Tips for Surviving a Sudden Crisis...From Dwight Bain, Life Works Group

Surviving Major Life Crisis
10 insights to guide you through stressful events with greater strength

by: Dwight Bain, Nationally Certified Counselor & Certified Life Coach

Life is harder than ever it seems, yet not everyone seems to be completely overwhelmed because of it. Why do some people face major life transitions like financial stress, death, divorce, health problems, job loss, or business problems with a hopeful attitude of rebuilding and recovery while others just want to hide in fear? Everyone will face times of major life crisis, but not everyone will know how to respond to move beyond the challenge today to build confidence tomorrow. Here are ten things about crisis that will help guide you through the process of managing stressful situations to come out stronger on the other side.

1) Crisis events are more common than you think.

Every time you watch the evening news you are hearing about someone in crisis, but it doesn't really affect you as much because you probably don't know them. Accidents, fires, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, terrorist attacks, bank robberies, child abuse, sex scandals, corporate fraud, crime, corporate downsizing and on and on the list goes. It's like the only thing you ever hear about on the news is the bad news! Thankfully, these terrible events don't happen to all of us at the same time, which is why some people can hear about it and not really be affected. Their life is insulated from crisis at that moment, so they don't really think about it much, however, stressful events happen all the time and at some point will affect you as well. If your life is going well, be grateful as you count your blessings. If it's falling apart, know that it's part of life and won't go on forever, so hang on as you keep reading about more ways to deal with life crisis.

2) Crisis affects people of all ages and stages of life.

There is an old saying that cancer doesn't care where you live, which is another way of saying that disease affects the rich and poor, young and old. Crisis is like that too because it's a common part of every stage of life, but impacts us differently at each stage. Not having a date for the prom can feel like a crisis to a high school student, while being fired from a job may seem like the end of the world to a man in the middle years of life. The level of stress and trauma is based on a lot of factors, including age, gender, personality, educational level, family connection, network of friends, emotional health, physical energy and spiritual maturity.

The more life experiences you have gone through, the more likely you will view a major event with a hopeful perspective about the outcome instead of gloom and doom. Life is about growing and crisis events can often force us to change faster than we wanted to, yet with a positive end result if we learn to see it as a predictable part of the lifecycle. This is the process of moving from 'Why me?' to 'why not me?' and is a sign that you are growing beyond the simplistic view of the world as you want it to gain a greater awareness to see more of the real world with the real difficulties that people are forced to deal with every day.

3) There are no easy answers for traumatic events.

"I know how you feel," is one of the worst things that you could ever say to another human being. That is unless you really have walked in their shoes through the same type of life crisis. Everyone who hears about the challenge that you are facing will want to make it better in one way or another, but often there are no quick solutions or instant pop-psychology advice available. Sometimes bad things happen to good people and there just isn't anything to say to make it better, so don't even try to help with words. Rather, help with your presence, or just help with a meal, or arrange for childcare while an exhausted Mom gets a night off, or line up some gift certificates to help out, or pitch in to help pay for a needed car repair, or just remember to pray for someone you know in crisis. While you may not have any real answers, you may have some encouraging words of hope to someone feeling very scared and alone.

Better to say, 'hang in there and I'm here to help if I can," than to retreat in silence and do nothing because you aren't sure of what to say. Take action to do something positive to get through the day right now instead of spending massive amounts of time and energy trying to figure out the answer to some of the questions that likely could never be answered anyway. Knowing that you have closed the door to all of the 'what ifs' will allow your mind to open up other doors of options and possibilities, even in the most challenging of situations.

4) Crisis events reveal your biggest fears and deepest beliefs.

Thousands of years ago the Psalmist wrote, "God is a very present help in times of trouble," and that's more true today than ever. Critical incidents will instantly reveal more about you than you ever thought possible. What you believe about life, money, love, family, honesty, courage, hope, faith and a whole lot more will come out when everything that you thought that you believed in is suddenly shaken. Know that a crisis may take you straight to the very thing that you fear the most, which will be hard, but ultimately good because you don't have any choice but to face it and get through it the best way you can. None of this is easy, but the character and maturity you develop while struggling to just get through the day will last for years.

Also, it is helpful to journal out those fears and spend some time writing down what you believe during times like this because the insights you generate about your own identity can help you get through future events faster and stronger than you ever imagined. This is the process of removing fear to replace it with a deeper faith.

5) Some very good people may give you some very bad advice.

The Biblical story of Job tells of a man who loses everything. Kids, money, power, career, big house, company, employees, marital connection to his wife and every single material possession. His health was destroyed and as he scraped his skin to lance the boils the only thing he could hear was the bad advice and judgmental questioning of his three friends. While it is good that they can to be with him during his time of crisis, their efforts at 'helping' seemed to turn toward putting more pressure on Job than actually making his life any more bearable. When helping people through a time of crisis I often remind them of the first rule in a crisis, which is 'don't make a bad situation worse.'

No matter what you are facing today, keep in mind that while someone has it worse than you, there are a truck load of people who don't even have a clue! If someone gives you bad advice because they have been blessed to not have experienced the level of pain and suffering that you have, cut them some slack because of their naive view of life, or try to avoid them. In a crisis you don't have time or energy to try to change someone who doesn't understand painful trauma, so sometimes it really would be preferable to just try to avoid that person. Better to seek out others who have walked on the same road of grief that you are on so that you can learn from their insights instead of feeling misunderstood by the lectures of those who haven't been tested in those areas of character development. At some point there is a time to move on to learn the lesson that Job did so long ago. God is always faithful, even when your closest friends let you down.

6) Major world events like terrorism or natural disasters can magnify the stress and pressure you are already facing.

Whatever you are going through is intensified by other factors, like terrorism or a community wide disaster. If your marriage is breaking up while you are trying to deal with finding ice or gasoline to run a generator it will feel overwhelming all the time. We can only deal with a certain amount of stress and pressure from crisis events, no matter where they are coming from. If you are totally focused on tuning in to see if terrorists are being brought to justice while trying to care for your aged parents who are facing huge financial challenges, you will run out of emotional energy to cope really, really fast. Better to just pray for those people affected by terrorism around the world and then turn all of your energy toward dealing with what's on your plate right here and right now. Unless you have to watch the video footage from other world events for your job, turn the TV off to turn toward reducing the amount of painful issues on your plate for today.

You will make it through seasons of crisis a lot better if you remove any outside source that you don't have to deal with today. This includes things like being overwhelmed by future events like funding your three year old daughters college tuition or if you will keep your job until the next Presidential election. You must manage your emotional energy wisely today by not worrying about things too far down the road during a time of crisis. Stabilize the crisis today so that you can see clearly to deal with the future events when you are at a stronger and more focused place.

7) Strength, confidence and character come on the other side of life crisis.

Someone once said that hard times will make you bitter or they will make you better and that is especially true during seasons of trials and discouragement. We know that the difficult challenges can make us prone to anxiety, depression, fears, doubts, resentfulness, hatefulness and bitterness. What we fail to think about is that those very same crisis events can push us to stretch and grow into a more disciplined and focused human being. Here's an insight though, it's either one or the other. It's been my experience that people either allow the circumstances of life to shape them into stronger people, or they spend their life whining about how unfair life is to them. Hey, a lot of the good things in life are dramatically affected by how you look at it. Some people view being fired from a job that they really didn't like as a blessing, while others may think that it spells out financial ruin and bankruptcy.

Learn to see crisis events for what they are-an event. They are not usually the end of life, however they may spell out the beginning of a major change, which will greatly impact life. It's sort of like sweating in the gym while exercising your body to achieve a healthier result. The painful process of pushing your body with weights and aerobic gradually activity brings a better result. St. James said it this way, "The testing of your faith builds patience and maturity." To have deep inner faith and personal power you have to press on through the trials of life, instead of just avoiding them or asking others to sort it all out for you. No one can take action to get confidence for you, but you! Get up as you can and move forward so that you can make positive growth in the days ahead.

8) The greater the crisis, the greater you need others to get through it.

You can get through a bad hair day alone, but you can't get through a loved one's cancer treatments without major levels of support. We need others to make it through life and that is particularly true during crisis events. The bigger the challenge you are facing, the more supports, coping skills and healthy behaviors are required to move through it. Obviously this issue takes every positive resource that you can find, while avoiding the negatives. So begin to seek out the counselors, pastors, social workers, psychologists, physicians, nurses, attorneys, law enforcement, chiropractors or support groups that will be needed to challenge the process and bring about change.

In many regions of the country there are hotline telephone numbers linked to community resource agencies that offer all kinds of help and guidance, much of which is free. (In central Florida where I live it's accessed by dialing '211' from any telephone, which links to a live operator who has a listing of thousands of people and places to address every issue from Adoption to Alzheimer's. Another great resource on managing crisis events is through the writings of June Hunt at www.HopefortheHeart.com ). You and I need others and would likely go out of our way to help others if the roles were reversed, so don't be afraid to ask for help if you find yourself in the position to need it. Letting other people help you can unlock a whole new world of service and insight into how others are dealing and coping to grow to a stronger place on the other side of crisis.

9) Stressful or traumatic events don't go on forever.

