The Determined Grandmothers A Community Magazine For The Next Generation
Clark County Behavior School Said Yes!
Accomplishing Your Goals By Councilwoman, Pamela Goynes-Brown
Learning To Forgive
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BMW of Las Vegas 6900 West Sahara Avenue Las Vegas, Nevada 89117-2831
BMW of Las Vegas The New BMW i
702 570-0279
The Determined Grandmothers J U L Y ,
SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST:
CCSD– Clark County School District Opens Doors.
Channel 3 News Interviews The Determined Grandmothers.
Councilwoman’s Advice on How to Achieve Your Goals
A Community Magazine Executive EditorLoretta J. Womack Managing EditorBrenda D. Ward Contributing EditorLynell Lucas Copy EditorHayley Bischoff EditorSarah Moffitt
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S E P T E M B E R
Clark County School District Said Yes! Clark County School District opened their doors to the Determined Grandmothers on August 18, 2014. That was the first day The Determined Grandmothers entered the Southwest Behavior School in Las Vegas. The changes that occurred during that school year was stated in a warm letter written by the school’s principle and is included in this first issue of The Determined Grandmother’s new quarterly community magazine.
Taking it to the News It doesn't take long to get the word out that there is someone ready to extend a hand when it comes to helping the youth. Channel 3 news was the first to interview the Determined Grandmothers on the Noon Day News with Krystal Allen. What a day that was, sitting in the studio of channel 3 news on May 19, 2015. We were ready and waiting to be seen live on television.
To view this magazine online visit www.issuu.com
Welcome Welcome to The Determined Grandmothers Community Magazine. Our focus is geared towards the youth of today. Our concentration is on exploring the future by helping to change the next generation. We are determined to assist the youth by reuniting them with their families. When we invest in our young people’s lives, we are empowering them to be our future representatives in the community of which they live, in the city of which they will grow, and in the nation of which they will truly belong. Our non-profit organization was created to help the youth learn how to make better choices, and we do not stand alone in this endeavor. It is our duty—yours and mine—to reach out and give back to the young people, who will one day become productive matured adults. This new magazine is devoted to family living, and its information is directed to every member of the family. It includes life lessons on Spiritual Teachings, Academics and Street-Smarts to help the family survive this new era of technology. Without a foundation and a plan there is no future for any of us. It’s time to take a stand! First our children must learn academics; this is where the schools come in. Next is Spiritual wisdom to continue to survive in this society. That is where the churches come in and last, learning to deal with life on the streets in order to work and live in the community; this is where we all come in. The Determined Grandmothers are extremely excited about this new magazine. Our desire is that you enjoy what this magazine has to offer you and your entire family.
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Cover Designed and Magazine Layout Brenda D. Ward
Inside this issue:
Cover Photography and background photo by:
London Howard Photography Email: london@londonhowardphotography.com
Who are we? I am Who I Want To Be Words from the Founder Words from the Co-founder Words from the Co-founder
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News 3 Interview Clark County School Letter of Recommendation Elite Christian Ministries Beauty Shop For The Souls
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Magazine Launch Prosperity is ours God’s Three Keys to Parenting Dream Big
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Hard Work Ethics The Truth Praise Dancing & More As The Old Saying Goes Hung By The Tongue
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We Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood The Walking Wounded Accomplishing Your Goals What is Credit Deficiency
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Children Can Show Us A Thing Or Two Against The Odds Father’s Dedication Learning To Forgive
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Answer the Call Who Will Listen The Wealth of the Wicked Bible Study A Mother With A Mission
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The Youth Are Our Concern: please visit www.determinedgrandmothers.com or contact us at determinedgrandmothers@gmail.com
702 -706-6075
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Who Are We? Who: (Who are we?) The Determined Grandmothers are advocates for the disadvantaged youth. We are coming to the community to mentor the family, by passing down our wisdom, knowledge, talent, and experience, to give direction to those who want to achieve their goals. Our desire is to help families get back in order and bring unity within the community as a whole. What: (What do we do?) We volunteer our services at the schools, churches, recreation centers, and at like-minded organizations’ and charities. We do this by mentoring, training, and giving guidance to the youth and their parents. When: (When are we available?) Hopefully, whenever we are needed. Every chance we get we want to be of service for the youth. We are also on stand-by 24/7, if it is a lifethreatening situation. Where: (Where are we?) In Las Vegas, NV; Denver, CO; Phoenix, AZ; New York City, NY; Atlanta, GA, and anywhere else we’re invited, with financial assistance and support through donations. Why: (Why us and why now?) Our young people need our help. There will be no change unless someone teaches change, therefore we came together to make a change. There is a need for dollars for scholarships to provide education. We invest our time now to make sure we take care of the youth; this will prepare them to take care of us in the future. How: (How will we do this?) Our avenues to accomplish this task is, through this magazine, radio programs, and our feet on the ground to work with the youth in the schools one by one, and collectively.
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To Promote self-esteem in a young person’s life, one must concentrate on the arts. Music, Theater, Dancing, or Martial Arts. These skillful arts will open up avenues of learning, while letting go the tension of dealing with life issues.
Anthony Brady
“Dialogue is always needed to create the right environment for the youth to be
Sometimes young people can’t relate to their peers. However the right dialogue can be created in the proper environment when our youth are involved in constructive activities. Today’s youth are dealing with many obstacles and they have no where to turn. This method of releasing tension and pressure will allow them to start the healing process. My dream was to become the person I am today. I bring back fond memories to all who see me perform. You can strive to do something good too. Just believe in yourself and it will come true!
successful”
What Do You Want To Do With Your Life?
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Words From The Founder What teenagers need to know about the streets!!
Loretta J. Womack
“The Streets will chew you up and spit you out!”
THE
The streets will chew you up and spit you out! They are nothing to take lightly or to play around in. There are so many traps to get caught in, out in the streets. Most people who hang out in the streets are homeless, addicts, rejected young and old who became victims to society’s failures. Some of the reasons are: poor economy, poor parenting, unemployment, housing market crash, ignorance and plain wickedness, just to name a few… It’s our obligation to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. I intend to do something about it. This is why I became the founder of The Determined Grandmothers. I am a mother of 6 children, 25 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. I volunteer my free time investing in our youth of today because they are our future of tomorrow. I live in Las Vegas but most of my grand’s and great grand’s are in Denver. So, while I am out here volunteering my free time to the youth in Vegas, someone is volunteering their free time to direct and guide my generations now and for the ones to come. It’s a win-win situation for me because I’m not in Denver. There are students here in Vegas whose grandparents can’t be here, so I am here for them just like someone is there for me. Our youth need all the guidance they can get, from whoever can give it. It takes the village, the world, and God to come together and get the job done. Let’s get to it!
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Words From The Founder continues
I am so humble and grateful to be chosen by God to fulfill this vision to publish this magazine. I first want to give all honor and all glory to God, for giving me the talent, wisdom and courage to take on this great task. This magazine is strictly constructed to be about facts, not opinions. Even though it is a community magazine, it has a broad area of different individuals’ facts. Our target is the youth. We wish to educate them, the generation of today and the future of tomorrow. You are welcome to join in by writing articles and through sponsorship of the quarterly magazine. This magazine, radio programs on www.kkvv.com or KKVV1060AM radio station in Las Vegas, and our presence on the school grounds as well as other youth-based community organizations is our way of giving back. Our non-profit dollars go towards scholarships which we use to invest in our youth much needed education. As I stated above, “We must not forget that they are our tomorrows future.” We are very proud to be a community partner of The Village Foundation, LJP with Dr. Linda E. Young, where every dollar we raise is matched for our student recipient scholarships. Please feel free to visit the website at www.villagestarfish.org. You can also go on our website at, www.determinedgrandmothers.com to see how your donations can make a huge difference in the lives of our youth. Our organization is committed, devoted and steadfast about what we are doing for our community. Thank you for your support!
Loretta J. Womack THE
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Words From The Co-Founder “Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed that’s all whoever have” ~Margaret Mead~
Brenda D. Ward
“Fear is not an option when it comes to changing a situation for the betterment of mankind.! ”
How effective is change and why should we be the one to enforce it? I have always been a forerunner for making a difference in the community. When it came to teaching my own children I approached them with kindness and love, telling them and teaching them that they could be or do anything they wanted to if they believed in themselves. The key to success and change is making that very first step. Fear in not an option when it comes to changing a situation for the betterment of mankind. If you don’t standup and be counted, then who will? Who will teach our young people to be proactive and not wait on someone else to do the work for them. How will they know not to become followers but learn to be leaders if someone doesn’t tell them? I became a Determined Grandmother because I believe in change. I know that one person can make a difference. I’ve made several throughout my career and I will continue to reach out and help those in need. The youth are our future and we must help them achieve their goals by hearing and answering the call. You can be the ONE, by being determined to change the world one family at a time.
Brenda D. Ward
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Words From The Co-Founder Dance in the Rain
Lynell Lucas
“God brought me out of the storm”
I truly believe that God gives all of us a gift and a purpose for our lives. We just have to have an open heart and find it. My gift and purpose is being an advocate for parents and their children. I didn’t find my gift and purpose until after my youngest son received and expulsion from the Clark County School District. He wasn’t allowed to attend any of their schools again. That’s when the storm began. Dr. Linda E. Young always said, and I quote, “When you are going through a storm, you have to learn how to dance in the rain.” Oh how true. God brought me out of my storm. That is why I am a Determined Grandmother -- to help parents and children come out of the storm too.
