Free Republic

The San Francisco Chronicle yesterday printed a correction to two columns it had run saying the head of a popular women's fitness company had given millions of dollars from the firm to "militant anti-abortion groups," likely heading off a threatened lawsuit by the executive. As WorldNetDaily reported Tuesday, Chronicle columnist Ruth Rosen wrote that Curves founder Gary Heavin "has given at least $5 million of his profits to some of the most militant anti-abortion groups in the country." Wrote Rosen: "In 2003, Heavin and his wife gave away $10 million – 10 percent of their company's gross revenues – to...

With its 30-minute workouts, no men, no mirrors and no exorbitant membership fees, Curves International (search) is the fastest growing fitness chain in America, helping more than 3 million women stay in shape. But in San Francisco, Curves is being called out over abortion because owner Gary Heavin donates millions of dollars to anti-abortion groups. Ruth Rosen at The San Francisco Chronicle (search) took issue with the pro-life, Christian businessman, writing in a recent op-ed piece that Heavin has given at least $5 million to some of the most militant anti-abortion groups in the country and Curves members who are...

A successful Christian business owner has come under attack by feminist extremists for using his profits to support pro-life charities. Gary Heavin, the owner of a chain of extremely successful health and fitness centres for women, is a born-again Christian who gives 10% of his gross annual income to charities. Heavin is also the author of two books on fitness that take a Christian approach. His wife, Diana produces Christian music. Curves fitness centres cater particularly to middle-aged women who may be intimidated by other more youth-oriented fitness venues. Curves franchises have surpassed Starbucks in numbers in the United States...

Claim: Gary Heavin, owner and CEO of the fitness chain Curves, supports pro-life causes. Status: True.