http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/ Murphy Harpst Journal http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=68 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=68 Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EDT Gladys Heath of Rome, Georgia, has been honored by the Murphy-Harpst Children's Centers Auxiliary with the dedication of a bench placed on the Cedartown campus. Ms. Heath was recognized at a meeting and luncheon of the auxiliary on March 23 for her 28 years of faithful work on behalf of the auxiliary including service as First Vice President, Treasurer, and President. Ms. Heath is credited by all the members for reviving and rededicating the auxiliary in their service to the children of Murphy-Harpst during her Presidency. Ms. Heath has been a member of Rome First United Methodist Church for the past 32 years. The auxiliary is an organization of some 150 volunteers with the mission of "keeping alive the dedication and spirit of Sarah Murphy and Ethel Harpst by promoting "the welfare of the children of Murphy Harpst". The bench dedicated in honor of Ms. Heath was designed and fabricated by Dave Getman of Cedartown. Standing: Chuck Troutman, Murphy-Harpst President & CEO; Tish Redwine, Auxiliary Secretary Seated: Rev. Nancy English, Auxiliary President; Gladys Heath, Honoree http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=65 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=65 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST An enthusiastic group from Mt. Bethel UMC in Hiram (pictured below) visited Murphy-Harpst on February 21 and brought numerous scrapbooking supplies, including stickers, presses, and an amazing Cricut Electronic Cutter that will cut 800 different images! "The scrapbooking supplies will enable the kids to work on scrapbooks that, for some, will be treasured chronicles of their time at Murphy-Harpst and, for others, will enable them to stay connected with their families while in residence," said Pam Kramer, Recreation Coordinator. This gift of art therapy supplies will have a lasting impression on many children served by Murphy-Harpst. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=56 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=56 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST Murphy-Harpst is very proud to learn that Ethel Harpst has been named to the Georgia Women of Achievement. The induction ceremony will take place in Macon on March 8. Sarah Murphy was inducted in 2004, and now both founders are members of this distinguished group of women who shaped Georgia's history! Below is press information released by Georgia Women of Achievement. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=62 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=62 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST The W.D. Trippe Trust of Cedartown, Georgia has announced a $100,000 challenge to Murphy-Harpst to raise $130,000 needed to underwrite the total cost of a $230,000 Multipurpose Recreation Center. To date, $25,000 has been raised, and we need $105,000 in donations to meet the challenge and receive $100,000 from the Trippe Trust for the project! While Murphy-Harpst has a strong equine assisted therapy program, a ropes challenge course, and numerous opportunities for outdoor sports such as football, soccer, softball, swimming, and beach volleyball, indoor recreation is very limited. Since 1942 with the construction of Merner Chapel, indoor recreation has been confined to the Chapel basement, which was designed on the scale of a church fellowship hall and suitable for only a small number of indoor games and activities. This limitation inhibits recreation therapy on days of inclement weather, including very cold and hot temperatures, and athletic activities after dark. Our plans to address the need for indoor recreation include the construction of a pre-engineered metal, multi-purpose 80 ft. by 100 ft. gymnasium on a concrete pad. This indoor facility will have an impact on the young people at Murphy-Harpst by more than doubling the number of indoor recreational opportunities currently provided. This will be accomplished through: the addition of a full-size basketball court; opportunities for indoor volleyball, tennis, badminton, dodge ball, indoor soccer, and other activities; providing enough space that more than one indoor activity or class can be offered at the same time; increasing recreational opportunities not only on a regular schedule but also on days of inclement weather, including extreme hot and cold temperatures, and after dark; opportunities for other staff such as cottage leaders and volunteers to utilize indoor recreation in their activities with the children. For information and to make a gift to help Murphy-Harpst achieve the challenge grant, please email Emily Saltino or Jim Tichenor or call them at (706) 232-5663. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=58 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=58 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST The Northbrook United Methodist Men's 8th Annual Christmas tree sale resulted in $17,381.74 for children at Murphy-Harpst! The Methodist Men's President Dave Casselman (right) presented the check to Tom Saltino, Murphy-Harpst Director of Stewardship (left), during Northbrook's Sunday Morning Worship Service on Janaury 8. In turn, Tom presented Dave with a plaque in recognition of Northbrook's longstanding support of children at Murphy-Harpst. Each year, the men at Northbrook travel to North Carolina, select and cut the trees, and then transport them back to the church for the sale. This year, all the trees were sold prior to Christmas. Many of the buyers made donations in addition to the cost of the tree. Proceeds from the sale also went to benefit Street GRACE, an organization dedicated to eliminating the commercial sexual exploitation of children in Atlanta and beyond. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=54 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=54 Mon, 5 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST Many thanks to The Children's Choirs at Northside United Methodist Church and to Church members and Staff for "The Next Noel" musical program on December 4. Murphy-Harpst young people enjoyed this fabulous program along with members of the congregation. Special thanks for the wonderful gifts, the brunch, and we enjoyed making gingerbread houses. "The Next Noel" is part of White Christmas, an annual holiday tradition at Northside for Murphy-Harpst for more than 40 years. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=51 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=51 Wed, 2 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EDT Thanks so much to members of the Milton High School Football Team for playing football with us. The new hats they brought for the children are so spirited! It was a wonderful day, and the children enjoy the new hats and the excellent sweet treats. We look forward to Milton High's visits each year. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=49 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=49 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT If you missed Murphy-Harpst on Mugs in the Morning, you can watch it on our Facebook page. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=48 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=48 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT Read about the success of the October 8 Bike-A-Thon on Facebook and in the Cedartown Standard. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=47 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=47 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EDT Many thanks to Oasis Church of Dallas, Georgia, on their second visit to Murphy-Harpst. As ususal, they provided laughter and entertainment that everyone enjoyed. This enthusiastic group brought a DJ, a gospel rapper, and an amazing group of volunteers that sang, danced, and worshipped with us. Our children really enjoyed this worship experience! http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=46 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=46 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EDT Many thanks to the 75 guests who attended the 2011 heARTworks Fine Art Auction Reception at Studio Siri in Rome, GA., on Sept. 15. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Murphy-Harpst Children's Centers. Original paintings were donated by artist Siri Selle, students in her art classes, and children at Murphy-Harpst. Thanks also to the Darlington Instrumental Music Conservatory, the Junior Service League of Rome, Hawthorne Suites, the Murphy-Harpst Auxiliary, and event leaders Siri Selle, Mary Margaret Mauer, and Brian Hampton. Children at Murphy-Harpst submitted several of their paintings for the auction. Madison Linder, at student at Studio Siri, displays her painting that was sold at the auction to benefit children at Murphy-Harpst. Murphy-Harpst appreciates the efforts and talents of artist Siri Selle in organizing the auction. Penny Evans-Plants, husband Eric, and daughter Abby and son Zach enjoyed the reception along with others from the community. Murphy-Harpst appreciates their leadership as advocates for our organization at First United Methodist Church in Rome, GA. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=45 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=45 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EDT Bascomb United Methodist Church in Woodstock, GA, recently came to cookout for Murphy-Harpst. They brought a huge feast that included hotdogs, hamburgers, chicken sausage, candy and ice cream! As if that wasn't enough, they also donated boxes of Band-Aids, several jars of hand sanitizer and one container of wipes. Thank you so much Bascomb UMC. We had a blast! http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=42 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=42 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EDT Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal visited Murphy-Harpst on August 9. The children really enjoyed talking with her and appreciate her invitation for an upcoming visit to the Governor's Mansion. Read about her visit in a story featured in the Cedartown Standard. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=41 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=41 Wed, 3 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EDT Recently joining the staff at Murphy-Harpst Children's Centers as Equine Coordinator, Kaylan Marion has already discovered that the children in residential treatment and the horses are a natural fit. "Some of our kids have never touched a horse, and in a week's time, they often learn to walk, lead, and ride them," says Kaylan. "Like the children, each of the horses has a unique personality with its own history of problems, and it's amazing how a boy or girl is drawn so quickly to a horse that mirrors themselves." Prior to Murphy-Harpst, Kaylan served as activity therapist leader and was responsible for the horticulture therapy department at Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital in Rome, GA. Shortly after the State announced the closing of the Hospital, Murphy-Harpst had an opening in equine therapy. "I was raised on a farm in this area and have had horses my entire life. I had always wanted to do equine assisted therapy. I have a huge passion for animals and believe in using them to help people who have experienced abuse and need healing," says Kaylan. "I really enjoy my work. I love being with the kids, and am overjoyed when they bond with the horses." Since 1984, animal-assisted therapy has been an integral part of Murphy-Harpst's array of therapeutic services. "The kids can't wait to be with the horses, and the equine program helps them in becoming more independent," recalls Kaylan. "They develop responsibility in caring for the horses—from cleaning out the stalls to grooming. They gather the horses from the pasture. They even learn the anatomy of the horse. Working with them individually and in groups, we are seeing progress as the children learn to ride. They are also encouraged by adult group leaders that have never been around