I personally refuse to become fearful over the swine flu epidemic. My heart goes out to all the victims of the outbreak, especially for the ones that have died and their families. Although I am not going to jump on the fear bandwagon, there are practical things to do to help protect you and your loved ones from such diseases. Please read the article below:
Dr. Robert Graham, Medical Director for Mid-Michigan District Health Department, is recommending people take the following steps to prevent spreading the swine influenza A, H1N1, virus:As always, people with respiratory illness should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading infections, including influenza, to others in the community.Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze, to lessen the spread of respiratory illness. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and then throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If no tissue is available, you can also cough or sneeze into your shirt sleeve.People experiencing severe symptoms including cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, chills, headaches, body aches possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting, should call their physician.If you have recently traveled to an area where Swine Influenza has been reported (see the CDSs Web site for an updated list at www.cdc.gov/swineflu) within the past seven days and develop an illness with fever, respiratory symptoms, such as a cough and runny nose, call a health care provider.Be sure to inform the health care provider if you have traveled to Mexico recently, had contact with an individual from the swine flu affected areas, or work closely with pigs. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food and a person cannot get swine influenza from eating pork products.The infections appear to spread from person to person. Drugs called antivirals can reduce the consequences of contracting the flu, if taken early.Visit www.mmdhd.org for more information.
Comments
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
100 Days
Congratulations to President Obama on 100 successful days. Now there were some trying days in there, but overall he has proven that he was the right man for the job. You will see all over the news where pundits are grading these first 100 days. I think giving him a grade during such challenging times is a bit premature, but since everyone else is jumping on the bandwagon there I go also.
My grade for the president is a solid A. I know by reading my blog posts it's easy to see I am a democrat, but I actually put a lot of thought into this grade. I think he has done a wonderful job of instilling hope in the America people. We have still probably not hit rock bottom in the economic crisis and unemployment and the housing crisis continue to be an issue. Through it all the public has faith in this president and I believe rightfully so. I'll break down my areas of agreement with Obama as well as areas of concern.
The Economy:
I think the stimulus package could have had a little less spending and that it will not create the number of jobs hoped for, but I still think the plan was solid for the most part.
Foreign Policy:
He has done an excellent job in reestablishing the damaged relationship with many of our allies and is open to come to the table with some of our sworn enemies. There is great balance in that area. He has a wonderful secretary of state in Hillary Clinton. However, I disagree whole-heartily in his Afghanistan strategy. I think we need to completely pull out of Iraq and Afghanistan. No matter how long we stay in that region we will not make a difference. This is a losing battle and I fear it may end up marring his presidency in the long run. I also disagree with the decision to release the torture memos.
I look forward to seeing him be more aggressive when it comes to energy, the environment and health care. His plans in these areas seem to be pretty ambitious but attainable.
Those are just a few of my thoughts on Obama. Please share your own.
J
My grade for the president is a solid A. I know by reading my blog posts it's easy to see I am a democrat, but I actually put a lot of thought into this grade. I think he has done a wonderful job of instilling hope in the America people. We have still probably not hit rock bottom in the economic crisis and unemployment and the housing crisis continue to be an issue. Through it all the public has faith in this president and I believe rightfully so. I'll break down my areas of agreement with Obama as well as areas of concern.
The Economy:
I think the stimulus package could have had a little less spending and that it will not create the number of jobs hoped for, but I still think the plan was solid for the most part.
Foreign Policy:
He has done an excellent job in reestablishing the damaged relationship with many of our allies and is open to come to the table with some of our sworn enemies. There is great balance in that area. He has a wonderful secretary of state in Hillary Clinton. However, I disagree whole-heartily in his Afghanistan strategy. I think we need to completely pull out of Iraq and Afghanistan. No matter how long we stay in that region we will not make a difference. This is a losing battle and I fear it may end up marring his presidency in the long run. I also disagree with the decision to release the torture memos.
I look forward to seeing him be more aggressive when it comes to energy, the environment and health care. His plans in these areas seem to be pretty ambitious but attainable.
Those are just a few of my thoughts on Obama. Please share your own.
