Badger Benson

Posts Tagged ‘Golden George’

In addition to the Golden George Awards for 2011, I have started another list. The Potter Awards. Like the character of George Bailey, the villain of It’s A Wonderful Life will too have a list on the Badger Benson Show. But for the exact opposite. Mr. Potter was a twisted, selfish, jerk of a man who didn’t live the spirit of Christmas. We have a list for those such individuals who have provided us with examples that go against the Christmas spirit….However, the names and stories will only be posted on the web site. This day is a celebration…and no Grinch will rain our parade. No Scrooge will receive the satisfaction of even being mentioned on this show about all that is good and right about this wonderful holiday. For the list of the Potter Awards, check out BadgerBenson.com where the list of Golden George winners is now also posted. Feel free to follow along as I go through the list on the show.

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

Here is the schedule for Christmas Week on the Badger Benson Show. I hope you’ll join me for all the fun this week! Starting Sunday with Advent and a special music show featuring Sojourn. Then catch all the shows during the week leading to the next Christmas Carol study on Friday night. Then on Saturday the Christmas Eve special with the Deck Your Den Awards and final installment of A Christmas Carol, plus a special report from a very special guest. Then on Sunday, Christmas Day! The Golden George Awards for 2011 will be announced!
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/badger-benson

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

Description

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.

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.

The Golden George Awards…our first ever awards! It’s something I just thought of last week! I wish we had started on it sooner. But hopefully it’ll become a new Christmas tradition! The idea for the Golden George Awards is inspired by the character of the same name from the holiday classic “It’s A Wonderful Life”. The character of George Bailey played by the great Jimmy Stewart is one of the best characters, at least Christmas characters created. In the story George Bailey endures a series of misfortunes accumulating on Christmas Eve where he decides he no longer wants to live, he jumps off a bridge into the icy water, a river outside of Bedford Falls. His Guardian Angel Clarence saves George, and in a discussion George wishes he’d never been born at all. Clarence on a mission to earn his wings decides to grant George his wish…showing him a lifetime, his lifetime…minus George – what it’d be like had he not lived. By the end of the movie George has a change of heart and comes to realize he has lived a wonderful life – Clarence turns everything back to normal taking George home as he knew it…where George to his surprise finds that his family and the community of Bedford Falls has united around him…paying him back for all the good that he has brought forth into the town of Bedford Falls. The end of that movie is a touching scene and Clarence earns his wings.

Thus the Golden George Awards…an effort to recognize those people and stories from the past year that best display the Christmas spirit!

I opened up nominations to you the listeners…and we have a small but growing audience and we only had 1 nomination. But you have to start somewhere. I have added a few of my own. But starting with number one…From my cousin Jenny the nomination of the very first Golden George Award goes to my Grandma….Greta Benson. Now I hadn’t thought of giving any awards to family, but my cousin Jenny really made a good case. And I know all of you out there have family like this…so just view this award to my Grandma Great as one on behalf of Grandma’s everywhere this Christmas. This is from my cousin Jenny, her nomination of our Grandma Greta for a Golden George…
1. Greta Benson

Grandma has been gifted with hospitality.  She goes above and beyond in making each holiday celebration memorable — one filled with love and laughter!  Not everyone can open their heart and home to a gang of holiday-high adults and kids — but she does, with a Christmas sweater and Santa hat on!
A typical Christmas gathering at Grandma’s usually includes 40+ family members — and oftentimes includes those who are unable to be with their families for the holidays (ex:  college roommates.)  Every person feels welcomed as they are coaxed into the serving line.  It doesn’t matter if the plates are mismatched (some are ceramic, some are paper, others Styrofoam with sections) and while we’re not able to all sit in the same room, laughter carries throughout the house. 
Everyone leaves feeling full.  Being in Grandma’s presence can easily make one full of happiness as she’s so cheerful to begin with.  However, not everyone can complete the task of finding 40+ gifts!  One for each person at the gathering.  It never ceases to amaze me at the fact that she can purchase gifts for everyone — especially when marriages have brought duplicate names in to the family, new babies are born nearly every year.  And talk about our stomachs — FULL!  Homemade noodles, homemade dinner rolls, homemade cookies and candy… and on and on.  Somehow, we never run out of anything!?  Does she have elves working for her?   
Grandma is the epitome of Christmas cheer.  I cannot imagine a better nomination for Christmas 2010. So Greta Benson…the very first recipient of the Golden George Award!

