From the Publisher...

This month we honor fathers all over the world. Typically we share stories of fathers in our area who have wonderful homes full of love and joy. However, we chose to do something different and share the story of men helping others, who essentially become a “father figure” to help improve other lives. Restoration of Hope is just that.

I first visited Restoration of Hope’s founder, Danny Stone, at Julie’s Deli while having lunch. I was trying to decide which direction to go with this month’s issue, and I believe God placed Danny in my path at the perfect time. After sharing his mission, I was excited. I quickly realized that God places us where He wants us, in front of people we need to speak to, and guides us throughout.

I had such a wonderful afternoon listening to the stories of many of the men involved in Restoration of Hope, seeing the excitement in their eyes and the tears when they spoke about how their lives had been turned around.

I had never put much thought into people having an addiction and truly wanting to overcome it; who would or could help them? This is not something I have dealt with directly; however, I know that addiction abounds in our community and in many families. It is a problem in our society.

I now understand Restoration of Hope’s mission after meeting with this wonderful group of men of all ages. It was an eyeopening experience, one that I will cherish. I must say that our writer, Anne Granado, captured our afternoon better than I ever imagined – which is why she is the writer and not me! LOL! I am so excited to share their story this month, one of hope and love, with the love of Jesus at the center of everything.

Of course, I also needed to include something fun to do this summer. Pickleball has become more and more popular throughout the area. It is no surprise that we now have it here in Texarkana. Check it out, and take your family out to play! Make this summer one to remember!

Have a wonderful start to summer! May God bless you and yours…