Lynell Lucas
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Our First TV Interview
Inside Attica Rob Wright
On May 19, 2015, The Determined Grandmothers entered the studios of channel 3 News. As we marched in and took our seats, we knew that within minutes we would be live on a Las Vegas television network. It was a very exciting day!
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Home of the Phoenix
June 16, 2015 To Whom It May Concern: This letter of recommendation is written for the Determined Grandmothers and Dr. Kimberly Staten, who is a board member of the Village Foundation and their education advisor. She has assisted Loretta Womack, Brenda D. Ward, and Lynell Lucas during this past school year. Ms. Womack is the liaison for the group and has brought other “grandmothers” periodically to our Tuesday campus mentoring sessions. The amount of time they have used from 10 a.m. to approximately 1 p.m. each Tuesday is so valuable and much appreciated. They have also met with a few parents who needed words of encouragement and advice. The Grandmothers were soft spoken, empathetic and patient when dealing with our students, many of whom were typical “rebellious or rambunctious” teenagers who only needed the benefit of someone believing in them. In addition, Lynell Lucas has also made presentations to some of our classes regarding her book, My Son, Not the System’s, of which she gave to some of our students. The book tells of Ms. Lucas’ belief that the continuation schools are not the answer to helping our students. She and the other Determined Grandmothers embodied the care and resourcefulness that our students need at this time of their lives. As mentioned, the Determined Grandmothers and Ms. Womack in particular documented their mentoring and shared with us the list of 67 students they had met from September, 2014 through May, 2015. The kindness and gentleness of their approach was well received with our most “at-risk students” who enjoyed the time out from their academic schedule to meet weekly during their brief stay at our school. It is difficult to prove that their mentoring was a direct cause in the drop of suspensions and expulsions this past school year, but anecdotally we feel that their presence made a difference. If anyone needs further details of the outstanding work they accomplished these past two semesters, please call the number listed above. We would like to elaborate further on the various ways they have helped our students and parents. Cordially,
Y. Caryl Suzuki, Ed.D. Principal
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Beauty Shop For The Souls Of Our Children Article written by Jo Ann Buckner
“Sticks and stones may break my
bones but words will never hurt me” The above nursery rhyme was often heard when I was growing up. Usually when a youngster felt hurt or angered by some unkind remark made to them or about them… it draws an immediate reply: “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”. However, the shrieking voice the quivering lips and tight jaws suggested… that in fact a hurt had been perceived and received. Looking back over our lives we sometimes remember those hurts. Very few of us or our parents really knew or understood the potential impact of those emotions, particularly if repeatedly experienced overextended periods of time. Neuroscientists are now telling us about the biochemical results found in our bodies. Such emotions trigger a fight or flight response which causes the flow of blood and oxygen in our body
to be redirected to the extremities in preparation for fight or flight. Such was the case of the Saber Tooth Tiger. Still, our emotions of fear, anger, hate etc. create the same kind of chemical reaction. One scientist, Dr. Bruce Lipton adds that under those circumstances… it is not wise to make decisions because the brain lacks proper oxygen and limits the ability to think clearly. We can liken this to the experience of children who are bullied, neglected abused and missed treated and yet expected to function normally in the classroom. It is imperative that children and care takers learn life skills to meet these adversities… that they may develop mature and reach their highest potentials. It was in this regard that I created a program called, "Beauty Shop for the Souls of Our Children", (BSFSs). The inspiration for this occurred when a five year old public school kindergarten student was excluded from a celebration for a class member whereby every other child received the invitation. The child felt hurt and confused by the exclusion. His best friend in the classroom, the guest of honor, explained why he did not receive an invitation. He shared with him that his mother did not permit children of "his color" in her house. These kinds of experiences
negate the philosophy of the above mentioned nursery rhyme regarding sticks and stones. Words can and do hurt and until we learn to effectively handle those situations… longterm damage can be done to the recipients of such unkind remarks. There have been numerous comments written in ancient and contemporary writings such as: "Life and Death are in the power of the tongue." "The tongue of the wise is health." "A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but willful contrariness in it breaks down the spirit” (Prov. 15:4). "Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones" (Prov. 16:24). With the five year old kindergarten child there appeared to be an injury to his spirit and his soul... also, negative ideas were possibly sown into the fertile minds of the other students... suggesting the belief of superiority vs. inferiority among people... and therefore some being worthy while others are not. Beauty Shop for the Souls of Our Children is a program of transformation that facilitates the understanding, awareness and acceptance of the content of character of self and others. In addition (BSFSs) fosters greater communication between children and adults as they practice the art of storytelling.
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Limited Editions
Eccoci Collections
Hosting the Launching of The Determined Grandmothers Magazine
You’re invited JULY 25TH FROM 12:00 – 4:00P.M. PLEASE COME OUT AND JOIN US WE ARE LAUNCHING OUR NEW MAGAZINE. “THE DETERMINED GRANDMOTHERS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE.”
WE COULD NOT OF DONE IT WITHOUT YOU DRINKS AND APPETIZERS WILL BE SERVED
3514 S. MARYLAND PKWY LAS VEGAS, NV 89169
Bring a Friend and join us at the
BOULEVARD MALL
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By Alyce Rogers Since the beginning of creation man has been given the right to choose the path he wishes to follow. God has created all of mankind with the ability to follow either one of two paths with an angel standing permanently upon each of our shoulders. Both angels will be heard. Guidance from the angel on the left if thought out thoroughly will without doubt present obstacles of which you will become aware of if you think before you act. The angel on the right if adhered to will reveal guidance leading toward growth, joy, happiness, and higher developments. It is not uncommon for man to be tempted by the whispers of the angel on the left; we are all curious beings
just as Adam and Eve the first humans on earth were enticed by the Fallen Angel who whispered into their left ears. They chose to hear the angel on the left representing evil out of curiosity, for they had been instructed to deny the advances of this Angel. They were privy to the enticement of the Angel. Their curiosity of the forbidden caused their neglect of the Angel on the rights guidance. They had been given some inkling of an idea of its benefits; their quest for knowledge of the unknown distracted their attention from righteousness. In many occurrences people today are repeating the original sins of Adam and Eve. Disobedience to parents and guardians create bad choices in their lives. When we are young under the guidance of our parents and our caretakers we do not understand the reason why we some-
time are denied the freedom to keep the company we wish to entertain. When confronted by those with authority over us, we sometimes rebel and decide to continue on with our personal desires, often times, making a drastic mistake. Unbeknown to us as defiant youth, the very first bad decision or choice we make if not immediately corrected by seeking forgiveness of ourselves, from our guardians and from the creator (God), is the choice that opens the door to our path of degradation and destruction. Because of our disobedient to our parents and to God we are denied many wonderful blessings. To find a life of peace and prosperity we must be submissive to The Creator.
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Business Name
Always An Answer “God’s Three Keys To Easy Parenting” One of Always an Answer Counseling’s most important services is their parenting classes. “Kids are the future and knowing how to raise them properly is of the utmost importance”, says organization founder, Kenneth Youngblood, who reminds us that: “Humans are the only species on earth that don’t naturally know how to raise their young”. Youngblood, who’s been counseling believers for nearly 40 years, goes as far as saying their unique parenting information (called “God’s Three Keys To Easy Parenting”) is the best in the world. “Our class not only gives parents down to earth, how-to instructions but, when applied, the principles shared can only have positive results; and this comes with a 100 percent guarantee!” The classes, which run about 90 minutes in length, give parents the three key principles necessary in the areas of proper communication, responsibility and discipline. “Because the principles we teach are of God, they’re foolproof”, adds Youngblood, “On top of which they’re easy! So easy that all parents have to do is remember just three key words”.
