Bug's Bleat 3Q 05

The Internet Version of The Ed Sullivan Show "We never let the truth stand in the way of a Good Story"

My Photo
Name:
Location: Magnolia, Arkansas, United States

Married to the "Wife of my youth." Two great kids, a fantastic daughter-in-love and a super son-in-love. Four super hero grand sons (Ethan, our "miracle" baby is the newest).

Friday, June 24, 2005

Bug's Bleat - - GCF: First Apartment

Volume 7, Issue 25

Hello All,

Zac had to go to Dr. Alexander's to have a laceration sewed up this morning. I was working at the church running new network cable when Annette brought him back from the Doctorl.
He was showing everyone his bandage and telling how he’d been sewn up.
When I asked him exactly how he cut his leg he replied; “I was riding the bike and a piece of metal hit me.”
“What kind of metal hit you?” I asked.
“A park bench.”
~~~~~
Vanessa, Jimmy and Josiah are moving on Wednesday. It’ll be GREAT to have our kids back in this area, close to home.
~~~~~
Speaking of good things from South Louisiana, I’m a Zapp's Potato Chip addict. Luckily, Brookshire’s grocery here in Magnolia carries them. If you’re grocer doesn’t, you can order them on line at the Zapp's Web site. - - http://www.zapps.com/
~~~~~
Annette has, as usual, been extra busy this week. She’s made several trips out of town visiting the sick and bringing people home from the hospital. Also, the MCC prison team ministered at Wade last Monday so she didn’t get home till late that day either.
I appreciate the love of my life sharing Christ’s love with those in need. Though I do get selfish sometimes and wish she could just sit on the porch with me and watch the neighborhood go by.
~~~~~
The Atlanta Hilltop 4-H Club is selling Krispy Kreme donuts. We will be picking them up late Monday night June 27th and delivering them early on Tuesday morning June 28th. The Crispy Kremes are six dollars a dozen.
Krispy Kreme will donate half the money raised to the Atlanta Hilltop 4-H Club. To place an order, call Ricky Shepherd @ 547-2756.
~~~~~
Sen. Dick Durbin apologized for his remarks comparing American troops to Hitler, Stalin and Pol Pot. Durbin’s apology came after approximately 140,000 AFA On-Line supporters sent e-mails directly into his office calling for an apology. I’ll bet that they were just a “drop in the bucket” along with other e-mails and letters from all over.
However, his apology doesn’t change the fact that NONE of our Democrat congressmen or senators had the guts to object to his hateful, divisive remarks.
I urge you to NOT vote for these folks when they come up for reelection.
~~~~~
Sam Boggs shared this website with us. One reader reported; “My predicted age was 88. Then I took 30 lbs off my weight and it went up to 89. So now I have to decided whether the hassle of losing 30 lbs is worth living one more year as a decrepit 88 year old man.”
Sam reports; “The Lifespan Predictor website agrees pretty closely with one I tried a year or so ago. This one predicts I'll live until 92; the other one predicted 93. Essentially the same number.
You can watch the age prediction change in the top left of the screen as you enter the information.”
http://www.nmfn.com/tnetwork/longevity_game_popup.html
~~~~~
A new Heart Drug targets blacks that suffer heart attacks. Some actually questioned whether it was politically correct to approve a drug aimed to help one race.
Get real people. If they come up with an effective drug that saves lives, whether they are black or brown, tall or short, French or Chinese, I’m for it.
~~~~~
Father’s Day was last week but I wanted to say that my two dads were great guys. My dad, Bud McClellan, was a tool pusher for McAlester Fuel Company. Even though he died when I was young, I have memories of his kindness, love and compassion.
He welcomed my visits to the wells where he was working and took me to watch the earthmovers build Lake Earling. One night, he drove me to Magnolia where he asked the owner of an oilfield supply house to come out and turn on his neon sign for me. It was a spouting oil well and I’d asked (demanded?) to see it before I went to bed.
Tamy Duke, my step dad, took up the slack after my father died. He taught me to value friends, work and our freedom. Tamy would also care for my kids when they came along.
He was generous to a fault and never turned anyone down who came in his establishment and asked for a meal.
~~~~~
According to recent news reports, Africanized bees may have reached Southwest Arkansas. We all need to be more cautious when dealing with bees now.
~~~~~
Don’t forget the 2005 PurpleHull Pea Festival this weekend. Be there or “B Square”
~~~~~
Joe Tudor shared this book recommendation with us; “Living God's Love: An Invitation to Christian Spirituality” by Gary Holloway and Earl Lavender
~~~~~
Burning US Flags gets my temper up but I’m not for a constitutional amendment to prevent it. I still think we should preserve free speech no matter how stupid the person speaking is.
Instead, I’d support a constitutional amendment to protect private property from confiscation.
~~~~~
This week, the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that local governments can force people to sell their property, even if it's going to be used for private redevelopment.
The eminent domain case revolved around the proposed redevelopment of a run-down--but not officially blighted--area of the well-worn town of New London, Conn.
So, our property is now subject to government confiscation for large corporations to build apartments on?
~~~~~
The Chinese state-controlled oil company has bid$18.5 billion to buy Unocal. The unsolicited takeover proposal is $1.5 billion more than Chevron's proposed deal to buy Unocal.
With their booming economy, the Chinese are gobbling up oil, steel and other raw materials worldwide.
~~~~~
The manslaughter conviction of ex-Klan leader Edgar Ray Killen for the June 22, 1964 killings of three civil rights workers in Mississippi was late but better than never. KKK thugs murdered James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner in the summer of the ‘60s voter drives.
The 80-year-old Killen was sentenced to 60 years in prison on the 40th anniversary of their murder.
~~~~~
“Vengeance is Mine,” I was complaining to Summer that, according to news reports, there were still six KKK accomplices of Edgar Ray Killen walking free in Mississippi and she pointed out that God will deal with them even if we don’t.
~~~~~
Terry Stockdale gave us this “heads up” on NASA’s upcoming July 4th sky show.
His “Blog” entry is located at http://www.thenextwindow.com/archives/87-Deep-Impact-Collision-with-a-Comet,-July-4,-2005.html
Deep Impact -- Collision with a Comet, July 4, 2005
If you haven't heard yet, NASA (http://www.nasa.gov) launched an exploration spacecraft on January 12th that is scheduled to impact a comet on this July 4th. The impact is scheduled to occur at 1:52am Eastern Daylight Time, so most of the US should be able to stay awake and watch.
NASA describes the "flyby spacecraft" as being nearly as large as a Volkswagen Beetle and the "impactor spacecraft" as having about the same dimensions as a typical living room coffee table.
So, what's the big deal? The big deal is that this is the first attempt to touch a comet. Plus, the impact is going to occur at 23,000 miles per hour. We're going to touch it hard at that speed. The crater is projected to be up to 200 meters wide by 50 meters deep -- and the ejected ice and dust is expected to brighten the comet (reflect enough light) to be visible to binoculars and, perhaps, the naked eye.
NASA has many more details on the Deep Impact
(http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/deepimpact/main/index.html?skipIntro=1) page at its website, including an interactive Flash video and a number of webcasts that start on July 1st.
The flyby spacecraft will observe and record the impact, the ejected material blasted from the crater, and the structure and composition of the crater's interior. Then, it will pass through the comet and view it from the other side also.
Should we worry about this? Is it going to change the path of the comet? The answer comes from one of the scientists on the project: "In the world of science, this is the astronomical equivalent of a 767 airliner running into a mosquito," said Dr. Don Yeomans, a Deep Impact mission scientist at JPL.
--
Terry Stockdale -- Baton Rouge, LA
My main website: http://www.TerryStockdale.com
Free newsletter: http://www.TerrysComputerTips.com
~~~~~
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.
Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.
© 1996-2005 Juneteenth.com.
~~~~~
There is a great Civil Rights museum in Montgomery Alabama. I’d encourage everyone to visit there some time and teach your kids where we’ve come from.
~~~~~
T-shirt I saw recently, worn by a teenage girl: "I didn't say it was your fault. I said I was going to blame you."
~~~~~
Don't forget ... "Da Bleat" is now on the web. Just go to http://bugsbleatnew.blogspot.com
~~~~~
Feel free to share the "Bleat" with any and all. That's why we publish it.
~~~~~
www.aaa.com Regular Mid Premium Diesel
Current Avg. $2.19 $2.32 $2.41 $2.36
http://www.fuelgaugereport.com/
Magnolia Wal-Mart today; $2.09
~~~~~
Recipe(s) of the week The Blueberries are in season and we’ve been enjoying them in pancakes, muffins, and pies so why not some ... Blueberry Turnovers
Recipe courtesy Gale Gand from her show, Sweet Dreams, the Your Wish is My Command episode.


Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings



2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
½ cup blueberry preserves
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon grated lemon zest
1-cup fresh blueberries
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 egg, beaten with 2 teaspoons water
2 tablespoons granulated sugar


Lightly flour a work surface. Roll out the puff pastry sheets into squares 12 inches by 12 inches; the pastry will become slightly thinner. Cover with plastic wrap and chill.

Heat the oven to 375 degrees F.

In a small mixing bowl, stir together the preserves, cornstarch, brown sugar, and lemon zest. Fold in the fresh blueberries and vanilla, and chill while you cut the dough. Using a sharp knife, cut each puff pastry sheet into 4 (6-inch) squares.

Lay a pastry square on a work surface and brush the edges with egg wash. In the center of the square, place 2 heaping tablespoons of blueberry filling. Brush the edges of the pastry square with egg wash and fold it in half to create a triangle. Carefully press the edges together to seal them well with fork tines. Transfer to the cookie sheet and keep refrigerated. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, placing the turnovers 1-inch apart. Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Bake until golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.

