YLifeBIRMINGHAM

July-August 2012 Volume 7, Issue 4

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENTFOR HEALTHY LIVINGFOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILTY

WHAT WE GAINED(and lost)AT THE YMCA

Ten stories of healthy living

KINDERGARTENREADINESSPROGRAMCreating a learning environment that supports the needs of underserved and non-English speaking children.• Laying a foundation for school-ready literacy and math skills.• Fostering an atmosphere in which children can learn with and from each other.• Teaching language skills to non-English speaking children.• Providing a quality education at an affordable price.

Available SitesAlabaster 663-6504 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.)

Greystone 981-0144 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-Noon)

Northeast 833-7616 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Pelham 664-9622 (Monday-Friday, 8:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.)

Trussville 655-2224 (Monday-Friday, TBD)

ContactFor further registration information, please contact Miki Wilson, Kindergarten Readiness Coordinator, at 663-6504 or mwilson@ymcabham.org.

LifeNotes

Join Me atthe Y 4

Features

6Circuit

12My Mission

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“CATHY CELEBRITY; In The Best Shape Of Her Life At 46: How She Did It… And You Can Too.”“Lose 20 Pounds Eating Carbs”“Lose 15 Pounds a week! Breakthrough Cure For Obesity”“5 Steps, 5 Days to a New You”

Our cover “YMCA celebrities” have seen the headlines, and read the claims, too. (Probably even tried a couple along the way.)

But very few of these quick-fix schemes ever address what weight loss is all about: healthy living. Successful, long-term, weight loss can’t be achieved overnight. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and is a very personal process. There is no one-size-fits-all program that one can simply plug in to and watch the pounds melt away.

In this issue of YLife Birmingham, meet 10 people who have chosen a healthy lifestyle, and who are at various points along their personal journey at the YMCA. Their loss is a net gain: improved wellness, self-confidence, a healthier family, and more energy than they’ve had in years. YMCA Vestavia member, Natalie Dabney, is one. From helping herself to inspiring others, this mother of two is now a group exercise instructor at the Y. You’ll also hear from LaTonya Bryant, a YMCA Northeast member who exercises with a group of friends aggressively known as “The A Team.” In the first stages of her weight loss plan, LaTonya is already seeing positive results to her overall health and is becoming a positive role model for her children.

While there are a few themes repeated on how they have achieved success, one thing is common to all of them: the role of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham in getting them started on their journey and in helping keep them on the right path. We’re thrilled to be along for the ride. Listen in on their roundtable conversation that touches on motivation, encouragement, tight clothes, camaraderie, cheat days, balance, and the “eucalyptus.” Prepare to be inspired and to gain a little yourself.

YOU’LL HEAR FROM YMCA MEMBERS:1 Edgar Ramirez, Greystone 2 Natalie Dabney, Vestavia

3 Back Row (l to r): Angela Yancey, Bruce Wright, Patty Crosby, Danny Crosby, Sharon Sanders.

Front Row: LaTonya Wyatt (center) and her children, Northeast’s “A Team”4 Debra & Richard Foster, Alabaster5 Cynthia Hood, Trussville6 LaTonya Bryant, Shades Valley

YLifeBIRMINGHAM

July-August 2012, Volume 7 Issue 4

YMCA of Birmingham

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

Board MembersTracy Morant AdamsCharles BallTim BlairCecil BostanyLibby CarpenterDenise DauphinCourtney FrenchHarold GoingsAnn HaasRoderick HawkinsRobert L. HolmanWayne HoustonMallie IrelandLynn JonesAnthony A. JosephRobert E. KellyScott KennyTom L. LarkinJohn LaurielloAlan LottHarrison ManningYvonne McBethAnn D. McMillanJudge John OttRick PlayerLeigh Davis PerryHenry Ray, Jr.Allen RiceJoey RitcheyLloyd SheltonReeves Sims, Jr.Steve SmithWalker 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 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.

YLife Birmingham welcomes letters and story ideas. Please send them to: YLife Birmingham, 2101 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203 or to ylife@ymcabham.org.

YLife Birmingham StaffVICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS David G. HillCOMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR 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.

WHAT WE GAINED (and lost) AT THE YMCA

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JoinMe at the Y

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Graduate Beau Johnson with YMCA Achievers Program director Marsha Kelley-Sutton.

In May, eight members of the YMCA Achievers program at the Youth Center, graduated from the program and high school. Each one received a YMCA scholarship. All of the students have been accepted to four year colleges and institutions of higher learning in the state of Alabama.

Here is what several of them had to say about their Y Achiever experience.

