LIMESTONE, Maine — Getting outside to exercise during the winter months can be difficult, especially in minus-15-degree temperatures. For the Maine School of Science and Mathematics students who live in the dormitory outside of campus called the Manor, it involves traveling to the upper dorm gym fitness room and/or signing up for outdoor activities, such as downhill skiing/snowboarding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
With all these factors in mind, Jean and Tom Giggey had the idea to donate their treadmill to start the new Manor gym.
The Giggeys thought of donating their treadmill after hearing from Student Senate President Grier Ostermann. Ostermann mentioned that the Senate expressed a desire to increase the amount of exercise equipment accessible to MSSM students. This donation is a welcome addition to the Manor on Church Street.
“Tom and I were reflecting on MSSM’s positive force for our family; our daughter Nicole is a 2013 graduate and Tommy will be graduating this year,” said Jean Giggey.
“The other deciding factor for our donation was the weather in northern Aroostook County. We realized that the students and staff can’t get outside to exercise as often as necessary. We hope that our treadmill will be used in good health by the MSSM community,” she noted.
Matt Grillo, director of residential life, is very thankful for the Giggeys’ donation.
“We are so very appreciative that we have parents who are willing to contribute to MSSM,” Grillo said. “In the very near future, we hope to have a fully functioning gym at the Manor, which will include a workout bench for students to use as their schedule permits. Needless to say, the students are looking forward to all of these wonderful additions,” Grillo added.
MSSM acquired the Limestone Manor last year as a second dormitory for upperclassmen due to an increase in enrollment.
