Selfish and Cruel ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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I haven’t participated in Current Events Wrap Up for a couple of weeks, so I thought I’d best jump in again. I know you all have been dying to hear my opinion! ;-)

Earthquakes ~ Honduras, California
Wars ~ Iraq, Afghanistan
Rumors of Wars ~ Iran, North Korea

As well as the economy and the Supreme Court Justice Nominee

As always, there’s lots going on in the world today. The story that really grabbed me though, is that of Bonnie Sweeten, the PA mom, who concocted the abduction scheme to go to Disney World with her nine year old daughter.

While her actual motive is yet unclear, it is impossible for me to grasp any possible motive other than sheer selfishness. The worry and sorrow she caused this family is inexcusable. There were two other daughters, a husband, and an ex-husband, father of the taken child who weren’t sure they’d ever see their loved ones again, but were sure something awful had happened to them.

The cost involved for the search must be enormous. The loss of all of the resources that were taken from other actual crimes and situations must be incalculable. Seriously, what are we becoming as a society, that people have such little regard for others? The crimes that this woman are being charged with are misdemeanors, so there will be little penalty for the harm she caused. Will she have to make restitution for the cost involved? Perhaps a portion.

Though I know it will never happen, I have an idea that will help cut crime dramatically and thus solve the overcrowding of prisons. Restitution will always be demanded for crimes and equivalent loss of money, property, income, etc. The perpetrator will have to work in a prison doing whatever jobs around the prison that are necessary (laundry, yard work, cooking, etc), earning comparable wages, paying first taxes, then their own expenses (living, food, clothing, medical, etc), and then any remaining funds going to pay the restitution that is owed. They would get released only after all restitution is paid in full.

No, it will never happen. The liberals would cry foul, saying it is unconstitutional and cruel and unusual punishment. But a girl can dream, can’t she?

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On a personal note, thank you all for your well wishes, prayers and concern over my recent miscarriage. I truly appreciate it. In addition, I am considering taking a blog-cation for some time over the summer, to reflect, refresh and re-focus. I’ll let you know the details when I know them myself.

ACLU, Prayer, and Hand of Hope ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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Ok, this week there was too much going on to simply go with one thing. So here is a bit of a hodgepodge of current events.


~ Where’s the ACLU when you need them?

I was briefly shocked today, when I read that the state of Hawaii, which is the birthplace of our very own President Barack Obama, has declared Sept. 24th, 2009 as Islam Day! I say shocked briefly, because few things in the government surprise me much anymore. What about the holy tenet held so dearly by the ACLU, or FFRF (Freedom From Religion Foundation)? My civil liberties are being violated! (To read more about this story, click here.)


~ No National Day of Prayer for White House

Today is the National Day of Prayer, which has been in existence since 1952. For the past nine years, the White House has actively participated in this wonderful event by holding a ceremony to observe the day. Until this year. Apparently the new Pres. doesn’t seem to think he needs it . . . (To read more about this story, click here.)


~ The Hand of Hope

Sept. 4th, 1999, photographer Michael Clancy, then a freelancer for USA Today, shot what he has described as “a miracle picture, a miracle moment.” The special picture he took was that of a 21-week old “fetus” gripping the hand of a surgeon. It was a great moment for the pro-life groups who work so hard to save the millions of innocent babies who are aborted, year after year. And it was a blow to the pro-abortion side, as it was a strong tool in the passage of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban, which passed in 2000.

Samuel Armas, now nearly ten years old, has a good life. He still has struggles with the Spina Bifida he was born with, but thanks to the surgery he had at 21 weeks in utero, his quality of life is much better than it would have been without it. . In addition to being an active young boy, he is an advocate for life, believing the photo that made him famous before birth, likely gave countless "babies their right to live" and forced many others to debate their beliefs on abortion, something he's proud of.

Michael Clancy, who was at the time a pro-choice advocate, change his beliefs and has now become a motivational speaker at pro-life events. His mission is to help others see what he saw, and hopefully, change their hearts and beliefs too! (To read more about this story, click here.)

Two Days of Rememberance ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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This week held two days of some importance to some people. Tuesday, April 21st, was Holocaust Remembrance Day. Did you hear all the news stories about it in the media? No? Neither did I. I bet you heard an abundance of news stories about the other one though. Wednesday, April 22nd, was Earth Day. Did you hear something about that? Yep, me too.


It is staggering to me, that one of the darkest periods in the history of all humanity could either be forgotten, dismissed, or even removed from history. And yes, in England the schools and history books are removing any mention of the Holocaust because it is offensive to Muslims. How long until that happens here in America?


On the other hand, the indoctrination into the cult of environmentalism is still going strong. Global warming remains the number one threat to all mankind – despite the fact that numerous scientists call the theories junk science and have actual evidence to the contrary. But don’t let that get out, we don’t want to stop the hysteria.


And then there’s this, for linking these two topics together. In 2007 Al Gore won the Nobel Peace Prize for his fantasy film An Inconvenient Truth. In doing so, he beat out an actual hero, Irena Sendler, a Polish Roman Catholic nurse and social worker who smuggled thousands of Jewish children to safety from the Warsaw Ghetto. Her story has recently been turned into a Hallmark Movie, The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler. (For more on this story, click here.)

