Category: G-Fit

Support Thanksgiving Food Efforts in Paradise

Leave a comment
***** Update Thursday 9:00 pm *****
Great thanks to the PAX who have donated, and in just one day 1/2, we reached our goal!  Please, no more donations, but, if you were considering, let Bolt know in case we want to add additional families to receive food.
If you would like to volunteer to help deliver (no 2.0’s on delivery, please) to the families, please let Bolt know ASAP. Delivery is being planned for Saturday from 1-3:00 pm (before the G-Fit workout). If needed we will deliver later Saturday, or on Sunday.
For this saturday….1-3:00 pm – food delivery…followed by G-Fit with the kids at 3:00 pm  please join us and bring the 2.0’s to g-fit!!!!

I will be purchasing food tomorrow.  Today, I was able to get 10 large baskets with Thanksgiving themed ‘liners’ (for a nicer food presentation) at a near-donation price from the Humane Society thrift shop. They have supported us previously, and offered to continue to give us sports balls which we use and distribute to the kids in Paradise. We will also be getting a supply of corn, beans and yams which we will not have to purchase. This means we will be able to give the families a larger gift certificate to the grocery store to purchase any additional food items that may want outside of our basic food items (ie. dessert, etc).

Thank you! bolt *****

 

Thanksgiving is nearly upon us,  and Bolt and Deacon are seeking PAX support (quickly) in a small effort to provide full Thanksgiving meals to families in Paradise.

F3 has had a presence in Paradise for over a year and half now. In past years we have had a community turkey drive. We are changing it up this year to provide (at least) 10 full meals to specific high priority families in need. We are working with Kim at SON Ministries to identify these families. But we must move quickly in our efforts with a target delivery of this weekend 11/17-11/18 and an absolute deadline of Tuesday 11/20.

<See also below schedule of events in Paradise over the Thanksgiving holiday>

Each meal will consist of a turkey and all side dishes (list below) needed for a full meal. THANK YOU TO FIGARO (Montrio Belton) who will purchase all of our needed turkeys! This means we just need the side dish item package.

*** As of 11/14 8:15 am, WE ONLY NEED 5 MORE FULL SIDE ORDERS! Full orders are about $30 unless you want to add few items, ie. dessert) ***

HOW TO SUPPORT

  • Purchase the side items on your own. IF YOU PLAN ON PURCHASING THE FOOD ON YOUR OWN, PLEASE LET BOLT KNOW IMMEDIATELY FOR TRACKING PURPOSES!
  • Partner up with another PAX to purchase the items.
  • Donate any money amount to Bolt via Paypal. Send to: thenewpauko@hotmail.com
  • Pledge: If you want to commit but can’t do PayPal, just let Bolt know ASAP and he will cover your pledge until he sees you next.
  • From there, meet up or schedule pickup with Bolt or deliver to 3728 Leela Palace Way in Waterstone near Tega Cay.
  • Assist in delivery to families in Paradise.

Paradise Schedule of Thanksgiving events

  • Sunday, November 18. Volunteer at “Harvest of Thanks and Poor Man’s Meal”, a community meal held at Jerusalem Baptist Church in the Life Center. It would be great to have F3 support at this community event. More details to come via Twitter.
  • Weekend 11/17-11/18 through Tue 11/20. Help to deliver our holiday meals.
  • Saturday, 3:00 pm,  11/24. Post at G-Fit with a holiday pizza/food party following.

Thank you to everyone for your support on this endeavor and to all PAX that have joined us in Paradise!

Aye! Bolt …….. Always open for suggestions!!!

Food side list –  (You can shop anywhere and you can alter this list as you see fit. Pics below are from Harris Teeter. This link may take you to the shopping cart: https://shop.harristeeter.com/store/C39878905#/cart)

Required:  8-10 lbs potatoes, stuffing @ 12 oz, green beans @ 30 oz, corn @ 30 oz, collard greens @ 30 oz, cranberry sauce @ 14 oz, gravy @ 18 oz, mac and cheese @ 3 boxes 20 oz.  This list includes mostly canned foods because delivery will be days before Thanksgiving.

