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Things We All Had in the 70s and 80s That Are Worth a Lot of Money Right Now

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Nostalgia is a powerful force, and the things we cherished in our childhood often gain significant value over time. Items from the 1970s and 1980s have become highly collectible, and many of them are worth a small fortune today. Whether it’s toys, electronics, or fashion, these vintage items can fetch high prices in today’s market. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most valuable items from the 70s and 80s.

Nostalgic Treasures: Valuable Items from the 70s and 80s You Might Still Own

1. Vintage Toys

Star Wars Action Figures

The original Star Wars action figures produced by Kenner from 1977 onwards are some of the most sought-after collectibles. Figures like Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Boba Fett can sell for thousands of dollars, especially if they are in their original packaging.

  • Example: A 1978 Luke Skywalker action figure in mint condition can fetch up to $25,000 at auction .

Transformers

The original Transformers toys from the 1980s are another hot item. These transforming robots were a massive hit and remain popular among collectors today.

  • Example: An original Optimus Prime toy in its box can sell for over $2,000 .

Barbie Dolls

Barbie dolls have been beloved for decades, but certain models from the 70s and 80s are particularly valuable. Limited editions and dolls in pristine condition can fetch high prices.

  • Example: The 1988 “Pink Splendor” Barbie can sell for over $1,000 .

2. Electronics and Gadgets

Apple Computers

Early Apple computers, such as the Apple I and Apple II, are highly prized by collectors of vintage technology. These machines represent the dawn of the personal computer era.

  • Example: An Apple I computer can sell for over $400,000 at auction .

Sony Walkman

The Sony Walkman, introduced in 1979, revolutionized personal music listening. Early models, especially those in working condition with original packaging, are highly collectible.

  • Example: A first-generation Sony Walkman can sell for over $1,200 .

Atari 2600

The Atari 2600 was one of the first home video game consoles and remains a favorite among retro gamers and collectors. Rare games and console variations can be worth significant amounts.

  • Example: A complete Atari 2600 system with games can sell for up to $3,000 .

3. Fashion and Accessories

Vintage Levi’s Jeans

Vintage Levi’s jeans, particularly those made before the 1980s, are highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts. The quality and style of these jeans have made them timeless pieces.

  • Example: A pair of 1970s Levi’s 501 jeans can sell for over $1,000 .

Concert T-Shirts

Authentic concert T-shirts from famous bands of the 70s and 80s can fetch high prices, especially those from iconic tours or featuring legendary bands like The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and AC/DC.

  • Example: A 1979 Led Zeppelin concert T-shirt can sell for up to $10,000 .

10 Hilarious Signs You’ve Turned Into Your Mom

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Turning into your mom is something many of us dread when we’re younger, but inevitably, it happens to the best of us. One day you wake up and realize you’re starting to sound, act, and even think like your mother. It’s both amusing and terrifying. Here’s a humorous take on the undeniable signs you’ve turned into your mom.

10 Hilarious Signs You’ve Turned Into Your Mom

1. Using Mom Phrases

“Because I Said So”

You’ve caught yourself uttering those dreaded words: “Because I said so.” It’s the ultimate mom phrase that stops any argument dead in its tracks. You swore you’d never use it, but here you are, wielding it like a seasoned pro.

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees”

Another classic. When you were younger, you thought it was the most annoying thing to hear. Now, it’s part of your regular vocabulary, especially when discussing finances with your kids.

2. The Cleaning Frenzy

Cleaning Before the Cleaning Lady Comes

You used to laugh at how your mom would clean the house before the cleaning lady arrived. Now, you find yourself doing the same thing. After all, you can’t let her see the house like this!

Spring Cleaning

You’ve developed an obsession with spring cleaning. Every year, like clockwork, you embark on a thorough cleaning spree, tackling areas you didn’t even know existed.

3. Home Decor Obsession

Seasonal Decor

Just like mom, you now have boxes labeled “Fall Decorations,” “Christmas Decorations,” and “Easter Decorations.” Every season brings a new wave of thematic decor that transforms your home.

