New Year's Resolutions

We got emails today on 2008 New Year's Resolutions that you kept! We received some great feedback including losing weight, getting a private pilot's license, quitting dipping tobacco, and spending more time with God and in His Word.

As you look ahead to 2009 and making some resolutions, tune into Breakfast Radio for "4 Weeks to a New You". Beginning Monday and each weekday at 7:20 listen for tips from the experts in Finances, The Bible, Nutrition and Physical Fitness. More details at www.wcqr.org

Blessings...brian

Best Christmas Presents

We took calls this morning about your best Christmas presents. It wasn't stuff, but people and relationships that meant the most. One retired EMT got a Christmas card from a man who's life he helped save. A dad got a visit from a daughter in college and another lady spent over 50 hours ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. Let me share an email I received this morning.

This morning, the breakfast radio was asking what was your best Christmas present. My best present is also a praise report. Two weeks ago, my 18 year old daughter drove her car over a 20' embankment and flipped it a couple of times, she landed the car against a house. She completely totaled the car. She walked away with nothing more than a cut on her pinky finger. Every morning before my husband leaves for work, he prays for protection over me and the children. God does answer prayers.

YES HE does!

Blessings...brian

A Visit from Santa

Ed Butchart, the Stone Mountain Park "Santa" joined us on Breakfast Radio this morning. Ed has written 2 books, the latest is called "MORE PAGES FROM the RED SUIT diaries". Here's more info on Ed and his ministry.

http://realthingsanta.com/

http://www.revellbooks.com (type in Ed Butchart)

http://www.fodac.org/

http://www.ajc.com/news/content/holidayguide/stories/2007/11/24/butchart_1125.html

Have a Blessed CHRISTmas...brian

Upside of a Downsized Christmas/Santa Visit

I shared part of a story from a magazine I got at church on Sunday. Here's the link to the complete story:

http://tpe.ag.org/Articles2008/4937_Upside.cfm

Join us in the morning at 8:10 for a visit from Santa!!!

Blessings...brian

Mike Huckabee's Christmas Comments

Here's the closing comments from Mike Huckabee on his Fox show over the weekend. I think it's AWESOME!!!

Christmas Reminds Us That God Cares
Saturday, December 20, 2008
By Mike Huckabee


We think of Christmas as a time of year when people have places to go and are surrounded by good friends and loving family. I hope it's that way for you. But the first Christmas wasn't like that at all.

It is the story of a lonely, scared, unmarried and pregnant teenage girl about the age of 14, who on a long trip from home with a slightly older teenager she barely knew was forced to give birth to her child in a barn without the comfort and assistance of any medical personnel or even family members.

She must have felt totally abandoned and hopelessly forgotten. It was in this incredibly unlikely, unconventional and humble setting that God chose to deliver his message of love and he decided to do it by becoming a person.

If people feel abandoned and forgotten, they should be of good cheer. They are not alone and the one who identifies most with them is the one who can be of most help to them now.
Far better than a government bailout is a God bailout.

His doesn't mean that he removes the consequences of our actions from us or takes us out of all our circumstances. In fact, His approach isn't a bailout at all — it's a "bail in."

He doesn't always change the circumstances we face, but he bails right in the midst of us and promises that we will not be alone or abandoned.

Christmas is not so much our doing something for God, but his doing something for us: Coming to us and doing it in person.

I realize you might be Jewish, Muslim, Hindu or have no particular faith. It's not my intention to offend, but simply to explain why Christmas really means so much to those of us who are followers of Christ. It is a reminder that God does care and he comes to us and does it in person.
So accept from me a sincere and heartfelt Merry Christmas.

Ditto Huck...Blessings...brian

Gloria Concert

Shaun Groves joined us this morning to talk about the Gloria Christmas concert this Sunday night at First Baptist in Kingsport. The concert also features Travis Cottrell and Cindy Morgan. For more info check out this link:

http://www.fbckpt.org/templates/cusfbckingsport/default.asp?id=34133

Blessings...brian

Stocking Stuffer Thursday and Shaun Groves

Listen for Mike Riddles to play "Merry Christmas Baby" by Nicole C. Mullen between 5:30 and 6 today. Caller 8 wins the FINAL Stocking Stuffer Thursday prize pack, courtesy of Word Label Group.

Shaun Groves joins us in the morning at 8:10 to talk about the Gloria concert at First Baptist in Kingsport this Sunday.

