by Daniel Duric
WESTFIELD — Connie LaPlume of Westfield has been named the 2025 Vermont Queen by TOPS Club Inc., a national nonprofit weight-loss support organization, after losing 43 pounds.
LaPlume was honored May 30 at the organization’s Vermont recognition event at the Elks Lodge in Barre. The title is given to the woman in each state who has recorded the largest weight loss from her highest weight and reached her goal weight by year’s end.
LaPlume said her weight had been a lifelong struggle. “I would lose some, then gain it back, plus more,” she said. “It was a roller coaster that stole my self-esteem.”
She said she joined TOPS looking for a support system, social connections with others facing the same challenges and guidance on correcting her eating habits. Many of the members in her chapter turned out to be people she had known for years, and she made new friends through meetings and workshops.
“I have learned so much about my need for unhealthy foods and snacks,” LaPlume said. She credited her chapter leader with encouraging members through difficult weeks.
TOPS, which stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly, was founded in 1948 and has about 50,000 members across the United States and Canada. The organization uses weekly in-person and online meetings to provide group support, health education and recognition to encourage weight management.
In 2025, TOPS members in Vermont lost a cumulative 695 pounds, according to the organization. More information is available at tops.org or by calling 800-932-8677.