J
Monday, April 27, 2009
Sunday Best
Are you guys watching BET's hit gospel talent competition, Sunday Best? If not you are missing a REAL singing competition. I would pit any of the finalists against any American Idol finalist. Bar none. Period. They are down to the final three and it is getting fierce. I completely agree that Y'Anna Crawley and Latice Crawford 100% deserve to be in the final three. I have a mixed opinion about fellow finalist Jessica Reedy. I think she is talented, but has outlasted competitors who have better voices. Two in particular are Dontavies Boatwright and Zebulan Ellis. Both of those brothers were incredible. They delivered every week! Now, I must give Jessica credit for this past week. She really brought it and for the first time did a better job than Latice. I was shocked. I think Latice was spared this week because of her overall performances, because if not girlfriend would have been sent packing based on yesterday alone.
As you can probably tell Latice is my favorite. She sings with so much heart. I can't explain it, but when she sings it's like she takes you on a life long journey with her. She takes you through ups and downs and tragedies but leaves you with hope. Overall I have to say Y'Anna has the best voice. She has incredible vocal range, and she can kill a traditional song and a contemporary song. Point blank the girl can sing ANYTHING. Jessica has a nice voice but very limited range. I think her personal story connected with the judges and they have a soft spot for her. I must stress, this is my opinion.
Anyway, if you have not had the pleasure of seeing Sunday Best I encourage you to go to www.bet.com/sundaybest and see all the episodes. It's worth it even if you just fast forward to the performances only. If you do not have internet access, don't worry. I'm sure you will be able to catch a Sunday Best marathon on BET.
Since all of the ladies were spared this week, they will be having a sing-off next week to make the final two! I'm sure they will all bring their A-games.
J
As you can probably tell Latice is my favorite. She sings with so much heart. I can't explain it, but when she sings it's like she takes you on a life long journey with her. She takes you through ups and downs and tragedies but leaves you with hope. Overall I have to say Y'Anna has the best voice. She has incredible vocal range, and she can kill a traditional song and a contemporary song. Point blank the girl can sing ANYTHING. Jessica has a nice voice but very limited range. I think her personal story connected with the judges and they have a soft spot for her. I must stress, this is my opinion.
Anyway, if you have not had the pleasure of seeing Sunday Best I encourage you to go to www.bet.com/sundaybest and see all the episodes. It's worth it even if you just fast forward to the performances only. If you do not have internet access, don't worry. I'm sure you will be able to catch a Sunday Best marathon on BET.
Since all of the ladies were spared this week, they will be having a sing-off next week to make the final two! I'm sure they will all bring their A-games.
J
Friday, April 24, 2009
Rev. Timothy Wright
Please read the story provided below by the Associated Press regarding the death of gospel legend Rev. Timothy Wright. Our thoughts and prayers go to the Wright family and his church family.
By The Associated Press The Associated Press – Fri Apr 24, 3:27 am ET
NEW YORK – The Rev. Timothy Wright, the Grammy-nominated gospel singer and composer known for his up-tempo praise songs and powerful mass choir sound, has died. He was 61.
Wright, who was seriously injured in a car crash that killed his wife and grandson, died early Thursday at the Bronx Veterans Hospital, music agent Will Bogle said.
Timothy Wright was the pastor at Grace Tabernacle Christian Center Church of God in Christ, located in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn. He released more than a dozen gospel recordings, writing many of the songs. His latest album, "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus," came out in 2007.
In 1994, his record "Come Thou Almighty King," with the New York Fellowship Mass Choir, made the Billboard Top 20 charts for gospel albums and was nominated for a Grammy for best traditional soul gospel album.
He got another nomination in that category in 1999 for "Been There Done That," recorded with the B/J Mass Choir and featuring Myrna Summers.
"Jesus, Jesus, Jesus" features the New York Fellowship Mass Choir. The title track, written by Wright and his wife and recorded live at a Church of God in Christ convocation, expresses the plight of a woman displaced during Hurricane Katrina: She encourages herself and others by calling the name of Jesus. Among the other songs on the album was "You Must Come In At the Door."
According to the book "Uncloudy Days: The Gospel Encyclopedia," by Bil Carpenter, the Brooklyn-born Wright began playing piano for his local church at age 12 and also began composing at a young age.
By his early 20s, he was music director at Brooklyn's Washington Temple Church of God in Christ.