Blessings...brian

Stocking Stuffer Thursday

Listen in the morning at 7:20 for us to announce the Christmas Winning Song! We'll even give you a 30 minute time frame of when Mike Riddles will play it back. Caller 8 wins all this:

BarlowGirl - Home For Christmas

Point of Grace - Tennessee Christmas: A Holiday Collection

Faith Hill - Joy To The World

pureNRG - A pureNRG Christmas

Nicole C. Mullen - Christmas in Black & White

Sandi Patty - The Voice of Christmas

Various Artists - Absolute Favorite Christmas

Various Artists - Absolute Favorite Christmas For Kids

Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir - Christmas At The Brooklyn Tabernacle

George Huff - My Christmas EP!

Jaci Velasquez - Christmas

David Phelps - O Holy Night

Diamond Rio - The Star Still Shines

Josh Groban - Noel

Randy Travis - Songs of the Season

David Phelps - One Wintry Night

Merry Little Christmas Box Set (Kids)

Various Artists - Wow Christmas (Red)

Various Artists - Wow Christmas (Green)

Various Artists - Mary Did You Know?

PLUS a pureNRG cinch bag

Group 1 Crew "Forgive Me" t-shirt - size XL

Point of Grace "Live Love Give" t-shirt - size L

Listen and win...brian

Christmas Traditions and Peanut Butter Balls

This morning you shared some of your family's Christmas traditions. We heard everything from sleeping under the tree to 50 cent parties, baking a birthday cake for Jesus and lighting candles for lost loved ones. If you have a unique Christmas tradition, drop us an email at breakfastradio@wcqr.org

I got to thank my landlord Kim! She heard us talking about Peanut Butter Balls and brought me some by yesterday. Thanks Kim and yes I'll share with Mike.

Blessings...brian

Stacy's Ticket!

This morning Mike revealed that his wife Stacy got a speeding ticket Friday. She decided the safest place to let Mike know was in Sunday School yesterday! I don;t know about you, but I'm going to their Sunday School next week to find out what happens next!!!

I also saw a movie Saturday that really disturbed and troubled me, but in a good way, if that makes sense. "Boy in the Striped Pajamas" is set during the Holocaust and probably the last time a theater was that quiet after a movie I saw was the "Passion of the Christ". This is a very powerful movie, but NOT for young kids, it is rated PG-13. Check out the Plugged in Review on the Breakfast Radio page, but watch out, it does have some spoiler alerts.

Blessings...brian

Fruitcake

Asking the age old question, fruitcake...dessert or doorstop? We got calls split on the topic this morning. About half were fruitcake fans, while the other half fruitcake can't stand! Here's a link to Wikipedia on fruitcake. I'll eat a lot of things, but I say NO to fruitcake!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fruit_cake

Blessings...brian

Stocking Stuffer Thursday!

Listen between 3:30 and 4 this afternoon for Third Day's "Away In A Manger". When you hear Mike Riddles play it, be caller 8 to win a Third Day prize pack to help stuff your stockings fro Christmas!!!

Tomorrow we'll tackle the mystery of fruitcake!

Blessings...brian

Coalition For Kids

The Season of Love campaign is underway, check out the details at www.wcqr.org

One of the ministries we've partnered with is Coalition For Kids. Last Friday my wife Lorren and I went shopping with 12 year old Tobi. It was part of their Shopping 4 Others event at Walmart. We had a blast, it's been the highlight of my first TN Christmas!

Blessings...brian

Mike is BACK!

I saw something awesome this morning after Breakfast Radio, Mike Perry in his office! Mike is back from Arkansas after his dad's funeral. Thanks for your prayers for the Perry's and please keep them in your prayers!

Blessings...brian

The Senior

This morning I talked to Mike Flynt, the 59 year old College Football Linebacker. Mike has written a new book about his experience. I'm thinking, sounds like a GREAT movie idea! Find out more at www.mikeflynt.com

Blessings...brian

MERCYME AND The Bull

This morning I talked with Mike Scheuchzer, guitarist with MercyMe. Check out this link for the Cover Tune Grab Bag videos!

http://mercyme.org/blog/category/cover-tunes-grab-bag/

Also John "The Bull" Bramlett stopped by with Steve McAuley of the FCA. 10 kids have made commitments to Christ since "Bull" has been in town! He's demonstrating (on me) how a minor league player he played with grabbed a manager and bit part of his ear off, decades before Mike Tyson did the same thing...lol!

Blessings...brian

Mike Perry

If you were wondering where Mike was this morning, his father passed away last night. Here's a part of an email he sent us.

My dad passed away a little before midnight last night. Stacy and I are on our way to Arkansas this morning. We’ll be gone for about a week.
Please pray for my family during this time.
My dad was sick for along time and is in much better shape today than he was yesterday. I’m sure he’s getting a tour of heaven today. How cool is that!