Serve warm or let cool to room temperature. Serve within 1 day.



~~~~~
BREAKPOINT Commentaries
by Chuck Colson. - Prison Fellowship

‘No-Brainer’ Barbarism
Partial-Birth Abortion and the Courts

June 24, 2005

Note: This commentary was delivered by Prison Fellowship President Mark Earley.

Warning: The descriptions in this commentary are graphic and may not be suitable for some readers.

Earlier this month, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a Virginia law that banned a barbaric procedure, “partial-birth abortion.” This was the second time that the federal courts had overruled Virginia’s efforts at stopping this practice. The example of “judicial usurpation of politics” is a timely reminder of why we need to rein in the federal judiciary.

When I served as Attorney General of Virginia in 2000, the Supreme Court ruled that state laws, such as Nebraska’s and Virginia’s, banning “partial-birth abortion” placed an “undue burden” on a woman’s “right” to choose.

Back then, I said that “partial-birth abortion” bordered on infanticide, and nothing has convinced me otherwise. Forgive the graphic detail, but it’s important to know just what was being “burdened.” The fetus, “dangling partly out of the woman’s body, and just a few inches from a completed birth,” has its skull crushed or its brain sucked out by the doctor. This, Justice Thomas noted in his dissent, was what the majority ruled was a “constitutional right.”

Well, in 2003, the Virginia legislature tried again, enacting another ban, this time calling it by its proper name: infanticide.

But once again, the courts were waiting and willing to do the bidding of pro-abortion extremists. Two years ago, a federal judge blocked the new Virginia law, calling his action a “no-brainer case” in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s earlier ruling. Last week, his decision was upheld by a divided federal appeals court.

The majority, like the law’s opponents in the state legislature, cited the lack of an exception “to preserve a woman’s health.” Frankly, it’s hard to take this argument seriously. Anyone who has studied the abortion issue carefully knows that “a woman’s health,” as defined, is so far-reaching that it can even include the mental distress caused by not being allowed to have a partial-birth abortion! “Mental health” is the exception that swallows the rule.

In his dissent, Judge Paul Niemeyer wrote that the decision was colored by “political ideology” and represented a “momentous step in disconnecting our law from accepted moral norms.” This disconnect is so great that it winds up “[constitutionalizing] infanticide of a most gruesome nature.”

While I wholeheartedly agree with Judge Niemeyer, we need to place the blame for this disconnect squarely at the feet of the Supreme Court. Despite being told by the American Medical Association that the practice wasn’t a medical necessity, five justices made it a constitutional right.

That’s why who is named to the Supreme Court matters. Many of the most objectionable and high-handed decisions of the past thirty years were decided by 5-4 margins. As few as two good appointments can tip the balance. Liberals know this, which is why they have opposed some of the president’s Appeals Courts nominees: It’s a dry run for the upcoming Supreme Court fights.

And we have to be ready, as well. In the struggle to re-connect our laws to moral norms, the Supreme Court has great responsibility. And until it fulfills that responsibility, only then will laws against infanticide become what they should have been all along: no-brainers.

For further reading and information:

Today’s BreakPoint offer: “ Right to Know: An Intellectually Honest Look at the Abortion Debate ” from Stand to Reason.

Tom Campbell, “ Rehearing urged on abortion ,” Richmond Times-Dispatch, 21 June 2005 .

“AG Asks for Full Court Hearing on Abortion Law ,” WJLA, 17 June 2005 .

Jerry Markon and Chris L. Jenkins, “ Appeals Court Overturns Va. Late-Term Abortion Ban ,” Washington Post, 4 June 2005 , A01.

Larry O’Dell, “ Late-term abortion ban nixed by court ,” Washington Times, 4 June 2005 .

“Dissenting Justice in Partial Birth Abortion Case: It’s ‘infanticide of the most gruesome nature ,’” LifeSite, 9 June 2005 .

BreakPoint Commentary No. 040908, “ A Modern ‘Modest Proposal’: A Pro-Choice Journalist Opens Up .”

BreakPoint Commentary No. 040901, “ Judiciocracy: Judge Casey and the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban .”

BreakPoint Commentary No. 040602, “ There They Go Again: Partial-Birth Abortion and the Courts .”

BreakPoint Commentary No. 040511, “ The Truth Comes Out: The Partial-Birth Abortion Trials .”

BreakPoint Commentary No. 030312, “ Offending Human Dignity: The Partial-Birth Horror .”

BreakPoint Commentary No. 030121, “ Dismembering the Law: The Rise of ‘Antijural Jurisprudence’ .”

Copyright 2005 Prison Fellowship Ministries. Reprinted with permission. "BREAKPOINT with Chuck Colson" is a radio ministry of Prison Fellowship Ministries. Prison Fellowship Ministries may withdraw or modify this grant of permission at any time. To receive "BREAKPOINT" commentaries daily, you can subscribe for free at http://www. breakpoint. org/.
~~~~~
Words of the Week:
altercation: a heated, noisy, or angry dispute.
quorum: such a number of the officers or members of any body as is legally competent to transact business.
gravitas: high seriousness.
exigent: requiring immediate aid or action; also, demanding.
irascible: easily provoked to anger.
ineluctable: impossible to avoid or evade.
voluble: characterized by a ready flow of speech.
commination: a denunciation.
from Dictionary.Com
~~~~~
"I dream, therefore I exist." - J. August Strindberg

"Not to know is bad. Not to want to know is worse. Not to hope is unthinkable. Not to care is unforgivable." - Nigerian saying

"To array a man's will against his sickness is the supreme art of medicine." - Henry Ward Beecher

"Words are things; and a small drop of ink / Falling like dew upon a thought, produces / That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think." - Lord Byron

"We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them." - Albert Einstein

"A teacher who is attempting to teach, without inspiring the pupil with a desire to learn, is hammering on a cold iron." - Horace Mann

"We swallow greedily any lie that flatters us, but we sip only little by little at a truth we find bitter." - Denis Diderot

"Only the guy who isn't rowing has time to rock the boat." - Jean-Paul Sartre
~~~~~
THIS DAY IN HISTORY: from The Free Dictionary - - http://www.thefreedictionary.com/ - - Kingston, Jamaica is founded by the British (1692) - - After an earthquake destroyed the French named capital Port Royal, the British built a new capital called Kingston, which -- after Jamaica's independence in 1962 -- remains the seat of government.
~~~~~
"It is difficult to say what is impossible, for the dream of yesterday is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow." - Robert H. Goddard (1882-1945) Physicist, Rocketry Pioneer


><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
GCF: First Apartment

Emailed to me from another humor list (You Make Me Laugh) -Tom To subscribe to You Make Me Laugh, send a blank email to: SUBSCRIBE-laugh@lists.crosswalk.com

If this was forwarded to you, please consider your own subscription to Good Clean Fun. It's free! A smile will enhance the quality of your life. Just send an email to: good-clean-fun-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visit the Good Clean Fun web site http://www.slonet.org/~tellswor/ Unsubscribe info for Good Clean Fun is at the end of this email. This email was scanned by Norton AntiVirus 2005 before it was sent.
--------------------------------

Having moved into his first apartment, our son invited my husband and I for a visit.

As we walked in, our son asked if we'd like a cold drink.

Mentally patting myself on the back for teaching him to be such a gracious host, I said, "Yes, what do you have?"

He walked over to the refrigerator, opened the door, studied the contents, and then replied, "I have pickle juice or water."
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: Interview Question

Emailed to me from another humor list (You Make Me Laugh) -Tom To subscribe to You Make Me Laugh, send a blank email to: SUBSCRIBE-laugh@lists.crosswalk.com
--------------------------------

"Now this is the verbal part of your employment test," said the interviewer.

"Can you tell me what gross aggrandized annuity means?"

"Certainly," replied the applicant.
"It means I don't get the job."
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: The Late Preacher

Emailed to me another humor list (Good Clean Funnies List) -Tom To subscribe The Good Clean Funnies List, (not to be confused with this list, which is Good Clean Fun) send an email to: gcfl-request@gcfl.net with subject = add
--------------------------------

A young preacher was asked by the local funeral director to hold a grave-side burial service at a small local cemetery for someone with no family or friends. The preacher started early but quickly got himself lost, making several wrong turns. Eventually, a half-hour late, he saw a backhoe and its crew, but the hearse was nowhere in sight, and the workmen were eating lunch.

The diligent young pastor went to the open grave and found the vault lid already in place.

Taking out his book, he read the service. Feeling guilty because of his tardiness, he preached an impassioned and lengthy service, sending the deceased to the great beyond in style.

As he was returning to his car, he overheard one of the workmen say: "I've been putting in septic tanks for twenty years and I ain't never seen anything like that."
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: We Are But Dust.....

Emailed to me by a friend (Thanks, Suz) -Tom
--------------------------------

A visiting minister was assisting at our local church service. During the offertory prayer, the following happened:

"Dear Lord," he began with arms extended and a rapturous look on his upturned face, "without you we are but dust..."

He would have continued, but at that moment one little girl leaned over to her mother and asked quite loudly, "Mommy, WHAT is butt dust?"

The service was pretty much over at that point.
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: Searching for Witnesses

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
--------------------------------

The policeman arrived at the scene of an accident to find that a car had struck a telephone pole. Searching for witnesses, he discovered a pale, nervous young man in work clothes who claimed he was an eyewitness.

"Exactly where were you at the time of the accident?" inquired the officer.

"Sir," exclaimed the telephone lineman, "I was at the top of the pole."
_ ____________________________ _
(((\ \>|_/ )_______________________( \_| \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / "Always remember you're unique; \ /
\ _/ just like everyone else." \_ /
/ / \ (((\ \>|_/ )_______________________( \_| \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / "Be nice to your kids. \ /
\ _/ They'll choose \_ /
/ / your nursing home." \ (((\ \>|_/ )_______________________( \_| \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / This sentence have \ /
\ _/ three things rong with it. \_ /
/ / \ (((\ \>|_/ )_______________________( \_| \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / A seminar on time travel \ /
\ _/ will be held two weeks ago. \_ /
/ / \ (((\ \>|_/ )_______________________( \_| \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / There are 10 types of people \ /
\ _/in the world. Those who understand \_ /
/ / binary and those who don't. \ _ ____________________________ _
/ )| Thomas S. Ellsworth |( / / | tellswor@slonet.org | \ _( (_ | http://www.slonet.org/~tellswor | _) )_
_( (_ | *** Good Clean Fun *** | _) )_
(((\ \>|_/ )_______________________( \_|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/
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
[GCFL.net] Tag! You're It

To Whom it May Concern:

I am hereby officially tendering my resignation as an adult. I have decided I would like to accept the responsibilities of an 8 year old again. I want to go to McDonald's and think that it's a four star restaurant. I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle and make ripples with rocks. I want to think M&Ms are better than money because you can eat them. I want to play dodge ball at recess and paint with watercolors in art. I want to lie under a big oak tree and run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer's day.

I want to return to a time when life was simple. When all you knew were colors, multiplication tables, and nursery rhymes, but that didn't bother you, because you didn't know what you didn't know and you didn't care. All you knew was to be happy because you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset.

I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good. I want to believe that anything is possible. Somewhere in our youth, we matured and learned too much. There are nuclear weapons, war, prejudice, and abused children. Lies, unhappy marriages, illness, pain, and death. A world where companies poison our water and our soil, and children kill. What happened to the time when we thought that everyone would live forever, because we didn't grasp the concept of death? When the worst thing in the world was if someone took the jump rope from you or picked you last for kickball. I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again. I want to return to the days when children played hide-n-seek outside instead of being glued to a television, when video games were as harmless as Pac-Man...instead of spine-ripping, blood-splattering mind numbers like Mortal Combat, and TV still had some shows on that weren't about sex, killing, and lies.

I remember being naive and thinking everyone was happy because I was. Afternoons were spent climbing trees and fences and riding my bike. I never worried about time, bills, or where I was going to find the money to fix my car. I used to wonder what I was going to do or be when I grew up, not worry about what I'll do if this doesn't work out. I want to live simple again.

I don't want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor bills, gossip, illness, and loss of loved ones. I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, the imagination, mankind, and making angels in the snow.

So.... here's my checkbook and my car-keys, my credit card bills and my 401K statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood. And if you want to discuss this further, you'll have to catch me first, cause, "Tag! You're it."

Received from Robert W. E. Jentzsch.
-=+=-
[GCFL.net] Just Think About It

How come we choose from just two people to run for president and 50 for Miss America?

I signed up for an exercise class and was told to wear loose-fitting clothing. If I HAD any loose-fitting clothing, I wouldn't have signed up in the first place!

Don't argue with an idiot; people watching may not be able to tell the difference.

Wouldn't it be nice if whenever we messed up our lives we could simply press 'Ctrl-Alt-Delete' and start all over?
AMEN, AMEN !!

Why is it that our children can't read a Bible in school, but they can in prison?

Why do I have to swear on the Bible in court, when the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed in a federal building?

Received from Thomas G Utley, Cedar Hill, TX.
-=+=-
[GCFL.net] The Teeth

An elderly couple toddled into the local McDonalds and ordered one combo meal. The wife carefully cut the sandwich in two and began to eat her half. The husband respectfully sat and watched.

The eating did not progress quickly, and soon the other customers began to notice. Finally one helpful person offered to buy the couple another meal. The offer was rejected with the explanation, "We share everything."

Eventually another could stand it no longer and made the same offer. Same rejection: "No thank you, we share everything."

After this had gone on for what seemed to be quite a while, one bystander could no longer stand it and quizzed the man, "Then why aren't you eating? What are you waiting for?"

The reply: "The teeth."

Received from Charles Isbell.
-=+=-
[GCFL.net] Why I'm Tired

GCFL Note: It's highly likely that the numbers below are off. Please don't let that kill the humor of this classic!

For a couple years I've been blaming it on lack of sleep, too much pressure from my job, earwax buildup, poor blood, but now I found out the real reason:

I'm tired because I'm overworked.

Here's why:

The population of the USA is about 273 million.

