YLife Birmingham
May-June 2012 Volume 7, Issue 3
free to be
ME
Summer at the YMCA
FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILTY
YLife
LifeNotes
Birmingham
May-June 2012, Volume 7 Issue 3
We didn’t come here to fit in. We came here to be who we are. We didn’t come here to work. We came here to live our dreams. We didn’t come here for the stuff. We came here to love each other. We didn’t come here by accident. We each came here with a purpose that is uniquely our own.
YMCA of Birmingham Officers Chairman Phyllis Hall vice chairman Joseph Mays, Jr. treasurer Michael Temple secretary David Woodruff
Be Dream Love Thrive Always. Darned it, but those greeting card sentiments can, sometimes, hit just the right note. Like this one. FREE TO BE ME is what YMCA summer day camps hope to bring to children and young people, beginning May 29. Yank out our first-ever centerfold poster to see what’s going on from Camp Cosby to Greystone, and from the Western Area to Alabaster, all day, every day, this summer! Find 5 reasons a kid should go to summer camp from one of the best sources, a camper mom, on page 5. Read about two extra special summer initiatives: the Ragger’s program—where friends really “tie one on”—at Hargis Retreat and Camp Cosby; and a free summer lunch program that proves when children are not hungry, they can focus on playing. And then CIRCUIT. While the second half of the magazine has always been about connecting you to the programs that are for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, beginning in this issue, we hope to make it even easier. Every listing connects you directly to the areas on our website—ymcabham.org—where you can find all the details, dates, times, and branches for those programs, along with direct links to online registration. Look for ymcabham.org/ … and then the name of the program. Type it into your browser, and you’re there! Connectivity is what the YMCA has always been about, so ramping up ways for you to read more and do more online comes pretty naturally. Because what we know about you is this:
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
We didn’t come here by accident. We each came here with a purpose that is uniquely our own.
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.
Be Dream Love Thrive
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.
Always.
YLife Birmingham Staff
Join Me at the Y
4
Features
6
Circuit
14
My Mission
23
vice PRESIDENT, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS David G. Hill COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOr 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’S OFFICIAL OPENING JUMP-STARTED WITH $50,000 COMMUNITY CHALLENGE GIFT With Hoover YMCA Executive Director Julie Broday—and YGuy—looking on, Dwight Sandlin, Co-Founder and CEO of Hoover-based Signature Homes, announces the company’s $50,000 Community Charitable Challenge Gift at March’s ribbon-cutting for the facility. To jump-start fund raising efforts at the branch, Joel Smith, General Manager of Hoover’s Hendrick Automotive family pledged the first $10,000 towards the challenge.
Shades Valley YMCA Breaks Ground on Renew Our Home Renovation Shades Valley YMCA volunteer Tim Blair, addresses over 100 community leaders and donors at the March groundbreaking for the RENEW OUR HOME expansion at the branch. He served as the branch Board Chair for the past five years; his guidance was instrumental in keeping the plan—the vision for Shades Valley— on track. That plan, and construction, will include: • New Youth Activity Center • New Outdoor Family Pool and Splash Park • New Youth/Teen Leadership and Technology Center • Expanded Wellness Center • Enhanced accessibility for Seniors and those with special needs
4 | www.ymcabham.org
LifeSkills 5 REASONS WHY KIDS SHOULD ATTEND SUMMER CAMP
1. ADVENTURE: Summer camp is all about a wide variety of fun adventures and new experiences, and especially exploring the outdoors. YMCA camps have a new adventure for every child and teen. Visit www. ymca.net for details.
2. HEALTHY FUN: Day and resident camps offer fun, stimulating activities that engage the body and mind, and also help children and teens learn the importance of nutrition to help improve their eating habits.
3. PERSONAL GROWTH: While being away from the routine back home, youth have a chance to learn new skills, and develop confidence and independence by taking on new responsibilities and challenges.
4. NEW FRIENDSHIPS: Amidst the fun of camp games, songs, swimming, canoeing and talent shows, campers meet new friends.
5. MEMORIES: Summer camp is an unforgettable experience that will give each camper memories (and campfire stories) that will last a lifetime. Youth return to school with plenty of camp stories to share about how hard they’re working as well. But, really, it’s just more fun to exercise with a bunch of friends.
