Breaking The Silence

God. Music. Fashion. Life.
MAGAZINE
Grammy Nominated
Breaking The Silence
CONCERT REVIEWS
Tips on winter fashion
Where did Jesus go?
meet krystal meyers
ENTER
IRT
TO WIN A SH D!
E
SIGNED BY R
www.onepraisemagazine.com
STAND FIRM
It is an honor to be a part of what God is doing in the
world today in Christian rock music. There are artists
like Red, Pillar, Day of Fire, Decyfer Down and others who are standing up and they are not conforming to a mold. They are called by God not only to
encourage believer’s, but also to impact the lives
of those who may not ordinarily go to church.
It’s unfortunate when Christians, including the
artists listed above, are judged because they
don’t fit the mold of what Christians should
be. Are they wrong because they
are different?
I have met a number of Christians who would
do anything for people around them. They
go out of their way to be helpful, caring, you
name it, but when someone “different” reaches
out to them, they take a few steps back. They are
so comfortable with their circle of friends that
they forget that God didn’t call us to only love
our friends and family. They forget that those
who don’t look or act like everyone else attending church have also been chosen by God.
I hope that, through this latest issue of One
Praise Magazine, you will be encouraged to
search your heart for understanding of these
“different” believers. If God has not called you
to reach out to those who might easily be rejected, please don’t judge others who have.
There is enough room in Heaven for all of us!
In Christ,
Liz Slater
2 Thessalonians 2:13
But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the
Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved
through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in
the truth
Credits
2. Editor’s page
Liz Slater
Founder & Editor-in-Chief
4..5. RED
6..7. RED
Jason Slater
Editor
Tiffany Lee
Fashion Director
9. Super Bowl predictions
10. Godstock
Jeffrey Grossman
Graphic Designer/Art Director
Writers and Contributing Writers
Stephanie Fuchs
Thomas J
Emily Jones
Sharona Resnick-Kravitz
Dan White
Photographer
Rebecca Bousquet
([email protected])
11. Disciple interview
One Praise magazine is published by:
One Praise, LLC
P.O. Box 290123
Wethersfield, CT. 06129
[email protected]
Copyright 2007. One Praise, LLC.
Reproduction without
written permission from the
publisher is prohibited.
12. Chris Barrett
Rock the Sound
13. Pillar
14. Ron Mcclelland
chats about new cd
15. Fan Page
Models
Elizabeth Sturtevant
Jeffrey C. Lawrence
Jessica Vicenty
(For information on booking the
models
please email: [email protected])
Special Thanks To:
John Clore, Publicist for Essential
Records
Leanne Bush Public Relations
Rock The Sound
8. Artist Spotlight
16. Michelle Tumes
17. Krystal Meyers
18. Cd reviews Deciple,
KUTlass
19. Fashion
23. One Praise Staff
Rants on winter
24. CONCERT REVIEWs
25. RELIANT K... GRITS
26. Pastor Jey
27. Are You Feeling Troubled?
what happened to jesus?
28. Feeling Boxed In?
29. Volunteerism
“We are almost forced to get someone’s attention. We get
one chance. We say “let’s go out there and show them
something that they’ve never seen before or let them hear
something that they’ve never heard before.”
By Liz Slater
After a performance that I will not soon forget, I
had the opportunity to meet with bassist Randy
Armstrong, guitarist Anthony Armstrong, guitarist Jasen Rauch, drummer Hayden Lamb and vocalist Michael Barnes. The GRAMMY nominated
band put on an amazing show in Meriden, Connecticut. It was their first time in the state although Randy, Anthony and Jasen, the founders
of RED, originate from Pennsylvania. (Hayden is
from Chicago, Ill. and Michael from Nashville,
TN.)
The crowd, including myself was shocked
and saw something completely unexpected. I
asked some concert goers what they thought
and one said, “I have never seen anything like
Red! I am an instant fan.” So, I had to ask the
band, what they hope people will leave with after seeing their live performance. Is the objective to “shock and awe” concert goers? Hayden
says, “Our shows are very powerful from our
stand point. We put the same thing in the live
performance that we did in the record. It’s kind
of emotional journey of everything that we do.
It’s very energetic, very aggressive and very
powerful. It’s a little shocking at first.” He goes
on to say that someone may start off surprised
but in a positive way. The goal is to make an impact in the lives of those who attend the shows.
That is what Hayden describes as, “the best
thing.” Anthony adds, “We are almost forced to
get someone’s attention. We get one chance.
We say “let’s go out there and show them something that they’ve never seen before or let them
hear something that they’ve never heard before.” People will hopefully leave here and say
“Wow, I’ve never heard of that band but I really
like what they are doing.”
Although the band exudes confidence, they
are not afraid to admit that they get nervous
at times. They wonder if what they are doing
is actually working. Anthony briefly explained
that God continues to reassure them that they
are on the right path. Sometimes, the band has
conflicts with some people. There are some who
do not believe that rock music can be a positive
tool used for reaching lives for Christ. “We get
convicted but the Bible says, “Spread the Word
by any means possible.” If it’s hard music that
is going reach kids and God has called them to
this, then that’s what it’s going to be.
Their debut album End of Silence can be best described as powerful and riveting. The lyrical
overtone cries out “passion” and “a longing
for something more.” Throughout their main
fan website, run under the name Red Nation
(www.myspace.com/therednation), comments
are made about the song Pieces. It’s one that
could be considered an anthem for those who
have come to the Lord broken. The song gives
me the impression that it can be around for
years. It’s emotional and my guess is that other artists may consider a remake of it in the
future. It’s that good.
The lyrics are:
I’m here again
a thousand miles away from you
a broken mess
just scattered pieces of who I am
I tried so hard
thought I could do this on my own
I’ve lost so much along the way
then I see your face
I know I’m finally yours
I find everything
I thought I’ve lost before
You call my name
I come to you in pieces
so you can make me whole.
I mentioned to the band that the album sounds
like it can easily cross-over into the secular
music industry. Randy was quick to correct me
and said that they prefer to use the phrase “spilling over.” According to the band, the album was
written from the start to reach mainstream listeners. He emphasized that to reach that audience
you have to make the lines hard to see. People
will notice that the band doesn’t swear and they
make themselves available to the fans. “We enjoy our relationship with our fans. People get “the
treatment” and know that we come from another
place.” His twin brother Anthony added, “As far
as we are concerned music is not Christian music.
