Worshipers find movie theaters just the ticket
"Each Sunday morning, more than 200 people flock to the Regal Lake Zurich theaters, but not to see a movie. They come to pray. Part of a nationwide trend, Northwest Family Church members transform the multiplex's auditoriums into worship spaces."
Get behind the scenes of this story by clicking here.
Vocational Education: Programs offer gateway to technical careers, college
"Esmeralda Diaz changed high schools three times before she found the right fit at Carl Wunsche Sr. High School last year. Diaz, a senior, wants to be a dentist, and at Wunsche she’s getting the skills and training she needs to pursue her dream."
Click here for more on these programs.
Calif. seals named for pundits Colbert, Stewart
"Meet Stelephant Colbert and Jon Sealwart, 14-foot elephant seals who each has his own Facebook page - and electronic tracking device. University of California, Santa Cruz, biologists named the seals at Año Nuevo State Natural Reserve in honor of television's fake political pundits Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart."
Read about these new celebrities here.
Clarksville, CA: A chance to document history
"About two weeks ago, Editor Don Chaddock and I got a rare opportunity to see the remains of the town of Clarksville, just outside of El Dorado Hills, which is scheduled to be cleared and developed in the next couple of years. The property is privately held, and the owner has said that he will turn where the Wells Fargo building was into a museum to honor Clarksville’s history."
Step back into history here.
Bacon Explosion catches fire on Web
"In a combination of shrewd marketing, never-say-diet excess and plain old American creativity, the Bacon Explosion was born and nurtured. Now this carnivore's delight is taking off and it's inventors couldn't be happier."
Pig out on the juicy details here.
Have a day blessed with Good News!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
News from Mary January 30, 2009
Ditch Your Unrealistic New Year's Resolution
How's your 2009 New Year's resolution going? Did you break it yet? We're only a few weeks into the year and most resolutions have already been forgotten. Why? Because we make promises we cannot keep, set goals that have no structure and effectively remove all likelihood of sticking with our resolutions.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Fire station burns after cooking mishap
A blaze broke out at a fire station in Japan this week after a firefighter left a cooking stove burning as crew members left the station to respond to emergency calls.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
A Boy And His Hedgehog
Of many battles that mothers face daily, few are fraught with more passion and determination than the battle that always begins with: "Mom, can we get a …"
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Economy shrank at fastest clip since '82
The economy shrank at a 3.8 percent pace at the end of 2008, the worst showing in a quarter-century, as the deepening recession forced consumers and businesses to throttle back spending.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
How's your 2009 New Year's resolution going? Did you break it yet? We're only a few weeks into the year and most resolutions have already been forgotten. Why? Because we make promises we cannot keep, set goals that have no structure and effectively remove all likelihood of sticking with our resolutions.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Fire station burns after cooking mishap
A blaze broke out at a fire station in Japan this week after a firefighter left a cooking stove burning as crew members left the station to respond to emergency calls.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
A Boy And His Hedgehog
Of many battles that mothers face daily, few are fraught with more passion and determination than the battle that always begins with: "Mom, can we get a …"
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Economy shrank at fastest clip since '82
The economy shrank at a 3.8 percent pace at the end of 2008, the worst showing in a quarter-century, as the deepening recession forced consumers and businesses to throttle back spending.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Good News for January 30 posted by Mary Beth
Looking back at the week through a Christian lens: PTA Digest
"This week’s PTA Digest begins with some ideas on how to cope during the current mortgage crisis. We talked with Dale Vermillion, whose book is Navigating the Mortgage Maze. Next, Paul Butler talks with Tom Ascol and Norm Wakefield about keeping the Gospel pure. And finally, Don Jacobson visits with us about his venture Cauzal Coffee, and their recent partnership with World Vision. Enjoy the PTA Digest! – Greg Wheatley"
Click here to listen to the podcast.
Love Your Enemies: John Rucyahana Receives Wilberforce Award
"In a large open area of a Rwandan prison, Anglican Bishop John Rucyahana spoke to a crowd of killers responsible for the 1994 genocide. 'Close your eyes,' he instructed them. 'Go back in your mind to 1994. What did you see?' he asked. 'What did you smell? What did you hear?'”
Celebrate Bishop Rucyahana's ministry here.
Scholarship fund to aid Catholic students
"To help cash-strapped parents, the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Big Shoulders Fund today announced a $1 million emergency scholarship fund for Catholic school students."
The rest of the story is here...
Getting peace
"You can find serenity, whether in an ocean vista or the city skyline, a favorite room or a familiar voice."
Share this Boston Globe photo essay here.
Sutter physicians, staff volunteer respond to missionary's plea, ease baby's heart ordeal
"Zumrat Sabitahunova swayed back and forth while cuddling her 9-month-old son, Nurdin Abdyrazakov, trying all at once to comfort him, distract him from pulling the oxygen tubes out of his nose and express her gratitude."
Read more of little Nurdin's story here.
Who Is God Rooting For In The Super Bowl?
"Does God have any interest in who wins the Super Bowl? One man expresses his opinion."
See if you agree with him here...
"This week’s PTA Digest begins with some ideas on how to cope during the current mortgage crisis. We talked with Dale Vermillion, whose book is Navigating the Mortgage Maze. Next, Paul Butler talks with Tom Ascol and Norm Wakefield about keeping the Gospel pure. And finally, Don Jacobson visits with us about his venture Cauzal Coffee, and their recent partnership with World Vision. Enjoy the PTA Digest! – Greg Wheatley"
Click here to listen to the podcast.
Love Your Enemies: John Rucyahana Receives Wilberforce Award
"In a large open area of a Rwandan prison, Anglican Bishop John Rucyahana spoke to a crowd of killers responsible for the 1994 genocide. 'Close your eyes,' he instructed them. 'Go back in your mind to 1994. What did you see?' he asked. 'What did you smell? What did you hear?'”
Celebrate Bishop Rucyahana's ministry here.
Scholarship fund to aid Catholic students
"To help cash-strapped parents, the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Big Shoulders Fund today announced a $1 million emergency scholarship fund for Catholic school students."
The rest of the story is here...
Getting peace
"You can find serenity, whether in an ocean vista or the city skyline, a favorite room or a familiar voice."
Share this Boston Globe photo essay here.
Sutter physicians, staff volunteer respond to missionary's plea, ease baby's heart ordeal
"Zumrat Sabitahunova swayed back and forth while cuddling her 9-month-old son, Nurdin Abdyrazakov, trying all at once to comfort him, distract him from pulling the oxygen tubes out of his nose and express her gratitude."
Read more of little Nurdin's story here.
Who Is God Rooting For In The Super Bowl?
"Does God have any interest in who wins the Super Bowl? One man expresses his opinion."
See if you agree with him here...
Friday, January 30, 2009 Posts from Margaret
Growing Blueberries
I am so ready for Spring and getting out into my garden. I would like to try growing some fruits like blueberries to our little garden.
Click here to read about growing this wonderful fruit.
The touch of tradition
"Nowhere in the new synagogue does the ancient meet the modern so closely as at the replica of the Western Wall.
The wall is 26 feet high and made entirely of Jerusalem stone from Israel. It's one of the most eye-catching features in the new Congregation Torat Emet in Bexley."
Read more here...
Amazon stock soars on strong profit and outlook (AP)
"Amazon.com Inc. said Thursday that its fourth-quarter profit rose 9 percent and easily surpassed analysts' forecasts. Those results, plus an optimistic forecast, sent its shares soaring 13 percent in extended trading."
Read more of this story here...
"It was a rare privilege and one that I will always remember.
On the eve of his 100th birthday, I had the opportunity to have a conversation with one of the world’s most recognized Christian vocalists, George Beverly Shea. And I found this long-time minister of the Gospel to be as deep, warm and inviting as the bass-baritone voice that has made him so beloved around the world. "
Read more about George Beverly Shea here...
I am so ready for Spring and getting out into my garden. I would like to try growing some fruits like blueberries to our little garden.
Click here to read about growing this wonderful fruit.
The touch of tradition
"Nowhere in the new synagogue does the ancient meet the modern so closely as at the replica of the Western Wall.
The wall is 26 feet high and made entirely of Jerusalem stone from Israel. It's one of the most eye-catching features in the new Congregation Torat Emet in Bexley."
Read more here...
Amazon stock soars on strong profit and outlook (AP)
"Amazon.com Inc. said Thursday that its fourth-quarter profit rose 9 percent and easily surpassed analysts' forecasts. Those results, plus an optimistic forecast, sent its shares soaring 13 percent in extended trading."
Read more of this story here...
"It was a rare privilege and one that I will always remember.
On the eve of his 100th birthday, I had the opportunity to have a conversation with one of the world’s most recognized Christian vocalists, George Beverly Shea. And I found this long-time minister of the Gospel to be as deep, warm and inviting as the bass-baritone voice that has made him so beloved around the world. "
Read more about George Beverly Shea here...
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Shot of the Day for January 29, 2009
Lunch is served!! (Pine Warbler)
By Flickr Member Jim Vail PhotosHere is a story that I found on the Christain News Wire that I found of interest. On the website this story would be filed under Ministry Focus.
January 29 Posts from Mary
Blog Confession Lands Saudi Convert in Prison
Five months after the daughter of a member of Saudi Arabia’s religious police was killed for writing online about her faith in Christ, Saudi authorities have reportedly arrested a 28-year-old Christian man for describing his conversion and criticizing the kingdom’s judiciary on his Web site.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Blagojevich ousted as Illinois governor
Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was removed from office on Thursday after the state Senate unanimously convicted him on impeachment charges, including an accusation he tried to sell the U.S. Senate seat once held by President Barack Obama.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Money-saving tips for travel tightwads
One summer, early in my traveling career, I took my mother with me on my work-related road trips. Not because she was great company, but because with her in tow I could get a senior discount on motel rooms. As you can imagine, there were some serious downsides to that scheme, but at the time it seemed to make sense.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Alaskans brace for volcanic eruption
A volcano just 100 miles from Alaska's largest city has stirred back to life after nearly 20 years of tranquility, sparking a round-the-clock eruption watch, seismologists said Thursday.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Chicken Wing Worries: Super Bowl Shortage?
Buffalo's football team won't have a place in this year's Super Bowl hoopla, but don't worry, its chicken wings will.
Amid unnerving media reports that spread from here to New York City and even Seattle about a potential shortage of the Buffalo-born appetizer heading into the big game, authorities say yes, production is down and yes, prices are up.
"But there's plenty of wings," assured Richard Lobb, spokesman for the National Chicken Council in Washington.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Recovery, when it comes, will be slow and weak
As the government advances historic measures to revive growth, the data point to an economy that is getting worse. It’s far from clear the government actions — including a massive stimulus program and major intervention in the banking system — will stem the slide and restart the economy by year-end.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Five months after the daughter of a member of Saudi Arabia’s religious police was killed for writing online about her faith in Christ, Saudi authorities have reportedly arrested a 28-year-old Christian man for describing his conversion and criticizing the kingdom’s judiciary on his Web site.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Blagojevich ousted as Illinois governor
Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was removed from office on Thursday after the state Senate unanimously convicted him on impeachment charges, including an accusation he tried to sell the U.S. Senate seat once held by President Barack Obama.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Money-saving tips for travel tightwads
One summer, early in my traveling career, I took my mother with me on my work-related road trips. Not because she was great company, but because with her in tow I could get a senior discount on motel rooms. As you can imagine, there were some serious downsides to that scheme, but at the time it seemed to make sense.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Alaskans brace for volcanic eruption
A volcano just 100 miles from Alaska's largest city has stirred back to life after nearly 20 years of tranquility, sparking a round-the-clock eruption watch, seismologists said Thursday.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Chicken Wing Worries: Super Bowl Shortage?