He began writing songs for such fellow musicians as Mattie Moss Clark and the Rev. Isaac Douglas, according to Carpenter's book, and in 1976 formed the Timothy Wright Concert Choir. Among the choir's albums were "Who's on the Lord's Side?" and "Do You Know the Light?"
Wright was critically injured July 4 in a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 near Loganton, Pa. Another car was going the wrong way when it struck Wright's car.
His wife, Betty Wright, 58, was killed in the crash, and their 14-year-old grandson, D.J. Wright, died later at a hospital.
The driver of the wrong-way car, John Pick, also was killed, while a passenger in a third car was injured.
The Wrights were returning from a Church of God in Christ conference in Detroit, said Leroy Johnson, a trustee at Grace Tabernacle.
By The Associated Press The Associated Press – Fri Apr 24, 3:27 am ET
NEW YORK – The Rev. Timothy Wright, the Grammy-nominated gospel singer and composer known for his up-tempo praise songs and powerful mass choir sound, has died. He was 61.
Wright, who was seriously injured in a car crash that killed his wife and grandson, died early Thursday at the Bronx Veterans Hospital, music agent Will Bogle said.
Timothy Wright was the pastor at Grace Tabernacle Christian Center Church of God in Christ, located in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn. He released more than a dozen gospel recordings, writing many of the songs. His latest album, "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus," came out in 2007.
In 1994, his record "Come Thou Almighty King," with the New York Fellowship Mass Choir, made the Billboard Top 20 charts for gospel albums and was nominated for a Grammy for best traditional soul gospel album.
He got another nomination in that category in 1999 for "Been There Done That," recorded with the B/J Mass Choir and featuring Myrna Summers.
"Jesus, Jesus, Jesus" features the New York Fellowship Mass Choir. The title track, written by Wright and his wife and recorded live at a Church of God in Christ convocation, expresses the plight of a woman displaced during Hurricane Katrina: She encourages herself and others by calling the name of Jesus. Among the other songs on the album was "You Must Come In At the Door."
According to the book "Uncloudy Days: The Gospel Encyclopedia," by Bil Carpenter, the Brooklyn-born Wright began playing piano for his local church at age 12 and also began composing at a young age.
By his early 20s, he was music director at Brooklyn's Washington Temple Church of God in Christ.
He began writing songs for such fellow musicians as Mattie Moss Clark and the Rev. Isaac Douglas, according to Carpenter's book, and in 1976 formed the Timothy Wright Concert Choir. Among the choir's albums were "Who's on the Lord's Side?" and "Do You Know the Light?"
Wright was critically injured July 4 in a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 near Loganton, Pa. Another car was going the wrong way when it struck Wright's car.
His wife, Betty Wright, 58, was killed in the crash, and their 14-year-old grandson, D.J. Wright, died later at a hospital.
The driver of the wrong-way car, John Pick, also was killed, while a passenger in a third car was injured.
The Wrights were returning from a Church of God in Christ conference in Detroit, said Leroy Johnson, a trustee at Grace Tabernacle.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Happy Earth Day!
Whether you believe in global warming or not, the impact human civilization is having on the environment is undeniable. We are using natural resources at a rate far beyond what our planet can replenish. As dire as the situation is becoming, the good news is that some of the effects can be reversed or at least greatly decreased. Each and every one of us can help. An act as simple as changing the kind of light bulbs you use can make a huge difference. Please continue reading below on ways that you can live greener and help save our home. The information was received from www.worldwatch.org.
1- Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.
Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.
Unplug appliances when you're not using them. Or, use a "smart" power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts "phantom" or "vampire" energy use.
Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85 percent of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating the water.
Use a drying rack or clothesline to save the energy otherwise used during machine drying. If you must use a dryer, consider adding dryer balls to cut drying time.
2- Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too.
Install a low-flow showerhead. They don't cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment.
Make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high.
Plant drought-tolerant native plants in your garden. Many plants need minimal watering. Find out which occur naturally in your area.
3- Walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking costs while improving your cardiovascular health and reducing your risk of obesity.
Consider telecommuting if you live far from your work. Or move closer. Even if this means paying more rent, it could save you money in the long term.
Lobby your local government to increase spending on sidewalks and bike lanes. With little cost, these improvements can pay huge dividends in bettering your health and reducing traffic.
