y life birmingham september-october 2011

STORIES OF TRIUMPH OVERCHALLENGES

YLifeFOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENTFOR HEALTHY LIVINGFOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILTY

BIRMINGHAM

September-October 2011 Volume 6, Issue 5

MENT

IBILTYe 6, Isssuee 5

STORIES OF TRIUMPH OVERCHALLENGES

AgainstSTORIES OF

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YLifeBIRMINGHAM

September-October 2011, Volume 6 Issue 5

YMCA of Birmingham

Offi cersCHAIRMAN Phyllis HallVICE CHAIRMAN Joseph Mays, Jr.TREASURER Michael TempleSECRETARY David Woodruff

Board MembersTracy Morant AdamsCharles BallTim BlairCecil BostanyMilton BreslerLibby CarpenterDenise DauphinHarold GoingsAnn HaasRoderick HawkinsRobert L. HolmanWayne HoustonMallie IrelandAnthony A. JosephRobert E. KellyScott KennyTom L. LarkinJohn LaurielloAlan LottHarrison ManningYvonne McBethAnn D. McMillanJudge John OttLeigh Davis PerryHenry Ray, Jr.Allen RiceJoey RitcheyLloyd SheltonReeves Sims, Jr.Walker SorrellJudge Andra SparksCedric SparksMichael SucoJami WadkinsChip Watts

Board of TrusteesCHAIRMAN Anne HuckstepVICE CHAIRMAN Bill Clark Joe BluesteinFrank JamesAllen RushtonJames W. ShepherdJudge Scott Vowell

President and CEOJames N. Lombard

YLife Birmingham is published fi ve 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.

YLife Birmingham welcomes letters and story ideas. Please send them to: YLife Birmingham, 2101 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203 or to [email protected].

YLife Birmingham StaffVICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS David G. HillMARKETING MANAGER Loyd McIntoshDESIGNER 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 tobecome the healthiest in America.

United Way Partner.

LifeNotes

Checking In 4

Features

6Circuit

14My Mission

21

Inspiration is all around us and easy to fi nd, if we’ll only take the time to look for it. At your neighborhood YMCA, inspiration should be easier to fi nd than candy at Christmas. Each day many of our friends and neighbors go about their business in group exercise classes, on tennis courts, in swimming pools and even board rooms with one goal in mind: overcoming adversity.

The life challenges YMCA members deal with on a daily basis vary greatly from person to person. From facing mortality—like the loss of a loved one or a serious health condition—to prevailing over individual challenge— such as a deep-seeded fear or a seemingly unattainable personal goal—the people you will read about in this issue can teach us all about overcoming adversity with grace, dignity and vitality.

Learn how Vestavia’s Julie Marmurek (page 5) turned the loss of a child into a call for action; how Downtown’s LaBrandon Terry (page 10) conquered a paralyzing fear and found a new activity to enjoy for a lifetime; and how Mountain Brook’s Jennifer Andress (cover and page 7) beat a cancer diagnosis and ended up on the cover of a national magazine in the process.

Trussville’s Manuwai family (page 9) overcame changes in employment, location and fi tness level; Shades Valley’s Assane and Moussa Diallo (page 12) handled a move halfway around the world; and Vestavia’s Rayford Praytor (page 23), an octogenarian with a passion for life, makes even the most active among us feel like we’re not doing enough.

There is a thread that runs through these stories: the role of their YMCA family in helping overcome adversity. As you go through your day at your neighborhood branch, don’t be afraid to reach out to that person on the spin bike next to you or that opponent on the basketball court. When it’s all said and done, helping people is what the YMCA is all about.

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A pessimist sees the diffi culty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every diffi culty.

Winston Churchill

CheckingIn NEWS FROM AROUND THE BIRMINGHAM YMCA

4 | www.ymcabham.org

It took a big dig to get a swimming pool large enough to serve the new YMCA in Hoover! We took advantage of the pine trees in the background to fi nd the right location, so members will walk from the locker room onto the pool deck. Scheduled to open in November, construction continues on John Hawkins Parkway.

Key staff is in place, including Executive Director Julie Broday, longtime associate director at Mountain Brook and interim Director at Vestavia, and Membership Director Cindy Reams, who comes by way of Pelham. Charter memberships have been offered since August. For information on membership or programs, contact Cindy Reams at 682.1399.

The big dig! THE YMCA IS COMING TO HOOVER

Trussville ten-and-under tennis wins state tourney10 and Under Tennis is played on a 60-foot court (regulation courts at 78 feet long). The Trussville YMCA program was the fi rst to give it a try; tailoring the equipment and the court to a child’s size and age so they have fun right from the beginning.

After a second place fi nish last year in the USTA Jr. Team Tennis State Championships, the team rallied and won the 2011 event! Here are team members Emma Weyhe, Paige Wildt, Anna Virginia Fagan and Grey Howard. Not pictured is Myles Taylor.

Bob Cianchetti named Pro of the Year Bob Cianchetti, Tennis Director at the Mt. Brook YMCA, has been voted USPTA “Pro of the Year” for the State of Alabama. Bob has been very dedicated and loyal to the tennis programs and members for more than ten years! Thanks, and congratulations, Bob.

Cianchetti

September-October 2011 | YLife Birmingham | 5

LifeSkills 4 WAYS TO “PAY IT FORWARD” AT THE YMCA

Don’t Underestimate The Importance Of ExerciseAfter my son Adam was diagnosed with cancer, going to the YMCA became my stress reliever. After he passed away, it was just ingrained in me. I want to instill in other people the importance of exercise when you’re going through adversity. People don’t think about exercise at a time when things aren’t going well, but I think that’s an extremely important time to exercise.

Count On Your Friends At The YMCAIt might sound cliché, but the people at your YMCA really care about you and want to help. That’s what friends are for, especially during diffi cult times when life isn’t panning out as you had hoped. It’s the time to reach out to friends and to your YMCA family.

When The Time Comes, Give BackWhen the opportunity to accept the position of board chair came open

I decided it was a good opportunity for me and for the branch. I thought I had something that I could bring to the branch. It was another way to give

back for all of the help and support people have given me and my family. Now it’s my turn to do something.