horses and are actually learning to ride along with them." As for Kaylan's aspirations, "One of my goals is a junior rodeo. The children could be on teams by cottage. Each team would be challenged to catch, saddle, lead, and ride the horses. The final challenge would be an obstacle course." http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=38 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=38 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EDT Pastor Ken Kulp at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Rome had a very daring idea for kicking off the July 17 Special Day of Giving for Murphy-Harpst. With unusual grace and resilence, he encouraged young people in his congregation to transform him into a Sundae--dumping lots of whipped cream, chocolate, and other toppings. This "Sundae Sunday" at Chapel Hill netted $701 for Murphy-Harpst and for the Matthew Initiative, and was featured on the front page of the July 18 Rome News: http://www.rn-t.com/view/full_story/14735314/article-A-sundae-treat-for-children-in-need--?instance=home_news http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=24 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=24 Wed, 8 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EDT Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) featured Murphy-Harpst on "All Things Considered" on Feb. 14, 2011 and on "Morning Edition" the following day. The feature includes interviews with one of our children; with Dr. Brian Parks, Chief Operating Officer; and with Emily Saltino, Vice President of Development. The success of our mission and the tremendous need for financial support for Murphy-Harpst and similar organizations were emphasized. Please listen for yourself: http://www.gpb.org/news/2011/02/15/murphy-harpst-childrens-center http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=36 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=36 Fri, 27 May 2011 12:00:00 EDT Organized by Bremen First United Methodist Church and the Rome-Carrollton District-and hosted by the Lion Golf Club, Bremen-the May 14 Golf Tournament was a tremendous success. A total of 14 teams, 21 hole sponsors, and 3 donors raised $10,256.48 that will benefit children at Murphy-Harpst. Many thanks to Rev. J. Wayne Monroe (pictured below), Senior Pastor, Bremen First UMC, for his leadership of this successful fundraiser and to Sharon Knight, Church Secretary, for her assistance in coordinating the event. Both were very successful in soliciting sponsors to support the event and in recruiting golfers to participate. Special thanks to Victory UMC, Bowdon, for serving as the platinum sponsor for the event. Many thanks to the following teams and sponsors: Allan and Willeen Batchelor Bethlehem UMC Bremen First UMC United Methodist Men Bremen First UMC United Methodist Women Cedartown First UMC Rev. Bobby Church Cox Byington Attorneys Dalton First UMC Greer-Jackson Law Firm Hightower Funeral Home Hiram First UMC Lindale UMC Mentoring Ministries, Inc. Murphy-Harpst Board of Directors James O'Neal Dodge Rome First UMC Men's Prayer Breakfast Second Avenue UMC Temple UMC Ralph Templeton Chiropractic Threadgill Electric Wesley Chapel UMC Yorkville UMC http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=35 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=35 Fri, 20 May 2011 12:00:00 EDT Eight Murphy-Harpst children enjoyed a fishing trip thanks to John and Teri Taylor who organized the outing on a lake at their home near Palmetto. All of the children caught a fish! The event was co-hosted by Fairburn First United Methodist Church under the leadership of Rev. Vicki Smith and her husband, Larry, who is president of the Church's United Methodist Men. Rev. Dr. Coy Hinton, Superintendent of the Atlanta-College Park District, also participated. Thirty church members, including youth, enjoyed fishing as well playing badminton and horse shoes with our children. The weather was fabulous, and a cookout made for a perfect outing. Many thanks to Rev. Vicki Smith (left), Pastor, First UMC Fairburn, John and Teri Taylor, who hosted the outing at their home, and to Rev. Dr. Coy Hinton, Superintendent of the Atlanta-College Park District, who is a wonderful advocate for the children at Murphy-Harpst. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=34 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=34 Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 EDT Many thanks to members of the Lost Mountain Golden "K" Kiwanis of Marietta for their faithful support of Murphy-Harpst. This month, Club President Marie Cetrulo and representative Rufe (Robbie) Robertson presented a check for $1,000 on behalf of the Club to Dana Herron, Director of Development at Murphy-Harpst. The gift will be used to help support annual operating expenses, which will total over $7 million this year. Murphy-Harpst depends heavily on the generosity of highly dedicated and faithful organizations such as Lost Mountain Golden "K" Kiwanis, individuals, foundations, and churches to sustain its outreach to severely abused children each year. The Club has supported Murphy-Harpst since 1997. In addition, Club members enjoy visiting the campus and learning more about the work of Murphy-Harpst first-hand. http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=30 http://www.murphyharpst.org/journal/index.php?entity_id=30 Sat, 14 May 2011 12:00:00 EDT Members of all ages from Trinity United Methodist Church in Rome volunteered for a very productive workday on Saturday, April 16. This group of enthusiastic workers had an impact on the entire Harpst campus--pressure washing, tree trimming, landscaping, and painting the game room, the pavilion, metal hand rails, and fences. Volunteers cleaned the dining room and the Christmas House. The group, pictured below, leveled the floor in the horse barn. Many thanks to David Moore at Trinity who coordinated the entire day. Read more about Trinity's work day at Murphy-Harpst in the Rome News, Saturday, May 14, 2011. Trinity volunteers also served a wonderful picnic lunch and led an easter egg hunt which children from the Church and Murphy-Harpst enjoyed.