BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE
tes a r b e Cel s r a e Y 2 5 -SAVING OF LIFE K WOR
growing
GOOD CULTIVATING COMMUNITY AT MONTGOMERY’S FRESH GREENS MARKET
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SUMMER SALADS SANS LETTUCE BEST BEACH BETS THIS SEASON
ISSUE 03 / 2026
JOY
TO LIFE Y O J E TH ATION FOUND
For Every Oops, There’s OrthoNow. An injury doesn’t have to put summer plans on hold. Baptist OrthoNow brings together board-certified orthopaedic specialists and skilled physical therapists in one convenient walk-in location, helping you get back to every adventure.
EastChase across from Target Walk-ins Welcome | Mon-Sat | 8am-8pm 334.747.4030 | BaptistOrthoNow.org
Get to know the car tag
that’s saving lives in Alabama!
joytolife.org
This is the Joy to Life Foundation car tag. Founded in 2001, Joy to Life has been fighting to save lives for over 25 years!
The purchase of this Joy to Life car tag provides breast health services for women & men in Alabama that are in desperate need.
SRVIVR The Joy to Life car tag pays for mammograms. But that’s not all. It also pays for ultrasounds, biopsies, Dr visits & more in all 67 counties in Alabama.
The Joy to Life car tag includes free personalization so you can share your story.
The Joy to Life car tag design includes words of inspiration, encouragement and support.
Choose the Joy to Life PINK tag when you renew!
{ over 100,000 mammograms and counting - thanks to you }
JOY
Hi, everyone.
Last year, at a Joy to Life event in Prattville, several team members and I had the privilege of meeting Carly Brasie—a loving mother of three who was undergoing breast cancer treatment. The story of her perseverance and her devotion to her husband and daughters moved us deeply, and we knew we had to share her journey with you. On a personal note, a few months ago I learned I had an early-stage melanoma on my arm, which required prompt removal. I’m grateful to say I’m well now, but this experience reinforced how vital regular dermatology checkups are for
BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE Photography by Big Dreamz Creative
Welcome to summer and to the continuation of celebrating 25 years of the Joy to Life Foundation’s mission in breast cancer advocacy and support. In this issue, we highlight the remarkable people, institutions, and businesses whose generosity and passion helped us greatly when we started in 2001. We could not have been successful without the passion these people had for our mission.
PUBLISHER JTL Publishing
overall health. If you’ve not scheduled your annual skin check, I encourage you to consider it. We hope the article in the “To Life” section offers helpful insights about the importance of these screenings. Of course, this issue also features a variety of articles and recipes designed to brighten your summer days. It’s a joyful edition of JOY—enjoy!
Joy Blondheim Editor & Co-Founder, Joy to Life Foundation
SAVE OCTOBER 24, 2026 THE LIGHT UP THE NIGHT DATE
It’s an event so big we needed a stadium to make it happen!
EDITOR Joy Blondheim MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCERS Big Dreamz Creative CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deanne Allegro MS, RDN Kym Klass Jennifer Stewart Kornegay Kim Spivey COPY EDITOR Jenny Stubbs CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Big Dreamz Creative COVER CREATIVE & PHOTOGRAPHY Nancy Fields/Big Dreamz Creative COVER DESIGN Erika Rowe Tracy
REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW AT JOYTOLIFE.ORG
Joy is published four times per year by JTL Publishing. © 2026 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission from the publisher. Joy reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. Joy is not responsible for damage, loss or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts and/or unsolicited artwork. This includes, but is not limited to, drawings, photography, transparencies or any other unsolicited material. Joy does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial. The publishers do not assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Joy is a news magazine with information on health, leisure activities and a healthy lifestyle. Readers are advised to consult their physicians before participating in any sport or fitness activity or starting any exercise, dietary or nutritional program published in Joy.
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34 ON THE MOVE
14 EVERYDAY JOY
42 TO LIFE
Summer Salad Days
Waterfall Walks
Live Here. Give Here. Breast Care in Alabama
Sun Smarts: Spot Checks Save Lives
18 REAL LIFE
44 IN BALANCE
An interview with Carly Brasie
Fit Matters: Find Your Mind Match
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48 GREAT GOODS
Products, Places & Things We Love
50 SMILE LINES
Leaving You With a Little Joy
Photography by Big Dreamz Creative
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E” “LETTUC UTSIDE THINK O L AD BOW L A S E H T NCH AND BRA LEAVES BEYOND BUTTER OF BIBB, BERG! AND ICE
Summer Salad days
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hen meal planning in summer, salads make sound choices, offering a way to enjoy the season’s profusion of produce—sweet, crunchy corn; sweet, juicy strawberries; crisp peppers; refreshing cucumber; the bright perfumes of fresh herbs like basil and mint; plus, plump, scarlet tomatoes. They also require little to no cooking, meaning no extra kitchen heat adding to the feverish temps. But forget basic, boring bowls of lettuce. These flavorpacked salads from Deanne Allegro skip the traditional foundational green and instead opt for nutrient-dense bases like broccoli and quinoa. And these salads are no mere side dish; they can hold down the center of the plate and shine as a main meal, especially if you embellish them with some extra protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. 8
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SERV E 8-10
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Nicoise Pasta Salad
the dish
INGREDIENTS 1 pound dried pasta like fusilli, penne, rotini or farfalle 1/3 pound (6 ounces) small yellow or red potatoes 1/3 pound (4 ounces) fresh green beans, trimmed 1/4 cup white beans, drained and rinsed 3 hard-boiled eggs, quartered 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup Niçoise or Kalamata olives, pitted and halved 2 tablespoons chopped herbs like parsley, chives, dill DRESSING 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/3 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, minced salt and black pepper to taste INSTRUCTIONS Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, until forktender, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and when cool enough to handle, slice in half or quarters.
