INCHRISTwithchrist

Softball

2011-08-09T14:08:00.002-04:00

Well, I just wrapped up my 4th summer of playing softball. We finished tied for 7th at 9-11 and were one spot away from the playoffs. Considering this is our first year in the Canton Joint Recreation League, I'd say that is a pretty good start. The competition in Canton is definitely a lot better than the Massillon Recreation League. It's always fun to play one night a week with your friends (and the competition aspect is great as well).

Here are my stats for 2011 and my updated career stats. I wanted to post them on the blog so that I have some different "record keeping" options to look back on.

2011 Season

At Bats - 51
Hits - 24
Singles - 22
Doubles - 1
Triples - 1
Homeruns - 0
RBIs - 15
Walks - 2
Average - .471

Career

At Bats - 174
Hits - 76
Singles - 66
Doubles - 4
Triples - 4
Homeruns - 2
RBIs - 38
Walks - 5
Average - .437

Surfside, SC

2011-07-16T21:33:00.004-04:00

Yard Work 2011

2011-06-27T17:35:00.005-04:00

Housework is something you do that nobody notices until you don't do it. ~Author Unknown

This past weekend (Friday-Monday), I tackled a lot of yard work that has been neglected over the past few years...mostly in the weed department. I wish I had remembered to take some "before" pictures...because...it was bad.

Real bad.

Anyhow, after over 20+ hours of weeding, mulching, weeding, mulching, mowing, pulling out shrubs, edging, cleaning, brooming, digging, planting, etc...our yard finally looks like it should. I think I even heard it thank me (or maybe that was a delusion from my impending heat stroke). Megan was a big help, too. She planted a bunch of flowers that helped add a lot of beauty to our mulch beds. Kayley helped too with a Dora gardening set she had gotten from Grandma Kumpf. Reagan...well...she sat around and watched.

Here are some pictures of the blood, sweat, and filth. Hopefully, I can get back off the couch after these have uploaded...

Daddy/Daughter Date

2011-06-18T10:52:00.004-04:00

This past Thursday night, Kayley and I participated in our second Daddy/Daughter Date Night. This time the venue was Chick-fil-a. Now, you might be thinking...a fast food place for a date night? Really?

I was thinking the same thing.

However, it turned out to be one of the coolest experiences Kayley and I have had. First, we had made reservations a few weeks ago after seeing the promotion on Facebook. I just thought they might have some balloons and maybe an employee dressed up in a cow costume walking around the dining area.

It turned out to be a lot more than that...

When we arrived, we signed in and Kayley was given a pink rose (above). Then, we took a picture with the employee dressed up in a cow suit (fun job) before we headed inside for dinner. The restaurant was sectioned off so that we had a special area to dine. The tables were covered and had place settings and candles. The employees waited on us instead of the normal counter ordering. We had "starter" questions to ask each other. They played music and had a man playing the saxophone. There was a photo booth to take silly pictures. Kayley got free ice cream, a goody bag, and a tour of the kitchen. It was really over the top and I walked out of there paying $10.04.

In a day and age where the "family" has been attacked by societal changes, it is comforting to see an organization go out of their way to make something special happen. Imagine if more places offered this type of environment for parents and their children, children themselves, or just parents. HUGE props to manager Doug Pugh and the entire staff at Chick-fil-a.

8 Months?!?! Oops...

2011-06-14T21:50:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the long nap...OK...long hibernation.

Eight months?

Really? That's like more than seven months and less than nine months.

That's a long time...

I don't really have an excuse. Can I blame Facebook? We'll go with that...

Now that summer is here, I'm going to try to get back into a blogging mindset. With two girls under the age of four and a TON of other stuff going on in our lives, I thought it would be a good time to reinvest in this blog. If nothing else, it is a great way to keep things on record.

Soooo...here is a reattempt at blogging. Awesome, right???

Kingsway Farm

2010-10-20T21:54:00.003-04:00

Reagan Leigh

2010-10-20T14:37:00.008-04:00

Kayley and Reagan

2010-09-21T21:30:00.000-04:00

WOW...

I Forgot How Much School Hurts

2010-08-25T18:36:00.003-04:00

I've had a real taste of reality over the last several days. Having the summers off is definitely a great perk, but this first week of school is like getting hit with a ton of bricks. Seriously...

Even though I'm back in the swing of things, it's going to take a few weeks just to get my feet underneath me. My brain aches just thinking about everything I've done over the past three or four days. There's is no possible way to describe my job and what it entails. You'd have to spend the day with me to really get a feel for what it's like have 37 eyes glued on you for 270 minutes each day. That's a lot of pressure!

Any takers?....(silence...crickets...)

My schedule isn't too bad this year and I seem to have a great group of kids. I am on a two-man team teaching 6th grade language arts and Social Studies. It's nice that my numbers are low, but the block periods and two subjects make for long mornings and afternoons.

My schedule is as follows:

Academic Assist
Social Studies
Reading
Written Expression
Lunch
Written Expression
Reading
Planning
Social Studies

I can't remember the last time I took a nap, but I came home after my second day...sat down on the couch...and zonked out for 30 or so minutes. It's been nonstop for three days straight. Hopefully, everything will settle down and I'll feel somewhat normal again. Getting up at 5:45 doesn't help either:)

But, I love what I do...so I couldn't ask for more. Still waiting to see what God's plan has in store for me and where He will lead my career.

Ethics

2010-08-13T15:48:00.002-04:00

Today I delivered a presentation on ethics to our district's entry-year teachers (known now as Resident Educators), new teachers to the district, and mentors. The presentation was about a half hour long and covered the "dos and don'ts" of professionalism in the education field. I tried to incorporate personal stories and humor as ethics can be a very challenging topic. To my surprise, I had the room's (about 60-70 people) full attention during the entire presentation because I think people are genuinely interested in the topic.

As many people do (but usually do not openly discuss it), I think it is extremely important for any successful organization to have an ethics policy that is discussed and MODELED by its leadership. Being able to present this to new teachers was a HUGE bonus. If we can do this every year, think of the cultural change that could happen in our district. By planting that seed in the backs of each person's mind, we are helping to eliminate future hiring and dismissal issues.

I was extremely encouraged to come home and find several positive emails from the building principals that were in attendance at today's orientation. I have even been asked to present at their future staff meetings. I feel very privileged to have been asked to take on this role and even more privileged to know that it had an impact on those in attendance.

"Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things." ~ Peter F. Drucker

Today's Church

2010-08-08T15:11:00.008-04:00

Today the Senior Pastor at our church, Pastor Larry Bennett, spoke his last sermon. He is resigning after some internal conflicts with members of our church after 17 years of godly-dedication and leadership. Having attended there for almost two years, my family and I came to love Pastor Bennett's commitment to teaching the Gospel and how we could apply it to our daily lives. It was TRUE Biblical teaching.

In the midst of the resignation, my family discussed whether we were going to leave the church or not because of the uncertainty that exists within its walls. For now, we are going to wait and see what direction God moves us. However, while browsing a list of area churches (and checking out their websites) it got me thinking about today's church. The realities of where we are right now.

Frankly, the Christian church needs a major face lift. Housewives of New Jersey style. Well, maybe not that drastic...

Before attending our current church, my family and I attended another local church for about three years. It was a great place and had a lot of great, godly people and I have a lot of good memories that I took away from there. I was baptized there. My daughter was dedicated there. However, after those three years I felt spiritually empty. Being young, both in age and in my spiritual journey, this church was very appealing. It had a Saturday night service that fit my lifestyle. The musical talent within the congregation was unbelievable (think a contemporary-Christian concert every weekend). I could wear shorts and a t-shirt to the service. People ate and drank coffee in the sanctuary. The main population of people were my age and at the same places in life. It had a good vibe.

Unfortunately, good vibes don't translate into spiritual growth. The sermons were educational, but they had no substance. Think of it as an exquisite steak and potatoes dinner with all the fixings. However, all you could eat were the potatoes. But, don't touch the steak! Would that fill your appetite? I know it didn't fill mine. In fact, I became so hungry that I started to skip dinner. I just lost my affection (and appetite) for the church and its message. This church that I loved became a coffee shop where people were more worried about the ingredients in their hot "cup o' joe" than they were about the ingredients of the church's sermons. It became more about lights and musical equipment than the message from the pulpit. The popular thing to do was to read "trendy" books that told us what to believe about the Bible and its teachings. Reflect on that for a second. Isn't there already a book that answers all of our questions? Isn't the Bible, although I wouldn't recommend this, the only book that should be on our shelves? Finally, one of the lasting memories I have, and it was eventually the straw that broke the camel's back, was when I sent an email to the Senior Pastor asking for prayer and consultation during a rough time for my father's business. This wasn't just some "Help!" email either. I spent hours on that thing. It could have been a small novel. Now, before you start thinking that my email went unread and unnoticed, I did get something back. It was a stock email that went something like the following: "We appreciate your email, but due to the high volume of emails that Pastor "X" gets, we cannot guarantee a response at this time. If it is an emergency, please call the church office at..."

I never did hear anything back.

Somehow, the pastor became bigger than the church.

Our generation (the 20-30 somethings) has a lot of ground to cover. The church isn't shaping society. Society is shaping the church. We have "so-called" Christians that are supporting gay marriage, abortion, and other familial issues all in the name of "peace, love, and save the whales" while dancing in the streets with homemade signs and body paint, but where are the Christians standing up for OUR issues? The issues that God made ours from the Bible itself. By no means should we be intolerant of the people associated with these issues; that has the opposite affect, but we need to continue to stand for Biblical principles. If that means getting political; we need to get political. If that means reinventing the church; we need to reinvent the church. I don't know about you, but this is a world that is filled with more evil than it is filled with good. I can hear you now, "How can you say that you crazy man?" Because we, humans and human nature, inherited sin. Read the first few chapters of the Bible. Everyday is a spiritual battle. Everyday is a ticking time bomb between ideologies that are fighting for air to continue to exist.

I'd rather die fighting for my God than my God dying for not fighting for Him. He is ultimately in charge of everything, but should that be an excuse to sit back and allow our values, morals, and our religion to be tainted beyond recognition?

We need to return our focus to Jesus and His Father's teachings.

We need to open the Bible and LET it TEACH us. It's no longer about going through the motions and playing pretend. It's about living out the Word of God and dying for His Name.

A very special person did the same thing upon a cross...didn't He?

Kiawah Island 2010

2010-07-25T14:21:00.008-04:00

Summer Fairs

2010-06-20T15:54:00.002-04:00

Reagan Leigh

2010-06-03T12:06:00.003-04:00

Reagan Leigh will join our family on (most likely due to a c-section) October 15, 2010. Mom and baby are healthy and we are very excited to add another girl to our family. Kayley, although at times she thinks the baby is in HER tummy, is very excited to have a little sister to play with and grow up with. God has blessed us immensely.

A Day in the Park...

