$$$ for Helping Hands in 2011 .

$$$$$ We had 12 winners in 2010: (in alpha order):

(1) Cal and Eleanor Chesson

(2) Jack and Ann Copeland

(3) Carol Douglas

(4) Don Hammer

(5) Jim and Nancy Hatfield

(6) Bob and Anne Lumadue

(7) Wilma Miller

(8) Linda Myers

(9) Carol Needy

(10) Bill and Marie Pearce

(11) Nancy Swonger

(12) Mary Katherine Vass

and one more, remind me, I forget

$$$ for Shepherd Center Computer Classes

In 2011, an amount equal to your tuition will be Contributed to Helping Hands in Honor of (at least) 30 class members to take Shepherd Center Computer Classes. Other rules might apply as I think on this. See link http://ownbeyss.blogspot.com/2010/12/computer-classes.html

The old "Say the Bible Names from Memory" offer contiues.

We had 12 $50 winners in 2010 for members who visited http://ownbeyss.blogspot.com/ and emailed me telling the number of visitors to the site. Honor contributions went to Helping Hands, our SS Class, the Library Fund, the Red Cross, and Haiti Relief.

10 Commandements of Computing, well maybe more..

Some of the first things one needs to know to use the internet and to send emails include Typing even hunt and peck, How to select, How to copy, How to put what you copied somewhere else, called paste, and How to double click.
A computer mouse is a device to make it easier to use a computer and has at least a right side (R) button and left side (L) button on the top which lets one push down to do computer tasks. Pushing down the R or L button is called clicking
To click (assuming you are right handed), Push down the Left (L) Button using the right hand
To double click (assuming you are right handed), Push down the (L) button two times very fast
A Cursor is the arrow you see on screen when you move mouse around
Select means to highlight a word or words using the mouse and cursor.
To select, put the cursor to either end of word(s), push down and hold the right mouse button and slide cursor to highlight to other end of word(s) and release.
To copy something highlighted, push CTR and c key (referred to as CTR+C) at same time and release.The selection is in memory
To cut (remove) something highlighted, push CTR+X at same time and release.The selection is in memory
To paste or add something that has been copied or cut, put cursor where you want the selection to go, push CTR + V at same time and release. The selection still is in memory if you want to repeat.
Ctrl+Q will quit many programs
Ctrl+S will save most work underway in many programs
Ctrl+P will print in many programs
Ctrl+A will select a lot of stuff for further action
Ctrl+C will copy what you have selected
Ctrl+V will "paste" what you have copied
Ctrl+X will remove what you selected

Charlotte NC Hallelujah Chorus Flash Mob 12-20-10.wmv

A Christmas Greeting from Chick

From Reatha with Love

Dear Ownbey Family,
1.  Got this update from ARLYENE's daughter yest'y...
--------------------------------------------------------------
We are definitely a go!  Her surgery is at 2:00 Friday afternoon.  Thanks ever so much for keeping the class well informed.  -Jan
Jan and David Kirkpatrick
_________________________________________ 
2.  Also heard yest'y from S.MOBLEY:  she said that CAL CHESSON's hernia surgery on Wed had gone well.
CAL CHESSON
3.  Those of you who were able to come to ADULTS PLUS this week prob. saw CAROL NEEDY.  I'll forward her uplifting note in a subsequent email.
4.  I missed 3 days from preschool this week w/this severe sinusitis.  However, the meds are doing their job, and I managed to get out a bit yest'y aft'n and get a "real meal" at Clt. Cafe -- canned soup and Easy Mac were beginning to wear a bit thin....Anything else? Peace,Reatha - Fri

Dear Ownbey Family,
Here's that note from CAROL which I promised to send...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Hooray and hallelujah!  I am happy to report that I felt good enough today to go to the Christmas concert and lunch afterward.  It was wonderful being in church again, and if I can continue on this path, I will be in church Su nday.  I am not healed completely yet and do get tired if I do too many things in one day, but I know I am getting there.  I am sorry you are having all this trouble with your sinuses.  Honestly, it seems like so many in our class have one thing or another, but we are not the youngest SS class at MP.  Hope to see you soon.
Love, Carol

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

This rendition of White Christmas was recorded by Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters in 1953. It was #2 on the charts in 1954. Animation is by Joshua Held in 2002.

White Christmas was written by Irving Berlin for the Movie "Holiday Inn" and recorded by Bing Crosby in 1942, and received the Academy Award in that year. Crosby recorded it again in 1947, and that recording has become the standard. It was also featured in the 1954 movie White Christmas with Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen.

White Christmas is the biggest selling Christmas song of all time.

Good Morning (12/13)

We are up to 29 people who have responded. Need 31 more. PLEASE let me know whether or not your info is correct on line if you have not already.

thanks
don
12/13

Hi there, Ownbey e mailers:

Progress is slow, 25 reported, leaving 35 out of the 60 needed. If you have not responded, please do so. I doubt I will get a new roster out this year at this pace.
Of the non-email folks, most have responded , fyi.
If you have not responded, please check the links and let me know whether or not your information is correct.
(Also a pdf file is attached if you prefer that, sorry if big, current roster is at page 3 of that file)

thanks
don
12/09

Hi folks (12/04)

Thanks to the 22 of 60 of you who responded about proof reading your roster info and for providing changes needed.
If you are one of the 38 who have not responded, I need your help. I prefer not to bother you with telephone calls to check the info so please email back
Sorry I will not have the current roster ready for by the Christmas Breakfast tomorrow.
By the way, I also am contacting the 15 members without emails for changes.
See you in the morning, 8:30 thanks
don

On 11/29/2010 9:03 PM, wrote:

Hi Ownbey folks
I am updating our Class Roster and would appreciate your help in proof reading it.
Would you check YOUR information at the link below and LET ME KNOW WHETHER OR NOT YOUR INFO IS CORRECT.
If not correct, please let me have the corrections. Also let me know if you want a different picture.
Thank you so much. I hope to have a printed copy of it out soon for any Christmas card help, but in case I do not get printed soon enough, you may see the latest on line as I update with current info from you.
The last printed Roster is on green paper from 2009, and I know of a couple of changes it needs. Help me and I will get a new one out as soon as I hear from everyone.
. . .To go to the Roster on the internet, Click here or go to
http://www.donredding.com/ownbey/classroster.pdf
. . . .
Let me know if you need help getting to the link. (The Roster file is in PDF)
Thank you for telling me whether or not the information for you on line is correct. It will save followup phone calls and let me get a hard copy printed fast.
thanks don

Also check our Blog regularly for Class info
http://ownbeyss.blogspot.com/

-------------------------------

You may also Click below to go to the Roster link - and to be able to read what is in these pictures!