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And on a personal note, I was incredibly honored that Seed Thoughts has been included in a list of the Top 100 Blogs on Christian Families. I am continually amazed at the goodness and blessing of God. I remain shocked that He would use me to speak His Word and touch others through the words that I write. I encourage you to click on the link and check out some of the other wonderful blogs!

I Might Be A Terrorist ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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As I pondered what to post this week, there was one story I knew I wouldn’t talk about (besides this). The horrific rape and murder of an eight year old girl, Sandra Cantu, by the mother of her playmate, who also happened to be a Sunday School teacher. I truly am showing the greatest of restraint in refraining from commenting further, because this is a family-type, Christian-oriented blog, and there is no way my flesh, tongue, or writing would be controlled if I went any further with this.

What I have chosen to write about this week is this:


Yep, you read it right, I might be a terrorist. Of course, you might be too if you’re reading this. See birds of a feather tend to flock together and well, it seems that many of you are similar to me. According to a recent Homeland Security report, you might be a terrorist threat if:

~ You are against abortion.
~ You are concerned about illegal immigration.
~ You believe taxes should be fair and limited.
~ You believe in the Constitution, including the 2nd Amendment right to bear arms.
~ You are a returning war veteran.
~ You have lost a job due to the economic crisis.
~ And while it’s not mentioned in the report, you might as well add follower of Jesus too!

Do any of the above qualifications fit you? Well then congratulations! The Dept. of Homeland Security has targeted us as potential terrorists because we won’t drink the cool-aid. Because we don’t blindly follow, and worship, the one, we are singled out as possible terrorists. Rather than focus on actual terrorists to keep America safe, the DHS (under the leadership of former AZ Gov. Janet Napolitano) would prefer to try to take down, suppress or stifle the patriots of our country and thus divide the nation. (For the whole story, click here.) Just this morning, after much outcry from us terrorists, Ms. Napolitano has apologized for including returning war veterans. (For that story, click here.)

“Any kingdom that is divided against itself is being brought to destruction and laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will last or continue to stand.” ~ Matt. 12:25

In and Of the World . . . Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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Mass murders. Pirated ships. Terrorism. The race for nuclear weapons. Children being killed. Deadly earthquakes. A “rock star” president who is idolized, and who disses the U.S. overseas, much like the Dixie Chicks. Amnesty for illegal immigrants. The economy. The continued hysteria over the fictitious global warming. As usual, there is much to choose from for discussing and commenting on. One thing has really sobered and saddened me though.


The liberal, gay agenda is taking over. And not just with the liberals, academics and Hollyweird, anymore. It has been slowly, but surely infiltrating the conservative and Christian communities.


~ Last year, Dove-Award winning Christian Music singer Ray Bolz, came out and announced he was gay. He’d recently divorced his wife of 33 years to be true to himself (for more info click here).


~ Recently, Texas Christian University announced that there will be separate housing for gay students, starting next year. The community will be open to gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and trans-gender students, along with their heterosexual student supporters (for more info click here).


~ Just this week, in an interview with CNN’s Larry King Live, famed Pastor Rick Warren has now disavowed and apologized for his support of Prop. 8, the California bill to keep marriage between a man and a woman (for more info click here).


It seems more and more, that we Christians are not only in the world, but of the world too. That, my friends, is a commentary that is just really, really sad.

Controversy & Personal ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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There is something that I just have to vent about. Once again on this last Monday, all day long, I heard about one thing. It is a story that most people really don’t know, or could care less about, but for me, it is appalling. On March 23, 2003, PFC Lori Piestewa, along with the rest of her convoy, including best friend Jessica Lynch, made a wrong turn in the Iraq desert and drove into an enemy town, where they were attacked. Everyone except Lynch, who was taken as a POW, was killed. Lori had been a single mom of two children, who are now left in the care of her parents.


The story is sad. All of the fallen soldiers are heroes, simply because they laid down their lives in defense of their country. However, for Lori Piestewa, that is not the end of the story. She was the first known Native American woman to die in combat. And for that distinction, she has been revered, honored and I might even say worshiped. Celebrations and memorials are continuous. A Valley mountain and freeway has been renamed for her amid great controversy. Even Extreme Home Makeover has bought into the hype by providing her parents and two children left behind a new home, for no reason other than that she was the first Native American woman to die in combat.


This is a bitter pill for many of us, because while she is only one of the many of Arizonan’s killed in action, she is the only one who gets any recognition for it. When then Gov. Janet Napolitano heard of Lori’s death, she pressured, bullied, and it’s been debate that she even broke laws to force the change of the name of the previously mentioned freeway and mountain. She called for the resignation of someone who challenged her, and had a staff member call and threaten others who fought it. She even had the audacity to rudely dismiss the tearful pleas of the numerous other families who’d recently lost loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan, to consider changing the names of these sites to honor all of the fallen, rather than just one. She wouldn’t even hear them out. It was a shrewd political move that ensured the reelection of our most liberal governor to date, because people who’d never even voted before, showed up in droves to vote her in for a second term out of gratitude (or manipulation). Make no mistake, Napolitano couldn’t care less for the combat death of Lori or Piestewa family, this was purely political.