Buffalo's football team won't have a place in this year's Super Bowl hoopla, but don't worry, its chicken wings will.
Amid unnerving media reports that spread from here to New York City and even Seattle about a potential shortage of the Buffalo-born appetizer heading into the big game, authorities say yes, production is down and yes, prices are up.
"But there's plenty of wings," assured Richard Lobb, spokesman for the National Chicken Council in Washington.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Recovery, when it comes, will be slow and weak
As the government advances historic measures to revive growth, the data point to an economy that is getting worse. It’s far from clear the government actions — including a massive stimulus program and major intervention in the banking system — will stem the slide and restart the economy by year-end.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Good News Stories for January 29 from Mary Beth
The Proper Role of Science: Exposing Scientism
"In his inaugural address, President Obama said he would 'restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology’s wonders to raise health care’s quality.' By this, many suspect he means to spend taxpayer money on embryonic stem cell research, which destroys humans at the embryonic stage."
More of Chuck Colson's commentary here.
Gazan Children Return to School
"Thousands of Gazan children returned to school this past Saturday when schools reopened their doors for the first time since the escalation of violence on Dec. 27, 2008. The global humanitarian organization Save the Children is assisting them by providing school supplies, setting up child-friendly spaces and arranging psychosocial support as they begin to rebuild their lives."
Read the whole story here.
Steelers' Polamalu: 'Faith is foundation'
"The Pittsburgh Steelers, playing in their seventh Super Bowl on Sunday, will go for an unparalleled sixth NFL title.
If the Steelers defeat the Arizona Cardinals, strong safety Troy Polamalu will have a stake in that achievement, yet he has a perspective that transcends any title game."
Click here for more information.
Obama plans to broaden faith-based office
"President Barack Obama plans to appoint Joshua DuBois, a 26-year-old Pentecostal pastor and political strategist who handled religious outreach for the Obama campaign, to direct a revamped office of faith-based initiatives, according to religious leaders who have been informed about the choice."
The rest of the story awaits you here.
Milwaukee's appeal goes beyond suds and cheese
"You already know it has a dazzling art museum. And barrels of beer. And cheeseheads. But our affection for Milwaukee runs deeper than the vats of suds in the Miller foam factory."
Visit the full story here.
Cute high-tech beanbag is smarter than it looks
"You might think you've already got enough Internet-connected gadgets in your life. You're wrong. Thanks to cheap silicon chips and the popularity of Wi-Fi wireless networking, it's easy to build Internet access into pretty much anything. Even a vinyl-covered beanbag."
Curious? Click here.
Have a Good News Day!
"In his inaugural address, President Obama said he would 'restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology’s wonders to raise health care’s quality.' By this, many suspect he means to spend taxpayer money on embryonic stem cell research, which destroys humans at the embryonic stage."
More of Chuck Colson's commentary here.
Gazan Children Return to School
"Thousands of Gazan children returned to school this past Saturday when schools reopened their doors for the first time since the escalation of violence on Dec. 27, 2008. The global humanitarian organization Save the Children is assisting them by providing school supplies, setting up child-friendly spaces and arranging psychosocial support as they begin to rebuild their lives."
Read the whole story here.
Steelers' Polamalu: 'Faith is foundation'
"The Pittsburgh Steelers, playing in their seventh Super Bowl on Sunday, will go for an unparalleled sixth NFL title.
If the Steelers defeat the Arizona Cardinals, strong safety Troy Polamalu will have a stake in that achievement, yet he has a perspective that transcends any title game."
Click here for more information.
Obama plans to broaden faith-based office
"President Barack Obama plans to appoint Joshua DuBois, a 26-year-old Pentecostal pastor and political strategist who handled religious outreach for the Obama campaign, to direct a revamped office of faith-based initiatives, according to religious leaders who have been informed about the choice."
The rest of the story awaits you here.
Milwaukee's appeal goes beyond suds and cheese
"You already know it has a dazzling art museum. And barrels of beer. And cheeseheads. But our affection for Milwaukee runs deeper than the vats of suds in the Miller foam factory."
Visit the full story here.
Cute high-tech beanbag is smarter than it looks
"You might think you've already got enough Internet-connected gadgets in your life. You're wrong. Thanks to cheap silicon chips and the popularity of Wi-Fi wireless networking, it's easy to build Internet access into pretty much anything. Even a vinyl-covered beanbag."
Curious? Click here.
Have a Good News Day!
Thursday, January 29, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
What's Behind the First 3D Super Bowl Ads (PC Magazine)
"Who or what is InTru3D? That's the message of one of the first two Super Bowl ads to be displayed in 3D, which will feature Intel, DreamWorks, and Sobe.
Two spots will debut on Sunday: a 30-second trailer for the DreamWorks animated movie, Monsters vs. Aliens, and a second spot highlighting Sobe LifeWater energy drinks. A 3D-encoded version of the NBC show 'Chuck' will be shown the day after the Super Bowl."
It's your due
"In all the hoopla surrounding the current stimulus package, it's easy to forget that other stimulus bill -- the one in 2008 that resulted in a good-sized check for many U.S. taxpayers.
Forgetting about that earlier stimulus, and any of the other major tax changes in 2008, could mean missing out on some much-needed cash when you file your tax return this year."
Tadpoles could help develop skin cancer drugs
"A compound that blocked the development of the distinctive markings of tadpoles in experiments could help to prevent the deadliest form of skin cancer, British scientists said on Thursday."
It may be able to stop the uncontrolled movement and growth of the pigment cells in tadpoles and humans that cause melanoma, they said."
Changeable handbag a fashion chameleon
"When it comes to transferring the contents of one handbag to another, you aren't the only one who finds it frustrating."
Michelle Romero, however, decided to do something about it."
Ministry sees encouraging growth in Myanmar
"Myanmar is facing a food shortage due to the destruction of Cyclone Nargis and a rat infestation that destroyed crops."
Read how Vision Beyond Borders is helping...
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Good News From Mary January 28, 2009
Waiting for Patience
Patience. It’s a tough word to swallow. Christians everywhere jokingly warn each other, “Don’t pray for patience! You’ll get it!” And we’ve all heard the joke,” I prayed for patience but I’m just not getting it fast enough!”
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Retirement Cash Flow Strategies
Turning a portfolio of stocks and bonds into a stream of regular income can seem complicated. It doesn't need to be. It can be as simple as telling your brokerage to sell enough shares of a particular stock or bond fund every quarter to generate a specific income dollar amount. By rebalancing your portfolio every year or so, you can make sure that your stock/bond allocation stays on track despite the periodic withdrawals.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Debt may do what rain, heat, gloom can’t
Massive deficits could force the post office to cut out one day of mail delivery per week, the postmaster general told Congress on Wednesday.
Patience. It’s a tough word to swallow. Christians everywhere jokingly warn each other, “Don’t pray for patience! You’ll get it!” And we’ve all heard the joke,” I prayed for patience but I’m just not getting it fast enough!”
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Retirement Cash Flow Strategies
Turning a portfolio of stocks and bonds into a stream of regular income can seem complicated. It doesn't need to be. It can be as simple as telling your brokerage to sell enough shares of a particular stock or bond fund every quarter to generate a specific income dollar amount. By rebalancing your portfolio every year or so, you can make sure that your stock/bond allocation stays on track despite the periodic withdrawals.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Debt may do what rain, heat, gloom can’t
Massive deficits could force the post office to cut out one day of mail delivery per week, the postmaster general told Congress on Wednesday.
Postmaster General John E. Potter asked lawmakers to lift the requirement that the agency deliver mail six days a week.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Snuggie gets a warm embrace from pop culture
The Cult of the Snuggie threatens to take over America! Or at least, a substantial number — 4 million — of late-night couch spuds.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
House passes Obama economic stimulus plan
In a swift victory for President Barack Obama, the Democratic-controlled House approved a historically huge $819 billion stimulus bill Wednesday night with spending increases and tax cuts at the heart of the young administration's plan to revive a badly ailing economy.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Good News for January 28 from Mary Beth
Giving Them a Pass: Pragmatism over Principle
"As I noted yesterday on BreakPoint, the inauguration of America’s first African-American President was one of the most moving moments in American history.
But now that the celebrations are over, it’s time to take a close look at how President Obama is planning to govern. And the closer I look, the greater my concerns. In his first week in office, he showed shown an alarming tendency to choose pragmatism over principle."
Read Chuck Colson's full commentary here.
MA Church to sponsor Winter Blast, invites people to Come In Out of the Cold
"Come in out of the cold to enjoy live music, fantastic games, crafts, face painting, and giveaways.
New shows have been added that include Micheal Flaherty the President of Walden Media, Paul Tavilla the Guinness World Record Holder for Grape-Catching, and members of the Boston Ballet Youth Troupe!"
The details await you here.
Big Daddy Weave's Mike Weaver going for 90 pounds in 2009
"Big Daddy Weave’s lead singer and guitarist, Mike Weaver, is resolving to lose 90 pounds this year by launching the '90 in ‘09 Challenge.'
That may seem like a lot of weight for a member of an active band, but fans know that Big Daddy Weave was named after brothers Mike and Jay Weaver, who both admit to having 'larger than average exteriors.'”
Join Mike in the challenge here.
Super Bowl Shirts, Hats and Towels Bound for El Salvador
"The winning team in Super Bowl XLIII remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — either outcome will spell excitement for children and families in El Salvador. Whether the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Arizona Cardinals win, shirts, hats, and towels will be given to people living in extreme poverty, as the National Football League and World Vision team up for the 17th year."
More on this super annual ministry awaits you here.
Chicago museum attendance healthy
"Despite last year's nose-diving economy, Chicago residents and out-of-town visitors continued to frequent the city's museums at a healthy clip, with attendance declining only by about 1 percent in 2008 from the previous year."
Click here for more on the story.
Garden District house is perfect character in Oscar-nominated Brad Pitt movie 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button'
"One major character in 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' won't be sitting expectantly in the audience when the 2009 Academy Awards are given out on Feb. 22, even though the movie received 13 nominations -- more than any other -- this week."
Get behind the scenes (including a video) here.
Sacramento - again - gets starring role in Disney painting
"The Disney Co. is once again giving Sacramento the star treatment. For the third year in a row, Disney is issuing a 'destination' painting showing some of its iconic characters against a River City backdrop."
Share the fantasy here.
Have a great Good News day!
"As I noted yesterday on BreakPoint, the inauguration of America’s first African-American President was one of the most moving moments in American history.
But now that the celebrations are over, it’s time to take a close look at how President Obama is planning to govern. And the closer I look, the greater my concerns. In his first week in office, he showed shown an alarming tendency to choose pragmatism over principle."
Read Chuck Colson's full commentary here.
MA Church to sponsor Winter Blast, invites people to Come In Out of the Cold
"Come in out of the cold to enjoy live music, fantastic games, crafts, face painting, and giveaways.
New shows have been added that include Micheal Flaherty the President of Walden Media, Paul Tavilla the Guinness World Record Holder for Grape-Catching, and members of the Boston Ballet Youth Troupe!"
The details await you here.
Big Daddy Weave's Mike Weaver going for 90 pounds in 2009
"Big Daddy Weave’s lead singer and guitarist, Mike Weaver, is resolving to lose 90 pounds this year by launching the '90 in ‘09 Challenge.'
