On Monday, about 25 men and women from all across the United States converged upon our campus as part of a training seminar to receive their certification in pool installation, as well as helping to install a pool for TCM. This was definitely “hands on” training at its finest.

In just three days, a beautiful 18' x 36' in-ground pool was completely installed. An electronic retractable safety cover is being attached today. We will be adding a privacy fence and shower/bath facilities in the near future. This wonderful contribution of materials and labor amounted to a $40,000 donation.

Representatives from several companies were involved in the training process and also donated their time, equipment and efforts to the construction.

How did all of this come about? Several months ago, Shane Maness, a Paradise Pools Dealer, from Tennessee, came with his church group to tour the Mansion. I understand that he was responsible for submitting TCM as a possible site for this training project.

Special "thanks" goes to the following:

• Peter Moran headed up the entire operation
• Ray Voyles and Sons Construction - Donated excavation and heavy machine work
• Latham International: Donated the pool kit
• Kevin Losee and Coverstar - Donated the electronic safety cover
• Rob Nichols - Heyward Pool Products - Donated the filtration equipment

These men and women were very moved by what they saw here. They all went on a campus tour and had lunch in the cafeteria each day. They seemed to enjoy the interaction with the staff and children. They guy from Latham International of New York state, said, with tears in his eyes, that for him it was hard to imagine that a place like this existed. He comes from a loving family and can’t imagine that these children come from any less ideal circumstances and was glad that there was a place for them here.