Destiny mag summer 2015

Ministry, Churches, Gospel, Artists, Community

MAGAZINE

Summer 2015 Edition $7.95

18:16 Spotlight: Samuel Speight

Keeping it REAL with Mary Smith

Community Unity Day: Showing the Love of Jesus

Bob Thompson and DARC Making Someone’s Load a Little Lighter

Y UTH

COALITION

A DIVISION OF CHURCHES OUTREACH NETWORK

ENG

Career Building

AGE …

Arts and Crafts

Mentoring

Creative Learning Games

O P EM

Fitness

…

WER

Academics

ENLIGHTEN…

YOUTH AGES 6-­‐17 SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS Action Digital Photography

Champion International Basketball

Enchanting Design Styles

Henderson Arts and Crafts

Imperative Change Outreach

Life Impact

P.R.O.D.I.G.Y.

RC Website Builder/ Video

Rogers Mime Dancing

Unchained Hearts

For more info, please call: Pastor Rodney Coles, Sr. 252.717.9600 WWW.CON2007.ORG Beginning March 2014! www.destinymag.org 2

Churches Outreach Network presents the

“We Care Program�

The We Care program is a program at the Greenville Community Shelter sponsored by Churches Outreach Network.

It is a program geared to helping people who temporarily live inside the shelter, live in the community, and come out of the detention center, obtain the skills they need to better their lives.

It is a four-week program for each group of participants focused on continuing education, Housing services, Legal assistance to help expunge your record, Job placement assistance, Rental Assistance, VA Assistance, Disability assistance, training, and more.

Agencies in the community have partnered with us to offer assistance. They are: Greenville Community Shelter, Pitt Community College, Greenville Housing Authority, Pats, Pitt Department of Social Services, Martin County Community Action, The Joy Soup Kitchen, and Strive.

Regular classes are taught Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30am-12:00pm.

Each person in the program will receive a certificate each week for attending classes. We will also be working with agencies to assist you in finding employment. Lunch is served daily at each class session.

For additional information on this program, call 877-218-4247 and leave a message on the We Care line.

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Contents Winter 2015 Edition

COMMENTS 6

Message From The Editor

7

Message From The President

FEATURED ARTICLES 10

Bob Thompson and DARC Making Someone’s Load a Little Lighter

18

Mary Smith Keeping It Real

24

18:16 Spotlight Samuel Speight

10 Bob Thompson and DARC

Making Someone’s Load a Little Lighter

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS 2

Youth Coalition

3

We Care

14

Toys for Tots

22

Shelter Plus

24

Community Unity Day

27

Business Minds

28

Action Photo & Video Club

30

Angel Cops

31

Boys 2 Men

38

Hope Of Glory

18 Mary Smith Keeping It Real

DEPARTMENTS 20

Destiny’s Inspiration Corner

32

No Excuses

Magazine Check us out on the web at www.destinymag.org or call and advertise with us today at 1-877-218-4247. www.destinymag.org

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Churches Outreach Network Who We Are Churches Outreach Network is an organization which was founded in 2007 by Pastor Rodney Coles Sr., when he had a vision to outreach in the community with faith based leaders and organizations. The vision of Churches Outreach Network is focused on helping the community with a collaborative effort of other organizations. We outreach to places such as Soup kitchens, Shelters, Senior living centers, Streets, and provide ministry resources and assistance through CON referral services.

Programs we offer are: The We Care program which is run by Churches Outreach Network at the Greenville Community Shelter. We provide a four week program for free which focuses on helping those who temporarily reside in the shelter or live in the community to get job training through workshops; job assistance, and housing assistance. Our Children’s Ministry program offers our Action Digital Photography and video club, and What about the Children ministry. The Action digital club offers a free service to children ages 10 and up which is a continued program throughout the year. The program teaches the basic skills of how to point and shoot a camera as well as how to upload pictures. The video program teaches how to create and edit video broadcasts. Our Children ministry program is geared towards basic biblical child programs involving DVD and workbooks followed by art and crafts. We also do health awareness where we offer information on training and workshops to the community on nutrition, food literacy, diabetes, weight checks, prenatal care and other health issues. Our newest ministries are Elderly touch of heart ministry, Business Minds and Faith Media Video on Demand. Elderly Touch of Heart is a ministry to help assist Elderly/disabled persons who do not have the day to day assistance of family members to help care for their needs, and are in need of assistance with simple activities. Business Minds is geared toward working with businesses in the community through business seminars and trainings. We also offer inclusion in a web-based directory, the Business minds television broadcast, the Business minds magazine, and the Business minds E-blast marketing directory and lastly, Faith Media Video on demand services are designed to be a complete solution to your web-related ministry needs.