That may seem like a lot of weight for a member of an active band, but fans know that Big Daddy Weave was named after brothers Mike and Jay Weaver, who both admit to having 'larger than average exteriors.'”
Join Mike in the challenge here.
Super Bowl Shirts, Hats and Towels Bound for El Salvador
"The winning team in Super Bowl XLIII remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — either outcome will spell excitement for children and families in El Salvador. Whether the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Arizona Cardinals win, shirts, hats, and towels will be given to people living in extreme poverty, as the National Football League and World Vision team up for the 17th year."
More on this super annual ministry awaits you here.
Chicago museum attendance healthy
"Despite last year's nose-diving economy, Chicago residents and out-of-town visitors continued to frequent the city's museums at a healthy clip, with attendance declining only by about 1 percent in 2008 from the previous year."
Click here for more on the story.
Garden District house is perfect character in Oscar-nominated Brad Pitt movie 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button'
"One major character in 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' won't be sitting expectantly in the audience when the 2009 Academy Awards are given out on Feb. 22, even though the movie received 13 nominations -- more than any other -- this week."
Get behind the scenes (including a video) here.
Sacramento - again - gets starring role in Disney painting
"The Disney Co. is once again giving Sacramento the star treatment. For the third year in a row, Disney is issuing a 'destination' painting showing some of its iconic characters against a River City backdrop."
Share the fantasy here.
Have a great Good News day!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
Why you need to pay down your debts ASAP
“Waking up this morning, I heard the news of recent 50,000+ layoffs announced by a a few major companies (Caterpillar, Home Depot’s Expo, etc.). They reported that the current unemployment rate is at 7% and they expect it to be over 10% by the end of 2009.
It doesn’t require a PHD economist to know that when fewer people have jobs people spend less, causing businesses to make less and in turn cut jobs. The cycle then repeats itself.”
Read more of this article here…
Brief, Rigorous Exercise Cuts Diabetes Risk
“Rigorous exercise of short duration can significantly affect the body's ability to process sugars and fight diabetes, a new study suggests.
In research published in the journal BMC Endocrine Disorders, scientists from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, say they found that brief but intense exercise every day or two may help reduce the risk of diabetes.”
Read more about this study here…
Lacking Zzzs? 5 Ways to Get a Better Night's Sleep
“Tossing and turning all night long? Staring at the ceiling for hours, praying that sleep will come?
If you are one of the more than 100 million Americans who suffer from insomnia, sleep may be what you crave the most in your life.”
Read more of this article here…
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
“As I squeezed down the narrow hall outside of Delaney's preschool room, I said hello to a mom-friend. ‘I love Julie's hair!’ I said as I noticed her daughter's hairdo—all twisted into cute spirals and fastened with colorful clips.
My daughter, eager as ever, bounced into the classroom and dove into her teacher's arms. ‘I love Delaney's smile,’ my friend said, rather graciously, I thought, as I looked at the back of my blonde beauty's head. Delaney was clean, but her hair revealed our morning battle—the most she'd let me do was to partially brush it. Put her hair up in clips or, for that matter, any style? Not a chance!”
Read more here…
Snow Day! How to make the most of the unscheduled time
Click here for some suggestions for keeping the children busy on these snowy days.
“Waking up this morning, I heard the news of recent 50,000+ layoffs announced by a a few major companies (Caterpillar, Home Depot’s Expo, etc.). They reported that the current unemployment rate is at 7% and they expect it to be over 10% by the end of 2009.
It doesn’t require a PHD economist to know that when fewer people have jobs people spend less, causing businesses to make less and in turn cut jobs. The cycle then repeats itself.”
Read more of this article here…
Brief, Rigorous Exercise Cuts Diabetes Risk
“Rigorous exercise of short duration can significantly affect the body's ability to process sugars and fight diabetes, a new study suggests.
In research published in the journal BMC Endocrine Disorders, scientists from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, say they found that brief but intense exercise every day or two may help reduce the risk of diabetes.”
Read more about this study here…
Lacking Zzzs? 5 Ways to Get a Better Night's Sleep
“Tossing and turning all night long? Staring at the ceiling for hours, praying that sleep will come?
If you are one of the more than 100 million Americans who suffer from insomnia, sleep may be what you crave the most in your life.”
Read more of this article here…
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
“As I squeezed down the narrow hall outside of Delaney's preschool room, I said hello to a mom-friend. ‘I love Julie's hair!’ I said as I noticed her daughter's hairdo—all twisted into cute spirals and fastened with colorful clips.
My daughter, eager as ever, bounced into the classroom and dove into her teacher's arms. ‘I love Delaney's smile,’ my friend said, rather graciously, I thought, as I looked at the back of my blonde beauty's head. Delaney was clean, but her hair revealed our morning battle—the most she'd let me do was to partially brush it. Put her hair up in clips or, for that matter, any style? Not a chance!”
Read more here…
Snow Day! How to make the most of the unscheduled time
Click here for some suggestions for keeping the children busy on these snowy days.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Good News From Mary January 27, 2009
The Distinguishing Mark of Christianity
Jesus is Lord (1 Corinthians 12:3) is the distinguishing article of Christianity and marks the essential confession of faith (Romans 10:9). Jesus proclaimed it to His disciples, His enemies, and His casual inquirers alike-and He refused to tone down its implications.
A powerful winter storm cut through the Southern Plains Tuesday, leaving a dangerous mix of ice and snow on roads across Texas and the Midwest.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Auschwitz Survivors Mark 64 Years Since Concentration Camp's Liberation
In the depths of the Polish winter, Auschwitz survivors and government officials marked the 64th anniversary of the Nazi death camp's liberation Tuesday as part of worldwide Holocaust remembrance ceremonies.
Jesus is Lord (1 Corinthians 12:3) is the distinguishing article of Christianity and marks the essential confession of faith (Romans 10:9). Jesus proclaimed it to His disciples, His enemies, and His casual inquirers alike-and He refused to tone down its implications.
The expression "Lord" (kurios) speaks of ownership, while "Master/Lord" (despotes) denotes an unquestionable right to command (John 13:13; Jude 4). Both words describe a master with absolute dominion over someone else. That explains Jesus' incredulity at the practice of those who paid homage to Him with their lips but not with their lives: "Why do you call Me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" (Luke 6:46).
Click here to read the rest of this story.
No worries on board ice-bound cruise ship
A cruise ship carrying nearly 400 people has been stuck in thick ice in the St. Lawrence River in Eastern Canada for over a day, but passengers are nonetheless having a "festive" time, the company that owns the vessel said Tuesday.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
US Airways passengers get $5,000 each; is it enough?
Many US Airways passengers who endured a crash landing in the Hudson River 12 days ago say they appreciate the $5,000 that the airline has offered — but some say it's not enough.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Ice Storm Hits Midwest, Cutting Power LinesA powerful winter storm cut through the Southern Plains Tuesday, leaving a dangerous mix of ice and snow on roads across Texas and the Midwest.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Auschwitz Survivors Mark 64 Years Since Concentration Camp's Liberation
In the depths of the Polish winter, Auschwitz survivors and government officials marked the 64th anniversary of the Nazi death camp's liberation Tuesday as part of worldwide Holocaust remembrance ceremonies.
The yearly commemoration honors the day the advancing Soviet army liberated the camp in 1945. The anniversary has been established as an annual Holocaust remembrance day by the United Nations.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Good Vibes, Bad Vibes: Obama's First 72 Hours
"No matter who we voted for in the presidential election, many of us—perhaps most of us—felt a patriotic pride in seeing America’s first African American president take the oath of office. As Peggy Noonan wrote in the Wall Street Journal, 'There was a low-key patriotic fervor” on Inauguration Day, and as Obama was sworn in, children who were watching “must have picked up this: Anything is possible in America.'”
Read Chuck Colson's full commentary here."
Bats' surprising behavior
"Researcher finds their health is more apt to take wing if they live under bridges than in caves, and they handle the stress of noise just fine after awhile."
Home in on the rest of the story here.
The eighth baby was the surprise
"A team of 46 doctors, nurses and surgical assistants at Kaiser Permanente Bellflower Medical Center meticulously planned the births for weeks. As the date approached, they held two practice runs. They didn't want any surprises. But they got one anyway Monday morning when it came time for the delivery."
Click here to read about the historic delivery.
Ballet company's performances at NOCCA will have an international flavor
"On his previous visit to New Orleans, as a dancer with the legendary Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Benoit Swan-Pouffer broke his foot on stage and continued to dance."
Leap into the rest of the story here.
A new page of bicycle racing history
"The Amgen Tour of California bicycle race begins in Sacramento Feb. 14, featuring some of the world's best teams and riders, including Lance Armstrong. A new Web page dedicated to race coverage includes, among other features, an interactive contest for picking winning times."
Race over to check out the information here.
In Orange County of the 1950s, a lifelong friendship began
"It is possible, of course, for friendships to be eternal. Who can say whether it's chemistry or karma or some magic combination of the two, but when you have one, you know it. Doesn't have to be defined or explained, it's just something belonging to you and someone else that can't be sold or traded away."
Follow the friendship here.
"No matter who we voted for in the presidential election, many of us—perhaps most of us—felt a patriotic pride in seeing America’s first African American president take the oath of office. As Peggy Noonan wrote in the Wall Street Journal, 'There was a low-key patriotic fervor” on Inauguration Day, and as Obama was sworn in, children who were watching “must have picked up this: Anything is possible in America.'”
Read Chuck Colson's full commentary here."
Bats' surprising behavior
"Researcher finds their health is more apt to take wing if they live under bridges than in caves, and they handle the stress of noise just fine after awhile."
Home in on the rest of the story here.
The eighth baby was the surprise
"A team of 46 doctors, nurses and surgical assistants at Kaiser Permanente Bellflower Medical Center meticulously planned the births for weeks. As the date approached, they held two practice runs. They didn't want any surprises. But they got one anyway Monday morning when it came time for the delivery."
Click here to read about the historic delivery.
Ballet company's performances at NOCCA will have an international flavor
"On his previous visit to New Orleans, as a dancer with the legendary Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Benoit Swan-Pouffer broke his foot on stage and continued to dance."
Leap into the rest of the story here.
A new page of bicycle racing history
"The Amgen Tour of California bicycle race begins in Sacramento Feb. 14, featuring some of the world's best teams and riders, including Lance Armstrong. A new Web page dedicated to race coverage includes, among other features, an interactive contest for picking winning times."
Race over to check out the information here.
In Orange County of the 1950s, a lifelong friendship began
"It is possible, of course, for friendships to be eternal. Who can say whether it's chemistry or karma or some magic combination of the two, but when you have one, you know it. Doesn't have to be defined or explained, it's just something belonging to you and someone else that can't be sold or traded away."
Follow the friendship here.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
Steelers Owner Dan Rooney Turns His Business Into a Family
"Draw a straight line between the goalposts at either end of Heinz Field, extend it south, and you’ll find that they line up directly with the fountain at the Point, where this city’s three rivers meet — a happy symmetry probably lost on the Terrible Towel-waving hordes attending Steelers games. The axis was Dan Rooney’s idea, and in addition to its implicit civic gesture, there is another, more private geometry at work: follow the line in the other direction and it runs right into Rooney’s house, as if his life, the life of the Steelers and the life of Pittsburgh were aligned."
Read more of this story here...