Throw Pillows Galore

Your couch is drowning in throw pillows. You change them with the seasons, and sometimes just because you found a cute new set on sale. No one’s actually allowed to use them, of course—they’re just for show.

4. Kitchen Shenanigans

Recipe Collector

You’ve become a collector of recipes, just like mom. Your kitchen is filled with cookbooks, handwritten recipe cards, and magazine clippings. You even have a special binder for your favorites.

Talking to Your Food

You’ve started talking to your food while cooking. Encouraging a roast to cook perfectly or lamenting the fact that the pie crust didn’t turn out right has become second nature.

5. Fashion Habits

Comfort Over Style

Remember how you used to cringe at your mom’s preference for “sensible shoes”? Now, comfort trumps style in your wardrobe choices. You’ve embraced practical fashion, and you’re not looking back.

The Power of the Mom Jeans

Mom jeans are back in style, and you’re here for it. Not only are they trendy, but they’re also incredibly comfortable. You rock them with confidence, just like mom used to.

Duke University Students Walk Out During Jerry Seinfeld’s Commencement Speech in Protest of War in Israel

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In a bold act of political activism, a significant number of Duke University students walked out during Jerry Seinfeld’s commencement speech, protesting against the ongoing war in Israel. This unexpected event at the recent graduation ceremony has sparked widespread discussion about the role of influential public figures in political discourse and the importance of advocating for peace and justice.

Duke University Students Walk Out as Jerry Seinfeld Delivers Commencement Speech

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the Class of 2024 gathered for their commencement ceremony at Duke University. The keynote speaker was Jerry Seinfeld, the legendary comedian and creator of the iconic television series “Seinfeld.” However, as Seinfeld began his speech, a coordinated group of students stood up and silently exited the venue. They carried signs and wore shirts with messages such as “End the War,” “Peace for Palestine,” and “Justice for All,” drawing immediate attention to their cause.

Motivations Behind the Protest

The walkout was organized by a coalition of student groups committed to promoting peace and raising awareness about the humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. The students outlined several key motivations for their protest:

Opposition to the War

The primary motivation for the walkout was a strong opposition to the ongoing violence and human suffering caused by the war in Israel. The students called for an immediate ceasefire and urged global leaders to prioritize diplomatic solutions and humanitarian aid. They emphasized that the ongoing conflict has led to significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.

Solidarity with Palestinian Victims

The students expressed deep solidarity with Palestinian victims of the conflict. They highlighted the disproportionate impact on civilians, including children, and the urgent need for international intervention to protect human rights and ensure safety. By walking out, they aimed to draw attention to the plight of Palestinians and call for an end to the violence and occupation.

Critique of Seinfeld’s Political Stance

Another significant factor in the protest was Jerry Seinfeld’s well-known support for Israel. The students argued that inviting Seinfeld as a commencement speaker was inappropriate given his public political stance, which they viewed as aligning with policies that perpetuate conflict and occupation. They believed that Seinfeld’s presence was a tacit endorsement of these policies, and they felt compelled to voice their dissent.

Seinfeld, who is Jewish, has been vocally supportive of Israel, and he visited the country after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that sparked the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. More than 1,200 people, including civilians and soldiers, were killed in the Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7, and more than 35,000 people have been killed in Gaza in Israel’s subsequent counteroffensive in the Palestinian enclave.

Mixed Reactions from the Audience

The walkout elicited a range of reactions from the audience and the broader Duke community. Supporters of the protest praised the students for their courage and commitment to social justice, viewing the walkout as a powerful statement against war and violence. They commended the students for using their graduation day to highlight an issue of global importance.

On the other hand, some attendees felt that the protest was disruptive and disrespectful to Seinfeld and the other graduates. They argued that the commencement ceremony should be a time of celebration and unity, not political protest. Some expressed disappointment that the students chose to stage their protest during such a significant and once-in-a-lifetime event.

