City Christmas tree chopped down

Council bosses say the felled tree will be used elsewhere in the city

A Christmas tree which was put up in Leeds city centre two weeks ago has been felled amid safety fears about a demonstration planned for the weekend.

The tree, which cost taxpayers £2,000, went up in City Square on 18 October.
However, the council and police agreed it could pose a risk to the public during a planned rally by the English Defence League on Saturday.
Surprised commuters looked on as workmen used a chainsaw to cut down the 30ft tree early on Thursday morning.
A Leeds City Council spokesman said the tree would be used elsewhere and a new one would be put up in the square before Christmas.
"We have agreed with the police to remove the tree due to an event taking place on the site at the weekend involving a mass gathering of people," a council statement said.
"We... cut the tree down in such a way that it can be reused elsewhere in the city.
"We will replace the City Square tree as soon as we can after the event."
A council employee, who did not wish to be named, sent an email to the BBC saying: "With the tree costing in excess of £2,000 I think it is, diabolically, to be replaced with another tree after the protest has finished at more cost to the taxpayer."

Threat of Christmas post strike as union speaks out against Royal Mail

Postal workers are preparing for a six-day rolling strike and have confirmed that a Christmas shutdown, the first in the Royal Mail’s history, could not be ruled out.

The Communication Workers Union leadership yesterday said it would be intensifying its action if a settlement with Royal Mail could not be reached.

Billy Hayes, the general secretary, said they would be “upping the dispute...not scaling it down.”

His deputy Dave Ward said that a Christmas strike would be “very difficult call” for the union to make, adding: “I’d rather sort this out now than have people think we’re holding them to ransom.”
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After the Royal Mail fiercely blamed the union for the breakdown of this week’s talks, yesterday the union came out fighting.

Mr Ward said the modernisation changes being planned by Royal Mail could lead to 60,000 jobs being lost and the remaining workforce moved from full-time to part-time As up to 47,000 of its members took strike action yesterday — with another 400 today and up to 77,000 on Saturday — the leadership did hold out an olive branch yesterday and held off naming new strike dates. It has to give the company seven days' notice.

Options under consideration include a complete 48-hour stoppage involving all its members or a rolling six-day action that would mean each member striking for two days.

Efforts were under way to get both sides back to the TUC for further discussions.

A backlog of 30 million letters caused by two strikes last week had been reduced to less than two million, according to the company.

Mr Higson said he was confident delayed mail caused by the new walkouts would be cleared by early next week.

David Frost, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “No one is benefiting from ongoing industrial action and hard-pressed businesses are the innocent victims.

“With the country still in recession, this really is a poorly timed strike. Companies simply cannot rely on the postal service, and Royal Mail is paying for it in lost contracts and revenue.”

Sony's aborted attempt to release 'This Is It' DVD before Christmas

Sony Pictures desperately wanted to release the DVD of the Michael Jackson concert movie "This Is It" for the holiday shopping season, but backed down after movie theater owners balked that it was too soon following the film's theatrical premiere.

"This Is It" opened in 99 countries yesterday and is scheduled for a limited two-week run, though the studio may extend that depending on ticket sales.

Sony had hoped to capitalize on audiences' heightened interest in what turned out to be Jackson's final performance by releasing the DVD in mid-December, about a month after the movie ends its short time in theaters. The disc is now expected to come out in late January or early February.

Selling DVDs before Christmas can be particularly lucrative for studios as they are timed to to capture the holiday gift giving season.

While that made sense for Sony, owners of the nation's cinemas were none too happy at the prospect. They have historically urged studios to wait at least 90 days, but preferably four months, from the day a movie opens in theaters to start selling the DVD, in order to maximize ticket sales. For years, studios have honored that "window," in part out of concern that theaters would retaliate by not booking some of their movies or driving harder deal terms.

Sony executives tried to persuade theater operators to make an exception for "This Is It," given its short life span on the big screen and the uniqueness of the picture.

"We felt we made a pretty good case as to why this movie was different," said Jeff Blake, vice chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment, who oversees worldwide marketing and distribution.

However, the movie theater owners refused to budge.

"We had several conversations with Sony and so did our members," said John Fithian, president of the National Assn. of Theatre Owners, an industry trade group. "Anytime we see the window go under three months, we alert our members and raise concerns with the studios."

After hearing complaints from executives at several of his member companies, Fithian said, "I raised a general concern with Sony about the extraordinarily short window."

After talking with theater owners, Sony, whose DVD releases on average come out four months and four days after a movie's theatrical run, reluctantly decided to back off from its request in order to preserve good relations with them.

"We didn't want it to be an issue," said Blake. "At the end of the day, we wanted a big theatrical run and they certainly stepped up and supported that with 6,000 screens in 3,481 theaters."

However, the Sony executive acknowledged that he was sorry the studio didn't get what it it wanted. "It would have made a big financial difference to us," he noted.

All of Hollywood is feeling the pain of an industry-wide decline in DVD sales, which are down more than 13% this year.

Sony is not the only studio that has recently attempted to push up the traditional DVD window. Paramount Pictures is releasing its summer event film "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" in the home entertainment market on Nov. 3, 88 days after it first hit theaters, which raised the ire of many exhibitors.

In 2005, Walt Disney Co. chief executive Bob Iger suggested that the studio might someday respond to consumers' growing impatience to see entertainment when and how they want it by releasing films simultaneously in theaters and on DVD. After theater owners responded in outrage, along with Disney's then-studio chief Dick Cook, Iger went silent on the subject for years.

However, in a keynote address earlier this month, Iger revisited the topic. "In order to keep the DVD business vital, that product has to be perceived as being fresh in the marketplace," the Disney chief said  at a conference at the University of Southern California. "The press to move the DVD window up, be it physical or digital, will grow because of that phenomenon."

John Lewis reports fine pre-Christmas sales

The debate over whether Christmas will be a gift or a letdown to retailers took on a new twist today when latest figures from John Lewis showed “signs of building pre-Christmas trade all around” as it posted a 9.1% rise in year-on-year sales.

Festive: retailers need a good Christmas

The department store chain, often viewed as a barometer of High Street spending, said “seasonal purchasing kicked off strongly in some parts of the country” with London stores flourishing. The tills at Peter Jones rang up 8.4% more sales, at Oxford Street takings were 7% higher and the Bluewater branch raked in 13.5% more than the same time last year.

The retailer admitted that some of the rise was flattered by weak sales in the same period last year but said early indications for Christmas trading were good.

Sister supermarket group Waitrose also flagged up green shoots of recovery for the festive period. “Shoppers are already starting to think ahead to Christmas, with many opting to spread the cost of the festive season,” it said.

Gift sales were up 133% on the week to 24 October last year, and demand for Christmas cake was 28% higher.

Waitrose said the most popular gift choices were toiletries, up 80%, and “the humble mug” which saw sales rocket by 97%.

The latest figures come amidst a flurry of concerns about whether Christmas — which normally gifts retailers a fifth of their annual sales — will be a disappointment or not.

Topshop owner Sir Philip Green said the UK has “one of the most challenging retail landscapes I have ever seen” and warned that rising unemployment meant retailers still have “a long, hard slog ahead”.

But the most recent consumer confidence data showed October levels rose to their highest point since January 2008.

Churches preparing for Operation Christmas Child

SCOTTSBORO - Scottsboro churches are preparing Christmas gifts for children in countries affected by war, famine, poverty, terrorism, natural disaster and other adversities.

Their work is being done through Operation Christmas Child, which bills itself as the world's largest Christmas project.

The project consists of volunteers packing shoe boxes with gifts that are transported by a variety of means to countries around the world.

   Operation Christmas Child uses a technology that allows donors to track the gifts to their destination. Last year, volunteers in Scottsboro prepared and gave 2,238 gift-filled shoe boxes to less fortunate children around the world.

This year, the boxes will be collected at Unclaimed Baggage Center at 509 West Willow St. in Scottsboro Nov. 16-21 from 9 am. to 5 p.m., Nov. 22 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., and Nov. 23 from 8 to 10 a.m.
For more information, call the Unclaimed Baggage Center at 800-605-9708, Operation Christmas Child at 770-777-9342 or visit online at www.samaritanspurse.org/.

Retailers Cut down the Cost of Traditional Toys: Considered to be Christmas Bestseller

Retailers Cut down the Cost of Traditional Toys: Considered to be Christmas Best

The prophecy made by the retailers yesterday specifies the knock down of hi-tech toys like a digital camera, doll’s palace etc., this Christmas. Comforting the customers, the typical price of the best selling toys has almost halved, and none of the 12 top picks costs more than £50.

"Consumers will continue to spend money on toys this Christmas, but they want value. There are still elaborate, hi-tech toys for those that can afford them, but the public has gone back to tried and tested brands that they know kids will like and abandon by the end of Boxing Day", said Nick Austin, the president of Toy and Hobby Association.

With the most common game Monopoly Marco updated with the sky scrapers, property auctions and planning permission into its Monopoly City version or Lego moved into board games, allowing children to construct their own three-dimensional boards, character and even dice,  would almost delete the battery-operated gizmos and in have come classic toys that have entertained children for generations.

"The majority of toys that have been chosen this year don't involve technology. They are simpler, more traditional toys and that has brought down the price", said Marco Ilincic, the head of Lego in the UK.

Considering the recession-hit families, the parents are looking for cheaper gifts, therefore, old fashioned brands were doing exceptionally well, with Lego's sales up 27 per cent this year and the company is on track to sell more than £100 million-worth of bricks in Britain for the first time this year.

With the declining popularity of Barbie the sale of toys targeted at girls are plummeting at around 22 per cent this year, compared with 10 per cent for the market as a whole, whereas, booming the toys for boys. As stated, “Barbie sales are down. There isn’t the same brand rivalry between Bratz and Barbie. Girls are being bought different things. The craft market is flat, so it looks like they are being encouraged to make their own things”, said Gary Grant, chairman of the Toy Retailers' Association.