We offer media exposure through traditional broadcast television as well as Christian print publications, Internet radio, Video on Demand and much more.

Churches Outreach Network is known throughout many counties through their many works and programs they have participated with or formed. To name some they are: Toys for Tots, CON television broadcast, Destiny magazine, CON network newsletter, Life changing boys to men mentor program, Pitt County Detention Center liaison, Action digital photo and video club, Evangelistic services, Emergency food drive, We care program, What about the children ministry, Business Minds, Faith media broadcast, Christian Leadership training, Pocket Bible testimonials, Resource connecting, Networking, Website service, and Consulting services. Our program and resource information can be viewed on our websites at: www.con2007.org, www.destinymag.org, www.businessminds.us, and www.faithmedia.tv www.destinymag.org 5

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MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus ChristI hope you enjoy the articles and stories presented in this issue of Destiny Magazine. Each person featured is a chosen vessel, fulfilling the plan of God for his/ her life. Some stories may be bittersweet, all are filled with struggles and challenges, but the end of the story witnesses the perfect will of God perfecting itself through His children. Joseph in the Old Testament endured many trials and many hardships, but his greater was coming. Be inspired as your read these articles. Apply the wisdom and knowledge and know that your greater is coming too!

Pastor Rodney Coles, Sr.

MAGAZINE STAFF Editor-in-Chief, Pastor Rodney Coles, Sr. President, Denisha Harris Contributing Writer, Beverly Kemp Photographer, Walter Blackwell

Copyright Š2010 Destiny Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent from Churches Outreach Network. For reprints, please call (877) 218-4247.

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT What is Destiny? It is a word used to describe a course of events believed to be predetermined or out of our control.

This word often bumps up against Choice. As humans, we were created with a free will to make decisions and chart a course that suits our desires based on the choices we make. So how does Destiny trump Choice and how does Choice lead us to our Destiny? I believe that all of us were created with DNA or Desires and Natural Abilities that are the building blocks of our Destiny. Some have desired to serve humanity since their youth. Others have always been excited about gadget and gizmos since the introduction to their first personal computer. This DNA informs our choices and puts us on a path to greatness. In this issue, we celebrate the life of Bob Thompson. He was a great man who advocated for the rights of the disabled with determination. Even though he is no longer with us, we salute his service and know that he fulfilled his Destiny. We also feature Mary Smith, an advocate who has wanted to help people since she was a little girl. It is no wonder she has dedicated her entire career to helping those in need. Each person in this issue is a product of his/her own DNA. We all make choices whether good or bad. However, when we believe that all things work together for good, we understand that our choices are only milestones to reaching God’s ultimate purpose for our life – our Destiny.

Denisha Harris

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Do It Anyway People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.

Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.

Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.

Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.

Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten.

Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.

Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

-Mother Teresa 9

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MAKING SOMEONE’S LOAD A LITTLE Lighter: Bob Thompson and DARC

BY: D. GAYLE HARRIS Have you ever been walking down the street and noticed an elderly person in need of assistance? Did your heart move with compassion to lend a helping hand? Or have you ever donated your time, talents, or treasure to a worthy cause because you felt a desire to make a difference? Christians walking in the spirit should be sensitive to these ‘burdens’ as our brothers and sisters in Christ struggle with a particular difficulty or challenge beyond what they can bear alone. In the book of Galatians 6:2, scripture tells us that we are to “[b] ear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

We are all sojourners, traveling the road of life. Pitfalls and obstacles are a stranger to no man; the question is not if but when. The unfortunate truth is that many are called to be this ‘burden-bearer’ but choose not to answer. Nevertheless, there remains a light in humanity that shines brightly in those who choose to answer the call and help bear another’s burden. Bob Thompson, advocate and community leader, is one of those who answers the call daily to shine the light of Christ.

My goal was to create a one-stop shop for individuals and families with disabilities and for employers who had disabled workers – a place that would help the disabled live as independently as they chose to live.

“It all started with an attempt to travel from Farmville to Greenville to a job I had working with the Division of the Blind,” recounted Mr. Thompson who has lived with disabilities for almost 20 years. “The PATS van roundtrip was $150, and because I was not on Medicaid, I received no assistance.”

With no assistance from Medicaid, his employer picked up the tab, but this did not stop Bob from beginning his journey to help the disabled find affordable transportation.