It’s music with Christian lyrics & Christian content. If you were at a show hearing us play, you
wouldn’t know that we were a “Christian” band if
we were playing at a bar. That’s part of our ministry. We are not called to be in a church every single day and rub elbows with people who already
know God. We are here to plant seeds. We are
called to be in dark places.” They said that their
mission is to break down walls. There’s something
incredibly significant in hearing that come from
a band that is commanding so much attention in
the Christian music industry. The band believes
that planting seeds is all about building relationships, loving God and loving people. They believe
in treating people like they aren’t going to hell.
They said that if you act like yourself and just be
a regular person that can help changes lives.
As Red continues to “spill over,” Jasen said that
the response from critics and fans is overwhelming, even though the wall hasn’t been broken
with some of the more conservative generations.
“We want to take our music and do something
that hasn’t been seen in Christian music before.”
That includes putting together ideas for the video
for Breathe into Me, which they are very pleased
with. During the brainstorming process they were
excited that the vision that they had was well received by the video director. It’s described by
Anthony as one of spiritual encouragement. I was
impressed by the quality and clarity of the message they wanted to get across. Add it to your
must see list!
These days Red is the band to keep a close eye
on. They are making fans wherever they go and
with this GRAMMY nomination they are bound
to reach their goal of bringing their message
into the mainstream. After this interview the
band received the news about the nomination
and Jasen shared the bands reaction, “We are
so excited to do what we love and be able to
make music. Something like a GRAMMY nomination is so far above our expectations it is hard
to believe. We have a great label, agent, manager, and most of all great fans. We want to thank
everyone for all of their support from day one.”
For more on Red, visit:
www.redmusiconline.com
www.myspace.com/dropofred
The RED Nation is a Street Team for “RED”.
If you are interested in joining, please email
us at, [email protected] for more
information. Members will have exclusive access to RED merchandise unavailable to nonmembers, a special street team card offering
specific benefits and discounts, and entry in
exclusive contests and prizes available only to
RED Street Team members. RED Street Team
members will be on the forefront of supporting RED by heading up promotions, events,
and getting the name of RED out in your area.
Thanks! “The RED Nation”
www.myspace.com/therednation
Enter to win ONE PRAISE t-shirt signed by RED
Contact us with you name, address, phone number and email address along with a few lines telling
us how Red inspires you. If you win, we will include your response in our
next issue on our Fan Page.
Write to:
One Praise Magazine
P.O. Box 290123
Wethersfield, CT. 06129
OR
[email protected]
Artist spotlight
with justin kendrick
The same questions we will always ask are answered this issue by Justin Kendrick, lead vocalist for the Connecticut based band,
Holyfire. You can purchase their new CD “Broken and Brave”and find more information on Holyfire at
www.HolyfireMusic.com
www.myspace.com/HolyfireMusic
Describe yourself in one word:
Passionate—I want to follow Jesus with all my heart.
What makes you laugh?
I think just being around the people on our team. We have a lot of fun together and just spending time
with them, there’s always something to laugh about. There’s a special chemistry that I’m really grateful
for. In this job people don’t realize that…
I think people don’t realize that music ministry is a calling. There’s a lot of time where you’re in front of
people and God is using you, but there’s also a lot of time when it’s not too fun—when it’s three in the
morning and you’re unloading the trailer in the rain. All the people in Holyfire have sacrificed a lot to do
what we do. It’s a real honor to serve Jesus with them.
What is your favorite musician joke?
The only one I can think of is the one that Chris, our drummer tells me: “What did the lead singer get on
his IQ test? -- Saliva.” I think it was a drummer joke that he converted.
Favorite music right now?
I like a lot of different music right now. I like the content of some of the classics like Keith Green, but I
love a lot of the new sounds. I like what Leeland’s doing and what Switchfoot’s doing.
Food you miss most while on tour?
Honestly, I’m not too picky with food and people usually feed us really well. A lot of time’s when we are
traveling we actually sit and eat more than when I’m home. I know it sounds kinda lame but I enjoy a
good peanut butter and jelly and I almost never eat them when we are traveling. Sometimes when we get
home after a long trip, I’ll sit and enjoy a pbj.
superbowl predictions
who do you think will be in the big game?
RED
Anthony- Colts & Bears
Michael- Bears
Hayden- Patriots & Bears
Randy- (going out on a limb)
Titans
Jasen- Detriot & Bengals
StorySide B
Ron- Colts & Bears
Preston- Cowboys & Patriots
Jordan- Bears will take it all.
(1985 was the last Super Bowl
they won, and it’s about time for
a win. Plus, I was born in Chicago.)
Bride
Dale- Colts & Bears
(www.bridepub.com)
Disciple
Kevin- Giants & Colts (w/ Patriots as a wild card)
Brad- Bears & Colts
Joey- Cardinals & Raiders
A Road Less Traveled
Shawn- Cowboys & 49’ers
(www.arltmusic.com)
Interested in advertising in
One Praise Magazine?
email:
[email protected]
for more information
go to:
www.onepraisemagazine.com
GODSTOCK 2K7
2 days 3 stages with top shredding
recording artists, speakers, bike show,
car show, games, venders,
food and camping.
Red
Day of Fire
Dizmas
Overflow
Project 86
Kids in The Way
Everyday Sunday
Fire Flight
also...
Since October
All But Screaming
Calling Elijah
Station 20
Beautiful Allegation
Waiting on One
First Watch
The Springs
City Under Seige
other facts:
screening of the award winning movie
Behind the walls
(best feature film by WYSIWYG Festival)
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ith his Bible on hand Kevin Young, Brad
Noah, Tim Barret and Joey Fife took some
time away from preparing for their show
in Meriden, Connecticut for an interview.
Disciple is currently on the road supporting
their latest release, Scars Remain.
OP: Have you ever been to CT before?
All: No.
Brad: I drove through Connecticut but never
been here before.
OP: The good thing is that we are between
Boston and New York City.
