The Tupelo Insider

The Burton's Weekend in the New Townhouse Resident Home

StephenJudd — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:04:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd & Margo Burton

During the past few years, all seven of our resident homes at the Mansion have been renovated. Several of them have undergone extreme makeovers, including reconfiguration of floor plans. The most recent improvement project was the completion of our redesign and remodeling of Townhouse, one of our three boys' resident homes.

I am inserting some recent photos that portray this beautiful home. The upstairs includes the bedrooms and baths for the boys, and also a new houseparent apartment with exterior entrance.

A few days ago, Ken and Margo Burton spent a weekend with the Townhouse boys as relief houseparents. I asked Margo to write a report concerning their houseparenting experience.

By Margo Burton

A house full of boys always proves to be a house full of fun and energy. When you pass by the boy’s homes at the back of the campus of the Tupelo Children’s Mansion, you are likely to see a game of basketball, skateboards in use, or younger boys trading their latest, shiny cars. Recently, we were privileged to be responsible for the wonderful boys for the weekend who live in Townhouse. We were relieving the houseparent’s so that they could take a family vacation. We were sure that we would need two things for the weekend; plenty of planned activities and plenty of food for these growing boys.

Doing relief houseparenting is not a position that should be taken lightly. We are assuming the role of a parent, and we like to treat these children like we would our own. They need love, attention and instruction. This weekend proved to be an opportunity to teach boys how to run a riding lawn mower, put together a wagon, and proper etiquette needed to eat in a nice restaurant. We look at being with the children as a chance to help them with their laundry, or play a game of basketball. (My husband realized that he could not keep up with the boys like he used to, so he only played basketball with the boys one night).

When our shift was over that Sunday evening, we were physically exhausted, but our hearts were full. We were reminded again why we have worked at the Mansion for 20 years now. Even though we may not be able to do some things physically, we still have room in our hearts for children who need someone to say “good job”or“I love you.” We were also thankful that we were able to spend the weekend with Lee Jordan, a young man who had lived at the Mansion for 6 years. He was having the opportunity to be adopted into a beautiful family of his own.

A week later, I received a big hug at church during the prayer time around the altar from one of the youngest boys in Townhouse. As he squeezed me tight, I knew that this was his way of saying that he appreciated the little that we were able to do for the weekend. I knew at the moment that he felt content in his little heart. I am thankful for the staff at TCM who devote their lives daily to the care of these children, and we are thankful that we can do our part.

The Bike Can Wait!

StephenJudd — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 01:24:00 GMT

I received the following letter last week and felt to share it with our blog readers. It speaks for itself...

Dear Brother and Sister Judd,

You may not remember us, but we visited the Mansion twice during 2008 and helped with SFC Hall and some painting at the guest house. We are also Special Kid Sponsors. We enjoyed out time there very much and are sad that we have not been able to make the trip this year. The Mansion showed much kindness to us, especially under the care of Jim Mekash.

Our reason for writing is to send the enclosed donation. Recently, we have been shopping for a new bike for (our son) so that he can ride longer distances. Today we found a bike for him that he like at a very reasonable price. We were close to making the decision, but decided to wait. Before church tonight, we read the "current appeal" on the http://www.mansionkids.org

website. It was then that He decided that he did not need a new bike. There are greater needs. The check is for the amount we were going to spend on the bike.

TCM will always hold a special place in our hearts and prayers. Please tell everyone that we say "hello."

God bless,

(I have chosen to withhold the name)

Maggie - Pursuing Her Dream!

StephenJudd — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 03:28:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd and Kathryn Slagle

During the first month that Maggie Forrester was at TCM, she expressed to her housemother that she wanted to be a preacher's wife or a missionary. She said she felt strongly called to ministry. Over the next three years, she expressed this sentiment on more than one occasion.

Two weeks ago, a dream of Maggie's became a reality as she enrolled in Gateway College of Evangelism at St. Louis, MO. She chose to attend Gateway for two reasons: 1) Because she feels good about the program that is offered there, and 2) Because she would only be six hours from her two brothers and sister in Tupelo. As the oldest of this sibling group, it is very important to Maggie that she not lose contact with her siblings.

Maggie was fortunate this summer to be able to go on a Youth on Missions trip to Guatemala. A few weeks after her return from Guatemala she attend the North American Youth Congress in Nashville. During both of these experiences, she felt that God was speaking to her heart that she needed to trust Him as well as TCM to care for her family, and step out in faith and attend Bible college.

Maggie struggled with her decision to leave the Mansion and attend Bible College, as she feels such a strong responsibility for her siblings. Their mother was very ill for a long time before her death and Maggie served as primary care giver for her siblings before coming to TCM. She was afraid if she went away to college that they would feel abandoned by her, especially her youngest brother.

Maggie approached the staff at TCM and let them know about her desire to attend college, but expressed her fear of leaving. She was assured the Mansion would still be her home and that she could return to visit her siblings at anytime. She then met with her siblings and they encouraged her to go for her dream.

All three of the siblings were able to accompany Maggie as she made the trip to Gateway. They got to see the college firsthand and Maggie's new surroundings, as well as attend church with on her first Sunday in St. Louis. Her 16 year old sister actually got to spend one night with her in the dorm helping her unpack her room. When the TCM staff arrived the next morning, they were asleep together in Maggie's twin bed after staying up until 3:00 AM organizing her room.

When they finally said their goodbyes, everyone was at peace with Maggie's decision. Her youngest brother hugged her for a full minute and made her promise out loud that she would come to Tupelo for Thanksgiving and, of course, bring him a gift. She told her new housemother that she was glad she put her fears aside and pursued her dream, and that from the moment she arrived at Gateway she felt a peace and knew she was where she was supposed to be. She said that her mother would be proud of her decision to give her life to the work of the Lord. She added that if she didn't know that her sister and brothers were safe and well cared for, that she wouldn't have been able to leave them to pursue her dream.

Maggie has called several times since she has been at Gateway and it is evident that she is loving college life. She has decided to make The Sanctuary her home church. Pastor Scott Graham made her feel very welcome, and Shay Mann, General Youth President, exchanged phone numbers with her and offered to help whenever needed. She has also made connections with Nichole Dale, a former TCM employee who resides in St. Louis. Nichole has helped her obtain interviews and it looks like she will have a job in the near future.

Maggie has always been very good with her money. She has her own car. She saved over $2,000.00 toward the car and the rest was provided by a generous sponsor. As soon as she had bought her car she began saving for college. She is very diligent and always puts away 40% of her income into savings. She already has her car insurance for the next year put aside in an account and wants to have all four years of college money saved up by the end of 2010. She has stated that she wants to save for a house so that when her siblings leave TCM they will always have a home with her.

Needless to say, we are very proud of Maggie. We will miss her at the Mansion, but are excited for her as she allows the Lord to order her steps in following His will for her life. It has been very fulfilling to see her grow in the Lord and become an outstanding young lady.

Sacrificial Giving

StephenJudd — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:25:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

The following note was received yesterday and I wanted to share it with you.

Dear Tupelo Children's Mansion,

I recently wrote to the ministry and stopped my monthly partnership due to a job loss. After thinking about it, I decided that I will continue my giving and not give up! I think I panicked out of fear and that is not what the Lord wants me to do. I will continue my $50.00 a month commitment and believe God that I will get another job and be able to give even more in the future.

God bless you!

I am so thankful for our faithful sponsors who sacrifice in order to make it possible for the mission of Tupelo Children's Mansion to continue.

Girls' Night Out

StephenJudd — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 18:13:00 GMT

By Margo Burton
Guest Blogger

Girls’ Night Out is a new group that falls under the mentoring program at Tupelo Children’s Mansion. Girls between the ages of 13 – 16 have been meeting every Wednesday evening for some special “girl time.” The girls were given an opportunity with guidance to pick their activities for this program. The girls chose activities such as; Hair Night, Out to Eat and Shopping Night, Spa Night, Cooking Night, and Reading Night.

This core group has been meeting since March of this year. It is a time where the girls can get together and talk about hair, purses, shopping, or issues that only girls of this age experience. Their favorite activity has definitely been cooking. The girls planned their own menu that they would like to learn to cook. At the end of the session, the girls would like to serve their meal to the administration at the Mansion. Some of the items that they have been learning to cook are: Szechuan Chicken with Angel Hair Pasta, Spinach, Strawberry, and Hearts of Palm Salad, Strawberry Punch, and Cheese Biscuits. The aprons were made by the Dorcas Ladies of Louisiana. We will have their names monogrammed onto the aprons so that they can keep and use every time they cook.

One of the girls commented that she looked forward to Girls’ Night Out every Wednesday. All of the girls then spoke up in agreement. At times you are not always sure how teenagers are feeling about things that are planned. I knew then that every minute put into this mentoring program was worthwhile. At the Mansion, we are trying to help children in every aspect of their life. We pray that they take all the little nuggets of love and information that is given to them and use it to the benefit of their lives.

Volunteering to Make a Difference!

StephenJudd — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 21:39:00 GMT

BY JIM MEKASH
Director of Physical Plant

Volunteers have come to Tupelo Children’s Mansion since the beginning and have provided tremendous assistance in a multitude of ways. On Friday, two ladies from Florida arrived to assist in the residential department. In a couple of weeks, a group of men will be coming to assist TCM in the completion of a major project which was begun last year. They will not only provide physical labor but will bring equipment, supplies and financial contributions for the project. Volunteer people and groups have helped us immensely.

During the past seven years, Cliff and Gayla Royer of DeQuincy, LA have logged the most volunteer time of anyone. In addition to being quality supporters of the mansion, they are skilled and able to work as a team in the physical improvement of the campus. During the past 10-day stay they were able to essentially complete the remodeling of Townhouse boy’s residence hall, Cole-Morgan boy’s residence hall, painting of Hansford Hall, doing necessary roof repairs on two building roofs, and trimming out at the Thrift Store. Their visits, typically two or three times per year, have transformed the campus greatly. It is great to be able to point them in the direction and say “go to it” and know that all will be done thoroughly and with the greatest of quality.

The Royers love to host a fish fry when they come to the Mansion. Last week, they brought a huge catch of catfish from Louisiana and prepared a fabulous meal for all of the staff and residents. They really know how to do it!

There is one additional trait that is usually seen by the volunteers.They not only come to help with projects but also bring an “open heart” and love for the children.

Relief Houseparenting in Conqueror’s Hall

StephenJudd — Fri, 29 May 2009 03:00:00 GMT

BY ERMA JUDD

Thursday found me in Conqueror’s Hall, one of our girl’s residential homes. I was scheduled to do relief houseparenting through Sunday night at 10:00 p.m.

Wow! There were several new with whom I had not had the opportunity to become well-acquainted. A couple of them were having a difficult time adjusting to their new home. It had been several months since my husband and I had houseparented, and a couple of thoughts were going through my mind as I entered this volunteer voluntary assignment. Would I do okay and how would the girls respond to me?

I recently had read a Scripture in my devotional time that came to my mind: “If you search for good, you will find favor” (Proverbs 11:27).

Sometimes the good in a situation or a person is not obvious; you must search for it. However, it’s worth the effort. I learned that you discover what you looking for. If I focus on the good, I will find favor with other people as well as my circumstances.

I wasn’t in Conquerors for an hour until I knew we were going to have a good time!

Little Shelby was my sidekick. Everywhere I went on campus, she wanted to go. I was so delighted to observe that the older girls took time to play with Shelby and help her with her workbook. They fixed her hair and supervised her cleaning her room. Their patience with a 7-year-old was incredible.

Each of the girls pitched in to help around the home. Rachelle took it upon herself to do the general laundry and reminded the girls when they needed to do their personal laundry. Skylar helped her two roommates keep their clothes and things organized in their room. Kimberly helped wash the dishes after each meal, and Tosha swept and mopped the floor each day. Makayla made sure the bathroom was clean and did a lot of extra chores around the house on her own. Hannah vacummed the living room and hall and even cleaned out the van on Saturday. Brianna watered the plants on the front porch. All the girls were such a help to me making the days go by so smoothly.

I laughed so much with the girls. They are so funny and loveable, and get along so well together.

On Saturday, Steve and I took them to Memphis to the Imax and then to eat at a Mexican Restaurant. We even went to Sheridan’s for frozen custard. They were so appreciative of everything we did for them and thoroughly enjoyed the day.

One of their favorite things to do - even the 18-year-old - is to get sidewalk chalk and draw and write on the sidewalks and front drive. If you were to visit the Mansion, as you would drive onto the campus you would no doubt see all their artwork for the day on display.

These are awesome girls that have great futures! I can’t wait to see where God will take each one of them.

I searched for the good, and I found a lot of it! I also found kindness, helpfulness, patience, and lots of love in each and every one of them! And I am a better person for getting to know them better!

It is the Soldier!

StephenJudd — Sun, 24 May 2009 04:50:00 GMT

On this Memorial Day weekend, we express our appreciation to those who have served in the armed forces. We thank God for our soldiers, and for the many stories of His protection on them as they serve around the world. The bravery and sacrifice of those who have stood and fought and died will always be remembered.

It is the Soldier, not the reporter,
Who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the Soldier, not the poet,
Who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the Soldier, not the campus organizer,
Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the Soldier, not the lawyer,
Who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the Soldier, who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protestor to burn the flag.

- Poem by Father Dennis Edward O'Brien United States Marine Corps

(Photo of wall mural depicting Desert Storm troops taken at Bush Presidential Museum - College Station, TX.)

Woodlawn Prime Timers Visit the Mansion

StephenJudd — Sun, 17 May 2009 16:54:00 GMT

BY ANNETTE TOMLINSON
Sponsor Relations Coordinator & Tupelo Insider Contributor

Pastor and Mrs. James Carney of Woodlawn Church of Columbia, MS graced the Mansion with a visit on Saturday, May 16. They, along with Rev. and Mrs. Myron Schilling, brought 27 members of the Prime Timers Sunday School Class from their church.

Three weeks ago, the Schillings and the Scotts, who co-teach the 75-member class, decided to undertake a project to benefit the Mansion. Their goal was to raise $2,500, but with tears in their eyes, they proudly presented Annette Tomlinson, our Sponsor Relations Coordinator, with a check in the amount of $5,000.

During the tour, they visited two of the residence halls as well as a large portion of our sprawling 40-acre campus.

Towards the end of the tour, a downpour came, so they remained in Park’s Hall, visiting with the boys and houseparents for about an hour before boarding their bus to head back to Columbia.

Pastor Carney urged the members of the group to get involved with TCM on a personal level and Annette presented the Special Kids Sponsorship program for those who were interested. The group left very excited about the children they met and are looking forward to continue helping TCM with future projects.

We are so appreciative of the sacrifice that was involved in this project and the effort taken to make the trip to Tupelo.

After the tour, Pastor Carney sent us the following email...

Sis Annette, thanks for being such a great host today. We enjoyed our time at TCM and wish it could have been longer. What a place to be impacted by people who care about kids. We are so blessed to be able to share a small token of our appreciation to the staff and kids of TCM. Thanks for allowing us to come on a Saturday and you taking the time to be with us. It was an experience they will never forget. - Your Friends at Woodlawn, James E Carney

Pastor Carney serves on the TCM Board of Directors and is a member of the Budget Committee. His leadership is invaluable to the progress of this ministry.

Houseparent Training

StephenJudd — Fri, 15 May 2009 14:30:00 GMT

BY CHAD PARKER
Executive Director of Residential Services
Tupelo Children's Mansion

On Wednesday, May 13, the houseparents of TCM Residential Services gathered at the Tupelo Country Club for a day of training, fun, and fellowship...and, of course, food. The training included presentations and group discussions that offered fresh and relevant approaches to houseparenting.

