TOPS MN Chapter 979 will host an open house and reunion Thursday, which is the 41st anniversary of the chapter. Weigh-in is from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. at Skyline Plaza and the educational meeting is from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

The open house will feature a program about the history of the chapter.

According to a press release, members receive encouragement to loose and keep weight off by living a healthier lifestyle.

Those interested in learning more about the program or renewing old friendships are invited to attend the event.

The TOPS club addresses obesity and lifestyle issues and fits with the Albert Lea Area Blue Zones Project. TOPS is an acronym for Take Off Pounds Sensibly and is an 80-year-old international, nonprofit organization. Champters meet weekly to weigh-in and get motivated to keep pounds off.

According to a press release, membership fees cover the meeting place costs, awards, local incentive contests, educational programs and the group’s motivational magazine, Tops News.

A doctor or dietician provides the diet and the TOPS club provides the motivation.

Albert Lea has four chapters. Three of the groups meet on Thursday. The morning chapter meets at the Senior Center and the afternoon and evening groups meet at First Lutheran Church. A Tuesday evening group meets at Trinity Lutheran Church. Times may be found at www.tops.org.

One of the tips of the Blue Zones Project is to be with like-minded citizens to improve longevity and quality of life. According to a press release, TOPS strives to help individuals do just that.