Friday, December 5, 2008

Little Sunups!!!!

Duane's little chicks have hatched!!!

Here are a few pictures if the new baby Sunups.










We usually only get to hear from Duane, but here is a picture of his wife, Vonnie, with the baby chicks. Duane tells us she does most of the work at the Chicken Ranch!

Is it the Face of Jesus?










In the small town of Kingsville, Texas... people are flocking to see an electric transformer on a utility pole. Not only is there a mysterious image that reminds some of what might be Jesus Christ, there is also a clear "25." Take a look at these photos and decide for yourself!
Andy Hines, with the electrical company AEP Texas, says it suspects "weathering sustained over a period of time" caused the image. The transformer has been installed since 1982.










Monday, November 10, 2008

Happy Birthday, Billy!

We had a Mornings first on Billy Graham's 90th! Larry was in Charlotte, North Carolina to interview people associated with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. We celebrated for three hours--it was a lot of fun to hear about his life and legacy. Here's a photo of Larry working in the BGEA studio.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Carrie Stoelting meets Bob Dole


Many of you might remember Carrie Stoelting, a guest we had on Mornings who sings with her sister Stacie. Well Carrie had the privilege of meeting Senator Bob Dole, here is what she had to say about it:

"Last week, I received a phone call from Senator Bob Dole's office. He was coming to Des Moines and wanted to meet with me! I was invited to be his guest at a special breakfast in Des Moines. You see, a few weeks ago I wrote a letter to Senator Dole requesting a meeting. (I have wanted to meet him since I was nine.) When he campaigned for president, I wrote a letter of admiration to him and I requested to have his autograph. To my surprise, when his wife came to Cherokee in 1995, she made a special presentation of a signed picture to me! I will never forget it! The experience was life-changing for me. Ever since, I have very much wanted to meet Bob Dole, too. Now, 13 years later, I met him at last. How I thank God for the opportunity! Stacie and I attended the breakfast and enjoyed visiting with Senator Grassley as well. He is a blessing and we appreciate him so much."

Here are some pictures of Senetor Dole and the Stoelting sisters....





Monday, October 27, 2008

Prayers for Karleigh Ann

Dennis has asked for us to keep his Grandaughter in our prayers.

Here are a couple of pictures of little Karleigh Ann. Thank all of you for your prayers. She will need multiple surgeries as she gets older. Her heart is flipped backwards and she has some holes and veins that aren't positioned correctly. I was blessed to hear her cry and could hold her for the first time Saturday.

Dennis


Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Unity Ride, Neon with Alistair Begg

Here is a picture of Pastor Neon and a few people who attended the Unity Ride.

The man to his right is
Alistair Begg of Truth For Life

A Cool New Car


Dennis from Indiana has the coolest new car! It is a Smart Car and quite a bit smaller than the truck Dennis drives as part of his job.
Here's what Dennis says, "It is gas only. Premium. 45 to 50 mpg. Our cars name is 'The Black Pearl.' Steve Martin drove one in the movie The Pink Panther."
For more info, see this website:
http://www.smartusa.com/

More photos



It's been a while since "Lewis and Lewis" were here, but I think I forgot to post this photo! We really enjoyed this sweet couple.






And Emile sent a cute photo of his Canadian cowboy, Emile Jr.!

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Emile's new found daughter Devyn

Here are some pictures of Emile's new found daughter.
We give her an official welcome to the FamilyNet family!



































We also included a familiar face in here, Emile's son Josh.

Pastor Neon's New Tattoo

Here is a picture of Pastor Neon with is his new Trinity Riders tattoo.

.....and here he is with his family and his Pray Vote Pray tee shirt!

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Comments from a Listener about Bristol Palin

Listener Vince from NY has given us permission to publish the following message. Thanks, Vince!