The group was blessed by the Word in a devotion given by Annette Manuel, Haven of Hope Supervisor. Kenneth Burton, Vice President of TCM, presented the history, mission, and purpose of TCM along with some important budget information. Prior to lunch, Margo Burton and Kathryn Slagle tag-teamed about the dual role of houseparents, the ministry and the job. This proved to be the most important session of the day.

The houseparents then split up according to their residence hall assignments, and were given case vignettes in which they were to discuss their assessment of the given situation, and what they would do to help remedy the issue at hand. This was enjoyable, but very thought-provoking and challenging.

After a nice buffet lunch, the meeting began with Jennifer Lawrence, Assistant Director of Education, giving insight into the relationship between houseparents and their children’s teachers. Houseparents were given time for a Q&A session with her after her presentation.
To end the day, Chad Parker, Executive Director of Residential Services, talked to the houseparents about boundaries, emotional attachments, and avoiding burn-out.

Lots of laughs were shared, many tears were shed, and all were reminded of the great calling God has placed on their lives during this training. We are so thankful to have such an amazing team!

Unexpected Blessings

StephenJudd — Sun, 03 May 2009 00:13:00 GMT

BY STEPHEN JUDD

The Mansion was blessed last week with significant donations from Woodmen of America and the Louisiana Ladies Ministries UPCI.

Dennis Moffett, District Manager of Woodmen of America, and Terry Perish, Agent, stopped by our offices to present two checks to us, one in the amount of $5,000 to TCM and another in the amount of $2,500 (designated for Haven of Hope Girls' Home).

Modern Woodmen of America was founded in 1883 with the sole purpose to benefit members and non-members in the community. Since its inception, millions of dollars have been given in matching funds.

Dennis Moffett stated, "We appreciate all the good things that you do for the children and families you serve. We consider it an honor as well as a privilege to help such a fine organization that helps children in their time of need."

This money was raised by having a BBQ dinner fundraiser as well as donations received from individuals and area churches and was matched, dollar for dollar, by Modern Woodmen of America.

But wait...there's more!

Delisa Cox, Ladies Ministries President of the Louisiana District UPCI, sent a check in the amount of $10,000 from a special offering that was received at the recent ladies conference. Delisa is also the wife of the Chairman of our Board, Kevin Cox.

We sincerely appreciate these generous donations. God provides the support that is needed to operate TCM, sometimes from unexpected resources.

(Pictured: Erma Judd, Delisa Cox, and Sonya Laughlin)

Dorcas Ladies Doing What They do Best

StephenJudd — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 01:56:00 GMT

BY SONYA LAUGHLIN
The Tupelo Insider Contributor

Dorcas stands out in the Bible as a woman of good works and charitable deeds. Dorcas proved herself to be a real “doer” of the Word of God, not just a mere “hearer”. What is significant about the account of her life is that Dorcas not only thought up ways of relieving the needy, but she also carried out her plans. She knew what she could do and she DID it!

Among her charitable deeds was making clothes for widows and the needy of her church community with her own hands. She was not only willing to give money to a cause, but she was willing to invest herself in the works of kindness.

Each year, Tupelo Children’s Mansion is blessed to have between 10-15 ladies of the Dorcas Ministry of the Louisiana District UPCI, under the direction of Gloria Chatagnier, travel to the Mansion to make various items of need.

This year they reupholstered dining chairs, couches, and love seats. They basically “outfitted” an entire boys’ dorm that is being refurbishing with money raised from our Phone-a-thon.

They also made aprons for our kitchen staff and the girls involved in the mentoring program, supplied many various clothing needs for our growing population of children and also made monogrammed blankets for all of our children. The list goes on and on.

These precious ladies have been traveling to Tupelo for 16 years now. Many of them sponsor our children and have developed lasting relationships and are truly invested in the lives of these children.

We are so very grateful for their burden, sacrifice and genuine “Dorcas” love that they bestow upon us every year.

Sonya Laughlin is the Executive Secretary for Stephen Judd and Ken Burton

Mansion 5K a Huge Success!

StephenJudd — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 20:39:00 GMT

BY STEPHEN JUDD

Over 160 runners participated in the Mansion 5K on Saturday, April 18th. The forecast of rain affected the turnout; however, the showers didn't dampen the spirits of these TCM enthusiasts!

The race began in front of Dick's Sporting Goods and continued around the Mall, out onto Gloster, up to Barnes Crossing, and back around the perimeter of the Mall.

Defending Champion, Jim Brown, was the overall winner. The 30 year-old ran the race in 17:23.9 - a pace of 5:36/M. Amazing!

A special "thanks" goes out to Barnes Crossing Mall, the Tupelo Police Department, the Tupelo Running Club, ChampionChip Timing, and to all the local businesses that backed this charitable event. We are also very appreciative of our corporate and individual supporters who sponsored individual participants.

The donations are still coming in and it looks like we have already raised between $85,000 and $100,000 for the Mansion!

This is just the beginning. Next year, we will no doubt have between 300 and 500 runners. In five years, I predict that this event will draw 1,000 runners and become one of the largest 5K races in this region!

I want to thank Burton Gaar for his outstanding coordination and promotion of this event. He has worked tirelessly for the past several weeks to make sure that it was a complete success.

Saturday is the Big Day for the Mansion 5K!

StephenJudd — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 04:25:00 GMT

BY STEPHEN JUDD

Huge event. Unbelievable excitement. Hundreds of runners. Official race. Chip timing. Corporate teams. Sponsors. Medals and T-Shirts. Prizes. Trophies. Media coverage. Wizard 106 broadcasting live.

I went ahead and did my 10 mile run yesterday on a 1/2 mile track to get it behind me and out of the way. It took me 1 hour, 53 minutes...averaged 5.3 mph ( not bad for an old man).

Special thanks to all my sponsors who have pledged or donated over $63,000...and it's still coming in!

Click on the link below to see a 30 second video clip of my run...that last lap was a killer!

http://www.aspireonemedia.com/mediaplayer/playeropener.asp?id=2340&cid=132

It's not too late to donate to this fund-raising campaign. Just go to...

http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

I want to give special recognition to Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations and Special Projects, for coordinating this event and building our corporate teams. He's done a fantastic job!

Stephen Judd

Corporate Teams Backing Mansion 5K!

StephenJudd — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:34:00 GMT

BY STEPHEN JUDD

A growing number of local businesses in Tupelo are sponsoring TCM children running - along with several hundred other runners - in the Mansion 5K this Saturday.

Check out some exciting video clips at the following link...

http://www.aspireonemedia.com/mediaPlayer/playerHome.asp?cid=132

Team Coca Cola
Team Somerville Tie Company
Team Anytime Fitness
Team Golden Living Center
Team O'Charley's
Team Papa Johns
Team Wizard 106
Team Dr. Mincy
Team Walmart - The A Team
Team Newk's

It's not too late to join one of these teams sponsoring the children, or to support the President's "Extra Mile" Run! Go to...

http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

Overall Mansion 5K Goal: $100,000.00!

Special "thanks" to all who have already pledged or donated online, or mailed in a contribution!

Stephen Judd
TCM President

One Week to GO-AL!

StephenJudd — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 02:05:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

To all of our TCM Friends…

I trust all is well with you on this Easter weekend. No doubt you are looking forward to a great Resurrection Sunday!

With less than one week to go until our Mansion 5K and my 10 mile run, I have $47,332.17 pledged or donated in sponsorships. A big “thank you” goes to all of you who have already joined Team Judd in this exciting fund-raising benefit for the Mansion.

There is still time for you to help us reach our goal of $56,000.00! Your support could make the difference. Please don’t almost give…every dollar counts big, whether it is $10.00, $100.00, or $1,000.00.

If you would like to sponsor me, you can select one of the three following options:

1 To make a pledge (to be paid within 120 days), go to...

www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

...click on “payment method” and select “pledge.” Or, you can simply email me at stephenjudd@mansionkids.org . Please include your mailing address in the email.

2 To donate now online, go to...

http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

...and click on “payment method.”

3 If you prefer to mail a check, the address is:

TCM President’s 10 Mile Run / P. O. Box 167 / Tupelo, MS 38802

However, please email me and let me know that the check is on the way. We’ll add your contribution to the on-line thermometer showing our progress.

Again, thanks so much for your generous support.

Bye for now…I’ve got to “run!”

Two Weeks to Go!

StephenJudd — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 04:20:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

Hundreds of runners are expected to participate in the Mansion 5K and President's 10 mile run on April 18th. This official 5K race is endorsed by the Tupelo Running Club, with BancorpSouth as the lead corporate sponsor.

I am training to run 10 miles in this exciting fund-raising endeavor for the Tupelo Children's Mansion. I hope that you will join Team Judd and partner with me as I go the “extra mile” for the Mansion kids. Together we will release the blessing into the lives of these precious children.

Would you please consider helping me raise $56,000.00 by April 18th for this great cause?

With two weeks to go, $39,703.02 has been pledged or donated! Every dollar counts… I have sponsorship amounts from $10.00 to $1,000.00! Your support could make the difference!

Please don’t almost give…

If you would like to sponsor me, you can select one of the three following options:

1 To make a pledge (to be paid within 120 days), go to http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

click on “payment method” and select “pledge.” Or, you can simply email me at stephenjudd@mansionkids.org. Please include your mailing address in the email.

2 To donate now online, go to http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

and click on “payment method.”

3 If you prefer to mail a check, the address is: TCM President’s 10 Mile Run, P. O. Box 167, Tupelo, MS 38802. However, please email me and let me know that the check is on the way. We’ll add your contribution to the on-line thermometer showing our progress.

Again, thanks so much for your generous support. To follow my progress you can subscribe to my blog at prblog.tcmm.org/ or find me on Twitter or Facebook.

Bye for now…I’ve got to “run!” I’m headed to the gym!

2009 TCM Golf Classic

StephenJudd — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:29:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

The 2009 TCM Golf Classic – a benefit event to raise charitable funds for Tupelo Children’s Mansion – will be held on Monday and Tuesday, September 7-8.

Golf enthusiasts from near and far will be gathering at the beautiful Tupelo Country Club (a members-only club) for this unique golfing experience.

The main event will be a FOUR-MAN 18-HOLE SCRAMBLE on Tuesday morning (the day after Labor Day) at 8:30 a.m. The entry fee will be $100.00 per player ($400.00 per team), and will include the practice range, golf cart, and lunch. Players can form their own teams or request to be placed on a team.

For those who are interested, there will also be an optional 27-HOLE STROKE PLAY TOURNAMENT on Monday afternoon (Labor Day), followed by a cook-out and fellowship at the Judds’ home (on the 14th green). This exclusive event will have a limited number of players and will be open to those who make a minimum $500.00 donation to TCM.

Fabulous prizes and awards will be presented. More information will be forthcoming. Save the date!

How Old is Grandpa?

StephenJudd — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 02:37:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

One evening a grandson was talking to his grandfather about current events. The grandson asked his grandfather what he thought about the shootings at schools, the computer age, and just things in general.

The Grandfather replied,

Well, let me think a minute, I was born before: Television, penicillin, polio shots, frozen foods, Xerox, contact lenses, Frisbees and the pill.

There were no: credit cards, laser beams or ball-point pens.

Man had not invented: pantyhose, air conditioners, dishwashers, clothes dryers, the clothes were hung out to dry in the fresh air, and man hadn't yet walked on the moon.

Your Grandmother and I got married first, and then lived together.

Every family had a father and a mother.

Until I was 25, I called every man older than me, “Sir.” And after I turned 25, I still called policemen and every man with a title, “Sir.”

We were before gay-rights, computer-dating, dual careers, daycare centers, and group therapy.

Our lives were governed by the Ten Commandments, good judgment, and common sense.

We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong and to stand up and take responsibility for our actions.

Serving your country was a privilege; living in this country was a bigger privilege.

We thought fast food was what people ate during Lent.

Having a meaningful relationship meant getting along with your cousins.

Draft dodgers were those who closed front doors as the evening breeze started.

Time-sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and
weekends-not purchasing condominiums.

We never heard of FM radios, tape decks, CDs, electric typewriters, yogurt, or guys wearing earrings.

We listened to Big Bands, Jack Benny, and the President's speeches on our radios.

I don't ever remember any kid blowing his brains out listening to Tommy Dorsey.

If you saw anything with “Made in Japan” on it, it was junk.

The term “making out” referred to how you did on your school exam.

Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of.

We had 5 &10-cent stores where you could actually buy things for 5 and 10 cents.

Ice-cream cones, phone calls, rides on a streetcar, and a Pepsi were all a nickel.

And if you didn't want to splurge, you could spend your nickel on enough
stamps to mail 1 letter and 2 postcards.

You could buy a new Chevy Coupe for $600…but who could afford one? Too bad, because gas was 11 cents a gallon.

In my day: “grass” was mowed, “coke” was a cold drink, “pot” was something your mother cooked in, and “rock music” was your grandmother's lullaby.

“Aids’ were helpers in the Principal's office, “chip” meant a piece of wood, “hardware” was found in a hardware store, and “software” wasn't even a word.

We were the last generation to actually believe that a lady needed a husband to have a baby.

No wonder people call us “old and confused” and say there is a generation gap.

So, how old do you think grandpa is?

If you’re like me, you’re probably thinking that grandpa is about the age of my father, who turns 86 in May.

Perhaps you’ll be surprised to know that grandpa is my age, only 56 years old, which also happens to be how long Tupelo Children’s Mansion has existed.

New Houseparents Arrive

StephenJudd — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 19:48:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

We recently welcomed James and Shelly Roberts to the TCM campus as houseparents over Cole Morgan Residential Hall.

The Roberts have been married for 15 years. They have two sons, James (15) and Giovanni (13).

James grew up in a military home and enlisted in the military, too. After serving several years with the Marines, he was medically discharged due to some issues with his knee. James made his home in Augusta, GA where he was mentored by his pastor, Wesley McClain.

Shelly grew up in Wausau, WI. A Baptist neighbor introduced her family to the love of God, and Shelly began her journey to find Him. Circumstances led Shelly to Augusta, GA where she met James.

The Roberts love the outdoors and any activity that they can do as a family. They have been actively involved in various ministries, including youth work and teaching Bible studies.

James said, "We have made a change in our lives. God has been teaching us, as a family, for the past few years. Now, we know the reasoning behind all of the madness. God has prepared us for such a time as this. We are now able to touch lives in ways that no other can, from the start. We love young people and really love our boys at our new home . . . the Mansion."

Shelly said, "We have felt for many years that God has been equipping us with the knowledge and understanding to do something more. And now the past few months, by the leading of God, He has opened door after door and made things happen only like He can. Now, we are here, as houseparents, at Tupelo Children's Mansion."

The Roberts are doing a great job and have already made a difference in the lives of their boys.

Chad Parker, Executive Director of Residential Services, commented, “I have made several "drop-in" visits and each time they are actively engaged in some activity with the kids. The boys have continually stated how much they ‘love’ the Roberts. God has blessed us with this couple.”

Vice Chairman Steps Aside...Replacement Elected by Board

StephenJudd — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:39:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

Our Vice Chairman, R. D. Whalen, at the recent board meeting, asked that his name not be considered for election to another term, due to advancing years and some health issues. We deeply appreciate this great man. His dedicated leadership on behalf of the Mansion has been a tremendous blessing through the years. He will continue to serve as an honorary member of the board.

I am happy to report that Ron Becton was elected by theBoard of Directors to serve as our new Vice Chairman. I look forward to working with my long-time friend in his new role. Ron Becton pastors a thriving church in Nashville, TN, and is well respected throughout our constituency of support.

