced to go days—or at times even weeks— without playing tennis because of bad weather.”

The indoor courts have undergone quite a few changes since the branch opened in 1975 as The racquet Place. For one, the court has a special playing surface called Pro Purple. The bright purple color, aside from just looking cool, allows players to better see the ball during play.

“The indoor courts give you such true bounces,” said Ingram. ”Wind and cold temperatures aren’t factors, so you can focus more on just hitting the ball.”

Northeast

YMCA MAKEOVER, NORTHEAST EDITION Here is an interesting question: What can you do, in six months, to a cinder block building with no heating, air conditioning, furniture, or purpose? How about transform it into a spectacular child care space and community gathering place.

For 40 years, the pool house at the northeast YmCa served members as a place to change into swimsuits. however, with space becoming scarce to house a growing need for children’s programs and neighborhood gatherings, the idea to rework the old one-story, concrete shell was hatched in early 2010.

Construction took less than six months and the new space opened in time for Summer Day Camp in late spring. now, the children of Birmingham’s east side have a bright, fun and colorful space to spur the imagination and play with friends.

“This means a lot,” said longtime youth program participant and huffman high School graduate, Ebony moore. “i’m super excited about this new addition to the YmCa because we don’t have a lot of room and we’ve been to a lot of meetings elsewhere.”

Best of all, the new space has prepared the branch to better meet the needs of the greater community. “This northeast YmCa has always had a longstanding tradition of service for the roebuck and huffman community,” said former board chairman, rod hawkins. “Through these expansions and improvements to our facilities, we’re prepared for the next generation of continued service for our area.”

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 13

Blueprint 2011 a N N UaL R E P O RT

Pelham

The Bad Moods JusT MelT away Make the short trip down Highway 31 for a visit to the Pelham YMCa and one thing becomes abundantly clear: Pelham members love group exercise. Whether it’s the strength-enhancing activities of Body Pump, the calmness of a yoga class, or the crazy fun of Zumba class, the group exercise room is the place people get healthy and forge relationships in Pelham.

“I think people like it probably because of the camaraderie with people surrounding you, it pushes you more,” said Denise Donahoo, a Pelham member and group exercise instructor. “There are times when I might be tired and I see others around me giving it their all, it makes me want to work harder.”

“I think the instructors underestimate what they do, because it’s good to have someone in the room who pushes you to do better. and, it’s just fun,” adds member Tracy Hill. “I look forward to seeing these people and I think a lot of this group feels that way. It’s always fun. If you don’t look forward to it, you won’t come.”

By far, the most popular class at Pelham is the Latin-based dance class, Zumba. Regular classes throughout the week draw big crowds and the Zumba special events that the branch schedules regularly are legendary, as the fiesta spills out from the group exercise room and into the gymnasium. Donahoo says the class is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.

“I like Zumba the most because it’s a little party every day. You can feel the energy throughout the whole building,” Donahoo said. “Have you ever seen anybody dancing in a bad mood? Exactly!”

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Shades Valley

MiddaY at the OaSiS For over 40 years, the Shades Valley YMCA has attended to the Homewood community in incalculable ways. From the beginning, when the branch offered little more than youth sports in vacant lots throughout town, to becoming the anchor of the community where Montgomery Highway and Lakeshore Drive connect, the YMCA has been a constant presence serving families and being a good community neighbor.

All the use has led the branch’s façade to fade and the bones to begin to creak, which is why the facility is poised to begin a major renewal project. By the end of the year, a newer, brighter, and better Shades Valley YMCA will be on display, welcoming members and friends for 40 more years.

While the entire complex will receive a refreshing facelift, the outdoor pool will receive the most attention, moving from its current, disconnected location up hill, to a new home closer to the existing building. It will also be one of the nicest and most family friendly swimming pools in the entire community.

“The new Shades Valley outdoor pool will have something for everyone, including a sloped, accessible, zero depth entrance. Water elements for the young and young at heart will include a water slide, water basketball, water geysers, water-dumping buckets along with a water mushroom,” said Membership Director Dawn Pilleteri. “On the other side lap swimmers can exercise and enjoy the fresh air.”

Chairman of the RENEW OUR HOME campaign, Tom Patterson, seconded the project’s value: “It’s time to reinvest in this important asset so the Y can continue providing life changing programs and serve the needs of more kids and area families.”

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 15

Blueprint 2011 a n n UaL r E PO rT

Trussville

WHERE KIDS CAN REALLY BE KIDS if the heart of a branch is that space that is normally up front and easily seen by everyone who walks in the door, then the heart of the Trussville YmCa is a hidden treasure. at the Birmingham YmCa’s eastern branch, the real action is in the children’s space commonly known as the Stadium.

The Stadium was built specifically for the hundreds of children that come through the branch for afterschool, holiday camps, and summer day camp each year. it is where Trussville’s children come to play, learn, and grow in a safe place all their own. The Stadium may not be the heart of the branch—maybe more like the liver—but without it the branch wouldn’t be the same.

For some of the kids who come to the branch every day, the Stadium provides a chance to blow off steam after a long day in the classroom. Ten-year-old E.J. Powell says exactly how much steam you get to blow off depends on what the counselors and mr. Fred has planned for the day.

“That depends on if you have free play. if you have free play you can play like crazy,” said Powell. “if you don’t have free play, you have to be more normal.”

For others, the Stadium is a place to hang out with pals and to just be a kid. “i like to play with all my friends and play dodge ball, side out and all that stuff,” says 11-yearold Bentley Layton.

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Vestavia

Strong coffee and perSonalitieS If you want to know where the heartbeat of Vestavia is located, just walk up to the drug dealer, the arsonist, and the dirty old man holding court and drinking coffee around the tables in the branch’s lobby. Nicknames for a pharmacist, a man whose lake house burned, and a retired businessman; these gents will tell you the ‘heartbeat’ of the branch is right where they’re sitting.