Lori Piestewa, a single mom from the reservation in northern Arizona, died a hero serving her country. I believe that. But the way she is now worshiped is a brutal slap in the face to the memory of all of our other fallen heroes. She made a wrong turn and is now revered a hundred times more than any other of our lost sons and daughters. She died without firing a single shot, something her Hopi family (the same family who is calling all Native American’s to return from the war any way they can because this is not their war) is very proud of, and is celebrated and revered more than any decorated soldier. Around here, the only ones who remember any of the other numerous heroes killed in action, are the families. They get no press. They get no ceremonies. They get no memorials. And that to me is unconscionable.


And . . .


The other current event that I’d like to discuss is personal. I am so excited to announce that I have just been offered my first paid writing job! A lovely lady from Train Up Children, found me through FaithWriter’s and contacted me, to have me write lesson plans for preschoolers. I am thrilled at this wonderful opportunity to get paid doing something I love, while helping little children to know and love Jesus. Praise the Lord! By the way, obviously I checked out the site before I agreed and true to the name, it really looks like a fantastic site, with tons of teaching materials for your children.

Tragedy and Recovery ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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With so much that continues to go on in the world today, it remains difficult to choose what to talk about. From Obama taking money from AIG in 2008 (for more on that story click here) to Peolsi telling illegal immigrants that enforcing immigration policy is un-American (for more on that story click here) to more Planned Parenthood's caught on tape trying to hide statuatory rape crimes (for more on that story click here) to ACORN participating in the upcoming Census (for more on that story click here) to global warming cultists inconveniently being stranded by cold weather (for more on that story click here). There are two things though, that I would like to discuss today. The first is the tragic and senseless death of Natasha Richardson. What makes this so sad, is not her celebrity, though certainly more of us have a deeper awareness of her because of it, but because it just doesn’t make sense (hence the senseless).


Natasha suffered what appeared to be an innocuous fall and bumped her head. No one knew that even as she was joking about it, death was creeping up on her. Since the accident, I’ve heard several experts say that if she would have gotten proper testing, then treatment, it probably wouldn’t have ended this way. They further explain that any time any type of head injury is incurred proper medical attention should be taken. That sounds great in theory. But imagine how the insurance companies, particularly HMO’s, would react to that. And further imagine how much worse ER waiting rooms would be, if everyone who bumped there head in any way came for a CAT scan or MRI, because they tell us, time is of the essence. The theory sounds good, but actually, it doesn’t seem to mesh with reality. One thing that does mesh with reality is that this family, and families all over our communities, needs much prayer and support for dealing with the tragic and senseless of death of loved ones – mothers, fathers, children, parents, siblings, etc.


The second is the U.S. economy. I personally, am so tired of hearing what all the “experts” have to say, and I certainly don’t put much stock into it, after all, the experts are who got us into this mess. And contrary to popular belief, it will NOT be the experts, or the U.S. Government, who gets us out.


Bailouts, recovery, stimulus, whatever you want to call it, it’s welfare. And it’s wrong. Rewarding bad behavior never works. There is plenty of blame to go around, as to how this all happened, but waiting for someone to magically “fix” it is no better. The United States economy will turn around because of one thing – the spirit and determination of the working American people. Those who are willing, will pull themselves back up, be strong and do what they always do – get on with life. It won’t be The One, Congress, the experts, or those who live off “entitlements.”


I think we would all be shocked at how quickly the economy could turn around, if we had a brief (six month or so) moratorium from the news. Imagine how life could be without the constant barrage of doom and gloom we hear and see every day. Fear mongering accomplishes nothing productive. But hard work and common sense does.


I have been thinking much of an old song by Chris LeDoux, one that I’m sure most of you don’t know. Unfortunately, there’s no youtube video to share either. I really wish there was. But I have included the lyrics, and I think you’ll recognize the truth and wisdom contained herein.

The Working Man’s Dollar

Well, I'm just a Workin' Man's Dollar In the pocket of his old blue jeans
I ain't like my Wall Street brother He's in a bank so shiny and clean
Well, I'm faded and I'm wrinkled Tattered and stained with sweat
But I'm the 1st one called when Uncle Sam Needs a hand with theNational Debt

I've been wages for the farm hand For drivin' an old John Deere
I've been laid on a bar in a tavern To buy a workin' man an ice-cold beer
I've been tipped to a truck-stop waitress Taped where I was torn
And in the hand of a child I was laid on a plate In a church on Sunday morn

CHORUS:

They say I'm the root of all evil
I bring lust, power and greed
But this Workin' Man's Dollar only buys the things
A workin' man really needs

VERSE:

Well, they say I'm worth about fifty-cents In this modern inflated age
But don't tell that to the young man slavin' To make it on a minimum wage
Or that single workin' mother She's been scrapin' to make ends meet
To make a house a home Keep food on the table And shoes on her baby's feet

Well, I know my days are numbered I'm gettin' threadbare and wearin' thin
And they'll replace me with another But I'd do it all again
Cuz I've seen this great big country Passed from hand to callused hand
And I've got to say that I'm mighty proud That I belong to a workin' man

REPEAT CHORUS:

They say I'm the root of all evil
I bring lust, power and greed
But this Workin' Man's Dollar only buys the things
A workin' man really needs

About Education

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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One of the things that is destroying this nation, is the liberal agenda in the public school systems. There is much to fear at our schools, and I’m not just talking about drugs and violence.