Y Achievers is a wonderful opportunity for high school students to develop leadership skills that they bring back to their school and community. I will leave this wonderful program as a leader. I am more empathetic and I am well prepared to go off to college this fall.Jayuana N. Pope

As a Y Achiever, I was pushed out of my comfort zone. It was a positive force which caused me to excel to higher heights, to be the first to raise my hand for participation, or to lead a group. This program has given me even more confidence. Being a Y Achiever has, in part, helped me realize the goal of being the first member of my family to go to college. Miracle A. Harvell

During my experience as a Y Achiever, I met new people, traveled to different areas of the United States, and picked up useful skills along the way. Marquell Craig Y Achievers taught me to be bold, confident, and speak with confidence. I have been involved in a roundtable luncheon with Mayor William Bell, and talked with him at ease. I was able to do this because Y Achiever taught us different communication skills, how to network, and how to present myself in a positive way. Y Achievers teaches us to be leaders. Beau M. Johnson Y Achiever Saturdays brought us skills for life. Professionals from universities to businesses gave us insight on what we will face in our college and professional careers. We met with veterinarians, social workers, doctors and accountants. Because of the positive input from these professionals, I plan to study Sports Medicine and to become a Physical Therapist. The success I will attain will be due to my experiences being a Y Achiever. Kennen Robinson

Y Achievers’ graduates speak out

I am a 5-star ambassador; I represent myself, my family, my community, my school, my race with pride and dignity. I am a Y Achiever.

July-August 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 5

LifeSkills HOW TO TALK TO YOUNG PEOPLE ABOUT GRIEF

1. Assure young people that social support can positively affect their feelings of grief. 2. Let them know that grief affects people in different ways, but that open communication during times of grief can help. 3. Accurate and honest communication with parents and guardians is key to moving through grief to relief.

Mary Scheinert, graduate of the UAB School of Social Work, is one of three YMCA youth bereavement counselors.

This summer, young people who have encountered the loss of parents, siblings, relatives, or friends through death or family crisis will be provided support and guidance at the YMCAs in Northeast, Western Area,

and the Youth Center. Funded by a grant from New York Life Insurance

Company, three YMCA counselors will provide comfort, understanding and

emotional support to hurting young people who have

encountered losses of loved ones in their lives.

Tailor Made for Father’s Day:

the YMCA and Saks Fifth Avenue recognize three fathers who are leaders at home and in the community. To benefit the annual Strong Kids Campaign, YMCA dads (left to right) Tom Lewis, Owner of Business Consulting Firm Infocus, LLC, Pete Glenboski, Retired Air Force, and Dexter Young, Zoning professional, City of Birmingham, were featured in BIRMINGHAM Magazine and at an event in their honor at SAKS.

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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Richard Foster My doctor informed me that I was obese, and that if I wanted to continue on this side of the world, I needed to lose some weight. I weighed 260 pounds and my family suffers from hypertension, high cholesterol, and a lot of other related illness.

Edgar Ramirez I was on a mission trip to China and was with a group climbing up a

mountain and I felt my heart racing. It’s kind of scary being in a foreign country where there don’t speak English. ‘Oh Lord, if this is my time to go, I don’t mind but please let me go in America.’ I didn’t want to cause a panic , and everything shifted. I forgot about it. I come back to America and we were invited to a wedding. The next thing you know I got really dizzy and I said to my wife, ‘let’s get out here.’ I went to the doctor and he took my vitals, and he said ‘bottom line, you’re not diabetic yet, but you’re heading there.’

Latonya Wyatt I was getting close to 300 pounds and I decided I was going to get any bigger than that. That’s what mainly motivated me, but also my family members have diabetes and high blood pressure and so I decided I didn’t want to be a candidate of that. I was a gestational diabetic and I didn’t want to become a full-blown diabetic.

WHAT WE GAINED(and lost)AT THE YMCATen stories of healthy living

Natalie Dabney Growing up I was always a chubby girl. I just remembered I woke up one day, it was probably four years ago, and was getting dressed. Nothing fit, everything was tight and I just had it. I was fed up. My husband was a member of the YMCA all the time, and I decided I’m going to try this and I just started running and jogging.

Cynthia Hood My son was going down the same path that I had been. I need him to realize that you only live once. I allowed that. I thought if I could become a good example, as we’re supposed to, that maybe he would follow. And he did.

What events led to you to realize you needed to lose weight?

Richard Foster

Cynthia Hood

ALL MY CLOTHES WERE TIGHT, HYPERTENSION, CHUBBY, HIGH CHOLESTEROL, DIABETES, YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE, RACING HEART

July-August 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 7

Cynthia Hood Every single person that I have run in to, from the young guy at the fitness area, to the person behind the desk, to the fitness director have been very positive. Anytime I have questions they do not hesitate to help. If I need help showing me how to do an exercise, they just stopped and helped. It’s just a very positive arena to be in.

Latonya Bryant When I come in, they have people greeting me, they have people asking me “what are you going to do today, how are going to do it, do you need help?’ They explain the

machines. It’s very helpful to know you have somebody

there who’s there to help you along the journey.

Natalie Dabney I started to get involved in group exercise, and met friends through the YMCA.

Everyone just helps each

other and builds each other up. I was asked to become a board member of the Vestavia YMCA and so then after that India Gold (group exercise director) said ‘why don’t you start thinking about teaching to change people’s lives?’ That’s what I did.

Debra Foster First it was the encouragement from Carol Hamilton (membership director and fitness instructor). She brought about a circuit training class on at a five o’clock on Tuesdays and Thursday mornings with a group of people that came also and encouraged us.

Hood

Natalie Dabney

Debra and Richard Foster

EVERY SINGLE PERSON THAT I HAVE RUN IN TO, FROM THE YOUNG GUY AT THE FITNESS AREA, TO THE PERSON BEHIND THE DESK, TO THE FITNESS DIRECTOR HAVE BEEN VERY POSITIVE.

