Here’s the Dirt: Bank of America closing North Monroe branch

Bank of America in May will close its branch at 804 N. Monroe St. near downtown Spokane, the company announced.

It plans to move that branch’s workers to other positions in the area, bank spokeswoman Britney Sheehan said.

The closure results from “ongoing evaluation” of how BofA’s local branches serve the community’s banking needs, she added.

The bank will install a stand-alone ATM in the area; Sheehan said the location hasn’t been identified yet.

BofA expects to reduce branches over the next 10 years, she said, as customers adopt a variety of other options for managing accounts and obtaining bank services.

Fitness centers open doors

Farm Girl Fit, a Spokane fitness and training center focusing on women, has moved into 4,000 square feet at 128 S. Sherman St. The firm, started by a team of five partners, offers classes in fitness and training. Customers subscribe monthly.

Co-owner Jaunessa Walsh said Farm Girl Fit provides training solely for women. She said women tend to benefit from instruction and programs designed for them.

The company’s website is FarmgirlFit.com.

Another Spokane fitness business, A Personal Fit, has set up shop at 11415 E. Trent Ave. in Spokane Valley.

The firm is owned by two women, Amy Brantner and Lori Hammerschmidt, who are also the main trainers.

In addition to classes in Spokane Valley, A Personal Fit offers training classes at the Old Prairie Grange, in Chattaroy.

Classes are geared for women, men and older teenagers, Hammerschmidt said.

The company also offers at-home one-on-one training and personal fitness counseling. The firm’s website is APersonalfit.com.