"BREAKFAST RADIO" 88.3 WCQR

Dr Tim Lee

2010-07-07T06:21:00.000-07:00

Vietnam Vet, American Patriot and Christian Evangelist Tim Lee joined us on Breakfast Radio this morning. Here's a link to the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

The Thomas Hovatter Lymphedema Awareness Day

2010-06-18T09:35:00.000-07:00

Patti Graybeal and Saundra Kelley joined us to talk about Lymphedema and the special event taking place tomorrow at Hosanna Fellowship Church in Johnson City. Here's a link to the podcast page:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

King College Dream Voting

2010-05-25T08:52:00.000-07:00

Voting is now open for the King College Dream contest! You can vote till Friday at midnight and remember it's one vote, per person, per email address!

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/voting-college-dream.shtml

Blessings...brian

King College Dream Finalists

2010-05-17T06:30:00.001-07:00

The 5 finalists were announced this morning for the College Dream contest with King College. The five are:

Melissa Larkin of Church Hill TN
Sharon Jackson of Gray TN
Donna Baker of Elizabethton TN
Paula Compton of Meadowview VA
and Cindy Smith of Midway TN

Check out their interviews on the podcast page and get to know them. Your vote next week will help decide the winner!

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

Tony Nolan and Jason Gray interviews

2010-05-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

Catch up on the interviews we've had this week. Jason and Tony both shared powerful stories of how God is working in their lives! Check out the podcasts at:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Have a GREAT weekend...brian

Dan Dean interview

2010-05-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

Dan Dean of Phillips, Craig & Dean joined us this morning. Here's a link to the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

The Generous Mr. Lovewell

2010-05-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

Bart Millard of MercyMe was out guest this morning. We talked about the new CD out this week, THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL, a big milestone for "I Can Only Imagine", and baseball! Here's a link to the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Have a great weekend...brian

E-Women Early Bird Ends Today!!!

2010-04-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

The E-Women Early Bird Discount ends Today!!! Get all the info here:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/ewomen-conference.shtml

We also talked to Proverbs 31 gal Lysa Terkeurst today, here's a link to the podcast:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Have a great weekend... brian

5th Annual College Dream

2010-04-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

WCQR and King College kicked off the 5th annual College Dream contest this morning on Breakfast Radio. The deadline to enter is May 7. Get details here:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/college-dream.shtml

Blessings...brian

Drive-Thru Difference Day

2010-04-02T06:25:00.000-07:00

The next WCQR Drive-Thru Difference Day is this Monday! What a great way to kick off someone's day, week and month and it falls on the day after Easter! Find all the details, including the letter here:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/drivethru-difference.shtml

Have a GREAT Easter...HE's ALIVE!!!

brian

Spring Sharathon

2010-03-29T07:05:00.001-07:00

Thank you so much for your support of WCQR during Sharathon!!! The goal was $333,000 to be full funded, and as of this morning the pledges jumped to just under $323,000!!! It was a record breaking Sharathon for your radio station!!! Thanks again and if you missed your chance to pledge you can still pledge at:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/interact/spring-sharathon.shtml

Blessings...brian

Music Boat Text To Win and a few other things.....

2010-03-12T06:25:00.000-08:00

Lots to remind you of today:

#1 Final day to text to win for a chance to go on the Music Boat 2010. Text "freecruise" to 66937

#2 Final Food Drive this week at Food City on Volunteer Parkway in Bristol from 3-6

#3 TobyMac in concert at Viking Hall in Bristol tomorrow at 6p

#4 "SPRING FORWARD" Weekend. Daylight Savings Time begins so set your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed Saturday night, also check the batteries in your smoke detectors.

#5 Monday is our Day of Praise. From 7-9 on Breakfast Radio and again from 4-6 w/ Mike Riddles, call us and share briefly what God is doing in your life.

Have a great weekend, I'm going to try and get better...brian

Second Harvest Gala & Taste

2010-03-09T06:25:00.001-08:00

Scott Kinney of Second Harvest Food Bank stopped by this morning and talked about the upcoming Gala & Taste on March 27 to support the work of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast TN. To find out more, check out this link:

http://www.netfoodbank.org/50.html

Blessings...brian

Food CIty 500 Cans Race Week!

2010-03-08T06:35:00.000-08:00

It's the WCQR Food City 500 Cans race week!

Join the WCQR pit crew at various Food City locations March 8th - 12th from 3pm -6pm as we collect non-perishable food items to help replenish the shelves of Second Harvest Food Bank.

Our Goal is to see which Tri-Cities location can raise the most food then Food City will Match it!

At each remote broadcast WCQR will be giving away Ford Fan Friday Tickets and a pair of tickets to the Nationwide race at Bristol Motor Speedway on March 20th.

One daily winner will be entered to win 2 tickets to the Food City 500 on March 21!

Join WCQR at the Food City Locations Below
3:00pm-6:00pm

March 8th- Eastman Road, Kingsport

March 9th Roan St. Johnson City

March 10th- Piney Flats

March 11th- Elizabethton

March 12th- Volunteer Parkway, Bristol

See ya at the Food City nearest you...brian

Toby's MAC Winner

2010-03-05T08:43:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Austin Poole of Kingsport, winner of Toby's MAC courtesy of Saratoga Technologies! Austin picks up the Apple i book, Toby's music library, tix and backstage passes to next week's concert! Here's a link to check out his rap and thanks to EVERYONE who entered our contest!

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/tobys-mac.shtml

Sun is shining, have a GREAT weekend...brian

Rap to win Toby's MAC!

2010-03-03T12:20:00.000-08:00

The 5 finalist have been selected in the "Rap for Toby's MAC" contest. The final 5 are:

Justin Mowell of Bulls Gap
Austin Poole of Kingsport
Amy Foster of Chuckey
Bryon Tolley of Telford
Ernest Hill of Gray

The winner will be announced on Friday morning at 7:20! You can hear all 5 of the raps, plus check out some of the creative videos we received at:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/tobys-mac.shtml

The grand prize winner gets an Apple i book (Toby's MAC), courtesy of Saratoga Technologies, tickets and backstage passes to meet Toby, plus his entire music library!

Peace out...brian

Drive-Thru Difference Day

2010-03-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

Today is our first Drive-Thru Difference Day, click the link for more details:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/drivethru-difference.shtml

We've targeted the first Monday of each month as our Drive-Thru Difference Day, but you can do it anytime you want!

Blessings...brian

Kathy Troccoli and Ellie Lofaro

2010-02-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

Kathy Troccoli and Ellie Lofaro will be at Milligan College this weekend for a Spaghetti for the Soul Women's Conference:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/milligan-womens-conferenc.shtml

They joined me this morning, here's a link to the podcast:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

Girl Scout Cookies are HERE!!!

