30. Tim Tebow and Blake Appleton – Of course Tim Tebow is popular in the news lately. But earlier in the year Tebow made a wish come true for a young fan, Blake Appleton. Blake who is battling cancer had a wish – to talk to Tim Tebow. From the story I’m reading on Dec 10^th it’s not sure how Tebow found out about Blake. But he did make the wish come true having a conversation with him over the phone. When you think about Christmas it’s hard not to think about children. When you think about sports and Christianity Tim Tebow is the obvious athlete we think of right now. This is a heartwarming story, and gets Tebow and Blake a Golden George Award.
http://tv.breitbart.com/tebow-makes-call-to-boy-battling-cancer/

29. United States Army and Brennan Daigle – The US Army could be put on this alone in recognition of what our soldiers do for their sacrifice for our nation. But along with Tim Tebow making dreams come true for children, the Army did the same thing back in March. Brennan Daigle is battling a rare form of muscular cancer. For his 10^th birthday he didn’t want toys or a video game system, instead he wanted to be a soldier. The US Army made that happen, providing Brennan with a party complete with a Humvee, local soldiers from his home in Louisiana, Army themed gifts, a flag flown in Afghanistan in his honor, and an honorary induction ceremony into the United States Army.
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/wish-comes-true-cancer-stricken-10-old-inducted-20110308-083835-458.html

28. Heartland of America Band – The band and orchestra from Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, Nebraska puts on one heck of show anytime you see them. I had the chance to see their holiday concert early this month and was blown away. These servicemen and women devote themselves to being the best they can with their talents, often taking their show on the road to entertain our service members overseas.

27. Tabacco Brothers – Derek and John Tabacco are Wall Street businessmen and brothers who believe in what they do and in free market capitalism and the American Dream. When the Occupy movement hit New York the brothers engaged the Occupiers, even holding a mini job fair of sorts to see if the Occupiers would take a job search seriously. While they have been controversial in the past, I applaud them for being an example, trying to offer help for what the protestors demand – jobs, and standing up for what they believe in.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/wall-street-heroes-to-hold-occupy-a-desk-american-job-fest-at-zuccotti-park/

26. Gibson Guitars/CEO Henry Juszkiewicz – Gibson Guitars became the target of the federal government over the summer for God knows what – essentially being told they had to use labor from Madagascar instead of American labor – some issue involving use of ebony in their line of music products. Whatever. This is complete non-sense and Gibson is an American company that makes great products that thus allow artists to enjoy…some of which give us the wonderful sounds of Christmas each year. It is my hope that plenty of Gibson guitars found their way under the tree this day.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/update-gibson-guitar-ceo-says-feds-told-him-to-outsource-labor-to-madagascar/

25. Giles County School Students, Giles, Virginia – In a rare display of young people defending faith in school students in this Virginia school fought back against the school over displaying the 10 Commandments. This didn’t happen at Christmastime – but it certainly is a reminder that no matter what time of the year it is, we shouldn’t be afraid to stand up for Christ.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/wv-students-outraged-after-10-commandments-removed-from-schools/

24. Bill O’Reilly – The Fox News host made headlines earlier this month for a segment where he defended Christmas and shot back at those instigating the real (or inflated) War On Christmas.

23. David Barton – When comedian Jon Stewart ran a funny, satirical, but not exactly factual report mocking the War On Christmas, David Barton was the heavy hitter to put Stewart in his place. Barton corrected Stewart’s history on Glenn Beck’s radio show on December 9^th. Barton continues to be one of the most important but least known people in the United States. Without him I believe some history would be lost, and thanks to Barton history is being saved and interests in it renewed, which includes Christmas.
http://www.glennbeck.com/2011/12/09/dave-barton-takes-on-stewarts-founders-didnt-care-about-christmas-claim/

22. Pitman, New Jersey – Citizens of Pitman have come to the defense of a Knight’s of Columbus banner that reads “Keep Christ in Christmas”.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/atheists-up-in-arms-over-nj-towns-keep-christ-in-christmas-sign/

21. Green County Tech Primary School, Paragould, Arkansas – In another front on the War On Christmas, or rather the Defense Of Christmas, this school district in Arkansas took a stand this year defending a Nativity scene on the elementary school in the district.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/public-school-defends-posting-nativity-scene-despite-potential-church-state-challenges/