From Reatha with Love

Dear Ownbey Family,
At last:  the note which Susan Mobley sent me last Tue (the 7th)...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Visited her today.  She is gradually improving (from shingles).  Still having nerve pain on the left side of her face and is very tired.  She is able to do about one thing a day and then has to rest.  She did not need or ask for any support at this time.  Chip and Catherine are being very attentive to her. 
Susan Mobley, RN Parish Nurse Myers Park United Methodist Church
Send cards to:
CAROL NEEDY
see email
=======
ra - sun - 5:30p m
PAST TENSE:  HERNIA SURGERY[got this late last nght...]
--------------------------------------------------------------
Reatha --Yest'y (Fri) aft'n, we went to CMC to have Bill's surgery -- arrived at
2:00, with surgery scheduled for 4:00 -- surgery finally took place a
little after 8:00 pm (there was an emerg. the doctor had to take care of),
and we got home just before 11pm -- a long day.  Bill did very well, but
is sore and wobbly, and I'm monitoring his pain level and giving him his
meds -- he has some appetite, and that's good.  It's as good as it can be
at this point.  I was not expecting much from CMC -- but the staff and
doctors could not have been more helpful or informative, or on top of
things.  Absolutely love his surgeon, whom our primary physician made
arrangements with -- he was so clear and so kind.  I mentioned him to Jim
Copsis at the Rite-Aid pharmancy this (Sat) morning, when I was picking up
Bill's meds, and he asked me who he was.  I replied, Dr. Dimitrios
Stefanidis, and Jim said -- "Ah, a Greek boy!  We're a good bunch!" 
Indeed !Linda Christopher____________________________________________
FUTURE TENSE:  HERNIA SURGERY
We learned in SS today that CAL CHESSON will also have hernia surgey this
Wed.PRESENT TENSE:  SINUS INFECTION Me!  I've been fighting this since Thurs aft'n, and hopefully, am on the tail-end of this bugger... but that's why I'm a bit behind in getting out the word on BILL WEBB.  I also had said that I'd send S.Mobley's report from earlier last week on CAROL NEEDY.  Still need to do that.
Oops -- time to take more sinus meds -- I've almost got today's pounding
headache under control, tho' I've used half a box of Puffs  :-)
MARY KATHERINE, hope the Nova Voce concerts yest'y and today went well. 
They are always sooo inspiring!Anything else, anyone? Peace, Reatha - Sun - 5:15pm

Reatha Update

Dear Ownbey Family, Got this update from Jan today...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Mom's (Arlyene's) surgery has been delayed, following her pre-operative tests.  We knew she had a heart murmur, but an abnormality also appeared in her EKG.  We will see a heart specialist on Friday for tests and hopefully clearance to proceed with the surgery. I'll let you both know what we find out. 
Jan and David 
________________________________________
Just called the BUKERs to check on KEN (and his kidney stone).  Three weeks ago, he had the procedure which "zapped" the stone, which broke it into two pieces.  He went for a follow-up today, and found that THOSE two pieces have broken up to mostly "passable" sizes (except for one which MIGHT have to be re-zapped).  Also he will soon learn an update on his benign brain tumore.
I also got an update on CAROL NEEDY from Susan Mobley who visited her yest'y.  Will send that in a separate email. Anything else?

2010.12.05 Breakfast with Thompsons, Music with Women's Choir

Click here or on thumbnail picture below for photos big enough for you to see on Smugmug: Let me know if any need removing

From Reatha

On 12/3/2010 4:13 AM, Reatha Andrew wrote:

Dear Ownbey Family,


You may recall that ARLYENE ARMSTRONG was supp'd to have surgery today.  Got the note below from daughter Jan yest'y.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Mom's surgery has been rescheduled for Dec. 10, Mercy Hospital at 10:30 am .  They couldn't get her in for her pre-operative tests until next week. 
We all had a marvelous time in Rhode Island, visiting our son Drew and his wife Janet and seeing their new house.  We all ate too much turkey and trimmings, but isn't that part of the fun?  
The airport was easy with Mom in a wheelchair -- we all got preferential treatment and now are spoiled! 
Keep her in your prayers next week.
Jan
 

Jan and David Kirkpatrick
see email

12 28

A Little Lunch Music

Also see the "A Little Dinner Music" post before this one (Click Here)

A Little Dinner Music

Also see the post after this one called A Little Lunch Music" (click here)!

Lesson Sunday at the Thompsons 12/05

Don: Thanks for asking. I shall be leading a discussion of the lesson
>being taken by most of the adult classes at James Howell's suggestion.
>It is called "Vision of Peace" and the scripture is Isaiah 11:1-10 and
>Matthew 3 : 1-12. I think Barbara said James intends to talk about it on
>Tuesday. The scripture  lessons are called the lectionary readings, I
>think. Sydnor

From Reatha with love

H&H
1. KEN BUKER is having a ruff time w/a kidney stone. Last week, he had a procedure to "blast" it, but it succeeded only in splitting it in half. He'll go again this week to see if it's broken up anymore on its own, and if not, go thru the procedure again.
Ken Buker
xxxxx

2. NANCY HATFIELD has been laid low by allergy pblms... which were treated by some injections... which app. have caused MORE pblms w/her ears, first an infection and now, tinnitis! [so... phone calls are NOT a good idea, but cards ARE]
xxxxxx

3. CAROL NEEDY is suffering from a severe case of shingles which has affected the left side of her face. It began in her mouth -- she thought she had strep throat -- even tho' she HAD gotten the shingles vaccine! [doc said that you can STILL get them (obviously), but it SHOULD be a milder case -- "HA!" says Carol...]
xxxxxx

4. BILL PEARCE is doing better. He and MARIE came to church today :-) The heart cath showed all his arteries clear; they determined that he had a heart spasm. And Marie's pacemaker, which was inserted in late Sep, has been "tweaked" a few times, but is keeping her feeling chipper. She had NO idea she had a pblm till her Sep exam!
xxxx

5. I began having pblms w/MY throat last weekend. It "grew" into laryngitis, so by Tue night, I couldn't sing in the 35th Interfaith Service. But I'm almost back at full voice today :-) [Thanksgiving was a win-win for Jon's side of the family: I couldn't talk, and they could!]