Although the principles apply to kids of any age (including adult children still at home), they’re best applied around age two. “Between one and a half and two years old is when kids are learning to talk; that’s the ideal time to start applying these principles as they will completely eliminate what’s known as ‘The Terrible Twos’. However, they work perfectly at any age and will automatically eliminate whining, arguing and discipline problems; your kids will listen to what you say, act responsibly and you’ll never have to get mad or be the ‘Bad Guy’ again!” Attendees leave with a smile on their face and give testimonials like this: “We learned more in just one hour than we did in days at other classes. For more information on how you or your interested group can hear “God’s Three Keys to Easy Parenting”, go online to: www.AlwaysAnAnswer.org, or call: 888367-9830. Always an Answer Counseling & Parenting Center is located at 3131 S. Highland Drive, Suite F, Las Vegas, NV 89109. By Kenneth Youngblood
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DREAM BIG! Forget about the naysayers and nonbelievers. There will be people who don't understand or believe in your dream and that's ok. Don't let your surroundings or peers dictate what you can and cannot do. Here's the truth. You will fail and succeed at many things every-day, because this is the ebb and flow of life. Make it work for you by using the perceived failures as your stepping stones to success. Learn from your mistakes as well as the mistakes of others and carry those lessons into your next chapter. You are already a success and your story is getting better by the day. Our universe is a big place and your dreams can take you where you want to go. By April Baxter
French Tip Dip
Start Now! Right now is all you've really got. So after you read this (or you may even be thinking about it right this minute) ask yourself what idea(s) would you like to bring into fruition? What type of business you would like to start, or how you can contribute to positive changes in the world? Grab yourself a full size piece of paper and write it down at the top. It makes your ideas tangible and real, not something that can disappear into thin air like a thought or a conversation. It's not something that can accidentally be erased and turned off at your leisure. It is a prominent reminder that you can tack onto your wall, desk, refrigerator, or mirror and see several times a day. Think of this as the first piece of your vision board. Now create your vision. Flower it like a seed from the earth. Plant the seed. Water and nurture it daily. Every once in awhile take it outside to get some sunshine. (Literally. Take your notebook outside, in the backyard or to a park somewhere free of your everyday surroundings where your creative mind can flow.) Do something to work toward YOUR GOAL everyday, no matter how small, and you will inevitably see growth. It can be as simple as brainstorming ideas in your notebook or as ambitious as taking your first steps to creating a grassroots organization. Start with something you love to do and then think outside the box. Fill a void where something is missing. Be quirky. Be different. Stand out from the rest and be determined to succeed. There is nothing more rewarding than to create your own happiness and prosperity doing something you love. I created French Tip Dip so that I could be more self sufficient in my beauty routine and ultimately turn it into my career and in turn help other women to do the same.
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B R U I S E D
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Hard Work Ethics
F. Ronald (Ron) Smith
Mr. F. Ronald Smith owns and operates six McDonald’s Restaurants in Las Vegas, Nevada. He entered the McDonald’s system in 1993, opening the first Restaurant in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. In 1996, he moved his operations to Henderson, Nevada, and from there grew his organization. Ron has served McDonald’s, the Las Vegas community and the restaurant industry in many capacities over the years. He is the current and past V.P. of the Greater Las Vegas McDonald’s Operators Association. He is the past chairman of the Nevada Restaurant Association and has sat on many McDonald’s committees, including the Ronald McDonald House Charities Scholarship Committee. He proudly served two terms as V.P. of strategy for the National Black McDonald’ Operators Association, NBMOA, was a finalist in the
National Restaurant Association’s 2010 Diversity Award competition and is in the 2nd edition of “Who’s Who in Black Las Vegas.” He proudly sits on the Finance Committee of St. Viator Catholic Church. Prior to becoming a McDonald’s franchisee, Ron was in marketing and management for such technology giants as IBM, ROLM and AT&T. The business disciplines learned during his years in corporate America continue to serve him in business today, providing the knowledge base and skills used to develop and direct his management team. Ron served his country in the U.S. Air Force between 1966 and 1970. He spent tours of duty in Vietnam and England, earned Flight Status and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. Ron utilized the G.I. Bill to receive a quality education, attending such institutions as St. John’s University, University of Maryland and Columbia University and University of Phoenix. Believing in physical fitness, Ron holds Black Belts in Tae Kwon Do and Ton Soo Do. He is a dedicated family man, with two sons, Christopher, 28, and Brooks, 24, who are both in the McDonald’s business with him and who look forward to continuing his legacy. Ron has lived the American Dream. He came from humble beginnings, born in New York City in 1947 and raised in the housing projects of Queens, New York.
He is the product of a mother who emigrated from Trinidad, British West Indies, believed in education, the power of prayer and “speaking the King’s English.” His father was born and raised in Harlem, New York and believed in hard work, good character, solid integrity and a sense of humor. These two role models had a profound effect on who and what Ron has become. In turn, he offers his own knowledge and experience through his “open door policy” at business. He counsels, mentors and participates in youth seminars. Ron often ends his presentations sharing, that through the years he has been told how “lucky” he was to be at his current station in life. Ron retorts with “yes, and the harder I’ve worked, the luckier I’ve gotten.”
Mr. Smith said to those who say his success and accomplishments are “LUCK”, “Yes, and the harder I work the LUCKIER I become”
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The Truth By James Rankin.
Today I would love to tell you a truth that you may not know. This truth is that you are valued by God who is the creator of the universe. God created space, the stars and all its inhabitants. God is not angry at you or ignoring you. In fact He loves you more than I can explain in this one article, but I will try too. Have you ever heard the expression, “I would die for him or her?” Well, who really means this unless they truly love the person? This expression originates from the bible, the word of God. In John 15:13 it says, “Greater love has no man than he who lays down his life for his friends." In a more direct verse in Romans 5:8 it says, “But God demonstrated His love toward us that while we were yet sinners Christ (Jesus) died for us." You may ask, “Why, why would God come in the form of a man, in the flesh of His Son and die for me? I'm so bad, so wrong, or so this or that...WHY?” Because He loved you and still do. It is not what you may have done or what you may be doing; you are what matters to God. He has already forgiven you in His death, burial, and resurrection. The emptiness and void you feel and sense in your soul that you have been trying to fill with drugs, sex, alcohol, work, fame or power cannot be filled or take the place of God. His love for you is an everlasting love.
Ever tried to put a square battery into a round flashlight to make it work? It just doesn't fit and the light won’t turn on. This is like you and me and the whole human race trying to turn on our lights with all the wrong batteries of life’s vices. All they do is drain and destroy the FLESHLIGHT until finally we become useless. But if we get the right battery, it will slide right into our empty heart and...Presto, our lights turn on automatically. For humans, God has provided only one source of power that fits us and turns on our lamps, He is Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, Amen. He is the light of the world, the light of all mankind. “There is no other source, or name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved, (Acts 4:12). I know it can be hard to believe in what's not seen, felt or heard, especially when your life seems so hopeless or your pain so real and your situation utterly unfair and out of control. But if you can just look up for one moment at the sun, or the moon and the stars; if you can believe that God that created all these sources of light and beauty so we can see in the night you can also believe that He loves you. He can fill you with the greatest light of all. The light of His love, you may live forever in His eternal light and become a source of light to others. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and He will slide into your heart and shut out the darkness and fill you with power and turn on your light for the world to see...YOU… in their darkness. No matter how far in the darkness you may think you are, God can see you in His light. “For God So Love You.” Amen. (John.8:12, 9:5, Mtw.5:14,and Eph.5:8).
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Praise Dancing Glad to Dance For The Lord
Jolie Cope Praise dancing is a choice, and I choose to dance because it’s such an embodiment of your true emotions and expression. You can see your worth in God when you dance and I love feeling the spirit when I’m dancing. It is the best
feeling in the world! Praise dancing pulls me closer and closer to God in a sense that I have the power to overcome anything! Praising God is something so sacred that no one can separate you from Him and it is such a spiritual
virtuous loving experience. When I dance, I have the opportunity to open up myself to people that are spiritually inclined, and hopefully whom I can inspire with my spirit. I’m always excited and so glad that I get to share my praise dancing with God’s wonderful people.
1st Annual Award Celebration Hosted By
05/09/2015
The Determined Grandmothers The Determined Grandmothers, A Community Partner DATE: 05/02/2015 The Village Foundation LJP, is a non-profit organization that supports the student education by giving scholarships each year. The Determined Grandmothers partnered with them and was able to contribute to the cause by sponsoring our first student. The scholarship was for $500 and matched, giving her a total of $1000.00 for college.
Recipient: Briana Lowe
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As The Old Saying Goes: By Carol Schultz
Reflections not only of ourselves but also those close around us. Not only might we have changed but the world is changing around us. It is a dance that we must learn as we hear the daily beat of the music. Sometimes we move forward and sometimes we move back yet the dance goes on.
I thought I knew who I was: I was superwoman. I was a single woman who raised three children, I was competent, energetic, and a hard worker. My jobs were successful for I would excel and when I was bored I would look for something new. I chased my dreams and caught them through hard work and the Lord’s blessings on the works of my hands. Life was far from perfect but each day brought the hope of better days and sunshine. Every obstacle was just something to overcome, and nothing was acceptable unless it was success. Not necessarily the success defined by others but rather the success in achieving all my goals, and overcoming whatever obstacles stood in the way. Then one night it all changed. After a few extremely difficult months and feeling bad from high blood pressure I woke in the night and while heading to the bathroom half asleep I was staggering and banging on the walls of the hallway. What was going on? I made it back to bed and a few more hours of sleep. When I awoke something was just not right. Not only did I feel like and old piece of fruit but I couldn’t get myself together for doing my daily routine.
