J.D. Mid-Days on SOS!!!

Tips on sharing your faith from Casting Crowns

2010-04-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

Casting Crowns is on a 10 week journey to talk about what it means to live your life Until the Whole World Hears. Mark, along with a few friends, will share scripture and encouragement on how to live your life on purpose, how to share your faith with family and friends and how to impact the nations in the name of Jesus. Check it out!

This just might cause you to cry if you've been wanting an IPad

2010-04-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

This just might kill you

2010-04-06T10:14:00.000-07:00

To pieces of fried chicken, cheese and bacon ... KFC wanted to make sure it was some what healthy ... they left the bun out ... that's right ... the fried chicken is the bun ...The Original Recipe sandwich will set you back about 540 calories, 32g of fat and 1380mg of sodium. The not-as-bad-for-you Grilled Double Down totals 460 calories, 23g of fat and 1430mg of sodium.

Will I try one .... not sure yet ...

To check out the full article click here

Cell PhonePlan War = Good News for You!!

2010-03-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

It seems like cell phone companies can't stop taking shots at each other these days, That's great news for us. In this economy customers have power. Where you chose to do business can't be taken for granted anymore. To find out how you can benefit from this "war" check out this link from CNN money

Who is St. Patrick ?

2010-03-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Today we honor St. Patrick who drove out snakes by pinching the ones who
were not wearing green. Or something like that. All joking aside what do we really know about him .. To find out his amazing story and how he became a missionary ... click here

Smart Phone Frustrations

2010-03-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

Last month my wife surprised me with an IPhone I've been wanting for almost a year now. I love it .. I am such a tech geek .. but one thing frustrates me. The battery life in this phone and other smart phones goes fast .. I've never had to charge once .. sometime twice a day until now. It was kind of annoying .. but I might have found some tips to keep the phone from needing to be charged every 5 minutes ... check them out here

Thank you from Addison Road

2010-03-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

Last Friday Addison Road's RV burned to the ground. When they go on the road they pack everything they would need for 3 months. After giving an amazing performance in Las Vegas ... they were overwhelmed with the support they received. The out pouring of supports makes me proud to call this city my home. Here's the link to Jenny's blog that shows you just how blessed they were by those in Las Vegas and else where. Click here to read Jenny's blog.

Go on a missions trip with the Newsboys!

2010-03-11T10:34:00.000-08:00

The boys... Duncan, Michael, Jody and Jeff have partnered with the safe and trusted, 24-year-old organization Global Expeditions and would like to invite you to join them in ministering to the poverty-stricken people of Baja, Mexico this summer!

You don't need to be an architect or construction worker to come on this adventure. If you can swing a hammer or hold a paint brush, then you can help share God Ís love with a needy family by building them a home with the Newsboys. You will also have the opportunity to reach out to the surrounding community and impact the lives of children and families with service projects and programs.

For more info .. click here

Your Music, Your Vote: Dove Awards Fan Voting

2010-03-08T11:54:00.000-08:00

Fans will help decide the winners of two key Dove Award categories again this year: Artist of the Year and New Artist of the Year. Voting begins now and will close Tuesday, April 20 at midnight (EST). The 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards premieres on gmc Sunday, April 25 at 8 pm et. Tune in to see the results presented!

to vote just click here

Urgent Request for Supplies at MBHOH: Kindergarten Materials Needed!

2010-03-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

You can show hope to the orphans at Maria’s Big House of Hope by donating necessary supplies for their kindergarten class! This is a great project for your friends, your family, or your church. You can either purchase the items and ship them to our office in Nashville, or you can donate online and we will purchase the items on your behalf. But there’s not much time! These supplies need to be in our office by March 5:
Show Hope
c/o MBHOH Kindergarten Supplies
230 Franklin Rd.
Suite 11JJ
Franklin, TN 37064

Maria’s Big House of Hope is a medical care center in Luoyang, China, that cares for orphans with special needs, providing them with abundant love, medical attention, and hope.

Supply List: Due to transport restrictions, please only send the items listed below.
30 packs Washable Markers
100 packs Construction Paper
6 sets Wooden Building Blocks
30 packs Finger Paints
20 Large Balls
50 packs 24 count Non-Toxic Crayons (Large and small)
3 sets Fisher-Price Little People Noah’s Ark Playset
100 packs Construction Paper
3 sets Fisher-Price Little People Animal Sounds Farm
Story Books
Finger Paint Paper
Play Food
Cardboard Blocks

Thank you for your willingness to help show hope for these children! If you have questions, please call Cathy Troyer at 615.550.5600.

Get to know the Officers who protect your neighborhood!

2010-03-02T10:30:00.000-08:00

At the March 2nd First Tuesday event, the Las Vegas Metro Police Department is inviting the public to learn more about their Auto Theft /VIPER section.

Attendees will learn how officers categorize auto thefts, operate bait car programs and protect our vehicles from chop shop thieves. Crime prevention measures will also be discussed.

The LVMPD has seen a 54% decrease in local auto thefts since 2004, and is hoping to continue that downward trend.

The LVMPD First Tuesday program is an open house-style event that takes place on the first Tuesday of every month beginning at 7:00 p.m. At substations all over the Las Vegas Valley.

During the First Tuesday program events, the public is invited to come to any area command, meet the officers who protect their neighborhoods, and learn about the various aspects of policing.

More Details Here

Michael W Smith talks about Come Together Now for Haiti

2010-03-01T11:27:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody,

Wanted to let you know that Smitty is heading to NYC today with his good friend Franklin Graham to hit the media circuit and do several interviews over today and tomorrow on the topic of Healing for Haiti. Their itinerary includes:

• USA Today
• Hannity (FOX News Channel)
• CNN (this will be a live interview @ 10:45am eastern on March 2)
• The Washington Post
• FOX News – On The Record (this is also a live interview that will air between 10 and 11pm on March 2)

Please pray for Michael and Franklin as they do these interviews that God would use them to maximize the restoration efforts for the country of Haiti. Stay tuned to the aforementioned media outlets to watch/read the interviews…

Thanks,
MWS Staff

How to get the best seat when flying

2010-02-26T10:29:00.000-08:00

It always happens .. When flying I always get the seat with the least leg room or the seat doesn't recline. NO MORE!!! if you fly a lot check out this site http://www.seatguru.com/ It shows the best seats on the plane for any airline.

Where's my refund

2010-02-26T10:25:00.000-08:00

Over the next couple of weeks millions will file their taxes.. and some will be getting a refund. To find out the status of your refund .. check out the IRS Where's my refund site by clicking here.

Movie Reviews

2010-02-19T12:32:00.000-08:00

Bob from plugged in called today to share his thoughts on the new movie Shutter Island and also Percy Jackson. Click Here to listen

This is what we do.....

2010-02-18T20:06:00.000-08:00

Well I knew what we were getting into.. but it still hurts. I can't believe that she has been here less then a week and fits in so well. We know we are foster parents and should guard our hearts and know that children will come in and out of our lives. It doesn't work like that. We really feel like God has called us to do this and I know we will continue to be a foster family in the future. Our hearts are still for hurting children who need love and a safe place to stay.

Right now it looks like she's going to be heading home in the next couple weeks. So until then we will care for her and love her while we have her. I think Vanessa said it best this afternoon " This is what we do"

Lent

2010-02-17T11:26:00.000-08:00

Today is Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, the traditional 40-day period of fasting, prayer and penitence before Easter.

For the last month I've been praying about what to fast for Lent. This year I wanted to do something that would make a difference for someone else. I decided to team up with the Blood Water Mission. For the next 40 days I will only drink water. I did the math and found out I would spend about 2.50$ a day on Soda... milk and other drinks. Over the next 40 days I will save that money and at the end of Lent I will donated it to the Blood Water Mission.

The Blood Water Mission provides wells for clean drinking water to those in Uganda. We are blessed to live in a country where we don't have to worry about clean water. To learn more about the Blood Water Mission click here.

Free Pancake Day Feb 23

2010-02-11T21:56:00.000-08:00

Join IHOP to celebrate National Pancake Day on Tuesday, February 23, 2010. From 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., we'll give you one free short stack (three) of our famous buttermilk pancakes.* All we ask is that you consider making a donation to support local children's hospitals through Children's Miracle Network or other local charities.

Check out all the details here

Valentine’s Day is not just for couples; it is for everyone.