Refill the pot with water, bring it to a boil, and set a bowl of ice water nearby. Drop the green beans into the boiling water and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain and immediately immerse in the ice water. After 1 minute, drain and place on a kitchen towel to dry. Bring another large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until tender, 6 to 10 minutes (check the package for recommended cook time). Drain and rinse under cold water. While the pasta cooks, make the dressing in the bottom of a large bowl. Whisk the lemon juice, olive oil, mustard, garlic, salt and pepper until blended. Add the pasta to the dressing and mix well. Stir in the potatoes, green beans, white beans, eggs, tomatoes, olives, and herbs. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve, or for the best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 5 days.
a note: RECIPES BY DEANNE ALLEGRO MS, RDN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE
Nicoise salad is traditionally served with tuna fish or anchovies. This can be added to the pasta recipe as is or used to replace the beans in the recipe.
meet Deanne
Registered Dietitian st Nutritioni
Deanne Allegro MS, RDN, is an Associate Clinical Professor of Nutrition at Auburn University at Montgomery and the owner of Montgomery’s fresh-focused restaurant, Perennial. She has more than 20 years of experience in the fields of food and nutrition.
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Turkey & Cheddar Sandwiches + Honey-Marinated Apples
SERV E 4
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Aromatic Quinoa Nut Salad INGREDIENTS 2 cups quinoa 1/2 cup chopped nuts (I like walnuts and pistachios) 1/2 cup chopped mixed herbs (dill, parsley, tarragon, basil) DRESSING 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1/2 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, minced salt and black pepper to taste INSTRUCTIONS Whisk together dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
DID YOU KNOW?
Combine the quinoa with four cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with lid and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the grains are translucent and the germ has spiraled out from each grain. Drain the quinoa and let it cool.
FRESH & LOCAL
Take advantage of peak produce season in Alabama by shopping farmers markets and stands when you can. According to Sweet Grown Alabama, produce at national grocery stores typically travels an average of 1,500 miles, but local produce is fresh, often harvested only hours before being offered at your farmers market, meaning you get maximum nutrients and the best flavor. Plus, your business supports folks who live in your community, so it’s a win for all.
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In a bowl, mix the quinoa with all the ingredients, reserving some herbs for serving. Salad can be served immediately (warm) or can be cooled by refrigerating for at least one hour.
a note: This salad can be used as a base for more complex flavors. If you want to add a sweet component, try 1/3 cup of golden raisins. Add 1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes and cucumbers for a fresh twist!
BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE
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MAKE IT YOUR OWN!
Broccoli Strawberry Salad
S SERV E 4
INGREDIENTS 3 cups broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces 1/3 cup diced red onion 1/2 cup strawberries cut into small chunks 1/2 cup honey roasted pecans, chopped into smaller pieces DRESSING 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1.5 tablespoons granulated sugar salt and black pepper to taste INSTRUCTIONS Whisk together dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, onion, strawberries, and pecans. Pour the dressing over and mix well. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
a note: Broccoli Salad can be made ahead and kept in the fridge (at least an hour but up to 24 hours) until ready to serve.
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build your bowl
Use Deanne’s tasty recipes as inspiration to create your own lettuce-less salads that stack up your personal favorite flavors. It’s your dish, so anything goes, but including a combo of varied flavors, textures and colors always works well. Here are a few “categories” to consider:
crunchy:
FRUIT:
Something crunchy, salty and/or starchy (nuts, croutons, tortilla chips, pasta or grains like farro or quinoa)
Fresh strawberries add sweetness. Mandarin orange segments bring some zing. And dried cranberries or golden raisins are great year-round.
protein:
cheese:
A protein (grilled meats, shrimp, chopped boiled egg, cooked beans like black, kidney or chickpeas)
Goat cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy taste. Thin curls of parmesan are salty and a bit nutty. You can’t go wrong with shredded cheddar.
veggies:
dressing:
A selection of vegetables (raw as well as cooked and pickled items)
An easy homemade option— Just shake together 2 parts olive oil, 1 part vinegar (balsamic or your fave) and some salt and herbs in a jar.
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NEWS & HAPPENINGS WITH THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
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THE WIND BENEATH OUR WINGS The Joy to Life Foundation has been providing its life-saving services for 25 years, meeting the breast-cancer screening needs of the medically underserved across Alabama. It’s vital work we’ll continue doing in the future. But, as we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we’re not just looking ahead, we’re looking back, too. And in our rearview mirror, we see so many individuals and businesses who’ve supported our mission and helped us fulfill it.
A LITTLE HISTORY To announce the creation of the Foundation, in September 2001 we held a kick-off celebration at The Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery. ASF donated the use of its theatre space where actress Greta Lambert performed a one-woman play that her husband, fellow actor Rodney Clark, directed. Local musician Karen Pell provided music. The play, “When Life Doesn’t Turn Out the Way You Planned,” shared the story of a woman with breast cancer in her journey. And all involved in the production donated their time and talents because they believed in the Joy to Life cause. After the play, we held a panel discussion featuring breast cancer survivor Vivian Barfoot as well as nurses and doctors, including Dr. Mac Barnes, from the Montgomery Cancer Center and Dr. Richard Theriault and his nurse Kathy Pritchard from MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
Only weeks after JTL's kick-off event in 2001, the organization provided funding to help its first client get a needed mammogram at ADPH for just $25.
The event was held only five days after the tragedy of 9/11, and our founders were unsure anyone would show up. But show up they did!
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LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.
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MANY OTHER +INITIAL DONORS
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SUZANNE CHURCHILL REEVES, ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
THE ALABAMA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
W FOLLO ALONGR! A THIS YE
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ALAN WORRELL, STERLING BANK
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Visit joytolife.org and click on the “podcast” menu button to tune in to all our episodes.
JTL’S ENDURING PARTNERSHIP WITH STAMP IDEA GROUP Twenty-five years ago, when the Joy to Life Foundation was just beginning to take shape, the Montgomery firm, then known as LWT and now Stamp Idea Group, had the privilege of helping bring its vision to life. Jim Leonard and lead designer Camille Leonard worked closely with Joy and Dickie Blondheim to create the original brand identity and voice for the foundation, helping establish the compassionate, hopeful spirit that continues to define the Joy to Life Foundation today. "From the very beginning, it was clear this organization was about more than awareness. It was about dignity, encouragement, and saving lives through early detection and care for women across Alabama," said Stamp Idea Group partner Jim Leonard. What began as a professional collaboration quickly became something much more personal. The same year the foundation was formed, Jim’s mother lost her 37-year battle with breast cancer, making the mission of Joy to Life deeply meaningful to the Leonard family. Over the years, that shared purpose grew into a lasting friendship with Joy and Dickie and an enduring commitment to the foundation’s work. "Twenty-five years later, Stamp Idea Group is honored to still serve alongside Joy to Life in strategic marketing, branding, and advertising, helping tell the story of an organization that has touched countless lives while remaining rooted in compassion, hope, and joy," said Leonard.
LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.
In our new episode, we talk with Nancy Wright. Nancy is the Director of the Cancer Prevention and Control Division at Alabama Public Health has been working with the Joy to Life Foundation for over 20 years. And believe us, she knows a lot about cancer! Together with Joy to Life co-founders Joy and Dickie Blondheim, we take a look back at how that relationship began, what kinds of cancer are most prevalent in Alabama and how cancer is being treated thanks to efforts from ADPH. Be assured, cancer is not a death sentence and that there are amazing resources in our state to diagnose and treat any kind of cancer out there!
everyday
Joy
NEWS & HAPPENINGS WITH THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
2026
SO NEW, SO BIG
NDATION U O F E F I L 6 JOY TO LL NEW, A THE 202 S I E F I L ME WALK OF ATION, A NEW TI EW LOC N A H GHT NEW T I I R W B , G I EB AND SOM ISES, TOO. SURPR
WE GOT A STADIUM TO HOLD IT ALL!
NEW LOCATION This year’s event is going on the road to a new premier location—17 Springs in Millbrook. Boasting state-ofthe-art facilities, 17 Springs will offer Walk attendees a chance to take in all the complex has to offer—from football, baseball and soccer fields to tennis and pickleball courts, to an 85,000-square-foot fieldhouse housing space for basketball, volleyball, wrestling as well as concerts, conferences and other gatherings.
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LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.
MORE WAYS TO FIGH T
NEW TIME & THEME This year, the Walk will begin at 5 p.m., and while we still love pink, we’re expanding our color palette, too. Participants will sport red, white, blue and pink shirts, and everyone will be treated to a sensational celebration at the end of the 5K course complete with food trucks, music, a Family FUN Zone, a Super SELFIE Zone, a special PINK Zone and so much more—all contained in the football stadium!
2 02 6 HIGHLIG HTS: R E D, W H AND PIN ITE, BLUE, K SHIRT S FAMILY F UN Z O N E SPECIA L PINK Z ONE NE W DR ONE S H OW !
START YOUR ENGINES Hosted by Alabama Jeep Outfitters, the 2nd Annual Jeepin’ 4 a Cure returns on October 3. Benefitting the Joy to Life Foundation, Jeepin’ invites Jeep enthusiasts and supporters of breast cancer awareness to enjoy a “Show N’ Shine” judged vehicle show, Trunk or Treat activities, a raffle and numerous food trucks.
PLUS, A BIG + BRIGHT ADDITION And another change will literally “be in the air” and add extra shine to all the other “new” aspects. As darkness falls, more than 400 drones will illuminate the sky and put on a spectacular show to inspire and delight as it combines a salute to America’s 250th birthday and the Joy to Life Foundation’s 25th Anniversary.
While the event focuses on Jeeps, all vehicles and motorcycles are welcome, with award categories including Best in Show and trophies for Jeeps, motorcycles and other custom show vehicles. The 2026 event follows a successful inaugural year featuring 160-plus Jeeps and vehicles and will be again held at McSweeney CDJR in Clanton, Alabama, right under the giant peach!
JOIN US TO LIGHT UP THE NIGHT AS WE COME TOGETHER TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER! TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW. VISIT JOYTOLIFE.ORG FOR ALL THE DETAILS, AND GET READY FOR AN EVENT SO BIG, WE HAD TO GET A STADIUM TO HOLD IT ALL!
Building on last year, Jeepin’ 4 a Cure 2026 aims to be even larger and more communityinvolved—bringing together families, businesses, car enthusiasts and supporters to raise awareness, celebrate survivors and continue driving impact for an incredible cause. FOLLOW ALABAMA JEEP OUTFITTERS ON FACEBOOK FOR EVENT INFORMATION.
LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.
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FIRST-HAND ADVICE AND INSIGHT TO HELP CAREGIVERS COPE
Photography by Big Dreamz Creative.
real
A DISCUSSION WITH
C A R LY B R A S I E Working as a teacher with two young daughters at home and getting ready to give birth to a third is a lot on its own, but when she was 33-weeks pregnant, life dished something else onto Carly Brasie’s plate: a diagnosis of breast cancer. The young mom rose above the initial shock and fear, and with the help of doctors, nurses, family, friends and her teaching colleagues quickly shifted into fight mode. Her breast cancer battle proved long and included a few curve balls, but today, Carly is cancer free and sees a silver lining in her struggles: the opportunity to share with others the faith that got her through it all. Tell us about your cancer diagnosis and treatment. While I was 33 weeks pregnant with my third baby girl, I felt a lump on my left breast. Having a family history of breast cancer, I immediately called my OBGYN and set up an appointment with him. He felt like it could possibly be a clogged duct since I had just stopped breastfeeding my second baby three months prior, but he sent me for a breast ultrasound just to rule anything major out. During that appointment, the doctor recommended performing a biopsy that same day. I received the results on June 19, 2024, at 36 weeks pregnant: The lump was malignant. My OBGYN made a phone call to a local breast surgeon. They both reassured me that this was not a death sentence, and that I and my baby girl would be fine. I met with the breast surgeon on my 32nd birthday and received the official diagnosis of Invasive Ductal
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HEAR FROM SURVIVORS, COMPANIONS AND CAREGIVERS IN OUR
Real Life
After treatment, we decided that a mastectomy would be the best choice. Triple negative breast cancer has a higher rate of reoccurrence, and having a double mastectomy greatly reduces the risk of the cancer returning. My last dose of chemo was on January 17, 2025, and the double mastectomy was on February 27, 2025. I was supposed to have tissue expanders placed at the same time as the mastectomy; however, during that surgery, my plastic surgeon decided to delay reconstruction due to poor blood flow. I did seven days of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to help with healing. I had to have nine doses of immunotherapy after surgery, and my plastic surgeon scheduled the expanders to be placed once I completed all treatments. My final implants were placed on January 26, 2026.