The handful of tables situated in the lobby of the branch on Columbiana Road has served as a de facto hang out spot for members—and characters— of all ages, for years. Informally known as ‘The Coffee Club,’ members congregate right here, with a panoramic view of the happenings, and the people, of the Vestavia YMCA. They spend time together over a cup of joe while telling a tall tale or two after their workouts have ended. While the

physical body is being toned elsewhere in the building, it’s here where the heart and soul are strengthened and emotional bonds are built among the group members.

“It means family,” says Betsy O’Neil, a Vestavia member. “We like to go someplace where everyone knows our name.”

Of course, if you’re going to be spending time shooting the breeze and gaining entrance into the circle of friends, it’s best to make sure you’re armed with a healthy sense of humor and opinions on current topics.

“If you’re looking for more than a hot, sweaty, sexy body, then you too can be a member of the group,” says Coffee Club veteran Curtis Gwaltney.

“We solve the world’s problems,” adds Ralph Bryant. “ It’s where facts don’t matter, but opinions that count.”

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 17

Blueprint 2011 a n n UaL r E PO rT

Western Area

A PLACE TO SHARE AND SHARE ALIKE If you have children and you’ve had trouble teaching them the value of sharing, you could do worse than hold up the Western Area YMCA as a good example. One of the smaller branches in the Birmingham association, the Midfield branch serves a diverse demographic, from three-year-olds to 80-and-ups in the same multi-purpose room in the center of the branch. “it goes from serving seniors as a Bible study place, to a place where seniors in Jefferson County receive a hot meal (they make lunches for meals on wheels there in the morning), to a place filled with children in the Afterschool program,” said area vice president, Terri Harvill. it might be strange to some people to say that a simple room—four walls, a door and some windows—can be so important to a person.

But for 96-year-old, Ethel Taylor, coming to the YmCa and visiting with her group of friends in the multi-purpose room is always time well spent.

She arrives at the Bessemer Road YMCA every morning to help pack for Meals on Wheels, and then she participates in all the exercises, games and interactive activities with her group of friendly seniors. She even plays the piano regularly during their music sessions; she says the opportunity to see smiling faces each day is a blessing for which she makes sure to thank god. “i wake up in the morning and i say ‘Lord, thank you for another day,’” said Taylor. “i pray for myself, for my children, my church, and i pray for this group”.

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Youth Center

WHOLE LOT OF COOKIN’ GOING ON as hard as it may be to believe, it is possible to get your children to eat their vegetables. not only that, but it’s possible for them to enjoy the experience as well. For proof, look no further than the Youth Center in downtown Birmingham. although the 30-foot climbing tower is the center piece to the Youth Center—it’s visible from nearby i-59 —the fully appointed teaching kitchen is truly where children’s minds are expanded and their lives changed. There, kids are taught how to make healthier food choices for themselves, but they also learn how to cook their own meals, and how the food they consume gets from the ground to their tables.

Since opening its doors in 2006, hundreds of children have learned the valuable lessons of healthy cooking and eating at the Youth Center, a blessing for Birmingham’s children at a time when childhood obesity and the overall health of the community’s young people are serious issues. “nearly one-third of all U.S. children and adolescents are either overweight or obese, putting them at higher risk for heart disease, type ii diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, asthma and certain types of cancer,” said Bree garrett, nutrition Coordinator for Jones Valley Urban Farm and a program provider at the Youth Center teaching kitchen.

The Youth Center teaching kitchen is not just for kids, but for the entire family as well. recently, the YmCa’s Diabetes Prevention Program has held meetings at the Youth Center and had the opportunity to participate in cooking demonstrations by health and wellness expert, Caroline Bundy.

“We not only have to reach out to the children who are at-risk, but also reach each family and get back to the simplicities of playing outside, cooking at home, having meals together, and making healthy choices,” said Bundy.

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 19

CIRCUIT

COnnECTing YOU TO ThE Birmingham YmCa BranCh BY BranCh

Calendar UP TO DATE | JANUARY 1 - MARCH 10 JANUARY

January 20 & February 14 | SHADES VALLEY YMCA

January 2-March 2 SHADES VALLEY YMCA

Parents Night Out

Drop & go

6 – 9:30 p.m. | ages 5 and up.

Deadline to register is the Wednesday prior to Parents Night Out Activities include hot dog or pizza dinner, snacks, drinks, movies, Wii games, scavenger hunts, and so much more!

Open to members and non-members!

Cost - $15 for first child; $10 each additional child CONTACT alisha holland at 870-9622 or acarroll@ymcabham.org

monday-Friday | 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Fun, safe, and loving environment for your kids to stay while you are on the go. available to YmCa members only.

Cost 1-2 hours $10 for first child | $7 for each additional child 2-5 hours $15 for first child | $12 for each additional child CONTACT alisha holland at 870-9622 or acarroll@ymcabham.org January 3 | SHADES VALLEY YMCA

Fun Club 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Fun Club is a place for your kids to be during School holidays. Our counselors will keep your children busy with activities throughout the day. They will have the opportunity to participate in games (indoor and out), arts & crafts, field-trips, and even swimming!

Cost $25 YmCa members | $35 non-members CONTACT alisha holland at 870-9622 or acarroll@ymcabham.org January 8 | WESTERN

Zumba® Marathon Dancing in the new Year!

2–5 p.m.

Cost Free for YmCa members | $8 for non-members CONTACT Keesha nelson at 923-1195 or knelson@ymcabham.org January 9 | PELHAM

Spring Break Camp Registration On-going until full Spend Spring Break at the Pelham YmCa. Campers will enjoy sports, art, games, daily swimming, field trips to the McWane Center and more. Camp is available for children in grades K-8. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. register early! For more information, visit www.ymcabham.org/ phholidaycamps Cost $99 YmCa members | $151 non-members CONTACT rhonda Elmore at 685-6510 or relmore@ymcabham.org.

