Hurricane Relief Efforts Receive $3 Million From Curves

American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Gulf Coast Agencies to Benefit

WACO, TX (Thursday, November 17, 2005) - Curves International Inc., the world's largest franchisor of fitness clubs, announced today it has partnered with its franchisees and members to donate $3 million to Gulf Coast hurricane relief in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Recipients include the Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, and a variety of Gulf Coast agencies.

Curves founders Gary and Diane Heavin announced shortly after hurricane Katrina hit that they would match donations up to $1,000 per club from their Curves franchisees. More than 2,700 Curves franchises from 8 different countries responded by collecting and donating just under $1.5 million. The Heavins are matching just over $1.5 million, to bring the total to an even $3 million.

"Giving back to the community is something we and our franchisees feel very strongly about, and we're proud to join with them and with our members to help," said Curves founder and CEO, Gary Heavin. So many people were affected -- the worst natural disaster in American history -- and we are hoping that this money will be a blessing to those most in need."

Co-founder Diane Heavin agreed. "It's truly amazing that when there's a need in the community -- even in the extended community -- our franchisees work together to accomplish extraordinary things. It's a real blessing that they're not just giving from the heart, but that they have a heart for giving."

In a press conference at the Curves corporate headquarters on Thursday, November 17, Gary and Diane Heavin presented checks for $1 million each to local representatives from the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army. All funds collected by Curves franchisees are included in these gifts.

Captain Timothy Gilliam of the Waco Texas Area Command accepted the $1 million check on behalf of the Salvation Army. "Curves International has been very good to the Salvation Army for a number of years, and this is just another example of their extreme generosity. This money will help thousands of people that were affected by the Gulf Coast hurricanes. I am thrilled to accept this check on behalf of our national organization, and to thank all of the Curves franchisees who contributed, as well as the Heavins."

Ricky Thompson, chair of the Heart of Texas chapter of the American Red Cross said, "The American Red Cross is pleased and humbled to receive such a generous gift from Gary and Diane Heavin, founders of Curves International, and their franchisees. This gift designated for the Katrina victims will provide needed relief for so many with losses caused by such a devastating storm. The Red Cross could not provide adequate assistance to Katrina victims without generous people like the Heavins and their franchisees. The Red Cross and I wish to extend our heartfelt thanks."

The additional million dollars, donated solely by the Heavins, will be used to benefit local Gulf Coast non-profit agencies that are making a significant contribution to recovery efforts. The company's Gulf Coast Curves franchisees that were the hardest hit are being asked to submit a list of local agencies that they feel are worthy of receiving a donation. The Heavins and a Curves corporate hurricane task force will review their recommendations and make the final determination as to which agencies will receive a donation. All funds will be distributed by December 1.

In addition to their $1.5 million donation, the Heavins also provided $5,000 in emergency funds to Gulf Coast franchisees for each club that was either completely destroyed or in an area that was devastated. About 30 franchise owners benefited from this gift. Many more franchises had their royalties deferred to help them get back on their feet.

About Curves

Curves offers a 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. Curves also offers a weight management program featuring a groundbreaking, scientifically proven method to raise metabolic rate and end the need for perpetual dieting. Gary Heavin, Curves' Founder and CEO, is the author of several books, including The New York Times Best-Sellers "Curves: Permanent Results Without Permanent Dieting" and "Curves On the Go." With thousands of locations and millions of members worldwide, Curves is the world's largest fitness center franchise and fastest growing franchise, according to the 2005 Entrepreneur Franchise 500. For more information, please visit: www.curves.com.

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Curves founders Gary and Diane Heavin donate over $1.5 million to help hurricane relief efforts with local Gulf Coast non-profit agencies

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