President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

In his weekly radio address President Bush said, "In 2005, America grew in prosperity, advanced the cause of freedom and peace, and enhanced our security. Our duties continue in the new year, and I'm confident that our nation will meet the challenges that lie ahead."

Fw: Gay Rights Ordinance Passes-- What's next for the Gay Agenda?!

Gay Rights Ordinance Passes, only the beginning of the gay rights agenda in Indiana The Indiana Family Institute, along side many other conservative organizations, activists, pastors and citizens took a stand against the gay rights agenda and lost an important battle Monday night in the Indianapolis City-County Council. This gay rights measure (Prop. 622) had been soundly defeated in April, 18-11, but with some back room deals and arm twisting it passed Monday night by a vote of 15-14. It is widely rumored that Council President Steve Talley (D) and Scott Keller (R) cut a deal in order to get their pet policies, the gay rights measure (Keller) and the police consolidation (Talley) through, both of which failed earlier this year. Republicans Scott Keller and Lance Langsford had both previously voted against the police merger, but changed their votes this time around. In return, Democrat councilmen Abduallah, Gibson and Talley, along with Republican Langsford switched and voted for the gay rights ordinance. Click here to finish article For more on the vote, including a tally of how council members voted, go to this Indianapolis Star article. Indiana Family Institute 55 Monument Circle, Suite 322, Indianapolis, IN, 46204 Phone: (317) 423-9178 Toll Free: (800) 259-2959 Fax: (317) 423-9421 ifi@hoosierfamily.org www.hoosierfamily.org

Address postal inquiries to: Indiana Family Institute 55 Monument Circle Indianapolis, IN 46204

Merry Christmas!

Although man selected the date
that we choose to celebrate,
Jesus is the reason
for this very festive season.

The Birth of Jesus
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Luke 2:1-20 (NIV)

Merry Christmas to you and yours. May the blessings of God be with you during this time of celebration.

Joe

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

20051224.a.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)

In his weekly radio address President Bush said, "The times we live in have brought many challenges to our country. And at such times, the story of Christmas brings special comfort and confidence. Christmas reminds us that we can trust in God's promise of peace on Earth and goodwill toward men. On a night more than 2,000 years ago, an angel of the Lord brought good tidings of great joy: the God of Heaven had come to Earth, and He would be with us always."

Reader Comment on 33, 0, 2, 5, 10, 8, 0

Anonymous has left a new comment on post "33, 0, 2, 5, 10, 8, 0":

I totally agree with you about Kroger. I have sent them so many comment cards, and nothing has been done. The lines are horrendous, the service is lousy and I had the same issue with the carts. I told the Manager there were no carts so he sent someone out in the parking lot. Instead of bringing all of them in, they brought ONE!!!! I hate Kroger!!

Comments From Kroger

On December 12 I shared with you an experience at the local Kroger grocery store, and comments I sent to Kroger via their website about my dissatisfaction. I told you I would share with you any response I received from them. Two days later I received the following response:

Thank you for contacting The Kroger Co. We appreciate you taking the time to let us know of your concern regarding the lack of available shopping carts, employees smoking outside the
entrance, and the long wait at the customer service desk at our store located at 2650 Wabash Ave.

We are committed to providing you with the most enjoyable shopping experience possible and your comments provide us the opportunity to evaluate, address, and correct any inconvenience we may have caused. Your comments have been forwarded to our regional office for review and follow-up.

Thank you again for bringing this to our attention. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance.

Sincerely,

Teresa Hanner
Consumer Affairs

If you read my comments from the twelfth, you can see that they clearly misinterpreted what my complaint was about. I didn't complain about no carts, smoking employees, and long lines. I complained that on a cold day there were no carts because the employees (including the Store Manager) were outside smoking instead of gathering carts and that I decided not to wait in line at the store to complain when I saw that one of the smoking employees was the Store Manager that I was hoping to complain to.

I've heard no other word from Kroger, which is a bit disappointing, because I feel that they did not do this customer the justice of even addressing my concern.

I just wanted to share that with you.

Merry Christmas!

Joe

Christmas Traditions

We're deep into the Christmas season with only two days to go, and Christmas traditions are in full swing. I've always loved the Christmas season, though several of the past few years have been quite hectic, being in Retail Management. This year, I've been lucky enough to be with a Retailer that has a very low-key Christmas selling season. We get busier, sure, but it's nothing like my years at the major elecronics, crafts, and office supply retailers I worked for. This year, except for my lengthy commute, I'm actually able to enjoy some time with my family and observe some of the traditions I enjoy.

Tonight, for example, we'll start the evening at about 7:00 pm driving through the park and some of the more spirited neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights. We'll then make some coffee and hot cocoa and watch A Muppet Christmas Carol (yes, I listened to the original on eBook this week, but it's just another one of those traditions).

Tomorrow, Christmas Eve, my wife and son will make cookies for Santa. We will then play some Christmas music and each one of us will open one gift.

Christmas Day is spent with my wife's family, opening gifts and having what is best described as a cold lunch. I personally prefer a more traditional turkey dinner, but I guess you can't have everything you want.

Most importantly, we will remember what this time of year and this season is all about. Christmas means only one thing. You might celebrate hannakuh, or kwanzaa, or ramadan, or some other such holiday, but if you celebrate Christmas, I encourage you to remember what the season means. It wouldn't all be possible if not for the birth of one special child some 2000 years ago.

Merry Christmas to you all. Wherever you are and whatever you believe: Merry Christmas!

Joe

fwd:Merry Christmas!

This time of year -- and especially this year -- it is very easy to get mixed up in the glitz and glamour that Christmas has become and forgot what the holiday actually means.

The following email from best-selling author Ted Dekker states in very clear language what I hope you will remember as you celebrate this weekend.

Merry Christmas!