What was your first thought when you heard the diagnosis? Honestly, my first concern was for my baby. I wanted to make sure she would be okay, and then I would worry about myself. I breastfed my first two babies until 16 and 19 months, so I grieved not being able to breastfeed my third baby. I was also scared about not being able to be present in my children’s lives for however long I would be doing treatment. I worried about my husband having to
A MOTHER'S HEART: I breastfed my first two babies until 16 and 19 months, so I grieved not being able to breastfeed my third baby. I was also scared about not being able to be present in my children’s lives for however long I would be doing treatment. pick up my slack in taking care of the household. But, I didn’t get really have time to freak out because everything happened so fast.
Through the treatment process (and after), what did you want and need from your friends and family? I needed my family and friends to be understanding that I would have bad days and good days. Sometimes, I could function and do normal things like clean and cook dinner. Then other days it took everything in me to get up out of the bed. At home, my girls knew they couldn’t jump around me and had to be super easy with me because the chemo gave me a bone deep soreness in my neck, shoulders and back. I had to tell my students they couldn’t give me hugs, which was really hard for me. But they understood and mostly listened.
What forms of help and support have really stood out? Having a strong support system and people who would adjust their schedules to help me get to appointments or watch my kids was such a blessing. I knew I had more than enough people who I could ask to do stuff for me, but I also had some who just knew what I needed or made decisions for me, so I didn’t have to ask. Several friends provided food, gave us gift cards, or sent goodie baskets. I was overwhelmed with the support from everyone.
“ I T R I E D M Y B E S T T O S H A R E M Y F A I T H I N H I M W H E N I C O U L D . ” C a rly Br a sie 19
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LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE
SECTION. Carcinoma with papillary features grade 3, stage 2 triple negative breast cancer. I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Naresh Bellam at Montgomery Cancer Center in Prattville, and he laid out my treatment plan—12 rounds of chemo. In tandem with the chemo, I would receive immunotherapy every three weeks. I was induced at 38 weeks and started chemo 10 days after giving birth. My baby girl was perfect, and I had my port placement surgery exactly 1 week after giving birth. Since I was on maternity leave for my first few weeks of chemo, I felt good enough to return to my work as a special education resource teacher in Prattville after six weeks. I worked Monday through Thursday and did chemo on Fridays.
My co-workers picked up a lot of the slack while I was not at work. I was beyond thankful to have them watching over my students while I was out. I also had a wonderful substitute who I knew I could ask her anything and she would do it. My husband took me to all of my appointments and for the first several chemo treatments. He had just switched to a new position at work, and his boss allowed him to adjust his schedule so that he could come sit with me on Fridays at the cancer center. My mom would come sit with me at the cancer center if my husband wasn’t able to go with me. Once I was comfortable going on my own, I still wasn’t able to drive since they gave me Benadryl with the chemo. So, my mother-in-law would drop me off and pick me up from my appointments while she kept my two youngest kiddos. I’m very blessed that my mother-in-law keeps my daughters who aren’t in school in place of them having to go to a daycare. She continued watching them while I was on leave and helped me out so much with my girls. One of my past student’s moms brought a cot and camping mat to the school so I could nap during my lunch/planning period since I was so tired. And my first day back at work when I returned from maternity leave and had been doing chemo for a few weeks, my co-workers were wearing a “her fight is our fight” t-shirt. It was so unbelievable, and I appreciated the support so much.
The ladies at the Montgomery Cancer Center in Prattville made me feel welcome and loved every time I was there. They remembered my daughters’ names and asked about them. They truly made me feel like I was visiting them and not sick and there for treatment.
What one thing that you did for yourself most helped you cope?
FAMILY TIES “My grandmother had
My experience with cancer brought me closer to God because I knew that he was going to use this terrible situation for His good. It was hard not to question “why me?” but I also had (and still do) the faith that God would get us through the hard times and provide for us. And He did! Sometimes, just getting to share my faith with people helped me to remember why I was fighting through cancer. He was always giving me opportunities to talk to people about my experience, and I tried my best to share my faith in Him when I could.
breast cancer when she was
What advice would you give others how to approach and help their loved one going through cancer treatment?
appointment, treatment and
Stay positive and keep things as normal as possible. Don’t treat people with cancer as if they are broken. It’s okay to not be okay. I had to comfort people over my cancer diagnosis. Telling loved ones was harder on me than anyone knows.
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43 and was a big supporter throughout my whole journey. She was probably my biggest shoulder to cry on because she had been there and done it all well before I did. She was the hardest one to tell that I had breast cancer because I thought she would blame herself. She did at first, but it helped us to connect more, and I knew she was always praying over every surgery. Now we can both share in the fact that we are survivors and kicked breast cancer’s butt!”
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In Montgomery, Fresh Greens Market is on a mission to promote local agriculture and provide its neighborhood more access to healthy, nutrient-dense foods. BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY
W groceries became a hurdle even for
•
hen the pandemic hit, and getting
those with plenty of shopping options nearby and reliable transportation, sisters and Montgomery natives Erin and Erika Washington wondered, “What’s happening on Montgomery’s west side?” Their great grandfather Mose Thomas opened his Clarke Street Grocery store in one of the area’s historically Black neighborhoods in 1940, but by the 1970s, it had closed, and for the many seniors still living there today, getting to the nearest grocery store— about a mile away—can be an issue.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE
neighborhood and hoping to help those who still call it home achieve better health, Erika and Erin, with help from their dad, set out to revive their family’s legacy of feeding folks well by founding Fresh Greens Market on the same lot once occupied by their great-grandfather’s store. Here, Erika shares more of the Market’s story.
Thinking back on the fond memories they’d made at their grandmother’s house in that
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FRESH INGREDIENT: DEDICATI ON Fresh Greens' YouTube video (give it a look!) gives just a glimpse of the hardwork and hours sown into the community program. That's in addition to the setup and setbacks that come with creating a social enterprise.
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JOY: What motivated y’all to open Fresh Greens? Erika: Our mission is to make
fresh, wholesome food more accessible to this community. The closest grocery store is a mile away, which might not sound far, but many in this neighborhood don’t have access to a car. And there are a Family Dollar and a McDonald’s closer, and you can survive on that food, but you won’t thrive on it. You can’t get real, fresh food at those places.
