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TUESDAYS WITH TIM: 09.29.2015

9/29/2015

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1.    In honor of national coffee day – Sept 29 – here are some statistics about coffee in the US:
•    50% of Americans age 18 and over drink at least one cup of coffee each day
•    400 million cups of coffee are consumed in the US each day
•    $4 Billion worth of coffee is imported into the US each year
•    The average price for a cup of brewed coffee in the US is $2.38
•    65% of all coffee consumed is during breakfast
•    35% of all coffee drinkers prefer their cup of joe black
•    Men say that drinking coffee helps to get their job done
•    Women say that drinking coffee helps them to relax

2.    On Sunday night, the girls and I were reading from a devotional during dinner.  We were to read a passage from Genesis when Gabbie said, “Dad. Let’s do it old school.”  I said, “old school?”  She replied, “Let’s not use the iPad.  Let’s use the real Bible.”

3.    Life Isn’t Fair, by Max Lucado:  “May I gently but firmly remind you of something you know but may have forgotten?  Life is not fair. That’s not pessimism, it’s fact. It’s not a complaint, it’s just the way things are. I don’t like it. At some point someone needs   to say to us, ‘Whoever told you life was going to be fair?’ God didn’t.  Jesus said, ‘My kingdom does not belong to this world. My kingdom is from another place.’ When all of earth turns against you, all of heaven turns toward you.”  

4.    The Speaker of the US House of Representatives John Boehner resigned this past Friday effective at the end of October.   Now, the Speaker is unloading against the hardline conservatives in his party calling them “unrealistic” in their quest to force their agenda.  Politicians, even when they resign, never seem to take responsibility for anything and blame everyone else for their shortcomings. 

5.    Yankee legend Yogi Berra died recently.  He was known for his famous sayings.  Some of my favorites are as follows:
•    “You can observe a lot by just watching”
•    “We made too many wrong mistakes”
•    “You wouldn’t have won if we’d beaten you”
•    “You’d better cut that pizza in fours, because I’m not hungry enough to eat six”
•    “The future ain’t what it used to be”
•    “Pair up in threes”
•    And the best one… “I never said most of the things I said."
 
6.    From the “remember when…” column.  I attended my daughter Grace’s volleyball game yesterday.  On the back of the chair on which I sat, I noticed the name and address of the company that made or sold them.  The address was “RD#2 Conestoga, PA.”  How many of you remember addressing letters or other pieces of mail with “RD”, which stands for “rural delivery"?  Reminds me of the old party lines for telephone calls.

7.    Houston Texan J.J. Watt on Sunday met with Mario Lopez aka A.C. Slater from “Saved By the Bell.”  While J.J. was happy to meet with Mario, he really wanted to know where was head cheerleader Kelly Kapowski aka Tiffany Amber Thiessen.  Has it really been 22 years since “Saved By the Bell” went off the air (it was on TV from 1989-1993).

8. What's your vote? Two winners from the following nominees will enter the National Toy Hall of Fame in November: the spinning top, coloring book, Wiffle Ball, American Girl Doll, Battleship,, Jenga, Playmobil, the scooter, Super Soaker, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Twister.

9. PGA Tour player Jordan Spieth just completed a year in which he won two major titles, five tournaments and $22 million. To me, what I admire about this 22 year old is his humble attitude. At every press conference, he says "we" instread of "I" such as "we hit the ball where we wanted it" to "we executed the game plan just as we drew it up." His "we" is his team - his trusted caddie along with his coaches and family. Jordan has certainly carried himself well for someone so very young. Most importantly, his emphasis of giving the credit to 'team over himself' is something I believe in wholeheartedly.

10. Still no budget in PA. At least the governor and the leadership in the Legislature are talking. The question remains: why are my PA Income taxes still being withheld from my paycheck? Where is the money going?.


