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2015 Tax Law Changes

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NEW RELEASE BLACK LIVES MATTER SONG Pastor Chris Harris

THE IRONY OF CORRECTIVE MEASURES FOR BLACK AMERICA

New Release Single Chicago churches join "Black Lives Matter" protests across the city

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fter Sunday morning service, nearly a thousand of Chicago Church parishioners participated in a peaceful protest against the Ferguson and New York grand jury decisions.

Trinity's Reverend Otis Moss says the congregation joined churches nationwide in a walk-out spearheaded by Bright Star Church's Chris Harris and Saint Sabina Church's Father Michael Pfleger.

Pastor Chris Harris was inspired to write and record a song titled Black Lives Matters which the congregation sang with him as they shut down 47 street and cottage grove on December 6, 2014.

The song is uplifting and received five stars.

KreaivieImagess Atlanta Ga 30088

PRECIOUSTONES M A G A Z I N E

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EDITORIAL The Meaning of Numbers: The Number 15 The number 15 in the Bible pictures rest, which comes after deliverance, represented by fourteen.

The 15th day of the first Hebrew month (Nisan) is the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a day of rest for the children of Israel (and for Christians). The 15th day of the 7th Hebrew month begins the Feast of Tabernacles, also a day of rest.

God told Abraham in a vision, just as the sun was setting to begin Nisan 15 on the Hebrew calendar,

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Kristina Nelson

Creative Director Juan Gonzales Editor at Large

Linda Gaines

Executive Editor

Melanie Brown

that his descendants would end up as slaves in a foreign country (Egypt).

They would, however, eventually be set free (Genesis 15:12 - 16). Many years later in Egypt, God miraculously delivered Israel’s firstborn from the death angel just as Passover began after sunset (Nisan 14). Then, 24 hours later (just as the sun was setting to begin Nisan 15), the children of Israel began to leave Egypt (Exodus 12:40 - 41).

This night is referred to as the 'night to be much observed' (Exodus 12:40 -

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42, Deuteronomy 16:1).

God's prophecy of freedom, given to Abraham on Nisan 15, was fulfilled years later on the exact same day.

After dying on the cross, Jesus' body is placed in a Garden Tomb as the sun was setting to begin Nisan 15 in 30 A.D. (Matthew 27:57 - 61, Luke 23:50 55, John 19:38 - 42).

Harold Dawson Sr. Joyua Gibson

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PROPHETS CORNER Corrective measures or techniques are intended to put right something that is wrong.

When God first spoke to Jeremiah about the captivity of Israel, to be taken away to Babylon

by Nebuchadnezzar, he was overwhelmed with a battery of confusing emotions. Why would God allow his people, the people of God to be taken by an idolatrous nation and pagan King.

If their sin has pique at such an abominable level, why further contaminate them with the lascivious lifestyle of the Babylonians, what lesson could there possibly be in that. After God got through rebuking Jeremiah with it was His right to do as He please, that the captivity was certain they would be led away to a strange land. Everything He’d done to persuade them to change had failed; they would only hear the prophets they wanted to hear who would tell what they wanted hear. To the point of stoning or imprisoning those they rejected, it put Jeremiah in a very precarious situation where even his own family and town turned on him.

But now the problem was with understanding God’s rationale, how do you clean something with dirty water.

The people were so intoxicated with their willful rebellion they thought they could defeat the strongest ruling monarch of their day. So when the false prophet Hananiah prophesied by the space of two full years they would be free of Nebuchadnezzar the people accepted it all gladly.

But then Jeremiah said because you have cause the people to believe a lie (Jer.28:15) and rebel against God, He shall cast you from off the face of the earth. This year thou shalt die. But it seems to be a pattern and method of God’s chastening to allow the same conditions that one may abhor to bring understanding of the need to repent.

Excerpts from Turning Point

By Bishop Harold Dawson Sr.

The Irony of Corrective Measures for Black People

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he irony of corrective measures for black people is in the incongruity of Ham’s original error, where the proof is in the fruit. You know a tree by the fruit it bears, (Mt. 12:33). It was the third trimester where the real fruit of Ham’s tree yield the fruit of its nature, normal in child birth, the third trimester is where the baby is born. God made covenant promise to Abraham, but the beginning of that fulfillment wasn’t until Jacob, the third generation or the third trimester. In Jacob Israel was born through the 12 sons he had, this was the embryonic nation of Israel. In Ham there was his son Cush, and then Nimrod the third generation or third trimester, there manifested in Nimrod was the seed of what was in Ham. Just as Eve, who is criticized for the original sin, but Eve was taken from within Adam; therefore Eve is a revelation of what was in Adam all the time before he knew it.