Please Mike and his family in your prayers...brian

Christmas Trees

This morning we talked about Christmas trees...real or artificial. We took an informal WCQR poll and by 60 to 40 percent you prefer artificial trees. We also gave some pros and cons of each.

Real Christmas Trees:

Pros:
Fresh scent
Many different varieties to choose from
The "traditional" choice
Real trees are renewable and recyclable
Absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen
Christmas Tree farms support the economy and provide jobs

Cons:
Require continual maintenance
Can become a fire hazard if not properly maintained
Shed needles
Can only be left up for a limited time
Less economical (it's a yearly expense)
Transporting the tree and disposing of it later

Artificial Christmas Trees:

Pros:
More economical (usually a one time cost)
Flame retardant
No maintenance required
Can be left up as long as you want
No mess from needles
Large variety to choose from

Cons:
Can look fake and plastic
Made from nonrenewable petroleum
Artificial trees are not recyclable or biodegradable
Many artificial trees are made overseas, so there is no benefit to the local economy
Time needed to assemble the tree
Requires storage space in the home
If not packed-up correctly, creepy crawlies may get into the box while it is stored

From the website:http://www.christmaslightsanddecorations.com/real-V-artificial-trees.aspx

Blessings...brian

Christmas Movies and Shows

This morning we asked about your favorite Christmas movies and shows. Your answers included:

It's A Wonderful Life

Charlie Brown Christmas

Santa Claus The Movie

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

The Christmas Story

Christmas Vacation

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Nestor the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey (pictured)

Blessings...brian

BLACK Friday!

My first Black Friday, probably my last...lol!!! I had a great time meeting you this morning as you were taking advantage of all the bargains! Thanks Lifeway in Johnson City for letting me pass out coupons and thanks Shannon and Hardees for the coupons.

I'm still full from yesterday, I'm going home for a nap!

Blessings...brian

Thanksgiving 2008

My first Thanksgiving in TN! This morning we talked about things you could and shouldn't eat from "Men's Health" magazine, here's the link:

http://www.menshealth.com/eatthis/holidays/Thanksgiving.php

Dear Abby had a prayer in her column today, I thought I'd share it with you.

As a final thought, I'll repeat my Thanksgiving prayer; perhaps you will want to use it at your table today:
O heavenly Father:
We thank thee for food and remember the hungry.
We thank thee for health and remember the sick.
We thank thee for friends and remember the friendless.
We thank thee for freedom and remember the enslaved.
May these remembrances stir us to service
That thy gifts to us may be used for others. Amen.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and may God bless you and yours. -- LOVE, ABBY

Ditto Abby, Blessings...brian

Black Friday

Here's some links we mentioned this morning regarding "Black Friday".

www.blackfriday.info

www.bfads.net

www.blackfday.com

www.black-friday.com


Blessings...brian

PRIZES!!!!

Listen this week to win prizes in honor of National Bible Week! Win "the Voice" New Testament and the new Jeremy Camp cd SPEAKING LOUDER THAN BEFORE.

Also, we'll ask a question tomorrow about our interview this morning with Jeremy Camp. The winner get a Jeremy Camp FAN pack with a hoodie, t-shirt, tote bag, cd, mug and Bible.

AND...listen for the Christmas Express Sounder to win a family 4 pack of passes for next Monday's ride around the Bristol Motor Speedway in Lights in a Green Coach Bus with DecembeRadio.

PLUS I'll be out on Black Friday...more about that later!

Blessings...brian

Thanksgiving Tips

Mike challenged me this morning calling me Martha not Tony Stewart, just because I had some Thanksgiving tips. I must admit, I don't cook, but I EAT! Here's a list of some of our tips this morning courtesy of http://www.recipematcher.com/

Thanksgiving Tips
Top Ten Tips for a Stress Free and Enjoyable Thanksgiving! With all the fun and excitement of spending time with family and friends comes the preparation and hard work to make a successful Thanksgiving Day. We here at RecipeMatcher have put together the following tips to make your Thanksgiving unbeatable and fulFILLING (no pun intended)!

1. Prepare early and plan ahead. Take one day to sit down and write out your holiday menu. Make your list of ingredients (or go to your ePantry on RecipeMatcher and use the printable list function to take your list to the grocery store). If you have time, clip some coupons and head to the store to purchase ingredients. By planning ahead of time, you will reduce trips to the grocery store during this busy time.