4- If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. Meat costs a lot at the store-and it's even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
Buy locally raised, humane, and organic meat, eggs, and dairy whenever you can. Purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.
Watch videos about why local food and sustainable seafood are so great.
Whatever your diet, eat low on the food chain [pdf]. This is especially true for seafood.
5- Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste.
Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic, with you when traveling or at work.
Check out this short article for the latest on bottled water trends.
6- Go online to find new or gently used secondhand products. Whether you've just moved or are looking to redecorate, consider a service like craigslist or FreeSharing to track down furniture, appliances, and other items cheaply or for free.
Check out garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment shops for clothing and other everyday items.
When making purchases, make sure you know what's "Good Stuff" and what isn't.
Watch a video about what happens when you buy things. Your purchases have a real impact, for better or worse.
7- Borrow from libraries instead of buying personal books and movies. This saves money, not to mention the ink and paper that goes into printing new books.
Share power tools and other appliances. Get to know your neighbors while cutting down on the number of things cluttering your closet or garage.
8- Buy in bulk. Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging.
Wear clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned. This saves money and cuts down on toxic chemical use.
Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You might pay more now, but you'll be happy when you don't have to replace items as frequently (and this means less waste!).
9- Keep your cell phones, computers, and other electronics as long as possible.
Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem.
Recycle your cell phone.
Ask your local government to set up an electronics recycling and hazardous waste collection event.
10- The big secret: you can make very effective, non-toxic cleaning products whenever you need them. All you need are a few simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and soap.
Making your own cleaning products saves money, time, and packaging-not to mention your indoor air quality.
Bonus Item!
Stay informed about going green. Sign up for our weekly newsletter or subscribe to World Watch, our award-winning magazine.
10 simple things you can do today to help reduce your environmental impact, save money, and live a happier, healthier life.
1- Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.
Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.
Unplug appliances when you're not using them. Or, use a "smart" power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts "phantom" or "vampire" energy use.
Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85 percent of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating the water.
Use a drying rack or clothesline to save the energy otherwise used during machine drying. If you must use a dryer, consider adding dryer balls to cut drying time.
2- Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too.
Install a low-flow showerhead. They don't cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment.
Make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high.
Plant drought-tolerant native plants in your garden. Many plants need minimal watering. Find out which occur naturally in your area.
3- Walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking costs while improving your cardiovascular health and reducing your risk of obesity.
Consider telecommuting if you live far from your work. Or move closer. Even if this means paying more rent, it could save you money in the long term.
Lobby your local government to increase spending on sidewalks and bike lanes. With little cost, these improvements can pay huge dividends in bettering your health and reducing traffic.
4- If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. Meat costs a lot at the store-and it's even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
Buy locally raised, humane, and organic meat, eggs, and dairy whenever you can. Purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.
Watch videos about why local food and sustainable seafood are so great.
Whatever your diet, eat low on the food chain [pdf]. This is especially true for seafood.
5- Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste.
Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic, with you when traveling or at work.
Check out this short article for the latest on bottled water trends.
6- Go online to find new or gently used secondhand products. Whether you've just moved or are looking to redecorate, consider a service like craigslist or FreeSharing to track down furniture, appliances, and other items cheaply or for free.
Check out garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment shops for clothing and other everyday items.
When making purchases, make sure you know what's "Good Stuff" and what isn't.
Watch a video about what happens when you buy things. Your purchases have a real impact, for better or worse.
7- Borrow from libraries instead of buying personal books and movies. This saves money, not to mention the ink and paper that goes into printing new books.
Share power tools and other appliances. Get to know your neighbors while cutting down on the number of things cluttering your closet or garage.
8- Buy in bulk. Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging.
Wear clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned. This saves money and cuts down on toxic chemical use.
Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You might pay more now, but you'll be happy when you don't have to replace items as frequently (and this means less waste!).
9- Keep your cell phones, computers, and other electronics as long as possible.
Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem.
Recycle your cell phone.
Ask your local government to set up an electronics recycling and hazardous waste collection event.
10- The big secret: you can make very effective, non-toxic cleaning products whenever you need them. All you need are a few simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and soap.
