Bug's Bleat - - GCF: Sarahrella

Volume 8, Issue 01 Friday, January 06, 2006


Hello ALL,

FLASH - Ethan Elijah Malone arrived at 6:30 am on Thursday, January 05, 2006. Vanessa was air lifted out of Springhill Hospital at 5:00 that morning. Ethan was sideways in the birth canal and it took a team of fantastic Doctors and Nurses at Willis Knighton South (Women’s Unit) to deliver him via caesarian. The baby couldn’t deliver due to his lateral transverse position. Drs. at Springhill and Willis Knighton told us that mother and child would have died if they hadn't gotten her to the advanced team at Willis Knighton South in Shreveport (Ethan’s right arm was outside the birth canal when the helicopter landed).

Jimmy called us from the car as they were rushing Vanessa to the Springhill Hospital. When we arrived, they were setting up the landing pad and the Life Air team got there minutes after we did. All there agreed that it was the fastest helicopter turnaround in recent memory.

After the delivery, the head OBGYN at WKSouth told us that the delivery had aged HIM 10 years.

Ethan was originally on a ventilator and is still in critical condition but is now off the vent and is improving minute by minute. He is receiving excellent care from the dedicated staff in the neo natal ICU at Uncle Knighton's hospital (Ethan is the great great great nephew of Dr. Knighton.)

Vanessa’s suite is the largest in the hospital (I guess they recognized Vanessa as a relative) and could easily hold four patients. Vanessa is doing well and able to visit him several times a day. She was opened up quite a bit to get him out and is working on healing and getting some strength back.

Two miracles involved the doctor at WK and the helicopter. It seems the doctor on call “just happened” to be the most experienced in this kind of emergency delivery in North LA. Also, medical helicopters don’t transport women in active labor (there’s no way for them to access the baby or birth canal while in the air) but they flew Vanessa anyway.

Special Thanks to Toni for being her doctor and Claiborne for being there for us.

God is good!
~~~~~
The photos on the front of this weeks “Bleat” show the Life Air Helicopter lifting off the pad at Springhill, Annette praying over Ethan in the Neo Natal ICU, Vanessa watching over her new baby and Ethan while he was still on the ventilator.
~~~~~
The week started out with sorrow over the passing of Sandy Riggins, another friend who was only 58 years old. But she battled cancer for 20 years before succumbing.
Sandy and Quinton were our neighbors for several years and she was one of the most gracious, thoughtful, charming Christian women we know.
Quinton, a kind, compassionate, faithful man, was our dentist until he retired to open the Dudney Wood home for older citizens.
Their son Ryan grew up into a fine Christian Gentleman. He and his lady love, Kami Troquille, are both super young people.
It’s hard for me to write about her even now. Due to Vanessa’s emergency delivery, we missed the funeral, where Ryan, brought members of (Pocket Full of Rocks http://www.pocketfullofrocks.com/) to be pall bearers. “Pocket” is a fantastic group of young people who recently signed a recording contract with Word/Myrrh records. Their worship music soothes the soul and we were touched that they played at the funeral.
Sandy was a great supporter of PFOR and had insisted that Ryan go to Nashville for an engagement last week even though she new time was short.
How can I even begin to speak of such fine Christians. Their faith, joy and love followed the path of Christ. Their battle was long and hard and marked by their constant worship of the Lord.
I’m reminded of a song from the sixties, “Abraham, Martin and John” (1968. Words & Lyrics by: Dion Demucii Arranged by: Richard Holler.) where the writer states “it seems the good they die young.”
Well, Sandy was good and she died young. But in living and in dying, she glorified the Lord Jesus Christ. Sandy, along with Quinton and Ryan are examples to us all. What more could we ascribe to?
~~~~~
Many of us at Magnolia Christian Center are on a "Daniel fast” the first 21 days of this year. Some are following other stricter or more lenient fasts.
As Pastor Terry related on the MCC website . . . “Beginning January 2, I’m calling MCC to FAST and PRAY for 21 days! During this 21-day period, I’m asking everyone to fast television and whatever you choose as far as food is concerned. Please consider doing a “Daniel Fast.” A “Daniel Fast” is not eating meats or sweets but rather vegetables, fruits and nuts. You may want to fast a meal or two every day or some of you may consider joining me and doing a total fast except for juices and other liquids.
The church will be open for corporate prayer at 6 am, noon and 6 pm, Monday- Friday. On Saturday there will be corporate prayer at 6 pm....”
Even though I’ve sort of backed into this (I’ve been pretty lenient about how I’ve followed the fast), I’m feeling better, sleeping better and have a better attitude. I haven’t even really missed Fox News. Now, I’d like to tie in more prayer and seek God’s guidance for the coming year.
The main thing I’ve received so fare is a deeper well of thanksgiving to God for what He’s done and is doing in our lives as well as the lives of our family and friends.
~~~~~
More info is available on the MCC website www.mcc2000.net
as well as "What is a Daniel fast?" - - http://www.gotquestions.org/Daniel-fast.html
GUIDELINES FOR DANIEL FAST - - http://www.michaelmain.com/daniel.html
also - - http://ww2.daystar.com/cgi-bin/MsmGo.exe?grab_id=5&page_id=5898240&query=Daniel+Fast&hiword=DANIELA+DANIELS+Daniel+FASTED+FASTER+FASTING+FASTS+Fast+
~~~~~
Check out www.mcc2000.net
~~~~~
Joe Tudor shared this website with us
http://www.riverpower.org/
~~~~~
Survey Tracks 2005's Most Annoying Phrases By SARAH KARUSH, Associated Press Writer
Sun Jan 1,12:58 AM ET

DETROIT - No up-or-down vote necessary: Everyone from persons of interest to first-time callers will agree that 2005 offered more than its share of irritating words and phrases.

Lake Superior State University on Saturday released its 2006 "List of Words and Phrases Banished from the Queen's English for Mis-Use, Over-Use and General Uselessness." But please, don't call it "breaking news."

That and 16 other linguistic nuisances were selected by a university committee from among almost 2,000 nominations. The small academic outpost in the Upper Peninsula community of Sault Ste. Marie has been compiling the banned-words list since 1976 to attract publicity — and certainly not to offer anyone "talking points."

The committee also targeted such gems as "hunker down," which it noted is used by media "in reports about everything from politics to hurricanes."

Also frequently heard on the news is "person of interest," a favorite of law enforcement agencies. Such a person is "seldom encountered at cocktail parties," the list's authors lamented.

From the field of education comes "community of learners."

"Not to be confused with 'school,'" one critic wrote.

Politics offered plenty of fodder. The committee cited "up-or-down vote," a phrase uttered often in 2005 by Republicans eager to see President Bush's judicial nominees move through the Senate without the threat of a Democratic filibuster.

The committee also banished "FEMA," the acronym for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, whose operations in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina were widely criticized as ineffective.

"If they don't do anything, we don't need their acronym," wrote Josh Hamilton, of Tucson, Ariz.

Many of the phrases banned this year are not new, but simply got under enough people's skin to finally deserve the dubious honor.

Miguel McCormick, of Orlando, Fla., was fed up with "first-time caller," a designation heard on talk radio.

"I am serious in asking: Who in any universe gives a care?" he asked.

The school has banned nearly 800 words over the years, including "metrosexual" (2004), "chad" (2001), "baby boomers" (1989) and "detente" (1976).
___
On the Net:
http://www.lssu.edu/banished
~~~~~
FREE Directory assistance and they even connect you for free........
800-FREE-411...or 800-3733-411 Works for residential or commercial
Thanks to Ken and Carol Sibley
~~~~~
The Junior Charity League “Follies” is a great show for a great cause. I encourage everyone to get tickets and attend. You’ll be glad you did. Here’s a message from Erin Price who has tickets available.

My wife is a member of Magnolia Junior Charity League and she is selling tickets to Follies. For those of you who don't know, Follies is a variety show that showcases 100% local talent - singing, acting, and dancing. All of the profits go to children's organizations that operate in Columbia County such as: Boys and Girls Club, United Way, Make a Wish Foundation, Magnolia Hospital nursery, the Library, Special Olympics, and area schools.
There are two performances. One is Friday night - February 24, and the other is Saturday night - February 25. Tickets are $15 for regular seating and $20 for "Angel" seating. If you'd like some tickets, please let me know and I'll bring them to you. The ticket you purchase from me is an exchange ticket. It must be taken to Jennifer's on or after January 13 so that you can choose your seats. You will trade the exchange tickets for real tickets at that time.

Thanks,

Erin C. Price
E&I Supervisor
Albemarle Corporation - Magnolia
E-mail: erin_price@albemarle.com
~~~~~
Rufus and DeDe Whynot are our missionaries to Romania. This message of hope and Faith is, as usual, worth sharing.