Since the collapse of Woolworths in December last year had a huge impact on sales, number of companies are cutting toy prices in half for weeks in an effort to start the pre-Christmas rush, which would be up by 11 per cent if Woolworths sales were excluded from last year’s total.

Christmas Cheer signing up record number of families

Halloween is this weekend, but The Salvation Army of Lee County has already kicked off its 2009 Christmas Cheer program and a record number of families have registered.
More families than ever have signed up for the program, said Megan Spears, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. As of Thursday, 1,112 families had requested assistance.
Officials signed up 673 families on the first day of registration, Wednesday, and 439 families Thursday.
"Not only are we seeing high numbers, but we are also seeing a record number of families who have never had to ask for help before," Maj. Art Penhale said.
Spears said registration numbers are likely to be higher next week. The Salvation Army will not sign up families after Nov. 7.
Each family that registers for the Christmas Cheer program receives an appointment card to shop for presents at a warehouse on Crystal Drive in Fort Myers.
It may seem early, but last year the The Salvation Army began registering people for the program on Oct. 29.
"We normally run our registration at the end of October and beginning of November. That gives us time to get our facility in order and collect donations from the community," Spears said.
Families who want to register for the Christmas Cheer program need to bring a valid identification, which can include a Florida driver's license or Social Security Card, for adults and children, as well as a proof of personal income and benefits.
The Salvation Army is accepting volunteers to help ring bells this holiday season or act as a Toy Shop helper. The organization is also accepting donations of food for holiday dinners and a kettle sponsorship worth $500 to $5,000.
"There are many families who can't make ends meet and truly don't know what to do for their children this Christmas," Penhale said.

Michael to release Christmas song

George Michael has sold more than 100 million records

Singer George Michael is to release a festive single for the first time since the 1984 Wham! hit Last Christmas.

December Song, which was released as a free download for a limited time on his website last year, will be available to buy on 13 December.
Other artists who will be competing for the Christmas number one include the X Factor winner and Robbie Williams.
A spokesman for the 46-year-old said December Song had been remastered ahead of its release.
It has been reported that Michael will perform the track on ITV1's X Factor.
For the past five years, winners of the show have dominated the UK singles chart at Christmas.
Last year, Michael announced that he had no plans to tour again and played three "final" shows at the end of October - two in London and one in Copenhagen.
The star, who has had hits with songs such as Fast Love, Jesus To A Child and Careless Whisper, has sold more than 100 million records worldwide.

Surat's raw diamond production may fall short in Christmas

The world's largest diamond processing zone in Surat, which is in the revival phase after a gap of nearly a year, may not be able to fulfil the export demand ahead of the Christmas season due to acute shortage of raw material arising out of a sharp fall in global major DeBeers' output, industry officials told NewsWire18. "Christmas export demand for polished diamonds is better this year against last year, but there is a shortage of raw diamonds due to fall in DeBeers' output which is likely to be almost half this year from last year," said Pravin Nanavaty, general secretary, Gujarat Hira Bourse, a Surat-based diamond manufacturers' and exporters' body. He said as per an interim output report of Anglo American plc, De Beers diamond output in the first nine months of 2009 stood at 14.4 million carat, down 61.2% on year. Anglo American Plc holds 45% stake in De Beers, the world's largest diamond mining company. Surat diamond industry sources most of raw diamonds from De Beers through its marketing arm, Diamond Trading Company. Nanavati said the total diamond production of De Beers is likely to fall this year to 24-25 million carats from 48.13 million carats last year. "De Beers had cut its production in the first half of this year due to weak demand. Now, when the global economic conditions have improved and demand for finished diamonds good it (De Beers) can not scale up its production sharply due to technical reasons," Nanavati said.

The company's output in the remaining three months of the current year will not be more than 10-11 million carats, he added. He said the company had already mined most of the diamond reserves from mines' surface and now the remaining diamond reserves are deep seated which is difficult to mine. De Beers has most of its mines located in South Africa and other African countries such as Botswana and Namibia, while some mines are located in Canada. "This means that Surat's diamond processors will have to struggle for sourcing raw material. There are many exporters who have outstanding Christmas export orders from China, Japan and European countries and they are running out of raw diamonds. This shortage might get worse in the coming months," said C.P. Vanani, former president of Surat Diamond Association. He said due to good export orders, most of the diamond processors is observing only a 15-day long Diwali vacation till November 2.

Normally, diamond processors observe Diwali vacation for 30-40 days. "Some large processing units have already resumed work to complete their outstanding export orders. However, if raw material shortage increases, then they might have to refuse further orders," said Dinesh Navadiya, vice president, Surat Diamond Association. Surat boasted of having 4,000 cutting and polishing units, employing 200,000 workers. In 2008, over half these units shut down due to liquidity crunch and fall in global demand. Currently, around 2,500 units are functional. The annual revenue of India's diamond processing industry is around Rs 600 billion, 80% of which is generated by Surat-based units.

Will South Korea become Christian?

There are few words to describe a visit to what is claimed to be the world's largest church congregation.

In just over 50 years, the Yoido Full Gospel Church has grown from five people meeting in its founding pastor's home in South Korea, to a membership of more than 750,000 people.

It means that the church, in Seoul, has more members than some entire denominations in Europe.

On a typical Sunday, more than 200,000 worshippers attend seven services in a building that feels more like a stadium than a traditional Christian structure.
  
Sooner or later Christianity will be the major religion in Korea. All Christians are praying for that right now
Pastor Young-hoon Lee

Visiting the church felt like attending a major sporting event - without the crowd control challenges.

Inside, the atmosphere was more like an oversized concert hall, with a full orchestra and massed choir being strangely dwarfed by their surroundings.

'Prosperity gospel'

Traditional hymns and contemporary songs were both sung, with words projected in Korean, English and Japanese onto (again, enormous) electronic display screens.
Control room from where church services are broadcast
The services are recorded by TV cameras and broadcast on the internet

There were even 10 television cameras being directed from a control room, because services are broadcast to other churches and made available online.

So why is this church so successful?

According to its senior pastor, Young-hoon Lee, the church has grown because it preaches about how becoming a Christian will have a positive, tangible impact on every believer's life.

"Jesus will give us spiritual blessing, and prosperity, and physical health," he says.

The idea that Christianity automatically brings with it material gain is hotly contested by some, who condemn the idea as "the prosperity gospel".

I certainly could not help but notice that near the entrance of the church are two ATM-style machines, providing an easy way for members to deposit their weekly cash offering.

Pastor Lee says that so long as Christians give generously to charitable causes, there is no reason why they should not prosper and receive "blessing" themselves.

Crowded clinic

But I asked him whether he really meant that members of the church have improved physical health as a result of their faith?

"Many people still have problems, but many people overcome problems with faith," he told me.
Migrant workers at health clinc worship service
A Christian-run clinic provides free healthcare for migrant workers

It is a faith that the thousands who attend here believe profoundly changes their lives.

And Pastor Lee has a dramatic prediction about the long-term impact of Christianity in South Korea.

"Our church is still growing, so sooner or later Christianity will be the major religion in Korea. All Christians are praying for that right now."

A few miles away, I witnessed a rather different approach to Christian life and service.

In a run-down building in the south of Seoul, hundreds of migrant workers were jostling for attention in a crowded clinic.

For many of them, the clinic - run by a Christian organisation - is the only place where they can obtain free healthcare.

On the top floor, those being treated are encouraged to attend a worship service - complete with upbeat songs and a rousing sermon.

Love Village

There is a clear commitment from the staff at the centre to introduce those they are helping to the Christian faith.

Lee Sun Hee, the senior vice-president of the Love Village centre, tells me that the vast majority of patients accepts its Christian principles.
Traditional Confucian dancers
Traditional Confucian dancers - but for how much longer?

"At our clinic, we spread the gospel. I'm not sure whether it's because of their desperation - but when we talk about Christianity, about 95% accept it.

"We don't refuse to give treatment because of their religion. We think God has given us a chance to provide help and serve people."

This sort of determined Christian commitment is not unusual in South Korea.

Another example is the huge number of Christian missionaries being sent to other countries - with some estimates putting the number at almost 20,000.

Some reports suggest that only the United States sends more Christian missionaries abroad than South Korea.

In 2007, a group of Korean Christians was kidnapped in Afghanistan - and two people were killed.

But stories such as these do not seem to be deterring South Korean Christians from signing up for missionary work.

I met Kim Pong Sik, who was preparing to leave South Korea. I asked him if he had concerns for his future security.

"I am very worried about it, actually. And every time I had any troubles in my mind, God has given me messages, that I should be bold and brave."

Neon crosses

He also told me that it was "basic and natural" for him to be prepared to risk his life as a Christian missionary.

So what reasons are given for the rapid expansion of Christianity in South Korea?

Myoung-kyu Park, a sociology professor at Seoul National University, says Christianity is intrinsically associated with Western prosperity in the minds of many Koreans.

"Unlike Buddhism or Confucianism - traditional religious ways of thinking - Christianity could give Korean people very positive motivation," he says.

There is certainly little doubt that Christianity is having a significant impact on South Korean society - whether it is the red neon crosses that illuminate the Seoul skyline each evening, or the presence of church bands playing Christian music in the street.

South Korea is modernising rapidly, and embracing Christianity seems to be part of that process.

But at a time of such rapid social change, few can confidently predict the long-term place of Christian faith in the country's future.

Brit couple start Christmas celebration 82 days early!

