Monday, December 15, 2008

You Know You're from Kingsport When...

..You have dedicated much of your life to supporting Pal's.
..You know who Steve Grindstaff is and saw his extremely weirded up wedding on TV.
..You or someone you know (a friend of a friend, maybe) knows what Mark Reynolds really did to that gerbil.
..You think it's stupid that Sullivan Central High School got out for the Bristol Speedway race every year.
..The Microtel, and all that it entails.
..You remember why popcorn always tasted better, in that homemade popper at Wallace's Newsstand.
..Friday nights=Fort Henry Mall.
..La Caretta is your Mexican food of choice.
..You remember when there was ONE Wal-Mart, the Stone Gate Wal-Mart, and it wasn't Super.
..Your parents don't work at Eastman Chemical Company. They work at Eastman.
..If you ever went to the beach, nobody had to ask which one. Myrtle Beach is THE beach.
..You remember dozens of Kroger's.. but only one Oakwood.
..You hated Carter County and all their snow days.
..You remember when they found the decapitated head in Boone Lake, and you still went wakeboarding. Just like you did, after they found piranna in there.
..You don't even bother trying the Speedway gas station in lights because it's too busy.
..You took every field trip to Warrior's Path and their awful playground (it's better now, I know!)
..You remember when Fun Fest was in August and right before school.
..You shopped at the Food City in Green Acres when it faced in the other direction.
..You have either threatened to give or been offered to receive a B-Town Beat Down.
..You groan every year that South and DB want to have a race war.
..Kings Giant Plaza FINALLY went out of business and you celebrated because they got rid of those endless commercials every year.
..You were kind of surprised to learn that Daniel Boone blazed Bloomingdale Pike.
..You miss Joe Gong.
..There's no such thing as tea.. it's always peachy tea.
..You can recall Sharon's opening and them actually building the building in secret where nobody could see it.
..You've been in an altercation with a golf club over an AFG medallion.
..You wrote a letter to the editor about the year Fun Fest moved the fireworks and you couldn't see anything.
..You don't smell that funny Eastman smell anymore. It burned out your nostrils years ago.
..Saturdays, 12 Noon. Sound the horn.
..You took your tricked out Civic to park sideways at the Beach Hut.
..You know that Purple Cow is worth the wait/danger.
..You actually went to Skate City but only realized years later the sleaze factor of that place.
..You remember when Kingsport decided they only needed 8 minute evening news. And then, that they should just shut down the news station.
..You remember the original firework outrage being when they set off all the 4th of July fireworks at five in the morning.
..You've ever wondered.. if the Big Pal in Lynn Garden and the Indian from Pratt's BBQ had a fight, who would win?
..If you went to a city school, you were upset you didn't get out for snow. If you went to a Sullivan County school, you laughed at the city kids as you went back to bed.
..Once you got a license, Friday nights=Johnson City (better restaurants)
..You've done the Sensabaugh Tunnel thing. More than once.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Domino's Pizza Poll of Republicans versus Democrats

FYI, Domino's own internal poll claims

Republicans
-- Spend more per order than other consumers.
-- They rely on credit cards to pay more than other consumers.
-- They tend to order two large pizzas at a time, and they're usually
specialty pizzas.
-- They are more likely to order online, and more likely to pick up their
orders.

Democrats
-- Rely on delivery more than Republicans.
-- Pay cash more than other consumers.
-- Like more variety with their orders, opting for side items, chicken and
beverages more than Republicans.

(this isn't a joke, they actually did this)

Monday, October 27, 2008

November 5th Etiquette

FROM LINDA KINCAID, VIA ROWENA CHERRY:

Subject: NOVEMBER 5TH ETIQUETTE

Please read and enjoy:


1. No crying, hugging or shouting "Thank you Lord" (at least not in public)

2. No high-fives - at least not unless the area is clear and there are no witnesses

3. No laughing at the McCain/Palin supporters

4. No calling in sick on November 5th. (they'll get nervous if too many of us don't
show up)

5. We are allowed to give each other knowing winks or nods in passing. (just try to
keep from grinning too big)

6. No singing loudly, “We've come this Far By Faith.” (it will be acceptable to hum
softly)

7. No bringing of barbeque ribs or fried chicken for lunch in the company lunchroom
for at least a week (no chit'lins at all). This may make us seem to ethnic.

8. No leaving kool-aid packages at the water fountain. (this might be a sign that
poor folks might be getting a break-through)

9. No Cupid Shuffle during breaks. (this could indicate a little too much excitement)

10. Please do not play "Moving on Up" (we are going to try to remain humble)

11. No doing the George Jefferson dance (unless you're in your office with the door
closed)

12. Please try not to yell----BOOOO YAH!

13. Just in case you're wondering, Doing the Running Man, cabbage patch, or a
backhand spring on the highway is 100%.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Perks of aging past 50

GOT THIS FROM SAMUEL FLOYD PERRY:


1. Kidnappers are not very interested in you.
2. In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first.
3. No one expects you to run--anywhere.
4. People call at 9 pm and ask, did I wake you?
5. People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.
6. There is nothing left to learn the hard way.
7. Things you buy now won't wear out.
8. You can eat supper at 4 pm.
9. You can live without sex but not your glasses
10. You get into heated arguments about pension plans.
11. You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.
12. You quit trying to hold your stomach in no matter who walks into the
room.
13. You sing along with elevator music.
14. Your eyes won't get much worse.
15. Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay off.
16. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the national weather
service.
17. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can't remember them
either.
18. Your supply of brain cells is finally down to manageable size.
19. You can't remember who sent you this list. And you notice these are all
in Big Print for your convenience.

P.S....Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a
laxative on the same night.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Obama

FROM DOUG RELEFORD:

Thanks so much for joining our campaign to spread Obama bumper stickers all
over the country. Together, we smashed our goal and have given out more than
half a million stickers already!

Do you think your friends would be interested in a free sticker, too? If so,
you can just forward them this link:

https://pol.moveon.org/obamastickers/?id=12818-9327075-5eFNTy
&t=1

Below is an email you can forward to your friends, too.

Thanks!

-Nita Chaudhary, MoveOn.org Political Action
Monday, June 9th, 2008

P.S. If you'd like to share this with your Facebook friends, add the group
"Join this group to get a free Obama bumper sticker from MoveOn" and then
invite all your friends. It's one of the fastest-growing groups on all of
Facebook right now:

http://www.moveon.org/r?r=3763

&id=12818-9327075-5eFNTy&t=2

_____

Hi,

I ordered a FREE Obama bumper sticker from MoveOn.org and I thought you
might want one, too.

The stickers are a great way to show your neighbors how excited folks are
about Barack Obama. They're high-quality and you can stick them
anywhere-your car, bike, laptop, or door.

Just click below to get one free:

https://pol.moveon.org/obamastickers/?id=12818-9327075-5eFNTy
&t=3

This is what they look like:

sticker

And feel free to forward this to anyone else you think might be interested.

Thanks!

_____

Support our member-driven organization: MoveOn.org Political Action is
entirely funded by our 3.2 million members. We have no corporate
contributors, no foundation grants, no money from unions. Our tiny staff
ensures that small contributions go a long way. If you'd like to support our
work, you can give now at:

http://political.moveon.org/donate/email.html?id=12818-9327075-5eFNTy

&t=5

PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Friday, June 13, 2008

"People... Who Need People...Are the Luckiest People In The World..."

FROM FLOYD PERRY:


A Department of Water Resources representative stops at a Vermont farm and talks with an old farmer. He tells him, "I need to inspect your farm to make sure you're complying with government regulations."

The old farmer says "Okay, but don't go in that field over there."

The Water representative says, "Mister, I have the authority of the Federal Government with me. See this card? This card means I am allowed to go WHEREVER I WISH on any agricultural land. No questions asked or answered. Have I made myself clear? Do you understand?"

The old farmer nods politely and goes about his chores.

Later, the old farmer hears loud screams and spies the Water Rep running for his life and close behind is the farmer's bull. The bull is gaining with every step.

The Rep is clearly terrified, so the old farmer immediately throws down his tools, runs to the fence and yells at the top of his lungs..

"Your card! Show him your card!"

Justice Day

GOT THIS FROM CHARLOTTE MAXWELL:


After living what I felt was a "decent" life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house.

The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table. As I looked around I saw the prosecutor." He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen.

I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him.

The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes. He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room I couldn't take my eyes off of Him.


As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, "Let us begin."


The prosecutor rose and said, "My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this man belongs in hell."

He proceeded to tell of lies that I told, things that I stole, and In the past when I cheated others. Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank.

I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.

As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all.

I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done?

Satan finished with a fury and said, "This man belongs in hell, he is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise."

When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench.

The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward.

As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty.

I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.

He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, "Hi, Dad," and then He turned to address the court.

"Satan was correct in saying that this man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this man deserves to be punished."

Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, "However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and he has accepted Me as his Savior, so he is Mine."

My Lord continued with, "His name is written in the Book of Life, and no one can snatch him from Me.
Satan still does not understand yet.
This man is not to be given justice, but rather mercy."


As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said, "There is nothing else that needs to be done." "I've done it all."

The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips..."This man is free." The penalty for him has already been paid in full. "Case dismissed."

As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, "I won't give up, I will win the next one." I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, "Have you ever lost a case?"

Christ lovingly smiled and said, "Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you,

~Paid In Full~

"Stop telling God how big your storm is. Instead, tell the storm how big your God is!"

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Here is a good laugh for ANY day!!!

FROM THELMA WATTERSON, VIA A WHOLE BUNCH OF PEOPLE:

SOUTHERN THINKING
Georgia:

The owner of a golf course was confused about paying an invoice,
so he decided to ask his secretary for some mathematical help. He called her
into his office and said, "You graduated from the University of Georgia and
I need some help. If I were to give you $20,000, minus 14%, how much would
you take off?" The secretary thought a moment, and then replied, "Everything but my earrings."


SOUTHERN THINKING
Alabama:
A group of Alabama friends went deer hunting and paired off in twos for the day. That night, one of the hunters returned alone, staggering under the weight of an eight-point buck. "Where's Henry?" the others asked.. "Henry had a stroke of some kind! He's a couple of miles back up the trail," the successful hunter replied."
You left Henry laying out there and carried the deer back?" they inquired."A tough call," nodded the hunter. "But I figured no one is going to steal Henry!"


SOUTHERN THINKING
Mississippi:
The young man from Mississippi came running into the store and said to his buddy, "Bubba, somebody just stole your pickup truck from the parking lot!"
Bubba replied, "Did you see who it was? "The young man answered, "I couldn't tell, but I got the license number."


SOUTHERN THINKING
Tennessee:
A Tennessee State trooper pulled over a pickup on I-65. The trooper asked, "Got any ID?" The driver replied, "Bout whut?"


SOUTHERN THINKING
North Carolina:
A man in North Carolina had a flat tire, pulled off on the side of the road, and proceeded to put a bouquet of flowers in front of the car and one behind it. Then he got back in the car to wait. A passerby studied the scene as he drove by and was so
curious he turned around and went back. He asked the fellow what the problem was. The man replied, "I have a flat tire." The passerby asked, "But what's with the flowers?" The man responded, "When you break down they tell you to put flares in the front and flares in the back. I never did understand it either."

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

A Scary Scam For Your Cell Phone

Got this from the Grays, via William Earl Evans:

SCARY. WHAT WILL CRIME THINK OF NEXT. WE HAVE TO ALWAYS BE ONE STEP
AHEAD. EXHAUSTING, ISN'T IT.

I never thought of this..

This lady has changed her habit of how she lists her names on her mobile
phone after her handbag was stolen. Her handbag, which contained her
cellphone, credit card, wallet... etc... was stolen.
20 minutes later when she called her hubby, from a payphone telling him what had happened, hubby says "I received your text asking about our PIN number and I've replied a little while ago."

When they rushed down to the bank, the bank staff told them all the money was already withdrawn. The thief had actually used the stolen cell phone to text "hubby" in the contact list and got hold of the pin number.

Within 20 minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their bank account.

Moral of the lesson: Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in your contact list. Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Dad, Mom, etc... And very importantly, when sensitive info is being asked through texts, CONFIRM by calling back. Also, when you're being text by friends or family to meet them somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came from them. If you don't reach them, be very careful about going places to meet "family and friends" who text you.

PLEASE PASS THIS ON

I never thought about THAT! As of right now, I no longer have "home" named on my cell phone.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

To All The Wonderful Women That Bless Your Day!

GOT THIS FROM LINDA WADE:

Your sisters, your mother, your daughters, the ladies you work with everyday, even your online female friends.

And send this to all the men in your life, that they can realize the gift God has given them.


Dear My Child,

When I created the heavens and the earth, I spoke them into being.

When I created man, I formed him and breathed life into his nostrils.

But you, woman, I fashioned after I breathed the breath of life into man because your nostrils are too delicate.

I allowed a deep sleep to come over him so I could patiently and perfectly fashion you.

Man was put to sleep so that he could not interfere with the creativity.

From one bone, I fashioned you. I chose the bone that protects man's life.

I chose the rib, which protects his heart and lungs and supports him, as you are meant to do. Around this one bone, I shaped you....

I modeled you. I created you perfectly and beautifully.

Your characteristics are as the rib, strong yet delicate and fragile.

You provide protection for the most delicate organ in man , his heart.

His heart is the center of his being; his lungs hold the breath of life.

The rib cage will allow itself to be broken before it will allow damage to the heart. Support man as the rib cage supports the body.

You were not taken from his feet, to be under him, nor were you taken from his head, to be above him.

You were taken from his side, to stand beside him and be held close to his side.

You are my perfect angel.....You are my beautiful little girl.

You will or have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence, and my eyes fill when I see the virtues in your heart.

Your eyes......don't change them.

Your lips….how lovely when they part in prayer.

Your nose…so perfect in form.

Your hands…..so gentle to touch

I've caressed your face in your deepest sleep.

I've held your heart close to mine.. of all that lives and breathes, you are most like me.

Adam walked with me in the cool of the day, yet he was lonely. He could not see me or touch me.

He could only feel me. So everything I wanted Adam to share and experience with me,
I fashioned in you my holiness, my strength, my purity, my love, my protection and support.

You are special because you are an extension of me. Man represents my image, woman my emotions.

Together, you represent the totality of (me) God.

Love,

God

Jury Duty Scam!

NOTE: I HAVE ALSO DONE STORIES ON THIS SCAM FOR MY TV STATION. IT IS DEFINITELY A SCAM TO BE AVOIDED, BY NOT GIVING OUT ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION..
CALVIN




This has been verified by the FBI (their link is also included below). Please pass this on to everyone in your email address book. It is spreading fast so be prepared should you get this call. Most of us take those summonses for jury duty seriously, but enough people skip out on their civic duty, that a new and ominous kind of fraud has surfaced.

The caller claims to be a jury coordinator. If you protest that you never received a summons for jury duty, the scammer asks you for your Social Security number and date of birth so he or she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant. Give out any of this information and bingo; your identity was just stolen.

The fraud has been reported so far in 11 states, including Oklahoma , Illinois , and Colorado . This (swindle) is particularly insidious because they use intimidation over the phone to try to bully people into giving information by pretending they are with the court system. The FBI and the federal court system have issued nationwide alerts on their web sites, warning consumers about the fraud.

Check it out by copying and pasting these addresses in your browser: http://www.fbi.gov/page2/june06/jury_scams060206.htm

http://www.snopes.com/crime/fraud/juryduty.asp

Monday, April 21, 2008

Blocking Spammers and Virusus on This Page

Greetings, Brothers and Sisters!

Calvin, your moderator, is taking steps to make sure your computer doesn't get infected with viruses and spam, and they are invisible steps you won't even notice.

Effective today (right now, actually), it is impossible to leave a comment on any of the articles on this link, or any of the other links on your website.

Virus spreaders, spammers (and basically idiots with too time on their hands) have been attaching comments to some of the stories on here, hoping you'll click on them.
When you do, they've got you.

If you have a comment on a story or event you see, just email it to me and I will post it manually. My spam filter, virus protection, and word processing system filters out about 99% of what those idiots try to upload. Google catches the rest.

These links are for READING news and articles ONLY. Please rest assured that you can read them with no problem.

Again, if you want to post comments on what you've read, just email those comments to me.

Thanks!

Blacks in Area Have Made Progress, But There is More to be Done

DOUGLASS ALUMNUS ED HORTON WROTE THIS ARTICLE FOR THE KINGSPORT TIMES-NEWS, SUNDAY, 4/20/08

Mr. Horton is a retired vice president of an Ohio-based, handheld computer company and a former resident who has returned to his hometown of Kingsport.


Recently, a former Riverview resident provided me a copy of Pastor Doug Tweed’s column “It’s Time to Make Amends for Our City’s Racism,” which I understand he wrote in observance of Black History Month. I found it appropriate and timely. I cannot attest to the racial climate in Kingsport prior to the 1950s, but I can speak with clarity about the climate of the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The old Douglass School, aka V.O. Dobbins Community Center, was not properly equipped. Frequently, it did not have the appropriate Bunsen burners, measuring instruments and other laboratory equipment. The science teacher or principal would have to beg equipment from Dobyns-Bennett. The books, while provided freely, in many cases had been used at Dobyns-Bennett. Funding for athletic programs and the arts was limited or nonexistent.

Whether I was living in Los Angeles, Columbus, OH, or Cedar Rapids, IA, the story which I always like to tell the audiences — it never fails to cause folks to express disbelief — deals with the unholy alliance between the State of Tennessee and Kingsport Board of Education and the State of Virginia and Gate City Board of Education to bus about six or eight black students across the state line to attend classes in Riverview. I tell my listeners that the good people of Gate City failed to even hire a driver to bring the kids across the mountain — one of the older students was entrusted with the responsibility.

In many of the cities where I was stationed, the issue of busing white students a few neighborhoods away from their homes was abhorrent. The uproar was deafening. However, during my academic career here in Kingsport, no one on either side of the railroad tracks complained.

In the spring of 1977, I was in the area to arrange for the burial of my mother and took a side trip to Gate City High School and noticed how small the facility was. Imagine my surprise when I began to read about the poor academic achievement of students in the Southwest Virginia section, especially when standard testing instruments were used. I had assumed that the bar was set so high in those schools that the six to eight black students were not capable of being reached. The other sad part of this story is that the Gate City leadership did not deem it appropriate to hire a properly trained driver to make the trip.

Upon my return here two years ago, I was pleasantly surprised to reunite with a few of those bused students and learn how successful they had become. Two or three had made careers of the military, several had earned bachelor’s and in some cases master’s degrees. Sadly enough, many had moved to larger localities, and neither Virginia or Tennessee will ever benefit from their talent nor the tax revenue generated from their significantly enhanced salaries.

Pastor Doug wrote about the black teachers and business types who had to develop their careers within the small black community. I was shocked after leaving the area to learn that many of the black teachers who cycled through our community were never compensated on a par with their white colleagues. As I reflected later, after I had completed my graduate studies at Tennessee State and was pursuing my post graduate work at the University of California at Los Angeles, I thought that doing janitorial work at the old Mead plant or cleaning offices downtown during the summers was normal for black teachers. I remembered my homeroom teacher who would spend his summers working as a waiter on the trains which traveled from Chicago to Seattle. The rumor was that he made in three months half of his annual teacher’s salary. The only white people who related to me while I was in school were the teachers who would conduct Bible study on Wednesday afternoon who were assigned by the Kingsport Council of Churches.

Paster Tweed cited the names of several black professionals who have distinguished themselves locally. I think that is marvelous considering their meager beginnings on small tobacco farms in North Carolina and Southwest Virginia from which most have come. I am impressed with the upward mobility of many of the formerly disadvantaged persons in the area. It is indeed refreshing to see the change. I am, however, amazed at the lack of clout these persons seem to have in their respective organizations.

I tried to refer several candidates to a black professional who works for a major employer. The candidates are still waiting to be contacted. I was referred to another black professional who I assumed had a key role on the management team helping to chart and influence the direction of the corporation. I discovered he had nothing to do with the management council, could not discuss the direction of his employer, or the price of the stock.

As a former vice president of an Ohio-based, publicly listed computer company, I frequently review the announcements of the Security Exchange Commissions (SEC) filings of stock issued to their executives. As of today, I have yet to see this black executive awarded any stock options, nor does his picture appear in the annual reports or any of the quarterly reports.

I am further amused at the number of black employees who supposedly have a technical background or are working in HR or procurement or in some sub-professional capacity. My sense is that most are tokens or part of a window dressing scenario in order to comply with a mildly effective initiative called affirmative active.

This type of Equal Opportunity program is OK in a small East Tennessee town; however, it would not fly in a large metropolitan community.

Something to Think About

Why isn't the number 11 pronounced onety-one?

If 4 out of 5 people SUFFER from diarrhea...does that mean that one out
of five enjoys it?

Why do croutons come in airtight packages? Aren't they just stale bread
to begin with?

If people from Poland are called Poles, then why aren't people from
Holland called Holes?

If a pig loses its voice, is it disgruntled?

Why is a person who plays the piano called a pianist, but a person who
drives a racecar is not called a racist?

If it's true that we are here to help others, then what exactly are the
others here for?

If lawyers are disbarred and clergymen defrocked, then doesn't it
follow that electricians can be delighted, musicians denoted, cowboys
deranged, models deposed, tree surgeons debarked, and dry cleaners
depressed?

If Fed Ex and UPS were to merge, would they call it Fed UP?

Do Lipton Tea employees take 'coffee breaks?'

What hair color do they put on the driver's licenses of bald men?

I thought about how mothers feed their babies with tiny little spoons
and forks, so I wondered what do Chinese mothers use. Toothpicks?

Why do they put pictures of criminals up in the Post Office? What are
we supposed to do, write to them? Why don't they just put their pictures
on the postage stamps so the mailmen can look for them while they
deliver the mail?

Is it true that you never really learn to swear until you learn to
drive?

If a cow laughed, would milk come out of her nose?

Whatever happened to Preparations A through G?

As income tax time approaches, did you ever notice: When you put the
two words "The" and "IRS" together, it spells "THEIRS

Why Did You Make Me Black, Lord?

FROM MELVA COOKE:


This is deep, so take your time.

Why Did You Make Me Black Lord ?...
Lord . Why did you make me black?
Why did you make someone the world would hold back?

Black is the color of dirty clothes, of grimy hands and feet...
Black is the color of darkness, of tired beaten streets...

Why did you give me thick lips, a broad nose and kinky hair?
Why did you create someone who receives the hated stare?

2.3959275580@web58404.mail.re3.yahoo.com" width=393 border=0>
Black is the color of the bruised eye when someone gets hurt...
Black is the color of darkness, black is the color of dirt.

Why is my bone structure so thick, my hips and cheeks so high?
Why are my eyes brown, and not the color of the sky?

Why do people think I'm useless?
How come I feel so used?
Why do people see my skin and think I should be abused?

Lord, I just don't understand...
What is it about my skin?
Why is it some people want to hate me and not know the person within?

Black is what people are 'Labeled' when others want to keep them away...
Black is the color of shadows cast...
Black is the end of the day.

Lord you know my own people mistreat me, and you know this just ain't right...
They don't like my hair, they don't like my skin, as they say I'm too dark or too light!

Lord, don't you think it's time to make a change?
Why don't you redo creation and make everyone the same?
GOD's Reply:

Why did I make you black?

Why did I make you black?

I made you in the color of coal from which beautiful diamonds are formed... I made you in the color of oil, the black gold which keeps people warm.

Your color is the same as the rich dark soil that grows the food you need... Your color is the same as the black stallion and panther, Oh what majestic creatures indeed!

All colors of the heavenly rainbow can be found throughout every nation... When all these colors are blended, you become my greatest creation!

Your hair is the texture of lamb's wool, such a beautiful creature is he... I am the shepherd who watches them, I will ALWAYS watch over thee!

You are the color of the midnight sky, I put star glitter in your eyes... There's a beautiful smile hidden behind your pain... That's why your cheeks are so high!

You are the color of dark clouds from the hurricanes I create in September... I made your lips so full and thick, so when you kiss..they will remember!

Your stature is strong, your bone structure thick to withstand the burden of time... The reflection you see in the mirror, that image that looks back , ....that is MINE!

So get off your knees, look in the mirror and tell me what you see? I didn't make you in the image of darkness... I made you in the image of ME!

Protect your VIN---AND your Car!

Never thought of this one!
VIN NUMBER - WARNING


Here is INFO worth the price of your car....

WHAT WILL the car thieves THINK OF NEXT?

The car thieves peer through the windshield of your car or vehicle, write down the VIN # from the label on the dash, go to the local car dealership and request a duplicate key based on the VIN #.

I didn't believe this e-mail, so I called Chrysler-Dodge and pretended I had lost my keys. They told me to just bring in the VIN #, and they would cut me one on the spot, and I could order the keyless device if I wanted.


The Car Dealer's Parts Department will make a duplicate key from the VIN #, and collect payment from the thief who will return to your car.

He doesn't have to break in, do any damage to the vehicle, or draw attention to himself. All he has to do is walk up to your car, insert the key and off he goes to a local chop shop with your vehicle.

You don't believe it?

It IS that EASY.

To avoid this from happening to you, simply put some dark tape (electrical tape, duct tape or medical tape) across the VIN Number Metal Label located on the dashboard.

By law, you cannot remove the VIN, but you CAN cover it so it can't be viewed through the windshield by a car thief.

I urge you to forward this to your friends before some other car thief steals another car or truck.

I slipped a 3x5 card over my VIN NUMBER.

PASS THIS INFORMATION ON TO ALL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS NOW!!!!!

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Blacks in area have made progress, but there is more to be done

DOUGLASS ALUMNUS ED HORTON WROTE THIS ARTICLE FOR THE KINGSPORT TIMES-NEWS, SUNDAY, 4/20/08

Mr. Horton is a retired vice president of an Ohio-based, handheld computer company and a former resident who has returned to his hometown of Kingsport.


Recently, a former Riverview resident provided me a copy of Pastor Doug Tweed’s column “It’s Time to Make Amends for Our City’s Racism,” which I understand he wrote in observance of Black History Month. I found it appropriate and timely. I cannot attest to the racial climate in Kingsport prior to the 1950s, but I can speak with clarity about the climate of the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The old Douglass School, aka V.O. Dobbins Community Center, was not properly equipped. Frequently, it did not have the appropriate Bunsen burners, measuring instruments and other laboratory equipment. The science teacher or principal would have to beg equipment from Dobyns-Bennett. The books, while provided freely, in many cases had been used at Dobyns-Bennett. Funding for athletic programs and the arts was limited or nonexistent.

Whether I was living in Los Angeles, Columbus, OH, or Cedar Rapids, IA, the story which I always like to tell the audiences — it never fails to cause folks to express disbelief — deals with the unholy alliance between the State of Tennessee and Kingsport Board of Education and the State of Virginia and Gate City Board of Education to bus about six or eight black students across the state line to attend classes in Riverview. I tell my listeners that the good people of Gate City failed to even hire a driver to bring the kids across the mountain — one of the older students was entrusted with the responsibility.

In many of the cities where I was stationed, the issue of busing white students a few neighborhoods away from their homes was abhorrent. The uproar was deafening. However, during my academic career here in Kingsport, no one on either side of the railroad tracks complained.

In the spring of 1977, I was in the area to arrange for the burial of my mother and took a side trip to Gate City High School and noticed how small the facility was. Imagine my surprise when I began to read about the poor academic achievement of students in the Southwest Virginia section, especially when standard testing instruments were used. I had assumed that the bar was set so high in those schools that the six to eight black students were not capable of being reached. The other sad part of this story is that the Gate City leadership did not deem it appropriate to hire a properly trained driver to make the trip.

Upon my return here two years ago, I was pleasantly surprised to reunite with a few of those bused students and learn how successful they had become. Two or three had made careers of the military, several had earned bachelor’s and in some cases master’s degrees. Sadly enough, many had moved to larger localities, and neither Virginia or Tennessee will ever benefit from their talent nor the tax revenue generated from their significantly enhanced salaries.

Pastor Doug wrote about the black teachers and business types who had to develop their careers within the small black community. I was shocked after leaving the area to learn that many of the black teachers who cycled through our community were never compensated on a par with their white colleagues. As I reflected later, after I had completed my graduate studies at Tennessee State and was pursuing my post graduate work at the University of California at Los Angeles, I thought that doing janitorial work at the old Mead plant or cleaning offices downtown during the summers was normal for black teachers. I remembered my homeroom teacher who would spend his summers working as a waiter on the trains which traveled from Chicago to Seattle. The rumor was that he made in three months half of his annual teacher’s salary. The only white people who related to me while I was in school were the teachers who would conduct Bible study on Wednesday afternoon who were assigned by the Kingsport Council of Churches.

Paster Tweed cited the names of several black professionals who have distinguished themselves locally. I think that is marvelous considering their meager beginnings on small tobacco farms in North Carolina and Southwest Virginia from which most have come. I am impressed with the upward mobility of many of the formerly disadvantaged persons in the area. It is indeed refreshing to see the change. I am, however, amazed at the lack of clout these persons seem to have in their respective organizations.

I tried to refer several candidates to a black professional who works for a major employer. The candidates are still waiting to be contacted. I was referred to another black professional who I assumed had a key role on the management team helping to chart and influence the direction of the corporation. I discovered he had nothing to do with the management council, could not discuss the direction of his employer, or the price of the stock.

As a former vice president of an Ohio-based, publicly listed computer company, I frequently review the announcements of the Security Exchange Commissions (SEC) filings of stock issued to their executives. As of today, I have yet to see this black executive awarded any stock options, nor does his picture appear in the annual reports or any of the quarterly reports.

I am further amused at the number of black employees who supposedly have a technical background or are working in HR or procurement or in some sub-professional capacity. My sense is that most are tokens or part of a window dressing scenario in order to comply with a mildly effective initiative called affirmative active.

This type of Equal Opportunity program is OK in a small East Tennessee town; however, it would not fly in a large metropolitan community.

Monday, March 31, 2008

How to Know if You're At a Black Church

HOW TO KNOW YOU'RE AT A BLACK CHURCH


1. Service starts at 11 a.m. but 50% of the members arrive at 11:20.

2. All the cars in the parking lot have been freshly washed.

3. The pastor doesn't come out until 45 mins after service has started.

4. The choir discusses 10 minutes which song to sing.

5. The musician then plays the song, but some of the choir members don't know it.

6. The parents whip the kids during worship..

7. The audience has to help the announcement clerk pronounce the words on the church bulletin..

8. Two of the church deacons have gold teeth.

9. The members socialize and speak during the tithes and offering.

10. When church is over no one discusses the pastor's message, they just
compliment each others' hair and outfits.

12. Members pay $20 but wait for $18 in change back.

13. The single women give each other signals when somebody handsome comes in.

14. You find notes between the seats after church that say: 'That*s not her hair' 'Who that baby daddy' 'He need to sit down' 'What you fixing for dinner' 'I KNOW she ain't got that on' 'Let me borrow a dollar for offering'

15. It takes 8 deacons 2 hours to count $400.

16. There is a check box on the tithe envolope that says 'Building Fund'

17. The morning service is either: Choir Day, Usher Day, Or Men or Women's Day.

18. The Pastor's teenage kids never attend church.

19. The Pastor's car has either a rag top or rims.

20. The women have on expensive heels, but have house shoes in their bags.

21. You see more than 5 people pass someone gum or peppermint.

22. Someone will feed a baby, cheetos, sugar cookies, crackers, or vanilla wafers in the sanctuary.

23. Someone will wear white in December.

24. Men will have on suits in the color of bright yellow, lime green, hot pink, sky blue, and candy apple red with shoes to match.

25. People will have a $80 Bible, but have to look in the table of contents to find the text of the pastor's message.

Sunday, March 2, 2008

Black History Every Day, March 8th

On this day in 1876, the U.S. Senate refused to seat P.B.S. Pinchbach of Louisiana.

Black History Every Day, March 7th

On this day in 1539, Estenica explored the southwestern part of the U.S.

Black History Every Day, March 6th

On this day in 1857, came the Dred Scott Decision.

Black History Every Day, March 5th

On this day in 1779, Crispus Attucks became one of the first casualties of the Boston Massacre.

Black History Every Day, March 4th

In 1875, Blanche Bruce was elected U.S. Senator, Mississippi.

Black History Every Day, March 3rd

On this day in 1865, the Freedman's Bureau is established.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Black History Every Day: March 2nd

On this day in 1867, Howard University was chartered in Washington, D.C.

Black History Every Day: March 1st

On this day in 1739, the British were forced to sign a peace treaty with escaped slave societies in Jamaica.

Also in 1780 on this day, PENNSYLVANIA BECAME THE FIRST STATE TO ABOLISH SLAVERY!

Black History Every Day: February 29th

On this Leap Day in 1919, the Pan American Congress was organized by W.E.B. DuBois.

Also, the Tuskegee Airman were initiated on this day in 1942 during World War II.

Black History Every Day: February 28th

Om 1708, there was a slave revolt on Long Island in New York. At least 7 whites were killed.

Black History Every Day: February 27th

In 1844 on this date, the Dominican Republic was established.

Also on this day in 1988, Debi Thomas became the 1st Black to win a medal at the Winter Olympics.

Black History Every Day: February 26th

On this day in 1926, Carter G. Woodson announced "Negro History Week."

Black History Every Day: February 25th

In 1870 on this day, Hiram Revels was elected the 1st Black to the U.S. Senate.

Thursday, February 21, 2008

VIRUS ALERT from Bob Hord

Get this E-mail message sent around to your contacts ASAP.

PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY, CONTACTS!


You should be alert during the next few days. Do not open any message
with an attachment entitled 'POSTCARD,' regardless of who sent it to you.

It is a virus which opens A POSTCARD IMAGE, which 'burns' the whole hard
disc C of your computer. This virus will be received from someone who has
Your e-mail address in his/her contact list.

This is the reason why you need to send this e-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.

If You Receive A Mail Called_ POSTCARD,' Even Though Sent To You By A Friend, Do Not Open It.!

This is the worst virus announced by CNN. It has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever. This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is kept.

COPY THIS E-MAIL, AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS. REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT
TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US.

Pray For Our Troops' Safe Return Home

FROM FLOYD PERRY:
Pray for Our Troops!


As I reflect on this photograph, I see once again that not all the brave
leave the 'home of the brave' to enter battle; some are required now to be
the brave of the home.

It is said a picture is worth a thousand words but it leaves me speechless
and tears in my eyes.


Would You Send This Please.. we have a long list of good friends whose husbands are deploying to Iraq next month. One of the wives sent me this. We feel compelled to send it on. Your prayers are deeply appreciated. These guys deserve our love, our hugs and most powerfully, our prayers.

Prayer Request:

I understand that life in Iraq is very difficult to bear right now. Our
troops need our prayers for strength, endurance and safety.

Send this on after a short prayer.

'Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect
us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us
in our time of need... Amen.'

When you receive this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our
troops around the world. Of all the gifts you could give a US
Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine deployed in harm's way, prayer is the
very best!!!

You are NOT what you think you but what you think, you are!


"If you believe what you like in the Gospel, and if you don't believe what
you don't like in the Gospel, then IT'S NOT THE GOSPEL THAT YOU BELIEVE, BUT
YOURSELF!!"
---St Augustine

Forgiven people forgive people!

Monday, February 18, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 24th

In 1811, African-American educator Daniel A. Payne was born.

Black History Every Day: February 23th

On this day, W.E.B. DuBois was born. He also died on this date in 1963.

Black History Every Day: February 22th

In 1967 on this day in Black History, Adam Clayton Powell was stripped of his seniority.

Black History Every Day: February 21th

On this day in 1965, Malcolm X was assassinated.

Black History Every Day: February 20th

On this day in 1895, African-American journalist and statesman Fredrick Douglass died.

Black History Every Day: February 19th

In 1790, George Bridgewater, African-American musician, made his London debut.

Black History Every Day: February 18th

On today's date in 1688, the 1st formal protest against slavery by the Quakers.

Grandma

FROM DORIS CALLOWAY:

Subject: Grandma
Date: Fri, 8 Feb 2008 22:40:30 +0000

A six year old goes to the hospital with his Grandma to visit his Grandpa.

When they get to the hospital, he runs ahead of his Grandma and bursts into his Grandpa's room.

"Grandpa, Grandpa!" he says excitedly, "as soon as Grandma comes into the room, make a noise like a frog!"

"What?" said his Grandpa.
"Make a noise like a frog because grandma said that as soon as you croak, we're going to Disneyland!!!"

Friday, February 15, 2008

Saying Grace In A Restaurant

FROM JACK & BETSY PIERCE:


Last week, I took my children to a restaurant.

My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace.

As we bowed our heads he said, 'God is good, God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!'

Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby, I heard a woman remark, 'That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't even know ho w to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!'

Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, 'Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me?'

As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job, and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.

He winked at my son and said, 'I happen to know th at God thought that was a great prayer.'

'Really?' my son asked.

'Cross my heart,' the man replied.

Then, in a theatrical whisper, he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), 'Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul sometimes.'

Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment, and then did something I will remember the rest of my life.

He picked up his sundae and, without a word, walked over and placed it in front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, 'Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes; and my soul is good already.'

The End

I love this story!
Sometimes, we all need some ice cream.

I hope God sends you some Ice Cream today!

Subject: 1977-2007

FROM SONYA SNEED:

This is sent only to those whose level of maturity qualifies them to relate to it...

1977: Long hair
2007: Longing for hair

1977: KEG
2007: EKG

1977: Acid rock
2007: Acid reflux

1977: Moving to California because it's cool
2007: Moving to Arizona because it's warm

1977: Trying to look like Marlon Brando or Liz Taylor
2007: Trying NOT to look like Marlon Brando or Liz Taylor

1977: Seeds and stems
2007: Roughage

1977: Going to a new, hip joint
2007: Receiving a new hip joint

1977: Rolling Stones
2007: Kidney Stones

1977: Screw the system
2007: Upgrade the system

1977: Disco
2007: Costco

1977: Parents begging you to get your hair cut
2007: Children begging you to get their heads shaved

1977: Passing the drivers' test
2007: Passing the vision test

Just in case you weren't feeling too old today, this will certainly change things. Each year the staff at BeloitCollege in Wisconsin puts together a list to try to give the faculty a sense of the mindset of this year's incoming freshmen. He re's this year's list:

The people who are starting college this fall across the nation were born in 1989.

They are too young to remember the space shuttle blowing up.

Their lifetime has always included AIDS.

Bottle caps have always been screw off and plastic.

The CD was introduced the year they were born.

They have always had an answering machine.

They have always had cable.

They cannot fathom not having a remote control.

Jay Leno has always been on the Tonight Show.

Popcorn has always been cooked in the microwave.

They never took a swim and thought about Jaws.

They can't imagine what hard contact lenses are.

They don't know who Mork was or where he was from.

They never heard: 'Where's the Beef?', 'I'd walk a mile for a Camel', or 'de plane, Boss, de plane.'

They don't have a clue how to use a typewriter.

Do you feel old yet? Pass this on to the other old fogies on your lis t. Notice the larger type, that's for those of you who have trouble reading..

So have a nice day!!!!! It is good to have friends who know about these things and are still alive and kicking!!!!

"Please Pass This On" Notices Sign You Up for SPAM!

FROM DOUGLAS RELEFORD:

Please forward to all of your 'email buddies' who really need to read this!
from Snopes.Com

If you are going to pass something along . . . . Let it be THIS!

To whom it all concerns:

Just a word to the wise. E-mail petitions are NOT acceptable to Congress or any other municipality. To be acceptable, petitions must have a signed signature and full address.

Same with "prayer chains" -- be wary!

Almost all e-mails that ask you to add your name and forward on to others are similar to that mass letter years ago that asked people to send business cards to the little kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most cards.

All it was, and all this type of e-mail is, is to get names and "cookie" tracking info for telemarketers and spammers to validate active e-mail accounts for their own purposes.

Any time you see an e-mail that says forward this on to "10" of your friends, sign this petition, or you'll get good luck, or what ever, it has either an e-mail tracker program attached that tracks the cookies and e-mails of those folks you forward to, or the host sender is getting a copy. Each time it gets forwarded, then it's able to get lists of "active" e-mails to use in spam e-mails, or sell to others that do.

Please forward this notice to others and you will be providing a good service to your friends, and will be rewarded by not getting 30,000 spam e-mails in the future.

(If you have been sending out the above kinds of email,

Now you know why you get so much spam!)



Douglas S. Releford

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 17th

On this day in 1950, Thomas L. Griffith was admitted to the Los Angeles Bar Association.

Black History Every Day: February 16th

In 1874 on this day, Fredrick Douglass was elected the President of the Freedom's Bank and Trust Company.

Black History Every Day: February 15th

On this day in 1957, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference was formed.

Black History Every Day: February 14th

In 1867, the Augusta Institute, later Morehouse College, opened in Atlanta, Georgia on this day.

Black History Every Day: February 13th

On this day in 1746, Absalom Jones, the first black Protestant Minister was born.

Black History Every Day: February 12th

In 1793, Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Act.

On this day in 1909, the NAACP was founded in New York.

Black History Every Day: February 11th

On this day in 1944, was the first black legal protest in America by 11 blacks who petitioned for freedom in New York.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Riverview Apartments Demolition Comment

GOT THIS FROM BUTCH DUNGEY:

I would like to start out to say that it's hard to see a part of my past come to an end. Their were alot memories in Riverview and to see the apartments being demolished. That part of me will always remember. People sitting on the stoop. Having fish fried sandwiches. Talking to family and friends. This will be a new future for the young and memories for the elders. May the new bring much joy and love in the future as well as the past....

Butch

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 10th

On this day in 1989, Ronald H. Brown was elected Chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Black History Every Day: February 9th

In 1906, Paul Lawrence Dunbar passed away on this day.

On this day in 1964, Arthur Ashe, Jr. became the 1st Black on the U.S. Davis Cup Team.

Black History Every Day: February 8th

On this day in 1951, Private Edward O. Cleaborn, a soldier from Memphis, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

Black History Every Day: February 7th

On this day in 1867, Fredrick Douglass and a black delegation call on President Andrew Johnson.

Black History Every Day: February 6th

In 1820, U.S. blacks emigrate from New York back to Sierra Leone.

On this day in 1961, the Jail Movement began in Rock Hill, South Carolina outside Charlotte, North Carolina, when students refused to pay fines and requested jail sentences.

Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 5th

On this date in 1934, "Hammerin' Hank" Aaron was born.

Monday, February 4, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 4th

On this day (actually the event was held on the Sunday a year ago), Tony Dungey became the 1st Black NFL Football Coach to ever win a Super Bowl (the Indianapolis Colts).

EDITORIAL COMMENT ON DEMOLITION CEREMONY INCIDENT

AN EDITORIAL COMMENT TO AN INCIDENT THAT HAPPENED AT THE RIVERVIEW APARTMENTS DEMOLITION CEREMONY ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2ND.

A person whom I have heard, has never lived in the Apartments and hadn't been back to Kingsport from her New England home in many years, actually tried to argue with the guest speaker from Congressman David Davis' office about who was getting to move into the new housing. She actually interrupted him WHILE HE WAS SPEAKING to the audience, and mind you, this was not a public forum situation.. I later learned, she had an exchange during the demolition itself with another of our longtime residents, some of it personal.. The forum she was seeking about housing, had already been addressed at several public meetings with residents long ago, but Saturday, she came across as a rabble-rouser and, from the comments I have heard, embarrassed everyone at the gathering. Luckily, her interruption was cut off very quickly. I will use this
email to publically apologize to everyone who attended and was subjected to her outdated questions. Her outburst was apparently planned on her part, but not on ours, catching program organizers by complete surprise. To his credit, it did not phase Congressman Davis' representative one bit. He handled it well, and moved on quickly, as we all did. I will not dignify your Douglass website with further comment on her actions, nor will it be part of the video program when I post it soon. But I WILL be watching for things like that in the future.

I, like many others in our community, have apologized to Mr. Reynolds for the outburst, but I am using this method to PUBLICALLY apologize on behalf on all the Riverview Apartment residents, who already HAD the answer to the question the person interrupted him to ask.

---CALVIN SNEED
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH
10:30 AM

Friday, February 1, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 3rd

In 1920, the Negro Baseball League was formed.

Black History Every Day: February 2nd

In 1807, the U.S. Congress legally banned foreign slave trade.

On this date in 1776, George Washington answered letter from Phyllis Wheatley.

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Black History Every Day: February 1st

On this day in 1865, John S. Rock became the first Black to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Black History Every Day---January 31st

On this day in 1865, the 13th amendment was passed by the U.S. Congress. The 13th Amendment officially abolished and continues to prohibit slavery, and with limited exceptions, such as those convicted of a crime, prohibits involuntary servitude.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Black History Every Day: January 30th

On this day in 1797, came the earliest Black petition to the U.S. Congress.

Also on this day in 1956, the home of the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior and his wife, Coretta Scott King, was fire-bombed.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Black History Every Day: January 29th

On this day in 1926, Violette Nealy Anderson became the First Black Woman to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court.

In 1977, Andrew Young's United Nations appointment was confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

Today is Oprah Winfrey's birthday.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Vehicle Protection!

GOT THIS FROM SHIRLEY POWERS:

A friend of mine sent this to me. It happened to her friend.

Here is info worth the price of your car..what will the car thieves think of next.?

The car thieves peer through the windshield of your car or truck, write down the VIN from the label on the dash, go to the local car dealership and request a duplicate key, based on the VIN. My friend didn't believe the the email she received, so she called Volvo and pretended she had lost her keys. They told her to just bring in the VIN, and they would cut her one on the spot, and she could order the keyless device if she wanted.

The car dealer's parts department will make a duplicate key from the VIN and collect payment from the thief, who will then return to your car. He doesn't have to break in, or do any damage to the vehicle, or draw attention to himself. All he or she has to do is,walk up to your car, insert the key and off he or she goes to a local chop shop with your vehicle.
Don't believe it?
It is that easy.


To avoid this, simply put some tape (electrical tape, duct tape or medical) across the VIN metal label, located on the dashboard. By law, you cannot remove the VIN, but can cover it so it can't be viewed through the windshield by a car thief. I urge you to gorward this to your friends and family before some car thief steals your car or truck. A simple 3 x 5 business card over the VIN on the inside of the dash, would do the trick.

Shirley Powers

((A FOOTNOTE TO THIS ONE FROM CALVIN: Folks, this makes perfect sense. Your exposed VIN is vulnerable to any car thief that can use it to get a key made. I misplaced the keys to my Honda, and called the dealership about getting a duplicate. They told me I'd have to have the title to get one. I told them, if I could get to the title in the glove compartment, I wouldn't NEED a duplicate key. They said, 'come on down with the VIN and we'll cut you one.'
A convincing woman or a strong-willed man could probably get a key made, simply by making up some situations. COVER UP THE VIN. The car you save, could be your own.

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Black History Every Day: January 28th

On this day in 1938, the First Black Woman was elected to a state legislature.

In 1944, Matthew Henson received a medal as co-discoverer of the North Pole.

In 1986, black astronaut Ronald McNair died in the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger.

Black History Every Day: January 27th

On this day in 1961, Leontyne Price debuted with the Metropolitan Opera in New York.

On this day in 1972, famed Mahalia Jackson passed away.

Monday, January 21, 2008

Financial Prayer Request

FROM MARY CATHY PRIDE:



God is the biggest help in the World.

I claimed it for you - now claim it for me.
God has more than a thousand ways to provide for us, that we know nothing about.
Here is your financial blessing!
It's a simple prayer, you got 30 Seconds?
Don't sleep on this...Someone recently read this for the first time and received exactly enough for a $0 balance on all credit cards.

If you need a financial blessing, continue reading this e-mail.

Heavenly Father, most Gracious and Loving God,
I pray to you that you abundantly bless my family and me.
I know that you recognize, that a family is more than just a mother, father, sister,
brother, husband and wife, but all who believe and trust in You.

GOD, I send up a prayer request for financial blessing for not only the
Person who sent this to me, but for me and all that I have forwarded
This message on to.

And that the power of joined prayer by those who believe and trust in you is more powerful than anything.!

I thank you in advance for your blessings.
God, deliver the person reading this right now from debt and debt burdens.

Release your Godly wisdom that I may be a good steward over all that you have given me GOD, for I know how wonderful and mighty you are and how if we just obey you and walk in your word and have the faith of a mustard seed that you will pour out blessings.

I thank you now Lord for the recent blessings I have received and for the blessings yet to come, because I know you are not done with me yet.

In Jesus name Amen.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

The Loss Of A Loved One - George Carlin

FROM DORIS CALLOWAY:


What a difference a sad event in someone's life makes
GEORGE CARLIN (His wife recently died...)

Isn't it amazing that George Carlin - comedian of the 70's and 80's - could write something so very eloquent...and so very appropriate.