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here are many men who complain about their wives, but women are receivers, we make a deposit in them, they give us a baby, if we sow into them hatred, mistrust, abuse, anguish or exposure from abandonment, we get that back in many different forms. The trials of black people are not

Leprosy is a disease known for being unable to feel, it carries a callousness, because the sensation of nerves are as dead, it is the same indifference that Gehazi felt. Spirit he had was now matched by what he looked like, it was to continue in his genes, and therefore all his offspring were white as well, taking on the same spirit. It was to associate his skin color with his greed, deception, money and power. What is often forgotten, there are people, places and things that are and will be raised up specifically to accomplish the intended will of God, both for good and bad. When God wanted to punish Israel, He would often refer to it, by saying He raised up a certain king or nation against the people of God.

To occasion the prophesied end by their own instinctive will and intent, people are entering into positions of authority and power for the expressed purpose of convening episodes and events already prophesied. Events the people involved were they to look at themselves now wouldn’t think they could possibly do such things, but neither did Judas! Judas never called what he did betraying Jesus, until it was too late. He thought it was political expediency, to bring Jesus together with the powers that be, as opposed to always being adversarial. This mixing spiritual thing with the carnality of the natural, meant his heart hadn’t been pierce, the others experiencing the same sort of things, repented, Judas committed suicide, it was his outlook that went with that spirit.

All because of racism, some of it is because of the seed sown in our beginning.

There was a seed in Ham that needed purging; just like Joseph had a dream that God gave, but also needed purging the reason for the 13 years in prison. There are some things black people are experiencing that are the inordinate progression of the Hamitic seed; the revelation of “cause and effect” is in the origin. All Abraham’s trials were in and about the family, because his purpose was there, it became the order and nature of his attacks by satan. All of Ham’s attacks were about the family, his violation started there, his purpose was there as well as his identification. It would take Noah (his father) to explain and teach Ham who he was and why he named him Ham, since names were synonymous with character in bible.

laughing matter, neither is the sacredness comprehended. No vote of confidence in the ability of other black people to perform on a level of integrity, honesty and compassion.

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he lack of identity and purpose in black people is missing as a member of the human family that has nothing to do with personal or individual achievement. The mere fact, that this is always the answer or consideration when this issue is raised, is proof of the “Hamitic trait,” individual accomplishment before “my brothers” and the right to brag. These and much, much more are black people very familiar with, however, the point here is to identify the origin and acknowledge the fact nobody made Ham do what he did and at the time, “EVERYBODY ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH WAS BLACK!” Black folk worse time is not what we’ve been am’s act constitute five things; (1) A breach in through, it is to miss the time of your visitation, the family ethics, (2) The sanctity of family was destroyed, portal of opportunity we have before us now! It will (3) The strength of the father was made a take a spiritual work of grace, miraculous in nature to mockery, (4) rejoicing over his father’s humiliation, (5) change what has been sown Exulting as if he triumph over his father. In these reve- in our spirit. lations are descriptions of the traits black people have struggled with since their beginning that in large part can’t be blamed on racism. Rejoicing over the humiliation of the father, means none of the family is safe from familial ridicule and the tearing down of one another. The extreme jealousy of triumph in one another and rejoicing at their fall or being able to occasion it.

The fact that it is consanguinity (blood related) puts no restrictions on inflicting harm or endangering. The shame that should go with these conditions are a

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Cover Story

By Melanie Brown

Miss Black Illinois USA & Talented Teen USA Scholarship Pageant

The 2015 Miss Black Illinois USA and Talented Teen USA Scholarship Pageant took place on October 25, 2014 at the Dusable Museum. Karen Arrington was the Founder and Tina Denard was the Executive Director/Producer. Young ladies were prepped for the whole year to become Miss Black Illinois USA 2015 or Miss Black Illinois USA Talented Teen 2015.

Marian N. Scott was crowned Miss Black Illinois USA 2014 and Alexandria Marie Du Buclet was crowned Miss Black Illinois USA Talented Teen 2014. Their year of service as Miss Black Illinois was highlighted so they could then pass the crown. Veronica Osei (Miss Black Will County), Kayla Ross (Miss Black Southland), Corey Sallie (Miss Black Chicago), Sierra Riley (Miss Windy City), Valerie Imani Price (Miss Black Western Suburbs), Olivia Hopson (Miss Black Prairie State), Tierra Clark (Miss Black Austin), Kourtney Turner (Miss Black Cook County), Stephanie Cole (Miss Black Western Illinois), Destiny Lee (Miss Black Dupage County), Breanna Brickford (Miss Black South Suburban), Ambria Mahomes (Miss Black North Shore), Angelica Burkhalter (Miss Black Talented Teen Metro), Zoie Horton (Miss Black Teen Chicago), Keyari Page (Miss Black Talented Teen Decatur), and Nina Henderson (Miss Black Talented Central City) were all running for their spots for 2015.

