Clayton News Daily

Photo by Jeylin White Michelle Allegeyer, a local health professional, used a special machine to target the sensitive areas in George Walker’s spine. This was part of the Clayton County Senior Services Health and Fitness Expo held Wednesday at the Frank Bailey Senior Center, in Riverdale.

Wednesday, June 20, marked the beginning of summer. And what better way to usher in the summer season than by providing Clayton County seniors with a day of healthy eating, some pampering, and a little entertainment.

“It’s just a wonderful event,” said Geneva Scott, while getting her feet massaged.

For the first time, the Clayton County Senior Services Department wanted to try something new and hosted a Health and Fitness Expo, Wednesday, at the Frank Bailey Senior Center, in Riverdale.

Scores of seniors got a lesson in healthy eating and a few summer recipes they can cook without using their stoves. Senior services staff members gave manicures, pedicures, and massages and during the introduction of the event, Tiffany Campbell, health and fitness coordinator, for the Frank Bailey Center, got guests up out of their seats for a morning warm up.

“We wanted to really do something to bring in the summer and this event was perfect,” said Elaine Jackson, the health and wellness coordinator for the Clayton County Senior Services Department.

She said this event is a preview to the senior services major health event held in October called S.P.A.R.C. Jackson said this is an annual event, is a “one-stop shop for wellness,” where seniors, 55 and older, can get free health screenings.

In fact, during Wednesday’s soiree, Jackson said many of the vendors and volunteers used for the S.P.A.R.C. event, came out to show their support. “This [Health and Fitness Expo] is almost like a preview of what will be offered at our S.P.A.R.C. event,” she said. “The only exception is that is will have [more vendors and health experts.]”

She added this years S.P.A.R.C. event will be held at the J. Charley Griswell Senior Center, in Jonesboro, and the Frank Bailey Senior Center, in Riverdale.

“This event turned out to be a success,” said Mary Byrd, director, for the Clayton County Senior Services Department. “The seniors really took advantage of all the services, so I’m happy about that.”

To sign up for fitness classes, find out about other workshops and events, visit the Frank Bailey Senior Center, which is located at 6213 Riverdale Road, in Riverdale, or call (678) 479-5062.