Netflix 4Q profit up 45 pct, defying recession (AP)
"Netflix Inc.'s fourth-quarter profit climbed 45 percent to surpass analysts' estimates Monday, propelled by the widening appeal of its relatively inexpensive DVD rental and Internet streaming service during a budget-crimping recession."
Read more of this story here...
Spring Rose Care
"Growing roses is not as difficult as we’ve been lead to believe. Roses will keep growing and blooming even if gardeners neglect them entirely. But they do benefit from some TLC and the efforts you make in caring for your roses in the early spring will mean that many fewer problems to tend to during the growing season."
Read more of this story here...
Fewer Calories, Better Memory?
"Cutting calories may help older adults better remember items on a grocery list or the name of someone they just met, a study shows."
Read more about this study here...
Winter exercise possible if precautions are taken
"When exercising outdoors during cold winter months, it is important to take special precautions.
In the cold, the arteries in the heart constrict and blood pressure rises, increasing the potential for a heart attack. This is especially true for senior citizens and those with cardiovascular disease."
Read more of this story here...
Do You Believe Jesus Wants to Heal You?
"While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, 'Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.'
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' he said. 'Be clean!' And immediately the leprosy left him (Luke 5:12-13)."
Read more of this article here...
"Draw a straight line between the goalposts at either end of Heinz Field, extend it south, and you’ll find that they line up directly with the fountain at the Point, where this city’s three rivers meet — a happy symmetry probably lost on the Terrible Towel-waving hordes attending Steelers games. The axis was Dan Rooney’s idea, and in addition to its implicit civic gesture, there is another, more private geometry at work: follow the line in the other direction and it runs right into Rooney’s house, as if his life, the life of the Steelers and the life of Pittsburgh were aligned."
Read more of this story here...
Netflix 4Q profit up 45 pct, defying recession (AP)
"Netflix Inc.'s fourth-quarter profit climbed 45 percent to surpass analysts' estimates Monday, propelled by the widening appeal of its relatively inexpensive DVD rental and Internet streaming service during a budget-crimping recession."
Read more of this story here...
Spring Rose Care
"Growing roses is not as difficult as we’ve been lead to believe. Roses will keep growing and blooming even if gardeners neglect them entirely. But they do benefit from some TLC and the efforts you make in caring for your roses in the early spring will mean that many fewer problems to tend to during the growing season."
Read more of this story here...
Fewer Calories, Better Memory?
"Cutting calories may help older adults better remember items on a grocery list or the name of someone they just met, a study shows."
Read more about this study here...
Winter exercise possible if precautions are taken
"When exercising outdoors during cold winter months, it is important to take special precautions.
In the cold, the arteries in the heart constrict and blood pressure rises, increasing the potential for a heart attack. This is especially true for senior citizens and those with cardiovascular disease."
Read more of this story here...
Do You Believe Jesus Wants to Heal You?
"While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, 'Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.'
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' he said. 'Be clean!' And immediately the leprosy left him (Luke 5:12-13)."
Read more of this article here...
Monday, January 26, 2009
Good News for January 26 from Mary Beth
Take the Bible Gateway with you at mobile.biblegateway.com
"Now you can take the Bible Gateway with you wherever you go! We’ve added a new smallscreen-friendly site for use with your iPhone, BlackBerry, or other internet-capable mobile device: mobile.biblegateway.com. We’ll be improving it and adding new features as we hear from you, our users, so try it out and send us your feedback."
Click here for more on the new site.
'Crime and Punishment': "Suicide by Self-Affirmation"
"In the latest CD in his Great Books audio series, Dr. Ken Boa talks about Fyodor Dostoevksy’s Crime and Punishment. Written in 1866, the novel shows penetrating insights into human nature, anticipating trends in psychology and politics that would one day sweep the globe. In writing Crime and Punishment, Boa tells us, Dostoevsky was a man ahead of his time. I agree. He’s prophetic and one of my favorite authors."
Read more of Chuck Colson's commentary here.
12 ways to beat the blahs
"Men's Health magazine readers need no introduction to male model and fitness guru Owen McKibbin. He's been on that magazine's cover an astounding 19 times. But even for a guy with a perfect six-pack like him, life sometimes can be gut-wrenching.
Here's his personal roadmap to that old Roman virtue--mens sana in corpore sano--a healthy mind in a healthy body."
His tips are waiting for you here.
This week runners hit the streets of New Orleans
This week on the streets of New Orleans, runners of all shapes and sizes put Pumas to pavement for the Mardi Gras marathon.
Hit your stride on the story here.
Interviewing? How do you answer the 'five years' question?
"The Boston Globe's Job Doc takes on this subject and offers strategies for responding."
Click here to get the inside scoop.
Inmate amazed personal treasure found after Ike
"A state prison inmate says he’s amazed to find that a heavy box of keepsakes he left in a friend’s garage in Galveston the day before going to prison was found more than a mile away after Hurricane Ike."
The story behind this inspiring act of honesty is here.
"Now you can take the Bible Gateway with you wherever you go! We’ve added a new smallscreen-friendly site for use with your iPhone, BlackBerry, or other internet-capable mobile device: mobile.biblegateway.com. We’ll be improving it and adding new features as we hear from you, our users, so try it out and send us your feedback."
Click here for more on the new site.
'Crime and Punishment': "Suicide by Self-Affirmation"
"In the latest CD in his Great Books audio series, Dr. Ken Boa talks about Fyodor Dostoevksy’s Crime and Punishment. Written in 1866, the novel shows penetrating insights into human nature, anticipating trends in psychology and politics that would one day sweep the globe. In writing Crime and Punishment, Boa tells us, Dostoevsky was a man ahead of his time. I agree. He’s prophetic and one of my favorite authors."
Read more of Chuck Colson's commentary here.
12 ways to beat the blahs
"Men's Health magazine readers need no introduction to male model and fitness guru Owen McKibbin. He's been on that magazine's cover an astounding 19 times. But even for a guy with a perfect six-pack like him, life sometimes can be gut-wrenching.
Here's his personal roadmap to that old Roman virtue--mens sana in corpore sano--a healthy mind in a healthy body."
His tips are waiting for you here.
This week runners hit the streets of New Orleans
This week on the streets of New Orleans, runners of all shapes and sizes put Pumas to pavement for the Mardi Gras marathon.
Hit your stride on the story here.
Interviewing? How do you answer the 'five years' question?
"The Boston Globe's Job Doc takes on this subject and offers strategies for responding."
Click here to get the inside scoop.
Inmate amazed personal treasure found after Ike
"A state prison inmate says he’s amazed to find that a heavy box of keepsakes he left in a friend’s garage in Galveston the day before going to prison was found more than a mile away after Hurricane Ike."
The story behind this inspiring act of honesty is here.
Good News From Mary January 26, 2009
Get Winter Skin Care Tips
Before you make any winter getaway plans to a warm and sunny place, you should ensure that you have the right skin-care products. Vacation sun exposure, or intermittent sun exposure, can be dangerous.
Dermatologist Jeanine Downie gives advice on how to protect yourself and explains the risks.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Senate passes bill to delay digital TV switch
People who have not gotten their TV sets ready for the changeover to digital signals could earn a four-month reprieve under a bill making its way through Congress.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Space station astronauts lose bone strength fast
Astronauts that spend long months aboard the International Space Station lose bone strength faster than previously thought and have a higher risk of breaking their hips later in life, a new study reports.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Microsoft steps up browser battle
Before you make any winter getaway plans to a warm and sunny place, you should ensure that you have the right skin-care products. Vacation sun exposure, or intermittent sun exposure, can be dangerous.
Dermatologist Jeanine Downie gives advice on how to protect yourself and explains the risks.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Senate passes bill to delay digital TV switch
People who have not gotten their TV sets ready for the changeover to digital signals could earn a four-month reprieve under a bill making its way through Congress.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Space station astronauts lose bone strength fast
Astronauts that spend long months aboard the International Space Station lose bone strength faster than previously thought and have a higher risk of breaking their hips later in life, a new study reports.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Microsoft steps up browser battle
Microsoft has stepped up the battle to win back users with the latest release of its Internet Explorer browser.
The US software giant says IE 8 is faster, easier to use and more secure than its competitors.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Woman's Weight Loss Secret: Blogging
Eight years ago Shauna Reid, then 23, weighed 351 pounds.
The Australian-born Reid, who now lives in Scotland, says she knew she wanted to lose weight when she saw her "enormous white knickers billowing on the clothesline next to my sister's impossibly teeny" pair but, after maxing out the scale at her local Weight Watchers chapter, it seemed impossible to find the support she needed.
So Reid, who'd always kept a journal, decided to try her hand at blogging.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Sunday, January 25, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
Children voice their anticipation for new sponsorships
"Today, MNN writer/producer, along with her team from the USA, trekked several hours into the bush to visit the Baale project. She reports: 'The project location is only 48 km west of Kampala, but the roads are unpaved, muddy and filled with car-sized craters.'"
Read more of this story Here
Coffee Linked to Lower Dementia Risk
"Drinking coffee may do more than just keep you awake. A new study suggests an intriguing potential link to mental health later in life, as well. "
Click here to read more about this study.
Kids' need for elbow room spurs work on Greek church
"The youngest members of the Greek Orthodox cathedral are at the heart of its $2.5 million expansion and renovation."
Click here to read more about this story.
High-tech sensors help seniors live independently
"After back-to-back hospital visits for congestive heart failure, Eva Olweean figured her health was back to normal. But the nurses at her retirement home knew better: Motion sensors in the 86-year-old's bed detected too many restless nights."
Read more of this story here...
Moving Day Without All the Waste
"BETWEEN graduating from college and moving in with his fiancée, Jim Mimlitsch moved nine times in 14 years. He hated moving, but accepted it as his fate and developed a habit of hoarding cardboard boxes."
Read more of this story here...
"Today, MNN writer/producer, along with her team from the USA, trekked several hours into the bush to visit the Baale project. She reports: 'The project location is only 48 km west of Kampala, but the roads are unpaved, muddy and filled with car-sized craters.'"
Read more of this story Here
Coffee Linked to Lower Dementia Risk
"Drinking coffee may do more than just keep you awake. A new study suggests an intriguing potential link to mental health later in life, as well. "
Click here to read more about this study.
Kids' need for elbow room spurs work on Greek church
"The youngest members of the Greek Orthodox cathedral are at the heart of its $2.5 million expansion and renovation."
Click here to read more about this story.
High-tech sensors help seniors live independently
"After back-to-back hospital visits for congestive heart failure, Eva Olweean figured her health was back to normal. But the nurses at her retirement home knew better: Motion sensors in the 86-year-old's bed detected too many restless nights."
Read more of this story here...
Moving Day Without All the Waste
"BETWEEN graduating from college and moving in with his fiancée, Jim Mimlitsch moved nine times in 14 years. He hated moving, but accepted it as his fate and developed a habit of hoarding cardboard boxes."
Read more of this story here...
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Good News for January 24 from Mary Beth
Prime Time America Digest - A look back at the last week's news through a Christian lens
"This week’s PTA Digest begins with a look at some of the interesting presidential inaugurations in our nation's history. Probe’s Kerby Anderson is our guest for this brief look back. Next, there is word from the little African nation of Eritrea of the deaths of several imprisoned Christian believers. We’ll get a report from Open Doors International’s Paul Estabrooks. And finally, we’ll hear from Ed Gungor with perspective on how the church should respond to the popular culture. I hope you enjoy our PTA Digest! – Greg Wheatley"
Click here to listen to the podcast.
