Dexter, Missouri - Alex Ogburn, Saint Francis Vice President of Ambulatory Services addressed a huge crowd Friday afternoon prior to the official Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony and Open House at the new Saint Francis Health Center in Dexter.

More than 300 people attended the open house.  Saint Francis staff members greeted and provided tours throughout the building including the main attraction, the Fitness Plus center.

The first floor offers a lap pool for aquatic therapy and swim lessons.  There is also a room to have live video exercise classes.  A personal trainer can help you with all your exercise needs.  There are three fitness areas with state-of-the-art equipment , an indoor track that if you go around 12 times equals one mile, physical therapy and massage service, beautiful locker room with private showers, a whirlpool, and sauna room.

Ogburn thanked everyone for attending the Open House, especially the Stoddard County first responders in attendance.  He noted that Saint Francis was here to provide the area "a ministry of healing and wellness" for the community.

"Our presence here is to provide excellent primary care when you need it," stated Ogburn.

Ogburn introduced Dr. Christopher Montgomery, an urgent and primary care family physician from Poplar Bluff.

"We are extremely happy to be in this fantastic facility.  We have been welcomed with open arms in Dexter," stated Montgomery.  "You have a wonderful group of people in this community and we are excited to be here."

The featured Fitness Plus has gained more than 600 members from around the area.  For more information about the cost of membership, clinic hours, etc contact Saint Francis Health Center of Dexter at (573) 614-3600 or visit sfmc.net online.