Summer Camp Mom Stephanie Jones (left) has two children in the Summer Day Camp at Alabaster
Estate Planning Free Wills Planning Service at the YMCA If you’d like to schedule a meeting to find out how it works, call Leigh Collins at 801-6053. What does planning your will have to do with the YMCA? Because our mission focus is healthy spirit, mind and body, it naturally follows that when someone finishes planning their will, they have great peace of mind, knowing their loved ones will be taken care of when the time comes. Peace of mind affects your spirit and your body! This service is free to members, totally confidential and the company who we’ve contracted with to offer this service, Thompson & Associates, has no products to sell. This is a very popular program at the YMCA! The participants have been so pleased with this service. Ron and Judy Golden—Ron has been a Downtown YMCA member for 51 years—said, “It was great meeting with the local Thompson consultant, Susann Montgomery-Clark, and all of the information she shared was a help in making our wills the way we wanted them to be. We got answers to every question that we asked. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to make a will. Thanks YMCA for providing this free service!”
May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 5
Feeding souls,
stomachs, & at the YMCA
The sun is high, school is out and hundreds of children are enjoying a summer of fun at their neighborhood YMCA. Children are learning to swim, playing basketball, connecting with friends and making memories. And, thanks to the YMCA of Birmingham, they’re able to do all this with a full stomach. According to a study conducted by the Alabama Poverty Project, nearly one quarter of Birmingham/Hoover-area children don’t have enough good food to eat. The majority of these children qualify for free or reducedprice meals during the school year, but those programs end when the final school bell rings for the school year. For far too many children, summer is a time when they wonder: “What am I going to eat today?” The YMCA provides a solution. Through a grant from the Summer Food Service Program—a U.S. Department of Agriculture initiative—the YMCA provides free lunches during the summer to children at our Western Area, Youth Center, and Northeast branches. Terri Harvill, Vice President for these areas, said the program eliminates the worry many parents and children have about getting enough to eat during the summer.
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1/4
nearly
of Birmingham/Hooverarea children don’t have enough good food to eat.
During the six weeks of summer programming last year, up to 10,000 individual, nutritionally balanced meals—consisting of a sandwich, two pieces of fruit, milk and juice, chips, and crackers—were served. And, not only do all of the children enrolled in Summer Day Camp receive a free lunch, but each branch participating in the program is an open site, meaning any child in the community service area can receive a free lunch, no questions asked. “For the parent, it takes the stress off of those who worry about being able to pack a lunch every day, because a lot of those children who come through our programs qualify for free or reduced lunch during the school year,” said Harvill. “It also takes anxiety away for those kids who, otherwise, may not have a lunch. We have a lot of children who come with a lunch, but what’s in that lunch may be very sparingly put together,” Harvill added. “We’ve actually seen cases where children who didn’t have food at home will
$7,500 A grant from Wal Mart to YMCA Northeast last year to qualify as a Summer Food Service Program site.
bring a lunchbox with rocks in them to make us think they actually had food.” During those long, hot summer days, being hungry has a tendency to bring out the not-so-best in kids, as well as adults. Making certain every child who walks through the door of the YMCA has a nutritious meal goes a long way to helping kids enjoy being kids. “What we found at Northeast was we had a lot of problems with kids stealing lunches because they didn’t have enough to eat,” said Sophia Glenn, Associate Director of the Northeast and Western branches. “Now, we don’t have children coming to camp who are, literally, worried about what am I going to eat.” “We have a lot of children who have other external issues going on at home. They’re already stressed out about things children should not be stressed out about, but when there is an empty stomach all of that is magnified,” added Harvill. “When children are not hungry, they can focus on playing.” The Summer Food Service Program was created to ensure that children in low economic communities can receive nutritious meals during summer vacation, when they don’t have access to school meals. The Western Area YMCA has been a site for over 10 years, and Youth Center for some five years. Northeast, became a site in 2011, with some help from a few local benefactors.
10,000
up to
individual, nutritionally balanced meals were served last year.
Last year, YMCA Northeast received a grant from Wal Mart for $7,500 which allowed the branch to hire an administrator to qualify as a Summer Food Service Program site. In addition, the Birmingham Coca-Cola Bottling Company donated the refrigerators required. “Being a part of this program really made me feel good,” said Glenn. “I felt like we were meeting another need of our neighborhood. It was just another extension of the YMCA and how we serve the community.” “The premise behind the program is that it’s open to children in the whole community,” added Harvill. “It’s an answer to the question, ‘what are we going to eat today?’”
10 5
Number of years the Western Area YMCA has been a Summer Food Service Program site.
Number of years the Youth Center has been a Summer Food Service Program site.
