Gold's Gym (Independence, MO) ripoff, refuse membership refund when closing branch without notice Independence Missouri

My family and I relocated to Independence, MO from Massachusetts this past November (2003) for a job offer I had at the Kansas University Medical Center. Shortly thereafter (January)we chose Gold's Gym (Independence) as our family fitness center since it was centrally located for all (including my elderly mother who lives across the street from it)Although it was a bit run down, it seemed well attended and suited our needs, so we signed up for a family year membership ($900 + dollars)

For several months, the 5 of us enjoyed our various work outs, took some classes and swam in the pool. In April, we had some family emergencies: surgery, death of a relative and a car accident, which prevented us from attending the gym for about 6 weeks. After, all this was taken care of, I decided to start up my gym routine again in early July.

I entered the gym ready for a well needed workout and inquired at the front desk about a new class schedule, hoping Yoga, kick boxing or Pilates might be offered at a time I could attend.I was told classes were no longer offered there. Then left standing at the desk while numerous phonecalls were taken.

Finally, staff explained the gym would be closing it's doors on August 1st, 2004. Shocked, I asked, "Did I somehow miss the mailing on this?" "No, we didn't plan on contacting people, just posting a note on a door." was the reply. Bad business if you ask me. "Okay" I then said dissappointed, "how do I go about a partial refund, then?"

I was invited to meet with the manager in the office who told me of my options. Refund was not one of them. I was offered an extended membership discount at another Gold's facility, such as Kansas. I pointed out how that would not work for my entire family and if I wanted a Kansas gym I could have simply gone to the one at KUMC. Basically, I was told there was nothing that could be done. I left furious and the next weekend went to 24 hour Fitness in Independence and signed up there. They gave me and other Gold's members a discount and have a much better facility with more opportunities for classes and better hours. I plan to contact channel 4 problem solver with this injustice. I would never again attend a Gold's gym!

Marion
Independence, Missouri
U.S.A.