Joe

-----Original Message-----
From: "Ted Dekker"
Sent: Tue, 20 Dec 2005 11:41:00 -0500
Subject: Merry Christmas!
[http://www.teddekker.com/go/?O_MTg0OA&TR=NTcyMTQ3LDE2MywyMjE2LDA=]

Dear Friends,

Once again we find ourselves confronted by Christmas, and if you're anything like me, you have mixed emotions about a season that brings hope to so many while at the same time being mocked by so many others.

In some parts of our nation the manger scene depicting our savior's birth is now ridiculed in favor of a Santa Clause statue. In other parts the mere mention of Christ in a Christmas parade causes sweeping offense. There are those who would undoubtedly seek to replace this very special holiday with paraphernalia unrelated to the birth of our Lord. Indeed, it seems that Christmas is being methodically stripped of Christ.

But for those of us who's lives have been transformed by the indescribable power wrapped up in those swaddling clothes some two thousand years ago, celebrating anything other than the birth of Jesus makes about as much sense as exchanging all that we have gained in Christ for a mouthful of cotton candy.

For us, Christmas means new birth. This season speaks of a living hope for a time when all of our pains and sorrows will be swept away by unrelenting waves of joy and bliss. During the coming weeks I urge you to fix your minds on the greatest gift ever conceived by man or God, the gift of life and power and laughter and pleasure and peace offered freely by a Savior born in Bethlehem.

Isn't that why we give others gifts? Don't we mean to say, "Accept this token of God's goodness to you from me, and remember that it’s only a dim reflection of the gift that Christ has given you in rebirth and just a foretaste of the incomparable gift that awaits you in heaven."

So be thoughtful as you navigate the many distractions and affronts to your faith this Christmas season. When you sing your songs, think of God's gift to you. When you decorate your home, think of the dazzling world that he's preparing for you. When you sit at your table surrounded by friends and family and enough food to feed the whole world, think of Jesus' passion for the lost and his inexhaustible favor for you.

And whatever else you do during this time of celebration, remember that when you give a gift it has rich, uncompromising meaning, because in it's own small way it represents a gift that, however misunderstood by the world, is life itself to those of us who believe.

May God bless you richly,
Ted Dekker
[http://www.teddekker.com/go/?O_MTg0OA&TR=NTcyMTQ3LDE2MywyMjE2LDA=]

This email was transmitted by echomusic on behalf of Ted Dekker:
1101 17th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37212

A Christmas Carol

The Penguin Podcast

Need a little Christmas spirit? How about three? Penguin Books is offering the Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol free on Audio Book in five episodes, but it's only available until the new year.

Joe

Dean's World - More On Target & Christmas

Dean's World - More On Target & Christmas: "Target employees can say 'Merry Christmas' in response to a customer, but can be fired for saying it themselves."

My wife and I have not been to target for shopping this Christmas, and we won't be going.

Joe

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

20051217.a.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)In a radio address to the Nation, President Bush said, "As President, I took an oath to defend the Constitution, and I have no greater responsibility than to protect our people, our freedom, and our way of life. On September the 11th, 2001, our freedom and way of life came under attack by brutal enemies who killed nearly 3,000 innocent Americans. We're fighting these enemies across the world. Yet in this first war of the 21st century, one of the most critical battlefronts is the home front. And since September the 11th, we've been on the offensive against the terrorists plotting within our borders."

Fw: Stand with IFI and oppose Gay Rights Ordinance 622!