The hosts were Chicago’s very own Dana Divine and Richard Gallion. Dana Divine is an on-air personality for the Music of Love and Inspiration on Clear Channel’s WGCI 107.5FM and a singing artist. Richard Gallion is a writer, director and actor for film, TV shows and plays. The judges were a very astute bunch: Carl West (CEO of MG Media), Patrick Patterson (The Dr. Stitch Clothing Clinic), Rhea A. Henderson (Executive Director of RH School of Performing Arts LLC) and Jalissa Meredith-Hills (Miss Black Illinois USA 2011). Many other pageant professionals flooded the audience along with supporters, sponsors, families and friends.

The competition categories consisted of talent, fitness, evening gown presentation and answering questions. The judges could agree that majority of the ladies did well in the categories but some definitely stood out over others.

The Miss Black Illinois USA 2015 winner was Destiny Lee. The 1st runner up was Koutney Turner, 2nd runner up was Valeria Price, 3rd runner up was Tierra Clark and 4th runner up Olivia Hopson. The Miss Black Illinois Talented Teen USA 2015 winner was Zoie Horton. The 1st runner up was Keyari Page, 2nd runner up Angelica Burkhalter, and the 3rd runner up was Nina Henderson.

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1ST RUNNER UP

1ST RUNNER UP TEEN

KOURTNEY TURNER

KEYARA PAGE

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MISS BLACK USA 2015 WINNER

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DESTINY LEE

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The 2015 Miss Black Illinois USA

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estiny Lee , Miss Black Illinois USA 2015 recently attained a

Bachelors of Science degree in Health Education from Eastern Illinois University. Upon graduating college Destiny made a goal to give back to her community by helping the youth. Her educational career has led her to the position as Coordinator for PATH Afterschool program in Glendale Heights, IL. In addition, she volunteers weekly at Outreach Community Ministries Center, tutoring high school students enrolled in the SALT (Student Achievement Leadership Team) program.

Destiny believes learning from experiences and not allowing obstacles to affect her goals . Through her transitions of life she utilizes her experiences as an opportunity to inspire, uplift, and elevate youth through mentoring and education PATH afterschool program grants her the opportunity to achieve her goal by allowing her to educate and mentor students pre- kindergarten to 8th grade from diverse backgrounds. Destiny teaches students in a range of fields, from training proper etiquette , demonstrating handwriting skills, to creating community service projects, and many other developmental skills that carry on into adulthood.

Her passion allowed her to implement her own scholarship initiative, " CREATE YOUR OWN DESTINY ." Destiny will advocate for her platform “Create Your Own Destiny� Scholarship program throughout her reign as Miss Black Illinois 2015. Her scholarship programs focuses on awarding high school graduates with funds to further their educational goals. As a former member of the SALT (Student Achievement Leadership Team) program she was able to collaborate with the Outreach Community Ministries to award the first scholarship recipient of the Create Your Own Destiny scholarship program .

Destiny plans to expand Create Your Own Destiny as a youth organization. Assisting minorities and at risk youth 7th through 12th grade expand their knowledge in an educational f field of choice through a community service project. The service sites will influence youth to reach higher and achieve their dreams. In addition, 11th and 12th graders will be assisted with completing college applications and applying for financial aid and scholarships.

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2015 TALENTED TEEN WINNER

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ZOIE HORTON

The 2015 Miss Black TEEN Illinois USA

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oie Horton, Miss Black Illinois Talented Teen 2015 is 15 years old, and currently a junior at Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School in Chicago, Illinois.

Zoie has been a Daniel Murphy Scholar for the past three years. Her goal is to become a child psychologist.

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oie enjoys dance and cheerleading; she has been involved with the Expressions of You Praise Dance Ministry since 2008.

Also, Zoie has received a dance scholarship with The Joffrey Ballet Strobal Program

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uring her summer internship

with After School Matters Summer (ASM) /Joffrey Ballet, she learned valuable lessons about work ethic, dance, and setting personal goals.

oie’s life motto is: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." During her reign as Miss Black Illinois Talented Teen USA 2015 she will advocate for her platform: "Raising awareness about the obesity epidemic and the fight against it."

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Nola AdĂŠ Live Performance at the Miss. Black Illinois USA 2015/by Nola Ade.

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orn and raised in Chicago, Illinois,

Nola AdĂŠ is a Nigerian American singer and songwriter dedicated to blending various styles of music into a genre of its own, combining elements of Jazz, Hip Hop, R&B, and Pop music.

Her diverse taste in music is also reflected in her eclectic vocal style.

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K R I S T I N S H AW, TA X E X P E RT

2015 Tax Law Changes

1. Pell Grants, Living Expenses and Education Credits

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any students, by default, will calculate their Pell Grant funds as being used to pay for qualified education expenses, because their college applies the grant for tuition. It isn’t wrong, but that amount will decrease the expenses eligible to be used to claim an education credit like the American Opportunity Credit.

Instead, Pell Grants can now be allocated as living expenses, up to the full amount of actual living expenses — even if a student’s college actually applied the Pell Grant to his tuition and fees. The amount will then count as taxable income, but it might be worth it to maximize the education credit. This

As of 2013, you are allowed to roll over $500 from an FSA into the next plan year. Now there is another change.

If you have an FSA this year and carry over $500 into 2015, you will be ineligible to participate in a Health Savings Account (HSA) in 2015. Yes, the entire year.

complexity affects almost 9 million students. (Note: More resources on this are forthcoming from the IRS. It’s also never a bad idea to consult with a tax professional on your specific situation, because this can get tricky.)

2. Bitcoin If you received payments this year in virtual currency, then you should include the fair market value of it with your annual income. So yes, it’s taxable. Different calculations will apply if you invest in virtual currency or receive it as compensation for services.

Related: All Your Questions About Bitcoin Answered 3. Saving for Health Care

This only applies to general purpose FSAs, not ones for specific uses like dependent care or dental expenses. You might need to plan ahead based on this new restriction. As Kevin Martin, a tax attorney at The Tax Institute at H&R Block points out, If you really want to set up

Health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are traditionally use-it-or-lose-it plans. You can save pre-tax dollars to pay for health care expenses, but they must be used within a plan year.

an HSA for 2015, it may be best not to carry forward those unused FSA amounts, even if it means that you will lose them.”

4. Unemployment Benefits Being without a job is stressful, mentally and financially.

For many job seekers, unemployment benefits provide a valuable bridge between their current situation and a new position. The bad news is that these benefits are taxable income. You will receive Form W-2 and/or Form 1099-G with the amount of benefits reported. Use this information to file your tax return.

withheld from them.

means you can tell Bank “A” to send 5. IRA Rollover Limits Starting your IRA funds to Bank “B” — the money is never actually withdrawn in 2015 and in your possession.) If you roll This one’s a tax change for 2015 — over more than one IRA, the withit won’t effect your 2014 return, but drawals after the first will be taxed will affect your savings next year. to you at regular rates, plus potenStarting Jan. 1, 2015 you can only tially a 10 percent early withdrawl make one rollover from an IRA to tax. In addition,, the disallowed rollanother IRA in a 12-month period. A over will be subject to the regular rollover is described as withdrawing IRA contribution limits. If rolled Additionally, a recent U.S. Supreme the funds from one IRA, holding Court decision clarified that any sup- them for less than 60 days and then over amounts exceeds your allowable IRA contribution, it will be treatplemental unemployment compensa- depositing them into another IRA ed as an excess contribution and tion — not tied to state unemploy- account. subject to a 6 percent excise tax. ment benefits — paid by a former Taxpayers can still make as many employer to a laid-off employee will trustee-to-trustee transfers as they be taxable as wages, and therefore like over the course of a year. (That social security taxes will need to be however, it is not earned a person, living in your The takeaway: Withdraw income used to compute home, who has physical, IRA funds with great care the Earned Income Credmental or emotional issues, and attention in 2015 and it.

Tax bracket if your and you receive payments going forward.

7. Keeping up With The adjusted gross income is from the state or certified 6. Foster Care Joneses or Inflation Medicaid provider, those more than: Most of the time the phrase payments can likely be exThey aren’t big changes, $228,800 for married “foster care” conjures an cluded from your taxable but some of the fundafiling separately image of a child being income. Even if the person mental parts of tax filing $406,750 for single placed with a family, unreis related to you. Now have undergone inflation $432,200 for head of lated to them, for tempothanks to this new clarificaadjustments for 2014. household rary care. While that is a tion of the definition, taxYou are now in the highcorrect impression, for tax $457,600 for married payers who care for their est — 39.6% — tax purposes the definition is filing family members can receive bracket if your adjusted now a bit broader. If you the same tax-free treatgross income is more provide non-skilled medical ment.” As tax-free money, than: $228,800 for marsupport services or care for ried filing separately, household ,$457,600 for married filing jointly. The standard deduction amounts have also increased a bit.

Single or married filing separately is now $6,200, a $100 increase from 2013. Head of household is $9,100, a $150 increase. Married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er) is $12,400, a $200 increase. These will be higher if you are over 65 years old, or if you

are blind. Finally, each exemption claimed in 2014 is $3,950, a Related: Causes of Inflation, Effects of Inflation (and Why They Both Matter)

Energy credits, which included credits for home improvements that benefitted energy efficiency like heating and cooling systems, insulation and windows.

The higher education tuition deduction, which allowed taxpayers to deduct between $2,000 and $4,000 of qualified tuition expense.

Educator expense deduction, which allows teachers to claim up to $250 of unreimbursed classroom expenses.

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Neither lipstick nor lip gloss, this matte lip cream is a new kind of lip color that goes on silky smooth and sets to a matte finish.

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HAT IS THIS KNOCK I HEAR? In Lk.11:5 Jesus gives the parable of a Friend at midnight who was trying to get bread from his neighbor. The man said he and his family were in bed and he couldn't get up. But the neighbor continued to knock at the door and the man kept telling him the same thing.

Jesus said though he would not get up because of their friendship, he finally got up due to the continual knocking.

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n this hour there is a different knock, some black people are knocking the church, saying where is the church in the midst of this crisis.

But why would they knock the church, the most sacred institution in the black community. I hear a different knock, I don't think it is a matter of disrespect, they are knocking because they know there is supposed to be bread in that house. Their hunger far surpasses talent, entertainment or concessionary corporate P A G E

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partnership to quiet the masses.

They know those hunger pains are much deeper than "prosperity or positive mental attitude," somehow they sense that "light bread" won't due. It is a craving that has been fashioned by the hand of God, when fed rituals and formality, it is still hungry. It is deeply rooted in a covenant-purpose, that is a repository of truth and a dispensary of a revelation. THAT IS THE REAL REASON THEY ARE SO HATED. Black people retain a semblance of original creation, as such is a testament to the reality and existence of God, possessing substance that absolutely can't be scientifically duplicated. Because bible has been presented as white, some black people spent so much time trying to destroy the image of Jesus Christ, they obscure their own uniquely original appointment.

Since no flesh can dwell in God's presence and He is Light, communicating with Adam who was clothed in light was "light to light." The melanated existence of the earth-made man absorb the light and emitted to the garden as the administrator God assigned to it. This is where white people want to accuse black people of racism, but it is not a white thing, it is satan trying

to get rid of the undeniable evidence of God existence. If this isn’t racist how could white people present everyone in the bible as white, Moses, Abraham, David, Daniel, Jesus and His mother, but never thinking this was racist.

Because it left no existence for black people, except being two of the "animals" Noah loaded onto ark, it was accepted.

Notice this same perception in the crisis sweeping the country, what is presented as the authority, the norm, naturally superior is not to be questioned. No law or body cameras is going to settle this situation, we have a video and we have law. The problem, whether said or not, is a people who believe they have been given the supreme right to rule and no one can or will do anything about it. I am not a politician, so I don't have to please anybody! As a man of God I am not responsible for the reception I am responsible for the delivery! In a dream in 2008, Valerie and I were headed towards the mall, but up head was black dark. There were no lights and the lights on my car were out, I made a Uturn to go back into our subdivision and saw the police parked across the street.

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think the lights on my car being out, meant the revelation for that time was gone and I had to turn around to a new beginning. This car was not like any police car, it was shaped like a vw, it was steel and chrome, it had bullet proof windows and laser technology and things we have never heard of before. They had more authority than the police, but less than the military, in other words a new law enforcement category had been created. In the process it erode more constitutional rights, contributing to the shredding of constitutional sovereignty.

I would not be surprise if once again black people have not been used to move the nation toward a turning point, a pretext, if you will. If so, it would have to be something both black and white people would submit to, but it wouldn't be America anymore. It would move us closer on the end time calendar to eschatological positioning. I will omit the rest for the sake of space, except one detail, when we went into the subdivision, it was not the place I was living then. It was the place I am living now, this was six years ago and I told the church at that time. Now look at what we are facing, this is not just a time for the church, this is a time for the prophet! That's why black people are being fought so intensely, God has a strategy, I was in the meeting.

Wake up and Return To God! It is uncommon gifting that taps into this reservoir, that means an appointed place for a particular assignment.

This was appointed Hamitic people as the Prophetic. Noah had three sons, three is the number of that which is complete, solid, entire encompassing all. It was to represent the make-up of God, Omnipresent, Omniscient, Omnipotent. It encompasses the total make-up of time, pass, present and future, it includes PROPHET, PRIEST AND KING, the entirety of CHRIST which the three branches of humanity were to speak to. Japtheth (king and rule), the Caucasian grouping, Shem (priest to the nations of the world) and Ham (the prophetic: the intimacy of the heart of God- a repository and dispensary of uncommon truth). This was original intent, the problem, we tend to see things through the lens of contemporary portrayal. We are so disturbed by white supremacy, we make every effort to discredit that rule. But which one of us would would give an inheritance to your children that dominate any one above the other. I would give them inheritance that demands in order to succeed, one would need the gifting of the other. Surely, I can't out-parent God and because some have yielded to an evil course does not change Him or His intent. That evil rule has affected "TRUMPETS," they support the lies of supremacy, because in heart, they act from a genetic coding. Why haven't the white church spoken in reference to the evil of law enforcement, instead they, as usual, call a black who will say the same thing they are saying.

