Hey everyone! I’ve got some exciting news for you. Mark your calendars for the annual Thanksgiving Charity Basketball Shootout happening on November 5th at The Highlands Sports Complex. This awesome event is all about raising funds for the Thanksgiving Food Basket Giveaway, which will take place on November 18th at the North Wheeling Dream Center. It’s going to be a blast, so don’t miss out!
I recently caught up with Suff. Bishop Darrell Cummings, the mastermind behind this incredible charity event. He’s also the pastor of the Bethlehem Apostolic Temple and the director of the North Wheeling Community Youth Center. Bishop Cummings introduced some of the event’s supporters and featured participants this year, and let me tell you, it’s an impressive lineup!
We’ve got Nelson Croft, the manager of the Ohio County Animal Shelter, joining in on the fun. And that’s not all! Zac Shutler, the superintendent of Union Local Schools, will also be showing off his basketball skills. And let’s not forget about Nick Nardo, the athletic director for Union Local Schools. These guys are ready to bring their A-game!
But wait, there’s more! We had some special guests at the press event too. Former state senator Owens Brown of Wheeling and Tammy Kruse, the CEO of Youth Services System, were there to show their support. In fact, Kruse even presented Bishop Cummings with a generous donation check from YSS for the fundraiser. Talk about community spirit!
Now, let’s talk about the main event. The basketball shootout is going to be epic! We’ve got the Ohio Valley Lions going head-to-head with the Ohio Valley All-Stars. It’s going to be a nail-biting game, that’s for sure. And guess what? You can be a part of it too! If you want to play or be a sponsor, just give them a call at 304-233-8899 or visit their website at www.northwheelingyouthcenter.org.
Oh, and don’t forget to grab your tickets to attend the event. You can get them by calling 304-233-8899. And here’s the best part: when you come to the game, bring along a can of food to donate. These canned goods will be given to those in need during the food basket giveaway. It’s a win-win situation!
I had a chance to chat with Zac Shutler, and he shared why he wanted to be a part of this amazing event. He believes in the incredible work that Bishop Cummings does every year to help others. And I couldn’t agree more! Supporting those who want to make a difference is so important for the betterment of our society. Let’s come together and lend a helping hand this Thanksgiving season.
Now, here’s something you need to know. The food giveaway is open to everyone. That’s right, there are no income or residency requirements. So, if you or someone you know could use a little extra help this Thanksgiving, make sure to swing by the North Wheeling Dream Center on November 18th.
I also had a chance to chat with former state senator Owens Brown, and he shared some incredible stats with me. Over the past 33 years, the giveaway has fed a whopping 36,000 people! That’s truly remarkable. Brown hopes that more people will join in and make Thanksgiving a festive day for everyone. And I couldn’t agree more!
Nelson Croft, who has been involved with the giveaway for about 20 years, shared his experience with me. He mentioned how grateful the people in line for food are, even in the face of cold weather and exhaustion. And what’s even more heartwarming is that their gratitude has only grown over the years. It’s a testament to the unity and compassion within our community. Let’s keep that spirit alive!
So, there you have it, folks. Get ready for an incredible Thanksgiving Charity Basketball Shootout. It’s going to be a day filled with fun, excitement, and most importantly, giving back. Let’s make this Thanksgiving one to remember!