Bug's Bleat - - GCF: The New Conductor

Volume 11, Issue 04 Friday, January 23, 2009

Hello All,

Annette and I enjoyed watching the inauguration activities Tuesday morning. It was an emotional and uplifting experience. Once again, I’m reminded of how great our country is. President Obama is almost the direct opposite of President G.W. Bush but our citizens have chosen “change” and our systems are responding to turn the ship of state in a new direction.
~
Another point about this inauguration is the historical significance of having a man “of color” in the Oval office for the first time in US history. I and many of my “colorless” acquaintances had some trouble understanding the response of our “black” citizens to this event.
You see, I’ve worked all my life to look at my fellow citizens as “colorless.” Now, I’m finding a great deal of people who want to acknowledge the “color” of this man. At first I was stumped, but then I came to understand how deep the offense of slavery and segregation had injured many of our citizens.
Recently, I had chance to deal with the management of a national chain store. The frustration and even depression of trying to reason with a huge bureaucracy can be daunting. I repeatedly tried to explain my complaint to these folks and was met with a very negative response. The “Claims Manager” all but called me a bald faced liar, saying “you have no proof of your claim.” Then the local department manager told me “you’re just trying to get money out of us because we have the big bucks.” Neither person showed me any respect and both derided me and my complaint.
Then, it dawned on me; this is the same type of response that our citizens of color have faced in their daily interactions with our nations governmental and business organizations for many years. And the pain and disgust I felt over one incident with a store, they have felt for their lifetime.
So on inauguration day, I’ll bet my “mammie,” Mrs. Ida Mustafield, was proud to see President Obama step up to the podium.
~~~~~
We submitted our retirement papers this week. While we were reviewing them, we discussed our life insurance and Annette asked; “If I died, what would you spend the money on?” Maybe I should have hesitated, at least a couple of seconds, before I replied; “I’d buy a Hasselblad H3DII-50, 50 Mpixel, 36×48mm sensor camera. $27,995.00.” She got up from the table in a “huff” and told me she had a few things she’d also like to purchase.
~
“Shesh!” Who can ever understand women?
~~~~~
Speaking of economics, I’ve got a couple of consulting job offers. I’m meeting with a local college next week to discuss a temporary job and another industry has approached me about teaching a fire extinguisher class.
~~~~~
In one of his last acts as President, George W. Bush commuted the sentences of Ignacio Ramos and Jorge Compean. Two former US border patrol agents...sent to prison for more than a decade for shooting and seriously wounding a Mexican drug dealer back in 2005.
The commutation is not a pardon, and their conviction will stay on their records.
~
I assume that the President did this out of compassion for these men and their families. They were convicted of shooting a known criminal and then attempting to cover up the incident. At the same time, Mexico's government will not be pleased as they saw the convection of these two border agents as appropriate.
~~~~~
Our new president didn’t waste time in horrifying me. Yesterday, he announced the removal of restrictions on abortion funding. Specifically, today President Obama will lift restrictions on US government funding for groups that provide abortion services or counseling abroad.
~
So, it was very important to begin funding the killing of the unborn as soon as possible. A possible reason to increase abortions was his other announcement: “US regulators have cleared the way for the world's first study on human embryonic stem cell therapy.”
~
You can’t do much embryonic stem cell research unless you have a good supply of embryos.
~~~~~
Our Treasury Secretary-designate Timothy Geithner said Wednesday he was careless in failing to pay $34,000 in Social Security and Medicare taxes earlier this decade but declared "I have paid what I owed." He apologized to Congress.
~
So the chief tax collector is going to get a “pass” for not paying his taxes on time? The reason for giving him the job, according to many “sources,” is that he’s the best man to turn the economy around. . . . Hummmm . . . So the best economic guy this nation can come up with doesn’t know the tax code?
~
By the way, the new administration’s latest “solution” to our economic woes is an $825 billion economic-stimulus plan that includes tax cuts and job protection. Has anyone considered balancing the Federal budget as a way to get our economic house in order? I know that I tend to oversimplify things but I can’t imagine any credit counselor telling a couple deep in debt to borrow more money to solve their problem. I really believe that every multi-BILLION dollar solution just moves us further from the light at the end of the tunnel.
~~~~~
Chemical companies are announcing more layoffs and plant closures as the economy and slumping demand for plastics take their toll. Rohm & Haas announced this week that it was cutting 900 positions, or 5.7% of its work force, and BASF said it would cut working hours for nearly 1,700 workers. Also, Saudi Basic Industries reported a 95% decline in fourth-quarter net profit. [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123245970043097731.html?mod=dist_smartbrief]
~~~~~
Robert Lyons "Cousin Frank" sent this email story about Kurtis and Brenda Warner. The story is special, but clicking on the link will connect you to an audio clip of Kurt Warner sharing his testimony about his faith. Robert tells us: “I think he is possibly the MVP of the super bowl even before kickoff. I don't forward those email that say a blessing is coming if you do so. There was nothing about forwarding the story of Kurt and Brenda. I am not endorsing First Things First or promoting donations. But I do endorse you listening to him talk about his faith. Click on "Click her to listen to an interview with Kurt about his faith" at the bottom of the page. I am going to pull for him because if the Cardinals win, you will hear Jesus' name given the credit and the glory after the game on national TV.” - - [http://www.kurtwarner.org/aboutus.html]
~~~~~
A previously unknown fault in eastern Arkansas could trigger a magnitude 7 earthquake, a scientist said Wednesday. Haydar Al-Shukri, the director of the Arkansas Earthquake Center at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, said the fault is separate from the New Madrid fault responsible for a series of quakes in 1811-12 that caused the Mississippi River to flow backward.
Acres of cotton fields cover the fault west of Marianna, about 100 miles east of Little Rock, but stretches of fine sand mixed with fertile soil gave away the fault's location, Al-Shukri said. Liquefied sand bubbled up through cracks in the earth, while ground radar and digs showed vents that let the sand reach the surface, he said.
The fault, likely created in the last 5,000 years, sparked at least one magnitude 7 earthquake in its history. Such temblors cause massive destruction in their wake.
"This is a very, very dangerous (area) at risk of earthquake," Al-Shukri said. "When you talk about (magnitude) 7 and plus, this is going to be a major disaster."
Al-Shukri did not identify a time frame for the potential earthquake.
~
So we have another scientist warning of a MAJOR earthquake danger in Arkansas while local, state and federal officials do little or nothing to prepare for it. Building codes in these areas need to be updated (the “Pyramid” in Memphis was not built to earthquake standards.) And emergency management personnel need to conduct more drills and expand plans.
~~~~~
Farmers in eastern Virginia were reportedly behind a push for a plastic-bag ban in the state after the bags started getting tangled in their cotton equipment, damaging machines and harming their product. Not all are in favor of the ban, however, and the American Chemistry Council says it supports alternative options including recycling: "We think banning plastic bags as some have suggested would simply lead you back to paper bags. That leads to greenhouse-gas emissions and doubles greenhouse-gas emissions, in fact," said the ACC's Keith Christman. WTTG-TV (http://www.myfoxdc.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=8297590&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.2.1)
In a related story; Ariz. bill would require many retailers to offer plastic-bag recycling
Arizona retailers and big-box stores of 10,000 square feet or more would be required to implement plastic-bag recycling programs or face fines of up to $500 per violation under a bill now in the state House. The measure would exempt carry-out restaurants and small independent stores. American City Business Journals/Phoenix [http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2009/01/19/daily11.html]
~~~~~
The chemical industry, including the American Chemistry Council, has come out in support of a new rule laying down safety standards for the transport of highly hazardous chemicals in railroad cars. "Chemical companies own or lease the tank cars in which they ship these critical materials. The willingness of our members to support new investments in safety is a hallmark of their commitment to continuous safety and performance improvement," said Cal Dooley, the ACC's president. Chemical & Engineering News [http://pubs.acs.org/cen/news/87/i03/8703notw3.html]
~~~~~
453 illnesses and five deaths have been linked to a salmonella outbreak that is believed to have been caused by peanut butter and peanut paste. The Centers for Disease Control is collaborating with public health officials in many states and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate this multistate outbreak of human infections due to Salmonella serotype Typhimurium.. Persons infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium have been reported from 43 states and Canada.
To date, no association has been found with major national brand name jars of peanut butter sold in grocery stores.
Recommendations For consumers
Do not eat products that have been recalled and throw them away in a manner that prevents others from eating them
Postpone eating other peanut butter containing products (such as cookies, crackers, cereal, candy and ice cream) until more information becomes available about which brands may be affected
Persons who think they may have become ill from eating peanut butter are advised to consult their health care providers.
~~~~~
A partial list of agencies in Magnolia that need your help (either financial or volunteer.)
~
STEW POT - COMMUNITY FOOD SERVICE
320 West Main Street
Magnolia, AR 71753
Columbia County
resourceone@sbcglobal.net
(870) 901-7226 FAX
(870) 234-9034 Administrative
Provides hot meals for the senior adults and people who are homeless or have developmental disabilities. Simply walk in to apply. There is no for service and there are no eligibility requirements.
Hours:4:00pm to 5:30pm, Mon. - Fri.
~
SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN MISSION - HOMELESS SHELTER
515 West Monroe Street, Magnolia, AR 71753 (870) 235-1155
Provides a shelter for people needing a place to stay. Simply walk in to apply or call for information. There is no fee for service and no eligibility requirements. This shelter is open 24 Hours a day, 7 Days a week.
~
HANNAH MEDICAL CENTER - CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTER
251 Columbia 13, Magnolia AR 71753 (870) 234-8070 Phone, 1-866-74-Women Toll Free, E-MAIL: magnolia@itsyourfuture.org,
HOURS: Tue & Thu 12-5
SERVICES: pregnancy tests, limited ultrasound when appropriate, abstinence education, parenting program, maternity & children’s clothes, peer counseling in pre/post abortion and adoption
NEEDS: prayer, ultrasound, financial assistance, volunteers
~~~~~
UPDATE TO Taylor - Voigt Family/Friends Cookbook
Our cousin, Shannon Voigt, is planning to update the Taylor-Voigt Family/Friends Cookbook this spring. If you have any great new family recipes you would like added please email them to me by the end of February and I’ll forward them to Shannon.
~~~~~
Just a reminder that those looking for quality, free photo editing software should try “GIMP” [http://www.gimp.org/]. [http://www.gimp.org/tutorials/].
~~~~~
Don’t forget to use GoodSearch [http://www.goodsearch.com/] when you search the Internet!
~~~~~
DarynKagan.com - - January 23, 2009 - - Today's theme is most definitely about surviving. I have the scoop on what is about to become one of the hottest websites around in my blog [http://darynkagan.demo.nimbussoftware.com/DarynsBlog.html].
The Survivors Club is an incredible resource for anyone facing challenges in their life. I hope you check it out. Feel free to let me know what you think over in our social online community [http://darynkagan.ning.com/].
Today's Story: 3x Cancer Survivor Soars - - Topher Payne faced down cancer three-times and that was just before he turned 28! That's just the beginning of Topher's Story as he's also an accomplished play write, actor, and author. Talk about a full life! Watch Video [http://darynkagan.demo.nimbussoftware.com/newsletter/newsletterTracking.aspx?ReceiptID=1253470&UIDHash=F20370BBFD95C2618A577F2F462DEAE5&Url=%2fovercoming%2fstories%2fov_080828_3xcancersurvivor.html]
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Each week the Defense Department highlights military personnel who have gone above and beyond in the war. [http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/] - - Brian Stann - - Hometown: Scranton, PA - - Awarded: Silver Star