Reach out and grab the brass ringOur efforts through the Adam’s Kids Scholarship and the Strong Kids and Communities Campaign to send underserved children to Camp Cosby is an important part of the branch. The letters we get from kids and their counselors let us know that it changes their lives. This is what our scholarship goes for and it’s been very rewarding and comforting to know that Adam’s still reaching out in a lot of ways.

Julie Marmurek is a member of the Vestavia Branch, an inaugural board member, and was recently named Chair of the Vestavia Volunteer Board. In 2007, the branch launched a scholarship to provide a week of Camp Cosby to deserving children in honor of Adam Marmuek, who passed away in 1997 at the age of 13.

The Nguyens

The estate tax laws changed again this year and are scheduled to change again in 2012! With all of this uncertainty, it can be diffi cult to know how to plan, in order to minimize taxes, both for you and for your children! If you would like to learn more about how the possible upcoming changes in the estate tax could affect your estate and your family, the YMCA has a service that it can offer you. We have partnered with Thompson & Associates, a national charitable estate planning company, to assist our members. This planning service is free of charge to you, completely confi dential, and comes with absolutely no obligation. We want our families to be informed about how these dramatic changes in the law could affect them. Please take this opportunity to learn about how estate planning issues can affect your family. You may contact Leigh Collins at 801-7053 to arrange a meeting with a representative of Thompson & Associates to learn how the program works. And the meetings are held at your local Y branch!

Hear what happy members of the Y have to say about this valuable service: “We were very blessed to fi nd this service. Peter and I needed to take care of getting our Wills put together, and we had prayed about what to do, because we didn’t know where to start. Susann Montgomery-Clark, the Thompson rep, is so knowledgeable and helped us so much. She took time to explain everything, so now we feel very prepared to take our plan to our attorney. I don’t know what we would have done if we hadn’t found her. She was an answer to our prayers.”—Tuyet Nguyen, 15 year member, Mountain Brook YMCA.

Free Will Planning Services at the YMCA

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Birmingham runners know Jennifer Andress. A long-time Mountain Brook YMCA member, Jennifer is such a dedicated runner that she claims the sport is her second job. Her fi rst is being a stay-at-home mom to two boys, both of whom are hearing impaired.

What many people may not know about Jennifer is that shortly after the diagnosis of her fi rst child, and while pregnant with her second, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her story was so unusual that it caught the eye of the editors of Runner’s World magazine.

Jennifer answered a call on the magazine’s Facebook page for cancer surviving runners to feature on a series of covers.

“I thought ‘I have a story,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer wrote an essay, gathered together some race photos and sent them on their way earlier in the year and waited for a response. And waited. And then waited some more. “I had forgotten about it because so much time had gone by,” Jennifer said. She fi nally got the call: she was one of seven people across the United States to be featured on the cover of the June 2011 issue of Runner’s World.


Jennifer Andress

Andress

Running from Cancer Cover to Cover

There is a level of support in every part of the YMCA.

Four years after surgery to remove the cancerous tumors, Jennifer is cancer free and in very good health. Jennifer says having her YMCA family to lean on was a big part of her emotional recovery.

“It was the craziest time of my life. I have been a member of this facility since January of 1995, so I have been here for a really long time and I love everybody here,” Jennifer said.

“I can distinctly remember sitting on a recumbent bike and talking to Sandra Koulourides, who is one of my best friends, and telling her ‘this is what’s going on.’” Jennifer added. “Coming here was really important, just seeing the same people every day and being a part of the same routine every day.”

“There is a whole spectrum of services the YMCA offers. So, if you’re physically not able to do what you would normally, you can fi nd something else you can do. There is a level of support in every part of the YMCA,” said Jennifer. “Every time I have branched out into other areas, I have instantly found a support system.”

Mike TempleChoosing to move is a choice to fi ght Downtown & Metro Board Member

Mike Temple is a well-known Downtown YMCA member; he is also a dedicated and long-time volunteer on the Metro Board as Chair of the Financial Committee. He looks to be the picture of health. He thanks the YMCA for that.

Mike’s life changed forever three years ago when he was diagnosed with lymphoma. Mike has undergone progressive treatments for the disease and is currently in a clinical trial with an experimental drug. He has received a bone marrow transplant and lost and regained his hair three times during his experience. “Each time it comes back differently, which has been an interesting experience,” he said.

The treatments for his lymphoma have been arduous and diffi cult to imagine, and it would be understandable to see anyone in that situation halt their activity during the process. For Mike, doing something, anything, meant the difference between fi ghting and giving up.

“You really only have one choice. You can move or you can lie down. You can move through something, you can move around it, but ultimately you move forward or you can lie down and let things happen to you, and I chose to move,” Mike said.

“They still joke today in the bone marrow transplant unit because I actually had them move an Aerodyne bicycle into my room,” Mike said. “I rode that for at least 30 minutes every day except for one day when I was actually asleep for 24 hours.”Mike saw fi rst-hand how the YMCA ministers to the mind, body, and spirit. He says the experience has forever changed his outlook on life and has helped him see more clearly how the YMCA impacts lives and the greater community.

“From a volunteer standpoint—as morbid as this sounds—but when you’re facing your own mortality, it sort of teaches you how to live and you realize that you want to have something that you leave behind,” Mike said. “It’s the relationships in your life and the impact you’re able to have on your community that really matters. As an organization, that’s what the YMCA is all about.”

“Change is part of life and some of those changes are not necessarily positive changes. You need to be prepared to be able to make that choice,” added Mike. “You need to be strong enough to make that choice to move as opposed to lie down. The YMCA can help you prepare for that.”


Temple

‘‘ ‘‘The YMCA can help you prepare....I chose to move.


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Walk with the Manuwia Family who, collectively, make up the one-thousandth YMCA Pathways participant. Todd, Krista and teenage daughter, Sayla, spent almost seven years as missionaries at a youth home in the Arkansas wilderness. Victims of the faltering economy, the Manuwia’s moved to Trussville in January to be near some friends and begin the next chapter of life, but fi rst they had to adjust to their new surroundings.

In Arkansas, the nearest fast food restaurant was an hour away and their daughter, Sayla, never knew the convenience of placing a call and having a pizza arrive at the front door. When they moved to the Birmingham area, the Manuwia’s took advantage of the convenient, but not so healthy, food options in their midst. It wasn’t long before they realized they needed to make a change.