Greetings from Transylvania on the final day of 2005.
These past months we have been exhorting our people concerning the last days and returning to our first love: Jesus Christ, and how that translates to the gathering in of the final harvest of souls. The people seemed to warm to the subject; but, an emotional response is one thing, while acting on it is another. As James said:"...faith without works is dead."
As ministers we can only proclaim the truth of God's Word, pray over the hearers, and praise God in faith for fruit to be produced. Then we must rest in faith as the Holy Spirit broods over these things. I believe most of us come to that place, in the ministry He has given us, when we have to face the hard question: Has what we have given ourselves to been of sufficient faith substance for God to multiply? If God was allowed to do it through us; it was.
Christmas morning many from Faith Family Christian Center gathered together to worship God. After praise and worship and a short message we moved into small fellowship groups. In my group I heard testimonies of how the members were reaching out to share the Gospel with others. There were unique stories of how God put people in their pathways and gave them creative ideas for sharing the truth.
Many also shared how they had to pay a price to come to the church that morning. One lady had experienced the death of a beloved family member on Christmas Eve; but, she rejoiced that she had lead him to Jesus just a short time before he died. One couple had a difficult drive over icy roads from their village to come to Cluj.
Jesus's birth did not occur in easy times. It happened under stressful, difficult times. But in the middle of those dark days God brought light and a promise of peace and good joy towards mankind. This Christmas day was no different. I knew that throughout the room were other stories of prices paid to come and give praise to the one most beloved. The people had not come to please Pastor Rufus, pay their dues to religious tradition, nor to impress others with their piety. They were there because of desire. The message I heard preached that day was that" wise men still seek Him to lay down their gifts before Him".
As I sat and listened my heart overflowed with joy and my eyes with tears. Jesus had truly delivered to me a gift that words can hardly express.
In His Love, Deedre Whynot
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Don't forget ... "Da Bleat" is now on the web. Just go to http://bugsbleat4q.blogspot.com
~~~~~
Feel free to share the "Bleat" with any and all. That's why we publish it.
~~~~~
www.aaa.com Regular
Current Avg. $ 2.27
http://www.fuelgaugereport.com/
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Recipe(s) of the week - Spaghetti with Zucchini and Garlic Recipe courtesy Rachael Ray
Show: 30 Minute Meals - Episode: Tool Shop

Recipe Summary
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

2 small to medium zucchini
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 4 turns of the pan
4 cloves garlic, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pound spaghetti, cooked al dente
½ cup grated Parmigiano or Romano