In his Silver Star citation, Marine 2nd Lt. Brian M. Stann is praised for his "zealous initiative, courageous actions and exceptional presence of mind" during seven days of fighting in Iraq.
But Stann, now a captain, is not into fame or self aggrandizement.
"It’s not about awards, especially when you’re out there," said Stann, 27. "It’s about defeating the enemy and getting your boys out alive."
From May 8 to May 14, 2005, Stann was part of Operation Matador with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines.
The action started when Stann’s platoon was given about 35 minutes’ notice that it needed to head to the Ramana Bridge, north of Karbala, he said.
Another unit was supposed to provide a blocking position at the bridge, but when they couldn’t make it on time, Stann’s platoon was sent to fill the gap.
As it turned out, a lot of the enemy had settled in that area. Stann said his platoon was engaged in a "constant gunfight" until it was relieved, and then he and his Marines had to fight their way back to base.
The worst fighting was May 10, when his platoon was sent back to the bridge to stay and got ambushed on the way, he said.
The insurgents hit Stann’s platoon with roadside bombs, rocket-propelled grenades and suicide car bombs, destroying a Humvee and a tank recovery vehicle that was hauling wounded, he said.
"We had a rough night."
Stann’s Silver Star citation briefly summarizes his actions during the ambush.
“Second Lieutenant Stann personally directed two casualty operations, three vehicle recovery operations and multiple close air support missions under enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire in his 360-degree fight," the citation reads.
Stann didn’t want to get into specifics about what he did during the fighting.
"Everyone has done some courageous things," he said. "It’s just part of our calling. It’s part of our job."
Instead, Stann preferred to talk about his Marines.
Despite the casualties and carnage, they did not panic, he said. They kept their heads, beat back the enemy and evacuated their wounded.
"Because of that, the casualties that we did take did survive," Stann said. "Guys that lost limbs lived. Guys that took shrapnel and things of that nature to the head lived, and they wouldn’t have lived if we hadn’t have done that."
Throughout their deployment, Stann’s Marines focused on their job, whether it meant sleeping in their Humvees on hot nights or manning a machine gun at 2 a.m., he said.
Stann, who was born at Yokota Air Base in Japan and then moved to Scranton, Pa., said his Silver Star represents what the Marines under his command accomplished.
"They executed flawlessly, and we’re talking 19- to 20-year-old kids, and these are tougher situations than 90 percent of Americans will face," he said.
Excerpt from article by Jeff Schogol, Stars and Stripes Heroes, June 14, 2008
~~~~~
America is not at war. The military is at war. - - America is at the mall, or watching the movie stars.
~~~~~
The latest from Michael Yon, the foremost “milnews” blogger on the web. If you haven’t read Michael’s dispatches, I strongly urge you to do so at once. It’s important that we all know what’s happening in our world.
“Bug”
~
Greetings,

Our soldiers in Afghanistan are into the hash, but not in the way the Taliban would hope. Please check out this powerful photo-essay. [http://www.michaelyon-online.com/rollin-in-hash.htm]

A huge thank you for folks who voted for my site in the annual weblog awards. We won best milblog for 2008. This is the third time we've won a first place award. I am humbled. Competition was fierce, and Blackfive who took second is a tough customer and I respect them enormously. Third place went to Alex Horton, a 23 year-old combat veteran. I called Alex yesterday to congratulate him, and was happy to hear that he is studying journalism. Alex put down the rifle and picked up the pen. Great things might be in store for Alex. I hope that he uses his pen wisely, and suspect he will.

