T.O.P.S. Chapter #1704Take Off Pounds Sensibly Chapter #1704 gathered at 5:30 p.m. Monday on the second floor of the Gleason Building, 90 Boylston St., Bradford.

The meeting was brought to order by Silvana R., the chapter leader, with the recitation of the T.O.P.S. pledge.

There were six members who weighed in with a combined loss of 5.5 pounds, including one member who turtled (remained the same weight from previous weeks).

This week’s Loser In Waiting was Doug C. and Officer Of The Week was Silvana R.

Discussions surrounded members achievements of the previous week and what had worked best for them resulting from “The Card Contest.” Goals for this contest are to drink at least five servings of water each day, 30 minutes of exercise for three days, journal food intake for three days, come in with a loss the following week, avoid the “no no” item for the week and try the “yes” item.

The remainder of the meeting involved discussions of the upcoming Area Recognition Days, possibly being held April 20-May 1 in Erie. This annual convention involves the gathering of T.O.P.S. members from all over North Western Pennsylvania in celebration of their weight loss journeys. The celebration begins with a get-to-know-you evening, followed by two days of educational tips on weight loss, exercise and healthy eating. Many awards surround this grand event with the crowning of the area’s king and queen and celebration of all those reaching their weight loss goal.

The item(s) to try this week is beans/legumes, and members are to avoid buttery popcorn.

As a reminder, these meetings are open to new members and the public is always welcome.