University Response

In response to the walkout, Duke University released a statement acknowledging the students’ right to peaceful protest and expressing support for the diversity of opinions within the student body. The university emphasized its commitment to fostering an environment where critical issues can be discussed openly and respectfully, and where students are encouraged to engage in civic activism.

“We’re excited and delighted for the Class of 2024 and their families. We understand the depth of feeling in our community, and as we have all year, we respect the right of everyone at Duke to express their views peacefully, without preventing graduates and their families from celebrating their achievement,” Duke spokesperson Frank Tramble said in a statement.

Seinfeld’s Reaction

Jerry Seinfeld addressed the walkout with his characteristic humor and composure. In a post-ceremony statement, he remarked, “I’ve always believed in the power of conversation and understanding different perspectives. I respect the students’ right to protest and hope that these important discussions continue.” Seinfeld acknowledged the complex nature of the conflict and emphasized the need for empathy, dialogue, and efforts toward peaceful resolution.

Broader Implications

The walkout at Duke University underscores the role of student activism in shaping public discourse and highlights the intersection of education, politics, and global issues. It brings to light the importance of universities considering the diverse perspectives of their student body when planning significant events like commencement ceremonies.

The walkout during Jerry Seinfeld’s commencement speech at Duke University serves as a powerful reminder of the influence of student activism and the importance of advocating for peace and justice. It also highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in balancing diverse viewpoints and fostering an inclusive environment for all students. As institutions of higher learning continue to navigate these complexities, the voices and actions of their students will remain pivotal in driving important conversations and advocating for change.

You can watch Jerry Seinfeld’s full Duke University commencement speech below:

A Pearson Family Reunion: Milo Ventimiglia Joins His “This Is Us” Kids to Celebrate Niles Fitch’s Graduation

Former cast members of the beloved NBC drama series “This Is Us” recently came together to celebrate a significant milestone in the life of one of their own. Niles Fitch, known for his portrayal of the teenage and young adult version of Randall Pearson, graduated from the University of Southern California Tuesday, and his on-screen family couldn’t have been prouder. Leading the pack was Milo Ventimiglia, who portrayed Jack Pearson, the adoptive father of Fitch’s character throughout the show’s six seasons.

The heartwarming reunion was reminiscent of a Pearson family gathering, with Ventimiglia standing alongside the 22-year-old graduate in a display of support and camaraderie. Notably, Hannah Zeile, who played Fitch’s on-screen sister Kate Pearson, was also in attendance, further emphasizing the strong bond that was formed among the cast during their time together on the series.

Screen grab via Instagram // @hannahzeilexo

Fitch took to social media to share the joyous occasion, posting a photo of himself flanked by Ventimiglia and Zeile, capturing a moment of celebration and achievement. The image, shared on Instagram, garnered attention and admiration from fans and fellow cast members alike, with Zeile resharing the post on her Instagram stories accompanied by a string of celebratory emojis.

The Most Wasteful Spending Habits in America: Avoid These Common Pitfalls

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In a consumer-driven society, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overspending on things that aren’t necessary or worth their cost. While everyone’s spending habits are different, there are common categories where Americans frequently waste their hard-earned money. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most wasteful spending habits that many people in the U.S. fall prey to.

15 of the Most Wasteful Spending Habits People Have in the U.S.

1. Extended Warranties

What It Is: Extended warranties are additional service agreements that promise to repair or replace a product if it fails after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

Why It’s Wasteful: Most products don’t break within the extended warranty period, and many consumer items already come with robust manufacturer warranties. According to Consumer Reports, more than half of consumers who buy extended warranties never use them. Moreover, the cost of an extended warranty often approaches the cost of simply replacing the item outright.

2. Brand-Name Products

What It Is: Brand-name products, whether in food, clothing, or household goods, often cost significantly more than their generic counterparts.

Why It’s Wasteful: Generic products often have the same quality and ingredients as brand-name products. For example, many generic medications contain the same active ingredients and are just as effective as their brand-name counterparts. According to the FDA, generic drugs save consumers an estimated $3 billion every week.

3. Gym Memberships

What It Is: Gym memberships typically offer access to fitness equipment, classes, and other health services.

