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P u b l i s h e r & E d i t o r - i n - C h i e f Te r i Wa s h i n g t o n
HARVEST EXECUTIVE EDITOR George Washington ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Renee Buford COPY EDITOR Deneise Bradley PHOTO EDITOR Darnell Gourdine FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS Keith Douglas FEATURE NEWS EDITOR Dominque Robinson INSPIRIATION HEALTH + FITNESS EDITOR Pamela Turner Advertising Sales Kevin Counts George Washington
Cover Photo Dianna L. Taylor Courtesy of Hairston Family
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contributors| Dr. Stanley J. Gorrell is a prophetic visionary - a servant
soldier with an apostolic assignment who thirsts after the very heart of God. Dr. Gorrell accepted his divine charge to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world at the age of fourteen. Dr. Gorrell is joined in life, love, and ministry by his wife, the elegant Elect Lady Yolanda Gorrell. Together, they are prophetically leading and serving the flock of God. www.stanleygorrellministries.org http://info@nextdimensiontabernacle.org
Assignment: Real Men Worship
Rev. George M. Washington a Levite and Pastor
of The Shofar Church in Brooklyn, NY. Pastor George is an accomplished business man- President of So Deep Inside Records, Executive Director of HARVEST Magazine and GMW Men’s Clothier where he provides consulting services by appointment only.. @PastorGeorge
Assignment:
Rules of The Well-dressed Man
Keith Douglas is the author of The Power to Get Wealth: No Money Required to purchase a copy or get booking information visit www. KeithDouglas.org
Assignment:
The Power to Get Wealth
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EXPECT THE HARVEST | editor’snote
Break the Silence Every father has a God givien responsibility to speak life into their children. More often than not men knowingly or unknowingly propituate the cycle of silence in their homes. Since women are known to be more vocal leaving most men unable to get a word in edge-wise, often men yield their responsibility of giving instruction. Ask any man today if he believes he could have avoided some mistakes if a father or mentor would have given him direction, they would say yes. And yet, gang violence is still growing in some areas, unwed pregnancies and prison growth is still at an all time high. The bible says, “My people are destroyed because of the lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6) This means that what you don’t know is killing you. It’s time to break the silence and speak into the lives of our sons and daughters, so that mistakes can be avoided. There is also a famous quote that states, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” I would amend that quote to say “Those who don’t vocalize or share their history, the next generation is condemned to repeat it. If you are the silent type, make it a point to share all the knowledge you have from all of your experiences good or bad. It will break the cyle of silence and ultimately destroy the enemy. We caught up with J.J. Hairston and found out that he is doing everything he can to make sure the silence he experience as a boy remains broken with his family. Also, we are breaking the cycle of poor health. Never before have I heard so many men in their 40s suffering from heart attacks, high blood pressure or diabetes. In this issue you’ll find heart heathly information for men to follow at every age. Make sure you’re not a statistic. This father day make an appointment for your husband, dad, brother, son or father to get a physical. Make it a group event and purpose to live a long life together. 1Corinth 14:8
Teri Washington Publisher & Editor-in-Chief HARVEST | JUNE 2012 7
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OUR NEWS Pastor takes Radical Steps to Take back the’hood’ Spending 94 days atop a motel roof in the dead of a Chicago winter was only Phase 1 of Pastor Corey Brooks’ plan to build a community center. Now, he’s hitting the pavement. The Pastor of New Beginnings Church of Chicago will walk across America in an effort to raise awareness of the epidemic of gun violence all over America and to raise $15 million to fund the Project H.O.O.D. Community Center in Woodlawn. Woodlawn and Englewood have been the epicenter for much of Chicago’s murderous violence. In 2011, Pastor Brooks lamented over the violence that claimed the 17-year-old son of two of his congregants. When gunfire broke out directly outside the church at the time of the wake, Brooks knew he must do something to end the violence which had caused him to officiate over the funeral services of 10 young men age 25 and under in that year alone. He set out on a mission to bring awareness to the epidemic of gun violence in Chicago’s Woodlawn and Englewood areas through a vigil in a tent on the roof of the abandoned motel for a total of 94 days. “I believe God put me on Earth to bring attention to violence in inner cities,” Brooks says. Brooks’ rooftop stand atop a decrepit motel that was a haven for drugs and prostitution drew national attention, as well as visits from politicians and dozens of Occupy Chicago protesters. In the end, a pledge of $100,000 from movie mogul Tyler Perry provided the final push for reaching the pastor’s goal of raising $450,000 to buy and demolish the abandoned den. In Phase 2 of his effort, Pastor Brooks will walk from Times Square New York to the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA to raise $15 million dollars to build a community center where the motel once stood. Funds raised for Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) Walk Across America will be used to combat four societal ills as identified by Brooks: social, economic, educational and spiritual. “We believe drastic things have to be done, and we’ve got to be creative if we want to eliminate violence,” Brooks says. Project H.O.O.D. Walk Across America will take to the road by foot on June 5, 2012. If you want to join our March to End Violence, go to http://projecthood.org
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vanity Clean Shaven Get a barbershop quality shave every time. Nearly every time I give a client a shave in my barber salon, the guy almost always says something like, “I wish I could give myself a shave like this at home.” In reality, it is quite simple to get a barbershop quality shave every morning in the privacy of your own bathroom. Simply follow my three proven steps for how shave your face properly.
