The Salvation Army contunues to meet the needs of families and individuals who have fallen on hard times...
The Western Territory’s news source for 29 years
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— Major George Hood
November 18, 2011 • Vol. 29, No. 19
Red Kettles accepting credit card payments in select cities
Enrique Iglesias headlines Red Kettle Kickoff n 2011 marks the 120th anniversary of The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.
n120-year-old fundraiser to adopt Square in San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas and New York. The Salvation Army will accept donations via smartphones equipped with Square credit card readers at its red kettles in select cities—one in each territory—this Christmas season. The readers, provided by the San Francisco based company Square, Inc., will make donating to The Salvation Army easier and faster than ever before. Salvation Army bell ringers will use the devices on smartphones donated by Sprint® at locations in San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas and New York, allowing donors who don’t carry cash to give via credit card. “This partnership brings together the history of the campaign in San Francisco and a great technology from Square that makes it easier than ever for people to donate,” said Major George Hood, national community
Credit card donations will be accepted at kettles in San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas and New York this holiday season.
SQUARE, page 8
Pop superstar Enrique Iglesias will perform at The Salvation Army’s 15th annual Red Kettle Kickoff during halftime of the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day game against the Miami Dolphins on Nov. 24. The live nationally televised performance marks the start of the 120th anniversary of the Army’s iconic Red Kettle Campaign, which began in San Francisco in 1891. The campaign is the largest and longest running fundraiser of its kind and raised a record $142 million in
KICKOFF page 8
Kroc Center Hawaii to open in January n Salvation Army facility is biggest of 17 existing Kroc Centers and the largest community center in Hawaii. Major William Dickinson
Major Lisa Dickinson
Major Douglas Riley
Major Colleen Riley
Divisional leadership changes announced Major William Dickinson and Major Lisa Dickinson have been named divisional commander and divisional director of women’s ministries, respectively, of the Del Oro Division. Major Douglas Riley and Major Colleen Riley have been named divisional commander and divisional director of women’s ministries, respectively, of the Southern California Division. Appointments effective Feb. 1, 2012.
On the web: Find more stories and features at newfrontierpublications.org • • •
Ministry opportunity in New Zealand International gathering strengthens Salvation Army programs What the church can learn from Occupy Wall Street
Inside: Frontlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Nation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 In Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sharper Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 From the Desk of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Life Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 On the Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 www.newfrontierpublications.org Facebook: tsanewfrontier
BY ANDREW GOMES Honolulu Star-Advertiser A monumental attraction is about to open on Oahu. It’s got a pool with twisting tube slides, a lazy river and a hot tub seating 18—but it’s not a water park. It’s got classrooms, a gym, a theater and a playing field—but it’s not a school. It’s got guest rooms, a banquet hall and food prepared by former Hanohano Room executive chef Ron Amasol—but it’s not a hotel. It’s the Kroc Center Hawaii—and though it’s described as a community center, the project developed by the Salvation Army in East Kapolei is, by scale and scope, unlike anything in Hawaii. The $133 million facility covering 15 acres is about a month away from being completed after almost two years of construction. When it opens in January, residents of Leeward Oahu and beyond will have
An aerial view of the nearly complete Hawaii Kroc Center
first-class facilities for educational and recreational activities from music, dance, art and video-editing classes to water polo, rock climbing, kickboxing, basketball, volleyball, weight training, Zumba and yoga. There’s also a preschool, a cafe, a
Online Angel Giving Tree program now live n New feature allows groups to adopt multiple angels. JC Penney and The Salvation Army launched a new season of the Angel Giving Tree Online to provide Christmas gifts to disadvantaged kids and senior citizens across the country. The online destination—jcp. com/angel—went live Nov. 1, and now boasts a new, customizable feature that enables groups to adopt multiple angels at one time. “In our third year of presenting the Angel Giving Tree Online, we wanted to offer the ability for
individuals, families and groups to make adopting a Salvation Army angel an annual holiday tradition,” said Jodi Gibson, divisional vice president of community relations for JC Penney. “By incorporating new enhancements to the adoption experience, supporters now have the means to come together and significantly impact more families in need this season.” ANGEL GIVING TREE, page 9
Photograph courtesy of Ed Gross/The Image Group
church, birthday party cabanas and a game room. The center will be open to the public, although there will be a small membership fee for use of the fitness and aquatic centers. Monthly KROC CENTER HAWAII, page 8
Caring winter issue on the presses n Photo contest now open The winter 2011/2012 edition of Caring, “We the People,” features various ways The Salvation Army interacts with agencies of the government around the world—from better preparing for disaster response, to providing humanitarian assistance in Iraq, to far-reaching veterans services in the United States. It also includes a firsthand CARING, page 8
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November 18, 2011 New Frontier
NEWS BRIEFS OF THE WEST
Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless— cheerfully (1 Peter 4:9 MSG). GRAND JUNCTION, COLO.—Volunteers Karen from the corps visited Gleason 35 families—recipients Editor of school backpacks from The Salvation Army—inviting them to a Fall Blitz rally/Sunday school that included bounce houses and lunch. Seven families that came to the rally day asked that a volunteer pick them up for church the following week. The corps plans another visitation campaign for November; they will invite families to breakfast and combined Sunday school classes, and will give each family a turkey. Captains Daniel and Terrie Wilson are corps officers. HANFORD, CALIF.—The Salvation Army partnered with the Hanford and Fresno chapters of the Christian Motorcyclists Association for the “Bear Run,” an annual outreach ministry for youth with serious medical conditions. Corps Officers Majors Greg and Orpha Moody provided the corps facility, food and support for the run. This year, BrieAnna Hines, age 16, received a stuffed “biker” bear and an age-appropriate Bible along with a motorcycle ride. SIERRA VISTA, ARIZ.—The Salvation Army participated with other local ministries in Cox Communications’ annual Halloween Fall Festival in the Park, running a scare-free zone called Harvest in the Park. Along with games, prizes and candy, the Army set up a booth called “Are You Going to Heaven?” Corps Officer Captain Bob Schmig reports that over 100 people came to the booth, with 39 giving their life to Christ. In all, 3,000-4,000 people visited Harvest in the Park, experiencing the love of Christ on Halloween. RENO, NEV.—On Nov. 11, the City of Reno honored veterans with a downtown parade. The Salvation Army Northern Nevada Emergency Canteen served hot beverages to warm up spectators and participants. Captain Michael Johnson, Reno assistant corps officer, noted that four of the ROTC youth in the parade are Salvation Army soldiers. Several corps members walked with the canteen as it joined the parade, and the crowd cheered for The Salvation Army. SAN DIEGO—In late October, 132 seniors from across the Sierra del Mar Division assembled at the Kroc Center to “Cruise Around the World,” in a day filled with cruiselike activities. Captain Osei Stewart, Sarah Kalentermidis and Lt. Jay Koebel serenaded them and the El Centro Dancers performed Spanish dances. Captain Jenni Perine gave the Bible message, followed by Patrick Hanifin’s clean comedy. Guests dined and enjoyed games. Divisional Leader Major Michele Lescano offered the closing devotion.
Custom built from the chassis up n College for Officer Training receives its own canteen. BY RON TOY, MAJOR Custom built from the chassis up, a state-of-the-art, 16-foot mobile kitchen— commonly known as a canteen—now resides at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont, thanks to the generosity of Western Territorial Headquarters. College leaders plan to use the canteen as a tool to help train future Salvation Army officers for the field. It will provide hands-on experience to present and future sessions of cadets through classroom training and practical field training. Emergency Mobile Kitchens of Phoenix, Ariz., built the canteen. Owners Paul and Sara Helbert designed and managed its construction and then personally delivered it to the college. Ken Cavallero, territorial disaster services director, introduced the Helberts and Garold Scofield, Sara Helbert’s father, during the dedication ceremony. Each of them gave a testimony of their commitment to Christ and to The Salvation Army’s mission. Sara Helbert revealed her Salvationist heritage through her grandparents who were active at a
Major Ronald Toy, Ken Cavallero, Sara Helbert, Paul Helbert, Garold Scofield, Major Tim Foley-principal, Major Brian Saunders-assistant principal Photo by Eugene Jo
corps in Pennsylvania. Major Tim Foley, training principal, received the canteen and offered a dedicatory prayer of blessing for its use and for the people that it will serve. “Like a first aid kit or fire extinguisher,”
said Foley, “if we ever need it, we will be prepared to use it. “With this new addition, we can now go out as Paul wrote in 2 Timothy, to Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season, without using words.”
