Filter Of Hope

Filter of Hope is an organization that is working on being part of the solution to the lack of clean drinking water in third world countries. Clean, safe drinking water is something that most of us take for granted here, but is hard to find in other parts of the world. Water may be available, but it is frequently contaminated. Lack of clean water is a leading killer in some areas. There are several organizations that are helping to build wells or to install extensive systems to improve conditions, but Filter Of Hope is working on a solution that is simpler and cheaper.

For $40, a Filter of Hope water filter will purify up to 150 gallons of water a day, 7 days a week, for up to 10 years! For that price, a filter can also be put in the hands of many families so they can each help take care of their own family needs. The filters are not only simple to set-up and to keep clean, but they also are a quick and easy solution to problem that causes the deaths of far too many.

Watch the video to learn more about the filter and the Filter Of Hope program:


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Here is how people can help:
People can help in a variety of ways -- online donations ($40 can buy a water filter, but any amount will help), make a donation in someones name (send a donation card), or volunteering. People can travel by his/herself or together with their church or another organization to go on a Global Effect Mission trip and install the filters themselves.

Filter of Hope partners with organizations like Samaritans Purse and Convoy of Hope -- you can see the complete list here: http://filterofhope.org/about-us/partners/

For more information, you can visit http://filterofhope.org or you can watch their information videos at http://filterofhope.org/the-solution/video/

Like the Filter Of Hope Facebook page.
Follow @FilterofHope on Twitter.  
Filter of Hope website.

I want to thank BuzzPlant BuzzBloggers program for making me aware of this program. In exchange for this blog post they are making a donation in my name to Filter Of Hope. Thank you!!

The War On Christmas

The War On Christmas, edited by Bodie Hodge.

Filled with family get-togethers, office parties, breaks from school, decorating the tree, and more, Christmas is a time of peace and love. So why has so much controversy clouded this sacred holiday? It has become ground zero in an ongoing culture war where Nativity scenes are mixed, Merry Christmas becomes Happy Holidays, and even the word "Christmas" is considered by some as offensive. Find the truth about Christmas and the Christian's response to a culture that seems to be declaring war. (Publisher's Description)

 My Review: Beautiful pictures, along with short chapters that cover a wide range of topics within the story of Christmas, and filled a lot of background and detail make this an interesting book for those who want much more clarity on what the Bible says. On the other hand, some of it was repetitive and could get a bit boring. Perhaps it is simply because I learned the story of Jesus from the Bible and have always realized that the songs, movies, cartoons, etc. are a creative retelling rather than a factual documentary. There were bits of info scattered among the chapters that I found interesting, but nothing that I found mind-boggling. I had also hoped it would delve a bit into the current issues over the religious and secular symbols associated with Christmas and why so many are determined to ban the mention of Christmas from the public arena. However, since this was a project from Answers In Genesis, it would be unfair to fault them for not putting an emphasis on that aspect. It was good book, but not great.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Handlebar. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

"Doonby" Makes Major Impact in Michigan

On December 9, 2013, the inspirational thriller “Doonby” came to the Star Gratiot Theater in Clinton Twp, MI as an event sponsored by Radio Air Jesus, Mrs. Huey and Michael Warren. Michigan filmmaker, Rebecca Huey Krupp, using the organization TUGG, Inc., organized the efforts of ticket buyers to bring this Peter Mackenzie-directed movie to town. Lead actress Jenn Gotzon, who plays character “Laura Reaper” opposite John Schneider, arrived a few days before the screening to share her testimony and discuss restoration at New Wineskin Church and Heartfelt Ministries.

(L to R) Red Carpet Experience: Jason Eaton Band, Artist Sean Guerrero, “Doonby” Lead Actress Jenn Gotzon, 103.5 FM The Light Morning Host Chris Stevenson and his wife on red carpet before "Doonby" Michigan Premiere Dec. 9, 2013

People who purchased red carpet passes attended a "Meet and Greet" with the actress and evening’s artists on the red carpet and received an autographed poster and had the opportunity to take photographs. Local radio morning host of 103.5FM WMUZ The Light, Chris Stevenson, emceed the evening's gala event and Jason Eaton Band performed.. Sean Guerrero, whose viral music video  WALLS, starring Jenn Gotzon, was played on screen, but Sean and his guitarist Shane flew in from North Carolina to perform the song acoustically also.

