How to Choose the Right Ramp

September 1, 2018August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Healthy Living

For specific questions you should ask yourself and answer before you purchase a ramp, contact Alabama.101Mobility.com, 205-538-5692.

Let’s face it, most individuals will need to research a ramp at some point in their lives. Whether for a visiting friend, temporary use after a surgery, an older relative who is struggling with stairs, or one of numerous other scenarios, we will likely all find ourselves involved in the decision-making process. So, the folks here at 101 Mobility of Alabama have created a handy guide to help you choose the right ramp.

How Much Ramp do I Need? The length of ramp required is dependent on the rise measurement – the measurement from the top step or landing to the ground. According to ADA guidelines, ramps should adhere to a 1:12 ratio, meaning for every 1 inch of rise, the ramp should extend 12 inches in length. The guidelines also require that ramps have a minimum width of 36″, as well as a level platform at the top and bottom. These guidelines help to ensure that ramps are safe for all users, with a reasonable slope and safe width.

Wood vs. Aluminum. The next step in selecting your ramp is determining which material to choose. Let’s see how the two most common materials stack up.

Price. Price is typically based on the length of ramp required and may vary by city. The main thing to factor here is maintenance as wood needs to be re-stained every few years, and rotten boards replaced. With the proper tools and skill set, it is possible for some handy individuals to build wooden ramps on their own, which would certainly decrease the installation cost, and not require professional installation. However, many individuals are not qualified to perform this type of work, and would still encounter various costs regarding materials, permitting, and time spent on labor. Alternately, an aluminum ramp is very durable, and requires minimal maintenance.

Time. The time it takes to construct a ramp varies based on the material, length, and configuration required. Building a simple wood ramp of about 30 feet would take a contractor anywhere from two days to one week including time spent pouring concrete, cutting and assembling the wood, and staining the ramp to protect it from the elements. Installing a 30-foot modular aluminum ramp takes less than a day and can typically be completed within a just few hours.

ADA Guidelines require 1 foot of ramp length for every 1 inch of rise.

Maintenance. Most ramps are outdoors, where they are exposed to the elements. If you have a wood ramp, you will have to clean the wood and reapply a stain or sealing product to protect it from moisture. Where the wood sits on the ground, it may be prone to decay due to the constant contact with a moist surface. Any decayed or broken pieces would have to be replaced to maintain the integrity of the ramp as a whole – often requiring future service calls with a carpenter! Conversely, aluminum is extremely durable, and typically will not need to be replaced or repaired for many years. While there is a possibility that the ramp may settle and need to have bolts or screws tightened, these repairs can be taken care of quickly and inexpensively – many companies warranty their ramps!

Traction. Traction is very important for a ramp in order to enable wheelchair wheels to brake when needed, or to ensure anyone walking or pushing a wheelchair on the ramp can maintain safe footing. Most aluminum ramps are manufactured with a grooved, non-slip surface that maintains sufficient traction, even during heavy rain. Alternately, wood planks used to build ramps are typically very smooth, as they have been sanded down for use.

Purchase vs. Rent. Many times, a ramp will only be needed for a short period of time, whether it is while an individual is recovering from an injury or surgery, or a friend or relative is visiting for a short period of time. In these instances, a ramp rental can provide a much more cost-effective means of getting the individual in and out of the home! Modular and portable aluminum ramps provide solutions for nearly any home and are easily available for rental.

Modular vs. Portable. What can you do if you have a friend or relative who visits your home frequently, but requires a ramp to get inside your house? This is a great time to consider Portable Ramps made of lightweight aluminum that can be laid down to provide temporary access. They are available in lengths from 2′ long to 12′ long and can be folded into smaller sections for easy transport and storage. These are also excellent products for those who use a wheelchair or scooter to have when travelling, in case a building is not readily accessible. Please keep in mind that the ADA Guidelines mentioned above do apply to portable ramps – never attempt to use a portable ramp in an unsafe manner!

Locally Owned & Operated in Birmingham, Serving Residents Across Alabama

205-538-5692

Alabama.101Mobility.com

September 4, 2018August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

bigstock Life Of The Disease Is A Strok 211046350

Healthy Living

Worldwide, stroke is the second leading cause of death. According to the World Health Organization, 15 million people suffer from strokes each year, and more than one third of those strokes result in death. The key to reducing these incidences is spreading awareness around the risk factors and warning signs for stroke.

