If you see 211 extra pounds lying around, we know where it came from.

The Take Off Pounds Sensibly club celebrated its first year of operation at the
Dorman Center, and 11 enthusiasts gathered to tell tales of their new slim
figures and what it means to them.

TOPS crowned a king and queen, with Bob Miller and Nancy Ray comprising
the suddenly slimmer court.

Miller shed 20 pounds in the first year, and has added as much energy to his
lifestyle as lost weight.

“I can do more things now,” Miller said. “My diabetes is under control, my
blood pressure has been lowered, and I’m doing more work in my garage and
around the yard.”

Miller credits the group’s support and his new treadmill as the keys to his
garnering the crown.

Ray was not present. She was celebrating her 65-pound weight loss by
sporting her new figure around Arizona for a well-deserved vacation.
Mary Page has been with TOPS for six years – and was dubbed a queen
previously – and coupled her first year at the Welches club for a 50-pound
loss overall.

“I had a younger boy friend, but I kicked him out,” Page said, with only a
sparkle in her eye to suggest any exaggeration. “After I lost all that weight, I
didn’t need him around anymore.”

Club leader Donna Marshall disappeared 21 pounds during the first year, and
credits the club’s atmosphere of “no pressure” and “no finger pointing” to her
success.

But Marshall’s main benefit was “My towel got smaller,” she said. “I don’t
have to dry off with a beach towel now. I’m down to standard size.”

Vickie McMullan has only been with the TOPS program for six months but took
off nine pounds in the process.

“I still have 15 to go,” McMullan said. “But already I have more energy to play
with the grandkids, and I’ve gained friendship and learned accountability (with
the club).”

The local TOPS will host an open house at 10:30 a.m., Jan. 2, 2010, at the
Dorman Center for members and newcomers.

Those interested in dropping some weight, making new friends, and moving
down one towel size can contact Donna Marshall at 668-0901.