Pile up 2 or 3 layers of paper towels on a work surface. Working on the paper towels, shred zucchinis using a box grater holding the zucchini at an angle.
Heat a large skillet over moderate heat. Add extra-virgin olive oil to the pan Add chopped garlic to the oil. When garlic speaks by sizzling in oil, add shredded zucchini. Season zucchini with salt and pepper. Saute shredded zucchini 7 to 10 minutes. Add hot, drained pasta to the pan. Toss spaghetti with zucchini and garlic oil. Add a couple of handfuls of grated cheese to the pan. Adjust seasoning and serve.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,1977,FOOD_9936_22173,00.html
~~~~~
BreakPoint
With Chuck Colson

Light of the World, Camera, Action
Behind the Screen: Hollywood Insiders on Faith, Film, and Culture
By Alex Wainer
January 6, 2006

American Christians have had a sea change in their attitudes toward Tinseltown. From suspicion and distrust to a willingness to actually work in the vineyards of Babylon, the change is as dramatic as a Hollywood screenplay. A young generation of talented people, eager to play in the big leagues, are advancing into positions and taking advantages of opportunities undreamt of by their elders.

Now this movement has a manifesto in the form of a book written by many of those in key positions who have demonstrated that one can be faithful in Hollywood and still achieve a level of success. They share their insights in Behind the Screen: Hollywood Insiders on Faith, Film, and Culture. For readers who believe that Christ transforms culture through His presence in faithful servants, this is an exciting and encouraging collection of essays.

The last thirty years have seen a growing sense of cultural disenfranchisement felt by conservative Christians. Manifestations of this attitude toward Hollywood were evidenced in different ways by two films whose subject was the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The default response has been to protest whatever new offense was perceived. The protest mode may have reached its zenith in 1988 with the outcry over Scorsese’s The Last Temptation of Christ.

The urge to protest was an indicator that Christians cared too much about entertainment to ignore scandalous content—an implicit recognition of the importance of film and perhaps an admission that they liked popular entertainment, but didn’t like their faith being mocked or distorted. And there was a growing awareness of the need to pay attention to the ideas and assumptions behind the entertainment. So culture-watching became an expression of discipleship, but mostly in the sense that “we’ve got to do this to protect our impressionable kids since Hollywood won’t do it for us anymore.”

Some even made attempts to finance and produce their own counter-cinema, to show those heathen how it should be done, or at least to offer a redemptive alternative. But these, outside of the American mainstream distribution apparatus, mostly went nowhere. Many believers sensed that Hollywood could do better, could make really great films that respected their faith and made money, but had forgotten how or just didn’t care about their values. And with the other film about Jesus, Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, evangelicals demonstrated how they could effectively turn even an R-rated film into a blockbuster. Hoots of triumph greeted the films success along with the occasional smug “I-told-you-so.” One of their own had used his own resources to put his faith on film—in spite of the media naysaying—and it was successful beyond any studio exec’s imagination.

But increasingly, there has been another segment of Christians who have sought to join the American film industry, believing that the best way to see change is to become a part of the most influential cultural formation system in the world. This movement believes that the salt of the Gospel transforms people and then, over time, institutions when Christians follow God’s call to use their creative gifts in the entertainment industry. This means learning the craft, paying one’s dues and taking the time to advance in the business, and trusting God for opportunities to let one’s light shine as he earns the right to be heard. Behind the Screen allows many of the Christian men and women who have found positions in the film community to share valuable lessons.

The book’s editors, Spenser Lewerenz and Barbara Nocolosi, are directors of Act One, a program whose mission it is to train Christians to write for Hollywood. This is a very different goal than seeking to avoid Hollywood’s taint by setting up a separate (and futile) Christian film counter-colony. Attempts to create self-marginalizing communities have demonstrated how such efforts usually produce less-than-professional results that, despite claims of evangelistic intent, play to the choir rather than to a larger mainstream audience. Act One, believing Woody Allen’s dictum that “90 percent of success is showing up,” prepares those eager to learn the ropes of filmmaking by offering classes in screenwriting and producing. They are taught by Christian who have climbed up the mountain of experience in Hollywood and now, many of them present some priceless lessons in the chapters of Behind the Screen.

Though there are several themes that run through the book, each writer has his particular take on the challenge of playing on Hollywood’s turf by biblical principles. One of the chief obstacles many Christians see is that Hollywood’s secular worldview of success, as defined by material rewards, acclaim of one’s peers clashes, and public adoration, clashes with the Christian ideals of morality, service, and the necessary exclusiveness of their faith.

In an essay called “The Great Divide,” Ron Austin, a Roman Catholic and veteran screenwriter for film and television, explores the inherent conflicts between these two mindsets by casting them as characters in a story whose antagonists must move toward some sort of reconciliation for the plot to resolve satisfactorily. Each character has reasons to distrust the other, yet the drama demands that this conflict be resolved. For this to happen, Austin thinks it will be necessary for the Christian character to “risk lowering his defenses, admitting his uncertainties, and opening himself to the secularist’s mirrored fears.”

This could lead to mutual illumination about the other. “The best realized ending,” he continues, “would be when the Christian begins to see Jesus in the other, the Jesus in both of them—the same Jesus who is suffering within each of us. This ending might provide real hope for both characters.”

Imagine what would happen if more creative people in Hollywood began basing their characterizations of Christians based not on the frequently obnoxious culture warriors attacking them, but from the Christian who works down the hall from them at the studio.

And of course, proximity of Christians to other filmmakers increases the possibility that friendship-based evangelism occurs. Karen and Jim Covell’s “The World’s Most Influential Mission Field” makes an appeal to Christians that part of being in Hollywood is the opportunity to cultivate relationships that can engender an openness to share one’s faith. Karen, a television producer and director of the Hollywood Prayer Network, and Jim, a television and film music composer, remind us of our responsibility to pray for the community whose work shapes cultures all over the world. Rather than disdain Hollywood as Sin City and be like Jonah, who preferred that God judge wicked Nineveh, the Covells entreat the church to seek the good of the city they have been called to serve.

Of course, not everyone is called to work in Hollywood, but we are all touched by its pervasive reach. James Scott Bell, who teaches screenwriting and fiction at Pepperdine University, contributes a chapter titled “In Defense of the Christian Movie Buff.” He exhorts us to admit that, after a century of film’s entrenchment as a major shaper of culture, there is much to love and appreciate about movies. Surveys have shown there is very little difference in the actual moviegoing behavior of Christians compared to everyone else. Rather than watch everything uncritically, or, on the other hand, “keep a finger on the pulse” of the culture, why not value film as a healing art form that helps us appreciate what’s good in life as well as articulate the big questions we all must deal with? We can still be engaged with good movies without being married to the spirit of the age.

But for those who do believe they are called to go to Hollywood, screenwriter Janet Scott Batchler, in “So You Wanna Come to Hollywood,” offers a reality check. She examines both right and wrong motives for coming to Tinseltown and provides offers wise warnings about the greater difficulty Christians will face in a community long famous for breaking the heart of many an ambitious and talented person. Christians must run the same marathon but play by different rules alongside others who may not be as nice as the folks at church. Her warning is meant to scare the illusions out of would-be stars and players before they have counted the cost.

Another veteran perspective comes from Ralph Winter, producer of several Star Trek films, the X-Men features, and the recent Fantastic Four film. He shares the hard lessons he learned about the cost of a successful career on family and how one must sacrifice opportunities to hang on to the things that last. This is a crucial examination of what it takes to avoid becoming another casualty on Sunset Boulevard.

Barbara Nicolosi, founder and director of Act One, offers one of the most penetrating discussions of what is involved in working in Hollywood, titled “Toward a Christian Cinema.” She challenges readers to ponder some hard issues. “We need to figure out what success in Hollywood will look like for the Christian community,” she writes. “What does a Christian worldview mean in entertainment, and will our own brothers and sisters in the church recognize it when our artists start producing it?”

This is one of the essays that addresses on both the philosophical and practical level what films made by Christians can accomplish as an art form, rather than as barely disguised visual sermons.

In another chapter called “What Kind of Stories Should We Tell?” Dr. Linda Seger offers a taste of an Act One screenwriting class. Years ago, Seger created and defined the word “script consultant” for her ability for discern structural and dramatic problems in a screenplay. She offers advice about writing stories that contain a “transformational arc” whereby characters travel a path so compelling that the audience identifies with the changes they undergo.

My personal favorite of all the fine articles in the book is Scott Derrickson’s “A Filmmaker’s Progress.” Derrickson’s most recent film, the critically praised The Exorcism of Emily Rose, demonstrates that he has achieved a prominence in mainstream filmmaking to which others aspire without compromising his faith. The chapter is a marvelous allegory, a la The Pilgrim’s Progress, of his journey through the various attitudes Christians take toward popular culture such as “The Village of Passive Consumers,” and “The Battalion of Values Changers.” Hitting closer to home for me was “The Content Assasins,” which Derrickson describes as “a small, educated band of Christians who took careful aim at Hollywood movies, then shot holes in their non-Christian content,” particularly aiming at secular worldviews.

Though Derrickson found aspects to appreciate about these and other approaches to the movies, he found the group he best fit in was what he calls the “Quality Club,” the approach that says we have to learn to do excellent and marketable work, be professional and have moral integrity if we expect to have an impact on Hollywood and its audience.

It seems that this is the path Christians aspiring to work in Hollywood must follow to be salt and light in a community more vilified than prayed for or understood by the faithful. This book is a helpful map that will guide many pilgrims on their way to fruitful vocations in a land of many creative but lost people, some of whom, like the people of Nineveh, might surprise us when they finally hear God’s call through his obedient servants.

Alex Wainer teaches communication and mass media at Palm Beach Atlantic University. He is also a regular contributor to The Culture Beat. He can be reached at commdocalex@netscape.net.

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FOR FURTHER READING
Spenser Lewerenz and Barbara Nicolosi, eds., Behind the Screen: Hollywood Insiders on Faith, Film, and Culture, (Baker Books, 2005).
“Marketing Exec: Hollywood Warming to Faith Films’ Box Office Successes,” Agape Press, 3 January 2006.

Lori Smith, “Austen's Good Sense,” BreakPoint Online, 29 December 2005.

Gina Dalfonzo, “The Pre-Baptism of the Imagination,” BreakPoint Online, 6 December 2005.

“Lions, Witches, and Wardrobes,” BreakPoint Commentary, 8 December 2005.

“Art that Transencds: The Passion of the Christ,” BreakPoint Commentary, 27 February 2004.

Mark Gauvreau Judge, “Is Hollywood Turning Right? Not Really.,” BreakPoint Online, 6 October 2005.

Mark Gauvreau Judge, “Turning Around Battleship Hollywood,” BreakPoint Online, 14 January 2004.

Catherine M. Barsotti and Robert K. Johnston, “Entertaining Faith: Finding God in the Movies,” BreakPoint Online, 4 April 2005.

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Articles on the BreakPoint website are the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Chuck Colson or Prison Fellowship Ministries. Links to outside articles or websites are for informational purposes only and do not necessarily imply endorsement of their content.

The BreakPoint Web site and BreakPoint WorldView Magazine feature Colson’s commentaries as well as feature articles by other established and up-and-coming writers to equip readers with a biblical perspective on a variety of issues and topics.
© 2004 Prison Fellowship.
~~~~~
Words of the Week:
vim: energy; vigor.
plenary: full; complete.
gastronome: a lover of good food and drink.
sine qua non: an indispensable thing.
exegete: one who explains or interprets difficult parts of written works.
recondite: difficult to understand.
diktat: an authoritative decree or order.
from Dictionary.Com

~~~~~
"I've been on a calendar, but never on time." - Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) American Actor

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." - Seneca

"No one ever regarded the First of January with indifference. It is that from which all date their time, and count upon what is left. It is the nativity of our common Adam." - Charles Lamb

"If my doctor told me I had only six minutes to live, I wouldn’t brood. I’d type a little faster." - Isaac Asimov

"A memorandum is written not to inform the reader but to protect the writer." - Dean Acheson

"Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain and most fools do." - Benjamin Franklin

"In the fields of observation chance favors only those minds which are prepared." - Louis Pasteur
"Three passions, simple but overwhelmingly strong, have governed my life: the longing for love, the search for knowledge and unbearable pity for the suffering of mankind." - Bertrand Russell

"In university they don't tell you that the greater part of the law is learning to tolerate fools." - Doris Lessing (1919~) English Writer
~~~~~
BREAKING CHRISTIAN NEWS
http://breakingchristiannews.com/

Canadian Christian Youth Get the Word Out to "Go . . . Vote!" in Upcoming Election - - http://www.4mycanada.ca/

Victory for Chaplain Klingenschmitt . . . Navy Will Now Allow Him to Pray in Jesus' Name Chaplain Klingenschmitt / Aimee Herd reporting (Jan 7, 2006) Naval Chaplain Klingenschmitt will end his hunger strike with a communion service in front of the White House on Saturday, - - http://www.persuade.tv