With Kevin Cox as our Chairman, Ron Becton as our Vice Chairman, and W. L. Clayton as our Secretary, we have an outstanding team of progressive minded and forward-looking corporate leaders at the helm of this wonderful institution. Their wives also contribute a great deal to the success of the organization. In the near future, Erma will be blogging about "ladies in leadership" and sharing some of the things that these outstanding women are doing to bless the cause!

Jeff Arnold Honored for Pastoral Support!

StephenJudd — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 22:12:00 GMT

By Stephen Judd

At the recent Annual Fellowship Banquet during the meeting of the Board of Directors, we honored Jeff Arnold for his generous support of Tupelo Children’s Mansion. Over $65,000.00 has been given over the past several years by Pastor Arnold and the church he pastors in Gainesville, Florida. Personally, he has given $12,000.00!

When I called him and invited him to come to the Banquet, and the reason why we wanted him to come, he replied, “No way…you’re not going to do that!” I knew that he would say that, so I suggested that he could do some magic for the kids and provide some entertainment, to which he said, “Well now, I can do that!”

Jeff Arnold has a big, soft spot in his heart for Tupelo. Back in the early 70’s, he and his wife would come by the Mansion frequently to do children’s ministry. Of course, there was Freddie, the Frog, and his magic tricks for the kids.

I don’t know of any other pastor or church that has been more supportive with financial giving. A few weeks ago, I was meeting in my office with Ken Burton, our Vice President and Treasurer, when a call came through from Pastor Arnold. His opening comment on the phone was, “Reverend Steve, how are you doing?” I replied that all was well, and he said, “No, please tell me why am I calling you? Last night in prayer, the Lord spoke to me to call you!”

I then became more candid and shared with him that Ken Burton and I were reviewing some recent contribution reports and had some concerns about how the struggling economy might have an adverse effect upon our operations. He then said, “Now I know why I am calling you…I am writing out a check right now for $20,000.00 and will be taking it to the post office in the next few minutes.”

I must tell you that I began to weep and thank the Lord for reminding us once again that He is in control and has His hand upon this great work. TCM really is a “faith-based” ministry and we are totally dependent upon our Jehovah for provision. He most certainly is “able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think…Unto him be glory” (Ephesians 3:20-21).

Lunch with the A-Team at Margaritas

StephenJudd — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 23:22:00 GMT

After church this morning, we took this month’s A-Team out for Sunday dinner at Margaritas Mexican Grill. What a wonderful time we had with this select group of our residents at Tupelo Children’s Mansion.

The A-Team is compiled of the residents who score at least 94 of the possible 100 points available during the month. Though there are several items which the children are graded on, consistency in the following areas are important: completing their chores, being respectful, finishing their homework, getting along well with everyone, and maintaining good behavior in church. Scores are compiled with 45 points from TCA, 45 points from the houseparent and 10 points from church. They can earn 5 extra points for volunteering to help around the residence hall. Once they reach the A-Team they receive a bonus allowance, plus they get to go out for lunch one Sunday after service at a nice restaurant in town. Usually, we get the honor of taking them, and it’s always a blast!

We also have a resident-of-the-month that is chosen by the residential staff. This month’s award-winner is Hannah Johnson (pictured with Erma).

Annual TCM Fellowship Banquet

StephenJudd — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 23:35:00 GMT

The Annual TCM Fellowship Banquet will be held on the Tuesday evening, February 10, at the beautiful new Wesley Hall of the First United Methodist Church of Tupelo. A delicious meal catered by Old Venice Restaurant will be served, followed by a great program. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. It promises to be a spectacular evening of celebration. Everyone is invited!

The Mansion kids will be singing, as well as Mickey Mangun, a member of our Board of Directors. The program will be under the direction of Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations and

Special Projects. New media will be introduced.

Several will be honored who have been strong supporters of the Mansion, including a local business, a current board member, a former resident, and a supportive pastor. Our Board of Directors will be in attendance, along with a number of state officials, judges, and local dignitaries.

Jeff Arnold, of Gainesville, FL, a passionate supporter of TCM, will be entertaining all of us kids with some magic. Years ago, he would come to the Mansion annually to do children’s ministry and some tricks for the kids. Our featured speaker for the evening will be Jerry Jones, General Secretary of the United Pentecostal Church International and member of the TCM Board of Directors.

Again, everyone is invited and there is no charge for admission. If you can come, please RSVP to Sonya Laughlin at:

sonyalaughlin@MansionKids.org

Mansion 5K and President's 10 Mile Run - April 18th

StephenJudd — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

The date for the 2nd Annual Mansion 5K has been set for Saturday, April 18th. Again, this year, enthusiastic runners from all over the region will be gathering in Tupelo for this great event as a huge fund raiser to benefit the Mansion. Several running clubs have endorsed this race and are helping to promote it.

Last year, I set a personal goal to raise $55,000.00 and ran 10K (6.2 miles), going the "extra mile" as the President in leading the way for this exciting effort. I had just turned 55 years old, and the Mansion was celebrating 55 years since it was founded in 1953. The support was fantastic as sponsors got behind me and together we were able to raise over $65,000.00!

This year I am going to try and run 10 miles and have set a goal to raise $56,000.00 - one thousand dollars for each year that the Mansion has been in existence. I have never run 10 miles before, but I am training vigorously and should be ready by April 18th. It is my goal to do the run in about one hour and a half, averaging about 5.5 - 6 miles per hour. However, it may take me 10 to 20 minutes longer than that. My purpose is not to set any records...but to finish the race!

In a few days, we will have my Web site up where sponsors can go and make a pledge of support or donate online. I hope that you will consider sponsoring me. I need a bunch of friends to give $100.00 per mile, but every contribution, regardless of amount, will help us reach our goal!

If you would like to make a pledge of support today and be among my first sponsors, you can simply email me at: stephenjudd@mansionkids.org

With other runners raising support, along with our corporate sponsors, we hope to raise $100,000.00 from this project alone.

I'll keep you posted on my training progress. I'm working out every day and gradually increasing my time and distance on the treadmill. Losing 15 - 20 pounds between now and race day will help!

Announcing Partnership with University of Mississippi and Nurse Mentorship Academy

StephenJudd — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:58:00 GMT

Tupelo Christian Academy, our on-campus school, is considered to be one of the finest private Christian schools in Northeast Mississippi. We are very excited about the opportunities we are now able to offer our students. We continue to strive not only to prepare our students to graduate, but to equip them for success in furthering their education and pursuing their careers.

We are pleased to announce two new programs that are being offered to our High School juniors and seniors by the University of Mississippi and the Nurse Mentorship Academy.

Thomas Noe, Executive Director of TCA, emailed me the following details this afternoon...

"We are proud to have been approved to offer dual credit courses for our junior and seniors. Effective this semester, all juniors and seniors that are enrolled in college prep classes and have a 2.5 grade point average can take up to two classes a semester from the University of Mississippi. These classes being offered Include: Accounting Principles I and II, Administrative Accounting, Applied Sciences, Business Administration, Psychology I, Adolescent Psychology, Human Growth and Development, Elementary Education, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry I and II, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, French I and II, German I and II, Portuguese I and II, Spanish I and II, Religion, Trigonometry, Geology, History, Sociology, Computers, Management Systems I and II, Art, Music Introduction, English Composition I and II, and Literature.

"Tupelo Christian Academy has also been chosen by the North Mississippi Corridor Consortium to be a part of the Nurse Mentorship Academy.The students will shadow health care providers in area hospitals, attend workshops on the Itawamba Community College campus, and have the opportunity to take a Certified Nurse Assistant (C.N.A.) course. Graduates of the Nurse Mentorship Academy, who pass the state certification exam, are eligible for employment as a C.N.A. at area nursing homes or hospital facilities. Tupelo Christian Academy is the only faith based private school currently partnering with the Mississippi Corridor Consortium in this training grant from the Department of Labor. The four partnering universities will pay for uniforms, books, and tuition for TCA students. Students who complete this course and successfully pass the C.N.A. exam can apply to work at a local hospital for a decent wage while they work towards their L.P.N. This program is for seniors in their last semester of school."

We are thankful for Bro. Noe and the qualified staff that continually strive for excellence in providing a quality education for our children. Currently, all junior high and high school teachers at Tupelo Christian Academy are degreed specialists in the field they are teaching. Seventy percent of our teachers from K5 through high school hold an academic degree, while the remaining teachers hold a degree from a Bible college.

Grades K3 through 12 are presently utilizing the A Beka Curriculum, while math classes in grades 7 through 12 are employing the McDougal Littel Math Program. We also have a learning center which utilizes the A.C.E. program for those who are not able to excel in a traditional classroom. The combination of teacher-taught instruction while still employing a learning center has proven to be effective in meeting the unique needs of all students at Tupelo Christian Academy. Some electives this year include: Spanish, psychology, sociology, current cultures, business law, computers, keyboarding, and life skills.

As of today, we have 151 students enrolled: 14 in preschool, 36 in lower elementary, 43 in upper elementary, 14 in Junior High, 38 in High School, and 6 in Haven of Hope.

Hope you enjoyed this update.

Until next time...

What to Do After Christmas

StephenJudd — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:46:00 GMT

My sermon on Sunday was was entitled, “What To Do After Christmas.” I chose as my text the last verse of the Christmas story found in Luke 2:20 – “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen…”

To me, there is great significance in the fact that the shepherds "returned." From every mountain-top experience there is a road that leads back to the humdrum of everyday activity and life. So it was with the shepherds.

It is what they did after Christmas that captures my attention. They could have become self-exalted and lifted up in pride. After all, they had just witnessed the grand spectacle of the coming of the Messiah into the world. But they returned once again to those same fields from whence they had started their journey.

It meant returning to the ordinary life…to the normalcy of everyday activities – tending the flocks, guarding the sheep, and caring for the lambs.

True, life would never be the same again. After all, think about what they had just experienced. But here is the key that should not be overlooked – they took the divine glory of the manger back to the daily grind of the shepherding.

Isn’t that what we are called to do?

Perhaps the shepherds entertained thoughts of staying in Bethlehem and enshrining themselves as a memorial to the manger. They could have felt somewhat like Peter, James and John, on the Mount of Transfiguration, who had an idea after that glorious experience of building a tabernacle and just staying on the mountain-top. But evidently that was not the purpose of God. The will of God was for them to return to the valley to do the work that they had been called to do.

How do you come down from those Christmas highs?

For most people today, it is a time of feeling blue and let down. The Malls will be crowded with people standing in long lines to take back things they don't want, and clothes that don't fit. And then there is the chore of taking down all the decorations. Somehow it is never quite as much fun to take it all down as it is to put it all up.

Actually, if you let your mind dwell on it, there's plenty to be depressed about when you think about the excesses and the indulgences – a little too much fun, a little too much food, a little too much money spent. Somebody said, “Last week it was jingle bells; this week it is juggle bills.”

It's no wonder that psychologists tell us that more people suffer from depression around Christmas time than any other time of the year.

But does it have to be that way? Not if we follow the example of the shepherds, who somehow kept everything in perspective.

The return trip is never quite as exciting. It can be a long and difficult journey. But not so with the shepherds. Notice again what they are doing as they return home from the manger. They are “glorifying and praising God for all that they have seen and heard.”

This week, it’s back to work and the real world. It’s facing the challenges and uncertainties of an unknown future. Yes, the glitter and the glamour must give way to regular living.

And so…how should be prepare ourselves for life after Christmas? By returning to our fields of labor as ambassadors of the King, worshipping and praising God!

Let’s go forward, fleshing out in the normalcy of life what has been revealed to us at the manger!

The story doesn’t end at the manger – it just begins there.

When we experience the true joy of Christmas, it carries over into the day after, and the day after that, and on into the future, impacting our lives forever.

Happy New Year!

"The Emotions Bleed Through the Leather!"

StephenJudd — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:44:00 GMT

"Dasher and Dancer stayed home on Saturday, with Santa and company delivering presents on Harley, on Honda, on Yamaha and Victory." This was the comment of Ginny Miller, of the Daily Journal, as she summarized the 19th Annual Toy Run in the Sunday
paper.

Santa and company consisted of well over 300 bikers converging on our campus after parading up Main Street with a police escort from Ballard Park. Hundreds of people waved at the bikers as they passed by on their mission awaiting them at the end of East Main Street. These motorcycle enthusiasts had gathered from all over the region from a number of states to participate in this exciting event, sponsored by the local Mingo Mid-South Rider Association.

"The emotions bleed through the leather," stated Mike Westfall, one of riders, in an interview with Burton Gaar. He, along with so many of the participants, was visibly touched by what he saw and felt as the bikers brought Christmas gifts and a lot of happiness to a bunch of special kids.

After arriving on the campus, the bikers were fed a hearty breakfast in the Dining Hall - biscuits & gravy, sausage, cinnamon rolls, fruit, hot chocolate - you name it.

The children assembled inside, anxiously waiting to be called by name to come up and be greeted by Santa before receiving their gifts. They would then go into the gymnasium to open their presents as the sponsoring bikers watched with glee. Our TCM residents and staff children received gifts, as well as children from five other children's homes in the area. This event has become so big that we have invited other organizations to participate for the past several years, including: Blue Mountain Children's Home, Harden House, Alpha House, Faith Haven, and Gardner Simmons Home.

After all the gifts were opened, a number of the bikers were more than willing to offer rides for the children around the drive that encompasses our athletic field. I can't tell you how exciting this was for the kids, and staff members too.

To watch a video clip of the Toy Run, click on the following link:

http://www.tcmm.org/mediaplayer/playeropener.asp?id=1767&cid=129

To see more photos of the Toy Run, go to the Photo Gallery on our Web site by clicking on the following link: http://www.tcmm.org/photoGallery/gallery.html

Tupelo Trio Pulls Driver from "Cold," "Deep" Pond

StephenJudd — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:44:00 GMT

Erma and I were attending the Police Academy Graduation of Mike Vasica (a former TCM resident) across town, when our BlackBerrys starting vibrating with urgent messages regarding an emergency rescue taking place on our campus. Ken Burton was also at the graduation and immediately stepped outside to gather more details.

The story made the front page of the Daily Journal this morning - I borrowed the headline from the paper for the title of this blog. You can read the entire story at http://www.djournal.com/pages/story.asp?ID=283305&pub=1&div=News but here's a summary of what happened.

"The weather outside is frightening" could best describe the climate yesterday in Tupelo. Winds and cold temperatures, with heavy rain turning to snow and sleet by late afternoon, resulted in hazardous driving conditions. Around 4:30 p.m., a man driving down Hillsdale Drive in front of our campus, apparently lost control of his pick-up and careened off of the road, slid over a ditch, and ended up in the middle of the pond in front of the Lake House.

To make what could be a long story short, several witnessed the accident take place, and immediately became involved in trying to rescue the man. Roy Noe, a former TCM resident and adopted son of Tom and Sharon Noe, staff members, was the first to dive into the pond to try and free the man from the vehicle, which was beginning to sink. The man was not able to swim and more help was needed to save the man's life. Another hero and former TCM resident and adopted son of Chad and Angela Parker, Ben Parker, dove into the frigid and murky water to join the rescue effort. Ultimately, it took Chad Parker's involvement, as these courageous individuals literally saved this man's life. By the time they got him to shore, he was unconscious, most probably from hypothermia. Chad, our Associate Director of Residential Services, was preparing the victim for CPR as the paramedics and emergency personnel arrived and rushed him to the hospital.

Word this morning is that the gentleman is going to be okay. His vehicle remains submerged in the pond, awaiting a toll truck to come and pull it out. ( I wouldn't want that job.)

Permit me to share a few observations that are all too obvious...

When I heard of this amazing rescue of this man by our staff and children at TCM, right here on our campus, I couldn't help but reflect that yesterday another rescue took place as well on our campus as four new residents arrived, one of them a teenage girl who was placed into our Haven of Hope Home for troubled girls. All four of these new residents were the result of "emergency placements." In other words, the circumstances involving the lives of these children required swift action on our part in order to rescue them.