In 2000, he moved to Greenville, attended PATS (Pitt Area Transit System) meetings, and became a member of the Public Transportation and Parking Commission for the www.destinymag.org

City of Greenville to advocate for improved transportation opportunities. He began shining the spotlight on price hikes for those with disabilities and the limited access for those in large mobility devices and those unable to transfer to the seat of a vehicle. However, it was not just about the disabled.

“I envisioned a community where everyone would have access to transportation 24 hours a day at reasonable costs,” explained Mr. Thompson.

Using the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as a vehicle, Bob worked tirelessly until an ordinance was passed in the City in 2010. In 2013, local cab company, Journey Transportation, purchased an accessible van and on July 21st, Bob took the first trip during Greenville’s ADA “Sunday in the Park” celebration. Journey riders have the opportunity to go anywhere 24 hours a day, seven days a week for $15. The City of Greenville also offers “paratransit” services via the PATS system for the city bus route at a rate of $2 one way whereas the regular bus ride is $1. All busses are wheel chair accessible and have audio services for the blind. For trips not on the bus route, PATS will pick up patrons for $14 roundtrip, largely as a result of Bob’s efforts on the PATS board. He served as chairman for four or five years.

This victory is just the beginning of countless stories that could be told concerning Bob’s efforts to help those he was moved to compassion to assist. Arguably, his greatest victory came with the founding of DARC – Disability Advocates & Resource Center. DARC is a nonprofit organization, which empowers people with disabilities to achieve their desired level of independence. A non-residential facility, DARC provides independent living skills to persons with disabilities and their families. It is operated by individuals with and without disabilities and provides four core services - Information and Referral, Peer Mentoring and Support, Independent Living Skills Training, and Community Advocacy- to consumers in Beaufort, Pitt, and Wilson counties.

“I started DARC out of my garage back in 2004/2005,” recalled Mr. Thompson. “My goal was to create a one-stop shop for individuals and families with disabilities and for employers who had disabled workers – a place that would help the disabled live as independently as they chose to live.”

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And, the Center is doing just this. DARC assists people of all ages with a variety of disabilities from physical to developmental. Consumers are able to come in and receive information and referral assistance with transportation, housing, assistive technology, and other issues of concern.

Peer mentors act as a support system to those who desire help with setting and reaching independent living goals such as cooking, cleaning, preparing a household budget – whatever is necessary. A Benefits Coordinator is available to help consumers with understanding policies and procedures associated with Social Security Insurance, Disability, and Medicare/Medicaid. Onsite, there is a technology lab, a medical locker for distribution of donated equipment and devices, and a resource library. Through federal and state funding and donations, the Center is able to offer its services free of charge.

When asked where he gets all the passion needed to continue advocating for others, Bob recalls his journey from being able bodied to disabled.

“The people who work at DARC are great,” commented Mr. Thompson. “Helen Pase as the Executive Director steers at the helm. Li Bunger, the administrative person, keeps everyone straight. I don’t know how she does everything she does. Tommy Cloyd serves as the Independent Living Counselor and plays an integral part in making sure that consumers get the services they need. And of course, Teresia Hill, as the Benefits Specialists, does an outstanding job in helping consumers as much as she can with their benefits goals. “

Being a light in the Greenville community is certainly Bob’s destiny. His light has impacted so many lives for the better. As a result, he has been recognized as the Best Irons Humanitarian of the Year (2013), the Person of the Year for the Pitt County Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities (2009), and Advocate of the Year for the State of NC.

Bob also works at DARC. After taking a leave of absence from the Board, he was soon hired on as, what else? – Advocacy Coordinator.

He also keeps busy working at Pitt Community College, teaching a driver training course – classroom portion only.

And, his house serves as a drop off site for the Churches Outreach Network (CON) food bank.

“Pastor Coles drops off food to my house for anyone in need but most of the folks who stop by are those with disabilities,” explained Mr. Thompson.

“In 1996, I became disabled,” declared Mr. Thompson. “I had my first heart attack that year, and I was put in a wheel chair due to complications with diabetes. Diabetes also damaged my eyes, and now I am legally blind. I had another heart attack in 2011, which killed my ... I am here for a reason - I kidneys and put am here to help people. me on dialysis. In August of 2013, I - Mr. Thompson had a third heart attack and now I am on oxygen 24/7. I am here for a reason – I am here to help people. ”

Despite all the accolades, he maintains his greatest reward is seeing the smiles on the faces of the people he has helped.