Mercy Ships Video Earns Spot with Dallas Morning News 2008 Year in Review staff picks
"Mercy Ships was recently picked by the Dallas Morning News 2008 Year in Review Staff Picks as one of their favorite videos of the past year."
Click here to view the video.
Laundry Tips that Won't Clean You Out
"If your closet is a sea of plastic film and 'We [heart] Our Customers' hangers, you might be addicted to dry cleaning. Sure, it's convenient to have every sweat stain, lost button and wine spill taken care of by a pro. But the costs add up fast. To save a buck, you can solve common garment problems at home or on the go by following a few simple steps. We asked local experts for their tips on coming clean."
Click here for their money-saving tips.
A special house, a special solution: Retrofitting means safety, independence for autistic adult son
"From the curb, the small bungalow is just another home on a quiet Skokie street.
But look closer—and walk through it—and the specialness of the house is more apparent. And the story behind the home makes it even more special."
Read this inspiring story here.
Town giving a hero's welcome to Hudson River pilot
"Friends and neighbors of the pilot who safely landed a crippled jetliner in New York's Hudson River planned to give him a hero's homecoming on Saturday."
Click here to read more.
'Byzantium art': A fit-all category that belies its elusiveness
"Future political analysts may come to wonder why 21st-century historians continued to perceive distant cultures through artificial constructs defined in the 19th century at the height of the colonial age."
"This week’s PTA Digest begins with a look at some of the interesting presidential inaugurations in our nation's history. Probe’s Kerby Anderson is our guest for this brief look back. Next, there is word from the little African nation of Eritrea of the deaths of several imprisoned Christian believers. We’ll get a report from Open Doors International’s Paul Estabrooks. And finally, we’ll hear from Ed Gungor with perspective on how the church should respond to the popular culture. I hope you enjoy our PTA Digest! – Greg Wheatley"
Click here to listen to the podcast.
Mercy Ships Video Earns Spot with Dallas Morning News 2008 Year in Review staff picks
"Mercy Ships was recently picked by the Dallas Morning News 2008 Year in Review Staff Picks as one of their favorite videos of the past year."
Click here to view the video.
Laundry Tips that Won't Clean You Out
"If your closet is a sea of plastic film and 'We [heart] Our Customers' hangers, you might be addicted to dry cleaning. Sure, it's convenient to have every sweat stain, lost button and wine spill taken care of by a pro. But the costs add up fast. To save a buck, you can solve common garment problems at home or on the go by following a few simple steps. We asked local experts for their tips on coming clean."
Click here for their money-saving tips.
A special house, a special solution: Retrofitting means safety, independence for autistic adult son
"From the curb, the small bungalow is just another home on a quiet Skokie street.
But look closer—and walk through it—and the specialness of the house is more apparent. And the story behind the home makes it even more special."
Read this inspiring story here.
Town giving a hero's welcome to Hudson River pilot
"Friends and neighbors of the pilot who safely landed a crippled jetliner in New York's Hudson River planned to give him a hero's homecoming on Saturday."
Click here to read more.
'Byzantium art': A fit-all category that belies its elusiveness
"Future political analysts may come to wonder why 21st-century historians continued to perceive distant cultures through artificial constructs defined in the 19th century at the height of the colonial age."
Friday, January 23, 2009
Good News From Mary January 23, 2009
35th March for Life Marks New Challenges, New Hopes
Tens of thousands marched down Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. Thursday, marking the 36th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision with another peaceful protest.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Praying to Our Father
The next time you attend a prayer meeting, pay close attention to the manner in which individuals address God. Invariably, the form of address will be something like this, "Our dear heavenly Father," "Father," "Father God," or some other form of reference to God as Father. What is the significance of this? It would seem that the instructions of our Lord in giving the model prayer, "The Lord's Prayer," is emulated by our propensity for addressing God as Father. Since Jesus said, "When you pray, say, 'Our Father,'" that form of address has become the virtual standard form of Christian prayer. Because this form of prayer is used so frequently, we often take for granted its astonishing significance.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Super Foods, Super Cheap
Imagine ordinary food items, available in any supermarket, that are powerful enough to help you lower your cholesterol, reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer, and even put you in a better mood. You'd surely stock up on a lifetime supply and see to it that you add at least one super ingredient to every meal.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Senate panel proposes $300 bonus for seniors
Senior citizens receiving Social Security would get a bonus payment of $300 under the Senate version of President Barack Obama’s economic recovery plan.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Remembering the '1984' Super Bowl Mac ad
The fact that the Los Angeles Raiders humiliated the Washington Redskins in a 38-to-9 victory is a mere afterthought. Super Bowl XVIII's lasting legacy has been a single advertisement sandwiched somewhere in the third quarter: Apple Computer's iconic "1984" commercial.
It began, in a clear nod to George Orwell's novel of the same name, with tense strains of music, the image of figures marching through a tube across a dank industrial complex, and the start of a bizarre monologue: "Today we celebrate the first glorious anniversary of the Information Purification Directives."
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Tens of thousands marched down Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. Thursday, marking the 36th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision with another peaceful protest.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Praying to Our Father
The next time you attend a prayer meeting, pay close attention to the manner in which individuals address God. Invariably, the form of address will be something like this, "Our dear heavenly Father," "Father," "Father God," or some other form of reference to God as Father. What is the significance of this? It would seem that the instructions of our Lord in giving the model prayer, "The Lord's Prayer," is emulated by our propensity for addressing God as Father. Since Jesus said, "When you pray, say, 'Our Father,'" that form of address has become the virtual standard form of Christian prayer. Because this form of prayer is used so frequently, we often take for granted its astonishing significance.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Super Foods, Super Cheap
Imagine ordinary food items, available in any supermarket, that are powerful enough to help you lower your cholesterol, reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer, and even put you in a better mood. You'd surely stock up on a lifetime supply and see to it that you add at least one super ingredient to every meal.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Senate panel proposes $300 bonus for seniors
Senior citizens receiving Social Security would get a bonus payment of $300 under the Senate version of President Barack Obama’s economic recovery plan.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Remembering the '1984' Super Bowl Mac ad
The fact that the Los Angeles Raiders humiliated the Washington Redskins in a 38-to-9 victory is a mere afterthought. Super Bowl XVIII's lasting legacy has been a single advertisement sandwiched somewhere in the third quarter: Apple Computer's iconic "1984" commercial.
It began, in a clear nod to George Orwell's novel of the same name, with tense strains of music, the image of figures marching through a tube across a dank industrial complex, and the start of a bizarre monologue: "Today we celebrate the first glorious anniversary of the Information Purification Directives."
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Good News for January 23 from Mary Beth
Protection of vulnerable people must be top priority in eastern Congo, says aid agency
"As Rwanda and DRC join forces against rebel militias, protection of civilians must be the priority, warns humanitarian agency World Vision."
Read more on the situation here.
'Seven Pounds': No Room for Grace
"This Christmas, the movie Seven Pounds was advertised as a feel-good, inspirational film. Rarely has an advertising campaign been so wrong. The odd thing is that the movie actually does come close to being inspirational—but in the end, it completely misses the mark."
Click here for the rest of Mark Earley's commentary.
London school teaches art of positive thinking
"Class helps students shrug off life's everyday disappointments and depressions." Click here for more about this lesson in living.
All alone on the deep blue sea
"Rich Wilson has been sailing a 60-foot racing yacht around the world by himself for 2-1/2 months through stormy seas."
Join his lonely voyage here.
Volunteers of all ages learn value of time spent doing good works
"The volunteers, all senior citizens, have arrived for the afternoon shift. Promptly at 2 p.m. on a chilly day, Paula Harrington slides open the glass window of the Carmichael Food Closet to serve the first client waiting in line."
Read the rest of the story here.
Family Pro: Showing up is the key to raising kids
"Jim Mazzaferro learned a lot about how to be a parent before he became one.
One of the key lessons was simple: Show up."
Click hear for more on the subject.
Tired of the teen diva thing?
"The Woodlands' Kathryn Hallberg, 14, is a young songwriter with heart, talent and a new album. She wrote her first song at 11."
Tune in to the music here.
Two classic N.O. Steak houses are sizzling again
"The events of August and September 2005 were brutal in countless respects. In the arena of fine dining, that was especially true of those who make a living preparing -- or find living more enjoyable while eating -- high-quality steaks."
Click here to bite into the rest of the story.
"As Rwanda and DRC join forces against rebel militias, protection of civilians must be the priority, warns humanitarian agency World Vision."
Read more on the situation here.
'Seven Pounds': No Room for Grace
"This Christmas, the movie Seven Pounds was advertised as a feel-good, inspirational film. Rarely has an advertising campaign been so wrong. The odd thing is that the movie actually does come close to being inspirational—but in the end, it completely misses the mark."
Click here for the rest of Mark Earley's commentary.
London school teaches art of positive thinking
"Class helps students shrug off life's everyday disappointments and depressions." Click here for more about this lesson in living.
All alone on the deep blue sea
"Rich Wilson has been sailing a 60-foot racing yacht around the world by himself for 2-1/2 months through stormy seas."
Join his lonely voyage here.
Volunteers of all ages learn value of time spent doing good works
"The volunteers, all senior citizens, have arrived for the afternoon shift. Promptly at 2 p.m. on a chilly day, Paula Harrington slides open the glass window of the Carmichael Food Closet to serve the first client waiting in line."
Read the rest of the story here.
Family Pro: Showing up is the key to raising kids
"Jim Mazzaferro learned a lot about how to be a parent before he became one.
One of the key lessons was simple: Show up."
Click hear for more on the subject.
Tired of the teen diva thing?
"The Woodlands' Kathryn Hallberg, 14, is a young songwriter with heart, talent and a new album. She wrote her first song at 11."
Tune in to the music here.
Two classic N.O. Steak houses are sizzling again
"The events of August and September 2005 were brutal in countless respects. In the arena of fine dining, that was especially true of those who make a living preparing -- or find living more enjoyable while eating -- high-quality steaks."
Click here to bite into the rest of the story.
Friday, January 23, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
Learning, living Good Book by heart
"Thomas Carpenter is 9 years old and can recite every Bible verse from the first six chapters of Galatians and Ephesians, and a whole bunch of Luke.
And no kiddie Bible for him, either. He quotes the real deal: the King James version."
Read more about Bible quiz tournaments here...
Pope asks young Catholics to use technology to share their faith
"Pope Benedict XVI asked young Catholics to use their computers, Facebook accounts, blogs and Internet video posts to share with their peers the joy of faith in Christ."
Click HERE to read more about this story.
Recession-Proof Your Marriage
"In the United States today many married couples are facing greater financial difficulty than ever before. The housing market has cooled and thousands of families are struggling to keep their homes. The Mayo Clinic cites financial problems as one of the chief reasons why married couples need counseling (1).
A typical recession only lasts a few months, but it is a painful run and can have devastating consequences. Just as we need to take action to protect our finances in times of recession, we need to take steps to protect our families as well. Don’t let a financial crisis foreclose on your marriage."
Read more of this story here...
"Thomas Carpenter is 9 years old and can recite every Bible verse from the first six chapters of Galatians and Ephesians, and a whole bunch of Luke.
And no kiddie Bible for him, either. He quotes the real deal: the King James version."
Read more about Bible quiz tournaments here...
Pope asks young Catholics to use technology to share their faith
"Pope Benedict XVI asked young Catholics to use their computers, Facebook accounts, blogs and Internet video posts to share with their peers the joy of faith in Christ."
Click HERE to read more about this story.
