Staying active: Menard Center style

WASILLA — Dozens of seniors walk within the Menard Sports Center, seven days a week. It’s early in the morning and it’s free. For many it’s a great way to get out of the house. There are a lot of regulars with new faces trickling in. Health goals varied person to person as they shared 830 feet of track with a scenic view the cold yonder. Director of Recreation Services for the City of Wasilla, Joan Klapperich said they get the “best of both worlds.”

Rose Gasparetti walks the oval every morning. She said that the track time was great for the community, especially for some seniors who may not leave the house otherwise. She figured hearth health was one of the most common goals there.

“One of the best forms of exercise is walking and almost everyone can do it,” Klapperich said.

This was one of many activities stirring within the sports center. The track is also open to the public 7 days a week at 7:30 a.m. for $3. They have punch card options. Toddlers can roam around with toys on the turf. They have pickleball equipment ready to go. They also have batting cages and pitching machine. You can play bocce ball, play pick up soccer, or use open turf from 7:30 to 5 p.m. To learn more about what’s going on at the Menard Sports Center, stop in or visit: www.city ofwasilla.com/menard