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Louisiana Native Makes YMCA Home

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June 29, 2017 | By Melissa Petruzzi

Rettger-photo-cropped

Cristal Rettger, 34, of Monessen first discovered the services of the Mon Valley YMCA six years ago when she started the Mommy and Me program, but that was only the beginning of her involvement with the YMCA.

Rettger and her husband moved from Louisiana to Pennsylvania about eight and a half years ago. The Rettgers and their two children have made many friends through their involvement at the YMCA.

"Over the years I have made several friends along with my children," Rettger said. "These friends have become our extended family. Our closest relative is two and a half hours away. They have helped us out tremendously."

The friends she has made are not the only thing that keeps Rettger coming back to the YMCA.

"One reason I choose this facility over another gym is the convenience," Rettger said. "As a mother of two it is sometimes hard to get to the gym. The Y is close to my house, but also has convenient babysitting hours."

Two years ago, Rettger made her love of fitness into a source of income when she began teaching cycling class at the YMCA.

"I enjoy helping people with their fitness and health journey," she said.

In addition to teaching cycling classes, Rettger uses the YMCA facilities with her husband and children.

"Both of my kids have attended preschool at the YMCA," Rettger said. "It has been a great start to their educational experience. My children enjoy the various activities they offer throughout the year."

Rettger said that the YMCA is an inexpensive place to spend quality family time. The Rettger family attends Family Fun nights on Saturdays.

"I love going to the YMCA because it has something for every aspect of my life or my family's life," Rettger said. "I would encourage anyone looking for a way to get their family involved in something or attempting physical fitness to check out the Mon Valley YMCA. They have a lot to offer."