USA $2.00 Jan/Feb/Mar/Apr 2015 - Issue 1 www.reclaimmag.com
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FROM THE EDITOR EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Erika Wise
ast Spring, Pastor Terry Wayne Brooks and the Bayview Baptist Church hosted an in-house church conference geared towards regrouping our leaders, celebrating new victories, providing scholarship funds for students and embracing the future of the church. During this event, ReClaim’s mission was birthed. Pastor Brooks and myself presented his vision, not only for Bayview, but for the San Diego community. This would be the start of something beautiful! A year later, the vision of ReClaim has been made tangible through this publication. And what incredible timing! Over the past few years (even in recent months), this country has seen and experienced may tragedies from racial and social unrest, oppression, abuse, prejudice, and unlawfulness to malpractice, embezzlement and corporate corruption! And this publication aims to offer an avenue of communication and comfort for those desiring peace and justice. Concerning this publication, our mission at Bayview is to exemplify Jesus Christ by reclaiming our Faith, Families, Fellowship, Finances and Fitness. As THE church of the community (and not merely in it), the Bayview Baptist Church is committed to reaching, teaching and serving. Though produced by the Bayview Baptist Church, the ReClaim Magazine is a community-wide publication. Our desire is to include stories, testimonies and tips from all individuals within the surrounding community; No one left behind. If you would like to be a part of this movement and have a gift and passion to write, design, chat or offer thought leadership, we’d love for you to join us. You may email me at erikaw@bayviewbc.org for more information or just to tell me how we’re doing. I’d like to thank the incredible ReClaim Magazine team for a job well done! One down; a thousand more to go! Humbly submitted,
Erika Wise Editor-in-Chief
erikaw@bayviewbc.org (619) 262-8384
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MANAGING EDITOR LeShay Shaw COPY EDITOR Marlene Tutt CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Andrea Boone YOUTH WRITERS Jourdyn Allison Darnell Carson Mallory Webb Morgan Webb FAITH WRITERS Erika Wise Catana Webb Audrey Franks FAMILY WRITERS Andrea Patrick Wanda Maxwell FELLOWSHIP WRITERS Taura Gentry FINANCE WRITER Marie Herndon FITNESS WRITERS Abigail Gonzalez Crystal Irving CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Terri Wright Priscilla Watson Sydney Howell PHOTOGRAPHY Quinton Carson Terri Wright VIDEO DIRECTOR Zemario Shepphard GRAPHIC DESIGNER Erika Wise ADVERTISING SALES & PROMOTIONS ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Erika Wise Marie Herndon Tiffany Gillis RECLAIMMAG.COM WEB DESIGNER Erika Wise CONTENT MANAGER Sammie Blackmon
RECLAIM MAGAZINE (Bayview Baptist Church) 6134 Benson Avenue San Diego, CA 92114 (619) 262-8384 www.ReClaimMag.com
Take time to
be a dad today. fatherhood.gov 877-4DAD411
18 Peer Mediation No Adults Necessary 21 Deacons: A Charge to Keep A Closer Look Into Bayview Deacons 49 Financial Cancer How to Prevent Financial Death 51 5 Ways Youth Can Improve Relationships with Parents From a Teen’s Perspective 52 The Facebook Purge New Form of Cyberbullying Unveiled 56 Visions of the End Zone One Man’s Journey to Media and Coaching Success
COMMENTARIES 26
8 The Faith Community and Racial Injustices Where We Were, Where We Are, Where We Are Going 24 Online Dating According to Wandaful
PROFILES Pastor Brooks Up Close and Personal
12 PSALMS I Hear Music in the Air 15 Married Military Mom Finds Support, Fellowship
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by Audrey M. Franks
The Faith Community and Racial Injustice: Racial injustices have taken place as early as the Bible days, and without fail, God has raised up a leader as He did with Moses and the Children of Israel when they were held captive by the Egyptians. History tells of racial injustices inferred upon not only Blacks, but other races of people such as Jews, Chinese and Native Americans to name a few. However, in this country, we have seen racial injustice most prevalent among Black Americans. In the United States, the civil rights movement was birthed out of the racial injustices and inequalities imposed upon people of color. Though slavery had long ended, people of color were treated not only differently than whites, but they were treated poorly and denied their civil rights. Along with the ill treatment, people of color continued to suffer from hate crimes imposed by not only the Klu Klux Klan and white “citizens’ councils,” but it also occurred at all levels of government and society from federal judges to state governors to county sheriffs to local citizens serving on juries. Racism occurred then and it persists today. During time of civil unrest in which the civil rights movement took front
seat, the church played a major role by not only providing its members an opportunity to exercise roles denied them in society, but it served as a place to solve disputes and a center of political activism. Not to mention, the civil rights movement was predominantly led by Christian leaders such as notable minister-activists Ralph Abernathy, Bernard Lee and Fred Shuttlesworth. Through social and racial injustice, the importance of the minister was enhanced; absolutely imperative for community-building against injustice. The most prominent clergyman in the civil rights movement was Martin Luther King, Jr. King’s powerful oratory and persistent call for racial justice inspired sharecroppers and intellectuals alike. These individuals along with others in the community worked tirelessly to gain social harmony; some to the point of losing their lives. In today’s black community, there has been a continuum of injustices over the past several years; from the case of Oscar Grant in Oakland, California being gunned down by a white police officer at a BART station, to Trayvon Martin being killed by a white man with Hispanic traits in Sanford, Florida and Mike Brown being shot to death by a white officer in Ferguson, Missouri. And while such tragedies still yield an outcry from the black community, the church appears to have taken a silent leave. While there are some churches and pastors across the United States who has spoken out against currents acts of racism, the church as a whole has lost its cohesiveness in the fight against racism. During the civil rights movement we made one sound. Today, we seem to be reacting and acting out of pure frustration. Are we outraged? Absolutely, but what major impact is the church having on erasing racism? For racism isn’t a political problem to be solved exclusively by policy but a spiritual violation to be addressed by a Christ-centered church. Racism cannot exist, merely, as a hot-button political issue. Racism is first and foremost a sin to be confronted by the redemptive and reconciliatory work of Christ. Only the church of Christ carries the moral authority to incorporate the healing and transformative power of reconciliation to situations of racial strife. Although we have come a long way, we still battle racial injustices today. The sad thing is that we don’t have any major leaders in our struggles against racial inequalities today. Not unless you want to count Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson. No disrespect to either of them but they don’t compare to the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr. or the various other religious leaders of that time who supported him. The time has come for Bible-believing churches to engage in the ministry of reconciliation. Christians must create a firewall against pathetic exploitation of strife and engage in prophetic articulation of peace. Only the oracles of righteousness can defeat the pathetic with the prophetic. It takes the anointed voice of justice to speak into these issues with moral clarity and biblical soundness. Those of us who are in Christ carry the anointing to bring good news even into the most difficult situations
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or circumstances. We cannot forget that the church has been an agent of change throughout history, and must be one now as well. Our response lacks unification. In order to move forward in progress, we have to move from a few churches per city and state creating programs or inciting marches to reuniting to that one voice that was heard around the world. We need the voice that caused those who were imputing racial injustice to stop and take a look at themselves. We need the voice that changed laws and integrated schools. We need the voice that made a way for us to sit at the front of the bus. We need the voice that got us the right to vote and that voice is the voice of churches of all races and religions across the nation working together as one, to be heard as one to make an impact on the world. There is no cheap policy fix for racial ignorance and hatred. The only way trust can be built between people of different backgrounds is through meaningful dialogue and authentic relationships. If the church won’t take the lead on establishing this common ground, who will? If believers won’t stand up and offer a voice of reconciliation, forgiveness, healing and love, who will?
