REGION

REGION

Fitness center opens

NILES — A ribbon-cutting at 9 a.m. Friday will mark the grand opening of Fizek-Better Bodies By Design at 5500 Youngstown-Warren Road in the Eastwood Mall.

The new comprehensive health and fitness center measures some 26,000 square feet and covers three fully equipped floors.

Fizek (pronounced “physique”) has been completely rebuilt within the existing space, and this renovated section will be unveiled at the ribbon-cutting.

In addition to Precor, Hoist and Hardcore strength training and cardiovascular equipment, the center features high-energy group exercise classes, including indoor cycling, TaeBo, Pilates and several boot camp programs.

Other services will include tanning, personal training, nutrition and locker, shower and sauna facilities.

The Fizek center also has programs aimed at helping address childhood obesity and related illnesses.

An interactive “Virtual Sports” program will enable both young and old to exercise in a fun and interactive environment.

NATION

$6.6 million in bonuses

WAUKEGAN, Ill. — Year-end bonuses are rare these days. But a family that founded a ball bearings manufacturer in suburban Chicago is giving eye-popping bonuses this year. A total of $6.6 million is being shared by just 230 employees.

Some workers at Waukegan-based Peer Bearing Co. couldn’t believe their eyes when they opened checks for $10,000 and more. Amounts varied and were based on years of service.

Dave Tiderman says he thought the decimal point must be in the wrong place when he saw his $35,000 check. He’s assistant product manager at the company, where he worked his way up from the warehouse since joining the company in 1985.

Peer Bearing was sold to a Swedish company earlier this year. Danny Spungen said his grandfather launched the company in 1941. He said it was a unanimous family decision to thank employees with the bonuses.

From Vindicator staff and wire reports