Producer Regina Benjamin Steiger covered the event (view video) and showed an inspirational segment from “Hand Of God". 

After the film, Chris Stevenson opened up the Q & A for Jenn Gotzon and invited the audience to write in Jenn's journal expressing how the movie "Doonby" may have impacted their life. Gotzon’s message was that everyone would know how significant, important and valued they are, especially during this Christmas season. 

Jenn Gotzon on air WMUZ 103.5 FM with Chris Stevenson's The Light Morning Show.
Dec. 9, 2013

While in the Detroit Area, Ms. Gotzon was a guest of both the afternoon and morning show on 103.5FM WMUZ The Light, hosted by Chris Stevenson and Robin Sullivan. Tickets and passes were given away on air and callers lit up the switchboard wanting to attend.

Watch this fun behind the scenes video captured by DJ Ginger Beggs (video link).

Viewers from the “Doonby” premiere commented after about the movie saying, “The ending was a surprise with a message that still inhabits my thoughts and searches for an answer as to 'What If?' and 'What can I do?'” 

Another attendee said, “It was an excellent movie with an important point… that God does not make nobodies.”

“Doonby is a thought provoking movie that encompasses the human spirit. It has adventure, mystery, drama and above all, true heart! I left the theater with a whole new appreciation and view on life,” said another premiere goer.

"Jenn's protrayal of Laura Reaper was especially compelling; she takes you on this roller coaster of emotions, complete with the drop in your stomach when you realize what all the story threads add up to! And you just go: "Wow!" The audience fell in love with her all over again as Jenn gracefully fielded deep, tough questions and inspired us with her passion for telling life-changing stories on screen,” says “In His Step” lead actress Rebekah Cook who also plays in “Christmas Grace” and worked with Gotzon in 3 movies.

NYC Acting Schoolmates Robbie Lavine and Jenn Gotzon

“Watching Jenn's character evolve throughout the story was riveting. Knowing her since we were young and roommates in NYC attending The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts made me feel a sense of pride. There was a deeper meaning to this story that really makes you think how important every soul is on this earth. The cast portrayed it brilliantly Amazing!!!" explained actress Robbie Lavine who teaches acting locally in Michigan and bi-coastal in Los Angeles and NYC.

Event hosts were Ginger Beggs and Rebecca Huey Krupp from Michigan. Rebecca and Gotzon met during the summer program at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts in ’98 and have stayed in touch through facebook. Rebecca is currently involved with Motion Pictures in Michigan. Mandi Toan assisted as Jenn’s event & production coordinator.

Rebecca, Jenn, and Ginger

Radio host Ginger Beggs had this to say about the movie: “Never before has a film reached my soul without being invasive or offensive. “Doonby” captures your heart and mind from the beginning, showing the effects of light and dark in our world and how one life can cause a ripple in those effects. From loveable and also dark characters to the amazing twist ending, I was completely captured. If you leave the film without asking questions, then my advice is to watch it again. Provocative, thought-provoking, endearing, emotional and thrilling ride!" - Ginger Beggs, Host/Producer "TheOverdrive Show" on Radio Air Jesus.

Event Photographers: Amanda Beggs and Mikayla Steiger

Links to press coverage for Michigan Doonby Premiere and references in Press Release:

The OverDrive Show on Radio Air Jesus (broadcasting in 98 countries) with DJ Ginger (guest Jenn Gotzon):
www.RadioAirJesus.com
http://youtu.be/hSiWkHHQq4o

WMUZ 103.5FM Interview on Chris Stevenson’s The Light Morning Show (behind the scenes video - guest Jenn Gotzon):
http://youtu.be/OO29Z4jR4ns

WMUZ 103.5FM Interview on Robin Sullivan’s The Praise Company afternoon show (guest Jenn Gotzon & DJ Ginger):
https://soundcloud.com/theoverdriveshow/jenn-gotzon-on-103-5fm-wmuz

Hand of God by Regina Steiger (“Doonby” Michigan Premiere behind-the-scenes & Hand of God segments):
http://the-hand-of-god.com/
http://youtu.be/dQgLE4vxV1c

Artist Sean Guerrero’s music video “Walls” starring Jenn Gotzon with artist Sean Guerrero:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/sean-guerrero/id680036891?uo=4
https://www.facebook.com/SeanGuerreroMusic

http://youtu.be/C_1KJ382vLQ

Jason Eaton Band:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/jason-eaton-band/id425448201?uo=4
www.JasonEatonBand.com

Jenn Gotzon IMDb bio:
http://www.imdb.me/jenngotzon

http://www.facebook.com/JennGotzon.fanpage

http://www.twitter.com/JennGotzon

Thank you to Jenn Gotzon and Ginger Beggs for the previously written material.

'Corners Of Your Field' Program

“When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop.  It is the same with your grape crop—do not strip every last bunch of grapes from the vines, and do not pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. Leave them for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the Lord your God." - Leviticus 19:9-10 

 It is time for the end of the year, cleaning out the closets routine. Out with the old and make room for the new!! Don't know what to do with the items that you no longer need? Here is a fantastic idea!! I just recently heard about this excellent program that is founded on Biblical principles of provision for the poor, but updated into a modern, practical approach for those of us who do not have fields. I am going to be personalizing it for my own area, but check to see if there is a program near you.
 

  

When you donate your gently used items to the local Mission Possible Bargain Center, tell them the name of your church, and the church then receives a credit that is given in the form of gifts cards. Reminder: Share this info with your pastor and request that your church signs up to be a part of this program. This is a win-win for everyone. When you give, you not only are helping some on a tighter budget buy needed items, but the money spent also goes to aid others through The Jimmie Hale Mission and Jessie's Place. Plus, part your donation is monetized into a gift card for your church to use for those in need in  your community!! 

Mission Possible Bargain Centers: Corners Of Your Field Program 
 You can drop off your items at the store or schedule a FREE donation pick-up 205-323-5878 or 1-855-693-4353

Jimmie Hale Mission 

 Mission Possible Bargain Center - Cullman County
306 Main Street SE
 Hanceville, AL 35077 -
Hwy. 31 near City Hall, one mile south of Wallace State
Open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, please call 256-352-6068.

REMINDER; TELL YOUR PASTOR TO SIGN-UP FOR THIS PROGRAM BY CALLING MR. TERRY PRESTON AT 256-323-5878.

I Love My Neighbor campaign

The Link of Cullman County has a God-sized goal for 2014...and YOU can be a part of it!! They are already making major changes in the lives of many and have plans to do more in the next year. They have Big Plans, Big Dreams, and Big Opportunities for YOU to partner with them!

That's why they have launched this campaign called, "I Love My Neighbor." There is no better way to simply explain what they do on a daily basis. By joining in, you can help make a difference in the lives of your neighbors, friends, family, or even yourself. The needs are many and can seem overwhelming, but TOGETHER and with GOD, the impossible can be done. The Link needs a larger facility to be able to help others, and there are volunteer opportunities available for the many services they provide. Plus, efforts are being made to reach practical solutions to some obstacles people face like lack of transportation. Also, when we reach out our hand to help a neighbor, they are able to pass that blessing along. "Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up." - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

To help The Link of Cullman County accomplish some of these BIG DREAMS they are asking you to consider investing in your neighbors through a one-time donation towards this campaign. Or better yet, help to keep them going all-year through with a monthly donation that fits into your budget.
With your support we can work together to break the cycle of poverty and in doing so bring HOPE to our hopeless neighbors all-around us.
Thank you so much for your participation and prayers.
Click on this link to donate: I Love My Neighbor

 The Link of Cullman County is located at
1101 3rd Ave SE
Cullman, AL 35055

Phone	(256) 775-0028
Email	info@linkingcullman.org
Website	http://www.linkingcullman.org

Facebook: The Link of Cullman County
Twitter: @linkingcullman

Company Overview

We provide encouragement, goal-setting, career coaching, financial counseling, adult literacy coaching, English as a Second Language classes, Jobs for Life(TM) classes, GED classes and orientation, and Wise Up Money Skills for Teens (life economics in our local schools).