* xxxx = means see Roster for address ( Click here, need password)
Dec. B'days
Sat the 4th - JOYCE ALLEN * xxxx
also the 4th - REATHA ANDREW * xxxx
again, on the 4th - WILMA MILLER * xxxx
and finally, on the 4th - OSCAR MORENO * xxxx
Tue the 7th - JUDY STINSON *xxxx
Sun the 12th - MARIE EPPLEY *xxxx
Wed the 15th - MEL HALPERN * xxxx
Fri the 31st - MEL ALLEN * xxxx

And not to forget former class members/attendees:
Sat the 25th - that's right, Christmas Day! - TWO b'days:
RANDY BRANTLEY *xxxx
BOB GROGAN *xxxxxx

Any corrections or additions? [you know how i've messed up class memos lately...]

Peace and Blessings,
Reatha - Sun - 5pm

GREAT news from the state of Virginia!!!

GREAT news from the state of Virginia!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------
Hi, Reatha!
This is Lori. Mom asked me to update you on Dad's valve replacement surgery. He had the surgery on Wednesday, and it went "perfectly", according to the surgeon. They kept him under sedation until after the visitation hours had ended. I called to check on him around 10:00, and the nurse said that they had removed the breathing tube, and he was alert and talking. I had Mom call so that he would hear her voice first. Needless to say, we both slept much better that night!
Since, he has progressed in great strides. He is surpassing all of the expectations! When we arrived at the hospital the next morning, he had already eaten a full breakfast and was looking great. They told us he was ready to leave Post-Op/ICU and move to the floor. He had to wait for a bed to become available, but when it did, he WALKED to his room. Not bad for 24 hours after open-heart surgery!! He has been a little more tired today, but is continuing to improve. The nurse almost had to chase him down the hall when they got him up for a walk. He has really experienced almost no pain and today only had one pain pill.
We feel so blessed for how well this has gone. Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and prayers!!
I will do my best to keep you updated. Mom and I have been pretty tired by the end of the day. We are both so active usually and are shocked at how tiring it is to sit all day! At least we have a sweet, happy face to look at all day! My daughter's first comment after she got to the hospital was, "Well, it is obvious the surgeon did not remove his sense of humor!" I think his positive attitude will greatly improve his healing.
Sorry if this is a little rambling...my long day is coming to a close.
Thank you for letting everyone know about Dad.
***
Bundle up this weekend, everyone, and hope to see you this Sunday when Jim Hatfield will lead our lesson, using the book, JESUS, THE MIDDLE EASTERN STORYTELLER, by G.Burge. Peace, Reatha - Fri - 9pm

2010.11.25 Thanksgiving Service @ Christ Church - Notice Flags

Reatha H and H

Dear Ownbey Family, Got this note last night...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Hi, Reatha,
Could you tell the Sunday School class that Mom, Arlyene Armstrong, is scheduled for hip replacement surgery Friday, Dec. 3, if they can get the pre-op work done in time. We will be in Rhode Island, the three of us, until next Monday evening, so all the work -- blood , EKG, etc. -- will have to be done on Tuesday, if they can squeeze her in. We are praying that they can.
Her xray today shows bone on bone in right hip and severely ragged and damaged bone. She has been in dreadful pain. We can all hear the crunching in her hip when she tries to walk with her walker. She is ready to be pain free for Christmas, and we are praying all will go well.
We hope you all will have a very happy Thanksgiving. And hopefully, Mom will be happily back in Sunday School by Christmas.
Love to all, Jan

Jan and David Kirkpatrick address
. . . .(see email)
____________________________________________

I'll keep you updated as I get word. In the meantime, if you want to go ahead and send cards, that would be great!Peace, Reatha - Wed - 8:45am

From Reatha

Dear Ownbey Family,
1.  When I forwarded BOB GROGAN's health report, I forgot to include his (and Marilea's) contact info:
BOB GROGAN
2.  GRACE ELKINS reported in SS yest'y that BILL PEARCE is in the hospital -- heart palpitations.  I called MARIE yest'y aft'n and left a message on their machine.  She called me back and left ME the message that he will be having a catheterization today, and we'll know more after that.
BILL PEARCE
3.  ELEANOR CHESSON reported that former class member GENE MIDYETTE is in CMC.  They thought there was a mass on his brain, but it is "only" pooling of blood, which can be reabsorbed over time.  They will continue to run CAT scans.  Right now he's in ICU at CMC Main, rm 9608.
NENIE is staying w/the Sadris.  Their granddaughter, who's in college in NY, was supp'd to come down for Thx'g to share the beauty of the NC mtns w/them.  ABIGAIL will now stay w/Nenie, here in Charlotte.
GENE MIDYETTE
or
c/o Fred and Martha Sadri
Anything else, anyone? Take care,Reatha - Mon - 7:45am

Get a Link: 2010.11.21 Chick teaches American Grace - How Religion Divides and Unites Us (Audio link 45 minutes)

For 45 minute audio of class (no video or slideshow, sorry), click right here!
or on Picture (it is a Windows WMA sound file):
Takes two minutes to load, be patient

http://donredding.com/20101121_chick_faith_VN760041.WMA

Bob Grogan

Dear Ownbey Family, Got this note today from Bob (Grogan), now living in Virginia...ra - fri - 6pm
--------------------------------------------------------------
          Yesterday at Martha Jefferson Hospital I underwent a catherization as a prelude to heart valve replacement next Tuesday.  The cath went fairly well.  It showed the blockage in the atrial valve.  The opening was about the size of the end of a pencil and did not open or close properly, causing calcification which is not good.  I was placed on the "CRITICAL" list last week.  My surgery will take place at the University of Virginia Hospital early Wednesday morning.  The surgery is slated to last for about six hours.  I will be in the hospital for five or more days.  I will be moved to a nursing facility for maybe two weeks.The prayers of the Ownbey Class will be very much appreciated. We think that it will be great calling Reatha "Granny."  That is good news.  Give our regards to the new Mommy and future grandchild.  Take care and God Bless. Bob

Reatha . .