2010-02-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

The following are more ways that single men and women can enjoy Valentine’s Day without worrying about the pressures and pitfalls that often come with the holiday:

1. Do not define yourself by your relationship status. Your relationship status is not your identity.

2. If you are single because of a recent loss, allow this to be a day of grieving. Do not pretend that it’s not a hard day. Get support and sympathy.

3. Realize that Valentine’s Day is a commercial holiday. It is not about love and relationships; it is about selling flowers, candy, and diamond jewelry. Think of all the money you are saving.

4. Plan well in advance to do something that will not place you in the path of billing and cooing couples. Even if you usually like dining out alone, do something else on Valentine’s Day.

5. Get together with people who do love you -- friends, family members, the people who already have relationships with you.

6. If you are single and you don’t want to be, start now to think about what is in the way of you creating the relationship you want. Find ways to work on becoming the person your dream partner would fall in love with. Start therapy. Take up yoga. Begin to volunteer. Create art. Make meaning. Act to change the world. It is into the fullest lives that love is most likely to fall.

Church Ad during the Superbowl?

2010-02-03T11:40:00.000-08:00

Doritos “Crash the Super Bowl” challenge.

Erwin McManus, the head pastor of Mosaic church in Pasadena, Calif., is viewing the ad competition as a chance to present his faith to one of TV’s largest audiences when they are least expecting it, according to the USA TODAY Web site.

McManus said on the USA TODAY Web site he wants people to know that they have a sense of humor and that it’s OK to laugh. He said so much of what comes out of the faith community seems sour and somber. He wants to show people that they can be people of faith and enjoy life and laugh.

By KATE MCCLOY

Super Bowl ad featuring Tim Tebow

2010-01-26T09:34:00.000-08:00

I watch for the game ... but most of the entertainment comes from the commercials on Super Bowl Sunday. This year Focus on the Family has purchased a 30 sec ad. The spot will feature Tim Tebow and his Mom. Here's a description from Sports Illustrated..

The ad -- paid for by the conservative Christian group Focus on the Family -- is expected to recount the story of Pam Tebow's pregnancy in 1987 with a theme of "Celebrate Family, Celebrate Life." After getting sick during a mission trip to the Philippines, she ignored a recommendation by doctors to abort her fifth child and gave birth to Tim, who went on to win the 2007 Heisman Trophy while helping his Florida team to two college football championships.

Protecting our homes and family's

2010-01-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday night my sense of security was shaken. We live in a nice neighborhood and have never had any real problems, Until three doors down from us someone kicked in the front door. Thankfully no one was hurt .. but they didn't catch the person who did it. The next afternoon was spent checking around the house and making sure that it was secure. Here are some tips to help make your home secure.

Although there's no way to guarantee you won't be a victim, there are ways to minimize your risk. Here are 10 ways to make your home unattractive to burglars:

1. Think like a crook. Look for places that get dark at night, that have access or aren't easily visible to neighbors or from the street. These are places where a burglar might lurk.

2. Trim shrubbery. Overgrown landscaping appeals to a burglar, who can lurk behind shrubbery and slip into a first-story or basement window without being seen by a neighbor, Polak said. Trim and thin out shrubbery to the point where no one can hide behind it.

3. Shine a light. Don't give burglars a dark place to lurk, Polak said. Landscape and path lighting and motion-detecting floodlights can work together so crooks have nowhere to hide. Pay attention to lighting indoors, too. Set lights on a timer, and change the timing frequently to keep burglars from detecting your daily routines.

4. Be alarming. A security system is one of the best ways to protect your home, Polak said. The presence of one makes burglars think twice before trying to break in.

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5. Keep 'em guessing. "Don't establish any patterns," Polak said. "If a burglar can't be sure of when you're coming or going, they're less likely to strike your house." A dog or cat moving around the home may confuse a burglar. A home-automation system, which can be integrated with a security system, can automate everything from lights and televisions to blinds. If you're going away, even for a weekend, don't let mail, packages, circulars or newspapers accumulate. Ask a relative, friend or neighbor to drop by at different times.

6. Be a good neighbor. Get acquainted with your neighbors, and offer to keep an eye on their homes while they're away. Know where they're going and when they'll be back, and get a contact phone number. If something doesn't look right while you're keeping an eye on things, if someone who appears to be in a utility-company uniform doesn't seem legit, trust your gut and don't be afraid to call the police, Polak said.

7. Look out below. Basement windows are a vulnerable point for older homes, Polak said. They're often single-pane glass with flimsy metal frames, and the opening is big enough for an average-sized adult to slip through. Polak recommends replacing those old windows with glass block for better security. Glass block also offers better privacy and energy efficiency.

8. Deny access. Make sure the locks on doors and windows are secure, and check them before leaving the house. The most common mistake people make is leaving the door to the house from the attached garage unlocked, Mickalide said. "They figure the garage door is locked, no point in locking the inside door," she said. "But if the garage door is breached or left open, a burglar can waltz right in."

9. Go around the back. The back of the house isn't visible from the street and can offer some tantalizing ways for a burglar to get in. Sliding doors are the easiest way to gain entry, so make sure they're always locked. Some people put boards or rods at the base of the slider to keep it from being opened. Don't ever leave a ladder outdoors — a burglar can climb up one to an unlocked second-story window.

10. Think safety, as well as security. Although a deadbolt lock that opens with a key from the inside may be the most secure, a turning deadbolt is better, because it permits a quick exit in the event of a fire or other emergency, Mickalide said. Bars on your windows may keep burglars out, but they can keep you in, too. If you must have bars, get the ones that allow you to open them easily from the inside, and practice doing it so you don't panic in an emergency. "Don't ever impede your exit from the house," Mickalide said.

By Melissa Hebert

The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer

The Bible and Cell Phones

2010-01-20T09:38:00.000-08:00

From Pastor Greg Laurie ... Wow after I read this .... Conviction about how often I pick up my cell phone instead of my bible.

Have you noticed how much cell phones are a part of our lives now? It seems like everyone has them, even the children.

My granddaughter Stella has a Dora the Explorer toy phone where Dora asks you a question. Then when you are answering, she seems to become disinterested and changes the subject quickly. Then she says she is your best friend and hangs up!

I was a bit offended until I reminded myself that it is, after all, a computer chip I am interacting with, not the real Dora (who herself is simply a drawing).

Next, they will have cell phones for dogs and cats, though I am not sure the latter would ever use them.

Rudeness

I was with some friends the other night and everyone was reading texts and e-mails on their iPhones, so I texted them a question. I figured that wold be the best way to communicate.

When cell phones first came out, they were enormous, about the size of a World War II walkie talkie with a battery life of about eight minutes. Now they are so small and powerful, with the ability to check e-mails, play video games, take photos and videos, and send text messages.

Sometimes they even make phone calls! (Though mine does not do that function particularly well and often drops calls)

We take our phones with us everywhere, we consult them constantly, and we panic when the battery begins to fade. We can’t seem to live without them!

What if we treated our Bible like our cell phone?

Someone sent me an e-mail that asks the fascinating question, “What if we treated our Bible like our cell phone?” So check this out.

Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?

What if we carried it around in our purse or pocket?

What if we flipped through it several times a day?

What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?

What if we used it to receive messages from the text?

What if we treated it like we couldn’t live without it?

What if we gave it to kids as gifts?

What if we used it when we traveled?

What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go . . . Hmm, where is my Bible?

Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don’t have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.

Makes you stop and think, where are my priorities?

And no dropped calls!

TV Crew Helps Rescue Baby From Rubble

2010-01-18T10:20:00.000-08:00

Proof your prayers mean so much .. A 16 month old girl pulled out of a destroyed home, three days after the earthquake hit. If you would like to give and help out .. click here

Pants on the Ground and MLK

2010-01-15T07:50:00.000-08:00

This week on American Idol, 62-year-old novelty rapper General Larry Platt upstaged all the "real" singers on the Atlanta auditions episode with his instantly viral hit, "Pants On The Ground." But Platt is not just some William Hungian TV clown angling for 15 minutes of YouTube fame. His real legacy in fact extends all the way back to the '60s, when he was a teenage crusader for the Civil Rights Movement in Georgia.

Platt was actually a student of Martin Luther King Jr. back in the day, which makes the timing of his sudden fame quite interesting, given that next Monday is MLK Day. In the early '60s when he was only 16 (see the 16-year-old Platt in the photograph here; he's the one on the far left), he worked with activist groups like the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee and Southern Christian Leadership Conference to fight racial segregation in the South. He was even beaten while participating in the infamous "Bloody Sunday" protest march from Selma to Montgomery in Alabama.

