Mr. Moore is the new minister of music at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Oxford. Through his efforts as a soloist, choir director, composer, pianist, organist and writer, he has helped to form a well-balanced spiritual life in the community, said the Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, pastor.

“Our efforts in providing Oxford and the Miami University community with a solid spiritual guide are now enhanced with a strong music department,” the Rev. Mr. Tyler said.

Mr. Moore is a graduate of the School for Creative and Performing Arts and Central State University in Wilberforce.

He lives in Forest Park with his wife, Michelle, and two children. For 10 years, Mr. Moore served as minister of music at Quinn Chapel AME Church in Forest Park.

“I had no idea the ministry would create this kind of spirit of praise and worship at Bethel,” Mr. Moore said.

In one month at the church, he has signed up 35 people for the choir. Mr. Moore said rehearsals are held at 7 p.m. Saturdays in preparation for 11 a.m. services on Sunday.

“I have released a CD titled Christian Romance,” he said. “It is a collection of all original songs I wrote with a Christian wedding and love songs.”

Nominations for the Lighthouse Youth Services Vision Awards are being accepted through Nov. 22. Awards include honors for youths who volunteer to help adults or senior citizens, other youths, the community in general or the disabled.

“We are once again privileged to sponsor this wonderful public forum for the young people in the Tristate who are enhancing the lives of others,” said Robert Mecum, executive director at Lighthouse.

To nominate volunteers, ages 13-18, contact the Lighthouse at 221-3350 or visit the Web site, www.lys.org.

Tom McOwen, chairman of the mission ministry at Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church, is already planning for next year's Russian Benefit Express, a fund-raiser for 150 orphaned children in Samara, Russia.

“This year's participation was down, but we are looking forward to next year,” said Mr. McOwen, who chaired last Saturday's event.

The train-ride event generated $3,200 for fixing up the orphanage in Samara, Mr. McOwen said.

The Cincinnati Railway Co. donated the locomotive and cars for the event. Rides started at the old Amtrak station, 1901 River Road, Queensgate, and traveled west along the Ohio River.

Mr. McOwen said each year 15 to 20 members of United Methodist churches in Cincinnati travel toRussia and work with Samara United Methodist Church at the orphanage. To help, call 871-0197.

Allen Howard's “Some Good News” column runs Sunday-Friday. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, let him know at 768-8362, e-mail ahoward@enquirer.com or by fax at 768-8340.

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