140 million are retired.

That leaves 133 million to do the work.

There are 85 million in school.

Which leaves 48 million to do the work.

Of this there are 29 million employed by the federal government.

Leaving 19 million to do the work.

2.8 million are in the armed forces.

Which leaves 16.2 million to do the work.

Take from the total the 14,800,000 people who work for state and city governments.

And that leaves 1.4 million to do the work.

At any given time there are 188,000 people in hospitals,

Leaving 1,212,000 to do the work.

Now, there are 1,211,998 people in prisons.

That leaves just two people to do all the work.

You and me, and you're sitting on your rear, at your computer, reading jokes!

Received from Kerry Baker.
-=+=-
[GCFL.net] Golfing Jack

/* GCFL wishes all the fathers a Happy (belated) Father's
Day (US holiday)!

It won't be long before John (the guy that keeps GCFL running) will be an official Father. Estimated time of arrival is now August 25th! More updates later. */

Jack was first up in his foursome. Eyeing the ball, he swung his club and hooked his shot over the fence and down a road where the ball crashed through the windshield of an oncoming car. The startled driver lost control of his vehicle, and it spun into a parking lot and bounced off three cars.

Jack raced over to the crash scene and was relieved to find that no one was hurt. Almost immediately, a policeman arrived and approached Jack, who was standing next to the crashed car, eyeing his ball. "Just what are you going to do about this?" demanded the policeman.

Jack looked up and said, "Well, the first thing I'm going to do is change my grip."

Received from KRAZIE1952.
-=+=-
– NEW! Go to http://www.gcfl.net/archive.php?funny=20050124 to rate this funny from 0 to 5.
-=+=-
Brought to you by GCFL.net: The Good, Clean Funnies List "A cheerful heart is good medicine!" (Prov 17:22a) Go to http://gcfl.net/mlfrontend.php to change your subscription options or unsubscribe. To email this funny to a friend, go to http://gcfl.net/emailit.php?funny=20050107 The latest GCFL funny can always be found on the web at http://gcfl.net/latest.php
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Abbott and Costello Computer Buying

COSTELLO CALLS TO BUY A COMPUTER FROM ABBOTT

ABBOTT: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?

COSTELLO: Thanks. I'm setting up an office in my den and I'm thinking about buying a computer.

ABBOTT: Mac?

COSTELLO: No, the name's Lou.

ABBOTT: Your computer?

COSTELLO: I don't own a computer. I want to buy one.

ABBOTT: Mac?

COSTELLO: I told you, my name's Lou.

ABBOTT: What about Windows?

COS TELLO: Why? Will it get stuffy in here?

ABBOTT: Do you want a computer with Windows?

COSTELLO: I don't know. What will I see when I look at the windows?

ABBOTT: Wallpaper.

COSTELLO: Never mind the windows. I need a computer and software.

ABBOTT: Software for Windows?

COSTELLO: No. On the computer! I need something I can use to write proposals, track expenses and run my business. What do you have?

ABBOTT: Office.

COSTELLO: Yeah, for my office. Can you recommend anything?

ABBOTT: I just did.

COSTELLO: You just did what?

ABBOTT: Recommend something.

COSTELLO: You recommended something?

ABBOTT: Yes.

COSTELLO: For my office?

ABBOTT: Yes.

COSTELLO: OK, what did you recommend for my office?

ABBOTT: Office.

COSTELLO: Yes, for my office!

ABBOTT: I recommend Office with Windows.

COSTELLO: I already have an office with windows! OK, let's just say I'm sitting at my computer and I want to type a proposal. What do I need?

ABBOTT: Word.

COSTELLO: What word?

ABBOTT: Word in Office.

COSTELLO: The only word in office is office.

ABBOTT: The Word in Office for Windows.

COSTELLO: Which word in office for windows?

ABBOTT: The Word you get when you click the blue "W".

COSTELLO: I'm going to click your blue "w" if you don't start with some straight answers. OK, forget that. Can I watch movies on the Internet?

ABBOTT: Yes, you want Real One.

COSTELLO: Maybe a real one, maybe a cartoon. What I watch is none of your business. Just tell me what I need!

ABBOTT: Real One.

COSTELLO: If it's a long movie, I also want to watch reels 2, 3 and 4. Can I watch them?

ABBOTT: Of course.

COSTELLO: Great! With what?

ABBOTT: Real One.

COSTELLO: OK, I'm at my computer and I want to watch a movie. What do I do?

ABBOTT: You click the blue "1".

COSTELLO: I click the blue one what?

ABBOTT: The blue "1".

COSTELLO: Is that different fro m the blue W?

ABBOTT: The blue "1" is Real One and the blue "W" is Word.

COSTELLO: What word?

ABBOTT: The Word in Office for Windows.

COSTELLO: But there are three words in "office for windows"!

ABBOTT: No, just one. But it's the most popular Word in the world.

COSTELLO: It is?

ABBOTT: Yes, but to be fair, there aren't many other Words left. It pretty much wiped out all the other Words out there.

COSTELLO: And that word is real one?

ABBOTT: Real One has nothing to do with Word. Real One isn't even part of Office.

COSTELLO: STOP! Don't start that again. What about financial bookkeeping? You have anything I can track my money with?

ABBOTT: Money.

COSTELLO: That's right. What do you have?

ABBOTT: Money.

COSTELLO: I need money to track my money?

ABBOTT: It comes bundled with your computer.

COSTELLO: What's bundled with my computer?

ABBOTT: Money.

COSTELLO: Money comes with my computer?

ABBOTT: Yes. No extra charge.

COSTELLO: I get a bundle of money with my computer? How much?

ABBOTT: One copy.

COSTELLO: Isn't it illegal to copy money?

ABBOTT: Microsoft gave us a license to copy Money.

COSTELLO: They can give you a license to copy money?

ABBOTT: Why not? THEY OWN IT!

(A few days later)

ABBOTT: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?

COSTELLO: How do I turn my computer off?

ABBOTT: Click on "START".......
~
Thanks to Joe Tudor
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Joining a Texas Church

A Texas man went to the Catholic church and asked to join. The priest said, "OK, but you have to pass a small Bible test first. Where was Jesus born?"
The man thought a minute and said, "Longview."
The priest said, "Sorry, you can't join our church."

So, he went down the road to a Methodist church and asked to join. The preacher said, "We'd love to have you but you have to pass a Bible test first. Where was Jesus born?"
The man said quickly, "Tyler."
The preacher said, "No way can you join our church."

Soo...he goes to the Baptist Church and asked if he could join. The preacher said, "That's great, we welcome you."
The man said, "I don't have to pass. a Bible test first?"
The preacher said, "No."
The man said, "Can I ask you a question then? Where was Jesus born?"
The preacher said, "Palestine."

The man mumbled to himself. "I knew it was somewhere in East Texas!"
~
Thanks to Norma Kaye
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Welcome to You Make Me Laugh, a free newsletter from Crosswalk.com, the world's largest Christian website.
Today's Clean Laugh

Impressive Dinner

A young man called his mother and announced excitedly that he had just met the woman of his dreams. Now what should he do?

His mother had an idea: "Why don't you send her flowers, and on the card invite her to your apartment for a home-cooked meal?"

He thought this was a great strategy, and a week later, the woman came to dinner. His mother called the next day to see how things had gone.

"I was totally humiliated," he moaned. "She insisted on washing the dishes.."

"What's wrong with that?" asked his mother.

"We hadn't started eating yet."

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
http://www.cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

-=+=-

Doctor's Writing

Did you hear about the doctor who wrote out a prescription in the usual doctor's fashion?

The patient used it for two years as a railroad pass.

Twice it got him into Radio City Music Hall, and once into Yankee Stadium.

It came in handy as a letter from his employer to the cashier to increase his salary.

And to top it off, his daughter played it on the piano and won a scholarship to the Curtis Music Conservatory.

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
http://www.cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

-=+=-

The Haircut

A young man had just gotten his driving permit. He asked his father, who was a minister, if they could discuss his use of the car.

His father said to him, "I'll make a deal with you. You bring your grades up, study your bible a little, and get your hair cut, then we will talk about it."

A month later the young man came back and again asked his father if they could discuss his use of the car.

His father said, "Son, I'm real proud of you. You have brought your grades up, you've studied your bible diligently, but you didn't get a hair cut!"

The young man waited a moment and replied, "You know dad, I've been thinking about that. You know Samson had long hair, Moses had long hair, Noah had long hair, and even Jesus had long hair."

His father replied, "Yes son, and they walked everywhere they went!"

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
http://www.cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

-=+=-

Who Am I?

Years ago, when our daughters were very young, we'd drop them off at our church's children's chapel on Sundays before the eleven o'clock service.

One Sunday, just as I was about to open the door to the small chapel, the minister came rushing up in full vestments. He said he had an emergency and asked if I'd speak to the children at their story time. He said the subject was the Twenty-third Psalm.

But just as I was about to get up from the back row and talk about the good shepherd, the minister burst into the room and signaled to me that he would be able to do the story time after all.

He told the children about sheep, that they weren't smart and needed lots of guidance, and that a shepherd's job was to stay close to the sheep, protect them from wild animals and keep them from wandering off and doing dumb things that would get them hurt or killed.

He pointed to the little children in the room and said that they were the sheep and needed lots of guidance.

Then the minister put his hands out to the side, palms up in a dramatic gesture, and with raised eyebrows said to the children, "If you are the sheep then who is the shepherd?" He was pretty obviously indicating himself.

A silence of a few seconds followed. Then a young visitor said, " Jesus, Jesus is the shepherd."

The young minister, obviously caught by surprise, said to the boy, "Well, then, who am I?"

The little boy frowned thoughtfully and then said with a shrug, "I guess you must be a sheep dog."

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
http://www.cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

-=+=-

Murphy's Laws for Parents

1. The tennis shoes you must replace today will go on sale next week.

2. Leak proof thermoses -- will.

3. The chances of a piece of bread falling with the grape jelly side down is directly proportional to the cost of the carpet.

4. The garbage truck will be two doors past your house when the argument over whose day it is to take out the trash ends.

5. The shirt your child must wear today will be the only one that needs to be washed or mended.

6. Gym clothes left at school in lockers mildew at a faster rate than other clothing.

7. The item your child lost, and must have for school within the next ten seconds, will be found in the last place you look.

8. Sick children recover miraculously when the pediatrician enters the treatment room.

9. Refrigerated items, used daily, will gravitate toward the back of the refrigerator.

10. Your chances of being seen by someone you know dramatically increase if you drive your child to school in your robe and curlers.

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
http://www.cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

*Eye Laugh*

"Rehabilitation"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=78

"Cat Socks"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=69

"Dog Note"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=70

"Two By Four"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=71

"Cat Judgement"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=72

Daily devotionals are available at http://link.Crosswalk.Com/UM/T.asp?A1. 39. 17757. 1. 494611 You can access more information on Crosswalk's Fun page http://www.Crosswalk.Com/fun/! Crosswalk gives credit to the author of a joke when author is known. Feel free to send notification to admin@cybersalt.org in cases where credit has not been given to the author! -SUBSCRIPTION INFO- * Copyright2004 Crosswalk.Com, Inc. and its Content Providers. All rights reserved. Introducing www.Crossguide.Com Where Christians find Products, Services & Ministries.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"Don't strive for recognition, but work for achievement." -- Vanessa Malone
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Madeleine Begun Kane Latest Columns - - http://www.madkane.com/poodle.html - - A Poodle Tale "I read recently that elegant dog garb and pricey canine day-care are "in" these days. Frankly, I was pleased to learn this. For until I acquired this seemingly frivolous bit of information, I was seriously concerned about my parents..."
http://www.madkane.com
http://www.madkane.com/notable.html (Notables Weblog)
http://www.madkane.com/bush.html (Dubya's Dayly Diary)
Subscribe to MadKane Humor Newsletter (weekly) here:
http://www.madkane.com/email.html
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Columbia Encyclopedia - - http://www.bartleby.com/65/ - - Containing nearly 51,000 entries (marshaling six and one-half million words on a vast range of topics), and with more than 80,000 hypertext cross-references, the current Sixth Edition is among the most complete and up-to-date encyclopedias ever produced.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Biographical Dictionary - - http://s9.com/biography/ - - This dictionary covers more than 28,000 notable men and women who have shaped our world from ancient times to the present day.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Map Collections: 1500-2004 - - http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/gmdhtml/gmdhome.html - - The Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress holds more than 4.5 million items, of which Map Collections represents only a small fraction, those that have been converted to digital form. The focus of Map Collections is Americana and Cartographic Treasures of the Library of Congress. These images were created from maps and atlases and, in general, are restricted to items that are not covered by copyright protection.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Today in Literature - - http://www.todayinliterature.com/ - - Welcome to Today in Literature, a calendar of engaging stories about the great books, writers, and events in literary history.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Monterey Bay Aquarium Exhibits and Live Web Cams - - http://www.mbayaq.org/efc/ - - This site by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, presents information about exhibits on display including: Kelp Forest, Sea Otters, Rocky Shore, Giant Octopus, Life on the Bay, Sharks: Myth & Mystery and much more. Live exhibit web cams also available.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Yahoo Reference - - http://education.yahoo.com/reference/ - - Whether you're a student, a parent, or just plain curious, Yahoo! Reference offers a handy selection of books and materials to help you find the information you need. Look up a definition in the dictionary, find map and flag images for every country in the world in the World Factbook, get in-depth information from the encyclopedia, and much more.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Key Crime & Justice Facts at a Glance - - http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/glance.htm - - This Department of Justice site presents 'Key Crime & Justice Facts at a Glance,' including: Crime trends; Trends in Federal investigations and prosecutions; Trends in felony convictions in State courts; Corrections trends including Capital punishment trends; and, Expenditure trends.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"More than a million Americans are believed to be living with the virus that causes AIDS, the government said June 13, 2005 in a report that reflects both a victory and a failure at combating the disease. While better medicines are keeping more people with HIV alive, government health officials have failed to "break the back" of the AIDS epidemic by their stated goal of 2005. This is believed to be the first time the 1 million mark has been passed since the height of the epidemic in the 1980s. New medicines that weren't around in 1981 have allowed people infected with the virus to live longer, said Dr. Ronald Valdiserri, deputy director of the CDC's National Center for HIV, STD and TB Prevention."