Someone once said that the often quoted phrase, 'things come to pass' would be better stated as, 'things come to pass, but they don't come to stay.' Keeping your focus on getting through the day and moving past the past to move toward a better place ahead is essential if you want to get to a better place after a life crisis. There are seasons in life and they are constantly changing, even when we don't realize it. Consider an event like a college student moving out of their parents home to their first apartment. If that young person is prepared for the road ahead, this will be one of their most exciting and fulfilling times. If they aren't, then they may find every excuse to avoid dealing the logical progression of reality that will force them to grow up anyway, or over-invest in pushing their Mom to build the nest bigger to keep them from feeling the stress of changing roles, (letting go of their mommy to gain her back as a mentor).

Change is hard on everyone, but change is the most common part of life, so when you hear someone tell you that the present trends will continue and that the sky is actually going to fall one day, please ignore them. Nothing lasts forever, including times of life crisis. If you are in a time of testing and trial, know that it won't go on forever, nor will the calmness of those who haven't had a real crisis event in their entire life. To that person I say 'buckle up' because it may be that God will one day take them to some steep places to show that what they said they believed is really true. Oh yes and to show a better way to view maintaining balance in life when you don't have to stay in control of everything that you really couldn't control anyway.

10) Crisis events prove true the promises of God.

For over twenty years I've been honored to work as a counselor with wonderful people who often were at the hardest part of their life because of major crisis or painful trauma. The bad news is that they had been knocked down and thrown off course from the life that they wanted by various critical incidents and crisis events. Someone told me once that 'there is no testimony with out a test' and I believe that is true because I believe that God allows every thing to happen for a reason. However, the good news is that they were able to get through it and became stronger in the process of moving through the crisis, instead of running away from it.

I've seen it thousands of times, regular people facing horrible circumstances became more balanced and focused in every area of life because of it. The crisis was hard, but in the process of just getting through the day they discovered more about what they believed and how much better life could be than they ever before could have imagined. Life takes on a new meaning when what you believe has gone through the fire, because something in the fire burns away the impurities and the wastefulness to plainly reveal what matters most. I've watched people who didn't believe in anything spiritual become filled with a sense of direction and purpose to make a positive difference in the world with God's help. The crisis revealed what they could be, as well as what would have to change to grow to a new level of success.

The hard lessons that come from crisis have long lasting and life-changing results. I've seen people change in more ways than you could imagine because of having a season of carrying the crucible of a crisis. Things like daddy's who were too busy to spend five minutes playing catch with a child become 'father of the year' candidates after an emergency room experience. Mother's who were obsessed with shopping become budget-minded financial managers while rebuilding their life after their husband died. Men who loved their careers more than they ever would love a wife become softened and surrendered to view that woman as the most important person in their world. Women who placed their children above all else become insightful and aware of their own insecurities and need for control to release those kids to become who they were supposed to be, instead of being stuck in the shadows of their mother's expectations. Young people who moved from meaningless relationships and empty jobs to connected friendships and purpose-driven careers. People give up spending money on drugs, gambling, pornography or alcohol to let go of the addictions and grab hold of a stable life with careful financial management leading them to be free from debt forever.

I've seen miracles through crisis situations so many times that I can tell you that prayer is real and essential to experience peace during the stormy trials of life. I know that God's promises to comfort, protect, guide, cover and bless his children are real. I know it because of what I've seen in walking through crisis with people from every culture, every age group and every

background. They got better as they prayerfully moved toward truth and allowed others to help them get back on track to a better quality of life in spite of the difficulties of their painful past. They got better and I'm glad, yet I have one last question, "so how about you?" When is it your turn to have a better quality of life in spite of difficulty? My hope is that you will turn the corner right now to boldly move in a new direction away from the stress and pressure to move toward the strength and purpose that only comes because of a life-changing word...Crisis.

NOTE: you can freely redistribute this resource, electronically or in print, provided you leave the authors contact information intact in the box below.

About the Author:

Dwight Bain is a Nationally Certified Counselor & Certified Family Law Mediator in practice since 1984 with a primary focus on solving crisis events and managing major change. Critical Incident Stress Management expert with the Orange County Sheriffs Office, founder of StormStress.com and trainer for over 1,500 business groups on the topic of making strategic change to overcome major stress- both personally & professionally. He is a professional member of the National Speakers Association and partners with corporations and organizations to make a positive difference in our culture.

Access more complimentary counseling and coaching resources from The LifeWorks Group by visiting their extensive posting of blog's and special reports designed to save you time by strategically solving problems at www.LifeWorksGroup.org

Triad Community Kitchen Graduation

Congratulations to Chef Jef Bacon and the Eta Class of Traid Community Kitchen. The class graduates today. Chef Jeff reports that 2 of the graduates already have jobs and the others have great prospects!

Students who attend Triad Community Kitchen’s free, 10-week culinary training program - the only one of its kind in Northwest NC, are referred by program partners like Goodwill Industries of Northwest NC and generally are underemployed or unemployed and in some cases homeless. Throughout the 10-week session, students have the opportunity to “give back” to Second Harvest Food Bank as they use donated and purchased food to produce vacuum sealed, ready-to-heat meals in bags for distribution to our partner agencies. The ultimate goal for graduates of the program is to secure sustainable, gainful employment in the understaffed food service and hospitality industries.

Under the direction of Chef Jeff Bacon, a certified executive chef, students participate in a ten-week curriculum designed by Guilford Technical College's Culinary Program. The class is offered at no charge to the student and bus passes are available. Students are trained and certified in ServSafe® sanitation and learn basic culinary skills, knife skills, kitchen safety, mass food production and cook chill technology. Real world job experience is gained through a one-week internship with a local food service organization or restaurant, preparing participants for sustainable, gainful employment in the under staffed food service and hospitality industries.

Overcoming the barriers to employment that many Triad Community Kitchen students have faced is an important key to their ultimate success. For this reason, the program incorporates instruction and activities designed to help them improve their level of workplace readiness. A national program of America’s Second Harvest -The Nation’s Food Bank Network, there are currently 38 network members operating Community Kitchens across the nation, and an additional 50 independently operated programs.

Class Schedule Through December 2008
Theta Class Starts: June 9, 2008-- Graduation: Aug. 25
Iota Class Starts: Sept. 2, 2008-- Graduation: Nov. 10
Kappa Class Starts:Nov. 17, 2008-- Graduation: Feb. 9


For general questions about the program, contact Program Director/Executive Chef Jeff Bacon at (336) 784-5770 or jbacon@secondharvest.org.

To apply to enter the program, download and complete the application. For assistance regarding the application process, contact Ms. Rosa Williams at Goodwill Industries at (336) 724-3625.

Chef Jeff's Sautéed Chicken with Garden Herb Cream Sauce and Julienne Vegetables

Recipe By : Jeff Bacon CEC CCA AAC
Serving Size : 6

Amount--Measure--Ingredient--Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 1/4 --pounds --boneless skinless chicken breast 6 ounce portions
1 each shallot --minced
1 cup cream
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons fresh tarragon -- chopped
2 tablespoons parsley -- chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil -- chopped
2 tablespoons chives -- chopped
1 pinch pepper
1 Dash salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
6 ounces carrot --julienne
6 ounces yellow bell pepper -- julienne
6 ounces celery -- julienne

-Heat sauté pan an oil until about to smoke.
-Season chicken and add to pan
-Sauté each side 2 minutes depending upon thickness,
until nice golden brown color is reached.
-While or before chicken cooks, steam the julienne vegetables
in a small amount of water in the microwave with a lid
for about 1 1/2 minutes or until just soft.
-Remove chicken to warm oven and add shallot in remaining oil
and sauté 2 minutes until soft.
-Deglaze pan with wine and scrape and browned bits from pan into sauce.
-Add cream and simmer until thickened slightly
-Season sauce and add herbs.
-Add sauce to warm plate. Slice chicken and place on sauce then
arrange vegetables on top of chicken.

Yield:
"2 1/4 pounds"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 355 Calories; 17g Fat (44.0%
calories from fat); 41g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 134mg
Cholesterol; 203mg Sodium.

Saving $$ on Your Home Cooling Bill this Summer

Thanks to Richard Harrington and Jeff Vance from Gwyn Electrical, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for providing tips on how to save money on home cooling. For more information, you can reach them at 774-1818 or on-line at www.gwyn.ws.

Here are a few of their suggestions:

• Keep your thermostat set at 78 degrees
• Change your air conditioner's filter every month. Use a decent filter (3M brand is good). A good way to remember to change the filter regularly is to do it each month right after you pay your electric bill
• Invest in a programmable, digital thermostat
• Make sure you have adequate insulation in your attic and weather stripping around doors and windows
• The new Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs are not only more energy efficient, but they also put off less heat
• Keep window blinds and shades closed during the day to help prevent the sun from warming up your house
• Having your AC ducts professionally cleaned every 3-5 years will not only help remove allergens and other particles from your home, but it can also help your AC operate more efficiently because the fan will be cleaned as well.
• Ventilation to remove heat from your attic is a great way to prevent excess heat from building up in your attic, which can your a/c to work harder and can also cause your roof tiles to wear out faster.

Our Condolances to the Chapman Family

I was so saddened to hear about the tragedy that happened yesterday in the Chapman Family. In case you haven't heard, Steven Curtis Chapman's youngest daughter Maria, 5 years old, was hit by an SUV in her family's driveway. Here are some links and additional information from their website:

"The Chapman family is so grateful for the incredible
outpouring of love and support at this difficult time.
If you’d like to meet Maria and express your condolences click here

By mail, send to PO Box 150156 Nashville, TN 37215.

