Story courtesy of The Capitol Hill Beacon.
]]>“We are proud to continue our relationships with these wonderful organizations as we seek to educate future generations about the wisdom of our nation’s founding principles,” said Brian Bush, executive director of the Academy of Leadership and Liberty. “This program inspires citizens by reminding them of the promise of liberty.”
Fears will deliver the keynote address on “The Magna Carta: Our First Constitution” at 11:30 a.m. Spiropoulos, a professor of law and director of the Center for the Study of State Constitutional Law and Government at Oklahoma City University, will discuss “Constitutional Principles” with selected students from Oklahoma Christian. At 11 a.m., Kintsel, executive vice president of OCPA and director of its Center for Constitutional Freedom, will address the entire student body at convocation regarding “Federalism.”
“Dr. Fears is one of the preeminent experts on the greatest books of history, including our Constitution,” said Bush. “In addition, Andrew and Joel are some of Oklahoma’s top thinkers in regard to the Constitution. They will each deliver an inspiring discussion of our country’s most important philosophical and legal writing.”
The luncheon is open to the public for the first 200 people that respond, and tickets are $15. For reservations, e-mail academy@oc.edu or call 425-1065.
Fears is an acclaimed classics professor and scholar with 25 awards for teaching excellence. He earned his doctorate from Harvard University and holds the G.T. and Libby Blankenship Chair in the History of Liberty at the University of Oklahoma. He also serves as David and Ann Brown Distinguished Fellow of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs. Before joining the faculty at the University of Oklahoma, Fears was professor of history and distinguished faculty research lecturer at Indiana University, and professor of classical studies and chair of the department of classical studies at Boston University.
The weeklong commemoration of America’s most important document is one of the nation’s least known official observances and is spearheaded nationally by the Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1955, the Daughters petitioned Congress to set aside Sept. 17-23 annually to be dedicated for the observance of Constitution Week.
About Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma Christian, named a “Best Western College” by The Princeton Review, and “America’s Best University—Masters” by U.S. News & World Report, is a private, four-year comprehensive university. OC offers degree programs in more than 60 fields of study in three colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Biblical Studies and the College of Professional Studies. The university also offers two graduate degree programs in Biblical studies, a master’s of science in engineering as well as one- and two-year master’s of business administration programs. In addition to its Oklahoma City campus, OC has study abroad opportunities in Vienna, Austria, Honduras, and throughout the western Pacific. For more information about Oklahoma Christian, visit www.oc.edu.
Daughters of the American Revolution has served America for 119 years as its foremost cheerleader. Known as the largest women’s patriotic organization in the world, DAR has over 165,000 members with approximately 3,000 chapters in all 50 states and 11 foreign countries. For more information about DAR, visit www.dar.org/
Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs was founded in 1993 as a public policy research organization focused primarily on state-level issues. OCPA has been part of an emerging, national trend of free-market, state-based think-tanks. For more information about OCPA, visit www.ocpathink.org
The 1787 Society of Oklahoma is a dynamic group of young professionals, college students, families and activists who are working to promote the Constitution. For more information about the 1787 Society of Oklahoma, click here.
]]>Due to the need for continuity in the planning of the Academy’s upcoming programs, the shortened timeline, and the availability of a highly qualified internal option, the best course of action was to promote from within the Academy staff to fill the vacancy created by Beau’s departure. Currently serving in a part time role as a Project Coordinator is Caleb Panter, and he will step in as Assistant Director of the Academy of Leadership & Liberty beginning January 3. The soon-to-be Dr. Panter is currently completing his law degree and will graduate Saturday, and he has been a part of the Academy’s programs for the past few summers. Caleb has a passion for the OC mission, and he will be an incredible addition to our team while he also continues to serve the men’s basketball team as an Assistant Coach.
Brian Bush
Executive Director
Academy of Leadership & Liberty
Story courtesy of The Capitol Hill Beacon.
]]>
Miss Oklahoma, Emoly West, has been named Ambassador of Leadership at Oklahoma Christian University’s Academy of Leadership & Liberty.
West brings a wealth of talent and heartfelt commitment to the academy’s mission, according to Dr. Brian Bush, executive director.
“The academy seeks to inspire leaders of character, vision and courage while equipping them to have a profound and lasting impact on individuals, families, communities and nations.
“In her role as ambassador of leadership, Emoly will promote these principles in her travels throughout the state of Oklahoma while also assisting in evaluating current programs and developing new initiatives.
“Guided by biblical faith and the principles of servant leadership, character and justice, the Academy is committed to equipping servant-leaders and to continuing the values and freedoms that are cultivated by the founding wisdom of our Republic. Academy programs are currently centered on five strategic approaches to carry out its objectives of promoting liberty, free enterprise, and servant-leadership: Engaging Culture, Empowering Youth, Convening Stakeholders, Honoring Heroes, and Inspiring Action.
Bush added that servant-leadership must be developed and inspired in capable people in each generation, and it is up to us to inspire the next generation of young leaders.
“Emoly’s contribution as ambassador of leadership will allow us to spread this critical message while further developing relationships with schools, companies and local organizations across Oklahoma and across America. We could not be more excited to welcome her to the team.”
West said, “As Miss Oklahoma, I fully realize and desire to make the most of the responsibility and privilege I’ve been given to be a role-model and generate a culture of character which values cultivating and inspiring the future leaders of America. I look forward to promoting leadership qualities throughout our state. As ambassador of leadership, I believe my new role as a team member with the Academy of Leadership & Liberty will provide a great deal of the tools necessary to make the greatest impact in developing leaders and champions of character, not only during my year of service, but for years to come.”
The mission of the Academy of Leadership & Liberty, located on the campus of Oklahoma Christian University, is to uphold, teach and strengthen the values which undergird liberty, free enterprise and servant leadership.
]]>Fears will address “The Spirit of the Constitution and its Meaning for Today” at 10 a.m. with selected students from Oklahoma Christian. At 11 a.m., he will address the entire student body at convocation regarding “The Old Testament and American Freedom.” At 11:30, professor Fears will deliver the keynote luncheon address on “What Would the Founders Do Today?”
“Dr. Fears is one of the preeminent experts on the greatest books of history, including our Constitution,” said Brian Bush, executive director of the Academy of Leadership and Liberty. “He will deliver a stirring and inspiring celebration of our country’s most important philosophical and legal writing.”
The luncheon is open to the public for the first 200 people that respond, and tickets are $25. For reservations, e-mail academy@oc.edu or call 425-1065. Partners with Oklahoma Christian in the event are the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs and the OKC chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution. Click here for more information and a schedule of the day’s events.
“We are proud to partner with these two wonderful organizations as we seek to educate our fellow citizens about the wisdom of our founding documents and celebrate the freedoms they protect,” said Bush.
Fears is an acclaimed classics professor and scholar with 25 awards for teaching excellence. He earned his doctorate from Harvard University and holds the G.T. and Libby Blankenship Chair in the History of Liberty at the University of Oklahoma. He also serves as David and Ann Brown Distinguished Fellow of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs. Before joining the faculty at the University of Oklahoma, Fears was professor of history and distinguished faculty research lecturer at Indiana University, and professor of classical studies and chair of the department of classical studies at Boston University.
Fears was chosen Professor of the Year on three occasions by students at the University of Oklahoma. His other accolades include the Medal for Excellence in College and University Teaching from the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, the University Continuing Education Association Great Plains Region Award for Excellence in Teaching and the UCEA’s National Award for Teaching Excellence.
Professor Fears’ books and monographs include The Cult of Jupiter and Roman Imperial Ideology and The Theology of Victory at Rome. He edited a three-volume edition of Selected Writings of Lord Acton. His discussions of the Great Books have appeared in newspapers across the country and have aired on national television and radio programs.
Officials at Oklahoma Christian will also ring the bells on campus at 3 p.m. to join in the nationwide celebration of the Constitution.
About Oklahoma Christian University: Oklahoma Christian University, a “Best Western College” according to The Princeton Review, is a private, four-year comprehensive university. The university offers degree programs in more than 60 fields of study in three colleges. In addition to its Oklahoma City campus, Oklahoma Christian has study abroad opportunities in Vienna, Austria, Honduras and throughout the western Pacific. The university’s Academy for Leadership and Liberty exists to uphold, teach, and strengthen the values that undergird liberty, free enterprise and servant leadership. For more information, visit http://www.oc.edu.
]]>
Courtesy of The Oklahoma Publishing Company, Copyright 2010,
]]>But this area of the world is not without its challenges. One of the most difficult issues facing the region is playing out in Jordan’s neighbor to the west, Israel. The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians affects children, families, neighbors and communities. Lives are being lost, and the tension is growing. Over the years, some of the most celebrated diplomats in history have tried to resolve the conflict, yet no resolution has been reached.
Understanding, patience, humility, wisdom and communication are the keys to solving this issue. In short: leadership. Current world leaders must enlist their best efforts, and we must raise up young leaders with the knowledge and perspective necessary to achieve success.
Oklahoma Christian University is focused on developing that kind of leadership, providing opportunities for people to engage the culture around them, developing the skills necessary to lead and breaking away from the status quo.
One of our most exciting programs is Four Star Debate: Developing Leaders with General Tommy Franks. This partnership between the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute & Museum, the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) and Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University (OC) is designed to develop young leaders of character who are well-informed about our communities’ issues, able to communicate a vision for a better future and able to work with people from all walks of life to change the world.
This year’s program gathered 24 of the finest high school students from across the United States and took them to Jordan for the opportunity to meet and debate with 24 Middle Eastern students at King’s Academy in Madaba, Jordan. The topic of the debate was whether the U.S. should support a comprehensive peace agreement between Israel and Palestine. Students also received training from NCPA’s professional policy analysts, debate coaches and university debate students. Leadership development and communications training was provided by OC’s nationally recognized faculty, staff and academy contributors. The students also interacted with Gen. Tommy Franks, who provided invaluable lessons on leadership and insight into the complexities of foreign policy.
For these 24 students, Jordan was historical, spiritual and then some. The students left the program inspired and equipped. The staff left knowing that our future is in great hands, and we all came away with the understanding that our interests are not that different from those of our friends in Jordan. We all want peace and a better life for our children, and we all must do our part to achieve those goals together.
Brian Bush is executive director of Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University.
]]>Four Star Debate: Developing Leaders with General Tommy Franks is hosted by the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute, the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) and the Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University (OC).
“At Four Star Debate, we strive to teach students how to disagree without being disagreeable,” Gen. Franks said. “With the current conflicts plaguing our world, I am confident we’re in good hands with these 50 students leading the way. Jeris and Brit showed the kind of determination and teamwork that make great leaders.”
In addition to Gen. Franks, the students met Dr. John Goodman, NCPA president and CEO; Dr. Mike O’Neal, president of OC; Antwan Saca, OneVoice Palestine Youth Leader; Dr. Brian Bush, executive director of the Academy of Leadership and Liberty at OC; Dr. Islam A. Azzam, vice president of strategy and business development at Enatel, Inc.; Joe Crookham, president and principal owner of Musco Lighting; Dr. Mahmoud Labadi, founding board member of OneVoice Palestine; Martin L. Edelman, of counsel to Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP; Michele Smith, two-time Olympic gold medalist; Dr. Nathan Mellor, assistant to the President at OC and president of Strata Leadership, LLC; Dr. Nouh El-Harmouzi, editor-in-chief and general coordinator of the Minbar Al-Hurriya Project; Ambassador Robert Jordan, former U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia; Renzi Stone, president and CEO of Saxum Public Relations; and Tal Harris, executive director of OneVoice Israel. Dr. Goodman moderated the debate.
Guest judges for the final debate were Ambassador Robert Jordan, Jordanian Senator and former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities HE Akel Biltaji, Michele Smith, Dr. Islam Azzam and Chris Burk. Also, U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Lawrence C. Mandel was in attendance at the evening program.
Other winners:
• The second place team of Mohammad Oran of Amman, Jordan and Andrew McNair of Argyle, Texas won $1,000 scholarships.
• Andrew McNair of Argyle, Texas won a $1,000 scholarship for being voted the top speaker.
