EMBRACE Magazine (June/July 2009)

Page 1

JUNE / JULY 2009 JUNE / JULY 2009

MEET Pastor THE Ray PROPHET IS COMING, Young THE PROPHET IS COMING! Teacher, Prophet, Pastor, Apostle

Check inside for the Children’s Zone and Things for Teens

Pastor Ray Young KIDS ZONE AND Teacher, Pastor, TEENS Prophet & THINGS & Apostle Come join us as he SECTIONS teaches, inspires and shares prophecy. THERAPY ROOM a place to release the pain and hurt

Find the hidden code inside to win $50 E-Card

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO GREAT TELEVISION? EMBRACE Magazine hasgives something forfamily the entire familytotohold holdonon EMBRACE Magazine the entire something toto


ZĞŵĞŵďĞƌ ǁŚĞŶ LJŽƵ ĐŽƵůĚ ƚƵƌŶ ŽŶ LJŽƵƌ ƚĞůĞǀŝƐŝŽŶ ƐĞƚ ĂŶĚ ǁĂƚĐŚ Ă ŐƌĞĂƚ ĐŽŵĞĚLJ Žƌ Ă ĨŝǀĞ ƐƚĂƌ ŵŽǀŝĞ͍ /Ŷ ŽƌĚĞƌ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞŵ ƚŽ ŐĂŝŶ ǀŝĞǁĞƌƐŚŝƉ ƚŚĞLJ ĚŝĚ ŶŽƚ ŚĂǀĞ ƚŽ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞ ƐĞdžƵĂů ŝŶŶƵĞŶĚŽƐ Žƌ ŐŝǀĞ ƚŚĞ ŝůůƵƐŝŽŶ ƚŚĂƚ ƐŽŵĞŽŶĞ ŝƐ ŚĂǀŝŶŐ ƐĞdž͘ dŚĞƌĞ ǁĞƌĞ ƐŽŵĞ ŐƌĞĂƚ ĨĂŵŝůLJ ƚĞůĞǀŝƐŝŽŶ ƐŚŽǁƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐĂŵĞ ŽŶ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ ͞>ĞĂǀĞ ŝƚ ƚŽ ĞĂǀĞƌ͕͟ ͞,ĂƉƉLJ ĂLJƐ͕͟ ĂŶĚ ĂƐ ƚŝŵĞ ǁĞŶƚ ƉĂƐƚ ǁĞ ŐŽƚ ŽƚŚĞƌ ŐƌĞĂƚ ƐŚŽǁƐ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ ͞dŚĞ ŽƐďLJ ^ŚŽǁ͕͟ Žƌ ͞&ƌĞƐŚ WƌŝŶĐĞ ŽĨ Ğů ŝƌ͘͟ dŽĚĂLJ Ăůů ǁĞ ƐĞĞ ŝƐ ƌĞĂůŝƚLJ ƐŚŽǁƐ ǁŝƚŚ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ŚĂǀŝŶŐ ƐĞdž͕ ƉƵƚƚŝŶŐ ĚŽǁŶ ŽŶĞ ĂŶŽƚŚĞƌ Žƌ ŵĂŬŝŶŐ ƚŚĞŵƐĞůǀĞƐ ůŽŽŬ ůŝŬĞ ƚŽƚĂů ĨŽŽůƐ͘ dŚŝƐ ǁŽƌůĚ ŝƐ ŝŶ Ă ƐƚĂƚĞ ǁŚĞƌĞ ĨĂŵŝůLJ ŵĞĂŶƐ ŶŽƚŚŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ŝƚ ŽďǀŝŽƵƐ ďLJ ǁŚĂƚ ŝƐ ƐŚŽǁŶ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ Ăŝƌ ǁĂǀĞƐ͘ tĞ ŚĂǀĞ ƌĞĂůŝƚLJ ƐŚŽǁƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĂůůŽǁ ƚŚĞ ĐĂŵĞƌĂƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŵĞ ŝŶƚŽ Ă ĨĂŵŝůLJ͛Ɛ ŚŽŵĞ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŶ ůĂƚĞƌ ǁĞ ĨŝŶĚ ŽƵƚ ƚŚĂƚ ƚŚĞ ĨĂŵŝůLJ ŝƐ ďƌĞĂŬŝŶŐ ƵƉ͘ tĞ ŚĂǀĞ ƌĞĂůŝƚLJ ƐŚŽǁƐ ǁŚĞƌĞ ŵĞŶ ĂƌĞ ĐĂůůŝŶŐ ǁŽŵĞŶ ŶĂŵĞƐ ŽƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ďŝƌƚŚ ŶĂŵĞ ĂŶĚ ǀŝĐĞ ǀĞƌƐĂ͘ tĞ ŚĂǀĞ ƌĞĂůŝƚLJ ƐŚŽǁƐ ǁŚĞƌĞ ŝƚ ŝƐ ŶŽƚ Ă ƉƌŽďůĞŵ ƚŽ ŚĂǀĞ ƐĞdž ŽŶ ĐĂŵĞƌĂ͘ ^ŽŵĞ ƚĂůŬ ĂďŽƵƚ ƌĂƉ ŵƵƐŝĐ ǁŚĞŶ ǁĞ ƐĞĞ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ƚŚŝŶŐƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĂƌĞ ďĞŝŶŐ ƌĂƉƉĞĚ ĂďŽƵƚ ƉŽƌƚƌĂLJĞĚ ŽŶ ƚĞůĞǀŝƐŝŽŶ ĞĂĐŚ ĂŶĚ ĞǀĞƌLJ ĚĂLJ͘ tĞ ĞǀĞŶ ŚĂǀĞ ƐŚŽǁƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĂƌĞ ƵƐĞĚ ŽŶůLJ ƚŽ ĞdžƉůŽŝƚ ƚŚĞ ŝŶŶŽĐĞŶƚ͘ ds ŵƵƐƚ ŐĞƚ ďĂĐŬ ƚŽ ǁŚĞƌĞ ŝƚ ƵƐĞĚ ƚŽ ďĞ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌ ƐŚŽǁƐ ŽĨ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ ŶĞĞĚ ƚŽ ĐŽŵĞ ďĂĐŬ͘ EĞƚǁŽƌŬƐ ĂƌĞ ĐĂŶĐĞůůŝŶŐ ƐŚŽǁƐ ƚŚĂƚ ďƌŝŶŐ ůĂƵŐŚƚĞƌ ĂŶĚ ũŽLJ ŝŶƚŽ ƚŚĞ ǀŝĞǁĞƌ͛Ɛ ŚĞĂƌƚ ĂŶĚ ƌĞƉůĂĐŝŶŐ ǁŝƚŚ ƐĞdž ĂŶĚ ǀŝŽůĞŶĐĞ͘ tĞ ŚĂǀĞ ƚŽ ďĞ ĐĂƌĞĨƵů ŽĨ ǁŚĂƚ ŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĂƌĞ ǁĂƚĐŚŝŶŐ͕ ďĞĐĂƵƐĞ ŝƚ Ăůů ĐŽŵĞƐ ĨƌŽŵ ƐŽŵĞǁŚĞƌĞ͕ ǁŚĞƚŚĞƌ ŝƚ ŝƐ ŚŽŵĞ͕ ŵƵƐŝĐ Žƌ ƚĞůĞǀŝƐŝŽŶ͘ tĞ ŚĞĂƌ Ă ůŽƚ ŽĨ ŚLJƉĞ ĂďŽƵƚ ƌĂƉ ŵƵƐŝĐ ǁŚĞŶ ƚĞůĞǀŝƐŝŽŶ ĚŽĞƐ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ƚŚŝŶŐ͘ tĞ ĐĂŶŶŽƚ ĞŶƚĞƌƚĂŝŶ ƐƵĐŚ ŶŽŶƐĞŶƐĞ ďLJ ĂůůŽǁŝŶŐ ŽƵƌ ĨĂŵŝůŝĞƐ ƚŽ ďĞ ĞŶƚĞƌƚĂŝŶĞĚ ďLJ ǁŚĂƚ ŝƐ ďĞŝŶŐ ƐŚŽǁŶ ŽŶ ƚŽĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ƚĞůĞǀŝƐŝŽŶ ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ͘ >ĞƚƐ ĚĞŵĂŶĚ ďĞƚƚĞƌ͊