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"More Americans than ever with mental disorders are trying to get care, but only a third receive effective treatments, says a landmark government survey out June 6, 2005. Rates of mental illness have flattened in the past 15 years after steadily rising from the 1950s. 'That's reassuring and a little surprising, given the economic slumps and 9/11,' says survey director Ronald Kessler of Harvard Medical School. About one in four adults have the symptoms of at least one mental illness every year, and nearly half suffer disorders during their lifetimes, according to the study of 9,282 people published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. The study is a detailed update of large federal surveys done in the '80s and '90s. On the positive side, 41% with a disorder went for treatment in the past year, up from 25% a decade ago and 19% two decades ago. The more severe the disorder, the more likely a person was to get good care." -
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"Foods with a low-glycemic index, which are digested relatively slowly and cause smaller increases in blood sugar, may protect the heart and blood vessels better than low-fat fare, according to the findings of a small study. Researchers in Boston found that when obese people consumed as many carbohydrates with a low-glycemic index as they wanted, they lost just as much weight in 12 months as people who stuck with a conventional, calorie-restricted low-fat diet. Carbohydrates with a low-glycemic index include foods such as nonstarchy vegetables, fruit, legumes, nuts and dairy products, according to the report in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Dieters who watched their glycemic indices also experienced a larger decrease in fatty substances in the blood linked to heart disease and had a drop in levels of a protein that interferes with the body's ability to break down blood clots. In contrast, low-fat dieters had an increase in levels of the same protein, which may put them at higher risk of heart attack." -
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"After rising for three years, the nation's murder rate dropped 3.6% last year, according to preliminary figures released June 6, 2005, by the FBI. The nation's largest cities and rural areas showed the sharpest declines. Murders dropped 7.1% in cities with populations over 1 million, and 12.2% in towns with 10,000 or fewer people, the FBI said. 'This suggests that something fresh and positive is happening,' said David Kennedy, director of the Center for Crime Prevention and Control at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York. 'That's really striking.' Murder rates across the nation have been slowly climbing since 2000, when the nation's 15,517 murders were the lowest since 1965." -
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"One of every seven people in the United States is Hispanic, a record number that probably will keep rising because of immigration and a birth rate outstripping non-Hispanic blacks and whites. The country's largest minority group accounted for one-half of the overall population growth of 2.9 million between July 2003 and July 2004, according to a Census Bureau report being released June 9, 2005. The agency estimated there are 41.3 million Hispanics in the U.S. The bureau does not ask people about their legal status; that number is intended to include both legal and other residents. The population growth for Asians ran a close second. Increases in both groups are due largely to immigration, but also higher birth rates, said Lewis W. Goodman, an American University expert on U.S.-Latin American relations. 'If we didn't have those elements, we would be moving into a situation like Japan and Europe ... where the populations are graying in a way that is very alarming and endangering their productivity and endangering even their social security systems,' he said." -
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"Child abuse and other forms of violence involving families fell by more than half between 1993 and 2002, in line with the decline in crime overall, the government said June 12, 2005. The rate of family violence fell from about 5.4 victims to 2.1 victims per 1,000 residents age 12 and older, according to a report by the Bureau of Justice Statistics. Simple assault was the most frequent type of violent offense. Murder accounted for less than one-half of 1 percent of all family violence between 1998 and 2002 - the most recent years analyzed for the report. The report looked back to 1993 - the year the survey was redesigned - for a long-term trend in family violence, but analyzed the most recent years to glean detailed information on patterns of crime. Almost half of the 3.5 million victims of family violence between 1998 and 2002 were spouses. Fewer than one in 100 died as a result." -
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"Authorities patrolling U.S. highways tend to give motorists a cushion of up to 10 miles per hour above the speed limit before pulling them over, says a survey by a group of state traffic safety officials. This practice creates an unsafe comfort level at high speeds and is a potential safety hazard, according to the report being released June 13, 2005 by the Governors Highway Safety Association. The group found that 42 states allow drivers to regularly exceed the speed limit before they are stopped. 'This cushion truly exists across this country and in some cases is more than 10 mph above posted limits,' said Jim Champagne, the association's chairman."
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
The three South Arkansas Albemarle Plants were recently recognized as "Super Star Among Stars" sites by OSHA at their annual meeting in Albuquerque New Mexico. This program was established to recognize VPP participants with injury rates well below the national average. The Magnolia Sites were awarded the highest level of achievement "Star Of Excellence" by having injury rates at least 90 percent below the national average for 2004. In fact, the three sites had zero serious/recordable injuries in 2004, which was a record for the sites and for the company. The Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) was established by OSHA to promote effective safety and health management systems through a partnership between all site employees and OSHA. Approval into VPP is OSHA's official recognition of the outstanding efforts of employers and employees who have achieved exemplary occupational safety and health at their worksite.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
| July Safety Days |

The focus of July's safety effort for operating units will be "Hand Tool Safety ". On kick-off day, maintenance will conduct a tailgate on general hand tool safety and avoiding hand injuries. Following the tailgate meeting, we will form safety inspection teams to perform safely and housekeeping inspections in the plant and shop areas. It is suggested that the safety inspection focus on maintenance areas such as shops, storage facilities, and break rooms. However, some operating areas may also be included. These inspections should take about 45 minutes. Take notes and report findings in mid-day tailgate in super center on kick-off day.

Conduct follow-up meetings each week focusing on a specific hand tool. Maintenance team members should select a hand tool to discuss, including proper use and safety precautions. Examples include portaband saw, electric drill, pipe threading machine, electric drill, hammer and chisel, chainfall, etc.. More than one tool could be reviewed in each meeting. When practical, bring the tool to the meeting for added demonstration value.

For office areas, this approach will have to be modified slightly. We suggest selecting various tools that you may work with and discuss safety and proper use techniques of these devices. Examples include computer ergonomics, file cabinets (tipping and open drawers), copiers, and hallway mirrors.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
| Safety From The Heart |

Today's Safety From the Heart message is from Sharon Nettles.
______________________________
Who taught whom more about Safety?

On Friday afternoon, I was asked if I had a need for safety glasses at home, and I responded that I was sure that my husband or I could use them while cutting grass, etc. When our six year old daughter noticed two pair of safety glasses, she became excited to know that she could "be just like Daddy" and they could use the glasses together.

On Saturday morning, my daughter jumped out of bed, dressed, and put her safety glasses on to prepare for a day of helping her Daddy bush hog the field around our home. In order to complete the task at hand, my husband needed to purchase fuel for the tractor so we all headed to the local gas station. While traveling, I instructed our little girl to replace her safety glasses with sunshades, but she was still so excited about the safety glasses that she chose to keep them on .

Once at the gas station, my husband held the pump nozzle in the gas container, our daughter watched, and I lifted the handle on the pump. Within seconds, the gas in the container "belched" and my husband and daughter were sprayed. Both were able to go to the rest-room to use soap and water to remove the sprayed fuel from their arms and faces. Because they were both wearing their safety glasses, none of the fuel got into their eyes.

Lessons learned:
Expect the unexpected.
Be aware of body position at all times.
Use PPE at work and home.
Get excited about safety. (Thank goodness my daughter got excited about wearing her safety glasses because it may have saved her eyesight.)
Teach by example but also be open to learning.

In closing, opportunities to teach as well as learn about safety are abundant. Who taught whom more about safety that day really doesn't matter. Safety first and foremost by everyone. That's what counts!!
-~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~-
June 23, 2005
Make That Appointment
Today's Message is from Debra Regan (a Houston Albemarle employee).
____________________________________

My husband received a call last night that his cousin passed away of a heart attack at the age of 44. This is not the first person in his family to pass at a young age, which puts him at risk for several potentially fatal diseases due to family hereditary.

Every year you and your family, men and women, need to have complete physicals whether you feel sick or not, and make sure you let your physician know your family history so that he can order additional tests if he feels it is necessary. Everyone take care of yourself and make that appointment!
-~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~-
June 22, 2005
Work Safe
Today's Message is from Whip Nierlich ( Houston Albemarle employee).
____________________________________

With so many distractions happening, we must never let safety take a back seat to any of these. Work safe here and outside of the plant. Getting injured would make everything else seem insignificant.
-~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~-
June 21, 2005
Flying Insects
Today's Message is from Wilson David (a Houston Albemarle employee).
____________________________________

With spring here and summer approaching, people should be aware of the dangers posed by flying insects: wasps, yellow jackets, bees, etc.

Many people are allergic to stings from these insects and even if they aren't, multiple stings can cause health problems. Wasps and yellow jackets often build nests under boards, tarps, and pieces of plastic in sheds. Any place in or around a shed is often a good site for a nest.

If you have a shed, patio chairs and table in your backyard, you might see wasp flying around and but cannot see the nest. It probably is hidden under one of these items. You should carefully find the nest where ever it is. Running to get away may also cause an injury if you trip and fall. The main thing is to be very careful and to kill these insects from a distance with an insect spray. If the nest is easy to get at, I've found that water and powder washing detergent solution will kill wasp easily when the nest is doused.
-~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~-
June 20, 2005
Crossing the Atlantic
Today's Message is from Bob Weber (a Houston Albemarle employee.)
____________________________________
"I'll never forget, crossing the Atlantic once from Gibraltar to Rio, one day of terrible weather after another, and you could sense land a couple days before you got there. The sailors called those days the shark days, because that was the dangerous time, when you could be distracted by the longing for land and a cable could snap and the next thing, your head was lying on the deck, cut clean from your body. That happened on our ship...."
An extract from a book - you get the message, I'm sure....
-~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~- -~=+=~-
June 17, 2005
Prepared by BRT employee, Louise Wen
____________________________________
Personal Lightning Safety Tips

1. PLAN in advance your evacuation and safety measures. When you first see lightning or hear thunder, activate your emergency plan. Now is the time to go to a building or a vehicle. Lightning often precedes rain, so don't wait for the rain to begin before suspending activities.
2. IF OUTDOORS...Avoid water. Avoid the high ground. Avoid open spaces. Avoid all metal objects including electric wires, fences, machinery, motors, power tools, etc. Unsafe places include underneath canopies, small picnic or rain shelters, or near trees. Where possible, find shelter in a substantial building or in a fully enclosed metal vehicle such as a car, truck or a van with the windows completely shut. If lightning is striking nearby when you are outside, you should:
A. Crouch down. Put feet together. Place hands over ears to minimize hearing damage from thunder.
B. Avoid proximity (minimum of 15 ft.) to other people.
3. IF INDOORS... Avoid water. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone. Take off head sets. Turn off, unplug, and stay away from appliances, computers, power tools, & TV sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric and phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment.
4. SUSPEND ACTIVITIES for 30 minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder.
5. INJURED PERSONS do not carry an electrical charge and can be handled safely. Apply First Aid procedures to a lightning victim if you are qualified to do so. Call 911 or send for help immediately.
6. KNOW YOUR EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
TOURBUS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -:) - :)- :)
-----------------------------------------------------
Volume 10, Number 63 -- 23 June 2005
Tourbus Home - http://www.TOURBUS.com
Tourbus News Service - http://tourbus.com/news.html
-----------------------------------------------------
Today's Tourbus Topic: Airports, Airlines, and Airplanes

Leavin' on a jet plane? Today's TOURBUS will help you make air travel reservations, find airports, get airline information, and view real- time flight tracking data. Read on...
---------------------------
A Short Detour - Ask Bob!
---------------------------
Got a burning question about your computer or the Internet? Need tech support? Don't be shy... ask me about computers, viruses, spyware, search engines or almost anything about the Internet. Chances are, you're not the only person who has that question. If I answer your question on my new blog, others will benefit too. There's no charge for the service, so pop in now...

Ask Bob Rankin - http://www.AskBobRankin.com
-------------
Travelocity
-------------
All trips begin with planning and reservations. And my favorite site for vacation and travel planning is Travelocity. They offer one-stop shopping for airline tickets, vacation packages, car rentals and hotel accommodations. If you're looking for a way to research business or vacation trips and book travel plans online, you should definitely pop in for a visit.

Travelocity - http://www.travelocity.com

Related News - http://www.tourbus.com/travel-news.html
------------------
About.Com Travel
------------------
