Service held to support troops

Across the tickle-long island - Church

A special Support Our Troops service was held at the Long Island Salvation Citadel on Nov. 23. Members of all three congregations attended. Captain Brandi LeDrew presented a video called "A Soldier's Prayer" and a slide show of seven soldiers from Long Island, or who have family on Long Island, who are in the Canadian Armed Forces. The soldiers are Paul Bromley, Jason Colbourne, Sean Colbourne, Andrea Hewlett, Sheldon Parsons, Wallace Rideout and Glen Rideout. Missing photos were of my stepson Darrin Paul, serving in the navy, and Tracey Colbourne, who has just begun her basic training.

Captain Brandi delivered the message while Captain Dwayne conducted the service and provided the music. Pastor Andrews led the prayer for all our troops who are fighting the enemies of freedom and led the chorus section of the service. Members of the congregation brought items to the altar to be sent in Christmas packages to our troops overseas. They then joined hands and prayed as a group for the blessing of God on all who serve and put themselves in danger.

Yvonne Heath, Joan Burton and Brenda Heath delivered a wonderful message through their song "Try a Little Kindness." The generosity of the people of Long Island continues to be evident as the gifts for the troops piled up. Then a special "Love Offering" was received. The offering, earmarked for Captain Gladys Osmond of Springdale, saw $300 received. Gladys began writing individual letters to people serving overseas some years ago. At the present time, she has hundreds of letters to be mailed in time for Christmas and the money collected will be used to help her pay the necessary postage. Mrs. Osmond, a very special lady, has been given the honorary title of Captain by the Canadian Armed Forces and as Captain Dwayne reported, has recently received an honorary doctorate from Memorial University for her work. God Bless you Mrs. Osmond.

This Sunday was also clue up time for Long Island's Christmas Child Shoeboxes. 49 shoeboxes lined the altar, lovingly packed by our residents, to be sent to children around the world who are far less fortunate than those in our country. They say it is more blessed to give than to receive and many of our residents may give themselves a pat on the back to their kindness and generosity as we approach the Christmas Season.

Recreation

The top ten scorers in adult darts are Harold-16.2, Dawson-15.9, Randy S.-15.5, Aubrey-15.0, Clyde-14.4, Ken-13.8, Pat and Randy C.-13.7, Sandra-13.6 and Goldie-13.2. Clyde and Harold are tied for most tuns-13, Clyde has most finishes-8, Louise has most bulls-eyes - 6 and Katie has shot the highest three darts - 174.

School

The Long Island Academy PTA is accepting donations of items for a Christmas Variety Box. Donations may be given to PTA Executive members are Pansy Rideout, Monda Oake, Dana Oake and Ms. Watkins. Boxes will be placed at Katie's Convenience and at the school. Tickets will be sold for the draw to take place at the Long Island Academy Christmas Program on Dec. 18.