2010-05-05T15:10:00.005-04:00

Easter 2010

2010-04-04T14:46:00.003-04:00

Kayley...

2010-04-02T15:24:00.002-04:00

Hello...Again

2010-04-01T21:18:00.002-04:00

Well...obviously, I've taken some time off.

I apologize for the HUGE gap between posts, but inevitably...life catches up to all of us. I hope to start posting regularly again...soon.

To give a quick update: Megan is pregnant (due date of October 15), I am coaching Girls Varsity Track (almost a second full-time job), I am a few classes away (April 26) from my administrative license, my summer softball league starts May 12, Kayley is talking up a storm and coming into her own personality, and probably a lot of stuff I am missing.

Check back as I, hopefully, continue to update as school comes to a close...

Why Did Jesus Fold the Napkin?

2010-01-24T15:07:00.001-05:00

Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. John 20:6-7

The above verses tell us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that his napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.

Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the Entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, 'They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and I don't know where they have put him!'

Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there...

...while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side.

Was that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes!

In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it.

The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the master was finished. Now if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table.

For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, 'I'm done'.

But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because..........

the folded napkin meant..."I will be back."

Toe Jam and Kayley

2010-01-03T11:25:00.001-05:00

Toe Jam and Kayley from Ryan on Vimeo.

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-31T14:21:00.004-05:00

Winter Wonderland from Ryan on Vimeo.

Sled Ride from Ryan on Vimeo.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T13:03:00.004-05:00

Letter From Jesus

2009-12-13T15:18:00.003-05:00

My Children,

Happy Holidays! Did I get you? I was just kidding. Merry Christmas. As Christmastime is upon us, I wanted to reflect on a few things I have noticed "from above" and offer a few words of advice that will hopefully help you get through this over commercialized holiday.

It has come to my attention that there are some government establishments that have decided not to put up the annual Nativity scene this year because it may be offensive to some. That's OK. Let them. Instead, put up a nativity in your own yard. Imagine what it would look like if all our Christian brothers and sisters made Me the focus of your home's Christmas display.

School's used to be a friendly place for Me to hangout. Now? A teacher needs to send home a letter that informs the parents that the class will be learning about the relationship between ancient Rome and Christianity. Christmas Break is now Holiday Break and the annual Christmas choir concert is filled with "Winter Wonderlands" instead of "O Holy Nights." That's OK. Let it happen. Instead, gather a group of your friends and family to bake cookies for your neighbors as you sing Christmas carols outside their door.

I love the sight of Christmas trees lighting up the family rooms. Family or Holiday trees? Not so much. Christmas is a holiday that celebrates My Birth. It reminds us of God's love for the world and how He was willing to give the life of His only Son. Taking Christ out of Christmas is rather humorous in My opinion. You are trying to become a society that celebrates a season. Ask the people in Florida how that is turning out. Snow much? It's OK. Let people celebrate winter. I provided it by the way. Instead, say Merry Christmas every chance you get. Love your neighbor. Help an old lady with the door. Shovel your neighbor's driveway. Donate your time to the local soup kitchen. Spread My love. Not My season.

Lastly, don't freak out.

Just like I always have, I've got this under control, too. And, I always will.

Have a very, merry Christmas.

Love,

Jesus

Kayley Turns Two!

2009-12-07T16:55:00.005-05:00

Kayley Turns Two! #2 from Ryan on Vimeo.

Kayley Turns Two from Ryan on Vimeo.

I'm Alive

2009-11-28T16:44:00.002-05:00

Wow, October 31...really?

Sorry for the month delay. November has been REALLY busy. My two post-grad classes have been finishing up. Thanksgiving. My evaluation at Perry.

Just not enough time in the day!

Check back soon for updates. Once December hits, everything should be somewhat normal again!

Talk with you soon.

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T21:04:00.005-04:00

Boo at the Zoo

2009-10-26T20:54:00.003-04:00

New Gig

2009-10-16T19:14:00.002-04:00

I have taken on a new challenge.

On Wednesday night, I became the AFFI Social Networking Director for an organization called the Alliance for the Future of Israel. Basically, I am in charge of maintaining the organization's communication goals through several social networking websites (Twitter, Facebook, and Myspace). Our goal is to "spread the word" through as many avenues as possible. The endeavor will hopefully launch the AFFI organization to new heights.

Here is an overview of AFFI:

The Alliance for the Future of Israel is a joint venture of Jews and Christians who are striving to advance the fulfillment of God’s prophetic Word regarding the return of His nation, Israel, to Zion; and the rebirth of the modern Nation of Israel.
The Alliance was founded out of the need to:

* Ensure the existence of Israel
* Promise the security of the Jewish people dwelling in the Holy Land
* Guarantee their ability to prevail over the many threats they face.

The founders of the Alliance understand that the future of the Jewish people in Zion is based on two pillars:

* Developing new leadership in Israel, which possesses faith, values and integrity.
* Intensifying Jewish immigration to Israel (opening Israel’s Gates to ALL JEWS, regardless of their religious affiliation.)

The Alliance calls for the involvement and support of the Judeo-Christian world for this vision.
AFFI’s support of Israel will be focused on two main areas:

* Development of future leadership
* An Educational Campaign that will deepen the recognition, understanding and cooperation between all Jewish Streams

AFFI is a non-profit 501 © (3) registered in the USA. All contributions are tax-exempt. All monies raised are channeled to support the annual budget which supports:

* Training and developing leadership
* Supporting Freedom of Religious Choice and Equality for all Jewish streams

Along with AFFI, our organization is a strong supporter of the Israel Leadership Institute.

Dunlap Orchard

2009-10-03T16:37:00.004-04:00

Dunlap Orchard from Ryan on Vimeo.

OSU v. Ilinois

2009-10-03T16:30:00.002-04:00

Still Here

2009-09-22T21:06:00.002-04:00

I'm still here.

No worries.

We just haven't had a lot going on. I picked up my Master's Degree today from the University of Akron. $12,000 dollars for a piece of paper in a binder? Nice. A month of school is in the books at Perry. My internship has started...slowly. Kayley is trying to say more and more words. Megan is going to New York in October with her friends from work. I'm going to my first Ohio State game at "the shoe" this Saturday.

Busy month. Updates to come.

Introducing, Zoey!

2009-09-13T17:38:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday, Megan!

2009-09-11T23:24:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to my wife, Megan! The BIG 27.

An amazing wife and mother. She keeps our family running and still manages to make it look easy. Kayley and I are lucky :)

Kayley's First Haircut

2009-09-05T17:51:00.006-04:00

Melt Bar and Grilled

2009-08-29T21:43:00.003-04:00

This afternoon, Megan and I went to a restaurant called Melt Bar and Grilled. I had seen a spotlight of the restaurant on Good Company over the summer and have wanted to drive to Lakewood, Ohio ever since.

Lunch was a great experience. Even though we had to wait almost an hour and a half to eat, it was well worth it. The decor is eclectic with an array of junk and Cleveland memorabilia. Even though the place was small, it was still a comfortable atmosphere.

The menu itself is small, but the food looked, smelled, and tasted amazing. Melt Bar and Grilled specializes in gourmet grilled cheeses. That's right, a spin on America's favorite sandwich. I had the Smokey Russian; turkey, sauerkraut, Gouda cheese, and Russian dressing. Megan had the Big Popper; beer battered, jalapenos, cheddar cheese, and herb cream cheese. Also on the menu are burgers (on grilled cheese bread, too) and an awesome breakfast selection that includes gourmet waffles.

The drink list was bigger than the actual menu. With over 100 types of imported and domestic beers and an assortment of other alcoholic drinks, Melt Bar and Grilled covers all of the bases.

Two thumbs up!

That's a Lucky Day

2009-08-28T17:01:00.000-04:00

Perry: Day 1

2009-08-24T20:34:00.004-04:00

Well, my first day at Perry is in the books!

I really enjoyed my first teaching day. The whole experience has been really positive and I think I may have found a good fit at Perry.

First, a little background.

Last Tuesday, I attended an all-day mentoring meeting. This program is designed to assist first-year teachers and new teachers to the district as he/she transitions to the school system. Part of the mentoring meeting was a bus tour around Perry Township. Amazingly, Perry has a poverty rate around 40 percent. It was really beneficial to see where the kids are coming from. Then, on Thursday, I completed my mandatory work day. This is a day for teachers to finish organizing, complete paperwork, and set up his/her classroom. It usually takes many hours to get the room ready for new students. Next, Friday involved convocation and meetings. I was introduced to the district staff as a new employee in the morning and the rest of the day consisted of meetings and room preparation. Finally, on Sunday, I attended a four hour coaching clinic that will complete my coaching licensure.

Today, I woke up at 5:45 and was at school by 6:30. Students arrive at 7:45 and the first bell rings at 8:00. Teachers are contractually required to be there from 7:15 to 2:45. I really enjoy my schedule, the students, and the new colleagues I have worked with thus far. Everyone has definitely helped me during this adjustment.

My schedule looks like this (each period is 45 minutes long):

Academic Assist
1st Period (Planning)
2nd Period (6th grade Social Studies)
3rd Period (6th grade Social Studies)
4th Period (7th grade Social Studies)
5th Period (Lunch)
6th Period (7th grade Social Studies)
7th Period (6th grade Social Studies)
8th Period (6th grade Social Studies)

Overall, it was a great first day. It has been a lot of hours, but I can't complain! Perry seems very family oriented. They seem to take care of their employees and the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent are great guys that really encourage you to be at your best.

Go Panthers!

Next Step

2009-08-17T22:35:00.002-04:00

On a side note, I graduated. This past Saturday I officially graduated from the University of Akron with a Master's Degree in Education Administration with an emphasis on the Principalship. I finished the 30 credit hour program (as shown below) in a little under three years and graduated with a GPA of 3.95 (darn A-).

Master’s Courses - 30 credits
5100:600 (3) Philosophies of Education
5100:624 (3) Educational Psychology
5100:604 (3) Topical Seminar: Cultural Foundations of Education
5100:640 (3) Techniques of Research
5170:601 (3) Organizational Leadership
5170:604 (3) School/Community Relations
5170:607 (3) School Law
5170:610 (3) Supervision of Instruction
5170:620 (3) School Culture and Governance
5170:615 (3) Learners With Special Needs

I really enjoyed the program. It really solidified my desire to enter the administration field of education. The most interesting class was definitely School Law.

Anyways, it's on to the next chapter in my schooling career. During the 2009-2010 school year, I will be participating in an internship program that will eventually lead to a license that allows me to practice as an administrator. The internship will consist of 300 hours of professional practice (150 hrs. per semester) and a supplemental class on Resource Management. In order to obtain my license, I will have to complete the 12 credits, pass the Praxis licensure test, and give my statement of Good Moral Character.

Will this ever end???