Unlock the potential of your team. Mark your calendar today. THURSDAY-FRIDAY, AUGUST 6-7, 2015 BAYVIEW BAPTIST CHURCH 2014 HIGHLIGHTS 6134 BENSON AVENUE I always choose the untrained person with the right attitude over the SAN DIEGO, CA 92114 qualified person with the wrong attitude. SITE# 361 TYLER PERRY The grander the vision, the greater the price tag. BILL HYBELS
Once you’ve revealed a problem you must act. WILFREDO DE JESÚS
Truth accelerates trust. JOSEPH GRENNY
We need to rethink what we mean when we say people are natural leaders. SUSAN CAIN
We can tell a lot about leadership when times are tough. JEFFREY IMMELT
The highest call of leadership is to unlock the potential of others. CARLY FIORINA
WHAT THIS PLACE NEEDS. WHAT THIS PLACE NEEDS IS MORE CAPS AND GOWNS.
Thanks to our work with local high schools like Henry Ford High, graduation rates are up 18%. And it can happen here too.
To donate or volunteer, go to UNITEDWAY.ORG. BECAUSE GREAT THINGS HAPPEN WHEN WE LIVE UNITED. 10| January/February/March/April - Issue 1 - 2015
IN LOOKING FOR THE IDEAL RESUME, YOU’VE IGNORED THE IDEAL CANDIDATE.
LEARN HOW TO FIND, TRAIN AND CULTIVATE A GREAT POOL OF UNTAPPED TALENT.
I Hear Music in the Air
Every radio station needs a Program Manager to shape the sound and oversee its direction and BayPrz is no exception. Under the management of Darnell B. Ford aka “Psalms,” BayPrz is growing into a global entity. BayPrz is an online Christian radio station movement of exceptional programming and music. From the vision of Terry Wayne Brooks, Senior Pastor of the Bayview Baptist Church, the station is accessible at www.bayprz.com and www. bayviewbc.org, Apple TV, Tune In, Streamer and Shortcast.
A self-professed geek, Darnell started Dee-Jaying as a youth in Trinidad. It was there he discovered how to influence people with music. While specializing in secular music, it wasn’t until a youth pastor encouraged him saying, “When God saves you, He also saves your talent” that he then became a DJ offering Christian music. He started with the moniker of “Psalms 150 Christian DJ”, which was later on shortened to the current “Psalms.”
While BayPrz Radio’s foundation is gospel music, Darnell sees the station growing to offer not only gospel music, but to deliver programming for the urban lifestyle with cultural relevance to an international audience.
Shortly after moving to the United States, Darnell joined the Navy, from which he retired in 2013. From there he went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Work Force Education and Development, and an Associates Degree in Radio. Darnell is now
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working on a Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership, which he expects to complete in the summer of 2015. With these accomplishments, including being a cancer survivor, he has truly come to realize and live the verse Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” Darnell’s mission is to “move objects out of
people’s blind spots and put them into their own point of view.” “However that needs to happen - whether it is radio, facilitation or teaching - I want to make a difference in peoples lives.” by Terri Wright
helps you
prepare, plan & pay for your children’s college education
Learn more at HSF.net
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n today’s society where a person may have more than two hundred virtual friends, but can’t remember the name of the neighbor across the street, having a real community experience can be rare. For Navy wife, Cynthia Hernandez, community is more than a concept; it’s a way of life. In fact, this busy mother of three is a co-leader of the Rock Church’s Military Married Women’s LIFE Group. Comprised of 18 wives of mostly Navy military spouses, the group meets weekly in the Pt. Loma community of San Diego. During the meetings, the women have Bible study and prayer. They also fellowship with one another and share information about resources that help take the edge off during long deployments. This group has become a lifeline for many of its members. “If you don’t have sisters who can uplift you and encourage you and be there to help you and fellowship with, it just makes life so hard especially when you have kids,” said Hernandez, who resides in San Diego with her husband, José, and their three daughters, ages 6, 10 and 12. For Hernandez, having such a tight-knit support system hasn’t always been the norm. She said husband’s first deployment was a difficult time for her because she was 21, pregnant and away from family in a new city. “I was two-months pregnant when we found out he was leaving for a six-month deployment, so I was really unsure if he was going to be making it back home in time for my daughter’s delivery,” said Hernandez, who also struggled with the emotional and physical toll of what would become the last few weeks of her mother’s battle with cancer. It was a desperate time, but prayer sustained her. Her faith was tested further when more unwanted news came in the form of a deployment extension. “I think I was eight months pregnant when we had found out that my husband’s ship was extended. It was extended for three months,” she said. Given the news, it seemed evident that her husband would miss her daughter’s birth. Then her mother passed away from cancer. by Andrea Patrick “They don’t send sailors home for pregnancies, so unfortunately God used my Mom to bring my husband home,” Hernandez said. “He was able to stay home with us for three months after my daughter’s birth until the ship got back.”
While grieving and dealing with the late stages of pregnancy, Hernandez was still able to see God’s provision in it all. “It was actually a blessing, but it was very hard because I was pregnant and was far away from family and all alone and I was young...” Hernandez said. While Virginia may have been Hernandez’s most difficult experience, her time in San Diego has been the most enjoyable. “I think by far, out of all the five different duty stations that we’ve lived, San Diego by far has the most to offer the military,” said Hernandez, whose family was also previously stationed in Mississippi and Illinois. In San Diego, she became active in ministries and took on leadership roles to serve and connect with women with similar circumstances. Now several years into her involvement, Hernandez is grateful that the Military Married Women’s LIFE Group has become a vital part of her Christian walk. “Knowing that we’ve created these bonds that are strong,” said Hernandez as she commented on the benefits of her group, “We can trust one another. We can pray for one another. We can be open and honest with one another.” Friendship and openness are essential in developing a reliable support system and navigating the demands of life with an enlisted spouse, but family fun can play a key role, as well. Patty Kalaye knows this and offers advice for military families searching for low-cost and free activities. “One of the big ones that I refer people to is the USO, which is downtown at 3rd and A Street. The reason for the USO is they provide a lot of entertainment for families. They give free tickets. They do a free dinner every Tuesday night and also they have a lounge in the airport.” said Kalaye, who is a leader in the Military Ministry at the Rock Church and advises churchgoers about military resources. “The USO does a lot everywhere in the country, but definitely in San Diego.” Another agency that Kalaye recom16| January/February/March/April - Issue 1 - 2015
mends is Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. “They actually do interest-free loans and they do grants for our families,” she said. “They provide a lot of financial support to families that are in a bind.” Kalaye suggests additional resources, such as San Diego Military Outreach Ministries (SDMOM), Operation Homefront, National Association of Child Care Referral Agencies (NACCRA), Fleet and Family Support Centers, Marine Corp Community Services (MCCS), Semper Fi Fund, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. In addition to developing a strong faith-based support system, Hernandez feels that military spouses--especially moms--should consider taking advantage of entertainment and relief from available agencies. “If you could, find good sisters in Christ who would encourage you and uplift you in your walk and be there for you and support you when you’re alone,” Hernandez said. “Get involved with the different events that the military offers. Those things help time go by faster. If you don’t have anything to look forward to, it’s just so hard to get through deployment.” Given the tough sacrifices and trying times military spouses endure to support their loved ones, it’s not surprising future plans and hope are two concepts Hernandez and Kalaye hold dear. In fact, they share a favorite scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV).” With caring and supportive resources in place, the future is bright for the Hernandez family. That’s enough reason for hope, indeed.