Dear Ownbey Family,

On the 7th, I shared some thoughts about human-animal relationships and our ethical responses. I based most of my lesson on the newly published book SOME WE LOVE, SOME WE HATE, SOME WE EAT, by Hal Herzog, a psych prof at my alma mater, WCU.

Last Sunday, Carol Douglas led us in exploring some of the classic book THE HIGHER HAPPINESS, by Ralph Sockman. This book takes a closer look at The Beatitudes. One of the questions raised was using the term "happy" vs the traditional "blessed" -- "Happy are the poor in spirit..." The word "beatitude" is derived from the Latin "beatus" which means "happy." Even my little dollar dictionary gives this definition for beatitude: perfect blessedness or happiness. So take a few minutes and go back and re-read The Beatitudes w/fresh eyes :-)

THIS Sunday, Chick will lead us in beginning the book AMERICAN GRACE, by Putnam/Campbell. Hope you can come!

Oh - since some of you weren't in class when I led the lesson the other week, you missed my H&H announcement: I'm gonna be a granny... come late June/early July!!!

Hope you and yours have a blessed/happy Thanksgiving.

Reatha - Fri - 8:45am

Dear Ownbey Family, Just realized I'd not sent out our Nov b'day list.  Sorry (esp to Willard and Bill Pearce).

Wed the 3d - WILLARD GOURLEY *
Tue the 9th - BILL PEARCE * 
Sun the 14th - JOYCE GOSSETT *

Mon the 15th - TWALA KRUGER * 
Tue the 16th - LOIS WILSON * 
Wed the 17th - LOU BLEDSOE * 
Fri the 19th - LINDA MYERS * 
Sun the 21st - TED BRYAN * 
also the 21st - JIM HATFIELD * 
Fri the 26th - ELEANOR CHESSON * 
As usual, please let me know of any corrections/additions.Peace,Reatha

Helping Hands Committee vote needed for South Side Community Church Application

CLICK A couple of times ON APPLICATION BELOW TO ENLARGE

Music Time Machine

1940	1950	1960	1970	1980	1990
1941	1951	1961	1971	1981	1991
1942	1952	1962	1972	1982	1992
1943	1953	1963	1973	1983	1993
1944	1954	1964	1974	1984	1994
1945	1955	1965	1975	1985	1995
1946	1956	1966	1976	1986	1996
1947	1957	1967	1977	1987	1997
1948	1958	1968	1978	1988	1998
1949	1959	1969	1979	1989	1999

MPMC 85th Celebration

TWO $50 Offers now open - - Even a 3 year old can do it . .

TWO $50 Offers still Open - (1) Computer Offer elsewhere and /or (2)say Books of Bible. Contact me.

May be withdrawn at any time, of course .
. .
Even a 3 year old can do say Books of Bible. . . see below . . .
Click here for Details

Dear Ownbey Family,
1.  Tomorrow (H'ween) Willard will be leading our class in the book OUR ENDANGERED VALUES, by Jimmy Carter.  TIME CHANGE does NOT occur till NEXT weekend, so don't oversleep tom. and miss this... as, unfortunately, I must.
2.  I'll be leading our class on Nov 7th... and working on it tom. morning while stranded here at my house -- my car is in the shop; an unexpected snafu arose today on its final test drive.  I took it in at 9am yest'y for its reg oil change and engine check-up, and now...
3.  I had promised I'd send you some dates-of-note for the upcoming holiday season.  See MARY KATHERINE's note below re Nova Voce (as well as her sharing why we won't be seeing her in SS for awhile)...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Reatha,
 . . . . . I sent Carol the Quarterly report as of Sept. 30, and deposit slips for any offering until I return.  Should the class contribute to the "helping hands fund" or approve any expenditures of the fund, be sure forms are filled out.  Forms are in the back of the room.  I have paid for our bar b que and $300.00 to Jim for care packages to our soldiers with MPUMC connection.
Just for your calendar at Christmas, Nova Voce sings their Christmas concert December 11 at 8:00 pm and December 12 at 4:00 pm at St. Patrick Cathedral church 1621 Dilworth Rd East.  The program includes "The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy", Stephen Hatfield,  "The Christmas Intrada", David Conte,  "There is no Rose", Z. Randall Stroupe and many others known well to those who have heard Nova Voce sing.  The choral ensemble of women's voices specialize in excellence in short form classical music.
Mary Katherine 
____________________________________________

For those of you who missed SS last Sunday, Carol DID give the quarterly report for Mary Katherine.
Hope everyone got their flu shots last week and that you are staying well.  [the "whoops" are making the rounds at church preschool...]
Peace,Reatha - Sat - 7:15pm

Greetings from the Baxters

-------- Original Message --------

Subject:	Birthday card
Date:	Tue, 26 Oct 2010 03:50:43 -0400
From:	Gerald Baxter
To:	Don Redding

Don,

Thanks indeed for the very good birthday card that you have recently sent me. It certainly gives one much thought on just what the disciples did for us. We need these reminders.

Just a little news of Rea and me;
We`re both in reasonable health but like all others of our age, I`m now 85years old, we are becoming more and more aware of our age.
We still live in our small apartment at the B/B outfit which is owned by our son and wife. We find things very comfortable except for the friends whom we miss terribly. Of course, at our age many of these are either far away or are no longer with us. The globalization of the way folk now live means that families and many friends of yesteryear have frequently dispersed to distant places and the only contact is really with the Internet. Gone are the days when folk dropped in, quite often announced and family dinners are no longer what they used to be.

Nevertheless we have much to be thankful for, Almighty God has been very good to us and we know we don`t deserve it.

At last our weather is warming up, we`ve had an unusually cold and long winter so this is another blessing. What with the terrible problems that plaque the world and the unusual weather etc. one cannot help wondering what the future holds. Unemployment, like the rest of the world, is very high over here and jobs for school and University leavers are virtually unobtainable.

Please give our love and regards to all at the Bible Class, we think of you often. It was sure nice of you to remember my birthday.

