WEIGHT WATCHERS: ORGANIZATION RELOCATES TO NEW QUARTERS

Weight Watchers of Greater Missouri and Southern Illinois has opened a new center for meetings in Cape Girardeau, at 250 Silver Springs Road.

The local center was founded by Joe and Sandie Folender in 1967. The Folenders are still owners of the franchise, which is in its 25th year of operation.

The first meeting was held at the new center late in 1992, but the official grand opening celebration is scheduled Jan. 24, from 2 to 4 p.m. Weight Watchers, one of the largest weight loss organizations in the world, had operated in a Town Plaza location the last 15 years.

"We really ran out of room," said Barbara Harper, area manager for Weight Watchers throughout Southeast Missouri. "The new facility here gives us more space, we're more visible to the public, and we have good parking."

"Before and After" presentations will be highlighted during the open house next week. "Several members of Weight Watchers will be on hand with their `before' photographs to tell their stories of success on the Weight Watchers Program," Harper noted.

Weight Watchers food products will be served during the open house.

"Weight Watchers service is delivered through a unique group support system that teaches members how to lose weight by eating their favorite foods," Harper added.

The 1993 program has been redesigned, said Harper. "It is simpler and easier to follow. Our meetings have been improved for 1993."

The new center is now equipped with video equipment and electronic scales.

Lynn Robichaux is director of the new center.

Prices for Weight Watchers meetings are $10 per week after a one-time enrollment fee. But, during open house and the entire month of January, Weight Watchers will offer free registration to any new members.

The Weight Watchers Center here hosts six meetings a week. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday; 9:15 a.m. Tuesday; 5:45 p.m. Wednesday; 5:15 p.m. Thursday and 9:15 a.m. Saturday. The meetings begin about 45 minutes later.

Additional information is available by calling 1-800-366-7546.