STEP 1: PREP. This step is the most important and overlooked part of the shaving process. A good prep cleanses the skin, opens the pores, and softens the skin. To prepare the skin for a smooth shave, always shave after or at the end of a hot shower. This will soften the beard and open the pores. In a pinch, a hot towel and splash of water can be used. Always use a high quality shave cream (look for those that are glycerine based) and stay away from products that contain menthol, which can close your pores and stiffen your beard. For those with especially tough beards or sensitive skin, a Pre Shave Oil may be applied to further soften the beard and reduce razor drag. When applying the shave cream, use a badger shaving brush to apply the cream in a circular motion. This action will help produce a better lather, lift the whiskers, and gently exfoliate the skin.
STEP 2: SHAVE Two of the leading causes of ngrown hairs and razor burn are poor lubrication and dull blades. Step one provides tips for proper lubrication, but a good blade is also essential to a close, comfortable shave. I recommend using a three blade razor such as the 12 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
Gillette Mach3 Turbo. Make sure to always use a sharp blade. With your free hand, hold the area of skin to be shaved taut and glide the razor gently over your face. Avoid applying pressure, rinse your blade often, and shave with the grain. If you require a closer shave, relather and shave lightly against the grain. If you nick yourself, apply a moist alum block or styptic pencil to stop bleeding.
STEP 3: REPAIR AND PROTECT. After shaving, always close the pores with a rinse of cool water. Gently pat the face dry with a soft cloth and apply a good aftershave balm. I don’t recommend using products that contain alcohol, as they can cause unnecessary drying of the skin. The right aftershave balm will help promote quicker healing and moisturize the skin. There’s no magic secret to getting a great shave. Just follow the steps above every morning and put your best face forward. Dave Alexander has been About.com’s Guide to Men’s Hair since 2008. He is a licensed master stylist who has been cutting men’s hair for nearly two decades and has trained barbers and stylists across the country.
gifts for him American Steerhide iPad Case Urban cowboys will go giddyup for an iPad case in Tennessee tanned– steer-hide leather. To buy: $159, orvis.com
Every Gentlemen needs a shaving kit. We found Van Der Hagen Luxury Save Set for $10 at Amazon.com Each kit comes with Hypo-Allergenic Shave Soap an d Boar Bristle Shave Brush.
Sneak Dad’s iPhone away for a few minutes and surprise him with a photobook. apple.com
Hex Black Tour Golf Balls Frustrated golfer in your home? Not this season. These tour-rated golf balls make a hefty promise of controlled distance off the tee combined with a soft feel and high spins on the greens.
These large porcelain novelty mugs with knuckle duster / brass knuckle shaped handles will ensure your coffee packs a serious punch. http://www.thabto.co.uk
To buy: $46, callawaygolf.com.
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RULES
By George M. Washington
of the
Well-dressed Gentlemen
F
irst let me start by saying, all style is relative. Some people will disagree with what I’ve deemed as good style. As you can imagine, there is no single list of men’s dress rules that are comprehensive and absolute. The following are a set of rules that I stand by. There are some rules that are immutable, such as the one that a man should match the metal of the bit on his loafer with the buckle on his belt with the metal on his suspenders with the buttons on his blazer with the metal of his cufflinks. Then there are some rules that have exceptions, such as the rule that a man’s socks should match the color of his pants. However meticulous, the rules are derived from a variety of sources including tradition, classic rules of men’s dress, common sense and personal taste. 14 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
RULE #1 The Well-
Any good ensemble is built
and save the baggy look for
dressed man has five suits
on a fine pair of shoes.
your sportswear.