Miracles Happen in High-Tech Hospital on Iraq's Front Lines CNN Staff / Teresa Neumann - - http://edition.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/01/04/iraq.frontline.ap/index .html

Italian Judge Orders Priest to Prove Christ's Historical Existence Richard Owen / Aimee Herd reporting (Jan 4, 2006) A Case was brought against Father Enrico Righi by Luigi Cascioli, a militant atheist who once studied for the priesthood. Cascioli maintains that Father Righi was "abusing popular credulity" when he denounced Cascioli in the parish newsletter because he questioned the historical existence of Christ. - - http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0%2C%2C13509-1967413%2C00.html

Magdy Ayoub Iskandar Sworn-In as First Christian Governor in Egypt in Three Decades News Staff / Aimee Herd reporting (Jan 3, 2006) Iskandar will govern the province of Qena, south - - http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=1895

Vitamin D "Can Lower Cancer Risk" Davin Dahlgren reporting (Jan 1, 2006) - - http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4563336.stm

Devout Dutch Businessman Builds Replica of Noah's Ark Teresa Neumann Reporting (Dec 31, 2005) - - http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/other_news/&articleid=259753
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GCF: Sarahrella

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.
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After watching the movie Cinderella, five-year-old Sarah started using her pinwheel as a magic wand, pretending she was a fairy godmother. "Make three wishes," she told her mother, "and I'll grant them."

Her mom first asked for world peace. Sarah swung her wand and proclaimed the request fulfilled.

Next, her mother requested for a cure for all ill children. Again, with a sweep of the pinwheel, Sarah obliged.

The mother, with a glance down at her rather ample curves, made her third wish, "I wish to have a trim figure again."

The miniature fairy godmother started waving her wand madly.

"I'll need more power for this!" she exclaimed.
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: It's Time

Emailed to me from another humor list (Marty's Joke of the Day) -Tom To subscribe to Marty's Joke of the Day, send a blank email to: martysjotd-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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Even though he could not tell time, my three-year-old grandson was wearing a watch when I visited. Later, when I was putting on my coat to leave, I asked him what time it was. He looked at his watch blankly, then brightened. "It's time for you to go," he answered triumphantly.
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: Scavenger Hunt

Emailed to me another humor list (Pastor Tim's Clean Laugh List) -Tom Subscribe to Pastor Tim's Clean Laugh list at the website: Subscribe
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A woman answered her front door and saw a little boy holding a list. "Ma'am," he explained, "I'm on a scavenger hunt, and I still need three grains of wheat, a pork-chop bone and a piece of used carbon paper so I can earn a dollar."

"Wow," the woman replied. "Who sent you on such a challenging hunt?"

"My babysitter's boyfriend."
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: Picking Up Clothes

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
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Weary of constantly picking clothes up from the floor of her son's room, a mother finally laid down the law. Each item of clothing she had to pick up would cost her son 25 cents.

By the end of the week, he owed her $1.50. She received the money promptly, along with a 50-cent tip and a note that read:

"Thanks, Mom. Keep up the good work!"
_ ____________________________ _

GCF: New Diet

Emailed to me from another humor list (Marty's Joke of the Day) -Tom To subscribe to Marty's Joke of the Day, send a blank email to: martysjotd-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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Needing to shed a few pounds, my wife and I went on a diet that had specific recipes for each meal of the day. We followed the instructions closely, dividing the finished recipe in half for our individual plates. We felt terrific and thought the diet was wonderful -- we never even felt hungry! But soon we realized we were gaining weight, not losing it. Checking the recipes again, we found it. There, in fine print, was: "Serves 6."
_ ____________________________ _
/ ) Thomas S. Ellsworth ( / / tellswor@slonet.org \ _( (_ http://www.slonet.org/~tellswor _) )_
(((\ \>_/ )_______________________( \_ \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / If the shoe fits, \ /
\ _/ it's ugly. \_ /
/ / \ (((\ \>_/ )_______________________( \_ \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / A journey of a thousand miles \ /
\ _/ begins with a cash advance. \_ /
/ / \ (((\ \>_/ )_______________________( \_ \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / Any moron can write Haiku. \ /
\ _/ Just stop at the \_ /
/ / seventeenth syllab. \ (((\ \>_/ )_______________________( \_ \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / Someone who thinks logically \ /
\ _/ is a nice contrast \_ /
/ / to the real world. \ (((\ \>_/ )_______________________( \_ \\\\ \_/ / \ \_/ ////
\ / All that glitters \ /
\ _/ has a high refractive index. \_ /
/ / \ _ ____________________________ _
/ ) Thomas S. Ellsworth ( / / tellswor@slonet.org \ _( (_ http://www.slonet.org/~tellswor _) )_
(((\ \>_/ )_______________________( \_Stop for a visit, leave with a smile! To join Good Clean Fun, email: good-clean-fun-subscribe@yahoogroups.Com To leave Good Clean Fun, email: good-clean-fun-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.Com Or visit the Good Clean Fun web site at http://www. slonet.org/~tellswor/
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[GCFL.net] Preacher Advice

The preacher was having a heart-to-heart talk with a backslider of his flock, whose drinking of moonshine invariably led to quarreling with his neighbors and occasional shotgun blasts at some of them.

"Can't you see, Ben," intoned the parson, "that not one good thing comes out of this drinking?"

"Well, I sort of disagree there," replied the backslider. "It makes me miss the folks I shoot at."

Received from Steve Sanderson.

(-:][:-)

[GCFL.net] Blondes Are Too Cool

blonde female police officer pulls over a blonde gal in a convertible sports car for speeding. She walks up to the car and asks the blonde for her driver's license. The blonde convertible driver searches through her purse in vain. Finally she asks, "What does it look like?"

The blonde police officer tells her, "It's that thing with your picture on it." The blonde driver searches for a few more seconds, pulls out her compact, opens it, and sure enough sees herself.

She hands the compact to the blonde cop. After a few seconds looking at the compact, the blonde cop rolls her eyes, hands the compact back to the blonde convertible driver, and says, "If you would have told me you were a police officer when I first pulled you over, we could have avoided this whole thing."

Received from Bob Seegmiller.

(-:][:-)

[GCFL.net] Major Technological Breakthrough

Introducing the new Bio-Optic Organized Knowledge device, trade named: BOOK

BOOK is a revolutionary breakthrough in technology: no wires, no electric circuits, no batteries, nothing to be connected or switched on. It's so easy to use, even a child can operate it.

Compact and portable, it can be used anywhere -- even sitting in an armchair by the fire -- yet it is powerful enough to hold as much information as a CD-ROM disc. Here's how it works:

BOOK is constructed of sequentially numbered sheets of paper (recyclable), each capable of holding thousands of bits of information. The pages are locked together with a custom-fit device called a binder, which keeps the sheets in their correct sequence.

Opaque Paper Technology (OPT) allows manufacturers to use both sides of the sheet, doubling the information density and cutting costs. Experts are divided on the prospects for further increases in information density; for now, BOOKs with more information simply use more pages.

Each sheet is scanned optically, registering information directly into your brain. A flick of the finger takes you to the next sheet. BOOK may be taken up at any time and used merely by opening it.

Unlike other display devices, BOOK never crashes or requires rebooting, and it can even be dropped on the floor or stepped on without damage. However, it can become unusable if immersed in water for a significant period of time. The "browse" feature allows you to move instantly to any sheet and move forward or backward as you wish. Many come with an "index" feature, which pinpoints the exact location of selected information for instant retrieval.

An optional "BOOKmark" accessory allows you to open BOOK to the exact place you left it in a previous session -- even if the BOOK has been closed. BOOKmarks fit universal design standards; thus, a single BOOKmark can be used in BOOKs by various manufacturers. Conversely, numerous BOOKmarkers can be used in a single BOOK if the user wants to store numerous views at once. The number is limited only by the number of pages in the BOOK.

You can also make personal notes next to BOOK text entries with an optional programming tool, the Portable Erasable Nib Cryptic Intercommunication Language Stylus (PENCILS).