In lieu of flowers, the Chapmans request any gifts be directed to Shaohannah’s Hope."

Funeral Arrangements for Maria Sue Chapman

FRI May 23rd Visitation 5-8p

SAT May 24th Memorial service 11a

at Christ Presbyterian Church
2323 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN
(615) 373-2311

Great Getaways

Thanks to our friend GaleAdouli for coming in this morning and telling us about some great summer vacation deals. Here's where to find out more: www.greatgetawaystriad.com

Here are Gale's Suggestions:

1. Asheville...weekend getaway...Holiday Inn/Biltmore...Biltmore House free for kids ($45online for adults)
2 nights
$109 per night...go to Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Sliding Rock...wonderful!! Total vacation $300

2. Universal/Disney.Orlando,FL...6 nights /7days at Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista!!! $333 for 4 including all
taxes!!! Includes free shuttle to Disney, kids under 12 eat free, free breakfast for everyone, refrig, microwave
in room.....
$79.99 per person/ 7 days hopper to Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure/City Walk!!!! $319.96 total for 4.
Total cost $652 for a family of 4!!!!


3. Myrtle Beach, SC Dayton House Resort....$999 total for 2 room/oceanfront with kitchen for 4

4. Williamsburg, VA /Hampton Inn ...3 nights.... with Busch Gardens passes $600 total

5. Hilton Head, SC Days Inn $610 for 4 nights /5 days total for 4 includes taxes!!
Forest Beach 1 bedroom villa $961 total
Sea Scape Villa 1 bedroom $994 total
Evian Condo at Shipyard 2 bedroom/2 bath $1252 total

6. Washington, DC 4 nights /5 days.... $879 total for hotel....with metro, museums $999 total

7. New York....... weekend getaway 2nights....ride the train....$999 total for 4 hotel/train

8. Cruise on Royal Caribbean!! 5 days to Paradise Island Bahamas....June 16-20 $465 per person including all food, entertainment, taxes, port charges....

Call Gale Adouli Great Getaways 336 778 0349....

Come and visit me this weekend at the Arbor Run Clubhouse, Ridge Gate Dr Lewisville 27023 (next to pool) from 2-5pm!!
Prizes and brochures to give away...get all your questions answered.....

A New Blog

I'm on a journey to a new, slimmer me. To follow along, head over to my new blog called, "I'm with the Band". Here's the link: http://www.tamiswiththeband.blogspot.com/

Where's My Money??

This is the stimulus payment schedule for tax returns processed by April 15, the IRS said:

Direct deposit payments

Last 2 digits of SSN/Date pmt. should be deposited to your acct.
00 - 20/May 2
21 - 75/May 9
76 - 99/May 16

Paper check:
Last 2 digits of SSN/Date check will be mailed by:
00 - 09 / May 16
10 - 18 / May 23
19 - 25 / May 30
26 - 38 /June 6
39 - 51 /June 13
52 - 63 /June 20
64 - 75 / June 27
76 - 87 / July 4
88 - 99 / July 11

Need more specific info? Visit http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=181665,00.html

Chef Jeff's Pork Tenderloin Amandine

Recipe By : Jeff Bacon CEC CCA AAC
Serving Size : 6 Preparation Time :0:15
Amount/Measure/Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin, R-T-C -- trimmed and sliced
2 each shallots
1/2 cup blanched almonds -- sliced
1 cup brown sauce – or beef bouillon
2 tablespoons clarified butter
1/2 cup dry sherry
4 tablespoons cream
1/4 cup flour
1 Dash salt
1/2 Dash black pepper
Slice trimmed tenderloin into 2 ounce medallions and pound gently until 1/4 to 3/8 inch thick.
Season pork then dust with flour
Heat pan and 1/2 of the clarified butter
Sauté pork in batches, 1 minute per side at high heat to brown then remove from pan
Remove any burnt oil from pan then add the other 1/2 of the butter
Sauté at slightly lower heat the almond slices until just beginning to brown
Quickly deglaze pan with sherry and reduce by 1/2
Add brown sauce and cream and adjust seasoning
Return pork to pan with any juices that have pooled. Simmer 2-4 minute until sauce thickens slightly.
Serve 3 medallions per serving and distribute sauce evenly

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 428 Calories; 20g Fat (45.5% calories from fat); 45g Protein; 10g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 118mg Cholesterol; 328mg Sodium.

Chef Jeff's Chicken Broccoli Au Gratin

Recipe By : Jeff Bacon
Serving Size: 26 Preparation Time: 0:45

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 each whole chicken -- cubed
1 gallon water
1/2 cup celery -- minced
1/2 cup onion -- minced
1/2 cup carrot -- minced
4 Tbsp. margarine -- melted
1 1/2 pounds broccoli -- minced
5/8 gallon chicken stock
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 pound cheddar cheese -- shredded
1 tsp garlic -- minced
1/4 tsp white pepper
1 cup cornstarch -- slurry
1 tsp salt -- to taste

Boil chicken until done, about 30 minutes.

Remove to cool and reserve broth.
Trim florets from broccoli and set aside, cut stems into 1/2 inch pieces
In food processor mince carrot, celery, onion and broccoli stems in batches.

Also mince in processor about 1/4 of the broccoli florets
Melt margarine in a large heavy bottom pot.
Add minced vegetable (onion, garlic, celery, broccoli and carrot) and cook until soft.
Add reserved chicken broth and cream and bring to a simmer
While pot comes to a simmer pick chicken from carcass and dice meat.
Once pot simmers mix cornstarch with cool water until the consistency of heavy cream
Add the starch slurry slowly to simmering pot while stirring.

Add just until soup thickens you may not need the whole slurry.
Once soup is at desired thickness add broccoli and chicken meat and simmer 4 minutes.
Turn off heat add white pepper and salt then stir in cheese
Hold at 140 or higher until service.
If preparing ahead of time add broccoli florets at reheating stage to avoid over cooking.

Parenting Seminar Information

PARENTING SEMINAR
(Presented by the National Center for Biblical Parenting)
First Christian Church (Kernersville)
Friday & Saturday, April 18 & 19
Guest Speakers: Dr. Scott Turansky & Joanne Miller, RN, BSN
(They co-wrote the book, "Parenting Is Heart Work")
Cost: $30 (per family)
To register: (336) 996-7388
http://www.fcc-kville.org/Home/Events/ParentingIsHeartWorkSeminar
http://www.effectiveparenting.org/

Chef Jeff's Beef Tips Provencal

Beef Tips Provencal

Recipe By : Jeff Bacon CEC CCA AAC
Serving Size : 4 Preparation Time ::45

2 pounds steak -- Trimmings cut 1/2 inch cubes
1/2 cup onion -- finely chopped
1/2 cup tomato --pulped and diced
1 Tablespoon fresh thyme --chopped
1 Tablespoon fresh parsley--chopped
1 Tablespoon fresh basil --chopped
1/2 cup red wine
1/2 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon garlic clove -- minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper -- coarsely ground
1 Tablespoon butter
1 Tablespoon oil

Heat oil in heavy bottomed fry pan or skillet

Season beef tips with salt and pepper

Sear tips in hot oil until browned on all sides
Add onions and thyme and saute a few minutes more
Remove tips and onions to a plate
Return pan to heat and deglaze with red wine
Add tomato and garlic simmer one minute
Add beef broth and reduce by half
Return beef and onions to pan and simmer until sauce
thickens slightly.
Add butter, parsley and basil and turn off heat.

Stir butter in untilmelted
Serve over rice or noodles
Description:
"One Skillet version of a Continental Classic"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 598 Calories; 46g Fat (72.8%
calories from fat); 34g Protein; 4g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 135mg
Cholesterol; 835mg Sodium.

Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Thanks to Dr. Sears from Digestive Health Specialists for joining the Morning Show this week with information about the risks, symptoms and prevention of Colon Cancer. For more information or to contact Dr. Sears, call 768-6211 or visit their website: www.digestivehealth.ws/

Deal or No Deal

DEAL OR NO DEAL CASTING CALL
SATURDAY, MARCH 29TH FROM 10 AM-8 PM
*LINE BEGINS AT FOOD COURT ENTRANCE
*LINE WILL BE CUT OFF NO LATER THAN 1:00 PM

NBC’s hit game show Deal or No Deal, hosted by Howie Mandel, is searching for America’s next hopeful millionaire. The Deal or No Deal casting team is coming to North Carolina on Saturday, March 29th for an open call to find amazing new contestants for the show.

Deal or No Deal is looking for energetic, charismatic and outgoing individuals who can think quickly on their feet. Candidates should be at least 18 years of age, and a legal resident of the 50 United States and/or Washington, D.C. No special skills are required except for an engaging personality and excitement for the show.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to walk away with a million, come on down and give it your best shot.

If you plan on arriving prior to 7am Saturday morning, the line will form outside the mall, starting at the Food Court Entrance. THE LINE WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL 12PM ON FRIDAY, MARCH 28. Hopeful contestants are welcome to bring chairs, but tents, grills, alcohol, and pets are prohibited. Once you enter the mall, any items, such as chairs or coolers, must be left in your vehicle.

Please click here to download the application. Applications will also be available on site the day of the casting call.