When I did get moving nothing seemed to be working right in my mind. I had no medical insurance and we were already financially strapped so going to the doctor was out of the question. The horses still needed to be fed and I had to get to work for I was the boss and if I didn’t show up the door won’t get open. My ride was coming soon so I needed to get ready. Okay. Just one thing at a time. In the next few months everything fell apart. Problems that had been brewing all along began to boil over at once: my finances, marriage, horses, home, and job were all gone and I was a mess physically, mentally, and emotionally. I just couldn’t get my act together. Of course, that all is a story for another day, in fact many stories, but it wasn’t until almost 5 years later and now having Medicaid that it was confirmed that I had what was referred to as a “Silent Stroke”. Determined. The word seems to change in meaning as we become Grandmothers. Where once it brought great visions of achievement now each day has a new host of challenges including health,
Once when we looked around everyone seemed older than us and now most are younger. As I faced the new season of life more than ever it required me to look to others for perspective and now this included not only those who I had developed personal relationships with but also doctors and other medical professionals. In addition, our own bodies and mind are placing limits previously not known. One of the greatest mysteries of life I have found is that sometimes in the most difficult times some of the rarest gems are found, in often unexpected places. As I spoke to family about the future it was pointed out to me that though I could not do all that I once was able to do I needed to look closely at those things that I still could. This evaluation caused me to look back on those things of value and those that ultimately showed themselves vanity and chasing of the wind. Reading was close to the top of the list of the best things in life. With reading I had ventured to new places, learned new skills, spent hours of enjoyment, learned more of God through His Word, and found out more then I knew the day before. Reading was around whether there
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Lemons Story Continued from page 22
was much money or none and the public library always gave opportunity to journey to new places and see what happened to those who went before me and give vision for what could be in the future, or tell me how to make a new meal. If I could leave anything this would be one of the gifts I would hope to leave behind. I had met others who fell through the cracks at learning how to read while in school. It affected their lives not only in school but long after in business and ability to understand forms, follow instructions, or in many ways fight the regular challenges of life. As I acknowledged that my own life was now shorter than it once was I knew that if there was to be any remaining lasting achievements they must be for the benefit of others and
not myself. I had been fortunate enough to have achieved so many goals and dreams while many had just begun. Where better to find the future than in the elementary school? It has only been recently that I was able to begin volunteering to read with 1st and 2nd graders and already I have learned that the most important thing to bring is a smile. My first day of being among this overwhelming group of little people I waited in the hall for the Librarian to show up while all the kids walked by heading to class. What immediately caught my attention was how almost everyone sought to make eye contact and having done so they smiled. So shocking after being among adults for so long who
Do You Have Lemons In Your Life?
kept their eyes forward rarely acknowledging the others around. Each day I learn something new that is clearly exciting. Names like Megatron, Frenzy, and Barricade are among the Deceptions out to destroy the world. Sponge Bob goes to parties. I’m also learning to cough in the crock of my arm instead of covering my mouth. Each day with each new story I learn of a new child and a new story. One of my first days was spent reading with a 1st grader whose mother and sisters had been killed in a house fire just the week before. I knew that being there that day at that time was indeed an important task. As Determined Grandmother’s we recognize that our greatest blessings are not in the past but in the future and as we smile at them they smile at us.
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Hung By The Tongue By Rob Wright
Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees in Matthew 12:36 when he said… “But I tell you that men will have to give an account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Jesus said you will be judged by what you have spoken. We all know that taking the name of our Lord in vain, and cursing is wrong, but I really don’t believe that was what the Lord was talking about here. After all, these men were religious leaders. They were Pharisees. I believe the issue here is realizing the power we have in our mouths. Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Are your words life or death? Is the confession from your mouth positive or negative? I’m learning that our words produce after themselves. Proverbs 6:2 says, “You have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth.” Have you ever been hung by the tongue? I know I have. So many Christians walk around speaking fear, failure, doubt and unbelief. How can they ever expect to obtain victory or the blessings of God? In one crusade where I was ministering, a lady
stood and said, “I’m coming down with a terrible cold, and I know I’m going to be terribly sick.” Well… guess what? She did and she was. Listen Christians, when you speak faith it activates God. When we speak fear and doubt, it activates the Devil. Your confession is only a readout of what is in your heart. Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” When you constantly speak fear, it means you are full of fear in your heart. This informs the Devil that you are weak in the area of fear. This is why Proverbs 21:23 says, “He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.” Also, we need to realize that our words affect others. Proverbs 10:21 says, “The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment.” Nourish means to support, maintain, or encourage. Do your words encourage others? Christians are called to speak truth and faith. I would encourage you to begin to speak a positive confession and notice the results. When you speak faith in difficult situations, it shows Satan that you believe the Lord to intervene on your behalf, and that you have no doubt He will. The enemy cannot operate when you exercise your faith. David says in Psalms 107:8, “Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…”
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Find Your Place At Abundant Grace… Abundant Grace Church 2690 N. Decatur Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89108
Sunday Worship - 10:30 am Wednesday Youth - 7:00 pm Thursday Bible Study - 7:00pm
Associate Pastor– Dave Larsen Student Ministries Pastor– Jeff Mockbee Music Minister—Manu Numu
Sr. Pastor Rob & Julie Wright
Abundant Grace Church began 10 years ago with just 6 people in attendance. Now this exciting Full Gospel , Bible –based, Interdenominational church serves hundreds with ministries for the entire family. Our radio broadcast, Grace for Today, can be heard locally on KKVV 1060 am Christian Talk radio at 8:30 am on Sunday, and 1:30 pm on Mondays , Wednesdays, and Fridays
www.graceinlasvegas.com
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In today communities we are struggling to get along with each other. Seldom does a child grow up anymore without having some kind of disagreement with a neighbor, schoolmate or even a stranger in a grocery store. However, does anyone stop and think that the reason some of us behave as we do because we are being influence by unseen forces? That’s right! Invisible hands are at work trying to control our thoughts as well as our behavior. As human being we are being tested by life situation and we are guilty from time to time of trying to fight fire with fire. But has any of us thought of how different the outcome could be if we learn to apologize and then walk away quietly from a possible skirmish. Often we miss our goal of peaceful co-existence because we are challenged inwardly and we have not trained ourselves to react differently due to our humanistic point of view, or surroundings. Seldom do we see beyond the person standing before us and think that perhaps they are just having a bad day because of some previous mishap. Their reaction to us may just be a reaction to their problems piling up and they have no solution to resolve any of them. Well, next time an offense occurs think this: “If I’m not a part of the solution—I’m a part of the problem,” since most of us disregard the idea that with our choice come a consequence. Lack of preparation to see beyond the immediate moment not only leave us vulnerable to bad influence but our society as well; innocent bystanders, as well as those who rush to conclusions. Either way, if we for a change put first things first we may get a surprise of how well things may come out. Each individual must see themselves accountable to make sure we have a peaceful life experience every day.
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As such, start thinking differently and look for good ways to resolve disagreement with odd situations. Without thinking differently, society will continue to react as it has always reacted to disagreements; with violent and harsh words which doesn’t help anyone. Sure, any of us can do anything we like anytime we please but some of these things aren’t good for us. Even if we’re allow to do them, we should refuse to if we think they will get such a grip on us that we can’t easily stop or turn away from whatever–it–is when we want to. Sad to say, many of us drop the ball daily because of a lack of commitment to change. We continue to nurture the idea that we are all good and deserve a place of respect; while we are rude and untrustworthy as well as being mean and getting away with committing crimes and mistreating others. But this is a misconception because the only difference between us and the bully down the street is we haven’t taken a good look at our self in the mirror. Are we being the person we want to be or think that we are? The only way to change our community is for us to allow all of our life to now flow in a different direction. Let’s start today to respect each other and stop thinking negatively about the fellow next door; because believe it or not, I’m not interested in hurting you and I don’t want my babies growing up in fear. Try a little kindness it works too; and a soft answer works just as well as or better than hostility. Until, the next time, Gerald
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702 625-2417
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The Walking Wounded By Gabrielle Moncrease
Bruised and Broken Have you ever been injured? Do you remember the pain? Whenever I was injured, no one had to tell me because the throbbing pain or the sight of blood let me know; a broken bone needs to be reset and is even more painful yet necessary to promote proper healing. Being bruised from a fall requires ice to keep it from swelling and a lot of time and patience to heal and the time varies from person to person. The nature of a cut is different because it’s an open wound that could get infected easily and some sort of antibacterial gel or cream, alcohol or peroxide is usually applied for that reason then a bandage is placed over the area to keep it protected from anything causing it further damage. If all these things were done properly in just a few short weeks or months depending on the nature of the injury you found yourself back to doing the things you enjoy. When you and I hurt physically, that’s easy to identify because of the evidence of what you can see, but what about when someone cuts you with an unfriendly remark? It feels like an arrow going right through you. Words are like arrows to the heart. I remember not so very long ago, someone I know was chosen to do a great work in the community. It was very exciting for them to assist others. Some people were just as excited as this individual and some weren’t, those that didn’t want this person to excel went against the ideas and things that were said and that was painful. Now the pain was felt because it was real. You couldn’t see it, but it affected this person’s performance, and eventually they resigned from this committee. The arrows
Recognizing Emotional Pain of lies and deceit went straight to the heart. This person lost temporary interest in helping others (notice I said “temporary”) because they took time to identify the pain, they didn’t give up on helping people or trusting people, they resigned from this project. Give it some time. Time is needed to sort out feelings. Be patient – just like getting injured physically and the time it takes to heal, the same goes for the time it takes to heal, your emotions.