Anaheim Praiseworks Corps enrolls soldiers n Corps succeeds in providing a church home for ARC beneficiaries. BY AARON FLORES Worshiping the Lord doesn’t mean pretending we are not struggling or in pain; in fact, it’s our brokenness and desperation that drives us to our Savior. At the Anaheim Praiseworks Corps—where the congregation comes largely from a recovery program background—we are reminded of this every time we gather. On Sunday, Nov. 6, families and friends from the Anaheim Rehabilitation Center (ARC) filled the corps to witness several corps members take the next step on their spiritual path by becoming soldiers in The Salvation Army. On hand were Territorial Leaders Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs and Southern California Divisional Leaders Lt. Colonels Victor and Rose-Marie Leslie. “The Salvation Army Anaheim Praiseworks is a great example of a corps that emulates the vision of ‘One Army, One Mission, One Message,’ as they work together with the ARC for the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus Christ, in both word and deed,” Leslie said. “Michael Freeman and the ministry team are doing an excellent job, offering innovative worship and biblical truth in a relevant format. We expect great things from God as they attempt great things for God in bringing the transforming gospel of love and acceptance to those in need.” Knaggs spoke potent words of character and faith, and enrolled the new soldiers: Michelle Black, Daniel Black, Albert Gamez, Tami Moore, Johnny Hulsey, Donald Randall and Sergio Rodriguez. After the message, seekers filled the front of the church, responding to Jesus. In the midst of this honest worship,
Commissioner Knaggs enrolls new soldiers at Anaheim Praiseworks Corps.
transformation began to take root in many souls. While I led worship, a verse came to mind: Behold, I am making all things new (Rev. 21:5). I looked around, losing myself in the beauty of what God was doing in this room full of admittedly broken people in recovery expressing in their own words, “Have your way, Lord.” The Bible is a story of recovery. It’s the heart of God to restore. And for those who have ever been painfully aware of their own human depravity, this is good news. As the Anaheim Praiseworks Corps moves forward, we look to God to continue shaping us into a compelling community of believers marked by the redemptive power of Jesus Christ.
Kettle volunteers needed throughout the West n New website allows online volunteers to sign up to ring the bell. BY TIM SCHAAL To help obtain more kettle volunteers in 2011, the Western Territory introduced a new and innovative way for people to sign up to ring the bell at a traditional Salvation Army kettle: redkettlevolunteer.org. The web page allows potential bell ringers to pick a location near them and select a date and time to ring the bell. Volunteer bell ringers are more productive than paid workers at generating income
at the kettles—in 2010, only 16.7 percent of the over 130,000 kettles in the Western Territory were manned by volunteers, but they accounted for over 22 percent of the total gross income collected. In addition, volunteer bell ringers allow the Army to retain more of the donations than if it pays its bell ringers. Once verified by the local Army location, the volunteer will receive a confirmation email with additional details about their assignment, including what to wear, when to show up and what to expect. Then they all have to do is
ring the bell, offer a friendly smile, and shout out a cheerful “Merry Christmas” to all who pass by. In the Western Territory, 21 corps use only volunteers to ring the bell at the red kettles. The Chico, Calif., corps phased in the volunteer only system 10 years ago with two volunteer-only days a week. Captain Darren Stratton, corps officer, said they use a multifaceted approach to build the team of volunteers, including contacting last year’s ringers, reaching out to every business and church in the community to see if they would be will-
ing to sponsor a kettle for a day, and a TV commercial to encourage people to sign up. Last year, the Chico Corps had over 400 volunteers throughout the campaign. “It’s worth recruiting volunteers because it will net more funds back into your programs,” Stratton said. He VOLUNTEERS, page 8
Correction The location of the photo on page 1 of the Nov. 18 issue of New Frontier (vol. 28, no. 19) was misidentified. The photo was taken at the Portland Tabernacle food bank.
Doing the Most Good
November 18, 2011 New Frontier
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Idaho’s ornaments will shine brightly in nation’s capital n Coeur d’Alene Kroc Center selected to create ornaments for the 2011 National Christmas Tree display.
paper crafting, clay, textiles and painting to make the designs, which include baby Jesus in a manger and a deer leaping through the forest. “I can’t wait to watch the lighting ceremony on TV and know that something BY ERIN JOHNSON I made is there!” said Michelle Twenty-four Christmas Newman, age 11. ornaments—created by youth at The Kroc Center is thrilled the Salvation Army Ray and Joan to be recognized by the state Kroc Corps Community Center of Idaho, as well as by the U.S., in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho—will in a manner such as this. “It is be part of the 2011 National such an honor to be selected! Christmas Tree display in The Kroc Center is excited to Washington, D.C. host this holiday activity for the The young people learned youth of our community and to in November that the National Young people from the Coeur d’Alene Kroc Center hold ornaments that represent the State of Idaho at Park Foundation and the Idaho will be part of the National Christmas Tree display in Washington, D.C. the 2011 National Tree Lighting Commission on the Arts had Photo by Jamie Bosanko Ceremony,” said Major John selected them to create the Chamness, administrator of The Salvation Army Kroc Center. ornaments for the national display—23 of which will be hung from Young people representing 55 other U.S. states and territories are the Idaho state tree in President’s Park while the final ornament will also participating. adorn the White House Visitor Center Christmas tree. The 89th National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, hosted Major JoAnn Markham, who created the initial designs for the by the National Park Service and National Park Foundation, will be ornaments, said, “The inspiration for the design of the ornaments broadcast live on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011, at 5 p.m. EST. Markham came from the natural beauty that Idaho experiences in the will attend the ceremony. Visit www.thenationaltree.org for more wintertime, along with the reason for the season—the birth of Jesus.” information. Local youth spent two hours constructing the ornaments, using
Hemet Corps dedicates new building n Hundreds gather at opening of The Salvation Army Pearl E. Rogers Corps Community Center. More than 450 people attended the opening and dedication of The Salvation Army Pearl E. Rogers Corps Community Center in Hemet, Calif., on Oct. 30, where Territorial Commander Commissioner James Knaggs gave the message. Sierra del Mar Divisional Planned Giving Director Greg Mattox shared the story of Rogers’ vision to build a center for Hemet, followed by Divisional Commander Major Lee Lescano’s recognition of previous corps officers and community officials and contractors who made Rogers’ vision a reality. Knaggs encouraged those present to rededicate their lives—to build them on a firm foundation to withstand the storms of life. Afterwards, he played the piano. Commissioner Carolyn Knaggs, territorial president of women’s ministries, brought the prayer of dedication. After Divisional
Salvation Army officers, staff and city officials gather to dedicate the new Salvation Army Pearl E. Rogers Corps Community Center in Hemet, Calif. Photo by Bill Costello
Secretary Captain Kenneth Perine gave the benediction, guests moved to the courtyard for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Sierra del Mar Divisional Band, led
by Bandmaster Stephen Yalden, provided music. Captain Susan Gibson is the corps officer in Hemet.
Community supports Boise’s SAFE shelter
Photo by Dave Harmon
Baseball is in her blood
n Seattle Temple Corps member plays softball in the World Senior Games.