Recession-Proof Your Marriage
"In the United States today many married couples are facing greater financial difficulty than ever before. The housing market has cooled and thousands of families are struggling to keep their homes. The Mayo Clinic cites financial problems as one of the chief reasons why married couples need counseling (1).
A typical recession only lasts a few months, but it is a painful run and can have devastating consequences. Just as we need to take action to protect our finances in times of recession, we need to take steps to protect our families as well. Don’t let a financial crisis foreclose on your marriage."
Read more of this story here...
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Good News From Mary January 22, 2009
Recession or depression? Too early to tell
By every measure — lost jobs, plunging stock prices, scarce credit and a profound loss of confidence in the banking system — the economy is in awful shape.
Two Japanese companies have unveiled a security robot that can be commanded from a mobile phone to hurl a net that traps suspected intruders.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
A Swim With Manatees: No Splashing, Please
IT was just after 8 on a cloudy January morning as the flat-bottomed pontoon boat made its way over the glassy surface of Kings Bay, 600 acres of fresh water in Crystal River, Fla. The bay, actually a spring-fed pool, is rimmed by attractive homes and lush greenery along its many coves and lagoons, but aboard the boat, no one cared.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Best-laid plans
The maelstrom sweeping through the U.S. economy has had one positive effect: More people are taking a hard look at their finances -- working to pay down debt, cut back expenses and shore up their savings.
But even with the best of intentions and the firmest of New Year's resolutions, plenty of people won't stick to their plans.
One common reason: Our underlying relationship with money often gets in the way. Rick Kahler, a certified financial planner and author in Rapid City, S.D., says he often brings in a psychologist or family therapist to help his clients understand what he calls their "money scripts" -- beliefs about money formed in early childhood that guide each of us as adults. Those beliefs can derail our best-laid plans.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News Story.
Tanning no cure for seasonal depression
People who suffer from winter depression known as "seasonal affective disorder" or SAD — or the less severe but more common "winter blues" — shouldn't seek relief in a tanning bed or booth, a leading expert on light therapy warns.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News Story.
By every measure — lost jobs, plunging stock prices, scarce credit and a profound loss of confidence in the banking system — the economy is in awful shape.
The nation's 11th recession of the postwar era began in December 2007 and easily could become the longest since the Great Depression, although most forecasters expect a weak recovery to begin in the second half of this year.
But what are the odds that we’re in the early stages of what will eventually become a depression rather than just a recession?
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Japanese firms unveil 'robocop'Two Japanese companies have unveiled a security robot that can be commanded from a mobile phone to hurl a net that traps suspected intruders.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
A Swim With Manatees: No Splashing, Please
IT was just after 8 on a cloudy January morning as the flat-bottomed pontoon boat made its way over the glassy surface of Kings Bay, 600 acres of fresh water in Crystal River, Fla. The bay, actually a spring-fed pool, is rimmed by attractive homes and lush greenery along its many coves and lagoons, but aboard the boat, no one cared.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Best-laid plans
The maelstrom sweeping through the U.S. economy has had one positive effect: More people are taking a hard look at their finances -- working to pay down debt, cut back expenses and shore up their savings.
But even with the best of intentions and the firmest of New Year's resolutions, plenty of people won't stick to their plans.
One common reason: Our underlying relationship with money often gets in the way. Rick Kahler, a certified financial planner and author in Rapid City, S.D., says he often brings in a psychologist or family therapist to help his clients understand what he calls their "money scripts" -- beliefs about money formed in early childhood that guide each of us as adults. Those beliefs can derail our best-laid plans.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News Story.
Tanning no cure for seasonal depression
People who suffer from winter depression known as "seasonal affective disorder" or SAD — or the less severe but more common "winter blues" — shouldn't seek relief in a tanning bed or booth, a leading expert on light therapy warns.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News Story.
Good News for January 22 from Mary Beth
Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant: Richard John Neuhaus
"If you’ve read the groundbreaking book The Naked Public Square, or ever plumbed the depths of the fine journal First Things, then you know what a powerful intellect and defender of the faith Fr. Richard John Neuhaus was."
Read the rest of Chuck Colson's tribute here.
'Marvelous Malia' and 'Sweet Sasha' dolls are not the Obama girls, Ty says
"Well, that didn't take long.
In one of the first apparent attempts to profit from the star power of the new First Daughters, Ty Inc., the Beanie Babies empire based in Westmont, has come out with Sasha and Malia dolls. Or has it?"
For the discussion, click here.
Bluegrass preservation effort gathers a head of steam
"Bluegrass music never aspired to great popularity. With its blending of guitar, mandolin, banjo and fiddle, the music was never about what's cool or trendy; it was about artistry and earnestness.
But its followers—like those of the Grateful Dead—are hard-core loyal, and that is what led a man in Tinley Park to make his home an unlikely epicenter for a bluegrass music renaissance."
Get the details here.
Snowshoeing -- When there's no other way to get around
"Antsy to hike in the Sierra – but unable because some of our trails and the gated-and-chained trailhead parking lots are under snow – we put aside wishful thinking and went to Plan B."
Click here to plow on through to the rest of the story.
And the Oscar nominees are...
"'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,' a fable about a man who ages in reverse, dominated the 81st annual Academy Award nominations this morning, earning 13 nods, including best film, best actor for Brad Pitt and best director for David Fincher."
Click here for your ticket to the rest of the nominations.
Dr. Bonsai's work is never quite finished
"You can ask Dr. Bonsai anything, but just don't ask him if he can bring a dead bonsai tree back to life. Even if that bonsai is an $8,500 Japanese black pine with artfully displayed gnarled exposed root."
Here are more details of this fascinating job.
Obama books for kids capitalize on a teachable moment
"Now that you have your souvenir edition of the newspaper, brace yourself for the coming commemorative books and magazines documenting the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president."
Read all about it here.
"If you’ve read the groundbreaking book The Naked Public Square, or ever plumbed the depths of the fine journal First Things, then you know what a powerful intellect and defender of the faith Fr. Richard John Neuhaus was."
Read the rest of Chuck Colson's tribute here.
'Marvelous Malia' and 'Sweet Sasha' dolls are not the Obama girls, Ty says
"Well, that didn't take long.
In one of the first apparent attempts to profit from the star power of the new First Daughters, Ty Inc., the Beanie Babies empire based in Westmont, has come out with Sasha and Malia dolls. Or has it?"
For the discussion, click here.
Bluegrass preservation effort gathers a head of steam
"Bluegrass music never aspired to great popularity. With its blending of guitar, mandolin, banjo and fiddle, the music was never about what's cool or trendy; it was about artistry and earnestness.
But its followers—like those of the Grateful Dead—are hard-core loyal, and that is what led a man in Tinley Park to make his home an unlikely epicenter for a bluegrass music renaissance."
Get the details here.
Snowshoeing -- When there's no other way to get around
"Antsy to hike in the Sierra – but unable because some of our trails and the gated-and-chained trailhead parking lots are under snow – we put aside wishful thinking and went to Plan B."
Click here to plow on through to the rest of the story.
And the Oscar nominees are...
"'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,' a fable about a man who ages in reverse, dominated the 81st annual Academy Award nominations this morning, earning 13 nods, including best film, best actor for Brad Pitt and best director for David Fincher."
Click here for your ticket to the rest of the nominations.
Dr. Bonsai's work is never quite finished
"You can ask Dr. Bonsai anything, but just don't ask him if he can bring a dead bonsai tree back to life. Even if that bonsai is an $8,500 Japanese black pine with artfully displayed gnarled exposed root."
Here are more details of this fascinating job.
Obama books for kids capitalize on a teachable moment
"Now that you have your souvenir edition of the newspaper, brace yourself for the coming commemorative books and magazines documenting the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president."
Read all about it here.
Thursday, January 22, 2009 Good News Posts by Margaret
A wrong turn leads to education for thousands of Pakistani, Afghan children
"Very few people can say they have changed the world.
Fewer yet can say they changed a troubled part of the world for the better.
Greg Mortenson turned a disastrous trip down a mountain into a successful journey to bring education to children in Pakistan and Afghanistan."
Read more of this story HERE.
Life Expectancy Up, Thanks to Cleaner Air
"Steps to curb air pollution in the United States are paying off, helping to dramatically increase average life spans, a new study says."
Read about this study here...
Researchers develop new semiconductor ink
"U.S. researchers have developed a new type of semiconductor ink that brings companies a step closer to making bendable computer screens or inexpensive sensor tags to help retailers keep track of their inventory."
Read more of this story here...
Building a Culture of Life One Heart at a Time
"The mission statement of the Sisters of Life states that they are “a contemplative/active religious community dedicated to protecting and advancing a sense of the sacredness of all human life — beginning with the infant in the womb and extending to all those vulnerable to the threat of euthanasia.” Founded by John Cardinal O’Connor in 1991, the sisters begin with prayer and then go out into the world with outreach to create a culture of life one person and one encounter at a time."
Read more about the Sisters of Life here...
"Very few people can say they have changed the world.
Fewer yet can say they changed a troubled part of the world for the better.
Greg Mortenson turned a disastrous trip down a mountain into a successful journey to bring education to children in Pakistan and Afghanistan."
Read more of this story HERE.
Life Expectancy Up, Thanks to Cleaner Air
"Steps to curb air pollution in the United States are paying off, helping to dramatically increase average life spans, a new study says."
Read about this study here...
Researchers develop new semiconductor ink
"U.S. researchers have developed a new type of semiconductor ink that brings companies a step closer to making bendable computer screens or inexpensive sensor tags to help retailers keep track of their inventory."
Read more of this story here...
Building a Culture of Life One Heart at a Time
"The mission statement of the Sisters of Life states that they are “a contemplative/active religious community dedicated to protecting and advancing a sense of the sacredness of all human life — beginning with the infant in the womb and extending to all those vulnerable to the threat of euthanasia.” Founded by John Cardinal O’Connor in 1991, the sisters begin with prayer and then go out into the world with outreach to create a culture of life one person and one encounter at a time."
Read more about the Sisters of Life here...
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
More Good News for January 21 from Mary
Inventorying My Fruit of the Spirit Menu
Travel can be wonderful. But business travel is generally more like death by paper cuts. Last week I landed and was still a bit famished even after the eight tiny pretzels snack I was graciously given in flight. So I began to peruse the food options. I spotted a smoothie stand and that sounded perfect. So I headed over and made my pick.
Travel can be wonderful. But business travel is generally more like death by paper cuts. Last week I landed and was still a bit famished even after the eight tiny pretzels snack I was graciously given in flight. So I began to peruse the food options. I spotted a smoothie stand and that sounded perfect. So I headed over and made my pick.
“I will have the Peanut Butter Zone smoothie.”
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Malia and Sasha Enjoy Scavenger Hunt, Movies
In their wildest dreams, Malia and Sasha Obama never could have imagined what was in store for them on their first night in the White House.
While their parents danced the night away at 10 different inaugural balls across Washington , the Obama girls had some fun of their own, gallivanting around 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue with a few of their closest friends.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Thief caught out giving policeman's address
A German teen-ager caught shoplifting tried to dupe police by lying about where he lived -- but ended up in even more trouble when the address he gave turned out to be the home of an investigating officer.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Some rush to declare snacks salmonella-safe
Go ahead and order the Girl Scout cookies, even the Do-Si-Dos. And don’t worry about Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Nutter Butter cookies, either.