2010-02-19T09:31:00.000-08:00

Sarah Robinson stopped by this morning to tell us the that the Girl Scout cookies have arrived. Girl Scouts will be out selling them at various locations. To find one near you check this link:

http://www.girlscoutcsa.org/

We also talked about recipes you can make using Girl Scout Cookies. Check out this link:

http://www.abcsmartcookies.com/cookies_recipes.asp?tab=byrecipe

Have a great weekend...brian

John "Bull Bramlett"

2010-02-18T06:37:00.001-08:00

This morning we played a portion of an interview with former NFL All-Pro John "Bull" Bramlett. Here's the entire interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Here's info about his visit to the Tri-cities this weekend:

He was the meanest, hardest hitting man in the NFL until he found the only peace that could calm his rage….This Sunday at Antioch Baptist Church in Johnson City hear the amazing story of John “The Bull” Bramlett, two time Pro Bowl player for the Broncos & the Dolphins, MVP with the Patriots …it’s the story that has touched thousands for Christ. Hear it Sunday at 11am at Antioch Baptist Church, 1014 Antioch Road in Johnson City. Phone 929-3931

Blessings...brian (me and Bull on a recent visit to WCQR)

John and Stasi Eldredge/Churches Go Red

2010-02-12T06:10:00.000-08:00

John and Stasi joined us to talk about their new book "Love & War". Here's a link to the podcast in case you missed the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Also here's the info again about this Sunday's "Churches Go Red Day":

http://www.wellmont.org/generalform.aspx?ekfrm=1535

Happy Valentine's Weekend...brian

The Power of 4 Words

2010-02-11T06:47:00.000-08:00

I talked to my aunt today about an email she received. A small act of kindness and a thank you that came 4o some years later. Here's a link to the podcast for the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

I also shared this from my friend Dawn:

"Happy moments, praise God. Difficult moments, seek God. Quiet moments, worship God. Painful moments, trust God. Every moment, thank God." -Unknown

Blessings...brian

pictured is my beautiful aunt MaryBeth

Terrorist Groups in Church

2010-02-10T06:23:00.000-08:00

This is an email my sister sent me and I shared on the air this morning:

WARNING

BEWARE OF TERRORIST GROUPS IN CHURCH

Latest news reports are that five terrorist cell groups have been operating in many of our churches.. They have been identified as: Bin Sleepin, Bin Arguin, Bin Fightin, Bin Complainin, and Bin Missin.. Their leader, Lucifer Bin Workin, trained these groups to destroy the Body of Christ. The plan is to come into the church disguised as Christians and to work within the church to discourage, disrupt, and destroy..

However, there have been reports of a sixth group. A tiny cell known by the name Bin Prayin is actually the only effective counter terrorism force in the church.. Unlike other terrorist cells, the Bin Prayin team does not blend in with whoever and whatever comes along.

Bin Prayin does whatever is needed to uplift and encourage the Body of Christ. We have noticed that the Bin Prayin cell group has different characteristics than the others. They have Bin Watchin, Bin Waitin, Bin Fastin, and Bin Longin for their Master, Jesus Christ to return.

NO CHURCH IS EXEMPT!

(However, you can spot them if you bin lookin and bin goin.)

Share w/ everyone you'd like, it's food for thought...brian

United States Census 2010

2010-02-05T06:29:00.000-08:00

Roger Kestner, our local Census Office Manager, stopped by today to talk about the United States Census 2010. Here's a few facts:

Every year, the federal government can allocate more than
$400 billion to states and communities based, in part, on
census data.

Increased participation in the census will result in more
accurate data that media outlets can trust and share with the public in articles and reports.

Census information helps determine locations for schools,
roads, hospitals, job training, child-care and senior citizen
centers, and more.

Census data determine how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives as well as the boundaries of legislative districts.

With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire is
one of the shortest questionnaires in history and takes just
10 minutes to complete.

By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual’s census questionnaire responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.

Roger also talked about 1200 Census jobs the will be available (8-12 weeks, $12 an hour plus mileage, won't affect unemployment) For more info call 866-861-2010 and enter your zip code.

Blessings...brian

Churches Go Red / The Fred Factor

2010-02-04T06:18:00.000-08:00

A couple of things from Today's show. First, here's a link to the book I was talking about THE FRED FACTOR

http://www.fredfactor.com/

Feb 14th is a day for Churches to Go Red in the Tri-Cities, here's a letter with more info:

Wellmont Health System is pleased to be the exclusive regional sponsor of Go Red for Women, a national movement to raise awareness of heart disease in women. Women across the region are encouraged to participate in this free program by enrolling at wellmont.org/goRed.

Your church can help women take charge of their heart health. By participating in Churches Go Red on Sunday, Feb. 14 – Valentine’s Day – you can let the women of your community know you’re committed to their well being.

Wellmont is asking churchgoers across the region to wear something red – a dress, a tie, a coat, anything that catches your fancy – on Feb. 14 to highlight this important cause. What a wonderful sign of unity this would be!

Effective Jan. 22, you should be able to download a free Churches Go Red kit at wellmont.org/goRed. You’ll be able to print items such as a poster and flier to promote Churches Go Red, as well as a bulletin insert for Feb. 14.

Churches Go Red is not a fundraiser, and we’re not asking you to hold a special offering for this cause. However, we would love to see photos from your Churches Go Red day. You can share them on our Facebook page at facebook.com/wellmont or e-mail them to jim.wozniak@wellmont.org.

Thank your for your consideration. As a member of the Wellmont Go Red steering committee, I’m available to answer any questions you may have. You can reach me at my office at (423) 230-8237, on my cell phone at (423) 306-1702 or by e-mail at jim.wozniak@wellmont.org.

Sincerely,

Jim Wozniak

Here's a link to the website:

http://www.wellmont.org/generalform.aspx?ekfrm=1535

Blessings...brian

Range Elementary Contest

2010-02-03T06:51:00.000-08:00

This morning we told you about Range Elementary in Watauga TN involved in a contest with Acer to win a Library makeover at the school. Here's the link for more info:

https://usspringpromo.acer.com/Campaign/SchoolLibraryMakeover/index.htm?

The contest runs through March 31, 2010 and the winner is picked by the public votes!

Good luck to Range Elementary!!!

brian

Help for Haiti Day

2010-01-29T09:58:00.000-08:00

Monday is "Help For Haiti" day on WCQR. All day long you'll hear about what various ministries are doing in Haiti, plus ways you can support them.

Remember them in your prayers and please give what you can. I love this quote from Mother Teresa...."If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.”

Here's a link for more info:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/haiti-relief.shtml

Blessings...brian

TobyMac in CONCERT!

2010-01-27T06:25:00.000-08:00

TobyMac
in Concert
Saturday,March 13, 2010
Viking Hall Civic Center in Bristol, TN

With
Skillet & House of Heroes

6:00pm
Doors Open:
5:00pm

Tickets On Sale : January 29, 2010

For Ticket Information:
Viking Hall Box Office
423-764-0188

http://vikinghall.com/

"To Save A Life" Movie

2010-01-22T06:56:00.000-08:00

The movie "To Save A Life" opens in Johnson City today and theaters across the country.

Here's a link to the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GVFEVXECFE

and a link to the official movie webpage:

http://tosavealifemovie.com/

We also talked to one of the actors today, Sean Afable. Here's a link to the podcast:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Have a great weekend...brian

MercyMe Visit

2010-01-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

Jim Bryson and Nathan Cochran of MercyMe dropped by yesterday to take us out to lunch and to bring their new song. "All Of Creation" is the first song from the upcoming cd THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL. Cool thing, right now you can text LOVEWELL to 90999 and $10 will go to Compassion to help with Haiti relief. The $10 will be added to your next cell phone bill.

Blessings...brian

pictured (Mike, Nathan, Brian and Jim)

Josh Wilson Interview

2010-01-18T09:08:00.001-08:00

This morning we talked to Josh Wilson about his "Hey Jude" performance at Newark Airport and his missions trip to India. Here's a link to the podcast and the youtube video:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQeG1kaddsw

Blessings...brian

Haiti Relief Efforts

2010-01-14T09:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to some organizations collecting funds to help Haiti after the massive earthquake this week. Please keep Haiti in your prayers:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/haiti-relief.shtml

Blessings..brian

picture from the Fox News website

Fresh Start

2010-01-13T07:15:00.000-08:00

This morning we talked to Saddleback teaching pastor and author Doug Fields about his new book "Fresh Start". Here's a link to the podcast if you missed the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

Girl Scout Cookie Time

2010-01-12T06:35:00.000-08:00

Sarah Robinson of the Girl Scout Council of the Southern Appalachians dropped by with info on the annual Girl Scout Cookie Sale and to let us sample some. Girl Scouts are taking orders through the end of January and then continue to sell cookies at booths in the community till March 7th.