A Brit couple has decided to start celebrating Christmas 82 days before December 25.
Gladys, 67, and Leslie Maw, 80, have already put up their decorations, despite the festive season being months away.
The grandparents' home in Walsall, West Midlands, already has scores of flashing lights put up, even before Halloween or Bonfire Night.
"It's worth all the money, time and effort just to see the children's faces light up when all of them are done. And a few of the adults' faces are a picture as well," the Daily Express quoted Gladys as saying.
"One of my grandsons will dress up as Santa and give every kid a present - we don't like to see children going without.
"We just do it for the joy of it, even if it does cost hundreds of pounds," she said.
Family members spent months scouring chain stores, pound shops, and car boot sales for decorations.
"The lights get a great response, we're still putting things up and that's why we've started so early," Leslie said.
"We have 60 grandchildren and great-grandchildren with four more on the way - so there's plenty of people who will want to see them and plenty of presents to start buying," he added.

Hundreds show support for teenage girl with rare cancer at Christmas event in Forney

On a Sunday afternoon stretched between celebration and sadness, Santa Claus brought an early Christmas to a Forney park.

Several hundred people filled Forney Community Park to honor the Smith family, and in particular, Laurren Smith. Laurren, 13, has a rare form of cancer, and her doctors have said she might not make it to Dec. 25.

So family and friends who have supported her and her family for more than two years, since the first diagnosis, decided to make sure that she got her Christmas.

It started with a parade led by fancy lowrider cars, a firetruck, and trucks filled with members of North Forney Junior High and Brown Middle School students. At the end, on a float decorated with hot-pink artificial Christmas trees and boxes wrapped in zebra-stripe paper, sat Laurren and her family.

Those colors may not exactly say "Christmas," but they are Laurren's favorite colors – and this was her day.

To an outsider, Laurren looked like a skinny teen mostly having a good time. But she developed a deadly bone cancer in 2007 that has spread to her lungs. After several rounds of chemotherapy, her doctors said they could do no more. Her parents, who have three other children, took her to Mexico for treatments not approved by the FDA. They got back Wednesday.

"Unfortunately her cancer did not respond – yet," said her mother, Debbie.

Friends and family say faith has a lot to do with Laurren's story. The family belongs to Fellowship Church in Forney, and many of those who came to the park Sunday are also members. Many people wore "Pray for Laurren" T-shirts.

Three teens who know her tried to explain how Laurren's story had affected so many people.

"By her strength," began Halie Hipsher, 13.

"And her pride," continued Alexis Boner, 13.

"And how she has stayed in her faith," ended Autumn Watson, 14.

Laurren's parents said cancer hasn't shaken their faith.

"This isn't from God. This is from a fallen world," said her father, Brian. "We told her a long time ago that God didn't give her cancer. We stopped asking 'why?' months ago."

Sunday was "a day to let go of the cancer and all the different things that come with not knowing what tomorrow may be," Debbie Smith said.

Laurren, normally not comfortable in the spotlight, smiled and hugged, smiled and hugged. She was polite but not eager to answer a stranger's questions.

"This is my fun day," she said.

Kids tossed "snowballs" from a giant pile of artificial snow. They played under a giant, decorated Christmas tree or sat on Santa's lap for early access to holiday wishes. Laurren got presents, of course. And Forney's mayor read a proclamation.

People donated money to join in sports competitions or bought burgers and sodas. All the money collected will go to defray the family expenses. (Find details about how to help Laurren and her family at laurrensmithfoundation.org.)

Laurren's supporters were hopeful but realistic Sunday.

"This is bittersweet," said Cheri Akers, who helped organize the opening parade.

"We believe that a miracle is still possible," said her husband, Aric Akers. "But we believe that part of the miracle is about how many people's lives a 13-year-old girl can touch."

‘Vicar of Baghdad’ to speak in Surrey

Canon Andrew White, known as 'the Vicar of Baghdad', will be the special guest at the Surrey Christmas Celebration in Leatherhead on 3 December.

“It’s a great honour to have him,” said Gerald Coates, the event organiser.  “He’s one of the bravest, funniest and most challenging people I know.”

Hundreds of guests are expected at the venue, Leatherhead Theatre, including a large number who only traditionally visit church at Christmas.

”We have positioned the event at the beginning of December because Andrew White will be returning to Baghdad soon after. Secondly, because we wanted it to precede other local carol services which most churches put on around the Christmas season,” said Gerald Coates.

The evening will be hosted by young people from the area and will feature readings and drama.

The 3 December event starts at 7.30pm.  Admission is free (no tickets).  Leatherhead Theatre’s All Stars Café will be open for refreshments at 6.30pm.

Downtown merchants plan for Christmas celebration

MATTOON — From getting the right chair for Santa to mapping a bump-free mini-train ride, the organizers of the Dec. 4 Downtown Celebration are making a list of tasks and checking it twice.

Meeting Monday morning at Warner’s Office Equipment, the group of about 15 business owners and community supporters announced that 5-7 p.m. Dec. 4 is this year’s second Christmas celebration for the town’s oldest business district. The effort is designed to spark a new Christmas tradition similar to the times when the downtown twinkled and made precious memories for families.

“A lot of people remember how it was in the downtown when they were younger, years ago. The town has changed but Christmas is still special for the downtown,” said Barb McKenzie, who led the discussion on the preparations.

The second edition of the celebration will include decorations in participating businesses, drawings for a basket of prizes, rides in the Camp New Hope mini-train, some refreshments and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus. The train route will remain in the downtown area.

Some changes this year might include having Santa visit with children in the Mattoon Public Library. Last year, the jolly elf was hoofing it between some stores, but some organizers said a central location might be easier on him and his audience.

One proposal would have some donated prizes from businesses pooled together for a large drawing. Visitors will be encouraged via the drawing to enter a number of stores during the celebration.

Another goal is to get a taste of Christmas going with the fest.

Volunteers are encouraged to come forward to help out with arrangements. The next meeting of the Downtown Celebration committee is 8:30 a.m. Nov. 23 at Warner’s.

Virgin Mary Live hits the road for "Madonna's Christmas Celebration", a six city tour [video]

It's time for the holidays, and that means Mary is back!  This year HX and Glammy nominated drag queen, Mimi Imfurst, has tagged her holiday show "Madonna's Christmas Celebration."
I've seen this show for the past few years, and Mimi's holiday show is like no other holiday show you'll see - ever!
"Madonna's Christmas Celebration" is going on the road this year with a six city tour.  Here are the dates:
• Dec. 6 at 7:00pm - New York, NY - Laurie Beechman Theater (407 West
42nd Street).
• Dec. 8 at 8:00pm - San Francisco, CA - Finn’s Funhouse (814 Grove Street).
• Dec. 9 at 8:00pm - San Francisco, CA - Finn’s Funhouse (814 Grove Street).
• Dec. 11 at 8:00pm - Ogunquit, ME - Mainestreet (195 Main Street).
• Dec. 12 at 8:00pm - Ogunquit, ME - Mainestreet (195 Main Street).
• Dec. 13 at 7:00pm - New York, NY - Laurie Beechman Theater (407 West
42nd Street).
• Dec. 17 at 7:30pm - Washington, DC - EFN Lounge (1318 9th Street NW).
• Dec. 18  at 9:00pm - Washington, DC - EFN Lounge (1318 9th Street NW).
• Dec. 19 at 9:00pm - New Hope, PA - Harlan’s Cabaret (6426 Lower York Road).
• Dec. 20 at 7:30pm - Philadelphia, PA - Q Lounge (1234 Locust Street).
Mimi's Holiday shows have always drawn good crowds.  One year, religious protesters even lined the blocks and brought TV crews.  Get ready for your close-up!

Salma Hayek to eat oysters for Christmas

LONDON - Mexican actress Salma Hayek has ditched traditional Christmas food turkey and agreed to eat oysters with her husband French businessman Francois-Henry Pinault.

The “Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant” actress, who married the French billionaire earlier this year, was shocked to discover that her spouse feasts on oysters rather than turkey over the festive season in December. But she has agreed to sample his menu, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
“Eating oysters for Christmas is a weird thing I didn’t know about. I had no idea that would be happening. I’m used to turkey. It’s going to take some getting used to,” said Hayek.

Holiday bazaars greet the season

It's that time of year again. Leaves are falling, the scent of firewood burning is drifting through the air, sweaters and scarves are emerging from the recesses of closets. And most of all, holiday shoppers are making lists of all the nice — and even naughty — people for whom they need to find gifts.
Never fear: This year's bazaars offer plenty of presents, decorations and other signs of holiday cheer sure to appeal to serious and casual shoppers alike.
Admission to the bazaars is free unless otherwise noted, so feel free to browse a multitude of venues. 'Tis the season for handcrafts galore.
Nov. 6

Crooked River Ranch Senior Group Christmas Sale: Christmas decorations, used books and house plants; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Crooked River Ranch Senior Center, 6710 S.W. Ranch House Road, Crooked River Ranch; 541-548-0849.
Holy Redeemer Holiday Bazaar Cafe and Crafts: Handcrafted items; cafe will serve food; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 16137 Burgess Road, La Pine; 541-536-1216 or 541-536-9305.
Christmas Goose Boutique: Pottery, quilts, jewelry, fused glass and more; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; St. Charles Bend conference center, 2500 N.E. Neff Road, Bend; 541-389-7118.
Holiday Open House: Gifts, decorations and holiday treats; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 61495 Cultus Lake Court, Bend; 541-383-0531.
Autumn Fest Bazaar and Luncheon: Handcrafted items, baked goods and a chowder lunch; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Prineville Presbyterian Church, 1771 N.W. Madras Highway, Prineville; 541-447-3816.
Verna & Friends Holiday Bazaar: Homemade crafts and goodies; noon to 6 p.m.; 60933 Ridge Drive, Bend; 541-385-8370.
Snowflake Boutique: A variety of handcrafted items made by local artisans; $2 admission fee benefits the Family Access Network; 1 to 8 p.m.; Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, North Sister building, 3800 S.W. Airport Way, Redmond; www.snowflakeboutique.org.
Nov. 7