March-April 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 7
Wave that rag high and wide The colors range from blue to white and they aren’t given out lightly. They may look like random pieces of cloth to outsiders, but those who are a part of the YMCA Ragger’s Program, accepting a new ‘rag’ is a special moment, representing a new step along a personal journey of self-improvement and personal responsibility. Launched in 1914 by Thomas Caldwell of the Oakland, California YMCA, The Ragger’s Program is a way of rewarding campers for exhibiting positive character traits, such as good health habits, trust and helpfulness, and general morality. As children progress through their personal development goals, they are given a new color rag, in a ceremony during which a mentor ties it around their neck. Special care is taken to prevent children accepting a new rag from causing others to become envious or as an occasion for bragging. That’s why all Ragger’s ceremonies are carried out in private at Ragger’s 8 | www.ymcabham.org
Point, a secret spot where campers and staff gather to participate in this tradition that has been handed down over decades. “Ragger’s Point is not known to anyone but raggers,” said Christine Shores, Day Camp Director at Hargis Retreat and ragger from her days as a Hargis camper at Camp Cosby. An important part of life at the YMCA of Birmingham’s residence camp for many years, Shores introduced the Ragger’s Program to the kids at YMCA Hargis Retreat during the summer of 2011. “It’s a very sentimental type of program and it helps further what the YMCA is already doing, teaching those core values and becoming closer to God,” Shores said. On the first day of the week at Cosby and Hargis, staff explains The Raggers to newly arrived campers, making themselves available to answer questions to those expressing interest in the personal improvement program. It’s during these informal talks that a child may make the
decision to join the program, and begin discussing objectives for their individual development. “They’re given the opportunity to talk with a staff member who is already a ragger about why they want to take the challenge,” Shores said. “They set goals for themselves and they’re encouraged to discuss any challenges or struggles they’re having meeting those goals.” For instance, at the beginning of the process a child may set for themselves the goal of being more helpful at home with their family, becoming involved in their community, or dedicating themselves to greater service to God. Beginning at age 11 there are seven colors earned throughout the process—blue, silver, brown, gold, red, purple, and white —chronicling a young person’s progression from pre-teen to young adulthood. The goals of every Ragger candidate are set by the individual along with the help
of their mentor. No one aside from the camper and anyone he or she decides to share with knows what has been written down. Participation in the program itself is encouraged but is always left completely to the individual. Once “raggers” have received a rag, they are encouraged to wear it to Camp on Mondays and Fridays to encourage others to also challenge themselves and accept the Raggers challenge.
“You’ll see some kids that you can tell how they’ve changed and made this commitment to themselves,” Shores added. “You can definitely see it means a lot to them. They’re proud of the fact they made this commitment to better themselves and are following through on that commitment.” The Ragger’s Program can be just as meaningful for adults and continues to be an
effective tool for counseling and motivation toward positive change long after they pass through childhood. “When Emily Lombard tied my rag at Cosby, it was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Shores. The program is open to all people of all religious faiths and its symbolism is God-centered, sacred and personal. To learn more go online to ymcabham.org/ hrraggersprogram.
The Seven Rag Steps •
Blue (Age 12) Loyalty to God, Country, one’s best self and the Raggers’ Creed.
•
Silver (Age 13) Acceptance or re-dedication to the Christian way of life or spiritual growth.
•
Brown (Age 14) Christian Service.
•
Gold (Age 15) Understanding, concern and acceptance of others.
•
Red (Age 16) Sacrifice of time, talent, and personal will.
•
Purple (Age 18) A dedication towards excellence and noble living in all Christian Service Opportunities.
•
White (Age 21) Life of Full-Time Christian Service.
May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 9
VOLUNTEER EXHIBITION
Saluting our 2011 YMCA volunteers Last month, at a presentation at the Birmingham Museum of Art, volunteers from across the YMCA were saluted for their contributions to the association during 2011. Hosted by the volunteer Junior Board, awards were presented to adult and youth volunteers from individual branches, to association-wide recipients, and to four volunteers of long-standing who were inducted into The Order of the Red Triangle. It is the highest honor a YMCA volunteer can receive. It recognizes individuals who have given at least 10 years of exemplary volunteer service to the YMCA, demonstrating devotion, significant participation and accomplishment.
ORDER OF THE RED TRIANGLE INDUCTEES Tom Hale If you ever wonder about the “C” in the YMCA, just ask Downtown member, volunteer, and donor, Tom Hale. Tom proposed the idea for an association Chaplain, for a memorial wall to recognize members and staff who have passed, and for a new Downtown Chapel for worship and Bible study. Judge Andra Sparks Beginning at the Fourth Avenue YMCA youth sports program, through Youth and Government, Tri-Hi Y club, to his service on the board of the Western Area YMCA, to his continuing presence of impact on the metro YMCA board, Judge Sparks exemplifies the best of a YMCA volunteer. Mike Temple From serving on the Hargis Retreat Board, 12-year volunteer Mike Temple is now Treasurer for the association. The banker in him lends an analytical view about all situations, but Mike tempers it with a deep caring for other people.
Chip Watts Third generation YMCA volunteer, Chip Watts has been a part of the YMCA for over 30 years. As a camper, he grew to be a Counselor and Leader in Training. He served on the board of YMCA Camp Cosby for a decade, leading the resident camp to unprecedented growth.