For more info on the Cookie Sale or anything concerning the Girl Scouts, call 800-428-3991 or check out their website at:

http://www.girlscoutcsa.org/

Enjoy your cookies...brian

Southern Ten Commandments

2010-01-07T06:25:00.000-08:00

Got an email from a friend about these. I'm not sure of the origin, but I like them!

The Southern Ten Commandments

(1) Just one God
(2) Honor yer Ma & Pa
(3) No tellin' tales or gossipin'
(4) Git yourself to Sunday meetin'
(5) Put nothin' before God
(6) No foolin' around with another feller's gal
(7) No killin'
(8) Watch yer mouth
(9) Don't take what ain't yers
(10) Don't be hankerin ' for yer buddy's stuff

Now that's kinda plain an' simple, don't ya think? Y'all have a nice day

brian

New Year's Resolutions

2010-01-04T07:27:00.001-08:00

We asked you this morning to share your resolutions for the new year:

Noon Years Eve

2009-12-30T07:59:00.000-08:00

Join 88.3 WCQR As We Welcome In The NOON YEAR!

Thursday, December 31
The Kingsport Town Center (Formerly Fort Henry Mall)
11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Featuring a concert from CBS recording artists J4!
Magician Dave Vaught will be performing a magic show!
WCQR's Danny the Lion along with Mr. Twistee from Auntie Anne's Pretzels
Barry Brickey from the Kingsport Fire Department will talk about fire safety!
There will be prizes and fun as we count to the NOON YEAR!

Admission is FREE!
Look for us in the Sears Court near Piccadilly

This is the FINAL PROJECT 52 EVENT for 2009!
If you would like to make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank, bring a can of food with you!

Ringing in the NOON Year with your kids!

NOON YEARS EVE with the Kingsport Town Center and 88.3 WCQR!

pictured...J4 and Breakfast Radio

Holiday Traffic Info

2009-12-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

Info courtesy of WCYB News 5:

Newfound Gap Road in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has reopened four days after being closed because of heavy snow.

The road, which runs between Gatlinburg, and Cherokee, North Carolina, reopened Tuesday afternoon. It had been closed since Friday. However, park officials closed it again last night because of ice, with plans to reopen it this morning.

Rangers still urge buses to avoid the road because of icy patches even though sand has been put down. Several other roads in the park area remain closed. Accumulation during the storm included 20 inches at Newfound Gap.

Numbers to Call for Holiday Road Conditions

Tennessee:
1-800-342-3258 or 511

Virginia:
1-800-578-4111 or 511

North Carolina:
(919) 733-2522 or 511

Blue Ridge Parkway Closed Because of Bad Weather

Blue Ridge Parkway officials announced today the temporary closing of most sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Due to heavy snowfall along the entire length of the Parkway, travel is not advisable on the recreational road. Although Parkway staff is working to open sections of the road with available equipment, many sections of the Parkway have sufficient snowfall to delay reopening.

This temporary closure is necessary for the safety of visitors and Parkway staff and is in effect during the current period of inclement weather. Parkway officials emphasize that closing the road is the safest and most efficient way to clear fallen trees, plow accessible sections and clear other road hazards. Parkway officials also advise using extreme caution when traversing Parkway roads that are not gated to accommodate private accesses.

Please call the Park Info Line at (828) 298-0398 for updated road closure information for your area

Have a safe and Merry Christmas...brian

Matthew West Refunds

2009-12-22T06:48:00.000-08:00

Just got this info yesterday afternoon from Matthew's brother Joel about refunds for Friday's concert.

Here's Joel's email:

For Iticket purchases:

Iticket purchases – please visit itickets.com and they will refund the
money. We are personally taking care of the service charge associated
with the tickets – so people will be refunded the full amount.

For tickets purchased in person: Please email Joel West at joel@matthewwest.com for a full refund.

Have a Merry Christmas!
Joel

Blessings...brian

Abuse Alternatives

2009-12-21T10:09:00.000-08:00

Miss Johnson City 2009 Jessica Nixon and Virginia High student Elizabeth Van Nostrand joined me this morning to talk about the pledges area high school students are making. So far over 400 have signed the pledge not to abuse a boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse or family member. The goal of the Bristol Youth Leadership is to get 10,000 teens to sign this pledge.

Jessica is also available to speak to area schools and churches about abuse. To contact her, send an email to jessicalnixon@hotmail.com

Blessings...brian

pictured: Brian and Jessica

Matthew West Interview

2009-12-11T06:56:00.000-08:00

***WE JUST RECEIVED WORD THAT THE MATTHEW WEST CONCERT HAS BEEN MOVED TO BOONE'S CREEK CHRISTIAN CHURCH IN GRAY. ALL TICKETS PURCHASED WILL BE HONORED!!!***

This morning I talked to Matthew West about his concert Friday (Dec 18) Here's a link to the podcast page and to the concert info:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/matthew-west.shtml

Blessings...brian

Salvation Army Angel Tree

2009-12-09T07:32:00.000-08:00

You can be a hero to an angel in need this Christmas! Just a few more days to shop for a child with the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Click here for more info:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/the-angel-tree.shtml

Blessings...brian

278th Home For Christmas

2009-12-04T06:22:00.000-08:00

From our friends at WCYB:

278th Fundraiser

A group that just served more than 1,800 Thanksgiving dinners is now raising money to make sure local military members can come home for Christmas.

People Loving People is hoping to raise about $2,000 to bring members of the 278th unit home in December.
The troops will be at Camp Shelby in Mississippi, preparing for their deployment to Iraq.

People Loving People is hoping to raise enough so the soldiers will have a bus ticket home and some money for food.

Organizer Blaine Jones says, "These guys are leaving this weekend and we're trying to get their money raised to make sure they will be able to come home and be with families for Christmas."

Bus tickets are $65 each.

To make a donation mail checks to:
People Loving People
P.O. Box 91
Rogersville, TN 37857
Write “278th Troops” in the memo

Blessings...brian

What do you want for Christmas?

2009-12-03T06:33:00.000-08:00

A survey said most people want $100. We wanted to know what you wanted:

A good relationship between father and son

Everyone to be saved (9 yr old)

Peace in my life

Unity among Christians

A work at home job

Everyone to love well

Uninterrupted time w/ family and lots of food

Safety for our soldiers leaving this weekend (278th)

The last one reminds me to remember ALL the brave men and women protecting our freedom and their families! Please keep them in your prayers!

3 weeks till Christmas Eve...brian

Favorite Christmas Cartoons

2009-12-02T11:36:00.000-08:00

Rudolph is on the air tonight and we wondered what is your favorite Christmas cartoons. Here's a list of your favorites:

Charlie Brown
Frosty
Rudolph
Nestor the Long Eared Donkey
Mr Magoo
Little Drummer Boy
The Grinch
Garfield
Sponge Bob
Flintstones
Alvin the Chipmunks
The Year Without Santa
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Merry Madagascar
Emmit Otter's Jug Band

Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
[moves toward the center of the stage]
Linus Van Pelt: Lights, please.
[a spotlight shines on Linus]
Linus Van Pelt: "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
[Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown]
Linus Van Pelt: That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

well said Linus!

brian

Black Friday at Lifeway

2009-11-30T09:52:00.000-08:00

I had a great time hanging out at Lifeway in Johnson City on Black Friday. We had some great deals and lots of freebies. Here's a list of our winners!

Chic-fil-A Holiday Party Platters:

Erwin Holman - Blountville

Sonya Carden - Johnson City

Kim Salisbury - Johnson City

Molly Carpenter - Kingsport

Carolyn Kerr - Johnson City

Dana Jones - Gray

Jonny Diaz Drumstick Winners:

Dakota Simpson - Elizabethton

Gracie Senn - Greeneville

33Miles Drumstick Winners:

Stephanie Boyles - Bluff City

Jeremy Hise

Sidewalk Prophets Drumstick Winners:

Beth Trinkle - Piney Flats

Tara Moore

Aimee Dulaney - Jonesborough

Wesley Tate - Limestone

Summer Hopson - Erwin

Mikey Martinez - Telford

Thanks to Lifeway, Chic-fil-A and YOU for coming out...brian

Project Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a press release from GM Mike Perry:

1,112 Families Fed This Thanksgiving
Thanks to Operation Thanksgiving…….

