- June 9, 2015
- 7:25 AM
- Lexington, NE
The Lexington community and Orthman recently announced the new Orthman Community YMCA in Lexington, Neb., will open Oct. 20. Orthman, a worldwide leader in the agricultural equipment industry, was founded by Lexington resident Henry Orthman and has kept its corporate headquarters in Lexington for nearly 50 years.
“This project brings together the YMCA’s mission to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, with Lexington’s vision to provide opportunities for businesses and individuals to get involved,” said John McCoy, president and CEO of Orthman. “We are proud to play our part in supporting this important community initiative.”
The new facility is connected to Lexington Middle School and includes a large gymnasium, indoor walking track and a 5,000-square-foot wellness center featuring a large weightlifting and cardio area, a group exercise room, men’s, women’s and family locker rooms and a child care area. Funding for the $4.8 million project includes a $2 million pledge from Orthman and donations from several area businesses and community members. For the past four years, the YMCA in Lexington offered programming at the former public library and included flag football, basketball, volleyball, stamp camp and Healthy Kids Day.
“We’re now able to further our existing programs to help individuals and families attain a healthier lifestyle,” said Katie Bohnhoff, site director. “We appreciate Lexington’s and Orthman’s leadership and community support that make initiatives like this possible.”
“Lexington, our employees and the people of this area have contributed greatly to our success throughout the last 50 years; they are the reason we’re able to support this initiative,” said McCoy. “This facility will benefit our community and our families for years to come.”
Public tours at the 1207 N. Grant St. location are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, and from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19. The new YMCA will then open for exercise at 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 20. Programming and membership rates can be found at www.ymcaoftheprairie.org or by calling (308) 324-1970.