That's what we do here at TCM. We're actually operating a rescue mission - saving lives and giving children and families a hope for a better tomorrow.

While it took a trio of heroes to save the drowning man in the pond, it likewise takes a team effort to reach out to those who find themselves in our "pond," sometimes by accident and through no fault of their own. The horrible and "frightening" conditions result in lives skidding out of control and ending up in the depths of despair.

We may never know the man's name, and that doesn't really matter. He may never come back to thank the heroes that saved his life, and that doesn't matter either. That's often the way it is here at Tupelo Children's Mansion. Sometimes it takes several years, or even decades, for the "rescued" to return to say thanks or write a nice letter expressing appreciation for all that the Mansion has meant to their lives. However, our fulfillment is in knowing that we are making a difference, and the full dividends of our investment may not be realized until we get to the "other side."

Chad, Roy and Ben got their names in the paper this morning; however, there are several dozen unsung heroes on this campus that work day in and day out, pulling children to the shore, performing CPR, and breathing hope into their futures. Their names are never in the news, but they are an integral part of a team that has already reached out to over 75 children this year. They are dedicated, passionate, and self-giving. They are TCM!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

StephenJudd — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 02:40:00 GMT

For me, it's more than just a carol. Christmas truly is the most wonderful time of the year...especially at the Mansion.

Margo Burton recently wrote a brief article about Christmas at the Mansion, which was published exclusively in the Mansion Minute, our E-Newsletter. In this well-written piece, she highlights the various events that transpire during the days leading up to Christmas, including the Annual Toy Run and the Mansion Family Christmas.

In this blog entry, I want to place a spotlight of appreciation on the various groups and individuals that come during this Christmas season to visit the campus, bringing gifts for the children. What a blessing they are to the ministry.

To mention just a few of them...

Ellen Swanner, of Bogalusa, LA, came last Thursday, bearing gifts for the children. Dr. Saux, an oncologist, accompanies her each year, helping to distribute the gifts to each residence hall. Ellen, and her late husband, Wayne, have been passionate about supporting the Mansion for nearly 20 years.

The West Atlanta Pentecostal Church of Atlanta, GA, pastored by Daryl Johns, came yesterday, bringing one gift for each resident, along with a pizza party and baked cookies for all. They enjoyed visiting with the children in the Dining Hall, and then offered special prayer for some of our staff members, including my wife, Erma.

Clifton Parker, a former resident who lived here in the 60's, is heading up a fund-raiser with Northup Grumman Associates of Pascagoula, MS, in hopes of purchasing new bicycles for all of the children.

Eastwood Pentecostal Church, of Lake Charles, LA, pastored by Murrell Ewing, will be coming on Friday for a pizza party with the children. They too, have a gift for each resident.

Many other churches and local businesses are working hand in hand to see that every child at the Mansion enjoys a wonderful Christmas. For many of our newer children, it has already been by far the very best Christmas they have ever had!

Lunch at O'Charley's

StephenJudd — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 02:47:00 GMT

I had lunch today at O’Charley’s, one of my favorite restaurants, and was thrilled to see what this local business is doing to raise money and awareness for the Mansion. I experienced first-hand how this successful holiday fund-raising campaign is working.

The young lady who was serving us presented us with an opportunity to help O’Charley’s support Tupelo Children’s Mansion by making a donation of a dollar or more to the Mansion, which I gladly did. I proudly signed my name to a round placard that will be displayed on a wall along with hundreds of others.

I also learned that children are given a special “Hansford” coloring sheet to work on during their meal. As I left the restaurant, I noticed that a number of the coloring sheets had been posted to the wall.

This wonderful partnership with O’Charley’s is just one example of how Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations, is garnering the support of a number of businesses and various organizations on behalf of this great cause.

Burton shared with me today that the placards and coloring sheets are coded directly into the computer at the restaurant’s corporate headquarters in Nashville, TN. This allows them to easily take the donation as they cash out their meal tickets and also enables us to properly track the donations.

Burton stated, “This is the launch of what we hope proves to be an incredible campaign for both O'Charley's and the Mansion. Tom Perry (District Manager), Ray Bentley (General Manager – Tupelo store) and the entire staff have been incredible to work with. They caught our vision during their recent visit to our campus and have become extremely passionate about their partnership with us. Our plans are to make it a great success here in Tupelo this year and then move to a regional effort next year by expanding to a multi-store participation. By the third year, it is possible that the campaign will go nationwide. There are approximately 250 O'Charley's stores and I look forward to working with them all!”

When our grandsons, Judd and Jake, come to see us for Christmas, I will have to take them to O'Charley's. Judd will have fun coloring the "Hansford" sheet. Who knows, I may even post his artwork on my blog for the whole world to see.

A Big Surprise!

StephenJudd — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 05:35:00 GMT

Chad and Tamisha (our son-in-law and oldest daughter of College Station, TX) surprised us Wednesday with the news that they were adopting a 12-week-old baby boy from their local area.

It all happened very quickly. The birth mother voluntarily signed over her parental rights on Thursday to Chad and Tamisha and they picked up the baby from her on Friday, which just happened to be National Adoption Day. They have named him Jake Utermark (middle name is yet to be determined).

To say that we are all thrilled would be an understatement. Erma and I were traveling but we immediately changed our itinerary and flew to College Station to be a part of this grand occasion. I returned home on Saturday, but Erma is staying a few more days to help out.

Judd is really happy about Jake joining their family. When I drove up to their house, he came running up to me wearing his new "Big Brother" T-shirt and said excitedly, "Papa, Mommy's going to have a (he paused for a moment)...we're going to have a baby!" Then he led me to the front porch and demonstrated to me that he could write his new little brother's name on the front porch with sidewalk chalk. He carefully spelled it out in big letters, "JAKE."

Judd went with Chad and Tamisha to pick up Jake. On their way home, the baby began to cry. What happened next was really special as Judd began to sing the children's song that he had recently learned in Sunday School - "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus...come in today, come in to stay..." In just a few moments, Jake stopped crying as the sweet presence of the Lord filled their SUV.

Jake is one lucky little fella. He didn't come to his new home with much...except a very bright future! There weren't any toys in his little box of belongings, not even a pacifier. What he did have reeked with the smell of cigarette smoke. But now he has everything a child needs, and then some. Tamisha owns a wonderful children's boutique, Blue Kangaroo, so you can be sure that he won't lack for clothes and other things that a baby needs. Most importantly, he is surrounded by a loving and caring family.

The story of how all of this came to pass is almost unbelievable and nothing short of a miracle! As we approach this Thanksgiving Season, we are so very grateful to the Lord for this little bundle of joy that He has brought into our lives.

To Which One Do You Say "No, You Can't Come!"?

StephenJudd — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 03:48:00 GMT

Our resident population is now at 46 children, and we have just accepted two more girls.

We have received 41 children this year – more placements in 2008 than during any previous year in our history. Two more are already scheduled to come within the next seven days and one more has been accepted but not yet scheduled for arrival.

Since January 1, the Mansion has been "home" to 75 children - 41 new placements, 19 discharges, and 15 are still here.

We are desperately in need of house parents and are rapidly running out of beds. In several of the resident halls, we are actually filled to more than "maximum" capacity.

So, one may ask, "Why accept these children, if you don't have enough staff or enough room?"

These children have come from some of the worst cases of neglect that we have ever seen – absolutely filthy, smelling horrible, medically fragile and half-starved, lice infested, rotten teeth, and three or four years behind in school – which begs the question, "To which one do you say 'No, you can't come.'?"

Chad Parker, our Associate Director of TCM Residential Services and Licensed Social Worker, texted the following synopsis of today’s activities to me this evening:

"We had two scheduled placements for Friday that were on-campus at 7:30 this morning. Before we could get to them, another lady walked in requesting a meeting regarding an urgent situation with her daughter. We received one email and two phone calls, all needing placements for their children or the children for which they were guardians - all of this while working to make room for everyone else.”

It's exciting and, yes, it's stressful, but to know that we are able to take these children and care for them, and love them . . . what a blessing!

Mansion Hi-Lights from Greensboro Conference

StephenJudd — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 14:36:00 GMT

The recent UPCI General Conference in Greensboro, N. C. was a great blessing to the Mansion. It was a great opportunity to visit with our supporters and a number of former residents and staff members.

I am happy to report that we received an allocation of $21,000.00 from the Ladies Ministries - MOTHER'S MEMORIAL offering to help with the renovation of the serving line in our food services area and also for the education program of Haven of Hope Girls' Home.

We also were blessed by the General Youth Division with a SHEAVES FOR CHRIST offering allocation in the amount of $26,015.81 to help us with the next phase of our athletic field project.

We are grateful for the funding that we have received through the years from the ladies and the youth for buildings and special projects. While we continue to depend on our donor offerings and monthly support for our day-to-day operations, these allocations are a wonderful boost to our program each year.

The hi-light of the week was our Mansion program on Friday just prior to the evening service. This prime-time event has been a Conference tradition for years, and we appreciate the opportunity to promote the Mansion and receive a special offering. This year, we featured a moving 3-minute media presentation with expressions from four former residents. Jim Lumpkin, son of our former Chairman, the late James G. Lumpkin, told me after the service that he wept as he sat in the crowd watching the presentation. He told me that his father would have been so pleased to hear those testimonies. T. F. Tenney concluded the segment by receiving an offering in the amount of $7,800.00.

You can watch a clip of our Mansion program by clicking on the following link...

http://www.tcmm.org/mediaplayer/playeropener.asp?id=1622&cid=129

Here are excerpts from the four testimonies:

"My three sisters and I arrived at the Mansion by train in 1953 following the death of our mother. We were the first residents to call the Mansion home. I thank Pop Montgomery for having a burden and I thank my pastor for seeing that we were able to come to the Mansion. We didn’t have any money, clothes or shelter, but God took care of us. He never failed us. I’m proud that I was raised at Tupelo Children’s Mansion. I’m thankful. I am so thankful."

    -    Edna Grayson

"I came to the Mansion when I was eleven. My mom passed away of cancer and my dad just couldn’t take care of my two sisters and me. I thank God everyday that I had a place like this to come to, because I don’t know where I would have been. I can’t even imagine what my life would have been like without the Mansion."

    -    Dustin Taylor

"I learned so much while I was at the Mansion. In fact, I didn’t want to leave. I learned that I could become something and rise above my past. I’ve been to college and now work at a hospital. I am actively involved in my church. I’m just really thankful that God had mercy and allowed me to come to Tupelo Children’s Mansion."

    -    Dana Rousch

"Tupelo Children’s Mansion provided a safe haven for us. The staff gave us great encouragement. The Mansion will never know the full extent of what they did for my family. There’s not enough money or words that I could say that would express my appreciation."

    -    Cynthia Mott

General Conference next year is taking place in St. Louis. With the Conference being closer to home, we will no doubt be taking all of the children with us and planning for a "Meet the Children" reception. Of course, they will be singing during our program on Friday night. If you are there, you won't want to miss it!

Pool School Benefits Mansion

StephenJudd — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:48:00 GMT

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.

Fireball Run Comes to the Mansion

StephenJudd — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:52:39 GMT

Tuesday was a huge day at the Mansion as the Fireball Run made a stop at the Mansion on their journey through Tupelo.

What is the the Fireball Run? It is a cross country motoring event of nearly 65 teams of business and community leaders around the country who are driving a 3,500 mile route from Baton Rouge, LA to Grand Rapids, MI to play an "Amazing Race" style adventure game.

The national charity benefactor for this event is the Child Rescue Network, a Florida based non-profit organization. Each Fireball team is assigned a different missing child for whom the team must draw as much attention to as possible by speaking within the communities and distributing as many posters as they can along the 3,500 mile trek. Each car has their child's picture and stats on their car for additional exposure. Last year, the Fireball Run helped find a couple of dozen children.

Of course, the cars are the biggest attractions. Several 80's themed movie cars are featured in this year's race, including: KITT from Knight Rider, the Time Car from Back to the Future II, the Smokey & the Bandit Firebird and the General Lee from Dukes of Hazard. Other high performance cars that roared onto our campus included: Lamborghinis, Bentleys, Ferraris, BMW's, Vipers, Corvettes, and Jaguars.

When J. J. Sanchez, the event organizer, first approached our community leaders several months ago about making Tupelo one of their stops, the Convention and Visitors Bureau recommended that they plan to visit the Mansion and make it a highlight of the race. We were introduced to J. J. and he was very impressed with his tour of the campus and our work among the children. I remember him sitting in my office and talking about how moved he was by what he saw and felt.

A few days later, I received the following email from him: "Returning from such a great time in Tupelo, I would like to incorporate the Tupelo Children’s Mansion into the transcontinental rally. I believe our visit to meet the kids and give them a firsthand introduction to some of America's most fantastic vehicles, driven by some of America's most successful entrepreneurs, will benefit both parties. I want to compliment you as so many others already have, on such a great program. I wasn’t sure what to expect, however, as non-profits can go either way; the person in charge is either 'real' and mission oriented, or they are 'money' focused. I was impressed by your kindness and passion. We would like to make the Children’s Mansion an honorary supporter of the event as well, and bring your ministry some national attention."

As the participants arrived in Tupelo on Tuesday, they were escorted by police up Main Street to the Mansion, where they were enthusiastically welcomed by the children and staff. Lunch was catered in our dining hall by Old Venice Pizza Company. The drivers were deeply touched as they interacted with the children and a number of them left generous donations with the promise of more to come. Only those invited could participate in the Fireball Run and had to qualify by being a business owner, C-Class executive, person of independent wealth, majority stock holder, celebrity, or elected official. It is our understanding that one of the drivers is a billionaire. Certainly, the Fireball Run provided a wonderful opportunity to introduce the Mansion to the rich and famous.

Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations and Special Projects, did a fantastic job coordinating the Fireball Run's visit to the Mansion. As you can imagine, hosting this event took a lot of careful planning. Burton even created a special Mansion decal that had been applied to each car. He also wrote a cute song for the Fireball Run that will remind the drivers of their visit to the Mansion. As they arrived, they were each given a fact sheet about the ministry and a CD with the recorded song on it.

To hear the Fireball song and see a video clip of the event from our special Mansion Events Web site, click here...

http://www.aspireonemedia.com/mediaPlayer/playerHome.asp?cid=132

To view a couple of related articles in the Daily Journal, click on the following links:

http://www.djournal.com/pages/archive.asp?ID=279884&pub=1&div=News
http://www.djournal.com/pages/archive.asp?ID=279807&pub=1&div=Lifestyles

Back to School

StephenJudd — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 04:59:54 GMT

The fall season is upon us, and the campus is alive with the sights and sounds of a new school year. Our on-campus school - Tupelo Christian Academy - began classes on August 18.

We currently have 143 students enrolled: 16 in preschool, 32 in lower elementary, 37 in upper elementary, 52 in Junior/Senior High School, and 5 in Haven of Hope Girls' Home.

Thomas Noe and our wonderful TCA staff members have worked very hard to get ready for a successful school year. A new science lab has been completed and our students are now being taught biology, chemistry and physics by James Morris, who has a biochemistry degree from the University of California. Currently, all of our Junior High and High School teachers are degreed specialists in the subjects they are teaching. Seventy percent of our teachers from K5 through high school hold an academic degree, while the remaining teachers hold a degree from a Bible college.

The K3 was recently relocated to the lowest part of Wolff Hall. It is now in between the Baby Daycare and K4. Our Preschool classrooms are now located under one roof. The structure was enhanced to utilize all available space and create a kid-friendly, academic environment.