“We were in a funk. Life changes in a heartbeat, and I told Todd we could very easily, as a family, slide into depression if we’re not careful. I said ‘Let’s head it off at the pass and go to the YMCA.’

“I started to see some of the classic signs: listlessness, not wanting to do anything, and I said ‘nope, this is bad. We have all of the signs: a move, loss of employment, a sudden loss of friends,” Krista said. “The YMCA really has changed everything. It’s helped us meet people and makes us get out every day.”

Sayla, who describes herself as “typical” wasn’t too thrilled about being forced to get out and get active, but now admits her parents made the right decision. “l really didn’t want to join the YMCA because I was one of the lazy kids at home playing video games all day,” Sayla said.

“Dad and I play racquetball and we also run up on the track I think it’s been a good experience so far.”

For Todd, the opportunity to do something for himself is a welcome return to his youth. Growing up in Hawaii, Todd spent time surfi ng, canoeing in open water, playing soccer and lifting weights. Still in great shape despite the layoff, Todd says it’s great to

be back working out in a YMCA, even if the types of exercise he does now has changed.

“I lifted all the weights I need to lift. I did all that and I have nothing to prove anymore,” said Todd. “Focusing on my cardio, heart and lungs, that’s where I am now and that’s going to get me through the next stage of life. This facility offers such a diverse range of activities and it meets everybody’s needs on every level.”

Pathways is the goal setting and health coaching, rewards-based program for members of the YMCA of Birmingham. To learn more about Pathways, ask to speak to the Pathways Guide at your neighborhood branch or go online to

ymcabham.org/pathwayshealthcoaching.

The Manuwia Family

The Manuwias

Embracing change by embracing wellness, together

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Let’s head it off at the pass and go to the YMCA.


The Downtown YMCA’s LaBrandon Terry has a story to tell, and a lesson to be learned. You see, the 23-year-old has a deep-seated fear of water. But a few months ago, he decided to turn back the trauma that led to that anxiety, and fi nally learn how to swim.

The story begins when LaBrandon was three years old. He and two cousins went to a water theme park in North Alabama. LaBrandon and one cousin were swept under water, the older cousin pulled them out of harm’s way. “We were under there for a good bit, maybe 30 seconds to a minute,” LaBrandon said. “Since then, I’ve been terrifi ed of getting in the water.”

Even though the incident happened 20 years ago, LaBrandon never truly recovered from the experience. His fear of water has made doing normal, everyday activities diffi cult at best. “It’s so bad for me that when I’m in the shower I don’t even like to splash water on my face,” he said.

“It is tough because a lot of people don’t understand. They say ‘you were three years old.’ A lot of people don’t understand when you’re that young, things set in you a lot deeper than when you’re older,” LaBrandon adds.

Determined to conquer his fear, Labrandon and a co-worker signed up for swim lessons in July. After

somewhat of a slow start, LaBrandon is getting more comfortable in the water each day, not only overcoming his fear, but learning how great the water is for maintaining a healthy body.

LaBrandon is a positive example to anyone who doesn’t know how to swim and proof that anyone can overcome anxiety around the water.

“There shouldn’t be any reason, like your race, your size, or your fi tness level, to not learn how to swim,” LaBrandon said. “Once you get comfortable in the water, it’s relatively simple to learn. You just have to be willing and you have to keep yourself motivated to learn.”

LaBrandon Terry Facing fear head fi rst and full speedDowntown

Terry

‘‘‘‘You just have to be willing and you have to keep yourself motivated to learn.


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How do you make inroads in the childhood obesity epidemic among children in urban neighborhoods? Start a track and fi eld team, of course. This is exactly what Keesha Nelson, Community Wellness Director for the Western Area Family YMCA, did for the children on the western side of Birmingham.

Looking to help children who were uninterested in the normal team sports, Keesha, who ran track in high school, put word out to parents in the area about the possibility of starting a track team. “We normally have plenty of children interested in football, basketball, and baseball, but what about the others? We decided to try a youth running group,” said Keesha.

Beginning with 20 second graders from schools across the western area, they trained after school twice a week. Training for the Kids Mercedes Marathon, The Rumpshakers, The Women’s Health Fun Run, The NObesity Fun Run, and The Mother Daughter Fun Run started in November.

The program was so successful that the parents and children asked to continue the program into the summer.

“When we participated in our last race in May, the kids didn’t want to stop. They asked if we could keep going! So I looked into how we could start our own track team,” said Keesha. “There were a few options but we were the new kids on the block so we had a few obstacles, but all obstacles can be overcome.”

Western Area YMCA Youth Track Club

The team raised enough money to enter three track meets during the summer, including the Alabama Sports Festival in June. Over the course of its competitive season, the Western Area YMCA Track and Field team won 32 medals, mostly in running events, but also in a few fi eld events, such as javelin and shot put.

The team will resume in September, with plans to participate in fun runs around the city through May, before beginning its sophomore competitive season in late spring and early summer. Keesha said that without the support of the community this new track team would never have gotten off the ground, much less been this successful.

“We have the most supportive group of parents that I have ever seen. It has been a joy to work with the kids on the team and I look forward to our next season,” Keesha said. “We have four volunteer coaches who have dedicated their time and energy to making our season a success.”

The Western Area YMCA Youth Track Club

Running fast and changing attitudes

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All obstacles canbe overcome.

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‘‘Trussville YMCA member Tracy Crutchfi eld’s story is familiar to many women. After having three children, including a set of twins, Tracy found herself at an unhealthy 175 pounds. Combined with a family history of heart disease and cancer, Tracy realized she needed to do something in order to reclaim her health and her life.

About a decade ago Tracy took up tennis and, while she loved the game, she remained at a beginner level and her weight stayed the same for almost six years. However, after she began to work with Trussville tennis pro, Pam Wildt, Tracy’s weight dropped, her fi tness-level improved and her game developed dramatically.

Pam is a former women’s tennis coach; she proved to be demanding, providing Tracy with a new approach and level of accountability that produced results.

“Pam is just so positive,” Tracy said. “She’s always had that coach mentality, but encouraging. She’s one of those people who if you get a compliment out of her, it makes you feel really good.”

In a span of nine months, Tracy trimmed down 45 pounds and has become one of the better women’s tennis players around. She competes at a 4.5 Level in softcourt and 3.5 in USTA play, is a team captain, and currently plays on three different teams year-round.