Portable, durable, and affordable, BOOK is being hailed as a precursor of a new entertainment wave. Also, BOOK's appeal seems so certain that thousands of content creators have committed to the platform and investors are reportedly flocking. Look for a flood of new titles soon.

Received from jakallin.

(-:][:-)

[GCFL.net] Top 10 System Administrator Truths

I figure with enough time and effort, anyone could be a system administrator. Really, it's not hard -- it just takes practice, methodology, and trial and error. A lot of trial and error. These truths will certainly get you on your way. Let's get started.

#1 - Users Lie

Oh yes, they do. Don't think you're immune either. Have you ever been on a tech support call, convinced that you know the problem, and the guy on the phone says something like "Would you put in the recovery CD, restart, and scan your memory?" "Oh, I've tried that," you say with eyes rolling. Believe it or not, sometimes we crazy admin peeps suggest these fixes because they work. When a user protests my assessment, I politely insist that they do what I asked until the doing is done.

#2 - Email Is the Lifeblood of Non-Techies

I love my non-techie brethren -- I mean, how else would I know what happened on the OC and Gilmore Girls? -- but at the end of the day, email is #1 in their book. Now a lot of it is business related, and certainly that shouldn't be taken lightly, but most likely they were waiting on a warm, fuzzy message from their daughter or sister and really needed their email back up ASAP ("I'm waiting on a proposal!" they screech -- see #1).

#3 - Printers Are Bad

Ever had to clean a laser or, God forbid, an inkjet printer? It's like stabbing yourself in the eye. It's not just the grime either -- it's the fallacy that a little chunk of ink could make the machine just stop working. Ninety percent of the time (or better), this isn't the case (instead, check the fuser/print heads).

#4 - Cleanliness Is Godliness

Ever open up a PC and see the Ghost of Dust Bunnies Past in there? It's scary stuff, I tell you. I've seen some PCs begin to lock up "for absolutely no reason" while the innards tell you something different. Sure, Peggy in Accounting wasn't stuffing her machine full of cloth, but that blanket she keeps at her feet will slowly shed and the PC fans suck that stuff right up. When you're completely stumped, make sure there isn't something inside gunking up the works.

#5 - Backups Are Crucial

This needs to be said. I've been caught unprepared on this one a few times myself. Backup, Backup, Backup! Nothing (and I mean nothing) will bite you like a poor backup schema. If your server dies right now as you read this post, what are you going to do about it? Do you know where the install discs are, do you have a configuration backup, and do you know who to contact regarding tech support on that box? If not, you need to get your act together before you have a disaster and a lot of excuses and apologies following it.

#6 - Switches and Hubs (Usually) Die One Port at a Time

You can spend hours tracking down a bad network card or cable just to figure out that a port in a switch has died. You're pinging and pinging and looking; the lights are on but nobody's home. The trick here is to know that a single port doesn't spell the end of the hardware; quite the contrary. Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. If a port does go out, that hub or switch may work for years without another outage, but do be sure to stuff an RJ45 connector in that bad port so you don't forget (and chase down phantom problems) in the future.

#7 - No One Ever Got Fired for Buying Microsoft

So sad but so true. This old saying used to reference IBM, but oh how times have changed. Linux may be powerful, but the command prompt and configuration files and file system obscurity will just as soon get you a pink slip if something goes wrong and no one knows how to fix it but you. Even so, with as much stupidity as we admins have to put up with on a daily basis, configuring some of the "high-end" Microsoft software is enough to drive you insane. Ever tried installing Exchange Server or, worse, installing Exchange Server and migrating a 5.5 install to Exchange 2000? I feel your pain -- oh, how I feel your pain.

#8 - Politeness > Brevity

You can come up with all sorts of analogies for this one. You'll get more bees with honey, a spoonful of sugar, etc. But generally, you probably have very little day-to-day contact with end users. This means that when you do finally get to speak to one of those souls fortunate enough to login to your domain (both figuratively and literally), you should be sure to be as polite as possible about it. Even if the network is down. Even if the server is having weird, irrational problems. Use please, thank you, I'm sorry, and don't be too proud to apologize or "make nice" with those who may ultimately influence your career path down the line. The peon you insult today with "I sent an email about this; do you not check your own email?" could very well climb the corporate ladder and let you go in a few years. Mind your manners, peeps.

#9 - Know Your Needs

This one could also be called "Learn Linux." Many admins get wooed into the idea that "managed solutions" are always the correct ones. A web interface on a switch is cute, but rarely useful. A huge Cisco router may not always be necessary; sometimes a "lo-fi" approach is best. When you want a spam solution, before looking at $5,000 servers and huge licensing fees for Windows Server software, take a look at one of those old "junk" PCs you have in the closet, download your favorite distro of Linux, and install procmail and spamassassin. You (and your budget) will thank me later.

#10 - The Holy Grail of Tech Support

.is the reboot. Rebooting can cure ailments of all sorts: it can stop network troubles and crashing computers, find missing documents, and rescue cats in trees. System admins all over the world have, by and large, trained their users to reboot before even calling support. I mean, when's the last time you didn't reboot to see if it cured a problem? If you're not, then you're either stubborn or you're an admin who knows better. Rebooting doesn't cure all ailments, but it cures so many of them that it's hard to not throw out a "Can you reboot for me?" to the end user when they call with some off-the-wall issue. Use and abuse as necessary.

Written by Evan Erwin, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States http://www.misterorange.com/ (edited by GCFL)

Received from John Price.

(-:][:-)

-=+=-
– 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
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Welcome to You Make Me Laugh, a free newsletter from Crosswalk.com, the world's largest Christian website.

*Award Shows*

Can you believe how many award shows they have now? It seems like that have an award show for everything.

They even have awards for commercials! The Clio Awards, a whole show full of commercials.

I taped it and then I fast-forwarded through the whole thing.

(-:][:-)

*Real Answers*

These, are real answers given by children.

Q: Name the four seasons.
A: Salt, pepper, mustard and vinegar.
********

Q: Explain one of the processes by which water can be made safe to drink.
A: Flirtation makes water safe to drink because it removes large pollutants like grit, sand, dead sheep and canoeists.
********

Q: How is dew formed?
A: The sun shines down on the leaves and makes them perspire.
********

Q: How can you delay milk turning sour?
A: Keep it in the cow.
********

Q: What causes the tides in the oceans?
A: The tides are a fight between the Earth and the Moon. All water tends to flow towards the moon, because there is no water on the moon, and nature hates a vacuum. I forget where the sun joins in this fight.
********

Q: What are steroids?
A: Things for keeping carpets still on the stairs.
********

Q: What happens to your body as you age?
A: When you get old, so do your bowels and you get intercontinental.
********

Q: Name a major disease associated with cigarettes.
A: Premature death.
********

Q: How are the main parts of the body categorized? (e.g., abdomen).
A: The body is consisted into three parts - the brainium, the borax and the abdominal cavity. The brainium contains the brain, the borax contains the heart and lungs, and the abdominal cavity contains the five bowels, A,E,I,O and U.
********

Q: What is the fibula?
A: A small lie.
********

Q: What does "varicose" mean?
A: Nearby.
********

Q: Give the meaning of the term "Caesarean Section"
A: The Caesarean Section is a district in Rome.
********

Q: What does the word "benign" mean?
A: Benign is what you will be after you be eight.

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*You're Not A Monk*

A man is driving down the road and breaks down near a monastery. He goes to the monastery, knocks on the door, and says, "My car broke down. Do you think I could stay the night?" The monks graciously accept him, feed him dinner, and even fix his car. As the man tries to fall asleep, he hears a strange sound. The next morning, he asks the monks what the sound was, but they say, "We can't tell you. You're not a monk."

The man is disappointed but thanks them anyway and goes about his merry way. Some years later, the same man breaks down in front of the same monastery. The monks again accept him, feed him, and even fix his car. That night, he hears the same strange noise that he had heard years earlier. The next morning, he asks what it is, but the monks reply, "We can't tell you. You're not a monk."

The man says, "All right, all right. I'm dying to know. If the only way I can find out what that sound was is to become a monk, how do I become a monk?" The monks reply, "You must travel the earth and tell us how many blades of grass there are and the exact number of sand pebbles. When you find these numbers, you will become a monk."