God Bless you, Rea and Gerald

Lessons through 12/26/2010

Oct 31 -- Bk: OUR ENDANGERED VALUES, by Jimmy Carter, led by Willard Gourley

Nov 7 -- Topic: OUR ETHICAL RELATIONSHIP WITH ANIMALS (AS PETS, PESTS, FOOD, ETC) -- led by Reatha Andrew

Nov 14 -- Bk: THE HIGHER HAPPINESS, by Ralph Sockman, led by Carol Douglas

Nov 21 -- Bk: AMERICAN GRACE, by Putnam/Campbell, led by Chick Thompson

Nov 28 -- Bk: JESUS, THE MIDDLE EASTERN STORYTELLER, by Gary M. Burge, led by Jim Hatfield

Dec 5 -- TBA -- led by Sydnor Thompson

Dec 12 -- Bk: THE WISDOM OF JESUS, by Cynthia Bourgeault, led by Gaston Gage

Dec 19 -- OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS READINGS, shared by Lou Bledsoe
2008.12.21 Christmas with Lou for 50 years

Dec 26 -- CHRISTMAS MEMORIES/REFLECTIONS, shared by anyone in attendance :-)

January dates/programs are still being "tweaked."

Our next Curric Council mtg will be TUE JAN 11th. Time and location TBA closer to time.

Dear Ownbey Family,
Even tho' we are celebrating the church's 85th anniv this Sunday, w/lots of stuff going on, WE ARE STILL HAVING SUNDAY SCHOOL!!!
Don Hammer will lead our lesson:  Palestine, Israel, and the Bible.  [i just called him to confirm]
Hope to see you then.  You can find time to visit in J.Hall AFTER that  :-)
[J.Hall reception runs 9:45-12:30]
Peace,Reatha - Fri - 6:15pm

Dear Ownbey Family,
1.  The GROGANS plan to come down this weekend and attend the church's 85th Anniv Celebration  :-)    Hopefully we'll have time to visit w/them (in all that's going on).
2.  Our Curric Council met Tue night and planned out lesson topics/tchrs thru Jan, but I have not yet had a chance to post them on the church's website, on our webpage.        Will try to get that done today or tomorrow.
3.  I mentioned in class last Sunday that BILL DOSER, a friend of many of us, had fallen just as he arrived at Lake Junaluska a week ago for the Adults PLUS annual fall -- maybe i should say "autumn" -- retreat.  He had surgery at Haywood Co Hosp, and has now been transferred to a rehab facility near his (and Mabel's) home.  Here's his address:  605 S. Poplar St * Lincolnton * NC * 28092
4.  On a happier note:  I heard about this when I played piano for the LS/RF Class, so you may know about this already --> P.C. HULL (who just had his 95th b'day) is getting (re)married in a week -- on Sat the 30th!  His bride-to-be is 91, and their families have been friends for years  :-)    Her name is PEGGY ALSTON, and I just realized why that name is so familiar to me:  she taught w/me at WCHS many years ago!!!  [that is if her name is indeed ALSTON and not AUSTIN...  i gotta check on this some more!]   They are both at Sharon Towers and will have a suite of rooms created for them by cutting a door between two existing units.  PC Hull * c/o Sharon Towers * 5100 Sharon Rd * 28210
5.  'Tis the season for travel, and I learned from LIZ LUMADUE that her folks weren't w/us in class last week b/c they were at the beach.  Hope you had a great time there, ANNE and BOB  :-)
Anything else, anyone?
Oh -- the Sunday when I'll be teaching is Nov 7th -- the day we "fall back" to STANDARD time at 2am -- so we'll be getting an EXTRA hour of sleep (YEA!) -- don't forget to set your clocks BACK before you turn in on Sat night  :-)
Peace, Reatha - Fri - 8:15am

pre-Ramadan dinner

Dear Ownbey Ladies,

For the past 2-3 years, I've attended the pre-Ramadan dinner sponsored by

Muslim Women of the Carolinas.  This year, due to the timing of Ramadan

(in Aug), they decided to forego that dinner and offer a "tea" (and finger foods) in early Nov.

I plan on going.  If any of you would like to go, simply RSVP as found below.

Also if you'd like to carpool/caravan from our church, please contact me.

The personal note preceding the invitation is from ROSE HAMID, good friend

of Barbara Barden.  You may remember her -- she has spoken to our class before.

Peace,
Reatha - Th - 6am

--------------------------------------------------------------

You are correct, it will not be dinner, but instead tea and finger foods which

are supposed to be available as people come in so there won't be long lines.  At least that's my understanding of what's supposed to happen.  

I hope to see you there.

Peace and Blessings,
Rose
  _____  

From: MuslimWomen OftheCarolinas

Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2010 3:01 PM
Subject: Invitation: In the Footsteps of Abraham


Greetings:

Muslim Women of the Carolinas cordially invite you to join us on Sunday, November 7, 2010 from 4:30 - 6:30 pm.  Prophet Abraham links many

faith traditions with his message of unity.

We hope to continue this message of unity as sisters, sharing tea and conversation.  We will plan to exchange experiences and ideas about the Abrahamic tradition.

The gathering will be held at the Islamic Society of Greater Charlotte (Multipurpose Hall).  The address is 7025 The Plaza, Charlotte NC 28215.

Please RSVP to   no later than October 30, 2010.

We sincerely hope you will be able to join with women throughout the Carolinas, as we endeavor to build bridges of trust and greater understanding.

Peace,
Muslim Women of the Carolinas Planning Team.

Virginia's brother

Dear Ownbey Family,

Got this from WILLARD today...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Virginia's brother, D. D. "Dee" McDade, died Sunday. We have been working on funeral details, and I failed to let everyone know.
Wednesday evening, there will be a visitation at Lambeth Troxler Funeral Home in Greensboro - 6:00 to 8:00 PM. There will be a graveside service at Green Hill Cemetary in Greensboro at noon on Thursday. His ashes will be placed at the burial site of his Mother and Father.
Willard Gourley, Jr.
____________________________________________
Perhaps some of you are watching the PBS special series, GOD IN AMERICA. [i fell asleep during pt. 1 last night, but pt. 2 is coming on now (9pm) on cable 13 or 15; it concludes tom. night -- or if you watch cable 5, it runs T/W/Th]
Since I got to class after LOU's lesson had begun, I'm not sure if you talked about our HABITAT involvement this week. Upon checking, we found that lunch is already taken care of, but they need snack supplements. Since JIM HATFIELD will be working on site on Friday, he and NANCY will get some fruit to add to the already collected goldfish snacks. [i also learned that we will have more chances to help HABITAT in Jan/Feb, 2011 -- we may want to help then]
Anything else? Peace, Reatha - Tue - 9:15pm

Helping Hands - US Troops connected with MPUMC

Hi Ownbey Folks

On behalf of the Helping Hands Committee, Tom asked me to offer for your approval a request for $300.00 to help the Men's Thursday Noon Bible Group fund purchases of Care Packages for US Troops with a MPUMC connection. At present we have four such individuals. Recently the Bible Group took on as a project communicating with our Military connections from Mpumc. One large cost of each package is anticipated to be telephone credit cards. A picture of the request form is below. Tell me if you do not see it and I will figure out what is wrong.