Posted Thu Jan 14, 2010 1:53pm PST by Lyndsey Parker in Reality Rocks

2nd Annual Rock and Worship Road Show!!!

2010-01-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

Tour Dates for Rock and Worship Roadshow 2010 (dates subject to change)

March 18, 2010 Indianapolis, IN
March 19, 2010 Madison, WI
March 20, 2010 Council Bluffs, IA
March 21, 2010 Colorado Springs, CO
March 23, 2010 Billings, MT
March 25, 2010 Tacoma, WA
March 26, 2010 Portland, OR
March 27, 2010 Boise, ID
March 28, 2010 Spokane, WA
March 31, 2010 Bakersfield, CA
April 1, 2010 Fresno, CA
April 2, 2010 Sacramento, CA
April 8, 2010 Long Beach, CA
April 9, 2010 Ontario, CA
April 10, 2010 Phoenix, AZ
April 11, 2010 Las Vegas, NV
April 13, 2010 Albuquerque, NM
April 15, 2010 Oklahoma City, OK
April 16, 2010 Dallas, TX
April 17, 2010 Tulsa, OK
April 18, 2010 San Antonio, TX
April 22, 2010 Cedar Rapids, IA
April 23, 2010 Ft. Wayne, IN
April 24, 2010 Columbus, OH
April 25, 2010 Columbia, SC

Presidential Proclamation - National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

2010-01-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

Human Trafficking is a real problem. I have seen children that have been victims of this. The devastation that is causes is horrifying. Props to our President for this proclamation..

A PROCLAMATION

The United States was founded on the principle that all people are born with an unalienable right to freedom -- an ideal that has driven the engine of American progress throughout our history. As a Nation, we have known moments of great darkness and greater light; and dim years of chattel slavery illuminated and brought to an end by President Lincoln's actions and a painful Civil War. Yet even today, the darkness and inhumanity of enslavement exists. Millions of people worldwide are held in compelled service, as well as thousands within the United States. During National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we acknowledge that forms of slavery still exist in the modern era, and we recommit ourselves to stopping the human traffickers who ply this horrific trade.

As we continue our fight to deliver on the promise of freedom, we commemorate the Emancipation Proclamation, which became effective on January 1, 1863, and the 13th Amendment, which was sent to the States for ratification on February 1, 1865. Throughout the month of January, we highlight the many fronts in the ongoing battle for civil rights -- including the efforts of our Federal agencies; State, local, and tribal law enforcement partners; international partners; nonprofit social service providers; private industry and nongovernmental organizations around the world who are working to end human trafficking.

The victims of modern slavery have many faces. They are men and women, adults and children. Yet, all are denied basic human dignity and freedom. Victims can be abused in their own countries, or find themselves far from home and vulnerable. Whether they are trapped in forced sexual or labor exploitation, human trafficking victims cannot walk away, but are held in service through force, threats, and fear. All too often suffering from horrible physical and sexual abuse, it is hard for them to imagine that there might be a place of refuge.

We must join together as a Nation and global community to provide that safe haven by protecting victims and prosecuting traffickers. With improved victim identification, medical and social services, training for first responders, and increased public awareness, the men, women, and children who have suffered this scourge can overcome the bonds of modern slavery, receive protection and justice, and successfully reclaim their rightful independence.

Fighting modern slavery and human trafficking is a shared responsibility. This month, I urge all Americans to educate themselves about all forms of modern slavery and the signs and consequences of human trafficking. Together, we can and must end this most serious, ongoing criminal civil rights violation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 2010 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, culminating in the annual celebration of National Freedom Day on February 1. I call upon the people of the United States to recognize the vital role we can play in ending modern slavery, and to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

more than you've ever wanted to know about Tenth Avenue North

2010-01-05T10:28:00.000-08:00

The guys from Tenth Ave North tell the story of how they became a band... check out the interview here

Questions and answers about full-body scanners

2009-12-31T06:26:00.000-08:00

Ok so is anyone else a little disturbed that the people at the airport will be able to scan your body and see everything?? We I found out that I had some misinformation .. here's an article from the A.P. that might put some of our concerns to rest.

WASHINGTON – Travelers still getting used to removing their shoes in public and pouring shampoo into tiny bottles may soon have to adjust to something new in the airport security line — giant machines that that scan their bodies for anything a terrorist might use to cause harm during a flight.

High-tech, full-body scanning machines are already in use at a handful of airports, but they may become more common as security officials around the world respond to the attempted attack on an airliner on Christmas Day. The Netherlands announced Wednesday that the scanners would be used for all flights heading from Amsterdam's airport to the United States, and an official in Nigeria later said that country planned to buy full-body scanners too.

What exactly are these machines, and how do they work? What are the drawbacks to using these types of scans?

Here are some questions and answers about the devices.

___

Q: How do these full-body scanners work?

A: The two main types of scanners are "millimeter wave" and "backscatter" machines. Millimeter wave units send radio waves over a person and produce a three-dimensional image by measuring the energy reflected back. Backscatter machines use low-level X-rays to create a two-dimensional image of the body.

___

Q: What sorts of things can they find?

A: The machines are designed to uncover what a physical pat-down could turn up but a metal detector wouldn't find. That includes plastic or chemical explosives and nonmetallic weapons in a pocket or strapped to someone's body.

The machines would also find guns, knives and other metallic objects that would set off a metal detector.

___

Q: What can they not find?

A: Generally, the machines can't find items stashed in a body cavity. So the scanners wouldn't stop at least one common smuggling method used by drug traffickers.

___

Q: How common are they at airports?

A: Because of fears that the scans infringe on travelers' dignity by revealing bodily contours, European officials have generally limited the machines to tests in airports or train stations.

In U.S. airports, the Transportation Security Administration has begun expanding the use of full-body scanning machines, although passengers can opt for a physical pat-down instead. The TSA has 40 in place, just bought 150 and plans to buy 300 more.

Six of the machines are being used instead of a metal detector at airports in Albuquerque, N.M.; Las Vegas; Miami; San Francisco; Salt Lake City; and Tulsa, Okla. The other 34 are used for secondary screening of people who set off a metal detector in Atlanta; Dallas/Fort Worth; Denver; Detroit; Indianapolis; Jacksonville and Tampa, Fla.; Los Angeles; Phoenix; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va.; and two airports in the Washington area: Baltimore/Washington and Reagan National.

___

Q: Is there a way to make the scans less revealing?

A: The technology has evolved to reduce the clarity of identifying details. The systems blur faces, or they produce body images that look like chalk outlines.

Amsterdam's airport is moving ahead with full-body scanners after trying new software that projects a stylized image — rather than an actual picture — onto a computer screen. It highlights the area of the body where objects are concealed in pockets or under the clothing.

The TSA says it uses logistical methods to safeguard privacy. Full-body images are viewed in a walled-off location not visible to the public. The security officer assisting the passenger cannot view the image, and the officer who views the image doesn't see the passenger. If the officer viewing the image sees something of concern, he notifies the agent who is with the passenger to do further screening.

The machines can't store or print images, and the TSA says officers who view the images are not allowed to take cameras or cell phones into the screening rooms.

___

Q: How long does it take to be scanned?

A: The machines are getting faster but still can take up to 15 seconds to scan a traveler, which could make the process slower than using metal detectors.

TSA officials note that in some instances, these machines can be faster. For instance, people with medical devices that typically set off metal detectors wouldn't have to make multiple passes through the machine or be pulled aside for additional screening.

___

Q: Do security officials hope to use the full-body scanners on every person getting on a flight?

A: At the moment, that's probably not realistic — in the U.S. alone, there are 730 checkpoints with 2,100 security lanes at the nation's 450 airports, and there are thousands more lanes at airports around the world. Cost may be an issue — the machines can be $130,000 to $200,000 each.

Taking Amsterdam, where the machines are already in place, as an example: The airport's 15 scanners won't be enough to screen every U.S.-bound passenger, so pat-down searches will still be used. It remains to be seen whether that strategy will be copied at other airports.

___

Q: Do the scanners pose health risks, especially for frequent travelers?

A: The TSA says the technology is harmless.

Millimeter wave energy is common in the world, and the TSA says the scanners produce far less energy than a cell phone. The X-rays in backscatter machines are weak; TSA says the radiation is equivalent to what a person gets in two minutes of flying on an airplane.

If someone fears the technology, the TSA offers a physical pat-down.