2. Specify the time guests should arrive at your home. Include a cushion in the time, for example, if you would like to serve dinner at 5:00 p.m., inform guests to arrive at 4:00 p.m. This way, guests will have ample time to socialize and even help.

3. Be clear with out of town guests. Inform them if they can or can’t stay at your home. If they can’t, provide them with recommendations regarding hotels and if you are able, make reservations for them.

4. Keep it simple. Plans for meals and decorations should be simple with the intent of making guests feel comfortable; this is an opportunity to enjoy time with friends and family and not to show off.

5. Encourage people to share. Plan a few activities that will help people share what they are thankful for. Ask guests ahead of time to share what they are thankful for during dinner or encourage an afternoon walk.

6. The turkey: it is after all, Turkey Day, so ask your butcher how large the turkey should be for the number of guests you will have. Order the turkey ahead of time and schedule a pick up for Wednesday or Thursday morning.

7. Lighten the load, potluck style. Ask some guests to volunteer to make some dishes and bring them to your home.

8. Get your gear in place! Think through the number of guests you will have and the number of chairs, tables and place settings you will need, and always include a few extra place settings.

9. The day before Thanksgiving, prepare desserts and bread. You can also prepare side dish ingredients by pre measuring ingredients and chopping veggies, place them into bags and this will save precious time on Thursday.

10. On the day of, prepare and cook the Turkey. While the turkey is cooking, assemble your side dishes and bake them while the Turkey is set and resting.

Enjoy! brian

Adoption Month/5 Happiest Jobs

We talked to artist Nate Huss this morning about November being National Adoption Month. Nate has 7 other siblings, all adopted. He says it's like a bag of Skittles at the Huss dinner table.

Check out more info on adoption at Nate's website www.natehuss.com

Also the University of Chicago did a study..."Job Satisfaction in the United States". According to the study the top occupations in general happiness are:

1. Clergy

2. Firefighters

3. Transportation, ticket, and reservations agents such as travel agents

4. Architects

5. Special-Ed Teachers

Blessings...brian

Amy Grant in Greeneville

One word...WOW! What a great concert and a great ride down memory lane. Mike and Stacy Perry, Randy and Paige Pierce, Tiger and Paige Brooks along with my wife Lorren went to the show last night. It was a night that may NEVER be repeated again. The band was great, the songs were great and Amy was great, she turns 48 next week! The concert reminded me the power of a song...the power to move and inspire and change you and sometimes just to laugh and reflect. Thanks Amy for a night I'll treasure for a LONG time!

Blessings...brian

ps...if you attended the concert, drop us an email and let us know your thoughts (breakfastradio@wcqr.org)

Artist Nate Huss joins us on tomorrow's show at 8:10 to talk about National Adoption Month.

140 pound weight loss to join Marines

This morning we shared the story of Ulysses Milana who lost 140 pounds to join the Marines. Here's a link to his story.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,453631,00.html

Amy Grant is in Greeneville tonight, we'll share stories tomorrow morning.

Blessings...brian

In a down economy, lipstick still being bought!

Mike did a story today about the economy and although it's shaky right now, women are still buying lipstick. We asked you and you said yes. Lipstick is a cheap way to keep yourself looking good and when you look good, you feel better. We talked to several women, including a Mary Kay rep and they all said the same thing. Here's a recent story from the U.P.I. that backs up the lipstick claim:

That cute little $280 top may be getting passed over as the U.S. economy sours, but women may be buying more lipstick, market researchers say.
One New Yorker opted not to pick up that top, figuring she shouldn't tax her credit card and "exercise some restraint," The New York Times (NYSE:NYT) reported Monday.
But at the cosmetics mecca Sephora, Betsy Stein opted to buy a lipstick or two for about $40.
"That's far less than $280," she commented, bearing out a theory proposed by Leonard Lauder, chairman of Estee Lauder Cos. (NYSE:EL), when he saw his company selling more lipstick after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
His hypothesis: When times are shaky, sales get a bump up when women want to boost their mood with relatively inexpensive lipstick purchases instead of dropping $500 for shoes.
Now, with the economy on the cusp of recession, several cosmetic houses are gearing up for a big year in lip color for two reasons.
First, they hope for a comeback for the lipstick, which is more expensive than a gloss. Second, the companies believe in down times women will continue to splurge on their lips -- even as they wear last year's styles.