Brad: I actually drove through Boston a
couple of months ago. I really wish I could have
stopped.
OP: You were recently featured for WWE’s
Cyber Sunday. I know that a lot kids pick up the
CD’s featured on WWE events. Has the response
been positive?
Brad: I think so. I keep hearing about how
they’ve helped us out a lot.
OP: Did you guys watch that event?
Brad: We were there. They gave us ringside
and they showed us on the big screen. We were
so close to the ring that we heard the wrestler’s
talking to each other on the ring. It was really
cool. It’s kind of like a dance that they are doing. You can hear them talking to each other.
I heard this one guy tell another guy, “Get
closer! Get closer!”
Op: That’s cool
OP: Do you ever have someone who isn’t saved listen to your music
stage?
and talk to you about it?
Kevin: Yeah. We read one of the itunes reviews, was that ... this guy
was atheist and this guy said, “This band is a great band. Just don’t
pay attention to their lyrics.” That was cool. (laughs)
body knows it. People sing along.
OP: You are on your way to Germany. Have you been there before?
Brad: Yeah.
Op: What song do you like to perform on
Brad: I like Scars Remain
Kevin: I like The Wait Is Over because everyOp: Who wrote the song, My Hell?
Brad: We all did
Kevin: I think that song is really from the
perspective of just... I mean obviously, it can
become a big deep theological debate which
I don’t want to get into. But for me, I feel like
there have been times in my life when I’ve
turned my back on Him. And waking up and
not having Him in my life... It’s from that perspective of not having Him in my life. It’s hell
for me.
OP: Can you tell me about a witness experience
OP: I heard that Germany is all about rock music.
Brad: Yeah, they really are. Over here if you are on stage and make
a mistake
you can keep going. Over there they really want you to kick butt.
They are into heavier music over there.
OP: Feel any added pressure going of there to perform?
Brad: Not anymore because they like us. It’s comfortable getting up
there.
Tim: Last time we went over there they had us to 3 encore’s.
Brad: That was tough.
(everyone laughs)
after your shows?
Brad & Kevin: There’s are a lot
Kevin: There is one that sticks out in my
mind. One in Knoxville from this guy who was
a sniper and just came back from Iraq. He was
very skeptical when we dedicated a song to the
troops in our set. He asked if we were being
serious or being skeptical. Or being positive.
He went and got a CD and he started reading
the lyrics. He went to a corner and he started
crying. He came over and hugged us. That’s
one story. There’s another one... I can’t really
remember the specifics. It’s hard to remember
specific ones but there’s a bunch of them.
Disciple’s tour schedule has them
on the road through the summer
of 2007. For more on Disciple,
check out www.DiscipleRocks.com
by Liz Slater
INTERVIEW
WITH chris barrett OF ROCK THE SOUND
by emily jones
Rock The Sound is a non-profit organization who’s
purpose is to promote ALL types of Christian music
concerts on, or near the Long Beach Sound.
The organization
is about bringing the Gospel, through music, to the community. They want to be a place were people, who may not have
opened the door to a church for a long time,
might be willing to go to a concert. This amazing organization
got off to a very interesting start when founder, Joel Stier,
discovered that his two teenage daughters were
listening to music he wasn’t too fond of. His experience with
Christian music, which was very limited, eventually made him
think that it wasn’t an option. He ended up going
to concerts and found that it was different then what he
thought and got very excited about them. Not only did he
start bringing his family, but started booking busses for his
church. There would be 3-4 hour trips to go see concerts.
When Chris Barrett, now President of Rock the Sound, was
asked to meet with Joel Stier the focus was to get a Christian
radio station. Barrett says, “I was asked to meet with him to
hear his vision which at the time, was more focused on getting a Christian radio station into Connecticut. He not only had
a vision, but also had done his homework. His vision seemed
a little crazy, but the good kind of crazy- the kind that requires
you to take risks and trust God.” Barrett says that Stier got
to a certain point where he thought, “Why can’t that happen
here?” He started poking around and what he found was that
Audio Adrenaline was having an auction on eBay to win them
for a concert, which was a fundraiser for the Hands And Feet
Project. He decided to start bidding on it and probably ended
up paying more for it then if he was to go through the booking agency. As a result of having won them, that was sort of
the emphasis for putting together the first event called Rock
The Sound, in 2005.
At first, the idea of putting concerts together in Connecticut
scared Barrett. He had been comfortable volunteering for the
Passion student conferences and being a part of the Christian
community. He loves being a part of the fabric a community
but God was looking for him to take it to the next level.
Rock the Sound 2005 ended up having the Newsboys, Audio Adrenaline, KJ-52, and Hawk Nelson. It was insane to
start off with that big of an event at the Harbor Yard Arena
in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The arena was set up for about
5,000 people and sold about 4,400 tickets to their first event.
The organization was blessed to have Club Swords and the
Community Coffee House, who had well-developed volunteer
bases. The volunteers have become the core of RTS. Along
the way other groups and individuals have joined the volunteer group. Barrett says this about the RTS volunteers, “They
make the events go, do so with skill and grace, and create a
warm, prayerful enviornment that, I believe, the Holy Spirit
just can’t stay away from.” The first event is described by Barrett as “amazing.” The first event was a success.
RTS 2006 brought Casting Crowns, Toby Mac, Pillar, Stellar
Kart and Unspoken to Harbor Yard Arena. “It seemed pretty
over the top when we first said it loud. The hunger is here
for music and for God. For so long we have all believed that
the Northeast was dead- it’s just the way it was. This is a
new time and, I believe, God is stirring the hearts of His
people.”
Barrett knows that Rock the Sound is making a difference,
“We hear stories of conversions and of recommitments.
Parents find common ground in the music to share with
their children. Churches broaden their view on how their
youth can be reached, those in ministry are renewed in
their sense of call... Another benefit has been youth coming
to concerts and seeing classmates they didn’t know were
Christian and, in general, giving people a sense of the larger
community I am part of something bigger.”
Things that Barrett hopes that RTS 2007 will help encourage are that lives will be changed, youth will be engaged,
people encouraged, and the church rethinks it’s impact on
the world around it. Depending on who RTS is able to secure for the 2007 artist lineup, they may move to a bigger
location to hold 10,000 people. “Doing larger events that
expand the sense of community has been challenging and
rewarding. It has redefined my sense of how I can contribute to the Kingdom.”
To the artists who have not yet ventured into this area Barrett says this, “ Where else can you come where the population is so dense, there is a real hunger for that which is
genuine, almost every concert wins you lots of new fans
and God is poised to do new and amazing things? With 35
million people or so between NYC and Boston, it would be
silly not to be here...we want each artist to come and share
their music and hearts with all the gifting and uniqueness
God has given.”
For more on Rock the Sound events or if you would like to
contact the organizers please visit,
www.RocktheSound.com
From the Pillar Journal
Evangelism according to lead vocalist Rob Beckley
“There is one thing I’ve come to realize throughout my years
of being a Christian. It can be a bit awkward to call your-
self a Christian. This isn’t to come across like I’m upset
about us or what people say, but more so why do we cause
our own demise as Christians. Why do we waste our energy
trying to prove ourselves right to one another. Opinions are
always appreciated and necessary for growth. This example
is complete inocent but a gentle insight. I saw on our mes-
sage board someone asking if “Christianity” is still the driving
force behind our music. I also saw a reply from someone
that understands what we are really about. The reply was
“I wouldn’t say “Christianity” is the driving force behind Pillar’s music, but I would
say Jesus is.” As Christians, we are constantly wasting time proving ourselves to other
Christians. I know that we took a huge risk on this record. Most people don’t even
know what that risk is. Let me share it. Christians play it safe. Christians are scared.
Christians love comfort. All these statements are very general I must add, but why do
they seem so true? Why are we afraid to take risks? Besides, we are the ones that have
nothing to fear. I hear so many comments about Pillar did this, Pillar didn’t do this, Pil-
lar should’ve done this, Pillar isn’t heavy enough, Pillar sold out, etc.. You get the idea.
Well here is the reality.
At least we aren’t afraid to lay it on the line. That is what “Everything” is about. Giving
it all knowing you make get nothing in return. For me the album wasn’t written to please
fans. Honestly it was written out of obedience to what we were called to do. Take a
chance. Step out in front of the pack, lead from the front. My friend’s email signature
says. “If you want what you’ve never had, you have to do what you never done.” I want
everyone to know that there isn’t one person on this planet that can deter me from what
I am called to do. I know that I am doing what God has called me to do. Do you? Let
us challenge one another to be who you are supposed to be, instead of telling each other
what they are supposed to be. I love all of you guys. We have known a lot of you for
over 5 years. You have been to numerous shows. You have seen us grow. Know this......
I will never be as close to God as I want to, but I am closer today than I was yesterday.
I will give everything!! Win, Lose, or Die....WE RIDE!!!”
For more info check out: www.pillarmusic.com cd out now “The Reckoning”
Progress In Motion
Storyside B’s Ron McClelland
by Stephanie Anne
I first met the talented bassist for StorySide
B, Ron McClelland at a local church in CT in 2006.
We had a chance to speak again recently while
he recuperated at home after
knee surgery. While speaking
to McClelland, you could feel
that he has a very positive and
uplifting spirit, even after his
surgery. McClelland was able to
talk a little about the band and
the new album, expected to be
released in June 2007, that is
currently in progress.
Storyside B (now under new
management by David Lipscomb) is getting the business
background they need, combined with insight and perspective from another artist, Jeff
Moore from Overflow, who is
also part of the management
team.
Unlike the first album, Everything and More which was produced by lead singer, Lucio Rubino, McClelland said that they
are now working with J.R. McNeelly. He is an outside producer who mixes for major artists
such as Jeremy Camp. “It’s an
honor that J.R. chose SSB because he typically only chooses 1 or 2 records to produce a
year. Our A&R rep, and Goatee
records are great because they
focus on helping each band accomplish their individual goals.
Instead of dictating their own
agenda, they encourage creative freedom.” The group recorded two singles
this past month, with a total of 11 songs to be
recorded on the new album. Between the 4 band
members (lead vocals Lucio Rubino, drummer Jordan Mohilowski, guitarist/vocals Preston Pohl and
bassist/pianist Ron McClelland) they have 40 song
ideas to choose from. In addition to Joey Elwood,
the president of Gotee Records, all the band members and producers typically collaborate on which
selections make it to the final release.
Regarding the difference in the two albums
McClelland explains that the Everything & More
collection was written before he and Pohl joined
as a group. “With Lucio, Jordan (the original band
members), Preston and myself this production
is definitely more of a collaboration. Since all 4
members wrote songs, this album proves to be
more of a team effort, with an edgier result.”
Their debut CD illustrated that there are two
sides to a story. “Storyside A - what people see on
the outside and Storyside B- what is between us
and God. We should never judge people by what
we see on the surface.” The challenges that SSB’s
songs pose to listeners, are always, “What do you
stand for? What do you live for? What story would
be told if you had a camera following you for 24
hours?”
The message on this upcoming CD “is all about
re-examining hearts, being
real, breaking down walls, and
getting away from the stereotypical judgmental Christianity. It’s not up to us to dictate
behavior, except from within
ourselves. Instead of being the
type of Christians that do feel
the need to dictate what constitutes others’ right or wrong
behavior, SSB approaches
people in a different way. Not
in judgment, but in love.”
McClelland believes that one
important factor in achieving
the non-judgmental mindset
as Christians, is the Biblical
advice repeated over and over
in the Bible about prayer. “We
need to keep open communication between us and God
– “it’s essential. We are told
to “work out our own salvation
in fear and trembling”, but we
are not told to work out everyone else’s salvation!”
When asked how the band
holds each other accountable
spiritually, Ron replied, “Although no one can force behavior – it comes from within
ourselves – we as a band realize that we are all sinners. That
as long as we stay focused on
God, all else falls into place.
One major rule we have is that
each of us are never to be alone. This reminds us
to stay away from compromising situations. We
are all pretty protective over this ministry and
our reputation. One of our favorite verses is in
Proverbs 22:1: A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and loving favor rather than
silver and gold.”