• Leen Hajjar of Amman, Jordan won the Jack Kemp Award and a $1,000 scholarship for being voted by her peers as the most helpful student to her fellow debaters.
• Mohammad Oran of Amman, Jordan won a $1,000 scholarship for being voted the most-improved debater.
After the final debate, students took excursions to Wadi Rum and Petra to experience Jordanian culture and scenery first-hand.
For more information, please visit http://fourstardebate.ncpa.org/.
About the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum
The goal of the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum is to tell compelling stories of leadership, introduce historical topics in each exhibit, and to encourage study and debate concerning the leadership traits illustrated by the story. It is located in Hobart, Okla. For more information, visit http://www.tommyfranksmuseum.org.
About the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA)
With offices in Dallas and Washington, D.C., the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy research organization, established in 1983. The NCPA’s goal is to develop and promote private alternatives to government regulation and control, solving problems by relying on the strength of the competitive, entrepreneurial private sector. For more information, visit http://www.ncpa.org
Academy of Leadership & Liberty
The Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University exists to uphold, teach, and strengthen the values that promote liberty, free enterprise, and servant leadership. To accomplish that mission, the Academy seeks to inspire leaders of character, vision, and courage while equipping them with the values that have a profound and lasting impact on individuals, families, communities, and nations. Guided by faith and the principles of servant leadership, character, and social justice, the Academy is committed to perpetuating the values and freedoms endowed by our Creator and empowered by the founding wisdom of our democracy. For more information, visit http://www.oc.edu/academy/.
About King’s Academy
Established in 2007, King’s Academy is a private, not-for-profit, co-educational boarding and day high school (grades 9 to 12) in Madaba, Jordan. The school, which integrates the New England boarding school experience in the historical and intellectual context of the Middle East, follows an English-language, Advanced Placement curriculum. The dynamic curriculum includes an integrated co-curricular program of athletics, activities and community service, and students live in a nurturing residential environment that allows them to flourish personally and intellectually. King’s Academy is situated 30 minutes from Amman on a 144-acre (575-dunum) site and is comprised of 23 buildings and state-of-the-art facilities. For more information, visit http://www.kingsacademy.edu.jo.
The students will debate whether the United States should support a comprehensive peace agreement between Israel and Palestine.
Four Star Debate: Developing Leaders with General Tommy Franks is hosted by the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute, the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) and the Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University (OC).
The following leaders will be speaking at the program:
Gen. Tommy Franks
Gen. Tommy Franks is from Wynnewood, Okla. and attended the University of Texas. After two years, he joined the U.S. Army and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and sent to Vietnam. In June 2000, he was promoted to four-star General and assigned as Commander-in-Chief, United States Central Command. He led American and Coalition troops in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. Franks has received numerous awards, including five Distinguished Service Medals, four Legions of Merit, four bronze stars and three purple hearts. He now travels across the country speaking to groups on leadership.
Dr. John Goodman
Dr. John Goodman is a Texas native and attended of the University of Texas as well as Colombia University. He is now the CEO of the National Center for Policy Analysis. Goodman has been quoted by publications, such as the National Journal and The Wall Street Journal. Also, he has appeared on many different television and radio news programs. He is the leader of the “Free Our Health Care Now” petition and has frequently testified before Congress on health care reform.
Dr. Mike O’Neal
Dr. Mike O’Neal attended Oklahoma Christian University (OC) as an undergraduate and then went on to Harding University. He is currently the OC president. Since 2002, he has worked hard for the university to implement his visions of academic success. Prior to working with OC, O’Neal worked at Pepperdine University, Harding University and as a CPA with many different accounting firms, including Coopers & Lybrand. Since moving back to Oklahoma, O’Neal has become involved with many different organizations and serves on the board for many of them.
Dr. Islam A. Azzam
Dr. Islam A. Azzam is a graduate of both California State University and Pepperdine University with degrees in business and education. He is currently vice president of strategy and business development at Enatel, Inc. The company is a Cisco- and Microsoft-certified partner that provides training on information technology. Azzam is also an entrepreneur and this has helped him to become a more passionate person, always seeking new and innovative business opportunities.