It was upsetting to hear some of the comments about Bristol Palin this morning. Many of us are so quick to judge this young lady, but the Bible is very clear that it is not our place to judge anyone. Besides, judging doesn’t help anyone. It just fuels the fire of animosity and character assassination that we keep throwing at her.

This is one of the most blessed and joyous times of her life. Her family should be allowed to focus on the beauty of pregnancy and childbirth. She should be cherishing the new experiences of motherhood and filling her heart with the grace and love the Good Lord provides with His Miracle of life. But rather than showing her our love, support and happiness, we are disgracing her and forcing her to wear the scarlet letter of “teen parent.”

But not all teen parents are worthy of such disgrace. About 2000 years ago, an unwed, pregnant teenager had to survive in a society that wanted to stone her to death. Today she is revered as the mother of our Savior.

Twenty years ago, I was a teenager in high school. My future life looked fantastic through that windshield with nothing but blue skies ahead... I vividly remember calling my girlfriend on a pay phone by the cafeteria and finding out she was pregnant. In an instant, the priorities of my life changed. I could no longer see the blue skies ahead, even though they were still there. I was scared. I didn’t know what to do, and I didn’t know what society would do to me. But I was fortunate. My girlfriend and I accepted this responsibility with love. My mother was so encouraging and supportive. Some people accepted us; some did not. We stuck close to those who did. We got married and raised our family together. Here it is, 20 years later, and we just spent the morning getting our four kids off to school. We have one in college, one in high school, one in middle school and one in elementary school. And we have a morning schedule in chaos. ;)

Unfortunately, our society finds much more pleasure in ridiculing someone than encouraging her. Maybe we think we are lifting ourselves up when we push others down. But when we push people down, they will just move over to others who do lift them up. Some of those influences may be negative and provide false hope. Fortunately, we all have someone we can turn to and He will lift us up. Thank God that he sent His son not to judge us, but to save us. Pray that those who need encouragement turn to the Lord Jesus for the real hope of eternal love.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Movies for Guys

This morning, Phil Boatwright, The Movie Reporter, promised to provide one of our listeners with some DVD choices for a wholesome, yet high-action, cinema outreach.

Here goes... thanks, Phil and readers, see more of Phil's reviews at Preview Online.

BULLITT (1968). Steve McQueen at his coolest and the greatest car chase ever filmed. (Caution: contains one obscenity, but I caught no misuse of God’s name. Also it has some violence, but nothing like today’s standards, or lack of.)

The Great Escape. This is a splendid wartime drama about men set to escape a Nazi POW camp. Based on a true story, with an involving script, cast and musical score. All-star cast includes Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson, James Coburn, Richard Attenborough and James Garner. Interestingly, there is absolutely no cursing. The script is so well written, even the most hardened cynic won’t miss the objectionable words. This film is evidence that nearly every subject matter can be placed on screen without crudity or profanity. McQueen tries to escape via a motorcycle. Beware, it’s a long film.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Funny, thrilling, Sean Connery and Harrison Ford are terrific as squabbling father and son searching for the Holy Grail. PG (lots of violence, some sensuality, and one profanity, for which the culprit is immediately punished, sending out a very positive message that the misuse of God’s name is wrong).
Also contains some motorcycle action.

It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. A non-stop laugh-a-thon as a group of motorists learn of a fortune buried 200 miles away. Besides all the visual and verbal gags, and its constellation of comic greats, Mad World also contains some of the best car chases and stunts ever filmed. Funny, but long.

The Magnificent Seven. Made in 1960, in color, and starring Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, Eli Wallach, Charles Bronson, James Coburn and Robert Vaughn. Derived from the Kuroswa “Eastern,” the story follows seven gunmen defending a poor Mexican village against bandits. Every part is perfectly cast and Elmer Bernstein’s score is fabulous. This new digital edition includes a documentary on the making of the film, with interviews by the producer and several of the actors.

The Party. Peter Sellers stars as a good-hearted bumbler who accidentally destroys a movie set, and then manages to do the same to a fancy party given by the film’s producer. There are a few risqué moments, but it is pretty tame by today’s standards. And extremely funny and good-natured. Sellers is terrific.