Believe.Act.Serve
Reedy.Right.Now

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TUESDAYS WITH TIM: 09.22.2015

9/22/2015

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1.       “Whether they say a good or a bad thing, it actually doesn’t affect my life…it’s not going to define you unless you allow it to.”  - Dallas QB Tony Romo in response to this question from Dallas Pastor Ed Young, Jr: “How do you deal with haters?”

2.       Say what you will about Donald Trump, his presence in the field is a huge reason why some 23 million people tuned in to watch the latest GOP Presidential debate on CNN.  Having almost a quarter of a million potential voters engaged in the political process, albeit for several hours, only benefits country.

3.       For what it is worth, I remain behind Rand Paul for President.  His views of assisting blighted areas with tax incentives, adjusting prison sentencing guidelines for non-violent crimes, limiting wars and foreign aggression, and as well as making government leaner, yet stronger, mirror mine.

4.       “Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32    “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done.”  - Proverbs 19:17

5.        Of all the pre, half and post-game NFL shows on TV these days, the best in my opinion is the NBC crew on Sunday Night – Dan Patrick, Rodney Harrison and Tony Dungy.  They get to the point, don’t make unnecessary jokes and make football understandable by everyone. 

6.       The R’s in Washington want to “shut down the government” (news flash: government never really shuts down --- see Penna.; see US Gov’t) unless federal funding is removed from Planned Parenthood.  Some thoughts: a) once funding is appropriated, it is very difficult to defund or remove it later  and b) maybe a compromise would be to take the $500 million from Planned Parenthood and fund some other women’s health centers.  The all or nothing attitude by our elected demagogues leads to inaction and dissension.

7.       I’ll be part of the team broadcasting Wednesday’s Ephrata Fair Parade on BRC TV-11.  My friend, local radio personality Casey Allen, and I will be positioned at the judges reviewing stand on Lake Street.  Who doesn’t love a parade…and fair food?  Pass the funnel cake and fried oreos please.  This year marks the 97th year of the fair.  I can smell the greasy food from Brickerville already.

8.       The budget stale-mate in PA is approaching three months now.  The federal government is having their own spending (continuing resolution) issues.  If the leaders in each party were effective, then these impasses would be settled or at least headed toward resolutions.  If leadership is being ineffective, how then do these leaders continue to get elected by their peers?  If the electorate wants a change in their legislative leaders, they must vote out the incumbents who will blindly vote for these ineffective leadership.  Until then, this insanity will be prolonged. By the way, the governor is equally responsible for this impasse.

9.       What if Facebook would force you to post your thoughts on why you like a post instead of just hitting “like”?  Could you really articulate why you like it or are you just being one of the crowd? The next time you feel compelled to “like a post”, stop and really ponder why you like it. 

10.   iPhones, iPads and watches, oh my!  Now Apple is reported to have given the green light to the development of a car.  Various outlets are reporting that this electric vehicle may be ready for production by 2020. Start saving your pennies!


Reedy.Right.Now.
Expect More from YOUR Government
Believe.Act.Serve.               

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TUESDAYS WITH TIM: 09.15.2015

9/15/2015

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1.  In 2007, mostly Republicans voiced their opposition of a little know first year senator from Illinois from becoming President because of his lack of political experience.  Further, they abhorred his arrogance and his continually use of the word "I" such as "I will do this" and "I will lead this country to greatness."  Moreover, this 2007 candidate packed arenas and stadiums during his campaign like a rock star and gave little to no insight on his policies and solutions.  Scroll ahead 8 years and we now see a Republican candidate who seems to possess the same qualities as our current President and yet, many of the same people who criticized then candidate Obama support candidate Trump.  Given these similarities in the candidates, it seems to me that winning or beating the other side takes precedent over actually talking solutions.

2.  I certainly understand the outcry to cease federally funding planned parenthood.  Aside from the selling of body parts from aborted babies, planned parenthood does not provide any mammograms to clients on site and only refers them to FDA licensed centers for screenings.  While it pains me that my federal tax dollars are used to fund abortions, I also believe that maybe we should first stop federally funding or even closing those PP centers that sell the parts.  Isn't this a place where both opposing side can agree and start the dialogue.  Unfortunately, like so many things, its all or nothing.