The Tax Man Cometh

Tony Hartsoe is a Winston-Salem Attorney who,
among many other things, can help you if you run
into legal problems with the IRS.
Here's his contact info:

Hartsoe & Associates, P.C.
1068 West Fourth Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: (336)725-1985
Fax: (877)726-1784

Website: http://www.hartsoelaw.com/
E-mail: thartsoe@hartsoelaw.com

Cookin' With Bacon - Monday, March 24

Pico De Gallo

Recipe By :Jeff Bacon CEC CCA AAC
Serving Size : 8 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories :

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
8 each roma tomato -- pulped and diced small
1/2 each sweet onion -- diced small
2 each jalapeno chile peppers -- diced fine
1 each anaheim chili pepper -- diced fine
1/2 cup cilantro -- chopped
3 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice
2 teaspoons lime zest
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chipotle pepper -- spice

Zest limes before juicing

Mix all ingredients together

Grilled Chicken Quesadillas

Recipe By :Jeff Bacon CEC CCA AAC
Serving Size : 4 Preparation Time :0:40
Categories : poultry

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 each 10-inch flour tortillas
1 pound boneless chicken -- thigh meat
3/4 cup monterey jack cheese -- shredded
3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese -- shredded
4 tablespoons ranch salad dressing
4 tablespoons taco sauce -- or salsa
2 tablespoons canola oil

MARINADE
1/4 Cup lime juice
1/4 cup white wine
1/4 cup canola oil
1 clove garlic -- minced
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons hot sauce

Mix together all marinade ingredients
Add Chicken to marinade and allow to marinate 6-24 hours
Remove chicken from marinade. Drain and pat dry
Grill chicken until internal temperature reaches 165 F
Mix together ranch dressing and taco sauce
Lay out tortillas and spread ranch/taco mixture evenly
on a half section of each (about 2 TB per tortilla half)
Sprinkle 3 oz cheddar on top of ranch mixture
Dice and arrange 4 oz grilled chicken on top of
cheese on each tortilla half. Sprinkle 4 oz jack cheese
on top of each tortilla half. Fold bare half of each tortillas
over to cover arranged ingredients, pressing lightly
Heat oil to med. high in a 12-14 inch noon stick skillet
Brown each 1/2 moon shaped quesadilla in the skillet
2 at a time, turn and brown other side
Place first two quesadilla in a warm oven while
browning the next two. Once all four are lightly browned
on both sides and cheese is melted, cut
each into 4 wedges and serve.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 808 Calories; 49g Fat (55.5%
calories from fat); 44g Protein; 45g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 110mg
Cholesterol; 2685mg Sodium.
Serving Ideas : Serve with Pico de Gallo and Sour Cream

Master Gardener Toby Bost.

Toby Bost is THE MAN to talk to if you have lawn and garden questions. You can call him at the Forsyth County Extension office, the # is 703-2850. Here is a link to the website: http://www.forsyth.cc/CES/

This Poem Was NOT Written by Maya Angelou

An email has been circulating for a while with a poem that was supposedly written by Maya Angelou. A search on snopes.com reveals that the real author is a woman named Carol Wimmer.
No matter who penned it...it is a beautiful poem, so I am sharing it with you.

WHEN I SAY, "I AM A CHRISTIAN"

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not shouting, "I've been saved!"
I'm whispering, "I get lost!
That's why I chose this way.

"When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't speak with human pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble-
needing God to be my guide.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
and pray for strength to carry on.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting that I've failed
and cannot ever pay the debt.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't think I know it all.
I submit to my confusion
asking humbly to be taught.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are far too visible
but God believes I'm worth it.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartache
which is why I seek His name.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority--
I only know I'm loved.

Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer

Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed

This new film/documentary starring Ben Stein promises to be very enlightening. We recently spoke with Mark Mathis, one of the film's producers. Mark says that the goal of the movie is to shed light on the fact that the Intelligent Design theory of creation has been kicked out of schools in favor of the unproven theory of Evolution...which is taught as fact. The movie hits theatres on April 18. For details, visit this website: www.expelledthemovie.com.

To hear our interview with Mark, visit the Morning Show Interview page: http://www.wbfj.fm/interviews.htm .

Jason Castro (Who I LOVE on American Idol) singing Chris Rice (Whom I also LOVE, but is not on American Idol) in church

Compassionart

Check out this project called Compassionart...a collection of songs written collectively at a retreat in January to benefit the poorest of the poor. Joining the recording are songwriters Paul Baloche, Stu G (Delirious?), Israel Houghton, Graham Kendrick, Matt Redman, Martin Smith (Delirious?), Michael W. Smith and Chris Tomlin, just to mention a few of the superstars involved in the project. The resulting music will be heard in a Compassionart studio album being planned for a late fall release. Check out the website:

http://www.wp22.compassionart.co.uk/

Great Summer Job Oppurtunities for High School and College Students

Summershine is a ministry for teens and young adults looking for summer work opportuinities. Fun jobs are assigned at 10 RV parks around the country and you'll work together with other Christian youth.

Here's a link to their website..
http://www.summershine.us/

Here are the FAQ's from their website:
1.) What campgrounds have Summershiners?

For the summer of 2008 Summershine will be in 10 KOA (Kampgrounds of America) campgrounds.

These include:
Myrtle Beach, SC
Cape Hatteras, NC
Williamsburg, VA
Cherokee, NC
Santa Cruz, CA
Mt. Rushmore, SD
Virginia Beach, VA
Mystic, CTBoston/Cape Cod, MA
Trinity Lake, CA

2.) Will I get paid?

Yes! The campground work, chores, etc. you provide for these properties is paid work (primarily minimum wage - which varies from state to state). Most of your time at activities is your service. Think of Summershine as a combination of a job and service. However, all your time is ministry! You will meet people while "on the clock," be able to invite them to an activity that day, and then build a relationship with them.

3.) Where will I stay?

How much does it cost?Each campground has housing provided for the Summershiners. Your rent and utilities (water and electric) are provided by the property in appreciation for your ministry. A small kitchen is also provided for Summershiners.

4.) How long does the Summershine program last?

Summershine is designed to be a summer long growth experience, unlike any ministry you've been a part of before! The Summershine season varies from campground to campground. Some of our staff begin mid-May, others early-June. Most of the staff stays through early to mid-August, and some through Labor Day. When applying, please give us the maximum availability you can.

5.) What about time off?

Each week you will work approximately 40 hours, with one to two days off a week (again depending on the property). As far as personal time off goes (family vacations, mission trips, weddings, etc.) Summershine aims to accomodate it's staff and their prior commitments. As long as this time off is reasonable, Summershine will work with you.

6.) Is Summershine connected to a particular denomination or church?

Summershine is blessed to work with Christians from a wide variety of church backgrounds. Summershine seeks to employ young people who love Christ, love people, and enjoy bringing them together!

Chef Jeff's Recipe for Pasta Caprese 3-10-08

Pasta Caprese
Serves 6


¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
4 tsp Lemon Juice (fresh Squeezed)
1 Each Garlic Clove (minced)
1 Each Shallot (minced)
1 ½ Pound Tomatoes (Seeded, Pulped and diced)
12 Ounce Fresh Mozzarella (Diced)
1 Pound Pasta (penne or other)
¼ Cup Fresh Basil (chopped)
½ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Black Pepper
1 tsp Sugar

1. Whisk oil, 2 tsp lemon juice, garlic, shallot, ½ tsp salt,
and ¼ tsp pepper together in a large bowl. Add tomatoes,
toss and marinate for 30-45 minutes.
2. While tomatoes are marinating, cook pasta al dente.
Drain well.
3. Toss hot pasta and mozzarella with tomato mixture and
let stand 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Basil and adjust salt, pepper, lemon and sugar to taste.
Serve at once.

Moment for Mom

I've started a new blog that I hope you'll visit. It's called "Moment for Mom" and it contains the text from a daily devotional heard on WBFJ. Here's a link to the new blog: http://momentformom.blogspot.com/

Airborne Lawsuit

The makers of "Airborne", the effervescent, immune boosting supplement, are being sued for supposedly exaggerating their cold-fighting claims. Airborne will pay $23.3 million to settle a class-action lawsuit. If you purchased any Airborne products between 5/1/01 and 11/29/07 you may be entitled to a refund. All of the details about the settlement can be found at www.airbornehealthsettlement.com/ .

But, before you go there...please take a minute to read my 2 cents on the issue:

Bottom line...yeah, I could get a few bucks back by officially becoming part of the class. But is a few bucks really worth aligning myself with people who sue just for the sake of suing and lining the pockets of the lawyers who represent them? Shouldn't consumers be expected to have just a little bit of common sense? Did someone DIE or become SERIOUSLY ILL due to this products claims? NO. Did someone give up chemotherapy because Airborne said it would cure their cancer? NO. The worst case is that people bought it and still got a cold. I've bought this stuff lots of times, never believing it would cure the cold. I don't remember it even making the claim it would. But, I do think Airborne definitely has a good mix of immunity boosting vitamins and minerals that really do help you stay healthy.

And, just for the record, I am going to become part of this class so I can OBJECT to the settlement. You can do the same if you like by visiting the settlement's website.

Mickey Rooney at the Carolina Theater

The Carolina Theater is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.

Megan Cope
Director of Marketing and PR with the Carolina Theatre in Greensboro
Box Office: (336) 333 - 2605
www.carolinatheatre.com

Tonight: the classic “National Velvet”


Tix to “Let’s Put on A Show” with Mickey Rooney (and wife Jan) will be live at the Carolina Theatre in Greensboro (pairs of tix)

The Connected Child

We've featured a couple of guests on the Morning Show recently in connection with the upcoming "Connected Child" conference. Here is some info...