That’s the word from Girls Scouts of the USA, the Hershey Co. and Kraft Foods Inc., three corporations on a growing list of agencies and food manufacturers rushing to assure consumers their products are safe from a widespread salmonella scare.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Hello Kitty helps calm moms at Taiwan hospital
Japan's iconic Hello Kitty has been recruited to help calm anxious mothers at a maternity hospital in Taiwan where the cartoon image adorns everything from walls to newborns' blankets.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
January 21 is a Good News Day!
Day just too thrilling for words: Chicagoans can't check emotions on Inauguration Day
"As Barack Obama began his term as president, his adopted hometown watched his inaugural festivities with somber attention and through tears of pride. They stood in the cold and stared up at Jumbotrons or watched broadcasts in museums and school gymnasiums."
More of the Chicago Tribune article here.
A Real Head Turner: One Atheist Who Gets It
"I’ve frequently said that our greatest witness as Christians is when we’re caring for the poor, visiting the prisoners, tending the sick. When we take these things seriously, others can’t help but see the power of the Gospel."
Click here for the rest of Chuck Colson's Breakpoint commentary.
Statement from World Vision on Gaza Ceasefires
"World Vision Jerusalem-West Bank-Gaza director Charles Clayton states:
'We welcome any alleviation of violence, with cautious optimism and hope that these declarations will lead to the end of fighting. We call on all parties to stop attacks, including Hamas’ rocket strikes against Israel, and refrain from further hostilities."
Read the rest of his statement here.
Texas boys find 95-year-old's long-lost class ring
"Franklin Weeks figures he lost his college class ring sometime in the 1980s while helping his church put in new playground equipment."
Read how the Internet helped in the return here.
Bargain-hungry shoppers buy more pasta
"As struggling consumers turn to casseroles, soup, pasta salad, and good old macaroni and cheese to stretch their food dollars, the nation's pasta makers are returning to a rolling boil after many years overshadowed by the low-carbohydrate fad."
Check out the menu here.
Wood has its own life in historic New Orleans
"Wood isn't what it used to be.
Time was that I didn't give it much thought at all aside from in its natural state, which offered shade on hot days and something to hang shiny ornaments on at Christmastime."
Read more about it here.
"As Barack Obama began his term as president, his adopted hometown watched his inaugural festivities with somber attention and through tears of pride. They stood in the cold and stared up at Jumbotrons or watched broadcasts in museums and school gymnasiums."
More of the Chicago Tribune article here.
A Real Head Turner: One Atheist Who Gets It
"I’ve frequently said that our greatest witness as Christians is when we’re caring for the poor, visiting the prisoners, tending the sick. When we take these things seriously, others can’t help but see the power of the Gospel."
Click here for the rest of Chuck Colson's Breakpoint commentary.
Statement from World Vision on Gaza Ceasefires
"World Vision Jerusalem-West Bank-Gaza director Charles Clayton states:
'We welcome any alleviation of violence, with cautious optimism and hope that these declarations will lead to the end of fighting. We call on all parties to stop attacks, including Hamas’ rocket strikes against Israel, and refrain from further hostilities."
Read the rest of his statement here.
Texas boys find 95-year-old's long-lost class ring
"Franklin Weeks figures he lost his college class ring sometime in the 1980s while helping his church put in new playground equipment."
Read how the Internet helped in the return here.
Bargain-hungry shoppers buy more pasta
"As struggling consumers turn to casseroles, soup, pasta salad, and good old macaroni and cheese to stretch their food dollars, the nation's pasta makers are returning to a rolling boil after many years overshadowed by the low-carbohydrate fad."
Check out the menu here.
Wood has its own life in historic New Orleans
"Wood isn't what it used to be.
Time was that I didn't give it much thought at all aside from in its natural state, which offered shade on hot days and something to hang shiny ornaments on at Christmastime."
Read more about it here.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009 Good News Posts by Margaret
"So Help Me God"
"[There was a ceremony in Washington yesterday] that’s the stuff that nightmares are made of — that is if you belong to the ACLU. [The] Chief Justice of the United States [asked]Barack Obama to place his hand on the Bible — the one used by Abraham Lincoln in 1861 — and to swear allegiance to the Constitution. The oath [ended] with the words 'so help me God.' Even worse, this theocratic moment [included] a prayer by an evangelistic minister, one Rick Warren."
Read more of Charles Colson's comments here...
Overcoming Challenges in Your Walk with Christ
"When you choose to follow Jesus Christ, you face challenges head-on."
Read more of Billy Graham's message here...
CRI sends its next Great Crate to Ethiopia
"A large shipment of gently-used Bibles and Christian books will be sent out soon, made up completely of donations from Christians like you. These materials are scheduled to be sent to the mostly-Muslim nation of Ethiopia."
Read more about this effort here...
A New Look at the Multitalented Man Who Made Tropical Landscaping an Art
"Brazil teems with jungles, forests and all sorts of exotic plants, flowers and trees. But until the Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx came along to tame and shape his country’s exuberant flora, his countrymen had mostly disdained the natural riches that, often literally, flourished in their own backyards."
Read more of this story here...
"[There was a ceremony in Washington yesterday] that’s the stuff that nightmares are made of — that is if you belong to the ACLU. [The] Chief Justice of the United States [asked]Barack Obama to place his hand on the Bible — the one used by Abraham Lincoln in 1861 — and to swear allegiance to the Constitution. The oath [ended] with the words 'so help me God.' Even worse, this theocratic moment [included] a prayer by an evangelistic minister, one Rick Warren."
Read more of Charles Colson's comments here...
Overcoming Challenges in Your Walk with Christ
"When you choose to follow Jesus Christ, you face challenges head-on."
Read more of Billy Graham's message here...
CRI sends its next Great Crate to Ethiopia
"A large shipment of gently-used Bibles and Christian books will be sent out soon, made up completely of donations from Christians like you. These materials are scheduled to be sent to the mostly-Muslim nation of Ethiopia."
Read more about this effort here...
A New Look at the Multitalented Man Who Made Tropical Landscaping an Art
"Brazil teems with jungles, forests and all sorts of exotic plants, flowers and trees. But until the Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx came along to tame and shape his country’s exuberant flora, his countrymen had mostly disdained the natural riches that, often literally, flourished in their own backyards."
Read more of this story here...
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Good News From Mary January 20, 2009
7 Habits for a Financially Fit New Year
Personal character is made of habits and habits come in two varieties: good and bad. The secret to learning good habits or breaking bad ones is found in conscious repetition. To create a habit, you must repeat an action over and over again until it becomes a natural response. To break a habit, you must to create a new one or choose not to do something over and over until it becomes a natural response.
Want to become more financially responsible? Consciously focus on the following practices. Repeat them over and over until they become natural responses. Before you know it, these will be your habits, too.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Bush arrives in Texas after leaving Obama note
Leaving the White House for the last time on Tuesday, President George W. Bush blew a kiss out the window of his presidential limousine, a gesture that capped an eight-year administration marked by two wars, recession and the biggest terrorist attack on U.S. soil.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Bush twins offer advice for Sasha, Malia
Just in time for move-in day, the Bush twins offered their best advice Tuesday to Sasha and Malia Obama on living in a "magical place" called the White House.
Personal character is made of habits and habits come in two varieties: good and bad. The secret to learning good habits or breaking bad ones is found in conscious repetition. To create a habit, you must repeat an action over and over again until it becomes a natural response. To break a habit, you must to create a new one or choose not to do something over and over until it becomes a natural response.
Want to become more financially responsible? Consciously focus on the following practices. Repeat them over and over until they become natural responses. Before you know it, these will be your habits, too.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Bush arrives in Texas after leaving Obama note
Leaving the White House for the last time on Tuesday, President George W. Bush blew a kiss out the window of his presidential limousine, a gesture that capped an eight-year administration marked by two wars, recession and the biggest terrorist attack on U.S. soil.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Bush twins offer advice for Sasha, Malia
Just in time for move-in day, the Bush twins offered their best advice Tuesday to Sasha and Malia Obama on living in a "magical place" called the White House.
In an open letter to the Obama kids, 27-year-olds Barbara Bush and Jenna Hager advised the girls to relish it all — to "go to anything and everything you possibly can."
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
This Year, Electronic Filing Is Free for All
You know the saying that there's no free lunch? Well, the Internal Revenue Service is trying to prove you can get something free when filing your taxes.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Your Nest Is Empty? Enjoy Each Other
The empty nest may not be such an unhappy place after all.
Since the 1970s, relationship experts have popularized the notion of “empty nest syndrome,” a time of depression and loss of purpose that plagues parents, especially mothers, when their children leave home. Dozens of Web sites and books have been created to help parents weather the transition. Simon & Schuster has even introduced a “Chicken Soup for the Soul” dedicated to empty nesters.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
Pope congratulates Obama on Inauguration Day
"Pope Benedict XVI, congratulating Barack Obama on his inauguration as U.S. president, prayed that he would remain steadfast in his dedication to promote understanding, cooperation and peace in the world."
Read more of the Pope's message here...
Shed pounds with smart exercise and eating habits
"Q I just started working out a few months ago and am sticking to a high-protein, low-carb diet. I lost some weight, but for the amount of time I spend exercising, I think I should be seeing better results. I lift weights one day and walk the next day, and do an hour per workout. I have no idea what I am doing wrong. Can you help?"
Read the answer here...
Featured Plant – Asparagus
"Asparagus offers two major perks to the vegetable gardener. First, it's a sure sign that spring is here and the gardening season has begun. Secondly, asparagus is one of the few perennial vegetable crops. Plant it once and it keeps on giving. There is some up front work to be done, before you can enjoy the harvest, but a well-established bed can produce for decades."
Read about this vegetable here...
Inaugural Prayers, Speech Plead for God's Grace
"God appeared during Tuesday’s inauguration – that is in the prayers lifted up by the selected pastors and in President Barack Obama’s speech."
Read more of this story here...
Inaugural Memorabilia: What It's Worth
"An estimated two million people will visit the nation’s capital over the weekend to watch Barack Obama’s presidential inauguration. And while witnessing history will be rewarding enough to some, other attendees will be looking to reap some sizable financial rewards, as well.'
Read more of this story here...
"Pope Benedict XVI, congratulating Barack Obama on his inauguration as U.S. president, prayed that he would remain steadfast in his dedication to promote understanding, cooperation and peace in the world."
Read more of the Pope's message here...
Shed pounds with smart exercise and eating habits
"Q I just started working out a few months ago and am sticking to a high-protein, low-carb diet. I lost some weight, but for the amount of time I spend exercising, I think I should be seeing better results. I lift weights one day and walk the next day, and do an hour per workout. I have no idea what I am doing wrong. Can you help?"
Read the answer here...
Featured Plant – Asparagus
"Asparagus offers two major perks to the vegetable gardener. First, it's a sure sign that spring is here and the gardening season has begun. Secondly, asparagus is one of the few perennial vegetable crops. Plant it once and it keeps on giving. There is some up front work to be done, before you can enjoy the harvest, but a well-established bed can produce for decades."
Read about this vegetable here...
Inaugural Prayers, Speech Plead for God's Grace
"God appeared during Tuesday’s inauguration – that is in the prayers lifted up by the selected pastors and in President Barack Obama’s speech."
Read more of this story here...
Inaugural Memorabilia: What It's Worth
"An estimated two million people will visit the nation’s capital over the weekend to watch Barack Obama’s presidential inauguration. And while witnessing history will be rewarding enough to some, other attendees will be looking to reap some sizable financial rewards, as well.'
Read more of this story here...
