Nebraska Youth Ministries

Thursday - Testimonies

2012-02-02T06:29:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Nine Lashes - ♫ Get Back ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Our AIM director Bruce Riddle was updating our Youth Committee last week on the status of our planned missions trip to Ireland this summer. Ireland is a country that has long been divided among denominational lines: Catholics and Protestants. They rarely work together, and several times have fought in vicious battles. This is changing though. In Derry, Ireland, where our missions trip is taking place, the Catholics and Protestants are working together to help us with our work projects in the city. This is unheard of in that part of the world, but God is moving!

3). Ministry of the Day: Chi Alpha Ministries - Check out our National College Ministries

4). Link of the Day: Homemade Projector - Discover a different way to resource your churches

5). Quote of the Day: 'A sure way to lose happiness, I found, is to want it at the expense of everything else.' - Bette Davis

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Crepe Day. It is also the birthday of Tricia Murrish (Royal Family Kids Camp Director), a distinction she shares with King James I of Aragon. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Groundhog Day was established in the US in 1976.

DYD's at Dinner, Branson, Feb 2012

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2012-02-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: The Afters - ♫ I Am Yours ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- The last session of our Ministers Winter Retreat last month in Kearney, NE was titled 'How to have a good church fight' You can download the audio of the message here (connect as a guest then download). Rod Loy mentioned that there are 3 main levels of fights within the church. The first is focused around the Essentials. These are the doctrines of our faith, the intangibles that make us who we are. The second category is fights over traditions. These revolve around the methods and practices that we have been using in our churches for many years. Finally, many fights in churches occur because of difference of opinion. We must decide with our churches that we will only choose to 'fight' over the essentials - if it's not an essential than it's not worth a true fight. Too many church divisions and disruptive splits occur because of problems with opinions or traditions.

3). Ministry of the Day: TraClub - The web portal to access all of the wonderful resources provided by our National Royal Rangers Department.

4). Link of the Day: Chrometric - A creative page that shows everyone what it's like to be colorblind

5). Quote of the Day: 'Gray hair is God's graffiti.' - Bill Cosby

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Freedom Day. It is also the Speed the Light Rally for the Northwest Section of Nebraska in Alliance at 7pm. It is the birthday of famous American Actor Clark Gable from 1901. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Communications Decency Act was passed by Congress in 1996.

National BGMC Banquet, Branson, Jan 31, 2012

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2012-01-31T06:32:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day:Elevation Worship - ♫ Exalted One ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia so the question will carryover to this week with a $10 payout - Name two of Jesus' disciples whose names begin with the letter "T".

3). Ministry of the Day: BGMC for Kids - a website specifically designed to teach kids about missions, full of fun stuff and games as well

4). Link of the Day: Rick Dance - a fun page where Rick Lorimer (pastor in Lincoln) will dance according to your commands

5). Quote of the Day: 'When one door closes another opens. But we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we fail to see the one that has opened for us.' - Alexander Graham Bell

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Appreciate Your Social Security Check Day. It is also the deadline for Assembly of God Churches to turn in their annual church reports to the National Office. It is the birthday of famous baseball player Jackie Robinson from 1919. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Scotch Tape was first distributed in 1930.

Two Incredible Leaders from Ministers Retreat, Kearney, January

Monday - Life Lessons

2012-01-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Neely (NE Fine Arts Concert, March 30th) - ♫ In the Middle ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- I was at the gym early in the morning and a lady came in that I had never seen before. She quickly went to a treadmill and began to walk next to a man that was running. She pulled a hoodie over her head and put headphones on, listening to her favorite music. A few minutes later everyone heard a loud 'THUD'. We looked over, and she had fallen off the treadmill. The man stopped running to help her out and she admitted that she was very tired, had closed her eyes, and must have dozed off. After seeing that she was OK, she resumed her workout and the rest of us bit our lips and held the laughter in.

- Not 5 minutes later, we heard another loud 'THUD'. Expecting to see her sprawled out on the floor again, we turned but only saw the remote. She admitted that she was turning channels on the TV, but dozed off again and dropped the remote. We wisely recommended that she wake up a little bit, or move to a bike where she could sit down.

- Working out is a great thing to do, but proper rest can go a long way as well! In ministry, we have a lot of late nights. Make sure to prioritize a good amount of sleep to be in your best shape for workday.

3). Ministry of the Day: Missions Bike Ride - Check out info on our 2012 Missions Bike Ride, Sept 3-9th, from Chadron to NE City, over 500 miles! Last year, we raised over $24,000 for missions

4). Link of the Day: Safe WiFi - How to stay safe when using public wifi to work on the road

5). Quote of the Day: 'All for one; one for all.' - Alexander Dumas

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day. It is also the birthday of President Franklen D. Roosevelt, from 1882. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that King Charles I of England was beheaded in 1649.

Missions Bike Ride Graphic, Sept 3-9th, 2012

Leaders Profile - Russell Kriefels

2012-01-27T05:10:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Life in Your Way - ♫ Who I Am ♫

2). Leader Profile - Russell Kriefels

POSITION: Youth Leader at Coleridge Family Church

FAMILY: 2 Brothers, in a relationship with April

HISTORY: Graduated from Friend, attended SCC for welding technology

HOBBIES: Christian Music, Fishing

3). Ministry of the Day: Teacher Appreciation - Nominate a teacher from your church to receive a great award for their faithful service

4). Link of the Day: Passwords - Test how secure your passwords may actually be

5). Quote of the Day: 'Every creature is better alive than dead, men and moose and pine trees, and he who understands it aright will rather preserve its life than destroy it.' - Henry David Thoreau

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Fun at Work Day. It is also the birthday of Art Rooner, founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers, from 1901. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Musician Michael Jackson burned his scalp in a Pepsi commercial in 1984.

Thursday - Testimonies

2012-01-26T07:37:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Electric Guest - ♫ American Daydream ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- My wife came to Kearney last week to attend the New Ministers Luncheon at Ministers Retreat. It was a great chance for her to connect with people at a district event, something she is more able to do now that she is a Century 21 Real Estate (check out her FB page here). About to leave to head home, she asked if she should take the interstate or the highway. I suggested the interstate, since the hotel we were at was right next to it.

- In true form, she went against my suggestion and took the highway. Driving through Shelton, she got a real estate call. Amazingly, it was from a man in Shelton calling about some real estate options. He had visited Kim several weeks before, but she had lost contact with him. Usually, that means the client will contact some other realtor whenever they like. But he called back and Kim is now helping him with his real estate needs.

3). Ministry of the Day: JBQ - Junior Bible Quiz is a great way to help your children memorize the Word of God, while giving you a chance to connect with other leaders/groups across the state.

4). Link of the Day: Food on the Table - Family Meal Planning in Minutes. Create a meal plan for your family using chef-approved recipes that everyone will like.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd.' - Max Lucado

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Peanut Brittle Day. It is also the birthday of famous American general Douglas MacArthur from 1880. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Michigan became a state in 1837.

Jay Warriner, Youth Camp Director, at Ministers Retreat in Kearney, January

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2012-01-25T07:49:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: KB - ♫ Zone Out ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- The last night of Ministers Winter Retreat, our secretary treasurer had the presbyters stand up. We prayed over them as our leaders. It was one of the first moments I could remember specifically praying for them in such a way since I've been the DYD of NE.

- The role of a Presbyter is significant, but often times misunderstood. They are the governing body for our district. They work in close relationship with our executive officers, and especially Pastor Dwight. They help to keep him accountable and enforce his vision for Nebraska. They represent all 11 geographical sections of NE, voted upon by their peers in their respective areas. They are pastors that are ordained and recognized as leaders. They help decide which business comes to the district council for the entire body of pastors to vote upon. They assist in credentialing and disciplining ministers for our state. They provide leadership to district

affiliated churches in their sections. They also serve as a communication piece, both from the pastors to the district leaders and from the district leaders to the ministers.

- As you can see, this is an important, powerful leadership position in our state. I encourage you to pray for your presbyters. If you are struggling with district items, go to them and talk about it. If you need help with a situation in your local ministry, ask them. If you have something in the district that has benefitted you, let them know. They are there for you!

3). Ministry of the Day: PK Network - Help your pastors kids interact with other pastors kids from across the nation

4). Link of the Day: Free Icons - The icons come in 12 different colors and are available in PSD, PNG, JPG and GIF formats.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.' - Henry Ford

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Leprosy Day. It is also the birthday of Andy Korenak (pastor in Blair), a distinction he shares with Steve Mason (Alabama DYD) and Charles Curtist, 31st Vice President of the US, in 1860. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Battle of the Bulge ended in World War II in 1945.

Steve Warriner, Presbyter of the Tri-Cities Section, playing bass at Ministers Retreat

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2012-01-24T05:25:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day:KJ-52 - ♫ Firestarter ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to KEVIN LIBBY for being the correct comment chosen at random as our winner from last week's trivia. He is now up to $15 in prize earnings - way to go! Here's the trivia for this week: Name two of Jesus' disciples whose names began with the letter 'T'

3). Ministry of the Day: Ministers Retreat Recordings - Listen to the messages from our Ministers Winter Retreat sessions last week. Connect as a guest, then download them for your personal use

4). Link of the Day: Should I watch? Do you hate knowing the outcome of a game but want to avoid watching a blowout? ShouldIWatch will warn you if your team got blown out - but won't spoil the outcome if it was close.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Believe you can and you're halfway there.' - Theodore Roosevelt

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Belly Laugh Day. It is also the birthday of Candis Kurpgeweit (youth leader in Ewing) a distinction she shares with famous musician Neil Diamond from 1941. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Bucharest became the capital of Romania in 1862.

Jalise Busch, at Ministers Winter Retreat, Pastors Kid

Monday - Life Lessons

2012-01-23T18:52:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Manafest - ♫ Never Let You Go ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Last week was our annual Ministers Winter Retreat in Nebraska. It was a great time of connecting with other pastors from across the state. On the first morning of a three day event, we offered free coffee to all of our ministers, as a way to thank them for their incredible giving to STL and BGMC in 2011. We had just purchased a new professional coffee machine for district use and we thought this would be a great way to help break it in with our pastors. It worked great. Everyone appreciated the free cup of joe, and they saw that it was a quality blend so they came back to pay for more throughout the rest of the event.

- Sometimes, letting people have a taste will help them buy into the entire vision of what you are trying to accomplish. A little taste can go a long way.

3). Ministry of the Day: AIM 2012 - Check out our two Missions Trip options for NYM in 2012; Ireland and California!

4). Link of the Day: Pinterest - Pinterest is an online inboard. Organize and share things you love.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Can you imagine what I would do if I could do all I can?' - Sun Tzu

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Pie Day. It is also the day we recommend our NE Churches to order their Spring Sunday School Curriculum. It is the birthday of Oral Roberts, famous American pastor and evangelist, from 1918. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first Apple Macintosh Computer went on sale in 1984.

Surprise Shot at a movie in Omaha with the Youth Committee

Leader Profile - Jason Mauck

2012-01-20T05:17:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Southbound Fearing - ♫ Fighting Words ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Jason Mauck

POSITION - Youth Pastor at North Shore Church in Hastings, NE

HISTORY - Graduated from Bolivar High in MO

FAMILY - Married to Kendra with 2 children

HOBBIES - Hanging with Family, Ice Cream, Hang gliding

3). Ministry of the Day: Up in the Air for Kids - Spend time on a billboard to raise money for BGMC

4). Link of the Day: Yummly - The most powerful way to search the best recipes in one stop.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A healthy attitude is contagious but don't wait to catch it from others. Be a carrier.' - Tom Stoppard

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Camcorder Day. It is also the birthday of Jason Mauck (youth pastor in Hastings) a distinction he shares with Elizabeth Williams (minister in Minatare), Heidi Ruoff (feeding program leader at camp) and famous actor George Burns from 1896. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the roller coaster was patented in 1885.

Thursday - Testimonies

2012-01-19T11:25:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Cloverton - ♫ Take me into the Beautiful ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Recently, a young man in one of the jr. high schools of Grand Island, NE died on campus. He was a teenager with special needs and it was a tragic situation where his health deteriorated quickly. One of the ladies from Northridge is a teacher in that school and she asked the principal if she could pray at the end of the staff meeting, concerning the situation. He gave her permission with the allowance for any that didn't want to participate to leave before she began. She prayed and ministered to many teachers struggling with their faith. Later on, the principal found her in the hallway and thanked her for standing up for what she believed in and said that he was proud of her for doing the right thing.

3). Ministry of the Day: Pop out for Missions - Challenge your students to give up soda/pop for one month, and turn in the money they would have spent on that drink to BGMC missions around the world.

4). Link of the Day: Weather Tiles - Quick weather updates on your mobile phone

5). Quote of the Day: 'A child of five would understand this. Send someone to fetch a child of five.' - Groucho Marx

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Popcorn Day. It is also the birthday of Joel Loutzenhiser (youth/children's leader at Word of Life in O'Neill) a distinction he shares with Greg Scott (Minister in Omaha) and author Edgar Allen Poe from 1809. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Japanese forces invaded Burma during World War II in 1942.

Dave and Nathan enjoying a breakout during Ministers Retreat Jan 18th, 2012

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2012-01-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Kutless - ♫ Everything I Need ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

Last night, our speaker at Ministers Retreat spoke about when we as leaders go through times when we feel attacked. He gave us a key verse from Acts 23:11 'The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”' This was right after Paul had testified in front of the Jewish people, but they had him thrown in prison. It didn't go very well, yet God appeared to him to encourage him not to give up. These are some of the lessons we learned. God was with him all along. God approved of his message even if the people around him didn't. Though the results were not what he wanted, God was still pleased. God's plan will sometimes be met with resistance among those we deliver it to. Though we may feel like failures, God still has us in His hand. Though we may feel insignificant now (Jerusalem), God has bigger plans for us than we can possibly imagine (Rome).

3). Ministry of the Day: College Scholarships - We have several scholarships to give away to current high school seniors for their plans next fall. Check them out along the right side of our webpage above.

4). Link of the Day: GnuCash - Free accounting software online

5). Quote of the Day: 'A friend is one who knows you and loves you just the same.' -

Elbert Hubbard

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Thesaurus Day. It is also the birthday of famous American Statesman Daniel Webster from 1782. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Sierra Leone Civil War was finally declared over in 2002.

