A welcome home and to our neighborhood

It's so nice to live in a suburban area where getting to know your neighbor means so much. It is a place where it doesn't take an excuse to gather friends and neighbors around you to have a few refreshments and a little laughter. However, National Night Out provided just the right excuse for those who have become a bit too busy to keep up with the neighborhood.

Fun was found throughout this area, but you knew something was up when you pulled into one of the yards to see a sign offering "Free Tomatoes and Free Wood." Yes, the refreshments were good, but according to John and Sherry Lockman, it's not a party until you leave carrying one or the other. "It's the leftovers from the storm," she insisted. The evening also provided a chance for them to share their son's address, who is currently in basic training for the U.S. Army. Yes, he needs letters - #431 PFC Lockman, Todd, F Company, 2/19 INITB, 9050 Kinsman Drive, Ft. Benning, GA 31905.

Sgt. David Tucker who found it his duty to also indulge in the ice cream floats kept the noise of the bunch under control. He informs us his son, Staff Sgt. Joseph Timothy "Tuck" Tucker has returned from duty served in Iraq. "I haven't even seen him, yet," complained Sgt. Tucker. "Patti and I were on vacation when he got home, and he had leave built up so now he's away on vacation. It's good to have him back in the states, though, and I'll see him soon," he added.

"He surprised me," said Chris Cameron. "Ryan Inabnet came home (from Afghanistan) on Sunday and on Monday he walked into the post office to say hello. After work, I joined him and his family for pizza and to take in the Pump Jack game. We had a nice visit and I got to hear all about Afghanistan," she said. Ryan's parents are Paul and Yessie Inabnet and are the owners of The Burrito Shop in Kilgore. Perhaps we will get a chance to say "thanks" while he is home.

While we are talking about our servicemen, calls continue to come in about Aaron Davis, who is back in the states. On Wednesday, Aaron had an appointment with the surgeons regarding the removal of shrapnel from his legs and arms. He has been undergoing physical therapy for the right arm which had begun to freeze up due to having to hold it in one position. There is still much concern over the shrapnel lodged behind his right eye. He is considered a walking miracle and a true hero, please keep him in your prayers.

Reverend Harry LaGrone is back at the helm. Since his recovery from Lou Gehrig's disease, he has come out of retirement and is now preaching at Fellowship Baptist Church, which is temporarily located in the Lions Club building, located 307 W. Rusk Street. He and his wife, Tootsie, are just beaming at this new turn of events. (Welcome Back.)

"Keep up the good work Kilgore," said Phyllis Foster, volunteer coordinator at the Kilgore Community Crisis Center last Wednesday. Items of need were beginning to come in and she was ecstatic. " The people in town always respond," she added. Please tell them of our appreciation. The cupboard was bare when it came to toiletry items, so much so, she was found traveling out to local dentists to pick up toothpaste and toothbrushes for the families inhoused. "We still need deodorant, combs and brushes, disposable razors and ethnic products. But, we have faith they will come," she said. Clothing sizes for the children can be obtained by calling 903-984-3019.

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