Monday, January 19, 2009
Good News forJanuary 19 from Mary Beth
Truth, Love, and Endurance: Dr. King and Christian Activism
As Americans observe Martin Luther King Day today, I am reminded of the rich Christian tradition of activism in this country. For millions of Christians who have gone before us, activism was considered fruit of the faith. Not only was the civil-rights movement led by evangelical Christians like Dr. King, so too were campaigns for abolition and women’s suffrage heavily influenced by Christians expressing their faith.
Read the rest of Chuck Colson's commentary here.
Calling all Christian Writers!
The next Write-to-Publish Conference will be held June 3-6, 2009, at Wheaton College in the Chicago area. (This is not a function of Wheaton College.)
Plan to join us to connect with editors, improve your writing craft, find new markets, and network with other Christian writers. Getting published can be daunting in today’s tighter market, but the Write-to-Publish Conference can open doors to your new or growing freelance writing career.
Get the particulars here.
From A to Zebra (A Devotion)
I am enamored of zebras. There’s something about those striped equines that brings a smile to my face. Over the years, friends and family members have given me gifts of zebra-striped items and I have collected others on my own. When I was employed, I even “adopted” a zebra at Brookfield Zoo.
Click here to read more.
Try these 1-minute workouts
Fitness is like a drug; each person needs a different dose. But if you're time-pressed you can still benefit from the bare minimum: a one-minute burst of movement.
Confidence is his key
On the concert circuit, pianists who can thrive in last-minute crisis situations are few.
And Adam Neiman is one of them.
Learn more about this special musician here.
As Americans observe Martin Luther King Day today, I am reminded of the rich Christian tradition of activism in this country. For millions of Christians who have gone before us, activism was considered fruit of the faith. Not only was the civil-rights movement led by evangelical Christians like Dr. King, so too were campaigns for abolition and women’s suffrage heavily influenced by Christians expressing their faith.
Read the rest of Chuck Colson's commentary here.
Calling all Christian Writers!
The next Write-to-Publish Conference will be held June 3-6, 2009, at Wheaton College in the Chicago area. (This is not a function of Wheaton College.)
Plan to join us to connect with editors, improve your writing craft, find new markets, and network with other Christian writers. Getting published can be daunting in today’s tighter market, but the Write-to-Publish Conference can open doors to your new or growing freelance writing career.
Get the particulars here.
From A to Zebra (A Devotion)
I am enamored of zebras. There’s something about those striped equines that brings a smile to my face. Over the years, friends and family members have given me gifts of zebra-striped items and I have collected others on my own. When I was employed, I even “adopted” a zebra at Brookfield Zoo.
Click here to read more.
Try these 1-minute workouts
Fitness is like a drug; each person needs a different dose. But if you're time-pressed you can still benefit from the bare minimum: a one-minute burst of movement.
Confidence is his key
On the concert circuit, pianists who can thrive in last-minute crisis situations are few.
And Adam Neiman is one of them.
Learn more about this special musician here.
January 19 Posts from Mary
Is the Bible Reliable?
One of the most interesting stories of last year involved the CERN laboratory outside of Geneva, Switzerland. On Wednesday, September 10, 2008, scientists turned on the Large Hadron Collider, an eight-billion dollar experiment, designed to see what happens when protons crash into one another at ridiculously fast speeds. “We can now look forward,” said the project director, “to a new era of understanding about the origins and evolution of the universe.” Christians can and should be excited about this kind of research. Our knowledge of reality, however, is not limited to what science can prove.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Gideons Celebrate 100 Years of Bible Distribution
Long before cable television, spa treatments, and eco-friendly soaps and shampoos became staples in hotel rooms, there was the Bible - the Gideon Bible.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Better skin from the beauty aisle
In a windowless room, 49 barefaced women sit quietly as their skin is pinched, poked, and examined by technicians. They’re then photographed with a special skin-evaluating camera. It’s not exactly a glamorous scene.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Was Biden offered choice of two big jobs?
Did Joe Biden have his choice of two jobs for Barack Obama, vice president or secretary of state?
One of the most interesting stories of last year involved the CERN laboratory outside of Geneva, Switzerland. On Wednesday, September 10, 2008, scientists turned on the Large Hadron Collider, an eight-billion dollar experiment, designed to see what happens when protons crash into one another at ridiculously fast speeds. “We can now look forward,” said the project director, “to a new era of understanding about the origins and evolution of the universe.” Christians can and should be excited about this kind of research. Our knowledge of reality, however, is not limited to what science can prove.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Gideons Celebrate 100 Years of Bible Distribution
Long before cable television, spa treatments, and eco-friendly soaps and shampoos became staples in hotel rooms, there was the Bible - the Gideon Bible.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Better skin from the beauty aisle
In a windowless room, 49 barefaced women sit quietly as their skin is pinched, poked, and examined by technicians. They’re then photographed with a special skin-evaluating camera. It’s not exactly a glamorous scene.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Was Biden offered choice of two big jobs?
Did Joe Biden have his choice of two jobs for Barack Obama, vice president or secretary of state?
His wife, Jill Biden, suggested on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" on Monday that her husband had his pick of either job -- prompting an official statement later from the Biden team clarifying her remarks.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Hooping -- from child's play to exercise workout
Hula Hoops, those baby boomer toys that fired a worldwide craze in the1950s, have come back as must-have fitness tools to strengthen the core and battle the love handle.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Study: Women less able to suppress hunger
Faced with their favorite foods, women are less able than men to suppress their hunger, a discovery that may help explain the higher obesity rate for females, a new study suggests.
U. S. researchers trying to understand the brain's mechanisms for controlling food intake were surprised at the difference between the sexes in brain response.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
The Caldwells: A Family's Long Civil Rights Journey
As the great and sometimes heartbreaking flow of events swept around the contours of this city, the Caldwells set themselves into the portrait album of America. Figures pressed between the pages of history.
One black American family: A mother and a father. Four daughters and a son. Forebears who reach back to slavery, and grandchildren who can now grow up with the knowledge that they could be president.
Click here to read the rest of this Good News story.
Monday, January 19, 2009 Good News Posts from Margaret
Kids and their dreams
"Miami Valley (Dayton, Ohio) elementary students reflect on Martin Luther King and his 'Dream'"
Read these letters to Dr. King here...
Knights of Columbus 'Coats for Kids' Program to Aid Needy Children
"The Knights of Columbus will distribute thousands of coats beginning next week to needy children as part of the organization's "Coats for Kids" program.
The Knights of Columbus has purchased 7,800 coats from OshKosh B'gosh and London Fog and will distribute them through local Knights councils in several US cities beginning in Washington, DC on January 19, which has been designated National Day of Service."
Click to read more of this story.
Obama prods nation to service on inauguration eve
"On the eve of his inauguration, President-elect Barack Obama visited wounded troops at a military hospital, helped paint a wall at a shelter for homeless teens and paid tribute to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. on the civil rights leader's national day. He said there can't be 'idle hands' at a time of national hardship and pledged to make the government do its part."
Read more of this story here...
How Obama can inspire a nation
"An inaugural speech gives an incoming president a rare opportunity to reach out to all the people, to cite our common problems and suggest how he will lead us to conquering them. Often the rhetoric of the address is so dramatic that it produces words that become part of the American language."
Click here to read this commentary from Marshall Loeb.
Mood Foods: Healthy Foods to Brighten Your Day
"Can foods change your mood? According to several studies, it seems that a person’s choice of food is usually dictated by his state of mind. Conversely, food and nutrition are key factors in your brain’s behavior. Judith Wurtman, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), researched how foods alter one’s mood by changing the levels of specific brain chemicals – dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin - called neurotransmitters."
Read more of this story here...
"Miami Valley (Dayton, Ohio) elementary students reflect on Martin Luther King and his 'Dream'"
Read these letters to Dr. King here...
Knights of Columbus 'Coats for Kids' Program to Aid Needy Children
"The Knights of Columbus will distribute thousands of coats beginning next week to needy children as part of the organization's "Coats for Kids" program.
The Knights of Columbus has purchased 7,800 coats from OshKosh B'gosh and London Fog and will distribute them through local Knights councils in several US cities beginning in Washington, DC on January 19, which has been designated National Day of Service."
Click to read more of this story.
Obama prods nation to service on inauguration eve
"On the eve of his inauguration, President-elect Barack Obama visited wounded troops at a military hospital, helped paint a wall at a shelter for homeless teens and paid tribute to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. on the civil rights leader's national day. He said there can't be 'idle hands' at a time of national hardship and pledged to make the government do its part."
Read more of this story here...
How Obama can inspire a nation
"An inaugural speech gives an incoming president a rare opportunity to reach out to all the people, to cite our common problems and suggest how he will lead us to conquering them. Often the rhetoric of the address is so dramatic that it produces words that become part of the American language."
Click here to read this commentary from Marshall Loeb.
Mood Foods: Healthy Foods to Brighten Your Day
"Can foods change your mood? According to several studies, it seems that a person’s choice of food is usually dictated by his state of mind. Conversely, food and nutrition are key factors in your brain’s behavior. Judith Wurtman, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), researched how foods alter one’s mood by changing the levels of specific brain chemicals – dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin - called neurotransmitters."
Read more of this story here...
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Good News for January 18 from Mary Beth
Save the Children Begins Large-scale Relief Effort for Children in Gaza Following Cease-fire
Save the Children is moving quickly to deliver life-saving aid into Gaza for children and families in need, following the announcement of a cease-fire by all parties today. A truckload of 100 baby kits, 150 hygiene kits and more than 1,400 packages of diapers prepared by Save the Children was transported this morning into Gaza, where staff and local partners began delivering the items to families at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency shelters in Beit Lahia and Jebaliya.
Get the details on the project here.
South African authorities rescue 167 miners trapped underground for 24 hours
Some 167 workers trapped in a gold mine for more than 24 hours were safely brought to the surface late Sunday, the South African Press Association reported.
Read more about this story here.
In the pulpit, looking toward inauguration
All across a snowy Massachusetts this weekend, priests and ministers, rabbis and imams are reflecting on the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as president of the United States, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday.
The Boston Globe started a collection of inauguration sermons. Find out more here.
2 teens found safe in Eldorado National Forest
Two 16-year-old Elk Grove boys reported missing in the Eldorado National Forest were found safe today.
For details on the rescue, click here.
A sweet musical match made in the foothills
The stars are especially bright over Scotty and Sasha Prawalsky's Foresthill home on a recent night.
Tune into the song here.
Save the Children is moving quickly to deliver life-saving aid into Gaza for children and families in need, following the announcement of a cease-fire by all parties today. A truckload of 100 baby kits, 150 hygiene kits and more than 1,400 packages of diapers prepared by Save the Children was transported this morning into Gaza, where staff and local partners began delivering the items to families at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency shelters in Beit Lahia and Jebaliya.
Get the details on the project here.
South African authorities rescue 167 miners trapped underground for 24 hours
Some 167 workers trapped in a gold mine for more than 24 hours were safely brought to the surface late Sunday, the South African Press Association reported.
Read more about this story here.
In the pulpit, looking toward inauguration
All across a snowy Massachusetts this weekend, priests and ministers, rabbis and imams are reflecting on the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as president of the United States, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday.
The Boston Globe started a collection of inauguration sermons. Find out more here.
2 teens found safe in Eldorado National Forest
Two 16-year-old Elk Grove boys reported missing in the Eldorado National Forest were found safe today.
For details on the rescue, click here.
A sweet musical match made in the foothills
The stars are especially bright over Scotty and Sasha Prawalsky's Foresthill home on a recent night.
Tune into the song here.
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