Meredith Smith is a PA at Forsyth Pediatrics on Robinhood Road in Winston-Salem. She and the rest of the professionals at her practice have many internationally adopted patients. Meredith is also an adoptive parent and on the Board of Directors for Caroline's Promise. She can be reached by phone at: 718-8000 and her email is: meresmith@triad.rr.com .

Dr. Karen Purvis is the author of "The Connected Child" and will be the featured speaker at the conference. Her website is www.theconnectedchild.com

Here are the conference details:

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Hillsdale Baptist ChurchAdvance, North Carolina
Registration begins December 3, 2007
$15 per individual/$25 per couple
Online registration form and payment information

Hotel Recommendation:
Village Inn Golf & Conference Center
6205 Ramada Dr. / PO Box 926Clemmons, NC 27012
Phone (336) 766-9121 Fax (336) 766-1112
Please mention "The Connected Child" conference for a special rate

Seminar designed for:
Parents
Social workers
Teachers
Medical professionals
Clergy
Adoption agencies
Clergy
Family / School counselors

Aldi Recipes

There is a great website called "Mom Advice" and the lady who runs it calls herself the "Aldi Queen". She has meal planners and recipes all using groceries purchased at Aldi. All of the recipes I've tried have been great. There is one salmon recipe that I've been a bit hesitant to try. Here is a link to her website

www.momadvice.com/aldi/

and here is her recipe for Dishwasher Salmon-let me know what you think!

Salmon ala Dishwasher

Ingredients:

4 (4 ounce) fillets salmon
Juice from one lemon
Salt & pepper

Tear off four sheets of aluminum foil, large enough to wrap each piece of salmon in. Grease one side of each piece of foil. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each of the salmon fillets and sprinkle with salt & pepper. Wrap each piece of salmon carefully, sealing it well. To make sure that no air escapes, press down on the packet- if the air does escape it will need to be rewrapped. Put the packets on the top rack of the dishwasher and run for a full cycle, with heated drying. Salmon will be done when the dishwasher runs the full cycle.

Dr. Phillips "Giving Hand" Camaroon Mission Team Updates

Lots of us are prayng for Dr. Phillips and the rest of the Mission Team from NC who are trapped in Camaroon, Africa due to rioting. Here is a link to the Phillips & Cuthrell website where they are regularly updating the team's status.

http://www.winstonsalemdentistry.com/index.php?subpage=159

"From Year of the Frog" to "Fear of the Frog"

I used to be petrified of frogs, so I really appreciate this little ditty from Rhett and Link. For more of Rhett and Link's musical stylings, visit: rhettandlink.com

Leaplings Unite

There are a few freebies available on February 29th if you were born on that day. Here's a list...these have not been totally verefied, so you may want to check them out.
Leap Day Deals:

Papa Johns:
Leap Day Babies(AKA”Leaplings” get a free personal pan pizza when ordered online. http://www.papajohns.com/leapday/
There are other special online offers for non-leap babies
on Friday, like three large pizzas with three toppings, all for $29.29.

Boston Market:
Free leap day lunch — choices include chicken pot pie and meatloaf — to those born on Feb. 29

Whole Foods:
Whole Foods grocery store will be giving away free a 6 inch cake and a $10 gift certificate to any Leap Day Baby with a valid driver's license. If your Leap Day Babies do not have driver's licenses yet, take in thebirth certificate.

Dance Praise 2

To find out more about this Christian Music version of DDR, visit: http://www.digitalpraise.com/.

Here's a link to the video of today's dance challenge (Spoiler: I lost miserably!).

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/wbfj

The Tax Man Cometh

Thanks to Keith S. Hiatt, CPA for spending some time with us to talk taxes. Here is his contact info -

Firm: Breslow, Starling, Frost, Warner, Boger, Hilton, Hiatt, PLLC
Phone: 336-292-6872
Web: www.bsfwb.com

Best Customer Service in the Triad

Thanks to everyone who called in this morning to offer their opinions about the best customer service in the Triad. Here are your favorite businesses for customer service:

-Stokes Tire in King (part Mock Beroth Tire and Automotive)
-Harris Teeter, Cloverdale Avenue, Winston-Salem
-Wachovia Bank
-Brueggers Bagels, Friendly Shopping Center, Greensboro
-Lowes Foods, Greensboro
-Time Warner Digital Cable/Phone
-Moose Cafe, Triad Farmer's Market
-Chick-Fil-A
-Cagney's Restaurant, Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem
-Taco Bell, University Parkway, Winston-Salem
-Food Lion in Thomasville
-Fire Mountain Grill, Kernersville
-Power Medics, Tommy Cranford
-Sutton Flooring, Steve Sutton
-Piedmont Aviation Credit Bureau
-Something Different Restaurant, Asheboro
-Phillips and Cuthrell, DDS, Winston-Salem
-Lowes Foods, Robinhood Road
-State Employees Credit Union
-Gullions, King
-Just 4 Kids consignment shop in Walkertown (in the shopping center with Lowes)
-Starbucks
-Downtown Wachovia Bank in Asheboro
-Zaxby’s and Chick Fil A on Dixie Dr. in Asheboro
- BB&T Main Branch in High Point

Finally, I love what Amanda had to say about our responsibilities as Christian customers...

I also wanted to point out that while it's wonderful to receive good customer service, there's yet another flip side to this whole issue. I waited tables to pay for college and graduate school and I can say that my six years of experience (sometimes on my worse days I call them my six years of purgatory) in the food service industry has led me to tell people many times that the best way to get good customer service is to be a good customer. In other words, recognize that the world doesn't revolve around you (as I used to tell my friend Angie in college, "Ang, it's the universe, not the Angie-verse!") and even if your food is bad or takes too long to come out or whatever, you can bring it to your server's attention in a pleasant manner. You don't have to be ugly about it. Why would you be ugly to someone who sees your food before you do and has a certain amount of control over how long it takes to come out to you?? And, having worked at three different Cracker Barrels during that six years, I can honestly say that church people are some of the worst about expecting servers to bow and scrape to their every whim. Church people tend to come in huge groups on Sunday afternoons and Wednesday nights, are loud and rowdy, don't understand that food for large parties takes longer to get together, don't understand that it's practically for one person to bring 16 drinks out at one time, leave horrible tips (sometimes they leave only tracts!!), and then, if you're working on a Sunday afternoon, ask you why you didn't go to church that morning. (The reason would be that employees have to get to the restaurant at about 10 am if everything is expected to be ready by noon for the people who don't want to cook on Sundays; I grew up in South Carolina and the only businesses open before 1:00 pm on Sundays were restaurants, which really ticked me off because it seemed very hypocritical to me.)

Anyway, so that's my soapbox. If you're a Christian, show the love of Christ by not trying to turn servers into servants, recognize that servers still are only paid $2.13/hour and need tips (they're not "extras"), be patient, be merciful, and realize that the world really doesn't revolve around you. Then you're more likely to get good customer service. :-)

Cookin' with Bacon Video

Here's the video of Chef Jeff as he prepares
Pan Seared Steak Au Poivre w/Bourbon Sauce

Cookin' w/ Bacon-Pan Seared Steak Au Poivre w/Bourbon Sauce

Thanks again to Chef Jeff Bacon from Triad Community Kitchen
for sharing his time, expertise and FOOD with us today.
Here is his recipe from Monday, 2/18/08.

Pan Seared Steak Au Poivre w/Bourbon Sauce

Recipe By :Jeff Bacon CEC CCA AAC
Serving Size: 6 Preparation Time :0:30
Categories : beef

2 1/4 pounds steak -- Totally Trimmed
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup cracked black pepper (or coarse ground)
1/2 cup onion -- minced
1/2 cup bourbon
1 cup demi glace (or brown gravy)
1 tablespoon dijon mustard (or spicy brown)
2 tablespoons cream
1 dash kosher salt


-Trim steaks of all fat, gristle and silver
-Press a liberal amount of cracked pepper into each
side of the steaks.
-Heat oil in heavy pan.
-Sear steaks in pan until nicely
browned on both sides(very thick steaks
may need to be finshed in oven).
-Remove steaks to a warm pan or oven.
-Saute onions in remaining oil.
-Add bourbon and ignite (take care not to burn hair or face)
-Reduce until only about 1-2 tablespoons of liquid remain.
-Add brown sauce and mustard.
-Return steaks to pan and simmer a couple of minutes.
-You can finish to cooking temperature here.
(128-130 Rare 132-134 MR, 135-140 M,
141-145 MW 145 and up Well Done)

-Add cream and stir in. Turn off heat
-Place steaks and serve with sauce.

Yield:
"6 ounces"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving: 521 Calories; 36g Fat (71.1%calories from fat);
26g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber;
100mg Cholesterol; 337mg Sodium.
Serving Ideas : Great served with Sautéed Mushrooms.
Try serving with sauce under steaks.

Pastor Jackson Senyonga

Pastor Jackson will be speaking at several area engagements. Please arrange your calendar to hear his amazing, encouraging story!