The Ladies of Elks Holiday Bazaar: Pictures, art, homemade crafts, flower arrangements, knitted items and more; 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Elks Lodge, 63120 N.E. Boyd Acres Road, Bend; 541-330-9662.
Holy Trinity Christmas Bazaar: Baked goods, jeweled glassware, fleece items, wreaths, dolls and more; proceeds benefit local charities; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Holy Trinity Church, 18143 Cottonwood Road, Sunriver; 541-598-7190.
Christmas Goose Boutique: Pottery, quilts, jewelry, fused glass and more; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; St. Charles Bend conference center, 2500 N.E. Neff Road, Bend; 541-389-7118 or 541-706-7743.
Lord's Acre Day: Crafts, pies, candy, baked goods, meats, live music, a barbecue dinner, an auction, 10K run, 5K walk and more; $7 barbecue; 7:30 a.m. race registration, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. events; Powell Butte Christian Church, 13720 S.W. State Highway 126, Powell Butte; 541-548-3066.
Fall Home Decor & Gift Shoppe: Artwork, baked goods, clothing, blankets, cards, jewelry and more; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Faith Christian Center, 1049 N.E. 11th St., Bend; 541-330-6593.
Holy Redeemer Holiday Bazaar Cafe and Crafts: Handcrafted items; cafe will serve food; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 16137 Burgess Road, La Pine; 541-536-1216 or 541-536-9305.
Snowflake Boutique: A variety of handcrafted items made by local artisans; $2 admission fee benefits the Family Access Network; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, North Sister building, 3800 S.W. Airport Way, Redmond; www.snowflakeboutique.org.
Fort Rock Grange Holiday Bazaar and Flea Market: Handcrafts, collectibles and more; lunches available; donation of nonperishable food accepted; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Fort Rock Grange, 64651 Fort Rock Road, Fort Rock; 541-576-2289.
Holiday Home Vendor Showcase: Toys, books, games and more; a portion of proceeds benefits Healthy Beginnings; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Shilo Inn Suites Hotel, 3105 O.B. Riley Road, Bend; 541-385-5386 or 541-318-7309.
Angelfest Christmas Bazaar: Handcrafted gifts, homemade baked goods and lunch; proceeds benefit Redmond community projects; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Community Presbyterian Church, 529 N.W. 19th St., Redmond; 541-548-3367.
Crooked River Ranch Senior Group Christmas Sale: Christmas decorations, used books and house plants; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Crooked River Ranch Senior Center, 6710 S.W. Ranch House Road, Crooked River Ranch; 541-548-0849.
Holiday Craft Market: Handmade items, aprons, blankets, jewelry, etched items, woodwork, candles and more; proceeds benefit a travel fund for children visiting the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Portland; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Bend Masonic Center, 1036 N.E. Eighth St., Bend; 541-388-0137 or 541-815-4718.
Women's Resource Center Craft Bazaar: Jewelry, knitted items, candles, skin care and more; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Rosie Bareis Community Campus, 1010 N.W. 14th St., Bend; 541-480-2878.
Verna & Friends Holiday Bazaar: Homemade crafts and goodies; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 60933 Ridge Drive, Bend; 541-385-8370.
Holiday Open House: Gifts, decorations and holiday treats; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 61495 Cultus Lake Court, Bend; 541-383-0531.
Nov. 8
Verna & Friends Holiday Bazaar: Homemade crafts and goodies; noon to 4 p.m.; 60933 Ridge Drive, Bend; 541-385-8370.
Nov. 13
Holiday Central Bazaar: Canned and baked goods, Western wreaths, pillows, purses, mailboxes and more; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 20430 Klahani Drive, Bend; 541-312-2655.
Taylor House Christmas: Christmas gifts, decorations, ornaments, quilts, linens, handbags, children's items and food; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; 20890 Imwalle Court, Bend; 541-318-0625.
Holiday Bazaar and Chili Feed: Collectibles, antiques, books, crafts and baked goods; vintage wagon tours available; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Des Chutes Historical Museum, 129 N.W. Idaho Ave., Bend; 541-389-1813.
River Woods Baptist Church Bazaar: Holiday gift and craft items; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; River Woods Baptist Church, 60377 Cinder Butte Road, Bend; 541-350-3587 or jbarnett@bendcable.com.
Redmond VFW Craft Bazaar: Handcrafted items, purses, clothing, jewelry, wreathes and more; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; VFW Hall, 1836 S.W. Veterans Way, Redmond; 541-548-4853.
BeeCrafty Holiday Show: Unique handcrafted items from local artisans; $1 donation benefits CASA of Central Oregon and the KIDS Center; 1 to 8 p.m.; Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Middle Sister building, 3800 S.W. Airport Way, Redmond; 541-536-5655 or beecrafty@hotmail.com.
Christmas at the Historic Redmond Hotel: Holiday gifts; 1 to 8 p.m.; Historic New Redmond Hotel, 521 S.W. Sixth St., Redmond; 541-410-7815 or 541-460-0357.
Nov. 14
St. Thomas Altar Society Homespun Holiday Bazaar: Country store, Grandma's attic, handmade items, religious gifts and a luncheon; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; St. Thomas Parish Hall, 12th Street and Evergreen Avenue, Redmond; 541-923-0597.
Bazaar at Desert Meadows: Candy, scents and handcrafted items; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 520 N.E. Shoshone Drive, Redmond; 541-923-2198.
Holiday Central Bazaar: Canned and baked goods, Western wreaths, pillows, purses, mailboxes and more; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 20430 Klahani Drive, Bend; 541-312-2655.
Emmaus Lutheran Church Bazaar: Handcrafts from the Lutheran World Relief Fair Trade Project; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Emmaus Lutheran Church, 2175 S.W. Salmon Ave., Redmond; 541 548-2773.
Taylor House Christmas: Christmas gifts, decorations, ornaments, quilts, linens, handbags, children's items and food; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; 20890 Imwalle Court, Bend; 541-318-0625.
BeeCrafty Holiday Show: Unique handcrafted items from local artisans; $1 donation benefits CASA of Central Oregon and the KIDS Center; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Middle Sister building, 3800 S.W. Airport Way, Redmond; 541-536-5655 or beecrafty@hotmail.com.
Newcomers Club of Bend Holiday Bazaar: Fused glass, mosaic art, photography, textiles, jewelry, pottery and more; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Shilo Inn Suites Hotel, 3105 O.B. Riley Road, Bend; 541-550-7524.
Christmas at the Historic Redmond Hotel: Holiday gifts; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Historic New Redmond Hotel, 521 S.W. Sixth St., Redmond; 541-410-7815 or 541-460-0357.
Holiday Bazaar and Chili Feed: Collectibles, antiques, books, crafts and baked goods; vintage wagon tours available; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Des Chutes Historical Museum, 129 N.W. Idaho Ave., Bend; 541-389-1813.
River Woods Baptist Church Bazaar: Holiday gift and craft items; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; River Woods Baptist Church, 60377 Cinder Butte Road, Bend; 541-350-3587 or jbarnett@bendcable.com.
Crooked River Ranch Artists and Crafters Guild Bazaar: Handcrafted arts by local artisans; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Redmond Grange, 707 S.W. Kalama Ave., Redmond; 541-504-9158.
Redmond VFW Craft Bazaar: Handcrafted items, purses, clothing, jewelry, wreathes and more; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; VFW Hall, 1836 S.W. Veterans Way, Redmond; 541-548-4853.
Wildfire Pottery Showcase: Pottery from 25 local and guest artisans and pottery demonstrations; proceeds from select mugs will benefit the Alyce Hatch Center; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Highland Magnet School, 701 N.W. Newport Ave., Bend; linheiss@msn.com or www.clayguildofthecascades.com.
Nov. 15
Wildfire Pottery Showcase: Pottery from 25 local and guest artisans and pottery demonstrations; proceeds from select mugs will benefit the Alyce Hatch Center; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Highland Magnet School, 701 N.W. Newport Ave., Bend; linheiss@msn.com or www.clayguildofthecascades.com.
Nov. 20
Redmond Assembly of God Sale: Quilts, crafts and toys; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Redmond Assembly of God Church, 1865 W. Antler Ave., Redmond; 541-548-4555.
Country Christmas & More: Western decor, wreaths, mirrors, metal art, crafts, birdhouses, baked goods and more; donations of nonperishable food accepted; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Smith Rock Community Church, 8344 11th St., Terrebonne; 541-923-3633.
Candy Cane Christmas Bazaar: Items crafted by local artists; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1515 N.W. Lower Bridge Way, Terrebonne; 541-548-1538.
First Day of Christmas Bazaar: Arts, crafts, antiques and baked goods; proceeds benefit the No Needy Person fund at First Baptist Church; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; First Baptist Church, 60 N.W. Oregon Ave., Bend; 541-815-3508.
American Legion Holiday Bazaar: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; American Legion Post 45, 52532 Drafter Road, La Pine; 541-306-1866 or 541-536-1402.
Nov. 21
Blue Spruce Pottery Holiday Open House: Handmade stoneware and raku pottery; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Blue Spruce Pottery, 20591 Dorchester East Bend; 541-382-0197.
Redmond Assembly of God Sale: Quilts, crafts and toys; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Redmond Assembly of God Church, 1865 W. Antler Ave., Redmond; 541-548-4555.
Lefse Sale and White Chili Feed: Lefse, Scandinavian baked goods and a white chili and dessert feed; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Grace First Lutheran Church, 2265 Shevlin Park Road, Bend; 541-382-6862.