As for New Year’s resolutions, Ron laughs, “Lose
weight! But seriously in a spiritual sense, to just
be ready and available for new opportunities God
is putting together for us in the New Year. My
dad always told me, “When preparation meets
opportunity, that’s when “advancement” or “success” comes; when things start to happen.”
For more information on Storyside B
visit www.storysideb.com
FAN PAGE
Last issue we asked you to write about how Storyside B inspired
you. Here is our contest winner- Mariah Freeman
won One Praise Magazine shirt signed by SSB.
I recently saw Storyside B perform in
Tampa, Florida. My favorite part of the show was the
music. Everyone in the band is very
talented, and their music is awesome. They have a
great sound. I especially liked the bass and the electric
guitar solos.
Mariah (on left) with lucio and her
friend
Storyside B’s performance really made me realize that
I want to play my own bass more and really want to
get involved with my own church’s youth band.
I was inspired by them.
God gave Storyside B awesome talent. I was impressed to see how they use their talents for Him. A
lot of Christian music is boring. Their music is anything but boring! More people who have these talents
should be lifting them up to the Lord.
The guys interacted with all their fans
after the show and were very nice. Even after meeting them, I am still interacting with them on MySpace.
They are just normal people just like me.
Mariah with Ron
To someone who hasn’t seen the band
perform, I would tell that person that they definitely
need to go to one of StorySide B’s concerts. They’re
crazy, and a ton of fun, and make sure you get front
row seats because it makes the concert so much more
fun. StorySide B is an AWESOME band. They’re all very
talented and have inspiring songs.
Mariah with Preston, Lucio, Jordan and Ron
Q&A with Michelle Tumes
By Liz Slater
After her taking some time off, the beautiful and gifted Michelle
Tumes returns with an inspiring self-titled album. It’s her fourth
and she is very thankful to be able to release this album. We
were able to connect with Michelle recently and see what’s on her
mind these days.
OP: After establishing your career as an artist, you take some time off and
study ancient history and literature. What interests you most about ancient
history? Michelle: I feel that looking at lives and situations in the absence of the
modern world brings a clarity of being. Even though these times were probably
extremely difficult, it seems as though life was uncomplicated. Also, the art
reflected in ancient times had a great majesty and I feel that it was a quest to
mirror God’s beauty, but even the simple
things were of great quality. It is amazing to me that some of these things have
survived through to the modern world.
OP: How would you describe the Lord’s encouragement through the writing and
production of this album?
Michelle: I feel that the Lord was beside me teaching me patience. During this
time, I wrote many songs and went down the road of a more ‘pop’ sound which
didn’t resonate with me deep down. It took courage that I did not have in my own strength to present the songs in a
style that was meant for me as an artist. Many days I would wake up and think, what is happening? This is taking so
long! The Lord has strengthened me because of this.
OP: Which song on this album is your favorite? Michelle: That is a difficult one! Even though this song will never be a single, it is probably “Gypsy Heart” which
describes someone who is searching outside the will of God for treasure only to find that the warm feeling of peace is
when Christ dwells within us. Everything leads back to this place.
OP: Is there a Bible verse that is special to you?
Michelle: Neh: 8:10 “For the joy of the Lord is your strength”. My Papa taught me this
when I was very young and apparently I used to preach it! It is amazing how that
verse has developed and applied to my life today.
OP: What music are you listening to these days?
Michelle: Since the majority of the year has been taken up with making the
album, I haven’t listened to very much music. Probably Josh Groban, Hayley
Westenra, Jars of Clay and Newsboys (just to name a few).
OP:
What would you say to someone who is going through a season of transition in their life and
needs encouragement?
Michelle: I would say, hang in there! ‘This too shall pass’. It may seem
as though God is far away, but He is (I believe) strengthening our faith
and trust in Him. We can use the time to wait upon Him and concentrate
on His peace and not the restlessness that the transition may cause in
the natural. Also, for me, it has meant acting on the opportunities
given by God along the way and praying about these. Finally,
sometimes the outcome of the transition may not be what we
have planned in our own minds. I believe God wants the
very best for us.
OP: You plan to tour the US, Japan, Australia and then
return for a full US tour. How are you preparing for so
much time on the road?
Michelle: I’m just trying to stay healthy and fairly fit, because it can be pretty tough on the body.
I travel with my husband a lot, so it is a lot like
home on the road spiritually and emotionally.
Fortunately I love traveling, so it is an honor
to go to places and meet new people.
For more info: www.michelletumes.com or www.
myspace.com/michelletumes
krystal meyers
Meet krystal meyers
Dove Award-nominated
Krystal Meyers is one of the hottest
young artists out today.
Since her debut album on Essential
Records, Krystal has topped the charts
with the singles “The Way To Begin”,
“My Savior”, “Anticonformity” and
“Fire.” In September 2006, she released
her sophomore album, Dying for a
Heart. There is nothing ordinary about
this CD. It’s a passionate & high energy
album! Every song has the potential
to be a hit. Anyone who listens to pop/
rock will enjoy this new release.
Facts
18 yrs old
Born in Orange County, California
Moved to Tennessee at age 6
Her faith means everything to her
Uses MAC makeup
Did you know…
Krystal bumped the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s from the #1 spot on Japan radio May 2006
Have you heard…
“The Beauty of Grace”
It’s about grace and the fact that no matter how far away you are, God is here,” says Krystal. “All your
scars and every mistake you’ve made is erased in God’s arms. In His arms, everything is forgiven. There is
grace so abundant.”
Videos to look for..
“The Beauty of Grace” and “Hallelujah”
by Liz Slater
For more on Krystal Meyers visit:
www.krystalmeyers.com & www.myspace.com/krystalmeyers
CD REVIEWs
By: Thomas J
DISCIPLE: Scars Remain
Brad Noah: Guitars
Joey Fife: Bass
Tim Barrett: Drums
Kevin Young: Vocals
OK, first I have to say that if you listen to this CD
while driving, be very wary of the speed limit and vehicles with
pretty blue lights. This album ROCKS! Very heavy, very brutal but
powerfully pop when necessary. I swear that if it weren’t for
After the World? one would need oxygen. In fact there should be
a warning label on the cover with 3 numbers, 911. Honestly though,
this band has their chops down and brings about many of their
influences in the music. Disciple know what they want to play and
have no reservations on how they want it to be heard. Give me guitar and deep gut wrenching bass! Scream it like you mean it! Break
skins and sticks! Let me hear the beautiful harmonic howl that Zakk
Wylde has made so-o famous. Yeah, now you know what I?m talking
about.