11/23/09

This Thanksgiving over 1,112 families who didn’t know where their next meal was coming from will sit down to a whole turkey with mashed potatoes, beans, corn, rolls and dessert all because of the generosity of 88.3, WCQR radio listeners.

WCQR, a contemporary Christian radio station in the Tri-Cities, challenged their listeners to purchase a food basket for $25 that would go to Second Harvest Food Bank. The goal was 500 baskets. Mike Perry, General Manger of WCQR said “this was the first time we ever tried something like this and we thought 500 baskets would be great. But we were all overwhelmed when our listeners generously gave over 1,112 baskets to feed the hungry in our community.

Perry said the idea came from all the media reports of families going without food. “We couldn’t stand the thought of that happening so we decided to do something about it.”

Not only will these families receive food for their stomachs, they will also receive food for their souls as Life Way Christian Stores has donated a New Testament Bible to put into each box.

Perry said, “We are so grateful for our listeners who gave so generously and for Life Way’s donation of the Bibles and for 2nd Harvest working so hard to put these boxes together on such short notice.” WCQR will be able to present Second Harvest Food Bank a check for over $27,000 Tuesday on behalf of it’s listeners.

I want to thank you for your giving and prayers! God Bless and have a GREAT Thanksgiving...brian

(pictured Scott Kinney of Second Harvest getting a over $27,000 check from Mike Perry)

WCQR Christmas Express

2009-11-20T07:06:00.000-08:00

The WCQR Christmas Express will be reserving seats Monday-Wednesday for our annual trip through Speedway in Lights at BMS. Be caller 8 when you hear the sounder next week to win!
Get all the details at:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/wcqr-christmas-express-4.shtml

Blessings...brian

Project Thanksgiving

2009-11-19T08:16:00.000-08:00

Today is a special emphasis day on our Project Thanksgiving with Second Harvest. We've asked you to give a gift of $25 to feed a family in need in our area this Thanksgiving. The goal we had was 500, but God is up to something special, as of 10am you had sponsored 672 baskets...WOW!!!

You can continue to give through Monday. Thank you so much for your kindness and remember each basket will contain a New Testament and a letter explaining why they are receiving the basket!

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/family-2-family-thanksgiv.shtml

Thanks so much for your giving,...brian

Special Thanks to Lifeway for donating the Bibles

Proverbs 22:9

Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor.

Nathan Cochran of MercyMe

2009-11-18T06:51:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to the podcast of today's interview w/ MercyMe bassist Nathan Cochran

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

Homemade Bread Day

2009-11-17T06:32:00.001-08:00

Today is Homemade Bread Day and I asked what's the best thing on Homemade Bread?

Some of your answers included:

Butter

Honey Butter

Strawberry Jam

Apple Butter

PB & J

Apricot Preserves

Blackberry Butter/Jam

Honey

Molasses

Butter, Slice of Cheese, and Slice of Tomato

and the post of the day goes to Susan..."My Lips"

Happy eating...brian

Jeff Owen of Tenth Avenue North

2009-11-16T07:23:00.001-08:00

This morning we talked to Jeff Owen of Tenth Avenue North about their concert w/ MercyMe and Jonny Diaz this Sunday at Freedom Hall. Here's a link to the podcast if you missed it:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

More about the concert at http://www.wcqr.org/

The MercyMe song of the day is "God With Us". Mike Riddles will play it back between 4 and 4:30 this afternoon. Caller 8 when it plays wins tickets to the concert!

Blessings...brian

Gavin McCloud interview

2009-11-12T06:41:00.000-08:00

This morning we talked to veteran actor and born again Christian Gavin McCloud about his new movie: "The Secrets of Jonathan Speery". Here's a link to the podcast:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Here's a link to the movie website and trailer:

http://sperrymovie.com/

The movie opens tomorrow at Reel to Reel in Johnson City.

Blessings...brian

Favorite Childhood Toy

2009-11-09T06:37:00.000-08:00

The ball, big wheel and gameboy were just inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame. This morning we wanted to know your favorite childhood toy and here's what you said:

Skates

Erector Set

Lincoln Logs

Transformers

He-Man

Green Machine

Big Wheel

Barbie

Weebles

Star Wars Action Figures

Hot Wheels

Cabbage Patch Doll

Bless You Baby Tender Love

Easy Bake Oven

Rainbow Bright

Nintendo

Popple

Teddy Ruxbin

Ms. Beasley Doll

Wedding Party Paper Dolls

Ah...memories..brian

National Book Lovers Day

2009-11-06T06:13:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow is National Book Lovers Day and you shared what you are currently reading. Here's part of the list:

Les Miserable

Crazy Love

Mad Church Disease

Time Traveler's Wife

Rich Dad Poor Dad

Jan Karon Life in Mitford series

I Kissed Dating Goodbye

Divine

7 Things He'll Never Tell You

7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Enjoy your books and happy reading (pictured is what I'm currently reading)...brian

Jonny Diaz

2009-11-05T06:44:00.000-08:00

We talked to Jonny Diaz this morning about his current tour w/ MercyMe, his song "More Beautiful You", baseball and thanksgiving. If you missed the interview here's a link to the podcast:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

We've received several calls about "More Beautiful You" this week, so here's a link to the video:

http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ks3R2BwyO0

Blessings...brian

Project Thanksgiving

2009-11-04T07:42:00.000-08:00

This morning we launched "Project Thanksgiving"!!! For just $25, your family can provide a meal for a family in need this Thanksgiving. Click on this link for ALL the details:

www.wcqr.org

We also talked to Elise Allen of hte American Cancer Society about the Sullivan Co Kick Off at TriCities Baptist this Tuesday at 6p. For more call 282-7004.

Blessings...brian

National Sandwich Day

2009-11-03T06:31:00.000-08:00

Today is National Sandwich Day and we asked your favorite or unique sandwich combos.

Some of your answers include:

Philly Cheese steaks w/ the works

Bologna w/ Miracle Whip

Bologna w/ Mustard, Mayo, tomato and lettuce

Roast Beef and Swiss toasted

Reuben

Ham and Cheese w/ Italian Dressing

Fluffer Nutter (PB and Marshmallow Creme)

Ham and Swiss on Croissant (Heavenly Ham)

Turkey, Ham, Mayo and Hot Sauce

PB and Hot Sauce

Turkey and Bread

I'm hungry...happy eating...brian

Kids and Candy

2009-11-02T08:05:00.000-08:00

This morning we wanted to know how much of your kid's Halloween candy you ate and what is your favorite. You made us hungry for candy, your favorites included:

Kit Kats

Reeses

Reeses Pieces

Snickers

Smarties

Dum Dum Suckers

Mr. Goodbar

M&M's

Butterfingers

Tootsie Rolls

Almond Joys

Happy snacking...brian

Stress Relievers

2009-10-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

This morning we talked about Tuesdays being the most stressful day of the work week and we wondered what you do to relax. Some of your answers included:

Taking a walk

Humming an old hymn

Listening to WCQR...THANKS!!!

Reading your bible

Sharing your faith in Facebook

Skeet shooting

Playing piano

Pray

Shopping

Chocolate

Hang with friends

Work a puzzle

Hot bubble bath with candles

Watch "Facing the Giants"

Thanks for your posts and calls...brian

Come on Down!

2009-10-26T10:42:00.001-07:00

Those were the words I hoped to hear last week on my trip to L.A. for a taping of The Price Is Right...I did not hear the words...but I had a great time.

I met up with some of my radio friends and friends from Tooth and Nail Records for the taping. We had an awesome 3 days in sunny Southern California and as Randy Newman sang many years ago..."I Love L.A."