Possible additional:  celery, onions, carrots, sweet potatoes, rolls/biscuits, DESSERT.

( I don’t think these screenshots have turned out too well. Will try to improve.)

 

 

 

TClap |
8

Charter Band-aids for Little Warriors – PreBlast

Leave a comment

As most of the PAX in the Fort and Rock regions knows my 5 year old daughter (Emma) is a leukemia survivor. We still make a trip every 4 weeks to get blood drawn to check her counts at Levine Children’s Hospital. We also stepped up and raised money last year (Christmas time) for a fellow brother bout-time out of Area 51 son Jennings who has leukemia also.

It has come to my attention that the budgets have been cut in some of the pediatric departments and the first thing to go is usually the character band aids. You say how important is to have these band-aids? Well as far as the cancer kids go every time the have their PORT’s (Port is a small medical appliance that is installed beneath the skin. A catheter connects the port to a vein) which for some kids is traumatic they get a band-aid over it. For others that are done with treatment such as my daughter Emma has to go back for the next 21 years to get checked (mainly blood counts). This not always easy for instance this past Wednesday she was poked 3 times. Well at the end the band aid can put a smile on a child’s face. This also goes for those kiddos that have to constantly get blood work done not just cancer kids.

So what I am challenging you to do is every week you go grocery shopping buy at least one box or more of character band-aids girls or boys. Also Spread the word in every COT. I will tweet out what AO’s I will be at and if anyone wants to step up and help me collect that would be awesome.

I also challenge others in different regions to pull together and do the same thing. My goal is to gather as much as possible and split it between Levine Children’s Hospital and Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital (St. Jude Affiliate Clinic) before Christmas.

Let a simple act of kindness put a smile on a little fighters face.

AYE. Lets do this.

TClap |
77

Another Day In Paradise

Leave a comment

14 PAX joined HYC this evening (12 from the community). We had a nicely shaded AO during the workout.  Just the way I like it.

Disclaimer. Disclaimed.

The Thang:

COP –

I informed the young PAX that who ever showed the best effort during the exercise would be able to choose the next exercise and lead it.

  • YHC              : 10 SSH; in cadence
  • Young PAX: 10 Merkins; in cadence
  • Young PAX: 10 Big Boy Sit Ups
  • Young PAX: 10 Moroccan night club
  • Young PAX: 10 burpees
  • Young PAX:  1 lap around the parking lot

Next series of exercises: Cone work

  1. We set up 2 lines of 11 cones each. Cones were spaced 3 feet apart.
  2. We divided into two teams.
  3. First set of PAX would side shuffle through the cones and the next PAX would start once their teammate finished. Winners did 10 Merkins, Runners Up did 5 Merkins
  4. Rinse Repeat x3. Everyone did 5 Merkins after each series.

COT:

Name-O-Rama

  • Q#1 to the young PAX: Who is your favorite superhero?
  • Q#2 to the young PAX: What do you want to be when you grow up?
  • Q#3 to the young PAX: What is it going to take to get you there?

We discussed hard work and effort as being necessary to achieve what you want.

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through HIM who gives me strength.

We then discussed what role Jesus Christ plays in our lives.

Prayers/Praises

NMM:

During and after the workout, I felt like, “I got it”. I got why teachers, teach (why mentors, mentor; why leaders, lead etc). They don’t do it for anything other than the satisfaction of helping youth develop. It’s easy to see myself in these children. These children are young, talented, energetic and in need of a little structure and discipline provided through the example of male role models. It was an honor to play that role, even if for only a short while. Thank you, PAX of The Fort, for supporting our community.

Thank you, Deacon, for the opportunity. And that you for being a true #HIM to these children.