20. Chester County, Pennsylvania – In our Defense Of Christmas/War On Christmas block of Golden George Awards we go to the Keystone State where citizens of Chester County, PA refused to let atheists display a “tree of knowledge” on the courthouse grounds along with the normal Christmas display. Now I’m a defender of free speech and exercise of free religion and welcome differing viewpoints. But let’s be frank…the season is Christmas…not _________. And Christmas has symbols. ________ does not exist, or rather symbol involved (tree of knowledge) doesn’t have a holiday to go along with it. My best guess is that these are just atheists who want to make a non-issue into an issue. I say great job to Chester County for taking a stand against the trivial in a season which defines anything but the trivial.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/atheists-angry-after-pa-officials-refuse-to-host-holiday-tree-of-knowledge/

19. Army Sgt Joe Tavera, J.R. Martinez and William Ryan Homes, and Building Homes For Heroes – Actor J.R. Martinez was involved in an amazing act of charity with real estate company William Ryan Homes in Florida. Sgt. Tavera who has numerous injuries from his service in Iraq received a $450,000 home complete with disabled access and extra wide hallways. The act was made possible by the non-profit group Building Homes for Heroes. All of these individuals and organizations deserve a Golden George Award!

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/im-really-really-blessed-severely-injured-war-vet-receives-life-changing-act-of-kindness/

18. Mount Airy, North Carolina – Glenn Beck has put a few causes and communities on the map. Last year at this time it was Wilmington, Ohio which I also awarded a Golden George too. This year it’s the town of Mount Airy, North Carolina. Mount Airy is the site for Beck’s new 1791 clothing line/charitable organization. The town was selected in part by the plea of the town’s mayor. Mount Airy is known as the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry in the classic Andy Griffith Show. The town estimates to have lost 10,000 jobs in the past decade. But now the remaining citizens, with the help of Beck’s innovation and inspiration hope to reverse that trend. And let’s hope that the important charity work will make someone’s Christmas better who reside in the Mount Airy’s all across the country.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/mayberry-town-plans-bring-it-beck-rally-to-attract-1791-clothing-line-business/

17. Christina Taylor Green – Not all of our award winners this year are due to happy stories. We remember Christina Taylor Green. You may recall 9 year old Christina being one of the victims of the attack on Congresswoman Gabriel Giffords back in January. Christina was a great student, developing interests in leadership, involved in various extracurricular activities and had big dreams for her life. Sadly that all ended that tragic day. However, her memory lives on and may she continue to be an inspiration for all.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/mothers-memories-of-slain-9-year-old-leaves-fox-news-host-in-tears/

16. Brenda Tharp – An Omaha woman is helping to replace gifts that were stolen from a local shelter. Someone earlier this month broke into Brenda’s car and stole gifts meant for children at the nearby Stephen Center. While talking about the crime with friends at a restaurant some patrons overheard and presented Brenda with $100. Inspired by the act of generosity, Tharp has now made it a mission to raise $1,000 for the shelter. Christmas miracles do indeed happen! If you would like to help Brenda and the Stephen Center you can contact the center at 402-715-5445.
http://www.ketv.com/holidays/30023771/detail.html?utm_source=KETV+Newswatch+7&utm_medium=twitter

15. Travis Air Force Base – Travis AFB in California has joined many communities across the country in taking a stand against radical atheists seeking to keep Nativity scenes and other symbols of Christmas out of public viewing. The display is set up on the main drive into the base and has been a tradition for years.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/air-force-base-wont-remove-nativity-scene-menorah-from-holiday-display/

14. Kevin Peck – On December 12^th West Valley City, Utah police officer Kevin Peck help aid an injured woman stuck under a commuter bus. The bus struck Aryann Smith at a crosswalk pinning her underneath causing serious injuries to her legs. Once on the scene Peck crawled under the bus to check on Smith’s status, and stayed until more help could arrive, comforting the hurting pedestrian. Smith was rescued a time later and is recovering. Peck is being honored as a hero in the community for his compassion and kindness.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/i-told-her-i-would-stay-hero-police-officer-crawls-under-bus-to-hold-trapped-womans-hand/

13. Vicky Thomas – You may recall the dastardly beating at a Maryland McDonald’s back in April. The fight was caught on tape and became a viral video. The victim, Chrissy Lee Polis, a transgender woman was being severely beaten for several minutes before Vicky Thomas who was also in the McDonald’s at the time tried to intervene. Vicky also got hit in the face in the process. Polis was drug by her hair and beaten so badly that she had a seizure on the floor of the restaurant. Vicky’s actions likely saved Polis from further injury and possibly saved her life. Vicky Thomas, a Good Samaritan, and a good neighbor, makes the Badger Benson Golden George Awards for 2011!
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/meet-the-good-samaritan-woman-who-tried-to-stop-brutal-mcds-beating/