Country Christmas & More: Western decor, wreaths, mirrors, metal art, crafts, birdhouses, baked goods and more; donations of nonperishable food accepted; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Smith Rock Community Church, 8344 11th St., Terrebonne; 541-923-3633.
Holiday Craft & Gift Bazaar: Crafts, gifts and artisan vendors; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Bend Senior Center, 1600 S.E. Reed Market Road, Bend; 541-388-1133.
Candy Cane Christmas Bazaar: Items crafted by local artists; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 1515 N.W. Lower Bridge Way, Terrebonne; 541-548-1538.
American Legion Holiday Bazaar: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; American Legion Post 45, 52532 Drafter Road, La Pine; 541-306-1866 or 541-536-1402.
First Day of Christmas Bazaar: Arts, crafts, antiques and baked goods; proceeds benefit the No Needy Person fund at First Baptist Church; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; First Baptist Church, 60 N.W. Oregon Ave., Bend; 541-815-3508.
Christmas Faire and Spaghetti Feed: Silent auction of gift certificates, gift baskets and more; $7, $6 seniors, $4 ages 7-12 or $25 per family; 5 p.m.; St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church & School, 2450 N.E. 27th St., Bend; 541-382-3631.
Holiday Style at Pronghorn: Wine tastings, jewelry, art, boutique clothing and baby apparel; $5 for three wine tastes; 6 to 9 p.m.; Pronghorn Resort, 65600 Pronghorn Club Drive, Bend; 541-693-5300.
Nov. 22
Blue Spruce Pottery Holiday Open House: Handmade stoneware and raku pottery; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Blue Spruce Pottery, 20591 Dorchester East, Bend; 541-382-0197.
Nov. 27
Holiday Village Market: Holiday crafts and food; noon to 6 p.m.; downtown Redmond plaza, Seventh Street and Evergreen Avenue; 541-923-5191 or karen@visitredmondoregon.com.
Art of Christmas Sales Show: Fine arts and handcrafts by members of the High Desert Society of the Arts, live music, raffles and drinks; proceeds benefit the High Desert Society of the Arts; 2 to 6 p.m.; Urban on 6th, 432 S.W. Sixth St., Redmond, 541-923-9974 or jwoltering@live.com.
Camp Sherman Holiday Bazaar and Country Store: 5 to 9 p.m.; Camp Sherman Community Hall, 13025 S.W. Camp Sherman Road, Camp Sherman; 541-549-8933 or 541-595-2350.
Nov. 28
Camp Sherman Holiday Bazaar and Country Store: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Camp Sherman Community Hall, 13025 S.W. Camp Sherman Road, Camp Sherman; 541-549-8933 or 541-595-2350.
Native American Heritage Market: Handcrafted Native American originals; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; The Museum At Warm Springs lobby, 2189 U.S. Highway 26, Warm Springs; 541-553-3331.
Traditions Holiday Marketplace: Pottery, jewelry, art, textiles, metalwork, woodwork, stained glass and more; 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sunriver Resort, Homestead building, 57081 Meadow Road, Sunriver; 541-593-4405.
Art of Christmas Sales Show: Fine arts and handcrafts by members of the High Desert Society of the Arts, live music, raffles and drinks; proceeds benefit the High Desert Society of the Arts; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Urban on 6th, 432 S.W. Sixth St., Redmond, 541-923-9974 or jwoltering@live.com.
Holiday Village Market: Holiday crafts and food; noon to 6 p.m.; downtown Redmond plaza, Seventh Street and Evergreen Avenue; 541-923-5191 or karen@visitredmondoregon.com.
Nov. 29
Native American Heritage Market: Handcrafted Native American originals; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; The Museum At Warm Springs lobby, 2189 U.S. Highway 26, Warm Springs; 541-553-3331.
Dec. 4
Metolius Train Depot Holiday Bazaar: Handcrafted items and gifts; 9 a.m.; Metolius Train Depot, 599 Washington Ave., Metolius; 541-546-3801.
Common Thread Quilters Holiday Bazaar: Handmade items; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 4410 S.W. Ben Hogan Drive, Redmond; 541-279-0635.
La Pine Park and Recreation Christmas Bazaar: Handcrafted items and homemade goodies; donations of nonperishable food accepted; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; White School Park Building, 16405 First St., La Pine; 541-771-1701 or hand718@aol.com.
Down Under Holiday Gift Show: Unique items from Australia and Central Oregon; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; The Showroom, 20974 S.E. Greenmont Drive, Bend; 541-389-9868.
Holiday Village Market: Holiday crafts and food; noon to 6 p.m.; downtown Redmond plaza, Seventh Street and Evergreen Avenue; 541-923-5191 or karen@visitredmondoregon.com.
‘Have a Very Stellar Christmas' Holiday Art Sale: Jewelry, fiber, leather, glass, photography, furniture and more; noon to 8 p.m.; Stellar Ranch, 64688 Cook Ave., Bend; 541-318-8131.
Dec. 5
Metolius Train Depot Holiday Bazaar: Handcrafted items and gifts; 9 a.m.; Metolius Train Depot, 599 Washington Ave., Metolius; 541-546-3801.
Zion Lutheran Church Holiday Bazaar: Baked goods, gifts, ethnic food, raffle items and more; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Zion Lutheran Church, 1113 S.W. Black Butte Blvd., Redmond; 541-923-2318 or 541-548-7178.
Food Fair: Traditional Scandinavian breads and desserts, crafts and trade fair items; lunch will be served; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 695 N.W. Third St., Prineville; 541-788-0063.
Angels Among Us Bazaar: Baked goods, a cookie walk, wreaths, handcrafted items, a chili lunch and more; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Madras United Methodist Church, 49 N.E. 12th St., Madras; 541-475-2991.
Common Thread Quilters Holiday Bazaar: Handmade items; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 4410 S.W. Ben Hogan Drive, Redmond; 541-279-0635.
Culver TOPS Community Bazaar: Handmade jewelry, woodwork, dips, baked goods, crafts, rocks, Christmas ornaments and more; cafe will serve food; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; City Hall, 200 First Ave., Culver; 541-546-4012.
Best Little Christmas Bazaar in Madras: Handcrafted personal, home interior, pet and baked items; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 686 S.E. Tumbleweed Lane, Madras; 541-475-6746.
Prineville's Largest Holiday Bazaar: Jewelry, Christmas crafts, toys, wreaths, candles and homemade goodies; $4 for lunch; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Crook County Christian School, 839 S. Main St., Prineville; 541-416-0114.
Aspen Ridge Arts and Crafts Faire: Handcrafted arts and crafts; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Aspen Ridge Retirement Community, 1010 N.E. Purcell Blvd., Bend; 541-385-8500.
La Pine Park and Recreation Christmas Bazaar: Handcrafted items and homemade goodies; donations of nonperishable food accepted; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; White School Park Building, 16405 First St., La Pine; 541-771-1701 or hand718@aol.com.
Friends of Friends Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale: Handmade jewelry, pottery, bags and more; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Environmental Center, 16 N.W. Kansas Ave., Bend; 541-788-5100.
Down Under Holiday Gift Show: Unique items from Australia and Central Oregon; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; The Showroom, 20974 S.E. Greenmont Drive, Bend; 541-389-9868.
Desert Dream Gardens Holiday Bazaar: Wreaths, crafts, gifts and more; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Desert Dream Gardens, 61295 Obernolte Road, Bend; 541-382-9061.
Olde Fashioned Christmas Celebration: Photos with Santa, jewelry, crafts and more; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Crooked River Ranch Administration Building, 5195 S.W. Clubhouse Drive, Crooked River Ranch; 541-548-8939.
‘Have a Very Stellar Christmas' Holiday Art Sale: Jewelry, fiber, leather, glass, photography, furniture and more; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Stellar Ranch, 64688 Cook Ave., Bend; 541-318-8131.
Christmas Parade Day Craft and Baked Goods Sale: Quilts, knitted items, baked goods and more; 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Newport Avenue Church of Christ, 554 N.W. Newport Ave., Bend; 541-382-6983.
Holiday Village Market: Holiday crafts and food; noon to 6 p.m.; downtown Redmond plaza, Seventh Street and Evergreen Avenue; 541-923-5191 or karen@visitredmondoregon.com.
Dec. 6
Olde Fashioned Christmas Celebration: Photos with Santa, jewelry, crafts and more; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Crooked River Ranch Administration Building, 5195 S.W. Clubhouse Drive, Crooked River Ranch; 541-548-8939.
Dec. 11
La Pine Senior Activity Center Holiday Craft Fair: Handmade goods, raffles and pies; cafe will serve food; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; La Pine Senior Activity Center, 16450 Victory Way, La Pine; 541-536-6237.
Holiday Boutique: Glass mosaics, dog treats, scarves, jewelry, baked goods and more; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 63427 Conger Court, Bend; 541-330-1737.
Dec. 12
Madras Saturday Market: Arts, crafts, produce, food, holiday greens and more; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Jefferson County Fairgrounds, 430 S.W. Fairgrounds Road, Madras; 541-489-3239, annsnyder@rconnects.com or MadrasSatMarket@gmail.com.
Scandinavian Bazaar: Scandinavian heritage items, books, CDs and baked goods; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sons of Norway Hall, 549 N.W. Harmon Blvd., Bend; 541-382-4333.
La Pine Senior Activity Center Holiday Craft Fair: Handmade goods, raffles and pies; cafe will serve food; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; La Pine Senior Activity Center, 16450 Victory Way, La Pine; 541-536-6237.
Holiday Boutique: Glass mosaics, dog treats, scarves, jewelry, baked goods and more; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 63427 Conger Court, Bend; 541-330-1737.

