Top Stories

White House Calls on US Pastor’s Release from Iranian Prison

We told you about American Pastor Saeed Abedini’s sentence by an Iranian judge to 8 years in prison. Now the Obama Administration is calling on Iran to release Pastor Abedini. White House Press Secretary Jay Carney says the State Department is actively engaged in the case and, "We condemn Iran's continued violation of the universal right of freedom of religion, and we call on the Iranian authorities to release Mr. Abedini." Pastor Abedini was convicted of threatening the national security of Iran with his leadership in Christian house churches.

Kerry Confirmed

The US Senate overwhelmingly confirmed John Kerry as Secretary of State. He replaces Hillary Clinton as the nation’s top diplomat. The confirmation vote was 94-3.

PED’s Raise Ugly Head Again

The New York Yankees superstar Alex Rodriguez denies claims he bought a performance enhancing drug from a Miami clinic. Several other prominent Major League Baseball players names also reportedly appear on a list linked to the clinic, which has been known for providing performing enhancing drugs in the past. So far, all have denied the allegations. And most of the names mentioned have never before been linked to banned substance use.

Obama Promotes Immigration Bil

President Obama traveled to Las Vegas yesterday to push for a fast-track of immigration reform. A bi-partisan “Gang of 8” Senators introduced a comprehensive immigration plan Monday.
 

Twitter Sweep

Twitter is trying to keep it clean. They are banning searches for explicit material on their new video app. The Guardian says they are also deleting x-rated user accounts. This comes after some graphic material was posted. Twitter apologized for the mistake. It’s a good reminder to make sure there are filters on the media your kids absorb. And better yet, YOU monitor what they do and teach them how to be a discerning consumer.

New Blackberry Launches

the new Blackberry is here. Research in Motion unveils the Blackberry 10 operating system to power its new line of smart phones. R-I-M is hoping to regain some of the market presence it lost to Apple's iPhone and Android-based smart phones. This morning's unveiling in New York is scheduled for 10am ET.

Transportation Secretary Stepping Down

Ray LaHood is stepping down from his post as Transportation Secretary. He has held that position since 2009. La Hood will remain there until his replacement is confirmed by the Senate. La Hood is the most recent cabinet member of several to announce their departure for the President’s second term.

The Queen is Abdicating Her Throne!

Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands says she is abdicating her throne in favor of her 45 year old son, Prince Willem-Alexander. The Queen has been head of state since 1980. She said it’s time for the crown to be held by a new generation. Prince Willem-Alexander will become the first King of The Netherlands since Willem III, who died in 1890. the new king is said to be a well-trained pilot and an expert in water management. Maybe he can design a bigger and better moat for the castle!

Dog Food Recall

If Fido isn’t up to his normal, playful self, check his snacks. Hartz is recalling some of their dog treats because they could have an antibiotic in them. No dogs have called in sick. This recall is a precautionary measure. The Food and Drug Administration website has more info at www.FDA.gov.

Church Around the World

Muslim Group Threatens Egypt's Coptic Christians, Tells Them to 'Pay Tribute'

Want something big to pray about? An armed Islamic movement calling itself the "Brigade of Muslims" released a statement on Saturday threatening Egypt's Coptic Christians and asking them to pay tribute, the Christian Post reports. "Egypt is an Islamic country and will be ruled according to sharia," the statement said. The movement threatened all Egyptian media professionals who "mock religion and Islamic rule," warning that their persistence in mocking would result in the "shedding of their blood in the ugliest way."

Family & Relationships

Intentional Dad

How important is a dad? If you are a dad, is it enough for you to just be a good provider for yor family? Focus on the Family’s, Leon Wirth says “no.” he says, “All of the research shows, across the board, whether you’re looking socially, emotionally, relationally, economically, spiritually – the presence of an engaged dad in a kid’s life makes a huge, difference. So first of all, we have to be Intentional with our mindset. Do I matter? Yes, I matter. That’s got to be the motivation and the foundation for every other step I take with Intentionality.” And for even MORE on intentionality as a dad—and as a person—listen today at noon and 7pm for the Intentional Living Program with Doctor Randy Carlson. And find helpful resources at www.TheIntentionalLife.com.

Feeding the Hungry

As you gear up for the Superbowl this weekend, is soup on your menu? The Food Depot in Santa Fe New Mexico raised 60 thousand dollars to help fight hunger in Northern New Mexico with their annual Souper Bowl. Director Sherry Hooper says for every dollar that’s donated to us we’re able to provide enough food for four meals. Jambo Café took home the Best Soup prize for the fourth year in a row. The winning soup, Spiced Coconut Cream Guava-Lime with Crispy Plantains.

Finances & Economy

Home Prices Up

The housing market is recovering. Home prices are up. Phoenix, Arizona leads the way in that regard. The numbers do reflect the fact that the pulse was taken in the winter. Often times other markets don’t do well during the colder months. The housing recovery is still lagging in the northeast and Midwest states.