Blessings...brian

Johnson City named first-ever National Bible City/Lunch with Third Day

The National Bible Association has named Johnson City TN the 2008 National Bible City! Tom Torbett and Dick Heydt stopped by this morning to talk about this honor. This honor corresponds with National Bible Week Nov 23-30 where Churches and organizations encourage people to read the bible. National Bible week dates back to 1940, find out more at:

http://www.nationalbible.org/

Last night at the Third Day show I mentioned a few upcoming events. Here are the events and websites:

E-Women 09 www.ewomen.net

Music Boat 09 www.musicboatonline.com

Camp Electric www.campelectric.com

One other note...Thank you Firehouse for hosting Third Day for lunch yesterday!

Blessings...

brian

Making a STAND!

We shared the story of 69 year old Phyllis Burgess who wanted to stand up for traditional marriage in California. What follows in this video made me fear for her safety, but she would not be moved. Watch this all the way through and then listen to what the newscaster says at the end.

Here's a link to the story including the video.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,450884,00.html

Blessings...brian

Ring the Bell!

This morning Major James Edmonds and Chris Deckard of the Johnson City Salvation Army stopped by to tell us about the work of the Army. Last year over 1200 families were assisted and this year 1500 families are already signed up for help this holiday season. One way you can help is by ringing a bell and one their kettle locations. You can call them if you are interested at 926-2101.

Please keep in your prayers the families of the teens involved in the wreck going to school yesterday. One was killed and 2 injured on their way to Sullivan South High School.

Blessings...brian

Veterans Day

Thanks...brian

First Puppies

This morning we asked you to play advisor to the new first family. President-Elect Obama has promised his girls a new pooch when they move to the White House. We wanted to know what breeds you would suggest. The following is your list of doggies:

Schnauzer

Shih Tzu

Labrador

Golden Retriever

Mastif

Dachshund

Great Dane

St. Bernard

Labradoodle (pictured)

Blessings...brian

Happy 90th Birthday Billy Graham

This morning we talked with David Aikman about the life and influence of Billy Graham. David is a former Time correspondent and first met Billy 33 years ago. I've read his book and it is fascinating!

Blessings...brian

National Men Make Dinner Day

Things were going along good till I mentioned to Mike that today is "National Men Make Dinner Day", be quiet he said, my wife may hear you! I mentioned this on the air last year and it transformed my marriage! My wife loved it! Here's a link for more info, good luck guys!

http://www.menmakedinnerday.com/home/index.php

Blessings...brian

Presidental Prayer Team

Check out this link to sign up and pray for our new President-Elect Barack Obama.

http://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/site/PageServer?pagename=77days_signup

I signed up this morning...brian

Billy Graham and elections

Here was a question submitted to Billy Graham and his response.

People keep urging me to vote but I think it's just a waste of time. I care what happens to our country and all that, but I don't think one vote makes any difference. And anyway, Jesus never said anything about voting, did He? - S.F.

A: Jesus didn't live in a democracy; the people of His day couldn't vote and they had no choice about who would rule them. Decades before Jesus' birth, the Romans had invaded that part of the world and they maintained their power by brute force.

But Jesus did teach us to be good citizens, and to work for a better world. The people of His day couldn't do much to change their world, but He said they should do whatever they could - and so should we. "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's," Jesus told His listeners when they asked Him if they should pay their taxes (Mark 12:17). The Bible also tells us to pray for those who are involved in government, "that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:2).

Let me ask you the same question I've asked others who say they aren't going to the polls because their vote won't matter: What would happen if everyone felt the way you do? You know the answer: In time, our democracy would come to an end. Don't take our freedoms for granted, and don't take our system of government lightly.

Ask God to guide you as you vote - and then make the effort to get to the polls during this

election. And once the election is over, pray for those who have been elected, that they may seek God's will for our nation - and do it.

Please vote...brian

WEEKEND!!! and STUFF!

I took my mother-in-law back home this weekend after she spent a week with us. That's the first time in 20 years of marriage that she's visited for that length of time. We had a great time and I think she did!

Saw at least 12 VA State troopers on 81 yesterday, lots of people pulled over and gas around Damascus VA $2.19!!!

My mom fixed a turkey Saturday, I guess it was a Thanksgiving practice. It was great, including her macaroni salad...NOBODY makes it better! The WV Mountaineers won...it was a GREAT weekend.

John McCain is in town today, one of his last stops on the campaign stump that is almost over. Please remember to pray, then vote tomorrow. I think it will be a record turnout at the polls!

I needed that extra hour of sleep, but I still get bummed when its dark at 5:30.

Blessings...brian

Congrats to Sandy!

Sandy Van Gerpen of Elizabethton was the grand prize winner in our Third Day Scramble contest! She wins a flip cam along with tickets and back stage passes for the concert November 13th!

Check out the Halloween alternatives at www.wcqr.org and have a great weekend!

The picture is my cousin Christian. He was born premature earlier this year, but as you can see he is a miracle baby!!!

Blessings...brian

Top 10 Predictions No Matter Who Wins the Election

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.
and God approves this message!
ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CHARGE

Thanks to my friend Debra for the email!
Blessings...brian

Steve Russo and Halloween

Author and evangelist Steve Russo joined us this morning to talk about Halloween. He wrote a book about 10 years ago "Halloween...What's A Christian To Do?". For more info on his book and ministry, check out his website:

http://www.realanswers.com/halloweenexperience/index.html

Blessings...brian

Wildcats in the HOUSE!!!

This morning we talked to Steve Russo about a book her wrote with his daughter about "High School Musical". Here's a link to his website:

http://www.realanswers.com/

Steve joins us again in the morning at 8:10 to talk about his Halloween book.

Blessings...brian

Snow and Politicked!

This morning we got several calls reporting SNOW!!! I can't believe it, snow already. I also shared info about Ed Young's TV show that I watched yesterday. Please take about a half hour and watch this! Here's the link:

http://www.edyoung.com/special_offer_pol.php

8 days till election day....brian

Big WV win and Free Tacos!!!

My morning started rough! I overslept and woke up at the time I usually leave to do Breakfast Radio. I stayed up and watched 2 big games! WV beat Auburn 34-17 on ESPN Thursday Night Football. That was a HUGE win for Coach Stew and the 'Eers!

Here's a picture of QB Pat White (an Alabama native)celebrating a win over the Tigers last night!

The Rays also won game 2 of the World Series and we all get free tacos? Here's the link about that story:

http://www.tacobell.com/stealabasestealataco/

Congrats to Jessica and Ben Green, the Grand Prize Winners in our Wedding Day Memories contest. Get all the details on the Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference at www.wcqr.org

Blessings...brian

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Lori Hamilton, RN and Director of Community Health and Wellness at MSHA joined us this morning to talk about Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some facts include: there is no known cause of breast cancer, most women who get breast cancer have no known risk factor except being a woman and getting older, men can get breast cancer, early detection 5 year survival rates are 98%!

Lori also reminded women not to walk this road alone, support groups are out there to help. A couple of great websites are:

http://msha.com/ and www.komen.org

Blessings...brian

Crib Recall

This is the recall we talked about this morning.

Delta Enterprises is voluntarily recalling nearly 1.6 million older versions of its drop-side cribs after two infant deaths.
The company says about 985,000 drop-side cribs made between 1995 and 2005 require safety pegs that consumers may have lost during reassembly.
Another 600,000 cribs have spring-pegs that can become worn out after many uses.
Both infants suffocated in their cribs. In one instance, there was no safety peg and when the crib's side detached, it left a gap the infant got stuck in. In the second instance, the infant died in a similar fashion when a spring-peg failed to lock and the side detached.
The recall doesn't affect any cribs in retail inventory now.
The company has set up a Web site at www.cribrecallcenter.com. Consumers can also call 1-800-876-5304.

Blessings...brian

2 weeks to go!

We are 2 weeks away from an election that has felt like it's been going on for YEARS! This election has been a long one for me. We mentioned about praying for the election and here's a great website to give you direction.

http://www.ndptf.org/election/

Here's a picture of new "Wrap" artist Jeremy Camp, actually I'm trying to steal his wrap!

Blessings...brian

Rays WIN!!!

The Tampa Bay Rays won the ALCS last night, beating the defending champs the Boston Red Sox 3-1 in game 7. The Rays will meet the Phillies in the World Series beginning Wednesday.

I grew up loving baseball, but the strikes and steroids over the years have turned me against the game I loved. The Rays may bring me back. The worst to first story is awesome, they are the ultimate underdogs. This is the ONLY winning season they've ever had!!!

I was working in Princeton WV when Tampa brought the Rays to town as an Appy League team, so I've always had a soft spot in my heart for them. I worked some games as the P.A. announcer and spent lots of time at Hunnicutt Field. I've always enjoyed calling the Princeton team the P-RAYS....uuummmm...PRAYS!

This Wednesday I'll be cheering on the team no one thought would be where they are, playing on the biggest field for the biggest prize in baseball! I can see the book and movie already!

Go Rays...brian

YouthQuake

We heard this week that WinterJam will NOT be coming to the Tri-cities this year, yeah I know a bummer! REMEMBER YouthQuake is tomorrow at Winged Deer Park in Johnson City! Tickets are still $10 today, but go up to $14 at the gate tomorrow.