Why is fresh food so important? I joke and say I went to college and was initially studying to be a pharmacist, but now I’m a farmer, and I have learned so much about how food is medicine. My sister and I have struggled with our own health and digestive issues. And we’ve recently lost some people we love, so we are really moved by that. Like I said, food is medicine and something you put in your body every day, so you need the good stuff, vegetables and fruits. And you need to know how they were grown.
here. A few years later, in 2023, we decided this needed to be more than just a passion project. We wanted to create a true sustainable business to do more. So, we got our shipping container and created the physical store.
a family affair:
Erika and Erin, with help from their dad, set out to revive their family’s legacy of feeding folks well by founding Fresh Greens Market on the same lot once occupied by their great-grandfather’s store. noticed and started helping us. It became a community garden. And we got lucky. The soil is great here, rich and black, and so whatever we planted grew. It’s the best soil I’ve ever worked with. Once we started harvesting, we gave the food away to the people
Why open it here? My father was born on this property 75 years ago. He and his mom, my grandmother, all helped at the store. My sister and I spent so much time in this neighborhood at our grandmother’s house, where I remember porch sitting, and everyone else would be out their porches too. My grandmother would always cook so much food and have everyone over to eat. Mission meetings were held under the pecan tree still standing near the fence line. There was so much love here, but this neighborhood has been forgotten about and neglected. And it is a special place; the people here are special. So, now, my sister and I want to pick up where my family left off with that food-based hospitality and welcome.
How did y’all get started? We didn’t have any real means or any know-how when we first had the idea, but we just started gardening on the lot where my family’s store once was. We were growing veggies, like collards and kale in raised beds. We had a small greenhouse. And then people in the neighborhood
FRESH INGREDIENT: c o m m u n ity Erin and Erika's family along with members of the community and local farmers make Fresh Greens market a place everyone comes together for something good in the neighborhood.
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fresh food = medicine
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neighbors in bloom
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How has the community responded to Fresh Greens’ efforts?
What does Fresh Greens offer? Now that we’ve completed construction, this spring and summer, we’ll be selling the produce we grow. We’ll redo some of the beds on the same lot as the building, but we also grow on another vacant lot just down the way. My fiancé and I are farming on our land out near Wetumpka. And we’ll have produce from other area farmers, too. We also plan to offer some basics like bread and dairy products and will be able to accept SNAP benefits. We plan to sell our food, but we will always give some away too for those in need. That’s always been our mission and what planted the original seed: feeding this community. In addition to providing fresh, nutritious food, we will continue to teach others how to use even small spaces on their property to grow their own food. Really, growing your own food is the best way to get the nutrition we all need. Don’t skip Erika’s just-squeezed juices. These sweet, hearty sips will be on offer at Fresh Greens this summer.
good stuff: pass it on
Since Fresh Greens Market began cleaning up lots and structures in its West Montgomery neighborhood, the desire to improve has spread like a fledgling plant, pushing its way up and out. “Other houses nearby are renovating now after we started the beds, and we renovated a house across the street and partnered with some other area organizations to get a few of the houses needed new roofs,” Erika says. “Watching that happen makes me believe our presence is bringing positives beyond the access to healthy food, and I love that.”
FRESH INGREDIENT: l eg a cy A public art installation curated by photographer Sydney A. Foster brings life to the lot and celebrates members of the community, past and present, including Erika and Erin's' grandfather Mose Thomas.
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Everyone has been really positive and supportive. While the actual store is just now getting ready to open, we’ve been doing gardening classes and workshops, yoga events, food and farming education for kids, and more, and we will continue that on our other gardenplot lot, which we call the Green Zone Learning Lab.
What can people expect this spring from Fresh Greens? We will open a few hours a day, several days a week. The container space is small, but we will have a cooler for some items, and then the shelves and baskets of produce all over. The container has a walk-up window, so we can serve more folks faster.
Do y’all have plans for growth? Yes. We have a larger space downtown on Jefferson Street, and we will expand into that too at some point. There is currently no grocery store downtown, so we hope to fill that gap. To begin with, we will do a farmstand there this summer. But this spot embedded in this neighborhood remains our top priority. We want to pour back into this place. Fresh Greens Market is not a nonprofit, but it is a social enterprise. It has already gotten several grants and is pursuing more. The Market also accepts donations from businesses and individuals inspired to help its mission bloom.
NEED TO HAVE SOME FUN?
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WHETHER YOU’VE BEEN MULTIPLE TIMES OR ARE PLANNING YOUR FIRST GETAWAY TO ALABAMA’S COAST, THERE’S NEVER A SHORTAGE OF WAYS TO HAVE FUN—BOTH ON AND BEYOND THE BEACH. CHECK OUT THIS LIST OF ESSENTIAL GULF SHORES AND ORANGE BEACH EXPERIENCES AND PLAN YOUR PERFECT ESCAPE.
Ways to Play
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BEST
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BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY
GULF COAST FUN YOU MIGHT BE MISSING
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Photography courtesy of GoBoats.
Photography courtesy of Sandcastle University.
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FLOAT A WHOLE NEW WAY
HONE YOUR SAND-SHAPING SKILLS
Earn a degree in beach fun with a class at Sandcastle University. Ranging from sand-shaping 101 for beginners to instruction on more advanced digging and design, pros teach you the ins and outs of sand sculpture, turning a childhood diversion into art for all ages.
sandcastleu.com
02 SAVOR THE SUNSET
Watch the sun sink into the Gulf and paint the sky above with hues of orange, purple and cotton-candy pink while soaking up the serenity of a two-hour sunset cruise aboard Wild Hearts’ 53-foot sailing yacht.
sailwildhearts.com
03 FIND FUN VIA FLOAT
Fish tranquil backwaters, cruise over to sand-bar islands or dock at an area waterfront restaurant for a snack as captain of your own craft. The electric inflatable boats rented by Beachside Circle Boats require zero experience to operate and deliver an exciting new way to explore.
circle-boats-main.vercel.app
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Photography courtesy of Coastal Getaways.