Micah Kemp Northeast YMCA ADULT VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Huffman High School and former West End High School teacher Micah Kemp has been a volunteer advisor for the YMCA Youth and Government Program for the past 12 years. Mr. Kemp helps prepare students for the state judicial and legislative competitions. He has helped raise funds for the program, and he has secured professionals to mentor students preparing for the sessions. Jase Goodson Pelham YMCA YOUTH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Jase Goodson is one of the most reliable youth leaders and volunteers. He developed a filling schedule so campers always had water throughout the day. He helped prepare early check out and the offsite pick up location. For an hour every afternoon, Jase walked campers to check. He eagerly stepped in to volunteer every day to work with a special needs camper, too. Deon Nduna Shades Valley YMCA YOUTH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Deon Nduna gave up an opportunity to go to Florida last summer so he would not miss ‘work’ at the Shades Valley YMCA. Deon grew up in Shades’ summer camp program, for six years, the past two as a Counselor in Training with fourthsixth grade boys. One of the camp counselors’ favorites, Deon is dedicated, focused and pays attention to detail.
For complete coverage of the event, and to see the branch award winners, go to ymcabham.org/2011 volunteers
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FREE TO BE ME SUMMER CAMPS AT THE YMCA
AT THE Y, THERE IS A CAMP PROGRAM FOR EVERYONE! FROM DAY CAMP AND OVERNIGHT (RESIDENT) CAMP TO FAMILY CAMP AND SPECIALTY CAMPS, THERE IS A SUITABLE CAMP TO MEET THE DIVERSE NEEDS OF CAMPERS. DAY CAMP FDQ RIIHU DOPRVW DOO RI WKH EHQH¾WV RI traditional camp — new experiences, skill building, a sense of community and lasting friendships — in suburban and urban settings while returning home each afternoon. Ys across the greater Birmingham area offer day camps for elementary age boys and girls and many may have offerings for pre-schoolers or teens. SPECIALTY CAMPS focus on VSHFL¾F SURJUDPPLQJ VXFK DV teen adventure, music, sports specialties and personal experiences. OVERNIGHT CAMPS at YMCA Camp Cosby in Alpine, Alabama are in session from a few days to several weeks and offer a wide variety of outdoor adventures led by trained and experienced leaders that offer school age children and teens an unforgettable experience.
May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 11
ymcabham.org/phsummercamps 664-9622
PELHAM YMCA
ymcabham.org/svsummercamps 870-9622
SHADES VALLEY YMCA
NORTHEAST YMCA
ymcabham.org/nechildcare 823-7616
FREE TO BE ME!
ymcabham.org/hvsummerdaycamp 682-1399
HOOVER YMCA
ymcabham.org/gssummercamps 981-0144
GREYSTONE YMCA
ymcabham.org/alsummercamp 663-6504
ALABASTER YMCA
WESTERN AREA YMCA
ymcabham.org/hrdaycamp 678-6512
YMCA HARGIS RETREAT
ymcabham.org/campcosby 800-852-6729
YMCA CAMP COSBY
SUMMER AT THE Y
ymcabham.org/ycsummer 324-1643
YMCA YOUTH CENTER
ymcabham.org/wachildcare 923-1195
ymcabham.org/vesummercamps 823-0144
VESTAVIA YMCA
ymcabham.org/tvsummercamp 655-2224
TRUSSVILLE YMCA
ymcabham.org/svsummercamps 870-9622
SHADES VALLEY YMCA
ymcabham.org
ymcabham.org
Register for summer day camps online at
circuit Active Weight Loss Program ymcabham.org/activeweightloss
CONTACTS
Downtown
Greystone
Trussville
Caroline Bundy, 801-7233 Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. Mary Rosser, 981-0144 Thursday, 6:45 p.m.
Kerry Weidenback/Robin Burns, 655-2224 Wednesday, Noon, 5:45 p.m.
Vestavia
Kerry Weidenback/Robin Burns, 655-2224 Monday, 5 p.m.
The YMCA Active Weight Loss Program is an affordable, comprehensive approach that includes weekly group meetings with a private weigh in; diet and physical activity tracking logs; common sense nutritional information and supervised group personal training; all in a fun, highenergy, supportive environment. COST PER MONTH YMCA Members $45 | Non Members $100. Includes city-wide access to YMCA branches for the duration of the program.
Diabetes Prevention Program ymcabham.org/diabetesprevention CONTACT Debby LaCruz
801-7224 nodiabetes@ymcabham.org
Summer classes begin this month. The program is a small group, lifestyle intervention designed specifically for adults at high risk of developing diabetes.