Gay Rights Ordinance 622 Passes Committee, final vote of full Council Monday, December 19th The radical left is attempting to equate a person's sexual behavior with one's race or religion through Proposition 622. Their goal is to convince the public, through government action, that homosexuality is a lifestyle that should be promoted. We must not allow such a radical proposal to become the law of the land in Marion County. On December 5th, the Rules and Public Policy Committee of the Indianapolis City-County Council met and discussed Proposal 622. This ordinance would add "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to the discrimination law in Marion County. IFI President Curt Smith was there to testify against the ordinance and no vote was taken. This same Committee met again last night and though IFI was once again there to oppose the ordinance, it passed by a vote of 5-3. Now the only barrier stopping Prop. 622 from becoming law in Marion County is the final vote within the City-County Council meeting coming up this Monday, December 19th. Between now and then we need your help to stop this unneeded and misguided policy! If you live in Marion County you need to let your Council member know that you oppose Prop. 622. The gay activists are letting their voices be heard. They have shown up in large numbers at the aforementioned hearings and they are contacting their Council members every day! However, there are more of us than there are of them. We can defeat this ordinance but you must do your civic duty! Please contact the City County Council right now and let them know that you oppose Proposition 622. The attached document contains the contact information for your Council Member or you can click on this link for an online version. "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." - Edmund Burke Click here to read the actual language of Proposition 622. For more information read the following IFI article: Does Marion County have a Homosexual Discrimination Problem? by Ryan McCann Does Marion County have a homosexual discrimination problem? According to gay activists and their friends in the Indianapolis City-County Council, the answer is yes. City-County Council member Jackie Nytes is one of these friends. Such a friend, in fact, that she is the presenting co-sponsor of Proposition 622 (additional co-sponsors are Councilman Keller, Boyd, Gray, Langsford, Mahern, Mansfield, Sanders, Bowes, Brown, Oliver and Conley), a measure intended to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” along side immutable characteristics like “race” and “sex” into Marion county discrimination law. The supporters of Proposition 622 give emotional personal appeals of discrimination they have faced in Marion County, such as being fired from their jobs or denied housing because of their “sexual orientation,” or “gender identity.” However, these anecdotal appeals are not tested and lack the reliability that true scientifically generated statistics would bring. Can supporters point to unbiased, scientifically based statistics proving that systematic discrimination against homosexuals and cross-dressers takes place in Marion County? No. The anecdotal stories put forward by these homosexual activists are unscientific and hardly unbiased. Common sense would lead one to believe that had at least a few of the employers or landlords involved in these stories been questioned, the casual observer would arrive at a far different perspective than based on the allegations of the homosexual activists alone. However, many members of the Indianapolis City-County Council seem swayed by this biased, anecdotal evidence. Despite the fact that there is no pressing reason to pass Prop. 622 from a public policy perspective, they seem convinced on an emotional level. This is rather ironic when you realize that by giving into the emotional appeals of these homosexual activists, the Council will really be encouraging the very worldview that brings this group such pain and loneliness. These activists want public acceptance of their lifestyle just as much if not more than they want to change discrimination law. When “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” are placed within the law, they feel that it will move them a step forward towards societal acceptance of their lifestyle, even equivalent to the marital relationship of a husband and a wife. What’s sad is that the acceptance they crave cannot be given by government bodies. Many times sexual abuse, family problems and/or painful relationships have wounded these individuals, leaving them vulnerable to the deception of homosexuality. The wounds are only inflamed by government encouragement of their lifestyle. Picture a boy who is beaten by his father to the point of blinding him. This blind boy approaches two doors and a door keeper. The first door leads to healing. The second will lead him to continue his wandering. The door keeper pats the boy on the head and leads him through the second door, to continue his blind wandering. The door keeper is the Indianapolis City-County Council. The blind man represents those who are wounded and deceived by homosexuality. Homosexuals are often wounded at key times in their childhood, this combined with attributes and interests that often lead them to become loners from members of their own sex leave them vulnerable to homosexuality. The door keeper (government) endorses the homosexual lifestyle in law, leading the blind boy (individuals deceived by homosexuality) through the door of pain and loneliness rather than helping him to find the door that leads to healing. Healing only comes from confronting the wounds that have lead to the lifestyle, not from government pandering and misdirection. Government codification of sexual practices within the law will further entrench homosexuals into the lifestyle, because the ideas that ensnare people into the homosexual lifestyle are promoted specifically through arguments that are used to pass “gay rights.” “Homosexuals are born with their sexual orientation.” “Homosexuality is not changeable.” “Any opposition to the homosexual lifestyle if bigotry.” Whether we like it or not, citizens look to the government for basic guidance of right and wrong. Government promotion of homosexuality will harm more homosexuals than it will help. Even those citizens who are questioning their “sexual orientation” will be affected by this misguided public policy. It is a classic example of the blind leading the blind. Indiana Family Institute 55 Monument Circle, Suite 322, Indianapolis, IN, 46204 Phone: (317) 423-9178 Toll Free: (800) 259-2959 Fax: (317) 423-9421 ifi@hoosierfamily.org www.hoosierfamily.org

Attachment(s):
Indy Council Map.pdf

Address postal inquiries to: Indiana Family Institute 55 Monument Circle Indianapolis, IN 46204

Election Day In Iraq

From Reuters.com: "In the first election for a full four-year parliament since the fall of Saddam Hussein, 15 million Iraqis are eligible to vote and at least 10 million are expected to do so. Iraqis vote for a new government on Thursday in the hope it will end decades of suffering, boost living standards and pave the way for U.S.-led troops to leave, nearly three years after they invaded."

From MSNBC.com: "Election of the new parliament, which will serve a four-year term, marks the final step in the U.S. blueprint for democracy. The vote will cap a process that included the transfer of sovereignty last year, selection of an interim parliament Jan. 30 and ratification of the constitution in October. The new parliament will name a government, including a new prime minister."

As the people of Iraq visit the polls today to select the first government under the country's new Constitution, take a moment to say a prayer for peaceful, fair elections.

Joe

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Sent from my Palm Zire 72.

A Respite At Last

It seems that the flood gates have finally closed, and not a moment too soon. I don't think I could have taken another moment of being the care-tender for a sick family. I say that now, and I can only hope that it really is over for good.

Last night I sat up with my son until 9:50, because it came back and hit him again, and hard! My mistake, probably, as I should have known better than to give him milk with his dinner.

At one point, he came running into the living room carrying his beloved Winnie the Pooh, lurched, and threw up a small amount onto poor Pooh. Dreading the clean up again, I picked my son up in my arms, and the levee burst! Projectile vomit spewed from him, spraying all over the living room carpet, himself, and my pants. I don't know where it all came from, because his stomach can't possibly be large enough to hold what must have been the three gallons of -- well, you get the picture.

I'm back at work today, and Wife and Son are both spending the day with he mother. I did not want them to be alone today, in case hey were both still sick.

Luckily, I'm off tomorrow, and mommy-to-be has a Doctor appointment. If we get to hear the heartbeat again, I'll try to share it with you here.

Sorry about the crazy rants over the past couple of days. It was my one outlet to help me keep my sanity. If you actually read the blather, thanks for listening. If not, I don't blame you.

By the way, Episode 3 of my online writing experiment Stop The Car! will be available tomorrow at my Story blog. If you haven't read it yet, check it out!

Joe

When Will It Ever End?

When I returned home from the shopping trip in my last post, my wife was no longer feeling very well. She returned to the bedroom to lie down as I prepared some soup for dinner, and a sandwich for my son.

As I was cleaning up the dinner dishes, my son had a relapse and threw up again. Pardon the vulgar description, but it looked like his milk had curdled in his stomach.

I now have the fifth (?) load of laundry going to clean up from this mess. I have to return to work tomorrow, so I called my wife's mother and asked her to sit with them during the day. Hopefully they'll both be feeling better by then!

Joe

33, 0, 2, 5, 10, 8, 0

My wife started feeling a bit better about an hour ago, so I took the opportunity to make a much-needed run to the grocery store, taking my son with me so she wouldn't have to worry about him while I was gone. There are some interesting numbers from this little shopping trip to my local Kroger that I'd like to share with you.