I also got to hang with Kutless for the entire trip and I was able to secure a few copies of their new worship cd for giveaways.

We will play the Breakfast Radio version of The Price Is Right tomorrow to give away a Kutless cd.

Blessings...brian

RPM's (Righteous Pop Music)

2009-10-15T06:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we played a song to the tune of "Sweet Home Alabama" called "Sweet Home Up In Heaven". It's from a series called RPM's (Righteous Pop Music), here's a link to the website for more info:

http://http//www.onewaystreet.com/category/righteous_pop_music

Blessings...brian

National Dessert Day

2009-10-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

Today is National Dessert Day and we asked you....If you could have only one dessert for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Answers ranged from:

Butterfinger pie

Strawberry Cheesecake

Tiramisu

Pound cake

Banana pudding

Ice Cream

Pecan Pie

Chocolate cake

Pineapple upside down cake

Donuts

Red velvet cake

Brownies

Heath crunch pie

Brownie sundae

Cream horns

Cheesecake

Pumpkin pie

Chocolate lava cake

Bread pudding

Eclairs

Peanut butter pie

Blackberry cobbler w/ ice cream or cool whip

Hot fudge cake

Kentucky silk pie

Coconut cream pie

Apple cake

Cherry cobbler

Tollhouse pie

Key lime pie

Butterscotch pie

Happy desserting everyone...brian

here's the website for Fields of Faith:

http://www.fieldsoffaith.com/

Church and Swine Flu

2009-10-13T06:45:00.000-07:00

USA Today ran a story about how some churches are encouraging their members not to shake hands in an effort to cut down on the spread of germs. We asked about your thoughts and WOW, did we hear from you!

We heard and read on Facebook your thoughts and mostly in comes down to common sense. Germs are everywhere, wash your hands...wash your hands, wash your hands!!!

You also talked about:

Using Germ X

Doing Elbow Bumps

Smiling

and you said that the touch is VERY important, BUT if you are sick to refrain from touching! Once again...COMMON SENSE!

Thanks for your comments and like Julia said..."I think common sense is needed but a little faith goes a long way as well".

Blessings...brian

Favorite cooler weather food or drink

2009-10-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

This morning we asked your favorite cooler weather food or drink and you can up w/ some great answers, in fact I'm hungry and thirsty!!! Answers included:

16 bean soup

chili

vegetable soup

hot chocolate w/ whipped cream

pumpkin spice latte

peppermint latte

tater soup

chicken and dumplins

peach cobbler

hot tea

taco soup

broccoli cheese soup

hot apple cider

chicken noodle soup

pumpkin pie

grilled cheese

soup and cornbread

Happy eating and drinking!!! brian

Fall Sharaton

2009-10-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

Fall Sharathon is this Wed-Fri. Here's a link to General Manager Mike Perry's letter:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/support/wcqr-fall-sharathon-2.shtml

Also, check out this link for a special Sharaton video:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/wcqr-fall-sharathon.shtml

Blessings...brian

The Katinas, Samoa, and Gate City

2009-10-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

This morning we gave you info about how you can support the Katinas. Here's a statement from their website:

Devastation {Our beloved island of American Samoa gets hit by tsunami}

As many of you may or may not know, American Samoa and Samoa were devastated by an earthquake and tsunami around 7am local time on September 29, 2009 . Facts are still coming in but there are now reports of over 80 dead and dozens more missing with entire villages flattened. For the past nine months we have been planning our third annual missions trip back to Samoa for this coming November. It is very clear to us now what our mission is.
We have received many calls, texts and emails asking how to help. A relief fund is currently being set up through

http://www.katinamissions.org/

CLICK on “Ways To Give” at the top of this page to donate. All donations small or large, are tax deductible.
Thank you for standing with us. Please continue to pray for Samoa

The Katinas

We also talked to Jeff Deboard of First Baptist in Gate City about how prayer is the biggest topic of conversation in town. Here's a link to the podcast of the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

National Good Neighbor Day

2009-09-28T06:35:00.000-07:00

Today we took your stories of "good neighbors"! We heard from a family whose neighbor took his tractor to help clear up their property after a car hit their house. A single grandmother shared how her neighbors help her care for her 13 month old twin grandsons. Another lady shared how her neighbor fixed a plumbing problem yesterday, when she tried to pay him, he told her I just being a good neighbor. Another man shared how his neighbors helped them with a plumbing problem that involved holding their hands in sewage for 20 minutes. He also shared a great piece of advice given to him. To get good neighbors, be a good neighbor....sounds good to me!

Blessings...brian

SYATP 2009

2009-09-23T07:17:00.000-07:00

This morning was exciting! During Breakfast Radio we took calls and heard reports of close to 30 schools in our area and over 2200 students attending "See You At The Pole" at their schools.

One story stuck out...a father called to tell us how his little girl was the ONLY one at her school to go pray. His voice broke as he spoke of how proud he was of her for making a stand for Christ!

Continue to call (888-477-5676), email (breakfastradio@wcqr.org) post of Facebook and tweet on Twitter your results. Let us continue to pray and lift up this generation!

Blessings...brian

Pictured is SYATP at Church Hill Middle. The sun shinning on students as they reflect the SON!

Welcome to Fall

2009-09-22T08:12:00.001-07:00

Fall officially begins at 5:18 this evening. This morning we asked you what your favorite thing is about Fall and we got lots of calls and posts on Facebook. Some of your answers included:

Everything

Football

Cooler temps

Beautiful colors

Caramel apples

Apple cider

Sitting by the fireplace

Vegetable soup

Smell and feel in the air

Pumpkins and pumpkin patches

Corn maze

Fall Festivals

Cup of coffee on the deck on a cool morning

God's handiwork on display

Happy fall...brian

FREE Concert TONIGHT!!!

2009-09-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

VOTA will be in concert tonight at Discover Life Church in Johnson City. The concert is set for 7p and is free and also features the Curtis Band and Orlando Torres.

For more info check out this link:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/concerts/presee-you-at-the-pole-ra.shtml

We also talked to lead singer Bryan Olesen of VOTA this morning. Here's a link to the podcast:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Blessings...brian

ALS Walk, Diamond Rio, and Gate City prayer.

2009-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

This morning Joy Eastridge dropped by to talk about the ALS walk next Saturday (9/26) at Warrior's Path State Park beginning at 10a. The goal is to raise $50,000 and also includes an auction with a chance to win dinner with Marty Roe of Diamond Rio. Here's a link to their website:

http://www.alstn.org/

Speaking of Marty Roe, we talked to him about Diamond Rio's new Christian cd, book and their song "God Is There". Here's a link to the podcast if you missed it.

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

We also shared a story about the ACLU and Gate City High School. Here's a link to the story for more info:

http://www.timesnews.net/article.php?id=9016920

Tomorrow morning at 8:10 we'll talk to Bryan Olesen of VOTA.

Blessings...brian

Virtual Ministry 2.0

2009-09-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

Milligan College is hosting the Virtual Ministry 2.0 Conference from 1-4 today to help your church learn more about social networking sites and how to use them. The conference will be streamed online beginning at 12:30 this afternoon. Here's a link to the site:

http://www.milligan.edu/socialnetworking/

Blessings...brian

Back from Orlando

2009-09-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

I'm back from Orlando and a radio conference. It was great to get together with 400 Christian radio friends and talk about ways to improve what we do, all for God's glory!

I also flew, which I do not like, but my beautiful wife gave me a piece of paper with several scriptures about fear that really helped!

Tomorrow morning we'll talk to a new friend I met in Orlando. Her name is Erica and although she was there for another conference, the music really impacted her!

Blessings..brian (pictured w/ Mark Hall of Casting Crowns)

MercyMe tickets on sale!