Blindfold Challenge at the STL rally in North Platte, Dec 7th, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2012-01-17T05:58:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Phil Wickham - ♫ This is the Day ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, there is no winner from last week's trivia so the $10 will go unclaimed. Here is this week's trivia, worth $5 for the winner chosen at random from the correct comments given: What is the 43rd book of the bible?

3). Ministry of the Day: #MWR12 - Our twitter hashtag for the Nebraska Ministers Retreat in Kearney

4). Link of the Day: Hello, what do you want - Share your ultimate want with the world and use your personal life experiences to guide others to achieve theirs

5). Quote of the Day: 'Forgive, son; men are men; they needs must err.' - Euripides

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Kids Inventors Day. It is also the birthday of Nadine Sandoz (NE Superintendents Wife and Women's Ministries Director), a distinction she shares Benjamin Franklin from 1706. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the UN Security Council held its first session in 1946.

First Session of Ministers Winter Retreat, Kearney, Jan 16

Monday - Life Lessons

2012-01-16T06:53:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Rend Collective - ♫ Second Chance ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- My wife is a realtor in Grand Island. Since she started this job last summer, she takes a tour once a week of different homes recently listed in the area. It's been an eye opener, not only for her as a new realtor, but also as a Christian. Sometimes, as Christians, we spend so much time with other Christians we forget what life can be like for those without Jesus. She's gone into several homes that were full of broken families, wayward teens, abuse, and the list goes on and on. We would all be better as witnesses for Christ if we could take a 'tour' of our city and see what's really going on in the streets of my mission field.

3). Ministry of the Day: On Course Magazine - Check out this powerful Christian magazine for teens, provided by our National Youth Office in Springfield, MO.

4). Link of the Day: A good host - Check out this list of ways to be a good host for others in the 21st Century.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I'm afraid of widths.' - Steven Wright

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Robert E Lee Day. It is also the birthday of Chris Wadle (pastor in Big Springs) a distinction he shares with famous baseball player Albert Pujols from 1980. Finally, it is the beginning of our NE ministers retreat in Kearney, and the anniversary of the day that the battle of Cape St. Vincent took place in the American Revolution in 1780.

Arm Wrestling at the Kearney STL Rally, Jan 4th

Friday - Leader's Profile

2012-01-13T05:20:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Sons - ♫ Doubt ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Drew Krizek

POSITION - Youth Pastors wife in Kearney, Works at the Buckle

HISTORY - Attended University of Nebraska at Kearney, high school in Paxton

FAMILY - Married to Nate Krizek

HOBBIES - Movies, Coffee, Reading, Scrapbooking, Music

3). Ministry of the Day: Devotions - Firestarter Mobile Devotions for your cellphone

4). Link of the Day: Dragontape - A video playlist for YouTube

5). Quote of the Day: 'Every tomorrow has two handles. We can take hold of it with the handle of anxiety or the handle of faith.' - Henry Ward Beecher

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Public Radio Day, as well as Liberation Day in the country of Togo. It is also the birthday of Melissa Merino (youth and children's leader at River of Life in Scottsbluff), a distinction she shares with Trace Adkins, country music artist, from 1962. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first public radio broadcast took place in 1910.

Thursday - Testimonies

2012-01-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Corby LaCroix - ♫ You Remain ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Yesterday, we received our STL totals back from the National Office. As a state, we gave $12,000 more than the previous year. Several churches gave new records in their personal giving, and we are online to finish all of our current projects for our missionaries.

- I spoke to Pastor Dwight earlier this week. We had some great giving towards the campgrounds this past year. Recently, a $25,000 gift was given to help alleviate the debt on the Dining Center. We also have some savings to start working on projects to update our Rec Center in 2012.

3). Ministry of the Day: Kids Convention - March 23,24th at The Crossing in Lexington. EMPOWERED! $45 for students, $30 for leaders (includes two training sessions).

4). Link of the Day: The Kids Should See This - Off the grid-for-little-kids videos and other smart stuff collected by Rion Nakaya and her three year old co-curator.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Every moment is an experience.' - Jake Roberts

6). Miscellaneous: Today is Tanzanias Zanzibar Revolution Day. It is also the birthday of Christian Musical Artist Jeremy Camp, from 1978. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915.

STL Rally in Kearney, Jan 4th

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2012-01-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Brittany Hargest - ♫ Miracle ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- Youth Ministry is a valuable part of the church. It's important to teach our teens the Word of God, and stay close to them as they are traveling through this tough period of life. Some recent reports have tried to cast a bad light on youth ministry though, suggesting it isn't that effective for the time and energy we put into it. They base much of their results on the recent statistics which have shown that a majority of youth leaving our churches after graduation are not found as an active part of a 'church' just one year later.

- Here is an article, recommended to me from our National Youth Leader Jay Mooney, which helps us completely understand the situation and properly assess the important of youth ministry in our local churches and communities.

3). Ministry of the Day: NE Fine Arts - March 30,31st at Kearney New Life. NEELY in concert on Friday night. Fine Arts entries on Saturday, including Kappa Tau college participants and a dodgeball tournament

4). Link of the Day: 24 Hour Web Timer - An online timer to use with events or in conjunctions with promotions on your website.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.' - John Dewey

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Cigarettes are Hazardous to your Health Day, as well as Morocco's Independence Day. It is the birthday of Roman Emperor Theodosius I "the Great" from 347 AD. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that East Pakistan renamed itself Bangladesh in 1972.

The Arm Wrestling War at the Valentine STL Rally in December

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2012-01-10T05:27:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Shaken - ♫ History ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia, so the question will carryover to this week with a $10 prize. Remember, we will select a random entry from the correct comments that will win, and the money can go towards any NYM event or piece of merchandise. Here it is - Who was the first human born to a woman on earth?

3). Ministry of the Day: The Dare - This book isn’t for those who are weakened by challenge, but those who rise because of it. If you want to stay at your same level of relationship with Christ, then walk away. But if you’re hungry for a REAL CHANGE, this 30-day-challenge will impact every aspect of your life.

4). Link of the Day: Running Routes Map - Simply put, it's a free and easy way to create running routes or find one from our member running routes.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A man is not old until regrets take the place of dreams.' - John Barrymore

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day, as well as the deadline for the approval of the Google-Motorola merger by the European Commission. It is also the birthday of famous musician Rod Stewart from 1945. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Julius Caesar started a civil war in 49 BC.

Our 2012 Camp Postcard arrived in the mail today!

Monday - Life Lessons

2012-01-09T07:26:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Needtobreathe - ♫ Keep Your Eyes Open ♫

2). Blog Entry: Reach the Children

- Yesterday, Missionaries Trent and Angie Mettenbrink visited my home church in Grand Island, NE. They spoke in our Sunday School class and preached in the main service. Angie left after Trent started preaching, and presented to the children in their service on the other side of the building. She gave each child a small plastic bag with certain fun supplies, titled a MISSIONARY SURVIVAL KIT. My daughter Abby loved it, and showed it to me as soon as service was over.

- Last night, as we were all preparing to go to bed, my daughter said good night to me and then told me 'don't forget to pray for those missionaries'. This morning, on our way to drop her off at school, she prayed for them again!

- Raise up a child in the way they should go and they won't depart from it. Help our children interact with world changers. And putting things in the hands of listeners will help them remember what you said later on.

3). Ministry of the Day: 1 Minute Testimony - Share a one minute video testimony with MomentofTruthTV and help young people make an impact in the film industry.

4). Link of the Day: Screenfly - See what your website looks like on different laptops, phones, tablets, and television

5). Quote of the Day: 'Always remember that the future comes one day at a time.' - Dean Acheson

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Balloon Ascension Day, and the annual Coming of Age day in Japan. It is also the birthday of Richard Nixon, 37th US President, from 1913. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first modern circus was staged in London in 1768

Omaha STL Rally, Dec 14th, 2011

2012-01-06T06:08:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Electric Guest - ♫ This Head I Hold ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Don Chester

POSITION: Youth Leader at Calvary Assembly in Lexington, NE

HISTORY: Graduated from CBC, pastored and served in 3 different NE communities

FAMILY: Married to Tonya with two boys

HOBBIES: Cleveland Indians fan, motorcycles, plays trumpet

3). Ministry of the Day: Email a missionary - Send an encouraging note or prayer to a missionary on a number of different foreign and local fields

4). Link of the Day: Business Cards - Design and distribute dynamic business cards

5). Quote of the Day: 'About the time we can make the ends meet, somebody moves the ends.' - Herbert Hoover

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Three Kings Day. It is also the birthday of Joan of Arc, French military figure from 1412. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Marine Core launched 'Operation Deckhouse Five' in the Mekong River Delta during the Vietnam War in 1967.

Thursday - Testimonies

2012-01-05T05:23:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day:Run Kid Run - ♫ Daylight ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- This past week I had the privilege of attending the Great Plains Regional Salt Conference, for college students, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Mike Amiot (regional leader) and his team did a great job hosting the event for several hundred students from across the north central area of the US. We had 4 different Chi Alpha from NE represented. We heard from several students that felt a touch of God upon their lives, and many reported divine healing in their physical bodies.

- Brian Korell, NE Youth Alive Director, forwarded me a monthly report he received from one of our many NE Campus Missionaries. His focus is to be the best example of Jesus he can be by sharing his story with co-workers and friends when the time is right.

3). Ministry of the Day: Campus Missionaries - Check out this program that empowers your students as leaders to see their schools as a mission field and strategically reach out to at least five of their friends.

4). Link of the Day: Prezi - Make powerful presentations for big and small groups

5). Quote of the Day: 'God gave us the gift of life; it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.' - Voltaire

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Bird Day. It is also the birthday of Mike King (Campus Church and Creative Arts Pastor in Lincoln), a distinction he shares with King Juan Carlos I of Spain from 1938. Finally, it is the anniversary George and Martha Washington from 1759.

Mike Maroney, dinner at Braccos, Great Plains Salt Conference, SD

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2012-01-04T11:04:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Sent By Ravens - ♫ Learn from the Night ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner - Prayer

- I've enjoyed this week of prayer, watching so many of our pastors and churches post about their prayer meetings to begin the year. Yesterday, one of our youth pastors in the Siouxland section twittered a quote that Jesus' disciples didn't ask him to teach them how to lead, but they asked him to teach them how to pray. I've been reading a book by the author Francis Frangipane, in which he encourages leaders to bathe every action in prayer.

- Prayer needs to be a priority; a regular part of our lives, both personally and in ministry. When I was a youth pastor, I modeled this in two ways. First, every work day started off with our entire staff praying together in the sanctuary from 8 to 9am. We often had Christian music playing lightly in the background, and regularly I would read a little from the Scriptures before filling most of the time in prayer with God. Second, we would offer pre-service prayer at each of our youth services. Each leader was required to try to participate. If they picked up students, they made sure to arrange a time so the student could also accompany them in prayer as well.

- At dinner during the Great Plains Regional Salt Conference last night in Sioux Falls, we heard a report about one of our young adults in Nebraska who was having some issues with her pregnancy. Someone suggested we pray for her immediately, which we did.

- What are you doing to model prayer for those you lead, both personally and in your ministry. Here's a great article from NPR about how prayer is beneficial, even in a physical sense.

3). Ministry of the Day: Discipleship Forum - Check out this link with excerpts from great discipleship topics covered by our National Discipleship Ministries Agency

4). Link of the Day: Doodle Pad - Connecting agents and artists on a local level

5). Quote of the Day: 'Beauty has a lot to do with character.' - Kevyn Aucoin

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Braille Day. It is also the birthday of Cindy Holbrook (Youth leader in Lexington) a distinction she shares with Pam Riddle (Youth Pastors Wife in Lincoln) and John McCone, former CIA director, from 1902. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Nancy Pelosi became the first official female Speaker of the House of Representatives in Congress in 2007.

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2012-01-03T06:31:00.001-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Phillips, Craig, and Dean - ♫ When the Stars Burn Down ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia. Here's the first trivia of the year (worth a $5 prize, which can be used towards any NYM event or piece of merchandise): Who was the first human born to a woman on earth? (we choose a random selection from all correct comments)

3). Ministry of the Day: National Chi Alpha - The Regional SALT conference is happening right now in Sioux Falls South Dakota. Check out this powerful ministry happening nationwide for college students on secular campuses, including 7 colleges in Nebraska.

4). Link of the Day: Volunteer Spot - Coordinate parents and volunteers the fast, easy way with free online sign up forms and volunteer scheduling.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A man paints with his brains and not with his hands.' - Michelangelo

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day. It is also the birthday of Steven Schaible (Superintendent of the South Dakota District), a distinction he shares with Brian Pringel (North Central Youth Professor) and Cicero, Roman Statesman from 106 BC. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that more than seven million people from the former Apartheid Homelands, receive South African citizenship in 1994.

Monday - Life Lessons

2012-01-02T08:05:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Kristina Cornell - ♫ Tell Them ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- In Omaha, I was driving to the gym in the early morning. On the way, the car in front of me seemed to be tail-gating the car in front of him. At an intersection, he pulled over over to the turning lane in the left at the light. I noticed the driver from the car in front of him glaring at him angrily. Later, a few miles down the road, that same car pulled up to a slow moving vehicle in our lane, and tail-gated him, until he moved to the side to allow him through.

- Isn't it interesting how we don't like to be tail-gated, but when we tail-gate someone else, it's OK? Remember the golden rule - 'do unto others what you would have them do unto you' (Matthew 7:12)

3). Ministry of the Day: STL Stories - A huge list of stories from both students and missionaries on how speed the light is changing lives across the world.

4). Link of the Day: Top NYM Photos of 2011 - Check out this link to view all of the photos individually, or check out this highlight video featured here.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman's birthday but never remembers her age.' - Robert Frost

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Motivation and Inspiration Day. It is also the beginning of the Salt Conference for College Students in the midwest in Sioux Falls, SD. It is the birthday of Jodi Banzhaf (Chi Alpha Director at Chadron State College), a distinction she shares with famous author Isaac Asimov, from 1920. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Amadeus I became King of Spain in 1871.

