M.A.D. Skates & Rec Center

Happy Anniversary M.A.D. Skates!

2012-01-31T14:25:00.000-08:00

February 2, 2012 marks the completion of our 3rd year of running Skate Night. A huge debt of gratitude and heart full of thanks to Bethany Bible Church for giving us a place to be for the past three years. Thank you to all of our volunteers, teachers, and chefs who keep the place running week after week. We could not go on without you.

To the parents and the kids who come each week I want to say that we are honored that you choose to join us on Monday nights. Here in the Greater Seattle area there is no shortage of things for you to do, and you still choose to hang out with us. Thank you. We have students involved with wrestling, hunting, basketball, swimming, bands, honors classes, 4H, motocross, church, and the list goes on and on. On my way to Skate Night each week I pass by an elementary school that hosts a teen night the very same day, and just a few blocks from Skate Night is a bowling alley. There are a multitude of activities to be involved with here; thank you for choosing M.A.D. Skates!

In 2011, we lost our 501(c)3 non-profit status due to an administrative error. Most assuredly we will get it back once our application is processed. Our reapplication has been with the IRS since September and is still waiting assignment to an agent. Although this is a minor set back in our fundraising efforts, God miraculously is supplying for all our needs. 2011 left us staring into 2012 with giant grins across our faces as both Grizzly Sports and Physiocare Physical Therapy chose to be corporate sponsors. For Physiocare this is their second year supporting us. In addition, our insurance was significantly lower this year saving us almost $300.

On February 2, 2009 when Skate Night started, we had 2 kids show up. We now see about 15 each week. We are not great in number, but we are strong at heart. Our smaller ministry size allows us to passionately pray for each one of our kids, get to know the parents, and be involved with their lives. Some of the parents and I have begun networking on community projects like urban farming and the plastic bags for sleeping mats in Uganda.

There is more to come and 2012 is looking good! February marks the start of our Taco Time fundraiser. We will be selling 100 Taco Time coupon books in order to pay our February rent. We're working with a contact from the Seattle Seahawks to get to go down to Seahawks Stadium to throw some footballs around this summer. Hiking trips, local skate spot adventures and the reborn Discipleship Program are all in the works for 2012.

Thanks again for your love, prayers, and financial support. We are truly blessed!

Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Tonight's Bible Session Lessons

2012-01-30T13:58:00.000-08:00

6-11 Year Old Group
Memory Verse: Isaiah 40:31
Bible Basis: Luke 12:16-21
Theme: Being rich in character
Story: Discover how a rich man was foolish and ended up with nothing because he wasn't rich in character.

12+ Group
Memory Verse: I Timothy 4:12
Bible Basis: Genesis 1:17, Psalm 139:14, Psalm 100:3, I Corinthians 6:18, Ephesians 5:3, and I Thessalonians 4:3-6
Themes: Body Image & Sexual Purity
Story: Emily Copeland

Tonight's Bible Lessons

2012-01-23T13:58:00.000-08:00

6-11 Year Olds
Memory Verse: James 2:18
Bible Basis: Joshua 2 and Joshua 6:22-25
Theme: Putting Feet to your faith
Story: Rahab

12+
Memory Verse: I John 2:17
Bible Basis: Proverbs 6:25-28, Colossians 3:5-14, I Thessalonians 4:3-8, I John 2:15-17
Theme: Lust
Story: Drew Worsham Video

PLASTIC BAGS TO THE RESCUE

2012-01-19T16:26:00.000-08:00

BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

If you think you are cold with all this snow we're getting here in the Pacific Northwest, think for a moment about the orphaned boys and girls in Uganda sleeping on the hard dirt floor with nothing separating them from the heat sucking earth other than a ratty, worn out t-shirt.

I know some people think Africa is always hot. I grew up in Swaziland, Africa and have been to Zambia twice, and I will tell you that at night, it can get downright chilly. Enough to cause the shivers, welcome colds and flues, and keep you from getting a good night sleep.

PLASTIC BAGS TO THE RESCUE!

My mother and some friends from her church are knitting and crocheting sleeping pads for orphans in Uganda using PLASTIC BAGS! It's a brilliant use of unwanted trash to make a safe sleeping pad for children in need.

HOW YOU CAN HELP.

If you are not using reusable bags to do your shopping, please collect your plastic shopping bags and bring them to MAD Skates' Skate Night on any Monday night from 5:30-8:30pm. I will get those plastic bags to my mother who will crochet them into sleeping pads for Ugandan orphans.

THANKS SO MUCH!

Skate Night Cancelled

2012-01-15T10:03:00.001-08:00

Skate Night for tomorrow - Monday January 16th - is officially CANCELLED. My husband and I have driven around our neighborhood a bit in our car, and there is no safe way to get the van out of here and down to skate night. Enjoy the snow and your day off from school!

Urban Farming

2012-01-13T15:12:00.000-08:00

Please take the 11 minutes to watch this video all the way through. I absolutely love what my friend Claudio is doing, how he is doing it, and why he is doing it. I'm hopeful that in 2012 I too can grow my community, eat better foods, and have a happier garden. God bless.

Dinners Needed

2012-01-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

We are looking for a few good men or women to fill 4 spots for dinners over the next 3 months.

Needed:
February 6
February 13
March 5
March 12

Please email me at brett@madskates.com if you are able to assist.

THANKS!

Tonight Tonight Tonight

2012-01-09T14:57:00.000-08:00

6-11 yr old group get a lesson on Lying/Truth - the story of Jacob and Esau while the 12+ group will learn about Hypocrisy.

Tamales will be served up hot and fresh alongside some rootbeer and pepsi.

Could use a few extra hands with setup at 5:35.

Hope to see you all there.

Christmas Party

2011-12-20T14:41:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Party was a blast. Here are a few photos from the event. There are more posted in an album on Facebook and Shutterfly, and more will be added once I get them from the other cameras that were roaming around. Enjoy...

Last Regular Skate Night 2011

2011-12-11T20:32:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Monday, December 12th, will be our last regular Skate Night of 2011! We hope everyone can join us again on Monday, December 19th for our annual Christmas Party. For those of you traveling this holiday season and unable to join us, we will miss you and will be praying for safe journeys and blessed times with family and friends.

Looking for Committed Workers, Volunteers and Dinner Providers

2011-12-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

We are setting up the schedule for 2012, and we're looking for you!

Dinner Providers
If you can commit to bringing one meal every month or even just once next year, please email me with the date(s) you can commit to bringing dinner. We need food for approximately 15 kids ages 6-18 and a couple of volunteers.

Set up and Tear Down Workers
Set up runs from 5:35-6:00pm. Tear down runs from 8:20-8:45. There is some heavy lifting and some lightweight work as well. Any help is welcome. Consistently being able to be there is the main thing we are looking for. Our greatest need is for set up help on the 2nd, 4th and 5th (if applicable) Monday of the month or for someone who is willing to be "on call" who can come when we are short handed. Call or email me with your availability to help or with any questions.

Volunteers
We are still looking for a few more people who can commit to one or more nights per month to be there consistently for the kids. We have built a pretty good team, but occasionally we get stuck extremely short handed. I would much prefer to have extra adults versus running with just 2 of us. Call or email me if you are interested in becoming a volunteer.

Brett Elizabeth Spore
206-423-0813
brett@madskates.com

CHRISTMAS PARTY!

2011-11-30T16:11:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS PARTY - DECEMBER 19th

Time - 6:00pm - 8:30pm

Location - Skate Night @ Bethany Bible Church - Gym

Dinner and dessert.

Families of regular participants are invited.

The skating area will be set up and the basketball hoop will be available.

Gifts for our regular participants.

RSVP by December 10th.

email - brett@madskates.com

text or call - 206-423-0813

Skate Night Tonight - 11/28/11

2011-11-28T13:39:00.000-08:00

SKATE NIGHT TONIGHT!

Pizza night! Wooohooo!

Micki's son, Josh, is in the hospital, so Micki will not be at skate night tonight. Please pray for Josh as he recovers from bilateral brachial pneumonia.

We will be a little short handed, so any help with set up and/or tear down would be appreciated.

Tonight's 6-11 year old Bible Session on Pride and Humility will be taught by Bev. I, Brett will be taking the 12+ youth through a brief lesson on generosity, and then the teens will be voting on where to send our offerings this Christmas.

Help Needed Tonight - 11/14/11

2011-11-14T14:23:00.000-08:00

Anyone in the area who is willing and able to help out tonight, your assistance would be greatly appreciated. Robb and I are the only staff on hand, so set up, monitoring, and tear down are all needing a little extra help.

Any youth who show up and help out with set up sometime between 5:30 and 5:45 will get to "dive into the mystery box."

Thanks to anyone who might show up to help out tonight. And thanks to everyone else for your prayers.

Address: Bethany Bible Church Gym, 6214 NE Bothell Way, Kenmore, WA - Look for the gray skate van. The gym entrance doors are directly behind the van.

Thanks again.

Bible Session and Announcements - November 7th

2011-11-10T06:49:00.000-08:00

We ran a combined class with all of our youth 6-17 years old. Our friend, Prawphit On Point, joined us to share some of his Christian rap. He sang three songs and shared a little encouragement for the youth.

Our lesson this week was on Fear and how to overcome fear. We discussed Psalm 4:8, 2 Timothy 1:7, Hebrews 13:6, and Psalm 23:4. We are to give our fears to God. God has given us a spirit of power, love and a sound mind NOT a spirit of fear. The Lord is our helper and He will help us through whatever we face. We are not to fear evil, because God is with us. The kids were encouraged to memorize Psalm 23:4 by next week.

Announcements this week:

Skate night every Monday night until December 19th - The Christmas Party!
If there is a threat of snow, please watch Facebook and your email inbox for notification as to whether or not we will be meeting.
Pop and Candy sales may be ending in 2011. We are looking for a contingency in the WA State tax law that would allow us to continue running it the way we have been. If we cannot do so, the pop and candy sales will end.
Next week we will all be together again (6yrs old and up) with Bible Session returning to normal on November 21st.
For those interested in buying Prawphit's CDs (but didn't have $ on Monday) I have 10 full length CDs ($10 each) and 5 demo CDs ($5) that will be with MAD Skates on Monday nights and available for purchase.

Bible Sessions Last Night

2011-10-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

6-11 Year Old Class
WINNING CONVERSATIONS - Bev taught on the story of Hannah and how she wanted a baby so badly, but she couldn't have a baby. She always kept on praying, and one day Eli heard her praying. He told her to go home; her prayers had been answered. God would give her a child. Hannah did end up having a child who she then gave back to God when he was old enough to live with Priest Eli. Different ways of praying were discussed.

Jr/Sr High Class
TEMPTATION - Brett taught on temptation. Psalms 119:9 - How do you keep your way pure? By living according to God's word. How can you live by God's word if you do not read it? Luke 22:40 - What can help you avoid falling into temptation? Prayer. Not just your own prayer, but also the prayer of others. Psalm 119:11 - How do you avoid sinning against God when temptations come? Memorize scripture.

Then we looked at the temptation of Christ in Luke 4:1-12. Jesus wasn't free from temptation. After 40 days in the dessert, Satan tempted Christ. Christ' first response when tempted? Quote scripture!

Then we watched a short video by Shaun Murray talking about temptation and how Satan just wants to get one little fingernail between you and God, so he can peel you away like a sticker on an RV.

My challenge to the teens - Before you are faced with temptation, apply the verses we read today. Live according to God's word (read it every day!), pray and ask others for prayer support, and memorize scripture.
were used for Bible drill. There was some discussion

Game Day - Halloween Eve

2011-10-24T13:01:00.000-07:00

Last Week - This Week

2011-10-24T12:47:00.000-07:00

Last Week's Lessons
6-11 year olds - TRUE TRUST. The memory verse was Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowlege him, and he will make your paths straight. The story discussed was when Elisha took over after Elijah died (2 Kings 6:8-23) and even though things looked very scary for Elisha, God was bigger than his enemies and bigger than any situation we could ever be in.

12 and up - Jeremy taught on CHOICES. Three stories were read including Samson's story where he asks for God's power one last time (Judges 16:28-30), the temptation of Christ in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), and Christ asking God to "take this cup from me" (Mark 14:35-36). As Jr & Sr High students are faced with difficult choises, making the right choice might be hard. Making the right choice is worth it. Jeremy also reminded the students that if you have made the wrong decision once, you are not locked into that decision forever. Just like Samson made some wrong choices along the way but turned back to God, you can make the right choice the next time.

This week we will be having pizza! The younger group will be learning about WINNING CONVERSATIONS and the older group will be learning about TEMPTATION.

Special Thanks to Our Latest Sponsor - Grizzly Sports

2011-10-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to Grizzly Sports for donating a box of helmets! Go check them out in Monroe or online at http://www.grizzly-sports.com/

God bless!

SHOW ME THE $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

2011-10-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's that time of year again wherein we begin shouting out to everyone, "Show me the money!"

Insurance is due at the start of 2012, and we're looking for $1200 to come in between now and then.

We're asking for your help.

Donations can be made via PayPal, check or cash. Any amount helps.

Please prayerfully consider what you can give, and if you cannot give financially at this time, please give by praying.

Thanks so much for all your love and support through out the years. We are truly blessed by all of you.

Sincerely,

Brett Elizabeth Spore

Prawphit On Point - All Ages House Party - October 15th

2011-10-04T15:12:00.000-07:00

Prawphit came to M.A.D. Skates awhile back, did some of his music, and shared his testimony. He is passionate about sharing Christ with as many people as he can reach.

Meet him, hear his sound, and have a great time.

As with anything, be safe, be smart, and listen to the Holy Spirit.

Bible Session Notes - October 3rd

2011-10-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

Stop Riding The Fence

Jeremiah: Jeremiah was a priest and a prophet. Jeremiah saw his nation disintegrating morally from within and being destroyed militarily from without. He saw many of the people of Jerusalem taken captive to foreign lands. He spoke to Judah asking them to turn back to God.

God sent Jeremiah to warn the people that if they did not change their way of living, they would be sent into exile and destroyed.

As followers of Christ and believers in the one true God, we cannot act like the rest of the world. We must be set apart. People should be able to tell the difference between a Christian and a non-Christian.
Matthew 7:15-20.

In Jeremiah’s time, much like in our own time, many people are walking around with the label “believer” or “saved” or “Christian,” and yet almost nothing in their lives would indicate that they have received salvation and are living as redeemed people.

The people of Jeremiah’s time would go to church and say their prayers to the one true God just like many of us today. BUT THEN, they would go back home and they would sin against God! They would thank nature for their crops, foreign gods for their wealth, they would have sex with whomever they wanted, they would kill innocent people, they would worship idols, and on and on and on, sinning against the God they just claimed was their savior, their salvation, the one true God.

I see some frightening similarities in our society today. People claiming Christianity but sinning against God in so many ways like: watching pornography, worshipping rock stars and movie stars, having sex outside of marriage, worshipping “mother earth” instead of acknowledging God’s hand in everything, killing innocent lives through abortion, and on and on and on, sinning against the God they just sang about in church.

Jeremiah said that the people were running around doing whatever they wanted while shouting “I’m safe! I’m saved!” Jeremiah 7:9-11

I beg you… Do not be like the Judeans shouting “I’m saved! I’m safe!” and then not living the life God has called you to live. True salvation does not equal a simple belief that Jesus Christ is the son of God and that he died for your sins. Whether or not you go to heaven IS about the man who died on the cross. This was His gift to you, and it is up to you whether or not you choose to accept that gift. HOWEVER! True salvation comes from repentance. Acts 3:19-20, Jeremiah 15:19, Matthew 4:17, Luke 13:3

As with the people in Jeremiah’s day, you will suffer exile and destruction if you do not walk the walk for the God you are claiming is your savior. Sin = consequences. You cannot get around that.

In a message to the church of the Thessalonians regarding Christ’s return, God sends us a message.

I Thessalonians 5:1-11

Stop living like the unsaved!

In a message to the church in Laodicea, God sends us a message as well.

Revelation3:15-22

STOP RIDING THE FENCE!

Bible Lessons From the Past Few Weeks

2011-10-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

Sorry to everyone for being a bit slow to post our Bible Session notes over the past few weeks. Here is a brief synopsis of what we've been teaching on lately.

Sept. 12 - I (Brett) spoke on Truth, Lies, and the Creation Story. Scriptures used were 2 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 4:12, and Genesis 1:1-2:2. Youth were challenged to always ask this question in relation to what they hear and see: "What does God's word say about this?"

Sept. 19th - Jeremy spoke on Pride. Scriptures used were Matthew 5:3, Proverbs 11:2, Proverbs 16:18, Ecclesiastes 7:8, and Proverbs 17:6. Youth were challenged to look at ways in which pride is usually a bad thing.

Sept. 26th - Micki spoke on Prayer using "The Lord's Prayer" from Luke 11:1-4. Youth were challenged to continue praying for their friends and family and to memorize The Lord's Prayer.

Tonight - Stop Riding the Fence!

Dodge Ball Pix 8-29-11

2011-08-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

Changes to Monday Night Format

2011-08-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

M.A.D. Skates & Rec Center is now able to allow kids as young as 6 years old. Due to this change, we will be splitting our Bible Session into two groups. Group 1 will be for ages 6 years old to 11 years old. Group 2 will be for ages 12 (or 7th grade) and older.
have been playing a

As many of you may have noticed we lot of dodge ball lately. We also have use of the basketball hoop, which notoriously gets used heavily at the beginning of the night. With these additional activities we are putting some additional strain on the building and the equipment. If you have any good basketballs or dodge balls that you would be willing to donate to the church we are renting from, please send them along with one of the kids coming to skate night. They already have a lot of well worn balls (aka worn out), so please do not donate anything that is not is good condition.

We're looking forward to changing and growing with you over the next 4 months and hope to share many cool stories with you at this year's Christmas party on December 19th!