“This is my calling,” proclaimed Mr. Thompson. “[l]ike Moses and the burning bush.”

Therefore, it behooves all of us to take heed to Paul’s writing in the book of Galatians and be there for our fellow man.

Let us do what we can to make someone’s load a little lighter.

If you would like to find out more information about DARC or are interested in volunteering, locate the office at 702A Johns Hopkins Drive, Greenville, NC. You can also give them a call at 252-355-6215 or find them on the web at www.darcnc.org.

This story is dedicated in loving memory of

Bob Thompson

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Contact :Pastor Rodney Coles Sr @ 252 902-4137 Email Rodney@businessminds.us Visit on the Web www.BusinessMinds.us Get Your Free Scanlife Apps Go to www.Scanlife.com www.destinymag.org

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 SafeLink is a Lifeline supported s servvice, a government benefit pprogram. Onlly eligible con nsumers may eenroll in Lifelinee. Lifeline serrvice is non-tra ansferable an nd limited to oone per househ hold. Documeentation of inccome or program m participatio on may be req quired for enro ollment

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BY: D. GAYLE HARRIS

As I sat down for my interview with Mary Smith, the Executive Director of the REAL Crisis Center, one of the first questions I asked was, “What exactly does REAL stand for?”

“It does not stand for anything,” explained Smith.

“REAL has no periods because it is not an acronym.

It is in all capitalized letters because the founders wanted to emphasize the authenticity of the programs provided. When folks are dealing with tough issues, they do not want to go somewhere they are not going to receive help.” “They want to go somewhere real, hence the name of the agency.”

It is a question the Director of 38 years receives a lot when asked about the Center.

The REAL Crisis Center located 1011 Anderson Street is near the campus of East Carolina University.

The agency provides free, confidential crisis counseling 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via its hotline. Clients also walk-in during the hours of 8:00am-11:00pm Monday through Sunday and receive services. Teams conduct off-site crisis management as well. By virtue of the profession, the dedicated and passionate staff take pride in the name “REAL” because it is the real concern for the person at the other end of the call or walking in the office that can be the difference between life and death.

“I remember one phone call where a guy was on the other end with a gun to his head playing Russian roulette,” recalls Smith. “I would attempt to get him to put down the gun, and I would hear a click. He would tell me I’d gotten another chance to convince him to put the gun down. Everything turned out ok, but it was a nerve wracking experience. You never know what crisis you are going to encounter when you pick up the phone.” www.destinymag.org

The gravity of the work at REAL necessitates that each person who works at the Center and all volunteers must be trained counselors. All problems are not the same. Clients may have situations ranging from loneliness and depression to financial and career. One of the areas the Crisis Center is most known for is its expert handling of sexual assault cases.

The Pitt County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) is a multi-disciplinary team approach to serving sexual assault victims and their family members. The group of professionals consists of law enforcement, victim advocacy, medical personnel, legal (District Attorney’s office) and various community agencies. Its strength resides in its collaboration to ensure that the victim’s needs are addressed from health care to adjudication, ensuring that the victim remains the focus. REAL Crisis spearheads revisions and updates to the SART protocol, a handbook of policies and procedures for each member of the team.

“I’m not a police officer so I don’t know how to handle that part of the process,” stated Smith. “However, when the police updates its procedures and the hospital updates is instructions, it causes everyone to think about their processes and ensures that everyone is working in unison. It also gives an opportunity for advocates to know how to advocate for victims if they feel that the process is not going as it should.”

Also under the umbrella of REAL is Pitt Resource Connection. Pitt Resource Connection or PRC is a community effort to bring together local service providers (non-profits, government agencies, and faithbased organizations) to discuss the community’s needs and to identify available resources to help the citizens of Pitt County. The group started after Hurricane Floyd in 2001 when there was an overwhelming need to funnel 16

resources to those affected by the storm. The think tank grew out of this coordinated effort to help those who need assistance. Thirty to 40 members meet monthly to discuss what’s happening and where efforts need to be channeled. Members also receive email notifications of crisis situations so that all who can may pitch in to help.

“Someone might need rent money. One group can pitch in a portion and someone else can handle the remaining amount. Everyone in the group has a heart to help; it is amazing the things that can be accomplished when we all work together,” affirms Smith.

This brother’s keeper mentality has been the lifeline for numerous individuals. When asked about a memorable moment as the Executive Director of REAL, thoughts of one particular incident quickly came to Mary’s mind, accompanied by tears of joy.