See ya there...brian

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/bm~doc/youthquake.pdf

Boss's Day...oops!

Got to work today and found out it was Boss's Day. If you forgot, like I did, check out this info from Wikipedia.

Boss's Day (also known as Bosses Day or National Boss Day) is a secular holiday celebrated[citation needed] on October 16 in the United States. It has traditionally been a day for employees to thank their boss for being kind and fair throughout the year. The holiday has been the source of some controversy and criticism in the United States, where it is often mocked as a Hallmark Holiday. Recently, sites like Hallmark have recognized the holiday with a contemporary spin.

Patricia Bays Haroski registered "National Boss's Day" with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 1958. She was working as a secretary for State Farm Insurance Company in Deerfield, Illinois at the time and chose October 16 because it was the birthday of her boss, who happened to be her father.
Four years later in 1962, Illinois Governor Otto Kerner backed Haroski's registration and officially proclaimed the day.
National Boss's Day has become an international celebration in recent years and now is observed in countries such as Australia and South Africa.
Hallmark did not offer a Boss's Day card for sale until 1979, but increased the size of its National Boss Day line by 90 percent in 2007 by creating collections of new and innovative cards.

National Boss's Day is usually celebrated by presenting one's boss with a small gift or greeting card. It is also customary to treat one's boss with kindness, very similar to a birthday.

Happy Boss's Day...brian

20 Qualities of Godly Leaders

1. Respected.
2. Faithful to marriage.
3. Even-tempered.
4. Self-disciplined.
5. Friendly and accessible.
6. Knowledgeable about what they talk about.
7. Not given to drunkenness.
8. Not pushy or overbearing.
9. Not petty or quarrelsome.
10. Not driven by money or things.
11. A good manager of their home.
12. Attentive to their spouse and children.
13. Honest and humble.
14. Wise.
15. Fair with others.
16. Committed to what is good.
17. Devoted to what is right.
18. Empowered by what is true.
19. Strong and steadfast in their faith.
20. Able to encourage and correct.

The Apostle Paul
Adapted from 1 Timothy 3:2-7 and Titus 1:6-9

blessings...brian

BACK!

A couple of days off! I enjoyed my mini vacation. I went to Lynchburg VA on Friday and saw some friends. We then headed to NC and spent the night with some dear friends. Saturday we were up and ready to go racing! We went to Charlotte for the NASCAR race, thought Tony would win, he didn't...it was still a great time! Sunday up early for church and then on the road for Pigeon Forge for an overnight stay. I owed my wife a trip to her favorite restaurant, The Apple Barn. We went, we waited, we feasted! Alarm off at 3:30 this morning, back to reality!

Blessings...brian

ps...Fall Foliage is brilliant towards Cherokee NC!

Couple of days off!

I'm looking forward to a couple of days off! I'm taking a couple of vacation days to visit friends in Virginia and go the NASCAR race in Charlotte. I'll be back on Tuesday with plenty of stories and hopefully a win from #20!

We also talked today about the best places to check out the fall foliage and most agree a trip to Boone via the Blue Ridge Parkway is a winner. Damascus Virginia was also another suggestion.

Here's a link for the parkway:

http://www.nps.gov/blri/

Happy trails...brian

Fields of Faith

This morning we talked about the annual Fields of Faith event going on across the country and here in the Tri-cities. The event is sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and the inspiration comes from 16 year old King Josiah in 2 Chronicles Chapter 34. To find out more, check out their website:

www.fieldsoffaith.com

Blessings...brian
2 Chronicles 34:33

Bible across America/Count Chocula

Mike Perry and myself went to STL yesterday in Johnson City and got to take part in a cool project. We each got to print a verse that will go in a special NIV Bible traveling across America. My verse is Genesis 17:13.





We also talked cereal this morning, I was a fan of Count Chocula, Mike loved the Golden Crisps. We both are trying to watch what we eat, so no sugar cereal for us!

I may have to buy a box just for old times sake!

Blessings...brian

Bible Across America

Americans coast to coast will have a chance to hand-copy a verse of scripture to appear in a special edition of the NIV Bible.

To mark the 30th anniversary of the NIV, publisher Zondervan has launched a campaign to create the unique edition which will include 31,173 verses each handwritten by a different person.

The Bible will travel around the country through February, then go to the Smithsonian. Zondervan will produce and sell versions of the Bible later in 2009.

The Bible is in Johnson City today from noon-3 at STL, 522 Princeton Road. More info can be found at www.bibleacrossamerica.com

Blessings...brian

Sharathon day 2

It's day 2 of the fall Sharathon. As of this post we are nearing the 1/2 way point, both in pledges and time. You can pledge at 888-477-5676 or online at www.wcqr.org

The theme is God Never Changes, check out this email I received today!