Joe Crookham
Joe Crookham is the president and principal owner of Musco Lighting. His main business is athletic field lighting for parks, recreation facilities and schools. Many different major sports facilities for NFL, NBA and MLB have all used Musco Lighting. He has received an Emmy and a technical Academy Award for his T.V. and movie lighting work. Crookham is involved with many different foundations, including the National Parks Foundation.
Dr. Mahmoud Labadi
Dr. Mahmoud Labadi was the Director General of the Palestinian Legislative Council until 2005. He was the spokesman for the PLO in Lebanon until 1983 and is the former Director of Aid Coordination and UN Specialized Agencies. Dr. Labadi is a member of the International Relations Council of Fatah in Ramallah. He is a writer and author of four books on media, two novels in Arabic, and different studies on economics. Dr. Labadi was the editor-in-chief of Palestine Bulletin in Lebanon, and he also wrote for the Palestine Times Daily. Dr. Labadi is a founding board member of OneVoice Palestine. Dr. Labadi is fluent in Arabic, English, German, French, and knows Hebrew. He holds an M.A. in Economics.
Martin L. Edelman
Martin L. Edelman is of counsel to Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP, specializing primarily in international real estate and corporate transactions. Also, he is a director of Avis/Budget Corp., Capital Trist and Ashford Hospitality Trust. As a graduate of Princeton University and Columbia University School of Law, Edelman has done work all over the world and is a frequent speaker at institutionally sponsored seminars. He is one of the founders of The Jackie Robinson Foundation and is involved with many different foundations across the United States.
Michele Smith
Michele Smith is from Glen Gardner, New Jersey, where she set many different records in high school sports. She is now a two-time Olympic Softball Gold Medalist with the United States National Softball Team. Smith participated in the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics. Currently, she is playing for Toyota Shokki and serves as a softball analyst for ESPN.
Dr. Nathan B. Mellor
Dr. Nathan B. Mellor attended Harding University and Pepperdine University and received degrees in law and education. Mellor is the vice president of Community Engagement for Oklahoma Christian University (OC) and serves as the assistant professor of leadership in the School of Business Administration. Prior to working with OC, he worked for Pepperdine University and among many positions, served as graduate assistant to the president of the university.
Dr. Nouh El-Harmouzi
Dr. Nouh El-Harmouzi, who has a doctorate in economics from Aix-Marseille 3 University in France, is the editor of “Minbar Alhurriya,” and he served as a university teacher for five years at Marseille University. Much of his work has been published, from research papers to various periodicals. Currently, he is the editor-in-chief and general coordinator of the Minbar Al-Hurriyya Project.
Ambassador Robert Jordan
Ambassador Robert Jordan was chosen by former President George W. Bush to serve as the United States Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. During some of the most critical moments in history, he served as an ambassador from October 2001 through October 2003 and took charge of his mission directly after the attacks on Sept. 11. Currently, Ambassador Jordan practices law at Baker Botts and engages in international business, government relations, international arbitration and dispute resolution practices. Not only has he served as a personal attorney to former President George W. Bush, but he has also participated in major transactions with large businesses.
Renzi Stone
Renzi Stone is an Oklahoma native and attended the University of Oklahoma. He is currently the president and CEO of Saxum Public Relations, one of the region’s largest independent public relations firms. Stone grew the business from a one-person team to a 21 full-time professional group in seven years. Stone is a leader in his community and has been published in many different publications and editorials, such as The New York Times, Indianapolis Star and The Oklahoman. He speaks at many different seminars and organizations and serves on various boards, such as the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce.
Tal Harris
Tal Harris graduated from Tel Aviv University, where he received MA in program for diplomacy. He is currently the executive director for OneVoice Israel. He has a diverse background and brings that to OneVoice with knowledge in conflict resolution, mediation and youth activism. He has also served as a representative of the Department of Political Science at Tel Aviv University and coordinated a Middle East simulation conference in Germany.
Antwan Saca
Antwan Saca is a OneVoice Palestine Youth Leader from Bethlehem. He is currently working as a research assistant in the urbanization monitoring department at the Applied Research Institute in Jerusalem. He graduated from Arab American University of Jenin with a bachelor’s degree in Public Law. He has been an active member of OneVoice for the past two and half years.
