Fitness Inspired Gala

Nearly 150 community members attended BAC’s first-ever Fitness Inspired Gala in the picturesque Art in the Loft to enjoy gourmet food, live music and inspirational program. The sold-out event celebrated the achievement of people in Northeast Michigan who transformed their lives through fitness.

 “Many of our honorees credited our Boot Camps and Corporate Challenges for changing their lives. Yet we know that the real change came from within, said Trina Gray, owner of BAC. “We offered up an invitation and many seized it, leaving behind sedentary living, low self-esteem, and unhealthy habits.”

The program included a slideshow of all 51 honorees, as well as live testimonials from six honorees who were selected as finalists. The finalists included: Jeff Carr, Kellen Kangas, Terry Karsten, Jewel Nowicki, Lynn O’Neil and Ed Palmer. In an interesting twist, the audience was given ballots and asked to vote for their most inspirational story.

Ed Palmer of Alpena won a 3-night stay at a Westin Golf Resort and Spa in Tuscon, Arizona from Passageways Travel and Bay Athletic Club. Ed has endured 18 knee surgeries, including four total knee replacements over the last 25 years. At the advice of his doctors, he has lost 80 pounds at Bay Athletic Club and has not only improved his knees, but his kidney function and ultimately his quality of life. 
All finalists won prizes donated by local business, including: a pedicure from Sophisticuts Salon, a $50 gift certificate to the Alpena Mall and Courtyard Restaurant, 18-holes of golf from Alpena Golf Course, a Pandora bracelet from Bolenz Jewelry and a massage and gift basket from Rose Nowak.

A highlight of the event was the debut of the 2008 BAC Fitness Inspired book — a collection of transformation stories and photographs. For more information on the event or the book, contact Trina.

Ella White Rocks the House

Twenty-five employees and family members of Ella White Elementary School completed a six-week fitness and nutrition overhaul, sponsored by Bay Athletic Club, losing a total of 213.5 pounds and 176 inches. The group followed a program that included group workouts, individualized exercise plans, and daily homework. They also committed to a nutritional plan. Their hard work paid off! The group averaged a loss of 8.5 lbs and 7inches per person!

 “We are honored to have been part of the amazing Ella White family,” said Trina Gray, owner of Bay Athletic Club. “Kevin James showed tremendous leadership getting this program off the ground. The participants succeeded in overhauling their workplace with healthier habits and lower stress.”

Join the growing list of businesses in our community who have taken the Corporate Challenge, including: Omni Metalcraft, Clients of ESI, Panel Processing, Inc., The Alpena News, HPC Credit Union, Alcona Community Schools, Ella White Elementary School, and Besser Elementary School.

Contact Kelly today to set your program for 2009.