20 | www.ymcabham.org

January 22 | NORTHEAST

Zumba® Marathon Dancing in the new Year!

2–5 p.m.

Cost Free for YmCa members | $8 for non-members CONTACT Keesha nelson at 923-1195 or knelson@ymcabham.org January 29 | DOWNTOWN

Aqua Zumba Party heat up the pool party with Canadian Zumba Education Specialist, richard gormley!

6 p.m. – registration & Zumbawear shopping 6:30 p.m. aqua Zumba Party!

Cost $15 (proceeds benefit the Strong Kids and Communities Campaign) CONTACT Zumba@ymcabham.org for more information

FEBRUARY

February 4 | MOUNTAIN BROOK

Y-ONE Extravaganza! group Exercise Classes and ZUmBa® support Strong Kids!

Participate in any of the exciting special events we will be offering to support Strong Kids!

Cycle marathon | February 4, 8–11:30 a.m.

Zumba® LiVE! | march 4, 3–5 p.m. horizontal Conditioning with Sandra | TBa CONTACT mary Casciaro at 870-01447 or mcasciaro@ymcabham.org.

February 4-5 | GREYSTONE

Group Ex–A-Thon for Strong Kids Cycle Marathon and Group Ex Party February 4, 8–11 a.m.

Zumba® Party!

| February 5, 3-5 p.m. multiple instructors and class styles will be offered throughout the weekend! Zumba requires tickets to reserve YOUR space on the floor!

Come one, come all! We will have something for everyone!

All contributions and proceeds will benefit Strong Kids and Communities Campaign for the Birmingham YmCa! CONTACT renae mcCullough at 981-0144 rmccullough@ymcabham.org.

Directory February 20 | ALABASTER, PELHAM, GREYSTONE, TRUSSVILLE, SHADES VALLEY, WESTERN, NORTHEAST, YOUTH CENTER & HOOVER

Fun Club Children in grades K-8 When school is out the YMCA is open! The YMCA will provide a fun full day program when students are out of school for President’s Day. The kids will enjoy fun activities, games, sports, arts and crafts, and more! register online at www.ymcabham.org or contact your local YmCa for more information.

MARCH

March 9 | PELHAM

Glow and Glitter Zumba® Party!

6 p.m.

Featuring some of the stars of Zumba Fitness DVDs! marcie gill, Erick Santana and DJ Francis will be arriving from Miami for the hottest party of the year! Benefitting Pelham YMCA Strong Kids Campaign CONTACT Zumba@ymcabham.org.

March 10 | PELHAM

Zumbatomic® Party for the Entire Family!

11 a.m.

Grandparents, parents and kids (ages 4 and up) can enjoy this fun-filled Zumba® party appropriate for the entire family! Join Zumbatomic Education Specialist, marcie gill, miami DJ, Francis and Y guy, for one of the biggest events of the year! Benefitting Pelham YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.

CONTACT Zumba@ymcabham.org.

Alabaster Family Branch 117 Plaza Circle alabaster, aL 35007 205.663.7240 Branch Hours monday-Thursday: 5 a.m.- 10 p.m.

Friday: 5 a.m.- 7 p.m.

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

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

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lane Vines MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Carol hamilton

Alabaster Childcare Branch 1303 7th Street SW alabaster, aL 35007 205.663.6504 Branch Hours monday-Friday: September-may 1 - 6 p.m.

June-august 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

gwen hatcher

YMCA Camp Cosby 2290 Paul Bear Bryant road alpine, aL 35014 256.268.2007 ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Casey

CHILDCARE MULTIPLE BRANCHES Now Hiring Summer Camp Counselors

Application Deadline March 15 interested in working around kids, making a difference, and having fun? if so, then the YmCa may have a position perfect for you. apply in person at the branch.

Contact your neighborhood branch.

ALABASTER, PELHAM, GREYSTONE, TRUSSVILLE, SHADES VALLEY, WESTERN, NORTHEAST, YOUTH CENTER

YMCA Afterschool Program

Ongoing until full Our program provides daily transportation service from alabaster & Calera schools. Participants will participate in games, sports, homework assistance, devotions, character development activities, and more. Open to children in grades K-8.

Financial assistance is available for afterschool. apply in person at your neighborhood branch or learn more at ymcabham.org/afterschool.

ALABASTER, PELHAM, GREYSTONE, TRUSSVILLE, SHADES VALLEY, WESTERN, NORTHEAST, YOUTH CENTER, HOOVER

Summer Day Camp Registration

Begins in January (for specific dates for each location check out our website) For great programs that offer traditional summer camps as well as specialty, sports, and aquatic camps register now at your local YMCA. While following the same high quality standards, each location offers its own unique spin on summer camp. For activities that range from swimming, crafts, and field trips to special activities like Princess Camp, trips to the moon, and learning about wild animals, there is something for everyone. give your child the gift of friendship, laughter, and unforgettable memories by registering them for a YmCa camp experience today. www.ymcabham.org

Downtown Branch 2101 4th avenue north Birmingham, aL 35203 205.324.4563 Branch Hours monday-Thursday: 5 a.m.- 9 p.m.

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

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

Sunday: Closed ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

andrew Freeman MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Caroline Bundy

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.- 1 p.m. & 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. & 3:30-7 p.m.

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

Sunday: 2-6 p.m.