POPULAR RESOURCES FOR MILITARY FAMILIES IN SAN DIEGO SDMOM www.sandiegomom.org
MCCS www.mccsmcrd.com
Operation Homefront www.operationhomefront.net
Semper Fi Fund www.semperfifund.org
NACCRA www.naccrra.org
Navy Marine Corps Relief Society www.nmcrs.org
Fleet and Family Support Centers www.navylifesw.com/sandiego
Armed Services YMCA www.sandiegoasymca.org
Body language can tell you all sorts of things. Like someone is having a stroke.
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FACE DROOPING
ARM WEAKNESS
strokeassociation.org
TIME TO CALL 911
Know the sudden signs.
Spot a stroke F.A.S.T.
by Darnell Carson As teenagers, we face many struggles on a daily basis, including peer pressure, drugs, and issues at home. However, we do not always feel comfortable talking about these issues with an adult. As a solution to this problem, many schools across the nation have implemented the use of peer mediation. Peer mediation is when a student is placed in a room with a group of his peers- as opposed to adults- and given a chance to talk about the situation in an effort to resolve it. There are about 5,000 peer mediation programs active in schools within the U.S. My own high school, Eastlake High School, has a peer mediation class in place. On average, the class sees about five different students each month, which adds up to about 50 students per school year. Although this group makes only about 1% of the school’s student population of over 3,000 students, the class makes a huge impact on the school’s safety and social environment. “Every student that leaves here is better than when they arrived,” says Isabella De Murguia, 16, President of the Eastlake Peer Mediators. “Through this class, we have stopped suicide, saved relationships, and stopped drug use.” A peer mediation assembly is held annually to present familiar subjects and issues dealt with in the
mediation sessions. Dr. Cole, Teacher Advisor for the Eastlake Peer Mediators, says, “When people are aware of these issues and that there is a group of students ready to talk about them, they feel more comfortable discussing their problems with us.” Studies show that 58%-93% of the time, success is achieved through these programs, which is measured on how often a solution was reached and maintained. Peer mediation is a great alternative to traditional counseling and provides teens with the tools to handle their problems effectively.
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Peer mediators are preferable because students understand their peers and can make the solution process age-appropriate. Often times, the advice given by the adults is good-natured, but goes over our heads. Peer mediators can make the advice easy to understand. Additionally, students receive the advice given by their peers better because it does not seem like another adult trying to tell them what to do. It is another student, just like you, who wants to get you through what you are dealing with.
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by Taura Gentry-Thomas
Bayview Baptist Church has been iconic in the San Diego community as it relates to outreach, leadership, support, and spirituality. Since the 1960s, Bayview has provided the community with life-enhancing programs and resources for personal growth and development as well as Kingdom-building. The growth of the community has positively impacted the growth of the Bayview Church Congregation. Even today, the vast growth of new members interprets to an opportunity for Bayview to be of service even more so. And often overlooked, there are silent partners to thank. Historically, the office of a Deacon has been to serve the Pastor, and encompass the needs of the congregation. Service is subordinate to the primary leadership. We see the origination of deacons in Acts chapter 6 verses 1 through 7:
Deacon Ministry L-R Richard Simpson, Mark Jones, Calvin Jackson, Willie Levett, Daryl James, Quintin Carson, Rodney Hutsona, Robert Calloway, Durelle Gillis, Thomas Horn, Michael Knight, Robert Carroll, Craig Galloway, Stephen Jeremiah, Noel Battle, Robert Pope, Clarence Watson, Herman Collins, William Harris, Mateo Logan, Alvin Johnson, Charles Weatherford, Eric Washington, Sherman Metcalf, Bobby Webb, Walter Hearvey
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About this time, when the number of disciples was continually increasing, the Greeks complained that in the daily distribution of food the Hebrew widows were being given preferential treatment. The twelve summoned the whole body of the disciples together and said, “It is not right that we should have to neglect preaching the Word of God in order to look after the accounts. You, our brothers, must look round and pick out from your number seven men of good reputation who are both practical and spiritually-minded and we will put them in charge of this matter. Then we shall devote ourselves whole-heartedly to prayer and the ministry of the Word.” This brief speech met with unanimous approval and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochurus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch who had previously been a convert to the Jewish faith. They brought these men before the apostles, and they, after prayer, laid their hands upon them. So the Word of God gained more and more ground. The number of disciples in Jerusalem very greatly increased, while a considerable proportion of the priesthood accepted the faith.
When we think of the term, “Deacon”, we often recall those who hold this title in their own churches. But we rarely delve into the importance of their service towards ministry and appreciate their sacrifice. Deacons are distinguished men, called by God to serve the congregation in a capacity that supports the Pastor. From calling to check on those who are ill, attending home-going services, coordinating opportunities to reach members having troubles, supervising bible study sessions, to the friendly hello at Sunday service, Deacons bear many responsibilities, often sacrificing and balancing their personal family lives. “We minister to the flock and are of service to the Church,” said Thomas Horn, the new Chairman of the Bayview Church Deacon Ministry. “[I appreciate] the privilege of participating at a higher level of service to God and the opportunity to serve the congregation in a way that few are allowed to do. I also enjoy the camaraderie of the men I serve with and the spiritual growth I have experienced just from being around them.” Recently, Bayview retired several of their deacons, who served honorably for a combined total of 60+ years. Their service was so valued, that Pastor Terry Wayne Brooks, Senior of the Bayview Baptist Church in San Diego, California, has playfully designated them as ‘reservists’ and/or ‘active reserves’ in the deacon ministry. (These terms are used in light of the huge military community in the church). This allows them to be
called back into service, as needed by the Senior Pastor. Being a deacon, however, is not without its difficulties. Family life for Deacons can be challenging, fruitful, and rewarding at the same time. Deacon Eric Washington, the Assistant Chairman, says “It can sometimes be a challenge but it’s very important to garner the support of family and ensure they’re aware of the roles and responsibilities of a deacon.” “The kids are off to college so Rachelle and I are very involved in Church. We balance God, Family, and Deacon Ministry together. I have full support of my wife. She makes things so much easier for me and it works for us. Everything has its balance and place in our lives,” said Collins. “Overall Deacon is a title, but it is who I am. Giving and sharing is who I am and what is in my heart, “said Collins. This is evident in Deacon Collins’ weekly efforts to help elderly members wash and detail their cars. The key as a church body is to understand, empathize, and then appreciate the service that Deacons and their families provide to us. Showing support will ensure a successful Deacon base, furthering a Pastor’s vision for the church. We salute Bayview’s Deacons.