Contact information editor@embracenews.com www.embracenews.com 2


What Is The Ephesians 4 Centre For Learning? “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” -- Ephesians 4:11-13 NKJV What Is Our Educational Commitment? The Ephesians 4 Centre For Learning is committed to raising up a body of believers capable of becoming the Bride Of Christ, a new paradigm in this final hour, filled with purity and power, walking in holiness and sanctification, yet practicing grace and mercy to those around her. This final Bride Church will be equally yoked with Christ, and fulfill the mandate and prophecy given in Ephesians 4:11-13, so that the Bride will finally become perfect, walking in the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ. This makes the Bride Church radically different from all other variants of Christianity down through history, and enables the Church to fulfill the promise given to it on the day of Pentecost. This enabling process will be accomplished at two levels: Level One is the equipping of the Teacher, Pastor and Evangelist through the Ephesians 4 Center for Learning Undergraduate Level. We offer 1, 2 and 3 year programs, varying from a one-year certificate to a three-year minister’s diploma. A complete curriculum of Biblical studies is available for all who wish to learn or to obtain any of these levels of learning. Level Two is the equipping of the Prophet and Apostle through the School Of Apostles and Prophets (S.O.A.P.) Graduate Level. Since almost all Bible colleges are designed around the traditional paradigm in the church, where the pastor was the highest office, and the offices of prophet and apostle were either not recognized, or were so watered down in requirements and authority as to render them impotent, it is necessary in this final hour to create a mechanism for Prophets and Apostles, led and directed by a Prophet and Apostle, and based on the Scriptural model for these two offices. Only by combining the training available through these two levels will it become possible to bring the Bride portion of the Church into completeness, into the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ. Once this task has been accomplished, then and only then can Christ return. The Groom will not come down until His Bride is ready to go up. At the same time, by combining the two levels into a single paradigm, it creates and fosters a mutual respect between the offices and establishes the God-ordained military ranking of authority, with the Teacher subject to the Pastor, the Pastor subject to the Evangelist, the Evangelist subject to the Prophet, and the Prophet subject to the Apostle. Only when the church is run under the true, Godly authority of genuine Apostles will Divine order be established in the church, and the fear of God once again enter the hearts of men. www.eph4univ.org


Compu PERFECT

Business Start-Up and Maintenance Solutions that Move You on the Road to Business Success

Contracts Draft and review all types of contracts such as: ^ Entertainment ^ Partnership ^ Employment ^ Real Estate Entity Formations ^ Corporate ^ Limited Liability Companies (LLC’s) ^ Nonprofit Organizations Estate Planning ^ Wills ^ Power of Attorney ^ Living Trusts ^ Medical Declarations

www.compuperfect.net

Asset Protection The positioning of protecting your assets to avoid lawsuits, catastrophic medical bills, garnishment, etc. Tax Exempt 501(c)(3) Application for Nonprofit Organizations Trademark Search and Registration

About Attorney Karmen A. Booker

Mrs. Booker is an Attorney and the Chief Consultant for Compu-Perfect Professional Services, a business consulting firm that specializes in business formation (profit and nonprofit organizations), completing 501(c)(3) tax exemption applications, estate planning, asset protection, and more. Ms. Booker has 14 years experience in providing the abovereferenced services.

CALL Attorney Karmen A. Booker (240) 273-2584 for Uncompromised Services at Reasonable Costs.

www.compuperfect.net


ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME ANNEX NYC LAUNCHES A NEW EXHIBITION JOHN LENNON: THE NEW YORK CITY YEARS

NEW YORK, NY -- (April 13, 2009) – The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC is honored to present JOHN LENNON: THE NEW YORK CITY YEARS to open in May 2009. This extraordinary exhibit presents exclusive artifacts from the life and work of John Lennon – a true legend of music and one of the greatest artists and activists of the twentieth century. The exhibit will feature never-before-seen items that uniquely commemorate Lennon’s life in New York City. “John would have been so pleased that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York is honoring his life and work. It was a city we called home for many years and I so hope it will be a true gift to New York City’s residents and visitors that have been such supportive fans,” said Yoko Ono. This special feature exhibit is created by Yoko Ono and curated by Jim Henke, Vice President of Exhibitions and Curatorial Affairs, for the New York City Annex. The exhibit will include a selection of rare artifacts, films and photos as well as exclusive New York-centric additions provided by the generosity of Yoko Ono. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC exhibit in SoHo is expected to make a big impact on the millions of fans who adore John Lennon, telling the story of his time in New York, a place he dearly loved. Additional details about JOHN LENNON: THE NEW YORK CITY YEARS will be unveiled in coming weeks. “Yoko Ono has been very generous to the Hall of Fame over the years, and we are delighted to be able to work with her on this new exhibit,” Henke said. “John Lennon spent the last nine years of his life in New York, and he loved the city. This exhibit will examine those years and the many things John accomplished while in New York.”

“As a pivotal figure in the history of Rock and Roll, the extraordinary legacy of John Lennon will receive a welldeserved spotlight with this new exhibit. This will be the must-see event for music fans in New York and around the world,” said Arny Granat of Jam Exhibitions, one of the producing partners. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame NYC opened its doors in November 2008 to an overwhelming response from visitors and critics alike. As a technologically advanced exhibition that focuses on the greatest moments in rock history, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC takes visitors beyond the typical museum experience and engages people in a dynamic and immersive music journey that recalls some of the defining moments in rock and roll history through the artists that changed our world. The exhibits highlight rock and roll’s impact on music, where visitors can discover, or rediscover, their connection to it all. “It will be tough for any top history buffs – whether they first encountered the Rolling Stones on the “Ed Sullivan Show,” or in the recent documentary “Shine a Light” – to resist goodies at the Annex like David Byrne’s big suit from the film “Stop Making Sense,” a blue sequined dress from Tina Turner’s final tour with Ike, Michael Jackson’s handwritten lyrics to “Billie Jean” and Prince’s coat from “Purple Rain.” – New York Times “New York City is steeped in rock history: the Velvet Underground, CBGB, the birth of hip-hop, Bob Dylan – we could go on. And yet there’s no single repository devoted to the history of rock [here]. Now there’s the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC, an offshoot of the Cleveland original.” – Time Out New York

“Though the dark, subterranean museum, complete with a gift shop, is in far better shape than the downtown rock “We’re ecstatic to bring this John Lennon exhibit to the An- clubs it was meant to emulate, its heart is in the right place nex. New York is an integral part of our music history and - as are the artifacts it houses.” – New York Post holds major significance to John and Yoko. It’s an honor to showcase the life and work of such an extraordinary rock “Music fans can relive rock ‘n’ roll’s defining moments at the newly-opened Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex and roll legend,” said Michael Cohl of S2BN EntertainNYC, an interactive, total immersion experience.” – Where ment, one of the producing partners. New York A portion of the cost of each ticket to the exhibition will be donated to Spirit Foundations, a charitable foundation set up by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, to further John and Yoko’s philanthropic initiatives.


JOHN LENNON: THE NEW YORK CITY YEARS

holidays. For more information, call (646) 786-6680. About the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Cleveland: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is the nonprofit organization that exists to educate visitors, fans and scholars from around the world about the history and continuing significance of rock and roll music. It carries out this mission both through its operation of a world-class museum that collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets this art form and through its library and archives as well as its educational programs.