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Pat Tate MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Kristin harris

ymcabham.org January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 21

CIRCUIT GROUP ExERCISE & FITNESS GREYSTONE ,TRUSSVILLE, VESTAVIA, DOWNTOWN AND HOOVER

YMCA Active Weight Loss Program Ready to get healthy? Ring in a new you in 2012! The Y Active Weight Loss program is an affordable, comprehensive weight loss program which includes weekly group meetings with a private weigh in; diet and physical activity tracking logs; good, common sense nutritional advice and supervised group personal training; all in a fun, high-energy, supportive environment! greystone Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

Trussville Wednesdays at noon and 5:45 p.m.

Vestavia, Downtown & hoover classes starting soon!

Cost $45 YmCa members | $100 non-members includes Citywide access for you to YmCa branches as long as you are enrolled in the program.

CONTACT Caroline Bundy at 801-7212 or cbundy@ymcabham.org

HOOVER

We’re Open!

The hoover branch is now open and offering a full schedule of group exercise classes. a Beginner Step Class will be offered on Thursday’s at 6:15pm starting the first Thursday in January. Please check out the YmCa website at www.ymcabham.org for a full schedule of class listings.

CONTACT robyn Boatman at 682-1399 or rboatman@ymcabham.org.

Specialty Small Group Training

Begins January 1 With a maximum of 6 people in each class, small groups offer more individual attention than large group classes and are more affordable than one-on-one training. The schedule gives you the flexibility to try new classes, new instructors and a variety of class times. new and exciting classes are being added monthly to give you the variety you need to keep your body changing. Family members on the same membership can share a package. Schedule available online at: ymcabham.org/hvsmallgrouptraining.

Some of the classes offered include: ADULT Classes: Women’s Total Body, Bootcamp, Y Active Weight Loss, Triathlon Club.

YOUTH classes: KiDS Fit Club (ages 11+), TEEn strength (ages 13+), SLaQ class (ages 9+) (speed, lateral movement, agility, quickness). To see a current schedule visit ymcabham.org/hvsmallgrouptraining.

Cost: 10 sessions $150 YmCa members | $225 non-members CONTACT Kelly Kidd at 968-1399 or kkidd@ymcabham.org.

Nutritional Coaching Year-round Work with an experienced Registered Dietician, Kristin McManus, to learn how to modify your eating habits and achieve your goals.

Topics include: meal planning, emotional eating, shopping lists, sports specific diets, family meal planning, diets for medical conditions such as iBS, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, metabolic disorder, eating out and weight loss.

Cost per session $33 YmCa members | $50 non-members CONTACT Kelly Kidd, kkidd@ymcabham.org 22 | www.ymcabham.org

VESTAVIA

New Fitness Punch Card $150 for 10 sessions With the card you can attend any of the small group classes below.

You can try a class for a drop in rate of $20.

CLASS OFFERINGS YCROSS2 Athletic Conditioning FitClub Boxing Bride to Be Bootcamp Women’s Walk and Weights Terms You may use your card to attend any of the classes on the small group training schedule. Class will proceed with one or more up to 6 participants. all classes are drop in and do not require a reservation. Persons on the same membership can share a card. ages 12 & up may attend classes. Only ages 14 & up can attend without a parent. go online to ymcabham.org/vestavia for schedule of classes.

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Nutrition Coaching make an appointment to get nutritional coaching by an experienced coach, Sharon Lamberth. Sharon will give you meal ideas, shopping lists, behavioral modification tools (discussing emotional eating, late night snacking, and helping cope with getting up in the night and eating), and plans for eating out and entertaining.

Buy a personal training package and mix and match sessions with personal training and nutrition.

CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

ZumbaTomic® Birthday Parties For kids Available Times Fridays: 6-7:30 p.m.

Sat: noon-5:30 p.m.

Sunday: 2-5:30 p.m.

Cost $150 YmCa members | $200 non-members $75 deposit required.

Party is one hour. includes use of party room, soft play room (if age appropriate), your own party helper to set up and clean up after party, and Zumba led by an instructor.

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org to reserve your party, get a tour of the party space, and help you decide on party plans.

Karate Shingo-ha Yoshukai Karate by Sensei Becky givens Shingo means to unite heart, mind, and spirit. The goals of the class are to provide students with good exercise, to have fun, build self confidence, self discipline, and teach self defense.

Ongoing class…join in at any time 45 min classes Classes meet monday evenings Class times 5-13 yrs 5:15-6 p.m. (classes time subject to change depending on size of class) Cost (per month) $30 YmCa members| $50 non members Try out a FrEE class One time $30 uniform fee CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Directory Zumba® Mondays at 6:30 p.m.at Bluff Park United Methodist Church.

Cost $5 per session CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Free walking group Offered to all members or potential members. Walk indoors on the track for 2 miles or 30 minutes while enjoying the company of other walkers & the encouragement of the instructor.

CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Check out www.ymcabham.org/vestavia for new additions to group exercise schedule starting in January at Vestavia YmCa! Come see the new face lift at Vestavia....new equipment throughout branch, new floors in group ex & locker rooms, new cycle bikes, brand new cardio equipment, and new group exercise equipment!

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

GREYSTONE

Happy Healthy New Year Get ready for some exciting options to take your fitness to the next level in 2012. We are adding classes to the Punch Card Fitness Program ($150 for a card that gives you a variety of classes and programs to choose from; one class is one punch!).

Be on the lookout for: Couch to 5k (C25K) Prepare for the YMCA Power Run on March 3 (benefitting Strong Kids) - Couch to 5K training group starts first week of January - through March 3rd. Eight weeks of coached group training for the beginning runner. Start training for a 5K in a safe, effective way with the experience of a trainer and motivation of group runs. The class will focus on completing the YmCa Power run 5K on march 3rd. This program will also include information on proper technique, stretching, and injury prevention. information on class date and time available at front desk. reservation required.