BY JOYCE JOHNSTON Sally deJong, 67, a regular at the Seattle Temple Corps’ Senior Lunch program, is a baseball/softball enthusiast who raised her own game to the next level this year when she played in the World Senior Games. DeJong played her first game at age 7, and currently plays first base and catcher with the Seattle Sloops, a senior coed team. In September, the Seattle Sloops placed second in a local tournament. During the tournament, deJong met two women from another team—Seattle Wet Socks—who were scouting for players to go to the Huntsman World Senior Games in St. George, Utah. They recruited deJong to play first base. “The facilities were beautiful,” deJong said. “There were five softball complexes, with three to five fields each. It was the 25th anniversary of the World Senior Games, and teams from all 50 states, plus 20 other countries, came with a grand total of 10,007 participants.” The Seattle Wet Socks played in the Women’s 55+ category, losing all five games they played. “Not to brag,” deJong said, “but I did well with a batting average of .444 and an on-base average of .888.” When not actually playing, deJong is a seating hostess at the Seattle Mariners baseball games. She has been doing this for the past four years and enjoys watching the games up close—her station is behind first base—the fans, the music and half-priced hot dogs!
Recently on
n Volunteers continue providing improvements to the shelter. BY TRACEY SCHUYLER Square foot by foot—the Boise (Idaho) Salvation Army Female Emergency (SAFE) Center Family Shelter is upgrading its facility with the help of community volunteers and generous businesses and individuals. The facility, originally built in 1964, provides living accommodations to families and single women in transition. Last spring, landscape nursery Franz Witte donated vegetable plants, which continue to produce tomatoes, berries, squash and grapes. The residents take turns tending the garden, promoting pride in ownership, a sense of belonging and a feeling of accomplishment. Backyard enhancements include a playhouse for the residents’ children. Majestic Landscaping pruned the overgrowth and laid new grass sod. Other groups pulled weeds and put down weed barrier and decorative ground cover. “When clients returned that evening, they told us how meaningful it was to come home to such a beautiful place after a rough day,” Kim Lafferty, SAFE Center supervisor, said. More recently, St. Luke’s and LDS (Latter Day Saints) humanitarian groups painted the interior of the building and added curtains and linens to certain areas. The LDS Humanitarian Service coordinated placement of metal-framed beds and bunks. Two sleeping
Sally deJong
TCSPEAK with Territorial Commander Commissioner James Knaggs ARC beneficiaries The first meeting of the ARC Creative Caucus took place tonight at the training college. We’re meeting to... The new garden at the Boise Salvation Army Female Emergency (SAFE) Center Family Shelter Photo by Tracey Schuyler
rooms received hardwood floors, interior decorating, fresh paint, wide crown molding and decorative borders. The bath remodels included new shower walls, floor and wall tiles and toilets. In fiscal year 2011, 130 adults and children resided at the center, totaling 17,031 overnight stays. Ninety-three percent of the 50 households progressed toward case management goals that included securing or sustaining employment, reducing bills and obtaining child care and transportation.
Trust a machine? Machines only really do what we tell them to do. If the programming is...
Wait till you find out… The final day of the International Finance Consultation concluded with... Find Commissioner Knaggs’ blog online at tcspeak.com.
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November 18, 2011 New Frontier
TOTAL AWARENESS In Metro Detroit, The Salvation Army constructed the world’s tallest red kettle. Sponsored by Quicken Loans, the kettle is approximately 56’ by 24’ with 25,000 red LED lights. The kettle was illuminated as the final presentation of the 2011 Red Kettle Campaign Kickoff on Nov. 18 at Campus Martius Park, prior to the city’s tree lighting ceremony. Quicken Loans’ CEO Bill Emerson serves as the Red Kettle Campaign honorary corporate chair. Photo by Genna Young
Can you ring the bell the longest? n Enter the first-ever bell ringer world record contest. The Salvation Army’s National Headquarters in the U.S. announced the first-ever national red kettle bell-ringer world record contest, to begin Dec. 15 and end when the last participant rings the bell for the last time through midnight Dec. 17. The goal of the nationwide event is to set a new world record for the longest continuous hand bell ringing by an individual (it is currently 36 hours). Participants will volunteer to ring a bell at a red kettle stand for as long as they can at locations across the country. Complete rules can be found at the following registration form link: surveymonkey.com/s/8ZV8LGQ. Entrants are also asked to submit a photo of him/ her to mediarelations@usn.salvationarmyusa.org. All entrants must register by 2 p.m. (PST) Dec. 2.
When asked what organizations come to mind when thinking about charitable organizations and which ones respondents were familiar with, they were most aware of The Salvation Army, according to a Richards Group study.
Are people aware of our brand? More than 2,000 people were interviewed to track the impact and awareness of the “Doing the Most Good” brand promise. The study, conducted by the Richards Group this past spring, found surprising disparities between age groups. The youngest generation interviewed—ages 13-17—was predicted to be the least aware of the brand, when they were actually the most engaged. Other interesting findings: • Overall, 97 percent of respondents were aware of The Salvation Army. •
Among all respondents, 3 percent were aware that “Doing the Most Good” is the Army tagline.
One-third of respondents indicated they had seen or heard advertising for The Salvation Army in the past three months.
•
The advertising campaign is fulfilling its current objective of reaching potential donors 35 and over.
•
The 18-24 age group is not as reachable, nor as likely to take action at this life stage as the 13-17-year-olds.
The study concluded that in order to impact the younger target segments The Salvation Army needs to provide more volunteer opportunities—since the younger generation has more time than money. It also recommended that the Army find a way to make local marketing efforts consistent with national ones, to increase awareness of “Doing the Most Good.”
Honor Society brings Salvation Army Rock the Red Kettle Tour n Tour encourages fans to volunteer with The Salvation Army during the holiday season.
Cash for Clunkers keeps people warm In partnership with The Salvation Army, Columbia Sportswear’s new Cash for Clunkers program encourages people to donate an old, less technologicallysound waterproof jacket in exchange for $50 toward the purchase of a new ultrabreathable waterproof Dry.Q Elite jacket from a participating Mountain Hardware retailer. A Facebook contest offers the chance for participants to tell the story of their old jacket and its donation through photos, words and video. Stories will be voted on, and the five storytellers who receive the most votes will win a free Dry.Q Elite jacket. See more: http://apps. facebook.com/promosapp/197712. Donate that jacket you no longer use, but that someone else could, at a Mountain Hardware retailer or directly to a Salvation Army unit. The jackets will be given to individuals in need through Salvation Army social service programs and sold in thrift stores to support drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs.
•
Sock Drive volunteers distribute socks to homeless individuals in Los Angeles.
Hanes helps the Army distribute socks On Nov. 14 Hanes launched the third annual Virtual Sock Drive to help The Salvation Army keep feet warm this winter. To participate, visit Hanes on Facebook (facebook.com/hanes) and click the “donate now” button. When you do Hanes will donate a pair of socks toward the overall goal of 250,000 pairs (half a million individual socks). After this Sock Drive, Hanes will have donated a combined total of 1.7 million individual socks in the last three years. Hanes brought the virtual Facebook drive to life on Nov. 4 by joining The Salvation Army to distribute socks and food to homeless people in Los Angeles’ Skid Row. Special guest Mark Horvath, founder of invisiblepeople.tv, has traveled the U.S. and Canada to speak out on behalf of the homeless and hand out Hanes socks. The LA event was the last official stop on his cross-country tour. From salvationarmyexpectchange.org
Following the release of its new album “A Tale of Risky Business: Part 2,” Honor Society will be performing its acclaimed music around the country in support of The Salvation Army›s first-ever Rock the Red Kettle Tour. Throughout the tour, Honor Society will ask fans to support The Salvation Army during the Christmas season. “We couldn’t be more excited to tour,” said Michael Bruno, lead singer for Honor Society. “It’s been such a life-changing experience working with The Salvation Army and we’re ready to be out on the road, playing concerts, encouraging our amazing fan base to get in the spirit of giving and to be part of this iconic Salvation Army tradition.” The Rock the Red Kettle Tour with Honor Society— featuring Michael Bruno, Andrew Lee, Jason Rosen and Alexander Noyes—will raise awareness of The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, which raised a national record $142 million in 2010. The tour will kick off in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 26 and will conclude in Los Angeles. On Dec. 17, Honor Society will be part of a star-studded lineup at the second annual Rock the Red Kettle Concert at Universal City Walk. Honor Society will perform its last show of the tour on Dec. 18 at the Roxy. “We wanted our new album, ‘A Tale of Risky Business: Part 2’ to inspire change, both musically and socially, and to encourage the next generation of philanthropists,” said Alexander Noyes, drummer for Honor Society. “We are so fortunate to have this opportunity and to support the important work being done by The Salvation Army.” In addition to giving to the red kettles that will be posted at store fronts in November and December, for the seventh year in a row The Salvation Army will allow fans to become online bell-ringers and host an Online Red Kettle at onlineredkettle.org. A complete listing of tour stops can be found at honorsocietymusic.com.