14 | www.ymcabham.org
connecting you to the birmingham YMCA branch by branch
Circuit has always been about connecting you to the programs that are for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Beginning in this issue, we hope to make it even easier, by connecting you directly to the areas on our website —ymcabham.org—where you can find all the details, all the dates, times, and branches for those programs, along with direct links to online registration. Look for ymcabham.org/ … and then the name of the program. Type it into your browser, and you’re there!
HEALTHY KIDS DAY
Directory Alabaster Family Branch
YOUTH SPORTS
ALABASTER, GREYSTONE, PELHAM YMCAs CONTACT Alabaster Greystone Pelham
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
Trenae Leonard 663-6504 George Becker 981-0144 Tamara Haralson 664-9622
ymcabham.org/alabaster ymcabham.org/gsteamsports ymcabham.org/phsports
Summer Baseball registration through May 19 Call your local branch for specific details. All youth sports programs participants are provided with uniforms and medallion of achievement. All parents are required to read and sign a Concussion Awareness Fact Sheet prior to the first practice, for safe play.
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
HOOVER YMCA
ymcabham.org/hvsports CONTACT Kelly Kidd
Executive Director
Kevin Casey
682-1399
Summer Basketball
ymcabham.org/hvsports
Registration through May 15 Summer Schedule: May 28 - July 28 Staff skills coaches lead weekly skills sessions grouped by age, not by team. Scrimmages are casual on Saturday mornings- teams are formed with whoever is available to play that week. Space is limited, preference for current YMCA basketball program participants.
Downtown Branch 2101 4th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 205.324.4563 Branch Hours Monday-Friday: 5 a.m.- 8 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday: Closed Executive Director
Andrew Freeman
Age: Entering Second - Eighth grades in Fall 2012 Practice times: 2-3 Grade Wednesday 6 - 7:30 p.m. 4 - 5 Grade Monday 7 - 8:30 p.m. 6 - 8 Grade Sunday 5 - 6:30 p.m. COST YMCA Members $85 Non Members $125
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.- 8 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday: 2-6 p.m. Executive Director
Pat Tate membership Director
Kristin Harris
ymcabham.org May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 15
circuit
YOUTH SPORTS, continued Martial Arts/Kickboxing Mondays 7 years - Adult
This is an exciting and unique experience--you’ll get in shape and feel better at the same time! No uniforms, belts, or previous experience required. A genuine martial arts class; it is based on striking and defensive techniques gathered from a wide variety of styles. You will gain flexibility, coordination, and discipline. COST PER MONTH: YMCA Members $48 | Non Members $62
FREE! KIDS LOVE FOOD nutrition class
Monthly ymcabham.org/hvhealthyliving for dates Kids learn basic nutrition in a fun interactive class lead by staff dietician, Kristin McManus. Space is limited, members only.
Youth T-Ball
Registration through May 29 Boys and Girls (ages 3-6) Learn introductory baseball skills. All players enjoy equal practice and playing time. All games and practices are played on Mondays from 5:30 - 7:45 p.m. Practice begins June 5. COST YMCA Members $80 | Non Members $106
Dance & Cheerleading Team Clinics
Learn the basics of dancing on a high school level team (perfecting 8 counts, staying on beat, and working together as a group). This clinic will teach the correct technique in completing jumps, turns, and perfecting kicks within a dance line. COST PER SESSION: YMCA Members $20 | Non Members $30
FREE! Kids Fitness
UPDATE Monthly ymcabham.org/hvhealthyliving for dates Kids Fitness graduates: learn new equipment and increase your privileges. Space is limited.
SHADES VALLEY YMCA ymcabham.org/svsports CONTACT Mickal Thomas
870-9622
Youth Volleyball Personal Coaching
mthomas@ymcabham.org
Personal volleyball training is for fun, to practice a specific skill, to be ready for the fall school season try-outs or to keep your daughters’/sons’ hands on a ball in the off season. COST PER SESSION: YMCA Members $20 | Non Members $30
Boys Volleyball League
Registration through June 30 Ages 8-15 YMCA volleyball is a good way to improve confidence and gain experience. Everyone participates, everyone learns, everyone has fun! COST YMCA Members $45 | Non Members $60
Youth Coach Pitch and Kid Pitch Baseball
Registration through May 29 Coach pitch (ages 7-8) Kid Pitch (ages 9-12) Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:30 - 7:45 p.m. Baseball programs developed to continue the fundamental teaching of baseball basics and also prepare for competitive play. Practice begins June 5.
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HEALTHY KIDS DAY
GIRLS
(and boys)
ON THE RUN
YMCA Youth Center 2400 Seventh Avenue North SATURDAY, MAY 12 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. It’s a coed 5K, for all ages, sponsored by “Girls on the Run” and Regions Bank. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m.; the race starts at 8 a.m.; the awards ceremony is at 9:30 a.m. in Marconi Park across the street from the Youth Center. Everyone runs, everyone medals! $30 per runner the day of the race. Early registration can be done online, at girlsontherunbham.org.