How did the YMCA help you reach your goals?EVERY SINGLE PERSON, DO YOU NEED HELP?, TEACHING TO CHANGE LIVES, ENCOURAGEMENT, CAMARADERIE

Bruce Wright Basically, it’s the people. I’ve tried to do it on my own and couldn’t do it. But, the camaraderie and having people to encourage you and push beyond what you would do yourself.

And, all of these team members will get on you if you don’t do it.

Latonya Wyatt The people I work out with encourage us and keep us on the right path trying to help us. Everyone is like a family here, so it’s very welcoming.

Latonya Wyatt My eating is much better. I used to be loaded on cookies and drinks and stuff like that. Now, it’s mainly water. I think if you go through the first 21 days, try to pace yourself and stay dedicated for those 21 days, you can make it.

Edgar Ramirez Some people look at me as though I’m a nutritional guru. I say ‘no’. It’s called a scared-out-of-your-life diet. It’s basically a caveman diet. I eat nothing but lean fish and meat. No more McDonalds, no more Burger King, no junk food. I have a hamburger, I’m one of those guys where I’ll take one slice of the bread and toss it aside.

Natalie Dabney It has to be a fine balance. You can’t go out and

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exercise five hours a day and eat a can of tuna. You have to really

find that balance. IT was really hard for me at first because

I wanted to just exercise, exercise, exercise, but you can’t do that. You have to have a really good balance. So I finally did that, and got my family on board to

help. Everyone started eating better as well. I had a great support system at home.

Cynthia Hood I still have my cheat days, but I try to eat properly. I try to eat smaller six meals a day. Lots of water, lots of fluid, no pop or sugary drinks. If I am full, I walk away. I have to keep myself busy. I have a very busy, active mind and if I don’t maintain to keep up with my mind. Food was my go-to.

Latonya Bryant My eating habits have changed. I used to eat maybe once or twice a day, skip breakfast, and just eat whatever. Now, I’m eating six small meals a day, I get a lot of vegetables, and I eat a lot of fruits. Not a lot of fried foods. I don’t really go out to fast food restaurants any more. I eat breakfast now and I drink tons of water.

Latonya Bryant

What lifestyle changes have you made to ensure long term success?

Edgar Ramirez

21 DAYS, SCARED-OUT-OF-YOUR-LIFE DIET, A FINE BALANCE, CHEAT DAYS, SIX SMALL MEALS A DAY, WATER WATER EVERYWHERE

How has your health improved since you started this journey?

Dabney

IT HAS TO BE A FINE BALANCE. YOU CAN’T GO OUT AND EXERCISE FIVE HOURS A DAY AND EAT A CAN OF TUNA. YOU HAVE TO REALLY FIND THAT BALANCE.

SLEEPING, BREATHING, COME OFF MY MEDICATION, LOST 10 WAIST SIZES, NEVER GET A COLD, BLOOD CIRCULATION, LOWER CHOLESTEROL, BALANCE

Bryant

I CAN ENJOY LIFE A LITTLE MORE. I CAN WALK A LITTLE MORE WITHOUT GETTING OUT OF BREATH AND TIRED. I JUST FEEL MORE ENERGIZED.

July-August 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 9

Ramirez

Angela Yancey It’s basically helping me a lot because I have taken a whole lot of medication because I had open surgery. By exercising I haven’t had to take fluid pills and my blood pressure is down. It’s helped me a lot with my breathing, sleeping at night, and swelling in my legs. My doctor just told me to keep what I’m doing and that everything was looking great.

Latonya Wyatt My health is much better. If I lose 50 more pounds I might get to come off my blood pressure medication.

Danny Crosby I used to be about a 49 in the waist now I’m a 39. I’ve lost 10 inches. It really started when we came over here and got this A Team together. We’ve been going at it hard. Over the last six months I’ve lost about four inches in my waist.

Natalie Dabney I used to get strep throat five times a year at least. I was supposed to have my tonsils out. Ever since I started exercising and lost all my weight, I haven’t had it one time. I’m so much healthier. I never get a cold, ever. When I was heavy, I was about 250 pounds and I’ve lost between 120-130 pounds, and with that much stress on your body, it can’t fight off anything.

Richard Foster My cholesterol has reduced a whole lot. My doctor was surprised the first time I went back when I lost 20 pounds. That was seven months ago. Since then I’ve lost 30 more.

Bruce Wright My blood pressure has stabilized and I’m able to do more around the house. I used to get tired cutting grass or walking up steps. I can do that stuff now and I have more energy.

Edgar Ramirez My Hemoglobin A1C when I my health challenges began was 6.8, and that was very scary. Gradually, I began to change my lifestyle. You don’t really need two or three hours a day. If you’re consistent every day, I’d rather do 30 minutes a day, than do zero minutes a day. Even when I was heavy I would come to the gym and do an hour of cardio,

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What are your favorite activities and why?

but what was killing me was my diet. You got to have both. You don’t have to be extreme, but it has to be balanced out.

Latonya Bryant I can enjoy life a little more. I can walk a little more without getting out of breath and tired. I just feel more energized. When I wake up in the morning I’m not as slow and I’m more alert. My doctors have encouraged me to keep exercising. When it comes down to it, that person has to be willing to change and do it themselves. I got to that point.