Moving Forward, Celebrating Self Worth 1. Hang out with people who celebrate you. You know the people that make you feel good about yourself. Give yourself the good friend test. Here are the questions. How do I feel when I am around this person? Listen to your heart. If you feel beaten down, afraid, not good enough, and all sorts of negatives, don’t kid yourself. This is not a good relationship for you. Move on. This will take time, but you can do it. 2. If you don’t have a hobby, find one. This will build your self-esteem. What are you good at? Everybody has something. Discover your talent. There are arts and craft classes, at youth centers, sports, etc. Work on you, because it will help you develop good coping skills. We all need those in today’s world. 3. Balance your life. You need friends, and you need time. You need your time to invest in the hobbies I mentioned. Like riding your bike, listening to your own thoughts because you have interesting ideas going on inside of your brain. Learn to trust yourself, and most importantly, like yourself. You spend most of your time with yourself, so you might as well learn to like who your are! I am wishing you much success, because you’re somebody special.
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Accomplishing Your Goals
Councilwoman, Pamela Goynes-Brown
When deciding on a topic for this article, I thought about writing about something that could or would have an impact on a person 20 to 30 years younger than me. I began to think about some of the things that I would want to read about and the importance it would have in my life. The funny thing is these same things that are important to me are important no matter what age you are. It’s about the choices you make in life. To me, life is about making goals and achieving those goals. Robert Webb once said that “A goal is a powerful desire that sends us on a journey using decisions to transport us to an unknown destination. Very often, this destination is vague because we encounter opportunities/experiences that change our thinking which changes our direction.” On the way to reach that destination there is a need to become and stay motivated and that is sometimes difficult to do.
If You Believe You Can
In today’s society there are so many temptations that can steer all of us down the wrong path. So, how does one stay motivated to reach their go? There are several ways to accomplish this. One way might be to first set a large goal, and within that goal have several mini goals along the way until you reach the large one. When my boys were young and participating in organized sports, they could not quit in the middle of the season just because they didn’t like that sport. They had to finish the entire season, but they didn’t have to go back the next year if they didn’t like that particular sport. I also taught them the importance of hanging out, or hanging around people who have similar interest as yours. Wouldn’t that make your goals a little easier to attain, knowing that the people around you may want the same things too? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you would find something you’re good at?
Something that comes natural to you? Focus on those things and you’ll be more likely to remain motivated to reach that goal. Remember to always finish what you start. Lastly, do not be afraid to take risks or let someone try to steal your joy. You know there are haters out there, but your main goal is to keep God first, and keep your faith strong. He will lead and guide you through many obstacles in life, know that He is there when you need Him and strive for the highest star that you can reach in your life. Remain focused, stay motivated, and remember to start each day with a prayer and a smile.
You Accomplished Your Goals
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Stylish Hats Summer Vacation
Don’t Just Sit Around
There are so many things you can do for the summer, now that you’re out of school. For those of you who will not be attending summer school here is a list of things you can do. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
If you live in a state that have beaches, go and enjoy them. Spend time with friends. Catch up on Movies or visit the Library. Do something special for you or your family Spend time out in the open air.
Photo Caption By Brenda D. Ward
It’s A Great Time To Take A Vacation Photo of luggage from Microsoft ClipArt
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For years, the state of Nevada has performed poorly compared to other states in proficiency, high school graduation, and dropout rates. The causes and consequences of high school dropouts are numerous. More importantly, it has a negative effect on the outcome of the quality of life for our children. Without a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate, our children will drastically limit their lifetime earnings and opportunities. However, there is hope. Due to the push to improve high school graduation and dropout rates, resources have been allocated to help to improve the educational achievement level of our children in the community. We must continue our efforts to ensure ALL children are afforded a quality education. Once achieved, education cannot be taken away. With each step forward in the right direction, we help to improve the life situation for our children in the community. SCENARIO: A 10th grade student that did not successfully complete all required credits progresses to the 11th grade. Keep in mind, this student is now credit deficient because they did not complete all academic requirements to earn the required credits to successfully complete the 10th grade. The student opts out of summer school to hangout with friends since the parents are not aware of the option for summer school to make-up credits. How does credit deficiency impact high school graduation? In the above SCENARIO, when a credit deficient student advances to the next academic level, it may not appear as a critical situation, at first sight. However, if the student does not makeup the credits from the 10th grade and/or fails to complete any required credits for the 11th grade, the student falls deeper into credit deficiency, which may hinder the student from graduating high school on time. In this SCENARIO, there’s a high probability that this credit deficiency situation could easily contribute to this student dropping out of school. By the time the student advances to the 12th grade, the student may feel overwhelmed with the amount of work required to make-up credits that they did not complete in the 10th and / or 11th grade. In the end, the student’s solution may be to simply give up and quit, (drop out of school). Not too long ago when I was growing up, parents had the power to hold their children back if they did not successfully complete all academic requirements to progress to the next academic level. Today, we are rewarding children for failure by allowing them to progress to the next academic level although they did not earn it. This is a setup for failure and learned habits/ behaviors that could impact our children’s lives forever. Why does this matter? If a student does not complete ALL academic requirements, that student will not graduate high school. If a student does not graduate on time, the probability of becoming another high school dropout statistic increases.
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What is Credit Deficiency? Credit deficiency occurs when a student fails to complete required credits to be considered on track to graduate high school on time.
Dr. Kimberly Staten
Remember…we’ve learned everything we know. Never assume that children know the expectation. As the adults in our children’s lives, we must teach them what we expect of them (i.e. accountability and responsibility) and model the behaviors. I believe that it takes a village to raise and to education a child. The village consists of our children, parents, schools, and the community working together for the common cause of student success. Parental involvement is the key to ensure children are educated and on track to graduate but parents are not alone. They must learn to tap into the village for support to get needed resources to help their children succeed in school. In the SCENARIO, the student could have chosen to go to summer school to make-up the required credits but opted out due to the summer break to hangout with friends. In this case, the parent was not aware of this option. Both parents and children need to be aware of the options available by seeking answers from the school and identifying any available community resources for support to help their children succeed. Failure is NOT a surprise….there are indicators along the way. It’s like a heart attack victim experiencing symptoms (i.e. chest pain, numbness, etc.) before the heart attack occurs. In the same instance, failure to complete homework assignments, not doing well on quizzes, and/or failure to study for major exams are some of the symptoms that indicate a student is failing before grades are calculated and report cards are sent home to parents. Early intervention by the school and parents is crucial when a child starts experiencing the symptoms of failure. The community resources can help to facilitate this process and provide support to get children back on track, when necessary.
What can parents, schools, and the community do to resolve this problem? All children have the capacity to learn, although they may have different learning styles. If we raise the bar on student achievement, our children will rise to the occasion. However, if we continue to lower the standards and reward children for failure, that’s
If a student is credit deficient, there are options for getting back on track and graduating on time. The following are some examples of the options available: alternative high school education programs, credit retrieval programs, virtual high school distance education and summer school.
exactly what we will get…lower student achievement and failure that will continue to increase already alarming high school dropout rates.
Please contact your child’s school counselor for options to retrieve credits. Or you may contact Clark County School District Guidance and Counseling office at (702) 799-8441.
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The Book Shelf A true story of a Mother’s plight to keep her son out of the system.
My Son Not The Systems Lynell Lucas
The author has provided you with a place to go to, when you need to pray but don’t know what to say.
God’s Healing Answer Barbara Potop
This book will help you search for the Christ in you.
This is a true story of Attica Prison's unlikely Chaplain who brought revival to the inmates .
The Christ In You Alice Woodard
Inside Attic Rob Wright
God is the creator of all things, including worms. This is a story of a worm who believes in God’s words.
Flowers are important in ones life, especially if the flowers are family, friends and the people you meet.
Give Me My Flowers While I Live And I Will Do The Same For You Loretta J. Womack
Charlie The Crazy Paul LaRons
All Books can be purchased at Amazon.com Published by S-E-L-F– Publishing, Las Vegas, Nevada www.yourpublisher.org
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Microsoft
Children Can Show Us A Thing or Two
In the book of Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “...Suffer [allow] little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus saw, a long time ago, some adults would intentionally do things to block children from knowing him. Jesus, in one saying, redefined the idea of where a child's place and role were to be. And, that place is to be with him; near him, their new role-model. Jesus instructed the adults saying, "...Truly I say to you, except you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3.
Children Story Continue on page 37
Naturally, adults, me included are given to instruct, guide, mentor and show children the way through life. We use our wit from experience to do so. Adults have earned that advantage after years of rigorous living, and in some cases, just surviving. We know many hidden dangers, obstacles and traps that await our bright-eyed, and wondering offspring. We want to transmit the attitudes, knowledge and skills that will help them become fulfilled in life and find good-success. If it were possible, many adults would just pour all of that knowledge, rigor, joy, peace and the rest directly into those young souls and be done with it. You and I know it just does not work like that. And, if it did work like that think of all the soul stirring journeys and experiences one could miss. Generally, responsible parents and adults want to follow the instruction of Scripture and "Train up a child in the way he should go..." Proverbs 22:6. We should take that lead role and show them the way. But, that is why Jesus' statement in Matthew 18:3, "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven," was so stunning to those who heard it. Adults have been mandated to teach children, but what can they show us?