THIRTY-THREE: The current temperature at the time I went to the store.

ZERO: The number of shopping carts available inside the store when I walked in.

TWO: The number of employees who had time to take a smoke break in front of the store while no one had time to gather carts from the parking lot.

FIVE: The number of minutes it took to find a cart in the cold parking lot and get back inside.

TEN: The number of minutes I waited in line to complain about having to take my sick son back out in the cold in search of a shopping cart (I finally gave up and decided to complain after I finished my shopping).

EIGHT: The number of customers in line at the Service Desk when I finished shopping.

ZERO: The percentage of likelihood that Kroger will be my first choice the next time I need groceries on a cold winter day.

In the end, I didn't complain at the store, because as I was heading for the Service Desk after I finished shopping, I noticed a picture on the wall of the Store Manager. The same Store Manager that had time to take a smoke break in front of the store while my son and I searched the parking lot for a shopping cart.

I sent this same complaint via Kroger.com. I'll let you know if I receive a response.

Joe

Why Fathers Are Ill-Equipped To Be Nursemaids

You didn't really think I can tell you why, did you? Because we're men, that's why. That part is obvious. What I'm going to tell you is why I know that fathers are ill-equipped to be nursemaids.

Last night was a very long night. I sat up with my sick son until 4:00 this morning, while my pregnant wife lie in bed sick. Every time my two-year-old little boy would throw up, it would break my heart. After the first couple of times he learned how to tell that it was coming on. He would then tell me he was going to throw up by opening his mouth and pointing in at his throat.

This is when a Daddy goes into action. I swiftly picked my son up off my lap and dropped to the floor with him, holding him over an old baby blanket to keep the mess off the carpet. If you think being sick yourself and throwing up is a bad thing, I think I would take that any day over seeing my wife and unsuspecting son throwing up all night long.

My son didn't like being held over the blanket. He squirmed and thrashed trying to get away, all the while throwing up. With so much kicking and squirming, I couldn't keep him from landing on the blanket in his own vomit.

He would then try to stand up, but he was so weak after throwing up that his poor little legs wouldn't hold him. He would finish in tears with his Daddy mopping up the mess around him. I'm not too proud to say that I was nearly in tears, too.

My son's plumbing finally stopped erupting around 4:00 am, and he fell asleep on my lap on the living room floor. So far today, he seems fine.

My wife, on the other hand, still lies in bed with stomach cramps and nausea, with our loyal Dalmatian laying at her side. My biggest concern now is that my wife and unborn child pull out of this soon, as well.

Fathers aren't generally equipped to handle the nurturing duties of a sick family.

Joe

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Sent from my Palm Zire 72.

A Long Late Night

I'm sitting on the floor in my living room as I write this at 1:40 am, with my two-year-old son sitting on my lap. We're watching "The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss" on video. My pregnant wife is lying in bed. What's so significant about all of this? I mean, aside from the fact that my two-year-old son is awake still at almost two o'clock in the morning.

We came home from a family Christmas party at 11:30. My wife had complained of cramps the entire trip home, and rushed ahead of me into the house. When I walked into the kitchen, she was vomiting into the sink. I quickly put my son to sleep, then offered to help. While my wife went to lie down in bed, I cleaned up the mess, just barely avoiding vomiting myself, as you can probably imagine.

As I prepared to turn in myself, my son started crying. Much to my surprise and displeasure when I went into his room to check on him, his bed and everything it -- including him -- was covered in his vomit.

At this point, I nearly lost control. I rushed into the bathroom and started water running into my son's tub. I yelled to my wife what was happening as I retrieved my son -- again barely holding down my own vomit. I stripped my son of his filthy clothes and asked my wife to sit by the tub with him while I remade his bed and started a load of laundry.

Since then, my son has thrown up three more times, plus a few dry heaves, and my wife has gone to bed complaining that she's feeling worse. My son is so sleepy he can barely hold his head up, but he won't go to sleep after waking up vomiting -- which is fine with me, because I wouldn't get a moment of sleep worrying about two sickies in the house.

Under normal conditions, I'd be waking up in 2-1/2 hours to get ready for work. Luckily, my Assistant Manager answered when I called at 12:30 and is able to go in for me.

I guess I'll be spending the next day caring for these two and cleaning up after them. Hopefully I'll get a little rest myself when it's all over.

Joe

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

20051210.a.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)In his weekly radio address President Bush said, "Over the past four years, the Patriot Act has been a strong weapon for going after the terrorists. America's law enforcement and intelligence personnel have put the Patriot Act to wise and effective use while protecting our civil liberties. ... The Patriot Act has accomplished exactly what it was designed to do -- it has protected American liberty and saved American lives."

CBS News | Where Do Repeat Sex Offenders Go?

CBS News | Where Do Repeat Sex Offenders Go? | December 7, 2005 07:03:20: "Seventeen states have laws that allow holding sex offenders who have completed their prison terms. Governors in other states also have tried to use mental health laws to keep sex offenders in psychiatric hospitals once their prison terms end. ... The American Psychiatric Association has opposed civil commitment programs, saying government officials seem more intent on punishing sex offenders than treating them."

What are your thoughts? Should repeat sex offenders be locked up for good? Should they be listed on a national registry? Or should they be allowed to roam free and continue to prey on the innocent?

If you've been around here long, you know my thoughts. If not, you can find out here:

On Sex Offenders
August Updates
More On Sex Offenders

Tell me what you think.

Joe

Federal Air Marshals

There's been a lot of fuss this week about the Federal Air Marshals who opened fire and killed a man who claimed to have a bomb. You've not doubt heard the news about it, and know most of the details. What you haven't heard is my opinion.