Friday - Leader Profile

2011-12-30T06:45:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Anthem Lights - ♫ Outta My Mind ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Tom Bruna

POSITION - NE District Royal Ranger Commander

HISTORY - Works at Thermo Kings, attends North Shore in Hastings

FAMILY - Married to Darla, with three children

HOBBIES - Being with family, skiing, going to the lake, missions

3). Ministry of the Day: PK Network - A place for the children of pastors from across the nation to hang out online

4). Link of the Day: Food Pickle - Food pickle is here to help with all your food and cooking needs

5). Quote of the Day: 'Duty is the essence of manhood.' - George S. Patton

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Bacon Day. It is also the birthday of famous golfer Tiger Woods, from 1975. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Edwin Hubble admitted the existence of other galaxies, in 1924. One final request - please pray for the family of Tim Lillard (youth pastor in Norfolk), with his son at a Children's Hospital because of severe fever blisters.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-12-29T06:35:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Royal Tailor - ♫ Hope ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Next week, our annual regional SALT conference for young adults will take place in Sioux Falls, SD. All of our Chi Alphas are asked to participate and go. Last year at this time, we had three Chi Alphas to invite, but now NE has doubled to 6, with more on the way next year as well.

- I received a Facebook message from a former NYM student on Christmas Day. He was thanking me for his incredible experiences at our camp and telling me how they had a tremendous impact on his life.

3). Ministry of the Day: STL Map - See where Speed the Light is active all over the world

4). Link of the Day: Eco Freak - Eco Freak search engine aggregates and searches websites and libraries for free, swap & trade, and garage sale/estate sale(s) items

5). Quote of the Day: 'I think that people want peace so much that one of these days government had better get out of their way and let them have it.' - Dwight D. Eisenhower

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Chocolate Day. It is also the birthday of Steve Hahn (pastor in Alliance), a distinction he shares with Mike Fowler (pastor in Clinton) and Andrew Johnson, 17th President of the US, from 1808. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first YMCA opened in Boston in 1851.

#9, Backstage shot of Chet during the Altar time at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-12-28T08:36:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Brian Courtney Wilson - ♫ So Proud ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- The link above is a post about 100 ways to live a better life. With the new year upon us, and many like me that will make resolutions in 2012, consider some of my favorites from this list:

- Create a new habit

- Start a new diet

- Keep a journal

- Create and keep a morning phrase

- Learn a new language

- Wake up early

- Write a personal mission statement

- Read a book per week

- Start a monthly challenge

- Call an old friend

3). Ministry of the Day: Missionary Kids - Check out this online group for the international society of the children of missionaries across the world.

4). Link of the Day: Jinni - Your Taste Engine for movies and TV shows.

5). Quote of the Day: 'We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.' - Mother Teresa

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Pledge of Allegiance Day. Is is also the birthday of famous Christian Music artist Twila Paris, from 1958. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the planet Neptune was first discovered by Galileo in 1612.

#13, Worship view from the balcony at Youth Camp 2, Lexington, June

2011-12-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: HarvestBloom - ♫ The Narcissist ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia, so the question will carryover to this week with a double prize - $10! (remember, we choose randomly from all the correct comments on the blog or on Facebook) How many Gospels mention the Christmas story of Jesus' birth?

3). Ministry of the Day: Teacher Certification - Training teachers helps to develop them into strong disciple-makers. This Christian Education Teacher Certification (CETC) is available in English and Spanish and is designed to equip teachers be the best teacher teachers they can be.

4). Link of the Day: Blip.me Walkie Talkie - Blip.me is a fun, useful, and free way to turn your

mobile phone into a push-to-talk walkie-talkie.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.' - Albert Einstein

6). Miscellaneous: Today is the middle of the week celebrating Kwanzaa. It is also the birthday of certified minister Albert Lautenschlager (of Destiny church in Grand Island), a distinction he shares with Oakland Raiders Quarterback Carson Palmer, from 1979. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the anesthetic ether was used for the first time in childbirth in 1845.

#17, Praying for our NYM Scholarship Students at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-12-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Ashes Remain - ♫ On My Own ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Recently, I went shopping for a gift. As I was looking through the store, I found the clearance aisle. Clothes were at great prices, 6o to 65% off the original price on the tag. I found one that looked good and took it to the counter. When I went to purchase it, I was surprised to find that there was a store special that day for an additional 15% off all purchases. I got a great deal.

- Everyone around us is looking for a great deal. Jesus gave us a 'great deal' that we didn't deserve, forgiving us and making us new. Don't be afraid to help people see the 'great deal' they could have in Christ!

3). Ministry of the Day: Acts 2 Process - Based on five elements evident in the early church, the Acts 2 process helps churches to assess their current situation and to establish an intentional plan for continued development by focusing on connecting to God and others, growing in discipleship, service, going to share the good news of Jesus with the world, and worshiping God.

4). Link of the Day: Delicious - Delicious helps you find cool stuff and collect it for easy sharing.

Dig into stacks created by the community and then build your own.

5). Quote of the Day: 'The first step toward having spiritual authority over the adversary is having peace in spite of our circumstances.' - Francis Frangipane

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Thank You Note Day. It is also the birthday of Karen Washburn (youth pastors wife in Fremont), a distinction she shares with Mao Zedong, Chinese military leader from 1893. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the British were defeated in the Battle of Trenton during the Revolutionary War in 1776.

#23, Finish Line of the Missions Bike Ride, Omaha, September

Friday - Leader Profile

2011-12-23T05:38:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Canton Jones - ♫ Hallelujah ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Walter Hooker

POSITION: Associate Pastor at BCC

HISTORY: Officer in the Air Force

FAMILY: Married with 3 fully grown children

HOBBIES: Lifting Weights, Grilling, Being with Family and Friends

3). Ministry of the Day: Character Connex - School Assembly programs for elementary students

4). Link of the Day: Wex - Legal Information Institutes Definition of Legal Terms online

5). Quote of the Day: 'T'was the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.' - Clement Clarke Moore

6). Miscellaneous: Today is the National man made holiday of Festivus. It is also the birthday of Niels Kaj Jerne, Nobel Prize winner in Medicine, in 1911. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that The Night Before Christmas was published anonymously.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-12-22T06:01:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Crystal Aikin - ♫ Silent Night ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Recently, I had a chance to witness to a man at my gym. I was doing sit-ups nearby when I overhead him talking about an experience he had with a traveling evangelist. The evangelist parked behind him when he was trying to leave and hedged him in while they trying to witness to him. He was frustrated with their actions and told them that he didn't believe in God because of the tragedy in his life, and then called God some pretty bad names.

- I instantly felt the Holy Spirit nudge me to get involved. At first I thought I'd just pray for him, but I knew it wasn't enough. Then I convinced myself that I'd open up if the opportunity presented itself, but God reminded me that it already had. So I went to him and mentioned that I overhead the conversation. I apologized for the tragedy he's suffered, and for the overeagerness of the evangelist. I told him that I was a Christian, and though I have difficult times as well, I hadn't given up on God and maybe he shouldn't either. He mentioned that just a few short years ago he'd tried to recommit himself to God, and had several Bibles in his house. I didn't push too hard but it was obvious that he was reconsidering his position.

- God fills us with the Holy Spirit to be a witness for situations just like this. When you feel God nudge you in times like these, listen and respond; it's not a coincidence that these things happen when you are around.

3). Ministry of the Day: 1Month - Consider challenging your students/leaders to carry their Bible with them wherever they go for a solid month, maybe in January 2012?

4). Link of the Day: Barista Exchange - Hear from other 'Coffee' people about the best stuff in the business.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Christmas, my child, is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it's Christmas.' - Dale Evans

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Yule Day. It is also the birthday of Lady Bird Johnson, first Lady of the US, in 1912. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Lincoln Tunnel opened to traffic in New York City in 1937.

#41, Final Church Devotions at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-12-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Hawk Nelson - ♫ Hark the Herald Angels Sing ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- Ten ways a student benefits from small groups (from a dad's perspective)

1. Another significant adult is caring for them and cheering them on. 2. They are encouraged to grow spiritually on their own by someone other than mom/dad. 3. They find support during turbulent times in their life. 4. A caring presence at their sporting events or key activities. 5. Someone who is excited to see them at church. 6. Someone actually notices and misses them when they’re not at church or small group. 7. A caring friend leaves them affirming voice messages: “I was just thinking of you and wanted to let you know I think you’re the greatest.” 8. They can serve as a “neutral adult” who doesn’t freak-out over bad grades. 9. They have a “safe” person to talk to. 10. The small group leader becomes a tender, yet truthful voice when they need a little correcting.

3). Ministry of the Day: PK Network - Help the children of your pastor connect with other students like them across the country.

4). Link of the Day: War Child - A charity organization that raises funds to help the children impacted by war across the world.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.' - Calvin Coolidge

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Remember the Homeless Day. It is also the birthday of famous American actor Samuel L. Jackson from 1948. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock in 1620.

#44, K-Drama in Concert at Fine Arts, Lincoln, March

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-12-20T06:31:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Francesca Battistelli - ♫ Be Born in Me ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations for KEVIN LIBBY for being the correct comment chosen at random as our winner from last week's Trivia. By commenting on Facebook, and because it was a double week challenge, he won $10. Great job Kevin.

- Here's the trivia for this week: How many Gospels mention the Christmas story of Jesus' birth?

3). Ministry of the Day: Kids Fire Bible - Check out this awesome resource for equipping our children with the powerful Word of God

4). Link of the Day: Custom Stamps - Sign your documents not only with your signature, but with a personalized stamp picture as well.

5). Quote of the Day: 'It is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child Himself.' - Charles Dickens

6). Miscellaneous: Today is beginning of the observance of Hannukah. It is also the birthday of my brother Corey, a distinction he shares with King John III of Sweden from 1537. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Louisiana Purchase was finalized in 1803.

#45, Celebrating a win at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-12-19T05:55:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Mat Kearney - ♫ Ships in the Night ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Sometimes it pays to wait. My wife has some treats that she makes every year around Christmas. My favorite is Peanut Butter Balls. She has a new job this year that has kept her more busy than usual so she hadn't had a chance to make any yet.

- Soon we will see our relatives coming in from the East Coast to visit us for the holidays. They have been online recently requesting Kim to make some of the famous PB Balls. Finally, this weekend, the great baking event occurred. Though it was a long time waiting for them, they were incredible, better than I even remembered them. Maybe it's because I had to wait a little longer?

3). Ministry of the Day: NE Fine Arts - Check out the promotion materials for our NE Fine Arts event coming up next year March 30,31.

4). Link of the Day: Clicker - Free online TV

5). Quote of the Day: 'Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.' - Suzanne Somers

6). Miscellaneous: Today is Second Day of National Gluten-Free Baking Week. It is also the birthday of Jake Gyllenhaal, famous American actor, from 1980. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that George Washington entered his winter quarters at Valley Forge in 1777.

#50, Solomon visited Youth Camps, Lexington, June

Friday - Leaders Profile

2011-12-16T05:16:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Bethel Live - ♫ God I Look to You ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Profile - Vicki Carini

POSITION - Youth/Children's Leader in Ainsworth

HISTORY - Nurse at Several Camps, CE Committee Member

FAMILY - Married to David with several children

HOBBIES - Taking care of her family, worship

3). Ministry of the Day: Eastern Convention Highlight - Check out the video of the highlights from our Eastern Youth Convention at Bellevue last month

4). Link of the Day: Dead Sea Scrolls - See the original texts in digital format

5). Quote of the Day: 'A relationship requires a lot of work and commitment.' - Greta Scacchi

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Underdog Day. It is also the birthday of famous author Jane Austen 1775. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the last eruption of Mount Fuji occurred in 1707.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-12-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Nicole Mullen - ♫ Holy Captivated ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- My friend George is the DYD of a Spanish District in the south. Recently he told me about when he was a flight. The man in seated in front of him suddenly fainted. The attendants came in began to give him medical attention but he wasn't stabilizing and the situation became intense. George offered to pray for the man and they allowed him to. After he prayed the man was revived back to life and healed to complete health.

3). Ministry of the Day: NYM Calendar - Check out the upcoming events for 2012!

4). Link of the Day: 37 Signals - Frustration-free web-based apps for collaboration, sharing information, and making decisions.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Action is the real measure of intelligence.' - Napoleon Hill

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Cat Herders Day. It is also the birthday of the Roman Emperor Nero from 37 BC. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the Bill of Rights became law in 1791.

#66, Flying high at the Mid-DayBlitz at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-12-14T05:22:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Jamie Grace - ♫ You Lead ♫

2). Blog Entry: 7 Life Changing Lessons from Walt Disney

3). Ministry of the Day: Winter STL Tour - Tonight we have a service at Omaha Christian Center at 6:30pm. We'd love to see you there!

4). Link of the Day: Page99 - Here, published and unpublished writers share their page 99s with readers like you. And you get to rate their writing (without knowing if it's published or who the author is). It's fast. Fun. Addictive.

5). Quote of the Day: 'I don't care much about music. What I like is sounds.' - Dizzy Gillespie

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Monkey Day. It is also the birthday of Mike Durre (pastor in O'Neill, NE), a distinction he shares with Emperor Go-Suzaku of Japan from 1009. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the country of Tanzania joined the United Nations in 1961.

#70, Pastor Julie and Brian praying for a student at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-12-13T06:57:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Hillsong Live - ♫ Forever Reign ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we didn't have a winner from last week's trivia so the question will carryover to this week with a $10 payout: How many prophets of Baal gathered to meet Elijah in 1 Kings 18?

3). Ministry of the Day: Life Force - Curriculum for Kids with a portion of each purchase going to Nebraska's BGMC.

4). Link of the Day: Tripping - This is your place to connect with travelers and locals for travel tips, shared cups of coffee and homestays in over 135 countries.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Being busy does not always mean real work. The object of all work is production or accomplishment and to either of these ends there must be forethought, system, planning, intelligence, and honest purpose, as well as perspiration. Seeming to do is not doing.'

- Thomas A. Edison

6). Miscellaneous: Today is the Middle of the International Human Rights Week. It is also the birthday of Platte Valley YFC Leader Joe Marino, a distinction he shares with Dick Van Dyke from 1925. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that US National Guard began in 1636.