Sunday, February 17, 9:30AM & 11:00AM
1st Presbyterian Church, Winston-Salem
http://www.1stpres.com/

Sunday, February 24
First Assembly Winston-Salem
http://www.firstassembly-ws.org/

Tuesday March 4, 2008 7:00pm
Millenium Center, 101 West 5th Street Winston-Salem
The Caroline's Promise 4th Annual Seeds of Hope Banquet
Call 336-669-7340 or email info@carolinespromise4u.org
for reservations and learn more about becoming a
Sponsor or Table Host. This event is complimentary
thanks to our committed sponsors.
www.carolinespromise4u.org

Singing Valentines

Yet another cool and totally unique idea for Valentines Day! Send your sweetie a Singing Valentine performed by the Triad Harmony Express. It only costs about $50.00 and all the proceeds will be donated to Hospice. They'll go pretty much anwhere to deliver your Valentine. Packages include 2 songs, a rose and a personalized card. For more information or to arrange a Singing Valentine, call 774-4044 in Winston Salem or 292-4941. Or visit their website at www.thechorus.com .

Chef Jeff's Recipe of the Week, February 4

Chicken Saltimbocca

Recipe By : Jeff Bacon CEC CCE AAC
Serving Size : 4 Preparation Time :0:12
Categories : poultry

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
24 ounces chicken breast, no skin, no bone, R-T-C -- 6 oz each
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh sage -- minced
8 each fresh sage leaves -- optional
2 ounces prosciutto -- 8 thin slices
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
4 tablespoons butter -- cut in 1/2" slices
1 tablespoon parsley -- minced
1 dash salt -- to taste

Either purchase pre formed chicken cutlets (approx 3 oz each)
or cut 6 ounce breasts in half and pound until an even thickness

Mix flour, salt and black pepper together

Dredge cutlets in seasoned flour then sprinkle with the minced
sage, then place one slice prosciutto on top of each cutlet pressing
to adhere.

Put two TBS olive oil in a 10-12 inch pan (not non stick) and heat until
oil shimmers

Fry fresh sage leaves about 10-12 seconds each then remove
and reserve for later

Place 4 cutlets prosciutto side down in hot oil and sauté until
beginning to brown on sides (do not pick up or move
until time to turn) about 3 minutes

Turn and brown other side, about 2 minutes. Remove cutlets to warm oven

Pour off used oil and repeat process with other 4 cutlets.
Remove to warm oven when done.

Remove old oil and any burnt pieces from skillet and return pan to heat

Deglaze by adding wine and simmering for 4 minutes then
add broth and simmer until reduced to approx 1/2 cup liquid

Return cutlets to pan, then add butter piece by piece and turn
off heat, swirling pan to incorporate and melt butter into sauce

Serve two cutlets per portion with 1-1 1/2 ounce of sauce each
and a fried sage leaf (optional) on top of each cutlet

Description: "Easy Italian Classic" Yield: "6 ounces"

Start to Finish Time: "0:25"

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 501 Calories; 18g Fat
(36.8% calories from fat); 46g Protein; 26g Carbohydrate;
1g Dietary Fiber; 145mg Cholesterol; 1362mg Sodium.

Serving Ideas : Serve with pasta or rice side dishes

For more info about Chef Jeff Bacon and the Triad Community Kitchen, visit: http://www.hungernwnc.org/about-us/tck.html

You can email Jeff at jbacon@secondharvest.org

Father Daughter Dances

There are some great opportunities this month for Dads and Daughters to have a lovely night out. Here are a few ideas:

Parent/Child Dance
South Fork Elementary in Winston-Salem
2/8, 6:00-8:00 PM

Daddy/Daughter Dance
St. John’s Lutheran, Winston-Salem
Friday, 2/22, 6:00-9:00 PM
Tickets:
Advance- $22/Couple
At Door-$25/Couple
Additional daughters $5 each
Phone: 725-1651

Daddy/Daughter Date Night
Children’s Museum of W-S
Friday, February 8, 6:00-8:00 pm
$10 per person for members/$13 per person for non-members.
Make this a special evening with your daughter!
Dress up for an early Valentine date that includes dinner
(salad, pizza, drink and dessert), dancing, Valentine Bingo, and more fun activities.

Father/Daughter Dance
Westover Church, Greensboro
2/8/08, 7-9 PM
Contact: Church Office(336) 299-7374
info@westoverchurch.com

Who's Your Man (or Woman)

Still un decided about your favorite candidate for the 2008 Presidential election? Try this cool "Candidate Match" tool I found on WGHP Fox 8's website...

Thinking Out of the Box (of Chocolates) for Valentine's Day

School Kid Chronicles is a business in Greensboro that produces professional videos of kids which can be done on a yearly basis, providing parents with wonderful memories of their kids as they grow up. And, for Valentine's day, they are offering "Valentine's Chronicles" as a unique gift for that special someone. Your Valentine's Chronicle gives you a chance to tell your love story and will include a videotaped interview with you along with your choice of music professionally produced on a DVD. The DVDs label is customized with a picture of your choosing. At $49.95, I think it's a great value.

For more information, call School Kid Chronicles at 336-698-3888. Or, visit their website: http://www.schoolkidchronicles.com/.

They have another wonderful service, called Adoption Chronicles, done in partnership with the Children's Home Society. Adoption Chronicles offer a unique way of viewing children who are waiting to be adopted. Here is the website: http://www.adoptionchronicles.com/.

Samaritan's Feet

This is a great story...here is the article as featured in the Indy Star. For more info, visit www.samaritansfeet.org.

January 25, 2008

Samaritan's Feet
IUPUI's Hunter up to his ears in donated shoes
Charity drive to put shoes on feet of African children more than exceeds IUPUI coach's goal
By Curt Cavin
curt.cavin@indystar.com
January 25, 2008

IUPUI basketball coach Ron Hunter got his pedicure, his game victory and, as a bonus, more athletic shoes than he'll ever be able to carry to Africa in July. All on bare feet.

Hunter completed one of the most inspirational walks in this college basketball season by coaching Thursday night's game shoeless for children of impoverished homes.
An announced crowd of 1,059 were on hand at IUPUI Gymnasium for the 82-69 victory over Oakland and only a few of them went barefoot, but significantly more nationwide recognized Hunter's effort.

A staggering 110,000 pairs of shoes have so far been donated to Samaritan's Feet, a nonprofit, Christian-based charity that seeks to put shoes on 10 million people throughout the world over a 10-year span. Close to $20,000 in cash was donated. More is expected.

IUPUI announced that the Department of Homeland Security, which offered 10,000 pairs, told Samaritan's Feet to hang loose while officials determine how many more shoes they can donate.

Hunter, who appeared on ESPN's top morning shows Thursday and will be ABC's Person of the Week tonight on "World News Tonight," was humbled by the response. His goal was 40,000 pairs of shoes, a figure symbolic of the 40th anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He had that many by lunch.

Soles4Souls, a Nashville, Tenn.-based charity, donated 40,000 pairs. Wal-Mart gave 25,000; Nine West, a women's shoe company, offered another 5,200. During Hunter's appearance on ESPN Radio's "Mike & Mike in the Morning" show, a Converse representative joined the program and promised another 15,000.

Most were directly shipped to Charlotte, N.C., where Samaritan's Feet is based. Hunter's office took all it could hold, becoming an impromptu warehouse. An estimated 500 pairs arrived at the gym prior to the game.

At one point in the afternoon, Hunter looked up to find 20 bags of shoes dropped off. They came without a name, just a note that read, "Coach, hope this helps."
"When we started this I thought 40,000 was going to be tough," Hunter said. "When they told me before the game we already had 100,000, honestly, I almost broke down in tears."

At that moment, he cried.

"Imagine if every coach would pick a game to coach barefoot and use their influence," said Emmanuel "Manny" Ohonme, a Nigerian who founded the charity four years ago. "We'd exceed our goals pretty quickly.

"And we're getting e-mails every couple of minutes from people who want more information or to say they just bought a pair," he said. "Plus, there's all these high school coaches around the country who say they want to coach a game barefoot."
For the record, Hunter's exposed feet weren't stepped on during the game. It bears noting that he almost never sits down when the action -- and the feet -- are flowing.
"My feet hurt so bad," he said after the game. "But imagine a child or a human going their whole lives without shoes."

Hunter, 43, said his month-long association with Samaritan's Feet has already affected him, and he knows it could be on the verge of changing the lives of others.
Several of his players have vowed to join him on the summer trip, which he'd like to take to Cameroon, home to Jaguars freshman guard Christian Siakam. In Siakam's family, shoes are a luxury; not everyone has them.

Now, a man with no ties to IUPUI has offered to charter a jet to fly the team to Africa, pending NCAA approval, of course.

"I knew when I saw Siakam's face we were doing the right thing," Hunter said.

People Who Go Above and Beyond

Today (1/24) on the Morning Show I shared a story about the Principal of Hanes Middlle School in Winston-Salem, Mr. Childers. He went way above the call of duty last night when he spent an hour on the phone with me and my son Andrew to talk about his school. And, it made a big difference for Andrew who is now really excited about the idea of going to school there. And it turns out that lots of you have experienced someone whose extra effort made a big impression. Here are some examples:

India is a Nurse on the Oncology Floor at Wesley Long Hospital. Will Dorsett says she was a real blessing to his family while his Grandfather was battling Lung Cancer.

Delores says that Mr. Fitzpatrick at Kernersville Elementary School is amazing!

William says Bryan Bryant with Aircare Heating and Cooling in Kernersville worked on his faulty home heating system. He was there working late last night and then called early this morning to make sure the system was working well. And, it's not the first time Bryan has worked at Williams house and he always does a great job.