RULE #6 The purpose of
RULE #11 Thou shall
wearing French cuffs and
not wear a tie without a
cuff links are to be shown.
jacket. If done so, he will
Your jacket sleeve should
run the risk of looking like
be the appropriate length
a waiter at TGI Fridays.
in his wardrobe, black, navy blue, grey flannel, exotic (color or print), and a clasic black tuxedo for formal occasions. RULE #2 Never wear a tie and pocket square of the same pattern. This is were you can have fun with color.
to display them. RULE #7 Never button all three buttons of a three button jacket. Sometimes the top, always the middle
RULE #3 Never wear your
and never, ever, ever, the
suit too big. If you want
bottom.
to strut lose your gut. It’s important to get your suit tailored to fit, even if it’s off the rack. RULE #4 The well-dressed man never wears a suit jacket that has more than eight buttons. Different is not always good. RULE #5 It is impossible for a man to be considered well-dressed if his shoes are in poor taste or of noticeably poor quality.
RULE #12 Never wear suspenders (braces) without a jacket., and wear those that utilize buttons, not clips. RULE #13 A Well-dressed gentlemen always has his
RULE #8 Purchase V-neck
shoes shined.
t-shirts , crew necks are not
RULE #14 Your attire is
appropriate underneath
incomplete if your jacket
dress shirts.
pocket does not contain a
RULE #9 The well-dressed man always wears his suit jacket until the end of the event. The only exception would be to wrap it around your lady if she’s cold.
pocket square. RULE #15 Only carry a cotton white handkerchief in your pants pocket for wiping perspiration. Finally, just remember different
RULE #10 Always wear
does not always mean proper.
the proper neck size in
Classic attire is best. I’d love to
dress shirts. Have someone
hear your comments
measure you if you need to
Facebook.com @pastorgeorge HARVEST | JUNE 2012 15
Janice Gaines – One Day Within hours of servicing, “One Day” was added to Sirius XM’s Praise channel. Additionally, Janice Gaines has conducted several radio interviews about the single in markets across the nation. The momentum continues to build as people hear, and find healing in, a song that places everything into eternal perspective. “I’m overwhelmed by the response to this song,” shares Gaines. “It was simply a chorus that blessed me in my quiet time, so it’s incredible to see how it is instantly resonating with people across the country.” “One Day” is co-written by Gaines, Dwan Hill and Alvin Love III, and is the lead single from Janice Gaines’s debut album, to be released this Fall, but you can pick up the single now on iTunes.
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Lisa Page Brooks – Better than Life In a time when musical originality in artists has given way to constant duplication, Lisa Page Brooks stands as one of the most recognizable voices in the gospel music industry today. Her second cd Better than Life is due in stores on August 28, 2012
Danita Haddon Anticipation She’s back bolder and better than ever.. Her latest single, “I Won’t Turn Back” is already a radio favorite with the full album release on July 24,2012
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bookshelf
What Every Man wishes His Father Had Told Him by Byron Yawn
A Leader after God’s Own Heart The Bible is filled with amazing people, and Nehemiah stands out prominently among them. What made him so effective, so influential? It starts with knowing what God desires in a leader. From Nehemiah’s example, readers will learn 15 ways to lead with purpose.
Every man encounters significant struggles in life--struggles that result in poor choices and decisions. Frequently these mistakes can be traced back to a common problem--a father who (even unintentionally) failed to provide counsel or a positive role model.
The Truth About Money Lies by Russ Crosson and Kelly Talamo
Through the use of everyday stories about men and women who wrestle with spending decisions everyone faces, the authors expose the lies involved and give truth principles based on the Bible to refute the lies. Common lies include: ·
10 percent is God’s, 90 percent is mine, I can’t afford to give, My security is in my investments, My talents and abilities produce my wealth, The harder I work, the more money I make
Readers will be better equipped to manage money, make informed financial decisions, and use their money wisely as they replace the common money lies they’ve been taught with the truth of the Bible. 18 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
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Request rates at info@harvestmagazine.net With over 1000,000 readers and subscribers to date, HARVEST will help you reach your target audience. Contact us today for ad rates.
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Letters to My Son or heard. Love, Your Dad Dear Owen, Management is what you do when you can’t lead people. Love, Your Dad. Dear Owen, Many will tell you to invest your money in this or that. I will tell you that you’re greatest investment is in yourself. Develop and hone your talents, interests and abilities. These are your greatest assets and you can be sure of their return more so than any bond, home, or stock dividend. Love, Your Dad.
