Michael and Alexa Rosenthal, owners of Island Fitness, have been selected the 2004 Business Couple of the Year by the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce.

The Rosenthal’s will be honored at a luncheon banquet, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Thursday May 27 at Wing Point Golf & Country Club. The cost is $25. To register call (206) 842-3700.

The Bainbridge couple, along with other partners, purchased the remaining assets of the former Health Maintenance Center and turned it into a viable business operation. The former owner and backers of HMC were involved in one of the largest investor fraud cases in Washington state history.

“The Rosenthal’s rescued Island Fitness from bankruptcy, saving jobs, preserving equipment and maintaining (the center’s) residence in a unique space,” said Meg Evan and Daphe Stewart, who work for the couple. “They continue to strive for a stable, sustainable and honorable business in the face of growing competition. They are an inspiration to work for.”

“The Rosenthal’s were a clear choice since they were able to turnaround a business that had let the community down and revive into a successful, going concern,” said Chamber board member Harry Field, who was on the selection committee. “Stories like there’s don’t happen every day and we’re honored and happy to recognize them.”

“The benefit they bring to the community extends beyond the downtown (Winslow) area,” said Island Fitness member Bill Murphy. “... Island Fitness is constantly busy and many of its customers have truly developed a regular pattern of fitness activity. The health benefit to the community is certainly significant (and) in my mind is due to the very friendly and supportive atmosphere they have developed at the club.”

In addition to being feted at the May 27 Business Couple of the Year banquet, the Rosenthal’s will be honored as the Grand Marshall’s in 2004 Grand Old Fourth of July Parade, an event sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. Last year’s winners were Charlie and Carolyn Frame of CFA Northwest Mortgage Professionals.