Sikaman Palava: Korkorti show on Xmass day

One thing I like about my old-time friend, Joseph Kwame Korkorti alias Korkorti Asamoah, is that he can eat. I mean eating in the literal sense. We are looking at four or five hefty balls of kenkey at a stretch. No pure water to occupy space. For a man with such wonderful appetite on any ordinary day, his capacity to munch on extraordinary days can be awe-inspiring.

God is wonderful! He has made all kinds of human beings and endowed a few with the kind of stomach elasticity that has helped them to distinguish themselves from ordinary mortals. Korkorti is one of the blessed few. I doff my cap to him.

The other problem with Joseph Korkorti is that he has never put on weight and medical science has since not given any plausible explanation for the man's weight deficiency in spite of his award-winning capacity for food.

May be, the bloke is more of a ruminant than a human, except that I've never encountered him chewing the cud.

In the good old days, Korkorti's eating talent was well-exhibited on Christmas Day. When others were looking for Alomo Bitters to get into overdrive before facing the Christmas fufu, Korkorti's natural appetite prevailed. In other words, he needed no alcoholic inspiration. The anatomical and metabolic mechanisms controlling his appetite were patently in-built. Technically, the man's stomach could be described as "automatic" and run as such.

Another Christmas is almost due, but the sad fact is that Korkorti has lost some of that elasticity that made him the champion on Christmas Day. He still exhibits signs of heavy intake, but the body is gradually giving way to reason. Old habits die hard, but not forever.

Talking about Christmas, I guess many Ghanaians are already making frantic plans for the celebration. Especially the women! They must outdo one another in the types of dress-style they'd be outdooring on Christmas Day. They are also going to rehearse how to walk into the church room for others to either appreciate or envy. Some of the steps are not easy!

Ordinarily Christmas is not regarded as serving any strict religious purpose. Of course, for the-born-again tongue-speaking deacon, the Christian element immediately reckons. For the ordinary Ghanaman like Kofi Kokotako, Christmas is all about getting red-eyed with booze.

The action starts according to a time-table: 24th December - Dread dozing; 25th December -It's going to be wicked; 26th - Hangover Day! No shaky; 27th_ Resumption of boozing activity. By 31st December, Kokotako has ceased to be a normal human being. He starts behaving like a monkey and lapses into coma.

When we were children, we always looked forward to Christmas. Those were times I wanted to be like actors like John Wayne, Pernnel Roberts, Dan Blocker and the rest. We found their pictures well-packaged alongside chewing-gum we bought by the roadside and kept the pictures as souvenirs. It was great to be young.

I usually saved part of my pocket-money to buy toy pistols; of course, my dad will always buy one but I guessed he was old-fashioned and wouldn't get me very trendy ones that would catch the eyes of my friends. If you saw me in the alleys firing and dodging, vicariously enjoying the triumphs of Simon Templar in James Bond movies, it was a marvel. If I had live bullets at the time, I'd have caused quite a commotion.

Today, I can't remember the last time I thought of shooting like Roger Moore or Sean Connery. When it is getting to Christmas I think about cash to buy X'mas goodies for my children. When we were very young, it was much easier for our parents. A whole family could depend on one UAC wax-print and when the family stormed out on Christmas morning they were hailed: "Aaankoo!" It was a sort of sartorial encore, a mass production gimmick that was probably more cost effective and acknowledged by cheers.

In a family of husband, wife and nine children, each child shorter by one inch than his elder sibling, the aaankoo! was a real spectacle. Often the man smiled rather broadly at the proud collection of his brood each attired in the same wax print. The eleven member family could form a football team - Boateng Eleven Stars.

Of course, there were other families where the man happened to be more prolific. He had two wives with each set of children in different wax-prints to add more colour to the Christmas morning. Together with his wife and children, they were many enough to have a polling station set up right in their home.

Indeed, those were the days when people delivered babies by mass production techniques. There was one man who had to build a whole boarding house to accommodate 54 children, some of whom he didn't really know. If one of his children met him in the streets and called him "daddy" he asked, "Who's your mother." He had a way of identifying the children by their mothers.

The man, however, did well for his children. He made sure they all got schooled to the highest level possible. In the mornings, the quantity of porridge and bread that was served would be enough to cater for an entire workforce. Jesus Christ! The man has to be surcharged for over-populating the earth.

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Christians are having a cow over Marge Simpson's Playboy cover

The issue of Playboy magazine now on newsstands bears an image of a semi-nude Marge Simpson, the cartoon matriarch of The Simpsons.

The ploy is in part a tribute to the Fox Broadcasting Company show, which at 20 years is one of the longest-running television shows in history.

No matter that Marge Simpson is neither really nude nor, well, real, some people are not happy to see her on the racy magazine's cover.

The American Family Association, which calls itself “an outspoken, resolute, Christian voice,” is asking 7-Eleven stores to reconsider its decision to sell the issue.

“Pornography promotes a hedonistic lifestyle that is often highly addictive, harmful to marriages and influences anti-social and sometimes criminal behavior,” AFA says.

7-Eleven spokeswoman Margaret Chabris at the corporate office in Dallas, said the company has no plans to carry Playboy on a regular basis. “It is not a recommended item for company stores,” she said, adding that franchise stores are independent contractors and some carry Playboy.

But just seeing the cover will do damage, the AFA said. “It's irresponsible of 7-Eleven to display porn in front of boys who pop into 7-Elevens for a hot dog or a Slurpee,” said Randy Sharp, AFA special projects director. “A cartoon is going to be appealing to a child. Playboy and 7-Eleven and Fox are allowing that to happen,” he said.

Christian Dior plush handsets unleashed

This holiday season, the affluent society can look forward to pamper themselves with luxurious Christian Dior’s line-up of exquisite handsets. According to UnwiredView, like the previous handset, even the latest handsets carry a clamshell form factor.

Reportedly, two of the imminent mobile phones are expected to be gold plated, black PVD coated and encrusted with sapphire crystals. These plush handsets will carry a heavy price tag of $6,500 each.

The French fashion house is also envisaging the launch of two more stylish handsets. One of those bears red color and is named Zelie. However, the other masterpiece is white in color and encrusted with diamonds and dubbed Zenaide. The red colored luxurious mobile phone will be retailed for $7900. For purchasing the white Zenaide users need to shell out a whopping $13,400.

The collection of the classy handsets also includes Christian Dior Naicre phone. This lavish communication tool is inclusive of a mother-of-pearl casing. The elegant Naicre can be purchased for $8,700.

The new Christian Dior will be made available for purchase by December this year.

Merkel’s Bloc, FDP Aim for Coalition Agreement in Next 48 Hours

 Oct. 22 (Bloomberg) -- Chancellor Angela Merkel’s ruling bloc and the Free Democratic Party huddled for a final stretch of negotiations in Berlin today, aiming to unveil an agreement for Germany’s new government in the next 48 hours.

Merkel’s Christian Democrats, her Bavarian Christian Social Union sister party and the FDP must now wrestle over six pages of disagreements involving tax cuts and how to fund rising health costs, CSU General Secretary Alexander Dobrindt said.

“At the moment it’s there in black and white and it’ll have lots of red ink,” Dobrindt told journalists. The 27-member negotiating team plans to finish talks tomorrow or the next day.

The coalition partners’ proposal to create a debt fund to plug a hole created in the budget by rising unemployment and health-insurance costs has already met with criticism. Opponents say a special fund outside the budget would cloak the state of Germany’s public finances.

“It’s not trickery,” FDP economy expert Rainer Bruederle told reporters as he entered the talks, responding to a question about whether the plan was a form of fiscal sleight-of-hand.

A completed agreement would have to be approved by party congresses, already scheduled for Oct. 25-26. Once an agreement is signed, Merkel could be voted into her second term on Oct. 28, the day after the lower house of parliament, or Bundestag, meets for the first time since last month’s election.

Merkel and her negotiating partners are seeking to reconcile their promises for tax cuts with an expanding deficit and new rules that limit the government’s ability to take on debt.

The FDP called for 35 billion euros ($52.5 billion) in tax cuts in its election campaign. Merkel’s bloc offered 20 billion euros in negotiations last week.

Christian donor to out haredi recipients

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, chairman of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, said Thursday that his organization was compiling a list for publication of haredi institutions that receive its donations.
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein,...

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, president of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.
Photo: Ariel Jerozolimski

The move comes after Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, considered the most respected and influential halachic authority among Ashkenazi haredi Jews, signed a declaration saying that receiving money from Eckstein's organization was "close to idolatry."

"We are not trying to push anyone into doing anything against their will," said Eckstein, who spoke with The Jerusalem Post from the US. "If they don't want funds, they don't have to accept them. But we are not going to go along with a situation in which haredi institutions accept them under the table without publicizing where they get their funding. So we are compiling a list to make sure everything is perfectly transparent."

A month ago, Elyashiv signed a document together with Rabbi Tuvia Weiss, head of the Eda Haredit's rabbinical court, that stated it was forbidden to receive donations from organizations like the IFCJ, probably the single largest philanthropist to Israel.

According to Eckstein, the IFCJ raises $70 million a year among Evangelical Christian communities around the world who are interested in supporting Israel.

The importance of Christian charity has grown due to the financial downturn in the US. Many haredi organizations that might prefer not to receive money from Christians have no other choice if they want to stay afloat.

Now, with Elyashiv's ruling, it remains to be seen which will be stronger - haredi organizations' fidelity to their spiritual leader, or their desire to continue to do good deeds.

What complicates matters is speculation that the timing of Elyashiv's decision is no coincidence and that his "handlers" might be using him to advance a political agenda.

One of the most high-profile haredi recipients of the IFCJ's money is Rabbi Yitzhak David Grossman of Migdal Ha'emek. Grossman, known as the "disco rabbi" for his unique methods of Jewish educational outreach among youth, has been involved with various social activism projects for more than three decades.

Grossman might also be vying for the position of Jerusalem chief rabbi. Those opposed to Grossman might have purposely arranged for Elyashiv's decision to be made and published ahead of the upcoming race to hurt Grossman's chances of winning.

According to Eckstein and IFCJ sources, however, Grossman is not alone. Various haredi organizations in Israel and abroad receive money from the IFCJ or have received support in the past. These haredi bodies include Bnei Brak's largest soup kitchen; a shelter for battered haredi women located in Beit Shemesh; and a soup kitchen for the needy in Haifa run by the city's Chief Rabbi Shear Yeshuv Hacohen.

Another haredi organization funded by the IFCJ is Tikva, headed by Rabbi Shlomo Baksht, chief rabbi of Odessa, which helps homeless, abandoned or abused Jewish children in Ukraine.