Tips on how to recycle your old electronics

2009-12-30T06:45:00.000-08:00

Chances are good you'll get something with a microchip in it tomorrow morning, and that means you'll probably be getting rid of your old laptop, cell phone, camera, or GPS device shortly afterward. Nothing wrong with cleaning house, but remember that most gadgetry can and should be recycled, so be sure to dispose of that gear responsibly.
With that in mind, the Consumer Electronics Association offers some reminders and tips on how to recycle your old gear, and it's all good advice:

> Start with the manufacturer -- Most equipment makers now have "take back" programs, many of which are free. The retail outlet where you bought the item originally may also offer a recycling plan. Best Buy takes any and all electronics, too. Also, be sure to check with your city, as many towns operate recycling programs as well.

> Not all recyclers are created equal -- Some less savory outfits don't recycle products but rather ship them to third-world countries where they are scrapped and melted down and ground up into silicon salumi, creating a problem worse than merely dumping it all in a landfill. Ask your recycler what they do with recycled gadgets, and check with the ISRI and ICER, two recycling trade groups, to see if your recycler is a member. (Find links in the story linked above.)

> Donation is even better -- If your equipment is still in working order, there's no reason to scrap it. Give it to Goodwill or another charity for re-use.

> Wipe that data -- It's critical to fully erase and scrub any hard drives, memory cards, and cell phone memory before you donate or scrap it. Used gear is a common source for the information used for identity theft.

> Start with a green product -- Many new electronics devices are using recycled or biodegradable materials when they are initially produced, making them more attractive for the environmentally conscious.

The past decade according to 9 year olds

2009-12-30T06:43:00.000-08:00

The decade according to 9-year-olds from allison louie-garcia on Vimeo.

Tracking Santa

2009-12-24T12:10:00.000-08:00

Every Year NORAD tracks where Santa is in the world... click here to find out where Santa is.

The history of some of our favorite Christmas Songs

2009-12-22T11:05:00.000-08:00

I sometimes wonder where some of my favorite Christmas songs came from after doing a little research this is what I found.

* "Deck the Halls"
"Deck the Halls" -- one of the all-time Christmas favorites -- is a "melting pot" song. Its melody has traditional Welsh roots, but its lyrics came from the United States in the nineteenth century. You can't listen to this buoyant song without getting into the Christmas spirit. Learn about its history and reacquaint yourself with the lyrics.

* "Good King Wenceslas"
"Good King Wenceslas" is a tribute to a beloved ruler whose kindness has never been forgotten. King Wenceslas (who was actually the Duke of Bohemia) was silenced by a jealous brother in 929, but centuries later, his memory surfaced as the subject of this children's song written by John Mason Neale.

* "Christmas is Coming"
"Christmas is Coming" is a classic Christmas round. The author of the lyrics is unknown, but the music was composed by Edith Nesbitt in the late nineteenth or early twentieth century.

* "The Twelve Days of Christmas"
"The Twelve Days of Christmas" was written sometime during the sixteenth century to honor the Christmas custom of giving 12 gifts to loved ones, one every day from Christmas to Epiphany. Whether singing of golden rings or fat geese, those unable to buy such luxuries could at least hold these lyrics as promises of heartfelt gifts to come during this glittering season of giving.

* "Ave Maria"
Few sacred hymns are as universally known as "Ave Maria." Originally a Roman Catholic prayer, "Ave Maria" was actually derived from biblical scripture: Luke 1:28. Franz Schubert orchestrated this version of the hymn in 1825. Many people consider "Ave Maria" to be the most sacred of all hymns.

* "Here We Come A-Wassailing"
Also known as "Here We Come A-Caroling" and "The Wassail Song," this jolly English ditty is steeped in tradition. Imagine a British cobblestone street, snow soft in the streetlight's glow. Despite constant hardship, beggars and orphans would dance and sing in the streets at Christmas, hoping to receive a bowl of wassail, which combines ale, wine, and spices to warm the heart as well as the soul.

* "Jingle Bells"
Some songs are known for their appeal to adults; others for their popularity with children. "Jingle Bells" enchants both audiences, but it might surprise you to know that the original music, composed by Boston Sunday school teacher James Pierpont, was conceived as a Thanksgiving song in 1857.

* "O Christmas Tree"
Folktales describing how evergreen trees came to symbolize Christmas can be found in nearly every culture. Centuries-old lore describes evergreen trees blooming in every forest on earth the night Jesus was born. These stories are the basis of the ageless German song that praises all trees at Yuletide: "O Tannenbaum," or "O Christmas Tree."

* "The Holly and the Ivy"
"The Holly and the Ivy" likely originated as a print ad posted in England around 1700. The song was published in 1861 by Joshua Sylvester, who admitted to its commercial heritage. Though lavished with symbols predating Christianity, this song's lyrics don't completely explain the meaning behind the greenery in its title.

* "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy"
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky completed his ballet "The Nutcracker" in 1893. First performed at St. Petersburg's Maryinsky Theater the following Christmas, "The Nutcracker" continues to thrill audiences -- particularly those eagerly awaiting the ballet's crown jewel: "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy." To read the story "The Nutcracker," click here.

* "Up on the Housetop"
When Clement Clarke Moore penned "A Visit From St. Nicholas" as Christmas entertainment for his children, he probably had no idea that his story would continue to be told for hundreds of years. The charming tale of Santa's annual visit has been chronicled for all time as "Up on the Housetop." If Moore hadn't revealed Santa's entry point and Benjamin Russell Hanby hadn't later set it to music, children everywhere might still wonder how all those Christmas presents are delivered!

* "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas"
This traditional American jingle sums up every child's Christmas dream -- finding out what treasured gifts Santa will be leaving under the tree this year. "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" is a bouncy and fun-filled Christmas classic.

* "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear"
"It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" got its lyrics from a poem by Edmund Hamilton Sears, a Unitarian minister. American poet Oliver Wendell Holmes described this hymn as "one of the finest and most beautiful ever written." Listen to it, and you'll realize that Holmes was right.

* "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks"
"While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks" is especially beloved by those who appreciate a literal interpretation of the nativity story. This hymn closely replicates the Bible's description of events on the night of Jesus' birth.

* "Angels We Have Heard on High"
"Angels We Have Heard on High" began as a shepherd's exclamation ("Gloria in excelsis Deo!") shouted from hill to hill to celebrate Christmas. The version we sing today was first published in 1855.

* "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Composer Felix Mendelssohn wrote the music for "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" for a cantata dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg. The tune was later matched with words written by Charles Wesley, a Methodist poet.

* "We Three Kings of Orient Are"
"We Three Kings of Orient Are" was written in 1857 for an elaborate holiday pageant. It depicts the journeys of the three wise men who traveled from separate parts of the globe to pay homage at the crib of Jesus in Bethlehem.

* "Angels from the Realms of Glory"
"Angels from the Realms of Glory" is a reverential carol by James Montgomery and Henry Stuart. It celebrates the angels who first told shepherds in their fields of the Messiah's birth. For those who want to really get into the Christmas spirit, it's well worth a listen.

* "Coventry Carol"
It is speculated that "Coventry Carol" has its roots in melodies that women of Bethlehm would sing to their firstborn sons during King Herod's reign of terror, when he ordered the murder of all infant sons to ensure the death of newborn Jesus. As you can see from the subject matter, this Christmas song is known for its intensity.

* "O Little Town of Bethlehem"
Minister Phillips Brooks wrote "O Little Town of Bethlehem" after traveling to Bethlehem and finding himself deeply moved by the experience. It was premiered by his church's children's choir in 1868 and developed into a Christmas classic in the ensuing years.

* "Silent Night"
In 1818, a broken organ forced Father Joseph Mohr and organist Franz Gruber to pull together "Silent Night" for voices and guitars at the last minute. They barely finished in time for their Bavarian village's Christmas Eve celebrations. It's a good thing the song was completed -- "Silent Night" has enchanted generations of listeners. To read the inspirational story of how "Silent Night" came to be, click here.

* "Away in a Manger"
"Away in a Manger" is of unknown origins, although many people have been considered possible composers (including Martin Luther and James R. Murray). While the mystery surrounding "Away in a Manger" continues, one thing is certain: This lullaby continues to soften hearts during the holidays.

* "Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella"
"Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella" probably originated as a a lively court dance in fourteenth-century France. The song as we know it was first published in 1553 by a well-to-do nobleman. Read the lyrics, and you'll see that it's an interesting addition to our collection of Christmas songs.

* "What Child Is This?"
"What Child Is This?" shares its melody with that of the traditional English song "Greensleeves." Words from the Dix poem "The Manger Throne" were added to "Greensleeves" to form the Christmas carol we know today.