A stroke occurs when blood flow, and thus oxygen flow, to the brain is stopped, causing affected areas of the brain to become damaged or die. The symptoms of a stroke depend on the area of the brain affected, and in some cases a person may not even know that he or she is having a stroke. Because it’s imperative for stroke victims to get to the hospital as quickly as possible, knowing the warning signs provided by the National Stroke Association’s Act FASTcampaign can truly be the difference between life and death:

Face– When he or she smiles, does one side of the face droop?
Arms– Can he or she raise both arms without one drifting downward?
Speech– When asked to speak is his or her speech slurred?
Time– If you observe these signs, call 911 immediately.

There are other symptoms of stroke that may be less discernible to the average bystander. Among these are a sudden headache that gets worse when changing positions, bending or coughing; a change in alertness (e.g., sleepiness, unconsciousness); loss of any of the five senses; confusion or loss of memory; dizziness, vertigo or loss of coordination; and numbness or tingling on one side of the body. Swiftly recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking treatment means a lesser chance of serious brain damage and permanent disability.

Knowing the warning signs is helpful in the event of a stroke but knowing the controllable risk factors and taking action can actually reduce your chances of having a stroke. 80 percent of strokes are preventable. Treatable risk factors include high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity and obesity. Quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help you maintain a healthy body weight, blood pressure and cholesterol level. If someone you know has recently suffered a stroke, visit www.HospitaltoHomecare.com for information about the discharge process, post-hospitalization care and recovery at home. Additional recovery tips are available in Home Care Assistance’s Patient Guide for Post-Stroke Care. Stop by our Valleydale Road office for a free copy of the guide as well as other home care assistance resources.

-Debra Beadles

Owner, Home Care Assistance of Birmingham

5291 Valleydale Rd., Ste. 123, Birmingham, AL 35242

205-438-6925

www.HomeCareAssistanceBirminghamAL.com

August 28, 2018August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

bigstock Fashion clothes hanging on clo 229850923

Hassle Free Zone

Do you have room for all your clothes in one closet or do you have to do the “seasonal swap”? Alabama weather can make things difficult if we are spread out in different closets and even more so in boxes or the attic. Keeping what we will wear in the same space is best. We wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time, so let’s get it down to what you wear and donate the stuff taking up that valuable real estate!

Empty your closet and evaluate every piece in your closet, asking:

Do I like this?
Do I wear it?
Does it fit?

What can stay in your closet year-round and what could be moved due to the temperature? (If space is at a premium, consider relocating items like wool sweaters, shorts, swimsuits)

Not so fun, but necessary – you must try it on! Consider these options:

Keep – return back to your closet
Give / Donate – to a friend/relative or let someone else benefit
Sell – trading sites, consignment shops
Toss – just not salvageable – time for the trash can!

The Hanger Trick

Turn the hanger head backwards on the rod. After wearing it, return as you normally would. At the end of the season, you can easily see what you did (or didn’t) wear! What is still backwards – out it goes!

Good Hangers Make A Difference

Using the same type creates a cleaner look and can often double your hanging space. It can be an investment, so consider picking up a couple packs on each trip to the store for a few months.

Flocked – Many colors, but I prefer the black. Slimline; make the best use of space; works great for slippery items that end up on floor!
Plastic Tubular – Less expensive; still create a clean, uniform look; more space than flocked, less than wood.
Wooden – Bulky and consume the most space; however, look amazing; great for heavy-duty work like suits, jackets and winter coats.

While you’re preparing for the next season, take a day and empty that closet. Have fun trying on everything and placing it back in your closet – backwards! Then, over the next few months, you will start to see what you are wearing and decide if it should stay or go!

If you’d rather have someone help you with this process, call Space Cadets today for your Hanger Swap!