Again, please see the new essay from Afghanistan. You don't want to miss it. [http://www.michaelyon-online.com/rollin-in-hash.htm]

Very Respectfully,
Your correspondent,
Michael Yon

Http://www.michaelyon-online.com/index.php
~~~~~
Last week we watched [Ratings are my own]:
Sense and Sensibility (1995) [9.1] Starring Kate Winslet ... Emma Thompson ... Hugh Grant ... Robert Hardy ... Alan Rickman ... Greg Wise
Pride & Prejudice (2005) [8.5] Starring Keira Knightley ... Talulah Riley ... Rosamund Pike ... Donald Sutherland ... Matthew Macfadyen
24 Season 6: Disc 5 & 6 (2007) [7.5] Starring Kiefer Sutherland .... Mary Lynn Rajskub, James Morrison, Jayne Atkinson, Peter MacNicol, Carlo Rota
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008) [7.8] Starring Ben Barnes ... Georgie Henley ... Skandar Keynes ... William Moseley ... Anna Popplewell
Shadow of the Thin Man (1941) [8.5] Starring William Powell ... Myrna Loy ... Barry Nelson ... Donna Reed ... Sam Levene ... Alan Baxter
The Thin Man Goes Home (1944) [8.5] Starring William Powell ... Myrna Loy ... Harry Davenport ... Edward Brophy
Song of the Thin Man (1947) [8.5] Starring William Powell ... Myrna Loy ... Keenan Wynn ... Dean Stockwell ... Jayne Meadows
Ever After (1998) [8.5] Starring Drew Barrymore ... Anjelica Huston ... Dougray Scott ... Patrick Godfrey ... Megan Dodds ... Melanie Lynskey
Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House (1948) [7.75] Starring Cary Grant ... Myrna Loy ... Melvyn Douglas ... Reginald Denny ... Louise Beavers
Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) [8.1] Starring Cary Grant ... Priscilla Lane ... Raymond Massey ... Peter Lorre ... Jack Carson
People Will Talk (1951) [9.0] Starring Cary Grant ... Jeanne Crain ... Finlay Currie ... Hume Cronyn ... Walter Slezak
~~~~~
We’re currently reading; The amber room / Steve Berry.
We intend to read; The Romanov prophecy / Steve Berry. Six seconds / Rick Mofina.
We recommend: Do the right thing : inside the movement that's bringing common sense back to America / Mike Huckabee.
~~~~~
http://www.shelfari.com
http://www.shelfari.com/bugsbleat/shelf
~~~~~
Photos on the front of this week’s “Bleat” include some ancient photos of me. There’s a shot of my son David and I, another of me leading a “Kent State” protest march in the spring of 1970, a second of “Diver” and I briefing the marchers before we began and one of me working as an advertising model in Dallas (about 1971).
~~~~~
We’ve now got several addresses on the web for "Da Bleat." For the latest issue, go to http://www.bugsbleat.blogspot.com. Last quarter’s issues can be seen at http://www.bugsbleat4q08.blogspot.com.
Our photos are posted at http://www.bugsbleatphotos.blogspot.com.
If you want to see more photos of April’s train wreck in Magnolia, go to http://www.bugsbleattw.blogspot.com/
~~~~~
Feel free to share the "Bleat" with any and all. That's why we publish it.
~~~~~
Dr. Pat Antoon’s Address:
Pat Antoon 06669-010
Federal Prison Camp
P.O. Box 9300
Texarkana, TX 75505
Be sure and keep him in your prayers.
~~~~~
Recipe(s) of the week - - Some dishes from the President’s Inauguration Lunch

Molasses Whipped Sweet Potatoes - - Yield: 2 quarts

Ingredients

3 large sweet potatoes, about 3 pounds
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ cup orange juice
½ tablespoon of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of molasses
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
2 tablespoons maple syrup

Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast until easily pierced with a fork, about 1 hour.
3. Peel the skin off of the sweet potatoes while still hot. By hand or mixer, smash potatoes until all large chunks are gone. Combine the potatoes, butter, salt, orange juice, brown sugar, ground cumin, molasses and maple syrup in a large bowl. Continue to mix all together until all lumps are gone. Adjust any of the seasonings to your specific tastes. Can be made the day before.
~
Winter Vegetables - - Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

2 bunches Asparagus, green, bottom 1/3 of stem removed
2 lbs. Carrots, peeled, cut oblong or large dice
1 lb. Baby Brussels Sprouts, fresh, cleaned or frozen can be used
1 lb. Wax Beans, ends snipped
2 oz Butter
1 each Zest from orange
4 oz. Olive oil
Salt and Pepper to taste.