When his son was born Christopher R. Goldsbury felt it was his responsibility to make sure he told him everything about life. Chris started writing letters to his son everyday. Here are a few: Dear Owen, Problems, handled in the right way, can be opportunities. When you find yourself in a difficult situation..flip your thinking upside down. Stop worrying for a moment and ask yourself how you can make this into an opportunity.In time this will become fun and you’ll do it automatically. Love, Your Dad. Dear Owen, People want stuff all the time. They judge each other by the stuff they have or don’t have. It’s hard to be more than just human…but I would encourage you to seek your enjoyment from non-material things as much as you can. Don’t base your worth and your principles on the transient nature of this world. Find solace and meaning in the things that aren’t seen, felt,
Dear Owen, Explore. You’ll regret the things you don’t go after. Worry less about the outcome of your explorations and more about the experience. What you’re seeking is knowledge. Knowledge of yourself and others. As your insight grows your path will become clear. Love, Your Dad. Dear Owen, You’re not complete, perfect or finished. You never will be. When someone says you can’t do something because you’re not good enough at it; do it anyway.What we hear we forget, what we see we remember, what we do….we understand. You’ll internalize and grow by *DOING*. Try many things, healthy things, productive things. Immerse yourself in action and being. Find the things that synchronize with your heart.Each first attempt will usually be bad. But try again and again. If it gets easier and easier…then you may be good at that thing. If it stays hard…then its not for youLove, Your Dad. We also found this adaption from Kent Nerburn In an attempt to gather what wisdom he could to guide his son into adulthood, Kent Nerburn published a powerful collection of essays that touched the hearts of parents and children everywhere.
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Here’s what a few people are saying about TAKEOFFTHEMASK: “My woman’s group in Florida just comleted your book TAKE OFF THE MASK and I must say, what a bessing! We took our time goin through each chapter, discussing each point and applying it to our lives. There is so much truth in your book, and I am so glad you allowed God to use you in this way to reach so many people.”
“Over the past few years I’ve been suffering from depression, but in the most recent months it began to cripple me. Thank God for your book, TAKE OFF THE MASK. After reading it God has delivered me from depression.”
“My professor used your book in my seminary class. I was so blessed by your transparency, I would love for you to speak at my event.” Experience TAKE OFF THE MASK for yourself. Get your coy today facebook/Takeoffthemask. It’s not just a book it’s a movement! 22 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
wealth
Natural vs Supernatural by Author Keith Douglas, The Power to Get Wealth: No Money Required In today's society most people miss out on the supernatural gifts that they possess. The reason being is that most people do not understand the difference between the two. I would like to get straight to the point so that believers can take advantage of these gifts that are just waiting for them. The bible tells us in First Corinthians 2:14 "But the natural man receiveth not the the gifts of the spirit of God: for they are foolishness to him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned." Now we see here the word tells us that the natural man do not receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. There are gifts you are missing out on simply because of your natural thinking. The word tells us in Romans 12:2 "Be not conformed to this world, but ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..." We see that our mind must be renewed in order to receive the supernatural gifts that we possess. I guess by now you may be wondering, what is the difference between the two. It's very simple. Natural means within your ability, supernatural means outside of your ability. Man works in the natural. God operates in the supernatural. In order for God to be able to work for you, he must be able to work through you. So it's very important that we let go and let God. Every human being possesses natural gifts, but those gifts are tied to what we do naturally in the world. The supernatural gifts come directly from God himself and once God reveals the supernatural to you, then you will begin to know that he is our Jehovah Jireh (provider). It has nothing to do with you. However, we must be obedient by allowing ourselves to decrease in order for God to increase in our life. Once you understand these principles, the revelation of the scripture becomes a reality. This is why God said in his word in First Corinthians 2:9, "Eye have not seen, nor ear heard , nor has it entered into the heart of man, the thing which God hath prepared for them that love him." (Supernatural) He also said he'll give us houses we didn't build, wells we didn't dig.(Supernatural) So now we see God's supernatural gift has nothing to do with our natural ability. The bible tells us in Romans 8:26 "... we know not what we should pray for." So starting today, humble yourself. Thank God for the natural gifts he's given you and use them to your full ability but know that there is a supernatural power that we possess as believers. So start using what is rightfully yours today. To purchase a copy of The Power to Get Wealth: No Money Required or get booking information visit www.KeithDouglas.org
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Principles of Giving Principle 1. Jesus instructed His disciples to “come aside by yourselves to a deserted place
and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). The first step in determining your giving plan is to get alone with Jesus. Unless you hear His still, small voice, you cannot take the second step profitably. Principle 2. Mark 6:24 tells us that when Jesus returned, He saw a great multitude and “was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd.” The second principle is that our plan must not become our god. Jesus planned to go away to a quiet place with His men; but when He saw the needs of so many, His plan changed. Rigid, unalterable commitment to any plan is a serious mistake. Allow God to work in and around your plan. Consider it to have been written in the sand, and give God the opportunity to wash it clean and say, “Start over.”