Bayview Baptist Church Deacons working in worship service and Holy Communion, praying, leading worship and being of service to the congregation.
According Accordingto toWandaful! Wandaful
By Wanda Maxwell We all know that famous Proverbs 18:22 Bible verse; “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.” Well, men and women are searching online dating sites to see if they may be that “good thing” for each other. I know because I have dabbled in the World Wide Web of online dating and love it! Online dating is increasingly growing and some find it a safe way to meet a person and hopefully find a meaningful relationship. I’ve grown tired of the club scene. I’m not fond of blind dating; and I haven’t had much luck at church. So why not cozy up on the couch with my favorite snack and go through the profile of eligible bachelors looking for their Mrs. Right? But just like dating in person, you have to practice safety. Here are a few of my personal Wandaful tips I use when online dating:
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Pray First: God is first in everything I do; including online dating. One of my biggest prayers is that I don’t meet anyone insane. Pleasant Profile:Include in your profile what you are looking for in that person. For instance, I stress that I will only date Christian men. That is very important to me and actually a deal-breaker. But that’s me. Include positive qualities and what you can bring to a relationship as well. After you have completed your profile, read it and re-read, and then have a friend read it as well. Would you want to date someone like you after reading your profile? If not, go back and start over. Tell them what a great person you are, your strengths and share the things you like to do; hobbies, favorite TV shows, movie genres, favorite foods. Once you start getting hits or messages and start a dialog with a possible prospect, then you can begin to share more detailed information as you believe to be important. DO NOT TALK ABOUT PAST RELATIONSHIPS IN YOUR PROFILE. If you are still have feelings for your ex or you and your ex are on “a break,” you really shouldn’t be on the dating site to begin with. Remember, hon-
esty is always the best policy. Don’t start out lying about your current relationship status. This will only end badly. Updated Photos: THIS IS A MUST, and don’t accept messages from people who do not have a picture on their profile or an updated picture. I believe people who don’t have a photo have something to hide. If the guy has a suit on from 1970 or a woman has a bouffant hairstyle, that may be an indication that this may be an outdated picture. Ladies, make sure you have a photo of you in an attractive outfit, not a less appropriate dress showing all your goodies. Fellas, PUT ON A SHIRT! No one wants to see all that just yet. Less is always more and you don’t want to be sending the wrong message through your photos. I put the date on my photos and I don’t include pictures more than five years old. So, smile pretty; comb your hair, put on clean clothes, just as if you are meeting someone in person. First impressions are everything. There’s nothing wrong in asking someone if their photos are recent. If they don’t have a photo, request a recent one. Have fun and be Safe: Like anything you do and want to be successful at, have fun doing it. Remember, online dating is a different avenue to meeting people. If you happen to meet so m eo ne you like, always make your first meeting in the daytime, in a public place. Meet at a coffee shop or small café for lunch. Again, your safety comes first and let someone k n o w where you will be meeting this person. Don’t make it a long first date. This is sort of like an interview. If you hit it off, schedule another date. Remember, you’ve prayed and have asked God to guide you. God have given us all the gift of intuition…use it. I have had great experiences with online dating and have established some great friendships that I have had for years. However, I’ve encountered some men who didn’t look like that
picture on their profile page, and yes, some were not my type, and even married. No different than if I met them by traditional dating. Trust God through the process. Stick to your morals and beliefs, and stick to my advice. Most importantly, I stress, don’t forget to pray. Trust me; you are going to need God in this online dating process.
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by Erika Wise I arrived at the Hilton Hotel in Carlsbad, California to a beautiful scene. The sun blazed over the expanse of the Hilton overlooking the Carlsbad Beach. White picnic chairs lined a strategically manicured garden; rose petals painting the lush green grass. At end of the aisle stood a tall white alter with crystals hanging from the roof of its interior. Birds chirped proudly above the swaying palm tress and moved through the light whispers of the wind. Before opening the invitation, I knew I was apart of something special. On Saturday, February 14, 2015, I witnessed the holy matrimony of Mr. Terry Wayne Brooks and the new, Mrs. Monique Brooks. I was honored to be apart of such an incredible milestone of someone I’ve grown to know as both Pastor and friend. Sitting in that garden, listening to the vows, I thought about his other life-changing events. While many of us have these experiences over an extended period of time, Pastor Brooks’ life has altered - for the good - in just a few short years. So, when opportunity knocked, I was obligated to answer. Recently, I sat down with Pastor Brooks to discuss these milestones and here’s what he had to say:
Q: You were chosen by God and led by Pastor Winters to be Senior Pastor of the Bayview Baptist Church. What was the journey like? A: It was a long journey, actually Coming from the Tree of Life in Gary, Indiana, where for most of my adult life I thought I would become my father’s successor and then for God to lead me to California to a place where I never desired to live and never wanted to live. Then to meet Pastor Winters in 2005 and develop the relationship and rapport we had - it was just a long journey. We had a conversation about me being his successor March 9, 2007. But evidently long before that, God put me on his heart. Doc [Pastor Winters] let me know then what my status would be on July 1, 2013 concerning the Bayview Church. After that, the time in between was a learning process; a humbling process; a molding process; it was a time to learn and unlearn; to bump my head; for Him to pick me up and dust me off; and discipline me when I needed to be; to help me be molded as a preacher, a teacher, and as a father. It was like a five-year boot camp, with all the intensity of a two-a-day sports boot camp. It was just a long, long process. Calendar-wise, it was short but felt like an eternity living through it. Q: You said you met Pastor Winters in 2005. In what capacity? A: I met him initially through a phone call. He had a radio station at the time and called me to meet him at a remote event on Division and Euclid Ave. I don’t remember what shop it was but he was doing an onsite broadcast. He just called me and said “Terry Wayne Brooks, my name is Tim Winters. You’re in my city and I need to meet you. Be here at a certain time.” And I just did it.
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Q: And you guys obviously talked and had lunch a few times after that? A: Yes. He was a mentor to me. While serving as Pastor at another church, I would come to the Bayview Church for the 7:45am service every Sunday before my church service. I would talk to and meet with to him peri-
odically. It had nothing to do with Bayview, He was the guy in San Diego that was doing everything I wanted to do, so I was just trying to learn. Q: In that two-year period, you had no idea he wanted you to be Pastor? A: None what so ever. Q: Most people would say that you have big shoes to fill, but I’ve often times heard you say you’re not trying to fill his shoes. That you’re standing on his shoulders. Have you had any backlash or push-back since becoming Senior Pastor of Bayview?