Bible Session Notes - August 29th

2011-08-31T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Great Commission

Brett Elizabeth Spore

What does it mean to commission someone? Or what is “commission?”

The dictionary definition is to authorize or send on a mission.

In Matthew, Jesus commissioned his disciples to do what?

Matthew 28:19-20 - Go and make disciples, Baptize them, Teach them to obey God’s commands

This is called “The Great Commission” and it wasn’t just for Jesus’ time; it was for all of us “to the very end of the age.” Jesus says “here is what I want you to do,” and in vs. 29 he says, “I will be with you to the very end of the age.”

For most of you, school starts this week. Do you want this to be another “so-so” year or do you want it to be an incredible year? How many of you have friends at school who don’t know Jesus Christ? Are you going to be the one who tells them about Jesus?

Jesus says, “the harvest is plentiful but” what?

Matthew 9:37 - The workers are few

He goes on in verse 38 to say “Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

Are you the worker God is calling?

I love how Isaiah responds to God when God asks “Who should I send?” What does Isaiah say?

Isaiah 6:8 - Here am I. Send me.

Our last verse to look up is John 20:21.

It says: Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.

Jesus was sent by his Father, God. He then sent his disciples just as God had sent him. Now Jesus wants to send you to be a worker in his harvest field. Are you willing to be like Isaiah and say “Here am I. Send me?”

Everyone stand while I read this from Numbers 6:24-26. This is my blessing upon you this school year…

The Lord bless and keep you;

The Lord make his face shine upon you

And be gracious to you;

The Lord turn his face toward you

And give you peace.

SKATE NIGHT SCHEDULE!

2011-08-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

SKATE NIGHT SCHEDULE FOR

THE REST OF THE YEAR!

Every Monday night 6:00 - 8:30. Please pick up your kids by 8:45.

No Skate night on the following dates:

Labor Day September 5th

Halloween, October 31st

Day after Christmas, December 26th

***CHRISTMAS PARTY***

Monday, December 19th

Return to Skate Night - January 2nd

Bible Session Notes - August 22nd

2011-08-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

Reading Your Bible and Hanging Out With Christians

Brett Spore

Other than Luke and the staff here, who can tell me what we talked about last week during Bible session?

Other than Luke and the staff here, who can tell my why you don’t know what we talked about last week?

That’s right. Luke was the only one here last week.

How many of you went to church yesterday? What about the week before?

For some of you, this is your only church and for others, you go to church on Sunday, but this is your only church youth group.

If you aren’t coming here and you don’t go to church, where are you learning about God? Where are you getting fed?

Both Jeremy and Micki have recently taught about getting into God’s Word – the Bible – and reading it on a regular basis.

How many times a day do you eat or drink?

How often are you eating and drinking spiritual food and water?

Who has read their Bible since the last time you came to skate night?

What did you read about? Share with the group and discuss.

What does the Bible have to say about reading your Bible and hanging out with other Christians?

“Let us not give up meeting together” BIBLE DRILL: Hebrews 10:25

But what?

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

We cannot encourage one another if we are not around one another.
A couple of weeks ago Raven shared that she and Nick had spent an hour and a half reading Nick’s Action Bible together. Not only were they hanging out with another Christian, but they were reading the Bible together. Now that is pretty cool. That is probably the coolest thing I have heard in 2 1/2 years of skate night.)

“I have hidden your word in my heart” BIBLE DRILL: Psalm 119:11

Why?

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

We cannot hide God’s word in our hearts if we do not read His word.

“I am the bread of life” BIBLE DRILL: John 6:35

He who comes to me will never?

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty

Now talk about Wonderbread! I’ll have a few slices of never go hungry and never be thirsty. We can’t have Wonderbread without coming and believing.

This message is not intended to be a guilt trip but to encourage you:
              ·         To spend some time each day having a meal with God.
              ·         Eat some Wonderbread.
                     o   Read God’s Word.
                     o   Pray to Him and LISTEN for His reply.
              ·         Hang out with other Christians so that you can build each other up.

Bible Session Notes - August 8th

2011-08-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

Good News Needs To Be Spread

Micki Shulkind

Bible Drill: Numbers 14:11, Proverbs 14:15, John 6:29, John 20:29

Recap of "Hope When Life Hurst Most" video series.

Asked what the youth remembered and what they got out of it.

Shared this statement from a Dare2Share article:

"Most youth have little idea WHY they believe what they believe or how to integrate these beliefs into a worldview that guides their lives."

Worked with the kids to think! To not simply absorb what they hear and move on to the next thing, but to take some time to read their Bibles and think about what was taught.

Challenged the kids to think about what they are learning here at MAD Skates and how they can apply it to their lives outside of Skate Night.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your Word and I pray that it will remind us of who You are and how much You love us.

Help us so we cannot imagine a day without Your Word. Your Word brings love, peace and kindness.

Let us choose to live in Your Word because it brings security to our life. We trust that You will provide all our needs. Let our ears be attentive to Your voice and speak to us Lord. Our lives will be empty without You, so cover us under Your wings. Teach us, mold us and guide us in to all Your Truth with Your Word in our hearts.

Amen.

Bible Session Notes - August 1

2011-08-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

Louie Giglio Video Series on Hope

Part III – At the Foot of the Cross

Discussion/Questions following the film...

1. Last week we learned there were three things the Cross tells us. What are they?
o Jesus loves me
o God allows freedom but he maintains control
o God can use the worst things for eternal good

2. This week, Louie brings up a fourth thing the Cross tells us. What is it?
o God paints on a canvas bigger than we can see or understand

3. The emails that were read this week had some really tragic stories, and if we only look at the losses and the tragedy, we will really miss a much bigger picture. The picture is one of hope! Can you imagine what it would have been like for Jacob and his mother if Ashley had not become a Christian just 5 months earlier? What would the funeral service have been like? Do you think Ashley’s father would ever have become friends with Louie? Because of the Cross of Christ, there is hope. Ashley’s mom has hope of seeing her girl again in heaven. Jacob has hope of seeing his sister again in heaven. There is hope that one day Ashley’s atheist father will turn his heart to Christ, and he too will see his “princess” again.

Then I played the following song for everyone to listen to with their eyes closed. As you read this I ask that you do what the kids did: Hear and see that in the potholes of life, when life hurts the most, God is there turning ashes into beauty, giving you hope.

AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS by Don Moen
Verse 1:
At the foot of the cross
Where grace and suffering meet
You have shown me Your love
Through the judgment You received
And You've won my heart
And You've won my heart
Now I can

Chorus:
Trade these ashes in for beauty
And wear forgiveness like a crown
Coming to kiss the feet of mercy
I lay every burden down
At the foot of the cross

Verse 2:
At the foot of the cross
Where I am made complete
You have given me life
Through the death you bore for me
And You've won my heart
And You've won my heart
Now I can

(Repeat Chorus twice, then instrumental)

Bridge:
And You've won my heart
And You've won my heart
Now I can
(Repeat twice Chorus)

I lay every burden down
I lay every burden down
At the foot of the cross
At the foot of the cross
At the foot of the cross

Then I gave each adult and youth a piece of wrapped candy. Everyone was to eat the candy and think about what he or she could lay down at the foot of the cross. When each person came up with something, he/she walked to the cross we had at the front of the room to "lay every burden down at the foot of the cross."

My question to those who read this blog... "What burden do you need to lay down at the foot of the cross?"

Kick-Kick-Push

2011-08-06T22:01:00.000-07:00

Kick-Kick-Push

Skate Night Tonight!

2011-08-01T14:18:00.001-07:00

Skate Night tonight: Lasagna, Louie Giglio on Hope (final video), Relay Race. See you at 6pm!

Bible Session Notes - July 25

2011-07-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

Part II – When trouble comes, where do you turn?

Bible Drill: I John 4:9-10, Hebrews 6:19-20, John 3:16

Discussion/Questions following the film...

1. Jacob emailed Louie and talked about his sister’s death and how he felt about God. Have you ever felt that God is not listening? That he’s ignoring you?

2. When life hurts the most, when trouble comes, where does Louie tell us to turn?

The Cross

3. What three things does the Cross tell us?

Jesus loves me - he died on the cross, became a man, bore our sins
God allows freedom but he maintains control, The people chose to set Barabbas free, God was still in control of the long-term eternal plan
God can use the worst things for eternal good

4. Hebrews 6:19-20 says our hope of a new relationship with God is what?

An Anchor for our souls - That anchor is both in regard to our eternal salvation as well as life on this earth.

5. When is God NOT in control of your life?

Never

6. In Ashley’s email, what did she find so amazing about God? What stood out to her?

God’s grace. She said, “He wants to forgive me.”

7. Open forum discussion about the film.

NEXT WEEK – PART III – At the foot of the cross

IRS Tax Exempt Non-Profit Status Update

2011-07-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

Like many small non-profit organizations, we ran into an issue with our IRS tax exempt status this year.

We were not aware of the new filing rules which require annual filing regardless of income level. Because we did not file annually for three consecutive years, the IRS has revoked our tax exempt status. We are working with the IRS to get our status reinstated retroactive to the revocation date.