Grades K3 through 12 are presently utilizing the A Beka Curriculum, while math classes in grades 7 through 12 are employing the McDougal Littel Math Program. We also have a learning center which utilizes the A.C.E. program for those who are not able to excel in a traditional classroom. The combination of teacher-taught instruction while still employing a learning center has proven to be effective in meeting the unique needs of all students at Tupelo Christian Academy. Some electives this year include: Spanish, psychology, sociology, current cultures, business law, computers, keyboarding, and life skills.

TCA has received its Level Two status of accreditation with the Association of Christian Teachers and Schools program. We believe that this program will work well in conjunction with the goals of our ministry and assist TCA in the continuance of academic and spiritual excellence.

To watch a recent 30-second TCA promotional video, the following link will take you to our media player on our web site...

http://www.tcmm.org/mediaplayer/playeropener.asp?id=1236&cid=129

A Victim of a Dysfunctional Family

StephenJudd — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 01:13:00 GMT

During our recent Executive Board Meeting on August 21st, T. F. Tenney was asked to open the session with a devotion. Bro. Tenney has been associated with the Mansion for 55 years and continues to serve as an Executive Board Member and Chairman of the TCMM Budget Committee.

As always, Bro. Tenney's message to us was timely and relevant. He speaks of Benjamin, the last born son of Jacob, as being the victim of a dysfunctional family and likens his story with that of the children who come to the Mansion, often times with some unexpected cups and baggage that they didn't ask for.

He spoke from Genesis 44:34 - "For how shall I go up to my father if the lad is not with me?" He insisted that "the Mansion is not an institution having function without mission, and our mission is to see that the children are brought to the feet of our heavenly Father."

To view Bro. Tenney's brief three minute message, click on the following link...

http://www.tcmm.org/mediaplayer/playeropener.asp?id=1317&cid=129

We just received three little girls, ages 6, 7, and 9. In my next blog, I'll write about these precious siblings who are now safe and sheltered in our arms. Please say a prayer for them before you go to bed tonight.

What I Learned About the Mansion at Elvis Presley's Birthplace

StephenJudd — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:23:00 GMT

Just a few blocks from the Mansion is the birthplace of Elvis Presley. It really is quite a local tourist attraction as fans literally come from all over the world to visit the museum and park. In fact, I read in the Daily Journal this morning that 60,000 people visit the site each year. Quite amazing, isn't it? In addition to the birthplace, bus tours typically include the hardware store where Elvis bought his first guitar and Johnny's Drive-in where he used to hang out as teenager.

I must admit that I had never even gotten out of the car, much less actually walked around the grounds and done the official tour thing...until this past Monday - Labor Day. We've lived in Tupelo now for over seven years and have done the drive-by with friends that were in town, but never really taken the place all that seriously. As you can tell, I'm not much an Elvis fan.

Mike and Barbara Sanders, our son-in-law's folks, were visiting with us for the big 55th celebration this past weekend. After breakfast at Cracker Barrel, we decided to do a tour of the Tupelo Automobile Museum. Well...it was closed. What to do now? Believe it or not, to the surprise of Erma and the others, I suggested that we go to the "birthplace." I don't know what came over me. I must be losing my mind. Naturally, everyone enthusiastically agreed that it would be a fun thing to do.

Upon arrival, we entered the visitors center, purchased our $12 tickets and began the 3-part tour that includes the museum, the original Assembly of God church that Elvis attended when he was a boy, and the two-room shotgun-style house that he was born in - all on the same property.

I was amazed at the quality of the museum. The audio and video presentation was excellent and the artifacts were displayed in a beautiful way. I was somewhat surprised to see how much focus was given to Elvis' Pentecostal roots. There was a lot of history about Tupelo that was incorporated into his life's story, and it was very interesting.

Our next stop on the tour was the little Assembly of God church. It has just recently been moved to the property from its original location. The structure has been restored and the pulpit is the original one from the time of Elvis. Once inside the church, we sat down on the pews and the 3-dimensional video presentation began. Immediately, we were surrounded by the sights and sounds of a Pentecostal church service. The video screens consisted of the entire front wall and side walls of the church. The reenactment of "having church" was well done. At one point, Elvis was led by his parents to the front where he was called upon to sing "Jesus Loves Me" in front of the congregation and then the pastor prayed a special prayer over him.

The capstone of our tour was the house where Elvis was born. We greeted the host at the door and handed her our tickets as we stepped into the first of two rooms comprising the house. Once inside, the host gave us a warm welcome and began to tell us the story about Elvis being born in the house. We acted interested and she continued to share us more information about his life and how that he loved the city of Tupelo and wanted to give back to the community in some way after he became a star.

And then came the big surprise as she began to tell us about an orphanage up the street that Elvis was very fond of and how he gave generous donations in support of this wonderful place for children in need. One Christmas, she said, he even gave a beautiful nativity scene to the Mansion. He was always wanting to do something special for the kids. She stated that he wanted to serve on the Board of Directors, "but they wouldn't let him because he was into rock and roll music." We laughed. Of course, she didn't know that we were from the Mansion, and we just let her talk. She told us that the Mansion has been a tremendous blessing to hundreds of children since those early days and now has one of the finest private schools in the country.

When she was finished with her presentation, I complimented her and then introduced myself as the President of the Mansion. Needless to say, she was surprised to meet us and said, "Well, you just never know who you're talking to, do you?" Nina has never taken a tour of the Mansion and so we are arranging for that to take place as soon as possible.

There is no telling the thousands of people that she has spoken to favorably about TCMM. Who knows what will come of this and who may be sponsoring this ministry today because of Nina's testimony, and Elvis' love for this special place in Tupelo.

By the way, did you know that T. C. Montgomery, our founder, baptized Elvis' parents in the name of the Lord Jesus? This is just a morsel of Mansion trivia...that I didn't learn while visiting Elvis' birthplace. We'll need to share that little-known fact with Nina so she can add it to her presentation.

55th Anniversary Homecoming a Smashing Success!

StephenJudd — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 23:29:00 GMT

As they say, "It's all over but the shouting!" The 55th Anniversary Alumni Homecoming has come and gone. This past weekend, several hundred people gathered from all over the country for the various events that included: the Mansion 5K Race and 2K Fun Run, outdoor extravaganza on the newly renovated T. L. Wallace Athletic Field, guided tours of the campus, alumni organizational meeting and 55th Celebration and Reception.

The Mansion 5K was a great success, with 208 runners participating. The 1st place finisher was Jim Brown who ran the 3.1 miles in 17.49.09. Think about that! Several experienced runners told us that it was a great race and one of the best organized they had ever run in. It was definitely a tough route with several menacing hills. The final stretch of the race was on Hillsdale Drive. Does that name tell you anything? Believe me, that last hill was brutal. One runner told me that it was "an iron man's run."

And...yes...I did it! I ran the 5K and continued running another 3.1 miles to complete the 10K, in one hour and two minutes. It was a gratifying moment as I crossed the finished line to the cheers of the onlookers. With the overwhelming support of my sponsors, I was able to raise nearly $65,000.00 for the Mansion. Overall, the total amount raised is close to $85,000.00, and it's still coming in. This total includes a number of corporate sponsors as well as donations given in support of other runners.

Everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy the outdoor extravaganza. There was great singing, pony rides, face painting, inflatables, softball, volleyball, snow cones, and a fantastic lunch served by the employees of O'Charleys. Folks set around for hours under the big tent, reminiscing about old times.

On Saturday afternoon, the official TCMM Alumni Association was launched. I am truly excited about the formation of this brand new initiative. Bylaws were adopted and an Alumni Council was elected. I will be introducing the officers in a forthcoming blog. This new organization is going to be alumni driven and will prove to be a great blessing to the Mansion as well as a facilitator for reuniting former residents and staff members.

The capstone of the homecoming was the program and reception that evening at the BancorpSouth Conference Center. The program featured songs and testimonies representing both the past and present. Two of our former leaders and their wives were honored for their years of service to the Mansion - the Kloeppers and Drurys. Jonathan Moore blessed us with his singing talent and Rex Johnson brought a timely and inspiring message. The Italian fare at the lovely reception was fabulous - not to mention the best bread pudding that I've ever tasted - thanks to Randy and Pam Hardin who catered the meal.

The media coverage was outstanding. The Daily Journal was all over this historic event and interviewed a number of attendees. WTVA and WCBI had journalists present and covered the story on the evening news. All over town, people are talking about the Mansion in a very positive way. Here is a link to an article that appeared in the Sunday paper... http://www.djournal.com/pages/archive.asp?ID=278463&pub=1&div=News

I could go and on about the happenings of the past few days; however, Tamisha, our oldest daughter, recently shared with me in a tactful way that my blogs are getting too long. Leave it to our kids to tell us the truth! When I first started blogging, my biggest concern was that I wouldn't have enough to write about. Well...that hasn't seemed to be a problem.

So long, for now. In my next blog, I'm going to write about what I learned about the Mansion while visiting the birthplace of Elvis Presley.

Executive Board Meeting Takes Place

StephenJudd — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:29:00 GMT

The annual meeting of the TCMM Executive Board convened last Thursday. Our new Chairman, Bro. Kevin Cox, presided over the meeting. The Administrative Cabinet presented their reports to the board and the financial reports were reviewed for the first six months of this year. We were able to report significant progress throughout the entire ministry. Those who serve on our Executive Board are: Kevin Cox, R. D. Whalen, W. L. Clayton, T. F. Tenney, David Robinson, B. S. Cole, G. R. Travis, and Gerald Vittitow. Our auditor, Aubrey Jayroe, was also present. The burden and backing of these good men is appreciated so very much.

Tomorrow is the big day on our campus! All of the staff members are working very hard to get ready for our 55th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration. We are expecting a great turnout. Of course, I will be blogging about this great event next week.

We are set to run 5K and then go "the extra miles" in the morning. I think I'm prepared. My sponsorship has now reached nearly $65,000! Thanks to all of you that have supported me in this endeavor.

If you haven't visited our Web site lately, you may want to check out some of the new clips in the media player. Updates are made regularly to the site. I'm sure there will be new photos of the Homecoming Celebration in the Photo Gallery by the middle of next week. Go to http://www.tcmm.org

5K Goal is Surpassed...$58,771.55 and Still Counting!

StephenJudd — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 01:25:00 GMT

We are only a little over a week away from the TCMM 55th Anniversary Alumni Homecoming on August 30 – 31, 2008 (Labor Day Weekend). We are looking forward to this great time of fun and fellowship with hundreds of Mansion friends and TCMM alumni. We will be honored to have two of our former presidents with us, the Kloeppers and the Drurys who have left a lasting legacy to this ministry.

If you haven't watched our 30-minute interview with WTVA, it has now been uploaded to the homepage of our Web site at http://www.tcmm.org. I think you will find the program very interesting as we talk about the Homecoming Celebration and the mission of the Mansion.

We have two digital billboards playing in three key locations in Tupelo. These can be changed and updated by Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations, at any moment from a computer.

There still is time to register for the 5K and 2K run. You can also register the day of the race from 6:30 A.M. – 7:30 A.M. Registration will be closed promptly at 7:30 A.M. The registration table will be located in front of Hansford Hall. The 5K run will begin at the first driveway to the Mansion. The run will take you through several streets behind the Mansion property and end at the pavilion on the athletic field.

I am happy to announce that I have surpassed my personal goal of raising $55,000.00 in sponsorships for the 5K run. As of this writing, I have raised $58,771.55. I have been overwhelmed with the flood of support that has come in. Donations are coming in daily, and we still have 10 days to go. All together, we have raised nearly $75,000.00 in sponsorships! If you haven't sponsored yet, and want to get on the fun, go to http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd.

Back to our Saturday activities...at 11:00 A.M., there will be an Outdoor Extravaganza on the athletic field which will include a picnic catered by O’Charley’s restaurant, children’s games, inflatables, pony rides, horseshoes, and volleyball and softball. We would love for everyone to be involved in our official alumni softball game. Jonathan Moore, of San Antonio, Texas, and other artists will be singing during the activities.

We will have an open house and campus tours starting at 1:00 P.M. There will be two tours given at 1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. and from 2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Numerous renovations have been done to many of the buildings. You will want to see the improvements that have been made and that continue to be made to our beautiful campus.

The first meeting of our new, official Alumni Association will be at 3:00 P.M. in the church. Organizational matters will be taken care of, including the adoption of bylaws and election of officers for the Alumni Association. All alumni from TCA, TCM, and Life Church are encouraged to attend. There will be day care provided for alumni children from ages six weeks to four. There will be ladies in the church to meet you with your babies.

The highlight of our homecoming will be the 55th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday evening at 6:30 P.M. at the new BancorpSouth Conference Center behind the Hilton Garden Inn. The dress is dressy-casual so we can be comfortable and have a good time. This will be a fun-filled evening with lots of music and memories. A fabulous reception with great food and entertainment will follow.

Of course, all are invited to attend the Sunday morning service at Life Church at 10:00 A.M. Come worship with us before heading home! Rex Johnson, of Austin, Texas will be our Special Guest and Jonathan Moore, of San Antonio, Texas will be our featured artist for the entire weekend of activities.

Please tell all of your friends about this wonderful weekend with our Mansion family. Feel free to forward this blog. Have them visit us at http://www.tcmm.org or call us at 662-791-7705 for more information.

5K Update and Media Coverage

StephenJudd — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 01:22:00 GMT

As of this blog entry, I have raised $53,551.55 on the Mansion 5K run coming up on August 30. My personal goal is $55,000.00, so I am almost there. No doubt over the weekend, I will surpass my goal as the emails and phone calls keep coming in, as well as donations and pledges that are being made online.

I am happy to announce that my latest sponsorship came from Kevin Cox, our TCMM Chairman, with a donation of $555.55. He emailed me a few days ago and said he was definitely going to sponsor me but remained undecided as to the amount. He mused that it would be $55.55, $555.55, or $5,555.55. My reply to him was that I could help him with that decision and that he didn't even need to pray about it. I appreciate Bro. Cox and the tremendous leadership that he provides to our Board of Directors. He's a great friend and encourager. His support means so very much.

Our Chairman's sponsorship will provide the "seed money" to bring in the $5,555.55. We have nearly 100 men and women who serve on the TCMM, TCM, and TCA boards, and I have challenged them all to sponsor me for $55.00 or more. Their backing in this effort has been outstanding.

If you haven't sponsored me and would like to be the one to put me over the top, go to http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd and make a pledge or an on-line donation.

OUTSTANDING MEDIA COVERAGE

Burton Gaar and I were interviewed by WTVA last week for a 30-minute program that aired on Saturday evening. The video is now in our media player at http://www.tcmm.org as well as http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd

To watch Part 1 of the interview, click on the link below. You can watch Part 2 by going to the Events tab.

    http://www.tcmm.org/mediaplayer/playeropener.asp?id=1248&cid=129

WCBI TV came to the campus today and interviewed me regarding the upcoming Homecoming. Here is the link to the news story that aired at 5:00 p.m. this evening. The news anchor didn’t get all of her facts right, but the exposure was wonderful.

    http://titancast.titantv.com/p/wcbi/v/Tupelo-Childrens-Mansion-Celebrates-55-Years-81508/00010AMO.aspx

There is also an article that was posted by the reporter...

    http://www.wcbi.com/article.php?subaction=showfull&id=1218836298&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2,10&

Burton informed me today that the Daily Journal is doing a story next week. We also have several ads on the new digital billboards in town - one is located at Crosstown and the other at Barnes Crossing and North Gloster. These prime locations and effective ads are giving us some wonderful exposure.

I've got to go to bed because I'm getting up early in the morning to run the 5K route before it gets too hot. Ken Burton, our Vice President, is going to join me in this practice run. I hope he makes it! (LOL) Seriously, I hope I can make it. This route has some pretty good hills, especially in the final mile.