The man sets about his task. Some forty-five years later, he returns and knocks on the door of the monastery. He says, "I have traveled the earth and have found what you have asked for. There are 145,236,284,232 blades of grass and 231,281,219,999,129,382 sand pebbles on the earth."v The monks reply, "Congratulations. You are now a monk. We shall now show you the way to the sound."

The monks lead the man to a wooden door, where the head monk says, "The sound is right behind that door." The man reaches for the knob, but the door is locked. He says, "Real funny. May I have the key?" The monks give him the key, and he opens the door. Behind the wooden door is another door made of stone. The man demands the key to the stone door. The monks give him the key, and he opens it, only to find a door made of ruby. He demands another key from the monks, who provide it. Behind that door is another door, this one made of sapphire. So it went until the man had gone through doors of emerald, silver, topaz, and amethyst.

Finally, the monks say, "This is the last key to the last door."

The man is relieved to no end. He unlocks the door, turns the knob, and behind that door he is amazed to find the source of that strange sound.

But I can't tell you what it is because you're not a monk.

(-:][:-)

*Knitting Chinese*

Many years ago my wife was to knitting what Tiger Woods is to golf. She designed exotic patterns with ease.

There was an occasion when we had lunch in a real Chinese restaurant (only one person spoke partial English, all menus were in Chinese). When she saw the hand-written menu she was so impressed with the calligraphy she tucked the menu in her purse. Some months later I saw the result, a stunning white sweater with the Chinese symbols hand-stitched down the front.

She received compliments galore until one cocktail party when we met a distinguished Chinese physician who asked my wife where she got the symbols. He then wanted to know if she knew what they meant.

"I'm afraid to ask," she said, "but tell me anyway."

Even she had to laugh when he told her they read, "This is a cheap dish--but good."

Eye Laugh
"Multi-Purpose"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=203
"Cat Dummy"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=204
"Found Them!"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=205
"Base Security"
http://www.cybersalt.org/g05.php?id=206

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

(-:][:-)

-=+=-
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.
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"Don't strive for recognition, but work for achievement." -- Vanessa Malone
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Madeleine Begun Kane Latest Columns - - http://www.madkane.com/stress.html - - De-Stress or Distress? "Are you stressed out? A quivering blob of nerves? Are your muscles lodged in a permanent clench? Here's what not to do..."
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
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U.S. Postage Rates to Increase on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2006 - - http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060107/ap_on_bi_ge/postal_rates;_ylt=AvnRqX..IqVykB6mFrbu2cKs0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTA3b2NibDltBHNlYwM3MTY - - There are two issues: the 39-cent Lady Liberty and U.S. Flag stamp and the 2-cent Navajo Jewelry stamp. New stamps available: - - http://www.usps.com/communications/news/stamps/2006/39/
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Picturing Women - - http://www.picturingwomen.org/home.php - - Explore the patterns and contexts that have affirmed women through history up to present day. This unique site explores historical, contemporary and self-representations of women.
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Google Help Center - - http://www.google.com/help/features.html - - In addition to providing easy access to more than 8 billion web pages, Google has many special features to help you to find exactly what you're looking for. Click the title of a specific feature to learn more about it.
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SchoolMatters - - http://www.schoolmatters.com/ - - This Standard and Poor's site offers comparison tools, benchmarks, and performance indicators designed to help policymakers and others better understand what is happening in our school systems, and how much we are spending related to student achievement. The site provides data and analysis on schools and districts nationwide.
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American Rhetoric - - http://americanrhetoric.com/ - - This site is a valuable resource for finding some of the most famous - and infamous - speeches ever made.
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Internet Usage: World Stats - - http://www.internetworldstats.com/ - - An International website featuring up to date 2005 worldwide Internet Usage, the Population Statistics and the Area Data, for over 233 countries and world regions. Related site: Internet Traffic Report.
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Oyez: U.S. Supreme Court Multimedia - - http://www.oyez.org/oyez/frontpage - - This site presents a multimedia database with abstracts of key constitutional cases, digital audio of oral arguments, and more.
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Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 60! - - http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/006105.html - - In 2006, the oldest of the baby boomers, the generation born between 1946 and 1964, will turn 60 years old. Among the Americans celebrating their 60th will be our two most recent presidents, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Other well-known celebrities reaching this milestone include Cher, Donald Trump, Sylvester Stallone and Dolly Parton. To commemorate this occasion, the Census Bureau has compiled a collection of facts relating to, perhaps, our most celebrated generation.
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Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center - - http://www.alzheimers.org/ - - Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia (a brain disorder that seriously affects a person's ability to carry out daily activities) among older people. It involves the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. Every day scientists learn more, but right now the causes of AD are still unknown, and there is no cure. Use this National Institute on Aging site to find current, comprehensive Alzheimer's disease information and resources from the U.S. Government's National Institute on Aging. Related site: Alzheimer's Association.
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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.
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"In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."
Theodore Roosevelt 1907

From Eric Morrison
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WEST GULF DIVISION NEWSLETTER

Congratulations to the Northwest Amateur Radio Society (NARS) in Houston on their 20th anniversary celebration.

West Gulf BPL Task Force Status Report - December 2005

North Texas Section
TXU Electric and Current Technologies have begun a partnership to install BPL to support 2 million homes and businesses in the Dallas/Fort Worth area in 2006. Current Technologies is also in the process of installing BPL to 50,000 homes with an estimated 5,000 homes currently passed in the Cincinnati, OH area. At present there are no interference complaints from any amateurs with the installation in Cincinnati.
The Current BPL system uses 31 to 48 MHz on the high voltage lines for data transmissions. There are two 1.5 MHz guard bands setup on the system to prevent interference to the ten and six meter amateur radio bands. The high voltage side of the system also allows ranges of frequencies or a particular frequency to be notched for reduction of interference to local operators within 31 to 48 MHz band.
For the low voltage side, which includes the wire from the pole to the home or business and all the wiring inside the structure, Homeplug devices are used to create the network connection for the electrical outlets. Homeplug uses 4 to 21 MHz with a 30 Db notch on all amateur radio bands with the exception of 60 meters. The Homeplug system is also designed to only transmit when data is being passed. New technology that Homeplug has designed is expected to be included in the DFW rollout and will have the ability to notch out frequencies as required on the fly from a central control point..
At present we are unable to determine if the planned DFW system will perform as the system in Cincinnati is performing. However, it is believed that amateurs can expect some interference from the system based on their location, antenna setup, and proximity to a Current customer. We hope that Current will work with us to mitigate these issues as they arise.

BPL Installations
Dallas/Fort Worth - System is currently in the planning stages. TXU and Current technologies will install BPL systems on 70% of the power grid in DFW in 2006. The North Texas BPL team is reviewing the data and technology on this system and is preparing plans for system review and interference mitigation.
Bridgeport - Bridgeport city council still has the BPL issue tabled and is not looking to discuss it in the near future.
South Dallas - System is currently not online, and rumors have recently been touted that it may not come online. I will update as I learn more about the status of this system.

South Texas Section
Houston - System is continuing to be tested and shows strong interference to several amateur radio bands. Amperion is also testing a new system in the 30 to 50 MHz range. The team is still reviewing this system to determine if it is causing interference to any ham radio bands. A special thank you to Kent Marshal, W5TXV and his entire team for all the hard work that they have and are putting in with their testing efforts.

Oklahoma Section
The December 29th edition of The Oklahoman had a interview with Brian Alford, a spokesman for Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co. Mr. Alford stated that OGE is looking at BPL as a means to control their power grid and provide broadband internet services to urban and rural Oklahoma. With this news I expect the Oklahoma section to be the next section in our division to have a BPL installation.

