November 16, 2010
Tuesday AM

Residents of Saxman and Ketchikan will be melting away the pounds this winter with the help of new fitness equipment that is now available at the Saxman Community Center! Two treadmills, two elliptical machines, and three exercise bikes are now available for use by the public. The commercial quality equipment features electronic controls which allow users to customize workout style to their personal needs, measure their heart rate, and track the number of calories burned.

Two treadmills, two elliptical machines, and three exercise bikes are now available for use by the public.
Photo by Sara Skan

The new equipment was purchased using grant funding provided by the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority. Trust beneficiaries are allowed to use the equipment for free. Equipment is available to Saxman and Ketchikan residents for a small fee, which helps cover the cost of lighting and heat at the facility.

City of Saxman employee Sara Skan, who works at the community center, expressed her thanks. “I am excited to have the new cardio equipment here at the SCC. There are growing needs here, and I believe that this will help generate a positive outlet to the community members that choose to take advantage of it!”

“We expect that this equipment will empower people to exercise and lead healthier lives,” said Saxman’s Grant Coordinator, Jason Custer. “In particular, we hope the fitness equipment will make a difference in the lives of people recovering from alcoholism and substance abuse.”

Saxman’s community center has been a magnet for grant funding over the past year. The Crossett Fund, the Charlotte Martin Foundation, and American Seafoods helped fund the purchase of new sports equipment for youth and children. The new Saxman Homework Club offers children a chance to get help with school assignments in a safe, supervised after-school environment – the program is funded with support from the Alaska Children’s Trust, the Douglas-Dornan Foundation, and the Holland America Foundation. The Rasmuson Foundation paid for the cost of installation of a handicapped accessible elevator, and is funding the creation of a canopy featuring a large cedar screen carved by Nathan Jackson.

“We’re thankful that so many funders have joined in supporting Saxman’s Community
Center,” said Custer. “In addition to providing opportunities for recreation and healthy living, it gives the community hope.”

For info on the Saxman Community Center’s hours and programming, call 907-247-4178 or email saxmancc@gci.net .

Source of News & Photo:

Saxman Community Center

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