We're going to take some pepper spray with us in case we meet up with some unfriendly dogs that happen to be on the loose. If we encounter a problem, we may have to ask the neighbors to keep their dogs leashed up on race day.

Have a blessed weekend!

My Goal is Within Reach

StephenJudd — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 03:12:00 GMT

With three weeks to go before our 55th Anniversary Homecoming and our Mansion 5K Run on August 30, I have now raised over $42,000.00 in sponsorships. As you may know, I am trying to personally raise $55,000.00 in this effort. Do you think I can do it?

I have been overwhelmed with the great response from our friends and supporters in backing me in this fund-raiser. I know it was a crazy idea to do this, but the sponsorships are continuing to come in from unlikely sources and the excitement is building. It’s been truly amazing. My BlackBerry alerts me anytime someone goes online to make a pledge or a donation, or when I receive an incoming email from someone letting me know that they want to give. With each donation, the thermometer on our special Web site adjusts automatically to show the new total amount. I have been told that when I reach my goal of $55,000, the top of the thermometer is supposed to do something crazy, like blow it’s top or something really exciting. I can’t wait to see that happen. To follow my progress, you can go to http://www.mansionevents.org/stephenjudd.

I went to Trails &Treads yesterday and bought some new running shoes. My old ones were getting warn out (too many miles – ha ha). In order to determine what kind of shoe I needed, they watched me take a few steps back and forth and then told me that I was a pronator. I was somewhat shocked. “A pronator?” I asked. “No one has ever told that that before.”

I didn’t know whether to be happy or sad. Is pronation good or bad? If I pronate when I walk, is there something wrong with me? Will I ever get over it? Do I need physical therapy? Is it hereditary? What percentage of people are pronators? All kinds of notions started racing through my mind (pardon the pun). Perhaps the most serious question that came to me was this. If I’m a pronator and I haven’t been wearing the right kind of shoes, could this have been a contributing factor to my struggle with plantar fasciitis in my left foot?

Jake, the young man who was working with me, seemed to know what he was talking about, so I listened carefully. He said that a pronator simply turns his feet inward as he walks and that I needed a shoe that had a little extra support on the inside of the sole. He even looked at the bottom of my old tennis shoes and observed how that the tread under the toes and ball of my feet was wearing more on the inside than the outside. It was starting to make sense.

And wouldn’t you know it…they just happened to have in stock the perfect shoe for pronators like me, the Asics Kayano , in a size 9 1/2. And, it was bargain priced for only $130. I told the clerk, “Asics is really proud of that shoe, aren’t they!” I suppose that I may need to raise a little extra money just to cover the cost of my new equipment. As they say, you have to spend a little to make a lot.

Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations and Special Projects, is doing a fantastic job in organizing and promoting the 5K event. This guy is super talented and has many wonderful connections. He’s not just an idea person, he gets it done! He began working with us on various media and music projects about five years ago, on a part time basis, but now has come on board full-time and has taken us to a brand new level with our media exposure and fund-raising capabilities.

We call it “fund-raising,” but really it’s all about “friend-raising.” I learned a long time ago that people don’t give to needs as much as they give to people. Years ago when I was working in the Youth Division in St. Louis and promoting Sheaves for Christ, a national fund-raising program, we would urge our district youth presidents that the most important thing for them to do was build relationships. I remember telling them during our strategic planning sessions, “Pastors do not give to SFC because of the need; they give to SFC because they like you!” It’s all about relationship building, and Burton Gaar is really into that.

Corporate sponsors are coming on board with us in supporting the Mansion 5K. BancorpSouth—which operates in seven states and is headquartered in Tupelo—has agreed to be our lead sponsor and is contributing a significant amount to the cause. Other area businesses are following their lead. We have an excellent rapport with the local community and are very thankful for the favor the Lord has given us with business and governmental leaders.

Aubrey Patterson is the President and CEO of BancorpSouth, and a fine gentleman. Let me share with you how I first came to meet him. Some time ago, I was leaving 1-Hour Martinizing [I don’t know why they call it that because you can never get your clothes in a hour.] and recognized Mr. Patterson walking into the cleaners carrying an armload of clothes. We nodded politely to one another. I knew who he was.

I proceeded to get in my vehicle and tried to turn on the ignition…but something was wrong. Okay, this wasn’t my vehicle. It was an SUV and looked somewhat similar, but it wasn’t mine. I quickly opened the door and started to crawl out, only to see Mr. Patterson approaching his vehicle (the one I was in) with a big smile on his face. I felt so foolish. This could go down as one of my most embarrassing moments. We did become acquainted that day. I introduced myself as President of the Mansion, and he said, “Steve, I know who you are. You all are doing a great work with those children. That was my introduction to Mr. Patterson.

When Burton Gaar and I met with Aubrey Patterson last week in his office, he greeted us warmly and we laughed about the circumstances surrounding our first introduction to one another. After some chit chat and a little friendly conversation, he said, “Before we talk about the business that brought you here, let me share with you an experience that my wife and I had a few nights ago at Red Lobster.” He continued, “We were sitting in a booth enjoying our meal and at the same time observing a group of children eating at a large round table nearby.”

When Mr. Patterson said that, I must admit that initially my heart sank for fear of what was coming next. I was sort of waiting for “the other shoe to drop.” Where was he going with this? I was thinking that he must be talking about children from the Mansion. Was this going to be a positive testimony or not? I was getting nervous.

As he continued with his story, my mind was quickly put to ease as he commented that he and his wife were extremely impressed with the way these children conducted themselves with good manners and wholesome conversation. He said, “You know, you just don’t see that much anymore. After the group left, I asked our server if she knew anything about the children that had been sitting next to us and she confirmed what my wife and I were thinking, that these well-behaved kids were from the Children’s Mansion.” He mentioned to us that they had noticed a nice couple sitting close by the group and figured that they were there with the group. Mr. Patterson wanted us to know how wonderfully the children had represented us in that public venue and what a tremendous impression it had made on them.

As it turned out, the seven or eight children were enjoying a special night-out in recognition for their making the A-Team for that month. Let me explain. We have developed a merit system that evaluates the residents each month in regard to their involvement in three areas: the dorm, the school, and the church. The houseparents, teachers and youth workers score the children and then they are placed on level A, B, C, D, or F, depending on their overall score. Of course, there are certain privileges, or lack thereof, associated with each level. This is a great tool for behavioral modification and has served our program very well in motivating the children to do their best. When I told Erma about the Pattersons’ experience at Red Lobster, she said, “I’m glad it was the A-Team and not some of the other children.” We both laughed.

A lot is happening in preparation for the big weekend coming up. Yesterday, Burton Gaar and I were interviewed at KTVA, our local TV station, for a special program to be aired tonight at 5:00 p.m. I was a little nervous, having no idea what questions we were going to be asked, but I think it went pretty good. Once the cameras started rolling, that was it. Uncut. Unedited. No revisions. No “Take 2” or “Take 3.” Just raw footage.

The 30-minute “Focus” program, hosted by Terry Smith, is all about TCMM—the history, how it began, our mission, where the money comes from, how many children we serve, our 55th Anniversary Homecoming, the 5K Run—stuff like that. I believe that we will be able to upload the TV show to the media player of our Web site soon in order that anyone can watch it.

Needless to say, we’re excited about the upcoming Homecoming events. We’re hearing of more and more who are planning to attend. It’s going to be a great celebration and a grand reunion of former residents, staff members, and Mansion supporters. We hope you’ll join us!

I’m traveling today to Portland, Oregon and will be preaching in the morning at Christian World Center in Salem for my long-time friend, Jim Dillon. As I write this, I’m eating lunch in the Minneapolis airport and watching the people walk by. I’m wondering to myself how many people there are who are going through life as pronators, and don’t know it.

Does the Economy Matter?

StephenJudd — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 01:39:00 GMT

The state of the national economy lately has been quite depressing, hasn’t it? We’re all feeling the pain at the pump as fuel prices have recently reached record levels. Whether we are officially in a recession or not, times are tough for a lot of folks. Have you checked your 401k lately? The stock market is volatile. Jobless claims are increasing. Major financial markets are failing. We’re seeing reports of a record number of foreclosures on home mortgages. With less than 100 days until perhaps the most important election in American history, it appears that the number one issue on the minds of voters is the present economic condition in our country.

As I have traveled throughout the country this summer in promoting the cause that I represent, a number of folks have asked me, “In these times of financial difficulty, how is the Mansion doing?” I have been happy to share with those who have been concerned that we are doing amazingly well. Believe it or not, donations are up and we may be having the best year financially in the history of the Mansion! While I have heard that there are some charitable organizations that are really struggling right now, I am able to report that the needs of this ministry are being met as God’s people continue to faithfully support this great work. The children are being cared for, our staff members are being generously compensated and we’re paying our bills on time. For this we are thankful!

Now then, don’t get me wrong. I wouldn’t want to suggest that we have a surplus of revenue and that your personal contributions are not needed at this time. This is absolutely not the case. In order to keep our doors open, we depend on every dollar that is given month after month. And we need your support now more than ever, as we have just received 23 new residents in the past three months, and more are coming. That means that there are more mouths to feed, more caregivers to support, and escalating costs involved in operating this growing ministry.

So, to answer the headline question, perhaps the economy doesn’t really matter all that much. I recently read an article written by John Goettler, CFRE, in which he stated the following: “History has proven that Americans contribute in good and bad times. In our experience, some donors may even dig a little deeper in bad times. Nonprofits have only experienced a net decrease in donations twice in the past 40 years. The first time was from 1973-1975 as a result of the OPEC oil embargo. The second was after September 11, 2001, which resulted in a decline from 2001-2003. The overall economy was not a factor in either of these periods. In fact, according to statistics from Giving USA, gross dollars to charity have grown every year since 1955!”

Mr. Goettler went on to state that individual giving accounted for 83.3% of the $295 billion in charitable donations made in the United States during 2006. His findings reveal that fund-raising programs succeed or fail based on their own merits.

Let me conclude this entry by saying to those of you that support this beloved institution…thank you for continuing to give, both in the good times and in the bad. This awesome work must continue. And it will, because of caring and compassionate people like you who give sacrificially and generously over and over again! Thank you for putting your trust in us, and I promise that we will be careful stewards of every dollar that you sow into this work.

$30,411.00 Pledged or Donated!

StephenJudd — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 19:41:56 GMT

With 34 days to go before our Mansion 5K Run, I have already raised a total of $30,411.00 on this endeavor. New sponsors are coming on board every day! My personal goal is to raise $55,000, and I'm ready and willing to go the "extra miles" to make this happen! I am going to not only run the 5K, but to continue running the course a second time to complete 10K (6.2miles).

But I need your help! I can't do this by myself. I can run the race, but I need your support to raise the $55,000.00.

I have stepped it up a notch as far as my training is concerned. Not only would I like to finish the race, but my goal is to do the 3.1 miles in less than 30 minutes. That would be pretty good for an old man like me (6 mph/10 minute mile).

Why $55,000? This year, we are celebrating our 55th Anniversary at the Mansion. This beloved institution was founded in 1953, the same year that I was born. So, now are you starting to get the picture? Not only is the Mansion 55 years old, but I just had my 55th birthday.

If you have not already become a sponsor, will you consider joining Team Judd in the Mansion 5K Run and help me raise $55,000? Maybe you can't run the race, but you can partner with me in going the “extra mile” for this great cause, and together we will release the blessing into the lives of the precious children at Tupelo Children’s Mansion.

To watch a video of me working out, or for more sponsorship information, just click on this link: http://www.mansionevents.org/StephenJudd. You can either make a pledge or donate on-line.

I really appreciate your support! Please spread the good word. I need all the help I can get.

Also, if you're enjoying my blog, perhaps you would want to forward this to a friend. Thanks!

55th Anniversary Alumni Homecoming

StephenJudd — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:56:44 GMT

We are only six weeks away from our 55th Anniversary Alumni Homecoming on August 30 – 31, 2008 (Labor Day Weekend). This will be a gathering of former residents and staff members, as well as Mansion friends and supporters.

For a complete listing of information about the homecoming weekend, go to http://www.tcmm.org/about/55anni.html. We are encouraging everyone to RSVP and let us know what activities they will be participating in and how many are coming. This will help us with the planning. To RSVP, go to http://www.mansionevents.org and click on "Register for an Event."

The Homecoming activities will kick-off with the Mansion 5K Run and 2K Fun Run/Walk at 8:00 A.M on Saturday. The 5K is an official race endorsed by the Tupelo Running Club and is expected to draw hundreds of participants. This event is expected to raise a lot of money for the Mansion through corporate sponsors and individual donors. Our goal is $100,000. If you would like to participate in the Mansion 5K or 2K, you will need to register and can do so online.

In my next blog, I will be sharing with you my personal goal to not only run the 5K, but to go the "extra mile" and run the course a second time, completing 10K or 6.2 miles. I am trying to personally raise $55,000 with this endeavor. Guess what? I'm almost half way there!

At 11:00 A.M., there will be an Outdoor Extravaganza, including a picnic, games, softball, volleyball and inflatables for the children. Jonathan Moore, Burton Gaar, and other artists will be singing and providing entertainment at this great event. The food is going to be fantastic! I understand that 0'Charley's Restaurant may be catering for the picnic.

An open house and guided campus tours will begin at 1:00 P.M. This will be an opportunity to see the numerous renovations and improvement projects that have taken place on our beautiful campus.

I am really excited about the formation of our new official TCMM Alumni Association. The first meeting will take place during our Homecoming at 3:00 P.M. in the Freeman Chapel. Organizational matters will be taken care of, including the adoption of bylaws and election of officers for the Alumni Association. All former residents and staff members are urged to attend.

The highlight of our homecoming will be the 55th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday evening at 6:30 P.M. at the new BancorpSouth Conference Center behind the Hilton Garden Inn. This will be a fun-filled evening with lots of music and memories. A fabulous reception with great food (Italian) and entertainment will follow.

Of course, all are invited to attend the Sunday morning service at Life Church at 10:00 A.M. Come worship with us before heading home!

Our special guests for the weekend will be Rex and Patti Johnson of Austin, Texas, and Jonathan and Alicia Moore of San Antonio, Texas. Rex Johnson will be speaking and Jonathan and Alicia Moore will be providing special music.

Help us spread the word regarding this exciting weekend in Tupelo. Come and be with us if you can. Whether you are a former resident or staff member, or a Mansion friend and supporter, we'd love to have you. We're going to celebrate the history of this beloved institution, and make some great memories.

TRAVEL UPDATE

On a personal note, Erma and I have been "on the road again" for the Mansion. This past week, we met up with our tour group at the Arkansas Campmeeting in Redfield on Tuesday night. On Wednesday, we drove eight hours from Little Rock to Wapella, Illinois (near Bloomington) for the Illinois Campmeeting that night. On Thursday morning, we drove down to St. Louis for a 10:00 A.M. service at the Missouri Campmeeting. We came home on Friday.

You just wouldn't believe how awesome the children are doing in representing this great cause. Their singing is wonderful and their testimonies are inspiring. Sarah Slagle has learned the song that Burton Gaar just wrote, "I'm Your Kid Too." After she sings that song, everybody wants to give! We're thankful for the thousands of dollars that have been given in our promotional services in recent weeks.

Tomorrow, Erma and I will travel to Columbia, MS for the IMPACT Conference hosted by Pastor James Carney and Woodlawn Church. I am honored to be a sponsor of this great meeting. We'll be home Wednesday night, and then fly to South Carolina to represent TCMM at a district meeting. After a few days of vacation on the South Carolina coast, we will be in Ohio the next week for several more services.

Stay tuned...I can't wait to share with you my goals for the Mansion 5K!