West Gulf BPL Future Activities
I will be working with John Thomason, WB5SYT, SM and Eddie Manley, K5EMS, ASM to activate a BPL team in the Oklahoma section and open a dialog with Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co. as they develop plans for a BPL test or implementation.
With a definite installation occurring in the DFW metroplex in the next year, I will be working closely with Tom Blackwell, N5GAR, SM and Bill Byrom, N5BB, ASM with the planning, testing, and coordination of this system. I will be visiting all the clubs in the affected area over the next month or two to discuss the technologies, concerns, and expected impacts of this system.
As we close out another year, I want to say that Ham Radio is one of the GREATEST hobbies in existence. Where else can you make friends across the street or around the world, develop, design, and use your own equipment, meet people from all walks of life, share your ideas in an open environment, provide a free service for the public in times of need, and do a million things that most people can only dream about. We are all hams and we're all in it together, let's continue to work to protect our hobby and make it the best it can be! 73 and the best of 2006 to everyone and to our hobby.
73
Jory McIntosh
KJ5RM
ARRL Assistant Director
West Gulf BPL Task Force

COMING HAMFESTS

14 Jan 2006 + San Antonio Radio Club Swapfest / Texas VHF/FM Society
Winter Meeting
San Antonio Radio Club
http://www.w5sc.org/
Talk-In: 146.94 - (PL 179.9) & 444.100 + (PL 179.9)
Contact: Erik Smith, W5ETS
PO Box 34263
San Antonio, TX 78265-4263
Phone: 210-710-9161
Email: swapfest@w5sc.org
San Antonio, TX
Little Joe's Country Gold Dancehall
7405 Old Pearsall Road

11 Feb 2006 + Ada Amateur Radio Club
http://www.adacomp.net/~jewell/
Talk-In: 147.285 (PL 114.8)
Contact: Charles Etier, KC5TGA
PO Box 1181
Ada, OK 74821
Phone: 580-332-1377
Fax: 580-332-1399
Email: KC5TGA@ARRL.NET
Ada, OK
Agriplex
Highway 99 and Richardson Loop

12 Feb 2006 + Williamson County ARC
http://www.wcarc.com
Talk-In: 146.640 (PL 162.2)
Contact: Rick Trommer, W5RHT
302 Rio Bravo
Georgetown, TX 78628
Phone: 512-863-2428
Email: w5rht@arrl.net
Georgetown, TX
San Gabriel Park Show Barn
East Morrow Street

18 Feb 2006 + Bastrop County Amateur Radio Club
http://www.bastrophams.org
Talk-In: 145.35 (PL 114.8) & 443.750 (PL 114.8)
Contact: Joseph Juliano, WV5X
307 Garwood Street
Smithville, TX 78957
Phone: 512-360-5460
Email: josephj@austin.rr.com
Smithville, TX
River Bend Park
Highway 71 East

25 Feb 2006 + Orange ARC & Jefferson County ARC
http://www.qsl.net/w5nd
Talk-In: 147.180+ (no tone)
Contact: Sheila Powell, N5HL & Delores Heintschel, KC5NEO
OARC/JCARC
PO Box 232
Orange, TX 77630
Phone: Sheila: 409-727-1071; Delores: 409-962-1435
Email: Sheila: sheilapo@midcountypc.com; Delores: kc5neo@gt.rr.com
Orange, TX
VFW Hall
North Highway 87

FINAL COMMENTS

Thankyou for your outstanding service to amateur radio and your communities in 2005. It was a year of unusual disasters but you came through with an effort that you can be proud of. Judy and I pray that we all have a much better year in 2006.
Coy, N5OK

Thanks to Randy Maness
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2005 Transylvania Praise and Prayer Report
Greetings from Transylvania, where Ceaucesceau is dead, Dracula is dead, and Jesus is ALIVE.
{ Please note that each praise item has a corresponding prayer opportunity below.}

PRAISES
1- Dee and I thank God for his faithfulness! Thanksgiving Day we completed twenty-one years on the mission field and this week marks eleven years in Cluj-Napoca, the capital city of Transylvania. We thank all the individual Christians and the churches (Pastors) who pray and pay for us to be able to accomplish what God has called us to do! He has always been faithful to provide family away from our home areas in Texas and Nova Scotia. We now have eight young adults (Romanian) and one older (Dee's mom) living with us, plus He has given us an extended family in the churches we have begun in this area. God is a family and He cares about providing family for his children. I have received a much greater revelation of this truth in the last two years than I ever had when we were raising our own "natural" children. I hope that others are learning this faster than I did.
2- My first time to come to Romania was ten days after they executed the former dictators. What a change since Jan. of 1990 - in the NATURAL realm. Seems like everywhere you look in the nation you see new construction and renovation of buildings. Thank God we finally have a government that is no longer controlled by (former) communists!
3- We ministered to 14,341 adults and children last year. Two hundred and ninety-two prayed to receeive Jesus Christ as Saviour. Many were filled with the baptism of the Holy Spirit and over 1,400 received healing miracles. Jesus is still blessing mightily in Romania.
4- We were privileged to again co-ordinate a Christian Leader's Conference for Pastor Don Clowers and work with him, this time in Bucharest. Over six hundred people came to the meetings and about three hundred and fifty are in positions of leadership in churches throughout Romania. Many were open to receive a deeper revelation of God's love, grace, and calling upon their lives and ministries.
5- This was a year of more natural work for Family Aid Foundation. We built twelve houses for Gypsy Families, and others, who had no possibility to build for themselves, and also put up one house for our children's church here in Zorilor, Cluj-Napoca. In October we opened a shower facility for the Pata Rat Gypsy Camp inhabitants and in November we celebrated the completion of a new Medical Clinic on our land, next to the camp. Thanks to all the work teams who came to help us build and the churches/individuals/families who provided the finances for the construction projects. We have many visitors who also go to other Gypsy communities in Romania and most have told us that the deportment of people here is far better than at any other camp they have worked in. We thank God that many have received Jesus over that last years and that He has given us a faithful core who are growing in His grace and love. They are the CIA -Christians In Action - working within the camp to effect Godly change. God is not looking for "closet Christians" in Romania; but, those who will boldly proclaim the reality of His love and presence. To see changing behaviour in such a negative (in the natural realm) environment is truly a demonstration of God's power to work miracles.
6- Our children's home now has six children( another little girl will come in next week or so). Romanian laws changed again this year and we can no longer receive children under the age of two, so all are now between two and five. Five started attending kindergarten in September. One child was adopted and two returned to their natural families in 2005.

Prayer Opportunities
1- We are beginning to reach out in other villages and are thanking God that 'our' people are maturing into spiritual adulthood and are catching the spirit of revival, with the result that their heart's desire is to reach others in their own communities. Please pray and agree with us that we can establish at least six 'home churches' in 2006. God wants more 'children' in his family!
2- The changes here are mainly natural and only on the surface. Old ways of thinking have not been replaced by revelation knowlede from God. Please pray with us for deeper spiritual growth throughout Romania, and that the priests/pastors will boldly preach the Lordship of Jesus Christ and not social and traditional messages. The new Romania 'god' is education: many people think it opens the door for jobs and riches; but, most are still going to Hell, even though they may attend church at least twice a year. Romania hopes to join the European Union is Jan. of 2007. We see some projects to help children, gypsies, and the homeless; but, I personally believe they are designed only to make the country look good in the eyes of the European Union. The leaders of the nation appear not to really care for the people they have been elected to represent and help. Much prayer is needed for the government, churches, and business mentality in Romania.
3- Please pray with us for people not to only get born again; but, to connect with the local churches and home fellowship groups. God wants each one to "grow in the knowledge of Christ", as well as come into the Kingdom. We need maturing believers who will be active" Christains In Action" in this and other nations.
4- Again, as in points 2 and 3, the Christian leaderswho came to the conference need to preach Jesus, the present-day ministry of the Holy Spirit, and move under God's annointing to themselves participate in God's signs and miracles to be effective in the ministries that God has called them to. It is not enough to just receive for themselves or see Pastor Clowers flow in God's gifts. Pray for leaders to be hungry for the annointing and manifestations of God's Holy Spirit.
5- Pray for those who have received homes, food, clothing, medical help, and even showers to realize these are all gifts from God to show them that He cares for them personally. Let the people we've helped get the revelation that we are not their source; but, proclaim that they hunger and thirst for righteousness. It is time for many more to be filled! Agree with us for an increase in finances. We desire to not only continue building homes for those in need; but, Dee and I plan to build our own home here and we also need to construct our own building for the church and Family Aid Foundation. It is time for us to stop paying rent to others and invest God's money back in his Kingdom. We need a miracle from God for the Minisry of Health to provide the salary for a doctor to continue working in the Medical Clinic built in 2005. The project was funded through Nov.; but, the doctor is needed there permanently.
6- The liberal socialist views of a British baroness.... have had a devastating influence upon the new laws here in the domain of child care. The old system of selling children was certainly wrong; but new laws do need to be modified for the benefit of the children! Again, prayer for the government of Romania is needed.
Thank you for praying for and with us. If you have time please check out our foundation's web site. www.faf.ro It has just been updated with new photos of some of the things we are giveing God praise for. Our missions site: www.yieldedvessels.ro is temporarily off the air. The web host is selling his business, so we are moving to a new host and updating the site information. Should be up again by the 20th of Jan.
In His Love, Rufus Whynot
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Activities and Events of Interest
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The Emancipation Proclamation will be on display at the Clinton Library September 22-25, 2007.
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"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
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NEVER FORGET! We're listing the names of our soldiers killed weekly. These records can be found at http://www.defenselink. mil/releases/

