Community

YMCA fundraisers, new programs on tap

Atmore Area YMCA is in the final stages of renovating its gymnasium and converting the area into a full-fledged exercise room. Several new workout machines have been added, new paint has been applied in several areas, and other structural renovations have been completed. The back part of the gym was previously the stage in the auditorium.

The Atmore Area YMCA is planning a fund-raiser to support existing and upcoming programs at the Y. Also, some new events and programs are planned, so check below and make plans to participate.

Super Bowl Butts
The Y is selling Boston Butts that could be the hit of your Super Bowl LI party.

The pork shoulders, which will be cooked by David Amos, are selling for $30 each, with proceeds to benefit various Y programs. They will be ready for pick-up at the local Y’s 501 South Pensacola Avenue headquarters at 1 p.m. on Super Bowl Sunday, February 5.

To order yours, call 368-9622 or stop by the Y.

Powerlifting competition
The Y’s first powerlifting competition for men, women and children will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25, at the local YMCA facility.

Men and boys will compete in 14 different weight classifications; there will be seven weight classes for women and girls, and students from local high schools will get a chance to test themselves against other schools. Also, the youngsters may participate in a series of bodyweight exercises, including chin-ups (with a spotter), push-ups and sit-ups.

Entry fee is $25 per person for adults, $15 for high school students and anyone younger than high school age. The fee includes a t-shirt, and trophies will be awarded to the top performers in each category or weight class.

The Y is also seeking corporate or business sponsors. Any individual or business interested in helping sponsor the event may call Paul Chason at 368-9622.

Living Well Alabama
The Living Well Alabama Better Choices – Better Health workshop is a six-week health education program for people with one or more chronic health conditions who desire to practice healthier lifestyle choices and learn how to better manage the symptoms of those conditions.

People who suffer from diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic pain or anxiety will benefit most from the program.
Among the things participants will learn are development of decision-making and problem-solving skills; developing and maintaining a long-term exercise program; dealing with depression, anger and other negative emotions; healthy eating and getting better sleep.

The workshop begins this Wednesday (January 18) and continues for the next five Wednesdays, from 1 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. each week. It is free, but registration is required. To register, call Kenya at 368-9622 or stop by the Y.

Family Fun Night
Atmore Area YMCA will sponsor Members Family Night this Friday, January 20, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The evening will include a brief meet-and-greet session, refreshments, various activities and a movie (complete with popcorn).

The meet and greet, an ice-breaker during which members will introduce themselves to other members whom they have not previously met, will begin at 6 and continue through 6:15, and introduction of the evening’s program will take place from then until 6:30.

For the next 20 minutes, until 6:50, crafts and activities will be conducted in the game room and fitness center. Refreshments will be served throughout the evening, including cheese crackers, cheese chunks, crispy treats, cold drinks and water.

The movie, Real Steel, will begin at 6:50 and last until 9. Popcorn will be offered during the showing of the movie, which involves the future evolution of robot boxing after humans become bored with everyday sports.

Seating is limited, so members and their families are urged to come as early as possible.

For additional information on either of the fundraisers, the Living Well Alabama workshop or the Members Family Night, call the Y at 368-9622.