Debra Foster I have mitral valve prolapse, that’s where one of the valves does not close completely so the blood is not circulating throughout your body properly. I find that my blood circulates throughout my body better. And then my memory is better when I exercise. I think better. I also went from a size 10 to a size four.

I’VE TRIED TO DO IT ON MY OWN AND COULDN’T DO IT. BUT, THE CAMARADERIE AND HAVING PEOPLE TO ENCOURAGE YOU AND PUSH BEYOND WHAT YOU WOULD DO YOURSELF. AND, ALL OF THESE TEAM MEMBERS WILL GET ON YOU IF YOU DON’T DO IT.

Bruce Wright, member of Northeast’s “A-Team”

Debra Foster

ROWING MACHINE, THE “EUCALYPTUS”, SIT-UPS, CIRCUIT TRAINING, NAVY SEAL TRAINING, WALKING OUTSIDE, BALANCE CARDIO AND WEIGHT TRAINING, TEACHING SPIN, CROSS TRAINING

Cynthia Hood I got addicted to the rowing machine. People have to be crazy for that. I had never been on an elliptical, which I called the eucalyptus. I like to do the elliptical and the rowing machine. I love doing my abs, because I can actually feel them now. I’ve also, over the last couple of months, gotten into the weights. I’ve been kind of skeptical about that, but I can actually feel the difference within the last month.

Danny Crosby We do what we call 15 minutes of hell where we do sit-ups. It’s just 15 minutes non-stop with no rest. We go at it. That’s the one I like.

Debra Foster Circuit training is my favorite class to do, but the elliptical is my favorite activity. For the elliptical machine you can have the choice of working your entire body. If you’re looking to lose weight all over, you can select Total Body and just really go at it. That’s what I like.

July-August 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 11

Northeast’a “A-Team,”: Back Row (l to r): Angela Yancey, Bruce Wright, Danny Crosby, Patty Crosby, Sharon Sanders. Front Row: LaTonya Wyatt (center) and her child.

Angela Yancey Basically sit-ups because I’m trying to get this stomach down so I can get my two-piece on.

Bruce Wright I like walking outside with weights. We call it Navy Seal training. Everything we do, they make it fun.

Edgar Ramirez I don’t really have a favorite activity, I just like to balance out cardio and weight training. Before, all I did was cardio and I had no weight training.

Natalie Dabney I love teaching spin and Y Cross. Those are my two favorites. Running is my time. I’ll either pray or just think about stuff that I need to do during the day. Usually, it’s just one-on-one time with God.

I THINK IF YOU GO THROUGH THE FIRST 21 DAYS, TRY TO PACE YOURSELF AND STAY DEDICATED FOR THOSE 21 DAYS, YOU CAN MAKE IT.

Latonya Wyatt, member of Northeast’s “A-Team”

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CIRCUIT 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. We hope that connection is even easier now. By connecting you directly to the areas on our website —ymcabham.org —you canfind all the details, all the dates, times, and branches for those programs, along with direct links to online registration. Look forymcabham.org/ … and then the name of the program. Type it into your browser, and you’re there!

SPORTSALABASTER, GREYSTONE, PELHAM YMCAS

CONTACTS

ALABASTER Trenae Leonard 663-6504 ymcabham.org/alabaster

GREYSTONE George Becker 981-0144 ymcabham.org/gsteamsports

PELHAM Tamara Haralson 664-9622 ymcabham.org/phsports

SUMMER YOUTH SPORTS: July 16 - August 11Soccer: Ages 3 - First Grade, $75 Members | $115 Non Members Grades 2 - 8, $85 Members | $125 Non MembersVolleyball: Grades 4-10, $75 Members | $115 Non MembersFlag Football: Grades Kindergarten - 7, $75 Members | $115 Non Members

Adult Co-Ed Volleyball Registration GREYSTONE | PELHAM July 16 - August 11 $50 Members $65 Non Members $250 Per Team Registration

July-August 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 13

Directory YMCA Alabaster (FAMILY BRANCH)117 Plaza CircleAlabaster, AL 35007205.663.7240ymcabham.org/ALABASTEREXECUTIVE DIRECTORLane VinesMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORCarol Hamilton

(CHILDCARE BRANCH)1303 7th Street SWAlabaster, AL 35007205.663.6504ymcabham.org/ALABASTEREXECUTIVE DIRECTORGwen Hatcher

YMCA Camp Cosby2290 Paul Bear Bryant RoadAlpine, AL 35014256.268.2007ymcabham.org/CAMP COSBYEXECUTIVE DIRECTORKevin Casey

YMCA DOWNTOWN2101 Fourth Avenue NorthBirmingham, AL 35203205.324.4563ymcabham.org/DOWNTOWNEXECUTIVE DIRECTORChristian ReiseburgMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORCaroline Bundy

YMCA GREYSTONE5414 Highway 280Birmingham, AL 35242205.981.0144ymcabham.org/GREYSTONEEXECUTIVE DIRECTORPat TateMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORKristin Harris

YMCA Hargis Retreat928 Hargis DriveChelsea. AL 35043205.678.6512ymcabham.org/HARGISRETREATPROGRAM EXECUTIVEKim Sharp

YMCA Hoover2250 John Hawkins ParkwayHoover, AL 35244205.682.1399ymcabham.org/HOOVEREXECUTIVE DIRECTORJulie BrodayMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORCindy Reams

ymcabham.org

HOOVER YMCAymcabham.org/hvsportsCONTACT Kelly Kidd 682-1399 ymcabham.org/hvsports

Fall Basketball Academy; August 27 - October 27Practice twice a week with skills coaches. Work on fundamental skills dribbling and passing, positioning on offense and defense, basketball terminology and sport specific conditioning. Limited spaces.