“Music fans can relive rock ‘n’ roll’s defining moments at the newly-opened Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC, an interactive, total immersion experience.” – Where New York The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC is proudly supported by official sponsors Citi, Best Buy, Diesel for Bloomingdales, and Gibson. Additional supporting partners include Sony, Sennheiser, Kohler and Brocade Home. S2BN Entertainment, Jam Exhibitions and Running Subway co-present The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ANNEX NYC. Tickets on sale now - $24.50 (Adult), $16.50 (Child 4-12), $22.50 (Senior 65+). For tickets call (866) 9-ROCKNY or (866) 976-2569, buy online at www.rockannex.com or visit the box office located at 76 Mercer Street (between Spring & Broome Sts.), New York, NY 10012. Current Exhibit Hours: Thurs. 11am-7pm, Fri.- Sat. 11am-9pm, Sun. 11am7pm. Extended Exhibit Hours for Lennon feature: Tues - Thurs. 11am-7pm, Fri.- Sat. 11am-9pm, Sun. 11am-7pm. Last admission is one hour before closing. Open on select

The Museum in Cleveland is the centerpiece and starting point for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s telling the story of rock and roll. The 150,000 square-foot Museum celebrates the history and impact of rock music with exhibits, films, interactive kiosks, education programs and public events. With the new Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York, the Rock Hall is for the first time extending its reach outside of Cleveland and establishing space to house its traveling exhibits and speak to new audiences. A portion of proceeds from the Rock and Roll Hall Annex will go to support the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum’s exhibitions, education initiatives and Library and Archives, scheduled to open in 2010. For additional information on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, please contact Margaret Thresher at (216) 515-1215 or mthresher@rockhall.org. Media and fans can also learn more about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum at www.rockhall.com.


In this Economy Try Family Fun at a

Bowling Center

When money is a little tight we look for simple family fun alternatives. This summer’s family reunion or celebration need not be missed. Family, fun activities and a party room in PA is the solution. Your party room in PA is also a bowling alley packed full of activities. Bringing the family, both young and old to the bowling alley is such a treat. Having a private party room or banquet hall in PA in the bowling alley gives you opportunity to celebrate and entertain while saving a few dollars. No far distances to drive, no entertainment to hire, everything is under one roof. Convenience saves money. Your party room/ banquet hall in PA is a casual way to celebrate while still offering custom menus, large seating areas, good food and privacy. A banquet hall planner can help you with all the arrangements and special needs. Once you have all the banquet hall arrangements made you can package some family fun time in for the entertainment. Bowling centers are packed full of fun things to do. More than just bowling offers a large game room filled with action packed video and interactive games and a full service sports bar for the adult crowd. Not to forget that the bowling is good American family fun that we all can enjoy together. Everything for your next event comes together at a bowling alley, Facenda- Whitaker Lanes. Your banquet hall in PA needs, your family fun entertainment and it all saves your money in this economy Nancy Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer and editor at www.facendawhitaker.com. “In This Economy Try Family Fun at a Bowling Alley� gives ideas for a planning a family event at a banquet hall in PA.


21

15 33

75

48

26

16

27

19

Chocolate Math... Can Tell Your Age We thought we would give you a short little test to prove you can tell your age using chocolate math. No kidding… It works… Try it… And You will see… Okay you know your age and we do not have a clue. You probably would cheat and tell us a different number so we want you to prove it by using the chocolate math. This is neat! Don’t cheat… It takes less than a minute and really works! This will not waste your time… 1. First pick a number of times a week that you would like to have chocolate (more than once but less than 10) 2. Multiply this number by 2 (just to be bold) 3. Add 5 4. Multiply that number by 50 – You thought you could do this in your head huh? 5. If you have already had your birthday this year add 1759… If you haven’t had your birthday this year add 1758 6. Now subtract the four digit year that you were born You should have a 3 digit number left The first digit of this was your original number (how many times you want to have chocolate each week) The next two numbers are YOUR age! (Oh, Yes It Is!!!) Just so you know… 2009 is the only year that this will ever work, so spread this around while we have time.


GREAT ART FOR THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE WHO LOVE CARS

http://www.freespiritart.com/art-prints-cars.php

6


books by Pastor Ray Young How to Survive the Coming Crash Was the recent Wall Street crisis another 1929? No!!! Unfortunately, something far worse is coming, and it’s not far away! In How to Survive the Coming Crash, Pastor Ray examines: The true nature of time, and how it affects economic cycles How the USA could have become the Un-United States of America The cyclical and unstable economic past of our country What indicators will herald the inevitable coming crash How to survive and even thrive during this time of crisis

If you want nothing but the truth read one of Pastor Ray’s books. To find out more go to http://eph4univ.org/books.htm


“Crash and Burn” Pastor Ray Young The Ephesians 4 Center for Learning

G

reetings to all of you in the Name of He Who Lives Forever! I am new to those of you who are already subscribing to this e-Zine, but not new to the wonderful lady who publishes it, T’wana Lawler. T’wana and I first met about 10 years ago, and quickly became good friends. When she contacted me and asked me if I would write articles on a regular basis, I was deeply touched and appreciative. When I emailed her back, however, I warned her about what I might write due to the nature of the ministry that God has entrusted me with. What am I talking about? Well, despite my intense personal efforts to avoid the call which the Lord has placed on my life, I walk and have walked for almost 20 years now in the office of prophet and, at least in the 3rd World, also as an apostle. When I say that I am a prophet, I don’t mean what most Christians are used to when they think of the word. Over the last 50 years, the church in America has been force-fed a steady diet of “positive, affirming, seeker-friendly” pablum by pastors who were more concerned with attendance figures, building funds and revenue streams than they were with the immortal souls of those individuals seated in their mega-churches. As a result, the American church is largely beyond the Biblical concepts of rebuke and chastisement. I know this all too well. I pastored so-called “Spirit-filled” churches for 30 years. The conduct I saw in many of the individuals who called themselves “Spirit-filled” indicated that they were filled with a spirit, all right, but certainly not a Spirit who is called by His first name of Holy. Years ago I heard Morris Cerullo say that although he had met many people who spoke in tongues, he could count on the fingers of one hand the number of people that he knew who were truly FILLED with the Holy Spirit. I couldn’t agree more. I have watched church after church implode as a result of moral failures on the part of both the leadership and the persons in the pew. These last 30 years have driven home to me the moral bankruptcy of the American church in general and the so-called “Full Gospel” or “Charismatic” movement in particular. I’ve also watched the steady erosion of morality across our entire country since the 1950’s (yeah, I’m THAT old!). I don’t need to tell you that things which our parents and grandparents would have considered shocking and, well, HEATHEN are now an accepted part of not only our culture but also

the church which is mired in the moral morass which is America. As a result of these experiences, the Lord has formed me into a FOUR-PRONGED PROPHET. A TRUE prophet of God always does FOUR things: (1) CONFRONT, (2) CORRECT, (3) CONSOLE and, finally, if true repentance can be found in the heart of the individual(s) involved, (4) COMFORT. In addition, a TRUE prophet always does these four things IN THE ORDER LISTED. Why? It’s simple. It little Johnny has set the cat on fire and put it in the dryer to see if he can create a special fireworks display of his own, speaking affirming and comforting words to him is not the order of the day. Instead, after first extinguishing the yowling fireball streaking through your house, you turn to little Johnny and BLISTER HIS REBELLIOUS LITTLE BACKSIDE! I have watched America fail to discipline at least three generations of children, with each successive generation becoming a little more permissive, a little more self-centered, a little more lazy and a little more ungodly until finally, today, we have accomplished the goal which Satan set out to achieve at the beginning of this unholy process. We have successfully launched the first TOTALLY AMORAL generation in the history of the United States of America. Notice I did not say that this newest addition to our census is IMMORAL. That would imply that they recognized some specific moral code that applied to their lives. Instead, steeped in both scientific and moral relativism by their teachers and the media, they no longer hold fast to ANY sense of values except for SUBJECTIVE RELATIVISM, which simply states that if something is GOOD FOR ME, then it is all right to do it. Now, that sounds harmless enough until I have a Quarter Pounder and you don’t. You are hungry. Therefore, it is in your best interest to knock me down or even kill me in order to satisfy your growling tummy with as much grease, ketchup, mustard and quasi-beef byproduct as you can load into it. It no longer matters what YOUR actions do to ME. The only thing that matters is YOU. Pain and pleasure even lose some of their inherent value in a culture like this. It used to be that it had to at least FEEL GOOD in order for me to do it. Now, we are urged to JUST DO IT!