#CoopStrong

 

TClap |
2

The End of the Beginning

Leave a comment
  • QIC: Copay
  • When: 05/21/2018
  • Posted In: G-Fit

As the school closes out and the doors of the Paradise Reading Center close until the next school year, I wanted to write this BB to shed some light on all that F3 and PRC have been through.

We embarked on the opportunity to engage with the youth the second half of the school year at the Paradise Reading Center and what a pleasure its been ever since! We have been able to read with kids of all different reading levels and see them excel and grow. We also have been able to make the PRC more than a Reading Center. We have had the opportunity to mentor and discuss topics of financing, higher education, careers, etc. With the awesome donation of 5 Apple Mac computers from Forest Hill Church Fort Mill , the Center was able to expand their computer lab providing access and resources to more students. We also established the”See it, Be it”  campaign given the youth an opportunity to hear from various professionals  with many coming from neighborhoods similar to their own. The youth were encouraged by various professionals that they too could do the same thing if they aspire to.  It has been a honor to be a part of the team along with other voluteers to see the development of some great young minds at the Center who have been nothing more than accepting of F3 from day one!

Cant begin to thank all the PAX and the 2.0’s  that came through week in and week out to provide that impact as well! Whether it was  once or several times it was much appreciated and the youth are better because of the PAX and 2.0’s consistent presence. Also want to thank those PAX that donated books, supplies, etc. As the title states this is is only the end of the beginning! We have just scratch the surface of what we can do through this Center so very excited about the future! We have a updated schedule for the upcoming school year for use the link below to sign up because its never too early for an HC! If you did not have a chance this school year, I encourage you to take the tie to come through and #serve.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/11ak80g7L12X6hCDN1_h5cSUemDlqWzBdgMyJII1RHy4

Copay Out

TClap |
6

G Fit April 42818

Leave a comment

Beautiful day in the neighborhood!  We had 27 PAX on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon- the last as G-fit is moving to Friday nights for the summer to escape the heat and blazing sun.  Lots of F2 2.0s.

G-fit has done a good job- Deacon and Bolt have done a good job continuing to stay fluid in the structure and format of this workout to reach as many Paradise community members as possible while still driving purpose and effectiveness.  Today’s installment was 30 minutes of mosey and exercises before breaking to enjoy some kickball.

We had a few standard exercises and added a few fun ones- ATMs.  4 count shoulder tap, push up that when you finished you are “cashed”.  The group really liked that and love it when you ham it up.

Part of the enjoyment/bond I get in this workout is taking a few to the side, asking questions: how are you doing?  how’s school?  anything you are having trouble with?  Highlighting their great achievements in front of the group as well.  Sunshine got a 95 on her test this week.  Miracle helped to pick up trash in the park unprompted.  Still some of kids needed a little extra attention.  You have to do your best to read them as you would your own children.  Dolphin seemed particularly withdrawn.  Could tell she wanted to be included but still needed some space.  Had a chance to check in on her.  Didn’t get any answers but hoping that someone taking the time to notice was helpful in someway.

Discussed worthy and I emphasized several times to the community (ages 3-14), that they are worthy.  Worthy of Gods love, worthy of love from another person and worthy to show love.

Keep pouring in brothers.  Aye!

TClap |
1

Another day in Paradise

Leave a comment

It was Another Beautiful Day in Paradise. Mid-afternoon, 80 degrees. Perfect.

I was the first PAX to arrive at the AO. I scouted the area (My VQ for G-FIT) and start walking back to what I believe is the gathering spot. In the distance, I see two young PAX.

Young PAX (as he approaches me):  Is there a workout today?

YHC: Yes.

Young PAX: F3 (he yells)!

YHC: For sure! (I felt more than welcome to be among these young PAX).

Disclaimer, disclaimed.