Support of our Honorable Governor and Wife - Haley and Marsha Barbour

StephenJudd — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 21:08:00 GMT

This has been an eventful week, to say the least. However, every week is eventful as it relates to the Mansion. Believe me, there never is a dull moment when you're working with all of these children (and staff members)!

We saw the Governor Wednesday night at the Mississippi Campmeeting. Haley and Marsha Barbour have been outstanding in their support of TCMM and it is always an honor to get to spend some time with them. They both have visited our campus on several occasions, both before he became Governor and since his gubernatorial election. It was my distinct honor to be asked to pray at the prayer breakfast prior to his first inauguration four years ago. Truly, the Barbours have become special friends to the Mansion and an advocate throughout our state for this cause.

We had a wonderful visit last Saturday with Kenneth and Lucretia Huval of Lafayette, Louisiana. These folks have become wonderful sponsors of the Mansion and support the work in a number of ways. We honored Lucretia at our 55th Anniversary Celebration in February for the special interest she has shown in keeping the girls dressed in lovely clothes. This is her line of work and she has been such a blessing. Her husband, Kenneth, has his own sign business, and has offered to help us with an improvement to our campus of much-needed signage. All of our main buildings and residence halls will have beautiful identification signs in front of them and new street signs and directional signs will also be installed. A special "thanks" goes to these generous people for helping us in such a great way. Even Taco, their Chihuahua, is a Mansion fan. Notice the shirt that Lucretia made for her that says, "TCM Rocks!"

We continue to grow! Three more children arrived yesterday - Kadance (3 years old), Kage (5 years old) and Kaylee (7 years old). They are siblings and are adjusting to their new home. One of the fantastic things about the Mansion is our ability to keep siblings together in our residential program. I believe that another new resident is arriving next week - a teenage girl that will be placed in Haven of Hope, our special program for troubled girls. With these new arrivals at the Mansion, we have seen 22 children come to us in the past 3-4 months. This is a very unusual spurt of growth in such a short period of time. Please undergird us with special prayer with the increased challenges of meeting the needs of these new children. Pray for both the children and our wonderful staff members at this time.

I guess I had better close for now. There are so many more things I could share with you today, but they can wait until early next week. When I was first encouraged to start blogging, I was very reluctant and concerned that I wouldn't know what to blog about. Well - now that I'm into it - I have discovered that concern to be ill-founded. My prospective list of blogging topics continues to grow longer and longer. Instead of worrying that I wouldn't have enough material to write about, it's become an issue of which subject will I choose to cover. I guess that's a good problem, and an unexpected one at that. Hope you're enjoying receiving the inside scoop as much as I am in sharing it.

Gym Turned into Sewing Factory

StephenJudd — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:22:00 GMT

For the past 15 years, a group of ladies from Louisiana has been coming to the Mansion for several days to make clothes for the children and decorative items for our facilities. This group is known as the Dorcas Ministry. It is amazing what these talented ladies can do with fabric and thread. Sixteen ladies, under the direction of Gloria Chatagnier, came again this year during the second week of April. They literally took over the gymnasium and turned it into a sewing factory, with sewing machines strategically positioned and piles of fabric and cushion material stacked everywhere.

In just four days, the Dorcas ladies used their skills to create the following:

47 nap pad covers for Lower Elementary
48 pillow cases embroidered for Lower Elementary nap pillows
6 pair of tab curtains with cornice boards for Parks Hall (and installed them)
6 boleros for girls to wear over dresses
4 benches for Conquerors Hall upholstered
2 sofas, 2 love seats, 4 chairs upholstered for SFC Hall
28 pair of pajama bottoms for the boys
16 aprons for the housemothers
3 pair of tab curtains and cornices for Townhouse Hall
12 dining chairs upholstered
6 chairs upholstered for recreation room of Parks Hall
24 pillow inserts made for throw pillows
12 decorator pillows for Parks hall and Townhouse
47 fleece throws embroidered for children
Windows for SFC Hall measured and fabric selected
Fabric for Townhouse sofas, love seats and chairs selected*
Numerous alterations
Lots and lots of hugs!

Quite impressive, isn't it?

This past Friday night, during our TCMM program at the Louisiana Campmeeting, Erma gave much deserved recognition to the Dorcas Ministry. She had all of the ladies stand that came to the Masnion while she read the above listing of accomplishments. After the service, Gloria told Erma that several ladies came up to her volunteering to come with the group next year to help with this annual project.

We brought back from Tioga the completed window treatments for SFC Hall*. Thanks also goes to Bro. C. E. Cooley, TCMM Board Member, for the donation of tools and cross-cut saws. The Yukon was loaded "to the gills" and what boxes we couldn't get into the SUV were put on the tour bus.

There was only one slight problem with the saws. Evidently there was some oil in the motors which caused an unpleasnt aroma in the vehicle all the way home. [I know about the typo in the previous sentence, but they tell me when you blog that you don't need to do much editing. It's supposed to be more effective and come across as being more real and transparent, or something like that. So I'm not going to go back and correct the mispelled word.]

Anyway, back to my story...it definitely was not a "sweet aroma" and there wasn't much worship happening in the Yukon. It's sort of difficult to describe, but the smell wasn't anything like one of the fragrance choices that you have when you get your car detailed. We tried to air it out and thought the air conditioning would help, but to not much avail. The further we traveled, and the hotter it got, the worse it became. At one point, I thought about just dumping the tools someplace along the road...would Bro. Cooley ever know that they never did get to the Mansion? Just kidding! It's a good thing that I didn't dispose of the tools, because Bro. Cooley had already been on the phone with Bro. Mekash, our Physical Plant Director, to tell him about the donation.

One thing is for sure--we had a memorable experience. The next time I see Bro. Cooley, I will have to joke with him about it. It really is kind of funny now, but I can assure you that it wasn't funny during the eight-hour trip home. I would imagine that Bro. Cooley probably brought the tools to the campground in a truck, rather than in his back seat. But it was worth it all, and our maintenance men will appreciate the equipment. I just hope the bad smell didn't leave a residue in the fabric for the window treatments. Oh, now that's a thought. I hope Erma (and Gloria) haven't subscribed to my blog!

A Former Resident Writes...

StephenJudd — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 21:32:00 GMT

I want to share with you what a former resident of the Mansion recently submitted on the Staying Connected page of our Web site:

Name: Belinda Williams
Name at TCMM: Chris Gee
Timeframe at TCMM: 1990-1994

Memories/Notes: I had the opportunity to travel with the tour group and that was one of the best experiences I have ever had. I was fortunate to have excelled at TCA and it was great being able to go to competitions with the school. I also enjoyed making the “Come Along” video and the “Take The Time” children’s project. I could go on and on, but I know that if it had not been for the Mansion opening its doors to me, I wouldn't be where I am today—living for God and raising my children in the church! God Bless you, TCMM!

Where I am now: I live in Waterloo, Iowa with my family and my girls. Grace Elizabeth is 3 and Sofie Renee-Marie is 6 months. I attend Rev. Carl LaGow's church. I am involved in our Food Pantry ministry along with Sunday School and Power Hour. I am finishing up my degree to be a Pharmacy Technician and I have helped to take care of my mother since she had a stroke last year. Other than that, I enjoy living for God and the greatest blessing in my life is the opportunity that God has given me to be a mother. Grace loves Sunday School and I love the fact that she will raise her hands and clap in service as well as sing. (I think she gets that from her mommy.)

This is a beautiful testimony. When we hear from former residents and their success stories, it reminds us of why we do what we do day in and day out. This is what it’s all about—making a difference in the lives of children, who through no fault of their own, find themselves deprived of the love and nurture that every child longs for and deserves.

18 New Children

StephenJudd — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:44:00 GMT

We have had 18 new children--seven boys and 11 girls--come to the Mansion so far this year, most of them in the past three months. Another girl was accepted last week and will be arriving in a few days. In the seven years that Erma and I have been at TCMM, this is the most rapid growth we have seen--about one new placement per week. We’re not sure why this is happening now, but we are definitely getting more inquiries and placements than ever before.

As you can imagine, many adjustments are being made as quickly as possible to accommodate this escalation in enrollment. Jim Mekash, our Physical Plant Manager, and his crew of dedicated workers have been working extra hard to complete some renovations to SFC Hall, one of our girls' dorms. We are getting ready to begin a complete remodeling of Townhouse Residence Hall, on the boys' side of the campus.

We weren't really prepared for this many placements this quickly, with the varous projects underway and our current number of houseparents. But in reviewing the applications, Erma and our staff just did not feel that we could turn any of them away. They seem to be children that we will be able to help in a significant way and will benefit greatly from our program.

Everyday, precious children are being profoundly blessed through this ministry. It is so thrilling to see God doing a real work in their lives as they discover significance in life and a genuine hope for the future.

I'm asking you to pray especially for our staff at this time that God will will give us special wisdom and strength in meeting the challenges that are presently before us.

Plant Therapy

StephenJudd — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 14:20:00 GMT

A group of ladies from the Tupelo Garden Club is at the Mansion today helping the children plant flowers in several locations around the campus. The children really seem to be enjoying themselves as they learn about gardening. The ladies took the time to make it a meaningful and interactive experience for our residents.

We take advantage of every opportunity to teach our children the value of a good work ethic. Throughout the year, but especially during the summer months while they are out of school, the children are given an opportunity to do various jobs around the campus in addition to their regular chores, and they are rewarded for a job well done.

Back to the Garden Club...Nancy Brown Milam, Garden Club President, has been coordinating this beautification project, along with several other ladies, including: Lisa Reed, Judy Billups and Beverly Chappell. Nancy shared with me that they are exited about including the Mansion in their budget this year, and hope to continue their invovlement in the future.

We are very thankful for the broad support that comes from Tupelo and the surrounding area. The community invovlement is very significant and a tremendous blessing to the Mansion. We are constantly receiving donations and help from various local churches, businesses and civic organizations.

Tour Time

StephenJudd — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 04:39:18 GMT

I write this from the Houston Intercontinental airport, heading home for Sunday after being with our tour group last night at the South Texas Revival Conference in San Antonio. Erma is with me. She helped with our presentation last night, introducing several of of the children and having them testify. We closed our program by showing our new 5-minute promotional DVD, "I Give You My Heart." This DVD is available for viewing in our Media Center at www.tcmm.org. You'll want to check it out.

Our flight has been delayed due to weather, so I thought this would be a good time to catch up on my blogging. It’s going to be a late night arrival into Memphis and then a 90 mile drive to Tupelo. I have a guest preacher in the morning at Life Church. Stan Cook is going to be with us in service. Stan and his wife, Cheryl, travel as Field Reps for the Mansion and are great ambassadors for the cause.

This is the time of year when we travel quite a bit. The Kids Tour has been out on the road now for two weeks. This select group of Mansion children will be involved in 14 church conferences and campmeetings this summer, as well as a number of local church promotional services. Erma and I are planning to meet up with the group at seven of those appearances. Last night was one of those special times to be with the kids. We were able to have some fun with them today before heading to the airport. They will be in College Station and Euless, Texas for services tomorrow. (The photo to the left is of Ken Burton, TCMM Vice-President, with the children before they left on tour.)

Jason and Amber Kear, our field reps, are heading up the summer tour. Last week, the group was in Lufkin, Texas at a large campmeeting gathering. They had 30 minutes during the service to sing and share their testimonies. After the presentation, the children were invited to walk through the crowd handing out sponsorship forms. An offering in the amount of $9,700 was received and several hundred dollars per month was pledged in sponsorships. Special thanks to Bro. D. R. Russo, District Superintendent, for pulling for a very generous offering.

A week ago Friday night, I was at a Canadian Conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This was a wonderful opportunity to present the Mansion. People were gathered there from as far away as British Columbia to the west and Newfoundland to the east. A number of our Canadian friends pledged their financial support to TCMM. One pastor from northern Ontario requested a copy of the DVD that was shown during the service in order that he could present it to his congregation and raise Special Kid Sponsorships.

With the focus of this blog being about summer promotional travel, I want to ask you to pray for our tour group as they travel this summer. Specifically, I’m asking you to pray for three things: 1) That the Lord would keep His hand of protection upon the group as they travel, 2) That the children would be a great blessing wherever they go, and 3) That God’s people everywhere would open their hearts of compassion toward this ministry.

To find out what campmeetings the children will be at this summer, click on the following link: www.tcmm.org/about/kidstour.html

For my Monday blog, I am going to give the latest update regarding new placements at the Mansion. Children have been arriving nearly every week during the past several months. I’ll share with you some of their stories. Stay tuned…

Today is my 55th!

StephenJudd — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:14:00 GMT

There are so many things I could blog about today, but I will seize the moment and acknowledge that today is my 55th birthday! With Father's Day yesterday, and my birthday today, this has been a back-to-back double treat for me. I've been overwhelmed with a bunch of greeting cards and text messages from friends and family. Turning 55 must be a big deal or something!

Tamisha and Tamara have called from Texas to wish me well. I'm expecting a call from Judd, my 4-year old grandson, any minute. (I'm going to see him later this week.) Last night, Erma and I celebrated these special days in my life at Sonic Drive-in. (We had already gone out for a nice Sunday dinner after church.)

Let me explain. We were just sitting around the house, not doing much, and she mentioned that she had a craving for an Oreo Blast. You know what? She sweet-talked me right into it. It was either go for an evening walk or go to Sonic. You guessed it. By mutual consent, we yielded to the temptation. What better way to celebrate an occasion like this than to sit in our vehicle at the local Sonic, with the windows rolled down on a summer evening, listening to the final round of the U. S. Open on XM radio? It just doesn't get any better than that!

However, when we got home, Erma sort of took the edge off of the fun-filled evening by looking up the number of Weight Watchers points that exist in one regular-sized Sonic Blast. You won't believe it...16 points! That's more than half of my daily allotment. But, hey, it's my birthday! I figure 'll just have to run an extra few miles this week to work off those calories.

The Life Church family was so kind to honor me yesterday morning. They presented me with money for a new watch of my choice. Somebody must have let it out that my old Seiko has finally given up the ghost. Maybe I'll go shopping for a Rolex. Just kidding. Besides, don't you know it would be a little challenging trying to raise charitable contributions in support of an orphanage while wearing a Rolex!

Earlier, this morning, I was surprised with a birthday party in the TCMM Dining Hall. Ken Burton, our Vice President, came into my office and asked me if I had just five minutes. He knew that I was getting ready to leave for Atlanta this afternoon, but said that he needed to show me something and offered some vague reason as to why we needed to go down to the Conference Room (which is accessible from the Dining Room). When we walked into the Dining Room, all of the staff members and children were there waiting on me and started singing, "Happy Birthday." What a total surprise! Actually, it's been several years since I was home for Father's Day and my birthday, as we are normally out traveling with the summer tour at this time of year. It was really neat to share these two wonderful days with everyone here.

My favorite Father's Day card was from little Hannah Johnson, one of our new children here at the Mansion. It was a homemade card (those are the best kind) and it had these words: "Roses are red, violets are blue, Dads are sweet, and you are too!" And then it was signed like this: "Happy Father's Day - Bro. Jude." Bless her heart. We really haven't had a chance to get to know one another yet.

If the Lord tarries His coming and allows us to continue to serve this great ministry, I sincerely hope that I'll be celebrating my 65th birthday, 10 years from now, right here at the Mansion. Erma and I have never been more excited about working for the Lord than we are right now. This calling is definitely our life's greatest challenge, but the rewards are immeasurable. I do want the next decade of my life to really count for God. With His help, we're going to make a difference in a great many lives and be a blessing to His kingdom.

New Web Site is Launched

StephenJudd — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 03:14:17 GMT

I am so excited about our new TCMM Web site, which was launched today! For several months, we've been waiting with much anticipation for this day to arrive.