The Phantom. Billy Zane, Kristy Swanson, Treat Williams. Paramount . Kids Action Adventure. A well-made tongue-in-cheek salute to the Saturday serials of the ‘30s and ‘40s, based on the comic strip about a purple-costumed hero of the jungle fighting the forces of evil. Aided by his wolf, Devil, and his white horse, Hero, he seeks justice for the good guys and destruction for all evil doers. Lots of laughs for adults and much imagination-inciting adventure for the little ones. But beware, it's jam-packed with daring do and violence.

The Rocketeer. Bill Campbell and Jennifer Connelly star in this action/adventure about a rocketpack attached to any hearty young daredevil’s back will cause him to fly. It’s 1938 and, of course, the Nazis want such a device. Enter the Rocketeer, who must defend the American way of life by preventing the Germans from gaining possession of the rocket. Lost of fun. PG (4 or 5 expletives and comic-book action).

Run Silent, Run Deep. Burt Lancaster and Clark Gable star as officers at odds in this tense, well-made submarine drama. Lancaster and Gable – now we’re talking movie stars!

THE SEARCHERS. John Wayne stars in John Ford’s most complex and visually stunning western. Ethan Edwards searches for his niece after marauding Indians kidnap her.

A Shot In the Dark. Inspector Clouseau falls for a beautiful murder suspect in this hilarious follow-up to “The Pink Panther.” One of the best in the series. Caution: A Shot in the Dark has a few adult situations not suitable for children, but handled with enough discretion for adults.

STEEP. Interesting documentary about men – and women – who live for danger. Like surfers searching for the tallest wave, extreme mountain skiers attempt to conquer the highest and most inaccessible adversary. Containing terrific cinematography and moving stories of fallen comrades, the film expertly reveals the character of these sportsmen. Best moment: Three skiers are photographed from a helicopter while getting caught in an avalanche. Not only a thrilling, armrest-grabber of a moment, the aftermath also shows a camaraderie known only to those who risk their lives together. PG (Three or four minor expletives and one use of the s-word after surviving an avalanche; Lots of dangerous skiing in places not fit for man).

The Straight Story. Filmed along the 260-mile route that the actual Alvin Straight (Richard Farnsworth) traversed in 1994 from Laurens , Iowa to Mt. Zion , Wisconsin , The Straight Story chronicles Alvin ’s patient odyssey and those he meets along the way. Alvin encounters a number of strangers, from a teenage runaway to a fellow WWII veteran. By sharing his life’s earned wisdom with simple stories, Alvin has a profound impact on these people. It contains lessons about the importance of family and forgiveness. Rated G.

Support Your Local Sheriff. A very funny western send-up with drifter James Garner hired as town sheriff. Also stars Walter Brennan, Jack Elam and Bruce Dern. Rated G, it is the funniest western spoof I’ve seen.

Von Ryan’s Express. Frank Sinatra and Trevor Howard lead a daring escape from a prisoner-of-war camp in this first rate, action charged war drama.

United 93. This intense drama tells of the actions of 9/11/01 aboard the hijacked flight bound for Washington D. C. Told from the perspectives of the passengers, the flight crew and those monitoring the plane, the film shows how complete strangers united against a common enemy. Indeed, the film is a cautionary tale that states united we stand, divided we fall. It is rated R for intensity and for profanity - While I applaud this film for its potent message, beware that there are at least 14 profane uses of God’s name and His son. In frustration and fear, several characters uttered God’s name followed by a curse or used Jesus’ name as a mere expletive.

AMERICA ’S HEART AND SOUL (2004). Filmmaker Louis Schwartzberg packed up his camera and hit the road, with a goal of capturing both the unparalleled beauty of the U.S. and the incomparable spirit of its people. Here you have the chance to meet ordinary Americans with extraordinary stories. Schwartzberg’s gift is his ability to connect with people, honestly capturing their values, dreams, and passion. AMERICA ’S HEART AND SOUL is a celebration of a nation told through the voices of its people.