The Thang:

COP –

+Lap around the basket ball court

+10 SSH

+10 high knees

+3 set of 10 Merkins

+10 big boy sit-ups

+10 Marocoon night clubs

+10 baby arm circles

+10 over head claps

+5 burpees

+10 mountain climbers

+20 merkins

+lap around the basketball court

I took the first couple of exercises and then invited (rotating clockwise) the young PAX to join me in the middle of the circle and call the next exercise. It was neat to see how eager they were to join YHC in the middle and lead the PAX. The COP lasted 30 minutes. We got some drinks and a snack, played some frisbee, basketball, and soccer. Again, it was a Beautiful Day in Paradise – perfect for a Saturday afternoon.

NMM:

I once mentored a pre-teen through the non-profit: Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Through this program, I learned how important it is for youth to have positive role models in their lives (especially young mem, as there is seemingly a shortage of positive male role models). And I’ve seen how being there for a youth can make a huge difference in their lives.

It didn’t take much to big a “Big”. YHC was simply someone that showed an interest in my “Little”. It was being someone the Little could look up to and envision themselves someday being. The most difficult part of being a Big (in YHC’s opinion) was making the time. Having said this, every minute I spent with my Little, I truly enjoyed. Without a question, Ruben (my Little), added so much to my life. It was an unexpected pleasure. I felt the same way about being among the PAX at G-FIT.

The best part of today was the COT. When I asked for prayers/praises, two of the young PAX raised their hands to pray. You could tell they love Jesus. It was a beautiful sight.

Thank you Decon for getting me on the Q list. Can’t wait for the next one! And thank you F3 PAX, you are all true HIMS!

Aye.

TClap |
7

#Seeitbeit – Paradise Reading Center

Leave a comment

I had the chance to listen live to David Chadwick (Senior Pastor, Forest Hill Church) talk about his recent interview with Charlotte Police Chief, Kerr Putney. In his final question, David asked the Police Chief: What can the church do to make Charlotte a better place to live? The Chief listed three items:

“We need three things,” the Chief said:

  1. Volunteers to hold babies
  2. Volunteers to read to kids
  3. Mentors for kids, Especially male mentors

In that moment, I wanted to say, “David, there is this group of guys that are already doing this!” #F3Nation. In that moment, I was especially proud to be one of the PAX! My mind went to the good work the PAX are doing with the Children’s Attention Home and The Paradise Reading Center (and more!).

My opportunity to be the change I want to see was with serving the underserved community of Paradise. My first time volunteering I was excited to see, how may kids showed up to this after school program for help with reading and homework. And also, how fun, energetic and smart they are (My first reading partner was Kelvin, a six year, who was easily a better reader than me when I was six. He didn’t laugh too hard when he had to correct me with the correct pronunciation of, “Galileo”)!

I also had the chance to watch CoPay give his story. What a story! And more importantly T-Claps for this HIM for showing our youth, if you can see it, you can be it! I simply followed Copay’s (and Deacon’s!) lead and made it known to them I wanted to share my story too.

Deacon sent me an outline with suggestions of what I should cover during my 10 minute talk (1. My personal background, 2. What I wanted to be when I was a kid, 3. My job, 4. School experience, 5. Advice I wanted to share with them) and I was ready.

I was pumped to share my story with the hope that if just one kid could #seeitbeit, then it was well worth the 60 minutes I spent with the kids that day.

 

NMM:

F3 has made me physically stronger, put more PAX in my life that have given me great community, and have helped me to have a better walk with Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.  To give a little back to this community that has given me so much was a true pleasure.

Thank you to the PAX for all being HIMs in your own individual ways.

—————————————————————————————————————–

The Reading Center takes place every Monday and Wednesday from 4PM-5PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church 601 Joe Louis St. Fort Mill,SC 29715. The kids are doing homework and reading and we have the opportunity to assist or listen. This is  a great opportunity for us to mentor and encourage beyond the workout. Looking to get a schedule with 4-8 PAX each session starting 1/8/17 and going throughout the school year.