For more information, please visit http://fourstardebate.ncpa.org/.
About the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum
The goal of the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum is to tell compelling stories of leadership, introduce historical topics in each exhibit, and to encourage study and debate concerning the leadership traits illustrated by the story. It is located in Hobart, Okla. For more information, visit http://www.tommyfranksmuseum.org.
About the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA)
With offices in Dallas and Washington, D.C., the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy research organization, established in 1983. The NCPA’s goal is to develop and promote private alternatives to government regulation and control, solving problems by relying on the strength of the competitive, entrepreneurial private sector. For more information, visit http://www.ncpa.org.
Academy of Leadership & Liberty
The Academy of Leadership & Liberty at Oklahoma Christian University exists to uphold, teach, and strengthen the values that promote liberty, free enterprise, and servant leadership. To accomplish that mission, the Academy seeks to inspire leaders of character, vision, and courage while equipping them with the values that have a profound and lasting impact on individuals, families, communities, and nations. Guided by faith and the principles of servant leadership, character, and social justice, the Academy is committed to perpetuating the values and freedoms endowed by our Creator and empowered by the founding wisdom of our democracy. For more information, visit http://www.oc.edu/academy/.
About King’s Academy
Established in 2007, King’s Academy is a private, not-for-profit, co-educational boarding and day high school (grades 9 to 12) in Madaba, Jordan. The school, which integrates the New England boarding school experience in the historical and intellectual context of the Middle East, follows an English-language, Advanced Placement curriculum. The dynamic curriculum includes an integrated co-curricular program of athletics, activities and community service, and students live in a nurturing residential environment that allows them to flourish personally and intellectually. King’s Academy is situated 30 minutes from Amman on a 144-acre (575-dunum) site and is comprised of 23 buildings and state-of-the-art facilities. For more information, visit http://www.kingsacademy.edu.jo.
This July, this special event will take 24 students from the U.S. to Jordan to interact with students from all over the world at the King’s Academy in Jordan. In addition to discussing and debating the important topic of U.S. foreign relations in the Middle East, they will have the chance to visit many biblical and holy sites ... just like Beau was able to do.
Here is Beau’s first-hand account of his journey through Jordan:
Sharing a view with Moses
I have to admit, this was some view. The ‘Promised Land’ was a breathtaking scene from Mt. Nebo. I felt sorry for Moses as I looked out over the vast expanse and tried to imagine what it must have been like to know how close he really was to the unreachable. Maybe I was never near the places Moses actually walked, but this was some view. I can’t believe I am in Jordan and seeing these things with my own eyes. The picture, as beautiful as it is, has nothing on the real thing.
My ears are popping
I am standing at the lowest point on planet earth. At 408 meters below sea level, this 31% salt lake is known for its health-giving properties and unusual buoyancy. The Dead Sea was a beautiful clear blue color with a calm presence. The weather was strangely warm here … at least 15 degrees warmer than our origin city of Madaba (30 minutes outside Amman). We traveled down the long and winding road from Mt. Nebo to reach the water’s edge. We plan on passing the Sea again before we depart for home and I plan to float around in it before we do. Bring on the Salty!
I never thought I’d see this Philadelphia!
Traveling to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, would be fun, but this was pretty cool. Visiting the Citadel in Amman, Jordan, I experienced the site of ancient Rabbath-Ammon later known as the city of Philadelphia. With its columned ruins and spectacular views, this was a scene I will never forget. The sun was starting to set in the late afternoon and we arrived when no other tourists were visiting. Just placing the different time periods together with one another as they were just seemingly dropped on top of one another was something to soak in for a few minutes. Jordan is a beautiful country and Amman is very interesting place.
This is different …
Just overlooking the edge of the hill was the crowded and busy city of Amman. It seems they built on top of buildings here. And by the way … there’s a Roman amphitheater just carved out of the side of the mountain. In its prime, this theatre could hold up to 6,000 guests! It has been reconstructed in parts to maintain much of its original shape and size (built probably in the 2nd Century AD) and is still used today for special performances. I’d like to see this place lit up at night. The sound of ‘Prayers’ are being played over loud speakers in the background right now. I am definitely not in Philly.