Any questions? Just ask the Pastor or do you need prayer? Pastor Ray is here

pastorray@embracenews.com

W

hat will a society built on these value produce? The chain of events is easy to follow. Since all values are now RELATIVE TO MY OWN PERSONAL GOOD, chaos will erupt. I am no longer bound to obey the laws of the land, either moral or legal. Those laws don’t apply to me. Only what I WANT applies to me. When there is no longer an agreed-upon moral code of absolute right and wrong to measure conduct by, ALL RELIGIOUS, CIVIC, POLITICAL AND MORAL STRUCTURES CRUMBLE TO THE GROUND. We have been watching this process slowly unfold since America came home from World War II. You would think that America would have learned from its last trip behind the woodshed during the Great Depression. After our boys came home from World War I, we embarked on the same kind of hedonistic trip during the Roaring Twenties. The Stock Market Crash of 1929 and the subsequent Dust Bowl era of the 1930’s took all the roar out of our arrogant, disobedient hides. It was a good thing, too. Had America not been forced to her knees by the crash and burn of that rebellious generation, we would never have been morally equipped to deal with the most demonic human being since perhaps Rasputin, the Mad Monk in the person of Adolf Hitler. Six million Jews and untold millions of Gentiles would perish in the madness which gripped the world before America would, along with its Allies, put an end to a fight that it did not start. Now we stand poised at the brink of disaster once again. Pastor after pastor have preached sermons exhorting their flocks to repent, fast and pray. Have they? Except for rare exceptions, no, not at all. Nor will they, until we crash and burn once again. And crash and burn we will. I remember a situation that occurred in a church that we attended in the Cincinnati area. I was presenting a 10-week PowerPoint series on the End Times and I made the comment that America had passed the “Event Horizon” of her own economic and moral black hole, and that no true repentance would come to America and the church until their safe little world came crashing down around them. Two days later the pastor preached an almost violent sermon saying that, no, America still had time to repent and that every one should fast and pray! Did they? For a while. It actually produced a mini-revival, which the pastor killed himself after spending a year and half fasting and praying for it. Go figure! There is not enough space in this first article for me to unroll the 15 years of research and multiple visions from the Lord that document what is about to happen to America and the world. In our next edition, I’ll tell you more. In the meanwhile, you need to begin to prepare for what will happen when America and the world crash and burn, just like Israel and Judah before them. If you have questions or comments on this month’s article, please feel free to email me. All of our contact information can be found on our web site, www.eph4univ.org. And, oh yeah, praying and fasting wouldn’t be a real bad idea, either! Until then, may God richly bless you as you walk in faith and obedience to Him!


THERAPY PAGE Leave all of your past hurts here on this page. You do not have to share your name. This is an anonymous form to ease the pain. Someone will pray for you.

I am requesting prayer that my family come together as a family and that the division becomes togetherness ~~~ T.L Los Angeles California Please pray for my father, granny and papa in North Carolina ~~~S.B. Pray for my family in Louisville, KY ~~~ Destiny Please pray for my Aunt Jeannie and family ~~~ Necie We are praying for the Reed family in Louisville, Ky ~ Twana I am seeking prayer for my Aunt ~~~ D.B. I want prayer for my sister in KY~~~Bry Pray for the President of the United States ~~~ Pray for Demitrionna ~ We love you.

Please pray for all of the children of abuse, past and present ~~~ Caregivers Corner There was something awful that happened when I was younger that I am just now remembering. I am releasing it and praying for healing to all that was involved ~~~ Sometimes you feel better when you just let it all go. Release the pain and hurt into the hands of God. Send in your prayers and someone will pray for you or you can send in your issues that you feel are keeping you from climbing that mountain. You can remain anonymous. Send e-mail to info@embracenews.com


Health Benefits of Chocolates by: Samantha Forest

Who does not like chocolates? Whatever forms chocolates may take – bar, drink, ice cream, or cake – many people find chocolates hard to resist. The delicious taste of chocolate satisfies most cravings. No wonder it is a popular gift Philippines because anyone would love to receive chocolates. There’s a misconception when it comes to chocolates. Some people think that these must be bad for one’s health because it simply tastes too good. However, many studies have shown that chocolates actually have many health benefits. Below are some of these benefits so that you won’t feel guilty the next time you give chocolates as a gift Philippines. * Chocolates stimulate the secretion of endorphins, which are the hormones responsible for giving someone the “runner’s high”. If eaten, they supposedly produce pleasurable sensation which is the reason why a bar of chocolate is very popular as a gift Philippines between two people who are dating. * Chocolate releases serotonin. This hormone is a neurotransmitter that acts as an anti-depressant. It’s no wonder many people turn to chocolates whenever they feel down and depressed. * Chocolates also have flavonoids, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants like flavonoid help relax the blood pressure. * Chocolates, particularly dark chocolates, can lower blood pressure and cholesterol. * Chocolates are made from cacao, which contains antibacterial agents that fight tooth decay. However, still remember to brush your teeth after eating them because chocolates also have a high sugar content which could cause tooth decay. * Chocolates, particularly a cup of hot chocolate, could diminish appetites if drank before a meal. * Chocolates contain a number of nutrients. They are high in potassium, magnesium, and several vitamins like B1, B2, D, and E. * Men who eat chocolates live a year longer than those who don’t * Chocolates have been used by Mexican healers to treat bronchitis and insect bites. Also, contrary to what many people might think, chocolates do not aggravate acne and they are not causative factors in acne, although they may trigger headaches in migraine sufferers. So the next time you feel the need or urge to eat chocolates, keep in mind that in anything we consume, regulation is the key. Visit the website http://www.myflowerdepot.com.


MEET PASTOR PAULA EDWARDS http://nolimitsintl.org/

Paula R. Edwards

a native of Long Island, New York; sits under the apostolic covering of Dr. Michael & Pastor Arline Fields Senior Pastors of Christian Faith Center Lumberton, North Carolina. Pastor Edwards has been Chosen, Appointed and Sent to repair the breach and command the captives to be set free. With God’s Authority, Anointing and Truth she will captivate your heart, through the revelation of the Word of God and through her life testimony. She is recognized as a prophetic mouth piece, with a genealogy that steams all the way back to Oral Roberts, Bishop Mack Timberlake and Bishop Eddie Long which No Limits International Ministries a Multicultural allows her to walk in a rich inheritance of wisdom, knowledge, skill and understanding. Paula Worship Center where we take the limits off of Edwards is the founder/CEO of a non-profit orga- God. We are excited about you visiting our site nization for at risk youth “Faith Generation Inc. and taking an interest in this life changing ministry. which is based out of Atlanta, GA. She has also Come join us in a worship experience where we allow the Holy Spirit and the anointing of God to founded organizations such as “I Gotcha Girl”, “Women of Zion”, R.A.W.W. and FGI publishing. bring healing, deliverance, and restoration through the Word of God, Sincere praise and Pure These organizations where designed to help uproot and to rebuild. A now popular Radio worship. “Take The Limits Off” Show Host, Mentor, and Motivational speaker to name a few of her many hats, This modern day Lazarus has experienced Gods Saturday Morning Worship Experience: @ 11am hand of healing and deliverance in her own life. 106 West Athens Street Winder, GA 30680 From being cured of the unstoppable epidemic of Aids to the deliverance of a mental Sunday Morning Worship Experience: @ 11am institution due to the abuse she suffered as a 1483 Box Circle Winder, GA 30680 child. After refusing the word of man, but receiving the word of the Lord, the No Limit Experience Bible Study transformation began causing Paula to die, and Wednesday Evenings @ 7pm thus experiencing the true resurrection power Friday Evenings @ 7pm of Jesus Christ 1483 Box Circle Winder, GA 30680

PLACE OF WORSHIP


The Best Way To Save Money On Groceries by: Denise Brienne

the generic items and then look at the nutritional values. If generic is cheaper but has the same ingredients, go for it! Otherwise, use that coupon. Twenty-five cents of savings might not seem like much, but when you have a full basket, those coupons add up to serious money.