The Bear. Wow, what a great film experience. It follows an orphaned bear cub and his new protector, a huge Kodiak. There’s no Disney-styled narration or cutesy voice-overs. “The Bear” is simply a captivating, humorous look at the daily life of these two mammals. The film takes place in 1885 British Columbia , with stunning, often breathtaking photography, locations and some truly touching moments. Caution, there are a couple of frightening scenes. Hunters are after the Kodiak. Dogs and horses are wounded by the bear when he is cornered. But no animals were actually harmed during filming. I believe little ones can handle it if parents are there to reassure. Standout moment: an unprepared hunter comes face to face with his quarry. After some rather loud roaring, the huge mammal takes pity on the frightened hunter and walks away. Later, the bear is also spared. Rated PG.

Bill Cosby – Himself. Bill’s insights on marriage and children highlight this very funny stand-up (and sometimes sit down) routine. But perhaps the funniest bit is his take on a trip to the dentist. I rank this routine right up there with Abbott & Costello’s “Who’s On First.”

Dr. Strangelove. Very dark comedy about a military commander who goes, well, a little funny in the head, and launches a hydrogen bomb aimed at Russia . Stanley Kubrick’s brilliant satire pokes fun at politicians and the absurdity of war. Peter Sellers, George C. Scott head intrepid cast. (Caution: Adult subject matter).

The Great Raid. Director John Dahl recreates the gritty reality-based story of one of the most spectacular rescue missions ever to take place in American history: “the great raid on Cabanatuan,” the daring exploit that would liberate more than 500 U.S. prisoners of war on the Philippines in 1945. A gripping depiction of human resilience, the film vividly brings to life the personal courage and audacious heroism that allowed a small but stoic band of World War II soldiers to attempt the impossible in the hope of freeing their captured brothers. Caution: It’s rated R (3 profanities, 8 or so obscenities and a few minor expletives, but for a war film, the language is very mild; what’s more, there is a great deal of thoughtful dialogue and several moments that reveal men of faith and a reverence for God; the film receives its rating mainly for the graphic violence and themes including a narration at the top that details the abuse of victims including the fact that 15,000 people died during the Death March; that said, nothing is done exploitatively – this is not a Rambo movie, but a real moment in history; yes, some of it is difficult to watch, but so many gave up so much in order to end a cancer that threatened to destroy the soul of man. Their sacrifice should be depicted and therefore, remembered).

Letter from Jeff Rainey

We wanted to take some time to show our support to Jeff Rainey in his training for his half marathon, read the letter below and show your support as well!!

Keep up the GREAT work Jeff!

Good Morning Lorri, Larry and all the crew:

As you suggested , I am sending you a link to the fundraising site for my half-marathon. The name of the camp is The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp http://www.holeinthewallgang.org/ and it is celebrating the 20 year anniversary and has expanded with 13 sister camps throughout the world. Everything the camps do is by donation and fundraising including the addition of buildings and other camps. No families of attending children pay even a penny for a child to go to camp (or themselves on the family weekends).

I am running for the fundraising side of the camp called Team Hole in the Wall (here's the link to my page: http://www.teamholeinthewall.org/NETCOMMUNITY/Page.aspx?pid=425&srcid=426&frsid=576 . I am running the Adirondack Marathon and Distance Festival and there is a link to that on my page as well as a couple of pictures of my son and me. There is also a spot to post messages on the page which inspire me to get out there when I don't really want to run.

Thank you all so much,
Jeff Rainey

Monday, August 25, 2008

Zach Donohue

We wanted to give a quick shout-out to listener, Dee and her son Zach Donohue!

As some of you may recall Zach has been competing in various ice skating competitions!
Here are a few pictures of both Zack and his partner Piper Gilles.



