“Once I saw those results, saw that I was getting faster and that I could move better on the court, I was amazed,” said Tracy. “As I started out and with her encouragement, my game just came on. It just got better and better, and I slowly, but surely, moved up.”

Tracy is proof that success can be found even if it takes a little longer than you anticipated. She says the key is discovering that activity that best suits you and then fi nding someone to encourage you through diffi cult times.

Find something you really like to do and fi nd someone who can mentor you and be a coach to you. If you can get to that point where you enjoy doing something and get a little bit of success, it just makes you want to do it more.

Tracy Crutchfi eldTrussville

Crutchfi eldSeptember-October 2011 | YLife Birmingham | 11

From motherhood to team captain


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At the Shades Valley YMCA, nine-year-old Moussa Diallo plays with a group of friends, munches on healthy snacks, and swims in the pool several days a week. A happy young man with an infectious smile, Moussa’s story, which begins half a world away, represents all that is good about the YMCA.

Moussa fi rst came to the attention of Assane Diallo almost six years ago in Dakar, Senegal. Assane was working as a French instructor in the capital of the West African nation when a former student turned airline pilot told him about a young man he had seen begging at a busy city intersection.

“I said ‘okay, I have no idea what I can do, but if you can send me a picture I can maybe go there and try to fi nd the boy,’” Assane said. “I found him and he was begging there. His grandfather was an old blind man and the boy was just holding the can. It was very crazy conditions.”

Assane began helping Moussa whenever and however he could, providing him with food and clothing. This arrangement carried on for some time until, “he hadn’t come for two days and I went to the grandfather and he said he was sick. I said ‘bring me the boy and I will take him to the hospital,’” Assane said. “That’s when I learned that he did not start walking as a normal boy until he was four years old, which means he was really sick.”

Moussa Diallo

Moussa was diagnosed with a condition called dystonia, a neurological movement disorder that affects the muscles, causing twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures. Advanced treatment in Dakar was unavailable and, after adopting Moussa into his own family, which included his wife and fi ve children, Assane realized the only way to get proper help for his new son was to come to the United States.

Assane’s pilot friend, a single man living in Pennsylvania, arranged for him and Moussa to stay with family in Homewood while he sought treatment at UAB. Assane and Moussa arrived in Birmingham in December 2010 and, thanks to their friend who is a YMCA member in Pennsylvania, came by the Shades Valley branch to swim one Saturday. It was an event that would change their lives.

“I met the people here and I talked to Dawn and she asked me about his condition and I talked to Cham and they decided to help. It was very spontaneous,” Assane said. “We are using the YMCA all the time.”

“If you believe in God, then you fi nd God will help you along the way. The whole staff is very helpful and they love the boy,” added Assane. “He has been playing a lot. If I did not have him here, it would be very hard for me because I didn’t know what to do with him during the summer. I am so grateful.”

Left, Diallo with friends. Above, Assane and Moussa Diallo.

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We are using the YMCA all the time.

Assane and Moussa: Finding help halfway around the world


CIRCUIT CONNECTING YOU TO THE BIRMINGHAM YMCA BRANCH BY BRANCH

MULTIPLE BRANCHES

Fall Group Swim Lessons Cost: $56 Y Member $92 Non-Member Contact your local branch for times and class offerings)September 5-29 | October 3-27 | October 31-November 23

Pelham Mondays & Wednesdays or Tuesdays & ThursdaysPreschool classes times 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 6 p.m.Youth class times 6 p.m. 6:45 p.m.These times are for Pelham Branch only

Trussville Tuesdays & ThursdaysPreschool Pike - 10:15 a.m., 4:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m.Eel – 11 a.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.Youth Polliwog, Guppy, Minnow & Fish – 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m.

DowntownTuesdays & ThursdaysParent/Child 4:30 p.m. Preschool & Youth 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Registration deadline is Friday before classes begin

Saturday Swim Lessons (4 – 30 minute lessons)Session – September 3-10-17-24Cost $28 YMCA Members | $46 Non-Members

Pelham Blowfi sh 10-10:30 a.m. Pike I 10:30-11 a.m. Polliwog I 11-11:30 a.m.

Trussville Polliwog 10-10:30 a.m. Pike 10:30-11 a.m. Parent-Child 11-11:30 a.m.

DowntownOctober 1– 22Adult 8:30-9 a.m.Adult 9-9:30 a.m.Preschool 9:30-10 a.m.Preschool 10-10:30 a.m.Youth 10:30am-11 a.m.Youth 11am-11:30 a.m.

MULTIPLE BRANCHESPrivate Swimming Lessons Ages 3 and upThe Birmingham YMCA offers private lessons for children age 3 and up to adults’ skill levels. These 30 minute lessons are customized to meet individual needs of every swimmer. Anyone wanting to further advance their or their child’s swimming will benefi t from private lessons. Cost $92 YMCA Members | $120 Non-Members

SwimmingSemi Private Cost Per Child $72 YMCA | $98 Non-MembersFor semi private swim lessons you have to bring 2 swimmers and they have to be between the ages of 3-5 or 6-12. There must be at least two participants in a class to be a semi-private lesson.

We will call you the Friday before the session starts to set up your days and times for your lessons. Contact your local YMCA for specifi c information about private lessons.

Fall Sessions (Contact your local branch for times)September 5-22 | October 3-20Classes are either M/W or T/TH (for some branches)

Online CPR/AED Adult, Child, Infant and First AidThis “blended” program is for lay responders only: group exercise, child watch, afterschool, front desk, housekeeping, maintenance, and day camp staff. All aquatics staff, including Water Aerobics Instructors, need to take “CPR for the Professional Rescuer.” That course is not available in this “blended” format.

(This “blended” approach does not replace traditional classes that are conducted across the association. If you learn better in person, by attending a live class, there are still many classes from which to choose.)

The traditional class “Time Saver,” is four-fi ve hours. “Blended” learning is self-paced, to remove the pressure of learning or relearning the information in a short period of time. You control how long it will take you to go through


Fall Sessions August 15-December 16Super Squad $175/$227$44/$57 monthly Bronze $200/$260$50/$65 monthlySilver $250/$325$63/$82 monthlyGold $280/$340$70/$85 monthlyJunior Varsity $340/$430 monthlyVarsity $405/$580 monthly

Branch Specifi c InformationPelham Family Branch Practice Times:Practice Starts Monday, Aug 15, 2011.SuperSquad Tuesday & Thursday 3:45-4:30 p.m.Bronze Group Monday/Wednesday/Friday 3:45-4:30 p.m.Silver Group Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday 4:30-5:45 p.m.Gold Group Monday-Friday 4:15-6 p.m. All practice times subject to change.