I'm sure you will agree with me that the all new http://www.tcmm.org is fresh, fun and informative. The media center already has a number of files for your viewing pleasure, with many more being available very soon. When you launch the media player, our new 5-minute promotional DVD will start playing - "I Give You My Heart." This production will be shown in conferences, campmeetings and special services all over North America in the coming months.

You will notice that the site is prepared to receive online donations. You can sponsor a child, contribute to the current appeal, or give a general offering to the ministry.

More enhancements and features will be forthcoming in the near future, including a photo gallery that will be refreshed with new photos each month. Also in the works is the Mansion Radio Network featuring our special projects as well as those of our supporting Unto You artists. Inspirational messages and interviews will also be broadcast via the internet.

In a few days, we will be starting a monthly e-newsletter entitled, The Mansion Minute. Already, we have over 8,000 email addresses to send it to. You can sign up to receive this new on-line publication from the Home Page, or by clicking on the following link: http://visitor.constantcontact.com/optin.jsp?v=001GfcdKfB8aoutC3W3HUO4vk7GN3A_Y_G1

We’ve had a wonderful team working together on this project. Ben Sanders is our webmaster. His wife just happens to be our daughter, Tamara. They were married last September and live in Dallas, Texas. Tamara serves as our Director of Promotions and has assisted Ben with the site. FYI, Ben has just started a company--Prema Studios--which specializes in meeting business design needs http://www.premastudios.com. He's one of the most creative and talented individuals I've ever known, and is a Microsoft certified systems administrator, master certified internet webmaster designer, A+ PC technician, network+ technician, security+ professional, and is Adobe certified in PhotoShop. [I had to ask Tamara for the listing, as Ben's not one to hi-light his credentials.] Tamara is a Marketing Manager for Essilor of America, the world's leading provider of eyeglass lenses. She received her Masters in Business Administration with a focus on marketing from Texas A&M University a couple of years ago. Together, they are quite a team.

I also want to acknowledge several others that have played an important role in rolling out the new site. Burton Gaar, our Director of Corporate Relations and Special Projects, has developed the media center. All of the promotional DVDs and music projects have been created under his direction. Chad Parker, Associate Director of TCM, has provided invaluable assistance with much of the content and has served as liason to the Web site committee. Margo Burton, Editor-in-Chief, has worked tirelessly in recent days with the final editing. Annette Tomlinson, Sponsor Relations Coordinator and Photographer, has furnished us with the needed photos.

Last, but not least, I want to thank Les McElhaney, of Simi Valley, California, for his professional expertise and counsel with the transition from the original Web site. It was Les that created the Mansion's very first presence on the internet several years ago. His contribution of time, effort and personal expense during the past eight years has helped us achieve this significant milestone. What a tremendous blessing he has been to this ministry.

Enjoy the site. Your suggestions and comments are welcome!

Former MKs Visit Mansion

StephenJudd — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:52:00 GMT

We were recently blessed to have two former residents visit the Mansion. Brother and Sister Robert Harris, who pastor in Marion, Indiana, were involved in placing a young lady at the Mansion from their church.

We were thrilled to welcome this 12-year old girl and also glad for the opportunity to visit with the Harris family.

Bro. and Sis. Harris both lived at the Mansion as children for a short period of time while their parents were missionaries on deputation. It was a good feeling for us to know that they felt highly enough about their experience here to trust us with a child who they knew was in need.

Already, Adriana is doing well. She is making friends and enjoying Mansion life.

It is wonderful to welcome friends to the campus while they are in the Tupelo area. This is our home and we love to have company! Tours of the campus are given from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Even if you've experienced the Mansion before, you'll want to come again to see all of the wonderful improvements and changes that have been made recently. Please call ahead and let us know you are coming. We'll be happy to arrange a tour for you.

Houseparents Needed

StephenJudd — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 21:39:00 GMT

After five years of dedicated and faithful service as houseparents, Ken and Rose Solberg are resigning from their responsibilities and returning to Wisconsin to be close to their family again. They’re planning to spend the summer at their cabin on the lake and to get reacquainted with their grandchildren.

The Solbergs have been model houseparents and a tremendous blessing during their tenure here in Tupelo. They have been “mom” and “dad” to some very special boys, and they will certainly be missed, not only by them, but by all of us.

With the departure of the Solbergs and the arrival of new children, we are desperately in need of houseparents. We just reopened SFC Hall, a girls’ dorm that has been closed for renovation, in order to receive several more girls. Also, remodeling is continuing in Townhouse boys’ dorm, and we will need houseparents to help us when we reopen that facility in the near future.

The houseparents are the heroes of this institution. There is not another role that is more vital than that of the houseparenting. If you know of somebody that you think would be qualified and would possibly have an interest in applying for this employment position, please have them contact Brad Laughlin, our Executive Assistant and Human Resource Manager: bradlaughlin@tcmm.org / 662.791.7719. Interested individuals can also contact my wife, Erma, who serves as the Executive Director of TCM (residential department): ermajudd@tcmm.org / 662.791.7706.

A Touching Story

StephenJudd — Thu, 29 May 2008 21:46:00 GMT

An aunt of two of our recently placed girls called today to check on them. She was told that the two little girls, ages three and five, were adjusting well. When asked if they had been sad or crying, she was told that they had not been crying for their family since arriving and seemed to be accepting of living here.

The aunt stated that she was glad the children were at the Mansion and in a safe environment. She mentioned that the girls were not always safe with their mother, and that she had gone and picked up the girls from crack houses where the mother had abandoned them.

Everyone here at the Mansion is amazed at how mature the 5-year old is. The houseparents have observed her making her own bed, cleaning up after herself, and instructing others on how to take care of themselves. The aunt said that this behavior was learned through necessity. The older girl had been responsible for the care of the younger sibling. She would actually change her diapers, feed and dress her every day.

This story touches my heart and reminds me of why the Mansion exists, and why I love my calling to Tupelo.

Family Time

StephenJudd — Mon, 26 May 2008 22:04:00 GMT

It’s always good to get a way for a few days of rest and relaxation. Erma and I are thoroughly enjoying the work that God has called us to do and have never been more fulfilled in ministry; however, the workload does get extremely heavy at times, not to mention the stress of the daily grind. And so we realize that taking a break or some time off for vacation is a must. We have surrounded ourselves with gifted counselors and advisors that make sure that this is a priority for us.

This Memorial Day weekend, we’re enjoying a few days in College Station, Texas with our two daughters and their husbands.

Chad and Tamisha Utermark, and our grandson, Chadwick Judd Utermark, live in College Station, and Ben and Tamara Sanders live in Dallas.

Needless to say, Little Judd, as we call him, is our pride and joy! He turned 4-years old in January. He’s a very smart little boy, and quite an athlete. He hits a golf ball off the tee about 90 yards, and enjoys football, baseball, basketball, soccer and swimming. As you can see from these photos, he’s really into baseball right now.

His Daddy is a Cubs Fan. I just had to buy him a Cardinals Cap the other day, much to the chagrin of Chad.

Last Week of School

StephenJudd — Thu, 22 May 2008 22:19:00 GMT

This is the last week of school of school for Tupelo Christian Academy, our on-campus school at TCMM. There are a number of end-of-the-year events taking place, including an exciting field day of fun activities for the kids, a memorable year-end formal and awards night filled with recognition for the students’ dedication to growing, both academically and spiritually. The Kindergarten and High School Graduation is tomorrow night. Next week, the seniors are going on their senior trip to New York City to fulfill a life-long dream for each of them.

I can’t say enough good things about our school. TCA is considered one of the finest Christian schools in this entire region. Our enrollment last year was 118 students and a larger number of students is anticipated for the 2008-2009 school year. The Junior and Senior High classes this coming year will all be taught by teachers with either Bachelors or Masters degrees. The curriculum that will be utilized is A Beka and McDougal LIttell. Advanced math and science classes, such as trigonometry and physics, will also be offered. Several new electives will be available, including: psychology, economics and Spanish. Due to the special needs of some of our newer Mansion residents, TCA also has an ACE Learning Center and a summer school program for those who can benefit from this program. The majority of our Mansion residents are behind academically when they come to us. It is amazing to see them get back on track and eventually excel in their schooling. Our excellent teachers and houseparents work together to help the children in this area.

Thomas Noe is doing a fantastic job as Executive Director of Tupelo Christian Academy. To know more about TCA, visit our Web site at: www.tcmm.org.

New Residents

StephenJudd — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:31:00 GMT

We received three new residents yesterday.

A 14 year-old young lady was placed in Haven of Hope Girls’ Home. Her mother heard about our program for troubled teenage girls through a lady that has visited our church. This girl struggles with some anger issues, but she is accepting of being at HOH and states that she wants to make a positive change in her life.

Two boys also arrived on Tuesday. Devin is 13 and Shawn is 14. Their mother heard of us through the internet. The boys have no church background. The younger boy is the more outgoing of the two, and his older brother seems to be more reflective. Devon loves to skateboard and Shawn loves to draw. The boys have been in foster care previously and seem very excited about their new home.

We will be placing two more brothers this Saturday. With the arrival of these boys, both Cole Morgan Hall and Parks hall will be functioning at full capacity. The other boys’ residence hall, Townhouse, is currently being renovated.

Growth at the Mansion seems to come in spurts. We'll go for a couple of months with no placements, and then suddenly we'll be getting a bunch of calls and applications. It's always an exciting and challenging time as new children arrive as we work with them to adjust to their new home and surroundings. It can be a bit overwhelming for the kids. Please pray for these newly arriving children.

Earthquake and Tornado Hits Tupelo

StephenJudd — Thu, 15 May 2008 23:59:00 GMT

Perhaps you heard about Tupelo in the news last week. If you like tornados and earthquakes, Tupelo was the place to be. On Tuesday, we were under tornado warnings for most of the day. The children and staff members hunkered down in the designated shelters on campus as the tornado sirens went off. The children from the Pre-K Class were under a table in the dining hall, as Sandy Shortridge was reading them a story. A tornado did touch down several times in Tupelo, causing moderate to severe structural damage and a lot of tree and power lines were down. It came within a few hundred feet of Ken and Margo Burton’s home on the west side of Tupelo, destroyed a building at the Furniture Market and caused damage along North Gloster near the Mall. Thankfully, nobody was injured.

And then on Saturday night, there was another volley of storms that came through our county, one right after another. We were up most of the night, and at one point, crawled down into an underground shelter beneath our home. Tamara and Ben, our daughter and son-in-law were visiting from Dallas for the Mother’s Day weekend, and there we were – all huddled together and trying not to act scared. Lightning struck the big oak tree in our back yard, and the whole house shook. That’s when Tamara said, “Okay, let’s pray!” And we did.

As if the severe weather was not exciting enough, we also experienced something very unusual for northeast Mississippi on Saturday. About noon, I was working in the yard, and heard a loud boom and felt the ground moving under my feet. At first, I thought that maybe there had been an explosion, or perhaps a sonic boom. People came running out of their homes, trying to determine what was going on. Later, it was reported that a 3.5 earthquake had occurred in an isolated area of west Tupelo in the Belden community where we live.

After this week of trauma and excitement, I am especially grateful for the Lord’s hand of protection upon the Mansion. In the seven years that we have been in Tupelo, we have not had one serious injury on our campus resulting from accident or tragedy. Several years ago, our main school building was nearly destroyed by a fire during the Christmas holiday, but nobody was hurt. Our tour group and field reps travel extensively across the country, and there have been a few accidents, but no serious injuries. From time to time, I drive around this campus calling on the name of the Lord as I pray for divine protection from any harm and danger that would come against us. Surely, He has dispatched guardian angels to watch over this little community known as the Mansion. And for this, I just want to praise the Lord.

Here are some links to the Daily Journal articles related to this blog:

http://www.djournal.com/pages/archive.asp?ID=273063&pub=1&div=News
http://www.djournal.com/pages/archive.asp?ID=273219&pub=1&div=News
http://www.djournal.com/pages/archive.asp?ID=273217&pub=1&div=News

I did it!

StephenJudd — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:38:00 GMT

If I may toot my own horn, I ran in the Gum Tree 10K race here in Tupelo on Saturday. Like the Apostle Paul, “I finished my course.” And I ran the whole distance. Actually, I’m quite proud of myself. There were nearly 1,200 runners, and I placed 419th, running the 6.2 miles in 1.07.42.

It was a very neat experience. Along the route, there were people lining the streets cheering us on. Of course, the water brigade was handing us the cups without us missing a stride. I even had some personal fans at the finish line to congratulate me. I know that I’m bragging, but I checked the results board, and there were only 20 participants that were older than I am that beat my time. Not bad, huh? I figure if I can lose another 15 pounds, and get to 195, I’ll be able to run it in less than an hour.

The Gum Tree is one of the most popular 10K races in the country, and people come from all over to run in it. In fact, there were several here for the event that are training for the China Olympics. Can you believe that the winner of the race completed it in about 28 minutes? Unbelievable. I think he was from Tanzania or some other African country. .

As the starting gun sounded, I took off surrounded by this mass of people. After a block or two, I looked down at my Polar timer on my wrist and was shocked to realize that I was running about 8 mph. At first, I thought that the calibration was off as I usually run between 5.5 and 6.5 mph. And then it dawned upon me that two things were happening. First of all, the adrenalin had kicked in—that rush resulting from actually running in a real race. But the second thought that occurred to me was that I was running with the crowd, and it was so easy to run faster when everyone else was running beside me at the same pace. If I had the time and space here, I could preach a little bit about this. There is power in unity, and doing it together!

A Wonderful Testimony

StephenJudd — Fri, 09 May 2008 01:40:00 GMT

Last week, James (not his real name), a 12-year old Mansion resident, asked to testify during the TCA chapel. He got up in front of the whole elementary school and, with tears streaming down his face, began to share how that before coming to the Mansion he didn’t have any friends and everyone made fun of him. But, since coming to Tupelo, everyone has been so nice to him and helped him to feel good about himself. He thanked everyone for being his friend and stated how happy he was to be here.

When I heard this, I recalled from the placement application that his mother had stated that James was a loner and didn’t seem to have any friends. She stated that one of his problems was a lack of self-esteem, and that he felt fat and worthless. In the short time that James has been with us, he has made tremendous progress. He’s even been inviting some of his relatives that live in the Tupelo area to visit our church, and several of them have attended. This has made him so proud.

James has so much potential. Along with providing for him a safe and loving home where he can grow and develop academically, emotionally and spiritually, our goal is to give him the two greatest gifts that we can possibly give to our children—the twin gifts of dignity and self-respect.

Mansion 5K Run

StephenJudd — Tue, 06 May 2008 00:57:00 GMT

I am really getting excited about our developing plans for the Mansion 5K run that will take place on Saturday, August 30, during our 55th Anniversary Alumni Homecoming. The Tupelo Running Club has come on board and is sponsoring this race as an official event. Hundreds are expected to participate. Many corporate sponsors are getting behind us with their support.

I am in training and hope to not only run the 5K, but to also run a 10K (6.2 miles) or Half-Marathon (13 miles) in a special effort to raise a lot of money for the Mansion. I'm planning to run in the Tupelo Gum Tree 10K race on May 10. I’ve never done anything like this before, so it’s a new challenge.

I turn 55 next month. Think about this—I’m the same age as the Mansion! We were both born in 1953, right here in Tupelo. That is a little known fact. Many people know that Tupelo is the birthplace of Elvis, but not many know that I was born here.

To help us celebrate the Mansion and me turning 55 this year, I’m asking you to sponsor me as we go the "extra mile" to help the kids at the Mansion. A special Web site will be launched soon where you can register to run in the race, or make a donation or pledge of sponsorship.