* "Good Christian Men, Rejoice"
"Good Christian Men, Rejoice" originated as "In Dulci Jubilo" in 1601 and has undergone many transformations since then. The version we sing today was translated from German by Reverend Dr. John Mason Neale. The fact that the song has survived so many revisions speaks to its power and durability.

* "O Holy Night"
This song was composed in France by Adolphe Charles Adam. Although "O Holy Night" was not initially well received by French church authorities, audiences have long loved this popular Christmas Eve solo.

* "The First Noel"
This is a quintessential Christmas song. "The First Noel" most likely originated in thirteenth- or fourteenth-century Mystery Plays (dramatizations based on Bible stories) to tell the tale of Jesus' birth. The version we know was first published in 1833.

* "Go Tell It on the Mountain"
"Go Tell It on the Mountain" celebrates Jesus' promise of liberation for all people. The upbeat tempo reflects the power of that promise. This rousing spiritual became popular after a performance by Fish University's Jubilee Singers in 1879.

* "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers"
The originally German "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" was written in 1905 and, once English lyrics were added by Ballard Macdonald, quickly became an American Christmas standard. But even if you listen to the American version of the song, you'll probably notice that it has German origins.

* "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"
Almost everyone is familiar with this Christmas classic, which is a traditional caroling tune. Caroling groups in England, known as "waits," often employed this tune in hopes of earning a sweet treat for themselves.

* "O Come, All Ye Faithful"
This is another song that seemingly everyone knows. "O Come, All Ye Faithful" (or "Adeste Fideles," as it was originally known) was first published around 1751. About a century later, it became a popular church hymn when Frederick Oakeley translated it into English from Latin.

* "Joy to the World"
Here's yet another Christmas standard. The lyrics to "Joy to the World" were first attributed to George Frideric Handel -- probably a ploy by the composer to increase the song's popularity. We now know, after much research from musicologists, that the words for this melody come from the Psalms of David.

* "I Saw Three Ships"
The imagery represented in "I Saw Three Ships" is still puzzling to historians. Does it represent the Trinity? Columbus's voyage? Whatever the lyricist's intent, the song has been popular since its publication in 1666.

* "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen"
"God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen" was another favorite of the caroling groups, or "waits," in seventeenth-century England. It was also used by Charles Dickens in his classic holiday story "A Christmas Carol." To read "A Christmas Carol," click here.

* "Auld Lang Syne"
How can anyone ring in the New Year without a rousing round of "Auld Lang Syne?" This traditional song finds its roots in Scotland and was made popular by Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians.

List from http://christmas.howstuffworks.com/traditions/christmas-songs.htm

Spreading Hope to wounded soldiers coming home

2009-12-17T09:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas Shipping Info

2009-12-15T09:51:00.000-08:00

Attention, consumers: Only 11 more shopping days until Christmas. As for how many shipping days are left — well, that's a little trickier.
That question is top of mind for Web shoppers, who want to make sure their packages arrive in time to go under the tree. We took a look at some of the shipping charts from the USPS, UPS, and FedEx and summarized our findings below.
USPS
The economical choice for getting gifts from point A to point B has created a calendar for shipping Santas. According to its official site, if you're going to send something via First-Class Mail, the cutoff date is December 21. Ditto for Priority Mail. If you're willing to spring for Express Mail, you can slack off a little longer and ship things out on the 23rd. Frugalistas who choose Parcel Post should hustle — the cutoff is the 16th. Oh, and if you're going to the post office today (Monday), remember to bring a book. It's the busiest shipping day of the year.
UPS
If you're one of those people who'd rather rely on the private sector to deliver your precious fruitcake to Aunt Mildred, you can go with UPS. Big Brown has its own holiday schedule up on its official site. According to the delivery company, the latest you can ship a regular "ground package" and have it arrive before Christmas Day is this Wednesday, the 16th. If you're willing to spend more for two-day shipping or overnight, you can wait until next week. But beware of bad weather — UPS says that severe weather can delay deliveries.
FedEx
Prefer the purple and orange of FedEx? The shipping experts have posted a chart that lists all the various deadlines. Folks looking to ship via FedEx Ground or FedEx Home Delivery need to get things packaged up by the 17th. Other (more expensive) options will get your presents to their destination by the 23rd. If you're really lazy, you can apparently wait until Christmas Day, and then ship via "FedEx SameDay." Perfect for folks with little time and lots of money.

So that's where my Christmas lights went

2009-12-14T09:36:00.000-08:00

Winter Car Care Tips

2009-12-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

The American Automobile Association says there are some ways to make sure your vehicle works properly during these freezing temperatures.

1. Have the battery and charging system tested. A fully charged battery in good condition is required to start an engine in cold weather.

2. Have the brakes checked to ensure they work properly and apply smoothly, which helps prevent the wheels from locking on slick surfaces.

3. Make sure the tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires can be dangerous, and may suffer damage. Remember, the air pressure in your tires will decrease 1-2 psi for every 10 degree drop in outside temperature.

4. Use the tire size recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer for best snow traction. Overly wide tires tend to float on top of the snow, reducing grip.

5. Make sure the engine coolant provides anti-freeze protection down to the lowest temperatures you are likely to encounter; -30oF/-34oC is a good guideline.

6. Visibility is critical in adverse weather conditions, so replace worn windshield wipers that streak, and be sure the washer reservoir is filled with a winter solvent that will not freeze.

7. Keep the gas tank at least half full at all times to minimize condensation buildup that can lead to gas line freeze-up. If the fuel in your area does not already contain alcohol, use a gas line “dryer” additive periodically to absorb moisture.

8. Carry a winter driving kit for use in the event of an emergency. The kit should include a small bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter), a small snow shovel, a snow brush, traction mats, a flashlight with new batteries, window washer solvent, an ice scraper, a cloth or roll of paper towels, jumper cables, a blanket, warning devices (flares or triangles), drinking water and extra clothes.

9. Program your radio for AM 530 or 1610 stations, as you may see signs referencing those frequencies for important traffic advisories.

10. Carry a cellular phone and car charger. Program the phone with important numbers including a reliable roadside service provider that will be able to assist you during inclement weather if you have signed up in advance.

My wife would kill me in I did this ...

2009-12-03T16:27:00.000-08:00

Sandra Bullock: A blessing to meet, portray a real Christian

2009-12-02T15:39:00.000-08:00

From the AP

LOS ANGELES - Actress Sandra Bullock says meeting Leigh Anne Tuohy, who she portrays in The Blind Side, showed her there really are some Christians who "walk the walk."

The Blind Side (movie poster)The film, which opened the week before Thanksgiving, presents the true story of the Tuohys -- a well-off white family in Tennessee -- who welcome a homeless black youth into their home and then adopt him as their son. That young man, Michael Oher, became an All-American selection for Ole Miss and a first-round draft pick. He now plays for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens.

Bullock says thanks to the Tuohys, who attend Grace Evangelical Church in Memphis, she now has "faith in those who say they represent a faith." Getting to know Leigh Anne Tuohy, says the actress, showed her that religious faith can be authentic. "She was so open and honest and forthright," Bullock shares, "and I said, wow, I finally met someone who practices but doesn't preach."

Tuohy isn't like some hypocritical church-goers she's known, adds Bullock. "The beauty of Leigh Anne was one of my biggest questions was how people use their faith and their religion as a banner," she says. "And then they don't do the right thing, but they go 'I'm a good Christian and I go to church and this is the way you should live your life.'"

Sandra Bullock ('The Blind Side')Bullock admits she was wary of Christians before she met the Tuohys. "Whereas...before I was like, do not give me a lecture on how to live my life when I know I'm a pretty decent human being," says the actress. "I might not go to church everyday, but I know I do the right thing or try to. You're going to church and you're still sleeping around on your wife...how are you better than I am? So I finally met people who walk the walk."

Leigh Anne Tuohy says she hopes The Blind Side inspires more people to help others. "You don't have to go out and bring a child into your home -- that's not what's required," says Tuohy. "But you can do something -- everybody is capable of doing something. So whatever your something is, do it well. Make a difference."

Oher's mom says she enforces a behavior code when she watches her adopted son play for the Baltimore Ravens. "I had to have a little 'come to Jesus' talk with my section at [the] Ravens' stadium," she says. "I had to explain to everyone that, okay, we're going to have a change of attitude. There is a two-drink limit, there is no cussing in this [section]. You don't know who you're sitting next to -- I'm a player's mom."