#75, Eastern Convention Speaker Rod Whitlock in a Huskers jersey, Bellevue, November

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-12-12T07:34:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Bethel Music - ♫ Come to Me ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- It's important for us to enjoy the moment. This past weekend my daughter was in a play at the Grand Island Little Theater in GI, NE. The play was 'The Greatest Christmas Pageant Ever' and Abby was one of the main characters named Gladys, who is also the Angel of the Lord. She had 6 different performances last week, and that was preceded by 2 1/2 months of practices 2 or 3 times a week. There was a wide collection of students involved in the play from all across the area. Many of them were new to Abby and she quickly became close friends with several.

- Yesterday afternoon was her last performance. I was able to go and she did a great job. Afterward, I left her with the cast to help tear down the set and have a final cast party. I came back a couple hours later and they were just finishing up the party. Abby jumped in the car to head home and she was very silent, not usual for my little girl. I asked her is she was OK and she said she had a great time the last few months in the play and she was sad because she was going to miss her new friends.

- I encouraged her that we'll get her involved in more plays in the future and she's probably going to see them again. She was excited for that and able to cheer up some. But I could tell she was sad that it was all over. There were times that it was tiring, difficult, she got a rash from the makeup - but it was all worth it and she can't wait to do it again.

- Don't complain about the busyness of your life, because it will soon be gone - learn to enjoy the moment!

3). Ministry of the Day: Central Bible College - a great Christian college option for your students, in Springfield, MO.

4). Link of the Day: RestWise - Monitor your rest and achieve great energy for your day.

5). Quote of the Day: 'The difference between Creator and created is incomparable.' -Cyril of Alexandria

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Poinsettia Day and the Global Day of Prayer. It is also the birthday of Harvey Macklin (NE AG minister/military chaplain in Virginia), a distinction he shares with popular celebrity Frank Sinatra, from 1915. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the First Crusade occurred in 1098, in an effort by Western Christianity to 'convert' Muslims.

#79, The BMC Dance crew at Eastern Convention, Bellevue, November

Leader Profile - Allen McDaniel

2011-12-09T07:20:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: All Sons and Daughters - ♫ Reason to Sing ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Allen McDaniel

POSITION - Youth Leader in Cozad, NE

HISTORY - Army Veteran, Student at UNK

FAMILY - Married to Vallerie, with two kids

HOBBIES - Hanging out with his family, helping others

3). Ministry of the Day: Western Convention Highlight Video - Check out a snapshot of the great moments from our convention last month in Gering, NE with Jacob Jester and Orphan's Cry

4). Link of the Day: England Master's Commission - Check out this highlight video of a day in the life of a Master's Commission student in Europe, a program that one of our PK's (Jordan from Omaha) is involved in.

5). Quote of the Day: 'When I perform, it's very personal. I'm sharing things I like, inviting the audience into my room.' - Andy Kaufman

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Salesperson Day. It is also the birthday of Kirk Douglas, American Actor, from 1916. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first YMCA in North America was established in Canada in 1851.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-12-08T07:19:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Dara Maclean - ♫ Suitcases ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- We apologize that we didn't get a blog entry yesterday

- Recently, youth pastor Mike Maroney from North Platte was getting a haircut. He had formerly been on staff at Trinity Bible College, youth pastored in Valentine, and senior pastored in Mullen, only an hour north of NP. As he was getting his haircut from the hair stylist, suddenly she mentioned to him that he looked familiar and she had seen him before. They found out that she was from Mullen and she had gone to a funeral and a wedding that he had performed in town. When she was a kid, she had gone to the church where he pastored later on. He asked her if she still went to church, and she said it had been about 10 years. After mentioning that she enjoyed church as a kid, he asked her if she thought her young children would enjoy it as well. He invited her to church and looks to see her there later this weekend. The amazing thing about this is that when Mike pastored in Mullen, it was a difficult time. He admitted that many times he wonders how much good he did there. And then he has a 'God moment' where he reaches out to someone from that time period in his life in need. God used Mike to minister to her, and her to minister to Mike as well.

3). Ministry of the Day: Winter STL Tour - Come visit us as we travel across Nebraska over the next few months challenging students and leaders to give to Speed the Light Missionaries in 2012.

4). Link of the Day: KnowApp - Keep stats on anything

5). Quote of the Day: 'No man has a good enough memory to be a successful liar.' - Abraham Lincoln

6). Miscellaneous: Today is the middle of National Hand-Washing Awareness Week. It is also the birthday of Derik Buescher (NE Chi Alpha Missionary to Wyoming College), a distinction he shares with the Roman Poet Horace from 65 BC. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that President Franklin D. Roosevelt uttered the famous 'day of infamy' speech in response to the Attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II in 1941.

#96, The busy exhibit's area at Eastern Convention, Bellevue, November

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-12-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Hillsong - ♫ Born is the King ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to LARISSA for being the correct comment chosen at random from last week's Bible Trivia. She is now up to $46 in prize earnings - way to go!

- Here's the $5 trivia for this week: How many prophets of Baal gathered to meet Elijah in 1 Kings 18?

3). Ministry of the Day: Nebraska Royal Rangers - Check out their page online, and look ahead to their winter pow-wow Feb 10th and 11th, 2012.

4). Link of the Day: HomeAway - Search the homes in your preferred destination, refine your search, and contact multiple owners to confirm availability.

5). Quote of the Day: The best Godly leaders are just the best God followers! - Toby Schneckloth

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Miners Day. It is also the birthday of Ira Gershwin, famous American Lyricist, from 1896. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that NASA revealed photos confirming the presence of water on Mars in 2006.

#102, Nate and Shane in a sermon illustration at Youth Camp 2, Lexington, June

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-12-05T08:18:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Jars of Clay - ♫ God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- This past weekend, we received our first snowfall of the winter season in Grand Island, NE. Nothing makes me feel more in the Christmas spirit than a new bit of snow. Late in the afternoon, I went outside and began to shovel the snow from my driveway. I've done it every year without any problem, and this year was no different. In fact, my son Eric came out and helped me with much of it; an added blessing!

- I woke up early Sunday morning to prepare to lead worship at church and my body ached. As I stretched out, I noticed a lot of pain in my lower back. I had shoveled for years without any problem, but this year it caught up to me. As I get older, buying a snowblower is becoming more of a reasonable option.

- In time, things change. We must prepare for the change accordingly, or get used to having a sore back.

3). Ministry of the Day: California AIM Trip 2012 - Check out the info to join us on a trip to minister at the LA Dream Center in late May.

4). Link of the Day: One Page Per Day - Read one page of your favorite book online

5). Quote of the Day: 'You should not believe your conscience and your feelings more than the word which the Lord who receives sinners preaches to you.' - Martin Luther

6). Miscellaneous: Today is International Ninja Day. It is also the birthday of Patty Durre (pastor's wife in O'Neill, NE), a distinction she shares with Martin van Buren, 8th US President, from 1782. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that a gunman shot down visitors to Westroads Mall in Omaha in 2007.

#106, Climbing the 'Killer Hill' out of Chappell on the Missions Bike Ride, September

Friday - Leader's Profile

2011-12-02T08:36:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Demon Hunter - ♫ Life War ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader's Profile - Joel Loutzenhiser

POSITION: Youth/Children's leader at Word of Life Church in O'neill

HISTORY: Graduated from Evangel University in Springfield, MO

FAMILY: Single, Father is a pastor in the district

HOBBIES: Sports, Huskers, Hanging with Family, Teaching at the School

3). Ministry of the Day: Christ's Place Worship Album - Check out the new songs from Michael King and the Lincoln Christ's Place Worship team on I-tunes

4). Link of the Day: Allergy Eats - Locate or rate a restaurant based on its level of "allergy friendliness."

5). Quote of the Day: 'Only a life lived for others is worth living.' -Albert Einstein

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Special Education Day. It is also the birthday of famous Green Bay Packer Aaron Rodgers, from 1983. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that John Brown was hanged in 1859 for his raid on Harper's Ferry.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-12-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

1) Song of the Day: ♫ O Holy Night ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Last night, we held our first STL rally for the $180,000 of projects we need to raise in 2012. It was a different format than we've done in the past, doing a series of Wednesday nights from Nov-Feb. My youth alive director and myself do an illustrated sermon in which we visit each of the countries where we have a project for next year. We discuss our missionaries and the challenges they will face in these different cultures. We had about 75 people there and everyone made personal goals for what they want to give next year. It was an incredible night, and special thanks to Mark Rose and Tim Lillard for helping us host the event at Victory Road Church in Norfolk, NE.

3). Ministry of the Day: Siouxland Sectional STL Rally for 2012 - Check out photos from last night's event in Norfolk, NE

4). Link of the Day: Drive Safely - The App to Stop Distracted Driving

5). Quote of the Day: 'And some places you been before are so great that you don't ever mind going back. Some places you been before you don't ever want to go back, you know, like Montreal in the Winter.' - Morgan Freeman

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Aids Day. It is also the birthday of Louis VI of France from 1081. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Aids virus was officially recognized in 1981.

#122 - Praying with Bud from Kimball to start the Missions Bike Ride across NE, September

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-11-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: ♫ Eleventyseven - Quota ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- We're a day away from December. December is a month that leaves us finishing up all of our transactions from 2011. It is also has us looking ahead to 2012 and planning our budgets, schedules, visions, etc.

- It may help to think of the year in 12 month segments, with each month having a separate focus (January - Committment, February - Missions, etc.) These topics may be good to work with the theme of your host church as well. You can coordinate these topics with the major events going on during those months as well. (March - Worship with Fine Arts, June - Spending time with God and camp, etc.)

- It would also be good to schedule in monthly appointments with tasks that sometimes are forgotten: leaders/student leaders meetings, doctors/dentist appointments, spring cleaning both for your home and for the church, website/logo remodeling, recruiting campaigns, etc.

3). Ministry of the Day: AIM Missions Trips 2012 - Check out the trips we are providing for Nebraska Youth Ministries students and leaders next year.

4). Link of the Day: Healthy Men - a list of important medical tests for men to take at certain time periods in their lives

5). Quote of the Day: 'When a nation makes too great a distinction between its scholars and its warriors it winds up having its thinking done by cowards and its fighting done by fools' -Thucydides

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Meth Awareness Day. It is also the birthday of Tracy McElhannon (pastors wife in McCook), a distinction she shares with famous author Mark Twain from 1835. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Lucille Ball married Dese Arnaz in 1940.

#125, 7 Project at Alliance Middle School, November

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-11-29T08:09:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: ♫ Hark the Herald Angels Sing ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia, so the question will carryover to this week with a $10 payout! Here it is - Quote a verse in the Bible that encourages us to give thanks...

3). Ministry of the Day: Kids Camp - See a report on the effectiveness of Kids Camp, titled 'A Whole Lotta Something'

4). Link of the Day: I Am Second - A movement meant to inspire people of all kinds to live for God and for others.

5). Quote of the Day: 'I took some time out for life.' - James L. Brooks

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Electronic Greetings Day. It is also the birthday of Dave Busch (pastor in Burwell), a distinction he shares with C.S. Lewis, famous Irish author, from 1898. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Richard Byrd became the first person to fly over the South Pole in 1929.

#130, PK's at the Omaha Zoo, PK Retreat, July

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-11-28T08:37:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: ♫ Carol of the Bells ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Saturday night, my family and I went over to my mothers house in Bellevue. We were there with some of my other brothers and sisters and their families as well. We ate some pizza and talked sparingly around the table. Then, someone pulled out a game. We played it for 2 hours straight, laughing and talking up a storm. The game really opened us up.

- Sometimes, it's fun to just 'let loose' and play a game. They're not just for kids. Make some time to 'play' together this holiday season.

3). Ministry of the Day: Live the Word - Tips from the Fire Institute on applying the lessons from the Bible to our everyday lives

4). Link of the Day: Milk and Honey Shoes - Design your own shoes online

5). Quote of the Day: 'It is necessary to relax your muscles when you can. Relaxing your brain is fatal.' - Stirling Moss

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Cyber Monday. It is also the birthday of famous comedian Jon Stewart from 1962. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Panama became independent, in 1821

#136, Bruce overseeing the Tug of War at Youth Camp 1, Lexington, June

Friday - Leader's Profile

2011-11-25T06:50:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: ♫ It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader's Profile - Mike Fowler

POSITION - Senior Pastor of Clinton Victory Hill Assembly of God

HISTORY - From Texas, studies at Southwestern University

FAMILY - Married to Bekah, with a son and a daughter

HOBBIES - Hunting, Welding,

3). Ministry of the Day: High Point Curriculum - Check out this great resource for teaching kids the Word of God

4). Link of the Day: Aardvark - Discover the perfect person to answer any question in minutes

5). Quote of the Day: 'Never spend your money before you have earned it.' - Thomas Jefferson

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Flossing Day. It is also the birthday of David Cramer (pastor in Beatrice, NE), a distinction he shares with Joe DiMaggio, famous baseball player, from 1914. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the popular song 'Do They Know It's Christmas' was recorded by various artists to raise money for helping poverty efforts in Ethiopia in 1984.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-11-24T05:38:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: ♫ Happy Thanksgiving! ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- At convention last week, we had the greatest turnout we've had since starting a Western Convention. We did several 7 Project School Assemblies the week before and then invited the students to convention at the night rallies. We weren't sure how many would respond but we thought it was worth the effort.

- Friday night I went to sit in the service to listen to Jacob Jester preach. There was an open seat next to a young man. After I sat down, he leaned in to me and said, 'The only reason I'm here is because you came to my school yesterday."

- Later, after service, another young man came up to me and thanked me for coming to his school earlier in the week. He said that he had gone to an Acquire the Fire years ago, and made a commitment to Christ then, but had since walked away. He renewed his relationship with Jesus at the night rally, and he loved the Alive in Christ book that we gave him. He asked if we could give him 3 more for some of his friends back home.

3). Ministry of the Day: Alive in Christ booklets - Great resource to give to students who are just beginning a relationship with Jesus.

4). Link of the Day: They draw and travel - Maps illustrated from artists around the world

5). Quote of the Day: 'When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.' - Tecumseh

6). Miscellaneous: Today is Thanksgiving, as well as National Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day. It is also the birthday of Tim Black (Arizona DYD), a distinction he shares with Zachary Taylor, 12th President of the US, from 1784. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that police force of the Texas Rangers was established in 1835.

Top NYM Photos of 2011 - #152, Sumo Wrestlers at the 7 at Night, Big Springs, November

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-11-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Celtic Praise - ♫ Give Thanks ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- This past weekend we finished our convention season with our Western Youth Convention in Gering, NE. Our speaker was Jacob Jester. He lives in Kansas City, where he youth pastors at a local church. He decided to bring his youth group with him to convention, almost a 10 hour drive! They showed up with plenty of time to spare on Friday, and 22 students in tow.