I have police officers in my family, some as spiritual sons and daughters, I know they put their lives on the line everyday. But does that mean I am to look over those who disobey and disrespect the law, killing innocent people and even children. Dialogue, meaningful conversation, town hall meetings is not going to solve this problem. We have people who are acting from inherent, base instinct, persuaded they must protect a superior people from the animal instinct of an inferior class, who must be supervised. White academia and so-called science gave them the justification for this erroneous thinking. It is also the basis of DSM (Diagnostic Statistical Manual) the bible of psychiatry, who make up mental diseases because they are funded by the pharmaceutical industry. Dr. Samuel Cartwright University of Pennsylvania Medical school in 1851, a supposed expert on Negro medicine coined the term, "Drapetomania," putting two Greek words together for run-away slave and crazy. The desire to be "free" was Negro insanity, they were meant to be slaves for life! These are the people who give your child ADHD, put them in special ed, damaging their records forever, because of preconceived ideas that they are not capable of learning and have parents that are ignorant. The church is still talking about blessings, it is not a time for blessings, it is time for war! Before somebody say I am inciting a riot, I mean turn our attention inward, focus on us, our families, our men! FDR coined the phrase "somnambulist" it means a person who walks in their sleep, black people are somnambulist walking backwards. Which means when you wake up, you will be farther behind than when you went to sleep. There is no excuse for killing each other, killing 2 year old babies sleeping in their cribs innocently, shooting pastors who said the party is too loud. Is this the "WE AS A PEOPLE, Dr. King envisioned 24 hours before he was murdered. Is this why Dr. Fred Shuttlesworth had his house bombed with his wife and children inside and all we can think of is "shaking your booty" and blaming white people! The question must be asked, how could we suffer this long, this much, this intense, without God having a hand in it. Covenant purpose has been neglected, we have never fulfilled covenant purpose.

BCN (BLACK CHRISTIAN NETWORK

INTERVIEW Today I’m very privileged to be interviewing (Rev. Dr. Kenton D. Wiley, Chief Priest of Promise Land Church Ministries in Baltimore, MD and) author of (the Am I Series? A series geared to enhancing Christian living through a stronger commitment to God and true accountability. He has recently released book number three of the series, entitled “Am I Lost?” A Simple Road Map to Jesus and book number four entitled “Am I Positive?” 365 Positive Thoughts of Encouragement. Today we will be talking about book number three, “Am I Lost?”

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i (Dr. Wiley), thank you for agreeing to this interview.

We’ll start by asking you a little about yourself and your background.

What were you like at school? (God Bless you, and I’m honored to be a part of this interview. In school I spent most of days in the band room and on the football field. This combination of arts and athletics, I believe helped me keep a straight and narrow path through grade school. Once I got to the collegiate level, I settled quickly into my major of Criminal Justice, merged into my calling, Religion, and here I stand today.

Nearly 10 years in law enforcement and 20 years in ministry, one wife, Shafawn Wiley, two children, Kalia and Kenton II. Were you good at English? Ironically, I wasn’t that great in English, but I’ve always had a natural gift of speaking. I credit my editors with taking my raw thoughts, and

written material, and helping me produce a product that is grammatically sound, Biblically based. My natural gift of teaching and spiritual gift of wisdom and knowledge are the driving forces to my writing.

What are your ambitions for your writing career? I f there w as any truth to magic or fairy tales, I would desire to write full time. In all honesty I stumbled upon this particular skill while walking in my calling as a minister. I believe God birthed this gift of writing, so His Word and principles would travel much further and faster than can. I foresee this gift as being a major part of the success that is to come in my life.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

If there was any truth to magic or fairy tales, I would desire to write full time. In all honesty I stumbled upon this particular skill while walking in my calling as a minister.

I believe God birthed this gift of written, so his Word and principals would travel much further and faster than can. I foresee this gift as being a major part of the success that is to come in my life.

Which writers inspire you? I have been inspired by so many “people” not necessarily authors or writers. But if I had to choose some great writers who influence my style, I would say, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Joel Olsteen, Joyce Myers, the late Dr. Myles Munroe, and Apostle Fred Price.

Please, by all means, understand, this list is very small. I pull from so many resources, and many have little “faith” or religious backgrounds at all. I believe that Character, Integrity, and Commitment to God and his principals are very more valuable than a New York Times Best Seller.

With that said, I believe, one day my books will make that list and remain there. When that day comes, I will give all honor, credit, and praise to my Lord Jesus Christ.

I believe God has given me profound insight into the things of the church and his people.

So, what have you written? To date, I have begun a series, that we spoke of earlier, entitled, Am I? Within the series I have written four books, the first, “Am I a Servant?” A Christian Guide to Service. This book was awarded Amazon #1 Best Seller, book two, “Am I Going to Heaven?” A Guide for the Lost and Reassurance for the Redeemed. This book was awarded Amazon Best Seller, and book three “Am I Lost?” A Simple Road Map to Jesus, and book four, “Am I Positive?” 365 Positive Thoughts of Encouragement which we mentioned earlier have not been released but are still in the Pre-Order phase.