Fitness Fusion Mon. & Wed. at 8:30 a.m. Reservation Required. maximize your workout time by “fusing” 2 or more types of training in one great class.

CONTACT renae mcCullough at 981-0144 or rmccullough@ymcabham.org.

Hargis Retreat 928 hargis Drive Chelsea. aL 35043 205.678.6512 Branch Hours monday-Friday: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

PROGRAM ExECUTIVE

Kim Sharp

Hoover Family Branch 2250 John hawkins Parkway hoover, aL 35244 205.682.1399 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: noon - 7 p.m.

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Julie Broday MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Cindy reams

Mountain Brook Branch 2401 20th Place South Birmingham, aL 35223 256.870.0144 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 monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

3:30 - 8 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.

3:30 - 6:30 p.m.

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

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

YOGASTEPS Training

michelle Oliver

Yogasteps is offering its 2012 rYT 200 hour Yoga alliance and aFaa approved Yoga Teacher Certifications in Birmingham starting January 7 & 8 at the Greystone YMCA. Featured will be “The Nourishment Step—Asana, Formatting, Tibetans and Nutrition.” This will be followed on February 25 & 26 by the anatomy and Posture Step, which includes the one-day event – “The arT of The aSana,” a fun and informative workshop open to all.

Both courses feature AFAA and YA CEUs and provide “Baseline Teacher Certificates.” (The RYT Training has 9 modules and tuition packages.)

Visit our website to learn more: www.yogasteps.com and to register.

Kristi nix

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Northeast Family Branch 628 red Lane road Birmingham, aL 35216 205.833.7616 Branch Hours monday-Thursday: 5 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Friday: 5 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m.- noon Sunday: Closed ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Terri a. harvill

ymcabham.org

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 23

CIRCUIT FITNESS & WELLNESS MOUNTAIN BROOK Functional Training Led by Micheal Meadows | Wednesdays, Noon | maximum 6 participants Cost members $20 per group session non-members must join a program that includes 8 group sessions, $200 Participants should purchase 10-12 oz. gloves.

Contact the branch at 870-0144

Friday Boot Camp Led by Kerry Foster | Fridays at 8:45 a.m.

Cost members $20 per session | non-members must join a program that includes 8 sessions, $200 Contact the front desk at 870-0144 to register.

TRx Led by Steve Young | Wednesday, 10:35 a.m. maximum 4 participants Cost members $20 per group session non-members must join a program that includes 8 group sessions, $200 Contact Steve 337-3262 to register or click http://www.trxtraining.com/trx-resources/trx-exercise-video.php to learn more.

Personal Training Cost 1 hour One-on-One

30 minute One-on-One Buddy group Training

$54 for 1-9 sessions (per session); $490 for 10 sessions; $705 for 15 sessions $33 for 1-9 sessions (per session); $290 for 10 sessions; $420 for 15 sessions $70 for 1-9 sessions (per session); $650 for 10 sessions; $915 for 15 sessions $25 per person (3 person minimum)

Fuel + Fitness Led by nutritionist and fitness specialist, Sandra Koulourides.

Contact 870-0144.

EatFit Nutrition & Fitness for Kids FitKids Led byt Steve mulvihill | 6, 60-minute sessions | ages 10-13.

December 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22 Contact Steve mulvihill at 214-395-7006 or the front desk to sign up. maximum 4 participants.

Cost $100 YmCa members | $125 non-members

Group Boxing Led by Kerry Foster and Kathleen Davis Monday/Wednesday 9:30 a.m | Space limited to 6.

Cost members $20 per group session non-members must join a program that includes 8 group sessions, $200 Participants should purchase 10-12 oz. gloves.

Contact the front desk at 870-0144 to sign up.

YCross Wednesday at Noon | Tuesday & Thursday at 10 a.m. | Saturday at 9 and 9:30 a.m.

Led by Personal Trainers/CrossFit Certified Nick Stallings, Steve Young and and Kathleen Davis are instructors.

One-on-one training may be arranged as well.

Cost members $20 per group session non-members must join a program that includes 8 group sessions, $200 See “personal training” for one-on-one pricing. members $20 per session Contact front desk at 870-0144 to register.

24 | www.ymcabham.org

Eat Fit is designed to help children and teens at risk for being overweight to learn how to make healthy eating choices, make activity a daily part of their lives, and teaches kids how to fuel their bodies for optimal health and weight management. activity led by a nationally certified YMCA personal trainer.

Cost $350 YmCa members | $400 non-members | Financial assistance is available.

Contact Lisa hart at 445-2823 or lhart@ymcabham.org

Kinesis Designed to accommodate multi-plane movement patterns without compromising the resistance load.

One hour Kinesis another opportunity to get your Kinesis in...every Saturday for 1 hour. maximum 6 participants.

Cost members $20 per session | non-members $200 for 8 session program.

Kinesis Express 30-minute class | Tuesdays & Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. maximum 6 participants.

Cost $10 YmCa members per session. non-members $120 for a package of 8 sessions.

Kinesis for golf One, one hour session per week for 8 weeks.

Choice of meeting Friday, 4 p.m. or Saturday, 11:30 a.m. maximum 6 participants.

Cost $160 YmCa members | $200 non-members First Sunday Kinesis Every first Sunday at 2 p.m.

Cost FrEE Contact Julie Watters at 520-8791 or call the front desk at 870-0144 to register. **Form your own group! Some combinations are unbeatable. if know some people with similar fitness goals who prefer to work out together, then ask me about a specialty movement program designed just for you. reserve your spot for 4, 6, or 8 weeks, and then renew at the session’s close if you can’t get enough. remember to sign up before coming! if you need to cancel, just let me know 24 hours ahead of time so we can make room for others.