- I connected with Jacob and immediately, he told me that he wanted to forego his scheduled hotel room and stay at the church overnight with his students. This was a very unsusual and unexpected request. I had booked him a nice hotel room just a few blocks away. He had committed to speak for me at two convention services and he would need to be rested up and ready for those opportunties. But he also didn't want to forget his commitment to his youth. So they went to Walmart, grabbed some supplies, and then bunked down with their students for convention.

- I was very impressed with his decision. I hadn't looked down on him for originally working with me for a hotel room; I probably would have done the same thing. But rather than taking the comfortable option, he submitted himself to a potentially uncomfortable situation to be faithful to his students.

- Leaders must be willing to do what is best for their students, whether it is personally uncomfortable to them or not. When leaders opt out for a more comfortable solution, they teach their students to do the same thing when they become leaders or parents themselves.

3). Ministry of the Day: STL Donations Online - Send students/leaders to this site where they can personally give to STL online

4). Link of the Day: Gogobot - Gogobot is a fun place to share your travels and get great trip recommendations!

5). Quote of the Day: 'Till now man has been up against Nature; from now on he will be up against his own nature.' - Dennis Gabor

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Dr. Who Day. It is also the birthday of Greg Wallace (pastor of The Market Church in Omaha), a distinction he shares with Franklin Pierce, 14th President of the United States, from 1804. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Thespis became the first recorded actor performing on stage in 534 BC.

#155 - Tipping the Canoe at Camp Arrowhead during Youth Camp 1, June

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-11-22T06:25:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day:Kutless - ♫ Beautiful the Blood ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to LARISSA for being the correct comment chosen at random as our winner from last week's trivia. With her $5 prize, she is now up to $36 total - way to go!

- Here's the trivia for this week - Thanksgiving is here! Quote a verse in the Bible that encourages us to give thanks...

3). Ministry of the Day: NYM Blog - Check out our weekday blog for Nebraska Youth Ministries, highlighting Life Lessons (Mon), Bible Trivia (Tue), Leaders Corner (Wed), Testimonies (Thur), and Leader's Profile (Fri).

4). Link of the Day: HipMunk -Hipmunk is a remarkable new travel search site that aims to take the agony out of travel planning.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Give Thanks in all circumstances.' - 1 Thessalonians 5:18

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Humane Society Day. It is also the birthday of Ann Laura Chavez (children's leader in Columbus), a distinction she shares with Charles de Gaulle, famous French military general from 1890. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Mike Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in the history of boxing in 1986.

Top NYM Photos of 2011 - #157, STL service at Holy Grounds in Omaha, January

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-11-21T05:19:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Fred Hammond - ♫ I Feel Good ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- On the way home from Western Youth Convention this weekend, Brian Korell (Youth Alive Home Missionary) was pulling two trailers with his truck. The back trailer had a tire that went flat, but it was hard for him to recognize it because of the heavy weight load. A trucker pulled up beside him and waved him off the road. After pulling over, we saw that the tire had been completely shredded.

- We pulled out the jack, but it was missing the appropiate handle. We had to carefully turn the jack upward with a heavy duty wrench. It was exhausting, and very cold, but slowly and surely, we got it done. Brian mentioned that if he had the right tool, he would have been able to get the tire replaced in half the time.

- Having the right tools can go a long way in helping make our jobs easier. And it can also help us be prepared when the unexpected happens in our lives.

3). Ministry of the Day: Fun Arts - Fine Arts for Kids. February 25th. 3 Different locations

4). Link of the Day: Good Reads - Share book recommendations; meet your next book!

5). Quote of the Day: 'All things are artificial, for nature is the art of God.' - Thomas Browne

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Hello Day. It is also the birthday of Jacob Jester (Western Fall Youth Convention speaker), a distinction he shares with French Philosopher Voltaire from 1694. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Judas Maccabaeus restored the Temple in Jersusalem in 164 BC

Top NYM Photos of 2011 - #164, Backstage at Western Youth Convention, Gering, November

Friday - Leaders Profile

2011-11-18T06:14:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Dave Hershey - ♫ The Balance ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Profile - Julie Korell

POSITION - Youth Pastor at Grand Island Northridge, 7 Project Speaker

HISTORY - Children's Pastor of Northfield Church in Gering

FAMILY - Married to Brian, one girl and two boys

HOBBIES - Winning at Games, Being with Family, Rooting against the Broncos

3). Ministry of the Day: Go Creative Juice - Creative Juice is a design firm with the sole purpose of providing churches and their ministries every resource they need to brand themselves in a professional way and communicate their message effectively without all the hassle.

4). Link of the Day: Health Month - Health Month is a game to help improve your diet, fitness, mental health, relationship health, and financial health – while enjoying it!

5). Quote of the Day: 'Either you run the day or the day runs you.' - Jim Rohn

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Mickey Mouse Day. It is also the birthday of Willy Roberts (lead singer of our Western Convention Worship Band Orphan's Cry), a distinction he shares with famous Boston Red Sox David Ortiz, from 1975. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that 21 political parties approved the new constitution in South Africa in 1993.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-11-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Jeremy Camp - ♫ Overcome ♫

2). Blog Entry - Testimonies

- Monday night, we had roughly 250 students at the 7 at Night Rally in Alliance. Just about everyone came forward for the altar call and we collected 90 forms of students that committed their lives to Christ.

- Last night, we had about 80 students that came out to the 7 at Night Rally in Big Springs. Again, almost all the students came forward to the altar and we received roughly 40 forms of students that committed their lives to Christ.

3). Ministry of the Day: Eastern Youth Convention Photos - check out pics from our recent Eastern Convention for Youth at Bellevue Nov 4,5th

4). Link of the Day: Convert Center - Change any measurement to the right conversion with this great online tool

5). Quote of the Day: 'Common sense is not so common.' - Voltaire

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Guinness World Record Day. It is also the birthday of Taleah Gill (youth leader in Friend), a distinction she shares with Maria Antonietta of Spain from 1729. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the patent for the computer mouse was awarded in 1970.

Top NYM Photos of 2011 - #185 The altar call at South Platte High during a 7 at Night in November

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-11-16T06:08:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Viktory - ♫ One Day ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- On Monday, we did two 7 Project school assemblies. The first was in Gordon-Rushville and the second was in Alliance. The project in Gordon was for the high schoolers and it started at 8 in the morning. So early in the morning, we could tell that everyone was pretty tired, including ourselves. Though more quiet, it was a great assembly and we received a good report from the administration afterward.

- The project in Alliance was at the Middle School and it was at the end of the school day. The students there were very energetic and loud. It was also a great assembly and the report was good once again from the administration.

- Though very different in time, age, and energy, both assemblies were a success. It would have been easy to judge them differently by our review of the response. As speakers, we love it when the crowds respond enthusiastically. But just because they may seem more quiet, it doesn't mean they aren't engaged and we are doing a bad job.

- We must become leaders that are flexible, and adapt our methods and styles of communication to the people we are working with. If we wait for the crowd to be flexible and adapt to us, we may be waiting too long.

3). Ministry of the Day: Western Fall Youth Convention - Come and join us this Friday and Saturday in Gering, NE for a great event with Orphan's Cry and Jacob Jester!

4). Link of the Day: Join.me - Share your screen with others, and view someone elses screen as well

5). Quote of the Day: 'Friends and good manners will carry you where money won't go.' - Margaret Walker

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Prematurity Awareness Day. It is also the birthday of Eric Rozean (Children's Pastor in Kearney), a distinction he shares with famous basketball star Amar'e Stoudemire, from 1982. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Prince William and Kate Middleton announced their engagement in 2010.

Top NYM Photos of 2011 - #182, Brian and Jay in the Awards area of Fine Arts, at Lincoln in March

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-11-15T09:27:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Tim Drisdelle - ♫ Come let us adore Him ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, there was no winner from last week's trivia and $10 in prize earnings will go unearned. There's still a chance this week for $5. We will choose a random entry from the correct comments as the winner: How many of the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) contain the Christmas story?

3). Ministry of the Day: NYM Calendar - Check out all of our events for 2012, including the upcoming end of the STL rallies in the Winter STL Tour

4). Link of the Day: IOgraphica - A fun art page which maps the route of your mouse

5). Quote of the Day: 'A hungry dog hunts best. A hungrier dog hunts even better.' - Norman Ralph Augustine

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National I Love To Write Day. It is also the birthday of John I of France from 1316. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Dave opened the first Wendy's restaurant in 1969.

Top NYM Photos of 2011 - #188, Chet Caudill, Youth Camp 1 speaker, getting pumped up at camp in June

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Me in Motion - ♫ Yes we can ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- This week, we are doing 7 Project School assemblies in the panhandle of Nebraska, leading up to our Western NE Youth Convention in Gering on Friday and Saturday. To start off, we traveled to Scottsbluff today with two trailers, pulled together by one truck. It was a long trip, often too windy to drive in a straight line, and plenty of gas used on the way.

- Once we arrived in Gering, we met up with some Master's Commission students that are helping us throughout the week. We unloaded much of the equipment for convention at the church, and then gave one of the trailers to the MC's to pull with their van. After dumping all of that weight, the truck ran great and almost seemed like a new vehicle.

- It's amazing how much better we can travel without all the extra baggage we keep sometimes. Take an inventory of you life and decide if there's some stuff you can let go to lighten the load.

3). Ministry of the Day: The 7 Project - School assembly program we provide to schools throughout Nebraska

4). Link of the Day: Visualize Me - Vizualize your resume in one click, for creative resumes online

5). Quote of the Day: 'Success is falling nine times and getting up ten.' - Jon Bon Jovi

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Orphan's Day. It is also the birthday of former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, from 1954. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the BBC began radio service in London in 1922.

Top NYM Photos of 2011 #189 - David's Cardboat Boat Creation at Family Fest in July

Friday - Leaders Profile

2011-11-11T06:22:00.001-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Josh Wilson - ♫ Jesus Is Alive ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Profile - Mitch McGonigle

POSITION - Youth Pastor in Milford

HISTORY - Student in NYM, college at NE SouthEastern Community

FAMILY - Single

HOBBIES - Works at Dell, graduated in 2009

3). Ministry of the Day: Top 200 Photos of 2011 - Check out all the photos of great memories from this past year in Nebraska Youth Ministries, starting today!

4). Link of the Day: Sticker Mule - Custom stickers, die cut stickers & laptop skins. Starting at $59 for 100. Free shipping in 5 days.

5). Quote of the Day: 'If there is no struggle, there is no progress.' - Frederick Douglass

6). Miscellaneous: Today is 11-11-11, and also National Veteran's Day. Both my dad, and my father-in-law are military veterans. It is also the birthday of Richard Nakai (Assistant Student Ministries Director at BCC and NE credentialed minister), a distinction he shares with Fyodor Dostoyevsky, famous Russian Author, from 1821. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that US Route 66 was established in 1926.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-11-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: KB - ♫ Hello ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Julie, a 7 Project school assembly speaker in NE, went to her daughter's basketball game at a school outside of Hastings, one of the schools we did an assembly at earlier this month. One of the students from that school recognized Julie from the 7 Project, and came up to talk with her. The student mentioned that she came out to the Night Rally that evening, and gave her life to Jesus at the altar call!

- I traveled to a youth ministry last night, which recently lost their leader. We talked about the transition, and there was a lot of emotion. But they had a volunteer leader keeping things together and many people still there from the original group. Usually, when the leaders leaves, and they didn't have a leadership team to help them, the group tends to fall apart. What a testimony that this leader helped keep things together, and the church worked to keep the ministry going!

3). Ministry of the Day: Emmaus Experience - Student educational trips to the Holy Land in Israel

4). Link of the Day: Hunch - Hunch lets you share what you like, get recommendations based on your taste and connect with people similar to you.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.' - Charles R. Swindoll

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Area Code Day. It is also the birthday of Danette Matty (director of Christ's Place Leadership School), a distinction she shares with Martin Luther from 1483. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first Breeder's Cup Horse Race took place in Hollywood in 1984.

Backstage view from Eastern Convention, Bellevue, 2011

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-11-09T05:09:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Andy Cherry - ♫ Our God's Alive ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- Tonight, I am heading to a youth group in transition. The former youth pastor needed to leave before expected, and they were suddenly left without a youth leader. As has happened in many situations, there were no other leaders (students or adults) that were prepared to step in and help in the absence. A large group dwindled to a fraction of what it once was.

- God is helping us with some new adult volunteers, and a youth pastor in a city nearby has committed to help them out for the rest of the year. But what can we do to keep this situation from happening in the future?

- Often youth leaders rise to their position because of great talent and ability in working with students. But we all should strive to improve in our ability to raise up and disciple leaders. The groups that we are leading are not ours, they are God's. He wants everyone to take an active part in it. I suggest that you try to find at least one adult leader for every 7 students in the group. And within every 7 students, you should find at least 2 to 3 student leaders that can contribute to the group as Campus Missionary Leaders

- Build up a team, so when it's your turn to leave, the group will continue to move forward.

3). Ministry of the Day: Kids Force - A dynamic Children's resource, produced by our own Jim Gerhold from Sidney. Part of the proceeds go to Nebraska's BGMC!

4). Link of the Day: Preceden - Make a timeline for just about anything

5). Quote of the Day: 'Every moment is an experience.' - Jake Roberts

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Young Readers Day. It is also the birthday of Spiro Agnew, US Vice President, from 1918. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the chemical element Darmstadtium was discovered in 1994.

Working Out at Eastern Convention, Bellevue, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-11-08T05:17:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Tobymac - ♫ The First Noel ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia, so the question will carry over to this week with a $10 payout - Can you name a time in the Bible where someone 'worked out'?

3). Ministry of the Day: Teacher Appreciation - Nominate your favorite teacher for Nebraska's teacher of the year.

4). Link of the Day: Science Daily - The top science news across the web

5). Quote of the Day: 'A people free to choose will always choose peace.' - Ronald Reagan

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National X-Ray Day. It is also the birthday of my brother-in-law Bob Nikunen, a distinction he shares with Gordon Ramsey, famous British TV personality, from 1966. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the National Football League joined with the American Football League to establish the NFL.