In many schools, Planned Parenthood is firmly entrenched and actively indoctrinating the students into their belief system. PP is a vile organization, promoting the sexualization of children and teens, murder of babies (at various stages of life), advancing the homosexual agenda, and is guilty of both racism (yes, still) and protecting child molesters by covering the crime and urging under-aged girls to lie about the perpetrator – and I don’t mean a 16 or 17 year old girl with a 18 or 19 year old boy, more like a 14 year old girl with a 25 year old man. They are in the business of abortions and they “educate” children into sexual relationships they are not mature enough for, in order to stay in business, by providing more abortions.


Another problem with the current education system is the re-writing of history and distortion of truth in the textbooks. References to America being founded on Christianity have been removed. Studies of the Founding Fathers have been cleared of any reference to their beliefs. And now, either Christianity is omitted completely or it is shown in a negative way. That often goes for Judaism too. But not for Islam. The religion of Islam is taught, in reverence, without critique or criticism. Once again, the liberals indoctrinate the students into tolerance of what they desire, and intolerance of what they don’t.


I’m sure there are some traditional public schools that are basically good. And I believe there are some great teachers who try to not yield to the pressure of the standards set forth by the liberal agencies that are in control. Further, I realize homeschooling and private schools are not options for many people. But it is essential that parents be involved – understand what is being taught, join the PTA or PTO, get on the school board, and be heard. And we need are responsible for teaching our children what is true, right and correct, when it is contradictory to what they are learning at school. Our children’s well-being and future depend on it.

Huh?, So Sad, and Goodbye ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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Ok, from the world of “what the heck are people thinking…”

~ A woman in Florida, Latreasa L. Goodman, 27, calls 911 three times to report the emergency that she was at a McDonald’s and had ordered and paid for a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets. However, after paying, it was discovered that McDonald’s had run out of Chicken McNuggets. Stating that McDonald’s doesn’t give refunds, the cashier suggested other items from the menu. This apparently was the emergency that warranted three calls to 911.

While I do believe McDonald’s could have handled the situation better, what the heck was this woman thinking?


~ A man from Canada, Desiderio Fortunato, was pepper sprayed by a U.S. border patrol agent for telling the agent to “say please” when he was told to turn off his car. He refused to do so, because he wanted to be asked politely. He apparently had no problem with complying with the order, but wanted to be treated with courtesy. The border patrol states that the agent did nothing wrong.

I too, long for a more polite, courteous society, but I’m not sure I would have been so adamant about it in post-9/11 days, with a border agent. However, did the agent have go as far as pepper spraying the man, seriously, what the heck was he thinking?


This is just so sad…

On Saturday, Feb 28th, two NFL football players and two friends (also football players, but not pro), went fishing off the coast of FL in the Gulf of Mexico. The boat capsized when the men were pulling up anchor. One has been found. Four days later, the others are still missing.

This story is particularly sad to me. Yes, I’m sure the NFL status has brought more attention to the story than what would have happened if they were not. However, that’s really not my interest in it. We watch one station for news here – the NBC affiliate (we don’t get Fox News, so it's just NBC). Bruce Cooper, father of NFL football player, Marquis Cooper, has been a sports broadcaster here, at the NBC station, for more than 20 years.

Bruce Cooper has a wonderful reputation. He is known to be a really great guy. Seriously, everybody loves Coop! He is just one of those guys who seems to be amazing, down to earth, real, and oh, so nice! Coop always has a smile, a big, infectious one, and is highly regarded and respected here. Oh, and he’s a Christian too. I didn’t know that before. I mean, how many media people does that apply to? But he is. And not just one of those sound-bite Christians either. In recent interviews, he has talked about prayer (which doesn’t mean much these days), talked about his faith (ok, a little warmer), talked about God (slightly warmer, since most people talk about ‘god’), but beyond that, he has talked about and called on the name of Jesus. And to go just a little further, he’s been quoting Scripture. And I’ve been hearing that Marquis is just like his dad.

For Marquis, it has always been about football, fishing, family, and faith. He’s recently added to the family part, with a wife he loves very much, and a 3 year old daughter he lives for.

Anytime something like this happens, it is a tragedy. But when it is someone “known,” it seems to touch you just a little more. Marquis grew up here. He went to high school less than 10 miles from where I live. No, I don’t know him. And no, I don’t know his father. But in a way, they’re family. I don’t know why these things happen – especially to the good guys. But they do. And while most would say that all hope is gone, still these families hope, and pray, because they know that our God is a miracle working God. And even if the miracle doesn’t happen, Coop knows, that he knows, that he knows, that one day he will be reunited with his son.

For now, I’ll continue to join the families in hoping and praying for a miracle, for peace, for comfort, and for closure in this very difficult time.


And a brief, but heartfelt goodbye…

Also on Saturday, Feb. 28th, we said goodbye to a beloved radio newsman. Paul Harvey died at the age of 90, in a hospital here in AZ. He was a pioneer in broadcasting, beginning in 1933, and had millions of fans.

