Listen to this article
by Sue Schumann Warner –
Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. Galatians 5:25 (The Message)
Opina receives award
Richard Opina, San Diego Citadel bandmaster—who also teaches at a public middle school, is a member of the Sierra Del Mar (SDM) divisional band, and is deputy bandmaster for the divisional youth band—was awarded the California Music Educator Association Fortissimo Award for Orchestra Educator. “SDM is proud of Richard and his fine accomplishments,” stated Major Mike Dickinson, divisional secretary. “He considers teaching in a public middle school to be his ministry.” Congratulations, Richard!
A special luncheon
The Yakima, Wash., Home League hosted its 55th nursing home luncheon with a garden party theme. Thirty leaguers served the lunch and helped the 77 guests with their needs. Each guest received a gift and a special butterfly pin made by Sandra Lutschg. Major Lisa Dickinson, divisional community care ministries secretary, was special speaker; Corps Officer Major Chris Morrow led the sing-a-long and gave special recognitions. Home League Chaplain Joellen Decker gave the invocation and Dorothy Woodward, Home League secretary, welcomed the guests. Woodward has missed just one luncheon in 55 years.
Pasadena: plot thickens
Inspired by a New Frontier story (Vol. 26, No. 17) about the community garden at the McMinnville, Ore., corps, Pasadena Tabernacle Corps Social Services Director Pat Riley began a community garden using four 5′ by 4′ plots of unused land behind the corps’ gymnasium. Developmentally disabled volunteers tilled and prepared the land, which will be planted and gardened by youth in the corps’ after-school program; according to Riley, harvested food will be distributed to the community through the corps’ food pantry.
Green Valley honored
The Green Valley/Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce recently declared the Green Valley Outpost, Ariz., Non-Profit Business of the Year. In part, the nomination stated: “The Salvation Army has provided help and hope to tens of thousands of people in our community during twenty years of service. They have helped meet not only financial and physical needs, but spiritual and emotional needs as well.” Captains Kelly and Katie Nolan, in-charge, were presented the award at the Chamber’s annual dinner.
New appointment
Captain Robert Reardon, a Western officer currently serving as the NHQ property secretary, is appointed as National Young Adult Initiative Coordinator, effective July 1, 2010.
Do you have news?
Let the West know about soldier enrollments, youth or adult programs, and other events at your corps, ARC, or units! Send brief news stories (50-75 words) to: New.Frontier@usw.salvationarmy.org