Why It’s Wasteful: Many people purchase gym memberships with good intentions but fail to use them regularly. A study by Statistic Brain Research Institute found that 67% of gym memberships go unused. There are numerous free or lower-cost alternatives, such as outdoor activities, home workouts, and online fitness programs.

4. Cable TV Packages

What It Is: Cable TV packages often bundle numerous channels together for a monthly fee.

Why It’s Wasteful: With the rise of streaming services, many people find they can watch their favorite shows and movies without the high cost of cable. According to a report by eMarketer, millions of Americans have “cut the cord” and switched to cheaper streaming alternatives. On average, streaming services cost significantly less than traditional cable packages.

5. Coffee Shops

What It Is: Frequent purchases of coffee from cafes and coffee shops.

Why It’s Wasteful: The cost of a daily coffee habit can add up quickly. A $4 coffee each day can total over $1,000 per year. Brewing coffee at home is a fraction of the cost. According to the National Coffee Association, the average price per cup of home-brewed coffee is around 27 cents.

6. Fast Fashion

What It Is: Fast fashion refers to inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends.

Why It’s Wasteful: Fast fashion items are often of lower quality and not made to last. Consumers end up spending more in the long run because they have to replace these items frequently. Additionally, fast fashion has significant environmental and ethical costs. According to the EPA, about 85% of textiles go to the dump each year, making fast fashion a contributor to environmental waste.

Should Christian Women Watch Bridgerton?

Based on the novels by Julia Quinn, Bridgerton has become a cultural phenomenon since its debut on Netflix. Set in the Regency era, the series follows the lives and romances of the aristocratic Bridgerton family and their peers in high society. In recent years, the Netflix series has captivated audiences worldwide with its lavish costumes, intricate plotlines, and very steamy romance.

However, for Christian women who prioritize their faith and values, navigating entertainment choices can be a delicate balance between enjoyment and adherence to biblical principles. While Bridgerton may be a popular and visually stunning period drama, there are several reasons why Christian women may choose to abstain from watching it.

Should Christian Women Watch Bridgerton?

1. Explicit Sexual Content

Bridgerton contains explicit sex scenes that can only be described as pornography disguised as romance. The show includes all-things sexual pleasure from orgasms to masturbation, to same-sex kissing and fully nude cast members whose only body parts not revealed are their lower front regions.

Throughout the show’s three seasons, reviewers on Common Sense Media have communicated that the love stories and plotlines of the show are lovely, but the amount of visual sex is overwhelming and takes away from the show’s entertainment for people not wanting to subscribe to pornography.

2. Questionable Morality

The characters in Bridgerton engage in behavior that may be morally questionable from a Christian perspective, including deceit, manipulation, and betrayal. While these elements contribute to the drama and intrigue of the storyline, they may also send mixed messages about the importance of honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct.

4. Romanticization of Sin

Bridgerton often romanticizes sinful behavior, portraying illicit relationships and scandalous affairs in a glamorous and appealing light. This can be problematic for Christian women striving to live according to biblical principles, as it may desensitize them to the seriousness of sin and its consequences.

5. Distraction from Spiritual Growth

Watching Bridgerton, with its focus on romance, intrigue, and scandal, may distract Christian women from their spiritual growth and relationship with God. Instead of spending time engaging with edifying and uplifting content, they may find themselves drawn into the world of the series and its themes of worldly pleasure and indulgence.

6. Influence on Thought Patterns

Exposure to media like Bridgerton can shape the way Christian women think about relationships, sexuality, and morality. Consuming content that glorifies behaviors contrary to biblical teachings may gradually erode their convictions and lead them away from God’s truth.

While Bridgerton may offer entertainment value for some viewers, Christian women should carefully consider whether it aligns with their faith and values before choosing to watch it. By prioritizing purity, modesty, and adherence to biblical principles, they can cultivate a lifestyle that honors God in all aspects of their lives. Ultimately, the decision to watch Bridgerton—or any other form of media—should be guided by discernment, prayer, and a commitment to living in accordance with God’s word.