01. Pfc. George A. Lutz, II, 25, of Virginia Beach, Va., died in Fallujah, Iraq, on Dec. 29, when his dismounted patrol was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Lutz was assigned to the Army's 9th Psychological Operations Battalion, 4th Psychologial Operations Group, U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.

02. Pvt. Jonathan R. Pfender, 22, of Evansville, Ind., died in Bayji, Iraq, on Dec. 30, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during patrol operations. Pfender was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

03. Staff Sgt. Christopher J. Vanderhorn, 37, of Pierce, Wash., died in As Sinia, Iraq, on Jan. 1, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during patrol operations. Vanderhorn was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

04. Spc. Marcelino R. Corniel, 23, of La Puente, Calif., died in Baghdad, Iraq, on Dec. 31, when an enemy mortar attack occurred in the vicinity of his observation post. Corniel was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, Fullerton, Calif.

05. Sgt. 1st Class Shawn C. Dostie, 32, of Granite City, Ill., died in Baghdad, Iraq, on Dec. 30, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during patrol operations. Dostie was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

06. Sgt. 1st Class Jason L. Bishop, 31, ofWilliamstown, Ky., died in As Siniyah, Iraq, on
Jan. 1, when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during patrol operations. Bishop was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 33rd Cavalry, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

07. Staff Sgt. Ayman A. Taha, 31, ofVienna, Va., died in Balad, Iraq, on Dec. 30, when he was preparing a munitions cache for demolition and the cache exploded. Taha was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group, Fort Campbell, Ky.

The Department of Defense announced the death of five soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in An Najaf, Iraq, on Jan. 5, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV during convoy operations. The soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were:
08. Maj. William F. Hecker, III, 37, of St. Louis, Mo.
09. Capt. Christopher P. Petty, 33, of Vienna, Va.
10. Sgt. 1st Class Stephen J. White, 39, of Talladega, Ala.
11. Sgt. Johnny J. Peralez, Jr., 25, of Kingsville, Texas.
12. Pvt. Robbie M. Mariano, 21, of Stockton, Calif.

The Department of Defense announced the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in Baghdad, Iraq, on Jan. 5, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV during convoy operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga. Killed were:
13. Sgt. Jason Lopezreyes, 29, of Hatillo, Puerto Rico.
14. Spc. Ryan D. Walker, 25, of Stayton, Ore.

15. Lt. Col. Michael E. McLaughlin, 44, of Mercer, Pa., died in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, on Jan. 5, when he was conducting a dismounted patrol at an Iraqi police recruiting station and an individual-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his position. McLaughlin was assigned to the Army National Guard's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, Washington, Pa.

http://icasualties.org/oif/default.aspx
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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.
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It’s never too early to start making your Birthday list. (Well, I didn’t expect to get everything for Christmas.)
Rechargeable Batteries for the following “Ham” radios: Kenwood TH-22-AT (9.6 volts, 600 mAh battery, 2 each (for our two radios)), Yaesu FT-50 (it takes a FNB-83 7.2V1400mAh battery), Yaesu, VX-1 (it takes a FNB-52LI 3.6V 700mAh Lithium-Ion battery).
New “Rubber Ducky” antennas for the following “Ham” radios: Kenwood TH-22-AT (two radios)
Anything from Larry Norman
Back Scratcher
Basic tools of any kind
Batteries, 9 volt
Batteries, AAA
Blankets or Quilts
book, “The Good Life: Seeking Purpose, Meaning, and Truth in Your Life” by Charles Colson
“Boot” Horn
Chair, office $49 from SAMS (5 of them)
Cheese Grater
Cordless Drill
Cordless Screwdriver
A DeLorme Earthmate GPS LT-20 device
A copy of DeLorme Street Atlas USA 2006 Plus
A copy of DeLorme Topo USA 5.0
Digital Video Recorder (Pioneer DVR-533H-S $333 at Beach Camera)
Eyeglasses, “Computer type” to use at church (and some new ones to use at home and at work.)
Floor Mats (for the truck)
Handkerchiefs
Hat (warm, for bald guys winter wear.)
Magnifying Glass.
New Showerhead
Non skid toilet rug
Refrigerator Thermometer
Small, lightweight “head light” so I can see small things on the desk or work bench.
Some Warmup Suits to wear around the house after we get that first gas bill.
Trackball for the home computer
USB Key (1 Gig )
VHS - DVD Recorder (Lite-On LVC-9006 $219 @ Buy.com)
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Scheduled Activities
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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
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Columbia County Amateur Radio Club meets Every second Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. Union Street Station. And YOU'RE invited. Net is every Sunday at 20:30 on 147.105.
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Columbia County Diabetes Support Group - Every third Monday, 7:00 p.m. room 222, Magnolia Hospital
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"Focus on the Family" with Dr. James Dobson weekday afternoons at 1 PM on KVMA am 630 it's a great show!
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MCC - Abraham Prayer - Sunday at 5:00 p.m and Wednesday from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm
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MCC - Early Morning Prayer - Monday - Friday, From 6:30 am to 8:00 am
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MCC - "Beth Moore" Video Class - Thursday nights at 5:45 pm
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MCC - "Faith Builders" Small group meets at 1051 Columbia 36 the second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30 pm to 7:45 pm.
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MCC - Firm Foundations Class, Sunday 9:30 to 10:15 a.m
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MCC - Meadow Brook Nursing Home Ministry Tuesday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m
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MCC - Mom's Day Out - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 2.$10 for the first child, $5 for the second. Call 234-3225 for reservations.
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MCC - Nursing Home Ministry - Meadowbrook Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 am. Taylor, the last Thursday each month.
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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.
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Men's Prayer Breakfast held every Tuesday morning at 6 AM in Miller's Cafeteria. If you aren't a regular participant at the Men's Prayer Breakfast, you're missing some great food, fellowship and inspired teaching of the Word. Hope to see you there.
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Narcotics Anonymous 5-6 pm every Monday at 220 Pine street.
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TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) 5 pm every Tuesday in the Magnolia Hospital break room.
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Emergency Phone Number 911
(Fire, Police, Ambulance, Sheriff, etc. )
Central Dispatch 234-5655
(Non - Emergency Number)
Direct Numbers
Ambulance - 234-7371 (24 Hour)
Jail - 234-5331 (24 Hour)
Poison Control - 800-222-1222 (24 Hour)
http://www. aapcc. org/
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"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"
"It's no big deal doing what God tells you to do. A big deal would be NOT doing what God tells you to do. Just ask Jonah." - - Paul Troquille
"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
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Hope you enjoy the newsletter.
Again, thanks to all our contributors this week.

God bless and GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
Psa 51:10-12 Micah 7:7-9 Psa 40:5-8 2 Sam 23:2 2 Sam 22:29-35 http://www.e-min.org/
God is Good and Faithful CU 73 IC JFM CSP NREMT-I KC5HII

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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://bugsbleat1q.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. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>