Directory Hargis Retreat 928 Hargis Drive Chelsea. AL 35043 205.678.6512 Branch Hours Monday-Saturday: 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. - 9:30 p.m. Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Swimming
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Julie Broday MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Cindy Reams
ymcabham.org/‌
ALABASTER /alswimming Gwen Hatcher DOWNTOWN/dtswimming GREYSTONE/gsswimming Adam West HOOVER/hvswimming Laysea Newsome MOUNTAIN BROOK/mbswimming Michelle Varnell NORTHEAST/neswimming Alicia McIntyre PELHAM/phswimming Jennifer Dick SHADES VALLEY/svswimming Katie Watkins TRUSSVILLE/tvswimming Missy Gooden VESTAVIA/vxswimming Matt Robinson WESTERN AREA/waswimming Keesha Nelson YOUTH CENTER/ycswimming Go online at ymcabham.org/and the branch ID with swimming (complete list is above) - or call the YMCA in your neighborhood for information on:
MAY
Swim lessons May 7-14 Summer Swim Team Starts May 29 register now Splash Day (Pool Party!) at Pelham, May 5
Summer Swim lesson Registration going on now!
Mountain Brook Branch 663-6504 324-4563 981-0144 682-1399 870-0144 833-7616 664-9622 870-9622 655-2224
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.-8 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. Saturday: 8:15 a.m.- Noon Sunday: 2-6 p.m. Executive Director
Michelle Oliver membership Director
823-0144
Kristie Nix
923-1195
Northeast Family Branch
324-1643
628 Red Lane Road Birmingham, AL 35216 205.833.7616 Branch Hours Monday & Tuesday: 5 a.m.- 9 p.m. Wednesday-Friday: 5 a.m.- 8 p.m. Saturday: 7 a.m.- Noon Sunday: Closed Executive Director
Terri A. Harvill
ymcabham.org
JUNE
Swim lessons continue, June 4-14, and 18-28 Saturday Swim Lessons Pool Parties are available at most branches all year!
REGISTER ONLINE, TOO!
May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 17
circuit
TENNIS Greystone YMCA CONTACT Cain Mashengo
566-6027
HEALTHY KIDS DAY
SHAKIN’ YOUR BOOTY
ymcabham.org/gstennis
Summer Tennis Camp June 4 - August 3 Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. for beginners 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. for advanced/tournament players COST: Go to ymcabham.org/gstennis for pricing by the week, by the day(s), and by the hour.
YMCA Youth Center 2400 Seventh Avenue North SATURDAY, MAY 12 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Trussville YMCA CONTACT Pam Wildt
655-2224
ymcabham.org/tvtennis
Birmingham’s largest ZUMBA class begins at 9:45 a.m. in Marconi Park. Instructor Trudy Ray will jumpstart and motivate; kids (and their parents) will have fun, feel great!
Summer Junior Tennis
June 4,11,18, and 25; July 2,9,16,and 23 All junior tennis camps will be offered in the morning hours. Cost per week.
Mini Tennis (For 5 - 8 year olds and beginners) Quick Start Tennis (For 8 - 11 year olds) Young Guns (middle school aged and/or ones that are starting to play Novice Tournaments)
Top Guns (high school aged and/or competitive playing juniors) Summer Adult Tennis
Many levels of USTA leagues in the morning and evenings including Tri-level and Combo for ladies.
Summer Adult Doubles ONLY tennis challenge August 2-5 Men’s, Women’s and mixed doubles USTA levels used; non-sanctioned event. Cookout included.
Kids Fitness
FOR HEALTHY LIVING
Children may participate in group exercise classes at 12 years old with a parent in the class; 14 without a parent present. Instructors will offer modifications as they are available for all fitness levels. Go online to ymcabham.org/groupx for ALL branches to include a variety of classes made just for kids this summer!
Healthy Worksites by the Y Investing together in a healthier workforce.
Greystone YMCA
The YMCA Healthy Worksites program provides a percentage match on membership dues when employers subsidize their employees’ memberships. The YMCA also has a variety of custom wellness programs and health screenings that we can perform on site for you. We bring the Y to you! CONTACT Caroline Bundy
18 | www.ymcabham.org
801-7233
cbundy@ymcabham.org
June and July
Kids Yoga (ages 4 & up) Zumbatomic (ages 7 & up) YCross Kids (ages 7 & up)
Directory
ZUMBA!
Pelham Family Branch
Check out your branch home page on ymcabham.org for complete Zumba class offerings.
Hoover YMCA
Zumba Gold
Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. Created for active older adults and folks just starting their fitness journey. The pace and steps are modified, with easy to follow moves in a party atmosphere!