–-Kim McBrayer

Designer | Professional Organizer | Speaker

SPACE CADETS

5291 Valleydale Road, Suite 121

Birmingham, AL 35242, 205-368-2425

www.spacecadetsorganizing.com

August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Best Books

Hilary Yancey is a young lady who lives in Waco, Texas. She is a petite student of philosophy, wears glasses, and looks perfectly harmless. But in the kingdom of God weakness is power, and Hilary’s writing is powerful indeed. In her latest book, Forgiving God (Faith Words), Hilary shares her spiritual journey surrounding the birth and infancy of her son, Jackson. Three months into her pregnancy, Jackson was diagnosed with a severe physical disability. Forgiving God is an honest, deeply moving account of the months that followed. It was a time of tears and prayer, hope and fear, love and anger.

In a particularly moving passage, Hilary writes, “It was never hard to believe that Jack brought with him the Kingdom of God.” Jackson’s body may have been broken when he arrived in this world, but Jesus knows what it’s like to have a broken body. Jackson’s condition may exclude him from some activities, but Jesus knows what exclusion feels like. Like Jackson, Jesus’ birth brought his mother joy and wonder, but also a pierced soul. Mary wrote a song after Jesus was born. Hilary wrote Forgiving God. Both works are powerful declarations by women who, in their own way, have come face to face with the mysterious kingdom of God.

Hilary’s prayers that a miracle would accompany Jack’s birth were not answered. He was born with a case of cleft palate so severe it threatened his ability to breathe. I’ve never seen a picture of little Jackson, but I can tell you what he looks like. He looks like baby Jesus.

-Darrel Holcombe, Owner
Sanctuary Christian Books and Gifts
Colonial Promenade, Alabaster

205-663-2370

August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Church Leaders

"My hope is that every reader will experience the unlocking of their true potential and fully see themselves the way God sees them," says Birmingham author and pastor, Larry Ragland. — “My hope is that every reader will experience the unlocking of their true potential and fully see themselves the way God sees them,” says Birmingham author and pastor, Larry Ragland.

Pastor Larry Ragland of Birmingham’s Solid Rock Church has written a new book, I See Greatness in You, which shares a story we all know and need. It tells of his own redemption, how he was transformed by the grace of God and the weight of five words: “I see greatness in you.” Before hearing these words, Pastor Ragland believed that there was no greatness in him, but this simple sentence inspired him to live up to his potential.

Pastor Ragland weaves biblical narratives throughout his personal account, using both well-known and obscure names to show that the Bible itself is a redemption story, a metanarrative of people realizing the greatness in them. Pastor Ragland says, “We learn together that every great Bible hero’s story is filled with some form of abuse, rejection, loss, or pain. But through it all, the greatness was still there. It just needed to be revealed.”

He says it was difficult to write about something so personal, but he was motivated by the realization that the pain and struggle of his own past was shared with the biblical names we all know and respect as well as with other believers. This opened up a door to fulfill his own potential and hopefully to help others fulfill their own. However, this is not just a personal account. As Pastor Ragland puts it, “I know this story because I lived this story. But this is not just my story. This is your story! This is everyone’s story!” With this book, he hopes to speak those words into every reader so that we all can see ourselves the way God sees us.

This is Pastor Ragland’s first book. “I have always had a strong desire to write books,” he explains, “but the truth is, I never knew if I would be able to. I now know this is something God has called me to do. I plan to write for the rest of my life.” You can find Ragland’s book in paperback and eBook formats, www.ISeeGreatnessInYou.com.

Pastor Ragland and his wife Sandy started Solid Rock Church in 1994. The church is located on Pinson Valley Parkway and services are held at 9 and 11 a.m. on Sundays and 7 pm. on the first Wednesday of the month. Learn more at www.SolidRockChurch.com.

-Regan Green

August 27, 2018August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Church Leaders

Birmingham native Dr. Richard Hunter is the new lead pastor at Riverchase UMC. On Sundays the church offers three traditional services at 8:40, 9:40 and 11 a.m. and a contemporary service at 11 a.m.

Dr. Richard Hunter recently returned home to Birmingham as lead pastor for Riverchase United Methodist Church (UMC) in Hoover. Dr. Hunter has a passion for starting new faith communities, reviving closed churches, starting new worship services in existing churches, and identifying and mentoring future church leaders. Having most recently served as Executive Director of New Church Development for the North Alabama Annual Conference (NAC), Dr. Hunter was instrumental in starting 148 new faith communities in the three years he was there.