Greystone practice times and days:Greystone evaluation dates for new swimmers:Fall - August 8 at 4:00p.m.Homeschool M/W/F 7:30 – 9 a.m. Supersquad T/Th 3:45 – 4:30 p.m. Bronze M/W/F 3:45 – 4:30 p.m. Silver M-Th 4:00 – 5:15 p.m. Gold 1 M-F 4:00 – 5:45 p.m. Gold 2 M-F 4:30 – 5:15 p.m. Senior M-F 5:15 – 6:30 p.m. Junior Varsity M-F 5:15 – 6:45 p.m. SAT 9:30 – 11 a.m. Varsity M-F 5:15 – 6:45 p.m. M/W/F 6:00 – 7:00 a.m. SAT 9:30 – 11 a.m.

JV and Varsity will swim through December 22nd.

Trussville practice times and days:Gold Level Monday – Friday 4-5:30 p.m. Silver Level Monday – Thursday 5:30-6:30 p.m. Bronze Level Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 5:30-6:30 p.m. SuperSquad Tuesday & Thursday 5:30-6:15 p.m.

Swim Team Prep Classes (Pelham Only)This is for ages 7-12 that want to be on the swim team and don’t quite have the endurance and technique down to be able to participate.

This class focuses on endurance exercises and intense stroke technique work. Schedule is fl exible based on your schedule. You can pick from 2 or 3 days a week for an hour on Tuesdays/Thursdays at from 7-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10-11a.m. for a month.

Monthly fees Sept.5-Dec 16

Twice per week $75 YMCA Members | $120 Non-MembersThree times per week $100 YMCA Members | $160 Non-MembersMonthly payments only available by bank draft only.Financial Assistance is always available.

GreystoneMasters- For swimmers looking to improve technique, learn new skills, get faster and meet people who are like minded. Certifi ed coaches will be on deck with workouts based on swimming level to help you accomplish your swimming goals.Sessions are monthly:Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5-6:30a.m.Members cost is $25.00.

TrussvilleMasters Swim ProgramMembers $25 month / Non-Members $38 monthPlease call the branch for practice days & times

Mountain BrookMaster Swim Is for anyone who wants to improve their swimming abilities. Our goal is to have fun, improve your swimming technique, learn new skills, get faster, and meet people who are like minded. Master swim is made up of all types of swimmers, from former college athletes, to rising and experienced triathletes, to recreational swimmers, to folks just wanting to stay in shape and do something that will not pound their body. You must be 19 years or older to participate. M/W/F 5:30-6:30 a.m.

Contact the Aquatics Directors at your local YMCA for more information and how to join our swim teams.

Pool Birthday Parties (All Branches)Looking for an easy and fun way to celebrate your child’s birthday? Half of the YMCA pool during regular business hours or after hours and a lifeguard and/or Building Supervisor will be provided for water games and recreational time. A picnic area or a room will be provided for opening gifts, playing games and enjoying cake and snacks. (Please no glass containers) Partiers get one hour of recreational swimming (swimming is done fi rst) and one hour at the picnic area or in the room. An agreement must be signed and a deposit collected when making a reservation. Please call your local YMCA for more information and to reserve a date. Parties are offered on a fi rst come, fi rst serve basis.


CIRCUIT

Mountain BrookAdult Leagues Women’s Softcourt League begins Tuesday, September 6. Play days 2.5 Friday | 3.0 Monday | 3.5 Tuesday | 4.0 Thursday | 4.5 Tuesday | 5.0 Wednesday | 5.3 Thursday. All matches begin at 9 a.m.

Women’s Fall USTA Prep League League play begins in early September. Play levels are 2.5-4.5.Monday-Thursday nights starting at 6:30 p.m.

Men’s/Women’s USTA Fall Senior League League play begins September 12. Women’s divisions will be weekday and weeknight. Men’s divi-sions will play on Saturday. Any member age 50 plus is eligible for senior play.

USTA Fall Mixed Doubles League play begins September 11. All matches will be played on Sunday afternoons. Both adult and senior divisions are available.

Fall Men’s Interclub League play begins in September. B division plays on Monday nights. C division plays on Thursday nights. All matches start at 6 p.m.Check with Mountain Brook tennis desk at 870-3930 for team availability.

Adult Clinics Men’s Drop-In Clinic August 9 through October XX. | 6-7 p.m. Open to any Y member 2.5 or higher.Cost $10

Women’s Beginner 2.5 clinic Sessions September 6-27 & October 4-25.Tuesdays 7-8 p.m. Cost $10

Women’s 3.0-3.5 Clinic Sessions September 7-28 & October 5-26.Wednesday 10-11 a.m. Cost $10

Women’s 4.0-5.0 Clinic Sessions run September 9-30 & October 7-28.Fridays 10:30 a.m. – Noon Cost $15 Women’s 3.0 & Up Clinic Sessions September 11-25 & October 2-30.Sundays from 3-4 p.m.Cost $10. All adult clinics are held on a drop-in basis.

Tennis


Directory Alabaster Family Branch117 Plaza CircleAlabaster, AL 35007205.663.7240Branch HoursMonday-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 DIRECTORLane Vines MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORCarol Hamilton

Alabaster Childcare Branch1303 7th Street SWAlabaster, AL 35007205.663.6504Branch HoursMonday-Friday:1 - 6 p.m. September-May8 a.m. - 6 p.m. June-AugustEXECUTIVE DIRECTORGwen Hatcher

YMCA Camp Cosby 2290 Paul Bear Bryant RoadAlpine, AL 35014256.268.2007EXECUTIVE DIRECTORKevin Casey

Downtown Branch2101 4th Avenue NorthBirmingham, AL 35203205.324.4563Branch HoursMonday-Friday: 5 a.m.- 8 p.m.Saturday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.Sunday: ClosedEXECUTIVE DIRECTORAndrew FreemanMEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Shelly Mitchell

Greystone Family Branch5414 Highway 280Birmingham, AL 35242205.981.0144Branch HoursMonday-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 HoursMonday-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 DIRECTORPat TateMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORKristin Harris

ymcabham.org

SpiritMountain Brook

Heart & Spirit ServicesBeginning in September30 minute wholeness service for members and non-members First fl oor group exercise roomJoin volunteer Chaplain Peggy McClure for a Wellness (Heart and Spirit) service every thirdMonday of the month at 12:30 p.m.CONTACT Ashley Snow at 870-0144 or [email protected]

JuniorsQuickstart 8 & under | Mondays & Wednesdays | 3:30-4:30 p.m. Quickstart 6 & under | Mondays | 4:30-5:30 p.m.Quickstart 10 & under | Tuesdays & Thursdays | 3:30-4:30 p.m.Performance 101 | Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays| 4:30-530 p.m. Performance Tournament | Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays | 4:30-6 p.m.