Students at NE Eastern Fall Convention, Bellevue, 2011

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-11-07T05:19:00.000-08:00

1). Song of the Day: Jaci Velasquez and Nic Gonzales - ♫ Jingle Bells ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- My son Eric had a big speech coming up in his language arts class last week. This is a class in which he had a 'C' grade. He wants to do better, and his teacher believes he is capable of more, but his behavior in class had been less than ideal. I began to work with him more after work at nights, and saw Eric's results improve.

- We were working on the speech at home. As a public speaker, I knew that this was something I could help him with. After he did his speech with me a few times, I did the same speech for him. He laughed a bunch and loved many of the different methods I used to communicate effectively.

- When he got back up to do it one more time, I noticed he didn't do many of the things I saw him enjoy with more performance. I asked him why afterwards and he said, 'That stuff is you - it's just not me.' I accepted his reasoning, secretly feeling like he wasn't going to do as well as he could.

- Later this weekend, I heard the report from his speech - everyone loved it! The students were all asking how he set up his powerpoint presentation, they laughed several times at key parts of his speech, and the teacher applauded for him afterward. He did great - and mostly because he knew how to be himself.

- Don't try to be someone else in your calling - be the person God created you to be!

3). Ministry of the Day: Teen Bible Quiz - help students learn the Word of God in a fun, competitive way, while visiting other leaders/students across Nebraska once a month!

4). Link of the Day: Metafilter - Great search engine for tough questions

5). Quote of the Day: 'The highest art is always the most religious, and the greatest artist is always a devout person.' - Abraham Lincoln

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Job Action Day. It is also the birthday of famous American Evangelist Billy Graham from 1918. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Mary Robinson became the first female President of Ireland in 1990.

Workout Crew from Eastern Youth Convention, Bellevue, 2011

Friday - Leaders Profile

2011-11-04T05:53:00.001-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Fireflight - ♫ Go Ahead ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Petey Tellez

HISTORY: From Hawaii, was in the Air Force, studies at Grace University

POSITION: Senior Pastor of Omaha Hope Community Church

FAMILY: Married to Dezi, 3 boys and 1 girl

HOBBIES: Working Out, Football and Basketball, Spending time with Family

3). Ministry of the Day: Fall Youth Convention - Our annual Eastern Fall Youth Convention kicks off tonight! Check us out on facebook above...

4). Link of the Day: Formspring - Find out more about your friends by asking and responding to interesting questions.

5). Quote of the Day: 'The only thing more stressful than hearing a screaming baby on a plane is being the parent of a screaming baby on a plane' - Joel Stein

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Use Your Common Sense Day. It is also the birthday of Walter Cronkite, famous American broadcaster, from 1916. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Joan of Arc liberated Saint-Pierre-le-Moûtier in 1429.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-11-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Chris Quilala - ♫ Your Love is Everything ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Vicki Carini is the Children's/Youth Leader in Ainsworth. She has been there a little over a year, and now they've seen the group grow; the after school club from 2-10, the youth group up to 18. They recently held a big Fall Festival and saw the largest numbers of young people they've had in years (picture below)

- Jen helps oversee the placement of foreign exchange students in the Sandhills. They currently have 14 students scattered throughout Christian homes in the region. Because of her hard work, the company is sending her and her husband to Brazil for a business trip!

3). Ministry of the Day: 2010 Youth Convention East - see pics from our convention in Lincoln last year, our Eastern Convention is this weekend in Bellevue.

4). Link of the Day: Get Human - Find Phone numbers and company information online

5). Quote of the Day: 'A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.' - Nelson Mandela

6). Today is National Men Make Dinner Day. It is also the birthday of Mel Johnson (associate pastor in Hastings), a distinction he shares with famous American actor Charles Bronson from 1921. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the United States introduced income taxes in 1913

Vicki Carini, and P. Gary Graesser, Ainsworth, 2011

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-11-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Corey Evan Band (at NE Convention this weekend) - ♫ Healer ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner - Speaking to leaders, or students?

- Recently, I was in a service for young people that was full of many students as well as adult leaders. I heard the speaker preaching, and I felt he was doing a great job. As I looked around, most of the leaders were enjoying it as well, saying 'AMEN', nodding their heads, taking it all in.

Then, I took a moment to look at the students. Many seemed to be completely out of it: staring at pictures on the wall, texting on their phones, talking with their neighbors. I didn't hear any 'AMENS' coming from them in their sections.

What a contrast! I felt like the preacher was amazing, but the students, who the service was intended for, seemed completely distracted and disengaged. What a challenge for any speaker.

Often speakers prepare their message with content that they would enjoy and in methods that they would respond well to personally. When they speak, they thoroughly enjoy their own message, though their listeners might be oblivious. Again, often speakers prepare messages with the adult leaders as their targets, making statements that challenge and impress them. And while the acknowledgement from their peers feels good afterward, what about the students?

Sometimes, speakers prepare the message for the student, full of illustrations, humor, and main points appropriate for youth/kids. Usually this takes more work, stretching speakers out of their comfort zones. Often, they don't receive much 'praise' from the students when finished, and surely none from the leaders either. But the students were attentive, learning, listening, and responding.

I believe the perfect setup is when we gear the message to the student, specifically targeting a few points to stretch them spiritually. At the same time, the leaders in the crowd understand the strategy and respond based on how the students feel, rather than their own understanding. Sometimes the 'best' speakers for students may not be the most 'obvious' to us!

3). Ministry of the Day: Reaching All Your Students - a great book about the different preferred learning styles of students in today's culture

4). Link of the Day: Quora - A continually improving collection of questions and answers created, edited, and organized by everyone who uses it.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Every man dies. Not every man really lives.' - William Wallace

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Traffic Directors Day. It is also the birthday of King Edward V of England for 1470. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that George Washington gave his Farewell Address to the Army in 1783.

Elizabeth Huston, NYM student of the Year, Lincoln, 2010

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-11-01T05:26:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Newsboys - ♫ God's not dead ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to LARISSA for being the correct comment chosen at random as our winner from last week's trivia. She is now up to $31 in prize earnings - way to go! That is money which can be applied to any NYM event or piece or merchandise.

- Here's this week's trivia - This weekend is our Eastern Convention in Bellevue. The theme is VITALITY, a workout theme. Can you name a story in the Bible where someone 'worked out'?

3). Ministry of the Day: Holsom Comics - Christian comics available online, for use in children's ministry and outreaches.

4). Link of the Day: Coolendar - Coolendar is not only calendar or task app: it's a whole new planning experience

5). Quote of the Day: 'Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward.' - Victor Kiam

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Authors Day. It is also the birthday of Mark Oberbeck (pastor in Grand Island, NE), a distinction he shares with famous American Idol contestant Bo Bice. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the New Orleans Saints football team was established in 1966.

Students at Eastern Convention 2010, Lincoln

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-10-31T08:03:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Exodus Movement - ♫ Lift His Name High ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- This past week, , my wife and I had a chance to travel to North Central University in Minneapolis, MN for Regional Board Meetings. Since she started her new job as a realtor in Grand Island (check out here business page here) we haven't had much time to get away by ourselves, so we especially enjoyed the trip. Kim's mom came to Grand Island to watch our kids while we were away.

- On our way to Minnesota, we got a call from Kim's mother. A teacher had escorted one of our children out of the school while she was picking them up, relaying information to her about their poor performance. We talked with our child on the phone, feeling bad that we weren't there in person to take care of the situation.

- The next day, a customer called our home with interest in several of the items my wife had posted on Craig's List. They came by and took a look at several items, purchasing them on the spot. Once again, we felt bad that we weren't home to handle the extra work around the house.

- Isn't that how it often happens? As soon as we leave, things get 'out of control'. My mother-in-law did a great job helping us out and wasn't inconvenienced in the slightest bit, but we felt bad that it happened while we were away. Lessons I've taken away from this situation: 1) Get time away with my wife regularly, 2) Expect the unusual when that occurs, 3) Lean on our family for help

3). Ministry of the Day: Ambassors in Missions, AIM: Sending students and leaders on missions experiences that often change their lives forever

4). Link of the Day: The Kid Should see this: Off the grid-for-little-kids videos and other smart stuff collected by Rion Nakaya and her three year old co-curator.

5). Quote of the Day: 'As you walk down the fairway of life you must smell the roses, for you only get to play one round.' - Ben Hogan

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Carmel Apple Day. It is also the birthday of famous Texas Baseball player Mike Napoli from 1981. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Romulus Augustulus was proclaimed Western Roman Emperor in 475 AD

NE Yth Convention Memories - Praying at the Altars, Lincoln, 2010

Friday - Leaders Profile

2011-10-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Gateway Worship - ♫ Great Great God ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Profile - Rob Conner

HISTORY - School at Christ for the Nations, pastored all across NE

POSITION - Senior Pastor in Nebraska City, NE

FAMILY - Married to Pam, 7 children

HOBBIES - Riding Motorcycle, Being with Family, Biking, Texting

3). Ministry of the Day: Digital Kids Initiative - A contract between parents and kids about handling media appropiately in today's day and age

4). Link of the Day: Wonderopolis - Where the wonders of learning never cease!

5). Quote of the Day: 'The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.' - Albert Einstein

6). Miscellaneous: Today is International Bandanna Day. It is also the birthday of Terry Brown (NE District Secretary/Treasurer), a distinction he shares with famous musician Charlie Daniels, from 1936. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the construction of the St. Louis Arch was completed in 1965.

Thursday - Bible Trivia

2011-10-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Michael W. Smith - ♫ I'll wait for you ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Kearney New Life is doing some amazing construction projects to renovate their youth and children's ministry areas. This is the church that will host our Spring Fine Arts for Nebraska in 2012. When the children's pastor Eric went to talk with the builders, he asked for bathrooms. They came back to him with a 2.5 million dollar upgrade!

- Scott is our Midwest Regional Royal Family Kids Camp leader. When he first began about 5 years ago, they only had one or two camps in the area. Part of his job is helping RFK camps grow, and now there are 9 camps planned for us in 2012.

3). Ministry of the Day: North Central University - Today I am attending Board of Regents meetings at our Assembly of God college for the Midwest Region in Minneapolis, MN.

4). Link of the Day: Red Notebook - A modern journal that includes a calendar navigation, customizable templates, export functionality and word clouds. You can also format, tag and search your entries.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.' - George Washington Carver

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Cranky Co-Workers Day. It is also the birthday of famous British Explorer Captain James Cook from 1728. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Turkmenistan achieved independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Kevin Jacobs, pastor of Holy Grounds YM in Omaha, Jan 2011

Graduate of NCU

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Selah - ♫ I Turn to You ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- We live in a busy, noisy society. Students today are growing up in a culture where they can be reached and interact with others at all times. Through cell phones, laptops, social media sights, and many more methods, students quite literally may never experience quiet time!

- It should be no surprise if students struggle to get their devotions in. In such a loud society, a quiet time is an abnormality. Asking a student to get 'quiet time' with God is almost like asking them to speak in a new language; it's completely foreign to them. It might be better if we ask them 'plug into' God or 'connect' with God regularly. Though it might sound different to us, these are terms they can relate too.

- It's also important to teach them how to control these things in their lives. Often students have been allowed these tools without any oversight - and then we see the hundreds of texts to their friends daily. Different rules can apply in various situations, but if we're not talking to them about it, who is? Part of the problem is that these 'tools' may be unguarded in our lives, and they've learned from our example. If we want to teach them, we must start with teaching ourselves

3). Ministry of the Day: On Course Magazine - a great magazine for youth, produced by our National Youth Office in Springfield, MO.

4). Link of the Day: Wikia - Create a wiki about your favorite topic and begin collaborating with people who love what you love.

5). Quote of the Day: 'I've failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I succeed.' - Michael Jordan

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Mule Day. It is also the birthday of David Gill (pastor in Ogallala, NE), a distinction he shares with famous gameshow host Pat Sajak, from 1946. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the Erie Canal opened in 1895.

Brian with Joe Marino, Platte Valley YFC Leader, October, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-10-25T05:23:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Hyland - ♫ This Love is Free ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, there was no winner from last week's trivia, so the question will carry over to this week and contain a $10 prize value - what is the shortest book in the Bible?

3). Ministry of the Day: National Fine Arts - The annual event in August is held in Louisville, KY in 2012.

4). Link of the Day: Meetzi - Make your meetings more effective; define goals, build agendas, take notes, track time, be mobile

5). Quote of the Day: 'An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.' - Mohandas Gandhi

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Sour Day. It is also the birthday of Richard Bird, famous American Explorer, from 1888. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Ugandad joined the United Nations in 1962.

Teen Bible Quiz Students, October Meet, McCook, 2011

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-10-24T06:02:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: NewWorldSon - ♫ Pledge of Allegiance ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- This year, my wife has become a realtor in Grand Island (here's her facebook page). She's learned that it's a tough business, and realtors are very competitive. Of the 5 good leads she's had in three months, 4 were stolen by other realtors late in the process, very near a sale. It's been frustrating, but we've continued to pledge that she would not be that kind of a businesswoman.

- This past weekend, one of her strongest competitors called. She was out of town, but one of her clients had an offer accepted on a house. This realtor asked my wife to help her get some paperwork to them and answer any questions they might have. Initially, we thought that she shouldn't, again because of the highly competitive environment of realtors. But my wife thought better, and offered the help without asking for anything in return.

- What an example she set for other realtors, for our kids, for me. Just because others may treat you wrong, don't respond in the same way. Be the kind of person you would like others to be with you.

3). Ministry of the Day: NE Fall Youth Convention - today is the early registration deadline. Click on the link for the poster, registration form, hotel options, and info on the weight loss challenge for an XBOX Kinect

4). Link of the Day: Convention Dance Video - Last year, we set up a 'dance' booth and this is the edit of different students/leaders showing their stuff.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Vitality shows in not only the ability to persist but the ability to start over.' - F. Scott Fitzgerald

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Lung Health Day. It is also the birthday of Brenda McCarthy (Pastor's wife and youth leader in Oshkosh, NE), a distinction she shares with famous English soccer player Wayne Rooney, from 1985. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the United Nations was established in 1945.