“There was a family that wanted to donate a power wheelchair to someone in need,” explained Smith. “A person in PRC knew of a man who had been homebound for eight months. He could not even get out of bed. To know that I was able to help this man regain some quality of life made me feel so good. It is heartwarming to know that I made a real difference.”

REAL Crisis and PRC are excellent assets that have become the backbone of the Greenville

community. REAL was recently asked to help update the 211 database for United Way of Pitt County – a community impact organization with a focus area to help basic needs. Individuals who call the 211 hotline will be connected with viable resources as a result of the work of Mary and her team who have knowledge of many of the local resources in our area. Mary also hosts a TV show on public access Channel 23 to educate the public on assets in our community.

As our interview came to a close, it was apparent that Mary and the REAL Crisis team are fully dedicated and committed to serving others. In fact, Mary identifies the dedication of her staff as one of the reasons that motivates her to do what she does every day. Even in the highly intensive, non-stop environment, dealing with every day Joes to the chronically mentally ill, they still maintain their warmth and concern despite the verbal abuse they must sometimes endure.

However, I believe the spirit of the organization stems from its leader. Her years of service speak volumes to the passion she has for helping others and the joy she experiences from doing what she loves.

“When I go to sleep at night, I know that I’ve done something to help someone,” explains Smith. “It is what I was born to do.”

And, therein lies the definition of success.

If you or someone you know needs help, call the crisis hotline at 252.758.HELP

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For more information contact: 218-4247 Greenville Housing Authority at (252)329-4000 and Mary Tate at (877) (252)551-9113 19

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BY BEVERLY KEMP

Somebody Prayed for Me When my heart was so broken that I could not pray, When love wasn’t easy to see.

Someone was there, somebody cared, Somebody prayed for me.

Somebody went to the throne of heaven, Somebody lifted my name.

Bringing me into His holy presence, Saying what I could not say.

Somebody showed me the face of His mercy, When darkness was all I could see.

Somebody pleaded the Blood of Jesus, Somebody prayed for me.

When the future looked hopeless and I’d given up, When I had lost sight of my dreams Somebody near, dried every tear, Somebody prayed for me.

Taking a look back we see that we have gone over what prayer is in “The Sweet Hour of Prayer”, which gave us the understanding that prayer is communicating with our Lord and Savior. It was about making our request known before Him. Then there was “I Heard the Voice” letting us know that there is more to prayer than just talking. We have to listen for the still small voice that speaks to us. Lastly, we went over wanting to hear from God in “God is Trying to Tell You Something”.

That focused on how we can be so busy and not realize that God has provided the very answer we were seeking. Now we are about to go over the specifics of whom we should be praying for and what we should pray for. First I would like to go over what the Scripture says about prayer. James 4:2 tells us that many times we don’t have because we don’t ask and then again we could ask and not receive because we ask for the wrong reasons. James 5:16 tells us to pray for one another; and that is what intercessory prayer is all about. So many of us realize that someone prayed for us, while there are many that don’t know that they are still here amongst the land of the living because of the effectual fervent prayers of someone they www.destinymag.org www.destinymag.org

may are may not know. There are many that God has given the gift of prayer. They are actual intercessors, interceding for some that they don’t even know. They may or may not have called out that person’s name; they may have just called out their status. “Lord look on the sick and shut-in, bring that wayward child back home, help that woman going through domestic abuse, look on that drug addict looking for relief from the pain that he/she is trying to numb, etc….. The truth is that God has watchmen on the wall praying at all times. Angels are encamped about and they are looking out for God’s children. I would like to give you a few scriptures that might help you to understand more about praying for others: James 4:3 ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss. That ye may consume it upon your lust.

1 John 3:22 and received from Him anything we ask because we keep His commandments and do what pleases Him. John 5:14 this is the confidence we have in approaching God, that if we ask any thing according to His will He hears us.

James 5:16 confess your faults one to another that ye may be healed.

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

James 5:15 and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

Today prayer is needed like never before. We have to be sensitive in the spirit to know that there is a need for prayer all over this world. War and hatred is growing rapidly. The signs of the time are so evident. Wars, killing, violence, prejudice, terrorist attacks, sickness and disease, perversion, homosexuality, corruption, poverty and the list keeps growing daily. We should also pray for our President and the government. Those of us who are in ministry know that we have to pray for our leadership as well as keeping our church family covered in prayer. We too must be covered through prayer less we find ourselves in a place of weakness. We must realize that as we go before the Throne of Glory in intercession we must pray according to the Word of God seeking God’s will.