Directions
Asparagus: preheat grill or large heavy bottom sauté pan. Rub 2 oz of olive oil on asparagus and season with pinch of salt and pepper. Lay flat on grill or sauté pan until lightly browned. Using long fork or tongs, rotate the asparagus to brown other sides. Usually 2 or 3 minutes per side. The asparagus is done when you can use a fork to cut through. Do not overcook, this will cause asparagus to become stringy. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Carrots: bring 3 qt salted water to a boil, add carrots to water and cook until fork tender, meaning a fork will easily pass through the carrot. Drain the water from the pot and toss 1 oz butter and zest of orange and mix until carrots are coated. Season with pinch of salt and enjoy. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Brussels Sprouts: For Fresh: Bring 3 qt salted water to a boil, cut into the stem of the sprout with a paring knife to create an X on the bottom, this will allow the stem to cook more evenly. Place sprout in boiling water and allow to cook until bottom of sprout is tender and easily cut with a knife. Preheat a heavy bottom sauté while the sprouts are cooking. Remove sprouts from water and allow all water to drain completely. Add 2 oz oil to sauté pan and add the sprouts, season with salt and pepper while tossing the sprouts around to evenly brown in the pan. If sprouts are too big, you can cut them in half, keep warm until ready to serve.
For Frozen: Bring 3 qt salted water to a boil and drop frozen Brussels sprouts into water, these are precooked so you are only thawing them out. Remove from water and sauté as above.
Yellow Wax beans: bring 3 qt salted water to boil, add snipped wax beans to water and allow to cook until fork tender or to your liking of doneness. Remove from water and toss with 1 oz butter and season with salt and pepper.
~~~~~
BreakPoint
'Seven Pounds'
By Mark Earley
1/23/2009
No Room for Grace

This Christmas, the movie Seven Pounds was advertised as a feel-good, inspirational film. Rarely has an advertising campaign been so wrong. The odd thing is that the movie actually does come close to being inspirational—but in the end, it completely misses the mark.

(Just so you know, I’m going to reveal some important details of the plot, so listen at your own risk!)

In Seven Pounds, Will Smith plays a mysterious man who calls himself Ben. He spends all his time looking for strangers who need help—people who are dealing with illnesses, financial troubles, or abusive relationships. Ben finds their names and information through what is apparently his job as an IRS agent. He tracks them down, and starts getting involved in their lives, trying to help them in any way he can.

Gradually, we find out that Ben is trying to atone for his past. One night, in a moment of distraction, he caused a car accident that took the lives of seven people, including his own fiancée. So Ben decides to try to help seven more people get a chance to start afresh.

So far, not a bad idea for a movie. The story looks like it could provide some interesting twists on the concepts of guilt, repentance, and atonement.

But what we don’t realize at first is just how far Ben will go to atone. His idea is that because he took seven lives, he must give up his own life in return. Ben thinks he no longer deserves to live, so he literally must destroy himself in order to help save other people’s lives—after he’s made sure that they’re good people who do deserve to live. The entire film is one long setup for Ben’s final act of self-destruction.

As one of my colleagues observed, Seven Pounds could have been a very different kind of film. Ben’s experiences and the new relationships he built during the movie could have had a transforming, even redemptive, effect on his life, if he had allowed them to. But he wouldn’t—because he didn’t think he deserved redemption.

That’s where the movie provides a great opportunity to reflect and discuss a biblical worldview.

Because Ben acknowledged his own failure and realized that he was undeserving, Ben could have been shown as the perfect recipient of grace. For the truth is that, as an undeserving failure, he represents every fallen, sinful human being who’s ever lived—including you and me. Not one of us deserves grace any more than Ben did—that’s what makes it such a gift.

Ben’s real tragedy is that he never came to understand that this gift was available even for him.

But this movie provides a great opportunity to share with your friends the difference a redemptive biblical worldview might have had on Ben’s good intentions. Indeed, a movie in which there is no room for grace does not truly reflect the human opportunity for redemption.

Again, this movie provides such a great opportunity to share with others what redemption in Christ truly looks like. Ben did not know of this redemption and therefore was driven to destroy his own life. But the hope that God holds out to even the most unworthy sinner, is a hope that can redeem every life, including Ben’s.

For Further Reading and Information

Jelani Greenidge, "Fresh Prince Blues," UrbanFaith.com, 30 December 2008.

Lisa Ann Cockrel, "Seven Pounds," ChristianityToday.com, 19 December 2008.

Dirty Harry, "DHP Review," DirtyHarrysPlace.com, 21 December 2008.

Brian Godawa, Hollywood Worldviews (InterVarsity, 2002).
© 2009 Prison Fellowship - - http://www.breakpoint.org/
~~~~~
Words of the Week:
laissez-faire: non-interference
magnanimous: generous and noble
narcolepsy: sleep disorder
obscure: less visible or clear
pandiculation: yawning and stretching
qualitative: based on qualities
rancor: deep anger and ill will
sallow: unhealthy looking
from http://dictionary.reference.com/wordoftheday/
~~~~~
"Not to be able to grow old is just as ridiculous as to be unable to outgrow childhood." - Carl G. Jung

"Only when we are no longer afraid do we begin to live." - Dorothy Thompson

"One day we must come to see that peace is not merely a distant goal we seek, but that it is a means by which we arrive at that goal. We must pursue peaceful ends through peaceful means." - Martin Luther King Jr.

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States." - Article II, Section 1, United States Constitution

"Forever is composed of nows." - Emily Dickinson

"If only we'd stop trying to be happy we could have a pretty good time." - Edith Wharton

"The real test of a man is not how well he plays the role he has invented for himself, but how well he plays the role that destiny assigned to him." - Jan Patocka
~~~~~
BREAKING CHRISTIAN NEWS
http://breakingchristiannews.com/

Inauguration 2009—a Moment of History and Healing for America
Aimee Herd/Op-ed (January 20, 2009)
"…this moment—unprecedented in our nation's history—goes far above personal views…"
All through last year's Presidential campaign—on both sides of the spectrum—feelings ran deep. And I daresay those passionate opinions have not abated much as President-elect Obama's Inauguration approaches.
But, as I watched Obama's speech this weekend, with the backdrop of the Lincoln Memorial, it struck me that this moment—unprecedented in our nation's history—goes so far above personal views…
For me, and hopefully for many, the event of Barack Obama's Presidential Inauguration transcends political party and leaning… it is about healing. And the days after it; about prayer.
I realize, being white, that I cannot fully grasp the extraordinarily historical moment—when Obama is sworn in as the first black President of the United States—as one of my black fellow-citizens will. Nor will I experience, to that extent, the incredible achievement they must feel in their hearts.
But its significance is not lost on me. Whether or not I voted for President-elect Obama is not the issue, because the attitude at which this country has finally arrived, in being willing to elect a black man to its highest office, has been far too long in coming. It makes me feel very grateful to my parents for raising me with a true respect for all people regardless of color, religion or nationality, which is just Biblical common sense!
And so I ask, both those who voted for Obama and those who didn't, can we—if just for a day—lay down the political debate? Can we look beyond the labels of Republican, Democrat or Independent? Can we be joyful that America, on its highest level, is at long last breaking through an ugly barrier of ignorance and hate, and much like the day those cold cement chunks of wall fell in Berlin; hands kept apart are now joining together?
I hope each one of us, regardless of political persuasion, will pray for the continued protection of this man who has not let the prejudices of some keep him from pressing on to fulfill this calling in which he believes. Let's pray for protection for him and for his family.
As Christians, we are called to pray for those in office—no matter who they are. So let us pray in the days ahead for God's direction for this new President, as he leads this country we so love.
~
"Remember Who Your Daddy Is"—Bush Twins Pen Open Letter to "First Daughters" Sasha and Malia
Teresa Neumann (January 23, 2009)
A few publications have reported on the class and generosity extended to President Obama and his family by outgoing President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura. It appears these virtues have rubbed off on their twin daughters as well.
(Washington, D.C.)—In an open letter to Sasha and Malia Obama, Bush twins—Jenna and Barbara—have encouraged the new "first" daughters to relish their time in the White House and "remember who your daddy is." (Photo by: Rick Wilking/Landov; Jim Young/Landov)

The letter, published in the Wall Street Journal, is a mix of humor, poignancy, and wisdom. Advises the Bush twins, "Surround yourself with loyal friends...slide down the banister of the solarium...have fun and enjoy your childhood in such a magical place to live and play...four years goes by so fast, so absorb it all, enjoy it all."

Click on the link provided to see wonderful pictures of past presidents with their children and grandchildren in the White House, and to read this truly sweet letter in its entirety.
Source: Jenna and Barbara Bush - Wall Street Journal [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123239885943895155.html?mod=rss_Today's_Most_Popular]

310 2nd Ave SE
Albany, Oregon 97321
541-928-2642
E-mail editor@breakingchristiannews.com
US Orders: 1-866-358-7426
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Emailed to me another humor list (The Jokester) -Tom Subscribe to The Jokester's list send an email to: Jokes-From-Dan-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

If this was forwarded to you, please consider your own subscription to Good Clean Fun. It's free! Just send an email to: good-clean-fun-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
-----------------------------------------

GCF: The New Conductor

The symphony musicians had little confidence in the person brought in to be their new conductor. Their fears were realized at the very first rehearsal. The cymbalist, realizing that the conductor did not know what he was doing, angrily clashed his instruments together during a delicate, soft passage.