A: Of Course, Absolutely! By all means. Q: How, and why do you think so? Obviously he was here for 40 years, so that was to be expected. A: Yes, it was expected and He even told me to anticipate it. Q: As understood, much of the church would have been grieving the lost of their Pastor of 40 years. Aside from that aspect, had there been any personal backlash from people who just didn’t want you to be the new Senior Pastor? A: Absolutely, and I don’t think it’s negative. It just is what it is. Some people had a problem and still have a problem with seeing me as Pastor, because Pastor Winters is all they’ve known. For many, he was more than a Pastor to them; he became a father figure. And when you have a father figure, it’s hard to see somebody taking their place. But what they don’t realize is, I don’t want to take his place. I just want to be the Pastor now. That’s why I say I am not trying to fill his shoes. His shoes were for him - his path, time and leg of the race. If I’m in his shoes then I’ve failed because I haven’t gone further than he has. I’m standing on his shoulders. He did so much work, and laid so much ground work and foundation that I shouldn’t have to repeat a lot of the things he did. One of the things he said to me several times privately and publicly that if i didn’t take Bayview further than he did, then I’ve failed. So if i’m going where he hadn’t gone I can’t be in his shoes. Q: You mentioned that for 5 to 6 years, Pastor Winters wanted you to “Win the Hearts of the People.” How do you do that? A: Just being you [me]. When he told
me what God placed on his heart for me, I asked him when he’d tell Bayview. He refused to tell me; he said he didn’t want to force me on them Otherwise, they’d resist. He just wanted to make sure I was prepared to be the best me I could be, and God will take care of the rest. Q: As far as pastor experience, you were serving at New Horizon in Lemon Grove, and The Tree of Life in Gary, Indiana. How have those experiences prepared you for being Senior Pastor of the Bayview Baptist Church. A: My first experience as a Pastor was in Indianapolis, IN at Mt. Gerizim Baptist Church, and I was fresh off of the football field. I don’t think I had ever preached two weeks in a row, but I was coming in because the current pastor had health issues and needed to retire. So I pastored through a transition there. I learned a lot of things from Pastor Jeffrey Johnson at Eastern Star Church in Indianapolis, who was a great leader, pastoring what we call a mega church. But, I learned how to be a son in the shadows, if that makes any sense. Without fighting for the spotlight, I had to function behind the scenes and be cool for a long time. I didn’t have a name anywhere in the country. I was was just Pastor Cato Brooks’ son or Dr. Donald Parson’s god-son. So everything that I’ve gone through prepared me to be here at Bayview.
Q: Describe your vision for Bayview, not the community but just Bayview? A: God has called Bayview to be the church of this community, city, state, nation, generation, millennium and every word you can think of that means God needs us now. And so my vision for Bayview is to be able to
serve people from different ethnicities, different generations, different economic social backgrounds, and educational backgrounds. That’s why ReClaim is so important. Q: Let talk about RECLAIM: taking back our faith, family, fellowship, finance and fitness how did it come about? A: I was sitting in a meeting in late 2013 and thinking about doing something in our neighborhood (particualarly the park) such as going and fixing it it, cleaning it up, painting it and just putting up a flag that said Reclaim. The more I thought on it the more I realized that this vision of Reclaim wasn’t just about a park; it was about people and reclaiming our entire existence. ReClaim isn’t just a Bayview Church thing, it’s also a personal thing. It will reach outside of Christiandom and the four walls of the church. For some people, they will need to reclaim all the categories under Reclaim and for some just certain areas. Building a community can’t happen without those things, without strong families, without fellowship, without faith, without finances, without fitness. You take away any of those and you diminish somebody’s quality of life. But if you’re hitting all cylinders in those categories you have the best quality of life that you can experience and that’s what it’s about; giving people a better quality life not about them joining Bayview or not about me being everybody’s Pastor. It’s about being an agent of change whereby everybody that we come into contact with and that we serve can have a better quality of life. Q: Was there any particular event or issue happening during this meeting that kinda sparked your thought process behind wanting to do something in the community?
A: Nope, it was just about me asking God exactly what He wanted me to do. Asking what exactly my purpose was for being here so I make sure that I’m always in his will.
Q: How long had you been single? A: Since the end of 2007 Q: So about 7 or 8 years? A: Yes, ma’am.
Q: How was it growing up as a PK (Preacher’s Kid) and did you envision this moment? A: It had its good times and bad times. Being able to meet so many people; to travel with my dad for revivals, conventions and conferences was great. I grew up around a lot of preacher’s kids. I had a lot of friends in that circle because it was safe. You had to watch who you were close to. You never knew who wanted to be your friend because of who your dad was or who you were. It was good being known in the city but it was also bad because everyone was watching you. It taught me alot about church to get a chance to tap into the generation before me. I was around for the gospel music explosion with the likes of James Cleveland and choirs. I received the chance to hear some of the greatest preachers ever. Such as my dad, Dr. Cato Brooks, Jr. my Godfather, Dr. Donald L. Parson, Dr. Frank Ray. I listend to Dr. C.A.W. Clark, Dr. C.L. Franklin, Dr. Clay Evans, Dr. Jasper Williams, Dr. E.K. Bailey, Dr. A. Lewis Patterson...you name it. I was a convention brat. And being around them also made me not want to be a pastor. I really had no desire to pastor a church bcause I saw also the hustle and bustle, the stress, the struggle. I saw how they had to work so hard for so little. So I really didn’t want to do it. Q: You were just married. Congratulations! A: Thank you!
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Q: You obviously knew, years before marrying that’d you’d be Senior Pastor of Bayview, correct? A: Yes. Q: So for other single pastors, how did you make your [wife] selection knowing the path before you? A: First of all, I didn’t make decisions by myself. Doc [Pastor Winters] helped me through a lot of this because I was willing to admit that I don’t know everything. I talked to Doc and was observant. I learned - from a male’s point-of-view - that there are a lot of good women out there. But just because they’re good women doesn’t make them the right person. So in selecting who God designed for me to marry, love wasn’t the only factor. There were two others: 1 - Who she was without me and 2 - Who we could become together. Mo’ puts me in a position to be a better me and who I am enables her to be a better her, so to speak. We’re better together. Q: What did you want to be other than a pastor? A: I wanted to play football and be an air traffic controller or meteorologist. When I attended Texas Southern, I majored in Air Way Science Management almost for nothing because I still ended up right here. I had my own plan but my dad and God were on the same page, so lesson learned. Q: How did you become a single parent?