Let us be obedient to the Word of God always.

Next issue: Prayer and Fasting 20 20

BY BEVERLY KEMP To communicate with the Father all you have to do is pray He knows what you’re thinking He hears every word you say I know for a fact that He will answer prayer You must pray with all your heart It has to be sincere If you would only take the time to pray you will surely find that He will answer each and every prayer but only in His time I know my Father loves me I know my Father cares And everything I know and feel is all because of prayer Prayer is the key to unlock my Father’s door He hears every sincere prayer Not one will He ignore I know through prayer that if you open up your heart and ask for forgiveness of all your sins It’s a time when you can shut out everything around you and just get intimate with Him Yes, prayer is a quick link to my Father this is true If you sincerely called on Him I promise you’ll get through I John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us:

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Hundreds gathered in Greenville on May 17, 2014 to bring the love of Jesus to the community.

With food, fellowship, and fun, CON and its many volunteers blessed the community by serving free food, offering music and entertainment, and hosting several information booths.

Community Unity Day is an annual event. Please see con2007.org for 2015 updates. www.destinymag.org

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BY: D. GAYLE HARRIS

Proverbs 18:16 states that, “[a] man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.” A Godgiven gift or talent is a holy treasure of value and worth. Its expression is a fulfillment of purpose and destiny that returns to the giver wealth, satisfaction, and good success. In our feature, 18:16 Spotlight, we showcase those who are allowing their gifts to make room for them….

Name: Samuel L Speight, Jr.

Hometown: Snow Hill, North Carolina

Family Status: Married to Teresa, share two daughters Kayla, 10 yrs. and Tamara, 8 yrs.

Who is your greatest mentor? My father, Samuel L. Speight Sr.

What is your favorite promise scripture? Proverb 23:7 for as he thinks in his heart

so is he……

How did you first discover you gift(s)? Singing and playing music in the church at the age 10 How has your gift made room for you? (A description of how you are using your gift to impact the world). I’ve been able to share the platform with major recording artists, trained countless musician and singers, recorded music, write songs for artists, and serve in key leadership positions in organizations and churches. My gift has also provided secondary income for my family.

Describe that moment when your gifting made your dreams come true? When I received my first decent check as a musician. I couldn’t believe that someone would pay me for doing what I enjoyed doing! At that moment, I realized that I needed to place more value on the gift that God entrusted me with. I decided to spend time studying, practicing and educating myself on the concepts of biblical music. As a result, I have had the pleasure to live out my dreams of educating others concerning music and biblical standards while being compensated.

Where do you see your gift(s) taking you in the future? My future is bright! I believe that my gifts will continue to create opportunities that will allow me to educate others concerning their passions. I look forward to the releasing of my praise and worship album that will minister to the hearts of a generation of believers that are passionate about their destiny. I am excited about the publication of several books that I’ve written that will inspire individuals to embrace the uniqueness and live their dreams. Lastly, I see my gifts as my “BRAND” branding my legacy as an individual who embraced his passion, pursued his calling, and fulfilled his purpose.

What words of inspiration can you give others to maximize their gift(s)? I always share with individuals that the power of their uniqueness is found in their passion. A man’s passion is his signature; his signature is his identity and is his distinctive message to the world. When he realizes it and begins to take action, he is finally released to pursue his passion with total freedom. In other words “Do Whatcha Do” because no one else can’t do it better than you! www.destinymag.org

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BUSINESS MINDS www.businessminds.us

 BUSINESS MINDS A DIVISION OF CHURCHES OUTREACH NETWORK

 Business MINDS is…  A Member-based organization  A Christian-based organization  Committed to helping Entrepreneurs succeed as Business Owners Business MINDS provides…      

Inclusion in web-based directory Advertising on Business MINDS Television Show and Business MINDS Magazine Discounts on Quarterly Workshops and Seminars Discounts on website creation/design Networking opportunities E-blast Marketing

If you have a business and would like to network, expand and/or gain additional business strategies ~ now is the time to connect with Business MINDS. Key elements of operating a successful business include Managing it, Investing time in it, Networking with others, and being Determined to make it Succeed. Thank you for stopping by for our presentation of Business MINDS. For more information contact: Melissa Alston For more information, contact Pastor Rodney Coles Sr. at (252)902-4137 or Rodney@businessminds.us 919.414.9950 Melissa@businessminds.us 25

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The vision and heart cry of this ministry is to reach out to every identified homeless person in our surrounding community and through the sharing of God’s love, put an end to this epidemic once and for all.