“Except ye be converted and become as little children ye shell not enter in”
Now, is a good time to regress and deal with Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 13:11 which reads, "When I was a child, I Spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things." How would you like to have been on the receiving end of that statement? Of course, Paul is showing a measured growth here. And, my thinking is to see childish as "childlike" things. The choice of wording Paul uses is interesting. Paul did not state that he threw away childish things, but he simply put them away. If one puts something away, one may certainly pick it back up. This is evident by the statement, "He or she acts so childish."
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Children Story Continue from page 36 So, beyond the childish speaking, understanding, and thinking, what childlike thing(s) may adults benefit from, or pick back up? We should find out. Look at a child and ask, "What can this child show me?" There is something inside of each child which is of ETERNAL concern and consequence and we are challenged, by Christ, to find what that thing is, because "...of such is the Kingdom of Heaven."
hanging out and unsupervised. During camp each child receives a snack, may win door prizes, as well as, enjoy Arts and Crafts, Music, American Sign Language Class, Bible Videos and Stories, Christian Computer Games, and much more. We believe this shift away from tradition will position us in such a way that more children are drawn to Christ. Yes, we do have Bible Study and Worship on Thursday nights.
At Holy Tabernacle Outreach Mission, "The Tabernacle," we have revamped our entire Sunday Service from a traditional worship day into our Sunday Children's Camp. We are trying to reach all children, but particularly those who we see each Sunday
If you want to know more about what we are doing, please contact me at 702-664-2078, opt. 2. There are lots of kids out there and the more ministries focus on getting them off the streets and into Christ, the better we will all be for
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it. This is why we, as well as our Radio Broadcasting Ministry: Tabernacle Christian Broadcast (TCB) support the "Forgiven Broadcast" on KKVV 1060AM, which is aired Thursdays at 5:32p.m. They are trying to reach children and their families. And certainly, as a retired school administrator, I applaud the work of the Determined Grandmothers, whose love and passion have opened doors of opportunity, have provoked thought and reinvigorated hope back into the minds of many troubled school children and parents. Their determination and positive results are evidence that we all have an important role to play.
In his long-awaited autobiography, Morris Chapman takes the reader through the stories, songs, and seasons of a blessed life. The reader will gaze into the intense poverty, injustice, and rejection as God prepared him for a life of service. Along the way, we meet entertainers, pastors, prophets, and preachers, and the very special lady named Shirley; all of whom God used to shape Morris Chapman's life and gifts.
Book available at Amazon.
At forty years old, Morris Chapman left his safe career with the Clark County, Nevada (Las Vegas) school district and answered a call to ministry and music. Over the past 35 years, Morris has served the Lord as a songwriter, worship leader, recording artist, and proclaimer of the Gospel. He is the composer of Bethlehem Morning, I Know the Plans, Be Bold Be Strong, and many other songs.
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Jon Ponder
Against the Odds, A Las Vegas Story Jon Ponder didn’t need anyone to tell him how bad he was. That was old news. He’d started drinking, using drugs and stealing at the tender age of 12. Detectives had come to his high school and arrested him for armed robbery. He had children he didn’t really know and was a functioning addict career criminal. “I was sent to United States Penitentiary Allenwood, a maximum security prison in Pennsylvania,” Jon explains. “I’d been on the wrong side of the law long enough to know that the reality of a maximum security prison was a thousand times worse than it’s portrayed on television.” Loneliness was like a prison of its own and mail call was the hardest. Jon not only didn’t get visitors, the mail stopped coming. Many times he lay in his bunk and wept. “Lord, You’re all I’ve got,” he said. That’s right. And I’m all you need. Then the Christians in the prison rallied around him. Men serving 20 to 30 year sentences taught him the Word of God. They taught him to pray. They mentored him on how to be a godly man. He attended chapel services and participated in Bible studies. In time, he became part of the chapel leadership and helped lead Bible studies. He also conducted small groups. Now, Jon wasn’t in prison, he was in Bible college-making the most of every day.
“Hey Jon, my little brother was in a car wreck ,would you pray for him?” “Ponder, my mother had a heart attack. Would you pray for her?” Jon never caused any trouble and earned points for good behavior. By 2007, three years after his arrest, he was transferred to a medium security prison in Sheridan, Ore. He planted himself in the prison church there and threw himself into the work of the gospel. Four months before his release, Jon asked God, “What do You want me to do when I go home?” “Son, you’re not going home,” the Lord said. “You’re being sent. There’s a difference. Remember the day when you got arrested? Remember that searchlight? That was My light, the same light that shone on Saul when he transformed into Paul. Remember when you were told to get out of the driver’s seat? That was Me showing you that you had to get out of the driver’s seat of your life. Remember when you were told to raise your hands? That was Me showing you the power of praise and submission. Remember when you were told to get on your knees? That was Me showing you how to live the rest of your life. You’re being sent back to Las Vegas, to a city where the people are in bondage.” When his sentence had been served, Jon was released to a federal halfway house. “We were heading toward Las Vegas at about 6 a.m. and I saw the strip lit up,” Jon remembers. “When I saw that city, I just wept. I’d wreaked havoc there, and now it was my mission field.” Jon knew what he would have to do to fulfill the call of God on his life. First and foremost, he had to get in a good local church where he could grow under strong leaders. He found a home at the International Church of Las Vegas. Next, he had to find a job and pay off his fees and fines. Then, he would start a program to help ex-offenders.
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The other desire of his heart was to marry a godly woman. He left that one up to the Lord. By 2009, with the support of a team of pastors, Jon began a ministry called Hope for Prisoners, helping ex-offenders successfully reintegrate back into the community. When the ministry was invited to participate in a $1.5 million grant, it seemed like a dream come true. Sitting at the meeting, ready to sign the papers, Jon was surprised when the Lord told him to get up and walk away. Walking away from nearly $600,000 wasn’t a challenge for someone who’d walked away from gangs and prison protection. “The Lord didn’t want us to look like the rest of the world,” Jon recalls. “He didn’t want us to work with agencies whose goal is money. He wanted us to work with His people, those He had called into the justice system. “We have a very unique mentoring program. Our mentoring team consists of pastors and leaders from churches across Southern Nevada as well as a team of volunteer police officers. God is moving our reentry community into unchartered territory. When you have the church partnering with law enforcement to mentor ex-offenders, it truly is new wine skins.” Through Hope for Prisoners, Jon is also passing on to others the help God sent to him through Kenneth Copeland. “His materials changed my life and through our ministry,
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many ex-gang members are reading them. Whenever I hear Brother Copeland’s voice, it reminds me of all those months in solitary confinement when it was Jesus, Kenneth Copeland and me. He is one of my spiritual fathers.” Today Jon Ponder’s life has been transformed by the Word of God. He’s not only fulfilling his call to ministry, he’s married to Jamie, the godly woman of his dreams. They are raising three children , 14year-old Jayden, 2-year-old Promise and 10month-old Liberty. During his years in prison, Jon used to pray for restoration with all of his children. Now, God is answering those prayers. In addition, he has led his siblings to the Lord. What once seemed impossible has happened to Jon, and he shares the good news with others every chance he gets. It doesn’t matter how bad your situation might be, if you turn to God with your whole heart, everything’s going to be all right.
Jon Ponder’s story was formally published by VICTORY magazine, April addition 2014. Kenneth Copeland Ministries. Fort Worth, TX. Original title “Everything’s Going to Be Alright, written by Melanie Hemry
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Casio Bennett
Father’s Dedication
We're undergoing a mass form of reconstruction seems we've replaced our spines with latex, too much flexibility makes a man unstable children breaching the womb mimicking a T. Rex.... These carnivores are craving blood their allergic to breast milk and Similac, they're oxygen tanks run off carnage and those are weapons buried in their purses and back packs… Our children aren't allowed to be children cause they're walking down the school halls amongst monsters, when your peers are salivating to destroy anything humane our own children are leery to trust us… They begin to question the guardians that are sending them amongst this dying breed, causing us to question the scriptures and the sutras about the tarnished roots of our seeds… To whom much is given volumes of responsibility is required but where's those fathers that are stepping up to the plate, we step away
from a generation of our child's upbringing but desire to feed them once they've already ate… When was the last time you've eaten when your stomach was filled to capacity? Well, when your child has eaten fifthteen years without you; the snacks you provide, are regurgitated rapidly… Our children are like any living thing their first instincts are to evolve and adapt, so when the planter of the seed doesn't provide proper nourishment those dehydrated roots begin to snap… Father's don't embrace this day of honor if you're a "baby daddy" cause you'll taint the spirit of this day, we're paying homage to those fathers that pride themselves on sacrifice so their seeds won't be lead astray… Some men are great providers but being man enough to raise your children makes your efforts divine, I commend those fathers whose remained in their children's lives for the long hall, Happy Father's Day… Father Time.