Where can we buy or see them? All my books are e-Books and they can be purchased on www.amazon.com They are available worldwide, but they are only written in English. The price in the US is $7.18 Typically I run promotions throughout the year and make notification via my website (www.kentonwiley.com) and all my social media avenues.

Give us an insight into the book and its purpose? The purpose of this book is to help not only Christians, but anyone who is tired of going around the same mountains in life. I’m a realistic author, and I understand everyone isn’t a Christian. As a matter of fact, one of my editors is a Muslim, but he said something very interesting to me. He said, “I’m not a Christian, but your book blessed me.” This friend’s is God’s hand at work.

Stressed, tired, and lost for thoughts, no desire? This book is geared to help us understand that life is not supposed to be a circle, but a straight line.

What are you working on at the minute? Currently I’m taking a break, but looking at converting all my current books to Spanish, and possibly reaching out to a publisher. Book five and six are slated for 2015 and 2016.

What genre are your books? This is always a tricky question, because I believe my books can fall into several genres. But for this particular book, I chose Christian Living, Self-Help, and Spiritual Growth.

What draws you to this genre? W ith my background being rooted and grounded in Christianity, this genre largely pulls my attention. But the teaching style of my books, place the read in a position to help themselves while growing spiritually and naturally.

How much research do you do? Each book varies with my research time. I’ll just say this, I always like to submit a product that is both sound Biblically and in touch with reality. Therefore I spread my “net” if you will, and trap all the knowledge that I can.

Often times, I have to throw back some of the things I catch, but I still pull as much as I can from as many directions as I can.

Have you written any other novels in collaboration with other writers? At the moment I have not partaken in a partnership with any other writers. But this is definitely something I would love to do.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I believe God placed a gift within me to spread truth. In today’s society of social media, e-readers, etc. writing is a profound tool for networking and changing lives. With the help of the Holy Spirit, being a writer, helps me connect with what I call, Kingdom Building.

Why do you write? I f I could sum it up in one word why I write, I would say, “Change”.

I desire to change the way people view Christians, Christianity, Jesus, faith, and life.

What made you decide to sit down and actually start something? M y parents taught me at a very young age about obeying the will of God. But more importantly, they taught to finish. This is why I work so hard, because I want to finish, and satisfy my heavenly father.

Do you write full-time or part-time? At the moment, I write when I have time.

Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured? W ith my current work schedule and ministry, I write whenever the children are sleep or the house is empty. This leads to a lot of late nights, and early mornings.

Do you write every day, 5 days a week ? Typically speaking, I will find myself in front of my laptop 7 days a week.

Do you aim for a set amount of words/pages per day? W hen I w rite, I don’t usually a set goal, once the words start crossing in my eyes, and I’m sleep on top of the computer, I call it day.

Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand?

Laptop is where the magic happens. Mainly because I can take it to work, church, and in the bedroom. Don’t tell my wife, we have a rule about “screens” in the bedroom.

Where do your ideas come from? I always seek the Lord before I construct a book. I believe God has given me profound insight into the things of the church and his people.

Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you? I alw ays start with an outline, and that outline begins to take on a life of its own. Nevertheless, I develop a plan, and build on it.

What is the hardest thing about writing? For me just sitting down and typing everything up is always a struggle. In my head are all the thoughts and ideas, but

converting them to typing always challenges me.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book? This w as the first book where I interjected my life and struggles my wife and I have had with being lost in life. I’m a private person, but the Lord was leading me to share our life to help others.

What is the easiest thing about writing? Alw ays having material. This world offers so much to write about, a true writer could right for days.

How long on average does it take you to write a book? This just depends on the subject matter, but at least a few months or even a year.

Do you ever get writer’s

series, tell us a little about it? Y es. As w e spoke earlier, the series is entitled, Am I? The series geared to enhancing Christian living through a stronger commitment to God and true accountability.

What are your thoughts on writing a book series? I think series help keep a strong connection with your audience. I believe people are like buildings, and it takes time to add the parts necessary to make that building stand. With series, I can build my readers a little bit at a time.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors. Sadly, I do not read nearly as much as I would like, simple because of my life’s schedule. With that said, I read the Bible more than anything.

For your own reading, do you prefer eBooks or traditional paper/hard back books? I do not have a preference to be honest. It really comes down to convenience most of the time.

Do you proofread/edit all your own books or do you get someone to do that for you? I use other sources for proofreading and editing.

Block? I have experienced I find it very difficult to edit your own material, because moments when my brain would shut down. Most of the most of the time you miss time this was the Lord trying stuff. to lead me into another Do you let the book stew – direction. leave it for a month and Any tips on how to get then come back to it to through the dreaded edit? No, I usually w rite, writer’s block? I pray, seek God and ask him where have it edited, and submit. do you want me to take the readers. This has helped me.