Registration: July 9 until it fills up Age: Grades 2 - 3, 4 - 5, 5 - 6, 7+One week day evening practice and one Sunday practice

Cost: Member $200Non-Member $250

Individual Basketball Skills Coaching; year roundStaff skills coaches are available for private and clinic instruction for player or team development in specific skills.

Cost:Member30 minute sessions: $165 for 5 sessions, $290 for 10 sessions or $420 for 15 sessions60 minute sessions: $270 for 5 sessions, $490 for 10 sessions or $705 for 15 sessionsNon-Member30 minute session $220 for 5 sessions, $410 for 10 sessions or $585 for 15 sessions60 minute session $325 for 5 sessions, $610 for 10 sessions, $885 for 15 sessions

Survey of Sports, August 27 - October 27Help your child find their inner athlete through this indoor practice. They will learn the fundamentals of basketball, soccer and t-ball. Focus on throwing, catching, kicking, hitting, shooting and running. Key concepts will be balance, coordination, conditioning, stretching and hand-eye coordination.

Registration: July 9, until full Age: Pre-K (3 - 4 years) and 5 - 6 yearsCost: Member $85Non Member $125

SHADES VALLEY YMCAymcabham.org/svsportsCONTACT Mickal Thomas 870-9622 mthomas@ymcabham.org

Youth Volleyball Personal CoachingYour child’s game, and approach, to volleyball will get a lift through personal, or small group, volleyball training.Cost per session: Member $20 Non Member $30

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CIRCUITFall Volleyball YMCA volleyball is a good way to improve confidence and gain experience. Everyone participates, everyone learns, everyone has fun! For all experience levels—ages 9 - 15 —Coach Claudine Arredondo, USA Volleyball certified, emphasizes fundamental skills and having fun while maintaining the YMCA’s values of caring, honesty, and respect. Registration: July 16 - August 31Cost: Member $84Non Member $110

Youth Flag FootballKids ages 5 - 12: team up with friends for this fun-filled experience. Parents and volunteers teach by using smaller teams and fields, and by maximizing participation for all. Practices and games are once a week and each player will receive a full uniform and award. Registration: July 16 - August 31Cost: Member $84Non Member $110

Youth SoccerBoys and girls ages 3 - 6 learn introductory soccer skills to prepare them for competitive play. All players enjoy equal practice and playing time.Registration: July 16 – August 31. Practice begins September 4. Cost: Member $80Non Member $106

Youth Soccer Power TeamsBoys and girls ages 7 - 12 play in our upper level of competition. Kids should have experience in playing outdoor sports; coaches will instruct and improve their soccer skills. Registration: July 16 - August 31.

SWIMMINGymcabham.org/…

ALABASTER /alswimming Gwen Hatcher 663-6504

DOWNTOWN/dtswimming Jessica Morrison 324-4563

GREYSTONE/gsswimming Adam West 981-0144

HOOVER/hvswimming Laysea Newsome 682-1399

MOUNTAIN BROOK/mbswimming Michelle Varnell 870-0144

NORTHEAST/neswimming Alicia McIntyre 833-7616

PELHAM/phswimming Jennifer Dick 664-9622

SHADES VALLEY/svswimming Katie Watkins 870-9622

TRUSSVILLE/tvswimming Missy Gooden 655-2224

VESTAVIA/vxswimming Matt Robinson 823-0144

WESTERN AREA/waswimming Keesha Nelson 923-1195

YOUTH CENTER/ycswimming 324-1643

July-August 2012 | YLife Birmingham | 15

Go online—ymcabham.org/and the branch ID with swimming (complete list is above)—or call the YMCA in your neighborhood for information on:

Group Swim Lessons continue all summer at many branches.Classes offered and times vary from branch to branch.Call your local Y or go to ymcabham.org for more information.Cost:Members $56Non Members $94

Monday-Thursday for two weeks. Eight, 40 minute lessons per session.July 9 - 19; July 23 - August 2; August 6 - 17 (Lessons are either M/W or T/TH for this session only)

Weekday Private/ Semi-Private Swim LessonsSessions: July 9 - 20 / July 23 - August 3 / August 6 - 17 (Lessons are either M/W or T/TH for this session only)Lessons are taught Monday - Thursday the first week, then Monday and Tuesday the second week (Six, 30 minute lessons)

Saturday Group and Private Lessons Classes offered and times vary from branch to branch. Please either call your local Y or go to ymcabham.org for more information July 7-28; Aug 11-Sept 1Cost:Member $28Non Member $46

Lifeguard ClassesYMCA HOOVERJuly 11 -15; August 22 - 26

YMCA MOUNTAIN BROOKJuly 18-22; August 22-26; September 26-30

CPR/AED Training ClassesYMCA TRUSSVILLE: July 10, August 7: 5 - 9 p.m.CPR/AED - $35CPR/AED/FA - $60

Special Swimming EventsYMCA DOWNTOWNDive-in Movies, Friday nights at 6 p.m.July 6: “Finding Nemo”; 13: “Shark-tales”; 20: “Pirates of the Caribbean” ; 27: “Atlantis, The Lost Empire”; August 3: “Little Mermaid”

YMCA PELHAM Movies at the Pool, Friday nights in July. 7 p.m.