Single moms know just how expensive it can be to feed a growing family. Seeing the grocery bill at the end of the week can be a bit of a shock! Here are a few handy tips on keeping that cost down:

Shop without kids. Children are the biggest culprits when it comes to those little things that you really don’t need. It’s hard to deny a child when he or she wants to put more food in your grocery basket, so make things easier on everyone by leaving the kids at home when you shop.

Avoid eating out if at all possible. Consider this: Even if you eat out only once a week and use coupons when you do, you are still paying at least twenty bucks for two or three people. Twenty dollars per week equals 100 dollars per month - and that money could go a long way toward paying your grocery bill.

Don’t shop on an empty stomach. When you’re hungry, everything looks good! Avoid the temptation to grab that bag of chips or that hot, tempting deli food by eating a good meal before you go shopping. You will be amazed at what you can walk away from when your belly is already full!

Make a list. When you go to the grocery store, make sure your list reflects the foods you really need. Don’t be tempted to pick up other foods because they look tempting, or because they happen to be on sale. Choose only what your family will eat. Scour cookbooks for “big” meals that will provide leftovers. Make your food dollar stretch by making recipes that can do double-duty as a second meal. Foods like meatloaf are perfect for this, and so are casseroles. Make two of them at once and freeze the one you aren’t eating that night. Make a weekly trip to the store. Many people go to the store every day, but if you can trim that down to just once per week, you will be more likely to buy in bulk and avoid those convenience foods that look so tempting after a long, hard day. Clip coupons! Look at your Sunday paper for the coupon section. Clip them out and take them with you to the store. Compare the coupon prices with


SANDY’S SUBSTITUTES Fully Insured Substitutes for Your Day Care Center Day Care Services & Child Care Services Depend on Sandy’s Substitutes, a newly established provider of substitute child care services, for proven day care work when you need it. Conveniently located across from Wilmington University, our professionals have more then 15 years’ combined experience and specialize in early childhood care. We also provide CPR and First Aid training to your employees! Contact us in New Castle, Delaware, for substitute child day care services.

Service Area: New Castle | Maryland Southern New Jersey | Pennsylvania Sandy’s Substitutes 265 N Dupont Highway, Suite 11 New Castle, DE 19720-6400 Toll Free: (866) 575-1769 chr19662@aol.com http://www.sandysubstitutes.org


SPOTLIGHT ON CHRISTIAN MUSIC

“Tawana” writes and performs songs that have a unique way of sharing with others the struggles, victories, celebrations, praises, and just a “normal” day in various chapters of her life. Like a good book, with God’s hand-turning the pages, she invites her audience to take a look at life through her eyes. Attending one of “Tawana’s” concerts is more of an experience rather than just another show. Her music & lyrics go straight to the heart. She then, allows God to take over from there. Whether it’s a secular event, a Christian music venue or bible based church, “Tawana” shares her faith woven within the context of her songs. This is well received by her audience which often leads to common ground and ministry. Through the pages of her journey, God has blessed “Tawana” for her desire to honor him through her life and music ministry. The past two years, she was nominated for the Momentum Awards (Indep. Christian Artist Award) in 3 categories: Contemporary Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (2006-Living Water & 2007-Dancin’ On The Clouds), and Female Vocalist of The Year. “Tawana” released her first music project “Just Sing!” in November ‘2007 that she had produced in Nashville, TN. Due to this step of faith, God has given “Tawana” favor in having her music reach more people by means of traditional and internet

radio. Shortly, after the release of her project, 88.1 FM in Kansas picked her song “Keep Christ In Christmas” as the #1 Christmas Song of 2007. It is currently being promoted as well as “Dancin’ On the Clouds” (which she co wrote with Jeff Nelson her producer & an award winning songwriter) by Christian Artists Int’l, a Texas based radio promotions company, to radio stations in & outside of the U.S. “Tawana” just received her first international airplay this month (Dec. 2008) in several different countries which included: Guam, The Netherlands, Italy, Canada, Asia, U.K., Russia as well as other countries in Europe and around the world. And they’re expecting that both songs will be picked up in more stations in the U.S. as well. “Tawana” is thankful that God is opening doors to reach more people through radio in her own neighborhood as well as around the world (Matt. 28:18 & 19). And she’s quick to give the glory to God for these kind of opportunities. In relation to partnerships, “Tawana” recently partnered with CovenantEyes.com which is endorsed by “Focus On The Family”. She is excited about joining forces with this ministry to help others who may struggle with internet related addictions, or may just want to have internet integrity/responsibility in their home or workplace. “Tawana’s” desire is to allow God to use her to help others through the music he’s given her. She strives to honor God with her talents and life as she continues through the pages of this journey that he’s chosen for her. “Tawana” is available for church and “family friendly” community concerts and special events in her local area as well as out of state. Also, “Tawana” is open to sharing her ministry outside of the U.S. too. She can also assist with being an M.C. for your event coupled with sharing her music. For booking inquires, please contact her at: Bookingtja@yahoo.com.


POETRY PAGE

THIS PRECIOUS MOMENT Time allows only A fleeting glimpse Of each moment As winter melts Into the spring sunlight, And summer returns us To the many shades of autumn, History gathers us As memories upon the page, Tree rings laid Upon the ashes of time Yet each moment Is a lifetime Of infinite value Each as precious As every note Of the morning song At the dawn Of each day

Poetry used by permission by the author, Chris Roe. Taken from the book of poems entitled “In Search of Silence” A collection of poems by Chris Roe.


GOSPEL MUSIC MUST HAVE

SONG LIST Intro - Bishop Clarence E McClendon Chasing After You Interlude -Bishop Clarence E McClendon In Pursuit Of Your Glory Wonderful God Interlude - Pastor William H Murphy III I Am What You See Cry Your Last Tear Reflections - Bishop Joseph W Walker I Will Bless The Lord (African Clap Song) Interlude -Bishop Larry L Brandon I Do Believe Reflections -Bishop Rudolph W McKissick Jr More Of Thee More Of Thee (Reprise) He’s In This Place Show Us Your Glory Oh The Glory Of His Presence Get The Glory


TEENS

N THINGS


HOT MUSIC

Just Getting Started Imma Put It On Her - Featuring P. Diddy & Yung Joc Shawty Wats Up - Featuring T-Pain Think Of Me Stadium Music Bipolar Perfectly Blind So Good Girlfriend Babymaker Then There’s You Need That - Featuring Jermaine Dupri Reminds Me Of You Your Heels Truth Is A Lie


FUN IDEAS for the TEEN and the FAMILY Borrow or rent a Karaoke Machine and throw a Star Search Party. Include the selected song list in the invitation so that guests can be ready to perform. Gather costume effects like hats, boas, jackets, and inflatable instruments for extra pizzazz. Make CD’s for favors. Video taping will be a major hit. Playlets or Musical Productions, complete with costume effects, props and a set or two, will bring out the talents of guests. Parts are assigned by drawing for them and you are the director. Include non-speaking parts such as animals, trees, statues, piano, etc. for youngsters that cannot read. Video tape the fiasco and it will be one for viewing during refreshments.