No need to throw colorful adjectives around these mates. It’s
everything that was and is metal in today’s society. I’m going
to take a chance here and say, new metal. Remember that
phrase? I am NOT pigeon holing this band in that genre, all I am
is giving you a reference point. I swear to you that you will be
launched so far from that, that your eyes will water from the
speed and intensity that follows. Just the onslaught of the opening riff of Someone? to the severe groove of Game On then the
pounding power pop chorus to Regime Change will make you a
believer that these boys should be bottled and sold as the next
energy drink. I know that there is a ton of bands that sound
similar to these guys. I won’t try and mask the truth with my
excitement, but seriously. If there is one CD that you needed to
have in your arsenal of music and are missing that one piece of
heavy (dare I say) METAL then look no further Disciple is good,
real good.
BTW: I think Disciple should pay for my speeding ticket.
Highlights: Regime Change, Game On, Scars Remain.
Side Note: Love the true Metal influence, solos rock.
I don’t mean to sound trite because this can sometimes be
considered a copout for not comparing them to a well-known
sound. No, I won’t belittle them with that type of label, even
though it’s only a way for you the reader to understand what
you are getting.
Kutless: Hearts of the Innocent
Jon Micah Sumrall - Vocals
James Mead -Guitar
Ryan Shrout -Guitar
Jeffrey Gilbert -Drums
Dave Luetkenhoelter -Bass
Out of the gate Kutless drives a rock riff into your
head with determination then lifts you up into a chorus of wingless
flight flying through the countryside with confidence in song. This
is how I describe most of the tunes on this 12 song disc. The album
in itself is exactly that, an album. Most bands that come through myhands and ears seem to have only a few tunes to offer with much
filler. This act isn’t afraid to offer up their hearts, cut them
selves so you can see them bleed and ask those what they think.
They aren’t afraid of having an idea and asking for input and actually
using it! I always seem to hear. “Your not in the band, this is
how the song goes.” No, not with these gents, they have no fear
when it comes to the song and the book of songs that is the album.
I call this music gentle rock but not without stress on the “rock.”
Well, how about this then. A modern rock album with many colorful waves of energy pulsing and coursing their way through,
gently touching down here and there to offer the beauty that is
the song.
Kudos for this band on sticking with their vision and promise to
only deliver an honest representation of five driven souls that rock
and if I’m wrong, well, you be the judge.
Big tips to Aaron Sprinkle, excellent work, you really brought out
the gold in this group.
Highlights: Shut me out, Beyond the Surface, Legacy.
Side note: Awesome drums, very talented.
(Thomas J. is long standing member of the Boston Rock community and has been apart of many bands and projects both
locally and nationally)
Winter Fashion
by tiffany lee
photos by Rebecca Bousquet
Coats, gloves, hats, scarves, sweaters…..
dressing for the winter weather can be time consuming and
frustrating, but it can also be fun! You can still keep your sense
of style while all bundled up.
A fleece cape layered over a
sweater and a light coat is
warm and looks cool too!
Blazers layered over a t-shirt and sweatshirt,
looks less geeky & more stylish.
Sherpa or sherling jackets are a great casual
choice for guys. Extremely warm and
rugged, how can you not look good
in this jacket?
Organize your closet
During the winter months you don’t have to put away all your tshirts and tank tops. Winter dressing is all about layering. Keep
out a few neutral, simple styled tanks and t-shirts.
Invest in simple, good quality pieces. These items will last a very
long time and won’t go out of style. Buy only a few trendy items
per season.
Store:
Light weight dresses, skirts and pants, anything linen, shorts,
sandels & flip flops, and stark white shoes. You can keep any
cream colored (winter white) shoes in your closet.
When to toss:
If it no longer fits
You haven’t worn it in a year
Doesn’t go with anything you own
Make sure you can see the items in your closet:
You won’t wear them if they aren’t visable. Keep everything on
uniform hangers, one item per hanger this will help keep things
neat, unwrinked and visable. If you keep like items together, for example; all pants and skirts
together and all tops and dresses together, this helps to find items quickly.
Utilize shelves in your closet to stack sweaters and accessories.
Keep your clothing in good condition:
Wash delicate items in Woolite and wash by hand and hang dry (things will last so much longer). For all your black clothing use Woolite for darks in cold water. Protect all your leather and
suede items with a leather protector spray you can purchase at shoe stores.
Tips on Purchasing a Winter Coat
1. Is it warm?
2. Does the style fit the rest of your wardrobe?
3. Fit. Does it flatter?
4. How practical is it?
Can you wear it to work and on weekends?
Day and night?
You’ll get more for your money if it can serve
multiple purposes.
5. Fabric. Is it quality fabric that will hold up in
inclement weather?
Blends work well.
one praise staff rants on winter...
Liz
Jeff
Tiffany
Fave winter movie:
(this year) Just Friends
Love this band right now:
Red, Storyside B, Pillar, Krystal
Meyers (I can’t pick one!)
Stuck on this phrase:
“Rock on!”
Complete this sentence:
What happened to...
Being able to fly without the
drama.
Fave winter movie:
The Santa Clause 1,2,3
Love this band right now:
As I Lay Dying
Stuck on this phrase:
OMG nintendo 64, HANK!
Complete this sentence:
What happened to...
The ship in Goonies
after it went out to sea.
Fave winter movie:
Anything that makes me forget
how cold it is outside…
Love this band right now:
RED
Stuck on this phrase:
“LOCK IT UP”, THANKS JOE…
Complete this sentence:
What happened to...
THE SUMMER!
Steph
Fave winter movie:
It’s a Wonderful Life
Love this band right now:
Simple Plan, not a “christian” label,
but I love their passion and emotion;
they are soulful, and they are singing
about pain, and life and struggles. I
HEAR them. I pray that they will
come to know Christ (if they don’t
already since I don’t really know their
history and one can’t assume)
Stuck on this phrase:
Just roll...