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Get above it all on a helicopter tour of the coastline with the expert pilots at Lost Bay Helicopters. Their trips provide an unforgettable bird’s eye view of sand, surf, open ocean and more.
lostbayhelicopters.com
05 NEW LOOKS AT MOTHER NATURE
You can walk or bike the numerous paths of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system, but if you’re after a different way to immerse yourself in the soothing coastal scenery, rent a Segway from Coastal Segway Adventures, and take it easy while you take in natural beauty.
coastalsegwayadventures.com
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Photography courtesy of Mythic Beach.
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Image by Big Dreamz Creative
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06 REEL IN SOME ACTION
Better your chances of catching a big one with a session at Gulf State Park’s Angler Academy. Held at the Park’s 1,540-foot pier (the second longest in the Gulf), the classes cover Gulf fishing 101, including how to get geared up, knot-tying, bait basics, casting and more.
alapark.com/parks/gulf-state-park/angler-academy
07 AWAKEN YOUR INNER ARTIST
If wandering the 10,000-square-foot gallery at The Coastal Art Studio and gazing at paintings and other works by local artists inspires you to get creative, sign up for a class with ceramics artist Maya Blue-Cantrell at the Center’s Clay Studio. You can learn the entire pottery process or choose a piece of already made pottery to paint and glaze.
coastalartscenter.com
A SWEET LOCAL STOP
08 GO BANANAS
When the summer sun raises temps, cool off with a treat from Mythic Beach Banana Bar in Gulf Shores. While this family-owned shop specializes in frozen bananas dipped in rich chocolate and rolled in toppings (like mini M&Ms, rainbow sprinkles and chopped nuts), other sweets on a stick include cheesecake and ice-cream sandwiches.
@mythicbeach
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Photography courtesy of Cruisin’ Tikis.
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09 INDULGE IN TIKI TIME
Forget beachside bars. Book a trip with Cruisin’ Tikis and sip a fruity, festive libation and soak up the laidback vibes on a tiki-bar turned boat (complete with palm-frond-thatched roofs for shade). You bring your favorite drink, and the provided captain charts a course for fun.
cruisintikis.com
MORE TO EXPLORE
Scheduled to open this summer, Laguna Cove Nature Park in Gulf Shores will offer interpretive boardwalks for treks through wetlands, a kayak launch and birding opportunities among its 53 wonder-full acres.
SAY AHOY
10 TO ADVENTURE Rule the seas aboard The American Star, a modern boat transformed into a replica pirate ship and offering cruises packed with chances to try the pirate life, including instruction on reading treasure maps, listening to pirate lore, pirate-song sing-a-longs and more.
hudsonmarina.net/pirate-adventure/
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COMING SOON!
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Explore some of the Mother-Nature-made fountains making a splash all around Alabama. BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY
Hit the Trail
Behel Falls & Lacefield Falls Among the rock formations, forest glens and canyons in north Alabama’s privately owned 700-plus-acre Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve, a dozen falls dot the landscape. Don’t miss Lacefield Falls, one of the largest and near the entrance of Behel, smaller cascade farther in the preserve. And look for the bountiful blooms of mountain laurel and other flowers, including wild orchids, in full flush every summer.
Turkey Creek Falls is dubbed “Mother Nature’s water slide,” enticing the brave and bold to take a slippery ride down its wet and mossy-slicked rocks.
Caney Creek Falls & Upper Caney Creek Falls In beautiful Bankhead National Forest, Upper Caney Creek Falls and Caney Creek Falls require a little effort to enjoy but are worth the work. They drop into one of the state’s best swimming holes, and the 1.7-mile roundtrip hike on Caney Creek Falls Trail to reach them takes you through some of our state’s most scenic splendor. Not far away is a smaller, stair-step-style waterfall called Kinlock Falls on the edge of the of Sipsey Wilderness. It’s also a beloved swimming spot and just off one of the main roads.
Falling Rock Falls In the Cahaba River Wildlife Management Area in Montevallo, a 1.8-mile round trip hike takes you to Falling Rock Falls, which drops a dramatic 90 feet. The tumbling water throws off a cooling mist, enticing you near for a closer look, but beware. When you reach the trailhead at the top of the falls, watch your step on slick rocks and stay away from the edge.
Turkey Creek Falls Taking the plunge inside Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson,
Mardis Mills Falls This gem near Oneonta is hidden but still simple to access; the short hike to reach it, right off Mardis Mills Road, will leave you with plenty of energy for a swim in the peaceful water below the falls.
Little River Falls The centerpiece of the 14,000-acre protected Little River Canyon National Preserve, the torrent of 45-foot Little River Falls pouring over a stone outcrop creates a swimming hole begging you in for a dip once summer arrives.
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Near Mentone, Canyon Rim Road twists and turns, leading to several overlooks along Little River Canyon’s edge that offer panoramic gorge and river views, making the drive a scenic way to spend an afternoon. And, if it’s recently rained, you might get a glimpse of Grace’s High Falls; the slim lady only shows herself after abundant precipitation.
TOURIST STOP
Noccalula Falls Stroll the flat paved path in Gadsden’s 250-acre Noccalula Falls Park to view this glittering waterfall tumbling 90-feet before splashing into Black Creek below. The story behind the falls’ name is a myth—that Native-American princess Noccalula (whose statue is poised on the precipice) threw herself over the falls to avoid a forced marriage—but the allure of its rushingstream soundtrack is real.
Desoto Falls
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Little River hurls itself over a craggy rock ledge to create the 104-foot-tall DeSoto Falls, a cataract that, when at its zenith, produces a mighty roar. An easy trek leads from the parking area to an observation point that provides a lovely look at the falls from above. Or take the concreate steps down for a full view of the water breaking into a glassy pool below.
High Falls Stretching several hundred feet across, this wide, roaring cascade is the focal point of High Falls Park, which in addition to the waterfall and the cool, clear wading opportunities in Town Creek, contains another natural wonder right below the falls, a 25-foot natural stone bridge.
Azalea Cascade, Lost Falls and Laurel Falls Hike into Desoto State Park, a 3,502-acre nature lover’s dream, and follow the 2.9mile Waterfall Loop trail that winds you past several waterfalls —Azalea Cascade, Lost Falls (rain dependent) and Laurel Falls, a pretty little swath of foam proving good things come in smaller packages. What these waterfalls lack in size, they make up for in serene charm.