In March of this year, Ukraine's Rabbi Yaakov Bleich lamented that Christians were stepping in to provide funding where Jewish organizations were unable to do so.

Kollel Chabad gave thousands of care packages to needy families in Israel this past Rosh Hashana, funded by the IFCJ.

Rabbi Menachem Brod, spokesman for Chabad in Israel, said that he was not aware that Kollel Chabad received aid from the IFCJ. He said that Chabad's rabbinical court in Israel had issued a halachic decision binding only in Israel recommending to its emissaries not to receive money from Christians.

According to Eckstein, the IFCJ has aided in funding security costs for Chabad Houses in Morocco and India and for the Chief Rabbinate in Turkey.

The document to which Elyashiv added his signature, originally drafted in 2002 by the Eda Haredit, gives three reasons for the prohibition against taking money from Christian organizations. First, publicizing that Christians have given to Jewish charities aggrandizes Christianity, which is a form of idolatry according to many rabbinic opinions. Therefore, it is "close to idolatry." Second, it aids missionary activity by making Jews beholden to Christians. Third, there is a prohibition against receiving charity from a non-Jew when it causes a desecration of God's name.•

Beirut's Shiite bastion revives after '06 war

BEIRUT — The sprawling Shiite suburb of south Beirut has made a comeback after the destruction wreaked by Israel during 2006 fighting, a symbol of the community's resilience at a time when its political patron, Hezbollah, is seeking a greater voice in Lebanon's government.
The district, called simply Dahiyah — meaning "the suburb" in Arabic — is the stronghold of Hezbollah, and was heavily targeted by Israel during its war with the militant Shiite group three years ago. The bombardment leveled Hezbollah's headquarters as well as entire blocks across the neighborhood.
Now dozens of newly built or repaired apartment blocs stand in place of those destroyed, the result of a reconstruction program led by Hezbollah, which receives millions of dollars a year in aid from its ally Iran.
Property prices are soaring. The district's main streets are congested bumper-to-bumper with cars, while uniformed Hezbollah members direct traffic. Commerce is thriving, restaurants are packed.
"Dahiyah will be more beautiful than it was before," read billboards at the construction sites that remain.
Beyond the district's ties to Hezbollah, Dahiyah is a source of pride for Lebanon's Shiites. For them, it exemplifies how the community has shaken off years of discrimination at the hands of the country's traditional powerbrokers — Christians and Sunni Muslims — and has established itself as a powerful political force.
Literally, Dahiyah brought Shiites closer to the center of power: It grew from nearly nothing over 30 years to become a densely packed region of apartment towers and homes for 700,000 Shiites on the southern doorstep of Beirut, historically a mainly Christian and Sunni city with only a tiny Shiite presence.
"In Beirut, people are arrogant and think the world of themselves," said Nagat Gradah, a bookstore employee in the district who, like many of its residents, migrated from Lebanon's mainly Shiite south. "But Dahiyah? It's very special."
Dahiyah's revival comes as Hezbollah is seeking to bolster its credentials as a mainstream political power.
For months, it has been in negotiations with Sunni-led pro-Western parties over the creation of a new government, in which Hezbollah and its allies would have a sizable role. The negotiations have been deadlocked, however, in a dispute over who will get which positions, fueled by suspicions in the pro-Western bloc that Hezbollah and its allies will seek to impose Syria's and Iran's agenda in the deeply divided nation.
Hezbollah is strongly backed by Syria and Iran, and it touts a powerful armed guerrilla force. But the movement also runs an extensive social welfare network and is the main political representative for Lebanon's Shiites, who make up about a third of the country's population of 4 million.
Dahiyah itself may be a sign that Shiite power is not necessarily an omen of Lebanon's "Iranization" as Hezbollah's opponents fear.
Despite its undisputed lock over Dahiyah, Hezbollah has not tried to enforce its strict interpretation of Islamic teachings in the district, a show of pragmatism perhaps aimed at casting doubt on the extremist tag critics slap on the group and increasing its appeal to secular Shiites and other sectarian groups.
Billboards advertising women's couture compete for space with billboards of bearded clerics and images of the young Hezbollah guerrillas who died fighting Israel over the years.
Women in tight pants and low-cut tops shop at boutiques with names like "Pascale" and "La Verna" where bikinis, miniskirts and hot shorts are on display in windows — much like in the more liberal districts of Beirut.
"Here in Dahiyah, we have managed to have resistance, freedom and fashion all at the same place," said Hussein al-Zein, a 40-year-old resident who runs a women's casual wear store.
"People think Lebanon is either about fighting Israel or whoring with nothing in between. In Dahiyah, we have freedom, but it has boundaries," he said at his store.
That said, the majority of women in Dahiyah dress conservatively in Islamic headscarves in public. There are no bars or liquor stores and certainly no nightclubs. European nonalcoholic beer ads in the streets don't mention the word "beer," using instead the term "barley drink."
Hanein Estiatieh, a graphic design student, says she has no worries about going out in jeans and a tight top in Dahiyah, her birthplace.
"I will cover up only when I marry," declares the 18-year-old.
"I don't mind her not covering up," said Aliyah Sohoura, daughter of the owner of the women's clothes store where Estiatieh works. "But I pray for her to see the light of faith," added Sohoura, who wore a headscarf and a bulky coat. The two giggled.
Dahiyah was not always a Shiite stronghold. It was once an area of small villages south of Beirut that were home to Christians and some middle-class Shiites. During Lebanon's 1975-90 civil war, tens of thousands of Shiites poured into the area from the impoverished, more rural south and east to flee fighting. The Christians largely moved out, though pockets remain.
Beirut itself is sharply divided between Sunni and Christian districts, with very few mixed areas. In the 2006 war, Israel almost exclusively targeted Dahiyah and Shiite areas in the south and east, while largely steering clear of Sunni and Christian regions — which in turn fed distrust between the sects.
In May last year, sectarian tensions turned violent when Hezbollah fighters clashed with Sunni rivals, briefly seizing Sunni districts at the height of a political dispute with the U.S.-backed government. Fistfights and stone-throwing have broken out occasionally since between youths from Dahiyah and adjacent Sunni districts.
Shiites' sense of solidarity in Dahiyah is reinforced by what residents see as neglect from the central government. The district gets only 12 hours of city electricity a day, compared to 19 in Beirut. Authorities blame large-scale power in Dahiyah, while residents call it discrimination.
Hezbollah handles security in the district, managing traffic and even handling crime cases like drug offenses. The group says it has no choice, saying central authorities ignore the area.
"We don't try to be a substitute for the state but we just try and come up with solutions," said Hezbollah official Ghassan Darwish. "We cannot replace the government, even if we tried."

Christian Vieri: I No Longer Want To Play Football

Former Inter striker Christian Vieri has blown the final whistle on his football career, declaring that he has lost all passion for the game.

"I no longer have the will to play, and I am not even tempted by playing abroad," Vieri told the press in Milan.

Vieri was outside the Court of Milan for the latest hearing into his legal battle against Inter. The Italian is suing the club for allegedly tapping up his phone when he played there. That case is still ongoing.

The former striker has been unemployed since leaving Atalanta by mutual consent towards the end of last season. Reports suggest he will turn his hand to professional poker.

Christian Ponder leads rally as Florida State tops N. Carolina

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. -- With his team's season on the brink Thursday night, Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder delivered his finest in a series of impressive performances.
And for the first time in weeks, the Seminoles' defense didn't crumble down the stretch.
With Ponder throwing for nearly 400 yards against a North Carolina defense that entered the game leading the nation in passing defense, the Seminoles rallied from an 18-point, second-half deficit and secured a stunning 30-27 victory.
The comeback victory marked FSU's first victory in a month and helped the Seminoles erase the awful memory of a 49-44 loss to Georgia Tech less than two weeks ago.
``I told the coaches and I also told the players at the half, that was the worst half of football I can ever remember,'' FSU coach Bobby Bowden said. ``But then they came back out in the second half -- and settled down and played like they are capable of playing.''
UNC entered the game allowing just 125.2 yards passing per game, but Ponder torched the Tar Heels for 395 yards on 33-of-40 passing. He also threw for three touchdowns with no interceptions. Ponder finished the game by completing his final 16 passes for 236 yards and three scores.
``[He's playing] as good as anybody I've ever been around,'' FSU offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher said. ``I wouldn't trade him for anybody in America. Period.''
PONDER ON A TEAR
It marked the third consecutive career-high passing performance for Ponder, who has set new passing marks in five of the Seminoles' seven games.
The junior completed passes to eight different receivers, with the top target being senior Rod Owens. Owens caught nine passes for 199 yards, including a 98-yard touchdown strike in the third quarter.
``I'm just proud of the way we fought back,'' Ponder said. ``Down 24-6, we had an opportunity to give up, and we didn't.''
For much of Thursday's game, it appeared the Seminoles (3-4, 1-3 ACC) again would lose despite Ponder's heroics. FSU's defense, which surrendered 49 points in its last game against Georgia Tech, didn't appear any sharper after more than a week of practice.
Against a North Carolina offense that entered the game ranked last in the ACC in scoring offense and total offense, FSU again seemed overmatched from the beginning.
On their opening drive, the Tar Heels (4-3, 0-3 ACC) drove 80 yards on 10 plays for a touchdown. They only generated 57 more yards of total offense in the first half, but they capitalized on two more scoring opportunities to claim a 17-6 lead at the break.
THINGS LOOKED BLEAK
The Tar Heels then extended their advantage to 24-6 on their first possession of the second half. UNC junior Greg Little, who did damage to FSU's defense as a runner and a receiver, got the Heels into scoring position with a 27-yard run to the Seminoles' 18.
Three plays later, UNC quarterback T.J. Yates raced into the end zone for a 10-yard score -- his first rushing touchdown of the season.
But the second half was controlled by Ponder and the Seminoles offense. The junior led FSU to scoring drives on four consecutive possessions before the Seminoles took their first lead at 30-27 midway through the fourth quarter.
During the surge, Ponder hit sophomore receiver Taiwan Easterling for a 6-yard score, Owens for a 98-yard strike and sophomore tight end Beau Reliford for an 18-yard touchdown.
In his past two games, Ponder has thrown nine touchdown passes with no interceptions.
But unlike the Georgia Tech game, which saw the Seminoles defense give up more than 500 yards of total offense and seven touchdowns, defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews' unit came to life in the second half.
It gave up just three points after the Tar Heels' first drive of the second half.