Softball 2009

2009-08-16T22:20:00.004-04:00

Well, softball is unfortunately over (season went from May 13 - August 12) and it was definitely a "learning" year.

This was my first year playing on a team that my friend (Andrew) and I put together. It was a lot more fun playing with guys that I knew (my brother, Cory, is also on the team). Our goal is to keep a good core group of guys around that plays year after year. Next year, with the group of guys we have committed to playing, it definitely looks better :) This year our team was 4-18. Therefore, there is only room for improvement, right?

Anyways, here are my stats (not like anyone would care) for the 2009 season (this is basically for my personal records):

Hits: 23 AB: 53 AVG: .434 2B: 1 3B: 2 HR: 2 BB: 1 RBI: 13

Usain Bolt: 9.58 and 19.19 seconds?!?!

2009-08-16T22:05:00.003-04:00

I don't even know what to write.

Usain Bolt might be the best athlete in the world...amazing...

Bolt set the World Record in the 100 meter dash at 9.58 seconds. He beat the previous record, which he also owned, by 0.11 seconds. How is that even possible? The guy didn't even break a sweat. Tyson Gay, America's fastest man, set the American record with a time of 9.71 and was BLOWN away by Bolt.

Now, my PR (personal record) is only 1.42 seconds off the world record :P

Update:

19.19 seconds in the 200m dash! Bolt beat the previous world record (19.30) by 0.11 seconds. Does this guy have a ceiling?

Ocean City, MD (Part III)

2009-08-15T12:57:00.006-04:00

Good Friends, Good Times

Meg, Kayley, and I

Andrew and Kristen

Mark and Linda

Ocean City, MD (Part II)

2009-08-14T13:14:00.003-04:00

Ocean City, MD

2009-08-13T17:11:00.003-04:00

Kayley and Suri

2009-08-05T23:53:00.003-04:00

Recently, I (we) have gotten several comments that our daughter, Kayley, looks very similar to Suri Cruise (the daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes).

What do you think?

Dancin' and Sign Language

2009-07-29T09:36:00.002-04:00

Dance Like Nobody Is Watching from Ryan on Vimeo.

Sign Language from Ryan on Vimeo.

Sony VAIO NS

2009-07-21T10:13:00.003-04:00

After having a Gateway for almost five years, I finally purchased a new laptop yesterday from Best Buy. My Gateway crashed, completely, a couple of months ago and I wanted to get something before school started this fall. After having an AMD processor, I wanted to try Intel because I wasn't overwhelmed with the Gateway's speed and multi-tasking. I decided to go with the Sony VAIO with Intel Pentium Duo Processor for the price and the performance.

It came down to four choices: The Sony VAIO, Dell Inspiron, HP, or Toshiba Satellite. After comparing the three and reading numerous reviews, Sony won me over. The screen size ("15.4) is perfect. Most people do not realize, the bigger the screen...the bigger the laptop. I didn't want something that was too bulky. It comes with 3GB of RAM, but it can add an additional 5 GB if needed. That is 4 GB more than the competition in this price range. Wireless B, G, and N router connections. 4 USB ports. High Def audio. And...what put me over the top...up to 4 hours for battery life. That is a good hour longer than any of the competition in this price range. The setup was quick and it wasn't loaded with "bloatware" like HP and Dell include on every model.

The only problem I had with setup was trying to connect to the Internet. Upon initial setup, all laptops have to be connected to a router for recognition. This is to allow for a secure setup. Wireless cable and Wi-Fi are two different stories. If everyone had Wi-Fi, Internet access would be a breeze. However, most houses, like mine, are setup with wireless connections that make access a little tricky..especially when setting up a new laptop to an existing secured network. Alas, I got it working and everything is running smoothly!

Mayo Clinic

2009-07-20T18:06:00.002-04:00

Remember when President Obama (it never gets any easier typing that) went in front of ex-Caterpillar employees and told them that the company would re-hire those laid off if the stimulus bill passed? Sounded great, right? Well, that was until the Caterpillar CEO stepped in and said that "promise" never happened.

So now, we move onto the issue of healthcare. Yet another piece of the pie that the good ol' United States government is trying to consume. As Obama has been campaigning for this overhaul plan, he has, on numerous occasions, used the Mayo Clinic as an example of what could be.

Yes, I can see it now, Statists having their hands in every aspect of our "Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness." Normally, it wouldn't be so bad. These dreams have only bee "what if" nightmares for the past 50(+) years. However, as the Statists are now running the show, these nightmares are coming true...unfortunately.

The Mayo Clinic (remember that great example for the Obama Administration?) had this to say about the current plans to overhaul the healthcare system:

Although there are some positive provisions in the current House Tri-Committee bill – including insurance for all and payment reform demonstration projects – the proposed legislation misses the opportunity to help create higher-quality, more affordable health care for patients. In fact, it will do the opposite.

In general, the proposals under discussion are not patient focused or results oriented. Lawmakers have failed to use a fundamental lever – a change in Medicare payment policy – to help drive necessary improvements in American health care. Unless legislators create payment systems that pay for good patient results at reasonable costs, the promise of transformation in American health care will wither. The real losers will be the citizens of the United States.

Notice the last line, "The real losers will be the citizens of the United States."

As of January 20, 2009, we already lost.

Warning: Oral Surgery

2009-07-18T21:19:00.005-04:00

Warning! If you do not do well with seeing pictures of medical procedures, please do not scroll down. This post is an update of a recent oral surgery and the pictures are graphic in nature.

This past Tuesday, I had oral surgery done by Dr. Constantin Farah at the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Care. At a recent visit to my dentist, Dr. Brandau, he advised me to seek an opinion from Dr. Farah for a gum graft procedure. Apparently, my gum line was receding around a few of my teeth, which can damage the tooth and roots, and he wanted it taken care of before I started teaching again in the fall.

Good call, Dr. B!

I could have never taught with my mouth like this!

For the procedure, Dr. Farah took about an inch of gum lining from the roof of my mouth and attached it to the front gum line above my canine tooth. He also pulled down my gums in several areas (apparently we have two layers of gums and my top layer was pretty weak). The procedure lasted about 45 minutes and I didn't feel a thing. I even got to watch Sports Center! However, that good feeling went away quickly. By the next morning, I looked like I had been in a bar fight the previous evening. The whole left-side of my face was swollen and three days afterwards I developed a black-eye. It will take about 2 weeks for the swelling to subside and about 6 weeks for the gums to look like new. Eating, one of my favorite things, is not so fun anymore. I have to chew on the right side of my mouth and all of the food has to be cut in "bite-size" portions. Good times!

Anyways, here are some pictures (basically for me to keep an account of) that were taken today (4 days after the procedure)... and again...if you do not like seeing medical procedures...come back another day!

Bruising from the surgery...

New gum line attached (and swollen!)...

Roof of mouth where gums were taken...

Backyard Pool

2009-07-16T14:18:00.000-04:00

Untitled from Ryan Kumpf on Vimeo.

Birthday Picnic in the Park

2009-07-16T14:04:00.003-04:00

Since Megan was working during the day on my birthday, Kayley treated me to a picnic in the park. We ate sandwiches, swang on the swings, and went down the slide. Even though it was hot out (mid 80’s), we had a lot of fun this afternoon. Here our some pictures:

Michael Jackson: 1958-2009

2009-07-16T14:02:00.001-04:00

Today, while Kayley and Megan went to the pool, I stayed behind to do some research for my last graduate class. While I was working, I had Michael Jackson’s memorial service on. As I watched the “pre-service” coverage, I thought this would be “all ’bout Michael.” As I watched the service…it was, but God’s love shown brightly on the biggest stage possible. Today, all over the world, people saw God’s testimony through a man that many people would not have associated with our Christian God. Instead of celebrating Michael alone, the world celebrated God for his creation. Those who spoke at the service made that vividly clear.

Isn’t He amazing?

His works are continually unimaginable.

His stage became ours.

In one of the biggest television moments of all time; the testimony of God is what lite up the stage. Michael Jackson was a great talent, but God gave him his gifts. We are seeing a celebration of God around the world…what an awesome thing to witness!

Perry Panther

2009-06-23T22:21:00.002-04:00

I haven't blogged about this, but my life has been emotionally, physically, and mentally draining for about a month and a half. A lot of prayers have been said by a lot of people. Thank you for that. God definitely listened and took care of my family and me.

A little history first:

I do not have a continuing contract. A continuing contract, in the state of Ohio, requires that a teacher be employed in a school district for three years and have 30 post-bachelor credits and/or a masters degree. I have been at Hoover for two years and I will graduate with my masters on August 15, 2009. Obviously, I do not qualify. As a teacher, those are scary years because your job security is very vulnerable.

About a month and a half ago, the rumors started to fly within North Canton. RIF's (Reduction in Force), cuts, shuffling teachers around, new subject areas, etc. The district, who I believe is at fault, is currently still dragging this whole roller coaster out. There are so many details that I could share, but it is exhausting just thinking about them all. The worst part? It's already June 23! Talk about incompetence...

Anyways, after school ended, I decided to send out a few resumes just to be safe. I wanted to make sure that I wasn't left high and dry. On Monday, while still employed by North Canton, I interviewed for a position at Perry. On Tuesday, I received a phone call at 9:52am from North Canton informing me that I would be included in a RIF (Reduction in Force) and that I would not be rehired for the 2009-2010 school year. At 2:39 pm, a little over 4 1/2 hours later, I received a call from Perry offering me the position. For 4 1/2 hours, I was unemployed and worrying about my family's well-being.

I can proudly say,...I am now a Perry Panther!

God takes care of his children. I am a testament to that.

Let Them Be Little

2009-06-20T16:52:00.003-04:00

Israel/Palestine/Foreign Policy

2009-06-18T22:20:00.006-04:00

It's hard to have a positive view of Barack Obama's foreign policy. It is blatantly obvious that "dialogue," or hopes of "dialogue," with rogue dictators and tyrants DO NOT and WILL NOT result in successful outcomes. Iran has walked all over Obama's words. North Korea is threatening a nuclear war. Jimmy Carter is in bed with Hamas and lifting up the covers for Obama to slip in. Israel and Palestine are drowning in a struggle over land; while Obama keeps pushing Israel's head underwater.

This isn't "Hope and Change," this is a mismanagement of policy and a failure to see what this fallen world is all about. Barack Obama has given up a lot of ground in six months, I can only hope for a progressive 3 1/2 years.

"Surely something must be terribly wrong with a man who seems to be far more concerned with a Jew building a house in Israel`s Gaza Strip than with Muslims building a nuclear bomb in Iran." - columnist Burt Prelutsky

1920

1922

Proposed Palestinian State

You In Me

2009-06-17T23:29:00.003-04:00

Presently, I have a lot of things on my mind and a lot of things on my plate. Most of them I could easily do without. I'm at a very challenging time in my life right now, and for the first time, I don't feel in control of the circumstances.