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Rainbow Falls and Secret Falls shimmer inside Dismals Canyon, an 85-acre privately owned nature preserve that includes the namesake rocky gorge and a crystal-clear creek. See both up close with a trek on the 1.5-mile loop trail that cuts across the canyon floor and snakes along the bank of the pristine stream and through a shady, seemingly untouched forest.
Types of Skin Cancer There are three main types of skin cancer, and each behaves a little differently:
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC):
The most common and least aggressive form. It often appears as a pearly or fleshcolored bump and grows slowly.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC):
This type may look like a scaly patch or sore that does not heal. It can spread if left untreated.
sun smarts Spot Checks Save Lives
BY KIM SPIVEY
When it comes to skin care and skin-cancer prevention, consistency is key, and seeing a dermatologist regularly can help you spot trouble early. When we think about taking care of our health, it’s easy to focus on things like eating better, exercising or getting enough sleep. But our skin—the largest organ and one of the most exposed— often gets overlooked. With summer’s warmer weather and more time spent outdoors this season, understanding the basics of skin cancer is more important than ever. Sun exposure, even in small amounts over time, can add up and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Many people are unaware that skin damage can still occur on cloudy days or during everyday activities, such as driving or running errands.
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Melanoma: The most serious form. It can develop from existing moles or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. Melanoma is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.
Signs & Symptoms Regularly checking your skin for changes can help catch potential issues early, making treatment more effective. Watch for the following:
• New growths or spots on the skin • Changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole • Sores that do not heal • Itching, tenderness or bleeding in a specific area It's helpful to use the ABCDE rule when examining your moles.
Look for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and if they are Evolving.
Know Your Risk
Derm-Approved Daily Habits The good news is that many cases of skin cancer are preventable, and prevention starts by forming sun-safe daily habits.
while outdoors: Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day— even on cloudy days.
Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
Wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.
! stay away: Avoid tanning beds.
Protecting your skin is essential and will lower your skin-cancer risk, but there are risk factors you can’t change. These include fair skin and a family history of skin cancer. But exposure to UV rays from the sun or a tanning bed still plays a major role.
Why Seeing a Dermatologist Matters Even if you’re following all the protective rules, regular skin checks by a professional remain important. Dermatologists are experts trained to spot early signs of skin cancer that you might miss. Annual skin exams can catch potential problems before they become serious, especially in the case of melanoma, where early detection can be lifesaving. Visiting a dermatologist also gives you an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about your skin type, risk factors and the most effective ways to care for your skin overall. If something suspicious is detected, a dermatologist can quickly perform further testing or treatment, too. Taking care of your skin shouldn’t be complicated, but it does require consistency and awareness. By understanding the basics of skin cancer, practicing sun safety, and making regular dermatology visits part of your routine, you’re investing in your long-term health.
in
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IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING THERAPY, FINDING THE RIGHT THERAPIST IS THE FIRST HURDLE TO CROSS.
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FIT MATTERS: FIND YOUR
MIND MATCH BY KYM KLASS
Ask someone you trust. A referral from a friend, colleague or doctor you trust is another way to find a therapist who might be a good fit for you. But don’t become discouraged if the reference that works for your friend doesn’t work for you.
Don’t approach therapy with a “one kind fits all” approach. Take the time to seek out the mental-health pro who is in-line with your values, your personality
Reach out to organizations that address your area of concern: If you’re looking for a therapist to help with
and your overall therapy goals. If you’re considering therapy—whether to restore a relationship, recover from trauma, adjust to a new life phase, improve your mental health or just talk with someone—finding the right therapist is the first hurdle to cross, according to Heathline. And because therapy is such a personal journey—everyone has different needs, concerns, stories—you may have to talk to a few therapists before you connect with the one you feel is tailored for you.
a specific mental health condition, you might find local therapists through a national association, network or helpline. For example, you might look for information from the National Alliance for Eating Disorders or the National Center for PTSD.
Ask questions about the things that matter to you:
Healthline offers some advice for your search.
It’s important to ask your therapist some questions to assess how much experience they have in the area you wish to resolve and what kinds of treatments have they found effective in resolving what you want resolved. NPR’s “Your Health” says you should also factor cost into your decision. Therapy can be expensive—or not, depending on where you go for care or whom you see. Know your coverage options and budget before deciding where to look for a therapist.
Think about your goals ahead of time: Ask yourself what you want to accomplish and what you need help with. When you and your therapist work together toward the same goals, your outlook will be better. Having an idea of the areas you’d like to work on can assist your therapist in gaining insight into the areas you believe you need to work on.
And after a first appointment, if you think you might be able to work with this therapist, Theresa Nguyen, chief research officer at Mental Health America, says to give it three to five sessions to test if they’re the right one for you. Some discomfort is normal, she says, “especially if this is your first time in therapy.”
ADVICE FOR MATCH MAKING
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THERAPY IS A PERSONAL JOURNEY— EVERYONE HAS DIFFERENT NEEDS, CONCERNS, STORIES. You may have to talk to a few therapists before you connect with the one you feel is tailored for you.
SEARCH SAVVY There are ways to make your therapist search easier and more effective. Ask questions. Research. And make sure the therapist you’re considering has experience working with your concerns.
A LASTING RELATIONSHIP
Once you find your therapist, there are myriad benefits to meeting with them, according to Lifebulb, including recovery from mental illness, enhanced self-awareness, support during transitions and validation and understanding. “Through therapy, individuals can gain insights into their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, fostering self-awareness and promoting personal growth,” Lifebulb states on its website. And there are downsides, including the time it can take to meet therapy goals, plus the cost and the emotional discomfort, vulnerability and hard work that it takes. “Therapy can be painful, and you might not see the results right away. You have to learn to be okay with this discomfort as you process and move through it,” Lightbulb states. But for many, the pros outweigh these cons.
BAD MATCH WARNING SIGNS
While there are questions and thoughts to consider going into therapy, once there, there are also red flags to watch for, according to Grow Therapy. These include the therapist’s poor listening or lack of empathy, weak or missing boundaries, outdated knowledge, use of techniques that don’t work for you, dismissing your feelings and making you feel unheard or invalidated and your trouble building trust.