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November 18, 2011 New Frontier
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Elsewhere in the world
AUSTRALIA—The Salvation Army’s Tasmania Division won the top national prize in the Commonwealth 2011 National Crime and Violence Prevention Awards for its “Safe from the Start” program, which helps children up to age 5 who have witnessed family or domestic violence. Their research identifies the impact and needs—effects on brain development and increased risk of adopting violent behavior themselves—of these children and offers an early intervention approach. The project was presented at Asia-Pacific and New Zealand conferences in 2011 and will be featured in the U.S. in 2012. From WARCRY/au, Nov. 12, 2011, issue
Above: Flower petals are used as a greeting at Catherine Booth Hospital in Nagercoil, India. Below: The elderly woman who gave Colonel Dave Hudson a gift of oranges. Photos by Dave Hudson
EAST GREETS WEST
n Colonels Dave and Sharron Hudson visit the India South Eastern Territory. They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west, And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
These words, penned by General John Gowans (Ret.), took on new meaning for Colonels Dave and Sharron Hudson, Western territorial chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries, during a visit to the India South Eastern Territory, where Territorial Leaders Commissioners M.C. and Susamma James greeted them warmly and the Indian people blessed them with their generosity and hospitality. The Hudsons traveled to India to participate in a four-day congress at the Booth-Tucker Memorial Church in Nagercoil, focusing on mission, leadership and service. The first day 2,500 young people, ages 15-30, attended a youth rally and
cultural program, prepared to both learn and have fun. The next day, 1,500 soldiers participated in separate men’s and women’s rallies. “Greetings from the soldiers, with their three rousing ‘Hallelujahs,’ demonstrated our commonality as fellow soldiers in this great Salvation Army,” said Sharron Hudson.
The Hudsons spent the final two days with 500 Salvation Army officers at officers’ councils. “It was a humbling experience to hear the testimonies of these dedicated officers,” said Hudson, “some from very small villages…. That evening we were blessed by the sense of family that is so particular of Salvationists around the world—a unique fellowship of believers that brings us together no matter our status in life or color of our skin. We are brothers and sisters together as we ‘sit down in the Kingdom of God.’” Following the congress and officers’ councils, the Hudsons visited the boys’ and girls’ homes and Catherine Booth Hospital, where they encountered songs, drums, fruit, rose petals and smiling faces. The young nursing students at the hospital, “particularly beautiful in their uniforms, are proud of the vocation they have chosen and are grateful for the opportunity The Salvation Army affords them for training,” said Hudson. On Sunday morning, Dave Hudson INDIA, page 9
KENYA—The Salvation Army continues drought relief in Kenya. In Turkana—a northern desert region—access to water is the biggest problem. Tractors brought in for the 2006 drought are still transporting water to 2,500 families and nine schools each week. Construction of boreholes and solar-powered water pumps is underway. In Isiolo, in east Kenya, the Army is providing emergency food to 5,000 people for the next three months. In Machakos, 3,500 primary school students will receive lunch over the next two school terms. From WARCRY/au, Oct. 15, 2011, issue
U.K.—The Chelmsford Corps building was named Building of the Decade at the Royal Institute of British Architects East Spirit of Ingenuity Awards. Corps Officer Major Derek Jones accepted the award. The judges ruled the building best exemplified a spirit of ingenuity in its design and inception. “There is something special about this design which is innovative, stark and yet welcoming and enticing,” the judges said. From SALVATIONIST/uk, Oct. 29, 2011, issue
HAITI—Thanks to the Haiti Recovery and Development School Renovation project, newly repaired Salvation Army school buildings enabled 700 students to return to school this fall. The group completed repairs on four of six schools scheduled for improvements in 2011. Project manager David White and assistant Raymond Cedoine also trained a local maintenance team in repair and upkeep of the buildings, including masonry and carpentry work, roofing, bathroom and electrical repair and installation of water catchment systems. From salvationist.ca
Christmas in Finland n Territorial leader reflects on the generosity of the Finnish people. Standing at the red kettle in Helsinki, Finland, Commissioner Vibeke Krommenhoek enjoys sharing the joy of Christmas with passersby. Krommenhoek revealed that she sings—both Finnish and international carols—while standing at the kettle, so that people will not only see the kettle, but also hear the message of Christmas. In Finland, people also bring parcels to the kettle (visible in the photo) for The Salvation Army to distribute to needy families. In the Helsinki, area, the Army collects approximately 220,000 euros (US$303,116) in one week’s time, and about 1 million euros (US$1.38 million) in all of Finland—as Krommenhoek notes, “not bad for a country with only 5.4 million inhabitants! “During my 28 years of officership, I have been involved in the Christmas kettle campaign in five different countries,” she said, “but never have I seen such a generous response by the public as in Finland.” Commissioners Dick and Vibeke Krommenhoek are territorial leaders in the Finland and Estonia Territory. Photo by Leif Weckström
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November 18, 2011
SQUARE
KICKOFF
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relations and development secretary for The Salvation Army. “With so many Americans continuing to struggle amidst the economic downturn, giving back to your neighbors in need has never been more important.” The Square card reader is an easy-to-use device that plugs into the headphone jack of an iPhone, iPad, or Android device, and allows for safe and secure payments through a free downloadable application. “We’re proud to be part of The Salvation Army’s longstanding holiday fundraising drive by enabling anyone to donate at a red kettle with a credit card,” said Jack Dorsey, co-founder and CEO of Square. “It is now easier than ever to give to The Salvation Army.” The announcement was made Nov. 16 in San Francisco, marking the 120th anniversary of the Army’s iconic Red Kettle Campaign, which began on the wharf in San Francisco in 1891. Traditionally, kettle donations have been made in the form of pocket change and small denomination bills. In 2010, the Army’s kettles collected more than $142 million to help people in need with toys, food, clothing and other basic life necessities. The Salvation Army’s eighth annual San Francisco Holiday Luncheon, held at the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, honored the San Francisco Giants Baseball Organization’s ongoing
VOLUNTEERS
support of the Army and other Bay Area initiatives. Over 400 attendees had the opportunity to give using the Square reader. “The goal of the technology behind the Square reader is simple—make transactions easier, and this year, we plan to make donating to The Salvation Army as easy as possible for our donors,” Hood said. On Thanksgiving Day in Dallas, Salvation Army bell ringers will also accept credit cards via Square readers as part of the National Red Kettle Kickoff campaign during the Dallas Cowboys game against the Miami Dolphins at Cowboys Stadium. The Red Kettle Kickoff is the 15th year the Dallas Cowboys and The Salvation Army have teamed up to support Americans in need. During the partnership, The Salvation Army has raised more than $1.4 billion to help people during Christmas and throughout the year. “We’ve known Dallas Cowboys fans to be extremely generous, donating to The Salvation Army during the Red Kettle Campaign and year-round so they can help others,” said Charlotte Jones Anderson, Dallas Cowboys’ executive vice president of brand management and chairperson of The Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board. “This year, we’re excited that it will be easier than ever for our fans to give to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign through the use of Square readers.”