Description

Our beliefs are as follows:
We believe in God's love. All people are valued and loved by God, and it is our joy to serve them and our God. It is through God's love that lives will be changed one by one.
We believe in the power of synergy. When people with a common vision work together to solve the challenges faced by our community, we can create a synergy not obtainable while working solo.

We believe in progress. Progress is measure, not by how perfect we are, but by the positive, sustainable evidence of the quality of life of the members we serve.

We believe in Cullman. We want to embrace the past, present, and future traditions and values of our community. There are consistent opportunities for people to join together behind a cause to transform lives and improve the place where we live.

We believe in service. We want to serve those who serve others in our community and beyond. We believe that neighbors can help neighbors through the example of Jesus Christ. It is through his example that we can learn how to serve and love others.

General Information

We are working towards overcoming the barriers to our poor and vulnerable in Cullman County. We believe in offering a hand up and not just a hand out.

In doing so we believe that God wishes to use the body of Christ in Cullman to relationally love and support those who are in need. We are not one local church but many local churches serving together.

In that we have many roles for a volunteer to play: Encourager, Navigator, FInancial Counselor, Adult Literacy coach, English as a Second Language Instructor, Jobs for LIfe leader/team member, or a Wise Up Facilitator.

We also can always use people who can help us in the office to clean and with administrative tasks. We often have odd jobs that need to be done to upkeep our building like landscaping or other maintenance related items.

If you are interested in volunteering with us, stop in to get a tour and a volunteer booklet.

When Calls The Heart dvd

When Calls the Heart, directed by Michael Landon Jr. and based on the best-selling books by Janette Oke, tells the story of a young high society teacher receiving her first classroom post in a prairie town in the Western Frontier.  Determined to prove to her family that she is brave enough to live on her own,  Elizabeth (Poppy Drayton) struggles with her own fears and doubts until she discovers her late Aunt's diary.  Her aunt (Maggie Grace), also named Elizabeth, had set off on a similar adventure as a teacher into the frontier, where she struggled with prairie life and eventually met and fell in love with a Royal Canadian Mountie (Stephen Amell).  Reading her aunt’s words, the young Elizabeth decides to put her future in God’s hands and embark on her own adventure where she uses the diary as her guide as well as Edward, another Mountie (Daniel Sharman), sworn to see her arrive. (press release)

This could be called "The Tale of Two Elizabeths", as the film skillfully interwines the stories of young Elizabeth Thatcher and the aunt whose name she carries. Those familiar with Janette Oke's Canadian West series will recognize the story of Elizabeth Thatcher and Wynn Delaney, but this film is the story of Elizabeth's namesake who is deciding if she is brave enough to head west for her first teaching assignment. Aunt Elizabeth's story is shown through flashback's as her neice reads through the diary her sister "borrowed" from their parent's safe.

With her courage gathered, and believing this is what God has called her to do, Elizabeth decides to head west and share her love of learning with the children in a small coal mining town. Against her wishes, her father requests family friend, Edward Montclair of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, to see that she safely arrives at her destination. Her disdain turns to admiration as they journey across the land.

The dvd leaves you wanting more of this story. Fortunately for those who receive the Hallmark Channel, the story does continue as a television series scheduled to begin January 11th. (I did notice that there will be different actors in some of the major roles, but am pleased to see Lori Loughlin in both the film and the series. I also loved seeing Jean Smart in the film!) However, just because this movie is a pilot, it does not mean it is not a satisfying stand-alone film. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the movie and was content with the way it ended. Of course, I want to know more, but I felt that the ending was one that left a feeling of hope and a promise of good things to come. The scenery was gorgeous, and the story was a well told blend of romance, comedy, tragedy, and a touch of history. I have seen and enjoyed several of Michael Landon Jr.'s films, but I do believe that this is my favorite of all. 