The music stopped. The conductor, highly agitated, looked angrily around the orchestra, demanding, "Who did that? Who did that?"
_ ____________________________ _
Emailed to me another humor list (Pastor Tim's Clean Laugh List) -Tom Subscribe to Pastor Tim's Clean Laugh list at the website: Subscribe
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GCF: Wire Guard

Gale-force winds and frigid temperatures had taken their toll. Snapped electric wires were sparking and snaking about the snowdrifts. As a foot patrolman, I was assigned to a desolate intersection to provide security at the scene of a downed wire.

It was 12:40 a.m. and -19 degrees when I relieved the initial guardian of this dangerous area. He pointed out the thin line swinging ferociously from the main electric circuit, as he entered the squad car for his return to warmth. I pulled my coat collar up to my earmuffs and took up my position to protect the public.

Finally, at 5:40 a.m., a utility truck arrived. The linemen checked the wires, then laughing, descended the utility pole toward me.

"Well, Officer," one of them said, "congratulations. You've successfully guarded a frozen kite string all night."
_ ____________________________ _
Emailed to me another humor list (Pastor Tim's Clean Laugh List) -Tom Subscribe to Pastor Tim's Clean Laugh list at the website: Subscribe
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GCF: What's for Dinner?

The young couple invited their elderly pastor for Sunday dinner. While they were in the kitchen preparing the meal, the minister asked their son what they were having.

"Goat," the little boy replied.

"Goat?" replied the startled man of the cloth, "Are you sure about that?"

"Yep," said the youngster. "I heard Dad say to Mom, 'Today is just as good as any to have the old goat for dinner.'"
_ ____________________________ _
Found posted in a humor newsgroup (rec.humor.funny) -Tom
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The Golfer

A golfer hit his drive on the first hole 300 yards right down the middle. When it came down, however, it hit a sprinkler and the ball went sideways into the woods. He was angry, but he went into the woods and hit a very hard 2 iron which hit a tree and bounced back straight at him. It hit him in the temple and killed him.

He was at the Pearly Gates and St. Peter looked at the big book and said, "I see you were a golfer, is that correct?"

"Yes, I am," he replied.

St Peter then said, "Do you hit the ball a long way?"

The golfer replied, "You bet. After all, I got here in 2, didn't I?"
_ ____________________________ _
Emailed to me by a friend (Thanks, Bud) -Tom
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GCF: Dog I.Q.

A psychologist is selling a video that teaches you how to test your dog's IQ.

Here's how it works:

When you spend $39.95 to see this video, it proves your dog is smarter than you.
_ ____________________________ _
(((\ \>|_/ )_____________________( \_|\\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / How do you know when \ /
\ _/ it's time to tune your bagpipes? \_ /
/ / \ \
(((\ \>|_/ )_____________________( \_|\\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / Madness takes its toll. \ /
\ _/ Please have exact change. \_ /
/ / \ \
(((\ \>|_/ )_____________________( \_|\\\\ \_/ / Thought for today: \ \_/ ////
\ / As you make your way through \ /
\ _/ this hectic world of ours, \_ /
/ / set aside a few minutes each day \ \
At the end of the year,
you'll have a couple of days saved up.
(((\ \>|_/ )_____________________( \_|\\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / Why isn't "palindrome" \ /
\ _/ spelled the same way backwards? \_ /
/ / \ \
(((\ \>|_/ )_____________________( \_|\\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / It rarely occurs to teenagers \ /
\ _/ that the day will come when \_ /
/ / they know as little as their parents. \ \
_ ____________________________ _
| Thomas S. Ellsworth |
| tellswor@kcbx.net |
| http://www.kcbx.net/~tellswor |
(((\ \>|_/ )_____________________( \_|Stop for a visit, leave with a smile! To join Good Clean Fun, email: good-clean-fun-subscribe@yahoogroups.Com To leave Good Clean Fun, email: good-clean-fun-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.Com Or visit the Good Clean Fun web site at http://www. slonet.org/~tellswor/
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Doctors VS. Gun Owners

Doctors
(A) The number of physicians in the U.S. is 700,000.
(B) Accidental deaths caused by Physicians per year are 120,000.
C) Accidental deaths per physician is 0.171.
Statistics courtesy of U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services.

Guns
(A) The number of gun owners in the U.S. is 80,000,000. (Yes, that's 80 million)
(B) The number of accidental gun deaths per year, all age groups, is 1,500.
(C) The number of accidental deaths per gun owner is .000188.
Statistics courtesy of FBI

So, statistically, doctors are approximately 9,000 times more dangerous than gun owners. Remember, 'Guns don't kill people, doctors do.' FACT: NOT EVERYONE HAS A GUN, BUT ALMOST EVERYONE HAS AT LEAST ONE DOCTOR. Please alert your friends to this alarming threat. We must ban doctors before this gets completely out of hand!!!!! Out of concern for the public at large, I withheld the statistics on lawyers for fear the shock would cause people to panic and seek medical attention!

United We Stand - - Thanks to Gary Foreman
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They walk among us!!!!

NEW YORK - Idaho resident Kathy Evans brought humiliation to her friends and family Tuesday when she set a new standard for stupidity with her appearance on the popular TV show, 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.'

It seems that Evans, a 32-year-old wife and mother of two, got stuck on the first question, and proceeded to make what fans of the show are dubbing 'the absolute worst use of lifelines ever.'
After being introduced to the show's host Meredith Vieira, Evans assured her that she was ready to play, whereupon she was posed with an extremely easy $100 question. The question was: 'Which of the following is the largest?'

A) A Peanut
B) An Elephant
C) The Moon
D) Hey, who you calling large?