Hummus is good!
So I started today with an early meeting, wearing a suit, at the King’s Academy. We were discussing a possible ‘field trip’ the students could perhaps take this summer at the Four Star Debate: Developing Leaders with General Tommy Franks program. We were told we needed to see the experience with our own eyes before we agreed for this excursion for the students. Just after 1 p.m., I was eating this amazing lunch in a Bedouin tent in the middle of the Wadi Rum desert. I still can’t believe the amount of food that was served to the four of us! When we finished eating, they took us on a ‘tour’ of some things in the desert. The tour ended on the side of a mountain to watch the sunset. When the sun finally went down behind the mountains, there was an instant cold in the air. We hopped in the back of the tiny pickup truck we came in and left for the ancient city of Petra. I can’t say I’ve had a day like this, from start to finish, in my life.
Desert, not Dessert
So, I was really impressed with the desert and its mountains. The shape, color and enormity of these mountains are really difficult to describe. I can’t believe I’m standing in the middle of nowhere, known as Wadi Rum. After climbing a sand dune and watching a herd of camels being guided to a new location, we found a nice sized rock to climb up and wait for the sunset. I have three layers of clothes on because the temperature is dropping quite steadily. I’m guessing when the sun goes behind the mountains we’re going to get out of here quick … and head to Petra!
Indiana Jones, Transformers 2 and happy hour prices
In case you’ve never seen Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, there is a kiosk selling everything from candy to souvenirs just outside the ancient ruins of Petra to remind you it was filmed here. Several movies have used Petra, most recently Transformers 2, as a scenic backdrop for their movies. There’s a reason why. I cannot describe in words how visually amazing this place is. The natural stone surrounds you as walk through the ‘siq’ (pronounced seek) towards the ancient city. Carvings along the way tell different stories using camels, people and archways. Bedouin people can be seen moving along the hillside in their everyday life. Finally, we reached the most anticipated scene of Petra … the Treasury. Hundreds of tourists, standing shoulder to shoulder holding their cameras, video cameras and cell phones, were marveling at what I can only describe as breathtaking. The most intricate and beautiful façade is carved in the side of the mountain. Amazing. It’s still hard to believe I am standing here.
Luxury rides await
We have been offered all kinds of souvenirs as we walk the road through Petra. I overheard one British woman being told by a young girl selling necklaces she would give her a good price because it was the ‘blue light special today.’ I was offered small carvings or some kind of jewelry for ‘Happy Hour Prices.’ The Bedouin people were quite charming as they offered their handmade items and uniquely made gifts. I was offered an ‘air conditioned ride’ on this beautiful animal. Thought it was pretty funny. This is quite an experience walking through this … not to mention the ruins on every side of us.
We keep the nice ones in the back
Yeah … so I am still dumbfounded here. We were back in downtown Amman this afternoon to see some things we missed in the 45-minute trip we had the first time. Behind the ruins of the Citadel was a tiny museum, known as the National Archeological Museum, tucked away without much drawing your attention to it. We walked in to see no one taking tickets or watching over the artifacts. Literally, in the very back of the place … in a dimly lit room … we see this: the DEAD SEA SCROLLS. Yes, most of the collection is in Israel, but there is part of it right here. In the small case in the center of the room sits original pieces of the Dead Sea Scrolls found in the caves of Qumran. So, in case you didn’t know - this is an important ‘find’ in the history of the Christian faith. Glad I stumbled upon it here in Amman.
“Come look, looking is free!”