2. Erma Roseland

I also am awarding one to my other Grandma, Grandma Erma on the Roseland side, my mom’s side of the family. Grandma Erma is the sweetest caring person that I know of. Like Grandma Greta, Grandma Erma opens up her home…and her heart to her big and ever growing family. The family technically spanning 4 generations, actually covers 5 or 6 different generational-age groups. She does well at keeping up with each one – from just playing with the young kids, to keeping up with their trends in toys and entertainment, and also keeping up to speed with the world outside her wonderful home. She even knows how to get around a computer! In my teen years I spent the better portion of my summers with my Grandparents on their farm working with my 4H cattle. But my favorite times there are always our Roseland Christmas gathering. Thank you Grandma Erma for making that possible each and every year…Love, Brandon.

So that is award number two, a Golden George Award to my Grandma Erma!

3. Jason F. Wright – The author of the hit Christmas book “The Christmas Jars”. From his book Jason Wright has spawned a new tradition with many Americans, and people worldwide. The new tradition of giving a Christmas Jar is out of his book….the collecting of loose change over the year and anonymous giving of these jars to someone in need of hope and charity on Christmas is a wonderful expression of love and the Christmas spirit. I hope in years to come more Christmas Jars will be flooding the homes of our neighbors in need this time of the year.

4. The Christmas Sweater Club – A group of 10 high school boys at Battlefield High School of Haymarket, Virginia. The boys who make it a point to find the most ridiculous Christmas sweater wear them this time of the year and try to spread Christmas cheer around. Whether they are doing it jokingly, or see a larger more important point to their shenanigans I think it’s a great thing! These kids could be doing something far worse. And what a riot to dress up in those tacky Christmas sweaters, walking around wishing everyone a “Merry Christmas”! Who’s against that? Well the boys are said to have taken it a bit far this year when they tossed out candy canes to fellow students – the school administration said that they were causing a disturbance, littering due to the candy canes hitting the ground and not getting all of them picked up (though they tried for an hour it was said), and that the candy canes were a potential weapon! You’ve got to be joking! Sure I can see the disturbance angle…maybe even littering…but those little tiny candy canes that are so fragile being viewed as a weapon? Ridiculous! In an age where we have teens dressed as thugs looking stupid in their bagging pants armed with guns and knives…this…this little gang of cheerful elves is what we’re going to point to as unruly? I say they are festive and cheerful…disturbance or not…they are creative and I think bring out the humor and joy of the Christmas season – I give this group of prankster elves…a Golden George Award!

5. Community of Wilmington, Ohio – This town was put front and center on the national map by Glenn Beck and his TV show. The town of Wilmington has seen hard times recently when DHL, the largest area employer left the community leaving many without work, like 3/4ths of the town was employed there. But the town has rallied. Several ministries there are thriving. The town food bank somehow keeps filling their shelves. The town has a 24 hour house of prayer kept going by volunteers of the area churches. There are so many amazing individual and family stories too out of Wilmington…it is the real life Bedford Falls…thus, it gets a Golden George Award.

6. Louisville United Methodist Church – I’m going local again, the town I live in. My wife and I attend Immanuel Lutheran Church just outside of town, but live across the street from the Methodist Church here in Louisville, Nebraska. We also live across the street from their pastor and this family. His name is Joel…a real nice guy. The Methodist Church here in Louisville is a nice building in itself, made up brick, and they decorate it nicely for Christmas, as do many churches inside and out. But they also air Christmas music in the evenings leading up to Christmas on their speakers which can be heard outside in the neighborhood and sometimes we can hear it softly making it’s way into our homes. It’s a great feeling and sight…and then you hear those classic traditional Christmas hymns “Come All Ye Faithful”, “Joy To The World” and “Away In the Manager” and you hear those and see the church and the snow and the lights of the homes around it and you think, “This is right. This is good. What Christmas should feel like.” Therefore the Methodist Church here in Louisville, Nebraska receives a Golden George Award!

7. Guiding Light Baptist Church of Elon, North Carolina. Earlier last week this small church in North Carolina was robbed of several items – lawn care equipment, and the baby Jesus in their outdoor Nativity scene. Was it prayer or guilt, or just change or heart…maybe of all of it – either way the thief returned all of the items to the church this week. We don’t want to reward the thief for doing the right thing after sinning…but we do want to recognize this church and community as it is a heartwarming story that ends well for Christmas. So I give them a Golden George Award.

8. Jeff Garcia, Quarterback of the Omaha Nighthwaks. Another local story for me – Jeff Garcia played in the NFL took the role this year in the first year of the expansion franchise of the UFL’s Omaha Nighthwaks. Omaha had a good first year run. The UFL championship game was also held in Omaha last month. But the story here that many don’t know outside of the area is that Jeff Garcia donated $10,000 on December 2^nd to the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Croc Corps Community Center. The Croc Center served as the training facility for the Nighthawks. But the main function of the center is to serve the poor by providing a safe haven for study, education and other activities. Garcia’s donation will provide scholarships to children of low income families learn how to swim, play sports and in their education. Just a great story, from an athlete…someone who’s not in the NFL, not making the big bucks anymore, just playing for the love of the sport and not in his home, but he has chosen to represent the community of Omaha and give back. Just a great thing to see. Jeff Garcia gets a Golden George Award!