Immediately Mrs. Evans was struck with an all consuming panic as she realized that this was a question to which she did not readily know the answer.
'Hmm, oh boy, that's a toughie,' said Evans, as Vieira did her level best to hide her disbelief and disgust. 'I mean, I'm sure I've heard of some of these things before, but I have no idea how large they would be.'
Evans made the decision to use the first of her three lifelines, the 50/50.
Answers A and D were removed, leaving her to decide which was bigger, an elephant or the moon. However, faced with an incredibly easy question, Evans still remained unsure.
'Oh! It removed the two I was leaning towards!' exclaimed Evans. 'Darn. I think I better phone a friend.'
Using the second of her two lifelines on the first question, Mrs. Evans asked to be connected with her friend Betsy, who is an office assistant.
'Hi Betsy! How are you? This is Kathy! I'm on TV!' said Evans, wasting the first seven seconds of her call. 'Ok, I got an important question. Which of the following is the largest? B, an elephant, or C, the moon. 15 seconds hun.'
Betsy quickly replied that the answer was C, the moon. Evans proceeded to argue with her friend for the remaining ten seconds.
'Come on Betsy, are you sure?' said Evans. 'How sure are you? Duh, that can't be it.'
To everyone's astonishment, the moronic Evans declined to take her friend's advice and pick 'The Moon.'
'I just don't know if I can trust Betsy. She's not all that bright. So I think I'd like to ask the audience,' said Evans.
Asked to vote on the correct answer, the audience returned 98% in favor of answer C, 'The Moon.' Having used up all her lifelines, Evans then made the dumbest choice of her life.
'Wow, seems like everybody is against what I'm thinking,' said the too-stupid-to-live Evans. 'But you know, sometimes you just got to go with your gut. So, let's see. For which is larger, an elephant or the moon, I'm going to have to go with B, an elephant. Final answer.'
Evans sat before the dumbfounded audience, the only one waiting with bated breath, and was told that she was wrong, and that the answer was in fact, C, 'The Moon.'
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Some guy bought a new fridge for his house. To get rid of his old fridge, he put it in his front yard and hung a sign on it saying: 'Free to good home. You want it, you take it.' For three days the fridge sat there without even one person looking twice at it. He eventually decided that people were too un-trusting of this deal.
It looked too good to be true, so he changed the sign to read: 'Fridge for sale $50.'
The next day someone stole it!
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While looking at a house, my brother asked the estate agent which direction was north because, he explained, he didn't want the sun waking him up every morning. She asked, 'Does the sun rise in the north?' When my brother explained that the sun rises in the east, and has for some time, she shook her head and said, 'Oh, I don't keep up with that stuff'
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My colleague and I were eating our lunch in our cafeteria, when we overheard one of the administrative assistants talking about the sunburn she got on her weekend drive to the beach. She drove down in a convertible, but 'didn't think she'd get sunburned because the car was moving'.
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My sister has a lifesaving tool in her car it's designed to cut through a seat belt if she gets trapped. She keeps it in the trunk.
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I was hanging out with a friend when we saw a woman with a nose ring attached to an earring by a chain. My friend said, 'Wouldn't the chain rip out every time she turned her head?' I had to explain that a person's nose and ear remain the same distance apart no matter which way the head is turned...
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I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area. So I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because she was a trained professional and I was in good hands. 'Now,' she asked me, 'Has your plane arrived yet?'... (I work with professionals like this.)
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While working at a pizza parlor I observed a man ordering a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6. He thought about it for some time before responding. 'Just cut it into 4 pieces; I don't think I'm hungry enough to eat 6 pieces.

Thanks to Waneta
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Blind Date

"That was nice of you to set up a blind date for your ex-boyfriend."
"I know, but I don't hold any grudges."
"I'm surprised he trusted you enough to agree to go out with her."
"Well, I had to swear to him she's Jennifer Lopez's double."
"Wow! Is that true?"
"I wouldn't lie. She's twice her weight and twice her age."

Received from Thomas Ellsworth.

(-:][:-)

Miniature Cross

One Sunday a priest announced he was passing out miniature crosses made of palm leaves. "Put this cross in the room where your family argues most," he advised. "When you look at it, the cross will remind you that God is watching."
When the parishioners were leaving church, a woman walked up to the priest, shook his hand, and said, "I'll take five."

Received from Paula Sanning.

(-:][:-)

A Good Defense

A family of skunks was trapped in a thicket, surrounded by a pack of hungry wolves that were edging even closer.
The mother skunk calmly instructed her young, "Quickly, children, let's put our heads together!"
After they obeyed, forming a circle, she continued, "Now -- let us spray!"

Received from ArcaMax.

(-:][:-)

Astronomers Declare February No Longer a Month

Emboldened by their success in declaring Pluto not a planet, the International Astronomical Union determined this week by a close vote that February is too short to be considered a true month. It has, however, been granted the newly-created status of "dwarf month." It shares this dubious distinction with several other calendar time spans, including Labor Day Weekend, Christmas Vacation, and the Time Between When You Were Supposed to Get Your Oil Changed and When You Actually Did.
"It only seems fair," said IAU President Ron Eckers. "February reaches a peak size of 29 days, averaging only 28 days for 75 percent of the time. Recent research has shown that other periods, such as the Time Between When You Were Supposed to Get Your Oil Changed and When You Actually Did, often exceed this meager time frame. In fact, this erratic behavior only strengthens our case that February does not belong in the same classification as the eleven 'true' months."
Eckers also warned that the crop of 30-day "so-called" months should be careful to maintain their number of days. "They're already cutting it pretty close in my book."
Written by Michael Haber.

Received from Michael Haber.

(-:][:-)

A Fish Tale

A fisherman returned to shore with a giant marlin that was bigger and heavier than he. On the way to the cleaning shed, he ran into a second fisherman who had a stringer with a dozen baby minnows.
The second fisherman looked at the marlin, turned to the first fisherman and said, "Only caught one, eh?"

Received from Thomas Ellsworth.

(-:][:-)

-=+=-
Rate this funny at http://www.gcfl.net/archive.php?funny=20060113
Brought to you by GCFL.net: The Good, Clean Funnies List A cheerful heart is good medicine... (Prov 17:22a) Mail address: GCFL, Box 100, Harvest, AL 35749, USA
To print or email this funny to others, go to http://www.gcfl.net/archive.php?funny=20060113
The latest GCFL funny can always be found on the web at http://www.gcfl.net/latest.php
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Madeleine Begun Kane Latest Columns - - http://www.madkane.com/admonitions.html - - AD-MONITIONS
When I see the term "Dream Job" in employment ads, I immediately get suspicious. My first thought -- after "Yeah, right!" -- is what else is this company lying about? But I was astonished to learn that some people actually believe what they read in the classifieds. So as a public service, I present my guide to employment ad puffery – a few choice phrases ... and what they really mean.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We abuse everyone.

Pleasant Surroundings: You'll share a four by four cubicle with a copying machine.

On-Site Cafeteria: We don't let you out for lunch.

Cheerful Staff: Employees sedate themselves before reporting to work.

Competitive Salary: We're in contention for the title "Worst Payer in the Forbes 500."

Send Salary History: So we'll know what we can get away with.

Generous Benefits: If you own the place.

Profit Sharing: Not after our accountants finish cooking the books.

Advancement Possible: If you have an active fantasy life.

Opportunity For Advancement: Out the door.

We Promote From Within: Within the owner's gene pool.

Rare Opportunity: We can't give this job away.

Family Owned Business: Dysfunctional family owned business.

First In Our Field: Everyone else had the good sense to get out.

Industry Leader: We recently swallowed up most of our competitors.

In Expansion Mode: Still one or two competitors to go.

Flex Time: Guess who gets to be flexible?

Family Friendly: Guess whose family?

State Of The Art Technology: When we bought it at a fire sale more than a decade ago.

Must Be Able To Do It All: We got a bit carried away with our downsizing.

Candidate Must Provide Leadership And Motivation: Somebody has to.

Must Be Detail-Oriented: You'll be reporting to a space cadet.

College Degree Preferred: We prefer -- and will hire -- a Ph.D. But this way we can pay twenty grand less.

On The Job Training: You'll be paper training the boss' dog.

Highly Visible Position: Right next to the restrooms.

Send Resume For Immediate Consideration: Don't call us. We'll call you.