The Blind Side has earned more than $100 million dollars at the box office so far.

Christmas Specials

2009-12-02T15:29:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year all my favorites come on ... here is a full list of when your favorites will be on tv. Click Here.

World Aids Day

2009-12-01T10:32:00.000-08:00

6,500 Africans will die today because of AIDS. Next year there will be 4.2 million children orphaned by AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Yet, surrounded by these statistics, I am reminded that AIDS is a disease that kills one person at a time. It is a disease that destroys the body one blood cell at a time. It destroys families one person at a time. It creates a void, a deep emptiness where hope and health should be one story at a time. The way to solve a problem like this is not to step back, but to press inward. Move toward these people, move in so that we all learn the face and story and need of one person. One person that is a brother or sister, one person that takes on a character and a shape all their own. Today, I am thinking about how I can help one person. How I can love and act, and advocate on behalf of one person. And in the midst of this great and challenging fight, we may one day realize that we have the opportunity to not be able to visualize the millions of stories that have regained their threads of hope, and sustained their health.

Can you think of one person? Can you put yourself in the place of someone wrestling with HIV/AIDS? Do you wonder what their fears might be? Do you wonder what their families might be going through? Do you consider the moment that they have to bring the news of their illness to their family? Is there room in your heart, in my heart to feel what they feel?

What must it be like to find out you have a disease, one without a cure, one that carries not only the weight of physical pain, but the brutal force of stigma and fear? The ripple effects of this disease will be death to their children, to their spouses, and death to their ability to live in community and die with dignity. So how do we process this? What do we do with these stories? And what would it look like to do our best to ensure that those wrestling on this day under the weight of AIDS can make it to the next?

This day is marked for us to be reminded that AIDS is real, that the stories of those who suffer are real, and yet it is a day that can carry hope. Hope - that if enough of us - enough doctors and politicians, teachers and artists, leaders and pastors, students and children, fathers and mothers will care and act, World AIDS Day will become a holiday commemorating the end of this disease.

I believe that God has given us a great privilege to be a part of this act of healing. It is in our hands. It is our ideas, our passion, our willingness to learn, to fail, to search, to love, and to fight that will bring forth the ideas and the designs to beat HIV/AIDS.

It is my hope that we will continue to feel the urgency of this great need. It is my desire that we will continue to open our hearts to the stories of people all around the world who suffer. Please join us in praying, in knowing, in loving, and in serving. There is more work to be done, and we hope your generosity will continue to make this good work possible.

With great hope,

~ Dan Haseltine
Blood:Water Mission
& Jars of Clay

How can you get involved and help ?? Click Here

Heaven is the Face

2009-11-30T11:25:00.000-08:00

I can't help buy tear up every time I hear this song.

Christmas Tree Care

2009-11-30T11:05:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to get our tree this weekend ... here's some tips to help you care for your Tree!!!

1. Refresh the tree by making a straight cut, taking one inch off the butt and immediately place in water. This will improve water uptake .
2. Place the tree in a stand that can hold at least 1 gallon of water. You should expect the tree to take up additional water. Water the new tree until water uptake stops.
3. Always keep the base of a tree in water. If the base dries out, resin will form over the cut end and the tree will not be able to absorb water and will dry out quickly. You don't need anything other than regular tap water - drying out deters future water uptake and will need a new cut. Commercially prepared mixes like aspirin, sugar and other additives introduce into the water are not necessary. Research has shown that plain water will keep a tree fresh.
4. Check for worn Christmas tree light electrical cords and always unplug at night. Use UL approved electrical decorations and cords. Using miniature lights produce less heat and reduce the drying effect on the tree or any chance of fire.
5. Take down the tree before it dries out. Many fresh cut trees if properly cared for (using the first five steps) should last at least five weeks before drying out. Some species keep their moisture longer that others.

A new Drummer for the David Crowder Band??

2009-11-17T16:50:00.000-08:00

introducing Steve-3P0

Internet believers: Pastors open online churches

2009-11-03T07:44:00.000-08:00

The world we live in is changing everyday. Technology makes it possible for churches to reach out and touch those who would never set foot in a traditional church. Also sometimes life just happens .. and instead of missing church all together .. you can turn to the internet.

From the AP.
Church volunteers greet visitors entering the lobby. The worship band begins its set and a pastor offers to pray privately with anyone during the service.

When the sermon is done, it's time for communion, and the pastor guides attendees through the ritual. Later, worshippers exchange Facebook and e-mail addresses so they can stay in touch.

There is nothing remarkable about this encounter, which is replicated countless times each weekend at churches around the world. It's all happening online.

The World Wide Web has become the hottest place to build a church. A growing number of congregations are creating Internet offshoots that go far beyond streaming weekly services.

"We live in a day and age and a culture where people go to school online, bank online, date online and do other things online," said Kurt Ervin, who oversees the Internet campus for Central Christian Church, based in Henderson, Nev. "Why not create a platform for them to go to church online?" Central Christian started a new church service this fall on Facebook.

For the full article click here

Planned Parenthood Director leaves, has change of heart

2009-11-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

National Adoption Month

2009-11-02T09:52:00.000-08:00

November is National Adoption Month

Adoption is very special to my family. My two kids Jeremy and Abby were adopted two years ago. In fact we will celebrate Jeremy's adoption anniversary on the 14th of this month. For more information on Adoption ... click here

Phil Wickham- "Safe" Story Behind The Song

2009-10-26T11:15:00.001-07:00

Awana

2009-10-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

So this week my kids blew me away . I came home from work and my two 4 year old's were reciting bible verses..... Wow. I thought back to what I was doing at 4 ... all I remember is cookies and a lot of drooling. These guys were sharing the verses they had learned in Awana. Abby's was 1 John 4:8 God is Love. and Jeremy's verse was Gen 1:1 God created the heavens and the earth. I can't tell you how much it means to me that the kids are excited about going to church and learning about God ... Awana has become a huge blessing to us .... here's alittle info on Awana ..

Awana helps churches and parents work together to develop spiritually strong children and youth who faithfully follow Jesus Christ. Our programs offer a proven approach for evangelizing and discipline kids in the church and community.
Each week, more than one million kids ages 2 to 18 participate in Awana. Over 12,000 churches in the U.S. and 7,000 internationally run Awana programs to change young lives through God's unchanging truth.

For more info click here!

Movie Reviews

2009-10-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

I always like to know what I am in for when I take the kids to the movies. This week my son Jeremy was asking to see Astro Boy ..... After talking to Bob from plugged in ... I was able to make the right decision. click here for the review

Christian Song writing competition

2009-10-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted to write a song and hear it on the radio? ??? Well here's a competition that can help you achieve that dream ... click here to get all the details!

The meaning behind City on our Knees

2009-10-05T10:57:00.001-07:00

Operation Beautiful

2009-09-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Operation Beautiful encourages women to post encouraging notes in public places, take pictures of those notes and share them online. The campaign’s official web site, OperationBeautiful.com, is rapidly becoming an Internet phenomenon, with more than 350 notes posted last month alone. http://operationbeautiful.com/

Cover Tune Grab Bag - “I Wanna Be Like You”

2009-09-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

GLOW-Las Vegas EMERGE Prov 31 Lady - Conference '09.

2009-09-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Friday - October 9 and Saturday - October 10, 2009

Friday: Everyone Welcome, Men, Women and Children.
An entire evening of Worship and Praise starting at 7pm

Saturday: 9am-4pm is the 5th Annual UNITY Celebration (Ladies Only)

Conference Venue both days: UNLV Student Union Building
4505 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas 89154
Venue Parking Free

To learn more information about this event click here.

Bid on Casting Crowns and Mercy Me stuff

2009-09-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

The Clothes Off Our Back Foundation helps charities all over the world ... by bidding you can win great stuff from Mercy Me and Casting Crowns .. while helping a great cause .... click here to learn more...

Being a Dad and a Sports Fan

2009-09-17T10:18:00.000-07:00

This video has been every where .....

This Dad knows what comes first .....

Matt Maher talking about his new song Alive again

2009-09-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Veggie Tales on the IPhone ?

2009-09-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

I am pretty much convinced that I am one of the two people with out an Iphone. Now Veggie Tales has an Iphone app .. I feel like I'm being left behind!!!! Check out the details of the app by clicking here.

Newsboys covering DC Talk

2009-09-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

The Newsboys with new lead singer Michael Tait doing Jesus Freak.... 1/3 of DC Talk is better than nothing!!!!

See you at the Pole!!!