Making your own cleaning products saves money, time, and packaging-not to mention your indoor air quality.
Bonus Item!
Stay informed about going green. Sign up for our weekly newsletter or subscribe to World Watch, our award-winning magazine.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Miss USA Debacle
I think we all need to be reminded of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States (see below). We all have the right to express ourselves, the right to protest and the right to practice our religions. These are just a few of the precious rights we have that make our country great. I expressed a similar view in my blog post regarding the "tea parties". As much as those protests disgusted, especially since blatant racism was on display, I had to respect the fact that they had the RIGHT to protest. There were signs depicting President Obama as a shoe shine boy, along with many other offensive phrases and images. I still had to respect the fact that in this country they had the right to gather and protest as long as no direct harm was done to anyone. Now, fast forward a week later and the freedom of speech is under attack.
I admit I didn't watch the Miss America Pageant, nor do I have any interest in this event, but I heard more than I wanted to about it due to the incident with Miss California. In case you haven't watched the news in the last few days, during the question segment one of the judges, celebrity Internet blogger Perez Hilton asked Miss California (sorry I do not remember her name) what was her opinion of gay marriage since there are currently four States that have gay marriage rights. It was a loaded question from someone who had an agenda. She then answered honestly and with conviction. Some of her answer was incorrect as was stressed in the media, but her point was that she was not raised to believe in gay marriage and that marriage should be between a man and a woman. She could have given a politically correct answer but she chose to speak from her heart. She knew it was going to cost her the crown but she had the courage to do so anyway. Perez Hilton has since admitted that her answer swayed the judges and that she would have likely won if she had given an opposite view.
What is wrong with this picture? When did we lose the right to express ourselves? When did we lose the right to practice our faith? When did we lose the right to choose our individual moral path? People need to realize that for Christians gay marriage goes beyond a civil rights issue. For us it is a moral issue. I understand that there are many Christians that are now embracing gay marriage and lifestyle, but for all the other Christians who choose to stick with their convictions on the issue based on the Word of God, have they no rights??
This young woman is being persecuted all over the media, even from journalists who are only supposed to report the news, not make their personal biases known. I applaud her courage and as Christians we must ask ourselves do we have the courage to do the same? When given the opportunity to speak the truth regardless of the backlash will we? That's my question for the day. We need to think about this because it seems more and more each day we are slowly losing our religious rights. Whether you agree or disagree with Miss California's answer, we must respect the fact that she had the RIGHT to answer that question as she chose. She didn't make a hateful statement. She did not wish harm on homosexuals. She simply disagreed with an issue. God forbid.
Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
I admit I didn't watch the Miss America Pageant, nor do I have any interest in this event, but I heard more than I wanted to about it due to the incident with Miss California. In case you haven't watched the news in the last few days, during the question segment one of the judges, celebrity Internet blogger Perez Hilton asked Miss California (sorry I do not remember her name) what was her opinion of gay marriage since there are currently four States that have gay marriage rights. It was a loaded question from someone who had an agenda. She then answered honestly and with conviction. Some of her answer was incorrect as was stressed in the media, but her point was that she was not raised to believe in gay marriage and that marriage should be between a man and a woman. She could have given a politically correct answer but she chose to speak from her heart. She knew it was going to cost her the crown but she had the courage to do so anyway. Perez Hilton has since admitted that her answer swayed the judges and that she would have likely won if she had given an opposite view.
What is wrong with this picture? When did we lose the right to express ourselves? When did we lose the right to practice our faith? When did we lose the right to choose our individual moral path? People need to realize that for Christians gay marriage goes beyond a civil rights issue. For us it is a moral issue. I understand that there are many Christians that are now embracing gay marriage and lifestyle, but for all the other Christians who choose to stick with their convictions on the issue based on the Word of God, have they no rights??
This young woman is being persecuted all over the media, even from journalists who are only supposed to report the news, not make their personal biases known. I applaud her courage and as Christians we must ask ourselves do we have the courage to do the same? When given the opportunity to speak the truth regardless of the backlash will we? That's my question for the day. We need to think about this because it seems more and more each day we are slowly losing our religious rights. Whether you agree or disagree with Miss California's answer, we must respect the fact that she had the RIGHT to answer that question as she chose. She didn't make a hateful statement. She did not wish harm on homosexuals. She simply disagreed with an issue. God forbid.
Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
In Memorium
The B-Word's co-host Demarious Blanks and the state of Illinois organ and tissue donation organization, Life Goes On, will be honoring the memory of Percy Baker, Jr. on this Wednesday, April 22nd with the dedication of a newly planted tree. Please come out and show your support at the George Washington Carver Center at 1:00 pm. Also, this is national organ and tissue donation awareness month. What better way to honor Percy than join the donor registry. Get more information at the dedication.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tea Baggers?????
The name alone is ridiculous, and I hate to even give a minute of my time to this insanity...but...I gotta say what I gotta say. Let me make it very clear that I have no problem with protesting and with free speech. Free speech is one of the many things that make this country the greatest in the world. However, this "protest" is blatant desperation on the part of the republican party, encouraged by Fox News. The GOP really doesn't have much of a leg to stand on when it comes to criticizing Obama who inherited the mess created by their republican president. So what do they do? They take advantage of the ignorance of their supporters who refuse to take the time to understand the Obama tax plan. It's the same plan as used during the Clinton administration and we all know that the Clinton era was one of the most prosperous times in our country's history. So prosperous in fact that Pres. Bush inherited a financial SURPLUS. Bush squandered that excess in just eight years and Obama inherited a financial crisis and two wars. What is even more sad (almost comical if not for the sinister tone of these events) is that the majority of the tea baggers have no doubt benefitted from the Obama tax plan. If they were polled and answered honestly most would have to say they have or will receive a tax refund. How crazy is that? I am proud that most reputable media outlets have all but ignored this fiasco. This protest does nothing but fuel hatred and encourage rage. That atmosphere is very reminiscent of the anger filled Palin rallies during the presidential campaign.
If you are a tea bagger (LOL), please examine your motive. Is it racially motivated? Did you lose your job and are looking for someone to blame? (by the way, if you are unemployed remember you have Obama to thank for extending your unemployment benefits) Is your anger based on the fear that news outlets such as Fox News and Rush Limbaugh feed you?
Okay, I could say so much more, but it is not worth the time I have already wasted. LOL
Peace and blessings,
J
If you are a tea bagger (LOL), please examine your motive. Is it racially motivated? Did you lose your job and are looking for someone to blame? (by the way, if you are unemployed remember you have Obama to thank for extending your unemployment benefits) Is your anger based on the fear that news outlets such as Fox News and Rush Limbaugh feed you?
Okay, I could say so much more, but it is not worth the time I have already wasted. LOL
Peace and blessings,
J
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Happy Resurrection Weekend!
If there is ever a time of year to celebrate Jesus in a major way it's Easter. The thought of His ultimate sacrifice is enough to bring me to my knees with tears streaming down my face. Remember to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and take this opportunity to witness. Go beyond the colored eggs, rabbits and candy! It's all about Jesus!
Without Easter,there would be no hope of heaven.Without the hope of heaven,there would be no repentance,no personal transformation,no attempt to follow biblical principles.Without Easter,the world would be in chaos and darkness.Jesus’ death and resurrection means we can be reborn,to live better, to do better,to shine light into the shadows.Hallelujah!Happy, Happy Easter.
By Joanna Fuchs
Jesus came to compensate For all the wrongs we do.He came to earth to die for us,So we’d be born anew.
"This bitter cup, let it pass from me,"He cried, in a plaintive voice;"Yet not My will, but Thine be done;"He said, in His faithful choice.
The Judas kiss would seal his fate;He faced a hostile crowd;The governor, Pilate, saw through it all;Jesus’ guilt he disavowed.
"I wash my hands of all of this,"Said Pilate, "Let Him be."But the crowd yelled "Crucify him now,And set Barabbas free!"
Pilate yielded to their wish;And Jesus was led away.The soldiers beat him, and mocked Him, too,Yet He continued to obey.
A crown of thorns lay on His head,As His sentence was carried out;His hands and feet were pierced with nails,But He did not scream or shout.
"Father, forgive them for this crime;They know not what they do."He said this despite His torment, because,He was thinking of me and you.
"It is finished," he sighed in His anguish and pain,As His body gave up to death.The curtain tore, and darkness fell,After He took His last breath.