Zumba 101
Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Learn the steps in this introductory class!
Water Workout
Executive Director
Lane Vines
Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. Fun and exercise in the water – this class is for everyone.
membership Director
Leslie Lazaro
Shades Valley Family Branch
Mountain Brook YMCA
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.
New Zumba Class
Monday at 4:15 p.m.
Pelham YMCA
CONTACT Rhonda Elmore 664-9622 ymcabham.org/phgroupx
Executive Director
Cham Norman membership Director
Dawn Pilliteri
Trussville Family Branch
Zumba Toning
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.
Sundays, 4 p.m. Learn how to use lightweight Toning Sticks to enhance rhythm and to tone arms, abs and thighs. FREE to members.
Zumbatomic Camp
Executive Director
July 9 - 13 ymcabham.org/phsummercamps For upcoming Third - Fifth graders, this camp is a high-energy fitness party that makes exercise fun! Campers perform on Friday for their parents. Campers will also participate in swimming and other camp activities each day. COST YMCA Members $137 | Non Members $206
SHADES VALLEY YMCA CONTACT Kimberly Geisler
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 a.m.- 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
566-6008
Zumba Parties
Jerry Wang membership Director
Wendy Newland
ymcabham.org ymcabham.org/svgroupx
For all ages, for an hour. Includes Zumba instructor and party room. COST: YMCA Member $150; Non Member $200
Vestavia YMCA
Aqua Zumba begins June 1. May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 19
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FITNESS Alabaster YMCA CONTACT Carol Hamilton
663-7240
ymcabham.org/alabaster
SUNDAY
Resistance Training 2 - 2:45 p.m. Core on the Floor 2:45 - 3 p.m. Cross Training 3 – 4 p.m. Spin 3:05 - 3:50 p.m. CHILDCARE is open from 2 - 5 p.m.
HEALTHY KIDS DAY
I LOVE YOU, MOM YMCA Youth Center 2400 Seventh Avenue North SATURDAY, MAY 12 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Just in time for Mother’s Day: a special area for Moms to get a massage and have their hair and nails done by students from Virginia College. Kids: we’ll help you honor Mom with an area to make a special present for her.
MONDAY
Resistance Training 5:30 p.m. Zumba Toning 6:30 p.m.
THURSDAY
Cross Training 8:30 a.m. Hoover YMCA
CONTACT Kelly Kidd 682-1399 ymcabham.org/hoover Challenge your speed, lateral movement, agility and quickness. Monthly, check website for dates. FREE for graduates and current participants.
Nutritional Coaching
By appointment Work with an experience 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. 30 minute sessions. COST $165 (5 sessions), $290 (10 sessions), $420 (15 sessions)
Personal Training By appointment
Personal Trainers teach, motivate and encourage you to achieve your healthy living goals. All YMCA Personal Trainers are nationally certified and qualified to train clients at any fitness level. Private and buddy sessions available to YMCA members. COST $34-$54 per session
Small group training Year Round
Small groups offer focused attention and are more affordable than oneon-one training. Family members on the same membership can share a pass. All classes are lead by certified personal trainers and specific skills coaches. COST $150 (10 sessions)
Adult small groups
Women’s total body focuses on developing long and lean muscle, burning calories and strengthening the stomach and low back muscles. Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6 p.m. Senior Strength & Balance focuses on maintaining good strength, balance and preventing injury. This class will help familiarize participants with proper use of the machines, stretching techniques and balance training to prevent falls. Tuesday and Thursday at 6 p.m. 20 | www.ymcabham.org
Directory Vestavia Branch
Youth small groups
Kids Fitness (ages 11-13) focuses on proper form and technique while using the fitness equipment, stretching and healthy eating habits. *Pass to the floor eligible. Monday, Wednesday and Friday 4:30 or 5:30 p.m.
Teen Strength (ages 13+) focuses on building strength, learning proper lifting techniques, muscle group rotation and stretching. Ages 14+ can use the fitness floor without the evaluation. *Pass to the floor eligible. Monday, Wednesday amd Friday 6:30 p.m. Adult/Child Team (ages 8-10) focuses on body weight exercises, light free weights and cardio. We instruct the parent/guardian to properly supervise their child on the fitness floor. Parent/guardian and child must complete all the classes together. *Pass to the floor. Tuesday and Thursday 6 p.m.
Speed, lateral movement, agility and quickness (ages 9+) focuses on developing speed, lateral movement, agility and quickness. Tuesday and Thursday 4:30 p.m.