Cool the Pool for Strong KidsYMCA PELHAMFriday, July 20 Noon . Outdoor Pool . YMCA Pelham$5 for a bucket of ice to throw into the Outdoor PoolCONTACT Jenny for more information

Directory YMCA Mountain Brook2401 20th Place SouthBirmingham, AL 35223256.870.0144ymcabham.org/MOUNTAINBROOKEXECUTIVE DIRECTORMichelle OliverMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORKristie Nix

YMCA Northeast628 Red Lane RoadBirmingham, AL 35216205.833.7616ymcabham.org/NORTHEASTEXECUTIVE DIRECTORTerri A. Harvill

YMCA Pelham2610 Pelham ParkwayPelham, AL 35124205.664.9622ymcabham.org/PELHAMEXECUTIVE DIRECTORLane VinesMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORLeslie Lazaro

YMCA Shades Valley3551 Montgomery HighwayBirmingham, AL 35209205.870.9622ymcabham.org/SHADESVALLEYEXECUTIVE DIRECTORCham NormanMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORDawn Pilleteri

YMCA Trussville5920 Valley RoadTrussville, AL 35173256.655.2224ymcabham.org/TRUSSVILLEEXECUTIVE DIRECTORJerry WangMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORWendy Newland

YMCA Vestavia2086 Columbiana RoadVestavia Hills, AL 35216205.823.0144ymcabham.org/VESTAVIAEXECUTIVE DIRECTORSusan BeckerMEMBERSHIP DIRECTORClay Coleman

ymcabham.org

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CIRCUIT

TENNISYMCA MOUNTAIN BROOKCONTACT Tennis Desk 870-3930 ymcabham.org/mbtennis

Registration will begin in July for …

Fall leagues: USTA Men’s, Adult Women’s, Mixed Doubles, and Senior Women’s Fall Softcourt Men’s Fall Intercourt

Adult drop in clinics Tuesdays, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. (Women’s Beginner to 2.5)Sundays, 3 - 4 p.m. (Women’s 3.0 and up) 1 hour clinics are $10 per person

Junior Tennis Schedule… continues through August 1

Quickstart 6 & under Tuesday and Thursday Noon – 1 p.m.Quickstart 8 & under Tuesday and Thursday 1 – 2 p.m.Quickstart 10 & under Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 2 – 3 p.m.Performance 101 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 3 – 4 p.m.Performance Tournament – by pro approval Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 4 – 5:30 p.m.

1 – week sessions: July 10 – 12, 17 – 19, 24 – 26, and 31 – August 1

Prices Session Drop-inQuickstart 6 – Quickstart 8 - $24 $15Quickstart 10 – Performance 101 $36 $15Performance Tournament $48 $20

FOR HEALTHY LIVINGGREYSTONE YMCACONTACTRenae McCullough 981-0144 ymcabham.org/Greystone

July KIDS CLASSES Kids Yoga, Mondays at 10:50 a.m. 30 minute class teaches kids the basic elements of Yoga. Ages 4 and up.Kids Cross Training, Wednesdays at 11 a.m. 30 minute boot-camp style class. Great fun for ages 8 and up.Zumbatomic, Thursdays at 9 a.m. in the gymnasium. This is a 45 minute, Latin dance inspired class for ages 8 and up. Movements will be broken down and taught safely for the younger crowd or anyone wanting a modified version of a fast-paced Zumba class.(All kids’ classes will be removed from the schedule the first week of August.)

Directory YMCA Western Area1195 Bessemer RoadBirmingham, AL 35228205.923.1195ymcabham.org/WESTERNAREAEXECUTIVE DIRECTORTerri A. Harvill

YMCA YOUTH CENTER2400 7th Avenue NorthBirmingham, AL 35203205.324.1643ymcabham.org/YOUTHCENTERPROGRAM EXECUTIVEAnthony Sparks

ymcabham.org

NEW SUMMER CLASSESHydro-Power Deep Water on Tuesday and Water Circuit on Thursday. Both approaches give great variety to your water workout.Gentle Yoga relaxes and restores the body. Thursdays at 5:45 p.m. and Fridays at 9:20 a.m.

Speed, Agility & Strength TrainingFor ages of 7-14, this class helps improve athletic performance by developing lateral speed, agility, and strength. Nationally Certified Personal Trainer Triston Pearson will demonstrate key points to ensure proper execution of the exercises and drills.Tuesdays and Thursdays through August 17. 11 a.m. - NoonRegister at the front desk.

HOOVER YMCACONTACT Kelly Kidd 682-1399 ymcabham.org/hoover

Martial Arts, Kickboxing This is a genuine martial arts class based upon striking and defensive techniques gathered from a wide variety of styles. Focus on flexibility, coordination, discipline, and other great fitness attributes, mental and physical. No uniforms, belts, or previous experience required.