Complete this sentence:
What happened to...
all my money...? oh yeah, the kids....
Joe
Fave winter movie:
National Lampoons Christmas
Vacation
Love this band right now:
Red
Stuck on this phrase:
“Lock it up” From Wedding Crashers
What happened to...
Z Cavarricci Pants
Concert Reviews
by Dan White
ROCK THE SOUND
Hearts Of The Innocent Tour
On Saturday November 4th, 25 of us made our
way to Bridgeport CT for Rock The Sound. A
sellout crowd of 7,000 made this concert one
of the loudest in 2006. Not only were the Amps
cranked, but the voices of 7,000 made our ears
ring for at least 24 hours. I rate this concert
4 stars out of 4, and probably one of the best,
if not the best I’ve seen this year. Unspoken,
a local New England band, started the night
with some Latino Blues Rock and worship music. A nice warm up for the other bands. Stellar Kart knew how to rock the house, but the
only downside to the whole evening were the
microphones were low for the group who got
the audience “Activated”. It was hard to hear
their vocals, but thankfully this was the only
mic problem the whole night. Fortunately for
me, I knew most of their music and they sung
the former number one Christian song “Me and
Jesus”. Then you could feel the energy beginning when the crowd realized up next was Pillar. Pillar almost blew the roof off the building.
They started off with Fireproof, and rocked
on “The Reckoning” and “You Can’t Bring Me
Down”. Then the crowd was ready for some
good ole Rock/Hip Hop from TobyMac. He didn’t
dissappoint the crowd, because he brought out
the good stuff from Irene to Slam. Then the
night settled down a little with Casting Crowns
starting their part with “Lifesong”, and popular songs “Storm”, and “Voice Of Truth”. Well,
that sums up the excellent night in just a few
words. Feedback from the 25 of us that went
was very positive, and we can’t wait until Rock
The Sound 2007!
When I heard that Run Kid Run, Red, Disciple, and
Kutless were going to be in concert together, I knew
that I had to be there no matter where that place was.
The place ended up being at a local high school in Meriden, CT., and oh what a concert it was. I call this concert the rock event of 2006, and if you missed this tour
then you missed one of the best tours of 2006 hands
down. Run Kid Run started out the night with a high
energy show that had several members of the crowd
standing in front of the stage jumping, and singing
loud to “We’ve Only Just Begun”, and four other high
energy songs. One could tell that this was only the beginning. Grammy nominated group Red then came on
stage, and started with the twins, Anthony and Jasen
standing on top of the speakers wailing away to “Break
Me Down”. The crowd sung along to “Breathe Into Me”,
their hit single that is taking radio by storm. By only
playing four songs, the fans were left with wanting
more, and can’t wait until Red make their way back to
New England as a headlining band. Nobody had time
to sit and relax long, because Disciple came out louder
than the first two bands. With a little old, and a little
new, Disciple’s lead singer surprised people by stopping in the middle of the set, and preached a message
that makes some of today’s pastor’s look like rookies.
He left us with two thoughts, one to remember that
life is short, and two that we should share Christ with
as many as possible by seizing the day. This veteran
band brought down the house when they sung “Scars
Remain”, “Regime Change”, “Rise Up”, and “The Wait
Is Over” and several of their other songs. In fact I
believe they performed almost as long, if not longer
than the headlining band Kutless. Though Jon Micah
of Kutless had a cold this night, they still rocked the
place with favorites from what I think is still their best
album to date, their first self-titled CD. If you’re a
Kutless fan, and missed this concert then you missed
them not only rocking several songs from their first
CD, but also from “Sea Of Faces”, “Strong Tower”, and
their latest “Hearts Of The Innoncent”. Overall I give
this concert an A minus, and only because of the music and bass overpowered the vocals. But with these
bands I’ll just take the fact that they were all under
one roof, and this is one lineup I’ll never forget.
MUSIC FANS MAKE DOWNLOADS OF
RELIENT K CHRISTMAS MUSIC
AND GRITS’ “OOH AHH” AT ITUNES.COM A HIT
With Christmas rounding the corner, music fans are getting in the spirit by downloading Relient K Christmas songs,
as well as putting a little hip in their holiday hop with GRITS’ song “Ooh Ahh” via the iTunes.com Music Store.
Relient K
sold over 15,000 digital tracks alone at iTunes.com as sales of their Christmas songs soar. The band was also featured
in the site’s “What’s Hot” section.
Relient K’s Five Score And Seven Years Ago, the band’s follow up to their third consecutive Gold album mmhmm, streets on March 6th on
Gotee/Capitol. Sneak peaks of the album, produced by Howard Benson (Less Than Jake, My Chemical Romance, the All-American Rejects),
are available online with the first single “Must Have Done Something Right” available at all digital retailers, as well as a bonus track “Fallen
Man” (not on forthcoming album) available as an MP3 file on the band’s website ---www.relientk.com. 2004’s mmhmm, Relient K’s first joint
Gotee Records/Capitol release, debuted at #15 on the Billboard 200 and at #1 on the internet chart that year. Praised by Alternative Press as
“one of the best pop-punk releases of the year,” mmhmm touted the Top 20 singles “Be My Escape” and “Who I Am Hates Who I’ve Been”
and put the band on the road non-stop, including tours with Good Charlotte, Simple Plan, MXPX and a main stage slot on the 2005 Vans
Warped Tour. The band also garnered appearances on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” as well as “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”
www.reliantk.com
GRITS “Ooh Ahh” digital single has sold nearly 50,000 downloads in the past four months. The track has been in the top-10 of the
Christian/Gospel Digital Track chart for 14 straight weeks, while the ring tone for the song is available by texting GRIT2 to 66555. The song,
from their 2006 release simply titled 7, was used on the big screen in both “The Fast And The Furious: Toyko Drift,” as well as “Big Momma’s
House 2” featuring comedian actor Martin Lawrence. The dynamic duo of rappers Coffee and Bonafide have seen their music grace the
movies before with the single “Here We Go” featured in “Something’s Gotta Give” starring Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton, as well as music
used in independent films including “Devious Beings”, “Lockdown”, and “Road Dogz”. Their songs have also been used extensively on television including shows like “MTV CRIBS”, “The Real World”, “Pimp My Ride”, “Tough Enough”, and “Boston Public”.