When Jordan was born, his mother and I weren’t married. She lived in Houston, Texas. So maybe every four months, he would change where he was. He would stay in Houston for four months, then he’d be with me for four months. And this went on until he started Pre-K. It was about that time his mom was trying to go back to school and he was old enough to want to be with his dad. Even when he was in Houston, I’d fly down one weekend a month and hang out with him. So I was always there. Either he was with me or I was on my way to him because I wanted to be apart of his life. There was no other choice but for me to be his father. So when his mother wanted to go back to school and he wanted to make that change, we mutually agreed that it would be in his best interest to be with me. So in June 2004, we rode to the lawyer’s office together and I had custody of him. And its been that way ever since. Q: How did you get a date with Monique A: I don’t have a clue. I don’t remember. I do know that our first meeting was when I was still pastoring my previous church. When I got to Bayview, she was working with the youth and I was - not directly working with youth, but just involved because I’m drawn to young people and young people are drawn to me. And we were just cool; just friends. And I don’t even know how or when it turned into something different. I don’t remember. You can ask Monique, though. She’ll probably be reading this looking at it sideways like I should remember. But I’m old; I don’t remember stuff like that. I’m sorry. (laughs) Q: I commend you: not only were you a single father, but you were an African American single father, which is very rare. Now you have this blended family where you’re
now father of another son, Amarion. And while Jordan’s used to you, as his father, being pastor, Amarion is new to this. What steps do you take to help him adjust to this...new life, essentially, with all this front-row attention? Perhaps, even, scrutiny? A: Jordan does it. Jordan took it upon himself - lack of a better term - to show him the ropes. Jordan takes pride in being a big brother, setting an example and being a role model. And Amarion is very observant and intelligent; picking up fairly quickly. Jordan is a great leader, so it’s not really a big transition. Q: Being from Gary Indiana, what are some of your challenges you face as a Pastor in San Diego? A: Staying on the cutting-edge. Church culture changes so much faster than it did when I was growing up. Growing up all you needed was a church sign, musician and a pulpit and you had a church. And I’m learning you can’t just have good worship. In some places, as long as you have good church, you have a full church. But here, because of the many distractions, we have to make sure its ministry first. Ministries are what builds churches here not just “church.” You can go alot of places or turn on your phone, go on an app, turn on the internet or watch TV and get a great sermon. So it’s not just sermons and singing that draw people to church here. So the challenge is getting people to see that ministry matters the most. And that we shouldn’t be a personality-driven church; we should be a purpose driven church.
Family Matters: Mr. & Mrs. Brooks
The new Mrs. Monique Brooks and Pastor Terry Wayne Brooks wed in Carlsbad, California on Valentine’s Day 2015. Photography by Brigelle Henderson-Burties
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Mrs. Brooks escorted by her two sons (L to R): Jordan Brooks and Amarion Matthews
Close relatives and friends help the new Brooks family celebrate.
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(L to R): Keion Henderson (Pastor Brooks’ younger brother who also officiated the ceremony), Monique, Pastor Brooks, Felecia Henderson (Pastor Brooks’ sister-in-law)
Malcolm Willams (Pastor Brooks’ God-brother) sang a signature song he wrote called This Day.
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The Bride’s parents, Steven and Rhonda Beard.
The Groom’s parents, Dr. Cato and Bettye Brooks
Pastor Brooks and his brother, Keion Henderson, wore matching suits, pocket squares, shirt, flower, belt, socks, shoes and rings.
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Suit designed by Abraham Ndoye; Socks by Pink Las Vegas; Custom Shoes; Shirt by Robert Graham Mrs. Brooks’ Dress designed by Debra Roy; Hair by Rachelle Collins; Makeup by Dee Allen
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by Pricilla Watson | Edited by Zakkyya Williams
Cancer. As tiny cells grow abnormally and out of control, often times we do not know that something is wrong until enough growth has occurred to produce symptoms. The same way minuscule cancer cells rapidly grow, so can a small amount of debt. Typically, the irregular cells looming in the body are not discovered until the patient receives an x-ray. Similarly, small but unhealthy financial habits are not addressed until a financial overview is conducted. In both cases, when you’re finally aware that something is wrong, immediate action must be taken! Some people allow years to go by without objectively looking at their finances solely because they are able to make their minimum payments. However, like cancer, the longer they wait to take action to bring those habits under control, those small habits can grow into uncontrolled spending, which can grow into a consumer debt that financially kills them.
FINANCIAL CANCER SYMPTOMS No Budget - Financial cancer begins when a budget is not in place. Without a budget it’s simple to over spend, and once cash isn’t available it’s even easier to charge expenses to a credit card. “I’ll just put these shoes on my card,” “My car needs some repairs, but I have the money on my credit card.” It all adds up over time and before you know it you’re thousands of dollars in DEBT! Furthermore, making minimum payments is the “gotcha” for creditors—it’s how they make money. Making the minimum payment on a one thousand dollar credit card balance at 14% interest will take you approximately 10 years to pay off!
LIVING ABOVE MEANS Not only can financial cancer begin when a budget is not in place, but also it can begin when, due to the lack of a budget, money is not available for wants. We’re currently living in a time when denying ourselves, even for a moment, makes people uneasy. We want it now! Whatever the “it” is, a credit card can provide us what we want right now. After all, we deserve it. We work hard for our money. Tomorrow is not promised, I might as well live for today. Those are the very words that are used to justify living above our means. However, that thought process is one that can wreak havoc financially.
DIAGNOSIS Now that the symptoms have been identified, where do you stand? If you’ve determined that you have financial cancer, thankfully, you can reverse that diagnosis and live! Seek advice and create a financial plan with a finance counselor. This small step will begin the restoration process.
TREATMENT PRAY – Psalms 50:15! Pray, first and foremost, because you will need God to make you whole again! God speaks of money approximately 2500 times in the bible – it must be important to Him. Gather all your debts together and pray to ask God for forgiveness on how you’ve handled His money. And if you’re married, pray together. PLAN – Commit to a plan. Debt-stacking is a great plan of paying off the smallest debt first. Once the smallest debt is paid off, use those same dollars to pay off the next smallest debt. Repeat until all debt is
eliminated. Also, establish a check writing day(s). Take two days out of the month to pay all of your bills and debts. Call and change your payment due dates if it helps; that way money is distributed evenly out of your paychecks. Finally, start saving money, no matter how small, start.
PRACTICE The word practice means the activity is an ongoing pursuit or repetitious. Therefore, practice implementing your plan. Know that you are on your way to debt freedom. You can establish a debt-freedom date by determining the number of payments on your largest debt. The month and year your largest debt will be paid off is your debt freedom date. However, as you may know, God has a different calculation if you are faithful in your actions and your stewardship of His money—that debt freedom date may come sooner than you think. Hint: If you want to make a quantum leap to debt freedom – GIVE TO GOD FIRST – an offering or tithe! (Determine what you’ll give as a percentage of your income – it doesn’t matter what percentage you start with. He honors your commitment. Prayerfully, you can decide when you are ready to increase that percentage.) Like any illness, debt can cause stress, rob you of your joy, keep you from sleeping and steal your peace. But thank God He is the ultimate doctor! Need help? Contact Priscillla Watson at bayviewmoneysense@gmail.com.