SHADES VALLEY YMCA CONTACT Mickal Thomas
870-9622
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
Clay Coleman
Western Area Family Branch 1195 Bessemer Road Birmingham, AL 35228 205.923.1195 Branch Hours Monday-Thursday: 6 a.m.- 8:30 p.m. Friday: 6 a.m.- 8 p.m. Executive Director
Terri A. Harvill
ymcabham.org/shadesvalley
Impact Boxing offers a heart pumping, endurance training boxing class. Instructor has a background in boxing and trained/competed recently at Round One Boxing. COST PER SESSION: YMCA members $20 | Non Members $30
Cross Training/ High Energy Active Training
is the outdoor version of our introductory Y-Cross classes. Offered in small group settings for 30-45 minutes per workout. COST PER SESSION: YMCA members $20 | Non Members $30
Birmingham YMCA Youth Center 2400 7th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 205.324.1643 Branch Hours 7 a.m.- 6 p.m. program executive
Anthony Sparks
Better Basics Personal Training helps new exercisers by
teaching the seven fundamentals of Primal Movement (Squat, Lunge, Push, Pull, Bend, Twisting, and Walking). Sessions include both water and land training.
ymcabham.org
VESTAVIA YMCA
CONTACT India Gold 823-0144 ymcabham.org/Vestavia (Summer Intern needed for Vestavia Healthy Living initiatives.)
Personal Training
tailors individual, duo, or small group workouts. Small groups include women walking and with weights, cross training, and Bride to Be.
Nutrition Training
offers one-on-one sessions with a Nutrition Coach. Finish the training with a personalized diet, behavior modification tips, and healthy shopping lists. Kids fitness programs include Karate, Zumba birthday parties, and group fitness training (ages 10+)
DOWNTOWN YMCA CONTACT Amanda Reid
324-4563
ymcabham.org/downtown
Race to the Courthouse: June 23
Get ready for the race; with Couch to 5k program in May/June Details online.
May is National Bike to Work Month
Bike commuters can use the locker room/shower service all month.
May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 21
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CHILDCARE
HEALTHY KIDS DAY
Hoover YMCA
CONTACT Kara Werner
682-1399
Parents Night Out
ymcabham.org/hvchildcare
Friday, May 25, 6 - 9 p.m. Take a night off; register your children (ages 1-12 years) for Parent’s Night Out. Age appropriate activities: soft play and active games—pizza, too!—in a nurturing, safe environment. You get peace of mind for a relaxing evening. COST: $15 for the first child, $10 for each additional child.
Mountain Brook YMCA
CONTACT Jennifer Scott
870-0144
Parents Night Out
ymcabham.org/Mountainbrook
May 18, 6 – 9:30 p.m. (ages 2 – 10 years) Playroom Starting with a pizza supper, the kids will play in Wii tournaments, soft play, games, crafts and a movie. COST: $15 for the first child, $10 for each additional child. CELEBRATE MOM AND DAD May 11 and 12 make a Mother’s Day gift, June 8 and 9 make a Father’s Day gift!
PELHAM YMCA
CONTACT Rhonda Elmore
685-6510
ymcabham.org/phchildcare
May 25
FOR HEALTHY LIVING YMCA Youth Center 2400 Seventh Avenue North SATURDAY, MAY 12 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Children’s of Alabama sponsors a healthy living information area with fingerprinting for safety by New York Life. Kids can play active games from YMCA after school programs, too. Smiles are part of healthy living; the Birmingham Barons’ “Babe Ruff” and the YMCA’s YGuy (mascots) will be on hand to deliver plenty of them.
Fun Club
7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. The Pelham YMCA is open when your children are out of school. All day activities include: swimming, games, arts & crafts, field trips, character development, and out-of-school fun. COST: YMCA Members $25 | Non Members $38 Every Friday starting June 8
Summer Movies at the Pool
7:30 p.m. Grab your swimsuit, towel and the kids and head to the YMCA for a night at the pool. Feel free to bring your favorite snacks, but the YMCA will be providing the popcorn! In the event of rain, movie will be shown in our Kid’s Gym! June 8
June 15 June 22 June 29
Smurfs Dolphin Tale Toy Story 3 Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked The Muppets
July 6 (Movies are subject to change without notice) FREE TO MEMBERS ONLY 22 | www.ymcabham.org
Tiny Tots Preschool Camp
(ages 3-4) June 4-July 27, Tuesday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Your kids’s days will be filled with swimming, healthy activities, games and crafts. Camp Counselors will teach your child to discover, build skills and play together in a Christian setting. No before or after care. COST PER WEEK: YMCA Members $50 | Non Members $75
MyMission:
Cryshona Payne
Shades Valley Summer Day Camper
“I’d rather be at the Y having fun than staying at home playing video games or watching TV”. “I really like seeing Miss Alisha, just because she’s my favorite counselor.”
‘‘
I wish summer would last forever!
‘‘
“I like having fun and playing games like four corners. I really like four corners because you get to run around and go to any corner you want to.“
May-June 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 23
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