2009-09-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

WCQR welcomes Mercy Me, with special guest Tenth Avenue North and Jonny Diaz, to Freedom Hall in Johnson City, Sunday, November 22nd at 6:00pm. Doors open at 5:00pm.Get your tickets NOW before they go on sale to the general public next Friday, September 11th. Phone 423-461-4884 or fax 423-975-2559.

Advance Tickets: $24Artist Circle: $35 (Limited seating / No discounts)Groups of 15 or more $18 (advance tickets only - Get two free tickets when buying 15 or more)GROUP TICKETS MUST BE ORDERED BY PHONE, FAX, THROUGH MAIL ORDER OR AT FREEDOM HALL BOX OFFICE(A convenience fee will be applied.)
Mail Order Tickets: Make checks payable and mail to: Freedom Hall, Attn: Box Office, 1320 Pactolas Rd., Johnson City, TN 37604Charge by phone 423-461-4884 (Monday-Friday 8:30am - 6:30pm ET. A non-refundable convenience fee will apply. (Visa/MasterCard/Discover)
Ticket prices will increase at the door!

Info we shared this morning on MercyMe concert...brian

Cheryl McGuinness

2009-09-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

Celebration Church is hosting a Ladies Night Out with Cheryl McGuinness on September 8th at 6:30pm. Cheryl is the wife of Tom McGuinness, pilot of American Airlines Flight 11 on September 11th, 2001.

Cheryl was out guest this morning on Breakfast Radio, here's a link to the podcast and one to her website:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

http://www.beautybeyondtheashes.com/default.aspx

GOOD NEWS!!!! Mike Perry will be back tomorrow on Breakfast Radio following 3 stints in his heart!

Blessings...brian

pictured (Tom and Cheryl McGuinness)

Steve Saint interview

2009-08-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

This morning we talked to Steve Saint, the subject of the movie "End of the Spear". Steve is coming to Doe River Gorge for 2 Father/Son Weekend Retreats, one in September and the other one in October.

Here's a link to the podcast of the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Here's a link for more info on the weekends:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/family-weekends-at-doe-ri.shtml

Blessings...brian

Pulled over by Homeland Security...AKA My Bristol Weekend

2009-08-24T08:38:00.001-07:00

Saturday I attended the NASCAR Sprint cup race at the Bristol Motor Speedway and my wife was thrilled, her driver (Kyle Busch) won the race.

Heading to the track Saturday afternoon with my wife, her brother and his son, I noticed a TN Highway Patrol vehicle on the right hand shoulder. Traffic was bumper to bumper, but after we passed them, they proceeded to pull up beside us. This happened a couple of more times till they ordered us off the road in front of them. At this point, we didn't know what was up, possibly a random DUI checkpoint? The officer approached my window and asked if anyone in the vehicle had recently had a medical procedure. At this point we are all confused, wondering what was going on. My brother-in -law Scott had just been released from the hospital the day before and he said he had. By this time a guy with a small hand held detector came up to Scott's window and asked him what he had been in the hospital for. Scott told him he had a stress test, at this point the guy goes that explains it. Explains what we are wondering and what's with the machine in his hand. The machine had picked up the radiation in the dye they shot into Scott prior to his stress test. Homeland Security was on the lookout for anyone trying to smuggle any kind of radiation into the track. The machine even told us what they used in the dye...WOW!!!

Let me say this, I'm thankful that they are looking out for anyone trying to smuggle radiation into the track and I'm thankful my brother-in-law isn't a terrorist, although I already knew that!!! We were also stopped once more at the track by officers and we enjoyed a good laugh after explaining to them our earlier stop. The officers in both situations were very nice and I salute them for the work the are doing.

Feeling safe at BMS...brian

Bristol Race Weekend

2009-08-21T08:43:00.001-07:00

This is a big weekend for our area. NASCAR and 160,000 people are visiting Bristol Motor Speedway.

I know some folks don't like the intrusion, but think of the economic boom this creates. Bristol is the only track a lot of fans WANT to go to and they've made the hard economic choice to come to our backyard. Please pray for the race fans and also those in ministry, directly or indirectly, because of the race weekend!

I'll admit, I'm a race fan. I'll also admit that I think my wife is a bigger fan, so you know where we'll be this weekend.

See ya at the track, or look for me on TV! brian

Prayer in school story

2009-08-18T07:28:00.001-07:00

This morning we shared the story of 2 Florida school officials who are facing 6 months in jail for praying. The school district also stopped the Senior Class President from speaking at graduation because she was a "Christian" and may say something religious. Here's a link to the story.

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/aug/14/criminal-prayer-case-stirs-protests/?feat=home_headlines

Here's a link to the Liberty Counsel and things we can do:

http://lc.org/index.cfm?PID=14102&AlertID=1020

Here's a link to a defense fund set up for the officials:

http://layfreemandefense.com/

Please be praying...brian

pictured are t-shirts being sold to support the officials

Sharpie 500 Winner

2009-08-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Becky Earp of Johnson City, winner of a pair of tickets to the sold-out Sharpie 500 this Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Thanks to everyone who visited our Food Drives last week! You helped us cross the finish line in the Food City 2500 Cans with 2,561 cans!!! Food City added another 2500 and the BIG winner is Second Harvest Food Bank and our neighbors in need!!!

Thanks again to Bristol Motor Speedway, Food City and YOU!!!

brian

Misc....

2009-08-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week with the Food Drives....thanks for your help. We are in Piney Flats today and Bristol tomorrow!

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/wcqr-food-city-500-cans.shtml

Ben Spencer stopped by yesterday from Tri-Cities Lifestyle Center to talk about their 30 day free Stay Fit Membership. Here's a link to their website.

http://www.tricitieslifestyle.com/

I got an email about my wife's chicken salad and as promised, here's the recipe:

Lorren's Chicken Salad

4 Boneless Chicken Breasts

1 small onion chopped

Dill Relish

Mayo

I chop the chicken in a food processor, but not with the onions, it makes them bitter.

Add Dill Relish 3-4 heaping tbls or to your taste.

Stir in Mayo - I usually add to consistency that I like. Less for drier chicken salad, more for moist. I prefer moist

Eat alone or on any type of bread. My favorite is School House Yeast Rolls from Food City Bakery.

Blessings...brian

ps...Lots of great stories on your favorite school cafeteria foods...Thanks!

Randy Phillips Interview

2009-08-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

This morning we talked to Randy Phillips of Phillips, Craig and Dean. Randy talked about the guys and their full time jobs....Senior Pastors. He also talked about "Revelation Song", the current #1 song in America.

Here's a link to the interview:

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

We are also continuing our Food City 2500 Cans this afternoon. Here's a link to the schedule!

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/wcqr-food-city-500-cans.shtml

Blessings...brian

Romantic Restaurants

2009-08-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

This morning I asked about some romantic spots I could take my wife for dinner. Today is our 21st wedding anniversary. I got some great calls, including one that peaked my interest, the Brooklyn Grill in Bristol.

Mike also learned that Skoobys is closed in Kingsport, it bummed him out!

Have a blessed day...brian

(pictured a year ago today at Spirit FM in Lynchburg VA, renewing our wedding vows)

Summer Friendraiser

2009-07-30T02:20:00.001-07:00

Thank you so much for your support of WCQR! Tuesday we kicked off a Summer Friendraiser looking for new friends to support us. The goal of the Friendraiser was $34,000 and when we closed down right after 10 yesterday morning....an incredible $36,445 had been donated to WCQR!!!

In case you missed it, or want more info check out the link:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/wcqr-friend-day.shtml

Thanks again!!!

Blessings...brian

Biggest Loser is the Biggest Winner for Big Daddy Weave

2009-07-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

Win a family 4 pack of tickets for Big Daddy Weave at Highlands Fellowship in Abingdon on Saturday August 1st.

Mike Weaver of Big Daddy Weave is on a quest to loose 90 pounds in 09. We are looking for 2 big losers, people who started the year out to loose weight.