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By Lynell Lucas Once there was a lady that despised her exhusband for the many deceiving things she endured. For twenty years she silently dealt with his hostility and the deceptions he brought into the marriage unbeknownst to her. The lack of security and love between the two of them was lost after their marriage was over. While seeking provisions for herself after the divorce, she met a woman who helped her by assisting her through the legal proceedings of acquiring her benefits. The person, who agreed to assist her, noticed the resentment the woman had in her heart for her ex-husband. She pulled the woman over to the side and stated to her “You have got to learn how to forgive him; this is eating you up like poison.” The divorcee was so amazed at the awareness of the person’s empathy towards her that she returned home and prayed to God, to grant her the strength and ability to understand what the woman had said. The Holy Spirit told her “You can get what she got.” You just have to receive it in your heart, write it down, and create a picture or drawing. Here is what the Holy Spirit instructed her to draw. From this picture she learned to forgive her exhusband. She has not only learned to forgive him, she has obtained a love for herself and him that allows her to assist him with his everyday quest for living before he relocated to another state.
If you are tolling with the ability to forgive, take a look at the man in the picture that represents all mankind. For him to forgive, he had to establish compassion first. Once compassion became a part of his heart, it became easy to love. Once love is formed, mercy steps in with a kind heart. Once you are kindhearted, it is easy to forgive. Once all the miracles of fruits were created peace was restored. The woman who I just described to you is me. Compassion, Love, Mercy, Forgiveness, and Peace is my Miracle of Fruits. If you are a person who has a problem with forgiving, having deep angry feelings, or resentment towards other people and unable to let go, again I say just look at the man in the picture.
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Answering The Call
Frederick Westbrook
Las Vegas Gospel Artist Went From the Streets to Having a Number One Single Most gospel music is blessed with a powerful message. These messages are often filled with and guided by the spirit of God transforming His word into the lyrics of the vocal messenger. And in most cases the songs are inspirational and informational tools of God set in melodic fashion to get your attention. Singers and composers of Gospel music devote long hours to creating songs that tell stories of life; it is their hope that these stories will fulfill the need in a listener’s life to some degree. Frederick Westbrook is a Gospel recording artist on the Jahma Records label whose songs are as real as real can get. No punches are pulled; no thoughts are unapproachable and he bears his soul on each song he creates. Why? Because he knows someone is listening. Growing up in the tougher than tough streets of Pittsburgh, California and Oakland during a period when crime ruled, Frederick was a product of his environment. Whatever it took to get over, he was down for that. “Man, I was not worried about anything except where to get my next hit of dope.” He was referring to his addiction to crack cocaine for over 25 years. “Dope was me, and I was it. I enjoyed being high, and I like the thrill of getting over on people to get my next fix. I was totally caught up in a demonic path towards total destruction. My life was over, and I didn’t even realize it. I was a walking zombie,” Frederick said
Article previously written by Dr . Rick Warren
as he stared into the ground. Even though he was possessed by his addiction, Frederick’s other love, the one he had for music and entertaining was his outlet into reality. “My family was filled with entertainers. My daddy is legendary comedian “Wild Man Steve,” so I was born to entertain and thank God I eventually saw His light,” he said. A shining light from God is all the direction Frederick needed to finally grasp onto. And once he figured out how to incorporate his new love and one of his first loves, Frederick the drug addict became Frederick the entertainer.
Keeping Gospel Music As Real As It Gets His work as a Gospel writer, composer and entertainer has already earned him a reputation as a solid recording artist. Working closely with Jahma Records president Ken Bosket has also given Frederick a more level shoulder to rely upon. “Frederick is an awesome talent, with unlimited potential,” pointed out Bosket. “Jahma Records is probably one of the most diverse record labels in the nation as it pertains to the type of artist and styles of music we produce. However, they all have one thing in common; quality. It is the essential ingredient in anyone we sign, and Frederick is one of those types of artists,” said Bosket. Jahma Records and Frederick recently released their third project as a team. The album has been well-received and the single, “Jesus, You Got Me Juiced,” is the “number one” requested song on Las Vegas gospel radio. The song is the follow-up to his widely popular music biopic, “I Am Nobody,” that received public and critical acclaim for its boldness and storytelling. Frederick has also won three coveted BMA Awards (Black Music Association) for his recordings and live performances. “Two things that keep me motivated and excited are people having confidence in me by saying that the sky is the limit for me. Well one thing’s for sure, God is in the sky; and if that’s where I’ll end up, then I’m on the right track,” Frederick said. Learn more about Frederick and all of the Jahma Records artists at www.jahma.net.
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Veronica currently lives in Denver, CO. She is married with two children. For more information on Veronica Gray, please visit her practice website at: freedomtherapycentersllc.com By Veronica Gray M. A
Through her love of listening to people and its impact to change people to live freely without the burden of hopelessness, Veronica Gray has worked in counseling for over 25 years, first focusing on children in inner city schools. While volunteering, she worked with teen girls for over 5 years after assisting in the startup of a group called “Sisters For Change.” The youth group operated within inner city schools with girls between the ages of 14-18. This group advocated for change within society of African American girls. It focused on instilling a mindset of change for young girls to learn how to dream and be anything they set their minds to be. Veronica is very active in the Denver community instilling advice to the youth about determination and perseverance. She grew up in a small town is southern Louisiana, but always dreamed big. She realized very early that education was the key to success. By not allowing anyone or anything to deter her from her ambitious goals, education allowed her dreams of being a Psychotherapist turn into a reality and she went on to received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from
Who Will Listen Regis University. She graduated with a Master degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in 2012 in Denver, Colorado. Soon after she began her professional counseling career by opening a private Practice under the name of Freedom Therapy Centers, LLC, which is currently open today. Veronica also works as Operational Technician II with a Telecommunication Company and has been with the company for over 20 years. Aside from working in Corporate America, she partners a “on the go” therapy practice. This practice allows clients to be in the privacy of their homes while still getting the best form of therapy to meet the needs of the client. This is one way of giving back to society. Veronica lives by the motto of “Shoot for the stars, but if you miss at least you will land in the clouds.” It is a piece of advice she passes along to every young person that she thinks will listen.
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Living and Eating Healthy Alkaline Food Veronica Bain
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THE WEALTH of THE WICKED is STORED UP for THE RIGHTEOUS!!! Ocie Howard Burton II, CGBM
Some of you may have heard the above statement over the years while others, mostly our youth have not. This statement is a Biblical one and is found in Proverbs 13:22 in the Old Testament however, the Words of Wisdom ring true in all times. The definition of these terms follow: the Wicked are those who DO NOT FOLLOW Creator GOD and the Faith principles; then the Righteous are those who FOLLOW Creator God and the principles of Faith/Success. Let’s be clear though Righteous does not mean PERFECT, it only means acting in a just and upright manner; right acting and thinking, while Wicked is clear also meaning Evil; morally bad and generally bad/unpleasant. Now we look at the subject of the sentence which is the title of this article: WEALTH! Wealth: Much money; property; riches; everything having value in money. So we are looking at a situation where the Wealth of those who are evil acting, doing and thinking is being stored up for the Righteous, who are the opposite of the Wicked however this did not speak of the opposite of the Wealthy being the Poor receiving anything, just the Righteous. Now why would Creator God have one group of humanity acquire material goods, money and property, then hold it or maintain it for those who have been right acting and thinking? Is this the transfer of wealth that President Obama speaks of or something else? The aforementioned paragraph basically is speaking of Wealth being stored up for those who Creator God; the positive energy forces of good flows, who can be TRUSTED to do what one should do with an abundance of material goods, property and money--The
knowledge, wisdom and understanding that is instilled in them as the stewards of what is reported to be Creator God Almighty’s. This is the Divine Destiny; The Chain of succession that connects or links us all together. To have a greater understanding of this one must look at the general purpose of “having more than another” this happens so the fortunate will be providers for the less fortunate and a human that doesn’t understand that is SELFISH. There are those who have been the overseers or Gatekeepers to guard the resources and keep them from those who would use them appropriately in Service to humanity. One thing for sure is this “The Poor in Riches and Spirit shall be with us always because the system pro – creates those who are Poor in many capacities. Basically because hoarding has been as asset of the Wealthy, when is enough – enough? The Strong has always under mans control oppressed the weak however this will not go on much longer due to the New Paradigm and Indigo children that are already on the Planet Earth. Later writings for discussion in this series of articles that the Determined Grandmothers has allowed me to author and publish (for which I am truly grateful and honored) in their wonderful magazine will be The Indigo Children; Knowledge, Wisdom & Understanding: What is the Purpose of Knowing? Finally in this series: When is the right time to do that which is good?