What this means to you. Donations made after May 2001, may not qualify as a tax write off. If we get retroactive reinstatement of our tax exempt status, then all donations will qualify as before.

We are operating as we always have and believe we will be reinstated as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization fairly soon. Thank you for your continued support.

Plywood Wanted

2011-07-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

We are in need of the following pieces of plywood. Must be in good condition for use on our manual pads.

Looking for 2 of each size:
48" x 40"
28.5" x 40.5"
25.5" x 38.5"

Plywood may be delivered to Bethany Bible Church (6214 NE Bothell Way, Kenmore) on Monday nights from 5:30 - 8:30pm or at my home any day of the week. Please call me to schedule delivery at my home. (206) 423-0813

Thank you.
-Brett

Bible Session Notes - July 18th

2011-07-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Louie Giglio Video - THE ANCHOR OF HOPE

Part I – Potholes

Bible Drill: John 16:33, I Timothy 6:17, I John 4:4

Discussion/Questions following the film...

1 – Louie talks about “pot holes” in life. Those moments when life hurts most. How many of you feel like you have experienced a “pot hole?”

For some that might look like:

When your parents got divorced
or when a divorced parent remarried and you realize there is no hope of your birth parents getting back together
or when your best friend dies in a tragic accident
or when your best friend said he would never leave you, but now he has to move to Chicago and you are left feeling very alone

For each of us, the “pot holes” in life look a little different.

For me, one of the biggest pot holes in my life was when I was 15 years old. My older brother, Robb, was in a car accident while I was away at camp. The “when life hurts” part wasn’t so much that he was in a car accident or even that he was given only 5% chance of surviving. The pot hole for me came later… when I realized that despite my faith and my belief that God was going to heal Robb and completely restore him, God wasn’t going to do that. That was my pot hole.

2 – What 2 truths are in John 16:33?

In this world, you will have trouble.
I (Jesus Christ) have overcome the world.

3 – Louie says that PEACE is when your reality and Christ’ reality come together. John 16:33 tells us where we will have peace. What does it say?

IN ME (In Christ)

4 – What is Louie’s definition of theology?

A spiritual viewpoint

5 – Louie talks about two distinct theologies.

Life is hard; deal with it, because it’s not going to change.
Because I’m a Christian everything is smooth sailing.
What is your theology? How do you approach pain and suffering in your life?

6 - Open forum discussion about the film.

NEXT WEEK – PART II – When Trouble Comes, where do you turn?

Monday July 18th!

2011-07-16T14:14:00.001-07:00

Monday begins our 3 week video series on Hope: When Life Hurts Most.

We'll also have cupcakes for July birthdays.

Dodgeball will be played following Bible Session.

See you all there!

Why should you go to church?

2011-07-14T22:36:00.000-07:00

Why should you go to church?

Check out this great video to see what these amazing skaters have to say about it...
http://www.christianskaters.com/archives/2090

Treasurer/Board Member Needed

2011-07-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

On July 7th, we accepted the resignation of Jim Nesbit from our board. Jim has been our Treasurer since day one, and he will be missed.

First I want to publicly thank Jim for all of the time and energy he put into helping me personally with MAD Skates, for setting up a simple and manageable format for tracking our finances, for extending his day to meet with us for board meetings even though he still had to drive back to Longview after an entire day of work, and for always keeping us in his prayers. THANK YOU JIM!

Secondly, I am sending out a request for someone to fill his position. Currently I am handling the Treasurer position duties until we can find a suitable replacement. This is temporary "fix" as we are required to have 5 board members. This is a very small business with minimal time commitment needed on your part. We meet quarterly as a board and so far have not needed any "special meetings" beyond the four scheduled meetings each year. If you are interested in the Treasurer position or a board member "non-titled" position, please contact me directly at 206-423-0813 or via email at brett@madskates.com

Thank you.

July 4th - No Skate Night

2011-06-29T14:30:00.001-07:00

We will NOT be meeting on July 4th! Enjoy this holiday with your family and friends. Be safe. Have fun. God bless.

Bible Session Notes - June 27th

2011-06-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

A Journey of Hope

World Concern Video

Video Review
The title of this video is A Journey of Hope. My desire for all of you is to be on a journey of hope. So, what is hope?

Hope defined: (noun) the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best

1 – In the video, what did giving someone hope look like? What were some of the things that World Concern was doing to give people in Kenya, Haiti, Vietnam and other countries hope?

Giving them clean water to drink
Giving them a chance at an education
Friendship – not being alone
Helping care for AIDS orphans
Feeding the poor
Medical aid
Financial security
Job training
Micro loans
Christ

2 – In Kenya, they set up clinics to give medical aid to the people there.
      a. Does anyone remember how many people were seen in one day?
          200
      b. Was everyone waiting seen?
        No
      c. How long were some people waiting?
          2 hours

3 – What is the longest you ever had to wait for medical care?
       Kids answered.

4 – One World Concern worker said we are “called by Christ” to care about others and help meet their basic needs. What are your thoughts on that?
      Kids answered

5 – One thing that stood out to me is that World Concern works with the people to give them ownership in what they are doing. They don’t just go in and feed the people and call it good. They get in with the people and ask what they see as their greatest need and then help the people meet that need. They don’t do all the work for them. I think if you really want to help someone long term you need to teach them how to continue to live after you leave.

There’s an old saying. “Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime”—Author unknown

Bible Drill
1Pe 1:3-9 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade--kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

Col 1:5 the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel

Pro 13:12 Hope deferred (delayed) makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

Something to think about:
Many of the people that have not yet been reached by Christians are living a life of hope deferred. They are sick from waiting for something good to happen in their lives. Many have given up on any hope at all, because they have been waiting so long. How can you give someone hope today? Maybe a smile is all they need. Maybe you need to sign up to go on a mission trip with a local church or agency. Maybe you need to tell your lonely friend, “I love you, and Jesus loves you even more.” How can you give someone hope today?

Bible Session Notes - June 20th

2011-06-27T07:52:00.000-07:00

Here are my brief notes on what Jeremy shared with everyone last Monday night.

PAUL'S VERY BAD DAY
Acts 9:1-9
Paul meets God on the road to Damascus and God tells him that instead of persecuting Christians, Paul will tell others about Christ.

Acts 27
Paul has been arrested because unorganized religion (Christianity) was considered rebellion. He was on a boat headed to his judgement. Paul tells the Centurion that it isn't safe to travel, but the Centurion decides to sail anyway.

They are caught in a storm, and everyone is scared. They have no more lifeboat, and appear to be stuck on the ship amidst this horrific storm.

Paul was able to be calm and lead the others to safety, because he heard from God. He talked with God and knew what he needed to do in this circumstance.

Amidst certain tragedy, Paul leads the group by praying for the food, encouraging everyone to eat something, and calms everyone down.

How many of you have thanked God despite being in the middle of a very bad day?

*The key: Paul knew that God would protect him, and even amongst a trial he gave thanks to God.

Skate night

2011-06-27T07:44:00.001-07:00

Skate night tonight. Free Pizza! No skate night next Monday. Enjoy Independence Day with your family!

Bible Session Notes - June 13th

2011-06-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

Last week (June 13th) we watched a World Concern video regarding Human Trafficking.

Bible Drill Verses:
James 1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Hebrews 13:16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

1Peter 4:10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

Here are the questions and some of the answers we discussed following the video:
1 – At the start of the video they showed a road. The road went between which 2 countries?
Cambodia and Thailand

2 – What is the main reason children fall into the trap of human trafficking?
Poverty

3 – At what age does human trafficking start?
As young as 2 years old

4 – What are World Concern and other humanitarian and Christian agencies doing to help?
Schools, jobs, training.
Giving children hope and education.
Teaching about human traffickers and how to spot and avoid them.
Teaching young people a trade, so they will not be in a place of hopelessness and total poverty.

5 – Thoughts? Other things to discuss?

I then had the kids all close their eyes as I read this...
"I want you to listen and think about these questions… Don’t reply. I want everyone silent.
If you could change one child’s life, would you?
What if those were your younger brothers walking alone in the street all day?
What if it was you?
What if you were sent with a man to work in a factory to make money to send home to your mom and dad, but when you got there you were forced into slavery, no money to send home, beaten every day, food whenever your captors felt like giving you food. Would you want someone to help you?"

Then I had them open their eyes.

The bottom line is that there is a lot of human trafficking going on in our world. There is a lot of pain and suffering in this world, and we can get overwhelmed by it and end up doing nothing. We can just do what most of the world is doing and look the other way.

Instead think about this…

You can’t help everyone, but you can help 1.

TAKE ACTION

World Concern and World Vision are two groups I have worked with in the past. World Concern put on the Free Them 5K that we did a month or so back. MAD Skates have sent money to World Vision to help with the tsunami and earthquakes in Japan. My family sponsors a child through World Vision for $35 a month. $35 a month to change a life! Most of you probably spend that much each month on tacos at Jake in the Box, soda and snacks.