Young ladies will love a mini-spa to include a facial (be sure to include the mask... for great laughs) and a quick glamorizing. Top off the pampering sessions with guests styling each other’s hair. Borrow a book on braiding from the library. Present a small pack of beauty samples and a bright hair accessory as a favor to each girl. Create some delicious, yet healthy snacks.


CHRISTIAN RAP Crayzee Joe

Why this name? In John 10:20 the pharisees thought Jesus was crazy for the things he said & did. If I follow him then they gonna think the same about me. I might as well wear it well.

How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry? mp3s are good on tha web to help new groups and for advertisement. I think it does more good than bad. Keep it legit.

Would you sign a record contract with a major label? Depends.

Band History: Started out back in 87 known as M.C. Humble. Joined a group in 90 called DB Bass in s. Fla. I met my wife, got married & we had kids. I have been in and out of doing tha music but when and if the Lord is ready, he will use it. In the meantime, I just choose to make myself avaiable for Him to work through however He chooses.

Your influences? Lately more of them boys like Trip Lee, Phanatik, da TRUTH, Lecrae and the guys on Cross Movement Records and Reach Records. My biggest influences have been over tha years: SFC, Dynamic Twins, T-Bone, IDOL King, Freedom of Soul, Tunnel Rats, Mars Ill, KJ-52 and most definitely CROSS MOVEMENT.

Favorite spot? My home since 96 - ATLANTA. For vacation I like St. George Island down in FL.

Anything else...? Yeah - I love rap - but I love God so much more. Tha lyrics are tha main thing to reach out and help tha hurtin’. I pray God continues to use me as an instrument of lyrical and hip-hop ministry for His glory.

21

Listen to music at http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=227807


HOT SUMMER SNEAKERS

Vans Vault Perforated Pack

Stamp’d LA 2009 Spring/Summer Sneakers


YOUNG POET

Take it slowWe wake up to reality, and discover that we have made 18, or 21, or whatever the age that declares us grown Immediantly in our minds we think about what we should do, the club comes to mind, and that’s what we have to do But not just to go out, party, and have fun we’re convinced to have a drink, and sometimes more than one, but why does it always have to be like this, why can’t we all play it safe, and let the drink be missed Some of us go further than the drink itself, we even try to get laid until we lose our breath But that comes from the plan as soon as we wake up, cause our plan is to drink, and get ourselves messed up We wake up with the thought that we have to go all out, cause we have immature minds, and thats what we’re about We can’t help the fact that we’re ignorant, we just don’t know, maybe our minds are blurred, or maybe we’re just slow, Cause even we should know that this is not the way to go, that’s why when I get grown, I’m just going to take it slow

http://www.poetrypoem.com/jasonriverspoetry

22


Fun with Animated Graphics for MySpace by: Jessica Jones

Most people who participate in the social networking phenomenon that is MySpace are always on the lookout for new items to display on their profile. Personalizing this page is very popular, as MySpace members enjoy expressing their personalities by choosing from countless premade sources of profile bling. Most, if not all of these sources are free, and all it takes is a simple download plus the addition of a few lines of code to the individual’s profile to add them. One of the most widely used bits of profile bling is animated graphics. There is really no way that you could properly catalogue all of the different types of animated graphics that exist for MySpace users. There are animated graphics that spell out certain words and phrases in a rainbow of colours and styles, and if you are unable to locate that particular phrase or saying that you are looking for, don’t despair! You can locate MySpace generators that will help you to create animated graphics that spell out anything you would like them to. However, words and phrases are not the only sort of animated graphics that you can place on your profile. It can be a lot of fun to build your entire page based on the subject of your MySpace layout. Since there are so many different types of layouts that have been created for MySpace profiles, the possibilities for the use of animated graphics are practically limitless. For example, let’s say that your profile is based on astrology and the zodiac. You can find animated graphics and gifs of the twelve signs of the zodiac. There is a graphic that spells out Gemini, Aquarius, Libra, and so on, and an animation that is a cartoon-like drawing of the symbol that represents each sign. How would you like some beautiful, full-colour animated graphics of the sun, moon, and stars for your MySpace layout? These are available as well, and you would be quite pleased with their appearance. Imagine for a moment that you have chosen one of the popular car MySpace layouts that can be located online after a bit of searching. You can dress up this profile very easily with automotive animated graphics. Cars of every description, from the long finned beauties of the 1950s to the sleek lines of a new Jaguar or Corvette can be displayed in all of their animated glory. You can also use the moving graphics found online that represent the logos of the various types of cars that are driven and admired around the world. How do you add animated graphics to your MySpace profile? All you have to do is a simple copy and paste. The animated graphics that are suitable for MySpace profiles will have an image code, and this is all that you will need. Simply copy this information, and then just paste it into the section of your profile where you want the graphic to appear. In no time at all, your profile will be stunning! It is not difficult at all to accomplish this, and make your profile something special that everyone on your Friends list will be talking about.


QUICK RECIPE FOR THE TEEN Hamburgers and Homemade Fries Hamburger Ingredients 2 lbs. ground beef 2 tsp. butter 4 hamburger buns 2 T McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning Toppings of your choice, such as tomato, onion, cheese, pickles and lettuce. Mix well beef and seasoning, and from into 8 patties. Reserve 4 patties in refrigerator for Meal 2. Lightly brush remaining 4 patties with butter, and cook on grill over medium-high heat to desired doneness. Serve on buns with toppings of your choice and homemade fries.

Homemade Fries Ingredients 4 large potatoes Olive oil Seasoning salt Cut potatoes lengthwise into ¼” to ½” wedges. Lay on foil or grill pan if you are making these on the grill, a baking sheet if you prefer to put them in the oven. Baste potatoes with olive oil, and sprinkle with seasoning salt. Cook on the grill for 35 minutes, or in a 400-degree oven for 25.


KELLY CLARKSON Deluxe Album * 01 My Life Would Suck Without You * 02 I Do Not Hook Up * 03 Cry * 04 Don’t Let Me Stop You * 05 All I Ever Wanted * 06 Already Gone * 07 If I Can’t Have You * 08 Save You * 09 Whyyawannabringmedown * 10 Long Shot * 11 Impossible * 12 Ready * 13 I Want You * 14 If No One Will Listen * BONUS TRACKS * Tip Of My Tongue * The Day We Fell Apart * BONUS DVD * MLWSWY Video * Making Of The Video * Making Of The Album * Photo gallery IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SMELL, USHER THEM IN WITH...



KIDS ZONE


GOLDEN PENNY Penny walked quickly past the tall hedge, being careful to step over the cracks in the sidewalk. Just then the sun peeped out of the clouds and shone on her, lifting her spirits. It was going to be a fun day. She was walking from her foster mother’s house to her best friend, who lived one block away. It was fun going to Shaniquah’s house. She had a mommy and a daddy, a sister and a brother and she was the baby. In fact, they all called her Baby. She didn’t want to be Baby all her life though, so at ten years old, which happened the Saturday that had just passed, she decided that no one should call her Baby anymore. It was easy for Penny because at school everyone called her Shaniquah, but Shaniquah’s parents were having a hard time changing. Penny loved her foster mom, but the poor woman was struggling and was really…well, poor. It was as if she was still living with her real mom, except there were no men in the house and no drug needles. Yuck! Her real mom, had men coming in and out of the house. The picture of those days flashed through her mind real quick and the man who brought her life with her mom to an end. It brought pain as usual and so she decided to stop thinking about it and think about her fun day with Shaniquah and the Jones family. The sun shone even brighter, the closer she got to 603 Q Street where the Joneses lived, and really got glaringly bright as she mounted the bright red brick steps to the bright blue front door. The door was yanked open, “Hey Penny!” a round faced ten year old bounced out of the front door, her thick dreadlocks wobbling. The two girls hugged each other vigorously and arms around each other’s waists, hopped into the happy house together. Inside the Joneses wonderful living room, sat Shaniquah’s grandmother, Big Ma and all Shaniquah’s aunts sitting and standing around. She had five aunts. They had plates in their hands and looked up to see what caused their little Baby such joy. “Oh it’s Penny. Golden Penny. How are you Golden Penny?” They all laughed together while chewing on the savory smelling soul food filling their plates. They called Penny golden, because they said a gold penny would be precious and she was precious and had golden brown hair. “Hi” Penny said in her softest voice. “Look at that golden hair” one of the aunts said as sunlight streamed in through the window and caught her untamed kinky pigtails. Her foster mother didn’t know how to do hair either, just like her real mom. “How’s your mom doing?” another said, swallowing her mashed potatoes with green peas in it. Penny made a mental note to get some of those. “She’s fine thank you” Penny said a little louder. It seemed only Shaniquah and her mom and dad and Big Ma knew Mrs. Cooper wasn’t her real mom. “Say hi to her for us,” the aunt went on.

