RIPLEY, TN- (WMC-TV) - A Mid-South family with two children says they tried to join a fitness center earlier this week but were turned away because the staff was not trained to deal with one of their children, who has Down Syndrome.

"After we purchased our family membership, we could only bring three-quarters of our family," said mother Sherrie Cates.

No matter the day or circumstance, 13-year-old Mollie Cates is a happy young lady.

Her parents said they were shocked at how they were treated when they took Mollie and her older sister to Ripley Family Fitness Center Monday.

"We got turned away because of her," said father Kevin Cates.

Kevin and his wife said it was the first time all four family members had been to the gym together.

"Their brochure says they don't turn anyone away, anyone can come in. But, we were met at the door and they said their staff isn't trained to deal with anyone like Mollie," said Sherrie.

• Trail Name: Discovery Trail
• Date and Time of Event: Sunday April 21, 2013 at 9:30 a.m.
• Meeting Location: Park Visitor’s Center
• Minimum Age: 6+ years old
• Length of Hike: Approximately 4 miles
• Description: Join T.O.

On 28 March 2013 around 6:00 AM, Tipton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to 3712 Meade Lake Road in Millington, Tipton County in an attempt to make contact with the homeowner, Michael Rhodes, 34, regarding a compliance check as a registered sex offender.  Rhodes, who is on probation for a previous child sex abuse conviction from Connecticut, refused to open the door.  Rhodes probation officer was on scene and confirmed his presence inside the residence via the GPS on his electronic monitoring device affixed to his ankle.