Junior clinic sessionsAugust 15-Sept 1 | September 6-29 | October 3 – 27For more information, contact the tennis desk at 870-3930.

TrussvilleFuture Stars and Quick Start Mondays 3-4 p.m., Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 8-12 Juniors with the basic strokes and fundamentals will start rallying over the big net with low compression balls and those in the group will transition into full court tennis learning spins and placement with real tennis balls. They will learn balance on the court and start playing points and matches. Space is limited to the fi rst 18 paid kids.

High School and Tournament Players Mondays 4-5:30 p.m. & Wednesdays 4:30-6 p.m. Juniors who are serious about improving their game, many live ball drills and situations and must be able to rally using different spins. Must be approved by Pam for this group. Space limited to fi rst 18 paid kids.

Mini Tennis Tuesdays & Thursdays 3:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 5-8 Juniors will learn the basic strokes, fundamentals, footwork and court position. Fun games, drills and learning over the smaller nets with low compression tennis balls. Space is limited to the fi rst 10 paid kids.

Young Guns Tuesdays & Thursdays 4:30-6 p.m. Aspirations of trying out for middle school and high school tennis. Juniors who are wanting to improve their fundamentals, match skills, movement and balance on the court. Serious minded kids who want to play USTA tournaments. Must be approved by Pam for this group. Space is limited to the fi rst 18 paid kids.CONTACT Pam Wildt at 655-2224 or [email protected]


CIRCUIT

Youth SportsWestern Area Monday Night Teen Basketball Every Monday 6-7:30 p.m.Boys and Girls Ages 15-21. Includes skill building drills and pick-up games.Cost $Free YMCA Members | $2 Non-MembersCONTACT: Shayla Crawford or Sylvester Mencer at 923-1195 or [email protected] or [email protected]

Pelham New Class - Spinning 20/20/20Wednesdays at 5:30 a.m. | Saturdays at 9:15 a.m. Come try this one hour indoor cycling class combining the endurance, strength, and interval energy zones for a challenging cardio workout!

TrussvilleNew Cycle 45 Class Tuesdays & Thursdays at 9:45 a.m.

Zumba Monday & Wednesday nights XX p.m., Tuesdays Thursday and Saturday 11 a.m., Saturdays 12:15 p.m.CONTACT Robin Burns at 655-2224 at [email protected].

Mountain BrookNew Yoga ClassWednesdays at 6:40 p.m. This class is designed for the newer Yoga participant. The Monday 6:40 p.m. Yoga class will change from basic to a regular format.CONTACT Mary Casciaro at 870-0144 or [email protected].

GreystonePilatesSeveral new Pilates Reformer groups have been added to the existing group schedule; including SUNDAYS at 4 p.m. Check out more classes at www.ymcabham.org/gspilatesreformer.

TurboKickThe Saturday TurboKick class will change to “Saturday Sampler”, including class formats like TurboKick, YCross, Step, Zumba, Cardio Circuit or more! Find the weekly schedule to see what each Saturday will be. www.ymcabham.org/gsgroupex.

Watch the FALL schedule for MORE class changes!CONTACT Renae McCullough at 981-0144 or [email protected]

VestaviaKickboxing BootcampHave you tried the new “Kickboxing Bootcamp” at Vestavia? Come try it on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. Enjoy the brand new schedule, new instructors & new classes. Come check us out www.ymcabham.org/vegroupex CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected].

Group Exercise


Directory Hargis Retreat928 Hargis DriveChelsea. AL 35043205.678.6512Branch HoursMonday-Saturday: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.PROGRAM EXECUTIVEKim Sharp

Mountain Brook Branch 2401 20th Place SouthBirmingham, AL 35223256.870.0144Branch HoursMonday-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 HoursMonday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.Saturday: 8:15 a.m.- NoonSunday: 2-6 p.m.EXECUTIVE DIRECTORMichelle OliverMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORKristi Nix

Northeast Family Branch628 Red Lane RoadBirmingham, AL 35216205.833.7616Branch HoursMonday & Tuesday: 5 a.m.- 9 p.m.Wednesday-Friday: 5 a.m.- 8 p.m.Saturday: 7 a.m.- NoonSunday: ClosedEXECUTIVE DIRECTORTerri A. Harvill

Pelham Family Branch2610 Pelham ParkwayPelham, AL 35124205.664.9622Branch HoursMonday-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.- NoonEXECUTIVE DIRECTORLane VinesMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORCarol Hamilton

ymcabham.org

VestaviaParent’s Night OutSeptember 9 & 23 | October 14 & 28 | November 11 & 186:00-9:30 p.m. Cost $15 First Child | $10 Each Additional ChildReservations required CONTACT Amber Crosby at 823-0144 or [email protected] Kids in MotionTuesdays and Thursdays, 5-6 p.m.An exercise and nutrition program for children ages 5-13Free to Members; $5.00 per class for Non-MembersCONTACT Beth Wyss at 823-0144 or [email protected] Drop N GoBabysitting service in our playroom for MembersLeave your child up to 4 hours in the morning or 3 and a half hours in the afternoon.Cost $5 per hour First Child | $4 per hour Additional ChildrenReservations requiredCall 823-0144

Childcare

Winter Youth Basketball Begins December 2011Registration begins October 3Coaches Interest Meeting: October 20, 2011 at 6:15 p.m.First Practice: November 7, 2011Cost: $75 YMCA Members | $100 Non-MembersCONTACT Shayla Crawford or Sylvester Mencer at 923-1195 or [email protected] [email protected]

Greystone, Pelham, AlabasterYouth Basketball Registration October 10-November 5 Ages 3-14.The leagues are divided by grade-level. We play other area YMCA teams. No evaluations. Everyone plays equal minutes. Practices are one time each week and begin week of Nov 14 for 10 weeks. Games are on Saturday beginning Sept 8 for 8 weeks. (No games during the holidays). Team rosters are kept small and fi ll up fast. Coaches are volunteer parents and all games are YMCA offi ciated.

