Listen to this article
By Bob Bearchell –
The House of Representatives recently welcomed National Commander Commissioner Robert A. Watson as guest chaplain. His prayer, opening the session of the House, acknowledged God as ruler of all nations, as he prayed for peace and justice in our world. He was introduced by Congressman Walter Jones, Jr., whose North Carolina district includes Goldsboro, where Watson grew up. The Commissioner also presented the opening prayer for the Senate in March.
DAY OF CARING
For the first time, The Salvation Army participated in Madera, Calif.’s “Day of Caring,” an annual event put on by the United Way. These are projects that the community needs to have done, so various organizations pitch in to better their community. The Army participated, through the work of Keith and Shiloh Brooks and Jim Rhoades, by building a redwood picnic table for the back yard of the Domestic Violence Women’s and Children’s Shelter of Madera County.
MERVYNS OPENS DOORS
The Salvation Army recently got together with two local Mervyns Department Stores (Lakewood and Cerritos, Calif.) and furnished 60 children with new clothing as they began their new school year. Mervyns and The Salvation Army each put up $1500 for the event, which saw each child paired with a chaperon to assist in selecting the proper clothing. Mervyns also provided food and beverages, and each child received a backpack. “This is such a wonderful event,” said Major James D. Hood, Long Beach corps officer. “Sometimes I think the chaperons get as much out of it as the children.”
LAINE TEAMS WITH ARMY
Renowned singer Frankie Laine lent his support to The Salvation Army once again. His bi-annual free outdoor concert in La Jolla, Calif., provided an opportunity for the San Diego ARC to conduct a used shoe drive to benefit the rehabilitation program. “It’s gratifying that Mr. Laine uses these occasions to call attention to the needs of others, and we are grateful for the generosity of the community,” said Major Joe Viola (R), ARC administrator.
NEW SONG FOR KICKOFF
Major Tom Jones, national community relations and development secretary, tells of an exciting new national launch for the 1997 Christmas Kettle Kickoff. Aired by NBC during the half-time of the Thanksgiving Day Dallas Cowboys football game, it will include the premiere performance of a song by Reba McEntire commemorating The Salvation Army. In addition, Reba’s song, “What If,” will be distributed to stores by the weekend shopping rush, and proceeds will be donated to The Salvation Army.
ARMY OF STARS
This year’s Army of Stars Christmas program, “Good Tidings of Great Joy,” will feature the music of the Army’s own Pasadena Tabernacle Songsters. Hosted by Lloyd Bridges, the two half-hour shows will also include the music of Natalie Cole and the Army of Stars Orchestra, and a special Christmas message from Gen. Paul A. Rader. To place an order, call the Territorial Supplies and Purchasing Department at (800) 937-8896.
WE REGRET…
We omitted the retirement addresses of these officers, so here they are: Majors Richard and Martha Beaver (R), 4949 Samish Way #36; Bellingham WA 98226-8994, and Majors John and Jane Horgen (R); 3117 55th Ave. N.E.; Tacoma WA 98422-3266.