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Principle 3. In Mark 6:35-36, Jesus’ disciples suggest that the crowd be sent away so they could buy food before it gets too late. What’s wrong with this advice? Nothing really – it is practical and logical. Even so, it is wrong because it is not in accordance with what Jesus intended. The point is, do not look merely at what is practical when it comes to giving. Let God do things His way in His time. Furthermore, realize that worldly advice may be logical but not necessarily right or Godly.
Principle 6. Of course, it was a miracle; all the people ate and were filled, with 12 baskets of leftovers. The results of operating according to a faith plan are that the goals will be reached, God will be glorified, and personal growth will result. You would at least expect the disciples to grow in their faith, but then you read Mark 6:51-52. The disciples were on a boat in the middle of the lake, when here comes Jesus walking on the water toward them. “And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. For they had not understood about the loaves, because their hearts were hardened.” It seems unbelievable that the disciples would react that way, but they did.
Principle 4. Next Jesus instructs His men to have the people sit down. That really makes little sense, because they had no food to feed them. But they obeyed Him nonetheless. The principle here is that we must obey God, no questions My challenge to you is not to leave asked. If God says to give, then give. God out of your plan for giving. Don’t close your mind to what may look like Principle 5. The disciples tell the people impossible goals; do not miss the miracle. to sit down (v. 40). Three elements were present that are always present in a faith God simply wants you to take the first step. plan: (1) The disciples could not see how Then you can take the second, and the the people would be fed; likewise, we third. As a result, your giving can bring joy may not see how our financial goal can be to you and pleasure to God, so that when accomplished. (2) They did not have the you stand before Him, you will hear Him resources to meet their objective, which say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” may also be the case with our financial plan. (3) They did not know the next step to take - Russ Crosson to fulfill God’s plan. In the same way, our Adapted from everydaysteward.com faith plan may require action we don’t fully understand. That’s why it is called a faith plan.
Estate Planning 101
1. No matter your net worth, it's important to have a basic estate plan in place. Such a plan ensures that your family and financial goals are met after you die. 2. An estate plan has several elements. They include: a will; assignment of power of attorney; and a living will or health-care proxy (medical power of attorney). For some people, a trust may also make sense. When putting together a plan, you must be mindful of both federal and state laws governing estates.
3. Taking inventory of your assets is a good place to start. Your assets include your investments, retirement savings, insurance policies, and real estate or business interests. Ask yourself three questions: Whom do you want to inherit your assets? Whom do you want handling your financial affairs if you're ever incapacitated? Whom do you want making medical decisions for you if you become unable to make them for yourself? Most stationary stores have estate documents that you can fill out and get notarized. HARVEST | JUNE 2012 25
Real
M
Men
who God is. In St. John 4:24, it is stated that God is a spirit and they that worship Him en have been coached for must worship Him in spirit and in truth. A generations to have a rough, person cannot fully come to that destination manly exterior. Because of unless there is true intimacy with God. this tradition, the sensitive, They must have an encounter where they intimate, and worship side of men has become experience the glory of God up close and increasingly suppressed. Men go throughout personal. By allowing your spirit to become life attending worship services with the completely vulnerable to him, you can then perception that they can not be susceptible experience truth in your worship encounter. or open to God and His presence. While they may have been taught that the definition of a The Bible gives us an example of a Real real man is not to show any emotion and be Man of worship in the Life of David. David a provider for their families, some men have was not afraid to dance out of his clothes not come to the understanding that God seeks and really seek after the Lord (2Samuel 6:15a man that can become intimate with Him 23). David was considered to be a man after without restrictions. Some men tend to view God’s own heart. It is extremely difficult to worship as a sign of weakness but rather it is a be after God’s heart if you don’t know His strength. heart. David understood the importance of “knowing” God is another way to express People tend to think that worship has intimacy. Even when David messed up, he a certain look or sound but that is not the understood how to get back to God and was case. Worship is a posture and lifestyle. True still considered a true worshipper. worship is not a wave of the hand, crying, As a leader in your household and or slow music. People have gotten that in ministry it is important to understand misconception. A true worshiper realizes that the true essence of worship as David did. they are reverencing and giving honor to God. Reverencing God positions you to receive True worshippers respect and acknowledge the tools needed to become effective leaders,
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Worship by Dr. Stanley J. Gorrell
fathers, husbands, etc. When a man can truly love and worship God he can love his wife, children, and people appropriately. A real man does not mind worshiping the Almighty, because he recognizes the importance of true intimacy. Intimacy does not have to be forced on him. When a God-fearing man genuinely loves God, he has no difficulty expressing his genuine love and compassion for people. A man that can worship is the epitome of who a “real man” is. Men need to be released from the mindset that has restricted them from a true worship experience with God. True worship can unlock some doors and opportunities that some men would never think possible, leading to increased and strengthened faith. The increase comes because you have recognized who God really is in all the splendor of his majesty. Some men, sad to say, will never experience true worship because of the traditional teachings from their fathers, influence from their peers, and ideas they imitate because of their exposure to society. As men begin to work towards breaking traditions and changing their mindsets, then will they be able to let go of their hard
exteriors and truly worship God.
