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Home Open To Celebrate Hanukkah

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By GEORGE H. NEWMAN

gnewman@tampatrib.com

Published: December 24, 2008

PLANT CITY - America Locke is opening her home to public tours Sunday in celebration of the final day of Hanukkah.
Locke is opening her home to the public starting at 2 p.m. "The Little House of Legacy," as she calls it, contains an array of items that she said she was inspired to place there for the glorification of God, such as a centuries-old Bible and other religious items.

"This is not my house," said Locke, a frequent visitor to Israel. "This is God's house. I am merely His servant, a conduit for His message to the world."

Locke, who was born in Colombia, was raised Catholic but over time became convinced that she was a spiritual part of the Israeli nation. She remains a Christian but follows the traditions long followed by the Jewish faith.

"Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights," Locke said as she moved about the little house, pointing out items she has on display.

At 6 p.m. Sunday, Locke and her visitors will ceremonially light the eighth candle on a brass menorah. The brass candelabrum holds eight oil vessels and a centralized 'servant' port that is lit during the time of Hanukkah, this year from Dec. 22-28.

"I ask all who can come to join me at the Little House of Legacy, for a spiritual visit, and for the lighting of the light of Israel that will never be extinguished, as the word of God will illume that nation."

Locke's house is at 5205 Keene Drive, off Forbes Road south of Interstate 4. For information, call her at (813) 754-3359.

Reporter George H. Newman can be reached at (813) 865-4451.

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