We have about $1,400 in our Helping Hands account if my memory is working (Mary Katerine Vass please correct me Sunday if I am off too much). Remember you can contribute to the Fund to honor or as a memorial to individuals. Several members has used this honor/memorial technique this year, and we encourage you to remember the Helping Hand Fund in your giving decisions. - and in requests for use of the finds. One source of funds has been the $50 members won for simply visiting our Class Blog and emailing me you were there and that you wanted the money given to Helping Hands. The offer has been up again for a couple of months with no takers. Sure is easy money.

Jim Hatfield is the leader of the Bible Group which consists of about 14 members with 8 from Ownbey. We are always looking for new members, so join us please. We meet in Jubilee Hall usually and eat leftovers from Thursday nights for a couple of bucks, what a deal!

The members of the Helping Hand Committee are: (tell me if I missed any names)
Tom Stinson (Chair), Ellen Chason, Cal Chesson, Don Hammer, Don Redding, the President and the Treasurer (ex – officio)

Tom is out of town this weekend and he asked me to present this to you Sunday for approval. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns about this request. It has been approved by the Committee and needs your final approval.

thanks don

Video on learning to use the Library Web Site (9 minutes)

(Email sent October 01, 2010)
2010 Ownbey Distribution List <"2010 Ownbey Distribution List">
Hi Ownbey folks and friends

At Sunday School on October 3, Carol Douglas and Reatha are leading a lesson on our wonderful MPUMC Library.

I will have 5 minutes to tell you about an online Video I made in August on use of the Library Web Site.
I will not go into much detail then except

to mention how to go to the Links for the Video and Library Web Site,
in a general way, encourage you to play with the Video and Web Site, and
to distribute a brochure with links and pictures highlighting my five minutes

Some of you now might try the links below and tell me before class if they work for you. Thanks.

In the Video you will hear as I discover someone has a past due book! I might ask for the name Sunday.

Please let me know if you do not want to receive emails such as this

Good Luck.
Don

How to Access

the Video about the MPUMC Library Web Site, and
the MPUMC Web Site/MPUMC Library Web Site

1>For Video Click Here (give it time to open) or go to
http://www.donredding.smugmug.com/MPUMC/Library/
1a>If it does not start playing on its own, click on the black arrows until it plays and you hear me talking. (Need cable to get to work correctly)
The video is 9 minutes and 50 seconds.
2a>For Church/then Library Click Here or go to
http://www.mpumc.org/
3>then go to second from bottom item near the right hand side of the MPUMC web page and click on
Church Library . . . . View Website
4> Click Here for a direct link to the Library or go to
http://myersparkcatalog.surpasssoftware.com/myerspark/

5> If you need further instructions, a booklet at the following link has pictures which might help.
I will give out the booklet Sunday.
Click here or go to
http://www.donredding.com/libraryvideo.html

Thanks

Don

Visitor

ear Ownbey Family,

Got this follow-up from WINNE CULBRETH about the visitor
she brought w/her to our class last Sunday:
____________________________________________

Our visitor's name is PEGGY DEIERHOI. She moved to Clt. a year ago from Atlanta. Has visited MPUMC 4 times before. I think this was the 1st SS class that she had been to. I showed her our classroom, and also told her that I would be unable to be at church this Sunday. Hope that she is able to come. Winnie
____________________________________________

Let's be on the look-out for her this week. [this is a "piano Sunday" for me, so I'll be arriving a bit late]

See ya then!
Reatha

Ownbey Sunday School Class Reader ( http://ownbeyss.blogspot.com/ ): Using the Library web site- tutorial by don

Using the Library web site- tutorial by don

Marie

Dear Ownbey Family,

Got this update from Marie the other day. [sorry it's taken me awhile to send it out]

--------------------------------------------------------------
Reatha,

I had an episode of feeling weak on my way to the clinic last Wednesday. They checked, and my heart beat was extremely slow. My doctor was there and called the cardiologist. They decided that I needed a pacemaker and sent me to the hospital. The pacemaker procedure was Thursday afternoon, and I came home Friday.

I am getting along quite well but am not pushing. I have to gradually get back into my regular routine and should be okay to play piano for LS/RF Class on November 7.

This whole thing was a complete surprise to me. I had no idea that I had any kind of heart problem. The doctors think the pacemaker will take care of it.

Marie P.

20101003 Carol and Don discuss Library

Dittie Tobias Update

Dear Ownbey Family,

Got this note from Billy last night...

--------------------------------------------------------------

Reatha-

Before word leaks out and people @ MPUMC begin to ask, Mom fainted twice at home Monday evening and was admitted to Presbyterian Main for an overnight observation/ testing session. After eliminating UTI, EEG, EKG and various other possibilities, the ER attending physician felt that it was caused by a lack of proper hydration. She was discharged about 90 minutes ago and is home again. No residual effects and no impact from falling as I was standing behind her when she buckled, caught her and laid her on the floor. My mistake was attempting to stand her up too soon from the first episode, thus causing a secondary "spell."

Hope all is well with you,
Billy T.
____________________________________________

Since I don't have the BBQ list, can't remember right now if she and Billy had planned on joining us tomorrow night -- DO know that they were able to come at our last social (supper at Charlotte Cafe), and Dottie came to Adults PLUS the other week (thanks to Don Redding's chauffeuring kindness). If they HAD planned on coming, hope that they'll still be able to.