12. Jan Cline – Jan Cline is fighting cancer. She also is struggling to pay for her treatment. She’s a former business owner, and describes herself as being independent. So she started having garage sales in her backyard to help pay for her treatments. Sounds like a positive story about an inspiring individual that exemplifies the American spirit doesn’t it? Well…also a sign of the times and out of control government the city of Salem, Oregon told Cline that she had to stop her garage sales. Why? Because of a complaint by a neighbor and the city says residents can only hold three garage sales a year! Outrageous! An example of out of control government. Thankfully a community development department and other individuals in the city have been doing what they can to aid Cline.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/womans-garage-sales-to-pay-for-cancer-treatment-shut-down-by-city/

11. Franklin Graham – Graham is probably best known as being the son of Rev. Billy Graham. Franklin like his father is an evangelist. Not many know though that Franklin Graham has been involved in food and agriculture charity organization that has been permitted inside North Korea to aid starving people of that oppressed country. Franklin Graham is a Golden George winner for being brave, doing the right thing, furthering the Kingdom, and bringing hope to those who otherwise would not have any.

10. Faith Baptist Church, Orlando, Florida – After the congregation was challenged to help the poor by preacher and author Bruce Wilkinson last March the First Baptist congregation answered. By July the church had brought in $5.6 million in pledges! Soon the poor were knocking on the church doors presenting an issue – how to use the money and treat causes and not the symptoms. The church partnered with local non-profits to address community needs.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/orlando-church-raises-unprecedented-5-6-million-to-aid-orlandos-poor-and-homeless-families/

9. IHOP, Kansas City – No, not the International House of Pancakes, but those sure sound good on Christmas Day! The IHOP is the International House of Prayer, a church in Kansas City, Missouri that started in 1999 and has been in continual prayer 24/7 for more than 12 years. Spiritual inspiration!
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/kansas-city-christian-church-has-been-praying-worshipping-247-for-more-than-12-years/

8. The Old Guard, Arlington National Cemetery – The two years I have been doing this it should be any surprise that military stories find their way onto the list multiple times, and rightly so. The Old Guard needs to be recognized. The Old Guard is the Tomb Sentinel, 3^rd US Infantry Regiment that marches on watch at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery. The Guard has been on duty at the tomb every second of every day regardless of weather or holidays since April 6, 1948. In late August pictures of the on duty Guards went on the 3^rd Infantry Facebook page showing the soldiers performing their duties while in hurricane weather. Glory and honor are found in the Christmas story, likewise it is found in our military – the Old Guard receives a Golden George Award for 2011.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/photos-of-the-old-guard-as-they-watch-over-the-tomb-of-the-unknown-soldier-during-hurricane-irene/comment-page-4/#comment-1758768

7. Dakota Meyer and Leroy Arthur Petry – Staying with the military theme two servicemen are honored in our awards. Dakota Meyer received the Medal of Honor over the summer for saving 36 lives at extraordinary risk to himself in Afghanistan.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/marine-cpl-receives-medal-of-honor-for-saving-36-lives-in-afghanistan/

Petry also received the Medal of Honor Award earlier in the year for saving himself and two others from a grenade. While tossing the grenade Petry lost his hand. Petry who had already been injured with gunshots during the battle, saved the lives of his colleagues. We don’t often think of sacrifice during Christmas – but there are those who have sacrificed a lot so that we can enjoy the day, those who are serving, those who are spending their day with loved ones who are serving, and those who have passed away in service to their country. May we be reminded in these sacrifices that Christmas leads to us to Easter where our Lord made the ultimate sacrifice. Therefore we honor Dakota Meyer and Leroy Petry with Golden George Awards.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/meet-the-armys-latest-medal-of-honor-recipient/

6. Yeager Family, State Center, Iowa – The Yeager family of my hometown of State Center, Iowa made national and world headlines this fall. Gordon (94) and Norma (90) gave the world a showcase of love and the meaning of death til us part. In fact Norma promised Gordon that when she graduated from high school that she would spend forever with him. The couple died in a car crash (actually on the corner of my family’s farm) in early October. Rescuers rushed the couple to the hospital where they passed away…holding hands. Of course when we think of Christmas we think of Love. Along with that, we are given a story of family. The Yeager’s show us both love and devotion of family.
http://www.kcci.com/r/29528191/detail.html

5. Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation – John Kanzius was a good man. He died a good man and his legacy of good is living on. Several of our Golden George winners on the 2011 list have been cancer victims. John died of cancer. But not before providing hope and innovation for a cure. Believe it or not, a cure might not be far off – in large part due to the Kanzius Research Center. John Kanzius was a radio broadcaster. While fighting his battle with cancer he wondered if radio waves might be able to combat cancer cells. A process that involves injecting micro-sized gold particles into the blood stream, the particles attach themselves to cells, radio waves then heat up the particles and the bad cells and particles are burned off. Further research needs done, but so far indications suggest a 100% cure rate. A cure for cancer in our lifetime might be a reality. Hope is alive at Christmas. And the Kanzius Center is giving hope to millions.
http://www.kanziuscancerresearch.com/about/

4. Eric Bolling – In at #4 is Eric Bolling, the Fox Business Network host. Bolling made news in mid December when he kicked Dan Baker of the Freedom From Religion Foundation off his show after Baker had called the Nativity scene an insult. Bolling rejected the notion, defended his Christian faith and ended the interview abruptly. Baker whose group the Freedom From Religious Foundation is in the news this Christmas season over a situation in Henderson County, Texas involving a public Nativity scene. Bolling’s no non-sense approach was refreshing. It also became the soundbite of the season for people of faith worried about the assault on religious liberties. Dan Baker said he found the Nativity to be insulting. Let us remember this Christmas of the individual in the manager in the Nativity who took the biggest insult to save our lives, and yes, even Dan Baker’s life.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/epic-fox-segment-host-kicks-atheist-off-show-for-calling-jesus-the-nativity-an-insult/

3. Joplin, Missouri – One of the biggest stories of 2011 was the disastrous tornadoes that struck parts of the South and Midwest including Joplin, Missouri. Joplin was leveled by a tornado. But within minutes of the devastation the community was in action helping to rescue others, clear debris, and comforting those with hurt or suffering loses. Out of ashes and ruble came hope. Talk radio hosts like Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck featured the Joplin story and help raise aid for the victims. The community is bouncing back, while rebuilding may be slow, and many will have a rough Christmas because of loss or property and worse yet, loss of loved ones; the community of Joplin is committed to rebuilding and making their corner of the world better. Joplin receives a Golden George Award for their inspiration and example to the world. Might Joplin serve as a reminder of another small town that provided the world hope on that first Christmas Day, known as Bethlehem.

2. Layaway Secret Santa’s – An interesting trend started a few years ago and has exploded in 2011. Secret Santa’s are going into area stores, mostly K-Mart’s around the country and paying off total strangers layaway bills. Typically the Secret Santa’s look for layaway bills containing children’s clothing and toys. Even further inspiring is that many of the shoppers who return to pay their own bills finding out a stranger has paid their bill for them, continue to pay it forward by paying off another stranger’s bill. May the K-Mart Secret Santa’s remind us of the first visitors to Christ who went to the manager out of faith and joy.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/tis-the-season-secret-santas-pay-off-needy-families-layaway-bills-at-local-kmart/

1. Henderson County, Texas – This Texas community has been ground zero this year in the secular vs. religious clash that occurs every year at this time. For years the courthouse in Henderson, Texas has displayed a Nativity scene on the grounds. This year one complaint was filed with the Freedom From Religion Foundation in Wisconsin. The FFRF threatened the county with legal action. The community however didn’t back down. The FFRF got their nose into a place they didn’t belong and these Texans let the organization know it! In a grand show of support and community unity a happy throng Christmas loving Texans gathered last weekend at the courthouse. May the community of Henderson, Texas be an example to us all to have no fear and not be intimidated in this world when we know our Lord and Savior lives…and we know He lives because he came to earth to live among us. The Word became flesh. Henderson County, Texas is the Badger Benson Show 2011 #1 Golden George Award winner! Congratulations and Merry Christmas!

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/intimidation-atheists-demand-that-texas-nativity-scene-be-torn-down-immediately/

Now…this show is pre-recorded and I recorded on Thursday night. Well turns out on Friday I found two stories that needed added to the Golden George Awards. I apologize. Now here’s the deal…I also feel that both of them would be great additions to the number one spot with Henderson, Texas. So this year…three #1’s. And we’ll just call Henderson the overall number one. Again, I apologize for that, but I really did not think there would be any more additions to the list before the weekend. So here are the two add-ons into the Golden George Awards…
1. Brad Lueddeke – Lueddeke of the Dallas-Fort Worth area found himself in a rescue situation on Wednesday, December 21^st…with himself being the rescuer. Brad came across an accident and pulled a man from the wreckage. Going beyond the rescue effort Brad also directed traffic around the accident, keeping other travelers safe. And he did all while dressed as Santa Claus. Brad was on his way to deliver gifts to needy children. But we can make this story even more impressive and heartwarming. Brad had lost his son Jordan to an auto accident 7 years ago. The man he saved was father to Amber Walker, who had been a close friend to Brad’s son Jordan. That’s a great Christmas story and I had to make sure Brad Lueddeke made the list.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/santa-impersonator-saves-man-from-burning-pickup-in-real-life-christmas-miracle-7-years-after-tragedy/