3.  More body part news...two men in China contacted someone on the internet in order to facilitate the selling of their kidneys for money that they desperately needed.  After going to the hospital for a kidney pre-screeing,  both of them got cold feet and left the hospital before any examinations took place.  By the way, the reason that they needed money was to purchase the new iPhone 6s.

4.  Still more body part news...a 36-year old married father of two in Great Britain, after a night of drinking and urging of friends, took a Viagra pill.  After an hour, one pill turned in 34 more.  Yes, he took 35.  When he went home, he complained of a headache and stomach pain, which prompted his wife to call an ambulance.  He eventually spent 36 hours in the hospital, came home and then spent the next 3 and a half days in bed.  After 4 days, his stomach pain and headache went away.  However, his erection didn't, which subsided after day five.  Although his wife refused sex during those 5 days, I am happy to report that things are back to normal with his body and in his marriage.

5.  Food for thought from Comedian Steven Wright: "Why doesn't the world's fattest man become a hockey goalie?"

6.  The St. Louis Rams have the youngest team in the NFL at age 24.1 years.  As coach Jeff Fisher out it, "Our players learn better with two phone and music going on and with an iPad on the side."  This new learning prompted the Rams during training camp to bring in consultants to teach the older coaches how to teach these millennial athletes.  The consultants informed the Rams' brass that with 20-somethings, their attention spans are short, but they are savvier than ever due to their exposure to technology.  Also, these youngsters need to know the "why" behind every decision made by their elders.  This "why" forced the coaches and executives to examine their methods (i.e. why are we doing this?). One sweeping change that the Rams made was to shorten the length of meetings from hours to 10-15 minutes.  Then, immediately after the 15 minute meeting, the players were ushered to the practice field to walk through what they just learned.  Most of all, the Rams are using more visuals in order to teach concepts such as showing them a play via a video rather than the traditional X's and O's on the chalkboard.  Something must be working because the Rams beat the Seahawks on Sunday.

7.  My wife and kids tried to teach me the new dance craze "Whip Nae Nae".  Fortunately, no video was taken.  And no, I wasn't hurt too bad, except for a little creak in my neck.  I am listed as day-to-day on the injury report.

8.  "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.  Rather, in humility value other above yourself."  Philippians 2:3.  "Live in harmony with one another.  Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.  Do not be conceited."  Romans 12:16.  "When pride comes, then comes disgrace. But with humility comes wisdom."  Proverbs 11:2.   Striving for humility is a life-long journey for me.  However, I never want to say that I have attained total humility because then I would be boastful and prideful in saying that I am humble.  

9.  The verses I listed in number 7 describe some of the qualities that I look for in candidates for office.  Most importantly, these are qualities that I strive to attain.  As I read these verses and evaluate the Republican candidates who are at the top of the polls, Dr. Ben Carson seems to exemplify these qualities, while Donald Trump seems to be the antithesis of them.  One can be humble and have strength.  And as Dr. Carson said recently, "you don't have to be loud to be energetic."

10.  "I've always found that anything worth achieving will always have obstacles in the way and you've got to have that drive and determination to overcome those obstacles on route to whatever it is that you want to accomplish."  Chuck Norris

Have a great week everyone.

Reedy.Right.Now.
Expect More from YOUR Government.
Believe.Act.Serve.




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TUESDAYS WITH TIM: 09.07.2015

9/8/2015

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"Whatever we accomplish belongs to our entire group, a tribute to our combined effort."  - Walter Elias Disney
1. Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffery Laurie went to heaven.  Upon his arrival, God took showed him a tiny, three bedroom house with an Eagles pennant hanging over the front porch.  "This is your eternal home" God said.  Mr. Laurie then turned and looked down the street and saw a huge, 4-story mansion adorned with two giant pillars.  Between the pillars were two huge Dallas Cowboys banners.  Jeff thanked God for his house, but wondered aloud how come Jerry Jones of all people got a mansion?  "Oh", said God.  "That's not Jerry's house.  It's mine."