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MAKING THE CALL: So, is therapy worth it? It’s likely a good investment of your time, energy and money if you are: • Struggling with a mental illness • Going through a difficult life transition • Struggling with relationships • Wanting to reach goals • Chronically stressed, angry or down Source: Lifebulb
Together We Can Eliminate Cervical Cancer What YOU can do to help WIPE OUT cervical cancer:
1
HPVVaccination (Ages 9-26)
2
Regular Screening (Starting at 21)
3
Follow-Up Treatment
Spread the word! Like, follow, and subscribe to OPERATION WIPE OUT’S social media channels for the latest news: @Operation WIPE OUT
@operationwipeoutal
@OpWipeOutAL
ALABAMA
Learn more at operationwipeout.org
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PRODUCTS, PLACES & THINGS WE LOVE
GROW GOOinD dne s s
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BLOOMS WITH BENEFITS Auburn-based nonprofit Nourish Foundation fights food insecurity and offers access to whole-person care. Its Nourish AL program addresses hunger by delivering baskets filled with a mix of wholesome, fresh produce and other foods to families in need. The sister program Nourish Wellness provides education and resources focused on improving physical activity, nutrition and behavioral health to underserved patients. Nourish Blooms supports both initiatives with sales of colorful cut flowers the Nourish team grows. Bloom Buddies offers a great way to get involved. Sign up and get a six-week subscription for bouquets bursting with flowers and a Nourish Blooms t-shirt. Opt for Bloom Buddies Deluxe and get the subscription and shirt, plus admission to Nourish Blooms' floral design workshop. But the best part? Your Bloom Buddy fee helps the Nourish Foundation cover operational costs and continue to serve area families.
NOURISHBLOOMS.COM
WAY TO GO, JOE A cup of Café La Tranquilidad contains more than delicious coffee, although its rich, complex flavor points to the care put into every step of its process—from meticulous harvesting to ensure only ripe berries are picked to careful bean sorting both before and after its small-batch roasting. And while the coffee is grown and roasted in the highlands of Guatemala, the company’s owners, Martin and Diane Brodbeck, have Alabama roots. “My dad Martin was born and raised in Fairhope and attended Auburn University where he studied forestry before working as a forester for Firestone,” says Christian Brodbeck, Martin and Diane’s son. The job took the family to Guatemala, and in 1985, the Brodbecks bought the coffee farm and Café La Tranquilidad was born. Alongside superior taste is the business’ commitment to sustainability and to its employees. The Brodbecks keep a portion of the seven-acre farm’s habitat natural, creating a bird sanctuary. The farm avoids herbicides, using mechanized practices to keep weeds at bay instead. And La Tranquilidad pays every team member a living wage. Christian encourages anyone looking for a true farm-to-cup coffee experience to seek out Café La Tranquilidad. “Cafe La Tranquilidad is the true passion of my dad, and he ensures that every bean that is packaged is the highest quality possible,” he says.
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smile lines
LEAVING YOU WITH A LITTLE JOY Free fun
The library has books on activities for all ages, like paper airplanes.
REMEMBER WHEN?
Fly Away
A few pieces of paper can unlock a lot of imagination and engineering. Make paper airplanes and judge which flies highest or fartherst, or even which crashes the fastest.
Make this summer with your family one to remember! Battle boredom and win with these throwback analog activities and experiences, no batteries or digital devices required.
Time Capsule
Write a letter to yourself to remember a fun day.
! B-I-N-G-O it But make SU M M E R !
l way Tr y this play fu mer m su g of makin ies. or em m of full
Summer Fun Bingo Create Bingo-style cards where squares to mark include things like a picnic, seeing fireworks, eating ice cream or watching an outdoor movie. Filling your cards as you and your family enjoy these summer pleasures adds another layer to summer memories. And forget simple down or across “Bingo”; go for blackout!
Shutter-Bug Summer Go truly retro and buy a few waterproof disposable cameras. Encourage every family member to keep theirs handy and snap away until no shots remain. Getting the film developed and waiting to see what was captured builds an excitement via anticipation that’s often lacking in our modern age. And Color hunt some of the photos Pass out a list are likely to yield of colors to photograph, then some fun (and compile images into funny) surprises! a video or book.
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Write On Whether you splurge on some fancy stationary and colorful pens or simply use notebook paper and a pencil, handwrite letters to family and friends and send them “snail mail.” Add interest by asking someone to be a summerlong pen pal and exchange old-school communications all season.
Here to make a difference. Here for careers that matter. Here for life. Recognized by Forbes as a top workplace for six consecutive years, Baptist Health is home to thousands of team members across Central Alabama who bring compassion, dedication, and expertise to work every day, making a difference for our patients and for each other. BaptistFirst.org
FORBES
Top-Ranked Employer IN ALABAMA IN A ROW
6 YEARS
THE
LARGEST PRIVATE EMPLOYER IN THE REGION
+ 000
6,
TEAM MEMBERS ACROSS CENTRAL ALABAMA, AND GROWING
GROWING
OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS MULTIPLE CAREER PATHS
Sun Safety Starts Here Simple steps can help protect your family from harmful UV rays, every time you’re outside. Sun protection is one of the simplest ways to help prevent
Find stations at:
skin damage, and reduce the risk of skin cancer later in life. Montgomery Cancer Center is helping families stay
AUM DIXIE BASEBALL
protected by offering FREE SPF 30 sunscreen stations
BLOUNT CULTURAL PARK
this summer at popular outdoor destinations across
BUDDY WATSON PARK
Montgomery.
EMORY FOLMAR SOCCER COMPLEX EDWARD THOMPSON PARK GATEWAY PARK
FOLLOW THESE SMART SUN TIPS
LAGOON PARK
FOR FAMILIES:
DABOS PARK (FORMERLY RIVERWALK STADIUM)
+ Apply sunscreen before heading outdoors
RIVERFRONT PARK
+ Reapply every 2 hours (or after swimming/sweating)
MONTGOMERY WHITEWATER
+ Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing + Seek shade during peak sun (10 AM–4 PM)
FIND SUNSCREEN STATIONS NEAR YOU AND EXPLORE MORE SUN SAFETY TIPS.
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