Understanding Resilience: The Strength of a Resilient Woman

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Resilience is the ability to withstand adversity and bounce back from difficult life events. It is a trait that is deeply admired and often seen in women who have faced and overcome significant challenges. This blog will explore various aspects of resilience, focusing on resilient woman quotes, movies, biblical references, and ways to build and maintain resilience.

Resilient Woman Quotes

Quotes about resilience often capture the essence of strength and determination. Here are a few inspiring quotes that highlight the resilience of women:

  1. Maya Angelou: “I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
  2. Elizabeth Edwards: “She stood in the storm and when the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails.”
  3. Oprah Winfrey: “Turn your wounds into wisdom.”
  4. Malala Yousafzai: “I raise up my voice—not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.”

Resilient Woman Movies

Movies often portray powerful stories of resilient women who overcome immense challenges. Some noteworthy films include:

  1. Erin Brockovich (2000): The true story of a legal assistant who, despite personal hardships, successfully takes on a powerful corporation accused of polluting a city’s water supply.
  2. Wild (2014): Based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, it follows her solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail as she seeks to recover from personal tragedy and hardship.
  3. Hidden Figures (2016): The story of three African-American women mathematicians who played pivotal roles at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program.

Resilient Woman Meaning

A resilient woman is someone who possesses the inner strength to cope with stress and hardship. She demonstrates the ability to adapt, recover, and grow from adversity. This resilience can manifest in various ways, including emotional, mental, and physical resilience.

Resilient Women in the Bible

The Bible offers numerous examples of resilient women who demonstrated strength and faith in the face of adversity.

  1. Ruth: Known for her loyalty and determination, Ruth remained steadfast in her faith and commitment to her family despite personal loss.
  2. Esther: Displayed courage and resilience by risking her life to save her people from genocide.
  3. Mary, the mother of Jesus: Exemplified resilience through her unwavering faith and acceptance of God’s will, even in the face of immense challenges.

What Makes a Woman Resilient?

Several factors contribute to a woman’s resilience, including:

  1. Positive Attitude: Maintaining optimism and focusing on solutions rather than problems.
  2. Support Network: Having a strong network of friends, family, and community support.
  3. Self-Care: Prioritizing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
  4. Purpose and Goals: Having a clear sense of purpose and working towards meaningful goals.
  5. Adaptability: Being open to change and able to adjust to new circumstances.
  6. Faith and Spirituality: Drawing strength from religious or spiritual beliefs.
  7. Self-Efficacy: Believing in one’s ability to influence events and outcomes.

Speculation Swirls as Miss USA Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava Step Down

In a recent turn of events, the world of beauty pageants was rocked by the resignations of Miss USA Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava. Their decisions to step down sent shockwaves through the pageant community and prompted widespread speculation about the reasons behind their departures.

Miss USA Noelia Voigt’s Resignation

Noelia Voigt’s resignation as Miss USA came as a surprise to many, prompting questions about the circumstances surrounding her departure. In a “shocking” post on Instagram, Voigt expressed her reasons for stepping down, citing personal reasons and a desire to prioritize her mental health and well-being.

“Never compromise your physical and mental well-being,” she captioned a post announcing her resignation. “Our health is our wealth. A million thank you’s to all of you for your constant and unwavering support. Time to write the next chapter. I hope you’ll stick around to see what’s next.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Noelia Voigt (@noeliavoigt)

During her reign as Miss USA, Noelia Voigt faced numerous challenges, both in her personal life and within the pageant organization. She spoke candidly about the pressures and expectations placed on her as a titleholder, as well as the toll that constant scrutiny and criticism took on her mental health. Due to strict Non-disclosure agreements, Voigt has been silent about the details of what took place in the organization, but her mom tells Good Morning America that she was subject to sexual harassment and toxic workplace environments.

Eagle-eyed fans pointed out that Noelia Voigt used her written announcement to spell out “I AM SILENCED” using the first letter of each sentence.