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believes that a campaign using only volunteers will end with higher net funds and establishes better relationships with members of the community. Stratton recommended assigning volunteers on high-income days, generally Friday and Saturday, and if necessary, then using paid workers to fill in the gaps. Many of the businesses and churches involved in the Chico campaign have also helped with other Salvation Army programs, such as Angel Giving Tree program sponsorship. As this is the first year of the online volunteer sign-ups, not all Salvation Army locations may be participating. If no assignments are listed near you, call the local Salvation Army corps to volunteer at a kettle this season.
2010, with more than $1.4 billion raised since the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day partnership began. “This is a great opportunity—to spend Thanksgiving in Dallas where music, football and helping others truly comes together,” Iglesias said after announcing he would be performing at the event. “The Dallas Cowboys and The Salvation Army have a great partnership—throw in some great music and I know we can get viewers dancing and encourage donors to give generously this Christmas when so many need a hand up.” One of the most celebrated and recognized Latin artists of all time, Iglesias has sold more than 65 million albums worldwide. Most recently, he was on a sold-out arena tour in support of his 2010 smash-hit album, Euphoria. The album has sold 4 million copies worldwide and includes the hits “I Like It,” “Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You)” and the new single “I Like How it Feels” featuring Pitbull. Iglesias has won a Grammy and a Latin Grammy, as well as 16 Billboard Music Awards, 23 Billboard Latin Music Awards, five American Music Awards and seven World Music Awards. “We know he will put on a halftime performance that will commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Cowboys’ partnership with The Salvation Army in style,” said Charlotte Jones Anderson, Dallas Cowboys’ executive vice president of brand management and chairperson of The Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board, at the time of the announcement. Donations to the Red Kettle Campaign allow The Salvation Army to serve 30 million people in 5,000 communities nationwide each year. Previous halftime performers include Keith Urban, Daughtry, Jonas Brothers, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Sheryl Crow. “After 120 years, The Salvation Army continues to meet the needs of families and individuals who have fallen on hard times thanks to the American donor,” said Major George Hood, national community relations and development secretary for The Salvation Army. “We’re honored that the Cowboys family has embraced The Salvation Army and our mission of providing critical care to millions of people every Christmas and throughout the year.”
CARING
Volunteers can register online to be potential bell ringers at redkettlevolunteer.org.
KROC CENTER HAWAII memberships range from $39 for a child to $109 for a family of six or more. Daily memberships are $14, and several hundred scholarships are available for people who can’t afford the full monthly membership. The idea—and primary funding—for the complex was provided by the late Joan Kroc, widow of McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc, who wanted to improve the lives of children and adults in areas where a lack of community facilities limits achievement. “She didn’t want there to be kids who couldn’t achieve their highest potential— say, to go to the Olympics—because they had the dream but didn’t have the pool, or they had the dream but they didn’t have the gym,” said Bram Begonia, Kroc Center Hawaii’s operations director. Joan Kroc established the first Kroc Center in San Diego in 2002. When she died in 2003 she bequeathed $1.6 billion to the Salvation Army to build about 50 centers around the country. Community and government leaders on Oahu submitted a bid for a Kroc Center and received the largest grant of any applicant—$80 million—in 2006. The grant was increased later to $110 million. Local fundraising efforts added $23 million more to finance the project, including its $69 million construction cost and a $59 million operating endowment. A site was selected to primarily benefit Leeward Oahu residents, though public
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account on how to reach out to gang members, The Salvation Army’s fight to prevent human trafficking in Mexico and an interview with CNN Hero award winner Susan Burton. Be sure to get your copy today! In anticipation of the spring 2012 issue on generations, Caring is holding its first-ever image contest. Submissions should capture generational changes in The Salvation Army throughout the last century and will be accepted in three formats: photography, altered images
and mixed media. The winning image will receive a spread in the spring issue and a photographyrelated prize; second and third place images will also be printed in the issue. Please email requests for the winter issue and/or image submissions to caring@usw.salvationarmy.org or by mail to 180 East Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802. The deadline for all submissions is Jan. 7, 2012. Connect with Caring regularly at facebook.com/ CaringMagazine.
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use is expected to be statewide. The Salvation Army bought the land from the state. The site is surrounded by Department of Hawaiian Home Lands property leased for farming now but slated for homestead development. The first station of the city’s planned rail line will also be adjacent to the property. Lots of community input and analysis helped determine what features the center should have, according to Salvation Army Administrator Major Phil Lum. The facility ended up being 200,000 square feet, making it the biggest of 17 existing Kroc Centers and the largest community center in Hawaii. “We don’t really have any other facility like this,” Lum said. About 150 employees are being hired, including teachers, lifeguards, cooks and fitness instructors. Only about 25 jobs have been filled so far, and recruiting efforts are ongoing at kroccenterhawaii.org. Project development director Laura Kay Rand anticipates that perhaps 2,000 people a day might use the center, though demand is hard to forecast. Rand said the two Kroc Centers that opened most recently signed up many more members than expected. In Salem, Ore., 7,000 memberships were sold during a grand-opening weekend. In Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where the population is a little bigger than that of Kailua, about 14,000 Kroc Center
memberships were sold. “We don’t know what to expect,” Rand said. About 200 memberships for the Hawaii center have been pre-sold, largely to family members of people involved in the project. Rand said she expects interest will build as word spreads about the January opening—especially after the two-story tube slides are installed, because they will be visible from afar. Membership provides access to the fitness and aquatic centers, including group exercise classes, as well as the gymnasium and equipment. The Salvation Army is providing scholarships through the Kroc endowment. Rand said she anticipates about 25 percent of members will have partial or full scholarships. The endowment will also be used to cover about a third of annual operating expenses. Two-thirds will be covered by membership, class and facility rental fees. Facility rentals are available to members and nonmembers, and include birthday cabanas at the pool, meeting rooms, the gym and the theater. Classes likewise are available to members and nonmembers, and will include art classes operated in partnership with the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Begonia, the operations director, said that even though there are fees, the rates and scholarships will make it affordable
for families and available to everyone in the community. “The opportunities the children will be exposed to now is absolutely amazing,” he said. Community support Some big and wealthy Hawaii foundations and companies have their names associated with parts of Kroc Center Hawaii as contributors to a capital campaign that raised $23 million to help build and operate the project. But many parts of the community center campus—from the aquatics center to a bike rack—can still be named after donors big and small. So far, the biggest donor to have part of the center named in their honor is the Jack and Marie Lord Trust, which contributed $4 million and is the namesake of the center’s worship and performing arts building. Other facilities named for donors include a First Hawaiian Bank dormitory and McDonald’s of Hawaii tot lot and child watch room. Some donors have preferred not to accept naming rights, though all donations of $1,000 or more will be recognized on a donor wall in the center’s courtyard. For a list of naming opportunities still available and a list of donors to date, read the online version at newfrontierpublications.org. Reprinted with permission
Doing the Most Good
November 18, 2011
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‘If you can’t use it, we sure can!’ n Salvation Army family stores in the Western Territory have a new advertising campaign.
Women soldiers rally in Nagercoil, India.
INDIA
Photo by Dave Hudson
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was guest leader at a corps about an hour’s drive from Nagercoil. The small corps building was filled beyond capacity. “There were memorable moments that I will never forget,” Hudson said. “The people have absolutely nothing, but gave so freely from what they had.” At the end of the service the people lined up to bring their tithe in both money and rice. Upon asking about the large pot of rice, Hudson learned that the people have rice two times a day, seven days a week. At each of those meals, they put one serving into a container that they bring to the corps each week. The corps sells the rice and uses it for its programs. As James thanked Hudson for his
participation at the end of the service, an elderly woman walked onto the platform, took Hudson’s hands into her own, kissed them, placed two small oranges in his hands and said something to him. “I didn’t understand a word she said, but I knew she was giving me a gift out of her poverty,” Hudson said. “I could only nod my head, because my emotions would not allow me to speak. My only thought was that I was unworthy of her gratitude. I will never forget her.” Memories of India’s people and places will live forever in the hearts and minds of the Hudsons. God bless the officers and soldiers of the India South Eastern Territory!