1. David Wilson – Wilson of Los Angeles, is one of those Secret Santa’s paying off layaway bills at stores like Kmart. Wilson who’s identity was revealed, is now more of a Layaway Angel than a Secret Santa. Regardless, what Wilson did is remarkable. In a show of Christmas charity and good will David called the Kmart in Laguna Beach and had the store tally up all the items on layaway that cost under $100. He then paid the entire sum – $15,919.61! Wilson’s act then inspired others when the news got out, and an additional $8,000 flowed in!

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/layaway-angel-generously-picks-up-entire-16k-layaway-tab-at-calif-kmart/

So there you go, the two additions to the list, and you can clearly understand why I had to get them both included. So I dubbed in this segment and uploaded the audio again on Friday evening. But now, back to the original recorded program. And thanks again!

2011 Potter Awards

The Potter Awards

12/6 California School

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/calif-school-reportedly-bans-teachers-from-displaying-santas-christmas-trees-in-classrooms/

12/8 Henderson County Texas Atheists

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/intimidation-atheists-demand-that-texas-nativity-scene-be-torn-down-immediately/

12/7 *English School

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/british-principal-cuts-off-clasrooms-heat-amid-near-freezing-temperatures-to-lower-carbon-footprint/

12/8 Lincoln Chafee

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/fox-producer-confronts-r-i-gov-over-holiday-tree-who-exactly-does-a-christmas-tree-offend/

12/8 Mall Vandals

http://www.unionleader.com/article/20111208/NEWS03/712099997
http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2011/12/09/125-ipads-stolen-from-san-carlos-best-buy-store/

12/9 Santa Monica Atheists

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/calif-atheists-successfully-nudge-out-offensive-nativity-display/

12/9 Jon Stewart

http://www.glennbeck.com/2011/12/09/dave-barton-takes-on-stewarts-founders-didnt-care-about-christmas-claim/

12/12 US Postal Service

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/u-s-post-office-in-maryland-kicks-out-christmas-carolers/

12/12 – The Freedom From Religion, Madison Wisconsin group

12/14 US Marine Corps

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/marine-corps-apologizes-after-mailing-purple-heart-tree-ornaments-to-deceased-soldiers/

12/15 Jesse Jackson

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/jesse-jackson-jesus-was-an-occupier/

12/18 Barbara Kibler

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/occupy-north-pole-pricey-private-schools-christmas-play-skewers-big-oil-corporate-greed/

12/18* Bethlehem Mayor Victor Batarseh
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/bethlehem-christmas-mayor-compares-israel-to-apartheid-south-africa-and-prime-minister-calls-jesus-palestinian/

12/18 Congressional Franking Commission

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/u-s-house-members-banned-from-writing-merry-christmas-in-official-mail/

12/18 UNICEF

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/new-unicef-ad-says-santa-doesnt-do-poor-countries/

12/19 White House

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/no-jesus-ornaments-on-the-capitol-christmas-tree-but-it-does-celebrate-obama/

12/21 Yonkers, NY

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/hate-crimes-nativity-scenes-christian-statues-desecrated-in-yonkers-ny/

12/23 Mass Superintendent

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/school-superintendent-receiving-death-threats-over-santa-order/

12/23 Pineville, North Carolina Shoppers

http://www.waff.com/story/16383548/shoppers-throw-punches-while-waiting-for-sale-of-popular-tennis-shoe

Sun 12/18 – 4th Sunday In Advent 7:00 AM
Sun 12/18 – 2011 Christmas Music Special featuring Sojourn 6:00 PM

Mon 12/19 – Morning Prayer 6:30 AM
Mon 12/19 – Christmas Update – Obama Claus, North Pole News, Previews of Deck Your Den Contest and Golden George Awards 7:00 PM

Tue 12/20 – Morning Prayer 6:30 AM

Tue 12/20 – Christmas Update – Badger’s Christmas Must Do’s 7:00 PM

Wed 12/21 – Christmas Update – Obama Claus, North Pole News 6:30 AM
Wed 12/21 – 2010 Xmas Eve and Xmas Day Special 7:00 PM

