Wave sets grand opening

The Wave, Whitefish's new fitness and aquatic center, has scheduled a grand opening on Saturday.

Beginning at 5 p.m., the festivities take place at the fitness center at 1250 Baker Ave. The free celebration includes soft drinks, wine and appetizers.

The public is invited to take tours and view demonstrations in various fitness areas of the 50,000-square-foot, $7 million facility. The Wave will offer discounts on memberships.

Under discussion for about 30 years, the Whitefish aquatic facility was made possible by a community campaign spearheaded by Dan Weinberg and John Kramer which raised $4 million. About 450 families and businesses contributed.

Doug Mahlum and Jack Tawney developed the project plan. The facility was designed by the architectural firm of L'Heureux, Page and Werner.

Contractor Swank Enterprises of Kalispell began construction in late 2003. Susan Seaman of Susan Seaman Designs and Scott Elden of Elden Creative also worked on the aquatic and fitness facility.

Mahlum will serve as general manager while Director Art Krueger will oversee day-to-day operations. The facility will employ between 45 and 55 people.

The board of directors of the foundation which created the center includes Weinberg, president; Kramer, vice president; Jim Alderson, treasurer; Gayle Weinberg, secretary; Swithin McGrath; Gary Marks and Carol Atkinson.

The Wave officially opens the day after the Saturday celebration. It will operate Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information, contact Krueger at 862-2444.