A little over two years ago, I was applying for jobs at area public schools. For two years prior, I had worked at a private school. It was a nice foot in the door, but not somewhere that I wanted to be for my entire teaching career. My drive to work each morning was about 30-35 minutes and I had a lot of time to think and pray about what was going on in my life. Unfortunately, I have gotten away from doing that. Each morning, for about a month, I would listen to the same song over and over again. The words had such an impact on the way that I felt and I really feel as though God was talking to my heart as I listened to that song each morning. It was in those early morning trips to work that I realized God had a plan for me.

He would take care of my family and me.

He doesn't break promises.

As I go through some similar situations, I read those lyrics again and I am reminded about the power of faith and the great gift that we all have to trust the power of God. He knows each of us better than we know ourselves and I need to give him a better chance to work in my life and the others around me.

I found a verse that spoke to what I'm trying to write in this entry:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

The following lyrics are to that song I listened to and continue to read through. Maybe they will give you that feeling of trust in whatever situations you are currently going through as well...

Up tight, down right
Wound up like a spring
Funny how I worry 'bout what just don't mean a thing
But then that's when
You speak Your truth to me
You say things aren't what they seem
This life's not what it seems
And it changes

I'm in less of a hurry
I'm less likely to worry
When in my heart I receive
Thoughts of my eternal destiny
I've given up frustration
Trust You with out hesitation
But my mind just can't conceive
That it must be the You in me Lord

I tried till I cried
To bring about some change
But in spite of all the work
My efforts were in vain
I guess for this mess
I'm the one to blame
Cause when I'm trusting You
My life's just not the same
I'm different now

No matter what my present situation
I need to give it all to You

Akron Zoo

2009-06-10T15:09:00.006-04:00

Today was Kayley's first trip to the zoo! We ended up buying a season pass so that we can go anytime that we want over the next year. It allows us to go to hundreds of zoos all around the country! Kayley loved to look at all the animals and she waived hello and goodbye to every single one of them. However, those darn jellyfish kept Kayley from being up close and personal with the animals in the exhibits. For some reason those things scared her. Needless to say, we will be skipping that exhibit next visit! Anyways, here are some pictures from the first of many trips to the zoo :)

Starring Contest.
"Hey, haven't I seen you in my backyard?"

This is about as close as I get Mr. Barking Deer.

Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my!

Nice "Kitty Kitty"

This basically ruined my trip to the zoo...

But, I did really enjoy pushing MY stroller around everywhere!

I saw this funny looking bird...

and I even got to eat lunch at the zoo!

Thanks Mommy and Daddy!

Kayley and Summer Landscaping

2009-06-06T18:30:00.004-04:00

Summer has officially begun (well for me anyways!) and it's ridiculous that I get over 70 more "vacation" days! On my first day off, we set up Kayley's pool and landscaped the yard. After about 10 hours, here are some pictures to share:

No News Is Good News

2009-06-04T06:11:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately, there is news.

Obama's Cairo Speech

"To speak to the Muslim world is to speak not to a fact, but rather to an aspiration, and that is the aspiration that Islam shall be a global state religion as its founders intended. To address this aspiration is to breathe life into it. For an American president to validate such an aspiration is madness." (Tzvi Ben Gedalyahu, 2009)

Wrong direction. Wrong message. Scary Times.

New Wheels

2009-05-30T16:02:00.003-04:00

After getting rid of our lemon (and the $4,000 it gave us in repairs), we got some new wheels. Here are some pictures of our Nissan Altima:

"The Shot"

2009-05-23T15:40:00.000-04:00

I Wish I Were A Liberal

2009-05-19T16:27:00.004-04:00

I wish I were a liberal. Life would be much easier. I could "claim victory" when talking about Barack Obama's presidential election. Any hardcore, in-depth policy question could be answered by simply saying (while pointing and smirking at the uninformed conservative), "Yes, we can!" or defending President Obama's "presidential swagger" that is apparently only visible to his followers.

I wish I were a liberal because I'd always be a winner. Trophies for all! Losing and/or failing is not an option. Ego, not hard work and the determination to succeed, is the most important quality. If that doesn't work, I can always blame someone weaker than me. But, technically I believe that we are all equal; so don't question me when I go out of my way to promote inequality and class warfare.

I wish I were a liberal because innocent life would have no value. Potential and morality would be trumped by choice and incoherent explanations of how suctioning/destroying a life is not really ending a life, but correcting an honest mistake. Makes sense, right?

I wish I were a liberal because I wouldn't have to worry about racists, homophobes, ignorance, or the mentally inept. That's for those crazy, out-of-touch conservatives.

I wish I were a liberal because I could blame everything on global warming. Lost my job? Global warming! Dog died? Must be that darn global warming. Toilet clogged? Yep, global warming. 90 degrees in July? Come on, has to be global warming. The best part? If I go with the flow and agree with the "scientists" I can probably cash in on the biggest get rich scheme ever derived.

I wish I were a liberal because then the news would make complete sense. CNN and MSNBC would alwasy know exactly what is on my mind. How do they do that?

I wish I were a liberal because "I'd be able to redefine reality to my own specifications. I could turn failure into success, murder into choice, lies into 'misstatements', and theft into investment. I would automatically be considered wise, instead of opinionated. Best of all, I could make up the rules as I go along, change them in midstream and then demonize anyone who doesn't agree with me" (Morgan, 2009).

Before I am able to join this community of man, however, there are a few ground rules:

I have to acknowledge that government is the best and only solution for any problems America has. Despite the fact that pretty much every government solution to date has been a disaster.

I must agree that America is bad and white Christian males are responsible for all that is wrong with the world. Further, I must agree that terrorists and third world dictators are either freedom fighters or misunderstood men of good would.

Oh, and I must acknowledge that dialogue is better than war. Even though decades of dialogue haven't worked, things are different, now that Obama is president. I must have faith. After all, the times, they are a changin'.

I'd, of course, be expected to not only condone, but happily embrace gay marriage and the long list of newly minted sexual behaviors, and swear to never mention the adverse health risks or the proven harm they do to traditional families.

I'd also have to quit judging people. (Except conservatives.) After all, liberals would allow me to do whatever I want, free from moral censure, and it's only fair I do the same for them.

I'd have to immediately quit smoking, in public at least. I'd be required to agree that global warming is real and man is the cause. Even though the earth has cooled in the last decade, everyone knows its still getting warmer. I'd also have to renounce Christianity in favor of Mother Earth and believe that the Constitution is a 'living instrument'.

I'd have to agree that victimhood trumps merit and that liberals know best. Always. And lastly, I'd have to support the notion that racism is still rampant, even if it is the silent 'institutional' type.

In return, I'll be accepted, popular, and invited to the best parties. I'll be eligible for the right to housing, health care, a living wage (even if I don't work) and happiness. And as long as I remain a liberal, no-one is allowed to insult me. How cool is that (Morgan, 2009)?

No News Is Good News

2009-05-11T05:49:00.000-04:00

Ah, but there is news...

Taxpayer-funded Abortions

"We do see this step-by-step process where President Obama puts out this soothing rhetoric about how he wants common ground on abortion and he wants to reduce the number of abortions and so forth, but meanwhile they're relentlessly pursuing actual concrete policies that go in exactly the opposite direction," he points out.

Hawaii Lawmakers Pass Bill To Create Islam Day

"We are a state of tolerance. We understand that people have different beliefs," said Sen. Will Espero, a Democrat. "We may not all agree on every single item and issue out there, but to say and highlight the negativity of the Islamic people is an insult to the majority" of believers "who are good law-abiding citizens of the world."

Ah yes, Sharia Law sets great examples of how the human race should govern itself. And let's not forget how tolerant Islam is, right?

Top Ten Reasons Why Sharia Law Is Bad For All Societies

History Unfolding

2009-05-10T16:44:00.003-04:00

History Unfolding

I am a student of history. Professionally, I have written 15 books on history that have been published in six languages, and I have studied history all my life. I have come to think there is something monumentally large afoot, and I do not believe it is simply a banking crisis, or a mortgage crisis, or a credit crisis. Yes these exist, but they are merely single facets on a very large gemstone that is only now coming into a sharper focus.

Something of historic proportions is happening. I can sense it because I know how it feels, smells, what it looks like, and how people react to it. Yes, a perfect storm may be brewing, but there is something happening within our country that has been evolving for about ten to fifteen years. The pace has dramatically quickened in the past two.

We demand and then codify into law the requirement that our banks make massive loans to people who we know can never pay back? Why?

We learned just days ago that the Federal Reserve, which has little or no real oversight by anyone, has "loaned" two trillion dollars (that is $2,000,000,000,000) over the past few months, but will not tell us to whom or why or disclose the terms. That is our money. Yours and mine. And that is three times the $700 billion we all argued about so strenuously just this past September. Who has this money? Why do they have it? Why are the terms unavailable to us? Who asked for it? Who authorized it? I thought this was a government of "we the people," who loaned our powers to our elected leaders. Apparently not.

We have spent two or more decades intentionally de-industrializing our economy. Why?

We have intentionally dumbed down our schools, ignored our history, and no longer teach our founding documents about why we are exceptional, and why we are worth preserving. Students by and large cannot write, think critically, read, or articulate. Parents are not revolting, teachers are not picketing, and school boards continue to back mediocrity. Why?

We have now established the precedent of protesting every close election (violently in California over a proposition that is so controversial that it simply wants marriage to remain defined as between one man and one woman. Did you ever think such a thing possible just a decade ago?) We have corrupted our sacred political process by allowing unelected judges to write laws that radically change our way of life, and then mainstream Marxist groups like ACORN and others to turn our voting system into a banana republic. To what purpose?

Now our mortgage industry is collapsing, housing prices are in free fall, major industries are failing, our banking system is on the verge of collapse, and social security is nearly bankrupt, as is medicare and our entire government. Our education system is worse than a joke (I teach college and I know precisely what I am talking about) - the list is staggering in its length, breadth, and depth. It is potentially 1929 x ten.....and we are at war with an enemy we cannot even name for fear of offending people of the same religion, who, in turn, cannot wait to slit the throats of your children if they have the opportunity to do so.

And finally, we have elected a man that no one really knows anything about, who has never run so much as a Dairy Queen, let alone a town as big as Wasilla , Alaska . All of his associations and alliances are with real radicals in their chosen fields of employment, and everything we learn about him, drip by drip, is unsettling if not downright scary (Surely you have heard him speak about his idea to create and fund a mandatory civilian defense force stronger than our military for use inside our borders? No? Oh, of course. The media would never play that for you over and over and then demand he answer it. Sarah Palin's pregnant daughter and $150,000 wardrobe are more important.)

Mr. Obama's winning platform can be boiled down to one word: Change. Why?

I have never been so afraid for my country and for my children as I am now.