You may only be 8 or 12 or 15 years old, but you can make a difference. You can change a child’s life. Talk to your family about sponsoring a child, helping out a foster child locally, or even just giving a group like World Concern a one time donation.

I’m going to keep presenting you with opportunities to learn about the world around you, to see how blessed you truly are, and giving you a chance to Make A Difference. We will continue to post way to get involved both online and on the board at skate night. Feel free to take a flier or poster for anything you are interested in. Get involved. Make A Difference.

The New Ramps Have Arrived!

2011-06-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who helped make this possible. The new ramps from Freshpark just arrived and I loaded them into the van for Monday night! I'm looking forward to seeing all of our skaters helping set these up for the first time and trying them out this coming Monday. Until then, have a fun and safe weekend.

Bible Session Notes - June 6th

2011-06-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

You and Kung Fu Panda 2

Finding Inner Peace

In Kung Fu Panda 2, Shifu says the key to Po becoming a great fighter and being able to be his best is "Inner Peace." Through the movie, Po is searching for and striving for "Inner Peace."

The world and eastern religion will tell you that finding INNER PEACE is a matter of finding balance within oneself through self realization, meditation, and enlightenment.

Wikipedia defines INNER PEACE as “a state of being mentally and spiritually at peace, with enough knowledge and understanding to keep oneself strong in the face of discord or stress.”

I agree with part of Wikipedia’s definition: being mentally and spiritually at peace and able to stay strong in the face of stress.

However, I believe that INNER PEACE comes from being firmly grounded in your relationship with God, so that you know you can take on anything that comes your way in life.

It isn’t so much about what you know or who you are or what you can do, but it is ALL about who God is and what HE can do!

According to Blue Letter Bible.Com, which I highly recommend using, the word “PEACE” occurs 251 times in 230 verses in the NIV, which is the version we use here at Skate Night.

Let’s look at a few of those verses now. (Parents and supporters reading this blog, please take a moment to read some of these scriptures and see if any of them strike a chord within you. Are you at peace?)

Bible Drill & Discussion of Each Verse
Psa 4:8
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

Psa 29:11
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace

Psa 34:14
Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

Psa 119:165
Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.

Isa 48:22
"There is no peace," says the LORD, "for the wicked."

Isa 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

Isa 57:21
"There is no peace," says my God, "for the wicked."

Jhn 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Jhn 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Act 10:36
You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.

Col 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

1Th 5:23
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. (Sanctify – be freed from sin.) May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Pro 14:30
A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

Isa 9:6
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace

Gal 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Phl 4:7
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Rom 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Bottom Line:
Rom 8:6
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace

INNER PEACE is found not in self realization but by giving your entire life – body, mind, and spirit – to the Lord to be led by the Holy Spirit on a moment by moment, day by day basis.

I leave you with this blessing:
2Th 3:16
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

COMING UP... You and Kung Fu Panda 2 - Finding Inner Peace

2011-06-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend. I'm looking forward to sharing the message God put on my heart for Monday night entitled You and Kung Fu Panda 2 - Finding Inner Peace. If you haven't seen the film yet, grab a friend, catch a matinee, dig into some popcorn and enjoy. Then get outside and drink in some of this awesome Seattle sunshine.

God bless. See you all Monday night!

*Dinner will be provided by Megan and Raven. Look forward to something yummy!

Worship Night At Cascadia in Bothell

2011-05-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine notified me about an upcoming event at Mobius Hall at Cascadia College in Bothell. It sounds like it is going to be a blast. I have a prior engagement, so I am unable to attend.

Time Friday, June 3 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Location Mobius Hall, Cascadia College, 18345 Campus Way NE, Bothell, WA 98011

Join us for Cascadia's first ever Worship Night!! GC Band from City Church will be leading worship and Pastor Mark Venti will be sharing a word. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity to worship God, hear of His love for you, and connect with new people. EVERYONE is invited- young, old, student, non-student, Christian, not Christian- so make sure you invite your friends! Let's pack out that hall for the glory of God and make His name known in our community!

Food and drinks will be served at 6:45-7:20.

Grace and Peace

Back from vacation and planning for the future

2011-05-23T07:21:00.000-07:00

My husband, our son, and I just returned from a vacation in Virginia. We had a great time and I was able to spend a lot of time reflecting on God's provision, grace, and direction. I am looking forward to this next year with MAD Skates and hope that you all are as well.

Tonight we have Micki presenting the word and free pizza for everyone. We will not be meeting next week for the memorial day holiday, so if you still want to come in May! Come tonight!

Bible Session Notes - May 2nd

2011-05-03T22:21:00.000-07:00

What Is God Like? A Look at Isaiah 40

He is like a Shepherd
Matthew 18:10-14
*God, like a shepherd, wants to save ALL of the sheep.
Isaiah 40:11
*Isaiah says that he tends his flock, gathers the lambs, carries them close, and gently leads. God will take care of you and cares for you.
Psalm 23:1
*David says God will not leave you wanting. If you truly commit your life, desires, dreams to God, His will is perfect for you, and you will want nothing you do not have. The hard part is truly giving everything over to God.

Immense and Incomprehensible (Can’t understand)
Isaiah 40:12-17
*God is huge! He marked off the heavens with his hand.
Psalm 33:6
*By his words the heavens were made

Incomparable
Isaiah 40:18-25
*No one can make an accurate depiction of God. No one is equal to God.
*Side note – Think about what in your life is taking the place of God. What are you “worshipping” instead of God? Music? Sleep? Friends? Motorcycles? Toys? What of those things would you not be willing to give up if God asked you to “leave it all and follow me.” What “idols” are in the way of your relationship with God?

Powerful
Isaiah 40:26
*Because of His great power and strength, not one of them is missing. He is able to track all the stars; He is able to track you.
Psalm 46:1
*God is our strength. Not only is God strong, but through Him, we are made strong.
Philippians 4:13

Everlasting
Isaiah 40:28-31
*God is like the Energizer Bunny. He just keeps going and going and going. Only, God is not battery operated. He will never run out of power.
*Like God is everlasting, with God’s strength you too can run and not grow weary.

Bottom Line: What is God Like?
He is like a shepherd
Immense and Incomprehensible
Incomparable
Powerful
Everlasting

Bible Session Notes & Skate Night Review - April 25th

2011-04-27T21:28:00.000-07:00

For Bible Session this week, we did EASTER IN REVIEW. I wanted to know who had gone to church, where they went, what they thought, what they learned, what they enjoyed, etc.

It worked out great, and we had a really good discussion. We have kids that go to the following types of churches: Catholic, Episcopalian, Pentecostal, Baptist, Foursquare, and Non-Denominational/Community.

One of the kids talked about the Good Friday service they attended. One shared with us about the Passover Celebration they did at their house. Someone else shared about the play they participated in on Easter Sunday. Everyone seemed to enjoy hearing how the different denominations celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I think it was also good for the kids that don't attend church to see how much fun church can be.

Honestly, I felt it was one of the best Skate Night's we've had.

For fun... We had a "guess how many beans in the jar" challenge, which Sam won. We also played organized dodge ball and had a great time. Skating, shooting hoops, and enjoying some pizza rounded out the night.

Thanks to everyone who continues to support us through prayer and/or finances. We truly appreciate it and could not do this without you.

God bless.

Skate Night Tonight

2011-04-25T13:26:00.001-07:00

Skate night is tonight at 6pm. Free pizza tonight, Easter In Review, as well as basketball, skating, a guessing game, and dodgeball anyone?

Bible Session Notes - April 18th

2011-04-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Jeremy led Bible Session on Monday night. Here are the notes I took while he was speaking. The kids had a lot of questions that we discussed, but I did not take notes on during that time.

BIBLE DRILL:
Galatians 2:20-21
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!
(If we could save ourselves through good works, Christ would not have needed to die.)

I Corinthians 1:18-19
For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
(No matter how much intelligence and wisdom you have without God it means nothing.)

BIBLE CONVERSATION
Colossians 1:10-22
And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.

*Because Jesus died, we have joy and power and all the blessings God has given us.
*Every single thing in your life is created and made possible by God.

Stop Human Trafficking - Run or Walk the FREE THEM 5K on May 7th

2011-04-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

More than 1 million vulnerable people are trafficked every year, forced into unfair work environments, to become servants or sex slaves. People like the kids we work with at Skate Night. Our kids. Our family. We like to think that these "global issues" won't reach us here in suburbia, but the reality is kids are taken from just about everywhere and anywhere. What are you going to do it about?

I have an email fitness group I started, and I am encouraging all of them to sign up and run or walk this 5K. I am asking the same of the local followers of MAD Skates. This is an easy way in which we can Make A Difference. I hope to see you at the event. 1 year ago this event raised $83,000. Let's be a part of beating that number. Let's work together to keep our kids safe. On May 7th, let's Make A Difference that will last.

To register...
http://www.worldconcern.org/5k/

For more information about the event...
http://www.worldconcern.org/documents/FreeThem5K.pdf

Bible Session Notes - April 11th

2011-04-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

Monday we watched the final portion of the Indescribable video.
Questions following the film...