On our way home for the day, we decided to purchase some souvenirs. We stopped in a shop where this guy was making ‘sand art.’ I have no idea how he learned to do this or found the potential within himself to start this business, but I was impressed. While we shopped and negotiated prices for different things, the owner offered us coffee or tea. I opted for coffee. What I ended up getting was ‘Turkish’ coffee. Bad choice. I can’t really describe the taste of Turkish coffee, but it was a taste I would never like to have again. As the man poured the coffee into my (thankfully) small cup, I saw the lumps being poured with it. I politely smiled and sipped it until he walked away and I sat it on the counter and ‘pretended’ to keep shopping. He did end up making a good deal with us after I talked him down to a price I still wasn’t comfortable with. We left happy and he threw in a nice extra gift. Jordanians are nice people. If you are ever in Amman, Jordan, look up Matt, the smooth-talkin’ salesman who can make you a deal you can’t refuse. And always, ALWAYS order the tea. Trust me.
Farewell, Fortress of Solitude
This has been an amazing experience. Words and pictures help, but like anywhere worth knowing more about - you have to go. I have felt very welcomed, respected and safe in my time in Jordan and at the King’s Academy. We were told there are sensors about the walls surrounding the property and also sensors underground, below the walls, for any possible intruders. And with the King’s son actually a student here, he has security all day, every day.
This has been an amazing adventure that opened my eyes culturally to a part of the world I have doubts about. The special people at Kings Academy, the restaurant in town, the street salesmen and Eloin (the camel owner who let me ride his camel at Petra) - thank you. My life has been blessed by our meeting and I will spread the word of your welcoming and peaceful demeanor. You have enriched my life.
Click here for more information on Four Star Debate.
]]>“We feel very fortunate that the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame is housed on Oklahoma Christian University’s campus,” stated President Mike O’Neal, “what greater gift can a person give to his country than to fight for freedom.”
The 2009 induction class includes Commander Ernest E. Evans, PFC Albert E. Schwab, Lieutenant Colonel Leon R. Vance, Sergeant First Class D.C. Brewer, Brigadier General George M. Donovan, Specialist Fourth Class Dennis W. Drullinger, Lieutenant General William E. Potts, Colonel Cyril Richard Rescorla and Major General Teddy H. Sanford.
Private First Class Albert Earnest Schwab, one of the awardees receiving the Medal of Honor, made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom in WWII. Raised in Tulsa, OK, Schwab earned this Medal on May 7, 1945, while fighting Japanese forces in Okinawa. While his unit was pinned down by enemy machine gun fire coming from a ridge, Schwab, a flame thrower operator, advanced on the Japanese and demolished the gun position, enabling his company to occupy the ridge. A second Japanese machine gun began firing on Marines and Schwab continued his one-man assault on the enemy, despite a diminished supply of fuel for his flame thrower. Before he was fatally wounded, he destroyed that second Japanese position.
Receiving the “Major General Douglas O. Dollar Distinguished Service Award,” is Lieutenant General Harry M. Wyatt, II. Lieutenant General Wyatt, II is a command pilot with over 3,000 combined hours flying in several different aircraft. Stationed in Arlington, Virginia, he is the Air National Guard Director and is responsible for more than 106,800 Air Guard personnel in 200 geographically separated units throughout the United States, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands. His decorations include the Legion of Merit and Meritorious Service Medal.
For tickets to the banquet honoring these American heroes, please call (405) 425-1080.
]]>Next November, voters will go to the polls to elect leaders to represent us and make the policy decisions that determine how we address the issues facing our communities. Oklahoma Christian University and its Academy of Leadership & Liberty have long understood that self government is something to be protected and celebrated. Further, we have identified two basic principles that are critical to the success of this nation: (1) a well informed electorate that is engaged in the process and (2) leaders of character who fully understand the issues with a vision for the future.
The Academy of Leadership & Liberty exists to educate and inspire leaders of all ages to understand the issues, the value of teamwork, and the need for communication. This summer we have hosted three youth programs that brought together nearly 200 of the best and brightest high school students from around the state, region, and literally the world. These programs are all designed to develop leaders who understand the complexity of the issues and who can communicate in a diplomatic and persuasive style. These leaders will be the very people who serve in elected offices, community organizations, and schools. After spending time with these incredible young people, I can say with confidence that our future is bright.
Oklahoma Christian is located in the heart of America, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where we will be electing a new Governor in 2010. Many of the candidates for our state’s highest office have been part of our programs for some time, and we cherish the time we have been able to spend with these dedicated men and women.
To view the Governor’s Edition, click here
]]>