This man campaigned on bringing people together, something he has never, ever done in his professional life. In my assessment, Obama will divide us along philosophical lines, push us apart, and then try to realign the pieces into a new and different power structure. Change is indeed coming. And when it comes, you will never see the same nation again.

And that is only the beginning.

As a serious student of history, I thought I would never come to experience what the ordinary, moral German must have felt in the mid-1930s. In those times, the "savior" was a former smooth-talking rabble-rouser from the streets, about whom the average German knew next to nothing. What they should have known was that he was associated with groups that shouted, shoved, and pushed around people with whom they disagreed; he edged his way onto the political stage through great oratory. Conservative "losers" read it right now.

And there were the promises. Economic times were tough, people were losing jobs, and he was a great speaker. And he smiled and frowned and waved a lot. And people, even newspapers, were afraid to speak out for fear that his "brown shirts" would bully and beat them into submission. Which they did - regularly. And then, he was duly elected to office, while a full-throttled economic crisis bloomed at hand - the Great Depression. Slowly, but surely he seized the controls of government power, person-by-person, department-by-department, and bureaucracy-by-bureaucracy. The children of German citizens were at first, encouraged to join a Youth Movement in his name where they were taught exactly what to think. Later, they were required to do so. No Jews of course,

How did he get people on his side? He did it by promising jobs to the jobless, money to the money-less, and rewards for the military-industrial complex. He did it by indoctrinating the children, advocating gun control, health care for all, better wages, better jobs, and promising to re-instill pride once again in the country, across Europe, and across the world. He did it with a compliant media - did you know that? And he did this all in the name of justice and...CHANGE. And the people surely got what they voted for.

If you think I am exaggerating, look it up. It's all there in the history books.

So read your history books. Many people of conscience objected in 1933 and were shouted down, called names, laughed at, and ridiculed. When Winston Churchill pointed out the obvious in the late 1930s while seated in the House of Lords in England (he was not yet Prime Minister), he was booed into his seat and called a crazy troublemaker. He was right, though. And the world came to regret that he was not listened to.

Do not forget that Germany was the most educated, the most cultured country in Europe . It was full of music, art, museums, hospitals, laboratories, and universities. And yet, in less than six years (a shorter time span than just two terms of the U. S. presidency) it was rounding up its own citizens, killing others, abrogating its laws, turning children against parents, and neighbors against neighbors. All with the best of intentions, of course. The road to Hell is paved with them.

As a practical thinker, one not overly prone to emotional decisions, I have a choice: I can either believe what the objective pieces of evidence tell me (even if they make me cringe with disgust); I can believe what history is shouting to me from across the chasm of seven decades; or I can hope I am wrong by closing my eyes, having another latte, and ignoring what is transpiring around me.

I choose to believe the evidence. No doubt some people will scoff at me, others laugh, or think I am foolish, naive, or both. To some degree, perhaps I am. But I have never been afraid to look people in the eye and tell them exactly what I believe - and why I believe it.

I pray I am wrong. I do not think I am. Perhaps the only hope is our vote in the next elections.

David Kaiser
Jamestown, Rhode Island
United States

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T15:03:00.000-04:00

Megan: Thank you for being such an awesome mother. I will never fully understand how you do what you do. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made and will continue to make. You are appreciated more than words can say. Most of all, thank you for this beautiful daughter. You both mean the world to me. I love you.

Mom: Thank you for loving me and making me into the man I am today. I only wish that I could be half the parent you were for Cory and I to Kayley. It has been a joy to see you take in Megan as a daughter. Thanks for everything you've done and everything you are. I love you.

Nancy: Thank you for raising my beautiful wife and for making me feel as your own son. Thank you for bringing me closer to Christ and for always being there to help Megan and I. I love you.

LeBron James: MVP

2009-05-04T22:35:00.002-04:00

We are witnessing the greatest player to ever play the game of basketball. No one has his size, his speed, his agility, his basketball IQ, his unselfishness, or his work ethic. This is pure natural ability mixed with a teaspoon of freakishly talented.

Unstoppable.

Lemon Juice

2009-05-01T09:59:00.000-04:00

Untitled from Ryan on Vimeo.

100 Days

2009-04-30T22:23:00.001-04:00

Pig Book

2009-04-29T19:30:00.001-04:00

Ever wonder how much $money$ the government wastes? Well, Citizens Against Government Waste has released its annual "Pig Book" which monitors and reports on the government's biggest offenders when it comes to excessive spending, pork projects, and needless taxes.

And this administration wants more of our money?

The 2009 Pig Book

A Day In The Life Of....

2009-04-23T21:42:00.003-04:00

Ever wonder what I teach? What the heck do I do at work?

I just finished a unit on transitive and intransitive verbs.

Say what?

That is exactly what I thought when I found out that I had to teach those verbs last year. I don't even remember learning those myself in school.

Here's how it works.

Transitive Verb:

Example - The coach called the game.

First, you have to locate the verb, which is CALLED. Second, you have to ask yourself the question 'who or what is receiving the action of called?' In this case, the GAME is being called. That makes GAME the direct object. If the sentence has a direct object that receives the action of the verb, the verb (called) is a transitive verb.

Got it?

Intransitive Verb:

Example - The girl ran to the store.

First, you have to locate the verb, which is RAN. Second, you have to ask yourself the question 'who or what is receiving the action of ran?' In this case, the girl is running, but it comes before the verb. Therefore, there is no direct object receiving the action. The phrase: "to the store" is a prepositional phrase and can be eliminated as a possible direct object. If the sentence does not have a direct object, the verb is an intransitive verb.

So not only do student have to recognize verbs, but they also have to be able to identify direct objects and prepositions.

More clear now?

Imagine teaching that to 12 year old kids...

Barack and Hugo: Fast Friends

2009-04-17T21:47:00.003-04:00

Great minds think alike...

“I hereby accuse the North American empire of being the biggest menace to our planet.”

“The left is back, and it's the only path we have to get out of the spot to which the right has sunken us, ... Socialism builds and capitalism destroys.”

“[The planet] is being destroyed under our own noses by the capitalist model, the destructive engine of development, ... every day there is more hunger, more misery thanks to the neo-liberal, capitalist model.”

"I am convinced that the path to a new, better and possible world is not capitalism, the path is socialism."

"Let's save the human race, let's finish off the U.S. empire."

Would you shake this man's hand?

April 15: Anti-Spending (Tax) Day

2009-04-15T22:25:00.006-04:00

At least people are standing up to this government and this administration. And this is 1/16 of the way through the first term.

Amen...

And the Tea Party begins...

Ohio

The Great American Tea Party Is Underway

Gov. Rick Perry (2012?)

2009-04-14T22:36:00.003-04:00

Did someone just throw his hat into the ring for the 2012 presidential election? This clip by Governor Rick Perry is AMAZING. Take in what Governor Perry says. Why didn't the media cover this press conference? This could be the uprising conservatives have been looking for. God Bless Rick Perry!

Our Easter

2009-04-13T15:04:00.004-04:00

Easter Egg Hunt from Ryan on Vimeo.

Play House and Slide

2009-04-11T18:08:00.002-04:00

Here is a video of Kayley seeing (and playing with) her Easter gift for the first time:

Play House and Slide from Ryan on Vimeo.

America: "Appeasing the World Since 2009"

2009-04-11T15:22:00.005-04:00

Recently, Barack Obama made his first trip to foreign countries as president of the United States. During this trip, several instances occurred that are worth discussing.

First, this administration is single handily putting America's tail between its legs in regards to foreign policy. Never have I witnessed the president of the free world being so apologetic for the United States of America and its people. From country to country, Obama apologized for America's arrogance, dominance, and stupidity. "Ahhh, those arrogant Americans. First they rebel against King George III and all the crowned heads of Europe. Then they welcome tens of millions of poor and persecuted people from the Old World. Then they fail to bow down to Europe's greatest figures -- from Napoleon and Otto von Bismarck to the Kaiser, Hitler and Stalin. Then they fight a civil war, losing half a million people to liberate black people in America. Then they diss the man the BBC considers to be the greatest philosopher ever, one Karl Marx, whose followers killed 100 million innocents in the 20th century. And then, to top it all off, they liberate both the Western half of Europe in 1946 and the Eastern half in 1989" (Lewis, 2009). I'm sorry Mr. President, but you do not have to apologize for me or anyone else. Personally, I'm proud for what my country stands for (or used to stand for), and I have a hard time believing in European socialism and its creation of gutless citizens who believe in statism over liberty. Mr. Obama vowed to bring America's cards to the card table and start playing the game the right way. However, the Obama Administration is oblivious to world events and ideologies.

Second, Barack Obama's declaration in Turkey that the United States is not a Christian nation. Can you imagine the king of Saudi Arabia (whom Obama bowed to)saying that his country is not a Muslim nation? There would be mob rioting in the streets. I agree with Obama to an extent. Do I believe that Christianity and those who follow it should be raised on a pedestal above all others? No. Do I believe that the United States has a Christian theocracy? Hardly. What Obama should have said is this: America, although rooted with a strong heritage of Judeo-Christian principles, is one of the freest and most prosperous nations for all races, ethnicity, and faiths. I believe that our nation was founded on Judeo-Christian principles, which the secular cultures of this country have tried to destroy for years. Our Founding Fathers (dominantly Christian...although some secularists will argue a few of them as deists) knew that "the concept of unalienable rights inheres in the Judeo-Christian precept that an all-loving God created man in his image, thus entitling him to dignity, freedom and rights that cannot be divested by the state" (Limbaugh, 2009). Our constitutional framework was created with a Christian worldview, the Bill of Rights is biblically based, and Western Law adopted Christian principles as its basis. Barack Obama needs to crack open a history book before he tries to, disastrously, rewrite one.

Third, the pros and cons of the G-20 Summit. Do we need allies to push for liberty? Yes. Do we need allies to help stop global terrorism. Yes. Do we need allies to end the threat of a nuclear Iran and North Korea? Yes. These are all great ways to bring our friends back to the table. However, Obama doesn't stop (or start, in some cases) there. His alliances will financially fund a non-existent global warming hysteria. His alliances will slowly roll over and accept radical Islam as a natural occurrence of the times. His alliances will promote global wealth distribution and tax its citizens for socialistic programs that make us slaves to the state. His alliances will have a checks and balances system, because we wouldn't want anyone to get to arrogant and out of place. Therefore, Obama has put us in our place....appeasers of the free world...what's it gonna cost you?

Hey, at least I didn't vote for the guy. I have that going for me.

Easter Eggs

2009-04-10T20:19:00.001-04:00

Easter Eggs from Ryan on Vimeo.

Happy (Early) Easter

2009-04-10T12:29:00.001-04:00

Let every man and woman count himself immortal. Let him catch the revelation of Jesus in his resurrection. Let him say not merely, "Christ is risen," but "I shall rise." ~Phillips Brooks

God Working

2009-04-06T21:47:00.001-04:00

Barack Obama: What Could Have Been

2009-04-03T14:38:00.002-04:00

His words resonated in the hearts of every American
‘Change’ and ‘Hope’ became a slogan for all
Record crowds flocked to catch a glimpse
Of ‘The One’ who seemed to stand so tall.