9. The Santa Claus Hall of Fame, Santa Claus, Indiana – The Candy Cane Castle in Santa Claus, Indiana was dedicated on December 22^nd, 1935 as the first themed attraction of Santa Claus Town. This year the attraction inducted their first members into the Santa Claus Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is dedicated to the original St. Nick whose legend we base all Santa Claus’ off of today – Nicholas of Myra the 4^th Century Bishop lived in modern day Turkey. 14 members were inducted into the first class of the Hall of Fame – including keystone inductees Charles W. Howard (1896-1966) of Albion, New York and Jim Yellig (1894-1984) of Santa Claus, Indiana. Howard created the world’s first Santa Claus School and was the Macy’s Parade Santa Claus for 18 years. Yellig was made the official Santa in Santa Claus Land in 1946 and served in the role for 38 years. So a Golden George Award to the Santa Claus Hall of Fame in Santa Claus, Indiana.

10. The Mystery Decorator of the New Jersey Turnpike – Just outside of Little Egg Harbor Township in New Jersey, for the 4^th year in a row travelers are seeing a decorate tree in the southbound lanes. A mystery decorator gradually decorates the tree leading up to Christmas, starting with a few decorations, and getting up to about 12-15 by Christmas Day. So far no one has claimed to be the decorator and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority that maintains the road says they aren’t responsible. So there’s some elf in New Jersey making the roadway a little more cheery at Christmas. That person gets a Golden George Award.

11. Phil Jackson – Another from the world of sports. God knows we need more sports figures to be role models. Now I’ve never been a big fan of Phil Jackson, but he is a great NBA coach, having won multiple championships with the Chicago Bulls and now the LA Lakers as a head coach. I didn’t know that Jackson was son of a preacher man. For a while now the NBA has been scheduling games on Christmas Day. This year, five total and the Lakers are playing in one. This week Phil Jackson spoke up saying that he doesn’t like it, is concerned over this lack of respect for the holiday and lack of concern the league has for Christian holidays…basically saying that nothing is sacred anymore and that he would be voicing his concerns with the NBA commissioner. Phil Jackson…the right perspective, a great coach…a defender of Christianity and of Christmas gets a Golden George Award!

12.. Employees of Hanson Directory in Newton, Iowa – Now this nomination, I’ll be up front, comes from another family member – my mother. Hey…I can’t help it if the only submissions I got for these nominations came from my family. But this like my cousin Jenny’s suggestion is another great one. My mom, Sherry nominated her fellow employees of Hanson Directory Service in Newton, Iowa. Now Newton has been on tough times in recent years – much like Wilmington, Ohio, due to lost jobs. So the employees at Hanson Directory make the list for two things they have done…

1. With blind faith that we could fulfill our obligation, we adopted 5 Salvation Army angels. Employees did this without any managerial assistance. We had extensive lists for each angel with items listed for each child as small as a coloring book to a bike. We had less than 2 weeks to get this done. Fellow employees started signing up on the lists and the gifts started pouring in. With 2 days left, there were several items left on the lists, including a couple of winter coats and the biggie… the bike. An employee started going around individually to other employees to see if they could just manage to dig deeper and give a little more. The next day there was enough money to buy the bike and jackets and Walmart even gave us a good deal on the items! The site of the beautiful red bike and the five angel boxes overflowing with items really warmed my heart.

2. A fellow employee and her fiance just lost their home to a house fire. They had no insurance. This woman, Marilyn, is the nicest, friendliest, and most pleasant woman you could meet. Once again, the employees have overflowed with generosity. Immediately Monday morning an envelope was circulated for cash donations, posters were put up for a pop can drive, posters were put up with neccessities needed, employees started asking friends, family members, and their churches to donate, and a memo was put out saying how employees could purchase "casual days" during January with proceeds going to Marilyn. Once again, the site of employees bringing in items each morning and the entire wall in the sales area being filled with boxes of supplies, bedding, clothes, etc, is amazing and warms my heart. There are commitments from people to get the following items to Marilyn as soon as she find a place to settle into…. stove, entertainment center, microwave, kitchen table and chairs, couch and loveseat, maybe a fridge, and maybe a coffee table and end tables from your own sister. Today, Marilyn came in for the first time, and she was overwhelmed by the care and generosity of her fellow employees. It was very emotional and we all felt like family!

So there you have it! The 2010 List of Golden George Awards! The first ever for the Badger Benson Show. We will post the list on the web site for all to see. To the award winners, the people who nominated them, and the people who have been touched by these stories…thank you for being a light in the world, thank you for being a George Bailey…thank you for adding to our Christmas Cheer this season…Merry Christmas to you!