CHITCHAT CORNER

The play on words and the diversity thereof came up in conversation last evening. And the conversation turned to something like this: we used to call things "new-fangled," now it is referred to as "modern technology" or "high tech". Well, high tech had one particular doctor in Oklahoma City wanting to admit himself into the hospital for a night or two when he discovered a "newfangled" hospital bed had helped his patient lose 26 lbs. during an overnight stay. A relative of mine was admitted into the hospital and was weighed-in beforehand. He was placed in a room with a bed that could monitor the weight of the patient. When the doctor came in the next morning and discovered the difference in weight, he said, "I need to go to admittance. If this bed can do that for you, I need a night or two for myself!"

They're here and you don't have to travel out of town to see them. The New Plainsmen Quartet from Chickasha, Oklahoma, will be at Highland Park Baptist Church this Sunday,, April 30. The popular Southern Gospel Group will start singing at 6:00 p.m. The church is located at 2424 Henderson Blvd. Enjoy the evening!

I can remember a time when I carried in Tabasco sauce inside restaurants to help season the meal. Thursday, I discovered John and Vaudy Bennett carrying in homegrown green onions inside TJ's Circle Caf to go along with their meal. Oh, yes, they will share them, too, as they bring them in by the bag full. John raises his garden in large syrup tubs. "It makes them much easier to take care of," he tells us. If you will take a moment to join this couple, they will add a little spice in the way of a story or two to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Back to "high tech". The U.S. Army has issued new uniforms. In previous years, the uniforms have gone from "Army green" to camouflage to the latest digital design pattern. Sgt. 1st Class John Dietz wore the uniform in to the office last week so we could get a closer look at the design. At first glance, it is quite different. However, I can see how the fatigues will blend in better and provide a more enhanced safety factor for the men. John also tells us the boots have changed, too. The shiny black boots are no longer. Now, known as "rough-outs" the boots are more of a light brown, suede look.

Sgt. Dietz informs us the Kilgore unit is currently undergoing specialized training for Iraq. The unit will be receiving orders for deployment to Iraq in the fall.

"My brother and sister-inlaw, Dan and Gloria Yancey, came from Flint, Tx to attend the Taste of Kilgore," said Betty Bearden. "They had such a good time that they plan on bringing her sister and brother in-law from Van, Texas, next year.

(Taste of Kilgore Note - Volunteer to work beside Donna VanMeter and Rikki Oubre next year. You have never seen such a lively, fun loving, entertaining pair. They know how to put on a show and get the job done.)

When Baptists gather, they eat, I have always been told. Last Sunday, friends and members at Forest Home Baptist church gathered for a Relay For Life Casserole luncheon. "Twenty six different casseroles and cobblers were served," said Fay King. "We had a good turnout. Six hundred dollars was donated during the luncheon for the American Cancer Society," she said. Forest Home had a team of twentyseven people walking in the Relay For Life Race on Friday night.

Bitsy celebrated her first birthday last week. We have all grown to love Bitsy. She is the puppy belonging to Richard and Pam DeCeault. "We gave her a vanilla ice cream cup decorated with animal crackers

and one candle," said Pam. "Her birthday was celebrated with me, my husband, my mother and aunt. Bitsy received six birthday cards," Pam informed us. "Norma Chapman's dog, Taffy, could not attend but sent a card with a photograph of him inside," laughed Pam. "Oh, yes, Bitsy was wearing a princess party hat during the celebration." If you are by the bank, take a look at the pictures - unbelievable.

May His Love and Laughter Fill Your Hearts and Your Homes Throughout The Week. In the meantime, I may be reached at 903-984-2593 or by e-mail at chitchatlinda@ aol.com.