This ministry seeks out the faceless, forgotten population that is among us and we love them like Jesus!

We boldly go into the woods, under the bridges, and through the many worn pathways that are traveled by our homeless population and bring God’s love straight to them. We stand by our homeless brothers and sisters and walk beside them, hand in hand, through the storms, to recovery and deliverance from the chains that are binding them and keeping them from living God’s perfect plan for their lives.

For more information about Angel Cops or to volunteer please contact (252) 902-5020.

Angel Cops is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible. You may donate to Angel Cops at P.O. Box 2278, Greenville, North Carolina, 27836.

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As we’ve tackled childhood obesity over the past year, we’ve realized again and again that this is not a stand-alone issue. It’s bound up in every issue we face – from health care to education to the way our cities are designed. There’s no one, single answer that will fix it, no magic bullet. So we knew that if we’re going to solve this problem in a generation – and we are – we’d need to come at it from every direction.

And one of the most inspiring things for me is to see that cities across the country are ready and willing to take this approach at their local level. They’re getting folks together – from city hall to the local farmers to the corner stores – to tackle this problem. They’re figuring out what the biggest challenges are for their communities and working together to find the solutions that work for their areas.

Already, more than 470 mayors have signed up for Let’s Move! Cities and Towns, a program designed to encourage leaders to adopt long-term, sustainable, and comprehensive approaches to fight childhood obesity.

They’re working with schools. They’re working with businesses. They’re cleaning up parks. They’re starting youth sports leagues. From big metropolitan areas like San Antonio or Philadelphia to small communities with just a couple of stoplights, the message is the same – people from all walks of life are working together to find local solutions.

And we know that one hurdle that many of these communities confront is limited access to healthy foods.

Simply being able to buy fresh fruits and vegetables isn’t an option for many Americans. So, we’ve worked hard to better identify these food deserts with a current “Food Atlas.” We’ve advocated for the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, which will get healthy foods to these areas. We’ve worked with the Department of Agriculture to break ground on nearly 600 “People’s Gardens” nationwide. And our outreach to faith communities has led groups to pledge 10,000 new gardens and farmer’s markets, and 1,000 new summer programs to increase food access.

So we’re on our way – but we know that there’s still a lot ahead of us. If we’re going to end the epidemic of childhood obesity, we know it will take everyone, from moms and dads to mayors and business leaders, to do it. But if there’s one thing that always gives me hope, it’s the work that’s going on in communities across this country. I know that if we keep working, keep moving, we can put a stop to this problem once and for all. www.destinymag.org

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10 tips

Nutrition

Education Series

smart shopping for veggies and fruits

10 tips for affordable vegetables and fruits

It is possible to fit vegetables and fruits into any budget. Making nutritious choices does not have to hurt your wallet. Getting enough of these foods promotes health and can reduce your risk of certain diseases. There are many low-cost ways to meet your fruit and vegetable needs.

1

celebrate the season

Use fresh vegetables and fruits that are in season.

They are easy to get, have more flavor, and are usually less expensive.

Your local farmer’s market is a great source of seasonal produce.

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stick to your list

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Plan out your meals ahead of time and make a grocery list. You will save money by buying only what you need. Don’t shop when you’re hungry. Shopping after eating will make it easier to pass on the tempting snack foods. You’ll have more of your food budget for vegetables and fruits.

4

try canned or frozen

Compare the price and the number of servings from fresh, canned, and frozen forms of the same veggie or fruit.

Canned and frozen items may be less expensive than fresh. For canned items, choose fruit canned in 100% fruit juice and vegetables with “low sodium” or “no salt added” on the label.

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For fresh vegetables or fruits you use often, a large size bag is the better buy. Canned or frozen fruits or vegetables can be bought in large quantities when they are on sale, since they last much longer.

why pay full price?

Check the local newspaper, online, and at the store for sales, coupons, and specials that will cut food costs. Often, you can get more for less by visiting larger grocery stores (discount grocers if available).

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buy small amounts frequently

Some fresh vegetables and fruits don’t last long. Buy small amounts more often to ensure you can eat the foods without throwing any away.

buy in bulk when items are on sale

store brands = savings

Opt for store brands when possible. You will get the same or similar product for a cheaper price. If your grocery store has a membership card, sign up for even more savings.

keep it simple

Buy vegetables and fruits in their simplest form. Pre-cut, pre-washed, ready-to-eat, and processed foods are convenient, but often cost much more than when purchased in their basic forms.