Outstanding youth programs recognized n Territorial Youth Department announces Standard of Achievement winners. Each year, the Territorial Youth Department recognizes outstanding corps youth programs by presenting Standard of Achievement awards for corps cadets and junior soldiers. The awards are organized into three levels: blue, red and yellow, based on how many students are in the brigade, with blue having the largest number. Corps receive a plaque with an engraved star plate to display. Here are the 2010-2011 Standard of Achievement winners. Corps cadets Corps cadet brigades earn points for conducting a Corps Cadet Sunday, wearing uniforms, taking excursions, turning in lessons, or for their leaders participating in a training event. Blue: San Pedro, Calif. (Southern California)—3,730 points; Spokane Citadel, Wash. (Northwest)—3,545; El Cajon, Calif. (Sierra del Mar)— 3,475; Torrance, Calif. (Southern California)—3,454; San Diego Citadel, Calif. (Sierra del Mar)—3,355; Gresham, Ore. (Cascade)—2,175; Vancouver, Wash. (Northwest)—2,030; Kalispell, Mont. (Northwest)—1,870; Pendleton, Ore. (Cascade)—1,810; Great Falls, Mont. (Northwest)—1,575. Red: Kauluwela, Hawaii (H&PI) —1,710; Albuquerque Temple, N.M. (Southwest)—1,640; Fort Collins, Colo. (Intermountain)—1,415; Bay Communities, Ore. (Cascade)—1,390; Guam (H&PI)—1,190; Mesa, Ariz. (Southwest)—1,160; Homer, Alaska (Alaska) 1,070; Casa Grande, Ariz. (Southwest)—1,040; Riverside, Calif. (Sierra del Mar)—1,025; Phoenix S. Mountain, Ariz. (Southwest)—1,020. Yellow: Rita (H&PI)—1,955; Hilo, Hawaii (H&PI)—1,590; Las Vegas Citadel, Nev. (Southwest)—1,510; Kroc Center,
Hawaii (H&PI)—1,500; Tucson S., Ariz. (Southwest)—1,320; N. Las Vegas, Nev. (Southwest)—835; Fresno, Calif. (Golden State)—780. Junior soldiers Requirements for junior soldiers include membership, attendance, uniforms, singing company and/or participation in the worship service. Blue: Denver Citadel, Colo. (Intermountain); Kalispell, Mont. (Northwest); San Francisco Kroc Center, Calif. (Golden State); Merced, Calif. (Golden State); Mesa Citadel, Ariz. (Southwest); Pendleton, Ore. (Cascade); Phoenix S. Mountain, Ariz. (Southwest); Rita (H&PI); Riverside, Calif. (Sierra del Mar); San Diego Citadel, Calif. (Sierra del Mar); San Pedro, Calif. (Southern California). Red: N. Las Vegas, Nev. (Southwest); Tucson Korean, Ariz. (Southwest). Yellow: Albany, Ore. (Cascade); Albuquerque Citadel, N.M. (Southwest); Albuquerque Temple, N.M. (Southwest); Anaheim Temple, Calif. (Southern California); Eugene, Ore. (Cascade); Pasadena Tabernacle, Calif. (Southern California); Pomona, Calif. (Southern California); Portland Tabernacle, Ore. (Cascade); Sheridan, Wyo. (Intermountain); Spokane, Wash. (Northwest); Denver West Adams, Colo. (Intermountain). Intermountain Division • Casper, WY
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DIRECTOR & CORPS PROGRAM ASSISTANT The Casper Corps in Wyoming is looking for a Christian Education Director and a Corps Program Assistant to lead the rebuilding of programs for children, youth and young adults. Responsibilities include Sunday school, corps cadets, Bible Bowl, troop activities, music programs, leadership recruitment, training and development and more. If interested, please provide a letter of introduction, salary requirements and resume via email to: Major Randy Kinnamon, Corps Officer: Randy.Kinnamon@usw.salvationarmy.org.
Sprint will make a $5 donation to the Red Kettle Campaign for any new line of service activated through The Salvation Army’s private online store at sprint.com/salvationarmy.
The Salvation Army’s new family store advertisements in the Western Territory remind folks that if they’ve got something in the house or garage that’s not right for them, there’s no time like the present to drop it by one of the family stores or contact the Army to come pick it up. Whether it’s grandma and her rad, new surfboard or the bodybuilder who’s grown too buff for his finely tailored suit, we’ve all got something that could be just the ticket for someone else. Everything donated that the Army can sell in one of its stores will raise the funds needed to offer no-fee, lifesaving rehabilitation to people in your community through The Salvation Army’s adult rehabilitation centers. The series of five ads appear online, in newspapers, and on billboards, transit shelters and mall kiosks throughout the
month of November in the following markets: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Phoenix, Tucson, Portland, Seattle, Honolulu and Denver.
ANGEL GIVING TREE Created in collaboration with Infosys, Akamai Technologies, SapientNitro and Usablenet, the Angel Giving Tree Online enables supporters to adopt an angel anywhere in the U.S., making it easier than ever to buy and ship clothing, toys or other wish list items from the convenience of their home, office or almost anywhere in the world. The Angel Giving Tree Online program will also be accessible via a mobile browser at m.jcp.com/angel and as a new app available for iPads starting Nov. 14. In conjunction with UPS, gifts purchased through jcp.com can be shipped free of charge to a Salvation Army collection center. “The Salvation Army is preparing for
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what is expected to be another record number of families seeking help this Christmas,” said Major George Hood, Salvation Army national community relations and development secretary. “With the need greater than ever, we appreciate JC Penney’s strong commitment to continually enhancing the online program so that the millions of children and seniors living in poverty will have the opportunity to receive a gift this year.” In order to ensure that angels receive their gifts in time for Christmas, all adoptions and merchandise purchases must be made before Dec. 9 or as a JC Penney gift card through Dec. 13. From a Salvation Army press release
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Doing the Most Good
November 18, 2011 New Frontier
How do you measure?