Thr 12/22 – Christmas Update – Obama Claus, North Pole News 6:30 AM
Thr 12/22 – (Rebroadcast 12/16) Christmas Carol Stave Three 7:00 PM

Fri 12/23 – Christmas Update – Obama Claus, North Pole News 6:30 AM
Fri 12/23 – Christmas Carol Stave Four 7:00 PM

Sat 12/24 – (Rebroadcast 12/23) Christmas Carol Stave Four 7:00 AM
Sat 12/24 – Christmas Eve Special: Devotional, Stave Five, Deck Your Den Winners, Obama Claus (1 Day) 8:00 AM

Sun 12/25 -5th Sunday In Advent 7:00 AM
Sun 12/25 – Christmas Day Special: Golden George Awards, Obama Claus – It’s here! 8:00 AM

Mon 12/26 – (Rebroadcast 12/24-25) 2011 Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Specials 7:00 PM

11/18 The term "Carol" we use for any Christmas song. But Dickens was using the context of his time, a carol meant a song celebrating the birth of Christ. Thus he divides the book into "staves" instead of chapters. A stave is a stanza of a song.

11/19 The colloquial word "scrooge" means "to squeeze". Dickens point to use it as a name is to underscore his main character’s primary sin: greed.

11/20 Scrooge’s catchphrase "bah humbug" was the common term for non-sense. We think of him saying it a lot. Actually it is said very little in the story, and even by the end of Stave One he can barely get it out, as one of the first signs of transformation, and it’s never said again in the remaining four staves.

11/21 Marley’s death is "7 years ago this night" (Christmas Eve). 7 often seen as a Holy number. Also we celebrate Christ’s birth on Christmas Day. The implication is that Marley never knew Christ in life; and foreshadowing a rebirth for Scrooge.

11/22 Note that the first two spirits appear accompanied by light, but the third arrives shrouded in darkness.

11/23 Marley appears to Scrooge as "still agitated by the hot vapor from an oven", an obvious reference to hell.

11/24 Now in Stave Two: "He resolved to lie awake until the hour was past; and considering he could no more go to sleep than go to Heaven." Dickens gives a dual purpose with the words in Carol many times, this being one example.

11/25 "It is required of every man," returned the Ghost, "That the spirit within him should walk abroad among his fellow-men, and travel far and wide; and if that spirit goes not forth in life, it is condemned to do so after death. It is doomed to wander through the world-oh, woe is me! And witness what it cannot share, but might have shared on earth, and turned to happiness!" Dickens was having Marley speak of the Great Commission.

11/26 Scrooge is so consumed by money at start of Stave 2 that if the sun were blotted out his biggest concern is that people who owe him money will not be able to count the days to pay him in a timely manner. Two purposes in this: The extent of his greedy nature; and also the blindness of those who live in spiritual darkness even when surrounded by light.

11/27 The appearance of Ghost of Christmas Past is based on the German character the Christkind – according to legend was a heavenly messenger said to have announced the birth of Christ. Other stories say it is a child who brought gifts to infant Jesus. In parts of Germany and other countries it is this character who brings children their toys on Christmas and not Santa Claus.

11/28 "Good Heaven!" says Scrooge. A notable change early in Stave 2 from his earlier "Bah Humbug!"

11/29 When the First Spirit says he is there for Scrooge’s welfare, the worldly minded miser thinks of his physical well-being, causing the Spirit to clarify it is "reclamation", emphasizing a spiritual rehabilitation.

11/30 "It would have been in vain for Scrooge to plead that the weather and the hour were not adapted to pedestrian purposes; that bed was warm, and the thermometer a long way below freezing; that he was clad but lightly in his slippers, dressing-gown, and nightcap; and that he had a cold upon him at the time." Dickens seems to satirize a list of excuses for not following the spirit. In our own lives we might compare this to a cold Sunday morning when we’d rather stay in bed than go to church.

12/1 Pencast (Bad Link) Something new today! "Scroogie" via Pencast. Today the Ghost takes Scrooge to his past, the scene at the schoolhouse. "The school is not quite deserted," said the Ghost. "A solitary child, neglected by his friends, is left there still." Scrooge said he knew it. And he sobbed. What we do effects others – and can have a lasting effect for a long time. Be mindful of your treatment of others.

12/4 Pencast (Bad Link)

12/5 "Nothing," said Scrooge. "Nothing. There was a boy singing a Christmas Carol at my door last night. I should have liked to have given him something: that’s all." His first pang of regret in the story. We must regret before we can experience repentance.