2. If you are feeling out of whack after the three day holiday weekend, it may be because you are suffering from "social jet lag".   According to web MD, social jet lag is brought on by "the shift in sleep schedule that many people experience on their days off, compared to work days."  As a result, many people get more sleep on their days off than they do during the week, which throws their body out of whack.  So therefore, if you are feeling sluggish, call off sick and tell your boss that you have social jet lag.

3. Bad news for me: I don't qualify to become a Disney Princess at Walt Disney World.  Below are just some of the requirements.  Do you qualify?  If you do, go to www.disneyauditions.com and sign up.
  • Must be a female - I'm a male
  • Must be between 5'4" and 5'7" - I'm 6'0"
  • Must be between the ages of 18 and 26 - I'm in my late 40s.
  • The largest dress size you can wear is a size 10 (size 10 = men's waist size 30) - I'm not a 30 waist
  • Must know how to apply make-up - Does after shave cream count?
  • Must be able to stand outside and smile constantly in the Florida heat - Smile yes.  Constantly? Would be tough.
  • If selected, you cannot tell anyone what princess you portray - My wife says I can't keep secrets
  • If selected, you cannot choose what princess to portray as Disney will tell you which one you will be - I'm OK with this one.

4. Many people are fascinated with outer space because they are seeking life on another planets. Why is it when that these same people will not call a baby, a fetus or a bunch of cells in a woman's belly -  "life" - but they will quickly say that life could exist on a planet that may contain favorable conditions for its existence? 


5.  We are in day 69 of no state budget here in PA.  The talk now among the leadership is to pass a stop-gap funding resolution that would appropriate monies for schools and human services agencies among others. I would vote no for this type of resolution because 1) this will create the concept that budgets aren't needed, only resolutions to keep government monies flowing, 2) even if a stop-gap expiration is in place, the deadline will come, which will force another resolution, and 3) the core issues of the budget will no be addressed such as education funding, taxes, and the unfunded pension liability.  The "kick the can" mentality of continuing resolutions is becoming the norm in Washington where no real budget exists and I do not want to see the Commonwealth of PA succumb to Washington D.C.'s tired thinking.

6. I wonder if Donald Trump is saying to himself, "Oh my. I might really become the President.  I just got into this race for something to do to promote myself and businesses."  Now that the summer of Trump is over, will the Autumn be the fall of The Donald?  One thing is clear --- voters seem to favor those who have never been in office before.

7.  Now that Labor Day is gone, the big question is can I continue to wear white?  Originally only applying to shoes, this fashion trend morphed into other articles of clothing.  While no one really can pin point where it started, most agree that it wearing white or lighter color clothes in the fall and winter will not keep you warm, not to mention white shows the dirt.  Some agree that high society back in the 1940's and 50s designated the "no white after Labor Day" motto in order to tell those they deemed less important how to dress.  Whatever the case, my fashion is dictated by my wife and my daughter Gracie who will not let me leave the house in such as way as to embarrass them.

8. 1 Corinthians 12: 17-20: "If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.  If they were all one part, where would the body be?  As it is, there are many parts, but one body."  The best teams don't have people with similar skills.  The best teams are made up of diverse backgrounds and talents from a pool of people who appreciate the gifts that each one brings to the table.  Members on these teams know their roles and appreciate the others, even if they disagree on some things. 

9. The three top GOP Presidential candidates have never held public office and yet, they are leading the polls.  One reason I believe that they are in vogue is that voters are upset that politicians surround themselves with people they are beholden to (i.e. lobbyists, campaign contributors expecting a lot in return) instead of people who come together to solve problems.  Politicians today in all levels succumb to special interests in favor of actually solving problems facing the government.   Before you vote for a candidate, take a look at his/her team -- are they people of differing backgrounds who want to serve the public or are they only interested in helping themselves financially and politically?  The ones who want to help themselves financially will defend their candidate to keep them in power, while the ones who believe in the candidate's vision of serving others, will defend their solutions.  