He plans to transfer this passion for growth to Riverchase and build upon what is already established at the church: “Riverchase is a healthy, growing church in a growing community, and we already have some great ministries. One big change churches across the country are experiencing is that they are having to go to the community to make disciples. For generations, people came to the church. So, we did our best work here on church campus. But, now, we need to take the ministries of Riverchase into the community. We need to go where the people are whether that’s coffee houses, brew houses, bowling allies, restaurants, schools…wherever they are, we need to meet people and build relationships.” Additionally, missions and outreach will continue to be a focus for the church under Dr. Hunter’s leadership. He will also continue the building campaign as the proposed, new construction supports two of the church’s strongest outreach initiatives: the Riverchase Day School and the Riverchase Music Academy.

As a Birmingham native, Dr. Hunter already has a strong base in the community upon which to build. His family operated a furniture store in downtown Birmingham for 89 years, they attended Woodlawn United Methodist where his mother played the organ from more than 30 years, and he graduated from Woodlawn High School and Birmingham Southern college.

-David McGarr

Director of Communications, Riverchase United Methodist Church

1953 Old Montgomery Highway,35244

www.riverchaseumc.org

August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Church Leaders Clearbranch UMC Fueled by PB image

Special Feature

The PB&J Ministry of Clearbranch UMC impacts youth at Pinson Valley High.

As Pinson Valley High School players made their way into the final seconds of their football game against Wetumpka to win the Class 6A High School Football title last year, a sign in the stands read “Fueled by PB&J”. This referred to a special ministry started by Clearbranch United Methodist Church (UMC) in Trussville. As the season began, church leadership met with some of the coaches from Pinson Valley. “Our kids are hungry” they were told. The players weren’t just hungry for a winning season, but also hungry for nutrition. The church committed to providing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and chocolate milk for the football team each day for the season.

As the season went on, the relationship grew between the school and the church. Clearbranch began providing more snack options, opening the door for other conversations between members and players. Before long, Bibles were given to the football team. More student athletes began to request Bibles for themselves and the ministry opened up to include all players of high school sports at the school.

As the wins began to stack up during the football season, God was working in the lives of the players. Kids were reading their Bibles on the team buses on the way to games. New Bible study groups began to take root. “It’s happening! It’s the fire of Christ and its spreading!” said one young player. After the games were finished and the football championship won, Clearbranch continued to provide sandwiches for the rest of the school year and now considers it an ongoing mission with various small groups volunteering to take turns making sandwiches. Over 22,000 sandwiches have been made in the past year by Clearbranch members and the number will continue to climb as school starts and football season kicks off again! God is doing some amazing things through this ministry, and it all started with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Mark Harvard, Director of Communications

Clearbranch UMC, www.clearbranch.org

August 23, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Are We There Yet?

Holy Trinity - Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church’s annual Greek Festival dates back four generations. The church and festival are located at 307 19th Street South, 35233. — Holy Trinity – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church’s annual Greek Festival dates back four generations. The church and festival are located at 307 19th Street South, 35233.

The 46th Annual Greek Festival is set for October 4-6, 2018 from 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. in downtown Birmingham. The Festival began in 1972 and is one of Birmingham’s oldest cultural food festivals and most highly anticipated southeast events. For three days you will experience the Greeks’ legendary zest for life. Besides delicious authentic Greek cuisine, youʼll enjoy Greek music, dancing, and a warm spirited atmosphere that embraces everyone as family. As thousands of returning patrons can attest, you will leave a devoted fan.

The festival offers free admission, indoor and outdoor dining, and food plates individually priced. Be sure to stroll through The Greek Market Place which has Mediterranean and Orthodox Christian souvenirs. Free parking is located in the former Liberty National parking building located one block away on 20th Street (Richard Arrington Blvd) between 3rd and 4th Avenue. Convenient drive thru service is also available all three days from 10:30 a.m.- 7p.m. No need to call ahead and place your order. Servers will greet you, take your big or small order, and deliver it right to your vehicle.