Harvey received many awards through the years. He was named Salesman of the Year, Commentator of the Year, Person of the Year, Father of the Year, and American of the Year. He was elected to the National Association of Broadcasters Radio Hall of Fame and Oklahoma Hall of Fame, and appeared on the Gallup poll list of America's most admired men. In addition he received 11 Freedom Foundation Awards as well as the Horatio Alger Award. In 2005, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ most prestigious civilian award, by President George W. Bush. On May 18, 2007, he received an honorary degree from Washington University in St. Louis.

Oh, how we will miss his voice, his style, and the way he told “the rest of the story.” Goodbye, Paul, well done.

Freedom of Speech ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, so this is my 2nd Current Events post for today. I simply could not pass this up. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.


An Oklahoma man was stopped, had his personal property confiscated, and was told he was now under investigation for having an anti-Obama sign on his van. The offending sign reads, “Abort Obama, not the unborn.” The officer said he thought that meant he was going to kill Obama. What? To abort means to stop something in the process, not assassinate. To end the life of an innocent baby still in the womb, not the life of full-grown, real live, living and breathing man (even liberals typically call that murder – not abortion). The man stopped said he was referring to desiring Obama to be removed from office. Upon investigation, the man who did this has been cleared and is not deemed to be a threat, by the Secret Service.


Seriously, what happened to free speech? Does it only apply to liberals, Democrats and sicko-kiddie-porn peddlers? Has everyone who ever had an anti-Bush bumper sticker been stopped by the police and investigated by the Secret Service? Where is the ACLU, and why aren’t they screaming at the top of their lungs that this man’s freedoms, guaranteed under the Constitution and Bill of Rights, have been violated. Is there a lawsuit against the officer and the police department for this egregious violation?


Ok, I’m done with my rant. For more information on this story, click here. Any thoughts on this?

Nadya Suleman ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!


Ok, this week is just a little different from the previous weeks. Julie has suggested a specific topic for this week’s discussion – Nadya Suleman and her situation. (Way to stir up the hornet’s nest, Julie! *wink*) There are lots of aspects to this that can be discussed and lots of opinions – passionate opinions. So without further ado, here is mine:


In case you’ve been living under a rock and don’t know who Nadya Suleman is, she is the 30-something year old single mom living in CA, who just gave birth to eight babies, in addition to the six she already has, all of whom were conceived through IVF. That’s right, a total of fourteen young children, ten of which are age two or under! Three of her previous children have been diagnosed with disabilities (autism, ADHD and a speech impediment, I believe), and she has been receiving disability payments for them along with food stamps. She does not however, consider this to be welfare, but rather “In her view these are just payments made for people with legitimate needs and are not, in her view, welfare. She just believes that there are programs for people with needs and she and her children qualify for some of them.” (Mike Furtney, her publicist said) Huh? Isn’t that what welfare is?


Personally, my opinion is that this woman is out of touch with reality. She just doesn’t get it. Her way of seeing things is just not real. She has said that she intends to go back to school in the fall, finish her degree and support these kids on her own. I’m not sure how she thinks she’s going to accomplish this, but ok. Another thing she has said is that she is providing for them by being available for them and loving them. That’s great, but hugs and kisses cannot nourish, clothe, bathe, teach, buy and change diapers and raise children.


As a woman who has first and second hand knowledge of the pain associated with fertility problems I understand the longing to have children. But part of being a parent, or good parent anyway, is being responsible and able. I’m not so sure that really describes Nadya. There is more to being a good parent than just desire and love.


Nadya states that for each IVF treatment, there were six eggs implanted. Four times that resulted in one child and one time it resulted in a set of twins. If this is true, then I’ll give her the benefit of doubt, that she had no idea that the result of the final IVF treatment would result in eight babies. While I’m not thrilled with all that has come to light in regards to the mother, these children need help. And to withhold help to the mother because she’s not liked will hurt the children far more than it will hurt Nadya. Science has allowed this to happen and I would like to see science help her raise them. What I mean by this, is the (wealthy) doctor who assisted in all of this, who is in part responsible for all of this, should be held responsible financially. In my humble opinion…


The thing that really gets me going about this though is not Nadya or any part of her actual situation. Once again I find myself muttering what the heck is wrong with people!? To hear of the death threats that Nadya, her family and the hired publicist have received is beyond ridiculous. It is a despicable sign of depths to which factions of society have fallen. Seriously, death threats? There are many people and situations I don’t approve of, but I don’t threaten them with death or harm. Once again, the depravity of fallen man has reared its ugly head. Now, in addition to requiring the necessity to meet the physical, emotional and mental needs of this family, there also appears to be a need to provide security for them.


I’m not thrilled with Nadya Suleman, or many of the choices she made (I do understand though her refusal to abort any unborn babies and applaud her for that). But she needs our help in multiple ways. If you would like to help financially, you can do so by going to her website at www.thenadyasulemanfamily.com. If you do not wish to, or are unable to help financially, please remember the family in your prayers. That is something we all can do.

Salma and The Census ~ Current Event's Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!


Special Note: Next week, Thursday, Feb. 21st, Julie is doing something special. She is asking for lots of participation in discussing a very hot topic - Nadya Suleman and her 14 children. Please prayerfully consider joining us. If you would like the details, please click here.


