Governor Corbett Cuts Ribbon at Allegheny County Middle School's New Fitness Center

South Allegheny Middle School received gym as part of national fitness contest

MCKEESPORT, Pa., Oct. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today cut the ribbon at the new fitness center at South Allegheny Middle School in McKeesport, Allegheny County.

South Allegheny Middle School was one of three schools in Pennsylvania selected by the National Foundation for Governors' Fitness Councils for its dedication to physical fitness and the wellness of the student body.

Each school designated as a National Champion School received a new, state-of-the-art, Live Positively™ fitness center at no cost to the school or taxpayers. The fitness centers, worth $100,000 each, were paid for by the National Foundation for Governor's Fitness Councils through public private partnerships.

"Regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle are so important for kids," Corbett said. "Learning these good habits now helps keep their bodies and their minds ready to learn in school and prepares them for the future."

Corbett was joined at the ribbon cutting by National Foundation Chairman Jake Steinfeld, founder of the "Body by Jake" fitness programs. The organization is committed to the advancement of youth fitness and strives to reduce a number of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

"Governor Corbett has been an ardent supporter of this campaign," Steinfeld said.  "The National Champion Schools campaign has bipartisan support.  Everyone has come to realize this isn't a Democrat or Republican issue. It's a kids' issue and ensuring that our kids are fit and healthy will pay off for years to come." 

The other National Champion Schools in Pennsylvania are Owatin Creek Elementary School in Reading, Berks County, and Troy Intermediate School in Troy, Bradford County.  They also received a new fitness center that includes strength training equipment, cardio fitness equipment and interactive exercise games.

Media contact:  Kirsten Page, 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor