Wellness Center sets one-year celebration

The Alleghany Wellness Center is planning a one-year anniversary celebration this Saturday, March 12, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.

The event marks the completion of the first year of operation at the center, which first opened in 2004. Planning and fundraising for the center began in the late 1990s.

Everyone is invited to attend the celebration, whether or not they are members of the center, said Director Joe Potts. The center will be open for use that day free of charge for both members and non-members alike, said Potts. Features of the center include an indoor 25-meter, six-lane swimming pool and therapy pool, indoor walking track, a full complement of Nautilus machines and free weights and various cardio-vascular machines.

The event is free and will feature a number of free items, including blood pressure checks, snacks and refreshments, chair massages, program demonstrations and an exhibition by the Alleghany High School Swim Team. Other blood testing services will be available for a fee, including cholesterol, lipids, thyroid and PSA screening.

Potts said two countywide youth artwork winners were recently selected in a contest and T-shirts will be available featuring the winners’ work. The two winners will be announced the date of the event, said Potts.

The center is also unveiling a new fee structure system and a new fundraising campaign to help finance day-to-day operations. Fundraising

The fundraising campaign being unveiled is similar to the earlier charter membership drive. Those who participate may choose to purchase platinum memberships, which include unlimited programs, unlimited fitness programs, free health assessment, free half hour massage and special recognition from the center. That new level costs a minimum of $1,000 per year for individuals or $1,500 for couples or families and serves as a vehicle for those who wish to donate funds to the Wellness Center.

Rate Structure

The center will be unveiling a new rate structure, effective April 1. The new rates include two new categories: a student rate and a joint (couples) rate. The student rate is $25 per month, which is about $13 less than the $38 that will be charged for individuals. A senior rate is available for $32 per month, while the joint (couples) rate will be $45 per month and the family rate will be $55 per month.

As added features, Potts noted that a new quarterly payment option is included for a slight discount, while the long-standing annual rates for a more significant discount also are available. As a special offer during the anniversary celebration, those who sign up for a year will also get a 13th month free. Those who opt for a one-month membership will receive a 10 percent discount that day only.

“We also have a draft setup now that allows members to pay the cheaper yearly rate, but not have to come up with all the money at once,” said Potts.

Get the rest of this article in this week's issue of the Alleghany News! Back