If this book is part of a

Tell us about the cover/s and how it/they came about. W ell, w ith my first two books I designed the cover, sitting at my kitchen table. One day I was on Twitter, and a social media guru reached out to me and got me in touch with a cover designer. I spoke with him, he gave me his proposal, and the rest is history. He creates the covers, and submits me his philosophy behind the cover, and I trust him.

Who designed your book covers?

His name is Keith Bell, and his company is called, God it covered. His website is www.godditcovered ed.com Do you think that the cover plays an important part in the buying process? After doing some research, I have learned that the cover can make or break the product.

Sadly we live in day in time where people are lazy, in my opinion. I’m guilty myself. We truly do judge a

book by his cover, and this has left many great books on the self.

How are you publishing this book and why? I published independently through amazons publishing site.

At this time I haven’t ventured into the traditional publishing market, but that is my desire soon.

What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of selfpublishing against being published or the other way around?

The major advantage of being self-published is the ability to control your deadlines, and content. Though I haven’t ventured in the published arena, I have several friends who are, and these are some of their concerns. The greatest advantage of being published versus not is the upfront money, which often a struggle for selfpublished authors.

How do you market your books? At this point I use anything that is free. With a family, it’s difficult to toss money into “dreams” because

the reality of life must come first.

Social media has been my primary platform since I have begun writing.

Would you or do you use a PR agency? I do not have a P R agent at this time, but it is something I would love to have.

Time is hard to find these days, and having a PR person would really be an advantage.

What part of your writing time do you devote to marketing your book? I market daily and as often as possible.

What do you do to get book reviews? I run promotions to get reviews, and with the discounted prices, I request the readers to please leave reviews.

How successful has your quest for reviews been so far? I n all honesty I have been a little disappointed with my review count in comparison to the amount of books that I have sold. This is an area that I will be spending a great deal of time on in the next few months. A lot of companies will not promote your book without 20 reviews.

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews? Review s can be an excellent way to get an idea of the writer’s content. But at the same time, each review must be put into proper context.

Any amusing story about marketing books that happened to you? With my first, I placed a $10 bill in the 50th book sold. This produced a spike in sales briefly.

What’s your view on social media for marketing?

50th book sold. This produced a spike in sales briefly.

What’s your view on social media for marketing? A must!!!! Failure to incorporate social media for marketing is excommunicating millions.

Which social network worked best for you? Tw itter has fared best for me.

With that said, that’s the network I have invested most of my time.

Any tips on what to do and what not to do? Do not create a “spam” like atmosphere on your social network, because people will block you and report you. A good product that touches real people, sales.

Did you do a press release, Good reads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work? I have done a press release before, but I do use Good reads as a platform for promoting my books.

Is there any marketing technique you used that had an immediate impact on your sales figures? A free promotion gave me 600 sales in 3 days. Of course this produced no profit, but it did give me some real readers.

Did you make any marketing mistakes or is there anything you would avoid in future? I used to spam people, and the returned was negative. I would avoid spamming at all cost.

What do you think of “trailers” for books? I have just starting doing trailers, and the response hasn’t been great, but again I’m working on mastering the skill.

Do you have a trailer or do you intend to create one for your own book/s?

Yes, I have created a short trailer. Short link || http://bit.ly/1xXxjnP Do you think that giving books away free works and why? I have donated books to the prison system when I printed one batch. Hopefully someone was blessed.

Doing free promotions has yielded me a lot of downloads, but few reviews. This leads me to believe many people didn’t read the book.

Did you format your own book? Y es, I have learned how to convert my own books to eBook formats.

In what formats is your book available? e-Book only at this point.

How do you relax?

Sleep and hot apple cider.

What is your favorite motivational phrase? I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.

What is your favorite positive saying? W e only lose when we quit.

What is your favorite book and why? The Bible.

It’s the only book that has proven time and time again to help mankind.

What is your favorite quote? I have a dream!

Where can you see yourself in 5 years’ time? Hopefully, I will be on the New York Times Best Sellers list and traveling the world sharing God’s good news, and speaking on leadership and my books.

What advice would you give to your younger self? Start now, why wait.

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. because he was able to gather so many people and get them to believe one common goal. Freedom!

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Start today.

Where do you see publishing going in the future? I see a spike to come, because my generation has a lot to say.

How can readers discover more

about you and you work?

Website: kentonwiley.com Facebook: facebook.com/ kwileybooks Twitter: @RevKDW LinkedIn: Rev. Dr. Kenton D. Wiley Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/11MiKsm Book Links: http:/ / amzn.to/11MiKsm Goodreads: http:/ / www.goodreads.com/ author/ show/7685652.Kenton_D _Wiley

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.

BLACK LIVES MATTER THE MOVEMENT