© Madeleine Begun Kane. All Rights Reserved.
1st Published Bridge News
http://www.madkane.com/
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Ask Officer Dawson….. Question: Is it a good idea to put a set of your car keys beside your bed at night? If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.
Answer: If you're lying in bed when the burglary or the sexual assault suspect enters your house and you want to set your car alarm off, go ahead. Personally, I'm calling 911. If you can push one button (car alarm), you can push three (911). Rather than putting your car keys next to your bed put a telephone, not a cord less one, but a corded one. Get a corded (land-line) phone that plugs into the wall so the key pad will be back-lighted when you pick up the receiver. Therefore you can plainly see the numbers as you call the police in the middle of the night. Cord less phones are most always dark. Doing it my way ensures help is coming.
Doing it your way…
1. First you have to remember to put your keys on the night stand - whereas your corded phone is always there.
2. You'll have to find a much smaller object in darkness - keys verses phone.
3. Your key fob has multiple buttons in it; "Lock, Unlock, Alarm, Trunk release, Start, etc". In a panic situation, which button is the alarm? How long do you have to hold it for the alarm to go off?
4. Once the alarm is going off, you're depending on your neighbors to wake from a dead sleep to a noise that's coming from inside a closed garage in a house some - where on their street. Do you think you would be able to do that…with your windows closed and the air conditioner running? I know I wouldn't, I don't even wake up during thunder storms. Then you're depending on them to call the police rather than roll over and go back to sleep, annoyed that they were awakened in the first place.
5. They have to try to identify which side of the alley the noise is coming from. Then try to pinpoint which house.
6. Then they have to call the police - which is highly unlikely because people don't even do that when a car alarm goes off on the parking lot of a mall in broad daylight. Nowadays car alarms are looked at as more of a nuisance than a deterrent to crime.
7. But just for kicks, let's say you live in a neighborhood of first rate crime fighters and light sleepers. They hear your alarm going off, instantly they locate their phone and call the police to ex plain the situation. By the time this occurs and we drive to the location the car alarm has long since re set itself and the neighborhood is quiet as a church mouse. Now here we are, driving around trying to locate a possible crime in progress. We have no idea where the alarm was coming from, whether it was an at tempted BMV (Burglary of a Motor Vehicle) or whether the alarm simply went off because someone got to close to the car as they were driving down your alley. Or someone re ally is inside your house attempting to harm you. We cannot go around your neighborhood knocking on your neighbor’s doors in the middle of the night asking if everything's okay because a car alarm went off.
There's just so many things that have to go just right in order for your plan to work. Whereas my plan gets you the help you need fast. Get a corded phone with a lighted keypad and put it next to your bed. Call "911" immediately if anything goes wrong. That beats a car alarm any day. If you have any personal safety or crime prevention questions, please e-mail Officer Mark Dawson at markda@plano.gov.
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This was sent by our MHS ‘69 Classmate, Barbara Daniels. It reflects our feelings and we hope the feelings of many US conservatives. - - “Bug”
~
I did not want, did not vote, and was not happy to see our new President win the election but I do know for the sake of our country and for his safety the bible tells us to pray for our leaders. I'll be the first to admit I struggle in this area regardless of who is President. Just thought Huckabee expressed this well and I am thankful we live in a country there is a peaceful transition of power. Having said that we all realize where the real power lies, don't we? :)
~
With Prayerful Hearts

As of this afternoon, we have a new President. I had hoped that the 44th President would be a guy named Huckabee, but that didn't happen. I don't lament the results of the election, I celebrate the process of our great Republic that gives us the privilege and responsibility of voting and choosing our leaders.

I have stated repeatedly that I will pray for the new President in the same way that I would have desired for my fellow citizens to pray for me had I been successful.

I know that some, even on this blog, have been hesitant to commit to pray for and support the new President. I believe that it is my Christian duty to respect the office, to honor the process that led to the selection of the President, and to seek to put my country and its best interest above that of my party or even myself. I might find myself in disagreement in some of the policies that President Obama puts forth, but I will express my disagreement in the spirit of respect and civility that I wish had met President Bush when his critics disagreed with him.

Today, I am above all an American. A proud one. Proud that we have transitioned power without soldiers, bayonets, or bloodshed. I celebrate America. Now, the task is to stand more firm than ever in the convictions that life is precious and is the basis of liberty. I will work to elect good men and women to help shape this nation. It will be a long journey. I hope you're ready to join me.

Prayerfully,
Mike Huckabee
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The Pump Handle. A water cooler for the public health crowd.

Friday Blog Roundup - - http://thepumphandle.wordpress.com/
January 23, 2009 in Blog roundup | by Liz Borkowski

{NOTE: Liz and I don’t see eye to eye on many things and that is clear on some of her blog picks this week. However, I can’t fault her dedication to health and safety. So look at her offerings with an open mind and do what I do, enjoy the melon and spit out the seeds.}

First, some welcome breaking news from Amie Newman at RH Reality Check: President Obama has rescinded the Global Gag Rule, which banned giving federal funds to internal groups that provide abortions or information about the procedure. [http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/blog/2009/01/23/physicians-advocates-providers-applaud-global-gag-rule-repeal]

Jacob Goldstein at WSJ’s Health Blog is also on top of the latest health news, reporting that Obama has named Richard Besser, who’s headed emergency response efforts at CDC, as acting head of that agency. [http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2009/01/23/richard-besser-terrorism-preparedness-guru-to-head-cdc/]

And bloggers have a few more thoughts on Obama’s appointments and plans:

Maggie Mahar at Health Beat suggests that Obama’s inaugural address might have been preparing us for the difficult choices that we’ll face with healthcare reform. [http://www.healthbeatblog.com/2009/01/thoughts-on-president-obamas-inaugural-speech-.html]
Kate Sheppard at Gristmill reports on Transportation pick Ray LaHood’s views on the connection between transportation and sustainability. [http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2009/1/22/9416/56130]
Robert McClure at Dateline Earth points out that Ken Salazar, Obama’s choice for Interior Secretary, has opposed proposals that would have tightened fuel efficiency standards, repealed tax breaks for ExxonMobil, and used the Farm Bill to better protect the environment. [http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/environment/archives/159938.asp?source=rss]
Sarah Rubenstein at WSJ’s Health Blog passes along some FDA advice from prominent Cleveland Clinic cardiologist Steve Nissen. [http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2009/01/20/steven-nissen-gives-obama-an-rx-for-fda-reform/]

http://thepumphandle.wordpress.com/
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Weekly Toll - - http://weeklytoll.blogspot.com/
Death In The Workplace w/News & Updates
John Donne - ...any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.

A partial list of workplace fatalities.

Complacency Cited In Fatal Highwall Collapse at Texas Mine - - Jan. 12, A supervisor knew about the hazard but failed to make sure it was corrected before unstable material came down on shovel operator Thomas E. Farmer, according to the federal agency. Some 42 tons of sand poured down beside the shovel. It pinned Farmer against the shovel track in a standing position, neck-deep. Miners dug with hands, hard hats and hand shovels while giving artificial ventilation and watching out for more slides. Use of a bulldozer was thought too likely to cause another slide. Emergency medical services, arriving at 5:48 a.m., found Farmer beyond help. Farmer was recovered and pronounced dead at the scene at 6:43 a.m. Death was attributed to crushing injuries and asphyxia.