I used to do a decent amount of air travel for business, and still do on occassion. I've luckily never been in a situation where a Federal Air Marshal was needed. I've weighed both sides of the story, and I have to say this: kudos to those Marshals for acting swiftly and decisively.

Let's look at this a couple of ways. First, what if the man did have a bomb, as he claimed. With the action taken by these brave individuals, the man would have been quickly subdued and rendered harmless to the other innocent passengers. Mission accomplished. On the other hand, what if they had reacted as the critics suggest, and not taken such swift action? If the man had a bomb, as he claimed, we would not have been mourning the loss of one man who claimed to have a bomb on an airplane, but rather hundreds of innocent passengers who died at the hands of another terrorist. And what would the critics be screaming then? Most certainly, when it came out that there were Federal Air Marshals on the flight, they would have been criticizing them for their inaction. They would have been calling for changes in their training, but not the same changes they're calling for now. Instead, they would have demanded that Federal Air Marshals be better trained to detect danger and react appropriately.



All I have to say is this: when given the choice between the certain death of a self-proclaimed bomber and the potential death of hundreds of innocent people, I don't think there is a choice to be made at all. It's a no-brainer, and I thank God that we have men and women such as those Federal Air Marshals to protect our airlines from crazy would-be bombers (and crazies who only say they have a bomb).

Joe

GOP.com: National Strategy for Victory in Iraq

"Wednesday, November 30, 2005
National Strategy for Victory in Iraq

The following document articulates the broad strategy the President set forth in 2003 and provides an update on our progress as well as the challenges remaining.

'The United States has no intention of determining the precise form of Iraq's new government. That choice belongs to the Iraqi people. Yet, we will ensure that one brutal dictator is not replaced by another. All Iraqis must have a voice in the new government, and all citizens must have their rights protected.

Rebuilding Iraq will require a sustained commitment from many nations, including our own: we will remain in Iraq as long as necessary, and not a day more.'

-- President George W. Bush
February 26, 2003"

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

20051203.a.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)In his weekly radio address President Bush said, "In this new century we must continue to welcome legal immigrants and help them learn the customs and values that unite all Americans, including liberty and civic responsibility, equality under God, tolerance for others, and the English language. In the coming months, I look forward to working with Congress on comprehensive immigration reform that will enforce our laws, secure our border, and uphold our deepest values."

Reader Comments

Interesting Reader Comments

An anonymous reader has posted some very interesting comments to my recent update on Walgreens Christmas advertising. Excerpt: "So, who cares exactly how Walgreen's takes your money. It has nothing to do with your religion. And your religion has nothing to do with me and millions, even billions of other people. How bout that?!

Bet you don't publish this. But the Lady smiles on you anyway."

What I find most interesting about this reader's comments is that he felt so strongly about his (or her) position that he chose to post his comments anonymously. I find that to be a very courageous thing to do. NOT!!!

I invite you, anonymous reader, to email me directly, so that I might identify you to the rest of my readers.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Joe

Walgreens Says "Next Year Will Be Different"

Great News! Walgreens Says "Next Year Will Be Different" Send A Polite Letter To Kmart/Sears Asking Them To Do The Same Dear Joe, Because of your efforts, Walgreens has released the following response: "Next year, you can be assured our advertising will better incorporate 'Christmas,' and our holiday trees will be called Christmas trees. Unfortunately, all of this year’s December ads are already printed, so it's too late to make changes for this season." In addition, Lowe's has released a statement saying they now refer to all trees as "Christmas Trees" and have removed all signs that previously calling them "Holiday Trees." Your actions are bringing good results! We are hearing that many retailers are re-thinking their banning Christmas. Keep up the good work! Would you please send the enclosed polite letter to Kmart/Sears asking them to make Christmas an integral part of their promotions and advertising next year? We feel there is good reason to believe Kmart/Sears might honor your request. We will keep you informed as to their response. Additionally, and this is very important, please forward this to your family and friends. We need as much support as we can get in this effort. Click Here To Send Your Letter Now! Thanks for caring enough to get involved. Sincerely, Don Donald E. Wildmon, Founder and Chairman American Family Association P.S. Please forward this e-mail message to your family and friends!

If you are a Federal Civilian, Postal or Military Employee, please consider AFA (#2058) for your annual CFC participation.

Questions or comments about AFA? Contact us via email, phone, fax, or postal mail.

www.afa.net Copyright 2005 American Family Association P O Drawer 2440 Tupelo, MS 38803 1-662-844-5036 All Rights Reserved

Lowe's Drops "Holiday Trees" Label

Lowe's Drops "Holiday Trees" Label:

"Lowe's informed AFA yesterday that it is removing banners referring to 'holiday trees' from its stores. All 49 varieties of live and artificial trees at Lowe's and on Lowes.com are labeled as Christmas trees.

Lowe's assures AFA that the language on the banner was a mistake, and was not in any way an attempt to remove Christmas from the season.

We applaud Lowe's for listening to its customers and responding to their concerns. Just as we alerted Lowe's to our concerns, now let's show them our support by sending thank you emails.


Lowe's statement:

Lowe's has proudly sold Christmas trees in our stores for decades, and we continue to do so this year in all of our stores nationwide. All 49 varieties of live and artificial trees at Lowe's and on our web site, Lowes.com, are labeled as Christmas trees.

The product signs inside Lowe's stores have always said "Christmas trees," though an outside banner did not. To ensure consistency of our message and to avoid confusion among our customers, we are now referring to the trees only as "Christmas Trees." We have also removed the banner that read "holiday trees" from the front of our stores.

Lowe's apologizes for any confusion the banner created. We appreciate our customers bringing the matter to our attention and giving us the opportunity to correct the error.