Disclosure: I received this dvd compliments of Word Films and Edify Media for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

BTFS Black Friday Sale

[BLACK FRIDAY!] Buy a Beyond The Farthest Star novel, t-shirt or both and receive a star autographed poster FREE! Friday, Nov. 29 and Saturday, Nov. 30 ONLY...while supplies last. Give the gift of BTFS and watch for more in 2014! Click the BTFS STORE link.

The novel is written by Bodie and Brock Thoene, based on the screenplay by director Andrew Librizzi. This is contemporary fiction in a richly layered story that draws you into the characters lives and touches your heart with the honest emotion expressed. I first read the novel 2 years ago and still vividly remember scenes that profoundly made an impact on me.

The T-Shirts are a bold, vibrant 60/40 cotton/poly with the full color logo on fron and the inspirational The End Is The Beginning tagline on back. Show the world that YOU are a BTFS fan!  Or, it is a spectacular gift for your favorite BTFS fan!!

Buy and Get a FREE POSTER! This exclusive poster signed by Andrew Librizzi, Renee O'Connor, Todd Terry, Cherami Leigh, Benjamin Dane (rockin' that BTFS shirt!) and more!! 

 HURRY!! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED!!

 http://pathlight-entertainment.myshopify.com/

The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher

The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher is a beautiful retelling of the birth of Jesus on that joyous night in Bethlehem so long ago. The poem begins with the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem and winds though Christ’s birth, the angels’ appearance to the shepherds, and the visit by the Wise Men.  The simple, yet elegant, verses will appeal to little ones and are accompanied by the rich acrylic illustrations of Christine Kornacki.

’Twas the very first Christmas when all through the town

not a creature was stirring—there was not a sound.

The moon shining bright in the heavens so high

gave the look of midday to the Bethlehem sky.

The animals were nestled in warm, cozy places

with looks of contentment on each of their faces. 

Ideals Books is the publisher of this charming 32 page hardcover book. Perfect for a 4-8 year old due to the rhyming language that helps them develop verbal language skills and learn to read. Not only is this book great for Family Story Time during the holidays, it is a wonderful addition for the libraries for Children's Ministers and Sunday school teachers! Musically inclined? Christmas carolers could set it to a tune! I found myself humming The First Noel as I read.

Very reminiscent of "Twas The Night before Christmas" in style, this has a poetic feel that flows smoothly with a rhythm that is very pleasing. The story is told in a simple style suitable for young children and gives them an overall summary of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. The Biblical story of the First Christmas, as written in Luke 2:1, 4-16, 20 and Matthew 2:1-2, 9b-11 is also included at the end of the book. I loved this added touch! The gorgeous illustrations add a beauty to the book that will delight all. Even those too young to read for themselves will want to look at these. This is sure to be a treasured book in your family and one you will want to enjoy for years to come.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from FlyBy Promotions Blogger Networkin exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

GIVEAWAY!! FlyBy Promotions also has a copy to give to one of my readers. Leave a comment telling me who you want to read this story to this Christmas season. Contest ends at 11am (CST) on Wednesday, December 11, 2013.

Bonus: As an added treat, I saw that the illustrator, Christine Kornacki,  had a coloring sheet available for download. Click here to download.

About the Author

Keith Christopher is a composer, arranger, orchestrator, and educator, and he has served as editor and producer for several major music publishers. In addition to writing and studio producing, Keith served on the faculty at the Blair School of Music of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. He lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

 About the Illustrator 
At a very early age, Christine Kornacki developed a love for painting and bringing stories to life. After receiving a BFA in illustration from the University of Hartford, her dreams of illustrating children's books began to take shape, including illustrating the best-selling The Sparkle Box for Ideal's Children's Books. Christine's recent work also includes illustrating the six-book series for the American Girl historical doll characters Marie-Grace and Cecile.  She spends her days painting in her studio, which adjoins a charming cafe in New Haven, Connecticut. 