1. Scientists say that every second a star is born – Thoughts?

2. What was your immediate gut reaction to seeing Christ on the cross?
What was your second thought/feeling/reaction?

3. God came to earth through His son, Jesus, and introduced us to astronomical grace. How do you react to Psalm 103:8-10? "The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities."

4. In the center of the Whirlpool Galaxy is a cross. What ways do you see reminders of God’s grace in the world around you?

5. God is for you. He wants to completely forgive you. He has an incredible plan and purpose for your life. What does that mean to you?

6. God is absolutely massive and He wants you to be a part of this amazing story. How does that make you feel?

7. How should God’s greatness affect you today and tomorrow and the next day? How should knowing how great he really is change your life?

Final Thoughts:

There is nothing this world can throw at you that is bigger than God. Put your trust in Him and He will see you through any difficulty.

Monday Night's Notes

2011-04-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

We watched the second third of the DVD on Monday night. Here are the thought provoking questions we asked and discussed following the viewing.

Questions following the film...
1. What feeling does this picture of earth (the classic Apollo 17 shot) give you?

2. Everyone who ever lived out their life… lived it on that Pale Blue Dot.
Re-read Psalm 8:4-5 "what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. "
What does Louie mean by significant insignificance?

3. What is your reaction to the idea that God is so massive, so huge, so indescribable and yet, He knows you by name and He love you?

4. What was your immediate gut reaction to God creating a raging ball of fire like the sun?

5. Have you ever thought of God as ferocious?

6. Re-read Philippians 2:5-8
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.
Why do you think God (who can hold the universe in the palm of his hand) came to earth to live with us?

7. Everything in the universe was made to bring glory to God. That includes you and me. How are you bringing glory to God?

Soul Surfer THIS FRIDAY NIGHT!

2011-04-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

Soul Surfer is coming out this Friday. Be sure to go and see it this weekend. The better it does on opening weekend, the more theaters will keep it showing.

We'll be going to the 7:30 showing Friday night at Alderwood Regal Stadium 7. Some of us are meeting up at Fatburger just down the street. Show up anytime after 4pm, and someone should be there.

APRIL CHALLENGE - Not an April Fool's Day Joke

2011-04-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

The Challenge for the month of April is to bring a new person to Skate Night and have them come a second time as well. Both visits by the new person must be in the month of April to count.

Ex. Bob brings James next Monday. Then James must come again sometime in the month of April in order for Bob to earn the gift.

Anyone who brings someone new twice this month will receive an Action Bible.

To see the Action Bible go to http://www.christianbook.com/the-action-bible/9780781444996/pd/444996?item_code=WW&netp_id=774886&event=ESRCN&view=details

THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE

2011-04-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

This week Micki challenged everyone to "HELP" someone else and report back on Monday with these questions answered.

1 - Who did you help and how?
2 - What was their response to you helping?
3 - How did you feel about it afterwards?

Micki will be presenting a prize to the person with the best story on Monday, so HELP someone and tell us about it on Monday.

Notes from Monday Night's Bible Session

2011-03-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

We just started watching Louie Giglio's "Indescribable." If you haven't seen any of Giglio's stuff, I highly recommend it. We'll be taking the next 2 weeks to finish up this DVD, and you are welcome to stop by for Bible Session to watch it with us.

Bible Drill Scriptures related to the film...
Genesis 1:1 - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Psalm 19:1 - The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Psalm 33:6 - By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.
Isaiah 40:25-26 - "To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One. Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.

Questions following the film...
1 - What in your world tells you God is indescribable?
2 - What amazing natural evidences are just outside your front door?
3 - How should it affect your daily life to know that scientists measure your God's universe with a ruler that is 5.88 trillion miles long?
4 - Open forum discussion about the film.

Soul Surfer

2011-03-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

Soul Surfer opens April 8th!

Please join us!

Details - We are going to the 7:30pm showing at Alderwood Regal Stadium 7 in Lynnwood. This is the theater over by the old Mervin's building that is now H-Mart. It's by California Burger sort of across the street from Red Robin and diagonally across the street from the mall.

Tickets - I highly recommend buying your tickets through Fandango.com in order to secure a seat. Tickets cost $10.50 for anyone 12 and older, $7.50 for anyone 11 and under.

Parents - Please set a good example by not lying about your child's age in order to save $3. I almost fell over at skate night when I heard our kids telling me that some of you are doing that on a regular basis. "Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another."-Leviticus 19:11. "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices."-Colossians 3:9. It's pretty black and white Biblically speaking.

Fatburger - Raven has shown some great initiative and wants everyone who can make it to go to Fatburger just up the street from the theater to eat and hang out before the movie. Raven and a couple of the older kids will be taking the bus and arriving at about 4pm. I plan on getting there at 5pm with Isaac.

Transportation - If anyone needs a ride to either the theater directly or to Fatburger, please let me know. I will have 2 available (tight fit) seats in my car both directions. I can pick up and drop off at Sid's Handymart or down in the Canyon Park shopping center. I might be able to arrange another ride or two if someone needs one.

We really want people to come, so invite your friends!

Taco Time Fundraiser Complete!

2011-03-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

Last night we completed the Taco Time Fundraiser having sold all 250 coupon books. With the money from these sales along with the matching money still coming in, we will definitely be able to purchase the new skate ramps. God is so good!

Thanks to all our youth who helped sell the coupon books. Great job everyone!

Mountain Biking in Urban Chile

2011-03-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

What does this have to do with Skate Night, MAD Skates or God? I don't really know except that this guy obviously has some "God-given" talent and some serious faith. I thought many of you would enjoy this epic ride.

http://www.wimp.com/urbanchile/

*Thanks for sending this my way, John.

Last Night at Skate Night

2011-03-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

Skateboarding, Basketball, and Food
We had a great time at skate night last night. We divided our available space into two areas. One area was used for basketball, which several of the youth seem to really enjoy playing. In the other area Kory set up a nice skate area, which was used heavily all evening. Raven also brought a Nintendo 64 and some "classic" games, and the battle royal was on! Sam and his family brought some delicious Mexican casserole dish, grapes, chips, and brownies. It was a feast enjoyed by all. There were even leftovers! We did our tradition of having cupcakes for the birthdays of the month as well, so everyone left pretty full and a little jacked up on chocolate.

Bible Session
Jeremy delivered the message during Bible Session. Here are some notes from that message.

John 8:31-32 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
II Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Romans 15:4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

The message from these four verses? Read and know your Bible.

We eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, because our bodies need food. Just like our bodies need food, we need spiritual food. The Bible (God's Word) is our spiritual food.

Judges 3:12-30 The Story of Ehud
- The Israelites were subject to Eglon - King of Moab
- The Israelites asked God to save them
- God sent Ehud as a rescuer of Israel
- Ehud was left handed (When the Bible mentions something like this, pay attention. It is important. There is a reason it was written.)
- Because Ehud was left handed, he wore his sword on the opposite side of his body from right handed people. When he was searched going in to see the king, the would have searched for a weapon as if he was right handed. Therefore, when Ehud got in to the see the king, he still had his sword.
- Ehud kills the king and get away, and then leads the Israelites into battle against the Moabites and gains them freedom for 80 years.
(For those reading this synopsis, you'll have to read the Bible text to get all the exciting details of the story!)

Jeremy's main point tonight - The Bible is NOT boring! Read it!

What do Japan, skateboarding, and $300 have in common?

2011-03-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

The youth at skate night!

Last week our youth unanimously voted to send our tithe money to World Vision to help with the Japan earthquake/tsunami relief work. Today we sent $300 to World Vision!

I have to give two thumbs up and a huge round of applause for our youth stepping up to meet an immediate need and for keeping a global perspective.

To learn more about World Vision, go to www.worldvison.org or find them on YouTube under WorldVisionUSA.

Gemini Rain - Friday Night - 7pm - Eastside Foursquare Church - Bothell

2011-03-15T13:30:00.000-07:00

Our very own Kory Christians will be playing and singing with his band - Gemini Rain - this Friday night at Eastside Foursquare Church. Doors open at 6:30 and the concert starts at 7pm.

Address: 14520 100th Ave. NE, Bothell, WA 98011

Taking Care of Yourself - Fitness and The Bible (Notes from Monday night)

2011-03-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Read I Chronicles 29:1-9

King David is planning for the building of the temple of the Lord, which his son Solomon will build. King David pours his own resources into the building project and then he asks for help. The leaders of the each family stepped up and helped.

What do you see going on in this story?

Two things I get out of this…
The leadership set a good example by giving what they had
David asked for help.

Read I Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19
Your body is the temple of God – the Holy Spirit.

Looking at the story of King David and the planning and work that was put into the Temple of the Lord in the old testament times, how much do you think it matters that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and why?
Are you giving your best effort to have a healthy body?
Are you asking for help when you need it?

Read Matthew 25:14-30 (Talents)
This is a very popular story in churches. It is the story of the talents. A talent is a monetary figure of roughly $1000.