AqUATICS/SWIMMING Group Swim Lessons | ALL BRANCHES Classes are offered mornings, afternoons, and evenings after work and Saturdays for all age groups. Please contact your local YmCa for times and availability. *Cost: $56 YMCA Members $94 Non-Member ALL BRANCHES WILL START LESSONS THE WEEK OF January 2, 2012 January 2-26 January 30-February 23 February 27-march 22 CONTACT your local YMCA for days and times.

Saturday Swim Lessons Session dates: (dates and prices for all branches that are listed below) January 7,14,21,28 February 4,11,18,25 march 3,10,17,24 (Four 30 minutes classes) Cost: $28 | $48 PELHAM BRANCH (Jennifer Dick) Parent/Child 10-10:30 a.m.

Blowfish 10:30-11 a.m.

Pike 11-11:30 a.m.

Polliwog 11:30 a.m.-noon GREYSTONE (Adam West) Dates: same as above Parent/Child 10:30-11 a.m. adult Swimming Lessons Saturday Class times: adult 8:30-9:15 a.m. adult 9:30-10:15 a.m.

SHADES VALLEY (Katie Watkins) Saturday lessons are available please contact branch for times.

HOOVER (Laysea Chasteen) Parent/Child 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays February 4 – 25 march 3 – 24 adult Swimming Lessons adult 8:30-9:15 a.m. adult 9:30-10:15 a.m.

MOUNTAIN BROOK (michelle Varnell) Parent/Tot 10:30-11 a.m.

Private and Semi Private Swimming Lessons | (3 yrs. and up) ALL BRANCHES The Birmingham YmCa offers private and semi private lessons for 3 and up to adult’s skill levels. These 30 minute lessons are customized to meet individual needs of every swimmer.

Cost Private Lessons | $92 YmCa members | $124 non-members Semi Private | $72 per child YmCa members | $102 per child non-members For families who wish to have multiple children instructed during the same session.

Each session is 6 / 30 minute lessons Private Swim Lessons follow the same session dates as our group lessons.

January 2-26 | January 30-February 23 | February 27-march 22 Contact your local YmCa for days and times.

Directory Pelham Family 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.

Childwatch Hours (School Year) monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 3:30 -7:45 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m.- noon (Summer) monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7:45 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m.- noon ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lane Vines MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Leslie Lazaro

Shades Valley Family Branch 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

Trussville Family Branch 5920 Valley road Trussville, aL 35173 256.655.2224 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

Jerry Wang MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Wendy Newland

ymcabham.org

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 25

CIRCUIT

Polar Bear Club | ALL BRANCHES See how many miles you can swim, January 9-march 16 Cost Free YmCa members.

Stop by and talk to your local YmCa’s aquatics Director for more information.

Swim Birmingham YMCA (SBY)

GREYSTONE, SHELBY COUNTY, SHADES VALLEY, TRUSSVILLE, VESTAVIA Starting January 2, 2012 (Check with your practice site to confirm start dates and practice times) ages 5-18 To participate in the 8 and under groups, your child must be able to swim at least one 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.

Contact your local YmCa to see what levels are offered. not all levels are offered at all branches.

Fees: $95 registration fee for all groups and all new swimmers for this session.

Super Squad $175 members | $227 non-members $45 monthly members | $57 monthly non-members Bronze $200 members | $260 non-members $50 monthly members | $65 monthly non-members Silver $250 members | $325 non-members $63 monthly members | $82 monthly non-members 26 | www.ymcabham.org

Gold

$280members | $340 non-members $70 monthly members | $85 monthly non-members Pre Senior $320 members | $410 non-members $80 monthly members | $103 monthly non-members Senior $354 members | $442 non-members $89 monthly members | $111 monthly non-members Home school $220 members | $280 non-members 55 monthly members | $70 monthly non-members monthly payment plans are done by draft only. new swimmers must pay registration fee and first month to set up draft.

Financial assistance is available.

SBY Practice Site Information GREYSTONE (Spaces are limited at this practice site) Spring Session January 2 – may 18 Evaluations: Swimmers new to our team should attend evaluations for proper group placement. if you cannot make the evaluation date, please contact adam West to set up a date and time.

Spring Evaluation: December 30, 4 p.m.

SHADES VALLEY Practice staring January 9, 2012 PELHAM Check with Coach mallory for your practice times that may have changed.

Swim Team Prep Class | PELHAM FAMILY BRANCH ages 7-12 | For children who lack the endurance and technique to be able to participate.

Schedule is flexible based on your schedule you can pick from 1, 2, or 3 days a week for an hour on Tuesdays/Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings noon-1 p.m. for a month. monthly fees: January –april 2 times a week $75 members | $120 non-members 3 times a week $100 members | $160 non-members You will be drafted monthly from January-april or you will have to register monthly.

MASTER SWIM TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Directory Vestavia 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.

Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Susan Becker MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

GREYSTONE & HOOVER

Clay Coleman

Master Swim Group

Western Area Family Branch

For swimmers looking to improve technique, learn new skills, get faster and meet people who are like minded.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday |5-6:30 a.m.

Cost $25 YmCa members

Private Swim Coaching Training sessions is designed to improve technique in a private lesson format wile involving a physical training component as well.

1 athlete w/ a Coach: 30 min. Session - $35 | 60 min. Session - $60 2 athlete w/ a Coach: 30 min. Session - $30 | 60 min. Session - $50 3 athlete w/ a Coach: 30 min. Session - $25 | 60 min. Session - $40 MT.BROOK magic City masters is for anyone who wants to improve their swimming abilities. ages 19 and Up Cost $25 per month or $60per quarter YmCa members | $38 per month or $100 per quarter, nonmembers.

Contact michelle Varnell at 445.2825 or mvarnell@ymcabham.org.

TRUSSVILLE $25 per month YmCa members | $38 non-members Practice times Monday 6:30 p.m. | Wednesday & Friday’s 5:30 p.m.