There are real men out there that really believe in worship and have a heart for the things of God. These real men are encouraged to stress the importance of worship and to continue to be an example to other men. Men need to see that grown men do cry out to God. Holding back from being vulnerable or sensitive to God and His move will hinder the progress of a person’s life. Real men understand the importance of being kingdom-minded and have the heart to bring other men to a place of elevation in their worship experience and contribute to breaking the traditions. I encourage every man that may read this to become a man after God’s heart, learn the heartbeat of God, become intimate with God, and do those things that cause you to be the epitome of a real man. Let true worship be your motivating force to becoming a better husband, father, leader, and ultimately real man.
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Request rates at info@harvestmagazine.net With over 1000,000 readers and subscribers to date, HARVEST will help you reach your target audience. Contact us today for ad rates.
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Photo Credit Dianna L. Taylor Courtesy of Hairston Family
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J.J. HAIRSTON THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC by Teri Washington HARVEST | JUNE 2012 31
F
or the last decade, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise have been making a name for themselves creating a signature brand of modern gospel music. With themes of praise, declaration and thanksgiving, JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise makes music people love to sing. As Youthful Praise’s director, songwriter, arranger and producer, Hairston has written, produced and led the choir since its beginnings in 1992 in Bridgeport, CT. Since releasing their first album in 2001, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise have garnered critical acclaim and numerous Stellar Award nominations for their blend of memorable praise and worship with traditional choir harmonies. With their highest Billboard CD debut AFTER THIS. Hairston offers songs that are expressions of God’s complete greatness and power. The album’s current success has been driven by the top-10 title track, “After This,” a rousing and energetic song of victory and encouragement. Featured artist include Bishop Hezekiah Walker, James Fortune, Lashaun Pace, Bishop John P. Kee, Bishop Eric McDaniels and other notable greats. “I’m so glad that people are responding to the work we’ve done.” Hairton says. Hairston was inspired to write 10 of the 12 songs after listening to a series of sermons by Bishop TD Jakes. “I listened to messages by Bishop TD Jakes for about a month straight, so a lot of those declarative messages came from sermons that I heard him teach. For instance the ballad “Now,” was inspired from a message called, “The Now Moment” and features label-mate James Fortune. The song beautifully speaks to believing in what we ask God for – standing on faith that God will do what He says He’ll do, “The Blood,” featuring LaShun Pace and “The Victor,” led by Melissa Bell was inspired by a preaching series called “The Blood Speaks”. Both songs declare the victory in Jesus despite the nature of the battle.” Hairston adds, “I am not only inspired by Bishop Jakes messages but by his life and his example that he has given to us.” J.J. Hairston Husband and Father..... A positive example is just what Hairston strives to be to his loving and supportive wife Trina of 18 years, and their children 16 year old James, 8 year old Janay and 2 year old Miss Jayelle. Born in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, NY, Hairston’s Mother and Step-father later moved the family to Connecticut and it is where he still calls home. “When I’m at home I’m not JJ Hairston. When I’m at home I’m just ‘Dad’. My son and I watch the NBA games we go see The Avengers; I’m just regular. My first ministry is to be a good father to my children and I don’t ever want to take that for granted. If I had to shut everything down for my family I would, because they are my responsibility and are important to me.” When he says everything he means keeping up with the demanding schedule of Youthful Praise as well as his responsibilities at his church home Cathedral of Praise in Bridgeport, CT under the leadership of his father-in-law, Bishop J.C. White. Hairston is also the music minister at First Cathedral Church in Bloomfield, CT and if that wasn’t enough he recently became the Mass Choir director at Triumph Church in Detroit, MI. He believes it’s not hard to balance it all when you make your family a part of what you’re doing. Hairston says, “My wife travels wherever I go. Everyone that has me come knows that we are a package deal. My wife is my covering and I don’t go anywhere without her.” 32 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
“I’m so glad that people are responding to the work we’ve done.”