For many retailers, including Lowe's, the holiday season encompasses all the holidays between October and early January. Thus we adopted an overall "Home for the Holidays" theme five years ago. In addition to spanning the season, we believe this theme is respectful of all our customers, regardless of which holidays they may celebrate.

Commuting Stinks!

Commuting is getting to be a real bother. For reasons that are much too long to go into right now, I commute two hours one way (85 miles on state highways) to work five days a week. I work 7:00 am to 5:00 pm most days. My day goes something like this:

4:30 am - The alarm goes off and I'm in no mood to get out of bed.

4:45 am - I finally drag myself out of bed to start the day.

5:15 am - I hit the road on my long morning commute. This time of year, it's still quite dark out.

7:00 am - I arrive at work to start the day.

7:00 am to 5:00 pm - I deal with customer issues, employee issues, inventory issues, pricing issues, merchandising issues, theft issues, building issues, and any other issue that comes up throughout the day.

5:00 pm - I do my best to leave work on time.

5:15 pm - I finally make it to my car to start the long commute home.

7:00 pm - Home at last! If I'm lucky, my wife has dinner waiting on me.

7:30 pm - Dinner is over, and it's time to spend some time playing with my son.

8:00 pm - My son's bed time.

8:30 pm - We finally get my son to bed, after he and I both protest for half an hour. I spend the next ninety minutes or so reading email, maintaining my blogs, reading a book, etc.

10:00 pm - Tomorrow's an early day, so I like to get to bed at a reasonable time.

10:30 pm - I finally make it to bed.

As you can see, it can be a long, hectic day. There isn't much time for anything else. This morning I was talking with my wife on the phone at 8:30 when my son woke up calling, "Dada." When she told him I was at work, he started crying. It broke my heart!

I don't know how much longer I can keep making this commute.

Joe

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

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In his weekly radio address President Bush said, "This week, we gather with our loved ones to give thanks for the many blessings in our lives. Each family has its own traditions, yet we are united as a nation in setting aside a day of gratitude. We are thankful for our family and friends, who fill our lives with joy and love. We are thankful for the abundance of this prosperous land. We are thankful for the freedom that makes possible the enjoyment of all these gifts. And we acknowledge with humility that all these blessings and life itself come from Almighty God."

Book Review: God's Debris by Scott Adams

If you've ever read the Dilbert comic strip, then you are at least somewhat familiar with the work of Scott Adams. Adams has written more than just a comic strip and several Dilbert-themed books: he also keeps a daily blog and has written at least one work of fiction not related to the Dilbert character.

God's Debris, described by Adams as "a 132-page thought experiment" explores religion, reincarnation, the omnipotence of God, and whether or not God really exists, and if so in what capacity.

Written as the fictional account of a deeply philosophical discussion between two men, God's Debris presents the big picture in an unusual way that is very creative, though quite unbelievable. Adams' characters use analogies as evidence to present their arguements to each other, and the work is very light on solid evidence of the type that might carry any significance.

In an unusual marketing gimmick, Adams is offering the book free for download in PDF format. He obviously hopes that by reading the free download, you'll be interested enough to purchase a print copy of the book, or the sequel, The Religion War.

Adams describes this book's target audience as "people who enjoy having their brains spun around inside their skulls." While I don't recommend this book, I did find it interesting that someone could dream up such a creative explanation of the meaning of life. This book is more fantasy than mere fiction. Though in the book's introduction the author says, "You won't discover my opinions by reading my fiction," I think it's quite clear where Scott Adams stands on the issues of religion and the meaning of life.

If you have a solid conviction of your beliefs, it may be worth a look. If you are easily conned or persuaded, I would recommend you pass this one by.

Joe

Thankfulness

On this day of Thanksgiving, for what are you thankful?

A beautiful, loving wife.
A healthy, active son.
Family.
Freedom.
The love of God.
A reason to get together for a delicious feast.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone everywhere. You don't have to be an American on this holiday to give thanks for the many blessings you enjoy.

Joe

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Sent from my Palm Zire 72.

Happy Anniversary To My Wife...

...for making me the luckiest and happiest man alive three years ago today.

I love you!

J-

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and it kind of has me wondering a few things. One of my employees is a self-described anarchist. Whether he considers himself an agnostic or atheist, I'm unsure, but he has said that he does not believe in God. He isn't belligerent or overbearing about it, just open about it. I also think that maybe he isn't too sure about it.

Thanksgiving is upon us, and we all know the story of the first Thanksgiving. We've heard of the pilgrims giving thanks to God for the bountiful harvest. I spoke with this employee recently, and he told me that he and his wife would be spending the holiday with his wife's family. "Holiday?" Wait a minute. Yes, it's a holiday, of course. The banks are closed, and all government offices, and even every self-respecting retail store is closed. But how can someone who doesn't believe in God consider the national observance of thanking God for the many blessings he has bestowed upon us a holiday? Isn't that a little hypocritical?

Let's say I don't believe in soft drinks (Coca-Cola, Pepsi, etc.), and I insist that nothing but pure water pass through my lips. Now, let's say I invite you over to my home for dinner one evening and offer you a Mountain Dew to drink with your meal. Excuse me, but I think that's a little hypocritical. If I don't believe in soft drinks, how could I possibly recognize their existence by serving them to guest in my own home. A little simplistic example, maybe, but I think it gets my point across.

And then there's Christmas. I understand that almost everyone has some kind of holiday to observe in December, regardless of their religious beliefs. But come on, what is Christmas? The celebration of the birth of Christ (it's in the name, people, how can it possible mean anything else?). Now, this same employee one day was also talking to me about buying his wife what he called a "boomerang gift" for Christmas. A boomerang gift is basically when you buy something you want for someone else because you know you'll have free access to it. But that's not really the point here. He specifically said that he was buying it for her for Christmas! How can someone who doesn't believe in God celebrate Christmas? If he doesn't believe in God, then he can't believe that Christ is the Son of God, and therefore there's nothing to celebrate at "Christmas." Shouldn't he call it something besides Christmas if he doesn't believe in God?

