A leisurely glance through last year's news indicated something very promising for the present day.
It was in the Castlegar News last August that a special program for the benefit of seniors was being announced.
The Golden Guest program was touted by the Castlegar and District Recreation Commission, with good reason, as a goldmine of fitness options for citizens aged 80 and up. Free membership was to be made available to any interested party with proof of age.
Just as a rolling stone gathers no moss, an active body gathers fewer problems as the years go by.
Without going overboard of the results of numerous and lengthy studies, it's safe to say that in many, many cases an active senior is a healthy senior.
A phone call last week to Verona Walker, recreation supervisor at the local rec-plex for a program update brought about an enthusiastic response.
"It's been very popular," said Walker. "We've got quite a few people who have joined quite a few of our programs, like health and wellness, fitness and mobility."
Stats later supplied by Verona Walker this week indicated that there are currently 19 women and 21 men "swimming, skating, participating in fitness classes of going to the weight room at the complex."
A special coffee party was arranged this past January in appreciation of the group.
Happy, healthy, active and vital, and fit and busy person can easily have a better outlook on life.
There is certainly no present plans to scale back on the Golden Guest program.
Membership is easy to obtain, stop by the Castlegar Recreation Department with proof of being 80 years young and you will receive a membership card.
"Our recreation centre is the best place to be," touts an email from Verona Walker. "The recreation centre is a fantastic place to meet new friends, participate in a program or just have coffee in the seniors lounge. So plan to be a member!
"The commission encourages community members 80+years to make use of this opportunity to remain active, happy and healthy. The Castlegar & District Recreation Department continues to support 'Building a Healthy Community.'”