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“I’m no perfect man says Hairston, the bible says in this flesh dwells no good thing. At the end of the day I’m a man just like everyone else. But to protect myself and cover myself I have my wife with me at all times and my children as much as I can. My children have already been to Italy. You know, no man sets out to do wrong, but they find themselves in situations where they should have done right but they didn’t. So to avoid those types of snares I keep my family with me and those times when my wife and I are traveling and the kids can’t be with us, we have a nanny that comes over and stays at the house so that their day to day routine is not interrupted.” Greatest desires…. “I want all my children to be responsible and successful at whatever they have to do in life. My Mother and Step-Father moved away and I was on my own at age 16 and there was so much that I didn’t know that I wish I should have been taught. Like how to protect your credit and conduct yourself financially, responsibly and spiritually. I want them to get these lessons early. I would be so much further ahead if I would have known at my son’s age what I know now. I don’t want them to break any cycle that my wife and I have worked hard to put in place. I want them to walk in the light that I’m displaying now. You know, certain cultures are taught these things from a child. For instance, Jewish families celebrate with a bar or bat mitzvah which is a rite of passage that pronounces success on the life of their children. I want to do the same thing. I don’t want to just pray and believe that they’re going to be successful. But, we are going to pray, believe and also show you what you have to do in order to be successful.” On Trayvon Martin… “It’s so scary to me because if you have a son that is always getting into all types of trouble then you almost prepare yourself for the good and the bad. But when you have a good young man who goes to school gets good grades and is stereotyped based on his skin, the way he dresses and pays the ultimate price for it with his life; What can you do other than pray? That’s all I can advise people to do is pray for their children. Live the life that you are supposed to live before them and try to be a great example as you can. We live in a day where children can’t go everywhere; we have to be a little more watchful. I try to keep my son with me as much as I can, unfortunately at the end of the day Trayvon Martin was just a boy going to the store. My wife and I are very over protective of James and he may think that it’s over bearing but that’s because we want him to live a full life and not be cut off because of any stereotypes. I think what happened to Trayvon Martin was an eye opener for everyone, because there is the assumption that kids who succumb to that fate are bad kids, now we know that all kids may be vulnerable.” Current obsession “Decorating the house. God has blessed us with my wife’s dream house. So we are a little obsessed right now with decorating. She says, we stay in beautiful hotels and lavish places, so our home should be a place that we want to get back to.” Favorite book .... “Reposition Yourself by T.D. Jakes. We’ve put all the responsibility on God, but if we don’t work at what we want, we won’t have anything. God blesses what’s already in movement and then He gets behind us and pushes us with His wind. I didn’t know that before I read that book.” 34 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
“When I’m at home I’m not J.J. Hairston. When I’m at home I’m just Dad”
Favorite place to unwind “Cracker Barrel! My wife is not a fast food eater so this is the one place that we can all go and everyone is satisfied. My son can eat all he wants and Jayelle can play the peg game!” If we are not in concert Saturday night…. “We are preparing for Sunday and watching the basketball game, especially now during the playoffs. The Knicks and the Celtics are my favorite teams. I’m from NY and I live in Connecticut so I have to rep both teams and I never team swap even when their awful!” One day I hope to…. “Marry my youngest daughter off. My father did not walk any of my sisters down the aisle. I think he robbed himself of that privilege, to (look another man in the eye and) say I’ve done all I can for my daughter now it’s up to you to take care of her. Once I’ve done that with my littlest girl, I think I can say I’ve lived the life as a successful father. All this comes from things that I didn’t get from my father but that I want to have for my children.” Amen J.J. Hairston, we believe the cycle has been broken.
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health/fitness
Safeguard Your Heart Your age-by-age plan for keeping your ticker strong and healthy By: Abby Lerner (Men’sHealth.com)
The latest findings on heart disease are nothing unexpected: It’s the number one killer of American men, claiming a life about every 30 seconds. Most young, fit guys shuffle statistics like these into a mental file titled, “Doesn’t apply to me.” But no matter how old (or young) you are, the only way to stay on top of your game is to know your risk factors and take the right steps to avoid problems down the road. We talked with two heart experts to find out everything you need to know to guarantee your ticker stays stronger longer.