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plant your own

Start a garden—in the yard or a pot on the deck—for fresh, inexpensive, flavorful additions to meals.

Herbs, cucumbers, peppers, or tomatoes are good options for beginners. Browse through a local library or online for more information on starting a garden.

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plan and cook smart

Prepare and freeze vegetable soups, stews, or other dishes in advance. This saves time and money. Add leftover vegetables to casseroles or blend them to make soup. Overripe fruit is great for smoothies or baking.

DG TipSheet No. 9 September 2011

United States Department of Agriculture Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion

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Go to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov for more information.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 9:27 ESV

But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.

3 John 1:2 ESV

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.

1 Corinthians 6:12 ESV

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything.

Romans 12:1 ESV

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

John 6:35 ESV

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.

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Exodus 23:25 ESV

You shall serve the Lord your God, and he will bless your bread and your water, and I will take sickness away from among you.

Romans 12:2 ESV

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Matthew 4:4 ESV

But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” 1 Timothy 4:1-5 ESV

Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 ESV

I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live; also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God’s gift to man.

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Eating on a Budget — The

3 P’s

PLAN 9 Plan meals and snacks for the week according to an established budget.

9 Find quick and easy recipes online.

9 Include meals that will “stretch” expensive food items (stews, casseroles, stir‐fried dishes).

9 Make a grocery list.

9 Check for sales and coupons in the local paper or online and consider discount stores.

9 Ask about a loyalty card at your grocery store.

PURCHASE 9 Buy groceries when you are not hungry and when you are not too rushed.

9 Stick to the grocery list and stay out of the aisles that don’t contain items on your list.

9 Buy store brands if cheaper.

9 Find and compare unit prices listed on shelves to get the best price.

9 Purchase some items in bulk or as family packs which usually cost less.

9 Choose fresh fruits and vegetables in season; buy canned vegetables with less salt.

9 Pre‐cut fruits and vegetables, individual cups of yogurt, and instant rice and hot cereal are convenient, but usually cost more than those that require a bit more prep time.

9 Good low‐cost items available all year include: o Protein — beans (garbanzo, black, cannellini) o Vegetables — carrots, greens, potatoes o Fruit — apples, bananas

PREPARE

9 Some meal items can be prepared in advance; pre‐cook on days when you have time.

9 Double or triple up on recipes and freeze meal‐sized containers of soups and casseroles or divide into individual portions.

9 Try a few meatless meals by substituting with beans and peas or try “no‐cook” meals like salads.

9 Incorporate leftovers into a subsequent meal.

9 Be creative with a fruit or vegetable and use it in different ways during the week.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion September 2011

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Destiny Magazine

A Division of Churches Outreach Network Size

Price Full Page $300.00 ½ Page $175.00 ¼ Page $87.50 Premium Positions Inside Front Cover $475.00 Inside Back Cover $475.00 Back Cover $500.00 Two-­‐page spread $750.00 Special Offers Purchase Ads in both issues of Destiny Magazine (2x) Get a FREE Banner Ad on FaithMedia.tv Purchase Ads in Destiny Magazine and Business MINDS Magazine Get a FREE Banner Ad on FaithMedia.tv

All premium positions are on a first-­‐come, first-­‐ served basis. All page position and spread pricing is for four-­‐color.

Name:

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Email:

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City

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To place an ad in Destiny Magazine, contact Keisha Supel at 252.717.9133 or via email at Contact us at 877-218-4247 orKeisha@faithmedia.tv. email us through www.destinymag.org for more information. www.destinymag.org 37

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Movie Description:

Four men, one calling: To serve and protect. As law enforcement officers, Adam Mitchell, Nathan Hayes, David Thomson, and Shane Fuller are confident and focused. Yet at the end of the day, they face a challenge that none of them are truly prepared to tackle: fatherhood.

When tragedy hits home, these men are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Can a newfound urgency help these dads draw closer to God ... and to their children?

Protecting the streets is second nature to these men. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That’s courageous.

Mission: Showing Christian movies to impact a Christian life.

Life Impact will be showing: The Movie “Courageous” Free to all, and all are welcome, check the website for information on date and time: www.con2007.org For more information contact Pastor Rodney Coles Sr. @ 252 902-4137 www.destinymag.org

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For more information on how to expand the reach of your ministry contact Pastor Rodney Coles Sr. at 1-877-218-4247

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