Friday - Leaders Profile

2011-10-21T13:45:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Pro - ♫ Beautiful ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Scott Murrish

HISTORY: From Kansas, Pastored in Fremont, Kids Pastor in Kearney

POSITION: Royal Family Kids Camp Regional Director

FAMILY: Married to Tricia, 5 children

HOBBIES: Biking, Mechanics, Building, Working with Churches

3). Ministry of the Day: Fall Youth Convention - Early registration is due Monday, don't be late!

4). Link of the Day: Find the Best - Find your options, compare your options, and decide.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A lifetime of training for just ten seconds.' - Jesse Owens

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Reptile Awareness Day. It is also the birthday of Dizzy Gillespie, famous American musician, from 1917. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Turkish army annihilates the People's Army of the West in People's Crusade of 1096.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-10-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Darlene Zschech - ♫ You are Love ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- A recent Campus Missionary Report came in. A young lady became a Christian, and two months later she has a group of 25 people in her campus club at her Catholic High School

- At our Presbyter's Meeting earlier this week, a pastor spoke of a lady who was seeking for more of God. She was filled with the Spirit, and it was during the prayer time before the regular offering!

3). Ministry of the Day: Bellevue Christian Center - the host church for our Eastern Youth Convention Nov 4-5th, 2011

4). Link of the Day: SlideFinder - a powerful search engine for presentation slides and images

5). Quote of the Day: 'Beauty and folly are old companions.' - Benjamin Franklin

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Support your local Chamber of Commerce Day. It is also the birthday of famous American Baseball player Mickey Mantle from 1931. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Royal Navy captured the pirate Calico Jack in 1720.

Another T-shirt offered at Youth Convention, 2011

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-10-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Believer - ♫ We the Gathered ♫

2). Leaders Corner: Elements to make an organization successful

- Our NE Church Planting leader Tim Rust gave our state leadership team this six step checklist for key elements in successful organizations:

1. Visionary of the Dream - establish purpose, atmosphere and attitude

2. Promotion - establish target group, define need and your ability to meet it

3. Structure - guidelines and responsibilities, flow of activity

4. Personal Development - Human Resources, Coaching, Mentoring

5. Insight of Developing Trends - Honest evaluation, Up to date on culture

6. Finances - securing and releasing of funds/resources

3). Ministry of the Day: Chadron State Chi Alpha - our College Ministry on the campus of Chadron State in Chadron, NE.

4). Link of the Day: Is It Normal - Curious how others might perceive your situation? Ask your question today and find out what others think...

5). Quote of the Day: 'About the time we can make the ends meet, somebody moves the ends.' - Herbert Hoover

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Evaluate Your Life Day. It is also the birthday of Vicki Owen (Pastors Wife in Columbus, NE), a distinction she shares with the host of Extreme Home Makeovers Ty Pennington, from 1965. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Martin Luther became a doctor of theology in 1512.

New Shirt offered at NE Youth Convention, November, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-10-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Flyleaf - ♫ Broken Wings ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to KEVIN LIBBY for being the correct comment chosen at random as our winner from last week's trivia - he is now up to $35 in prize earnings. Every week a random correct comment will be chosen as the winner of a $5 prize, which can be used for any NYM event (Fall Convention Nov 4-5 or 18-19) or piece of merchandise. What is the shortest book in the Bible?

3). Ministry of the Day: UNL Campus Church - Our Chi Alpha ministry for the campus of Nebraska in Lincoln. All young adults and college students are welcome.

4). Link of the Day: Worth Monkey - The online blue book for electronics and more

5). Quote of the Day: 'If you can dream it, you can do it.' - Walt Disney

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Menopause Day. It is also the birthday of Jodi Dimmitt (pastors wife in Gibbon), a distinction she shares with famous American musician Chuck Berry from 1926. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the United States took possession of Puerto Rico in 1898.

VUVUZELAS - from 2010 Convention, Lincoln

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-10-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Spoken - ♫ Across These Waters ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Last week, my office had a meeting with our production team for Youth Conventions. Every year, we have grown in the size and scope of what we produce for the students/leaders at convention. The first year, we brought in the aluminum tress, then it was the mist/fog machines, then the crowd blinders, smart lights, etc. We hadn't met for awhile so I wasn't sure if they had continued to progress like we had in the past. But once again, I was amazed. They have plans for more power so we can hook up even more lights and effects, including several CO2 canons and pyrotechnics. It's going to be an incredible convention.

- Thank God for a team of people that were released to dream a little and pursue excellence. They've come through in big ways. Entrusting others with the freedom and power to get the job done can go a long way in helping us be the leaders God wants us to be.

3). Ministry of the Day: Convention Facebook Event - Check out our 2011 NE Fall Youth Convention on Facebook.

4). Link of the Day: Know App - Keep stats on anything

5). Quote of the Day: 'Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not.' - Ralph Waldo Emerson

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Bosses Day. It is also the beginning of the Fall Presbyter's Meetings for Nebraska. Today is also the birthday of Chuck Davis (Pastor at Spirit Life Church in Omaha) a distinction he shares with Kristen Huff (UNO Chi Alpha Leader), Don Owen (Columbus Pastor) and famous motorcycle stuntman Evil Knievel from 1938. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.

Students with Vuvuzelas at Convention in Lincoln, 2010

Friday - Leaders Corner

2011-10-14T04:53:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Kari Jobe - ♫ We Are ♫

2). Leader Profile: Chris Johnson

POSITION: Senior Pastor of Hastings North Shore Church

HISTORY: Graduate of Central Bible College, grew up in Broken Bow

FAMILY: Married to Melissa, with 3 awesome kids

HOBBIES: Basketball, Hanging with his Family, Golf, Twitter

3). Ministry of the Day: Trinity Bible College - Check out the website for our Assembly of God college from Ellendale, ND

4). Link of the Day: Proust - A way for you to share and preserve your stories, one question at a time

5). Quote of the Day: 'A healthy outside starts from the inside.' - Robert Urich

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Be Bald and Be Free Day. It is also the birthday of Scott Townsend, Youth Professor at Trinity Bible College, a distinction he shares with Akbar the Great, the 3rd Mughal Emperor, from 1542. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that President Ronald Reagan declared a war on drugs in 1982.

2011-10-13T05:36:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Thousand Foot Krutch - ♫ Shook ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Over the past few days, we held a Seven Project in the Hastings area. We had three school assemblies and a Seven at Night rally with the band Remedy Drive. About 700 students came out and we project that over 200 prayed a prayer of salvation.

3). Ministry of the Day: BGMC Kids - Online website just for kids, challenging them to be passionate about missions

4). Link of the Day: Thank Uz - Send instant thank you's to friends, family, colleagues, even celebrities or random special people.

5). Quote of the Day: 'An educated people can be easily governed.' - Frederick The Great

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Sight Day. It is also the birthday of Nate Krizek, youth pastor in Kearney. This is a dinstinction he shares with Wilfred Pickles, famous English actor, from 1904. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the ABA started, with the Anaheim Amigos against the the Oakland Oaks.

Altar Time at the 7 at Night in Hastings last night

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-10-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Remedy Drive (in concert tonight at the Hastings City Auditorium at 7pm, and FREE!) - ♫ All Along ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- 6 ideas for how to have great meetings:

1. Don't call it a 'meeting'

2. Have an agenda, a very short one

3. Don't rewind

4. Control the Chatty Kathy and Kens

5. Ban email checking

6. End on time, sooner if possible

- More can be found here

3). Ministry of the Day: Platte Valley YFC - The Youth for Christ organization is behind the Collision event tonight and the Seven Projects

4). Link of the Day: CafeMom - CafeMom is an online community where millions of moms meet each day to talk, share advice, make new friends, and more

5). Quote of the Day: 'Affirmation without discipline is the beginning of delusion.' - Jim Rohn

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Free Thought Day. It is also the birthday of Luciano Pavaratti, the famous Italian Tenor. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the army of Cyrus the Great from Persia took control of Babylon in 539 BC

Marquee Promotion for tonights 7 at night rally

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-10-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Worth Dying For - ♫ Power of Your Love ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, we don't have a winner from last week's trivia. That's $10 in unclaimed prize money - too bad! Here's the trivia for this week, worth $5 - Name a Bible character who was the son of Nun?

3). Ministry of the Day: Teen Challenge - A dynamic transitional program for adults wanting freedom from life controlling issues.

4). Link of the Day: Gift Rocket - Find gift cards online for any of your gift giving needs.

5). Quote of the Day: 'A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.' - Wayne Gretzky

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Face your Fears Day. It is also the birthday of Jon Olson (pastor in Pender, NE), a distinction he shares with Doug Witherup (DYD of North Carolina) and Eleanor Roosevelt (First Lady) from 1884. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Teddy Roosevelt became the first US President to fly in a plane in 1910.

Today we did a 7 Project School Assembly in Blue Hill, NE

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-10-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Worth Dying For - ♫ Savior ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- We had a 7 Project school assembly this morning in Harvard, NE - just outside of Hastings. One of the discussion points was exposing the myth of 'safe sex'. To do so, I did a funny illustration involving some volunteers from the crowd. I pulled up a girl to help us out, one that had been volunteering enthusiastically from her seat in the stands. Later, I found out that she had recently gotten pregnant, but lost the baby just a few days earlier. The content of the message was that the only safe sex is no sex and waiting until you're ready. What a message, and what a powerful moment for that young student. She was very touched by being involved and trying to help others from making the same mistakes that had she made.

3). Ministry of the Day: 7 Projects - Check out this awesome school assembly program, and contact Brian Korell (brian@neag.org) for more information on our program in NE.

4). Link of the Day: CV Gram - Put your style in your Linkedin profile and turn it into a stunning visualization

5). Quote of the Day: 'A faith is a necessity to a man. Woe to him who believes in nothing.' - Victor Hugo

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Native American Day. We began a three day 7 Project school assembly event in the Hastings area. It is also the birthday of John Abercrombie, famous Scottish Physician from 1780. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that doesn't exist in 1582, because of the Gregorian calendar in use in Italy, Poland, Portugal, or Spain.

7 Project Set, Harvard, NE, 2011

Friday - Leader Profile

2011-10-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: The City Harmonic (concert in Omaha this Sat!) - ♫ Coming my Way ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Amy Kavan

POSITION - Children's Pastor at Omaha New Creation

HISTORY - Studies at Bellevue Masters Commission

FAMILY - Married to James, two young boys, sister to Toby

HOBBIES - Acting, Singing, Teaching, Basketball

3). Ministry of the Day: Youth Ministry Names - A wide assortment of actual youth ministry names across the US.

4). Link of the Day: Kayak - Search for great deals on airlines, hotels, and car rentals online

5). Quote of the Day: 'Be obscure clearly.' - E. B. White

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Smile Day. It is also the birthday of Kenny Schwarz (youth leader in Sidney), a distinction he shares with Henry Wallace, the 33rd Vice President of the US, in 1888. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that US invasion of Afghanistan began in 2001.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-10-06T05:29:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: City Harmonic (in concert in Omaha this Sat!) - ♫ My God ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- I was interacting with Mike Durre, our senior pastor at First Assembly in O'Neill, NE. He gave me the following report - 'I'm excited about our Family Night activities. We have about 30 kids each week...last year was about 18 to 20. Sunday School is growing as well. We basically had 3 or 4 young people....now about 10'

3). Ministry of the Day: CRY Conference - a dynamic conference with several ministry opportunities in Grand Island Oct 20-23, hosted by Abundant Life Church

4). Link of the Day: Punchfork - The best new recipes from across the internet

5). Quote of the Day:'Failure is success if we learn from it.' - Malcolm Forbes

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National German-American Heritage Day. It is also the birthday of famous football personality Tony Dungy, from 1955. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Fiji became a republic in 1987.

Random Bicyclists from the Missions Bike Ride, Sept 2011

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-10-05T07:35:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Aaron Gillespie - I will worship you

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

-Exodus 13:14-16 (Paraphrased) - God reminded the Hebrews to tell their children about how He rescued them from Egypt, and the symbolism for sacrificing the firstborn of their livestock in light of the miracle of the Passover.

- This was an important reminder, but it was mentioned several times over the last two chapters. Though we know the actual time represented in those two chapters can cover several days and weeks, it's interesting how many times God reminded His people of His desires for their behavior.

- Good leaders learn to communicate in two very important ways. First, they must be clear with their intentions. We must interact in a way that people are sure they know what we are asking of them. Second, they must communicate consistently. Don't assume that anyone 'got it' the first time. In real estate, there is a common notion that it takes 6 interactions for a message to stick - 6 to stick. Use the various forms of communication today to converse in a variety of ways, all with the same message, just like God did here in Exodus.

- Good leaders communicate REGULARLY and OFTEN! Don't be afraid to say it again.

3). Ministry of the Day: Great Plains Chi Alpha - the Regional leadership of Chi Alpha for Nebraska and the surrounding areas

4). Link of the Day: Know About it - a stream of important links posted by your friends on facebook

5). Quote of the Day: 'Be thine own palace, or the world's thy jail.' - John Donne

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Teachers Day. It is also the birthday of famous American Minister Jonathan Edwards from 1703. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space in 1984.

Jim,Kathy, and Joel at a Kids Leaders Training in August, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-10-04T05:39:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Aaron Gillespie (concert in Omaha this Saturday) - ♫ We were made for you ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Unfortunately, there are no winners from last weeks trivia, so the question will carryover to today with a $10 pricetag! How many Hebrew men were delivered from slavery in Egypt during the time of Moses?

3). Ministry of the Day: STL Digisource - Online resources to help with STL, including pictures, testimonies, media, sermons, and more...

4). Link of the Day: Slidefinder - a powerful search engine for powerpoint slides

5). Quote of the Day: 'I would rather belong to a poor nation that was free than to a rich nation that had ceased to be in love with liberty.' - Woodrow Wilson

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Improve your Office Day. It is also the birthday of President Rutherford B. Hayes from 1822. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Mount Rushmore began to be sculpted in 1927.

Mowing at the Camp, October 2011 - We will be working at the camp again today and tomorrow if anyone wants to come out, let me know (toby@neag.org)

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Press Play - ♫ Three Little Words ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- This past weekend, Grand Island, NE hosted its' 70th annual Harvest of Harmonies parade. This is a big yearly event with usually around 100 bands from the area in participation. Many people come out and crowd the downtown streets to enjoy the festivities. My mother-in-law came in to join us, and since I missed last years parade because of being out of town, I wanted ot make this one special.