The 2 biggest losers will be big winners to see Big Daddy Weave next Saturday! Email us your name, address, phone number and how much you've lost to breakfastradio@wcqr.org

The 2 winners will be announced on Thursday morning at 7:20.

Mike also shared a speech Bill Gates gave at a high school:

Love him or hate him, he sure hits the nail on the head with this! Bill Gates recently gave a speech at a High School about 11 things they did not and will not learn in school. He talks about how feel-good, politically correct teachings created a generation of kids with no concept of reality and how this concept set them up for failure in the real world.

Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!

Rule 2 : The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

Rule 3 : You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4 : If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5 : Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.

Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.

Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

Have a great weekend...brian

Daytime Tri-Cities

2009-07-23T12:19:00.001-07:00

This morning Mike and I had a chance to cook on Daytime Tri-Cities with Morgan King. We had a blast and we do have some people to thank!!!

Babara Buttry and her winning breakfast pizza recipe!

Stacy Perry for doing the shopping and the cooking.

Morgan King for the invite and his kindness, he made us feel right at home.

WJHL and their wonderful Daytime Tri-Cities kitchen.

Amy Greer for the aprons.

Thanks to YOU for watching. Be looking for the video soon!

Blessings...brian

Cooking Contest

2009-07-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, Mike and I are cooking on Daytime Tri-Cities. We asked you to submit easy and delicious recipes and we'd pick a winner. We also wanted to keep it along the theme of breakfast since we are "Breakfast Radio". We give you our winner courtesy of Barbara Buttry of Bristol TN.

Breakfast "Radio" Pizza:

Breakfast Pizza

1# bulk pork sausage
1 (8-oz.) pkg. Refrigerated crescent rolls
1 cup frozen loose-pack hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar Cheese
5 eggs, beaten
¼ cup milk
½ tsp. Salt
1/8 tsp. Pepper
2 Tbls. Grated Parmesan Cheese

Optional: Whole pimientos
Fresh oregano

Cook sausage in a medium skillet until browned; drain. Set aside.
Separate crescent dough into 8 triangles; place triangles with elongated points toward center in a greased 12” pizza pan. Press bottom and sides to form a crust; seal perforations. Spoon the sausage over dough. Sprinkle with hash brown potatoes and Cheddar cheese. Combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over sausage mixture. Bake at 375 for 25 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake another 5 minutes. Garnish with pimientos and fresh oregano if desired. Yield 6 to 8 servings.

Enjoy!

Tom Watson Inspires!

2009-07-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

The weekend story of 59 year old Tom Watson almost winning the British Open got us wondering this morning. We asked about people you know, who are older, but still impacting lives.

We heard about a 77 year old construction worker, 91 year old hospital volunteers, 88 year old parents who also volunteer. One guy told how a 70 something lady inspired his family to enter a race and a daughter told of her 85 year old dad who walks 2 1/2 miles daily and does his own lawn work.

Psalm 92:14 - They shall bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing.

Blessings...brian

Mike Perry's Tribute to Dr. Vernon Baker

2009-07-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

Mike represented all of Doc Baker's radio station managers and paid tribute to him at yesterday's funeral in Blacksburg VA. Here's what he said:

My name is Mike Perry and I am the general manager of WCQR radio in Johnson City, TN. It was almost 14 years ago to day that I had the privilege to first meet Dr. Baker.

I answered a add in a trade magazine for a new management position for a start up radio station in Northeast, TN. I met Dr. Baker on the porch at Cracker Barrel and he gave me a tour of the area and he explained what his vision was for WCQR. The next day he introduced me to something wonderful, the world of Krispy Kreme donuts in Kingsport, TN. As he was showing me around town we stopped in and had a couple of hot donuts under the red light. I went there this weekend and had a few in his honor. We then went on to Blacksburg and he and Mrs. Baker allowed me to stay with them in their home as we continued the job interview. You know it’s not everyday that you stay in the home of the person interviewing you for a job. Talk about pressure. But they were both very gracious host.

I’m not sure if he didn’t want to get me a hotel room or if he just wanted to see what I was really like. I think it was the latter. He was sneaky that way. I loved to watch him talk with an engineer or electrician and he would give them that, I’m not quite sure how this works would you explain it to me. Well of course he could write the instruction manual for whatever it was, but he just wanted to see if they knew what they were talking about!

Over these 14 years I’ve come to love and respect doctor Baker , Virginia Baker and Eddie Baker as I’ve worked with them and I can’t thank them enough for allowing me to be a part of the Positive Alternative Radio family.

And family is the key word. It’s never seemed like you were working for some large corporation that didn’t know you or care about you. Dr Baker always asked how my kids were doing every time we talked and he usually had a story of his life growing up. That man had a fascinating life! I am amazed at the things he has done in his 88 years of life. Most of the time he had a joke he had heard and was wanting to share. Some funny, some not.

The one thing I will always remember is the day I accepted the job at WCQR. I was on the phone with him and I told him quite honestly, I’ve never done this before Mr. Baker and I’m not 100% sure I know what I’m doing. He told me “well we’ve all got to start somewhere. Here in this room today is a group of Positive Alternative Radio managers and team members who are all thankful that he was willing to give us a shot. He created something that has given us all the chance to live out our dreams and make a difference in thousands of lives.

Although Doctor Baker never opened a microphone and went on the air himself, he is responsible for every can of food we have collected at local food drives. He is responsible for every drop of blood we collected through blood drives. He is responsible for every blanket our stations collected to keep the homeless warm. Dr. Baker is responsible for helping thousands of non-profit organizations feed and clothe our communities. He is responsible for getting vital information to our communities in times of trouble or disaster. Most importantly, he is responsible for sharing the Gospel, the Good News of God’s love, to hundreds of thousands of people.

Without uttering a word on the radio he is responsible for making a difference in thousands of people lives everyday. They turn on the radio looking for a little fun, the news and weather and a little encouragement and they find it on a Positive Alternative Radio station everyday and he made it all happen.

So on behalf of all our radio stations and on behalf of all our listeners who never heard your voice or met you in person, let me say thank you Doctor Baker. Thank you for giving us a voice. Thank you for giving us a chance and thank you for your vision.
God bless you.

Famous or Infamous Names

2009-07-14T07:27:00.000-07:00

This morning we talked about a man in Maryland named Harry Potter who gets phone calls everytime a new book or movie comes out. He says the calls last for a couple of months and he's thinking of changing his phone listing to just "H Potter". We wondered if you knew anyone with a famous of infamous name and we got lots of calls and posts on Facebook. Some of the names included:

Dennis Miller

David Letterman

Faith Hill

George McGovern

George Jefferson

Martha Stewart

Jimmy Carter

Charles Barkley

James Brown (several)

James Bond

Don Williams

Tom T. Hall

Steve Miller

Richie Cunningham

Will Smith

Charlie Brown

Elizabeth Taylor

Robin Williams (female)

John Wesley Hardin

John Paul Jones

Charles Manson

Carl Malone

Walt Disney

Brittany Spears

Eddie Murphy

Jim Henrichs (pronounced Hendricks) staff calls him Jimi to bug him

Cindy Crawford

Michael Myers

Ben Franklin

and of course...LOTS of Michael Jacksons

My old pastor is named Earnhardt, it's fun to go to a restaurant and get a table with him. "Earnhardt party of 4, your table is ready."

(pictured...Jerry and Nancy Earnhardt, along with my wife and I at Charlotte this year)

Remembering Doc Baker

2009-07-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

The founder of Positive Alternative Radio, the company that owns WCQR, passed away this weekend. Dr. Vernon Baker lived quite a life. He was an engineer, professor, WWII veteran, and owner of several radio stations.

I met Doc Baker several years ago, and like my grandfather and others of the "greatest generation" he was a hard worker. I'll remember his smile and his laugh and I'm thankful for his vision to reach other with the Gospel through Christian radio.