12/6 More family issues with this one. In Stave Two we see how much Scrooge loved his sister (Fan), compared to Stave One where we see he has not loved his nephew (Fred), nor has he loved his neighbors for that matter.

12/7 Charity is presented several times in Carol. Christmas Past takes Scrooge to his beloved old boss Fezziwig. In act of charity Fezzi closes shop early on Christmas Eve and hosts a festive party which young Scrooge enjoys. Compared to the Scrooge of the present who displays little charity to his employee and in fact would like for Cratchit to work on Christmas Day.

12/8 Pencast (Bad Link) Trying to fix that still.

12/9 Less in meaning today, but some good trivia. Mince Pie is served at Fezziwig’s party. Traditionally the pie must contain 3 spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg) to represent 3 gifts of the Magi. Also the traditional pies of Dickens time were often made in oblong shape to resemble the manger. The baker would often make a flat space on the top shaped like a star on which would set a Christ-child figurine. (Strange I know!)

12/10 Christmas Past shows the sad conversation between Belle and Scrooge before they part ways. "It matters little. Another idol has displaced me." Belle criticizes him for trading allegiance to sacred love for a sacrilegious one. Dickens makes another biblical reference here, Exodus 32 and the "golden calf".

12/11 At the end of Stave 2. "He turned upon the Ghost, and seeing that it looked upon him with a face, in which in some strange way there were fragments of all the faces it had shown him, wrestled with it." Scrooge wrestling with the spirit recalls Jacob wrestling in Genesis 32. In both cases a spiritual being chastises a man for past sins, the man wrestles with the spirit as he tries to secure favor, and the spirit is overcome.

12/12 Now starting Stave Three. Dickens used white as the color of the first spirit. The second comes in green. This wasn’t just because it’s a color associated with Christmas. Dickens chose green because it was the symbolic color of growth. Further reflecting Scrooge’s transformation.

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Time for this years nominations for the Golden George Awards!
I started the Golden George Awards last year out of inspiration of the town of Wilmington, Ohio that was in the news this time last year. The town was on hard times after DHL and other businesses closed. But people and businesses came together, supported each other and kept the town going. The story was featured by Glenn Beck and other news outlets.
I decided on the name Golden George after the character of George Bailey in the Christmas classic "It’s A Wonderful Life". The purpose of the awards are to recognize those people who are the George Bailey’s of their communities. People who best espouse the Christmas spirit. They might be your neighbors or family members. They might be the richest person in town or the poorest. Young or old. It could be the smallest gesture of kindness to running a homeless shelter.
Whatever it is, you know who they are and they’re doing great things for others, and they likely don’t require thanks to do it. They just do it because that is who they are…and such people make the places we live a little bit better, especially this time of the year.
If you know of such a person nominate them for the Golden George Awards. Email me at brandon@badgerbenson.com telling a little about them and why they deserve the award.
You can view last years winners here: http://www.badgerbenson.com/americans-vs-americants/2010-golden-george-awards-announced/
Last year the top two spots went to my Grandmas…I’d argue they both certainly deserved it! But with only family making nominations that’s just how it ended up. I managed to find little stories from around the country like Wilmington for the rest. This year I hope to see more nominees!
The final list will be announced on my program, a pre-recorded show on Christmas Day.

https://www.facebook.com/events/249395895116071/

On Facebook and Twitter I’ve been posting daily messages from the footnotes about the story. I’ll do this each day for the entire book up to Christmas Day.

Also, the Christmas Series of Shows this year will feature each Stave from “A Christmas Carol”. Join me this Friday night at 7 PM as I kick off the study on the show at blogtalkradio.com/badger-benson

Here is what I have posted so far: I like to call them “Scroogies.

11/18 The term "Carol" we use for any Christmas song. But Dickens was using the context of his time, a carol meant a song celebrating the birth of Christ. Thus he divides the book into "staves" instead of chapters. A stave is a stanza of a song.

11/19 The colloquial word "scrooge" means "to squeeze". Dickens point to use it as a name is to underscore his main character’s primary sin: greed.

11/20 Scrooge’s catchphrase "bah humbug" was the common term for non-sense. We think of him saying it a lot. Actually it is said very little in the story, and even by the end of Stave One he can barely get it out, as one of the first signs of transformation, and it’s never said again in the remaining four staves.

11/21 Marley’s death is "7 years ago this night" (Christmas Eve). 7 often seen as a Holy number. Also we celebrate Christ’s birth on Christmas Day. The implication is that Marley never knew Christ in life; and foreshadowing a rebirth for Scrooge.

