Those of us that live in Maine have heard of the recent news of the YWCA in Portland closing its doors because of a lack of funds. I can’t help think that maybe these outdated facilities are finally succumbing to the newer big name fitness centers. Those of us that live in Auburn have seen a increase in big-box stores and who would of thought a nationally named fitness center would come to the L/A area?

Is it because they can’t compete with the newer gyms that offer the latest workout equipment, along with a very affordable monthly gym membership? Why couldn’t a YWCA or a YMCA compete with a national gym? Aren’t they tax-exempt, and don’t they have a large pool of volunteers to help run their facilities? Maybe these facilities are having trouble because they have too many people on the payroll?

Also, maybe the high membership fees are a result of those who can pay, pay for those who can’t.

Robert Clark, Auburn