The Festival is hosted by Holy Trinity – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral Christian Church which was established in 1906 and is one of the oldest Greek Orthodox parishes in the United States. The Cathedral Byzantine architecture is breathtaking. While at the Festival, be sure to take a free guided tour. Tours will take place all three days from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Since 1972 the Festival has provided funding for many charities and ministries. In recent years, these local charities have included: Magic Moments, The Bell Center, The Exceptional Foundation, The Ronald McDonald House, The Fire House Shelter, Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, Pathways, Family Connection, The Wellhouse, Jimmie Hale Mission and The Greater Birmingham Ministries. Learn more about the festival at www.BhamGreekFestival.com. †

August 22, 2018August 22, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Laurie’s Blog

A wise woman gave me a great idea recently on what to do with my worries and concerns. She shared with me how she writes down what’s troubling her, dates it and places it in her “God Can.” She described a peace that she gained with each piece of paper she dropped in and each concern she chose to turn over to God. Every so often she reaches into the can to read what she has written, noting that many times she finds God has answered in a far better way than she could have ever asked or imagined. (Eph. 3:20)

What a great reminder that nothing is impossible with God. He CAN and He will carry us through this life. We just have to be willing to let Him.

–-Laurie Stroud

Founder, The Christian Family Publication, Inc.

www.BirminghamChristian.com

Facebook: Birmingham Christian Family

Twitter @cfpBirmingham

Instagram @cfpbirmingham

linkedin: Birmingham Christian Family

Celebrating 18 Years of Good News!

“Look to the Lord & His Strength, Seek His face always.”

1 Chronicles 16:11 (Holman Standard)

SEPTEMBER GIVE-AWAYS

TO SAY THANK YOU for reading and supporting the businesses that advertise with us and make spreading good News possible each month we have several great giveaways to share with you during the month of September.

2 Ways to Win 4 tickets to the Southern Women’s Show October 4-7!

Sign up for our E-Newsletter at www.birminghamchristian.com or on our Facebook page, Facebook.com/BirminghamChristianFamily.
Like & Follow Us on Facebook and Share the Show Post!

Offer ends 9/25/18. Winners announced 9/26/18 on Facebook so be sure to LIKE our page!

2 Delicious Meals at the Birmingham Greek Food Festival October 4-6.

Be entered to win two meal tickets by Liking and Following us on Facebook.com/BirminghamChristianFamily and Sharing our Greek Festival post.

Offer ends 9/27/18. Winner announced on Facebook 9/28/18.

If you already Like and Follow Us, simply Like and Share the Posts.

September 1, 2018August 21, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Legal Matters

Presented by: Bradford & Holliman, Estate Planning, www.bradfordholliman.com

It can be difficult for seniors and individuals with disabilities on the Medicare program to pay the Medicare monthly premiums and deductibles. Because of this, there are Medicare Savings Programs in Alabama that can help. These programs are administered through the Alabama Medicaid Agency. The programs provide some Medicaid benefits to help individuals that qualify pay for their Medicare. However, this type of Medicaid is different from the type that requires families to have little to no assets. Instead, low income is the key requirement to receive these benefits.

Seniors and disabled individuals with monthly incomes of $1,032 or less ($1,392 for a married couple) may apply for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program. This program:

Pays the Medicare Part B Premium of $134 each month;
Pays the Medicare deductible of $1,340 for hospital stays and $183 for doctor and medical visits when using a provider that accepts Medicaid;
In some cases, will pay the Medicare Part A premium.

Seniors and disabled individuals with monthly incomes of $1,032.01 – $1,234.00 ($1,392.01-$1,666.00 for a married couple) may apply for the Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program.This program:

Pays the Medicare Part B Premium of $134 each month.

Seniors and disabled individuals with monthly incomes of $1,234.01 – $1,386.00 ($1,666.01-$1,872.00 for a married couple) may apply for the Qualified Individual -1 (QI-1) Program. This program:

Pays the Medicare Part B Premium of $134 each month.

For people qualifying for the SLMB and QI-1 program, they may also apply for supplemental insurance coverage such as BlueCross Blue Shield C+ plan. The savings from the Medicare premium will help them to pay for the insurance deductible for C+. The supplemental insurance will then cover their co-pays and deductibles for hospital stays.

These programs can be very beneficial. You may apply directly with the Alabama Medicaid Agency by completing a Form 211 application. If you have additional questions or needs, contact an elder law attorney for guidance.