Once again, there are a couple of things I would like to discuss.


~~~


It seems like I’m doing celebrity stuff a bit more lately, but hey, it is Current Events! I read a story today, which brought tears to my eyes, in a very good way. Salma Hayek was on a trip to Sierra Leone w/ (I believe) UNICEF in September as part of her involvement in the fight against tetanus, one of the reasons the country has the highest infant and child death rate in the world.


While there, she met a mother with an infant she was unable to feed because she had no milk. It apparently touched her deeply, so she took the starving, yet otherwise healthy baby and breastfed it herself. While she was in the process of weaning her own daughter, she still had plenty of milk to offer. I have no idea if she did anything further to help the mother and child, but this act itself is pretty amazing. (For more info, click here.) Bravo, Salma!


Now, with the election barely behind us, and the controversy about ACORN buying, or stealing, the election through the various fraudulent activities they’ve been caught in (I don’t have time or space to go into all that), now there is more. President Obama has announced that he is going to be having the Census director answering to the White House rather than leaving it solely to the Commerce Department. There are problems all over this.


Since the Census is what is used to determine congressional districts. In addition, it is used to determine the composition of the Electoral College, which chooses the President. And the Census is important in another way – the allocation of federal funds. The impact of this would be significant. Obviously if one party were in charge of the numbers, rather than an a-political, non-partisan organization, there could be significant skewing of the numbers to suit their needs.


Shockingly, I haven’t heard this reported in the MSM (mainstream media). I only found out about it through Fox News. I can only imagine what the reaction would have been, had President Bush, or any other Republican, attempted to do such a thing. (For more info, click here.)


Oh, and one more thing. In case you are interested in keeping any eye on the Spendulous Bill that is going to save our country, check out this site - Stimulous Watch

Michael Phelps and Sheriff Joe ~ Current Events Wrap-Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!


This is posting later than I intended, but I’ve had a lot of catching up to do on things since we’ve all been sick for so long. As usual there is much in the news to comment on. Choosing a story, or a couple of stories isn’t always easy with so much material out there. But I have narrowed it down.


Earlier this week, I chose Kurt Warner to spotlight in my Character Counts post. He is a very talented athlete, who lives in the spotlight and is a true hero because of his character, not his status as a professional football player, a celebrity athlete, or his professional achievements. On the other hand, news and scandal broke this week surrounding the golden boy, Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps. Michael was photographed at a college party smoking marijuana.


Michael is about the most celebrated athlete in the world. He is immensely talented and driven. No one can dispute his achievement. But does this make him a hero? In my opinion it does not. It just makes him talented. Should he be held to a higher standard then? In my opinion yes he should. Some may say that this assessment is not fair – after all, he is a 23 year old college kid, and he should be allowed to make the same choices his peers make without fear of public opinion. But again, I disagree. He chose to pursue the path that would place him in the status of celebrity athlete and yes, in this day and age, people are watching – everywhere.


Now if I were to be honest with you, I was not a good example at the age of 23 either. But I was not in the spotlight and I most certainly did not have thousands, if not millions of fans, adults, young adults and children, looking up to me. Nor was I getting adoration and compensation simply because of who I was. Because of his achievements, Michael has millions and millions of dollars worth of endorsement contracts. And unfortunately, it would appear that there will be no repercussion for his actions from the companies who are paying him lots of money to endorse their products. Apparently his admitting he made a poor choice and apologizing is deemed enough these days. But is he really sorry, or just sorry he got caught?


This superstar athlete would do well to remember that he has a privileged life and to understand that youth around the world are looking up to him. He chose to put himself in that position. He should try to remember that to whom much is given, much is required. He should hold himself to a higher standard. And if he does not, we should.


One other thing I want to comment on. Locally, we have a very controversial sheriff. Sheriff Joe Arpaio is much beloved by some and hated by many more. He has been featured on the national news several times for the way he conducts business and has been called America’s Toughest Sheriff. We have big problems with overcrowding in the jails and prisons around here, so Sheriff Joe created what is called Tent City, a large, secure area of giant tents where prisoners are kept. We don’t have extremely cold weather, so it is not dangerous – just uncomfortable. Yes, we have heat, but with plenty of water and shade, it's not deadly, and they have plenty of both water and shade. In addition, they have to wear pink underwear and work on chain gangs.


Most who are kept at Tent City are non-violent criminals. They include those arrested for DUI, drug violations, bad check writers, deadbeat parents, etc. And illegal immigrants. As a border state, we have a lot of illegal immigrants, and we have a lot of crime associated with illegal immigrants. Sheriff Joe has taken a stand against this and has become public enemy number one with special interest groups, the ACLU and the media (by the way, most of us love him and he keeps getting voted back in landslide elections). Because of his stance on illegal immigration, he has been called a racist and likened to Hitler. He’s not racist by the way, he has many friends and supporters that are minorities, but they are not illegal.