11/22 Note that the first two spirits appear accompanied by light, but the third arrives shrouded in darkness.

11/23 Marley appears to Scrooge as "still agitated by the hot vapor from an oven", an obvious reference to hell.

11/24 Now in Stave Two: "He resolved to lie awake until the hour was past; and considering he could no more go to sleep than go to Heaven." Dickens gives a dual purpose with the words in Carol many times, this being one example.

11/25 "It is required of every man," returned the Ghost, "That the spirit within him should walk abroad among his fellow-men, and travel far and wide; and if that spirit goes not forth in life, it is condemned to do so after death. It is doomed to wander through the world-oh, woe is me! And witness what it cannot share, but might have shared on earth, and turned to happiness!" Dickens was having Marley speak of the Great Commission.

11/26 Scrooge is so consumed by money at start of Stave 2 that if the sun were blotted out his biggest concern is that people who owe him money will not be able to count the days to pay him in a timely manner. Two purposes in this: The extent of his greedy nature; and also the blindness of those who live in spiritual darkness even when surrounded by light.

11/27 The appearance of Ghost of Christmas Past is based on the German character the Christkind – according to legend was a heavenly messenger said to have announced the birth of Christ. Other stories say it is a child who brought gifts to infant Jesus. In parts of Germany and other countries it is this character who brings children their toys on Christmas and not Santa Claus.

11/28 "Good Heaven!" says Scrooge. A notable change early in Stave 2 from his earlier "Bah Humbug!"

11/29 When the First Spirit says he is there for Scrooge’s welfare, the worldly minded miser thinks of his physical well-being, causing the Spirit to clarify it is "reclamation", emphasizing a spiritual rehabilitation.

11/30 "It would have been in vain for Scrooge to plead that the weather and the hour were not adapted to pedestrian purposes; that bed was warm, and the thermometer a long way below freezing; that he was clad but lightly in his slippers, dressing-gown, and nightcap; and that he had a cold upon him at the time." Dickens seems to satirize a list of excuses for not following the spirit. In our own lives we might compare this to a cold Sunday morning when we’d rather stay in bed than go to church.

Before that join me for a special edition of Morning Prayer on the Badger Benson Show. That starts at 6:30 AM.

Have safe travels and a happy Thanksgiving!

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/badger-benson

I started the Golden George Awards last year out of inspiration of the town of Wilmington, Ohio that was in the news this time last year. The town was on hard times after DHL and other businesses closed. But people and businesses came together, supported each other and kept the town going. The story was featured by Glenn Beck and other news outlets.

I decided on the name Golden George after the character of George Bailey in the Christmas classic "It’s A Wonderful Life". The purpose of the awards are to recognize those people who are the George Bailey’s of their communities. People who best espouse the Christmas spirit. They might be your neighbors or family members. They might be the richest person in town or the poorest. Young or old. It could be the smallest gesture of kindness to running a homeless shelter.

Whatever it is, you know who they are and they’re doing great things for others, and they likely don’t require thanks to do it. They just do it because that is who they are…and such people make the places we live a little bit better, especially this time of the year.

If you know of such a person nominate them for the Golden George Awards. Email me at brandon@badgerbenson.com telling a little about them and why they deserve the award.
You can view last years winners here: http://www.badgerbenson.com/americans-vs-americants/2010-golden-george-awards-announced/

Last year the top two spots went to my Grandmas…I’d argue they both certainly deserved it! But with only family making nominations that’s just how it ended up. I managed to find little stories from around the country like Wilmington for the rest. This year I hope to see more nominees!
The final list will be announced on my program, a pre-recorded show on Christmas Day.

Categories:
Best Exterior Illumination (Cash)
Best Interior Illumination (Book)
Best Tree (Ornament)
Worst Decoration (Could be anything from tree ornaments to plastic Santa’s with punched in noses) (Ornament)
Best Chronicled Decorating Process (series of video or pictures) 3 month subscription to the Jelly of the Month Club.

Send your entry to brandon@badgerbenson.com
Feel free to post them here for everyone to see. The final collection will be posted on the web site. Looking for everything from nice to off the wall. Originality will go far! Keep it PG people.
And for the love of Grace (bless her heart she died 30 years ago) do not hurt yourself! (And if you do at least get it on tape.) Brandon Benson, Benson Creative Services, and the Badger Benson Show will not be held responsible for any injuries or damages to yourself and/or property. You have until December 22nd to submit your entries.
Now get busy! If you’re interested in being on the panel, send me an email. I’ll get a crack staff together for the judging and announce who they are in the coming weeks.

Check out the event on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/events/249395895116071/