I guess my point to this whole rant is that it just doesn't make sense how these people who claim that God doesn't exist are okay with things based on a faith in God when it benefits them, such as getting a paid day off from work when everyone gets together for a huge feast, or to exchange gifts, or whatever else the case may be. I'd just like to know how they justify such hypocrisy.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year, coming in just barely above Christmas. I think it's got something to do with the fact that there's none of the stress of finding just the right gift, but you still get to eat lots of turkey.

Three years ago, just five days before Thanksgiving, I became the luckiest man in the world when the woman I love said "I Do" in front of God, friends, and family. This year, our anniversary is the day before Thanksgiving.

At this time of year that we gather together to give thanks to God for the many blessings he has bestowed upon us, I'm reminded of some of the greatest reasons of all by celebrating my anniversary just one day prior. I'm thankful for my wonderful wife, great son, and baby on the way. I'm thankful for family, friends, and the freedom that comes with being an American living in the greatest nation on Earth. I'm thankful for those who answered the call to defend and protect that freedom. (All of these, by the way, are things that we might not have the right to enjoy if we lived in a state of anarchy.)

As I told this confused employee of mine, when you sit down to dinner on Thursday, if you don't feel compelled to give thanks to God for what lies before you, just think of me giving thanks. To God, I'm sure, he'll understand your appreciation.

Have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving!

Joe

Book Review: The Illuminati by Larry Burkett

Conspiracy theorists (including one that works for me) are constantly telling the tale of a secret society that actually runs the world governments. Whether they call it the Rothschild Society, the Illuminati, or the Council on Foreign Relations, it's all just the same old story, and it's all one big conspiracy theory.

The late author Larry Burkett turns this conspiracy theory into a compelling fictional tale of intrigue in The Illuminati.

Spinning a familiar yarn of a corrupt leader rising to power and manipulating the system to exterminate a select group of people, The Illuminati is very realistic, very timely, and very thought-provoking.

This is a must-read for all!

Joe

Target Getting the Message - Stock Drops 7%

Target Getting the Message - Stock Drops 7%

"There is an anti-Christian bias in this country, and it is more on display at Christmas season than any other time." – Bill O'Reilly, The O'Reilly Factor, Fox News Channel – (Speaking about the decision of Target and other stores to ban the use of "Merry Christmas" in their stores and advertising.)

Dear Joe,

On October 7 we brought to your attention that Target was banning the Salvation Army's kettles from the front of their stores. Now we've learned Target is also banning the use of "Merry Christmas" from their in-store promotions and from their advertising in papers, TV, etc.

Your efforts are having an impact. USA Today (11/16/05) announced that "Target alarmed investors by saying projected sales at stores open a year in November would miss the estimated 4% to 6% growth. Shares of Target fell $4.13 to $54.30." (A 7% drop.)

Target's ban of the Salvation Army and "Merry Christmas" expresses the same attitude toward Christianity as that held by Michael Newdow, who wants to ban "In God We Trust" from our currency and "under God" from our Pledge of Allegiance.

AFA is asking individuals to boycott Target during the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend—the busiest shopping weekend of the year. Please share this request to boycott Target on that weekend with friends, family and members of your church and Sunday school class. Please sign the petition to Target. This petition will also be sent to other major chains banning the use of "Merry Christmas" including Costco, BJ's, Wal-Mart, Sears/K-Mart and Kohl's. It is basically too late to change their policies this year, but we can change it for next year. Last year we called for a boycott of Federated Stores because they banned "Merry Christmas." This year they are using "Merry Christmas!"

A successful boycott of Target will send a message to every company!

This is your opportunity to make your voice heard. Please act today and then forward this to friends and family.Click

Click Here to Sign the Petition To Target and Other Stores Now!

Sincerely,

Don

DonalWildmonldmon, Founder and Chairman
American Family Association

Questions or comments about AFA? Contact us via email, phone, fax, or postal mail.

www.afa.net
Copyright 2005

American Family Association
P O Drawer 2440
Tupelo, MS 38803
1-662-844-5036
All Rights Reserved

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

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In his weekly radio address, President Bush said, "One important issue for American workers, entrepreneurs, businesses, and farmers is to access foreign markets for our goods, services, and farm products. At the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in South Korea, we have advanced America's case for free and fair trade."

Look, Up In The Sky!

Click here to play Audio Post

Newdow Files Suit To Take National Motto Off Currency

Newdow Files Suit To Take National Motto Off Currency

Tells ACLU meeting "In God We Trust" must go

Dear Joe,

Michael Newdow, who has already filed a suit to take "under God" out of the Pledge of Allegiance, is now suing to remove our national motto from our currency.

Newdow told the ACLU of Oklahoma that the national motto on U.S. currency is a violation of the separation of church and state. He is offended because he is an atheist. He wants to use the Federal courts to make his atheism the official religion of America.

Newdow filed in the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals which recently ruled that judges, not parents, have the final say in what will be taught school children concerning sex education. These same liberal judges supported Newdow and ruled that the phrase "under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance was unconstitutional. That suit was dismissed due to a technicality so Newdow sued again.

The 9th U.S. Circuit is expected to agree with Newdow. The case will then go to the U.S. Supreme Court for final action.

Help us secure one million signatures on the petition below to stop Newdow. Remember that only one person— (Madelyn Murray O'Hare) —was able to get prayer in schools banned. We must not allow one person (—Newdow) —to get our national motto removed from our currency by our silence.

During the last session of Congress, Representative Chip Pickering introduced a constitutional amendment to guarantee the right to use and recite the motto and the Pledge of Allegiance. Your petition will encourage Rep. Pickering to re-introduce his constitutional amendment in the present session of Congress and send a message to the liberal judges of the 9th U.S. Circuit.