We've mentioned About.com several times in Tourbus, because it's an excellent collection of sites, each maintained by an expert in that subject. The About.com Travel site is a great place to look for information on travel to almost any place on the globe. You'll find info on Air Travel, Bed & Breakfasts, Business Travel, Hotels, Resorts, Cruises, Theme Parks and Traveling With Kids. There are also guide sites specific to popular travel destinations, countries, states, and cities. The "New York City for Visitors" site, for example, gives insider tips on riding the NYC subway.

About Travel - http://home.about.com/travel
-------------------------------
Airport Information Worldwide
-------------------------------
If you're looking for links to official airport websites, airlines and travel services in over 200 countries, we've got you covered, everywhere from Austria to Zimbabwe. Information at the first site listed below is available in English, French, German, Spanish. You'll find help with Airport Guides, Tourist Attractions, and international Travel, Cruise and Weather Guides.

http://www.worldairportguide.com

http://www.hotelstravel.com/airports.html

The UK Airport Guide offers information you'll need when planning your trip how-to-get-there directions and advice, contact telephone numbers for local taxi, bus, and trains, local accommodation, and airport parking. Covers all major airports in England, Scotland and Ireland.

http://www.a2btravel.com/airports

Related News - http://www.tourbus.com/airport-news.html
----------------------
And Then You Wait...
----------------------
Okay, your trip is planned, and the departure day has arrived. You drive like a fool to the airport and then, you wait. But for how long? If you're flying from or to an airport in North America, Uncle Sam has some stats that may help to answer that question.

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics has detailed information regarding airline punctuality. To find out how likely you are to encounter a delay with your airline, check here:

http://www.bts.gov/programs/airline_information/airline_ontime_statistics

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provides security checkpoint wait time information to help travelers plan their flight departures. The wait times are historical (not real-time) so your actual wait time may vary.

http://waittime.tsa.dhs.gov/index.html

If you make it through the checkpoint without setting off any lights or buzzers, you can proceed to the gate, and wait. The Federal Aviation Administration has a website that offers data on arrival and departure delays at most major airports. A graphical display shows green, yellow, orange and red dots to indicate how long you may have to wait in the airport, or on the plane for take-off and landing.

http://www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/usmap.jsp
-------------------------
Dude, Where's My Plane?
-------------------------
Are you meeting a friend at the airport? Track a flight, with this graphical real-time monitor that shows the flight path on a map, along with the aircraft's altitude, speed and estimated arrival time.

http://www.rlmsoftware.com

+--------------------------------------------------+
That's all for now, don't know when I'll be back again. You know I really hate to go, but I'll see you next time! --Bob Rankin
+---------------------------------------+
==[ Tourbus Rider Information ]=
The Internet Tourbus - U.S. Library of Congress ISSN #1094-2238
Copyright 1995-2005, Rankin & Crispen - All rights reserved
Tourbus News Service - http://tourbus.com/news.html
Subscribe, Signoff, Archives, Free Stuff and More at the
Tourbus Website - http://www.TOURBUS.com
========================
.~~~. ))
(\__/) .' ) )) Patrick Douglas Crispen
/o o \/ .~
{o_, \ { crispen@netsquirrel.com
/ , , ) \ http://www.netsquirrel.com/
`~ -' \ } )) AOL Instant Messenger: Squirrel2K
_( ( )_.'
---..{____} Warning: squirrels.

><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Our Church, Magnolia Christian Center, has the following mission statement. Our purpose is to build a great church for the glory of God through the great commission and the great commandment. MCC' Vision - That MCC will be a place hopping with children, energized with teenagers, balanced with diversity and transformed by the power of God! We want to turn uninterested people into interested people and win the lost to make fully devoted followers of Christ.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Below is a safety warning about clothes dryers, sent to me by my dad. I always clean my lint filters, but I never would have thought of this. I looked this up on snopes.com to verify. It gives additional interesting safety information. http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/household/dryer.asp

Be Safe!
Angie

P.S. When I ran water over mine, the water did not go through very well. When I finished washing, it went through like a charm. SCARY!!!

Claim: Washing the lint filter in your clothes dryer can help extend the lifespan of that appliance.

Status: True.

Example: [Collected on the Internet, 2005]

I had a wonderful morning, the heating unit went out of my dryer! Why does everything seem to fall apart this time of year!???

The guy that fixes things went in to the dryer and pulled out the lint filter. It was clean. We always clean the lint from the filter after every load of clothes. He told us that he wanted to show him something. He took the filter over to the sink and ran hot water over it. Now, this thing is like a mesh - I'm sure you know what your dryer's lint filter looks like - WELL......the hot water just laid on top of the mesh!!! It didn't go through it at all!!!

He told us that dryer sheets cause a film over that mesh and that's what burns out the heating unit. You can't SEE the film, but it's there. He said the best way to keep your dryer working for a very long time (and to keep your electric bill lower) is to take that filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush (or other brush) at least every six months. He said that makes the life of the dryer at least twice as long! How about that???!!!! Learn something new everyday!

I certainly didn't know dryer sheets would do that. So, thought I'd share!

Note:

I went to dryer and tested my screen by running water on it. The water collected a little but ran though the screen. I dried it off and was ready to put it back in the dryer since the water ran through it but, I thought was the heck it won't hurt to wash it while I had it out. Warm soap water and a nylon brush and I had it done in 30 seconds.

I then ran the water over the screen and what a difference the water just gushed through it with no puddling at all and this time I was running the water at a faster rate. That repairman knew what he was talking about.

Origins: There are a number of devices and appliances that have been standard household items in American homes since before most of us were born. Electric irons, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, gas (or electric) stoves and ovens, washing machines, and clothes dryers are but a few of the many labor-saving devices so familiar to many of us Dryer that we seldom ponder just how they work. Ask the average person, for example, how a clothes dryer works, and you'll probably get an "Are you kidding me?" look in return, along with a terse explanation that a dryer makes stuff "hot," and everybody knows stuff dries faster when it's hot.

That explanation isn't technically wrong (as far as it goes), but it's rather simplistic. Knowing a bit more about the process involved is the key to understanding why the advice to keep your dryer's lint filter clean can help improve the performance and lifespan of your clothes dryer.

In a standard (gas) dryer, a fan pulls fresh air into the dryer and sends it flowing over a gas burner. The burner heats the air, which is then channeled into a tumbling drum where the wet clothes are held. The heat, air flow, and tumbling motion all contribute to evaporating the moisture held in the fabrics, and that moisture is absorbed by the gas-warmed air. (Warm air is capable of holding more moisture than cold air.) The warm air — and the moisture it now holds — passes through a filter to trap lint and other particulate matter stirred up by its movement and is vented to the outside so that it can be replaced with new, less-moist air. This process repeats until enough moisture has been evaporated and carried away for the clothes to be considered sufficiently "dry."

Of course, if you neglect to clean the lint filter between dryings, or something else occludes the filter, moist air cannot be vented from the dryer as easily. The result will be that your dryer will work less efficiently — you will have to run your dryer longer to dry a load of clothes, which means higher electricity and gas charges for you and a shorter lifespan for your dryer.

So, keeping the lint filter clean is one simple way to increase the efficiency and lifespan (and decrease the operating costs) of your dryer. Just removing the lint from the filter isn't always enough — the fine mesh of most dryer filters can be clogged in ways that aren't obvious at a casual glance. As suggested by the piece quoted above, softener sheets can cause waxy build-ups on lint screens that require a little extra effort — usually no more than a quick scrub and rinse in warm, soapy water — to remove.

Many modern dryers also use moisture sensors rather than ordinary timed cycles, and residue from dryer sheets can coat the sensors and interfere with their ability to function properly. Cleaning the sensor screen with a little detergent and a soft brush, and wiping off the sensor itself with a cotton ball and some rubbing alcohol can rectify this problem.
The URL for this page is
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/household/dryer.asp

Urban Legends Reference Pages © 1995-2005
by Barbara and David P. Mikkelson
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
This article, "Is Your Boss a Psychopath", is long, but quite interesting. It relates to what has happened in corporate America in recent years, for example Enron and WorldCom.

However, it doesn't just apply to bosses. Also look at the quiz within the article, and consider questionable acquaintances and certain politicians.

The person who sent it to me wrote, "While I was reading the article, I continually thought of one man, and he is not in corporate America." See if you can guess who he thought of - surely he meant it as a compliment!
~
Is Your Boss a Psychopath?
By Alan Deutschman
Fast Company

Odds are you've run across one of these characters in your career. They're glib, charming, manipulative, deceitful, ruthless -- and very, very destructive. And there may be lots of them in America's corner offices.

http://biz.yahoo.com/special/psycho05.html
~
Thanks to Sam Boggs
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
A liberal writes about our future president

She won't be President for another few years, but a little bio information might help to understand where we're going.

This interview may show more than you'd ever want to know about Hillary, but if nothing else, it is interesting. It's different from the glowing view of her as a middle-of-the road moderate, almost conservative, you'll see in the MSM (mainstream media).

http://www.nationalreview.com/interrogatory/klein200506200754.asp
~
Thanks to Sam Boggs
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Have you seen recent news reports about a study showing that most people with Type 2 diabetes are not in good control of their blood sugar? Could you be among them? Now is a good time to assess your diabetes management and make improvements.
Here's the news story as posted on LifeScan.com in May: "Diabetes out of control in U.S., survey finds."

What's New @ LifeScan.com

• GET IN CONTROL:

• Two-thirds of people with Type 2 diabetes are not in control of their blood glucose: This is what a report from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) reveals. This finding is worrisome, because high blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, and cause serious complications. These complications can include heart disease, vision problems and blindness, kidney disease, circulatory problems, and even amputations. In fact, diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death in the US.

• What is the best way to measure control?: The A1C test is the preferred standard for measuring glycemic control. The A1C test measures your average blood glucose level over the past 2-to-3 months. It's the best tool you and your healthcare provider have to assess your overall control — and your risk of developing serious complications. • AACE recommends an A1C target goal of 6.5% or less, and also suggests having an A1C test at least 4 times per year.
• You and your physician should determine how often you should test.
• In fact, AACE recommends talking to your physican about your A1C during every visit.
• A1C testing is not a substitute for regular blood glucose monitoring.
• If I'm measuring my A1C, is blood glucose self-monitoring also necessary?: The A1C test and blood glucose monitoring work together. The A1C test shows your average blood glucose over the past 2-to-3 months — while testing with a glucose monitor shows your glucose level at a specific point in time. • If you're not in good control, self-monitoring your A1C and blood glucose can help you better understand your diabetes and how to manage it.
• Talk to your physician about self-monitoring — and if a specific monitoring plan may make sense for you.
• Can I test my A1C at home?: Yes. All you need to do is go to your local drug store and look for the ChoiceDM™* A1C Home Test kit. It is lab accurate and will give you results in 8 minutes! No prescription is needed, there is nothing to mail, and it costs less than $20(MSRP)!
http://www.lifescan.com/
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
TGIF-Today God Is First


Living an Obedience-Based Life
-----------------------------------------------
Friday, June 24, 2005
by Os Hillman

They trusted in Him and defied the king's command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. ~ Daniel 3:28b

Have you ever known someone who lived an outcome-based Christian experience? This means that their decisions are made based on the positive or negative outcome, not on absolute obedience.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were three men who lived an obedience-based life. When King Nebuchadnezzar passed a law that said all were to worship his idol, these young men determined they would not worship anything other than God. You can be sure these men did not make this decision at the time of the decree. Their decision actually had been made years earlier. Their convictions were already in their hearts.

Each of us must come to a place of knowing what our boundaries are in given situations. What will you tolerate from your employer? What situation crosses the line for you? Where are the boundaries for questionable practices in your life? If these are not worked out ahead, you will live a life of situational ethics, determining what decision to make based on the merits of the situation.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were willing to die for what they believed. In this case, they were delivered from the fiery furnace. God used their faithfulness to impact a king, and they were promoted to higher positions.

Are you an obedienced-based Christian? Or are there situations that can move you based on the outcome? God wants to know that we will stand firm on the issues that are important to Him, no matter what the outcome may be. God is looking for those who are radical in their obedience. Does this describe your commitment to Christ? If not, pray for this kind of conviction. The Lord will honor you for this.

~=|=~

Divine Appointments
-----------------------------------------------
Thursday, June 23, 2005
by Os Hillman

I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. ~ Matthew 10:16

"Os is now taking over this division. He will be managing all of these activities from now on. You should know that he has a different management philosophy than what you may have experienced before. He has a biblical management philosophy. Os, would you like to explain what they could expect from you in this regard?"

These were the words spoken to me by a non-Christian CEO recently when he decided to increase my responsibilities in the company. We had never spoken of spiritual issues before.

Each business day, you and I will have the opportunity to stand before presidents, marketing directors, secretaries or other coworkers to create a defining moment. When that happens, there is a good chance you will be thought of as someone to avoid. You might be considered "religious" or "fanatic." If so, consider this a great compliment because it says you are standing apart from the crowd.

Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues. On My account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you (Matthew 10:17-20).

You may never be flogged for your faith. However, you may very well be brought before others to give account for what you believe. It may be at a water cooler, or it could be during lunch with a coworker. In whatever situation you find yourself, the Holy Spirit awaits the opportunity to speak through your life to that person who needs to hear. Ask the Lord whom He wants to speak to today through your life.

~=|=~

When Fear Keeps Others From Their Destiny
-----------------------------------------------
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
by Os Hillman

No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. ~ Acts 5:13


Every work day in thousands of offices across the globe, Christians testify of God's grace in their lives in some way. Sometimes it comes through a subtle performance of their duties with a smile and peace that non-believers cannot understand. In other cases, there might be more visible, unexplainable examples of God's work. This was the defining difference in believers in the early Church. They lived a life that followed with signs and wonders that could not be humanly explained.

The apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon's Colonnade. No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number (Acts 5:12-14).

How often we have heard non-believers acknowledge their respect for the Christian workplace believer , but they dare not join them in their persuasion. It is this fear of the unknown that keeps many a non-believer on the path to hell. Who has God placed in your path today to help detour from a path of eternal torment to a path of freedom and eternal life? The Lord desires that each should come to knowledge of the truth so that they might be saved. As you enter the workplace today, ask the Lord for a divine appointment that might be the turning point for a lost soul. There's no prayer the Lord will delight in more than this one.

~=|=~

God's Authority
-----------------------------------------------
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
by Os Hillman

I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on Me, but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what My Father has commanded Me.... ~ John 14:30-31


There is a constant war going on between our flesh and the Spirit. As Christians, the Spirit seeks to move us under the authority of His domain in order for us to fulfill all that we were created for. Every person was designed to be under some form of authority. Jesus modeled this in His own life. He lived under the authority of His heavenly Father. He made no independent decisions. He, unlike us, was sinless and always remained under His Father's authority. He acknowledged that the prince of this world has a hold on many, but did not have a hold on Jesus.

The prince of this world does have his hold on many in our world, even among our brothers and sisters. The one thing most of us want the greatest is the freedom to make our own decisions. It goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden when the decision was made to exercise a personal right: freedom to decide, freedom of choice, freedom from hindrances, freedom from pain. However, Jesus said He had no freedom of choice. He chose only the Father's desire for His life. He was the ultimate model of a man under authority.

Each day we must determine if we'll willingly choose to be under the authority of the Father and the direction of the Holy Spirit. It is a choice each of us must make. It is a choice that actually leads to freedom, not bondage. Choosing to live under the authority of our heavenly Father frees us to gain the greatest fulfillment in life-His mission and the purposes He has for us. It is the little decisions of daily life that reveal whether we truly live under His authority.

~=|=~

Being Fully Persuaded
-----------------------------------------------
Monday, June 20, 2005
by Os Hillman

Being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised. ~ Romans 4:21

Why did God consider Abraham a righteous man? It was because Abraham looked beyond his own limitations of age and strength and considered God as the one who could accomplish His own goals. Abraham came to a place in his life where he realized it had little to do with him and all to do with God. His part was initiating the faith within himself.

Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead-since he was about a hundred years old-and that Sarah's womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God (Romans 4:18-20).

What are the things in your life that are mere impossibilities? What are the mountains in your life? Are these there in order to build your faith in the one who can enable you to ascend to the peak? Once you know that it is His will for you to pursue, do it with faith. Faith requires action when we know it is He who is leading. It may require risk. Faith is sometimes spelled R-I-S-K. Abraham did not limit God. It is this confidence in God that God honored and rewarded. He wants to do the same with you and me.

~=|=~

Copyright 2005. www.MarketplaceLeaders.org
---------------------------------------------------
To contact Os Hillman, request reprint permission, or to book Os to speak in your town write to os@marketplaceleaders.org. Marketplace Leaders Website: http://www.marketplaceleaders.org/ Copyright 2005
--------------------------------------------------
Please recommend this TGIF daily devotional to everyone interested in applying their faith to their worklife. Tell them to subscribe at http://www.TodayGodIsFirst.com

Os Hillman Copyright 2005
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Verse of the Day

But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. Eph 6:21-24

Well, here we are at the end of the study of Ephesians … and we have come full circle. Paul began with grace and peace; he ends with peace and grace with a bit of love thrown in. Paul taught us who we are in Christ. All we have to do is accept those truths and believe that they are true … for us. It all sounds easy on paper. We all in our own way spoke our “amens” and perhaps a “hallelujah” or two. Now the rubber hits the road … the fat hits the fan … and all those other trite clichés. Now we have to live out what we believe. If we even begin to believe, we can shout, “Now the fun begins!” Or, as Jesus put it, “I came to give you life, and that more abundantly.” (John 10:10)

What does abundant life look like? Does it involve a nice house with a two-car garage, a wife, three kids, and a dog? Is it a five-day-a-week job that pays in the upper five figures or better? Perhaps in another country and another society it might be a grass hut at the edge of the village near the well and an acre in which to plant maize to sell for a few pennies at the nearby town. What does abundant life look like?

To Martin Luther it was freedom from the abuses of the Catholic Church. To some early ascetics, it was rejection of the socially acceptable state version of Christianity and social norms. Martin Luther found peace in leading a movement. The ascetics became hermits living in the wilderness and found peace and solitude in studying the Word of God. What does abundant life look like?

Paul lived the abundant life in a jail cell in Philippi chained to his partner, Silas, singing hymns at midnight. He found the abundant life in the midst of a storm at sea and deliverance from drowning of the entire crew and passengers of the ship he was on. Paul lived the abundant life chained to two members of the Praetorian Guard in a rented house in Rome. What does abundant life look like?

The abundant life does not look at all like the American dream. Instead, it looks like a life of peace … the peace that comes from knowing who you are in Christ. It looks like a peaceful person filled with love … love for his God, love for his family, love for his Christian brothers and sisters, and love for his neighbor whoever or wherever he may be found. The abundant life looks life the grace of God that is abundantly lavished upon those who believe. The abundant life is not dependant upon what is happening to the body, but what is living in the soul and spirit of a person.

As we conclude this study, may the peace of God overflow you daily. May the love of God fill you to overflowing. And may the grace of God be with you abundantly.

Harley
~=|=~
… and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Eph 6:19-20

Who would ever have thought that the great Apostle Paul would need prayer? He was unarguably the most influential person in the establishment and maturing of the Church of Christ. He wrote more letters to more churches teaching foundational truths and essential application of those truths. He nurtured, encouraged, taught, and even disciplined churches throughout the Roman Empire. And still he needed prayer? Paul had led mission trips, preached to untold thousands, stopped riots, performed miracles, healed the sick, raised the dead, cast out demons, and refuted the wisdom of the Greek philosophers. And he requested prayer that he could say the right things? Who was this man … and why was he so “weak” that he needed the Ephesians to pray for him?

Indeed, all of the above was true of our beloved Apostle … including the need for prayer. It seems that Paul recognized the value of relationships … the importance of spiritual support. Any man or woman who claims he or she can fulfill the mission God has for him is both blind and a fool. Remember, Jesus needed prayer too. After a hard day of preaching and teaching, He often left the twelve and prayed through the night. He even encouraged the disciples to pray with Him in the Garden … and they slept.

Paul is asking for prayer for several reasons. He honestly needs help and the strength of the Ephesians … remember, he was imprisoned and chained to Roman guards. He also needed to have the wisdom to say what needed to be said in the way it needed to be said to whom it needed to be said. He, though in chains, was still a minister of the Gospel and as such desired to proclaim the Word of God to whomever he came in contact.

However, there is another reason for Paul’s request. He knew that the Ephesians needed to be a part of His ministry. Their prayer support for Paul made them a vital part of his ministry. They felt important, needed, valuable because of Paul’s request.

Yes, we are approaching the end of our study of Ephesians. As Paul is wrapping up his letter, we are wrapping up our discussion of this important book. Just as Paul needed prayer, I also am in need of your prayers. Just as Paul was writing to people he could not see, I write to you … most of whom I have never met and will not meet until we stand together at the throne of God. Still, I need your support as we begin to look at new avenues of discussion. You are a vital part of this little ministry. Your words of encouragement lift my spirits at times when I am wavering, wondering if anyone really reads these words. For your benefit … and mine, pray for me that as I proclaim the Gospel to which I am happily chained that I will be able to write the right words at the right time in the right way so that the person God is reaching out to will hear, understand, and believe.

Several years ago, Ray Boltz wrote a song about a meeting in Heaven. A new arrival was greeted by people whom he had never met. Each one tells how they were touched by his generosity. You, my friends, will meet people in Heaven who will thank you for praying for me, for through those prayers and the words written in these humble missives, they will have come to the Master. They will have discovered who they are in Jesus. You will have helped them through a rough time … because you prayed for me. You will share in the rewards afforded those who minister the Gospel … because you cared enough to pray. They will thank you … and I thank you now. May the Father richly bless you as you live your life for Him.

Harley
~=|=~
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints … Eph 6:18

“Where is you brother, Able?” God asked Cain. Cain’s response is a classic … a verse quoted by Christians and non-Christians alike: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” In essence Cain was saying, “Get out of my face! I want nothing to do with my brother!” Now, isn’t that a great way to respond to the Almighty God to which you owe your very life? Cain knew where Able was … he planted Able in his shallow grave. He hoped his response to God was a rhetorical question … one that did not expect a response.

Paul answers Cain’s question in today’s verse. The short version is, “Yes.” But, before we tackle the longer answer, let me ask you a question? Why does this verse follow on the heals of the discussion of the Christian’s armor? What does all of this have to do with the sword of the Spirit? The answer, my friends, lies not with verse 17, but with verse 10. Always remember to take the verse you might be studying in context with its neighbors. It appears there is NO connection between the armor and this verse on prayer. So, we must look a bit further back in the context. Verse 10 says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Now do you see the connection? The armor has to do with being strong. Prayer has to do with being strong.

All too often, we read the first part of this verse and stop. How many times have you heard the admonition to “pray at all times …”? I’m actually guilt of such sermons and admonitions! All the while, I have not been able to do this seemingly simple act. After all, I have a life to live, and you do too. How is it possible to pray at all times and do the daily tasks you have to do? And therein lies the fallacy of this miss-quote. Read on: “… with this in view, be on the alert … for all the saints …” Ah! The answer to Cain’s question. Indeed, we are our bother’s keeper. We are responsible for his well-being. Ezekiel might call us “watchmen” (Ezekiel 33).

Both the good soldier and the good watchman are always alert, looking to and fro analyzing every shadow, every movement, every approaching figure. Suspicion is the word that best describes their attitude. Everything outside the wall, the safe compound, is suspicious. Until the approaching shadow responds with the appropriate response to the password, that shadow is an enemy. It is the task of the watchman, and the good soldier, to protect those within his realm of responsibility. Ask any soldier; he will tell you that the unit with which he serves works as a unit. Everyone is equally important. The point man is just as valuable as the rear guard. The radioman is just as important as the medic. The gunner is just as important as the driver. Everyone works together. Everyone watches the others back. Only in this way is it possible for the unit to return to base without loss.

The praying is the Christian’s way of being alert. We must rely upon the Spirit to give us spiritual eyes to see the enemy we face. Remember, our enemy is not flesh and blood. In this sense, our prayers are our eyes! Our constant attitude of spiritual alertness through prayer averts the “accidental” mishap that destroys the coherence of the unit … the Body of Christ, the Church!

Brothers and sisters, we have a responsibility to remain alert, spiritually, on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Christ. We do that by prayer … and by being in tune with the Spirit who will tell us how to pray and when to shout the alarm and how to fight the battles we will all face.

Harley

~=|=~

c. 2005 Harley E. Hudson

If you received Verse of the Day as a forward and you wish to have your own subscription, simply send an e-mail to hhudson719@earthlink.net and request a free subscription.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Activities and Events of Interest
~~~
The Emancipation Proclamation will be on display at the Clinton Library September 22-25, 2007.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"September 11 WDYTJWD" W. P. Florence
Justice first, then peace."
"September 11" Never forget.--Tony Moses
"ONE NATION UNDER GOD ...the only way"--Phillip Story
"We have nothing to fear but fear itself." -- Franklin D. Roosevelt
"Keeping my head down but face toward Heaven" - - Jody Eldred, ABC News Cameraman in Kuwait
"Remember Pearl Harbor? Remember 9/11!" --"Bug"
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
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
NEVER FORGET! We're listing the names of our soldiers killed weekly. These records can be found at http://www.defenselink. mil/releases/