Either way, please remember to call/write Dottie from time to time:

Peace and Blessings,
Reatha - Wed - 6:45am

Potential New Members and BBQ

Subject:	Potential new members
Date:	Sun, 26 Sep 2010 19:58:46 EDT
From:	Reatha Andrew
To:	Class

Dear Ownbey Family, I'm glad that ELLEN SEALE found our class today. She'll be joining us at our BBQ this Thursday, too.
And JAYNE TAYLOR, who has visited w/us a few times as she "shops" for a SS class, also will be coming :-) She saw me at Church in the Round this morning, and I invited her.
Speaking of BBQ... Shebra has planned it so that we are the SECOND meal of BBQ this Thursday. The Fellowship Class will be gathering an hour before we do. They'll be eating downstairs, so don't take a wrong turn by simply following the chatter and smell of good 'cue! Remember: we'll be in Jubille Hall. See ya then :-) Reatha - Sun - 7:50pm

word of Thanks!

Subject:	Fwd: A Final word of Thanks!
Date:	Sun, 26 Sep 2010 20:21:40 EDT
From:	Reatha Andrew
To:	Class, etc

Dear Ownbey Family, Got this update from ED HILLMAN...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Friends, I have returned from my two-week check at Chapel Hill,

and all is going well with my healing and Mark's new kidney!

I'll be returning to work part time next week, and easing back into my yoga and

fish pills regimen.  I am most grateful for the cards, calls, e-mails, visits,

thoughts and prayers you have sent my way and heavenward.  It will be twenty years

before I know how all the prayers have turned out, but in terms of immediate effects,

the transplant could not have gone better.  And this happened in Chapel Hill!

(I was born in that other hospital on that other campus 10 miles away, and they

took excellent care of me anyway --  a tip of my Duke blue hat to a great group

of practitioners.)  I have learned once again that "it is in giving that we

receive," and I have gained far more from this experience than I imagined possible.

Perceiving the connectedness of family, friends, God, life and death is all quite

overwhelming, and very simple at the same time -- a gift of what is and what shall

be. This is my last transplant update as I now return to what I have always taken

to be normal life.  Thank you for being with me in this.

Continue to pray as you feel led for Mark and me.  We continue to be truly grateful

for all of you.  The Lord be with us all,  Ed
____________________________________________

And, as you may recall, even tho' Ed has a brother Mark, THIS Mark is Leslie's cousin (and Leslie is Ed's wife.)
Peace, Reatha - Sunday - 8:15pm

Visitor 9/26/2010

Dear Ownbey Family, I met a woman at church last night after the Single Point pgm who is SS class "shopping."  Barbara sugg'd that she try our class.
Her name is ELLEN SEALE, and she is planning to visit us this Sunday, and also come to our BBQ as my guest  :-)
However, this Sunday is Troutman UMC's Homecoming, so I'll be stopping by our class for only a few minutes.  On the off-chance that I won't be there when Ellen arrives, I just wanted to ask you to be on the look-out for her.
She has two dtrs -- one in Raleigh and one in college in Va.
For those of you w/new church directories... her picture is in there, and her address is listed as  8042 Christmas Ct * 28216.
See you Sunday... briefly!Reatha - Wed - 11:45pm

Subject: word from a former class member :-)
Date: Sun, 19 Sep 2010 21:45:04 EDT
From: Reatha Andrew
To:

Dear Ownbey Family,

Carol Douglas heard from KAREN HAUERSPERGER who now lives in Ohio :-) She has joined the Church of the Messiah UMC -- I guess in Westerville; that's where she lives:

162 Clearwater Drive
Westerville, OH 43082

She sent photos of Karla and her kids, and Jennifer and her husband(?) -- Carol has posted them on our bulletin board.

:-)
Reatha - Sun - 9:30pm

a
a
a

Hillman family

Dear Ownbey Family,

This prob. won't mean as much to those of you "newbie" class members, but we "veterans" remember the Hillman family. Dot Hillman Chanon was a class member for years. Ed is her oldest son -- a few years younger than I...

Got this from him this weekend:

--------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Friends,

Greetings and thanksgivings for your prayers and best wishes during this critical phase of my latest adventure. I have added a few folks to my list so I re-cap a little: Tuesday morning Leslie's cousin Mark and I checked into NC Memorial in Chapel Hill where I donated one of my kidney's to him in a very successful transplant -- thank you Transplant Team! Mark and I greeted each other in the recovery room that afternoon, and one of the nurses said his new kidney was producing like crazy -- wonderful music to my ears. Mark felt better after the surgery than he did before he checked in. I, on the other hand, felt pretty rough on Wednesday and Thursday, but both of us were "working" well enough to be released yesterday. I slept very well last night, though the narcotics do take you to some interesting dreamscapes. I'm moving slow, but I feel pretty good.

This has been a great blessing for me in so many ways. I hope to write some reflections of what I have gained from the experience. For now let me say I have gone from dread to thanksgiving in four short months. In the beginning my fears made me think this was a big deal, but I come out on this end understanding Jesus' words from Luke17:10: "when you've done everything you can, say to yourself -- I'm only a servant doing what I'm supposed to do." I'm simply glad I had the opportunity to do something.

I would ask you to pray that all continues to go well for Mark and me; your prayers have been highly effective so far! I'll give you one more update after my two-week checkup before I disband the list. I am very much aware of how connected we are to each other, and I thank you for being my friends.

Blessings and peace!
Ed - Sat aft'n - Sep 11

Health and Happiness Update

Dear Ownbey Family,

1. Today was DOROTHY BRIDGEMAN's b'day. In class last Sunday, LINDA MYERS brought a card for us to sign (which she then mailed). Later Linda shared w/me what Dorothy had told her when she had called her, inviting her to our class BBQ: Dorothy is in a retirement(?)nursing home on Carmel Rd, but she is hoping to get into Merrywood. She also said that her doctor has said that she's in the early stages of Alzheimer's. Acc. to our latest church directory, her son Perry and his family are living in her house near SouthPark. TODAY'S UPDATE: I saw B.Barden as I was leaving church, and she had just called Dorothy to add HER best wishes for D's b'day. Dorothy told her that she appreciates all the cards, etc, from our class and Barbara's call, BUT... she wants NO MORE contact from MPUMC...! She would like to transfer to Sharon UMC, where Perry has been attending... apparently. So... pls REMOVE HER from your class listing.