CostAges 3-6 $75 YMCA Members | $115 Non-members (ages 3-6) Ages 7 & Up $85 YMCA Members | $125 Non-Members. Uniforms and player medallions are included.

CONTACT Alabaster: Trenae Leonard at 663-7240 or [email protected] Greystone: George Becker at 566-6025 or [email protected]: Tamara Harrelson at 664-9622 or [email protected]


CIRCUITUP TO DATE | SEPTEMBER 1 - OCTOBER 31

SEPTEMBERSeptember 1 – October 31 | Western Area YMCAMember Challenge – GET INVOLVED This membership challenge will help the member get involved in a healthy lifestyle by committing to attend the YMCA and participate in the classes and programs a certain amount of times per week.Cost: Free to YMCA MembersCONTACT Keesha Nelson at 923-1195 or [email protected]

Sept 9–11 | Multiple Branches TRAININGS and CERTIFICATIONSAFAA APEX Personal Fitness Trainer Certifi cationFriday, September 9 – 1–9:30 p.m.Saturday, September 10 – 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.Sunday, September 11 – 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Indoor CyclingSaturday, September 10 – 9 a.m.–5 p.m.Primary Group Exercise Instructor Certifi cationSunday, September 11 – 9 a.m.–6 p.m.Register at www.afaa.com or call 800-446-2322.

September 11 – November 12 | Western Area YMCAFall Men’s Basketball League Seven weeks of games and playoffs with trophies.Cost $300 per team YMCA Members & Non-Members ( $30 referee fee per game, per team)CONTACT Sylvester Mencer 923-1195, 903-7403 or [email protected]

September 26 | Downtown Fall Co-Ed Volleyball LeagueSeason begins September 26 | Games begin on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.Season includes 10 regular season games plus playoffs. Awards will be given for League Season ChampionAll Sets are played best of 3 gamesCost $300 a team $50 for individual Members & $60 for individual Non-Members, 18 and up onlyCONTACT Adam West at 205.801.7235 or [email protected]

September 27 | Downtown Fall Men’s Basketball LeagueSeason begins September 27 Coaches Meeting September 20 at 7 p.m. (Mandatory - All Teams Must Attend)Games are played Tuesdays beginning 6:45 p.m., 7:45 p.m., 8:45 p.m. & 9:45 p.m.Season includes 8 regular season games plus playoffs. Awards will be given for League Season Champion, Playoff Champion and Runner Up as well as Scoring, Rebound & Steals Leader. (All Teams MUST Have Matching Numbered Jerseys to Compete)Cost $350 a team (plus ref fees), 18 and up onlyCONTACT Adam West at 801-7235 or [email protected]


OCTOBEROctober 6 | DowntownFree depression screeningAlabama Psychological Association11 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Chaplain and health coaches available during that time.The cost of untreated mental illness is felt by individuals, families and in the workplace. Many chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease, are signifi cantly affected by inadequate treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders. Early diagnosis is essential in cutting the costs to society of these problems.

The Mental Health Goal Group has voted to sponsor some activities on October 6 related to Depression, Stress and Mental Health Education for adults in the Jefferson County area. The MHGG requests that we be allowed to have some of our activities at the Downtown YMCA. For several hours on that afternoon, we would like to have two tables in the lobby, staffed by mental health professionals who have volunteered to do the following:

1) provide handouts/information on depression, anxiety and stress. Literature can be obtained from the American Psychological Association, at no cost. 2) offer a very brief screening (self-administered questionnaire) for depression, using the PHQ-9, a well-validated instrument developed for assessing and monitoring depression severity in primary care (www.phqscreeners.com <http://www.phqscreeners.com ) 3) provide limited feedback as to the results of the screening instrument, with possible referral to mental health resources in the area. For this, we are requesting the use of an offi ce or conference room, with a little more privacy.

October 10 | PelhamFun Club Day 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.While school’s out, spend your day at the YMCA! Campers will participate in games, sports, crafts, swimming and more. Open to children in grades K-8. Limited Space Available! Register online at ymcabham.orgCost $25 YMCA Members | $38 Non-MembersCONTACT Rhonda Elmore at 685-6510 or [email protected]

October 10-November 5 | PelhamAdult Basketball RegistrationRecreational basketball league for ages 16+. We play other area YMCA teams. Practices can be reserved one day a week and begin week of Nov 14 for 10 weeks. Games are on weekday evenings beginning Sept 6 for 8 weeks. (No games during the holidays). All games are YMCA offi ciated.

Cost $50 YMCA Members | $60 Non-Members (Individuals) | $250 (Team). Jerseys are included with individual registrations. Teams must provide their own numbered shirts for games or can purchase them through the YMCA for an additional $15 per shirt. CONTACT Tamara Harrelson at 664-9622 or [email protected].

October 15 | Western Area YMCA Annual Community Health Fair Cost: Free to Members and the communityCONTACT Keesha Nelson at 923-1195 or [email protected]

October 24-31 | Multiple BranchesFall Extravaganza Fun Halloween music and specialty classes! Costumes are optional. Wear your funky hat, headband, or costume!Check out your branch class offerings at www.ymcabham.org/groupexercise.