Temporary Gap in Floor Fatal to Contract Worker, MSHA Finds - - Greenly County, AZ - An unguarded floor opening used for lowering tools and equipment caused the death of Ramon A. Saldana, who fell 28 feet this September 1 at the Freeport-McMoRan Morenci surface copper mine in Greenlee County, Ariz., MSHA has determined. The witness shouted for help. His co-workers called the company dispatcher. Emergency medical services responded. Saldana was pronounced dead at 11:49 a.m. Death was attributed to blunt force trauma. Saldana, 67, had worked in mines for 46 years, 43 years at this mine and the remaining 3 as a consultant with the independent contractor, the MSHA investigator reported.

http://weeklytoll.blogspot.com
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NEVER FORGET! We're listing the names of our soldiers killed weekly. These records can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/

01. Senior Airman Omar J. McKnight, 22, of Marrero, La., died Jan 17 as a result of a non-hostile incident in Balad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 6th Security Forces Squadron, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

02. Staff Sgt. Joshua R. Townsend, 30, of Solvang , Calif. , died Jan. 16 in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan , of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg , N.C.

03. Pfc. Ricky L. Turner, 20, of Athens, Ala., died Jan. 16 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit. He was assigned to the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.

04. Staff Sgt. Carlo M. Robinson, 33, of Lawton, Okla., died Jan. 17 in Bagram, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle in Kabul. He was assigned to 1st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Fort Polk, La. [NOTE: Carlos was a 13-year Army member who grew up in Hope.]

05. Staff Sgt. Roberto Andrade Jr., 26, of Chicago, Ill., died Jan. 18 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 66th Armor, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

06. Spc. Ezra Dawson, 31, of Las Vegas, Nev., died Jan. 17 in Konar Province, Afghanistan when the Chinook helicopter he was in made a hard landing under combat conditions. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

07. Pfc. Matthew M. Pollini, 21, of Rockland Mass., died Jan. 22 at Forward Operating Base Delta, near al-Kut, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a vehicle roll-over. He was assigned to the 772nd Military Police Company, Taunton, Mass.

~

Missing WWII Soldiers are Identified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of two U.S. servicemen, missing from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

They are Pfc. Julian H. Rogers, of Bloomington, Ind, and Pvt. Henry E. Marquez, of Kansas City, Kan. Both men were U.S. Army. Rogers will be buried in the spring in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C., and Marquez will be buried on May 30 in Kansas City, Mo.

Representatives from the Army’s Mortuary Office met with the next-of-kin of these men in their hometowns to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Army.

In November 1944, the 112th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division, was attacking east through the Hürtgen Forest in an attempt to capture the German towns of Vossenack and Schmidt. On Nov. 4, the Germans counterattacked in what would become one of the longest running battles in U.S. history. Rogers and Marquez, both members of G Company, 112th Infantry Regiment, were reported killed in action near Vossenack on Nov. 4. Their bodies were not recovered.

In 2007, a German citizen searching for wartime relics in the Hürtgen Forest uncovered human remains and military identification tags for Rogers and Marquez. He notified U.S. officials and a Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) team excavated the site later that year. The team recovered human remains and non-biological material.

Among dental records, other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA in the identification of the remains.

For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1420.
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"We have nothing to fear but fear itself." -- Franklin D. Roosevelt
"There is not enough darkness in the world to put out the light of one candle."
Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity. - - George Carlin
"Stop telling God how big your storm is. Instead, tell the storm how big your God is!" - - Queen E. Watson
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Activities and Events of Interest - - Coming Events
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MONDAY- January 26 - - Parents of Magnolia High School seniors are encouraged to attend a meeting at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria at Magnolia High School to discuss the 2009 prom.. Representatives from Southern Arkansas University will also be available to discuss College/Financial Aid questions following the prom meeting.

TUESDAY- January 27
The Southwest Arkansas Youth Council will meet at 10 a.m. at SWAPDD, Inc., in Magnolia.
The Southwest Arkansas Workforce Investment Board executive committee will meet at 11 a.m. at SWAPDD, Inc., in Magnolia.
The SWAWIB will meet at 12:30 p.m. at SWAPDD, Inc., in Magnolia.

WEDNESDAY- January 28 - - The Arkansas Procurement Assistance Center will present a two-hour workshop, “Introduction to Government Contracting,” from 10 a.m. until noon followed by office hours until 3 p.m., when the procurement advisor will be available to counsel anyone on any topic related to selling products or services to federal, state, or local governments. The workshop is free and open to the public, hosted by Farmers Bank and Trust, in the Trust Building, 217 E. Union, Magnolia. Call 501-337-5355 for information.

THURSDAY- January 29 - - The Caring Place of Magnolia, an adult respite program for Alzheimer’s and/or dementia patients, is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For information, call 234-4530.
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Scheduled Activities
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CQ CQ all Hams. We have restarted a 2 meter net on the Willisville repeater, 146.655, every Tuesday evening at 7 PM. Please check in and spread the word. We would like to get some renewed interest in amateur radio and the ARKLA Amateur Radio Association. Will be listening for everyone next Tuesday night.
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Columbia County Amateur Radio Club meets Every second Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. Union Street Station. And YOU'RE invited. Net is every Sunday at 20:30 on 147.105.
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MCC - Mom's Day Out - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 2.$10 for the first child, $5 for the second. Call 234-3225 for reservations.
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MCC - Nursing Home Ministry - Meadowbrook Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 am. Taylor, the last Thursday each month.
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Men's Prayer Breakfast held every Tuesday morning at 6 AM in Miller's Cafeteria. If you aren't a regular participant at the Men's Prayer Breakfast, you're missing some great food, fellowship and inspired teaching of the Word. Hope to see you there.
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Emergency Phone Number 911
(Fire, Police, Ambulance, Sheriff, etc. )
Central Dispatch 234-5655
(Non - Emergency Number)
Direct Numbers
Ambulance - 234-7371 (24 Hour)
Jail - 234-5331 (24 Hour)
Poison Control - 800-222-1222 (24 Hour)
http://www. aapcc. org/
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Interested in getting in touch with the Banner-News through e-mail?
E-mail addresses for communicating with the newspaper’s various departments are: news@bannernews.net For news and sports items, Coming Events, Diary, Church News, school and civic events.
advertising@bannernews. net For retail and classified advertising.
circulation@bannernews. net To start, stop or cancel newspaper delivery or for comments about delivery.
outfitters @bannernews.net For Office Outfitters, the office supply division of the Banner-News.
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"Laugh whenever you can and cry if you need to." -- "Bug"
"I read the end of the book. We win!" -- "Bug"
"We may not be able to cure the world, but we don't have to make it sicker." -- "Bug"
"There just ain't enough fingers for all the holes in the dike." - - "Bug"
"It's no big deal doing what God tells you to do. A big deal would be NOT doing what God tells you to do. Just ask Jonah." - - Paul Troquille
“Nam et ipsa scientia potestas est.” Knowledge is power. - Francis Bacon
"The problem is here and now. The time for talk is past. The time for action is now."
Comments on the first Earth Day - James F. McClellan via John "Fuzzy" Thurman
~~~~~
Hope you enjoy the newsletter.
Again, thanks to all our contributors this week.
"Remember Pearl Harbor? Remember 9/11!" --"Bug"
God bless and GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
Psa 51:10-12 Rom 2:1-3 Josh 7:6,7,10 Est 9:20-22 http://www.e-min.org/
God is Good and Faithful CU 73 IC JFM CSP NREMT-I KC5HII

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