Member Fee$48/month (one day per week)$62/month (two days per week)Non-member Fee$62/month (one day per week)$85/month (two days per week)

Hip Hop dance This class is all about short, fun routines to energizing music you can do for your friends. It’s just as *cool* for boys as it is for girls; it uses the latest age appropriate and non-suggestive hip hop music and moves.Member fee$48/month Non-member fee$62/month

Kids love food nutrition class | FREE! Monthly, check website for datesKids learn basic nutrition in a fun interactive class lead by staff dietician, Kristin McManus. Space is limited, members only.

Kids Fit Club graduates’ UPDATE CLASS | FREE! Monthly, check website for datesNew monthly update class where you learn new equipment and add to your access to branch options. Space is limited.

Nutritional Coaching | By appointment Registered Dietician Kristin McManus will help you modify eating habits and achieve your goals in just 30 minutes a session. Topics include: meal planning, emotional eating, shopping lists, sports specific diets, family meal planning, diets for medical conditions such as IBS, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, metabolic disorder, eating out and weight loss. Cost: $165 (5 sessions), $290 (10 sessions), $420 (15 sessions)

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CIRCUITMassage By AppointmentReduce stress, work through sore muscles and relieve tension. Licensed massage therapist Jennifer Zimmerman has over 13 years experience, and can do everything from sports massage to cranial sacral therapy.Member$65/hour$35/ 30 minutesNon-Member$75/hour$45/ 30 minutes

Small group training | Year Round Small groups offer more individual attention than large group classes and are more affordable than one-on-one training. The schedule gives you the flexibility to try new classes, new instructors and a variety of class times. Family members on the same membership can share a pass. All classes are lead by certified personal trainers and specific skills coaches. Cost: $150 for 10 sessions

ADULT Small GroupsWomen’s Total Body: Class focusing on developing long and lean muscle, burning calories and strengthening the stomach and low back muscles. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6 p.m.

Senior Strength & Balance: focuses on maintaining good strength, balance and preventing injury. Learn the proper use of the machines, stretching techniques and balance training to prevent falls. Tuesday and Thursday at 6 p.m.

YOUTH Small GroupsKids Fit Club, ages 11-13 years: focuses on proper form and technique using fitness equipment, stretching and healthy eating habits. *Pass to the floor eligible.

TEEN Strength, 13 years+: 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.

Adult/Child Team, 8 - 10 years: focuses on body weight exercises, light free weights and cardio. The goal is to instruct parent/guardian in how to properly supervise their child on the fitness floor. Parent/guardian and child must complete all the classes together. *Pass to the floor eligible.

Speed, Lateral Movement, Agility and Quickness, 9 years+

GROUP EXERCISECONTACTRobyn Boatman 682-1399 ymcabham.org/hvgroupx

NEW SUMMER CLASSESY Cross Training, 8:30 a.m., Wednesday; 4:30 p.m., ThursdayY Strength Training, 9:30 a.m., Wednesday; 5:30 a.m., Thursday Water Workout, 9 a.m., Saturday Zumbatomic, 10:30 a.m., Thursday; 45 minute kid’s Zumba class; ages 8-12.Yogalates, 10:30 a.m., Saturday

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PELHAM YMCACONTACTSuzanna Weimer 664-9622 ymcabham.org/phgroupx

Sports Agility TrainingMondays and WednesdaysGrades 3-5 | 9-10 a.m.Grades 6-8 | 10-11 a.m.Grades 9-12 | 11 a.m.-Noon

Cost:Member $150Non Member $200Young athletes prepare to compete in their favorite sport and gain an edge over the competition! Sessions include Agility Drills, Sports Skills, Dynamic Workouts, Speed, Coordination, Reaction Time, Balance, Spatial AwarenessSign up at the front desk.

Safari Yoga for KidsWednesday, 11:35 a.m. - 12:05 p.m.Children ages 4-8 become adventurers on an imaginary safari from the mountain to the jungle to the river and ending on the plains. They imitate the movement and sounds of animals they meet as they learn basic Yoga poses and breathing techniques.

Youth Y Cross TrainingWednesday, 4:45 - 5:45 p.m.Ages 12+A boot camp style class that combines an essential mix of cardio, strength, power, endurance, flexibility, balance, and core in one great, fast paced workout.

Aqua ZumbaThursday, 7 p.m.Outdoor pool

SHADES VALLEY YMCACONTACTMickal Thomas 870-9622 ymcabham.org/shadesvalley

Fit for FashionWorking with The Summit certified personal trainer Allison Taylor (and former stylist and personal shopper) can help you find your inner (and develop your outer) “fashionista.”

Better Basics Personal TrainingPreventive care is the focus, as certified trainers teach the seven fundamentals of Primal Movement (Squat, Lunge, Push, Pull, Bend, Twisting, and Walking). Sessions are either water or land based.

Kid Y Cross TrainingKids ages 8+ can graduate from freshmen to senior through four progressive levels of Squating, Lunging, Pushing, Pulling, Bending, and Twisting.

Nutrition TrainingMeet one-on-one with an experienced Nutrition Coach and walk away with a personalized diet, behavior modification tips, and healthy shopping lists. Contact Sharon Lamberth at slamberth@ymcabham.org to schedule your appointment.