He promised the world, which hung on every word
A race was inspired, school children sang him praise
People danced in the streets, a canvas of color
A fountain of optimism, herald of a transformational phase.

With every opportunity at hand, he failed to deliver
Instead embracing an ideology proven to fail
Expanding control, distributing our wealth
Weaving Socialism into Capitalism only the beginning of this tale.

He’s demonstrated incompetence laden with political arrogance
While using a crisis to instill submission and fear
A hand that was once extended to the meek
Now is no longer near.

We gave him our trust, he sold it away
And a generation has been left to clean up this mess
One that started with empty rhetoric and a mirage in the desert
Leaving us with a politician who failed the test.

2012…REAL ‘hope’ and ‘change’

RMK 2009

Think Spring

2009-04-02T13:47:00.005-04:00

Lunch in the park!

Checkin' out the icky water and imitating Titanic (I LOVE this picture!)...

I can see the whole world from up here!

Seriously, you want ME to go down THERE?

He's crazy. I've got my whole life ahead of me.

Here goes nothin'!

Weeeeeee!

That wasn't too bad! "Ginn, Ginn, Ginn"

Tater Tots

2009-04-01T18:36:00.001-04:00

Tater Tots from Ryan on Vimeo.

Down the Stairs We Go!

2009-04-01T17:41:00.000-04:00

Untitled from Ryan on Vimeo.

Toys R' Us

2009-03-29T09:49:00.003-04:00

We decided to check out Toys R' Us for some potential Easter gifts for Kayley. We narrowed it down to an outdoor playhouse or a riding horse. She LOVED running around the toy store. Here are a few pictures I took with my cell phone as we tried out some of the toys!

A Lesson From Howard Beale

2009-03-24T21:43:00.000-04:00

Obama's Inability To Lead

2009-03-21T10:59:00.004-04:00

Politicians are rarely leaders. In fact, I would argue that it is not the ability to govern that gets and keeps politicians elected; it is sheer competence. Leaders are innovative and, sometimes not on purpose, take calculated risks. These leaders stray from what was and ingeniously create what is.

Washington could have became King, but instead, he laid the foundation for the Office of the President. Jefferson doubled the size of the United States and understood that it was the hard-working farmer, not the businessman, that supported this democracy. Teddy Roosevelt used mass communications to inspire a nation. FDR, during our greatest economic crisis, used the people as a main resource to fix a country; not the government. Lincoln's boldness was the glue that kept the Union together. Kennedy understood the need to cut taxes on American businesses. Reagan, in an era of big, liberal government, went against the grain to cut taxes, end inflation and a Cold War, create jobs, and direct the country on what would be over 25 years of economic prosperity.

Barack Obama is not a leader. He is not innovative (and no, a White House web chat doesn't cut it). He does not take calculated risks for the good of the country. Mr. Obama follows a cliche mold when it comes to Washington politics. And, perhaps, the most dangerous idea of his is that he is willing to listen to ALL ideas. Intellectualism and "Divine" rhetoric can only carry one so far; therefore, it is the traditionalist ideology that paves the true path to progress. It defines roles and laws. It is unwavering and consistent. Mistakes are easily righted. Prosperity is often a byproduct.

Before the economic crisis, the 2008 presidential campaign was a dead heat. However, it was Obama's cool, determined persona that drew people into a political obsession. Like moths to a street light, the American people clung to an image and consoling words. The aftermath is still not known. However, in only two months, the American people can clearly see they have been duped. Conservatives, moderates, and even some Democrats can (only reluctantly) say "I told you so."

Trillions of projected debt that throws money at the problem and sweeps it under the rug. Unethical cabinet nominations that have proved a sense of incompetence. Reversals of old policies. A foreign policy that makes our enemies laugh in delight. Instead of confidence, a lesson in pessimism.

What does this say for the reality of our situation? We elected a political robot that sounds great (beyond the pessimism), but doesn't have a clue if the sky is blue.

NBC's Kings

2009-03-17T06:37:00.002-04:00

If your not watching NBC's Kings, you should. I tuned in to check it out and I couldn't pull myself away from the TV. After watching the show, I decided to do a little research and was quite surprised by what I found. However, instead of writing about it myself, a fellow blogger did an excellent job of explaining it for me! Obviously, it is "Hollywoodized" (coin that), but the story line could be interesting.

Hats off to the makers of NBC's new show "Kings." I'm not one to say that I think something on TV was good, but this was a show that kept me saying, "Wow. They're really doing this."

I've read a few reviews already, and I'm surprised to see how few people are catching the immense use of symbolism in the movie. Everyone gets the "David vs. Goliath" thing, but few people seem to understand that this show is not just an allegory to the story of the Bible's King David from 1 and 2 Samuel; this show IS the story of King David set in contemporary times. In case you missed it, here are some of the analogues I found tonight:

(TV) Silas = Saul (Bible)

(TV) David Shepherd = David the shepherd son of Jesse and King of Israel (1 Sam 16:11)

(TV) David Shepherd's brother Eli = Eliab son of Jesse, brother or David (1 Sam 16:6)
(TV) Reverend Ephrem Samuel = Prophet Samuel (from Ephraim) who anoints King Saul and King David. (1 Sam 1:1, 1 Sam 1:20, 1 Sam 10:1, 1 Sam 16:13)
(TV) Reverend Samuel says to King Silas "Because you rejected God's command, he has rejected you as King" = Prophet Samuel says to King Saul "Because you rejected the Lord's command he has rejected you as King" (1 Sam 15:23)
Reverend Samuel's pre-Goliath appearance to David Shepherd = Prophet Samuel's pre-Goliath appearance to David son of Jesse (1 Sam 16:12)
(TV) Shiloh = The place where God's word was revealed to the prophet Samuel (1 Kings 3:21)
(TV) Six brothers of David Shepherd = 7 brothers of David (1 Sam 16:10)
(TV) David's friend Nathan = Prophet Nathan? (2 Sam 7)

(TV) Goliath = Goliath (1 Sam 17)
(TV) Gath = Hometown of Goliath (1 Sam 17:23)
(TV) Shoulder mounted Rocket = Sling (1 Sam 17:49)
(TV) Silas' daughter dating David Shepherd = Saul giving daughter Merab to David (1 Sam 18:17)
(TV) Jack Benjamin, son of Silas = Jonathan son of Saul of the tribe of Benjamin (1 Sam 9:16, 1 Sam 13:2)
(TV) Historian saying "And it happened that" = Very common Biblical Hebrew narrative "vayehee" sequence which translates "And it happened that"
(TV) Silas' commanding officer Abner = Saul's commanding officer Abner (1 Sam 14:50)

(TV) David Shepherd, Piano player = David son of Jesse, Lyre player (1 Sam 16:16)
(TV) Homosexual Jonathan = One interpretation of "Jonathan's soul became bound up with the soul of David; Jonathan loved David as himself... Saul's son Jonathan was very fond of David." etc. (1 Sam 18:1. 1 Sam 19:1)
(TV) Silas promotes David to Captain = Saul promotes David to "chief of a thousand." (1 Sam 18:14)

There are more, but I wanted to point out the ones that jumped right out there. I'm surprised that the producers managed to write a story that felt new enough that many critics did not see all the biblical allusions right away. It seems as though the writers are really trying to do a modern rewrite of the Biblical story of King David. They're not trying to allude to it, they're not trying to bring in subtle details and make a new story of it, they're writing the story of 1 Sam. as if it happened today. And I think they're doing it quite well.

All that to say, if you missed Kings, check it out. Yes it is grandiose, but it's a story about the most famous King of Israel, one of the most famous Kings of all time. It should be grandiose. Critics are wrong in critiquing the show for overreaching. It's supposed to feel grandiose, it is recreating epic Biblical stories. Silas has to be a King, and wierd things like butterflies lighting on David to coronate him should happen as signifying God's selectin of David over Saul. These aren't cheesy moder devices of lazy writers, they are an attempt to couch Biblical narrative in modern images, and it's fun to watch.

Oh, and if you watched it and saw any symbolism I missed, go ahead and include it in the comments... I'm curious to hear what people found that I didn't pick up on. I'm particularly curious to hear what people thing Crossgen represents...

Joe Biden: The Blind Leading The Blind

2009-03-17T06:27:00.000-04:00

How many, days, weeks, months, or years are we going to have to listen to the Obama Administration and its message of victim hood? Now, I'm not a politician, but does "hope and change" include dwelling on the past eight years every time a speech is made? The American people understand the situation. We get it. It's tough times. Americans just want competent people to see it through the right way. In fact, a clear, direct, confident message would be a great start (along with the filling of valuable Treasury seats during such a crisis).

Apparently, Joe Biden sees the situation, and history, differently than myself:

"Vice President Joe Biden’s discussed the economy in stark terms at a Democratic National Committee fundraiser Monday night, in contrast with the upbeat tone coming from the White House over the past few days.

In a 20-minute speech in the lobby of the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Biden said President Obama "has inherited the most difficult first 100 days of any president, I would argue, including Franklin Roosevelt."

“Let me explain what I mean by that," he added. "It was clear the problem Roosevelt inherited. This is a more complicated economic [problem]. We’ve never ever been here before – here or in the world. Never ever been here before"(Lee)."

Mr. Biden, in case you're reading (if so, please leave a comment), do you remember the economic times when Reagan inherited Carter's debacle of a presidency? You should. You were a United States Senator.

Here is a small list of what Reagan inherited from Carter upon entering office:

1. A recession of almost a year
2. Gas rationing
3. 21% mortgages
4. Just under 11% unemployment
5. Stock market under 5,000 points
6. Rampant inflation
7. Americans held hostage in Iran (yes, the same president who ruined foreign policy is now trying to give this Administration advice)

How did he fix it? A huge trillion dollar spending...I mean...stimulus package? No. In fact, there were 20 recessions in the 20th century and not one of them was fixed by a "stimulus" package. How were they fixed? "Over strenuous congressional opposition, Reagan pushed through his “supply side” economic program to stimulate production and control inflation through tax cuts and sharp reductions in government spending (Pearson Education)"

Reversing his "hope over fear" campaign slogan, Obama proclaimed that he'd "inherited the most profound economic emergency since the Great Depression," a "crisis" that would turn into a "catastrophe," possibly "irreversible," if we didn't hurry up and get on board with his trillion-dollar package of pork, political payoffs and "shovel-ready" government projects, the largest expansion of government in American history.

At last count, the mayor of Las Vegas was seeking $2 million for more neon, Chula Vista, Calif., wanted a new $500,000 dog park, the mayor of Pittsfield in Maine sought money to patch his "pain in the hiney" potholes, and Shreveport, La., appealed for eight new Harleys for the cops and six new water slides, all with money to be deducted from our paychecks or borrowed from China.