Here is a little message from Dee......


"Thanks to all who keep them in prayer-we hope to visit an orphanage while in the Czech Republic (or at least a soup kitchen)-as doors open and God and time allow. I plan to come home with my suitcase empty as I will donate my clothes to the needy there.


Blessings and thanks for keeping the morning ride home enjoyable!"

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Little Josh

Since Josh has been so close to our listeners for the past two years, Emile from New Brunswick sent us an updated picture of our little Canadian friend!

And here is Josh's big brother Emile Jr.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Larry from Indiana

It's such a pleasure to get to know our callers. Sometimes your tone of voice tells us a lot about the victories or trials you're experiencing. Other times, all we have to go on is your state and a few details about you. But with some of you more talkative folks, we learn a whole lot about you in just one call!

With Larry, we get to know him a little bit better with each call and with each email.
Larry seems like such an honest, nice fellow--I know I would like him if I met him in person. He has taken a sad turn of events in his life--a son's accident--and made it his mission to encourage Joey's caregiver and Joey, of course, too.

Yesterday, I promised to share his new blog with you because he addresses "Mornings" listeners!
http://larry-indiana.blogspot.com

And if you want to find out more about Joey, please visit www.supportjoe.com

Larry, our prayers are with you and Joey. God bless you both.

Builders For Christ

We had Bobby Lunceford with Builders for Christ on our show today to talk about the way his organization helps churches. In addition, Pastor Jim Weaver and Deacon Duane Davis from Pine Level Baptist Church in Cairo, Georgia came up to Atlanta to explain how much Bobby had helped their church grow. Builders for Christ has all but finished a 15,000 square foot classroom and recreation addition for Pine Level.

Bobby and his wife are full-time, unpaid missionaries traveling around to do this work. They covet your prayers and will accept monetary donations. To help them help others, please send a check to:

NAMB (North American Mission Board)
PO Box 116543
Atlanta GA 30368-6543

Note on your check: Bobby and Becky Lunceford MSC 8977

Thank you!

Brina Our Young Superstar!

We wanted to send a special shout out to former intern Brina who has been competing in the Miss Georgia Teen International Pageant. Brina was second runner up in the pageant and the Mornings crew is very proud of her! Here are some pictures of our young superstar!


Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Dennis from Indiana


Here are some pictures of our long-time listener, Dennis! Doesn't he look great? He's been taking King's advice.




Dennis pulls a van trailer and a flatbed; he uses the flatbed to take picnic tables to state parks. The picnic tables are manufactured by offenders in state prisons.
Dennis gave us a great idea, "Let's have our truck driver audience send pictures of themselves with their rig." So if you have any pictures of yourself with your truck send them to mornings@familynet.com, and we will feature you on our blog!!!

Farewell Andy!!

On Friday, July 18th, we said goodbye to one of our favorite Mornings crew members, Andy Sixsmith.




So in honor of his departure, and in celebration of our newest member Tom we threw a little party. Doughnuts and coffee!





And of course our celebration would not be complete without a few pictures of the stunning Mornings crew.





( Above: Lorri, Larry, and Andy)







We were able to get a few pictures of the whole Mornings crew together one last time before Andy left!







(From L-R: Tim, Josue, David, Lorri, Andy,

Chris, Larry, Patricia)


We were also able to take a few pictures of the Mornings crew behind the scenes. We thought we would introduce some of the people you don't see in from of camera often. So here is a look at the people who make up the Mornings family! Enjoy!





Now Introducing..... the Mornings Crew, behind the scenes!






Producer extraordinaire Chris Larson, He was having a rough day....





Graphics Genius David Hamilton





Josue Rodriguez also known as J-Rod





Tim Rhodes, also known as Dusty Rhodes





Graphics Mastermind, Patricia Gaddy




And last but certainly not least, the newest addition to the Mornings Family, the incredible Tom Williams!