10.  I'm picking the Dallas Cowboys to win the Super Bowl this year.  Although, I pick them every year.  I do love this time of year --- Thursday night college games, followed by Friday Night Lights, Saturday College contests and Sunday Pro Football games make for a nice transition from the heat of summer into the cold of winter.


Have a wonderful week.


#teamtim
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(VIRTUALLY) HUG A COP TODAY

9/2/2015

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  • “Too often our feelings are locked in, we feel restrained, perhaps even embarrassed to reach out and touch an officer of the law.  They are people aren’t they?  Reach out, hug a cop.”  - Chevy Chase from the movie Fletch.

Isis recently hung four infidels upside down on a swing set and lit them on fire.  Planned Parenthood is selling baby body parts. A TV reporter is senselessly murdered while she discussed local tourism.  Life means nothing anymore.  Evil is rampant, plain and simple. 

Yesterday, I passed a local police officer who had just pulled over a vehicle for some sort of traffic violation.  I wondered aloud if that cop was a little nervous about getting out of his cruiser in order to speak with driver due to the irrational behavior of citizens lately, who believe that they have been wronged.  No one today is slow to anger and guards their tongues. And everyone from criminals to politicians to even Christians who don't get their way blame someone else for their ills.  It's never their fault --- it's always the other guy, but I digress.



Now evil has set its sights on the protectors of our society.  Police Officers are being killed for one thing and one thing only - because they are a police officer. The recent police shooting stories are tragic and becoming all too common --- just the way evil likes it. The irony is that these brave men and women are sworn to uphold the law and protect those who even want them dead.  By not standing up for what it right, like standing up for the harsh treatment of cops, evil has won. When we begin to devalue those among us who risk their lives daily so that we can be safe, we as a society will descend deeper into darkness.  If the protectors are gone, who will evil come after next?  You? Your kids? Your wife? Your church? Your schools? Your local restaurant?  All of these.

Sadly, a lot of us do see how police officers all over the country are being treated, but we are at a loss of what to do about it.  I have three suggestions:

  • When you see a police officer on the street or in a store with you, walk up and just say “thank you for protecting me”. 
  • If you personally know a police officer, send them a “thank you” text or email.
  • Finally, the third suggestion is to give police officers a virtual hug by saying a quick prayer for them (everyday if you can).  I'll get you started, "Dear God. Today, please wrap your protective arms around the men and women who get up every day and put their lives on the line to keep me and my family safe from evil. Amen."

It’s time we stand up for what is right - in everything.  It’s the least you (we) can do. Start today by (virtually) hugging a cop and saying thank you.

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TUESDAY'S WITH TIM: 09.01.2015

9/1/2015

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Harvard Professor George Miller in 1956 published a piece called "The Magical Number Seven, Plus or Minus Two".  His research concluded that generally we can hold five to nine prices of information in our short-term memory banks. Therefore, in keeping with Professor Miller's findings, I will keep my ten thoughts in today's Tuesdays with Tim to seven words, plus or minus two.  Here we go:

1. The three leading in Iowa are not politicians.

2. We Are! Penn State! Beat Temple this Saturday!

3. "'I'll do the dishes' = happy marriage"-- Anonymous

4. Isis continues to kill Christians - where's the outcry?

5. 400 Pastors resigned on Sunday because of Ashley Madison.

6. Adobe Flash 1996-2015: R.I.P.

7. No PA budget since June - taxes still collected. Fair?

8. "...a harsh word stirs up anger."  Proverbs 15:2b

9. In 116 days, it will be Christmas

10.  Sept 01 - celebrates words that don't rhyme w/another (orange, month)

Believe.Act.Serve.
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