2. The BUKERS got to go to their mtn house in Little Switzerland this past weekend; daughter RUTH drove them there. In case you haven't heard, KEN has a benign brain tumor and began his radiation last week. He and ANNE do NOT need food, home visits, or even phone calls (due to naps) -- just send cards and offer your support and prayers.
KEN BUKER, 1838 Sterling Rd, 28209-1608

3. The COPELANDS will be out of town this weekend, as will I, but you are reminded to let them know your plans for our class BBQ on the 30th. Please let them know BEFORE Fri the 17th (when ANN needs to let SHEBRA know our numbers.) Remember you can pay your $10 at the door, and if you write a check, make it out to THE OWNBEY CLASS, and put BBQ on the memo line.

4. REQUEST: DOTTIE TOBIAS would REALLY like to attend the Yiddish Musical Journey next Wed (15th) for the AdultsPLUS! pgm. However, she needs a ride. Are any of you coming who could also pick her up? [MARY KATHERINE VASS might be able to, but she won't know till sometime Monday. I'd like to work this out before I leave for Camp Tekoa late tomorrow...]

Anything else?

Peace,
Reatha - Th - 10:45pm

Neil Diamond sings "Man of God" 3 minutes with slides

Neil Diamond sings "Man of God" 3 minutes

Ownbey Sunday School Class Reader ( http://ownbeyss.blogspot.com/ )

2010.09.05 Reatha Slaves Philemon

39 Minutes:

Birthdays in September and BBQ

Dear Ownbey Family,
Here are the Sep b'days, of which I'm aware.  [pls advise if i have mistyped anything]
Tue 7th - BILL WEBB * 
Sat 11th - LINDA CHRISTOPHER * 
Sat 18th - HEATHY WALKER * 
also the 18th - JOYCE WITHERINGTON * 
Th 30th (our BBQ night) - PILAR MORENO (Oscar's wife)

Th 2d - NANCY HATFIELD *
Tue 7th - ANNE BUKER * 
Wed 8th - ELLEN CHASON * 
Th 9th - DOROTHY BRIDGEMAN *
Sun 19th - ARLYENE ARMSTRONG *
Mon 27th - EVELYN CLARK * 
Tue 28th - FRANK GOSSETT * 
BBQ CLARIFICATION
Our annual BBQ will be held on THU SEP 30th at 6:30pm in JUBILEE HALL at the CHURCH.  The cost is $10, and if you pay by CHECK, please make it payable to THE OWNBEY CLASS, putting BBQ and the number of meals on the MEMO line.  We also accept cash  :-)
Shebra needs our numbers by Fri Sep 17th.  If you haven't signed up in Sunday school, you may call the Copelands,   There's an envelope for payment on the sign-up clipboard, or you can wait and pay at the door.
If you are in town this weekend, I hope you'll join us in class where I'll be leading our lesson on the Book of Philemon.  It's only one chapter in length, an easy read, and I encourage you to read it before coming to class.  In it, Paul is writing to Philemon (and also the church which meets in his home) on behalf of his runaway slave Onesimus.
Hope to see you then!Peace,

Faith - What is the definition

What is the definition of faith?

The dictionary definition of faith is, “the theological virtue defined as secure belief in God and a trusting acceptance of God's will.” For a Christian, this definition is not just words on a page it is a way of life. Faith is acceptance of what we cannot see but feel deep within our hearts. Faith is a belief that one-day we will stand before our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Click here for the rest of the story

Leighton Ford on a Christian Approach to Muslims

Found this on our friend Ben Witherington's Blog

Leighton Ford on a Christian Approach to Muslims

Saturday August 28, 2010

Leighton Ford is an old Charlotte friend of mine, and was formerly Billy Graham's right hand man in the Billy Graham Association. I find what he says in this post both sensible, sane, and well worth reflection. BW3

Jesus and the Mosque

On a shelf at home I have a copy of Pilgrims of Christ on the Muslim Road, the story of the Syrian-born writer Mazhar Mallouhi. As a young man who grew up in a Muslim family he had a profound spiritual hunger, read widely, learned of Jesus in the Bible, and became a follower of Christ while remaining loyal to his Muslim culture.

His novels are read by millions in the Middle East. Through them he has sought to bridge misunderstandings between Muslims and Christians.

In the book is a photo of him in the famous Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo, sitting with a group of Muslims as they read the Gospels together. It is his custom to say, "I am a follower of Christ. Here is what Jesus said. Tell me honestly, do you think I am living as Jesus said I should?"

I thought of Mallouhi's question during the heated dispute over the location of a Muslim mosque and community center near Ground Zero in New York. Among the voices being raised - some harsh with anger, some deep with indignation about "rights"- I wonder if the missing voice is that of Jesus?

If I were a Muslim I might want to claim rights, but also want my leaders to consider whether another location would work and help to heal some deep hurts. But I am not a Muslim. Those issues are for the Muslim community to decide.

What I need to ask is: what does Jesus say to us who say we follow him?

Suppose we, like Mallouhi, sat down with some Muslims in the new community center, and read with them some of the words of Jesus, words like "Do good to those who hate you." That could apply to radical terrorists who want to blow us up. So how can it not apply to Muslim neighbors who are living among us?

Many years ago my late friend J. Christy Wilson was pastor of the first ever Christian church in Kabul, Afghanistan. Through the good offices of President Eisenhower permission was granted to build the church, attended by Christian expatriates.

The time came when the Afghan authorities revoked permission and announced they would knock the church down. When the bulldozers arrived what did the Christ followers there do? They served tea to the workers who were destroying their church building!

They were living out a central tenet of our Christian faith - that we are "saved by grace" -God's grace freely given in Jesus Christ - and they showed grace.

How can we do that? I hope the churches and the Christ followers in New York can figure it out. Perhaps delivering a cool drink to the workers who will build the center? After all Paul went so far as to write (and this was about enemies, not neighbors) "If they are thirsty, give them something to drink."

Does this mean we naively accept real evil? Not at all. I understand the rage that 9/11 stirred. Force is often needed to protect the innocent. But ultimately I have to follow Jesus and his follower Paul in the baffling reality of Paul's admonition to "Overcome evil with good."

What does the love of Christ compel me to do? Perhaps whether in New York or Charlotte to extend a little more grace - actually a whole lot more. Wouldn't that be the best witness we could make?

Leighton Ford

Comments (1)

Ownbey Menu 11/05/16

$$$ for Shepherd Center Computer Classes

Found this on our friend Ben Witherington's Blog

Leighton Ford on a Christian Approach to Muslims

Saturday August 28, 2010