28


“O.K.” Penny assured her as Shaniquah pulled her into the kitchen. It was packed. Every cousin in the family must have been there of all sizes and shapes. “Everybody with a plate of food start heading out back” Shaniquah’s mom ordered like a drill sergeant, “this kitchen is not big enough for everybody. Hi Golden Penny!” “Hi Ma!” Penny called over the din. Shaniquah’s mom was the closest to the kind of mom she wanted than any woman she knew. Later outside at a picnic bench with Shaniquah, Penny shoved the last of the mashed potatoes into her mouth. “So what are you and Mrs. Cooper going to do on next week, with no school”, Shaniquah asked with her mouth full of the last of the fried chicken on her plate. “I don’t know. Probably nothing.” “She never does anything does she?” “You know I love her and all, but she stopped doing all the fun things we used to do when I first moved in. it’s like she got tired or something.” “Yeah, maybe. She really loves you and I know she wouldn’t want to live without you.” “I know that. But sometimes I wish she was happier. Maybe if she came over here more often…” “Oh, I know, I’ll ask my mom to invite her over next week!” “That may work!” “Ma” Shaniquah wasted no time, as her mother came out the back door with a big bowl full of steaming corn on the cob, “can you invite Mrs. Cooper over to our barbeque next week?” “I certainly will. I’ll stop by your house tomorrow Penny and let her know I want her over here” Ma said with a conspiratorial smile at the girls. “Corn everyone! And there’s enough butter and salt on it already” she warned. As the family descended on the corn, Penny thought of her foster mom being over here and a part of the fun. She wondered if she would enjoy it. She seemed so used to being by herself. Time went by too fast for Penny and soon it was time for her to leave, so she could be home by six thirty, like Mrs. Cooper wanted. “Bye Penny” Shaniquah waved from the top of the step. “Bye” waved Penny. Soon after Penny unlocked the door to her home with her foster mom, stepped into the foyer and heard Mrs. Cooper calling, “Penny!” “Yes”


“Come on back to the dining room, I have a surprise for you.” Happily Penny skipped to the back of the house, in through the archway to the dining room. Her smile froze on her face. “Hi sweetie, this is my brother, Sal. “Hi there little one” “Hi” Penny muttered. “I haven’t seen my brother for 20 years, I’m so excited” Mrs. Cooper said without noticing Penny’s reaction. As Mrs. Cooper chattered on with Sal, Penny slipped out and escaped to her room. Oh my, how horrible she thought. That was the man who used to come in and sleep with her real mom. And he is the reason why she had been taken away. He had a key and when mommy was out, he would come in and sit around watching TV and Penny felt watching her, but she would spend her time in her room when he came over. One day he came into her room which didn’t have a lock on it and started rubbing her body. She tried to get away from him but he kept grabbing her. Finally mommy came home and he stopped. When she told her mom, she got mad with her and said she just didn’t like Sal. That he was the best thing that had happened to her. After that, Penny was scared to be home without her mom, and somehow the school’s vice principal, Ms. Blue, who was like a mother to her, got out of her why she preferred to stay after school, wherever there was detention going on (and there always was). If she couldn’t find detention, she would stay with Ms. Blue. Penny didn’t know that Ms. Blue told the Division of Family Services but they had been watching the house. They saw that her mom was really doing prostitution and they took Penny out and put her in foster care. If not for this Sal, who was now downstairs in her new home, she would not have been afraid to be home alone and the authorities would never have been alerted. Now, this man didn’t recognize her, since it was 3 years ago and she was now ten. What should she do? This was worse. This wasn’t just a boyfriend in the house, this was Mrs. Cooper’s brother! ________________________________________ The next day Penny headed off down the same sidewalk as the day before towards Shaniquah’s house. This turn of events in her life wasn’t going to be exposed like last time. She wasn’t going to make the same mistake. She wasn’t going to tell anyone about Sal. He had left last night. Mrs. Cooper had tried to get her to come down and say good night, but she pretended to have fallen asleep. She had to avoid him seeing her too much if he stayed around, so he wouldn’t one day recognize her. She ran up the red brick steps and knocked at the bright blue door and almost knocked on Shaniquah’s nose, so quickly was the door opened. “Hey, Penny. Come in quick, our show’s about to start.” “O.K” Penny said, forgetting that she was here to see a rerun of CSI.


“What’s the matter?” Shaniquah asked Penny couldn’t hide anything from her best friend. It was as if this little girl could see right through her. That may be why she was so close to her. She didn’t have to explain much to Shaniquah. Now, it was working against her. She didn’t want her friend to know about Sal or what had happened in the past. “What’s wrong?” Shaniquah asked again. Penny hadn’t even noticed that she hadn’t answered. “Don’t say ‘nothing’” Shaniquah interrupted her attempt to deny anything was wrong. She tried anyway, “Nothing’s wrong. What episode of CSI are we watching?” “Forget CSI. Something happened. Is Mrs. Cooper O.K.?” “Yeah” Penny was getting impatient that she wouldn’t be able to keep her secret. “Well, something happened” Shaniquah insisted. “Did your real mother come around?” Shaniquah shouldn’t have asked that. Tears sprang to Penny’s eyes. Her gold colored eyes that matched her hair glistened in the sunshine that was streaming through the lace-framed living room windows. At this inopportune time, Shaniquah’s mom entered the living room. Uh oh. “What’s going on golden Penny?” “She doesn’t want to tell me Ma.” Ma sat down with a worried look on her face as she watched Penny’s tears. “Well, if she doesn’t want to talk about it dear, we shouldn’t press her” she said in a tone that said she was going to press Penny. “But know that you can talk to us, Penny and we will respect whatever you want us to do with the information.” That told Penny that Ma knew more about her reason for being with Mrs. Cooper than she realized. She suddenly felt relieved. Maybe she should tell them that Sal was around and that she was afraid. She knew now, that that was why she was crying, because the tears were flowing even more now. She was really scared. Would Sal recognize her, would he try something else, would Mrs. Cooper blame her? With the caring, loving faces staring at her, she hesitated for a moment and then decided to take the scariest risk of her nine years on earth. She poured out all that had happened with her real mom and Sal and the vice principal of her school and being taken from her mom and how hurt her mom was and moving in with Mrs. Cooper. Tears poured and poured and no amount of tissue that ma kept handing her seemed enough. Sometimes as she told the story she sounded to herself as if she was wailing. Like a wounded animal being treated, she howled and howled. Finally, the ‘flood’ stopped and golden Penny wiped the last of the tears from her eyes. Shaniquah sat stunned and crying too. Then in a more calm voice Penny told them who arrived in her new home as Mrs. Cooper’s long lost brother and what she was afraid of.


