One of the realities of twenty-first century America is the background check. Not only do most firms include these in their hiring considerations but they’re also now used by most youth sports organizations and churches for all individuals that have contact with children. Although it involves some expense, it is…
We are closing in on that annual phenomenon known as March Madness when 68 teams compete for top honors in college basketball. Athletes, coaches, and fans eagerly await the invitations to see if their school has been included in the Big Dance. There is also a competition for women’s teams…
Most of us are familiar with the old bucket brigades. Prior to ladder trucks, long hoses, and trained firemen, volunteers assembled in a line and passed buckets of water from a source to douse on the flames. Although much less efficient than modern methods, it did save lives and property.…
Awhile back, my wife was talking to an 8 year old girl who had almost no exposure to Jesus. Her parents had not taken her to church nor had they taught her at home. As Nancy visited, the subject of church arose and the girl asked, “Why do churches have…
Although Presidents’ Day is in our rearview mirror, February is still the month when we honor the birthdays of all who have held this nation’s highest office. As primaries and caucuses are held ahead of this fall’s election, it behooves us to look back to hear what some of our…
While puttering around doing routine chores, Nancy and I often have the television on in the background. Although we regularly watch news, we like the reruns from our childhood on ME TV and other channels. In addition to the Brady Bunch, Green Acres, and Gilligan’s Island, we especially enjoy Hogan’s…
One of the technological advances that has shaped our world and dominates all aspects of modern life is the computer. Most American homes have at least one laptop, children use Chromebooks in school, businesses employ computers across many applications, and our military relies heavily on electronic assistance. The Windows Operating…
Imagine sailing on a three year cruise that would take you around the world visiting 135 countries and 375 ports of call. The round price of $85,000 per person would include all meals, lodging, drinks, Wi-Fi and more. Such a cruise was indeed planned to set sail last November from…
The past few days have brought a welcome relief from the bitter cold of the last couple weeks. Although it’s January and we can expect such conditions, few of us get used to extreme temperatures. It was for this type of weather that we grew and canned vegetables last summer.…
Most of us have taken down our Christmas decorations and stashed them safely for another ten months. Prior to that, there were fall decorations that have long since vanished. Something happened this past fall, however, that still haunts me. My wife is the consummate decorator and does an exquisite job…