In the story not everyone was given the same amount of money. It’s the same with us and our physical bodies. We are not all given the same physical talents, skills, genetic make up. EX. Kenyans are well known for their amazing skill as long distance runners. Their genetics make them physically more capable than someone like me. Does that mean I should sit on a couch and get fat? No. I need to do the best that I can with what God has given me to work with.

Why?
Why am I bringing this up? None of you are “fat.”

Skinny does not = healthy. One of the girls that I went to technical college with when I was training to be a personal trainer was the skinniest person in the entire class and yet she had the highest percentage of body fat.

Why? She was starving herself. Her body was burning the muscle in order to survive and holding onto the fat to use to survive.

Eat right, get enough sleep, take care of yourself. TODAY! Now is when you set the scope for your future. It’s easy to eat poorly now and not get enough sleep and still feel like you’re doing ok in life. As you get older, that all starts catching up with you and the bad habits you have today start having a greater impact on you bit by bit by bit.

Enjoy today – Keep the future in mind.

Remember that your body is a temple.

Treat it like one.

To Save A Life - Free Movie - March 10th

2011-03-09T13:24:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine just told me about this movie tomorrow night playing here in Bothell. It is a free showing. Movie snacks are available.

To Save A Life

For more information go to http://www.theurbangathering.com/to-save-a-life-movie-night/

I probably won't be able to make it myself due to the short notice, but I think it would be good for any of our teens and parents to see.

Soul Surfer

2011-03-02T20:51:00.000-08:00

Micki, Jason and I went to a private screening for pastors and youth leaders last night.

The movie? SOUL SURFER starring Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid, Carrie Underwood, and Anna Sophia Robb as Bethany Hamilton, the Soul Surfer.

I absolutely recommend this movie, so much so, that I'm getting group tickets for the MAD Skates kids, parents, friends, volunteers, etc. So, I need to hear from you. If you want tickets to go with our group, I need to know how many tickets you want ASAP.

The movie opens April 8th, and we need to see it opening weekend in order to help keep the film in the theaters longer. The better it does opening weekend the more theaters it can stay in nationwide. Let's make a difference here in the NW! I would love to take the teens opening night, so I'm hoping and praying that works out. (Carpool from Canyon Park area will be available.)

For all of you who get this blog update and don't live near us, look up the movie, find out where it is playing locally and go see it.

The movie is rated PG. Check out www.soulsurferthemovie.com for more information about the film and to view the trailer.

Awesome video of our friends' skate ministry in Kalispell

2011-02-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

Take 5 minutes to watch this video of our friends' skate ministry in Kalispell. Where God guides, He provides.

http://vimeo.com/20157799

Changes at MAD Skates

2011-02-22T13:37:00.000-08:00

FOOD
Dinner is now free! Thanks to The Mills for bringing chili last week and Nick and Nina for bringing spaghetti this week. Next Monday night will be free pizza. We are always looking for people to supply dinner for our kids, so if you are interested, please contact me to schedule when you would be available to do that!

TEACHING
We now have three primary teachers at skate night. Brett, Micki and Jeremy. Jeremy taught his first lesson last night on God's protection and shared an exciting story about his family being captured while on safari in Africa. Jeremy will be teaching on the third Monday of each month while Micki and Brett will share the rest of the weeks. We are also always interested in guest speakers, so if you have a story to share and a heart to reach these kids, contact me.

brett@madskates.com or 206-423-0813

United We Stand - February 14th - Bible Session Notes

2011-02-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

I thought you might like to know what we are teaching at Skate Night, so I'm going to start posting my Bible Session notes from the nights that I am teaching. The formatting looks a little odd when I copy and paste it into the blog, but you get the general idea of the lesson.

Here are the notes from last Monday night, February 14th.

Read Colossians 2:2

Paul wants the church (anyone who follows Christ) to be…

Encouraged in heart

United in love

Paul is speaking as a leader of the early church. He wants his students to follow Christ fully together. UNITED IN LOVE.

Read Matthew 12:25

Here Jesus says that every kingdom divided against itself will be…

Ruined

Every city or household divided against itself will…

Not stand

I think this is pretty clear. We need to be united in our attitudes, words, and actions.

Kingdom/Church Level – We, as believers/followers of Christ/Christians are all members of one church also known as “the body of Christ.” We need to be together, acting as one unit, focused on Christ and our attitudes, words and actions should support each other.

City or Household/Personal Level – Each one of us needs to have our attitude match our words and actions. If your heart is Christ-like then your actions and words will also be Christ-like.

Read Ecclesiastes 4:12

One may be…

Overpowered

Two can…

Defend themselves

Three…

Is not easily broken

We cannot and we should not try to stand in this battle alone. If you are struggling with something, ask for help. As the church, we are a family. We are all brothers and sisters. By yourself you can be overpowered. With two of working together, we can defend ourselves. Get a group together, and defeat is almost out of the question.

Read Philippians 2:1-4

Paul and Timothy are writing to the church and they say that the church can make their joy complete by doing what?

Being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose

Read vs. 3 again. Who can tell me what humility is? modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, not proud or arrogant; modest

Vs. 4 – Look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Paul isn’t saying don’t take care of yourself or don’t look after yourself. He’s saying look out for others AS WELL. If what you are doing is hurting someone else, you are definitely not “looking out for the interests of others.”

What is your “take home” from this lesson? How will you apply it to your life?

Prayer Team

2011-02-08T12:47:00.000-08:00

We are looking for 5-7 dedicated people to pray for MAD Skates at a minimum of once a week but preferably daily.

Prayer requests will be specific to our ministry, the leadership, and the youth that attend. Prayer requests will be sent via email as they come up with an ongoing list as well.

If you are interested, please let me know via email. Also, please let me know if there is a specific area you are interested in prayer for - ex. the kids, the leadership, financial, building, growth, etc.

Thank you.
brett@madskates.com

Pizza Change & Another $25 Grant

2011-02-07T13:12:00.001-08:00

Tonight we will be trying out Papa Murphy's take n bake pizza. There will be no charge for pizza tonight.

Also, right after my post last week, we received another grant for $25 if all the Taco Time coupon books are sold!

GOD IS GOOD!

Another $25 Grant

2011-02-02T11:37:00.001-08:00

Yes folks it is true. Yet another kind donor has stepped up with a matching grant of $25 if we sell all 250 coupon books!

Taco Time Update

2011-02-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

The youth have started selling the coupon books.
We just received 2 matching grants for our coupon book fundraiser.
Grant 1: If we sell 50 in the next week, our supporter will send us $25.
Grant 2: If we sell all 250 coupon books, our supporter will send us $25.
That's $50 in addition to our $250 matching grant we will receive if we sell all 250 coupon books.

Anyone else want in on this?

New skate ramps.... here we come!

Taco Time

2011-01-31T12:45:00.000-08:00

It's Taco Time! For $1, you can purchase a coupon book for Taco Time filled with $5 worth of coupons. Each coupon is for $1 off a menu item.

Use the coupon book once, and get your dollar back. Use it twice, and you're ahead of the game.

We already have 1 matching grant for $250, but we only get the money if we sell all 250 coupon books!

I am in search of anyone else who would be willing to do a matching grant for selling all the coupon books. It could be dollar for dollar or even just a set dollar amount if all the books are sold. For example, "I will give $25 if all 250 coupon books are sold." If you hear God knocking on your heart on this one, let me know! We need your help.

All proceeds from the coupon book sales will go toward purchasing skate ramps that we have been in need of for over a year. We are hopeful that between this fundraiser and the money we have set aside, we will be able to purchase just what we need to move forward and grow in our skating equipment.

Thank you.

Untitled - Skate Video

2011-01-27T20:37:00.001-08:00

This is a great little video by Untitled! Check it out...

http://untitledskate.com/2010/10/autumn-ramp-park-montage/

Half Marathon Complete - $270 Raised

2011-01-24T12:47:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm back from Arizona, and no... I don't have a tan. But, I am thrilled to say that my mom and I reached our goal and completed the Rock n Roll Half Marathon on Sunday, January 16th. We were able to raise $270 towards skate ramps for M.A.D. Skates. Thank you to everyone who prayed for us on this journey and a special thanks to everyone who donated.

God bless!

Help! I need somebody.

2011-01-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

Help, I need somebody,

Help, not just anybody,

Help, you know I need someone, help.

The Beatles sang it, and now I am singing it too. I need two (2) volunteers for setting up the gym for skate night. I need one volunteer for the second (2nd) Monday of each month and one for the fourth (4th) Monday of each month. Start time is 5:30 and we are done at 6:00pm. Volunteers are able to switch days with the other volunteers as people sometimes need to take a particular week off for vacations, meetings, etc. Phil and Jeremy have covered the 1st and 3rd Mondays throughout 2010, and it seemed to work very well for them and us. I am now in need of the 2nd and 4th Mondays as well, and would appreciate your help.

Please call 206-423-0813 or email brett@madskates.com if you are able to commit to setting up one Monday a month for 2011. Thank you.

RAMP IT UP!