Please act quickly.

Click here to sign the petition now!

Sincerely,

Don

Donald E. Wildmon, Founder and Chairman
American Family Association

---

If you are a Federal Civilian, Postal or Military Employee, please consider AFA (#2058) for your annual CFC participation. Questions or comments about AFA? Contact us via email, phone, fax, or postal mail.

---

www.afa.net
Copyright 2005

American Family Association
P O Drawer 2440
Tupelo, MS 38803
1-662-844-5036
All Rights Reserved

Believe It Or Not

I saw this on the way home from work tonight. That's right, no strings attached gasoline for less than $2.00 per gallon. I couldn't believe it when I saw it.

Joe

Thanksgiving

We're entering the homestretch to my favorite holiday of the year: Thanksgiving. Most people seem to have one holiday they prefer over all others, and they each have their own special reasons for their preference.

There are a number of reasons I call Thanksgiving my favorite, and not the least of those is the food! I love the turkey and potatoes, the corn and the rolls, all smothered in gravy -- the whole Thanksgiving feast. Most people don't eat turkey the rest of the year like the year like they do one Thursday in November. I don't think it would be the same even if they did.

Another reason I'm so fond of Thanksgiving is the memories growing up with my mom preparing the huge annual feast. Not only was it a great time for the family to get together, but also the start of the Christmas season.

Mom's gone now, and the whole family doesn't get together much anymore. We won't all be together in one place this Thanksgiving. I have my own family now, and among the many blessings we'll be thankful for are the many memories Mom helped to create over the years.

Thanks, Mom, and Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Joe

Falling Gas Prices

I just passed a gas station selling gas for $2.019 per gallon! $2.01 -- no catches, no gimmicks. I think that says a great deal about the record oil profits we've heard so much about recently. I'd say the lower gas prices are a result of the outcry.

Whatever it takes, I'm glad to see the price dropping. Will it make it below $2.00 again?

Joe

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Sent from my Palm Zire 72.

President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

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In his weekly radio address, President Bush said, "With this new prescription drug benefit, Medicare will now help pay for the prescription drugs that can prevent serious illness. Seniors will get more choices and better treatment, and America will get a Medicare system to fit the needs of the 21st century."

Focus On The Family Salutes Veterans

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Focus on the Family presented a touching salute to our veterans in it's Veterans Day broadcast. I strongly encourage you to listen to it.

Joe

The $2.00 Gasoline Threshold?

After the insanely high gas prices we've seen over the past several months, I had resigned myself to the possibility that I might never pay less than $2.00 for a gallon of gasoline again. I honestly thought that $2.00 was the new threshold.

Today at Kroger, I filled up for just $1.989 per gallon. WOW! Of course, that's because I had a ten cent per gallon discount from buying groceries inside the Kroger store, but hey, if you have to buy the groceries anyway, why not buy them some place where they'll save you money on gas, too?

WCPO-TV, the ABC affiliate in Cincinnati on channel 9, recently reported on a survey conducted in Ohio comparing the grocery prices at Walmart with those at Kroger. They purchased 150 items at each store and found that, based on regular store prices, the total grocery bill at Walmart was almost 20% less than Kroger. However, when they calculate the same 150 items at sale prices (Kroger sale prices versus Walmart regular prices, as Walmart does not have sales), Kroger was almost 20% less than Walmart.

The grocery savings on top of an extra ten cents per gallon in gasoline savings makes Kroger my grocery store/gas station combo of choice.

How much are you paying for gas today?

Joe

ABC News - Gas Prices Explained

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With all the hype lately over the record profits posted by the oil companies, ABC News presents an explanation of where your money goes for each gallon of gasoline. This is a good piece of information. According to ABC News, fully 77% of the cost of a gallon of gasoline goes to the oil companies and refineries, 15% to taxes, and only 8% to the company that you are actually purchasing the gasoline from.

Joe

Veterans Day

Today is Veterans Day, if you haven't already read that somewhere or heard it on the radio. In honor and memory of those who serve or have served to defend the cause of Liberty throughout the history of our great nation: Thank You!

Regardless of your feelings about the war in Iraq or the current Administration, if you're an American, an immigrant to the U.S., or living a better life elsewhere because of Americans, please tell a Veteran "Thank You" today.

Joe

Oil Execs Defend Profits

CBSNews.com

Oil executives defend summer of record profits and record gas prices.

ABC News: Texas Voters Approve Ban on Gay Marriage

ABC News: Texas Voters Approve Ban on Gay Marriage:

"Texas voters Tuesday overwhelming approved a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, making their state the 19th to take that step."

Petition To The U.S. Supreme Court Concerning The Rights Of Parents

As shocking as it may seem, the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that courts--not parents--have the final authority on when and what to teach children about sex education.

In their ruling, the Court determined that parents DO NOT have a fundamental right to control when, where and how their children are taught about sex. Rather, the Court ruled, that right belongs to activist judges.

I know you probably aren't believing this, so I have provided a link to an article on the recent ruling written by Kathleen Parker, a columnist for the Orlando Sentinel. Click here to read the column.

This is simply another encroachment by activist federal judges to take away the rights of parents and turn those rights over to the judges. These liberal activist judges feel they know better how to raise your children and grandchildren than you do!

It is time for parents and grandparents to tell activist judges to back off! Sign the petition. Forward the petition to your friends and family. We will forward the petitions to the U.S. Supreme Court where this case will eventually be decided. Hopefully, by then, Supreme Court nominee Justice Samuel Alito will have been confirmed and this crazy ruling by the Ninth Circuit can be overturned.

AFA - American Family Association - Petition To The U.S. Supreme Court Concerning The Rights Of Parents