Kids FitnessKarate, Monday at 5:15 p.m.

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CIRCUITVESTAVIA YMCACONTACTIndia Gold 823-0144 ymcabham.org/Vestavia

NEW SUMMER GROUP EXERCISE CLASSESFrom 6 a.m. water aerobics, to Aqua Zumba, to Step; two mornings a week. Plus Cycle/Yoga combo class. Click over to ymcabham.org/vegroupex

Outdated plans, such as including family members who are no longer in the family or not updating provisions in the Will to take advantage of current estate and income tax laws.

Using Trusts when they’re not needed or not using a Trust when it’s needed. Just because your friend has a Trust doesn’t mean you need one. Also a Trust that was drafted years ago and was never funded can create significant problems.

Making emotional decisions on how and when to leave assets to heirs.

Not naming an alternate Executor, Trustee or Guardian in case the number one choice is unable to serve.

Conflicting documents—Many folks have one beneficiary named in their retirement plan or their insurance policies, but have a different beneficiary named in their Will. Everyone is shocked when the intended loved one is left out due to this mistake.

Thompson & Associates, a national estate planning firm works in more than 24 states in the U.S. and plans thousands of estates each year. To find out about Thompson’s FREE estate planning services provided by the YMCA as a THANK YOU to our members, please call Leigh Collins at 801-6053.

Cancer Prevention Research Study at the YMCAThe YMCA is helping with the fight against cancer by joining with the American Cancer Society to offer members the opportunity to take part in the Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3), August 22 - 29.

The Study’s goal is to enroll men and women from various racial/ethnic backgrounds from across the U.S. who will, through their participation, help researchers better understand the lifestyle, environmental and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer and will save lives.

Survey enrollment will be held at several YMCA branches from August 22 - 29.

If:- you are willing to make a long-term commitment to the study (which involves completing surveys at home periodically over the next 20-30 years), - are between the ages of 30 and 65, - and have never been diagnosed with cancer,

YOU ARE ELIGIBLE to enroll in this important study.

Visit www.cps3birmingham.org to learn more and schedule your enrollment appointment.

Common Estate Planning Mistakes

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Suzanne Tignor“I had to relearn how to cook. When you’re in culinary school and out in the industry, you’re given all of these wonderful things to cook with. I was actually fairly fit until I got into my baking quarter, and that’s where all bets were off. There were cakes, cookies, pies, bread, there is all sorts of things. That really set me back for an unhealthy lifestyle.”

“I had to start doing my own research and I found it wasn’t just fat and sugar, it was portions and balance. What I did with my husband and I was reducing our portions and saying ‘no, you can’t go back for seconds, and no, you can’t go back for thirds either.’

“This Thai shrimp wrap has balance. It’s not too tart, it’s not too sweet, it’s not too sour. It’s all about balance. The sesame oil is 120 calories a tablespoon, but you’ve got one tablespoon in there feeding four people. So, it’s reduced calories, but you’re still getting high impact flavor and that’s what I wanted to achieve in my food.”

MyMission:

It’s all about balance.

To view Suzanne’s video recipe for Spicy Thai Shrimp Wraps,

CLICK HERE

SPICY THAI SHRIMP WRAPSIngredients 1 lb cooked Shrimp 2 Tablespoons lime juice 1 Tablespoon fresh ginger, minced 1 Tablespoon garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fish sauce ¾ teaspoon granulated sugar 4 Garden Spinach Light Flatout Wraps 2 cups Boston or Bibb Lettuce ½ cup Publix matchstick carrots ½ cup red bell pepper ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped 1 Tablespoon toasted sesame oil

Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving:258 calories21 grams carbs7 grams fat33 grams Protein

Instructions1. Combine lime juice, garlic, ginger, sugar, and sesame

oil in a bowl with a whisk.2. Add shrimp, carrots, red bell pepper and mint and

toss to combine well.3. Place lettuce on wrap and top with shrimp. Drizzle

shrimp mixture with some of the dressing.4. Roll wrap around the shrimp mixture and sandwich in

half and serve.5. Serves 4 people.

NOTE This recipe is quite versatile. You can add additional veggies as desired or use chicken, beef or tofu in place of the shrimp.

AFTERSCHOOL CARE 2012-13FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Games, crafts, and skits give students the chance to show and grow self esteem, group interaction, respect for everyone and assets that are important to a better life. Homework assistance is only the start; working with Alabama Public Television we use PBS’ “Electric Company” materials, like “Wordball”, to help us enhance what your children are learning, while their reading skills grow! FOR HEALTHY LIVINGWe call it “CATCH,” but at the end of each day’s non-stop, inclusive, no elimination, active round of unconventional games—with a side of nutrition information—students call it fun!

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY YMCA afterschool care is a safe environment; we design it that way. Counselors are at least 19 years old, they have background checks, they have national certifications in First Aid and CPR, they have received more than 20 hours of training, including training in bus safety, and they receive on-going training throughout the year. Counselor-to-student ratios are 1:10, up to second grade; and 1:12, third grade and up.

www.ymcabham.org/afterschool

PLAY FIRST! AFTERSCHOOL. LIFE BETTER THAN EVER