1195 Bessemer road Birmingham, aL 35228 205.923.1195 Branch Hours monday-Thursday: 6 a.m.- 8 p.m.

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

ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Terri a. harvill

Birmingham YMCA Youth Center 2400 7th avenue north Birmingham, aL 35203 205.324.1643 Branch Hours School Year: monday-Friday 9 a.m.6:30 p.m.

Summer: monday-Friday 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

PROGRAM ExECUTIVE

anthony Sparks

ymcabham.org

CPR Classes Contact your local YmCa to see if they offer Blended Learning. must be pre-registered for all classes listed below. Contact your local YmCa for registration information.

Skills session PELHAM FAMILY BRANCH January 21, February 18 9-11 a.m.

GREYSTONE January 19 (registration Deadline is January 12), February 16 (registration Deadline is Feb 9) Skills Sessions are held on the third Thursday of the month from 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

TRUSSVILLE Saturday, January 14 | Saturday, February 18 all classes are taught 8 a.m.-noon.

SHADES VALLEY Adult CPR, AED, and 1st Aid— Wednesday, January 25, 5-10 p.m.

Wednesday, February 15, 5-10 p.m.

HOOVER January 10 | February 7 | march 6 5 p.m.

MT. BROOK January 12 | 4-9 p.m.

February 16 | noon-5 p.m.

January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 27

CIRCUIT NEW FOR 2012

HOOVER hoover Summer Swim Team CONTACT Laysea Chasteen for more information PELHAM Zumbatomic Birthday Parties Saturday Private Swim Lessons CPr aED Trainings CONTACT Jennifer Dick for more information

VESTAVIA January 18-22 | February 15-19 Wednesday-Friday: 5-9 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

DOWNTOWN January 25-29 | February 22-26 Wednesday and Thursday , 4-9 p.m., Friday 4-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

HOOVER January 25 – 29 | Feb 22 – 26 Cost: $220 $70 non refundable deposit due at time of registration $150 due on the second day of class.

VESTAVIA ExPRESS CPR for the Professional Rescuer and AED (CPR for Lifeguards) PELHAM Class dates January 25 | February 22 4-9 p.m.

Cost $60 CPr, aED & First aid | $60 Professional rescuer CPr | aED & First aid

Lifeguard Training January starts the Lifeguard Training season for the Birmingham YMCA. We are excited about the new classes that we have to offer you this spring. Please visit our website at www.ymcabham. org for more detailed information and a complete list of training dates and sites.

Below are the class dates for January and February.

Class Dates: Pelham Physical Competencies mondays 6 p.m.

January 23 | February 20 $70 nonrefundable deposit must be paid at time of registration to attend this day.

Class Dates: January 25-29 | February 22-26 The remaining $150 will be due on the first day of class.

CONTACT Jennifer Dick for times of classes.

TRUSSVILLE February 22-26 GREYSTONE January 25 – 29 | Feb 22 – 26 | march 7 – 11 Classes: Wed-Fri 5-9:30 p.m., Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun 1-5 p.m.

SHADES VALLEY February 22-26 Wednesday-Friday 5-9 p.m.

Saturday 8-6 p.m.

Sunday TBa MT.BROOK January 25-29 | February 22-26 Wednesday and Thursday nights 4-9, Friday 4-8, Saturday 9-5 and Sunday 9-5.

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New Fitness Punch Card $150 for 10 sessions With the card you can attend any of the small group classes below.

You can try a class for a drop in rate of $20.

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS Athletic Conditioning

Combination of endurance, conditioning and strength for current or former athletes at any level.

Boxing Provides intensive training that enhances strength, cardiovascular, endurance and agility. We provide an arena where it’s okay to be aggressive and work it all out.

Please bring your own gloves or wraps for classes.

Women’s Walk and Weights hit the track for a walk/jog for 30 min. Then transition into a circuit of strength training for another 30 min.

YCROSS2 A 45-minute class with the main focus of the workout using the new functional fitness system. all levels.

FitClub For Kids ages 11-13 years old. Learn how to safely use equipment in gym, gain fitness knowledge, and get in shape at the same time!

Bride to Be Bootcamp Learn all different types of ways to get fit in a small women’s group that meets on Sundays.

Terms You may use your card to attend any of the classes on the small group training schedule. Class will proceed with one or more up to 6 participants. all classes are drop in and do not require a reservation. Persons on the same membership can share a card. ages 12 & up may attend classes. Only ages 14 & up can attend without a parent. go online to ymcabham.org/vestavia for schedule of classes.

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Nutrition Coaching make an appointment to get nutritional coaching by an experienced coach, Sharon Lamberth. Sharon will give you meal ideas, shopping lists, behavioral modification tools (discussing emotional eating, late night snacking, and helping cope with getting

up in the night and eating), and plans for eating out and entertaining Buy a personal training package and mix and match session with personal training and nutrition.

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Karate Shingo-ha Yoshukai Karate by Sensei Becky givens Shingo means to unite heart, mind, and spirit. The goals of the class are to provide students with good exercise, to have fun, build self confidence, self discipline, and teach self defense.

Ongoing class…join in at any time.

45 min classes Classes meet monday evenings Class times 5-13 yrs 5:15-6Pm (class time subject to change depending on size of class) Cost (per month) $30 YmCa members | $50 non members Try out a FrEE class.

One time $30 uniform fee.

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Zumba® mondays at 6:30 p.m.at Bluff Park United methodist Church.

Cost $5 per session CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Free walking group Offered to all members or potential members. Walk indoors on the track for 2 miles or 30 minutes while enjoying the company of other walkers & the encouragement of the instructor.

CONTACT india gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabham.org.

Shades Valley ZumbaTomic®

new sessions beginning soon.