See link to sign up. https://docs.google.com/document/d/11ak80g7L12X6hCDN1_h5cSUemDlqWzBdgMyJII1RHy4

——————————————————————————————————————

#CoopStrong

TClap |
8

Our Community

Leave a comment

Sharkbait and I arrived a little early to get prepared for the workout.  We walked up to the basketball court and we were asked “Are you with F3?”  I answered “Yes, are you ready for the workout?” They all answered “Yes” with excitement.  Soon there were 25 PAX who showed up for the workout. I must say, this is record attendance for me.

We took a slow mosey around the park up to the church parking lot.  We circled up for some warm-up exercise.  I had a lot of help with picking out the exercise and leading the PAX.  Here are the exercises we performed:

SSHs, Merkins, Windmills, Imperial Walkers, LBCs, FMs and Big Boy Sit-ups

Next, we lined up for leg lunges across the parking lot.  Turned around and did our best to impression of a duck walking across the road.  Our final exercise was two merkins every other parking space.  Halfway through this exercise, I spoke to the PAX about how there are times in life when things are difficult and asked what things can help you get through these times.  The kids had some great answers.  I emphasized how important it is to talk to your family and friends during these times.  We finished with one more set of merkins and wrapped up with our Circle of Trust closed by Jay.

Lastly, Sharkbait’s thoughts G-Fit:

G-fit is very fun and if you haven’t came out then you should. The kids are very energetic and are very happy at the workout. After we do the circle of pain then we play basketball or football until we’re tired. This is my favorite out of all the workouts.

TClap |
5

G-Fit Deck of Cards

Leave a comment

Beautiful warm sunny day especially for January.  a total of 17 attended with 12 being younglings.  YHC opened the workout with a word on WOM: Beginnings.  I told our young folks that with each new year brings beginning.  a chance to start fresh.  But don’t forget about each day as new.  Perhaps you had a bad test score, weren’t your best self- wake up the next day and start fresh.  Its a new day, a day to do better and have a beginning.

A warmup run around the park and church parking lot finishing at the basketball court.  COP warmup with SSH, Merkins, Squats and more.  A base line to base line run got us ready.

The Thang- taking advice from the G-Fit Q sheet- keeping the pax in COP helps for attention, interest engagement and control to some degree.  below’s Q allowed for fun!

Deck of cards: Hearts: Merkin, Spade: squat, Club: Moroccan Night Clubs (obvi), and Diamonds: LBC.  Face cards: 10 ct, Aces: baseline sprint.

YHC was in center but let each member pull the card.  the kids loved pulling the cards, the sense of surprise and their involvement/investment.  We helped to really “ham” it up and the kids bought in.  we were able to get around circle twice.  The aces were buried but we finally got one on the last pull and got a sprint in.

Those kids are so bright and full of life.  Honored to be a part.  If you feel the calling and this becomes part of your D2X, fulfillment will be your reward.  You see many of the same kids.  The more times you come, the more trust you gain and influence you have resulting in deeper relationships.

Aye!

TClap |
3

Paradise Reading Center

Leave a comment

PAX!! As you know we have been engaging with the Paradise community and the experience has been awesome! We now have a chance to become even more ingrained with the community through the Paradise Reading Center. The Reading Center takes place every Monday and Wednesday from 4PM-5PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church 601 Joe Louis St. Fort Mill,SC 29715. The kids are doing homework and reading and we have the opportunity to assist or listen. This is  a great opportunity for us to mentor and encourage beyond the workout. Looking to get a schedule with 4-8 PAX each session starting 1/8/17 and going throughout the school year. See link to sign up. https://docs.google.com/document/d/11ak80g7L12X6hCDN1_h5cSUemDlqWzBdgMyJII1RHy4

Looking forward to the PAX continued effort and making an everlasting impact in the Paradise community! Reach out to Copay or Deacon with any questions or to get on the schedule for session(s)

Aye

-Copay

TClap |
9