October 28 | PelhamHalloween at the Y 6-8 p.m.Spend Halloween at the Y! Open to all YMCA members, this annual event gets bigger each year. Activities will include carnival games, art projects, hay rides, lots of candy, and more! Cost: Free to Members CONTACT Kristy Trammell at [email protected] or Rhonda Elmore [email protected] at 664-9622

October 15-16 | Multiple Branches AEA Water Fitness Professional Certifi cationRegistration: www.aeawave.com

October 27 | Western Area YMCAAnnual Silver Sneakers “Magic City”Classic Cookout Cost $5 Donation from all attendeesCONTACT Keesha Nelson at 923-1195 or [email protected]


CIRCUIT

Health & WellnessVestavia Nutrition Coaching Available now!Make an appointment to get nutritional coaching by an experienced coach, Sharon Lamberth. She will give you meal ideas, shopping lists, behavioral modifi cation tools (discussing emotional eating, late night snacking, and helping cope with getting up in the night and eating), special diets for IBS, diabetes, hypertension/low salt diet, diuretics, potassium rich foods, Koumadin, and planning for eating out and entertaining.Cost $33 per session (same as personal training). Buy a personal training package and mix and match session with personal training and nutrition.CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or igold@ymcabaham. org

FitClubStrength and Conditioning class for kids 11-13 yrs oldSessions begin week of September 5 and October 3Mondays & Wednesday, 4-5 p.m. & Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6-7 p.m. Cost $45 for 5 sessions CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

Bride to Be BootcampSessions Begin August 7, September 4 and, October 2 Sundays at 3 p.m.Month long bootcamp to give you that extra push and attention. Do not have to be a bride to participate.Cost $100 YMCA Members | $130 Non-Members CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

Zumba birthday party for kids (added 1st)Available times Fridays 6-7:30 p.m. | Saturdays Noon-5:30 p.m. | Sundays 2-5:30 p.m. Party is one hour. Includes use of party room, soft play room (if age appropriate), your own party helper to set up and clean up after party, and Zumba led by an instructor. Cost $150 YMCA Members | $200 Non-membersContact India Gold [email protected] for reservations or 823-0144. She will reserve your party for a $75 deposit, meet you to show you the space and decide on party plans.CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

KarateClasses meet Monday evenings | 30 and 45 minute classesJuniors ages 5-7, 5:15-5:45 p.m. | Seniors ages 8-13, 5:50-6:35 p.m.

Shingo-ha Yoshukai Karate by Sensei Becky GivensShingo means to unite heart, mind, and spirit. The goals of the class are to provide students with good exercise, to have fun, build self confi dence, self discipline and teach self defense.Cost (per month) $30 YMCA Members| $50 Non-MembersTry out a FREE classOne time $30 uniform feeCONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

Personal TrainingThe Y has many trainers who have all types of specialties who are available all hours we are open. Special workouts include: lower back pain improvement, stop diabetes in its tracks, 28 days weight loss program, and managing your cholesterol. We can fi t you with the best trainer to meet your fi tness goals. Try one session on us!CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

Active Weight Loss ProgramMondays at 6PMIncludes good, common sense nutritional information that’s easy to fi t into your day, exercise and diet journaling, group meetings with people with people with similar goals as you, and group personal training. Cost $45 YMCA Members| $100 Non-MembersCONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

Group TrainingEver confused about using the equipment in the gym? FREE group training on the equipment with a personal trainer during the mornings, evenings, and weekends. Call for an appointment now.CONTACT India Gold at 823-0144 or [email protected]

GREYSTONEFitness Punch CardPurchase a 10 session punch card and have access to over 13 small group classes. With a maximum of 6 people in each class, small groups offer more individual attention than large group classes and are more affordable than one-on-one training. For $150 get 10 sessions you can use over 12 weeks. Classes include Fitness 101, Fitness 102, Athletic Conditioning, Women on Weights, Walking group and Pilates Reformer 101. The schedule gives you the fl exibility to try new classes, new instructors and a variety of class times depending on your schedule. Classes as early as 5:30am and as late as 6:30pm. New and exciting classes are being added monthly to give you the variety you need to keep your body changing. August promotion: ½ priced 30 minute massage with completed punch card. CONTACT Kelly Kidd at 981-0144 or [email protected].

Directory Shades Valley Family Branch 3551 Montgomery HighwayBirmingham, AL 35209205.870.9622Branch HoursMonday-Friday: 5 a.m.-10 p.m.Saturday: 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.Sunday: 1- 6 p.m.EXECUTIVE DIRECTORCham NormanMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORDawn Pilliteri

Trussville Family Branch 5920 Valley RoadTrussville, AL 35173256.655.2224Branch HoursMonday-Friday: 5 a.m.- 9 p.m.Saturday: 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.Sunday: Noon -7 p.m.Childwatch HoursMonday-Friday: 8 a.m.- 7 p.m.Saturday: 8 a.m.- 1 p.m.Sunday: 1-5 p.m.EXECUTIVE DIRECTORJerry WangMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORWendy Newland

Vestavia Branch 2086 Columbiana RoadVestavia Hills, AL 35216205.823.0144Branch HoursMonday-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 DIRECTORJulie BrodyMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORClay Coleman

Western Area Family Branch1195 Bessemer RoadBirmingham, AL 35228205.923.1195Branch HoursMonday-Thursday: 6 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.Friday: 6 a.m.- 8 p.m.EXECUTIVE DIRECTORTerri A. Harvill

Birmingham YMCA Youth Center 2400 7th Avenue NorthBirmingham, AL 35203205.324.1643Branch Hours7 a.m.- 6 p.m.PROGRAM EXECUTIVEAnthony Sparks

MyMission:

Rayford Prater“I’ve been walking for a long, long time. I had open heart surgery in 1985. When I got out and got to where I could walk a little bit, I started walking every day and I haven’t missed many days since. My doctor said, “Well, that’s better than any pill I can give you.”

“I grew up during the depression on a farm. My daddy was a sharecropper and when I was 12 years old he had me following him and when you’re doing that you ain’t doing nothing but walking. “

“The fi rst piece of advice I would give to anyone in my situation is get a good doctor and listen to him. Secondly, I believe exercise is a wonderful thing. If you don’t exercise your body you’ll lose it.”

“Could someone 30 years younger than me come do what I did? No, I don’t think so. People 30 years younger than I am are too lazy to do it.”

Rayford Prater turned 85 in August and walks every day on a treadmill at the Vestavia branch. At the age of 83, Mr. Prater suffered a heart attack. He was back in the branch two days later walking on that treadmill.

ymcabham.org

‘‘ ‘‘ Could someone 30 years younger than me come do what I did? No, I don’t think so.

Rayford Prater


METROPOLITAN BIRMINGHAM YMCA2101 Fourth Avenue NorthBirmingham, Alabama 35203www.ymcabham.org

Non-Profi t Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1072Birmingham, AL

y life birmingham september-october 2011

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