Cost $72 YmCa members | $90 non-members CONTACT Kimberly geisler at 870-9622 or kgeisler@ymcabham.org

YOUTH/ADULT TEAM SPORTS HOOVER

TEAM-Basketball Conditioning/Skills and Practice Designed for competitive basketball teams to offer affordable practice time and highly qualified skills & conditioning instruction led by YmCa Staff Skills Coaches. Volunteer team coaches will work together with hoover YmCa Basketball Skills coaching staff to provide developmental experience for players. Program includes: • 2 one hour ½ court practices per week, Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

• One hour fundamental skills & conditioning session per week, grouped by age. Led by YmCa Staff Skills Coach, team coaches assist.

• Performance nutrition series– one topic per month materials supplied to coaches.

• *At least 5 players must be members to qualify. Max of 12 players per team.

• *LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE, 4 teams will be accepted for the spring Cost $250 per team/month.

CONTACT Kelly Kidd at kkidd@ymcabham.org

Individual Basketball Skills Coaching Year-round Led by staff basketball skills coaches with high level experience, these one-on-one sessions can bring your game to the next level.

Private instruction is designed to correct fundamental skills and enhance strengths. Check out ymcabham.org/hvbasketball to learn more about the coaching staff available for private sessions.

Cost $33 per 30-minute session | $54 per hour session CONTACT Kelly Kidd at kkidd@ymcabham.org

Indoor Junior Soccer registration January 1–February 3 Practice Begins Week of February 20. One practice, one game per week. ages: Pre-K, 1st grade, 2rd grade.

Enjoy a casual soccer experience focusing on skills development.

The first 30 minutes of practice led by a staff skills coach, the second half of practice will be led by a volunteer coach. Skills: dribbling, stopping the ball, shooting and passing. Teams are a max of 6 players, uniforms and participation award included.

Volunteer coaches needed. **Limited space- register online to January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 29

CIRCUIT reserve a spot.

Cost $85 YmCa members | $125 non-members CONTACT Kelly Kidd at kkidd@ymcabham.org GREYSTONE ALABASTER PELHAM

YOUTH SPORTS

registration January 9-February 11 Cost

Flag Football K-8th grade Fees $75 YmCa members | $115 non-members

Soccer ages 3 -1st grade $75 members | $115 non-members 2nd-8th grade Fees $85 YmCa members | $125 non-members

Girls Volleyball 4th-8th grade $75 YmCa members | $115 non-members First week of practice Week of Feb 20 (weekday evenings only) (Choose the day to practice each week and that’s the team you’ll be assigned).

Games Begin Week of March 5 Flag Football and Soccer play on Saturday only. girls Volleyball play on Thursday evenings only.

What’s included: uniforms, medallions.

CONTACTS ALABASTER Trenae Leonard at 663-6504 or tleonard@ymcabham.org GREYSTONE george Becker at 981-0144 or gbecker@ymcabham.org PELHAM Tamara harrelson at 664-9622 or tharrelson@ymcabham.org

ADULT TEAM SPORTS

GREYSTONE, ALABASTER, PELHAM registration January 9- February 11

Adult Co-Ed Volleyball Cost $50 YmCa members | $65 non members $300 Complete Team(s) each at time of registration Uniforms $10 additional (optional). numbered jerseys are required.

Practice begins Week of February 20 (weekday evenings only) Games Begin Week of March 5 CONTACTS ALABASTER: Trenae Leonard. 663-6504 or tleonard@ymcabham.org GREYSTONE: george Becker. 981-0144 or gbecker@ymcabham.org PELHAM: Tamara harrelson. 664-9622 or tharrelson@ymcabham.org

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GREYSTONE AND TRUSSVILLE BRANCHES. COMING SOON TO VESTAVIA, DOWNTOWN AND HOOVER BRANCHES.

Mymission:

Jeanna Joganic “i used to be really heavy several years ago and just started eating right and exercising. i mean, i was 215 pounds. i started eating right and exercising. i would go to the YmCa and just walk on the track upstairs and i just started losing weight.”

“To be on the program that i’m on now and just having that accountability and having to go in every single week and weigh is keeping me in check. i’m not losing a ton of weight now, but i’m not gaining weight either. in the past, i would have gained weight during the Christmas holidays and Thanksgiving. “ “i had tried everything. i would lose maybe 15 pounds then, bang, i would gain 20 pounds. To go back and look at pictures of myself, i never realized i was that big. mentally, in your head you think you’re okay, but now, i think i looked like someone injected me with a bunch of helium.” “it’s a whole new lifestyle change. You have to eat right for one, but you also have to exercise. Knowing that there are people at the YmCa who care, and seeing friends there going to classes is a big help.”

Jeanna Joganic is a Trussville member and a participant in the YMCA Active Weight Loss Program.

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YMCA Active Weight Loss Program ready to get healthy? ring in a new you in 2012! The Y Active Weight Loss program is an affordable, comprehensive weight loss program which includes weekly group meetings with a private weigh in; diet and physical activity tracking logs; good, common sense nutritional advice and supervised group personal training; all in a fun, high-energy, supportive environment! greystone meets on Thursday evenings at 6:30, Trussville meets on Wednesdays at noon and 5:45pm.

Cost: YmCa members $45 | nonmembers $100 *includes Citywide access for you to YmCa branches as long as you are enrolled in the program.

Contact CarOLinE BUnDY at 801-7212 or cbundy@ymcabham.org.

You have to have the right mindset. anybody can say something to you about how you need to lose weight, but until you have that right frame of mind you’re never going to be able to do it.

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January-February 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 31

YMCA OF BIRMINGHAM

2101 Fourth avenue north Birmingham, alabama 35203 www.ymcabham.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit no. 1072 Birmingham, aL