NEWARK: The Take Off Pounds Sensibly group meets each week from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Alex Eligh Community Center. Weigh-in is from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. We usually have about 25 members attend meetings and even more who come just for the accountability a weekly step on the scale provides. Last year we celebrated our 40th year of offering weight loss support to Newark and surrounding communities. At the same time the 60th anniversary of TOPS Club, Inc., which boasts a worldwide membership of approximately 180,000, was recognized.

Our non-profit weight loss group is member run. From the person who greets members at the scale to the member who leads the meeting our group is made up of volunteers. They are people who are sharing the same struggles each week as those they serve and want to help others strive to lead a healthier life. This also translates into a bargain for members as weekly dues are just $1 and annual membership $24.

Meetings start with the TOPS pledge reminding us that although struggle we can succeed. KOPS, those who have reached their goal and are Keeping Off Pounds Sensibly, are honored. Role call follows with members sharing how they fared at the scales that week. Losses receive applause and gains an encouraging,

'Don't give up'. Monthly awards boost spirits and weekly sessions we call therapy offer weight loss and wellness information. Members often share what is working for them or seek advice. With a joining of hands we end by reciting their 'I give to you a helping hand' pledge.

Members often gather before meetings and share about their week. Many form friendships through this group and say that their fellow members are like family.

Visitors are welcome to attend their first meeting free of charge. Readers who would like more information may contact our group leader, Becky, at 331-3478; log onto the TOPS website at www.tops.org; or call TOPS Headquarters at (800) 932-8677.

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