As the gun battle raged, the bullets whizzed and men screamed. Daniel Mitchell and his friend held their own, firing back repeatedly at the four men trying to steal Glen their stash. The drug deal had gone terribly wrong. Doss When the dust settled, Daniel discovered Major one of their opponents had been hit and his friend lay mortally wounded. It was the defining moment in the life of a troubled young man. Daniel knew from the angle the bullet had been fired that it was meant for him—and should have hit him—yet miraculously he had been spared. At age 22 he had been given a second chance. “There must be another way,” he pondered. Today, at age 28, Daniel Mitchell—drug addict, drug dealer, burglar, car thief—has been replaced by Daniel Mitchell— college student, Sunday school teacher, Salvation Army soldier, committed servant of God. Daniel spent the first eight months of his life in a homeless shelter in Salt Lake City, Utah. The little family eventually settled in Indio, Calif. As they watched their parents drink and use drugs heavily, he and his younger sister suffered. “I felt a deep emptiness inside,” he remembers. “Any attention was always negative. It was: ‘Go to your room! It’s adult time.’ So they could get loaded.” He smoked marijuana for the first time at age 9. Eventually, he started stealing, lying and manipulating—“I had a rough edge on me,” Daniel remembers. “In school I got all Fs. I was the class clown.” When he was 10, the family moved to San Bernardino, Calif., where soon a cousin introduced him to methamphetamines. By age 16, Daniel says, “My life revolved around getting high.” His cousin showed Daniel how to break into houses to acquire the money to stay high. By age 18 he was stealing cars. From then on, he spent more time in jail than out. After the gun battle, he went to county jail for the last time. There he discovered he was becoming institutionalized: “I knew how to live in jail, but I didn’t know how to live outside—I just ran amuck.” The thought scared him. When he was released in 2006, Daniel took some family advice and checked into the Perris, Calif., Adult Rehabilitation Center, where he accepted Christ. From that day on nothing was ever the same. “I’m taking you out of your comfort zone.” “When I relapsed, the feeling of guilt, shame, bitterness and disgust for what I was doing hit me immediately. The seed had been planted,” he says. But it wasn’t until his fourth time in the program that he fully surrendered. On July 15, 2009, Daniel remembers, “I had hit rock bottom. I was homeless, sitting in my little fort in a park in San Bernardino, when I cried out to God: ‘I know you have something for me. You have shown me love. Why do I keep trying to take things into my own hands? Show me what you want me to do.’ God told me: ‘Get sobered up and go back to The Salvation Army one more time. I’m taking you out of your comfort zone. Trust me and be still.’” From that point forward, everything was new and different. Following graduation, Daniel entered the Pathways to Prosperity program of the San Bernardino Corps and enrolled in San Bernardino Community College, working toward a degree in nursing. On Oct. 10, 2010, he was enrolled as a soldier of The Salvation Army. “God’s timing was perfect,” says Daniel. “He was preparing me for things to come.” Eight months after he checked into Pathways his dad had two strokes, and Dan began helping him in his rehabilitation. In January 2011, his mother, after two years sobriety, was diagnosed with lung and brain cancer. Daniel became full-time caretaker for his mother. When she was given just a few weeks to live, his number one concern became her salvation. “I prayed and read the Bible to DANIEL MITCHELL, page 11
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Daniel Mitchell: ‘A beacon of God’s light’
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes (to borrow a thought from the songwriters), how do you measure a year? In daylights, in sunsets, in cups of coffee? In inches, in miles, in sports seasons? In meetings attended, in days of operation, in toys distribKelly uted? Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes, that’s Pontsler how many we each get, but seriously, Major how do you measure a year? It’s an interesting thought. What is the commodity or transaction or event that best describes all that any one of us has accomplished this year? The temptation is to quickly fall into a recitation of a long list of statistics (and we do like our statistics in this Army of ours). But at the risk of offending a few, so what? Yes, we are busy people. Yes, our days are long and calendars full. But if that’s all we have to account for 365 earth rotations in orbit, what difference does it make, really? It’s not the heft of our datebook that impresses a sovereign God, nor our unbelieving neighbor down the road. So how do we measure a year? The Salvation Army has always measured its years in people connections and changed lives. Every statistic in every annual report records the story of someone, somewhere in some city who encountered a member of staff or a Salvation Army volunteer on a day when they most needed hope and found it! Hope is best transmitted in relationship. It’s the sharing of a moment as a food package is delivered. It’s the look square into the eyes of the other that says, “you exist—I see you.” It’s the joy that bubbles up as the child tears the paper off that Christmas toy, knowing that something cool just has to be inside. Having no other way to record a collection of activities, we have to count. And having a heartfelt desire to remain accountable to those who support our mission, we know we need to write those numbers down. But they aren’t statistics. They’re people. People in need of hope, delivered by you or me, right here and right
now. People waiting for the offer of transformation and regeneration. While we’re counting them, they are counting on us. I say all of this fully aware that it’s the Thanksgiving and Christmas season in The Salvation Army. For many of you, sitting down with a cup of coffee just long enough to read this brief column is a luxury you really cannot afford. There are big needs and you are working as hard and as fast as you can to get it all done. The pressure cooker of the season has you feeling like you could explode at any moment, and if you do, it won’t be pretty. Changed lives? You’re just hoping to get the frozen chickens to the warehouse in time to get them into the boxes for distribution. It’s the season of seemingly mission impossible. In his book After McDonaldization, John Drane cites the observation by Leslie Newbiggin that the church has tended “to make mission a burden rather than a joy, to make it part of the law rather than part of the gospel.” Drane believes the reason is because “mission has been regarded as an essentially human activity, for which we need to enlist divine help through intense prayer, whereas a more faithfully biblical understanding would see mission as a divine activity that invites human collaboration.” If our focus is only statistics and what we feel we have to do, the job will always feel impossible. But we’re talking mission. Playing our part in God’s plan? It’s what we get to do. You may not get a year’s worth of minutes to influence one life, but you might get five. The duration of a firm handshake, a walk to a car, a quick prayer, a good belly laugh, or a single verse of Scripture might be all you get in this busy season, but the gift of that moment of time can begin the change of a lifetime. (Dear Lord, may it be so!) Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes? Thank you for serving so well. It’s been a great year!
It’s not the heft of our datebook that impresses a sovereign God, nor our unbelieving neighbor down the road. So how do we measure a year?
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Opportunities Have you ever been so fearful of “what might happen” that you’ve missed opportunities? Perhaps you have missed an opportunity to meet someone significant or a chance to minister to someone in need of Christ’s love. I think we all can look back occasionally with some regret upon realizing that we have missed an Sharron opportunity because of fear. During a recent Spiritual Day at Hudson Crestmont, I shared with the cadets Colonel my “almost” missed opportunity. Colonel Dave and I were asked to travel to India South Eastern Territory to participate in their congress and officers’ councils. You might have said, “What a fantastic opportunity!” It would be an adventure to go to a country where so few Westerners have been able to travel. At first, I did think this would be an adventure—but then I allowed fear to invade my thoughts. When our visas did not immediately come through, I was somewhat relieved and said, “Well, if the Lord wants us to go then we’ll get our visas.” When we did receive them, did this allay my fears? No! What caused this fear? Was I afraid of the flight through Dubai into India? Was I afraid of what might happen when I got there? Was I afraid that we would get sick? All of the above and more! But what, or should I say, who, was really causing these fears and why? At other times in my life I have known that Satan has not wanted me to be somewhere or say something to another because he knew that the result would be
encouragement, healing, increased faith or salvation from the Lord. In the movie The Passion, Satan is in the garden with Jesus the night before he was crucified, suggesting fear and doubt of God’s plan. Why? Satan knew that he would be defeated if Jesus fulfilled his earthly destiny. The Apostle Paul certainly had much to fear in his ministry to the Gentiles—but he pressed on. He wrote these words to the Colossians while he was in chains: Also pray for us that God will give us an opportunity to tell people his message. Pray that we can preach the secret that God has made known about Christ. This is why I am in prison (Col. 4:3). Even from inside the prison walls, Paul was seeking a way to preach the message of God’s love and forgiveness. If I had not gone to India South Eastern Territory, I would have missed the opportunity to meet some beautiful people, to see my ICO (International College for Officers) session mate again and to meet his family, to have Major Caroline, my translator, say that she rededicated her call to be an officer because of what was said—to have blessed memories of humbly serving the Lord and being obedient to his word. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayers and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6,7).
Doing the Most Good
November 18, 2011 New Frontier
Patience is a virtue Have you noticed that the way we watch television has radically changed? We no longer sit down before the “box” at a set Ian time to watch our Robinson favorite program. Major Now, with DVR, On Demand, Hulu Plus and other amazing gadgets we can watch what we want when we want and even fast forward through the commercials. At least with DVR you can. But On Demand TV posts a warning before the program begins that you cannot fast forward through their commercials for other programs produced by the same company. My wife laughs at me because I always reach for the remote and hit fast forward every time only to be stonewalled by a little circle with a diagonal line that says I was not paying attention at the beginning. Isobel says it is a sign of my impatience. Who? Me? I’m sure you have all heard the anonymous little ditty that goes, “Patience is a virtue, possess it while you can, seldom found in woman, never found in man.” It’s anonymous because it was probably written by a woman, and certainly never quoted by a man. However, I must admit that Isobel is correct. I am not always the most patient of men. Curiously, my impatience only surfaces in certain situations. I can wait long hours in medical waiting rooms reading three-year-old magazines. I can sit quietly in the movies, enduring horrendously loud and interminable previews of coming attractions. I have even managed to curb my impatience in the grocery store when I inevitably stand in the wrong line. I now realize that it only becomes the slowest line because
lifeLines I join it. But when I am trying to watch my favorite program without commercial interruptions I get a little impatient. And when I get behind the wheel of my car... . The dictionary defines patience as, “the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint.” Very apt considering the word was first used in A.D. 1200, long before the discovery of anaesthesia. People seeking medical treatment were “patients” because they were expected to endure great pain—and not because the chairs in the waiting room were so uncomfortable! The Bible has several words in Greek and Hebrew that are translated as “patience.” One of them is “makrothumia,” meaning longsuffering or forbearance. This concept of suffering long became very clear to us during Isobel’s depression. We learned the true meaning of enduring pain and suffering over the long term—18 months in our case. Many days Isobel was so frustrated with her depression that she cried out in agony, and I could only stand by watching and praying. No wonder St. John Chrysostom defined patience as, “the spirit that could take revenge if it liked, but utterly refuses to do so.” Paul also understood patience in all its fullness. That’s why he listed it as the first product of love in 1 Cor. 13:4. It is also an important element of the fruit of the Spirit in Gal. 5:22. Patience is enduring the onslaught of life and all its hardships without ever losing control. Patience is being the one who remains calm and collected in the face of the wildest storm you can imagine. Patience is an attribute of God that he wants to see reflected in all of us. Do you have it? Now, where’s that remote?