20s
“There’s a common problem among men in their twenties,” says Dr. Eric Topol, M.D., a practicing cardiologist at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California. “They don’t know they’re vulnerable [to heart disease].” Your twenties are the prefect time to establish heart-healthy diet and exercise habits that’ll extend your expiration date. That means 30 minutes of exercise five times a week and maintaining a healthy weight and cholesterol level—LDL below 130 mg/dL, HDL of at least 40 mg/dL, according to Dr. Topol. Every 20-something average Joe needs an annual physical to evaluate HDL and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting lipid profile, blood pressure, and family history. If the checkup goes well, one appointment is enough to clear your conscious. But if you’re an athlete or you hit the weight room more than five times a week, ask your doctor for an echocardiogram to ensure you don’t have a heart abnormality,” says Dr. John 36 HARVEST | JUNE 2012
Elefteriades, M.D., the chief of cardiac surgery at Yale University. Your 20s Checklist: · 30 minutes of exercise five times a week · Annual physicals · Echocardiogram · Cholesterol: LDL less than 130 mg/dL and HDL greater than 40 mg/dL · Blood pressure: 119/79 mm HG or lower · Lipid profile: Triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL
30s Although most heart conditions are strongly hereditary, they don’t always manifest as early as your twenties, Dr. Elefteriades said. So along with your standard health check, schedule another echocardiogram 10 years after the first one—especially if you’re regularly weight lifting, wrestling, playing football, or participating in any sport with short bursts of activity. Men older than 35 should also have an electrocardiogram (EKG), which traces the electrical waves of the heart, every 5 years. This test may show evidence of hardening of the heart’s arteries (arthrosclerosis)—a preventable and treatable condition that restricts blood flow and may cause a blood clot. Your 30s Checklist: · 30 minutes of exercise five times a week
Annual physicals Echocardiogram, 10 years after the first Electrocardiogram (EKG), if older than 35 Cholesterol: LDL less than 130 mg/dL and HDL greater than 40 mg/dL · Blood pressure: 119/79 mm HG or lower · Lipid profile: Triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL · · · ·
40s When you hit 40, your doctor should start monitoring the overall degree of inflammation within your body with C-reactive protein (CRP) testing. The higher your CRP level, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease. But there’s no need to make an extra appointment for this one—the same simple blood test that checks your cholesterol levels measures CRP levels. The best way to keep CRP levels in check? Regular exercise and being at the right body weight. Your 40s Checklist: · 30 minutes of exercise five times a week · Annual physicals · Echocardiogram, 10 years after your last one · EKG, 5 years after your last one · Cholesterol: LDL less than 130 mg/dL and HDL greater than 40 mg/dL · Blood pressure: 119/79 mm HG or lower · Lipid profile: Triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL · C-reactive protein: Less than 1 mg per liter
50s Fifty is the typical age when some men can develop coronary heart disease, according to Dr. Topol. The prevention prescription?
An exercise stress test. This test, sometimes called a treadmill test, monitors how well your heart handles work. As you walk or pedal on an exercise machine, the electrical activity of your heart and your blood pressure are measured. As your body works harder during the test, it requires more oxygen, so the heart must pump more blood. The test will help pick up subtle arteriosclerosis (blockage of the coronary arteries), and determine the cause of any chest pain and the exercise capacity of your heart. A stress test isn’t a necessary for men younger than fifty unless you have a strong family history of heart disease, according to Dr. Elefteriades. Your 50s Checklist: · 30 minutes of exercise five times a week · Annual physicals · Echocardiogram, 10 years after your last one · EKG, 5 years after your last one · Exercise stress test · Cholesterol: LDL less than 130 mg/dL and HDL greater than 40 mg/dL · Blood pressure: 119/79 mm HG or lower · Lipid profile: Triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL · C-reactive protein: Less than 1 mg per liter
At Every Age If you experience chest pain or shortness of breath due to exertion, get to the hospital right away. These are the two primary symptoms of heart disease and should never go unchecked. «Men are deniers,» Dr. Elefteriades says. «It›s usually someone else in their lives—wife, girlfriend, mom— that forces them to confront symptoms.» Other warning signs to speak up about are light-headedness and heart palpitations (an abnormal heart beat).
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Let’s Celebrate the Men in our Lives U
National Men’s Health Week June 11-17, 2012
nfortunately, many men do not think about their health until something goes wrong. Understanding the need for age-appropriate checkups and vaccinations can be a matter of life or death. It is important for everyone to know their numbers: blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and BMI. Some of the common health related issues that negatively impact men are heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease and Alzheimer’s. The good news, most of these are preventable. Simply, modifying your diet, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress and staying mentally and socially active are the first steps to living healthier and longer. In honor of Father’s Day and National Men’s Health Week, why not schedule a physical for your husband, father, brother or son. Let’s make it our business to encourage men and boys to become more aware of preventable health problems and encourage early detection of diseases. Pamela Turner www.turnaroundfitness.com
Health+Fitness Expert Pamela Turner www.turnaroundfitness.com
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