Noelia Voigt has since called for greater accountability within the pageant industry and emphasized the need for systemic change to address issues of discrimination, bias, and mistreatment. She urged pageant officials to take concrete steps to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for contestants and titleholders alike.

Miss Teen USA, UmaSofia Srivastava’s Decides to Step Down

Just two days after Noelia Voigt stepped away from the crown, Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava shocked the pageant world a second time when the 17-year-old joined Voigt and stepped down from her role. The move raised serious questions about the state of the Miss USA organization. Srivastava shared her resignation on Instagram writing, “my personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization.”

She continued, “I am grateful for all the support from my family, my state directors, my sister queens, and the fans who have cheered me on since I won my state title. I will always look back on my time as Miss NJ Teen USA fondly, and the experience of representing my state as a first generation, Mexican-Indian American at the national level was fulfilling in itself.”

“At the end of the day, I am so lucky to have had the privilege of this experience, but if this is just a chapter, I know that the story of my life will truly be incredible.”

Following UmaSofia’s exit, the social media director for the Miss USA organization also announced she was resigning. Claudia Engelhardt said on Instagram she had observed Voigt’s mental health “decline” and observed “disrespect” to Srivastava and her family.

“I feel the way current management speaks about their titleholders is unprofessional and inappropriate; I disavow workplace toxicity and bullying of any kind,” Engelhardt wrote.

A Turning Point for the Pageant Industry

The resignations of Noelia Voigt and UmaSofia Srivastava mark a turning point for the pageant industry, sparking conversations about the treatment of contestants and the values upheld by pageant organizations. Their courageous decisions to speak out against injustice and prioritize their well-being serve as a rallying cry for change and accountability.

In the wake of their resignations, both Noelia Voigt and UmaSofia Srivastava received an outpouring of support and solidarity from fans, supporters, and fellow pageant contestants. Their bravery in stepping down and speaking out has inspired others to advocate for greater transparency, fairness, and inclusivity within the pageant community.

Looking Towards the Future

As the pageant industry grapples with the fallout from these resignations, there is hope for a brighter and more equitable future. The voices of Noelia Voigt and UmaSofia Srivastava have sparked a movement for change, challenging pageant organizations to uphold the values of integrity, respect, and inclusivity in all aspects of their operations. In a joint interview with their mothers on Good Morning America, the girls’ families are calling on the President and CEO of Miss Universe, Laylah Rose, to re-evaluate the internal workings of the organization. They also hope the resignations will cause people who are watching to “look closer.”

The CW, which is the broadcasting network for Miss USA, said in a statement they are re-evaluating their relationship with the organization.

Ohio Bar Raises Age Minimum to 30 on Weekends to Enhance Safety and Reduce Violence

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In a surprising move that has sparked debate and garnered significant attention, Donerick’s Pub in Groveport, Ohio, has instituted a new policy raising the age minimum for patrons to 30 and older on weekends. This policy, effective as of May 1, has been implemented as part of the bar’s efforts to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for its customers. The decision has generated a mix of reactions, with some praising the move while others criticize it.

New Age Minimum 30 at Ohio Pub

The New Policy

Donerick’s Pub announced the new age restriction via a Facebook post, which outlined the details of the policy:

  • Age Restriction: The new age minimum means patrons must be 30 years or older to enter the bar on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Cover Charges: A $5 cover charge applies between 10 p.m. and midnight, which increases to $10 from midnight until just after 1 a.m.
  • Payment Method: The cover charge is cash-only, with “no exceptions.”

The bar did not provide a detailed explanation for the age minimum 30 in their initial post. However, in response to comments on Facebook, they indicated that the policy is part of a broader effort to reduce violence and ensure customer safety.

Reasons Behind the Age Minimum

Addressing Violence and Safety Concerns

One of the primary motivations for Donerick’s Pub to raise the age minimum 30 is to address safety concerns. The bar mentioned that they are trying different methods to keep violence down and that it will not be tolerated. This implies that the establishment has faced issues with altercations or disturbances, which they believe could be mitigated by adjusting the age demographic of their clientele.