The Department of Defense announced the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
01. Lance Cpl. Erik R. Heldt, 26, of Hermann, Mo.
02. Capt. John W. Maloney, 36, of Chicopee, Mass.
Both Marines died June 16 when their vehicle hit an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Ar Ramadi, Iraq. They were assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. During Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).

03. Lance Cpl. Adam J. Crumpler, 19, from Charleston, W.Va., died June 18 as a result of small-arms fire while conducting combat operations against enemy forces during Operation Spear in Karabilah, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

The Department of Defense announced the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 18 in Baqubah, Iraq, from injuries sustained on June 17 in Buritz, Iraq, when they were conducting a mounted patrol and their HMMWV was attacked by enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades. Both soldiers were assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
04. 1st Lt. Noah Harris, 23, of Ellijay, Ga.
05. Cpl. William A. Long, 26, of Lilburn, Ga.

The Department of Defense announced the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 17 in Al Qaim, Iraq, while conducting combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to Headquarters, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C. Killed were:
06. Master Sgt. Robert M. Horrigan, 40, of Austin, Texas.
07. Master Sgt. Michael L. McNulty, 36, of Knoxville, Tenn.

08. Pfc. Christopher R. Kilpatrick, 18, of Columbus, Texas, died June 20 in Tal Afar, Iraq, during convoy operations when enemy forces attacked his HMMWV with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. Kilpatrick was assigned to the 603rd Transportation Company, 142nd Corps Support Battalion, Warrior Brigade, Fort Polk, La.