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he love and bond between parents and children is incredibly strong. The unique tie distinguishes it from any other interpersonal relationship. As little kids, we become attached to our parents because they simply love us beyond all bounds, including our strengths and gifts; even our weaknesses and faults. We all desire to please our parents and use what they’ve taught us to become better people. But as we get older, we begin to develop our own sense of self through the meeting of new friends, social media and school sports and clubs. Even our parents become busy with the everyday struggles of being an adult…like work. With both of us living our own lives, sometimes our relationship with our parents can become strained. And with so many distractions, it can become hard to keep the bond we once shared with them as little kids. So, to help combat jacked up relationships, we’ve given just a few tips on how to improve them.
by Jourdyn Allison & Sydnee Howell
LESS LIP. MORE LOVE. Not everything has to be an argument; if you’re a child, it shouldn’t be. Hear one another out and you’ll see your relationship improve. HANG OUT. Ask your parent if he or she could spend a Saturday or Friday with you. We’re in San Diego, folks! There’s so much to do. Choose anyone of the million activities to do with your mom or dad. GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER. Try talking about likes and dislikes. You may find out something you didn’t know about them. And it’s kinda fun! GO DEEPER. Be open with them and talk about serious things like school, life, your relationship with them and how you want to improve, etc. USE YOUR MOBILE DEVICE. Try talking to your parents more often than usual on the phone by texting or calling. Video chat your father or mother if they are away on a business trip or over seas. Send an e-mail to your parent or-dare I say it-write a letter to them. You’d be surprised at how much your relationship can grow from utilizing everyday technology.
The Facebook I’ve been talking to my best friend that I’ve known since kindergarten. The conversation is going well, simple. We’ve discussed my grades in school, church, life at home, basic conversation starters. Then all of a sudden a new notification popped up on my page advertising some new event, “The Facebook Purge.” It reads, “Facebook Purge: You can say anything, expose any picture, expose anyone, tag whoever in whatever. Nobody is safe.” That’s when the chaos started. Notification after notification. Explicit pictures, personal conversations, embarrassing secrets, all posted. I keep scrolling shocked at how much I’ve already found out about the people you know, and then just when I’ve become sick to my stomach and am just about to log off for the night, an old enemy I used to be best friends with just so happens to have embarrassing pictures of me at a party, doing the most embarrassing thing I could’ve ever done. This party happened a year ago;I was younger and naive then and I had hoped that everyone had forgotten this by now. My life as I knew it is over, gone, never again will it be the same. How long has this been online? How many people have seen this? I scrolled once more to see 212 likes, 50 comments and 12 shares. My heart is pounding and my world has officially come crashing down. Bullying has been a worldwide problem since the beginning of ages. Bullying is the use of superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants. Bullying has gone from just teasing to creating something completely different and new to tar52| January/February/March/April - Issue 1 - 2015
get everyone that does not fit the “social standard”. After the release of the movie “The Purge,” on June 7, 2013, society has convinced teens that this movie sets some sort of “trend.” The bullying audience has become younger and younger by the years. In so many cases, youth are bullied under social media. Whether it is a video, a picture, a comment, or a threat it is illegal. There are many types of bullying besides cyber. Physical – hitting, kicking, pinching, punching, scratching, spitting or any other form of physical attack. Damage to or taking someone else’s belongings may also constitute as physical bullying. Verbal – name calling, insulting, making racist, sexist or homophobic jokes, remarks or teasing, using sexually suggestive or abusive language, and or offensive remarks Indirect – spreading nasty stories about someone, exclusion from social groups, being made the subject of malicious rumours, sending abusive mail, and email and text messages (cyber bullying). There are avenues to protect individuals from cyberbullying. Bullying itself needs to stop. It creates a bad environment for the youth, It impacts others emotionally, physically, and mentally, and brings negative attention to not only the bully but also the victim. Why should anyone be victimized? In 2011, there was a result of 2.2 million students who have at least seen someone being bullied if not bullied
themselves by others. Of those 9.1%, only 6.2% were victims of cyberbullying in 2009. This is an example of the habitual growth of bullying in the last couple of years. Further more, 71.9% reported being cyber bullied once or twice a week, and 3.1% reported almost everyday. Studies also show that 90% of 4th through 8th graders report being victims of bullying in their classrooms.Cyber Bullying, verbal bullying, verbal bullying, and physical attacks affect teens every day and if this continues, then whos to say the next generation won’t be exposed to this. Our job as followers of Jesus Christ our Lord and savior is to aid those in need and ward off those who intend to harm any and everything. There has been several cases where bullying has gotten out of hand and witnesses have been able to stop it, but just as quickly as they were able to stop it was just as quick as they were too late. Braylee Rice, a 14 year old girl of Marion, Indiana, was yet another victim of bullying. Braylee had many talents all of include art and musical talents which earned her seveal awards and being chosen as runner-up twice for designing a christmas card for the city or Marion. May 6, 2013 was unfortunately Braylee’s last day here with us on this Earth. Braylee left in the middle of class at 8:45am after being told to “go kill herself.” She was later found at 10:17am hanging, rope around her neck, from the bleachers. Jennifer Smith, the mother
Purge by Mallory and Morgan Webb
of one of the students who attended McCulloch Junior High School with Braylee, was standing not to far from the bleachers and spotted Rice on the bleachers. He heard a loud noise and then saw her body hanging, she added, saying: “He seen it, he seen the whole process.” Although this is one of those most shocking and terrible stories I have heard myself, lamentably it never ends. Bullying has began in premature ages, move through grade school, maneuvered its way towards high school and now its even in colleges. College is probably the last place one would expect bullying to occur but you are sorely mistaken. I’m sure most people think of joining a sorority or fraternity when they enroll into college. They want to enjoy college life as a freshman and have fun but “fun” isn’t at all what some college sororities advertise. In 2002, two students, Kristen High and Kenitha Saafir were pledging Alpha Kappa Alpha at California State University, Los Angeles and were allegedly forced to do hours of exercise and then told to walk backwards into the ocean. When a wave swept Saafir out to sea, High after to Saafir help, knowing Saafir couldn’t swim. The rough waves drowned both girls. After this tragic event occurred, the Alpha Kappa Alpha chapter was cut and no longer sanctioned by the college. Restitution was paid for the loss of their daughters to both families. A spokesperson for CSU said the school had not even recognized an AKA chapter since 1989, a fact confirmed by the sorority’s national headquarters.
Bullying has no age limit. As people who are apart of the body of christ, God said “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.” Ezekiel 36:26-27
Sources: http://www.meganmeierfoundation.org/statistics.html http://www.bustle.com/articles/16574-10-sorority-rush-hazing-horror-stories-that-will-make-you-think-twice-about-pledging
Money Sense for Teens Money-management skills, like manners, are not inborn. Children develop these and other good habits by learning from those closest to them. Money sense for teenagers, below, provides three topics to talk with your teen; While you do not want to burden them with your money worries but showing your teenager what rent or a car loan really costs goes a long way.
TIP ONE: When a favorite store catalog or flyer comes in the mail sit down with your teenager and browse through it. Use this time to explain how “needs” should be met before “want” can be considered.
TIP TWO: When it’s time to pay your monthly bills have your teenager help. Not only will he/ she get an understanding of what rent, car loans and insurance costs but this will give you an opportunity to explain how to meet this financial responsibility in an organized fashion.