2009-09-08T12:28:00.001-07:00

See You at the Pole™ is a student-initiated, student organized, and student-led event. That means this is all about students meeting at their school flagpole to pray—for their school, friends teachers, government, and their nation. See You at the Pole™ is not a demonstration, political rally, nor a stand for or against anything.

See You at the Pole™ is scheduled annually on the fourth Wednesday in September, which is September 23 in 2009. The suggested starting time is 7 a.m. If that doesn't work for your school, choose a time that will work for your school, but let everyone at your school know!

For more information click here!

David Crowder*Band Rockumentary 3: Turn The Other Cheek

2009-09-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

These guys make me laugh ... it's ten minutes long ... but well worth it!!!

The President Speech to our kids

2009-09-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Wow there was a lot of uproar about this. I wanted to read the speech first before making a judgment call on if I would pull my daughter out of school for the day. As parents it is our job to be informed about our kid's education. After reading the speech I was hopeful... praying that it would reach the right students to inspire them to reach their full potential. If you would like to read the speech ... you can do so by clicking here.

Win a weekend trip for two and tickets to see Phillips Craig and Dean!!!

2009-08-31T11:04:00.000-07:00

Your chance for a Weekend getaway and shopping spree with Phillips Craig and Dean!!! find out all the details here

I have a Dream!!!

2009-08-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

This Speech is 46 years old and I have seen it countless times ... it still gives me the chills!

Swine flu gone crazy!!!!!!!!

2009-08-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

Cash for Clunkers

2009-08-25T14:06:00.000-07:00

It looks like when all is said and done Cash for Clunkers will have gotten some 800,000 used cars off the road. Which is amazing and will do wonders for pollution. But what about some of the cars made famous by TV shows ... what would they be traded in for???? Want to find out ... Click Here

Mark Schultz and Adoption

2009-08-25T14:04:00.000-07:00

I am not sure if I will ever be able to say thank you to my kids biological parents. What a gift they gave me.. by choosing Life .. they gave me one of the greatest gifts I could ever receive. I cannot begin to describe the joy and love my kids give ...to me. Watching this video reminds me to pray for them and also to say thank you to my Dad in heaven for the 3 little blessings in my life right now!

What Kid's are searching online.

2009-08-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

The top 10 search terms among kids for the period from February through
July:
10. eBay
9. Fred (fictional character whose YouTube channel has become a hit among
kids)
8. Michael Jackson
7. Yahoo
6. Porn
5. MySpace
4. Sex
3. Facebook
2. Google
*1. YouTube*

Wow ..... My kids aren't of the age of surfing the web yet ... but this study scares me.... 2 of the top 10 are sex and porn ? Wow .... I will be watching like a hawk when they come of internet age .... check out this site it allows you to track where your kids are going online click here

Texting

2009-08-13T16:56:00.001-07:00

I have to admit I was slow to catch on to he texting craze ... but now I'm hooked. My wife can text a million words a minute... I need help understanding all the abbreviations she sends me.. I found this site and it helps me understand what she's saying .... now if I could just find one to help me understand her in general!!! Click Here to go to the site I have used it many times and have not found anything offensive yet ... but just be careful

Matthew West Doc.

2009-08-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

We made the switch to Direct T.V. a couple weeks ago and one of the perks is that we now get the Gospel Music Channel. Last night we saw this documentary of what Matthew West went through before recording his latest album. I found it on Tangle this morning .. just so you know it's about 40 minutes long.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4

Helpful hints on Discerning the voice of God from the voice of the enemy

2009-08-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

My Pastor sent this to me a couple years ago .. it has become something I look at at least once a day to keep me focused. Thanks Pastor Paul!

God¹s Voice-------------------------------- Satan¹s Voice
Stills you ------------------------------- Rushes you
Leads you ------------------------------- Pushes you
Reassures you ------------------------------- Frightens you
Enlightens you ------------------------------- Confuses you
Encourages you ------------------------------ Discourages you
Comforts you ------------------------------- Worries you
Calms you -------------------------------- Obsesses you
Convicts you --------------------------------- Condemns you

School Supply Giveaway at Southern Highlands Back-to-School Bash

2009-07-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

School Supply Giveaway at Southern Highlands Back-to-School Bash

Free Food, Dental Screenings, Haircuts, Concert Offered

Friday, July 31st, residents of the Southern Highlands community and
surrounding areas will gather for the 2nd Annual Back-to-School Bash at
Stonewater Park. Beginning at 6pm, free school supplies will be distributed.
The celebration will feature free food‹including hot dogs, drinks, sno-cones,
and popcorn‹as well as bounce houses, face painting, and kid¹s games. Free
dental screenings and haircuts will be provided by local professionals.

for more information click here

Taking care of my own faults

2009-07-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

I saw a friend post this today ... it convicted me.

The Barna Research Group reported that 29% of adult Baptists have been through a divorce. Only my demographic (non-denominational churches) had a higher rate at 34%. Of major Christian denominations, the Catholics and Lutherans have the lowest rate of divorce, perhaps because they can drink. Regardless, shouldn't a relationship with Christ reduce the divorce rate significantly? It absolutely should. So why aren't we different?

The standard judgmental Christian approach is to rail against sins that are either not a concern for us personally or those that don't wander too close to home. For example, a sin that appalls me is....drumroll, please....crack use. Why? Because I have never had a problem with drugs, and crack users tend to be from a different segment of the population than my own. So I can rail and rail against the evils of crack. Smokers? Feel my wrath. I witnessed the slow death of my stepgrandfather from emphysema and consequently never had a desire to smoke. But my conviction was born out of revulsion at the ugly death of my grandfather more than any upright spiritual convictions. If the conversation moves to caffeine addiction, my fervor goes away, and my profound belief in personal space and the separation of church and Starbucks increases dramatically.

Here is a list of sins that typically appall Christians:

Drugs
Drinking
Smoking
Premarital sex
Extramarital sex
Pornography
Cursing
Homosexuality
Immodest Dress

And here is a list of sins that we should care about, but typically don't because caring might interfere with our daily business.

Gossip
Greed
Selfishness
Materialism
Anger
Bitterness
Pride
Unforgiveness
Racism
Envy
Lust
Sexism
Classism
Indifference
Homophobia

The bottom line is this: In our human condition, it is a heck of a lot easier to confess other people's sins than our own. I can spot a sin a mile away in the fog. My own are not as readily apprarent to me.

How common is your name?

2009-07-21T15:17:00.000-07:00

This kinda made me feel common today ... then I was reminded that God made me unique and there is no one like me, which is probably a good this for the rest of the world! This is for my very uncommon name James Smith

HowManyOfMe.com

There are

people with my name in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

2009-07-15T12:18:00.001-07:00

Jeremy Camp called in this morning ... We talked about his new site www.jeremycampcamp.com and also told him he is the Yoko Ono of the christian music world ...listen here!

Mikes Chair on SOS

2009-07-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

The guys from Mikes Chair called in this morning and talked about their new album coming out July 14th if you missed it listen here.

Twitter will kill you

2009-07-13T08:28:00.001-07:00

Passengers Strike Back!!!!

2009-07-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had something lost or destroyed when you've flown ???? I have and have felt pretty helpless about doing anything about it. I wish I had the talent to do something like this to let the airlines know I wasn't happy!

Useless info

2009-07-07T16:02:00.000-07:00

At five minutes and six seconds after 4 AM on the 8th of July this year, the time and date will be 04:05:06 07/08/09.? This will not happen again for a thousand years.

I just love that last line … duh? Of course next year it will be 05:06:07 08/09/10

I guess it would also happen @ 4pm too right???

Fireworks Stands

2009-07-01T14:56:00.000-07:00

I can't wait till the 4th ... every year it makes me feel like a kid.. watching my kid's eyes light up. I have seen some stands around town raising money for youth groups , schools and even foster kids .. here's a list of stands that were called in by you:

Word Of Life Christian Center
Craig and Tenaya in the Albertsons parking lot in Las Vegas
Raising money for youth group/ missions trips

Wise Men and Women of Faith
Cheyenne and Buffalo in Las Vegas

Victory Outreach Henderson
Boulder Highway and Lake Mead
Raising money for the Christian Recovery Home in Henderson

Sunrise Baptist Church
Shatz and E. Lake Mead
Raising money for the Youth Group

Victory Outreach
28th and Cedar
Raising money to go to the Youth Convention

Desert Hills Baptist Church
Nellis blvd and Harmon
They are trying to raise enough money to
pay for the bus and help with any youth who can not afford to pay
for camp.