“I don’t mind if you tell her” Penny said sounding now like she had a bad cold. “If she doesn’t want me anymore, I’ll just have to go to another home.” “No” Shaniquah said seeming to have caught the same bad cold as Penny. “Then you might not be so close to us.” “Don’t worry sweetie” Ma said, “We will always be able to find her. But I don’t think Mrs. Cooper will think that way. If she hasn’t talked to her brother in twenty years she probably isn’t that close to him. I know one thing, she loves you Penny, very much and wishes she had more money for you both to have more fun.” “I don’t really mind if she doesn’t have a lot of money, as long as I feel safe in my home.” Ma said “I’m going to try and be closer to her from now on and let her know she is always welcome here. How ‘bout I invite her to tea tomorrow when the family won’t be around and here and I can talk?” “O.K.” Penny said quietly, “I guess I’d better be going home now.” “Are you sure? There’s no hurry.” “I know but I feel like being in my room.” “Call us if you need anything, before tomorrow.” “O.K.” As Penny walked into her home, Mrs. Cooper was calling from the kitchen. “Hey dear. Did you have a good time? Mrs. Jones called and invited me for tea tomorrow. Come in here. I baked your favorite pound cake and I have baked apples to go on top.” Penny walked into the kitchen and sat on the counter stool as she knew was expected. Mrs. Cooper rattled on. The pound cake slice served to her on a pretty china saucer, Mrs. Cooper proceeded to try and make her take a whiff of the baked apples before she served it. “Say when Penny” as she spooned the apple mixture on the cake. “What’s wrong dear?” she stopped and stared into Penny’s face. “Have you been crying? Did something happen?” Then Penny realized she would have to tell Mrs. Cooper, herself. It wouldn’t look good for her to sit here and enjoy this delicious food and then Mrs. Cooper have to hear from Ma about Sal. So the food forgotten and as tears started again Penny began to tell Mrs. Cooper everything. The evening ended with her in Mrs. Cooper’s arms sitting on the couch. “You know you’re golden Penny. A penny may seem like not much, but God loves to work with not much. And that you’re golden Penny, shows you that even a penny can be worth gold. You’re precious child and not a mistake or not in the way at all. You’re worth my attention and love. Never forget that. My brother already called and said he was off to parts unknown and I realized he hasn’t changed and is


as unreliable as ever. He won’t be welcomed here ever again, now that you’ve told me all this. I’m going to report this to police and do what they tell me, and he’ll be arrested if he comes around again. You’re safe here dear. I’ll do all in my power to make sure you’re safe.” “Thanks Mom” Penny said, exhausted suddenly. “Mom! You called me Mom.” Sleepy smiling Penny said, “Yes, Mom. You’re a mom to me.” Among kisses and hugs, golden Penny fell asleep, safe in her Mom’s embrace. ©2009 Princess Carroll Ayo Durodola http://sweetiesbooks.com/images/Tunde%20-%20Cover.jpgNow ready to be ordered, my book: TUNDE, THE LITTLE NIGERIAN PRINCE at www.sweetiesbooks.com ‘Tunde is the son of a Nigerian King. He is a very bright boy and catches the eye of an American missionary. The missionary wants ‘Tunde to attend school, but his father, the King, is initially against it. But the missionary is peristent and eventually ‘Tunde gets to go to school. He grows up to become a doctor and my dad. HRH Princess Carroll Ayo Durodola Author, Storyteller & Education Consultant 703-975-3385 www.PrincessAyo.com http://princessayo.blogspot.com/ http://tundethelittlenigerianprince.blogspot.com


SUMMERTIME IS HERE

35



COLOR ME



GREAT SITES FOR THE KIDS

Now you can create your own people artwork for printing - the way YOU need it created! Your customer wants a notepad, or an address label made with graphics that look like her family on it? You want to make an anniversay card for Mom & Dad with artwork that resembles them on it? You need a graphic for baby’s first birthday but you want it to look like him or her? You’d really like to make something special for all your students with a graphic of them? Maybe a little girls dance recital or pajama party invitation? Now with all the editions of “Family’n Friends Factory” from Original Country Clipart by Lisa, you can do it!! Choose from men, women, adults, teenagers, children, toddlers and babies..choose black hair, red hair, brown hair, blonde hair, blue eyes, green eyes, brown eyes..whatever they need! Put different clothes and shoes on them too! You’ll have so much control over how your final project turns out! ~Family’n Friends Factory - Little Girls Edition~ http://www.countryclipart.com/FamilynFriendsFactory/familynfriendsfactory_littlegirls.htm


http://franktownrocks.com/

www.barbiegirls.com


FAST EASY RECIPE for FAMILY NIGHT Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches Homemade (wheat free!) chocolate cookies make this an unbeatable treat, but you can, if you’re pressed for time, use store-bought cookies or graham crackers instead. Ingredients * 1 cup (250 mL) semisweet chocolate chips * 2 tbsp. (30 mL) butter * 1/2 cup (125 mL) granulated sugar * 2 eggs * 1 cup (250 mL) ground almonds or hazelnuts * 1 quart (1 litre) ice cream — any flavor you like Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 350° F (180° C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and grease it lightly. 2. In a microwave-safe bowl (or in a saucepan over low heat) melt the chocolate chips with the butter, stirring until smooth -- about 1 to 2 minutes in the microwave on high power. Add the sugar, stir well to blend, then add the eggs, one at a time, to the chocolate mixture, mixing well after each. Add ground nuts and mix well. The batter will be very soft. 3. Drop batter by teaspoonfuls onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between mounds of batter, as cookies will spread when baking. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool before removing from cookie sheet. 4. When the cookies are completely cool, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it soften slightly. Using an ice cream scoop or measuring cup, scoop about 1/4 cup (50 mL) of ice cream onto the bottom of one of the cookies. Spread gently almost to edges, then top with another cookie (top side out) and press lightly to squish. Place in freezer immediately. Repeat with the remaining cookies and ice cream. 5. When all the ice cream sandwiches are done and frozen solid, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a covered container in the freezer. 6. Stir together the cinnamon and sugar and melt the butter in a small dish. Brush each pretzel with some butter, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until lightly browned on top. Just try to resist. Makes 12 to 14 sandwiches. How kids can help * Mix batter for cookies and drop batter onto cookie sheet. * Scoop ice cream out and make sandwiches. 41


FAMILY GAME NIGHT IS BACK! Here’s a game that’s made in the USA for the whole family to play together -by

~ the game that gives back ~ IPSO FACTO ~ GOING GREEN With more than 220 multiple-choice Q & A cards, this game offers tips on how to tread gently on our planet - and save money at the same time! It’s a great conversation-starter and fun for all ages to play together. For each game sold, $1.00 will be donated to a conservation organization. Combine themes for even more IPSO FACTO fun!

Here’s how the games are played: each card has a question and 4 possible answers (with the correct one marked) and the goal is to collect as many cards as possible by choosing the right answer. How long does the game take? As long as you want it to! You may decide that it’s over when one player has won 10 cards, or that the winner is the player who has the most cards after 30 minutes. For more details, please visit www.IpsoFactoFun.com.


SUMMER IS NEAR! SUMMER IS HERE! by Shanquelle Bibb

Summer is here, summer is near Summer means to swim And summer is hot Time to have fun and we are not going to stop Summer means grilling and eating great food I’m looking forward to summer I have much to do Summer is bold and summer is fun We’ll be outside playing and always on the run The days are longer and full of much light Summer mornings are such a pretty sight Summer days are not cold and the days have a lot to hold Enjoy your summer

43


www.stinkycakes.com

embrace2009 Secret word

http://www.elgbooksanddolls.com


ILLUSTRATIONS BY EVELYN

http://www.myartspace.com/evelyngresham/


CONGRATULATIONS to all GRADUATES of 2009 elementary, middle school, high school and college


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.