Good News for March 31 (posted by Mary Beth)

Healthy Fast Food: Guide to Making the Healthiest Fast Food Choices

"America has been called a 'fast food nation' and for good reason. Everyday, one out of four Americans eats fast food. If you are eating out, fast food restaurants are often the cheapest option, but unfortunately, not usually the healthiest one. Eating just one fast food meal can pack enough calories, sodium and fat for an entire day, but the quick-and-cheap temptation can be hard to resist.

As an informed customer, you can make healthier choices and still enjoy the convenience of fast food restaurants."

Click here for more on making healthy choices when heading for fast food.


Review of PBS Documentary 'Jerusalem: Center of the World'

"PBS documentary Jerusalem: Center of the World—which airs Wednesday, April 1—isn't a pilgrimage-on-film, but it's not a bad place to start.

The title is partly inspired by medieval European maps in which Africa, Asia, and Europe are shaped like three petals attached to the center, Jerusalem. Inside the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, a 'compass' marks the center of the world. This film shows that the city is, rather than the geographic center of the world, a focal point of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism—which together account for more than half of the world's population."

Click here for more on the documentary.


World Vision urges Afghanistan donor conference countries to shift future response from military focus to development priorities

"As Afghanistan donor countries meet in The Hague today, aid group World Vision is calling for a new approach that would strengthen development and reduce the militarization of aid in the war-torn country.

'We commend the Obama administration for focusing on the critical human needs in Afghanistan, but call for greater efforts to bring balance to the military-heavy NATO response,' said Rory Anderson, World Vision’s deputy director for advocacy and government relations."

Click here to read World Vision's recommendations regarding Afghanistan.


Rare Gettysburg Address copy to go on display

"Two hundred years after Abraham Lincoln's birth, one of only five known handwritten copies of his most famous speech will visit Chicago for a limited run, starting Wednesday.

A two-page copy of the Gettysburg Address, hand-copied by the 16th president in the months after his landmark Nov. 19, 1863 speech, will be the centerpiece of the Lincoln Treasures exhibition at the Chicago History Museum."

Click here to access the rest of the story.


Recipes for Health: Bruschetta With White Bean Puree

"This recipe will give you enough white bean puree for plenty of leftovers. The savory, hummus-like mixture also makes a great high-protein, high-fiber dip."

Click here for this healthy yet delicious recipe.