Driving down South Street on Saturday, Nov. 3, one could hardly miss the talk of the town, the "Grand Opening of Fitness Together (FT) Oyster Bay!" Balloons, pennants and banners beckoned visitors, a Hummer custom outfitted in FT colors was parked smack dab in front and the FT studio was filled with well-wishers, clients and visitors throughout the day. A new era of private fitness training is now available to area residents.

The space was transformed into a healthful café setting by Tuesday & Company Events. The theme was fun! Contemporary cocktail tables, beautiful orchids and healthy foods and beverages set the pace. What better way to accent a fitness studio than by using free weights, medicine balls and balance boards to decorate?

Owner, Frank Ulrich, was presented with a welcoming citation from Nassau County Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs. "Certain people you can just relate to and you will do very well here," said Jacobs, "especially with everything you are offering."

As the ribbon was cut, the rocky theme song faded and a drum roll played, then with a snap and much applause, Fitness Together was open to the public!

Frank welcomed everyone, "The feedback is that my clients love it here, we're providing results," Ulrich added, "my Clients say, "I give back to myself 45 minutes every other day" - that says something about the commitment they have for themselves." He thanked Michele Browner, who introduced him to the Health & Fitness Fair, Joan Mahon of the Main Street Association for her commitment to Oyster Bay and for introducing him to the community and Alex Gallego, president of the Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce.

"This chamber rallies behind its members." Mr. Gallego said, "The goodness that each of us has to make this community better, it takes someone like Frank to set an example. Oyster Bay is going to continue to be such a wonderful place."

"The interest in private training has increased in the last few years," Mr. Ulrich explained, "no crowded gyms here, no waiting for equipment and no distractions." A dedicated trainer in a fully equipped private suite, giving each client the best in personal attention, conducts each session at Fitness Together. Their trainers are nationally certified, professional and have tremendous compassion for working with people on their physical goals, he explained.

The Fitness Together approach is one of commitment and accountability. "We are proud of our facility," Ulrich said. "Working with the community and educating children, seniors and parents about the benefits of physical activity is an important goal."

Fitness Together is located at 123 South Street on the Townsend Square parking lot entrance. For more information, call 922-2300.