The best of the story is the very last part;It’s why on Easter we’re filled with pleasure:Death could not our Savior hold;His power is beyond all measure.
He rose from the grave, and was seen all around;Ever since, He’s inspired devotion,And we’ll be with Him for eternity,When we get our heavenly promotion.
That’s why Easter is a major event:He suffered and died in our place.He rose and forgave us and loves us still,Our Savior of matchless grace.
By Joanna Fuchs
Without Easter
Without Easter,there would be no hope of heaven.Without the hope of heaven,there would be no repentance,no personal transformation,no attempt to follow biblical principles.Without Easter,the world would be in chaos and darkness.Jesus’ death and resurrection means we can be reborn,to live better, to do better,to shine light into the shadows.Hallelujah!Happy, Happy Easter.
By Joanna Fuchs
The Easter Story
Jesus came to compensate For all the wrongs we do.He came to earth to die for us,So we’d be born anew.
"This bitter cup, let it pass from me,"He cried, in a plaintive voice;"Yet not My will, but Thine be done;"He said, in His faithful choice.
The Judas kiss would seal his fate;He faced a hostile crowd;The governor, Pilate, saw through it all;Jesus’ guilt he disavowed.
"I wash my hands of all of this,"Said Pilate, "Let Him be."But the crowd yelled "Crucify him now,And set Barabbas free!"
Pilate yielded to their wish;And Jesus was led away.The soldiers beat him, and mocked Him, too,Yet He continued to obey.
A crown of thorns lay on His head,As His sentence was carried out;His hands and feet were pierced with nails,But He did not scream or shout.
"Father, forgive them for this crime;They know not what they do."He said this despite His torment, because,He was thinking of me and you.
"It is finished," he sighed in His anguish and pain,As His body gave up to death.The curtain tore, and darkness fell,After He took His last breath.
The best of the story is the very last part;It’s why on Easter we’re filled with pleasure:Death could not our Savior hold;His power is beyond all measure.
He rose from the grave, and was seen all around;Ever since, He’s inspired devotion,And we’ll be with Him for eternity,When we get our heavenly promotion.
That’s why Easter is a major event:He suffered and died in our place.He rose and forgave us and loves us still,Our Savior of matchless grace.
By Joanna Fuchs
Friday, April 3, 2009
The Balcony
I had the pleasure of sitting in on a seminar with Juan Ortiz as the facilitator. He is the survivor of horrific emotional, physical and sexual abuse by his father. His story is one of courage and hope. In spite of everything he has been through he is a father, husband and successful business man. Throughout his life, God placed certain individuals who made a profound difference in his life. One person in particular was his fifth grade teacher. That teacher never gave up on him and went out of his way to make Juan feel special.
I came away from that seminar with a new appreciation for the people I have been blessed to have in my life. Juan discussed a book that he had read that said each of us have a balcony in our mind. The voices from that balcony are what make the difference in our lives. Some of the people and voices in your balcony can be loving and supportive, or perhaps harsh and negative, or maybe there is no one in your balcony. The true question is not who is in your balcony, but rather, whose balcony are you in and what is your voice saying? Be a voice of encouragement and hope to the people in your life, even the one's whose problems seem insurmountable. Take care to be an especially uplifting voice to the children who cross your path. Make yourself aware of community resources so that if you come across someone in need of help you can refer to them to the agencies and services where they can get the help they may desperately need. Of course we should know that as a Christian to be willing to share the life changing message of Jesus Christ.
There are so many ways to make a difference. Learn to be observant and I guarantee you will have opportunities to be a blessing to those around you. Remember, shout encouragement and love from your balcony!
J
p.s. If you ever get the opportunity to hear Juan Ortiz speak, jump at the chance. Don't forget that name as he will be back in the area to speak for other groups and organizations.
I came away from that seminar with a new appreciation for the people I have been blessed to have in my life. Juan discussed a book that he had read that said each of us have a balcony in our mind. The voices from that balcony are what make the difference in our lives. Some of the people and voices in your balcony can be loving and supportive, or perhaps harsh and negative, or maybe there is no one in your balcony. The true question is not who is in your balcony, but rather, whose balcony are you in and what is your voice saying? Be a voice of encouragement and hope to the people in your life, even the one's whose problems seem insurmountable. Take care to be an especially uplifting voice to the children who cross your path. Make yourself aware of community resources so that if you come across someone in need of help you can refer to them to the agencies and services where they can get the help they may desperately need. Of course we should know that as a Christian to be willing to share the life changing message of Jesus Christ.
