CHITCHAT CORNER
The biggest loser
LINDA K. BALLARD

Everyone wants a story to tell. However it is only when one tells of their own journey through life is when others reap the benefit. And throughout life, there are those times when you think things will not happen to you. Such was the case last week when I left my vehicle for a short while only to return to discover someone had entered the passenger side of my vehicle and taken a tote bag and my purse that I had halfway tucked under the seat. Naturally, cash, credit cards, identification, address book, etc., etc. was taken in those brief moments. The rest of my week has been looking for and or contacting authorities to cancel everything and to try to gradually replace some of the loss. What I have learned is never, under any circumstances leave valuable items left in the vehicle no matter how short of a time you will be away from it. Otherwise it will happen to you. If it does, you can contact the following websites to protect your identity and your credit: www.consumer.gov/idtheft and www.equifax.com. Remember, your loss is another's gain.

There were five of us clowns that went to the clown convention," said Daelyn Williams. "And I got a new nose," she said excitedly. The other four people, Pattie Klewer, Michelle Billings, Jason Jenkins and Mary Glenn joined her for the convention held in Houston. This group is part of the clown ministry provided by The New Covenant Church previously known as Church on the

Rock. Their mission is to add some joy to those that are hospitalized or home bound. They are also seen at the balloon race and during Alleyfest. Over three hundred clowns from across the state participated in the training called "Joey to the World" put on by the Sagemont Church in Houston. This was the sixteenth year for the clown training to be held. If you would like to see our local clowns in act, they are in full regalia during the fifth Sunday of the month at the church, other wise you will see them out and about at the hospitals.

The Biggest Loser Contest is taking place at Kilgore Manor and anyone can join in on the fun. "To participate in the contest, you must weigh in and pay $5 every two weeks. The contest is based on the biggest percentage of weight loss," said Pam Martin, activity director. "To go by the percentage of loss makes for a fairer game," she said. "Naturally, the winner gets the pot at the end of the contest. The contest has just begun, so anyone interested in joining needs to stop in for the weigh-in. Thirteen have enrolled, so far," she said. We have heard Billy Bob Brady and his wife Nita was planning on joining, but that has not been confirmed, yet. However, we think they need to keep an eye on Billy Bob as he was seen out there passing out donut holes. A little tricky, if you ask me…

Well, she is still a little in shock - Tina Bonner has just found out she is pregnant - with triplets. She is already the mother of two children ages 12 and 9. The sudden new growth of her family is quite an eyeopener for her and her husband, Earl. You know Tina as one of the tellers at Kilgore National Bank. For pointers on raising her triplets, they may want to contact Bill and Anna Bess Hedrick. I'm quite sure they can help them through some sticky situations…

Congratulations to Charity Townsend at ReMax of Longview who was chosen as Rookie of the year and first Choice Top Sellers Agent. She is the daughter of Kilgoreite Kathy Baker.

Food for thought - The Kilgore Chamber Banquet was catered again this year by Boomtown Barbecue. On the back of the caterers' shirts, the following words were written "Many Have Eaten Here, Few Have Died." Hmm…

Valentine's Day is Almost here - did you think I forgot? Happy Valentine's Day to all. Many of you know it is one of my favorite days of the year. It seems everyone tries hard to be sweet. Don't forget to acknowledge those who are close to your heart this year and may you be treated with kindness throughout the day. In the meantime, May His Love and Laughter Fill Your Hearts and Your Homes Throughout the Week. We may be reached at 903-984-2593 or chitchatlinda@aol.com.