Recently he has chosen to house all illegal immigrants together, for the sake of simplicity and cost (though I’m not sure what the difference with cost is). Now, all of a sudden Tent City is being compared to the concentration camps of the Nazi’s in World War II! I’d like to say I’m shocked by the comparison, but I’m not, after all isn’t that what liberal special interest groups do, make themselves, and others, out to be extreme victims? Seriously, concentration camps?! They have food, water, shelter, medical care, etc. They are provided for at taxpayer expense. They are there because they chose to be there by engaging in illegal activity. There is nothing unsafe or unhealthy about their situation. There are no emaciated people there, there are no mass murders or graves, no torturous medical experimentation going on and no killing for sport.


The comparison between the two is both ridiculous and disgusting. For fifteen years Sheriff Joe has been working hard to make a dent on crime. He wants Tent City and his jails to be places where people do not want to return to. He has even helped to rehabilitate criminals by instituting an animal care work program that has had tremendous results. He continues to have the support of the people and he continues to be a target for liberals – the ACLU, the media and special interest groups. He is a man who is not afraid to take a stand and do what is right and will not coddle to criminals. So for that I say, way to go, Sheriff Joe, way to go!

Random ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!


Ok, I’m going to be perfectly honest here, I feel like crud! I have for more than a week now, and my creative juices, and my intelligent ones, just aren’t flowing. So this post will be a bit different than previous CEWU posts. So this is going to be a list of current events I’ve been doing some thinking about.


~ I feel like crud (that’s my own personal current event).

~ President Obama’s illegal alien aunt attended inaugural ball (for more info on that click here). How’s that for snubbing your nose at U.S. law?

~ The economy is being blamed for the murder of five precious children from the Lupoe family and maybe the mother too. No, it was the act of a selfish and disturbed man who would rather his children be dead than cared for by anyone else (for more on that click here).

~ From the stupid criminal file, two men handcuffed together at a courthouse in New Zealand, escaped and ran, only to be apprehended by a light pole. These two men each attempted to go on opposite sides of the pole, apparently forgetting they were cuffed together, and consequently looped the pole and slammed into one another (for more info on that click here). This one just makes me smile!

~ Much to the dismay of the cultist global warming group, the earth continues to be in a cooling trend, with extreme winter storms abounding, but you have to give ‘em credit for their tenacity (for more on that click here)!

~ The Arizona Cardinals have made it to the Super Bowl, causing speculation that yes indeed, pigs are flying and hell has frozen over! GO CARDINALS!

~ I am also now a guest author for The Cypress Times!

Freedom of Choice Act ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!


Once again, with SO much going on in the world and nation today, I had to really search my heart to determine what I, and God, wanted me to write about. And once again, God led me to where He wanted me to go. Right now there is a battle being waged to end the slaughter of innocent lives through the barbaric act of abortion. Make no mistake, this is a battle between light and darkness and good and evil. And there can be only one acceptable outcome – protection of the lives of the innocent unborn.


Barack Obama is now officially the President of the United States. While campaigning last year, he made a promise to Planned Parenthood to sign the Freedom of Choice Act. In fact, he stated in that speech, that it would be his first order of business. Thus far he has not signed it and we need to pray that this is a campaign promise that he does not keep.


Some of you may not be aware of exactly what FOCA is. The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) would eliminate every restriction on abortion nationwide. This would eradicate state and federal laws that the majority of Americans support, such as:
· FOCA will do away with state laws on parental involvement, on partial birth abortion, and on all other protections.
· FOCA will compel taxpayer funding of abortions.
· FOCA will force faith-based hospitals and healthcare facilities to perform abortions.
· FOCA will remove requirements that women be given information about the risks of getting an abortion.
· FOCA will allow other than licensed physicians to perform abortions.


Perhaps you may not even be aware of the history of Margaret Sanger, founder of Planned Parenthood. Liberals would paint Margaret Sanger’s history as that of a caring and passionate nurse who fought for the reproductive rights of women. What they don’t mention is that she was very racist and a Nazi sympathizer. She was a strong proponent of forced sterilization and elimination of those she deemed inferior or unworthy. This would include anyone not white, poor, and mentally or physically disabled. Sanger was a proponent of eugenics, a social philosophy which claims that human hereditary traits can be improved through social intervention. Methods of social intervention (targeted at those seen as "genetically unfit") advocated by eugenicists have included selective breeding, sterilization and euthanasia.


This is not about choice, because proponents of abortion do not give vital information or facts that would allow an expectant mother to make a choice other than abortion. Since we now have a pro-abortion president, it is imperative that the fight continue. We must choose to get the facts, get involved and make our voices heard.


There are countless websites that give information on all types of abortion, Margaret Sanger, Planned Parenthood, etc. Support those who are on the front lines of this battle –Jill Stanek (former nurse), Gianna Jensen (abortion survivor), National Right to Life, Pro-Life, Americans United for Life, and Crisis Pregnancy Centers to name a few. Right now you can get involved by going to the website www.fightfoca.com and sign a petition, and support financially, to fight the Freedom of Choice Act. Together we can win and save lives.

Don't Ask, Don't Tell ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, I’m still excited about this new weekly meme that is being hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. But I forgot it was Thursday! The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!


Like I said, I forgot it was Thursday, so this will be a brief post because I obviously haven’t had time to really focus in and write the way I would want to. That said, I do know what I want to write about. President-Elect Barack Obama is overturning the “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy about gays serving in the military.