DANIEL MITCHELL her, telling her of God’s forgiveness and compassion. I told her it’s never too late. I said: ‘Mom, I feel so bad that I didn’t let you have your son for very long—just two years. I want you to be at the gates of heaven welcoming me in when I get there, and we’ll have all eternity together.’” Just days before she passed, when his aunt was visiting, Daniel’s mother took their hands and said, “Two nights ago I asked Christ into my heart. But, for my son, I want to pray the Sinner’s Prayer again—to ask Christ right now.” As they prayed, the burden on Daniel’s
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shoulders fell away. Many of the youth in Daniel’s Sunday school class have a home environment similar to that in which he grew up. “I tell them, ‘I was right where you are. But you don’t have to go through what I did. There’s a far better way to find the love and compassionate attention you seek.’ God pulled me out of the muck and mire and placed me on the rock of salvation to show others the way. He led me here for a divine purpose: to be a beacon of God’s light. I tell them: ‘Follow Christ!’”
ISSN 2164-5930 New Frontier is published twice a month by The Salvation Army USA Western Territory Commissioner James Knaggs, Territorial Commander Colonel Dave Hudson, Chief Secretary We welcome submissions of news stories of interest to the Western Territory. If you have something you’d like to share, submissions can be sent electronically to: new.frontier@usw.salvationarmy.org or by postal service to: New Frontier, P.O. Box 22646, 180 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90802 The editor reserves the right to edit material submitted. Articles should be roughly 300 words in length.
EDITORIAL STAFF Robert L. Docter, Editor-In-Chief • 562/491-8330 email: bob.docter@usw.salvationarmy.org Christin Davis, Managing Editor • 562/491-8723 email: christin.davis@usw.salvationarmy.org Karen Gleason, New Frontier Editor •562/491-8332 email: karen.gleason@usw.salvationarmy.org Buffy Lincoln, Associate Editor • 562/491-8329 email: buffy.lincoln@usw.salvationarmy.org Erica Andrews, Assistant Editor • 562/491-8334 email: erica.andrews@usw.salvationarmy.org LAYOUT & DESIGN/ADVERTISING Kevin Dobruck, Art Director • 562/491-8328 email: kevin.dobruck@usw.salvationarmy.org Adriana Rivera, Graphic Designer/Web coordinator • 562/491-8331 email: adriana.rivera@usw.salvationarmy.org CIRCULATION Arlene De Jesus, Circulation • 562/491-8343 email: arlene.dejesus@usw.salvationarmy.org new.frontier@usw.salvationarmy.org Member - Evangelical Press Association
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Armistice Day As I write this more than a day late and always a dollar short, I notice on our very handy New Frontier calendar that it’s Nov. 11. We always used to call this day Armistice Day—the day we celebrated the end of World War I—The Great War. It was always a big holiday with parades, bands and marching troops down the main street of every town. All the veterans living in that community would wear their soldier suits or their jumpers and bell bottoms, get their free drinks in bars and celebrate “old times” with buddies. Now, we’ve had so many wars since “the war to end all wars” that only the banks, schools, and post offices even recognize it as a holiday, and we’ve changed the name to Veterans Day. I guess that’s okay, but that little twinge of nostalgia I seem to feel more and more sends echoes through my heart as the informality of post modernity takes over, and different celebrations, atypical events thrust themselves upon us. Whatever they do to celebrate what I call “six-ones” day, they better enjoy it today, for this confluence of similar numbers will never happen again, and, next year, the day simply will be called, Nov. 11. For me, it’ll always be Armistice Day, Nov. 11—even though the VFW halls no longer echo voices telling stories of the Argonne Forest. The “old” vets there now fought hard in WWII and on the icy slopes of the hostile hills of Korea. Now, their places in the line of march are taken by Viet Nam vets and the young ones, the survivors of two Iraq wars and an entire decade of unfinished conflict in Afghanistan. Those teen years of 20th century America, once again, found many heroes, many leaders, many willing to sacrifice life itself for a cause. One was Woodrow Wilson, the 28th president of the United States, the only president to have a Ph.D., a Princeton University president, an historian, and a governor of New Jersey. Wilson, son of a Presbyterian minister, a devout Christian and a Democrat, ran at a good time. Theodore Roosevelt ran as a Progressive member of the “Bull Moose” party and Republicans nominated William Howard Taft. The nation elected Wilson in 1912. In his first year, he successfully persuaded Congress to pass significant progressive reforms with a legislative agenda unequaled until the New Deal record of Franklin Roosevelt. These pieces of legislation still affect our lives today. The war broke out in 1914 due to a number of complicated issues and immediately involved trench warfare, artillery and charges across “no man’s land” into the face of hostile gunfire. Wilson quickly declared American neutrality. On May 1, 1915, the RMS Lusitania sailed from New York bound for Liverpool carrying a very large number of American and British citizens. Seven days later German torpedoes blasted it out of the water with tremendous
loss of life. Wilson ran again in 1916 under a banner stating that “he kept us out of war.” Nevertheless, recognizing the peril that could impale the nation at any time, he increased Robert the size of the army. The Docter citizenry re-elected him Editor-In-Chief with a narrow majority. On Jan. 31, 1917, Germany announced a campaign of unrestricted submarine attacks anywhere. At about the same time, the “Zimmerman Telegram” was published in the U.S. It communicated to Mexico that Germany would assist Mexico in regaining territory in Texas and Arizona if it so desired. American public opinion changed quickly as Wilson broke off all diplomatic relations with Germany and, in April 1917, asked Congress for a declaration of war. We were drastically under prepared to enter the war. The army had only 300,000 men at the time. Another hero emerges Wilson named General John J. (Black Jack) Pershing to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF). Europe wanted both troops and the vast industrial complex that was America. He left for Europe after consultation with Wilson. Europe wanted the troops as replacements for their own losses. Pershing said that AEF forces would fight in their own units, separate while working within the overall strategic plan of the allies. The buildup was slow, but by war’s end in November of 1918, America had 1.2 million men in the war, and names of victories like Chateau-Thierry, Belleau Wood, MeuseArgonne, and Saint Mihiel reverberated through the homes of America and into the annals of American triumphs. It was costly in human life with more than 50,000 men killed in action. A third hero emerged, The Salvation Army National Commander, Evangeline Booth. She talked Pershing into allowing young Salvation Army women and men to serve in France immediately behind the lines and in military hospitals with the purpose of “bringing a bit of home” for troops coming out of the trenches for a brief respite. This action and the work of those young men and women changed the image of The Salvation Army in America in the minds of returning service men, their parents and all who heard the stories of the doughnut girls caring for the doughboys. The war ended with Germany’s surrender on November 11, 1918. Wilson dictated the content of the Treaty of Versailles with his 14 points. The U.S. Senate, however, never approved U.S. participation in the 14th point—the establishment of the League of Nations, for which Wilson received the Nobel Prize.
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