TIp THREE: Remember to praise when your teenager reaches a financial goal. Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator. When your teenager sets a financial goal (like saving enough for his own TV or video game) and then has earned them money or saved is the prize. Proverbs 21:5 “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty” Written by: Marie Herndon Edited by: Michael Kemp
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If you haven’t heard the name Warren Preston, familiarize yourself quickly. Former NCAA football athlete turned coach is poised to be the face of media highlighting the best high school athletes. His company National Sports Report (NSR) is already ranked, second only to Youth One. NSR consistently averages 2K hits per day. Let’s see how Mr. Preston developed the playbook of his life.
Warren Preston’s Journey to Media and Coaching Success by Crystal Irving
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Sports and Media First Quarter When Mr. Preston enters a room, his sense of command dominates it. Though small in stature, Mr. Preston’s energy fills the room. His influence and confidence speaks volumes. As a young black man hailing from Washington, DC., he reflectively speaks about his upbringing. Warrant Preston was raised with a strong Christian influence. Both of his parents were active in various ministries of the church. His mother served as a Missionary and his father served as a Deacon. From this union, two sons were born, Preston, and his brother. Some assume that having a churchgoing and Bible believing family would grant an automatic waiver for familial crises. However, Mr. Preston has had his fair share of adversity as a child. He painfully recalled the day his father left him and his family. Mr. Preston was raised predominately by his mother. He looks back and smiles thinking about how they were financially “broke,” as Mr. Preston stated, but his mother never allowed them to feel that way. Second Quarter “Football probably saved my
life.” Mr. Preston went on to further explain how there were many opportunities to become involved with the
professional aspirations ever wants to face. He suffered a back injury that ended his entire football career. At
wrong crowd and “catch a case” while growing up in Washington D.C. He played high school football, which later presented him the opportunity to play football at the collegiate level. He attended and played football for Florida A & M University. Mr. Preston recognized that his small stature created an additional barrier to entering the National Football League (NFL), but he was determined to play the sport that he had fallen so deeply in love with. During his sophomore year of college, Mr. Preston was tackled by a challenge that no student athlete with
this moment, he realized that in spite of how hard he worked thus far, his dreams of being that NFL star came to a complete halt. Third Quarter It appeared to most that Mr. Preston was down at the half. What appeared to be a comeback, turned out to bring about its own set of contested calls. In 1993, Mr. Preston was offered an opportunity that took him from the Sunshine State to the Golden State. He landed a coveted internship in Los Angeles, CA. There he fell in love and later moved
to San Diego. Mr. Preston became involved in the street life around the time he began coaching football for boys ages 8-12. Drugs and guns were not foreign to him. He was making decisions that he was not proud of. There came a pivotal moment in Mr. Preston’s life. He recalled that he was in his car with a friend and two guns and over 80 pounds of marijuana in his car. He was ranting and raving about the disservice that a television network targeted towards African Americans and how the channel constantly perpetuated negative. His friend threw a flag on the play and asked, “What are you doing to make the world a better place?” His response was nothing. He realized that he did not want to let those kids or his own children down. He had reached a crossroad and realized that the lifestyle he lived in the streets would never yield freedom or happiness. It was first and ten and Mr. Preston regained possession of his life. He began to place all of his energy into encouraging, inspiring and mentoring young boys. He considers his coaching as a method of ministering to the young men. He Continued on pg. 60
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by Abigail Gonzalez
Let me settle this matter once and for all!!! There is no such thing as being “fat and fit.” Carrying an extra 20, 30, or 40 pounds is NOT fit. Someone who isn’t physically fit is increasing the stress level on their joints and escalating the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Merely thinking you are healthy, but not, will not work out for you in the long run. To be fit is to be in good physical condition and health. And while the general public would believe a person whose body- fat percentage is extremely low or being thin in the waist and thick around the legs, would suffice as physical fitness, it is not either. Being in good physical
condition is simply having a weight and body-fat percentage that balances a person’s height and age. I’ve heard people socially throw around the phrase “fat and sexy” when speaking of their appearance. While I commend their positive feeling about themselves, having a high self-esteem of a bad habit is not OK. Losing a few pounds will help improve mood swings (which some of us can use), reduce anxiety, and build up motivation to do other things that you could not have handled before (primarily due to being overweight). As a personal trainer, I’ve heard so many people make excuses for their obesity. However, your personal thoughts on fitness does not line up to true fitness by any means. Losing a few extra pounds will not make you less sexy.
You can still have your sexiness, but working out aims to make you healthier and bring you to a body fat percentage that is more suitable for your height and age. Losing weight is to help balance your blood sugar and blood pressure. Becoming fit is another way to help you eat better and remain consistent. Balancing your meals and watching your calorie intake of food can be just step one in living a healthier life style. Let us not settle for “fat and fit.” Let us get fit all the way.
instills Christian values into the boys without shoving bible verses down their throats. He allows the principles of God’s word to lead him. The National Sports Report (NSR) is an AP outlet that seeks to shine a spotlight on those exceeding in football. They feature a list of All-American Players, as well as the top 100 high school seniors and top 50 high school juniors exceling in football across the county. Fourth Quarter Mr. Preston has established himself as an amazing football coach with multiple dimensions. He is excited to see where football will lead the young men he coaches. He stresses education to his young men and believes that higher education is particularly important for African American males. He ingrains in the young men that education is the most important element of college. He is realistic with them about the probability of being drafted by the NFL. He encourages the youth to use football as the vehicle to get an education and become productive citizens. Mr. Preston noted that his favorite element of the job is seeing the young men’s progress through their involvement in the program. He beamed with pride as he told a story of a young man he coached who was battling cerebral palsy. The young man came to him and said, “Coach, I have cerebral palsy.” Coach Preston responded, “Are you gonna use that as an excuse to fail?” and turned around and walked away. Mr. Preston smiled and stated that he was the toughest player. He hopes to instill the message that no excuse for failure is acceptableno matter what the goal is.
very present family man. As a single father raising three boys, he strived to parent them in a manner that praised their accomplishments and pushed them to become even greater. Mr. Preston has great goals for the National Sport Report (NSR) www.nsrfootball.com currently gets approximately 2000 hits per day. On February 25, 2015, Mr. Preston launched the NSR radio show, in conjunction with “BayPrz Radio” and the “Never Had It So Good network.” He is looking to expand the traveling league of football teams in the near future, and aspires to have representation in every major city across the contiguous United States of America. When kicking a field goal from that distance, it is inevitable that Mr. Preston would face his set of challenges. He is a Black man in a field of predominately white men. While he does not use this as an excuse to fail, the winds of this challenge means he must kick with even greater power and accuracy, as it affects the growth and development of NSR. Mr. Preston desires to inspire and motivate youth to use their talents and abilities for the greater good. He had developed an original life motto, which is “Remember to always be patient and let the play develop.” He acknowledges that football is a dance and someone moving too fast or not fast enough can interrupt the rhythm. He stresses the need to work on positioning oneself to be ready for greatness. Clearly, his life motto is a mantra for his success. Keep up the good work, Mr. Warren Preston. The community is rooting for you!
Not only is Mr. Preston an upstanding coach and mentor to the young men he coaches, but he is also a 60| January/February/March/April - Issue 1 - 2015
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