2010-12-28T15:47:00.000-08:00

Ladies and Gents,

The time is near... Only three more weeks until the Arizona Rock n Roll Half Marathon. My mother and I will be walking the half marathon on January 16th. For both of us this is a new challenge. Neither of us has ever done a half marathon. So, what does this have to do with the subject line "Ramp It Up!"?

Well...

We decided to take this opportunity to raise some money to help M.A.D. Skates! Funds raised through this adventure will be used to purchase portable ramps for our Monday night skate outreach.

So, go to www.giveforward.com/rampitup and make your donation today.

CHRISTMAS PARTY 2010

2010-12-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS PARTY 2010

December 20
6:00 - 8:30pm
Bethany Bible Church Gym

Dinner & Dessert
Games/Competitions with prizes
Gift Exchange Battle (all gifts will be provided)
Special Presentations
Skating area will be open as well

SKATERS - Remember the Dress Your Deck competition. Dress yourself and your inline skates, scooter, or skateboard in Christmas holiday decoration and try to win one of our wonderful prizes!

RSVP ASAP! Thanks

Support One Of Our Skate Families

2010-11-22T10:41:00.001-08:00

Support one of our skate families by purchasing your Christmas tree at Donna's Trees in Bothell just across from Burgermaster! Open today!

Skate Night Cancelled for Tonight

2010-11-22T10:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry everyone, but I feel it is the wise choice to cancel Skate Night for tonight. We have the flu in our family right now, and I did not get the studs on the van in time to beat the bad weather. Please be safe out there, enjoy the snow, and have a fantastic THANKSGIVING! We'll see you next week.

Support M.A.D. Skates easily and at no cost to you!

2010-11-16T16:30:00.000-08:00

Go to www.goodsearch.com and when it says, "Who do you search for?" type in MAD Skates. Choose MAD Skates and Rec Center (Bothell, WA) and start searching.

I just received our first check from GoodSearch, and I'm looking forward to getting the next one when more people than just myself are using it. I have been using GoodSearch for 1 full year now, and I have to say that I'm happy with the results it comes up with.

Make the switch from Google or Bing today and help M.A.D. Skates one search at a time!

Happy Birthday Nick!

2010-11-15T13:27:00.001-08:00

This month Nick is celebrating his 16th birthday, and we are helping him celebrate tonight at Skate Night. As is our tradition, we will be having cupcakes for everyone to celebrate all the November birthdays, but in addition to that, we are having free pizza and ice cream. I hope to see a bunch of you there tonight to wish Nick a Sweet 16!

M.A.D. Skates T-Shirts on Clearance Sale - $5

2010-11-15T13:22:00.000-08:00

We only have a few t-shirts left, and I'm selling them for $5 each. They are all adult sizes.

Quantities available are:

Solid Blue

2 Large

5 X-Large

White Ringer
1 Medium

                   7 Large
                   3 X-Large

Solid Blue

Ringer Tee

Back of Shirt

Front and Sleeve

Injured Again - Prayer and Set up Help Needed

2010-11-07T22:13:00.000-08:00

Yes folks, I have injured myself again. This time it is my right hip flexor, and loading and unloading the van is going to be next to impossible as I can hardly get in and out of my car. If I could get one person to help unload the van tomorrow night (Monday 5:15) it would be greatly appreciated. Hopefully, we will have Nick and Kory back tomorrow night to load it at the end of the night.

Also, I would greatly appreciate prayer for my injury. I was just getting over the left quad tear and hip flexor strain and had begun training in earnest with my mom for the half marathon we have signed up for in January. The left leg took almost 5 months to heal, and as you can see on your calendars, I have 2 months for this leg to heal. Please pray for a miracle.

Thanks everyone, and may God richly bless each and every one of you.

Sincerely from my heart,
Brett Elizabeth Spore

Van Battery Update

2010-11-04T08:54:00.001-07:00

Half of the money has come in and the other half has been promised to us. Thank you to those who jumped in to help out. The battery was replaced Tuesday night, the van passed emissions Wednesday afternoon, and Lord willing I'll be getting the new tabs for it this morning. Thanks again to everyone who helped keep us running!

Emergency Financial Need - Van Battery

2010-11-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

The van battery is dead. We have had to jump start it for 2 weeks now. We need $100 to replace the battery. If you feel led to help out, please donate.

Donations are accepted in cash at Skate Night, check via standard mail 21705 2nd Ave SE, Bothell, WA 98021, or via PayPal. Thank you.

Taking Back Halloween

2010-11-01T15:29:00.000-07:00

Here at our house we get around 100 trick-or-treaters every year. This year was no different with a record high of 119!

Every year I try to do something to help "take back Halloween" and give glory to God. This year, I put a sign on our door that said, "If you are a skater, raise your hand."

The first group of kids that came to the door had 2 junior high boys in the front with their hands raised. I gave them each one of the skater packets I had put together. They were so excited that after I gave them their candy, they asked if they could give me a hug. It was a pretty awesome start to the night.

So, what was in the packet?
Mike Steinkamp's Skate Testimony on DVD
The Gospel of John put out by Pocket Testament League
NOTW Sticker
MAD Skates Sticker
MAD Skates Business Card with the Skate Night information on the back

I handed out approximately 10 complete packets, 3 more Gospels of John, and about 5 business cards. I just pray God uses these items to reach into the hearts of the young people and 2 women who took the packets. I ask that all of you take a moment and say a prayer for these people as well. We need your help...

Washington State is listed as one of the most unchurched states in the U.S. and Wikipedia states that we are part of what is now known as the "Unchurched Belt." As of 2000, the six U.S. states reported to have the lowest rate of religious adherence were Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Nevada, Maine, and West Virginia. In January of 2009, Washington was rated as 6th lowest in having "religion as part of their daily life."

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Physiocare Physical Therapy!

2010-10-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Physiocare Physical Therapy in Woodinville for being a corporate sponsor.

If you have a need for physical therapy, I highly recommend Bret Swigard and his staff at Physiocare. I have been seen by almost everyone in that office, and they are a great group of people.

Thanks again Physiocare!

TONIGHT! Monday - September 20th - BE AT SKATE NIGHT!

2010-09-20T14:48:00.000-07:00

Prawphit is coming to share his story for God's glory. He will have CDs on sale for $10.

We are celebrating the September birthdays with something special for Kory turning 16 this month.

Bring a friend who hasn't come before, and win a prize from the mystery box.

PRAWPHIT is in the house!

2010-09-15T14:29:00.001-07:00

Prawphit will be coming next Monday, September 20th to share his story during Bible session. Be there and bring a friend. (Prawphit will have CDs for sale for $10.)

We'll also be celebrating the September birthdays with a little something special because Kory just turned 16!

Skate Conference Update

2010-09-15T14:25:00.000-07:00

Well, unless a check for $2,500 and a note saying "GO TO SKATE CONFERENCE" ends up in our mailbox in the 2 weeks, MAD Skates won't be going to skate conference this year. Thanks to everyone who has been praying about this. We're hopeful we can attend next year.

AFRICA!

2010-09-08T14:29:00.001-07:00

Next Monday, September 13th, Micki will be presenting AFRICA!

Skate and Be Counted!

2010-08-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

A new friend of mine is putting on a Late Night Christian Skate Jam at the Mukilteo YMCA on Saturday, September 18th. It is his goal to put Christ back in the Young Men's CHRISTIAN Association.

First request - PRAY FOR THIS EVENT!

Second request - Show up and skate!

Third request - Bring your friends!

Final request - PRAY MORE! :)

Seriously folks, we need to be here for this. Russ has spent 6 years trying to get the YMCA to allow a "Christian" event at their facility. We need to support this movement to put Christ back into an organization that was founded on Christian values, principles, and Christ himself - the solid rock.

Information: http://www.ymca-snoco.org/Content/Documents/Teens/MK_LateNightSkate.pdf

Chair Massage is Back

2010-08-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Our masseuse will be back this coming Monday, August 30th. She is starting school in September and may not be back again this year, so come Monday night if you would like a massage!

$15 for 15 minutes

Dodge This!

2010-08-24T16:01:00.001-07:00

Monday night we had 5 guests arrive just as we were starting our game of dodgeball. Teams were divided up equally by height.

Despite losing one player due to his ride home arriving early and the team apparently being overwhelmed at the start of the event, the red team dominated in a 5-1 victory over the neon yellow team winning a free soda for everyone on the team!

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

2010-08-18T15:40:00.001-07:00

What's going on at MAD Skates for the next 5 weeks?

August 23rd - The first 1/2 of the last episode of Underground Reality: Columbia, Free Popcorn, and an organized 30 minute game of dodgeball at the end of the night from 8:00-8:30.

August 30th - The final night of the Underground Reality: Columbia video series, Free Pizza, and Free Popcorn.

Labor Day - September 6th - NO SKATE NIGHT! Enjoy your family time together, and if you see Kory tell him happy birthday! :)

September 13th - Micki is back from Africa! She'll be sharing the story of her trip and some pictures she and her husband took along the way. I've had a sneak peek, and these are some great photos.

September 20th - Prawphit - A local hiphop/rap artist comes to share his testimony.