Cindy says she called Westover Church in Greensboro last week to inquire about a Bible Study. The woman she called, Beth, was working from home because of icy road conditions. Even though it was a snow day, Beth called around to make sure there was still room left in the class and then called Cindy back, letting her know that she could sign up.

Terry is a Hostess at Texas Land and Cattle. Terry's mom was so proud of her daughter when she was recently given a tip by a customer, which doesn't usually happen to a hostess at a family style restaurant. Terry checked with her manager to make sure that she was allowed to accept tips. Once she had his approval, she thought it over and then left the tip on the customer's table for the waitress who served them.

J. emailed this story about a teacher whose caring made a difference in her child's life...

It brought to mind Beth Scott - when my (now 11th grader) was in 2nd grade at High Point Christian academy, he was intensely frustrated with school. We know he had ADHD and some learning challenges, but at that time there was no resource available there. Beth had made herself available to the school, as she felt God calling her to this school to work, even though there was no such position yet. Mr Hardee did in fact hire her in the late winter/early spring. She was proctoring in my son's Stanford Achievement testing and recognized many signs of a very frustrated little boy. With Mr Hardee's permission, she called me at work, and in fact came to the hospital where I worked in order to discuss my son, and his educational needs. We prayed, cried and planned for his next year at the academy, and oh, what a difference she made in my child. By placing him with a teacher who not only understood his needs, but could also make the necessary accomodations for his learning style, he blossomed into a happy, loving student, who has gone on to overcome his learning differences, is an AB honor roll student and is in the Beta Club at the academy. He will graduate next year and plans to major in psychology - he is an Eagle Scout, and is truly a wonderful kid. I was despairing of ever being able to reach him educationally and did not see what God had in store for him back then. Beth has moved on to many other things, and I have lost touch with her - but I will never forget the teacher who followed God's leading in her life, came to my son's school as a teacher, and made all the difference in his world - I thank God for such teachers every day - thanks for asking this morning about special teachers in our childrens' lives - they truly are my heroes!

Do you have a story, too? Leave a comment about this blog and I'll add it!

Chef's Ball 2008--Mmmmmmmm!!!!

Here's a tasty event for the weekend...

ANNUAL CHEF’S BALL TO BENEFIT AREA NONPROFITS

WHAT:
The American Culinary Foundation –Triad Chapter, will hold its Annual Chef’s Ball next Sunday, Jan. 27 in Greensboro. Funds raised benefit three nonprofit efforts - Triad Community Kitchen, a program of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC, The Chef and the Child program – a nonprofit branch of the ACF that fights childhood hunger through education, grants and crisis intervention programs; and to culinary scholarships at Guilford Technical Community College. The ACF Triad Chapter’s Presidents Ball has raised over $120,000 toward this goal since it’s inception in the early 1990’s.

Events this year:

Culinary extravaganza prepared by the Triad’s Top Chefs
Awarding of 2007 Triad “Chef of the Year”
Other local culinary awards
Live entertainment by the Wally West Quartet
Ice Sculptures by Fire and Ice as well as top ice carvers from around the Triad.


WHEN:
Sunday, Jan. 27, at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Embassy Suites, Greensboro

Admission:

Tickets are $60 per person, $100 per couple, or $400 for a table of ten. Call 399-6774.

Chefs Ball 2008 Menu

January 27th 6:30 PM – Embassy Suites – Greensboro

Passed Hors d’oeurves

Bruleed Bananas and Foie Gras in Dark Rum and Cane Sugar

Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna with Wasabi and Pickled Ginger on
Won-Ton Crisp

Main Features
Bayonne Ham Wrapped Wild Boar Rack Chops, Hot Oven Roasted, Served with a Morello Cherry and Blood Orange Cumberland Sauce

Warm Crepinet of Rabbit on a Warm Red Skin Potato Salad With a Dried Cherry Vinaigrette. Micro Greens and a Chive Cracker.

Mesclun Greens with Toasted Almonds, Orange Segments, Scallions in Herb Vinaigrette

Mini Osso Bucco Braised in a Rich Tomato Sauce, Served on a Bed of Wild Mushroom Risotto and a Parmesan Crisp.

Lamb Wellington, Boneless Lamb Loin with a Porcini Force, and French Foie Gras

Teres Major Stuffed with Roasted Root Vegetables and Wrapped with Pancetta

Curried Chicken Terrine with Pistachios, Dried Tomatoes and Roasted Garlic (Display)

Spinach Salad With Candied Pecans, Red Onion Confit, Crumbled Gorgonzola, Red and Yellow Teardrop Tomatoes and Dried Cranberries in a Honey-Sherry Vinaigrette

Pancetta Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potato Foie Gras Hash and Charred Marshmallow

Bowtie Pasta Salad with Lemon Caper Vinaigrette with Smoked Salmon

House Cured Ham and Salmon

Butter Poached Lobster with Ginger-Apricot Couscous Salad and Vanilla Scented Baby Vegetables.

Shrimp & Chive Beignets with a Honey & Smoked Chili Dipping Sauce

Fried Green Tomato w/ White Cheddar Grit Cake

Desserts

Orange Cardamom Chocolate Truffles

Lemon Crème Daisies

Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Triangles and Hazlenut Carmelized Apple Filo

Baskets by Ganache Bakery and the Area’s Top Chefs

Tracking Santa

Find out where Santa is on his Christmas eve route!!! Click here: www.noradsanta.org

WBFJ Men's Acapella Group?

So here's the deal...the AMAZING version of "The 12 Days of Christmas" was actually performed by a Men's Acappella group from Indiana State University. Here is the video and s a link to buy the concert on DVD: http://www.a-cappella.com/product/646/video-performance-pop

Karen Kingsbury is Coming to Town!

Millions of women world wide have fallen in love with the heartwarming stories of Karen Kingsbury. Now you have an opportunity to meet her at a special women's event called "Winter Blues" at First Christian Church in Kernersville. Mark your calendar for January 18th, that's the date of the event. For details visit go http://www.fcc-kville.org/Home/Kernersville/Articles/Women

Smithmas Tree Fun

Last week, Darren, Verne and I had the pleasure of delivering a Christmas tree to the Kiger family...winners of the WBFJ "Christmas Tree Thing". I'd tell you all about it but I think Cindy Kiger does a great job telling the story on her blog, so I will send you there:
http://farmmuse.blogspot.com/

Thanks to Weldon and Cindy Kiger for their hospitality and graciousness. And thanks for the WONDERFUL milk!!!

A Great Christmas Gift for Any North Carolinian!

North Carolina Then & Now
By Kevin Adams, 2007

156 Pages, 125 image pairs
14¼ x 10½ inches hardcover
Retail price: $39.95
Published by Westcliffe Publishers
www.westcliffepublishers.com

You can meet Kevin, buy his book and have him sign it for you at a couple of upcoming book signings...

Friday, 12/7, 7:00 PM
Shakespeare and Company in Kernersville

Saturday 12/15
Barnes and Noble, High Point, 11-1
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/storedetail.do;jsessionid=ABC89C6142815609A05889BF063DCBC9?store=2806

Barnes and Noble, Friendly Center, Greensboro 3-5
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/storedetail.do?store=2795


Here is what Kevin has to say about the book...

The most educational and rewarding project of my career, North Carolina Then & Now showcases over 115 before-and-after image pairs from across the state. For over two years I studied tens of thousands of historical photographs and rephotographed the most representative views for the book. My goal was not merely to present a modern portrayal of the scene depicted in the historical image, but rather to put myself in the historical photographer's shoes, to place my camera at the precise location of his or hers and to show the viewer exactly the changes that have occurred. This required painstaking research and a meticulous approach to the rephotography. Making many of the rephotographs required shooting from the middle of busy streets, hanging over the roofs of tall buildings, and trying to keep from hurling my lunch while shooting from small airplanes. While it was impossible to achieve exact framing on some of the images, all of them provide a very close representation of the modern-versus-historical scene.

Family Life Organizer

I came across this book at Barnes and Noble a few weeks ago and loved it! If you're looking for a tool that will really help you get organized and on top of things...this is it! I also think it would make a GREAT Christmas gift for any busy mom.

Find out more at www.family-facts.com.

Black Friday Shopping

Here are some GREAT websites to visit if you want to get a head start on your Black Friday shopping:

www.bfads.net
www.blackfriday.info
www.slickdeals.net

Lemme know how you do!

Any Wounded Soldier

Despite email you may have recieved recently, Walter Reed Army Medical Center cannot accept cards or packages addressed to "Any Wounded Soldier". If youd like to show your support of our servicemen and women at Christmas or any other time of year here are some websites to check out:

americasupportsyou.mil
www.usocares.org/
www4.army.mil/ocpa/tooursoldiers/
www.redcross.org

Cry of the Orphan

Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and a host of other organizations committed to answering God's call to care for orphans have joined together to create the "Cry of the Orphan" awareness and action campaign. There are over 143 million orphans worldwide and with the AIDS crisis in Africa, that number is steadily growing. Please, take some time to explore the Cry of the Orphan website and pray about how God wants you to get involved in caring for these children.

The following is an excerpt from the Cry of the Orphan site and I think it very eloquently states why you and I need to get involved in this issue...

Why This Matters To God
The World's Waiting Children Matter

The numbers are staggering...More than 143 million orphans worldwide...every 14 seconds an AIDS death leaves another child orphaned...more than 800,000 children pass through America foster care system each year.