A wonderful Message by George Carlin:

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider freeways , but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much , and pray too seldom.We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have troubl e crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

If you don't send this to at least 8 people....Who cares?

George Carlin

Which Guide To Follow

FROM FLOYD PERRY:


He Knew His Future
*
*"Jesus answered and said unto them, 'Destroy this temple, and in three days
I will raise it up'" (John 2:19, KJV).*

A missionary in Turkey sought to teach the truth of the resurrection of Christ to a group of people.

"I am traveling, and I have reached a place where the road branches off in two ways," he said. "I look for a guide, and find two men - one dead, and the other alive. Which of the two must I ask for direction - the dead or the living?"

"Oh, the living!" cried the people.

"Then," said the missionary, "why send me to Mohammed, who is dead, instead of to Christ, who is alive?"

Jesus is the only person who has ever accurately predicted his own resurrection. He said He would be raised from the dead on the third day after dying on the cross for our sins, and He was!

Further, He was seen on many different occasions after His resurrection - once by as many as 500 people. He still lives today in the hearts of all who have placed their faith in Him, demonstrating His life of love and forgiveness through them.

Whenever men meet the living Christ, they are changed. The whole course of history has been changed because of Him.

"The gospel not only converts the individual, but it also changes society,"
historian Philip Schaff wrote. "Everywhere the gospel has been preached, dramatic change has resulted. It has established standards of hygiene and purity, promoted industry, elevated womanhood, restrained antisocial customs, abolished human sacrifices, organized famine relief, checked tribal wars and changed the social structure of society.

"Born in a manger and crucified as a malefactor, He now controls the destinies of the civilized world and rules a spiritual empire which embraces one-third of the inhabitants of the globe."

1977 versus 2007: 30 Years of Change

1977: Long hair
2007: Longing for hair

1977: KEG
2007: EKG

1977: Acid rock
2007: Acid reflux

1977: Moving to California because it's cool
2007: Moving to Arizona because it's warm

1977: Trying to look like Marlon Brando or Liz Taylor
2007: Trying NOT to look like Marlon Brando or Liz Taylor

1977: Seeds and stems
2007: Roughage

1977: Hoping for a BMW
2007: Hoping for a BM

1977: Going to a new, hip joint
2007: Receiving a new hip joint

1977: Rolling Stones
2007: Kidney Stones

1977: Screw the system
2007: Upgrade the system

1977: Disco
2007: Costco

1977: Parents begging you to get your hair cut
2007: Children begging you to get their heads shaved

1977: Passing the drivers' test
2007: Passing the vision test

1977: Whatever
2007: Depends

Just in case you weren't feeling too old today, this will certainly change things. Each year the staff at Beloit College in Wisconsin puts together a list to
try to give the faculty a sense of the mindset of this year's incoming freshmen. Here's this year's list:

The people who are starting college this fall across the nation were born in 1989.

They are too young to remember the 1st space shuttle blowing up.

Their lifetime has always included AIDS.

Bottle caps have always been screw off and plastic.

The CD was introduced the year they were born.

They have always had an answering machine

They have always had cable.

They cannot fathom not having a remote control.

Jay Leno has always been on the Tonight Show.

Popcorn has always been cooked in the microwave.

They never took a swim and thought about Jaws.

They can't imagine what hard contact lenses are.

They don't know who Mork was or where he was from.

They never heard: "Where's the Beef?", "I'd walk a mile for a Camel", or "de plane, Boss, de plane!"

They do not care who shot J. R. and have no idea who J. R. even is.

McDonald's never came in Styrofoam containers.. before 1977, it was all paper.

They don't have a clue as to how to use a typewriter.

Do you feel old yet? Pass this on to the other old fogies on your
list. Notice the spaces between the lines above.. that's for those of you who have trouble reading..
Have a nice day!!!!! It is good to have friends who know about these things and are still alive and kicking!!!!

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Why GOD allows pain

FROM JACK AND BETSY PIERCE:

This is one of the best explanations of why God allows pain and suffering that I have seen...

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed.

As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation.

They talked about so many things and various subjects.

When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said:

"I don't believe that God exists."


"Why do you say that?" asked the customer. "Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist.

Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people?

Would there be abandoned children?


If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain.

I can't imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things."


The customer thought for a moment,
but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument.

The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop.


Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard.

He looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber:

"You know what? Barbers do not exist."

"How can you say that?" asked the surprised barber. "I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!"

"No!" the customer exclaimed. "Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside."



"Ah, but barbers DO exist! That's what happens when people do not come to me."

"Exactly!" affirmed the customer. "That's the point! God, too, DOES exist!

That's what happens when people do not go to Him and don't look to Him for help.

That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world."


If you think God exists, send this to other people---

If you think God does not exist, ignore it!


BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING TO OTHERS !!!!!

Sunday, January 6, 2008

OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA...

PLEASE PASS THIS ON FROM JOY HANKINS!

Let's All Do Our Part To Make Sure He Goes To The White House!!!

------------------------------------

I know you are asking today,

"How long will it take?"

Somebody's asking..

"How long will prejudice blind the visions of men, darken their understanding, and drive bright-eyed wisdom from her sacred throne?"

Somebody's asking..

"When will wounded justice(lying prostrate on the streets of Selma and Birmingham and communities all over the South) be lifted from this dust of shame to reign supreme among the children of men?"

Somebody's asking..

"When will the radiant star of hope be plunged against the nocturnal bosom of this lonely night, plucked from weary souls with chains of fear and the manacles of death? How long will justice be crucified, and truth bear it?"

I come to say to you this afternoon, however difficult the moment, however frustrating the hour, it will not be long, because

"truth crushed to earth will rise again."

How long? Not long, because

"no lie can live forever."



Martin Luther King, Jr.

March 25, 1965

Subject: Cracked Pot

GOT THIS FROM JOY HANKINS:


An elderly Chinese woman had two large pots, each
hung on the ends of a pole which she carried across her neck.

One of the pots had a crack in it while the other
pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion
of water.

At the end of the long walks from the stream to the
house, the cracked pot arrived only half full.

For a full two years this went on daily, with the
woman bringing home only one and a half pots of
water.

Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its
accomplishments.

But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own
imperfection, and miserable that it could only do
half of what it had been made to do.

After two years of what it perceived to be bitter
failure, it spoke to the woman one day by the stream
"I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my
side causes water to leak out all the way back to
your house."

The old woman smiled, "Did you notice that there are
flowers on your side of the path, but not on the
other pot's side?"

"That's because I have always known about your flaw,
so I planted flower seeds on your side of the path,
and every day while we walk back, you water them."

"For two years I have been able to pick these
beautiful flowers to decorate the table.

Without you being just the way you are, there would
not be this beauty to grace the house."

Each of us has our own unique flaw. But it's the
cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives
together so very interesting and rewarding.

You've just got to take each person for what they
are and look for the good in them.

SO, to all of my crackpot friends, have a great day
and remember to smell the flowers on your side of
the path!

And send this to any or all of your Cracked Pot
friends within 5 minutes and see what happens! Don't
forget the Cracked Pot that sent it to you!