With Reagan, the solution was the opposite. Seeking to unleash the productivity and job-creating potential of the private sector and reverse the downward slide of Carter's high-inflation, big-government, high-unemployment, slow-growth economy, Reagan's answer was to get government out of the way by way of reductions in government red tape and an across-the-board tax cut that reduced the nation's top income-tax rate from 70 percent to 28 percent.

The result? The worst economy since the Great Depression turned into the largest economic boom in American history, a 20-year surge of investment, entrepreneurial risk-taking and economic growth.

Inflation and unemployment rates of 13.5 percent and 7.6 percent in 1980 dropped, respectively, to 4.1 percent and 5.5 percent by the conclusion of Reagan's presidency in 1989.

Altogether, 19 million jobs were created from 1982 through 1988, more than the total number of jobs created in Europe and Japan combined, producing real (adjusted for inflation) income gains in every income quintile. The poverty population, after expanding by 7 million in the late 1970s, dropped by 4 million in the 1980s.

~Reiland 2009

But hey, what do those pork blocking, partisan, conservatives know anyway?

Pet Projects, Earmarks, and Spending...Oh My!

2009-03-11T21:09:00.003-04:00

No lobbyists in Washington? They're giving Obama advice. No earmarks or wasteful spending? Obama now says it's OK to keep them in legislation. Stimulus package? More like a SPENDING package to create the biggest growth of government ever seen. The greatest administrative team ever created? Sure, if tax cheats and critical job vacancies are your thing. Tax cuts for 95% of working Americans? I was hoping for more than $13/week as new legislation piles on thousands of new tax monies.

Feel duped?

You should.

Recreational Broken Bones

2009-03-11T18:22:00.003-04:00

For the past few months, Megan and I, along with some good friends of ours, have been playing in a recreational, co-ed volleyball league. Although we haven't always been the best team on the court, playing volleyball with our friends has been something to look forward to each Sunday.

However, all things must come to an end.

For Megan, that will be a week earlier than the rest of us.

As is evident from the picture above, Megan broke her ankle this past Sunday. Along with the break, she also tore some ligaments around the ankle bone area. OUCH! The ankle was pretty swollen (it was the size of a tennis ball when it first happened) and it is gradually healing. Meg will be in the cast for at least two weeks followed by some physical therapy. I took off Monday and Wednesday this week to help her with Kayley and with things around the house. Luckily, the doctor said she can walk on it if need be...and with a 15 month old running around...need be is a lot of the time! Kayley was unsure of the crutches at first as Megan clunked around the house for a few days.

Heal quick!

Backyard, Bubbles, and Baby

2009-03-07T15:34:00.007-05:00

45 Days and Counting

2009-03-05T21:55:00.005-05:00

Let me start off with this statement:

I want Barack Obama to succeed as President of the United States.

However, with that said, it is extremely difficult to support our 44th president's early actions, political aspirations and ideology, and downright political stupidity.

As a people, we are transitioning to a political myth known as "hope and change" while the new American motto morphs into something along the lines of "America: the Land where hard-working, responsible citizens financially support those who single handily destruct the foundation of Democracy." Has a nice ring to it, eh?

Since taking office on January 20, Barack Obama's presidential approval rating has dropped (according to most polls) an estimated nine percentage points (68% to 59%) within the first six weeks. The Dow Jones, which opened at 8281.22 on the morning of Obama's inauguration, has plunged 1686.78 points. "That's a vote of practically no confidence in Obama's strategy for reviving the economy. The numbers were worse on the biggest days of the Obama presidency. The Dow fell 332.13 points on inauguration day, 381.99 points on the day Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner announced step two in the bank bailout, a 200+ point drop after his health care pitch, and 297.91 points when the president signed the stimulus bill (Barnes)." Basically, the business world has a grim outlook when it comes to President Obama's destruction of free-market capitalism (In 2010 Obama, and congressional Democrats, plan to increase capital gain taxes on businesses to an astonishing 46%. China, with its statism government is at 25%. US Companies Pay Highest Taxes in the World ).

Ever heard the proverb 'You judge a man by the company he keeps'? Apparently, the Obama administration hasn't. Bill Richardson (political donation scandal), Tim Geithner (tax cheat), Tom Daschle (tax cheat), Nancy Killefer (tax cheat), Ron Kirk (tax cheat), and Judd Gregg (saw the writing on the wall). No wonder Dems want to raise taxes, they don't pay them! Not to mention some questionable ethics by nominations that did make it through the Democratic majority approval hearings.

Then, there is the ever popular (sarcasm) stimulus bill. You know, the one that Obama praised as a bipartisan effort (3 Republicans voted in favor of the bill) and a bill that was completely diluted of pork and earmarks (which Congress,without Obama knowing?, just voted to keep over 9,000 earmarks and pet projects in the bill). The bill opens the door for socialized health care (knocking over 10 million Americans who currently have health insurance onto the government's books), does very little to create sustained job growth, gives the average American an immediate $13/week tax credit while we split the cost of the stimulus bill in increased taxes over the long haul, keeps more of the same when it comes to the failed education program in this country, nationalizes banks, and pays off the greedy CEOs and politicians who got us in this mess beginning in the 1970's.

And finally, if we can say that after 45 days on the job, Obama's reckless decision to close Gitmo without a clear plan to provide justified judicial reform to Illegal Combatants (which, under the Geneva Conventions, we have every right to detain), Obama's "be nice to abortionist" memorandum (financial support to fund abortions abroad), the 17,000 troops issued to Afghanistan without any reasonable objective, his fear-mongering when it comes to economic "catastrophe" (as he wined and dined in Chicago for 4 days) and the money-draining myth known as climate change, ridiculous attempts to appease terrorists and their organizations (and state-funded), and the continued rhetoric to blame everything on the past eight years.

Even (the smarter) Democrats are beginning to distance themselves from the Obama Administration and their ghastly tactics. For politicians are a lot like meteorologists; they forecast, easily, what is to come. And for these Democrats, visions of political careers crashing and burning is enough cause to look the other way.

How many days has it been?

Cartoon Humor...err...Truth

2009-03-04T06:02:00.000-05:00

Norman Mattoon Thomas (November 20, 1884 to December 19, 1968) was a leading American socialist, pacifist, and six-time presidential candidate for the Socialist Party of America.

The Socialist Party candidate for President of the U.S., Norman Thomas, said this in a 1944 speech:

"The American people will never knowingly adopt socialism. But, under the name of "liberalism," they will adopt every fragment of the socialist program, until one day America will be a socialist nation, without knowing how it happened! "

He went on to say: "I no longer need to run as a Presidential Candidate for the Socialist Party. The Democrat Party has adopted our platform."

"The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people's money." ~Margaret Thatcher~

Ryan's Reads

2009-03-02T16:25:00.003-05:00

One word to describe this book? Eye-opening. Mark Steyn's
America Alone is a book that every Western civilization should be required to read. Although the book is based on speculation, Steyn does a riveting job by providing many useful statistics and examples to support his research and writing.

We don't make a distinction between civilians and non-civilians, innocents and non-innocents. Only between believers and unbelievers. And the life of an unbeliever has no value.

~ Sheikh Omar Bakri Mohammed

Nature has made up her mind that what cannot defend itself shall not be defended

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Steyn discusses world issues, in regards to Islam and the Western World, like the declining fertility rate that could potentially cripple developed nation's economies, liberal government policies that are leading us toward a social democracy which values second-tier priorities, the crumbling of Europe (where Islam has silently penetrated religion, politics, and law) and Russia (where abortions now outnumber birthrate), and the many issues that deal with the problems of a 7th century religion in a 21st century world.

Steyn is getting out the message, but will anyone listen and take action? Read...this...book.

In the end it will be America vs. the Rest of the World. Whose side will you be on?

~Matthew Parris

Within Reach

2009-02-26T21:53:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posting. Work, grad classes, and family have kept me/us pretty busy.

As of this morning, I am signed up for the final two classes of my Master's Degree. I will officially be done in July and graduate in August with a Master's Degree in Education Administration emphasizing the Principalship. However, in order to become a licensed principal, I will need to complete a 12 credit-hour licensure program that includes a two-semester internship (as well as passing the Praxis principal examination). After graduating high school in 2001, I never would have imagined that I would have gotten to this point in my life so quickly. I'll just be glad when it is over :)

Educational Administration: The Principalship
Master's Program (Standard Program)

Required Coursework

The Department of Educational Foundations and Leadership offers a 30-hour Master’s Degree Program in the Principalship. With the help of an advisor and approval of the Graduate School, courses may be substituted and/or waived to create specialized options. Requirements of the Principalship Master’s Degree Program in Educational Administration are listed below.

Master’s Courses - 30 credits
5100:600 (3) Philosophies of Education (completed)
5100:624 (3) Educational Psychology (completed)
5100:604 (3) Topical Seminar: Cultural Foundations of Education (completed)
5100:640 (3) Techniques of Research (completed)
5170:601 (3) Organizational Leadership (completed)
5170:604 (3) School/Community Relations (Summer 2009)
5170:607 (3) School Law (Summer 2009)
5170:610 (3) Supervision of Instruction (completed)
5170:620 (3) School Culture and Governance (completed)
5170:615 (3) Disability Law (completed)

Total Principalship Master’s Program: 30

The candidate will be required to pass a portfolio assessment by a three-member full-time faculty panel in order to qualify for graduation.

The Principalship Licensure Program is an option in educational administration designed to prepare a candidate for an Ohio license to practice as a school principal and is built on two components: the Principalship master's degree and those post-master's courses listed below.

Post-Master’s Licensure Courses - 12 credits
5170:602 (3) Management of Physical Resources
5170:603 (3) Management of Human Resources
5170:695/696 (3+3) Principal Internship

Total Principalship Licensure Program: 12

To obtain a license to practice the work of a school principal through the College of Education, the candidate will have a total of 42 post-baccalaureate hours, a master’s degree, completion of a supervised two semester internship in the area in which the candidate seeks the license, successful passage of the state licensing examination, and completion of a statement of good moral character.

God Must Be Laughing

2009-02-19T21:16:00.004-05:00

Scam, noun: a swindle, a fraudulent arrangement.

Over the next 40 years, the world (with the U.S. moronically leading the charge) will spend an estimated 45 TRILLION dollars in an attempt to "combat" global warming or "climate change." Most notably in the form of curbing Co2 emissions.

No wonder infomercials do so well.

People will buy into anything anyone tries to sell them. Except this time, our collective financial monies will support something that has never existed, does not exist today, and has given no evidence to suggest a future occurrence.

Once again, we've been duped.