Mr. Ocie Howard Burton II is the Father of 4 grown children and started his first company at age 19 in Highland Park, Michigan on September 15 and is disabled/retired however has returned to re-start a program he developed in 1995 named KidShop and is now known as KidShopYET.org and can be studied at www.KidShopYET.org The original program provided academic Basic Skill Fundamentals; Homework assistance, mentoring & tutoring; Computer literacy training; Public Neighborhood Internet access in 1995 and Entrepreneurship training in the retail channel – Contact for Program info: 702.504.7170 info@KidShopYET.org and Speaking engagements, Lectures or Working Workshops: C.T. at REPRESENT! The Agency 702.504.7416 E-mail: Represent.TheAgency@gmail..com and Kenidra at Business Central Executive Services 702.929.0475 E-mail: startupbuscent@gmail.com
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From Parents to Child I can give you life, but I cannot live it for you. I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn. I can give you directions, but I cannot be there to lead you. I can allow you freedom, but I cannot account for it. I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe. I can teach you right from wrong, but I cannot always decide for you. I can offer you advice, but I cannot accept it for you. I can give you love, but I cannot accept it for you. I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish. I can teach you respect, but I cannot force you to show honor. I can advise you about your friends, but I cannot choose them for you. I can advise you about sex, but I cannot keep you pure. I can tell you the facts of life, but I can’t build your reputation. I can tell you about drinking, but I can’t say NO for you. I can warn you about drugs, but I can’t prevent your using them. I can tell you about lofty goals, but I can’t achieve them for you. I can tell you about kindness, but I can’t force you to be gracious. I can warn you about sins, but I cannot make your morals. I can love you as a child, but I cannot place you in God’s family. I can Pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God. I can teach you about Jesus, but I cannot make Jesus your Lord. I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you Eternal Life… “It’s Your Choice.”– Unknown Author
More Hats From:
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Have you considered the Bible’s relevance and importance in the shaping of Western society and culture? The fact is the Bible has sold more copies than all other books in History and has shaped the hands that built this country, the United States of America. Even in the days of eroding family values, and an academic and political backlash to remove the Bible and its relevance. The fact is the Bible is the most import ant document and influence in Western culture. It has been more influential than the US Constitution. The Magna Carta or any philosophical or political idea. The Bible is so important it has influenced much we take for granted in the world from science, technology and even our political system! The Bible remains the only source of divine revelation and power that can sustain you as a Christian in your walk with God. The Bible is a book that is not merely for reading. It is a book for studying so that is can be applied. Otherwise it is like swallowing food without chewing and then spitting it back out again-no nutritional value is gained by it. The Bible is God’s Word. As such, it is as binding as the laws of nature. We can ignore it, but we do so to our own detriment, Just as we would if we ignored the law of gravity. It cannot be emphasized strongly enough just how important the Bible is to our
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lives. Studying the Bible can be compared to mining for gold. If we make little effort and merely “sift through the pebbles in a stream.,” we will only find a little gold dust. But the more we make an effort to really dig into it, the more reward we will gain for our effort. God has placed a burden on my heart to train up saints who truly hunger for more of God. I have been a bible teacher and pastor for the last 30 plus years. I have witnessed first hand what happens to people when they are allowed to experience the deeper things of God. God has given me a vision to start a bible training center. This isn’t intended to be a college or school of theology, but it is a place where the average person can attain a deeper level in their Christian walk. The first year course will be based upon Christian Life Principles and the second year program will be Ministerial Training classes. The goal is to help pastors train up leader and workers in the church. The entire concept is based upon the belief that the Bible is the infallible word of God. All I want to do is raise up workers for God. The harvest is plentiful and the workers are few.
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A Mother With a Mission
Carrie Scott knows what to do in the face of adversity… “I celebrate my blessings, my children and family, they are gifts to me,” said Scott. As a child, she was called “too Black,” then “too tall,” and then labeled “a cripple.” Actually she is a beautiful woman; wife to Billy Scott for 32 years; the mother of three; and grandmother of seven. Since 1965, she has been the CEO of Models of Distinction and C.C.S. Ltd. (Coordinator, Commentator/Specialist). Through the years, Scott has been plagued by sickness. She has had four right hip replacements and she has sarcoids, which have affected her lungs and gone to her brain, causing periods of memory loss. From time to time, the diseases are in remission, but now Scott suffers from a deteriorating spine. Nevertheless, Scott is a fighter and survivor who has a strong faith in God and a God-sent soul-mate. “My husband and I are a team. When I could no longer be a team player, he carried the ball, cooking, cleaning, washing, and shopping. He took care of me and my children when I was totally down. I would push myself to get on my feet sooner.” Scott’s illnesses affected her children while they were growing up. “They had to grow up and accept responsibilities; but they were able to have a child’s life; to have fun even with my illness. I didn’t get down and say ‘woe is me’ or ‘why me.’ I kept positive attitudes and laughter in the home. I didn’t stop even when I was in a wheelchair or on crutches. I attribute my attitude to God’s love and God’s grace.”
Today, Scott’s three children are achievers with families of their own. Ricky graduated from the Denver Automotive and Diesel College. He is a Master Automotive Technician and works for Werner’s Mastertek Inc. He is married to Tina Haralson. Their children are Clifton, Shereeta, and Briana; Mark has been in the Air-force for 21 years and is currently working on a master’s degree in Aviation. He and his wife, Donna Haralson, have three children: Carrin, Denise, Chris, and Anthony. Tyra attended Devry Institute of Technology in Kansas City, Missouri and works at AT&T as Technical Support and models part-time. As a child, Scott had few friends because of her color, height, and disability. She had a severe limp at an early age and had to defend herself against cruel children. As a adult, she distinguished herself in the modeling world as a volunteer. She took part in seminars, print work, voice-over, and production of fashion shows for charities and the private sector. Scott was this year’s Mistress of Ceremony for Kaiser Permanente African American Professional Association (KPAAPA). Also included were such groups as The American Cancer Society, Muscular Dystrophy, Sickle Cell Foundation, Urban League, Colorado Black Women for Political Action (CBWPA) Coors, and United Negro College Fund (UNCF), NAACP. She has worked with Saks Fifth Avenue and Bonwitt Teller, KC, MO, and many other prestigious organizations. In June 2011, Scott taught her classes for The Business and Professional Women (BPW’s) mentoring program in Etiquette, Charm, and Poise. She also worked on a Designer Fashion Show for September, 2001. She also plans to open
a school of etiquette, which she believes “is so needed for today’s young people.” “It’s usually not until a person is in their later life that we become concerned with our purpose on this earth. When we go through so many devastating mishaps and challenges as I have in my life, I often thought that surely the purpose for me was to be a whipping board, scapegoat, or the recipient of the wrath of others. There were times when I could not say positive things about myself. As I look at my life now I see my purpose, to let other women and men see themselves the way God sees them. Scott articulates her mission very clearly. “Who will tell young people that they are beautiful no matter what size, color, or intellectual level? My purpose is to encourage. Who will tell the young women that they are ladies when the world tells them they are nothing but a tool to be used? My purpose is to give them hope. Who will tell a young person, “You can do anything you propose in your mind, even when uncaring people tell you, you can’t.” My purpose is to teach boldness. My purpose is to change my part of the world – to help turn eyes inward toward ourselves first, then once we see our own beauty as God sees us, not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally; we can then see the same beauty in others.” “My Destiny is God’s area, His expertise, His decision. I can only say what I am aspiring to do. That is to continue to support and inspire, to continue to be God’s willing vessel, and what I really want most, is to help others reach their destiny.” By Billie Arlene Grant The Urban Spectrum – May 2001
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Thank You www.determinedgrandmothers.com
With each new challenge there is a special feeling of accomplishment; especially when you know that there are those who believed in you. We set the tone for the expectations and you did not hesitate to join the adventure. The Determined Grandmothers are thankful for everyone that said yes the first time around. We hope this will not be your last support, but instead a continue acknowledgement of what we stand for in the Las Vegas community and the upcoming states of which we will be visiting. Our children need us and we need you in order to acquire scholarship funds to support their education. Your cooperation has helped us achieve a way of raising funds to support our cause of helping the youth stay in school, improve their academic knowledge while teaching them to make better choices with their lives. The Determined Grandmothers would like to extend a thank you to all those who participated in our new endeavor. Please accept our sincere gratitude for your sponsorship page, written articles and your kind donations of $5.00 or more for the printed copy of the magazine. Because you had faith in what we are doing to help the youth, you offered your time, your service and your funds to help make this dream come true. It has been a pleasure and we just wanted to let you know that we value your contributions and we look forward to the publications success. Thank you for being committed to providing us with your best.
Lynell Lucas
Loretta J. Womack Brenda D. Ward 702 706-6075 Signatures arranged by order of picture above
Dollars for Scholars More than 500 volunteer-driven Dollars for Scholars chapters help students in communities across America. This nationwide network called Scholarship America, “Dollars for Scholars” started the affiliates in 1958. These volunteer affiliates are serving students across the nation. Although we will not be an affiliate with Scholarship America which has chapters throughout the country. We are going to use their slogan “Dollars for Scholars” to ask for assistance in receiving funds to aid the students we help in the Las Vegas School District. Preparing the next generation for the future is very important and although it is challenging, we can do it with the help and support of others. It is very difficult for family members to paved the way financially to send a child to college. However several contributions for one child can do amazing things and every little bit helps. Become part of our youth’s future by donating $5.00 or more for your personal issue of our quarterly magazine. The Determined Grandmothers first published magazine will be the Silver Edition, so be prepared to see great things happen!
The Determined Grandmothers are stepping up and stepping out to take care of business. (TCB!) . We are in Las Vegas, we have been to Denver, Houston and California. Now we ‘re on our way to Phoenix, Atlanta and New York City The Determined Grandmothers are looking to recruit caring seniors who want to help change the future of today’s youth.
BMW of Las Vegas
The New BMW i
Thank You BMW of Las Vegas From The Determined Grandmothers
702 570-0279 BMW of Las Vegas 6900 West Sahara Avenue Las Vegas, Nevada 89117-2831