Managing Clientele and Atmosphere

The bar also mentioned in a Facebook reply that the increased number of patrons on weekends necessitated changes to ensure safety. By raising the age minimum, Donerick’s Pub aims to cultivate a more mature and potentially more manageable crowd. The decision to implement a cover charge further supports this goal, as it might deter those unwilling to pay, thereby reducing the overall number of patrons.

“God Is Very Much Alive”: WATCH Texas Teen Surprise Prom Date by Walking for the First Time in 10 Months

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It’s that time of year again folks! Grab the hairspray and the rhinestones because it’s PROM SEASON! The month where we avoid any moderately “fancy” restaurants on Saturday nights because there’s no way you’re getting a table thanks to the party buses of teenagers who have occupied the entire restaurant. It’s when you go on a stroll through the park and casually bump into 30, 17-year-old girls in evening gowns snapping photos.

Prom season is a myriad of different things — from long dresses and corsages to fake nails and rented suits. But for two Texas teens, one particular prom was a night to remember!

prom

Like any girl headed to the prom this spring, Morgan Coultress had a list of “to-dos” in preparation for the big dance: hair, makeup, dress, date, and learning to walk.

Following a surgery she had a year prior, the 18-year-old was diagnosed with conversion disorder — a neurological condition in which a person suffers blindness, paralysis, or other neurological symptoms that cannot be explained by medical evaluation.

Morgan was not able to walk on her own in 10 months.

But on the night of prom, Morgan had a big surprise in store for her date, Tarik Garcia, who she calls one of her greatest supporters.

Morgan tweeted a video of the moment Tarik showed up at her door for the dance, and she WALKED to him!

Her triumphant success will bring you to tears, as will Tarik’s BEAUTIFUL reaction that has the internet buzzing!

“After not being able to walk with my own two legs for 10 months…I surprised my prom date with this,” Morgan wrote in the now-viral tweet.

As if celebrating her first steps together wasn’t enough, Morgan was also named Prom Queen later that night.

prom

Morgan told a local news station that she never expected the video to take off like it has, with 13.2 MILLION views on Twitter since it was first posted. All of the attention has left her feeling “very overwhelmed but even more grateful that God has blessed me with such love and support,” she told a San Antonio news station.

Morgan also took to Twitter to share a little bit about how she lost her ability to walk and gave God even more praise for how far she’s come!

“I wasn’t born with this,” she wrote on Twitter. “This happened almost a year ago. I believe God is real and is very much alive. I know i could not have done this without believing in my faith. Thank you for the support but the only reason i got to this point was because i knew God was going to get me there.” 

She says her next goal is to walk across the stage at graduation on June 7th. Way to go Morgan! Your strength is inspiring MILLIONS!!

Woman Pays for Single Dad’s Groceries, Has No Idea She’ll Meet Him in Her Church Pew 3 Months Later

“$94.10

That’s how much the cash register showed at 10:00 pm that night at the grocery store.

I watched as the man in front of me asked the cashier to put things to the side. Over and over again.

He kept swiping his card. Declined.

He was already buying the bare minimum.

There was a girl and boy with him, and I heard them call him “Dad” several times.

The girl was a pre-teen, and the boy was about my son’s age. I could see the embarrassment written all over their faces.

It was a week or two after Thanksgiving, and I wondered what they had eaten for the holiday so focused on food.

The cashier put cans of tuna, boxes of pasta, bananas, and apples under the counter.

I wondered if he was a single dad. The lack of a ring on his finger gave me suspect to believe so.

Then suddenly, I felt it.

It was like a gentle shove on the back and a mild electric shock to my heart.

Pay for these groceries.

It doesn’t matter if you don’t have the money…I’ll provide. Trust Me.

I heard God loud and clear.

I started to open my mouth…but what if I embarrass his family even more?

That still small voice called again.

Another shove. Stronger this time.

“I’ve got it,” I blurted out loudly, as heat flooded my face.

The store was empty, there was no one else in our line, and I watched this man slowly turn, his jaw dropped open.