 

1 Girl Nation cd

Landing in the space where One Direction meets TobyMac, 1 Girl Nation is an exciting blend of upbeat pop music, with lyrics that are totally focused on living life for God, even while you’re young. 1GN, as they’ve already been dubbed, stars Carmen, Kayli, Kelsey, Lauryn Taylor and Lindsey, five girls with a passion for telling their fans about Christ through their music. Their first single, “While We’re Young,” can be heard on radio stations across the country and their self-titled debut album is available now! (from promoter)

Watch the video below for "While We Are Young":

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this cd from Propeller FlyBy Promotions in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions are my own.

I confess that when I read the description, I thought, "Who is "One Direction"?. So I did listen to a couple of those videos to get a grasp on their style. and I agree that they are very similar. Bottom line, if you are a fan of one, you will probably be a fan of the other. I also confess, this really is not my favorite style of music, but that does not take away that I did find myself tapping my toes as I listened to it. There is no denying that this high-energy, upbeat music has a huge fan base, and these young ladies certainly have the enthusiasm and talent to go far. My particular favorite was the 4th track, "In The Eyes", but they are all good. The entire cd is filled with upbeat music and lyrics that deliver a positive message. I will be passing along my copy to my teenaged granddaughter, but see details below of how you can win a copy for yourself or a special person in your life.

Stay Connected:

1 Girl Nation website

1 Girl Nation on Facebook

Twiiter @1girlnation

1 Girl Nation YouTube

Memories of 11/22/63: Grief to Gratitude to Grace

Sandra, Paul, Debbie, & Cindy
November 1963

Several have posted memories of Kennedy being assassinated 50 years ago today. My parents, brother, my best friend, and I had come to Alabama for a few days. This photo of Sandra, Paul, Debbie (my cousin), and I was made about that time. I know I was sitting on my grandparent's front porch when my mom came outside crying, telling us that President Kennedy had been shot.

At the time, I did not truly grasp the enormity of what had happened. Since Daddy was in the Navy, I know we immediately had to return to where he was stationed in Goose Creek (near Charleston), South Carolina. All I remember about the trip back was my parents sitting in the front seat, quietly taking, and Mom continued to have tears streaming down her face. Of course, I cried because Mom cried. 

Caroline, Jackie, & John Kennedy
11/25/63

At first I thought she was upset because we had to end our Thanksgiving vacation early, but reality sank in once we got to a television and I witnessed the sights and sounds of what had and continued to happen. Images of a grieving widow, and 2 kids brought it into a sharper focus. These kids no longer had a daddy. John-John's daddy was being buried on his 3rd birthday! Caroline's was just 2 days later, and she was the same age as my little brother. Suddenly, my world expanded beyond my circle of family and friends.

I remember when Thanksgiving came a few days later, I was more aware than ever of the blessings I had received from God. I knew that Thanksgiving was a day we thanked God. We always prayed before eating anyway, but Thanksgiving Grace was for more than just the food we were about to eat. When it was my turn to ask the blessing, I always used the standard, "God is great, God is good, Let us thank Him for our food.", but I think I matured a little between Nov. 22, and Nov. 28, 1963.

That Thanksgiving I asked permission to ask the blessing. I still remember getting to the table early with my Bible because I wanted to read Scripture too. That is when I discovered a Psalm about thanksgiving! Psalm 100 immediately became a favorite and I remember reading it before asking the blessing and thanking God for all of the blessings I had received and could look forward to receiving from Him for all eternity. So, more than just a "Where Were You When...?" moment, this expanded to a week of where I experienced the grief of others as we mourned as a nation, realized how much I had to be grateful about in my life as the Kennedy family received the gratitude of a grateful nation for their sacrifice, and realized there was more to saying grace and thanking God for my food. I could also experience God's Grace and He became very real to me that week.