09. Spc. Nicholas R. Idalski, 23, of Crown Point, Ind., died June 21 in Ramadi, Iraq, where his unit was conducting combat operations and were attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Idalski was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.

The Department of Defense announced the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 21 in Ramadi, Iraq, where their unit was conducting combat operations, and were attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo. Killed were:
10. Spc. Christopher L. Hoskins, 21, of Danielson, Conn.
11. Spc. Brian A. Vaughn, 23, of Pell City, Ala.

12. Sgt. James D. Stewart, 29, of Chattanooga, Tenn., died June 21 in Ar Rutbah, Iraq, where an improvised explosive device detonated near his military cargo truck. Stewart was assigned to the 57th Transportation Company, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.

13. Maj. Duane W. Dively, 43, of Rancho California, Calif., died June 22 in Southwest Asia, in the crash of a U-2 aircraft. Dively had completed flying a mission and was returning to his base when the crash occurred. He was assigned to the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron, Beale Air Force Base, Calif.

14. Sgt. Arnold Duplantier II, 26, of Sacramento, Calif., died June 22 in Baghdad, Iraq, where he was providing cordon security, and was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Duplantier was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, Auburn, Calif.

15. Sgt. Joseph M. Tackett, 22, of Whitehouse, Ky., died June 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, of a non-combat related injury. Tackett was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

16. Lance Cpl. Holly A. Charette, 21, from Cranston, R.I., died June 23 from wounds sustained when a suicide, vehicle-borne, improvised explosive device struck her vehicle in Fallujah, Iraq. She was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Remember that for every soldier killed in modern war, 10 are wounded. Don't forget to pray for them and their families.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Please remember to pray for the American soldiers stationed everywhere around the globe and especially in Iraq. Times have been and are very tough and it would be nice if you would all just say a prayer for their safety and for their families.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
Scheduled Activities
~~~
Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 8 p.m. Monday - Friday. At noon on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and at 7 p.m. Sunday at 914 N. Vine
~~~
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.
~~~
Columbia County Diabetes Support Group - Every third Monday, 7:00 p.m. room 222, Magnolia Hospital
~~~
"Focus on the Family" with Dr. James Dobson weekday afternoons at 1 PM on KVMA am 630 it's a great show!
~~~
MCC - Abraham Prayer - Sunday at 5:00 p.m and Wednesday from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm
~~~
MCC - Early Morning Prayer - Monday - Friday, From 6:30 am to 8:00 am
~~~
MCC - "Beth Moore" Video Class - Thursday nights at 5:45 pm
~~~
MCC - "Faith Builders" Small group meets at 1051 Columbia 36 the second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30 pm to 7:45 pm.
~~~
MCC - Firm Foundations Class, Sunday 9:30 to 10:15 a.m
~~~
MCC - Meadow Brook Nursing Home Ministry Tuesday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m
~~~
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.
~~~
MCC - Nursing Home Ministry - Meadowbrook Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 am. Taylor, the last Thursday each month.
~~~
MCC - Over comers: Fridays @ 7:00 p.m- Director, Traci Foster invites you to a 12 step Christian support program. For anyone with a life controlling problem. Child care is provided.
~~~
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.
~~~
Narcotics Anonymous 5-6 pm every Monday at 220 Pine street.
~~~
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) 5 pm every Tuesday in the Magnolia Hospital break room.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
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/
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>
"Fight till you win!" - - Mark Brazee
"Bring 'em on!" - -President George W. Bush
"There is not enough darkness in the world to put out the light of one candle."
"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"
"If you can read this e-mail, thank a teacher. - - If you read it in English, thank a serviceman."
"A simple way to take measure of a country is to look at how many want in ... and how many want out." - - Tony Blair
"Information is the currency of democracy." - Jefferson
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - - Margaret Mead
~~~~~
Hope you enjoy the newsletter.
Again, thanks to all our contributors this week.

God bless and GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
Psa 138:8 Psa 119:41-42 Eph 3:8-11 Luke 22:31-34 2 Cor 4:6-7
God is Good and Faithful CU 73 IC JFM CSP NREMT-I KC5HII

P. S. If you'd like to be added to the distribution, just drop us E-mail at KC5HII@Magnolia-Net.Com. We offer "Da Bleat" as text, a "Blog" and as a newsletter with pictures in Word and PDF format. For the "Blog" version just go to http://bugsbleatnew.blogspot.com/ to see the latest issue. This week, "Word" and "PDF" subscribers get to see photos of a cute little Ford with her Catch, Zac (before the accident) and Steve Yate’s ‘49 Ford.
Let us hear from you if we can switch you over to the "Word" or "PDF" version of "Da Bleat".
If you'd prefer to read "Da Blog" version, just drop us a note at KC5HII@Magnolia-Net.Com and we'll switch you from e:mail delivery to "Da Bleat" Blog. Of course "Da Bleat" is now on the web. Just go to http://bugsbleatnew.blogspot.com to see the latest issue (usually updated sometime Friday evening or Saturday morning. We appreciate your encouragement. We also appreciate your communication when you desire to be taken off our mail list. If you are on this mail list by mistake or do not wish to receive "Da Bleat," please reply back and tell us to discontinue service to you. This email was scanned by Norton AntiVirus 2005 before it was sent.
><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>

1 Comments:

Blogger abraham said...

Appliance repair in san diego ca, for washers dryers dishwashers refrigerators stoves ovens and garbage disposals

8:50 PM  

Post a Comment

<< Home