I turned to the cashier.

“Please put everything back. I’ll get it all.”

“Are you sure?” the cashier said, with shock in her voice.

I nodded while looking at the girl and the boy. Their eyes were like saucers.

“Yes, absolutely. I can go ahead and swipe my card.”

I look at the dad. He’s crying now.

His daughter is hugging him.

Then I pay for my things as well. Praying God would cover it (He did).

The dad is waiting at the end of the lane. Still crying and hugging his precious children.

“I don’t know how to thank you,” he whispers.

“It’s okay. I wanted to help. I know it’s what God told me to do. And I have been there.” I replied quietly.

“I’m a single dad. It’s so hard,” he said.

I gave him a hug. His son and daughter wanted to hug me too.

When I got to my car, the tears came flooding out.

I prayed and praised the Lord for allowing me to help. I asked God to give me more opportunities to be obedient and show the world the utter grace He has shown me.

Flash forward to February 23rd.

My family and I are sitting in church, and we had just finished the worship time when our Pastor was getting ready to preach.

I look to my left, and my stomach literally plummets to the ground. Then my heart begins to race.

At the end of our pew, sat the same Dad and his 2 children.

They were right there, the only other people in our row.

In slow motion, I turn to my husband.

“That’s them,” I say into his ear. “That’s the Dad and his kids from the grocery store that night, remember?”

I begin to sob. My skin is covered in goosebumps.

I never told him I was a Christian. I never even told him where I went to church.

I just obeyed God.

The same One who brought this dad and his family to my church that Sunday.

It’s not about me.

Glory to the Lord God Almighty, great things HE hath done.
*
*
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” ~ Matthew 25:37-40″

**This post was written by Sara Fleming of Pac is in the Gutter. See more from her on her Facebook page

Are the Northern Lights God’s Creation? A Christian Perspective on the Aurora Borealis

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The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most breathtaking natural phenomena observable from the Earth. These vibrant displays of light in the polar skies have captivated human imagination for centuries. The Northern Lights inspire awe and wonder, leading many to question their origins and significance. For Christians, these questions often extend beyond the scientific explanations to the realm of faith: Are the Northern Lights God’s creation? How do they fit into the broader understanding of God’s work in the natural world?

The Science Behind the Northern Lights

Before diving into the theological aspects, it’s essential to understand the science behind the Northern Lights. The Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions result in energy releases that produce light. The lights are predominantly seen in high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic.

  1. Solar Wind: The sun emits a stream of charged particles known as the solar wind. When these particles reach Earth, they interact with its magnetic field.
  2. Magnetosphere: The Earth’s magnetic field channels these particles toward the poles, where they interact with gases in the atmosphere.
  3. Atmospheric Gases: Different gases emit different colors when excited by the charged particles. For instance, oxygen emits green and red light, while nitrogen emits blue and purple.

While the science behind the Northern Lights is fascinating, it does not preclude a theological interpretation. In fact, understanding the mechanics can deepen one’s appreciation for the natural world as God’s creation.

The Biblical Perspective

From a Christian viewpoint, the Northern Lights can be seen as a manifestation of God’s handiwork. The Bible is replete with references to the natural world, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over creation and the beauty of His works.

Creation and Natural Wonders

The Bible begins with the majestic account of creation in Genesis 1. God speaks the universe into existence, and each element of creation is declared “good.” This foundational narrative sets the stage for understanding the natural world as an expression of God’s creative power.

  • Genesis 1:3-4: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness.”
  • Genesis 1:31: “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.”

These verses affirm that light itself is part of God’s good creation. The Northern Lights, as a form of natural light, can be seen as an extension of this divine declaration.

The Heavens Declare the Glory of God

Several passages in the Psalms celebrate the beauty and majesty of the heavens, attributing them to God’s creative work.

  • Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
  • Psalm 8:3-4: “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”

These verses reflect a recognition that the natural world, including the skies, points to the glory and craftsmanship of the Creator. The Northern Lights, with their extraordinary beauty, can be seen as part of this divine testimony.