Global Warming: The Cold, Hard Facts is an article by leading climatologist Dr. Timothy Ball. He is also the author of US being hoodwinked into draconian climate policies
, and Climate Extremism: the Real Threat to Civilization

By John Coleman, Founder of The Weather Channel

It is the greatest scam in history. I am amazed, appalled and highly offended by it. Global Warming; It is a SCAM. Some dastardly scientists with environmental and political motives manipulated long term scientific data to create an allusion of rapid global warming. Other scientists of the same environmental whacko type jumped into the circle to support and broaden the “research” to further enhance the totally slanted, bogus global warming claims. Their friends in government steered huge research grants their way to keep the movement going. Soon they claimed to be a consensus.
Environmental extremists, notable politicians among them, then teamed up with movie, media and other liberal, environmentalist journalists to create this wild “scientific” scenario of the civilization threatening environmental consequences from Global Warming unless we adhere to their radical agenda. Now their ridiculous manipulated science has been accepted as fact and become a cornerstone issue for CNN, CBS, NBC, the Democratic Political Party, the Governor of California, school teachers and, in many cases, well informed but very gullible environmentally conscientious citizens. Only one reporter at ABC has been allowed to counter the Global Warming frenzy with one 15 minute documentary segment.
I do not oppose environmentalism. I do not oppose the political positions of either party. However, Global Warming, i.e. Climate Change, is not about environmentalism or politics. It is not a religion. It is not something you “believe in.” It is science; the science of meteorology. This is my field of life-long expertise. And I am telling you Global Warming is a non-event, a manufactured crisis and a total scam. I say this knowing you probably won’t believe a me, a mere TV weatherman, challenging a Nobel Prize, Academy Award and Emmy Award winning former Vice President of United States. So be it.
I have read dozens of scientific papers. I have talked with numerous scientists. I have studied. I have thought about it. I know I am correct. There is no run away climate change. The impact of humans on climate is not catastrophic. Our planet is not in peril. I am incensed by the incredible media glamour, the politically correct silliness and rude dismissal of counter arguments by the high priest of Global Warming.
In time, a decade or two, the outrageous scam will be obvious. As the temperature rises, polar ice cap melting, coastal flooding and super storm pattern all fail to occur as predicted everyone will come to realize we have been duped. The sky is not falling. And, natural cycles and drifts in climate are as much if not more responsible for any climate changes underway. I strongly believe that the next twenty years are equally as likely to see a cooling trend as they are to see a warming trend.

(Insert Your Name) Economic Stimulus Package

2009-02-16T12:56:00.012-05:00

Ever bought something you didn't want?

If so, it usually leaves you with an uneasy, guilty feeling doesn't it?

If you haven't, after President Obama signs the economic stimulus package tomorrow, we/you/I will have bought $787 billion dollars of government debt.

Makes that credit card debt look pretty good now doesn't it?

As the stimulus package looks to socialize healthcare, nationalize banks, create pork-pet projects for Democratic Senators (Harry Reid's railroad and Nancy Pelosi's San Fransico wetlands), and do "more of the same" in education; we/you/I will financially pay for the government to fix what they have helped to destroy for the past 40 years (only now, with the reckless mentality of the Obama Administration).

Numbers to Live By:

Through a recent conversation via e-mail with John Lott, here are some surprising figures for you, me, and the Senate (who haven't even read the 1,000+ page stimulus bill)...

Economic Stimulus Package: $787 billion (which will increase the national debt by 2 trillion dollars)
Current Interest on Current Defecit: $500 billion

Stimulus Interest: 4.5% @ 30 years (estimate)
Projected Stimulus Interest: $716 billion
Total Economic Stimulus Cost w/ Interest: $1.5 trillion

How Will You Pay?:

The average working American will get a $13 tax "credit" for the remainder of the year per work week. That averages out to $676 per year (well, less than that since it is February). However, that number goes to $8 for 2010; therefore, we will receive $416 throughout the year.

However, this tax "credit" does not play into the fact that we will be splitting the bill for the massive stimulus package. The tax brackets and how much we will pay is listed below:

Tax Bracket

$25,000-35,000 (tax bill: $4,697)
$75,000-100,000 (tax bill: $26,250)
$100,000-200,000 (tax bill: $52,500)
$200,000-500,000 (tax bill: $168,750)

Current Deficit + Bank Bailout: 3.7 trillion dollars
Cost per household: $27,000
Cost per household with stimulus expense: $40,000

So, sure, Obama gave 95% of Americans a $676 tax cut for 2009 and a $416 tax cut for 2010 (along with the usual child credit and $500 single tax payer credit), but we are going to be paying off this stimulus debt for decades to come. Also, keep in mind that most of this stimulus spending will take place after almost 18 months.

Instead of looking like a mythical Greek god, Obama has looked more like a Greek tragedy during his first month of office. Hope is not a policy.

1/20/2013: Obama's Last Day

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T12:06:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Megan and I are celebrating by going out to dinner at Bravo while Kayley stays with Meg's parents for a few hours. Kayley had fun opening and playing with a few of the Valentine's Day gifts Meg and I got for her. She got two books (Leap Frog alphabet book and a Strawberry Shortcake book), a little lady bug, and a rubber ducky that glows for the bathtub. Here are some pics:

Ryan's Reads

2009-02-14T10:22:00.005-05:00

As an unbeliever I passionately disagree with Dinesh D'Souza on some of his positions. But he is a first-rate scholar whom I feel absolutely compelled to read. His thorough research and elegant prose have elevated him into the top ranks of those who champion liberty and individual responsibility. Now he adds Christianity to his formula for the good society, and although non-Christians and non-theists may disagree with some of his arguments, we ignore him at our peril. D'Souza's book takes the debate to a new level. Read it.

Michael Shermer, publisher of Skeptic magazine

The great merit of this book is that it concedes nothing. Rather than engaging in the usual defensive ploys, D'Souza meets every anti-God argument head on and defeats it on its own terms. He subjects atheism and scientific materialism to sustained rigorous interrogation and shows that their claims are empty and incoherent. Infinitely more sophisticated than the rants produced by Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and Christopher Hitchens, What's So Great About Christianity leaves those atheist books in the dust.

-Stanley Fish, author of How Milton Works

Rarely do I read a book that drastically enhances my intellect on a particular subject; however, What's So Great About Christianity?, by Dinesh D'Souza, has done just that. This book is a MUST READ for believers and non-believers alike. Unlike the increasingly popular yet cynical and intellectually degrading books by popular atheist authors, D'Souza delivers a book that answers every issue and question posed by those who seek to call Christianity fraudulent, destructive, and a rational handicap.

D'Souza, in this 308 page book, rightfully defends Christianity and openly discusses the role atheism plays in our past, present, and future world. He genuinely opens the readers eyes to see how Christianity has influenced the world, especially the West in areas of government, science, the argument for design, philosophy, the cause of suffering, morality, and why Christianity works and why it will continue to influence our world for the good of society.

This wasn't a book that gives the believer reasons to say "I told you so." Rather, it gives the believer, and non-believer, a reason to say, "Wow, I never thought of it that way" or "This is something I need to further pursue." Although, the book strongly supports Christianity, it doesn't degrade atheist thinking as unintelligent, it's well-researched information and evidence actually leaves room for a conversation (unlike Sam Harris, Carl Sagan, Christopher Hitchens, and Richard Dawkins who unequivocally treat Christianity as if it were a circus act for the mentally inept).

Not only do I feel stronger in my faith for reading this book, but I feel enlightened in areas that I could not previously defend my faith in. D'Souza has given believers a voice in an era in which atheism has looked to silence it. I HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone who is looking for a mediator between the Christianity v.s atheism debate. Until you have read this book, both the believer and non-believer are intellectually unprepared. This book will prepare you to enter the conversation rather than standing back and watching it unfold.

New Pro-Life Campaign

2009-02-08T22:33:00.002-05:00

Get a red envelope. You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores. On the front, address it to:

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C.

On the back, write the following message.

"This envelope represents one child who died in abortion.
It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception."

Put it in the mail, and send it. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a chance to live. Maybe it will change the heart of the president.

"Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry" - St. Padre Pio

CBO: Obama stimulus harmful over long haul

2009-02-07T10:54:00.002-05:00

President Obama has only been "president" for 19 days, but I didn't think I would have to say "I told you so" so quickly. In 19 days, the Obama Administration has looked more like a bad episode of The West Wing, except we, the American people, cannot turn off the TV and delete the episode from our DVR memory bank. From nominated cabinet and advisory members who can't pay his or her taxes (now I understand why Democrats want to raise taxes...they don't pay them) to prematurely signing an executive order to close Gitmo without any clear plan or understanding of a judiciary process that involves Illegal Combatants as expressed in the Geneva Convention. Then, by reinstating an executive order that helps to fund abortions around the globe and the debacle that has become known as the "European Socialism Act" (a.k.a economic "stimulus" package). Obama's inexperience and lack of political common sense has created a presidential administration that appears to be "trigger happy" with no regard for future consequences.

Government: the act or process of governing ; specifically : authoritative direction or control.

Does this define our government? Do they REALLY govern, or is this just a big partisan chess game that rewards those who get to play? Our leaders couldn't be more oblivious to reality and common sense. With Obama not far behind, let's send everyone who has had any input on this economic "stimulus" package to Gitmo where they can govern people who have the same rational thinking as them...the destruction of America.

A report from the Congressional Budget Office by Stephen Dinan:

President Obama's economic recovery package will actually hurt the economy more in the long run than if he were to do nothing, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said Wednesday.

CBO, the official scorekeepers for legislation, said the House and Senate bills will help in the short term but result in so much government debt that within a few years they would crowd out private investment, actually leading to a lower Gross Domestic Product over the next 10 years than if the government had done nothing.

CBO estimates that by 2019 the Senate legislation would reduce GDP by 0.1 percent to 0.3 percent on net. [The House bill] would have similar long-run effects, CBO said in a letter to Sen. Judd Gregg, New Hampshire Republican, who was tapped by Mr. Obama on Tuesday to be Commerce Secretary.

The House last week passed a bill totaling about $820 billion while the Senate is working on a proposal reaching about $900 billion in spending increases and tax cuts.

But Republicans and some moderate Democrats have balked at the size of the bill and at some of the spending items included in it, arguing they won't produce immediate jobs, which is the stated goal of the bill.

The budget office had previously estimated service the debt due to the new spending could add hundreds of millions of dollars to the cost of the bill -- forcing the crowd-out.

CBOs basic assumption is that, in the long run, each dollar of additional debt crowds out about a third of a dollars worth of private domestic capital, CBO said in its letter.

CBO said there is no crowding out in the short term, so the plan would succeed in boosting growth in 2009 and 2010.

The agency projected the Senate bill would produce between 1.4 percent and 4.1 percent higher growth in 2009 than if there was no action. For 2010, the plan would boost growth by 1.2 percent to 3.6 percent.

CBO did project the bill would create jobs, though by 2011 the effects would be minuscule.