- I woke up at 6:00am, got ready, and then went to the parade route to save our spot. Though dark outside and pretty cold, I got there just in time to get a great location. Over the next 90 minutes, several groups showed up and staked their claim to the locations all around me. Finally, just minutes before the parade began, my family showed up - the kids on the curb gathering candy, my wife and I and her mother in comfortable chairs behind them, enjoying the parade.

- I remember several people coming by just before the parade began. They were looking for a spot, but everything was taken. They looked very disappointed, but they could have come early like the rest of us. Planning ahead can make our plans go much smoother, and make it more enjoyable for everyone involved. Don't be afraid to take some time to plan ahead.

3). Ministry of the Day: Aaron Gillespie and City Harmonic Concert - coming THIS SATURDAY to Omaha at Grace University - ticket proceeds go to benefit NE college ministries, Chi Alpha.

4). Link of the Day: Eventbrite - Easy online way to organize and promote major events

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Habitat Day. It is also the birthday of Anquan Boldin, NFL football player, from 1980. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that President George Washington designated the first Thanksgiving Day celebration in 1789.

Parade Location, early morning, Oct 1, 2011

Friday - Leader Profile

2011-09-30T07:11:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: For King and Country - ♫ Busted Heart ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Brent Graves

POSITION:Senior Pastor of the AG church in Bassett, TBQ Director

HISTORY: Originally from Tennessee, attended CBC in Springfield, MO

FAMILY:Married to Mandy with one child

HOBBIES: Loves the Volunteers, avid hunter

3). Ministry of the Day: Kappa Tau - a Fine Arts challenge for young adults and college students

4). Link of the Day: Rizwan Scholars - Help us build our nation by facilitating quality education in young scholars achieving excellence in academics

5). Quote of the Day: 'Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.' - Henry Ford

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Ask a Stupid Question Day. It is also the birthday of Kristen Meduna (youth leader and Pastors Wife in Springview, NE), a distinction she shares with Princess Charlotte of Monaco from 1898. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that famous baseball player Roberto Clemente recorded his 3,000th hit, and the final hit of his career.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-09-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Aaron Buchholz - ♫ Beautiful Thing ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- This past weekend Nate Krizek was married. He is the youth and young adult pastor for New Life Church in Kearney, NE. I was speaking on the phone earlier in the week with our college ministries leader in Lincoln. Nate had several students that left Kearney for Lincoln to attend UNL this fall. This college leader told me that Nate deserved high praise - he personally came down and took all of his students to the college ministry to acclimate them with the group and introduce them to the leaders. That's taking the 'Youth to college' handoff to a new level. Way to go Nate!

3). Ministry of the Day: Campus Clubs - Keep the momentum alive from See You At The Pole by establishing a student led Bible club on your school campus. This was a focus of my message last night at Holy Grounds Youth Ministries in Omaha.

4). Link of the Day: TravelMath - Online free trip calculator

5). Quote of the Day: 'A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.' - Margaret Mead

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Coffee Day. It is also the birthday of Solomon Wang, a distinction he shares with famous basketball star Kevin Durant from 1988. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Chevy Camaro was introduced in 1966.

PK Students at Henrly Doorly Zoo in July 2011

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-09-28T07:43:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Satellites and Sirens - ♫ Ready to Save ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

- Here is a list of 10 important reasons a young person should be involved in small group, from renowned youth specialist Doug Fields:

1. Another significant adult is caring for them and cheering them on.

2. They are encouraged to grow spiritually on their own by someone other than mom/dad.

3. They find support during turbulent times in their life.

4. A caring presence at their sporting events or key activities.

5. Someone who is excited to see them at church.

6. Someone actually notices and misses them when they’re not at church or small group.

7. A caring friend leaves them affirming voice messages: “I was just thinking of you and wanted to let you know I think you’re the greatest.”

8. They can serve as a “neutral adult” who doesn’t freak-out over bad grades.

9. They have a “safe” person to talk to.

10. The small group leader becomes a tender, yet truthful voice when they need a little correcting.

3). Ministry of the Day: Aaron Gillespie and City Harmonic Concert - The Hello Somebody Tour is coming to Omaha at Grace University Saturday, October 8th.

4). Link of the Day: Thought Boxes - Organize anything, share and collaborate, make things happen.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Power is not alluring to pure minds.' -President Thomas Jefferson

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National See You At the Pole Day. It is also the birthday of Carlos Barcenas (NE leader of Hispanic Ministries), a distinction he shares with the philosopher Confucius from 551 BC. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the country of Senegal joined the United Nations in 1960.

Breakdancing at Youth Camp 1, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-09-27T07:05:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Plumb - ♫ Drifting ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to KEVIN LIBBY for being the correct comment chosen at random (from facebook comments) as our winner from last week's trivia. He is now up to $30 in prize earnings for NYM merchandise or events. Way to go!

- Here's the trivia for this week - How many men were involved in the Hebrew exit when they first were delivered from Egypt by Moses?

3). Ministry of the Day: Adopt a School - Parents, students, and leaders can go online and adopt the schools in your area to commit to pray for them regularly!

4). Link of the Day: Knoword - A fun interactive online game to help increase your vocabulary

5). Quote of the Day: 'What you hate to suffer, do not do to anyone else.' -Isocrates

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Ancestor Appreciation Day. It is also the birthday of Brent Kelderman (youth leader at Pacific Springs Church in Omaha), a distinction he shares with King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia and Poland from 1271. Finally, it the anniversary of the day that the Jesuits received their charter from the Pope in 1540.

Pastors Kids swimming at Johnson Lake during the free Pastors Day at Family Fest, 2011

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-09-26T05:35:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Burlap to Cashmere - ♫ The Other Country ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Last week, we had a dinner get together with some friends on Sunday night. We asked everyone where they had spent the afternoon the day before for the Husker game. Everyone was watching it by themselves at their homes.

- Yesterday, after church my daughter and I ran to Walmart to grab some groceries for the week. At the checkout line, behind us and at the line next to us were families we had interacted with at church just a few minutes before.

- Having friends and pursuing relationships isn't as hard as we make it. Just finding those around us doing the same things we are doing and choosing to do them together can go a long way in building connections that last a lifetime. Next time you have errands to run, call a friend and do them together.

3). Ministry of the Day: Fine Arts Preparation - Strategize how to use prepare for Fine Arts and use it in your Youth Ministry

4). Link of the Day: Online Food orders - A simple way to build online menus that enable you to collect and manage meal pre orders during the run up to an event.

5). Quote of the Day: "Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read." - Groucho Marx

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Family Day. It is also the birthday of famous American tennis player Serena Williams from 1981. Finally, it is also the anniversary of the day in 1981 that Nolan Ryan threw his record setting 5th no-hitter.

Norm and Georgene McCarthy, children's pastors in Grand Island, summer 2011

Friday - Leader Profile

2011-09-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Brad & Rebekah - ♫ Let Praise Arise ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Scott Mans

HISTORY: Product of Phoenix First Pastors College

POSITION: Senior Pastor in Bridgeport, NE

FAMILY: Married to Nikki, with two daughters

HOBBIES: Spending time with Family, Weightlifting, Evangelism

3). Ministry of the Day: Teacher of the Year - Talk with your pastor about nominating one of your SS teachers to be our NE teacher of the year in 2012.

4). Link of the Day: QuietWrite - A peaceful place to write, online journal

5). Quote of the Day: "The peace we seek to win is not victory over any other people, but the peace that comes with healing in its wings; with compassion for those who have suffered; with understanding for those who have opposed us; with the opportunity for all the peoples" -President Richard Nixon

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Love Note Day: It is also the birthday of Joba Chamberlain, famous NE pitcher with the NY Yankees, from 1985. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that the first baseball team was established in New York, the Knickerbockers, 1845.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-09-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Big Daddy Weave - ♫ Love Come to Life ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- This past Monday was our statewide Youth Committee mtg. Matt Richardson, youth pastor in Omaha, mentioned that his church has started a new outreach in his community. They have 'adopted' an apartment complex. They're starting children's services on sight, and soon will begin services for youth and different activities for adults as well.

- Kevin Libby is our newest member of the committee. The night before our meeting, they held another STL event and raised over $700.

3). Ministry of the Day: Doane Chi Alpha - One of our newest Chi Alpha programs begun on campus in Crete, NE.

4). Link of the Day: PostBox - A better way to do email

5). Quote of the Day: "A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble." - Charles Spurgeon

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Hobbit Day. It is also the birthday of Charles in Charge actor Scott Baio, from 1960. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Switzerland became an independent state in 1499.

Recreation at Youth Camp 2, 2011

Wednesday - Leaders Corner

2011-09-21T06:41:00.001-07:00

1). Song of the Day: William McDowell - ♫ I Won't Go Back ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leaders Corner

Here is a great tool that was given out through our National Children's Department recently, on setting SMART goals:

Specific - clearly defined in a few sentences

Measurable - how you know you the goal has been attained

Achievable - can be accomplished with current talent and budget (might require a stretch, but is not extreme)

Relevant - effort expended moves you closer to completion of the project or dream

Timed - you've set a deadline and it's a manageable pace

3). Ministry of the Day: STL Map - See where STL Missions funds from students in America are going all over the world.

4). Link of the Day: Flavors - Make a new homepage in minutes

5). Quote of the Day: 'A goal is a dream with a deadline' -Napolean Hill

6). Miscellaneous: Today is World Alzheimer's Day. It is also the birthday of John May (DYD of the Potomac District), a distinction he shares with famous American singer Faith Hill from 1967. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that Benedict Arnold gave strategic plans to the British during the Revolutionary War in 1780.

Students Worshipping at Youth Camp 1, 2011

Tuesday - Bible Trivia

2011-09-20T05:24:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Switchfoot - ♫ Restless ♫

2). Blog Entry: Bible Trivia

- Congratulations to REVKEV for being the correct comment chosen at random as our winner from last week's Bible trivia. He is now up to $10 in prize earnings - way to go!

- Here's the trivia for this week, worth $5 - Yesterday was our annual fall NYM committee meeting in Grand Island. Certain leaders drove in from all over the state. Can you name a situation in the Bible where leaders from all over a certain area came together in a central location for a special meeting?

3). Ministry of the Day: Busting Free - a devotional book for students who want to experience freedom in certain areas of their lives

4). Link of the Day: ScripSmart - Manage all your gift cards in one place online

5). Quote of the Day: "I shall be telling this with a sigh - Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference" -Robert Frost

6). Miscellaneous: Today is the middle of National Farm and Ranch Safety and Health Week. It is also the birthday of David Hertwick (DYD of New York), a distinction he shares with Punky Brewster from 1975. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Saladin began the famous siege of Jerusalem in 1187.

Various Leaders from our Youth Leaders Training, April 2011

Monday - Life Lessons

2011-09-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Nathan Tasker - ♫ Love is the Compass ♫

2). Blog Entry: Life Lessons

- Yesterday in my Sunday School class, we were discussing why the Bible is true. At one point, the teacher asked a question off the script, 'How many authors wrote the Bible?' Now, of course I immediately thought one (God) but I knew he was asking for the various authors inspired by God to write the several books contained within. A few guesses came out, and then the teacher responded, '40. I know that because of JBQ'

- JBQ stands for Junior Bible Quiz, a program for elementary students where they learn certain facts and principles from the Bible. It is a program which I oversee for our district in Nebraska. I was amazed to see this older teacher still pulling out facts which he learned at a young age. The more we learn and apply to our lives when we are young, the better we will be later in life because of those lessons learned.

3). Ministry of the Day: Junior Bible Quiz - a great way to plant the Word of God in students hearts, and get together with other children's groups/leaders once a month during the school year.

4). Link of the Day: Spokeo - A free online people search, like the white pages of your phone book.

5). Quote of the Day: 'Show me an army of leaders, and I'll show you an army of readers' -Napolean

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Women Road Warrior Day. It is also the birthday of famous chef Mario Batali from 1960. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the first budget of the US was passed by Congress in 1778. Also, please pray for our NE Youth Committee Mtg, taking place today as well.

NE Youth Committee Meeting in February, 2011

Friday - Leader Profile

2011-09-16T05:10:00.001-07:00

1). Song of the Day: Lecrae - ♫ Hallelujah ♫

2). Blog Entry: Leader Profile - Rex Adams (in orange)

HISTORY - Grew up in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, graduate of CBC

POSITION - Senior Pastor at Calvary church in Lexington, NE

FAMILY - Married to Amy, two kids, two dogs

HOBBIES - Loves softball, golf, cycling, and the St. Louis Cardinals

3). Ministry of the Day: Missions Bike Ride - check out photos from this great adventure just one week ago

4). Link of the Day: PhotoBall Maker - Put photos on golf balls

5). Quote of the Day: 'Acting is all about honesty. If you can fake that, you've got it made.' - George Burns

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Step Family Day. It is also the birthday of Orel Hershiser, famous American Baseball Player, from 1958. Finally, it is the anniversary of the day that the Mayflower Ship began sailing to America from England in 1620.

Thursday - Testimonies

2011-09-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

1). Song of the Day: City Harmonic - ♫ I Have a Dream ♫

2). Blog Entry: Testimonies

- Two weeks ago, our new Chi Alpha group at Doane College in Crete, NE held a welcoming event for incoming freshman, and they received over 300 contacts from people that wanted more information about Chi Alpha. Recently, a high standing professor also attended the local AG church and gave his life to Christ!

- Our new youth pastor in North Platte, Mike Maroney, has begun a college ministry group that is quickly pursuing Chi Alpha status. They are meeting twice a month as a small group and hoping to expand as a national Chartered Chi Alpha group, bringing the total in our state to 7!

3). Ministry of the Day: Light for the Lost Tour - Every September, our LFTL team tours the state allowing people the chance to come together, enjoy a steak dinner, and pick up support of a missions project.

4). Link of the Day: PixelPipe - Publish media to the online service of your choice

5). Quote of the Day: 'I preached as never sure to preach again. And as a dying man to dying men.' -Richard Baxter

6). Miscellaneous: Today is National Google.com Day. It is also the birthday of President William Howard Taft from 1857. Finally it is the anniversary of the day that Sandra Day O'Connor became the first female justice of the Supreme Court of the US in 1981.

Pastors Leroy (Scottsbluff) and Blake (Cozad) chatting at District Council, 2011