Yet, there is One who cares — our Father in heaven. Throughout the Bible, God shares his compassion, his love, and his special concern for the most vulnerable among us — the orphan. The world’s waiting children. Children with no father or mother to protect them, waiting for someone to care for them, someone to love them.

“Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother; and do not oppress the widow or the orphan…”
— Zechariah 7:9-12

The Scriptures are clear that the Lord gives the family of God the responsibility to care for the orphan's needs — to love and protect them. In fact, God's concern for orphans is so central to his plan for us here on earth that he inspired James to write: "Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world," (James 1:27)

Why would God tell us that caring for orphans is "pure and undefiled religion"?

Maybe it’s because the world sees God’s heart when he works through his people to help the helpless. And maybe it’s because caring for orphans is such a perfect picture of our relationship with God. In our inability to please God in our own efforts, in our utter helplessness to initiate a relationship with him, we are more like orphans and strangers than we like to admit.

It’s time for the body of Christ to step up. The urgent needs of orphans around the world are calling the Christian community today to a radical faith. One church, one family, one person can make a difference.

Today God is stirring the hearts of his people to this incredible need and opportunity. There is a movement of an increasing number of churches and evangelical organizations worldwide who are coming together as one voice to not only raise awareness but more importantly to mobilize the body of Christ to take action on behalf of the orphan.

“Vindicate the weak and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and destitute. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them out of the hand of the wicked.”
— Psalm 82:3-4

Anita Renfroe

You heard it on the Morning Show...Anita Renfroe's Total Momsense. Anita sings everything a mom says to her children to the tune of the William Tell Overture. Here's the video. For more fun with Anita, visit her website anitarenfroe.com

Five Things You Should Never Fix

We learned a lot from our chat with Stacy Bradford from Smart Money Magazine about the gadgets in our life that are just not worth the $$ to fix. Here's a link to the complete article.

http://money.aol.com/top5/general/things-not-to-repair

I Will Just Start!

Ever thought of starting your own business? Pam Newman from Quickbooks was on the Morning Show today and gave us some great suggestions about how to get started. Here are a few websites she recommends...

www.iwilljuststart.com

www.kauffman.org

I Will Just Start!

Save Lazy 5 Ranch

My family LOVES lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, but this wonderful North Carolina attraction is in danger of being shut down. The issue is with the way the farm is being taxed and a potential change that would cost the farm too much money to stay in business. For all of the details here's a link to an article about the situation:http://www.topix.net/content/kri/2007/10/popular-attraction-could-be-forced-to-close-a-day-at-the-farm-endangered

To sign a petition and for more information about Lazy 5, visit their website: www.lazyfiveranch.com

Help the Orphans of Guatemala TODAY!

Please take the time to make phone calls, send emails, or fax letters to your member of Congress and UNICEF/New York. We've tried to make it easier for you, by writing a sample letter that you can use. You CAN make a difference for the children of Guatemala! To learn more about the Guatemala 5000 Intitiative please visit: JCICS
Step 1: Contact your US Senators by phone or email. Feel free to use our sample letter, making necessary changes. Ask to speak to the Legislative Director or Chief of Staff.

Email Richard Burr Phone: 202-224-3154 Fax: 202-228-2981
Email Elizabeth Dole Phone: 202-224-6342 Fax: 202-224-1100
If you don't live in North Carolina - find your Senator's contact info here: Find your Senator
Step 2: Contact your Representative to the House of Representatives. Send the same letter. House of Representatives

Dear


I am writing in response to the Guatemala 5000 initiative. As adoptive parents and advocates for orphans everywhere, I am concerned about President Berger's announcement that there will be no grandfathering of Guatemalan adoptions that are currently in process. We have taken many mission trips to Guatemala and know first hand the conditions of the children's homes. Our concern is not only for the 5000 adoptive families in process, but most importantly for the 5000 children who should be able to come home to those forever families. We are concerned about the welfare of these children if their adoption process is not allowed to be completed.

We are asking that you get involved and

Sign the letter to President Berger of Guatemala that is sponsored by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. If you do not have a copy of this letter, please contact CCAI at 202-544-8500.
Sign the letter to UNICEF that is sponsored by JCICS. www.jcics.org

These letters simply ask that all adoptions in process as of January 1, 2008 be allowed to process to completion under existing notorial laws.

Thank you for taking the time to hear our concern. We thank you in advance for supporting the Guatemala 5000 Initiative.

Step 3: Call or fax Ann Veneman, Executive Director of UNICEF Headquarters
Phone: 212-326-7000 Fax: 212-326-7758
Feel free to use the sample letter below, making necessary changes.

Ann Veneman, Executive Director

UNICEF

I am writing in response to the Guatemala 5000 initiative. As adoptive parents and advocates for orphans everywhere, I am concerned about President Berger's announcement that there will be no grandfathering of Guatemalan adoptions that are currently in process. We have taken many mission trips to Guatemala and know first hand the conditions of the children's homes. Our concern is not only for the 5000 adoptive families in process, but most importantly for the 5000 children who should be able to come home to those forever families. We are concerned about the welfare of these children if their adoption process is not allowed to be completed.

We realize that you have incredible influence and are asking that you use it to ensure that the 5000 children already in the Guatemalan adoption process, be allowed to process to completion under existing notorial law.

Step 4: Send an email to guatemala5000@jcics.org informing them of your support of intercountry adoption.

Questions About Creation?

Thanks to Allen Branch, a minister at First Christian Church in Kernersville for coming in to talk about dinosaurs and creationism. For more information about this topic a great resource is www.answersingenesis.org.

Lauren Cole Run/Walk for CF

Sign up today for this 5K Race to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Research.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Ledford High School
Race time: 10:00AM
Pre-registration:7:30-9:30 AM

For more info, contact Sami Joe Snider at takeurmarx918@aol.com or 336-689-0121.

A Fair Appraisal

So, WBFJ at the Dixie Classic Fair has come and gone once again . Since I barely have the energy to hold myself upright today, here's a quick list of the things that I'll remember from the 2007 Fair.

1. Losing the media goat milking challenge to my own co-worker, Bonnie Hilton. But, I did a lot better than last year, placing a respectable second....eat my sawdust Austin Caviness!

2. Having church at the fair for the vendors and fair workers. Even though there were only a few of us there, it was an absolutely BEAUTIFUL service and I'm sure God was there. Thanks Cindy Johnson and her band "Stage 2" for the wonderful music. Thanks to Scott Haulter, a minister from First Christian Church in Kernersville for his message. And, to the folks at the Dixie Classic Fair for allowing us to be there.

3. Meeting YOU at the gazebo! It was great saying hello to so many of you who came by during the fair. Thanks for all of your kind words and encouragement.

4. Collecting nearly 70,000 non-perishable food items for Crisis Control Minstry! Way to Go!

5. Judging the Heavenly Layerd Cake competition. My blood sugar level may never normalize.

6. Cornerstone Christian Church and their fantastic food!!!

7. Our Morning Show visit with a trainer from the Rainforest Experience exhibit. Not only did I get to handle a 50-pound python, but I may be the only person alive who has ever been peed on by a coatimundi while doing a live radio show.

8. Karaoke at the gazebo...enough said.

Important News From Caroline's Promise

Urgent Action Needed for Guatemala Adoptions

Many of you are aware that the President of Guatemala has made a decision to cease all Guatemalan adoptions to people living in the U.S., effective January 1, 2008. You can learn more from the Joint Council on International Children's Services:
http://www.jcics.org/Guatemala5000.htm


"President Berger's plans also call for the suspension of adoptions currently in-process. Such a suspension would be extremely detrimental to the children referred to adoptive parents. If President Berger's plan is actually implemented, up to 5,000 will unnecessarily remain in foster care or orphanages indefinitely. This situation represents a pending crisis for the adoptive families who have chosen to provide permanency, safety and love to a child in need and most importantly a crisis for 5,000 children of Guatemala." JCICS website.

JCICS has established the Guatemala 5000 Initiative and we encourage you to participate. They are asking all of us to make 6 phone calls and send 1 email to members of Congress and UNICEF. They are asking us to do this on October 8 -10. Your participation CAN make a difference!


Ultimately we depend on our Heavenly Father to intervene on behalf of these precious children. We believe that He is calling the Church to do its job and get involved!

PLEASE get involved! Here's what you can do:

1. Call US Senator Richard Burr (202-224-3154)

2. Call US Senator Elizabeth Dole (202-224-6342)

3. Call House Representative Virginia Foxx (202-225-2071)

4. Send an email supporting Intercountry Adoption to guatemala5000@jcics.org

Guatemala Prayer List:

That people will take the time to participate in the Guatemala 5000 Initiative.
That the government of Guatemala will at the very least provide a "Grandfather clause", allowing children who have been referred to adoptive parents to complete their adoption and not remain in orphanages.
For the children's homes and caregivers in Guatemala who will now be under extreme financial stress as they try to meet the needs of children.
For the US families who have children in the adoption process in Guatemala.

PLEASE get involved! Visit http://www.jcics.org/Guatemala5000.htm and forward this to people who want to make a difference in the lives of children

Smencils

Thanks to Tricia Orr from Simply Delicious for providing Smencils for PLINKO this year. Smencils are scented pencils that come in a variety of smells. Simply Delicious has all kinds of creative fund raising ideas. Visit their website at www.simplydeliciousnc.com