each week,” said Trent Posey, Meridian’s new Parks
& Recreation Director. “Still, we need to showcase
it better because the center offers a lot of great pro-
grams that most people in Meridian probably do not
know about.”
His plans for this year include spreading the word
about the center, making some enhancements and
repairs around the buildings, and looking at adding
new programs.
Two new activities that started with the new year
are already a huge hit.
The center recently renovated its computer lab
upgrading six student stations, and Anderson found
an instructor to teach a basic computer class. All six
slots filled up immediately and she has a waiting list
for the next session. Also, a new group started play-
ing the tile game mahjong at 10 a.m. on Thursday
mornings.
“They are very serious and very excited about
mahjong. They are a fun group and are enjoying it,”
she laughed. “They would love for anyone who is
“You do not feel out of place
here. Everyone fits in. You
always have friends here.”
K.T. Pearson, MAC member
interested to come and join them.”
Still, the exercise classes are the center’s biggest
draw. For seniors who have mobility issues and can-
not get on the floor, Anderson said the seated exer-
cise class is a good choice and meets from 9 until 10
a.m. Monday through Friday. A free one-hour gentle
yoga class is offered on Thursday mornings begin-
ning at 10 for people who would like the stretching
benefits of yoga but need to remain seated.
“The seated exercise class is a very good class of
dedicated people,” Anderson said. “Their instructor
is here only three days a week but they come all five
days. They have all formed a friendship with each
other. They like to go out and eat lunch for some-
one’s birthday, and if you don’t come for several
classes they are going to check on you. They are a
really close group.”
Meridian resident K.T. Pearson takes two exercise
classes at the center three days a week. She also par-
ticipates in Movie Day, uses the center’s library, plays
bridge and attends Red Hat meetings.
“You do not feel out of place here. Everyone fits
in. You always have friends here,” Pearson said.
She appreciates the Parks & Recreation
Department’s support of the center over the years
and encourages the city to continue to see it as a ben-
efit for the community.
“Whatever the city is putting in the center, they
are getting their money’s worth,” Pearson said.
Pat Wilson teaches nine yoga and strength training
classes four days a week at the center. She said the
20•
Top: Betty Davis sews a patch into a quilt.
Bottom: Vivian Moore, left, Evelyn White and Phyllis Edwards paint
ceramics.