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations...Deuteronomy 7:9

God is God. Accept Who He is, and that He is the one slated to play His role in your life, not you. If you keep trying to take over for Him, practice letting go one scenario at a time, and just rest in knowing He's got your best interest at heart

Blessings...brian

Sharathon

Tomorrow is Day 1 of my first Sharathon at WCQR. I'm excited because of the theme "God Never Changes"! Think of that....seasons change, feelings change, prices change, politicians change...BUT GOD NEVER CHANGES! Pray for us as Sharathon starts and if God lays it on your heart to support us, thanks!

Today's Power Verse:
(Hebrews 13:8 NIV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Blessings...brian

Fireproof #4

Thanks to our friends at Chick-fil-A, I got to see the movie Fireproof Friday night. I laughed, I cried, I was moved! This movie makes me want to be a better man and a better husband! Incredible, please go see it if you have not. Take someone who's struggling with their marriage to see it. The movie came in 4th this weekend, not bad considering the top 3 are playing on at least 2,500 screens compared to 839 for Fireproof!!! Go see it, you won't be disappointed!

Mike made a point on Breakfast Radio this morning that this movie should be mandatory for all couples before they get married...I agree!!!

Never leave your partner behind...brian

FIREPROFF OPENS TODAY!!!

Fireproof opens today and we had an interview with Kirk Cameron on Breakfast Radio. I'm going to see it tonight and can't wait! I'll let you know my thoughts on Monday.

Here's the trailer to the movie!

Blessings...brian

Fireproof

The new movie "Fireproof" opens tomorrow and I can't wait to see it! It's from the makers of "Facing the Giants" and I know it will be a quality God-honoring movie! Tomorrow on Breakfast Radio we'll have an interview with Kirk Cameron about the movie. Kirk was also on the Today show this week talking about kissing only his wife. Check out the story at this link:


http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26851749



The "Fireproof" website is:


http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/



Blessings...brian

See You At The Pole

WOW! What a morning. We took call after call of young people gathered around their flag poles prior to school...PRAYING! The annual "See You At The Pole" is something I look forward to every year! This year..WOW, my first in the Tri-Cities and what a turn out! We heard from about 2 dozen schools and even had a report of one teen giving their heart to the Lord at one of the schools! I can't list all the schools, but unofficially we had reports of around 1600 young people praying at their school flag poles this morning.

You can report your school at the website www.syatp.com

Blessings...brian

Helping Texas!!!

This morning we talked with a pastor's wife from Houston about the needs after Hurricane Ike. Heritage Baptist is doing a collection drive thru Thursday (see below). We can pray and we can give to help our brothers and sisters in need. Speaking of praying, tomorrow is "See You at the Pole". Teens and young people will gather at their flagpoles and pray!!! Listen for "pray by pray" coverage in the morning on Breakfast Radio...and don't forget to call in your report at
(888)477-5676.

Heritage Baptist Church, 1512 John Exum Parkway, Johnson City, will be accepting relief items for the shelters and hospitals in Houston.
They will be receiving items from 10am - 7pm, September 22-25.
Items needed are:
Bottled Water
Canned Goods
Baby Formula
Baby Food
Diapers
For more information, please call the church at 926-2139.

Pigeon Forge Winner

This morning on Breakfast Radio, we called Tammy Pillar of Greeneville to let her know that of the hundreds of entries received during "Listener Appreciation Days", she was the winner of the Pigeon Forge Giveaway valued at over $1,000! I met Tammy and her family, including her son Michael, during the Little Caesars broadcast in Greeneville. Michael had the cutest thing, a Johnny Appleseed prayer!

This morning also kicked off the "FIREPROOF" movie "Double Date" Contest. Register, then listen to win at 7:20a, 8:20a, and 5:20p all this week. Details at www.wcqr.org

Blessings...brian

ps...I took my wife to the Fender Farms Corn Maize this weekend, we had a BLAST, I highly recommend it for your family, youth group, school group... Details at:
http://www.fendersmaze.com/

TIRED!!!

Well I did it. I stayed up and watched my WV Mountaineers play Colorado on ESPN last night. This morning it was tough getting up. Game over at midnight, alarm rings at 3:30 and a 17-14 loss! Weekend plans...SLEEP!!!!!



Don't forget to register for the "Double Date" movie tickets for the Fireproof movie. Info at http://www.wcqr.org/



This picture sums up how I feel right now



BleZZings...
brian