Here's a link for more info on his life, a life well lived:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/news/in-memory.shtml

Thanks Doc!!! brian

Cow Appreciation Day

2009-07-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

This morning we talked about the Chic-fil-A 5th Annual Cow Appreciation Day. You can go into any Chic-fil-A dressed as a cow today and get a free meal. To find out more, check out this link:

http://www.cowappreciationday.com/

ALSO, here's a link to photos from Faith and Family Night!!! The biggest one ever with close to 2500 fans and over 1800 pounds collected for the Project 52 Food Drive.

http://www.wcqr.org/scrapbook/main.php?g2_view=core.ShowItem&g2_itemId=3397

Have a GREAT weekend...brian

Faith and Family Night/ Work 23rd Psalm

2009-07-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came out and supported the BIGGEST Faith and Family Night EVER with the Johnson City Cardinals!!! What an AWESOME night with Mark Harris, a great game with the Cards and Greeneville Astros, and almost a ton of food collected for Second Harvest with the Project 52 Food Drive. Grace Freewill Baptist (pictured) won the autographed bat for bringing 60 people to the game!!!

Thanks to:

Milligan College

Johnson City Cardinals

AVI

Mark Harris

YOU for coming!!!

Here's the 23rd Psalm for the Workplace I shared this morning:

The Lord is my boss, and I shall not want.

He gives me peace, when chaos is all around me. He gently reminds me to pray and do all things without murmuring and complaining.

He reminds me that he is my source and not my job. He restores my sanity every day and guides my decisions, that I might honor him in all that I do.

Even though I face absurd amounts of emails, system crashes, unrealistic deadlines, budget cutbacks, gossiping coworkers, discriminating supervisors, and an aging body that doesn’t cooperate every morning, I still will not stop…..for He is with me!

His presence, His peace, and His power will see me through.

He raises me up, even when they fail to promote me. He claims me as His own, even when the company threatens to let me go.

His faithfulness and love are better than any bonus check. His retirement plan beats every 401K there is!

And, when it’s all said an done, I’ll be working for Him a whole lot longer…..and for that, I BLESS HIS NAME!!!

Blessings...brian

Faith and Family Night

2009-07-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

We are teaming up with Milligan College for "Faith and Family" Night with the Johnson City Cardinals...TONIGHT! Gates open at 4:30, concert w/Mark Harris at 6, and game at 7 w/Greeneville. Admission is $1 and a can of food for the Project 52 Food Drive. Let me share an email I got today:

Good morning Brian. We are attending the Faith and Family night tonight and would like to challenge everyone to bring a canned food item for each year they have been married. My husband (Wade) and I are high school sweethearts and have been married for 19 years TODAY! What better way to celebrate what the Lord has blessed us with during the past 19 years (including wade serving in Air Force 4 yrs - and being Desert Storm Vet) than to be at the Faith & Family night tonight... Rather than spending alot of money going out to eat, we plan on putting our money to a better use...buying alot of canned goods to bring with us (19 items)... Thank you for all you and WCQR do for all of the listeners. I am so thankful to the Lord that I can listen to WCQR 24/7. I listen to you all day at work and it is a constant reminder of what our Lord has done for all of us and - even if you having a crazy/hectic day - the music just puts a smile on your face :) THANK YOU - THANK YOU - THANK YOU!!!! Have a blessed day.

ALSO...the church with the largest group wins an autographed trophy bat from the Cardinals!

Here's a link for more info and one to an interview we did with Mark this morning:

http://www.wcqr.org/pages/events/wcqr-faith-and-family-nig.shtml

http://883wcqr.podomatic.com/

Take me out to the ballgame!

brian

Dream Vacations

2009-07-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

This morning I wondered if you could take a dream vacation anywhere, where would you go?

Some "dream" spots include:

Greece

Walkabout Creek (Crocodile Dundee)

Hawaii

Bora Bora

Fiji

Ireland

Paris

a "cruise"

Venice Italy

Nassau Bahamas

New Zealand

Kenya (mission trip)

Disney World

Camden Arkansas

Thanks....brian

What is old?

2009-07-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

This morning I talked about a new Pew Research Center survey that asked people what age was old. Naturally most people said they were not old and felt younger than they really were. The average age considered "old" was 68.

Other findings, more than half of those under 30 said people were "old" before 60.

Middle-aged respondents say it's closer to 70, while those 65 or above said 75 is "old".

I asked you what you consider old and this is what you said:

95-100

a day older than you currently are

you are as old as you feel

30 years older than your current age

14 (?)

Thanks again...brian

International Joke Day

2009-07-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who called with a favorite "clean joke" today! We got several calls this morning and posts on our Facebook page. I'm share a couple of my favorites:

How do you may a Kleenex dance? Put a little boogie in it!

Why did the golfer wear 2 pair of pants? In case he got a hole in one!

Why DIDN'T the skeleton cross the road? Because he didn't have the guts!

Thanks again...brian

Kids do the darndest things

2009-06-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

This morning Mike shared about his little angels, Daniel and Sarah, and their Diet Coke adventure yesterday. They borrowed some of Mike's full cans of Diet Coke and had a shake and spray war in the driveway, covering them and the newly washed van in Diet Coke! We asked you about the craziest things your kids or you ever did as a kid and got some great responses including:

kids locking mom out of the house

kids telling family members that mom and dad weren't feeding them

a room covered in baby powder

diaper playdough (I think you know what I mean)

ex lax mistaken for hidden candy

several "hammer" experiences

hang glider made of slip and slide and PVC pipe

and unique Kleenex and wall papering items

Thanks again..brian

ps...me, I almost set my elementary school on fire, but that's a story for another day!

pictured: Mike's "little angels"

Casting Crowns/John Waller concert

2009-06-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

I received this email on Facebook following the Casting Crowns/John Waller concert on Friday night and wanted to share it with you.

Last night ...Casting Crowns ....7th row !!!! Basically right next to the stage .... but, surprisingly, that didn't excite me as much as I thought it would. I could have been in the last row, squinting to see the members of the band, and still believe that I would have been just as happy. After all, it's not about the band. It's about the music. It's about their passion and their faith. It's about Jesus.And believe me, if that passion can come through a cd on my laptop, it can surely come through at a concert, no matter where you are sitting.

I'm sure I've posted this song before, but again, it came to me with such strength and conviction along with a flood of tears last night. I was hoping they would play it at the concert but I was doubtful because it is not on their latest cd. In a way, this song made the night for me. About halfway through the song, I felt a heavy weight in my chest subside. The second time they sang the verse about the thunder and God whispering "I'm with you", I heard a voice in my soul sing it also. Not from my mouth, though I was singing it loud, losing my voice and watching them, through my tears, perform it on stage. I heard the words from my soul....I'm not sure this is even possible but it's the only way I can possibly describe it. I heard HIM?

I will tell you personally that I am not the strongest Christian. I am a sinner, very far from a saint. I am not strong in witnessing to others, especially when I am surrounded by unbelievers. I fade in the background and try to avoid conversation.

I've been on a pretty intense journey lately, trying to really find myself and listen to what my heart and soul needs. I've been meditating, which has helped tremendously. I've had several people close to me tell me to put myself first, worry about ME and be more selfish. Recently, I have found strength and confidence relying on myself, trusting that if I go through the motions, living life day to day, something will click ... I will get some kind of answer.

I believe that I heard the answer last night. I can't fill this void inside me with anything but HIM. No earthly friendship or relationship can give me what I need. This void can only be filled by HIM.

So, this is my prayer. I pray that Jesus will reach out to me, accept me with all my faults and sins, forgive me, and help me to be closer to Him.

Here's the song.
Here are the words that run through my head and heart daily.

Praise You in This Storm
-Casting Crowns
I was sure by now
God, You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with You"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
CHORUS
I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with You"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
CHORUS
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth
(repeat)
CHORUS
Though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

Blessings...brian