Well, it’s official. Summer is over. Football is in the air, leaves are turning colors, and I plan to enter a chili cook-off or two. Fall is a great time to renew your passion in playing sports, getting fit, or taking an art or pottery class. We have all that and more at the Warner Park Community Recreation Center. Let me share a few upcoming programs and activities at the Warner Park Community Recreation Center (WPCRC). 

First, we welcome back the youngsters who like to play ball by resuming the free Youth Open Gym days. Each Monday and Wednesday from 4‒5:30 pm we have free open gym. All students need to do is bring in their current school ID or WPCRC ID card. On Friday open gym is only $1. 

This school year we are continuing the Warner Family Fun Nights at WPCRC. On the second Friday of each month, we will host a fun night of family activities, complete with a bouncy house, family fitness classes, pottery, art projects and games.

In October, Warner Family Fun Night will be moved to the first Friday, Oct. 2. In addition to the usual fun activities, we will be a host site for Stargazing Night through the UW Space Place. We will have live demonstrations, and you will be able to use the telescopes to view the fall sky. Stop by to see the stars.

Lastly, don’t forget to hit the gym by becoming a fitness center member or regular visitor. We have state-of-the-art machines and equipment, flexible and affordable memberships and plans, and opportunities for youth to use the area. We recently made some policy changes to include a six-month membership option. Now you can purchase a one-year membership, six-month membership or 20-visit pass. We have expanded free hours the fitness center is open and changed the policies on youth members. Young people ages 12‒17 must pay a $15 one-time fee for a professional orientation from our personal trainer. After that, youth are able to work out in the fitness center during normal building hours. Youth scholarships are available upon request and limited throughout the year.

As we look forward to a fantastic new season, plan to visit us at the WPCRC. Let us know what you think we could be doing to better serve the Northside. I’ll see you at WPCRC, where everyone is welcome.