Are you kidding me??? No, I’m not happy about this at all. Of course, we wouldn’t even be dealing with this issue if Bill Clinton hadn’t done his best to decimate the military (through various means) while he was in office in the 90’s, but for Barack Obama to take this to the next level is just wrong.


While there may be some in the military that it truly doesn’t bother, I’d venture to say that for most this is both extremely disturbing and distracting. And distracting can actually be worse in a war zone, which we have going on two fronts. This is not a matter of lifestyle choice. In the military, people live, work and socialize together in very close proximity to one another. Privacy can be difficult to come by.


It is a shrewd move though. What better way to placate the rabid liberals who became enraged at B.O.’s invitation to Rick Warren to give the invocation at the inauguration? I shudder to think what this is going to do to our military and national security. But I guess I should be happy that he has not yet made good on his promise that his first order of business would be to pass the Freedom of Choice Act to make it even easier to murder innocent babies. May God help us all.

It's Here ~ The Current Events Wrap Up Meme!

Ok, I am SO excited about this new weekly meme that is being hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. In the weeks leading up to the 2008 Presidential election, Julie became a part-time armchair political pundit wannabe (I think those were her words), and many of us thought she did a fantastic job! Much more fair and balanced than the Mainstream Media, I thought. There were, I think, several of us who wanted her to continue (and I think she did too), so here we are. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave her for continuing on in a similar way. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

As I said, I was really excited about this because… well, frankly, it’s because I’m a news junkie and I believe that it’s important to be aware of what is happening in the world. And to be honest with you, I am passionate about some things, like America, conservatism, anti-abortion, freedom of (not from) religion, etc, and I’m opinionated I sometimes like to share my opinion.

While I was really excited about this, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to write on. Seriously, there is so much going on! The Presidential transition, the economy, the war on terror, the war between Israel and Palestine, the persistent bullying antics from Russia, not to mention the fact that Brittany Spears actually seems to be getting her act together for the moment, and the list could go on and on. Well, I was watching the Today Show this morning (for research, really…) and one of the guests was the always controversial, love her or hate her, Ann Coulter, and that was it! I had ‘my story’!

For anyone who may not know, Ann Coulter is an ultra-conservative political pundit, who is proud to have the title of the ‘Most Hated Conservative in America’. She is a former attorney, has written five New York Times bestsellers, is the legal correspondent for Human Events, and writes a popular syndicated column for Universal Press, which can also be read on her website, www.anncoulter.com.

That is her bio. She’s also a Christian and has been named as one of the top public intellectuals by federal judge Richard Posner. Ann is an unapologetic very anti-liberal, very in-your-face and tell it like it is, take-no-prisoners kind of girl. She truly is one of those individuals that people tend to either love or hate, with not much in the middle. I personally love her. Her wit is razor-sharp and her sarcasm is both biting and brutal. I love to listen to her, and read her column and books. Honestly, she makes me laugh. A lot.

The reason I wanted to write about her though, is in relation to the interview she did today with Matt Lauer. They talked about her new book, Guilty: Liberal 'Victims' and Their Assault on America. Matt said something to the effect of, she made a lot of good points (and some he didn’t agree with) about societal issues in her book, but that the way she said it would really turn people off and didn’t that worry her. Of course, she said, no, and they went back and forth. But that particular exchange really got me thinking.

As I said, I love Ann, but I totally get why other people don’t. She’s brilliant and passionate, but she’s also very controversial and extremely acerbic. The way she says the things she says, really offends a lot of people – even other conservatives. Of course what she says offends liberals, regardless of how she says it, but the point is, to me anyway, she’s saying it. She talks about, and offers tons of documentation to verify, the things people don’t want to talk about.

On a regular basis she writes scathingly about the ACLU, NARAL, NOW, Planned Parenthood, vicious criminals and the liberals who love them, corrupt or immoral politicians (Democrats and Republicans, though she’s not as hard on Republicans because she knows the liberals and MSM will take care of them), abortion, global warming, evolution, feminism and emasculated men, etc. Very often, she makes great points in what she says, but like Matt, I wondered if her style damaged her substance?

Then I came to the conclusion that no it doesn’t, because she creates controversy. And controversy sells. And controversy gets people talking. And the people who are talking are making others aware of what they are talking about. Ann discusses things other people don’t like to, or want to, or even know anything about, like NAMBLA (North American Man Boy Love Association) which incites members to "rape male children" and "serves as a conduit for an underground network of pedophiles in the U.S. and is being defended by the ACLU (for more info on this click here).

The point is Ann Coulter gets people reading, listening and talking by creating controversy. That’s her job. And when people talk, when there is more awareness of what is really happening in the places us nice folks don’t go to, when we learn of the depths that some factions of society have sunk to, then we can become outraged. And spread the word. And get involved. And fight to take back our country by praying, voting, talking, and supporting those who are on the front lines in the culture war (and war on terror, by the way) battling for us.

Yep, I like Ann. And it’s ok if you don’t. She’s certainly not going to win any popularity or Miss Congeniality contests. But I also think she probably doesn’t care. I hope you enjoyed this, my first contribution to the Current Events Wrap Up meme. Be sure to check back next Thursday and see what I come up with. And Julie, thank you so much for hosting this!