Slaying suspect contradictory about couple's torture, murder

KNOXVILLE -- Defenders of the alleged ringleader in the torture slayings of a Knox County couple faced their biggest hurdle Thursday -- their client's own mouth.

"Was she over there to buy dope?" U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives Agent Forest "Woody" Webb asked Lemaricus Davidson about slaying victim Channon Christian in a police video shown to jurors.
Knox County Criminal Court Judge Richard Baumgartner confers with (from left) defense attorneys Doug A. Trant and David M. Eldridge and Knox County prosecutors Leland Price and TaKisha Fitzgerald in the trial of slaying suspect Lemaricus Davidson.

J. Miles Cary/Knoxville News-Sentinel

Knox County Criminal Court Judge Richard Baumgartner confers with (from left) defense attorneys Doug A. Trant and David M. Eldridge and Knox County prosecutors Leland Price and TaKisha Fitzgerald in the trial of slaying suspect Lemaricus Davidson.

"I ain't never seen the girl before in my life," the Memphis native answered during the interrogation shortly after his Jan. 11, 2007, arrest.

Defense attorneys David Eldridge and Doug Trant have been trying this week to sow seeds of doubt about whether Christian, 21, and boyfriend, Christopher Newsom, 23, were victims of a carjacking turned kidnapping, rape and murder by suggesting the couple went to Davidson's Chipman Street neighborhood in search of drugs.

Eldridge also told jurors they would at the end of trial question whether Davidson was even in his own house when the couple went from alleged drug-seekers to victims of the "gang from Kentucky" -- co-defendants Letalvis Cobbins, George Thomas and Vanessa Coleman.

But on Thursday, prosecutors Leland Price and Takisha Fitzgerald fired back with Davidson's own statement, which proved chockful of contradictions.

Davidson first told Webb and Knoxville Police Department investigator Ryan Flores he was nothing more than a drug dealer.

"Selling dope, that's what I do, sell dope," he said. "I don't kill people though."

He quickly admitted that Cobbins, his brother, and Thomas showed up at his house that fateful weekend with Christian's Toyota 4Runner. He even drove it to go "serve" his drug clientele and "wiped it down" when he was done.

"I knew the car was hot," he said.

He insisted he never saw Christian and Newsom in the vehicle or in his house. That account changed, however, when he learned that Cobbins and Thomas had been nabbed in Kentucky. Flores hinted they were telling tales about Davidson.

"They had both of them in the back seat tied up," Davidson said. "I know the girl was at my house. I know that (Thomas) killed the dude. ... When that girl was in my house, I wasn't there."

Davidson didn't stick with that story long, though.

"I stayed there like five minutes (after Christian was brought into his house)," Davidson said. "I bumped up against her a couple of times, but that's the only contact I had ... She grabbed me though. She touched my arm."

Davidson said Christian told him, "I don't want to die." He said he assured her that she wouldn't.

Knoxville police fingerprint expert Tim Schade linked Davidson's palm prints to those found on three of five bags used to encase Christian's hog-tied body, which was found in a trash can in Davidson's kitchen.

Christian County Helps Schools Immunize Students Against H1N1

Students at Clever Elementary School lined up Thursday for the chance to be immunized against the H1N1 virus.

No needles were involved--instead the Christian County Health Department used the new H1N1 flu mist.

"It's just based on the vaccine, the amount that we get, and the types that we get in as to what we can schedule," said Karen Potter with the Christian County Health Department.

Students didn't seem to mind which version they got--they were just thankful.

"I'm actually glad that I'm getting it, because I don't want to miss school for getting the H1N1 Swine Flu," said sixth grader Samantha Hook.

The H1N1 mist, much like the vaccine, could take up to two doses to be effective, but so far has been more readily available than the H1N1 shot itself.

The H1N1 Flu Mist is actually for any healthy individual ages 2 to 49, but someone like myself, with a history of asthma, shouldn't get the mist.

The health department says if you are in doubt of whether you or your child should should get it, simply consult your primary physician.

But even with the medical concerns that surround H1N1 immunizations, we found most parents accepting of the prevention method.

"I thought it was nice for the to come out here, because everything I've read leads me to believe it's the thing to do to keep your kids safe," said Mary McGregor.

There's also the convenience that goes along with a school wide immunization clinic.

"Much, much, much better.  I've called around to the Stone County Health Department.  I've called my pediatrician.  They are all out right now. So, it was a good opportunity, and we took advantage of it," said Angie Garrett.

The Christian County Health Department says schools are among the first to get the vaccinations when they arrive.

So far, nationwide, 86 children have died from H1N1 complications since April.

That's equivalent to the number of child deaths that happen over the course of an entire typical flu season.

Dallas Christian Author Garners Book of the Year Award While Feeding Charity

Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM’s Crossing Twice: Answers from the Source is climbing in respect as reviews maintain a five star rating. And, as sales continue so grows the amount to be donated to Feed the Children, Dr. Manley’s selected charity.

“Crossing Twice: Answers from the Source , 2009 Christian Book of the Year, has been a miracle in a number of ways,” says Rick Setter, President of Advocate USA Publishing. “The reviews of the Christian near death experience book by Dr. Manley have been solid and the reviews are averaging five stars on Amazon.com.”

The book begins with the sentence, “Nothing happened to let me know I had died, I was simply listening to the machines purring in the background. The sound of the ventilator working its dutiful pumping,” begins the Crossing Twice: Answers from the Source journey. But, here, today, its journey is continuing in benefiting Feed the Children.

Readers will be able to find the books Crossing Twice: Answers from the Source and Spirit Thinking: Your 30 Day Guide to Enlightenment in several local book stores as well as online Amazon. The most affordable purchase for the book is located at the publisher’s outlet site(http://reecemanley.com/ctorder.aspx).

Readers who purchase the book between now and January 14, 2010 will trigger a $2.00 donation to Feed the Children to be delivered in February 2010.

“I hope readers take advantage of the special pricing we have available. They can find the link on www.SpiritThinking.net on the “Buy Crossing Twice” button.

Crossing Twice: Answers from the Source is a power retailing of the near death experience by Christian author Reece W. Manley who promotes progressive and inclusive themes in this work. His work Spirit Thinking: Your 30 Day Guide to Enlightenment is the first work to combine cognitive psychology with spiritual principles yielding a unique Christian self help approach.

Orthodox patriarch pleads for environmental action

Standing beside the Mississippi River, the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians, made a plea Wednesday for more action to save the planet and stop destroying it "as if there is no tomorrow.""The dilemmas we are faced with are the problems created by human beings," Bartholomew said at the opening of an environmental symposium in New Orleans. "We are consuming environmental capital and destroying its sources as if there is no tomorrow."
He added: "We have cracked the code of DNA, we can create life in test tubes, we can genetically modify crops, we can put men upon the moon _ but we have lost our balance, externally and within."
The Istanbul-based patriarch, whom former Vice President Al Gore has called the "green patriarch," brought a delegation of Orthodox church leaders to New Orleans, where they planned to visit neighborhoods flooded by Hurricane Katrina and take a trip up the Mississippi, where oil refineries and chemical plants dwarf rural communities and light up the night sky with burning flares.
Bartholomew came to New Orleans in January 2006 after Katrina flooded New Orleans on Aug. 29, 2005, and prayed for the storm's victims during a visit to the Lower 9th Ward, one of the city's neighborhoods hit hard by the hurricane.
Also Wednesday, the Archbishop Demetrios of America, the Greek Orthodox Church's leader in the United States, called attention to the troubles of New Orleans and the Mississippi.
"This glorious river through the years has become heavily polluted causing grave damage to both the land and the Gulf far beyond its basin," Demetrios said. "There is a concerted effort to reverse the damaging course of pollution and return to the pristine clarity of the waters, but restoration is not easy."
Doug Daigle, an expert on environmental policy for the Mississippi River, said the river's water quality has improved much in the past 30 years, but urban and agricultural runoff still pose a problem because they have turned the river into a conduit for nutrients. The river's nutrient-rich waters flush into the Gulf of Mexico and create a huge area of low-oxygen known as a dead zone every summer.
"Broadly speaking, it's not as polluted as it used to be thanks to the Clean Water Act," Daigle said. "But it's got pollution."
Since 1995, Bartholomew has brought attention to the world's environmental problems with a series of forums billed as the Religion, Science and The Environment symposia. The New Orleans event, entitled "The Great Mississippi River: Restoring Balance," was the eighth forum overseen by Bartholomew. Numerous scientists and politicians were expected to attend the symposium, which ends Sunday.
"The patriarch's message is more than about changing your light bulb and recycling paper goods," said the Rev. Mark Arey, an ecumenical officer for the patriarch's trip. "It's also about raising your consciousness toward your relationship with other human beings and your relationship with the entire world."
John Barry, the New Orleans author of "Rising Tide," a history of the Army Corps of Engineers' efforts to tame the Mississippi River, called Bartholomew's comments "apt and impressive." Barry spoke at the symposium Wednesday.
The patriarch is scheduled early next month to meet President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Washington, Arey said.
The patriarch's U.S. trip also will include stops in New York, Georgia and Maryland. He was expected to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the enthronement of Archbishop Demetrios of America in New York, attend an Ecumenical Gathering of Peace at the Annunciation Cathedral in Atlanta and mark his 18th year in his role as ecumenical patriarch in a service at Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in Annapolis, Maryland.