There are so many ways to make a difference. Learn to be observant and I guarantee you will have opportunities to be a blessing to those around you. Remember, shout encouragement and love from your balcony!
J
p.s. If you ever get the opportunity to hear Juan Ortiz speak, jump at the chance. Don't forget that name as he will be back in the area to speak for other groups and organizations.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
What's Hot in Gospel Music
Looking to add some good gospel music to your collection? Check out some of the hottest selling gospel in the nation listed below (courtesy of Musical Soul Food):
1) Hezekiah Walker & LFC Souled Out Verity/JLG
2) Donald Lawrence & Co. Back II Eden Quiet Water/Verity/JLG
3) Arkansas Gospel Mass Choir I Lift My Hands T/Emtro Gospel
4) James Fortune & Fiya I Trust You Blacksmoke/WorldWide
5) Regina Belle I Call On Jesus Pendulum
6) Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers Peace And Favor Rest On Us KCG/JLG
7) Marvin Sapp Praise Him In Advance Verity/JLG
8) Isaiah D. Thomas & Elements Of Praise (E.O.P.) Said He Would Be With Me Habakkuk
9) Heather Headley Feat. Smokie Norful Jesus Is Love EMI Gospel
10) Joe Leavell & St. Stephen Temple Choir God Is Able Emtro Gospel
11) Bishop Paul S. Morton Presents The FullGospelBaptistChurch Fellowship
Cry Your Last Tear Tehillah/Light
12) Shari Addison No Battle, No Blessing BET/Verity/JLG
13) 21:03 W/Fred Hammond, Smokie Norful & J Moss Cover Me
PAJAM/Gospo Centric/JLG
14) Blessed Gotta Take My Time Ultimate
15) Jimmy Hicks & The Voices Of Integrity God's Got It Blacksmoke/WorldWide
16) Israel Houghton Just Wanna Say Integrity
17) Mary Mary Get Up My Block/Columbia
18) Maurette Brown-Clark It Ain't Over (Until God Says It's Over) AIR Gospel/Malaco
19) Kathy Taylor And Favor Oh How Precious (Live) Katco/Tyscot
20) Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson & The Spiritual Voices Time To Get Close To Jesus
Gospel Truth
1) Hezekiah Walker & LFC Souled Out Verity/JLG
2) Donald Lawrence & Co. Back II Eden Quiet Water/Verity/JLG
3) Arkansas Gospel Mass Choir I Lift My Hands T/Emtro Gospel
4) James Fortune & Fiya I Trust You Blacksmoke/WorldWide
5) Regina Belle I Call On Jesus Pendulum
6) Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers Peace And Favor Rest On Us KCG/JLG
7) Marvin Sapp Praise Him In Advance Verity/JLG
8) Isaiah D. Thomas & Elements Of Praise (E.O.P.) Said He Would Be With Me Habakkuk
9) Heather Headley Feat. Smokie Norful Jesus Is Love EMI Gospel
10) Joe Leavell & St. Stephen Temple Choir God Is Able Emtro Gospel
11) Bishop Paul S. Morton Presents The FullGospelBaptistChurch Fellowship
Cry Your Last Tear Tehillah/Light
12) Shari Addison No Battle, No Blessing BET/Verity/JLG
13) 21:03 W/Fred Hammond, Smokie Norful & J Moss Cover Me
PAJAM/Gospo Centric/JLG
14) Blessed Gotta Take My Time Ultimate
15) Jimmy Hicks & The Voices Of Integrity God's Got It Blacksmoke/WorldWide
16) Israel Houghton Just Wanna Say Integrity
17) Mary Mary Get Up My Block/Columbia
18) Maurette Brown-Clark It Ain't Over (Until God Says It's Over) AIR Gospel/Malaco
19) Kathy Taylor And Favor Oh How Precious (Live) Katco/Tyscot
20) Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson & The Spiritual Voices Time To Get Close To Jesus
Gospel Truth