LV Hurricanes 8 and under baseball team
Towne Center and Twain at the Terribles gas
station

Mountain View Christian Schools (MVCS)
3900 E. Bonanza Road

Grace Baptist Church
Lamb and Stewart
Raising money to help kids go to summer camp

If you know of a Ministry or an organization that is raising money buy selling fireworks ... let me know jd@sosradio.net

Video for By Your Side 10th Ave North

2009-06-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

These guys are becoming one of my favorite groups. The heart they put into their music is so powerful.

The story behind " The Lost Get Found"

2009-06-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

A Fathers view of Fathers day

2009-06-22T16:28:00.000-07:00

I have to say I am still on cloud nine from father's day. I feel a special connection with Joesph on fathers day. To be the father of a child that is not from your flesh and blood ... never understood how he could just step in like that knowing the child wasn't his, until the day Abigail was placed in my arms. It was her first birthday and I was the one getting a gift. This little girl has been the apple of my eye since I first laid eyes on her. Jeremy came into our lives without notice a week before Abby's adoption was made final. My pride and joy Jeremy .... so scared when we first met .. for being 2 years old .. he had scene things that would make a grown man cry. Once he knew he was safe he turned in to my shadow. Things are still working out with D, we are praying for God's will and I have to be honest I believe he's mine, the 3rd Musketeer.

Adoption runs in my family, but really we are all adopted. Adopted by God into his family and shown an amazing love. God didn't sign papers like My wife and I did for the kids. He signed a cross. This is why father's day for me is so much more than gifts, naps and all the other things that come with the day. It's about an amazing gift I have been given, to see just a little bit of what He must feel like when he adopts us into his family.

My children are my Treasure, everyday with them is father's day.

J.D.

American Idol try outs

2009-06-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

The thing I love about American Idol is the fact so many Christians have been able to use it to jump start their careers. Not only in the Christian music industry but also in the secular world .. if your interested in trying out for season 9 .. click here.

Matt Maher's music in space

2009-06-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

One astronaut is a big fan of Matt's and sent him this picture!

Nevada free Fishing day

2009-06-10T10:49:00.000-07:00

Grab your tackle box and fishing poles and head for the water on Saturday, June 13 for Nevada's Free Fishing Day, the one day each year that all anglers can enjoy a day of fishing without purchasing a state fishing license or trout stamp

to find fishing spots in Nevada click here

Toy car out sells Honda and Toyota!

2009-06-08T14:01:00.001-07:00

A classic toy car is being inducted into an auto museum in Cleveland - and it outsold every other car in the U.S. in 2008.

The Cozy Coupe, a plastic cherry-red sports car, allows toddlers to sit on a bench-style seat and poke their legs through to the ground. When they start walking, the car begins to go.

On Saturday, it will take its place next to historically significant automobiles at the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum.

The Cozy Coupe sold 457,000 units in 2008, topping the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord

Check out Kutless in the studio!

2009-06-05T10:36:00.000-07:00

Watch Kutless get to work in the studio this after noon at 2pm PST .. click here to check it out!

Free root beer floats tonight at Sonic

2009-06-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

From 8 p.m. until midnight tonight, you can get a free root beer float at Sonic.
The deal is available at participating Sonic Drive-Ins. The free 10-ounce float is Sonic's way of thanking its customers, the eatery's Web site says. Just remember the lines were long for KFC grilled chicken .... I bet they will be even longer for Root Beer Floats!!!

Understanding Text messages

2009-06-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

I enjoy texting with my family and friends, but haven't caught on to the texting abbreviations.... I get messages all the time that leave me scratching my head .... My prayers have been answered. This site from LG helps us texting challenged folks like my self understand whats going on .. check it out here.

Getting ready for the work week

2009-05-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

You know not many things can top what happened last week. 1050 new team 360 members ( Thank You) and 2000 radio's for HCJB and the icing on the cake was a date with my wife on Friday night. I can't believe it's June all ready .. before long kids will be going back to school and football will start. I remember being younger and summers lasting forever .. now it seems time fly's by. This coming September 8th will be three years that we have had Abby. Where did those three years go? I know we all get busy .. life is busy ... but make sure you take some time to put on the brakes and enjoy the family God has given you .... That is my goal for the coming week ... Stop wasting time on things that are worthless in the long run and invest in my Wife and Kid's. I hope you have a great start to your week.

JD.

Family Movie Night

2009-05-30T22:46:00.001-07:00

The past couple of weeks we've made Saturday night Family Movie night. Pretty much just an excuse to sit down and cuddle up with the whole family. In picking movies I have learned alot ... There are kids movies out there that are laced with adult humor.. This had lead me to lean on a great resource Plugged in online. You her Bob from plugged in every Friday with Scott in the morning. Not only does the website have reviews on the latest movies that are out , it has thousands on movies they have reviewed in the past. This made it easy for use to chose Ratatouille for our family movie night. You can check out Plugged in Onlines site here .

Twitter and Facebook ruined Idol for me

2009-05-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

Ok ... so I was all set to watch Kris and Adam battle it out on American Idol. I was set to watch the whole two hours... Than 7pm came and Twitter and face book blew up with everyone sharing that Kris had won ... nuts ... Now the final would be like watching a football game where you already knew who won. Still enjoyed it and the guy I voted for won ... but no surprise thanks to my East Coast Twits.

J.D.

Dove Awards

2009-04-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

The 40th Annual Gospel Music Association Awards, most commonly known as the GMA Dove Awards, will air LIVE tonight at 8 pm et (5p for us in Las Vegas ), only on Gospel Music Channel. Gospel music’s biggest night of the year features artists from every style of gospel/Christian music coming together for a night of music and celebration. Here's the link for more http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/doves

Pacifier Recall

2009-04-09T10:56:00.000-07:00

Healthtex is recalling about 40-thousand pacifiers because of a choking hazard
The recalled pacifiers have cartoon animal figures as handles with
round-shaped mouth guards. “Made in Spain” is printed on the handle
side of the mouth guards. The pacifiers were sold at supermarkets and
pharmacies nationwide between December 2002 and March 2009 for about
$1.40. click Here for more info

'Crown of Thorns'

2009-04-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has found this image in space ... I find it kinda cool that they found this during Passion week. Looks like a crown of thorns... I love how creation cries out that he is God!

The Story Behind God of this City

2009-04-03T11:17:00.001-07:00

Blue Tree Interview from Christianity Today

2009-04-03T11:03:00.000-07:00

What's the worship scene like in Ireland? Is there one?

Aaron Boyd: Totally different from the UK or the States. There are only 1.2 million people in Northern Ireland, so large-scale events are very difficult to put on. There are lots of smaller events, averaging between 50-200 people. But in terms of the Christian industry surrounding worship music, it's nonexistent.

What's the story behind your song, "God of This City"?

Boyd: Whilst on a short-term missions trip to Thailand, we played at the Climax Bar, which doubles as a brothel in the red-light district. I didn't know what to expect; you have a mixture of every emotion at once. When you see old men walking down the street with young girls, you want to go vigilante. But then you see the look in the girls' eyes and your heart breaks. Everything all rolled into one. [Hear the whole story here.]

How did worshipping there shape your approach to ministry?

Boyd: I used to think worship was about leading people, but now I see that it's more about declaring God's goodness and speaking the truth of who and what he really is, even in the darkest places on earth. It has also sparked a passion within us to be part of the answers to these awful situations we saw. Mercy and justice meet on the cross.

How did Chris Tomlin come to record "God of This City"?

Boyd: Chris was in sunny Belfast [for a concert] and we were the band that played as people were coming in. His guitarist Daniel heard the song and told Chris about it. We then had a quick conversation about it and really that was it. Before I knew it, Chris and Louie [Giglio, Passion founder] said how much it spoke into the Passion world tour, and that they wanted to make it the title track of the next Passion album. Sweet mercy, I nearly passed out!

Besides the title song, what track is the closest to your heart and why?

Boyd: "Each Day." I wrote it when I found out that my first daughter was born with cystic fibrosis. It's a song that challenges me to worship even when circumstances look bleak and you don't feel like you can worship. God is there with you through it all.

Back Yard

2009-03-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

I am trying to save money by doing my own backyard landscaping. Wow what a job... so far I've wrecked 2 rototillers and one trencher ... thanks Home Depot... It's alot of work ... but my family is coming together. We had a blast last Saturday... Vanessa the kids and myself spent 5 hours digging and spraying each other with the hose..... I would never get these memories if I hired someone to do the backyard.