The latest musical offering from GRITS, Redemption, released on November 21st. While their first three albums established GRITS as underground icons, it was their breakthrough fourth album Art Of Translation that solidified the group’s assent as one of hip-hop’s hottest new
rising stars. GRITS cracked MTV2’s Top 10 Most Requested and Top 5 Handpicked and received favorable media coverage in the pages of
XXL, Spin, Vibe, Billboard, The Source, URB and other major publications and media. Over the course of their career, GRITS has shared
the stage with OutKast, Jay-Z, Nappy Roots, Ice Cube, DJ Shadow, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Goodie Mob, and Monica. They have a
Billboard Video Award, 3 Dove Awards, and 2 GRAMMY nods to their credit.
www.grits7.com
From The Pastor’s Desk
By Pastor Jey Deifell, First Church of Christ,
Wethersfield, Connecticut
H
ave you ever thought about how
the Christian faith is a strong musical faith and thus stands in striking
contrast to most of the great religions
of history? From Psalm 100 we read,
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the
earth. Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come into His Presence with singing.”
Then there is the Musicians Psalm 150:
Praise the LORD!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty firmament!
Praise him for his mighty deeds;
praise him according to his surpassing
greatness!
Praise him with trumpet sound;
praise him with lute and harp!
Praise him with tambourine and dance;
praise him with strings and pipe!
Praise him with clanging cymbals;
praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
Let everything that breathes praise the
LORD!
Praise the LORD!
Over and over again, God’s Word encourages us to “sing a new song to the
Lord” using our voices and musical instruments. The New Testament doesn’t
miss a beat by exhorting us “with gratitude in your hearts, sing Psalms, hymns
and spiritual songs to God.”
(Colossians 3:16)
What has fascinated me, and surely must please the Lord
God, is how in recent generations Christians have used their
sanctified imagination and creativity to praise God using
such a wide variety of music. Besides rearranging some of
the classic and traditional Christian music, composers and
artists have made use of rock of every genre, folk and ethnic
music from all parts of the world; then there is blue grass,
country and western, folk, spirituals, chants, jazz, hip-hop,
rap, you name it!
Consider the heavenly chorus of angels and the little drummer boy at Jesus’ birth. Now consider the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the play of spoons and bongos at worship
services on the beach. All of these and many other are giving ONE PRAISE to Almighty and All-loving God. Whoever you are and however you are prompted by the Spirit, God
inhabits your vocal and instrumental praises of Him. Keep
it up, because you glorify Him and bless the rest of us!!
What Happened to Jesus
By Pastor Robert L. Smith
On May 6, 2006, I was ordained the pastor of the
church where I grew up. As a preacher’s kid (PK), I
had the opportunity to travel the length and breathe
of this nation. Being a PK, most of my travels included visits to various religious conferences, workshops,
seminars, and revivals. Over the last 20 years, the
churches of America have changed in noticeable
measures.
In my recent travels, I’ve noticed that many of our
churches have shifted their focus from Jesus to budgets, from Jesus to programs, from Jesus to creative
arts, from Jesus to governmental initiatives and the
list goes on. In 2006, our country has more churches
than ever, more money than ever, more programs
than ever, more conferences than ever, more organization than ever and less Jesus than ever.
As a young man, I can remember revival meetings
- where people were healed from cancer, multiple
sclerosis, cycled cell anemia, heart murmurs, vision
impairments, hearing impairments, and a host of innumerable conditions. I witnessed many who were
delivered from the use of crutches, canes, walkers,
substance abuse, the weight of poverty and many
other areas of bondage. And with every healing
there was one thing in common and that was the
passionate use of the name Jesus.
Churches use to be a place to go for healing. Now,
instead of a healing center, we have recreational centers, social centers and entertainment centers – all in
the name of “Jesus”. It seems that our churches are
selling the benefits of Jesus, but no longer appreciating the essence of His being, the purpose of his life,
the fellowship of His suffering and certainly not the
power of His might.
I can recall services where the ministers would gather at the altar and encourage new believers to call
upon the name of Jesus, until those new believers
received the some type of deliverance from struggles
of various sorts. It seems as though this spiritual
practice has become obsolete. The name of Jesus
has been demoted on our lists of people to know.
Sure, we have revelation, the anointing, prosperity, faith, and even purpose. But what happened to
Jesus? Have we forgotten that it’s all about Him?
Have we forgotten that His name is above all names?
Have we forgotten that He is a jealous God? Is there
anyone, anywhere, who will grab hold to the name
that saves people from sin and maintains that same
life throughout eternity?
Are You Feeling Troubled?
by Stephanie Anne
Today you may be feeling out of sorts. Nothing really happened but somethings just not right. It’s
just a grey day for you. You go through the motions, because what else are you going to do? You
just hope to get through the day and make some accomplishment, some progress. You are blinded
by fear, doubt and uncertainty. You are stuck in a situation that you feel that have no control
over. Although it is easier said than done, let it go. Move past the pain, hurt, disappointment and
confusion. Regardless of how you feel, you are a child of God. By accepting Jesus Christ to be the
Lord of your life, you have given Him the ok to be in the driver’s seat. He promised to never leave
you or forsake you. That includes days like today! Everyday will not work out as you planned. You
will continue to experience life, the good and the bad. What you always have to remember is that
the Jesus Christ died so that you may have abundant life. Today may not be the kind of day that
you think you ever want to remember. But consider this, if you allow yourself to overcome, if you
hold firm to God’s Word and believe that He is Jehovah, your Provider. Then you can stand firm
and know that what you are experiencing today is only temporary. Let it go and brush it off. In
the Book of Romans, Paul brushed himself off to resolve a situation. Call out your situation today by name and brush it off. If it is a person that has hurt or offended you, lift up your hand and
brush them off your shoulder. Say “ ____ I brush you off!” Release whatever it is in your life today.
Leave your troubled day(s) behind you. Never forget that you are not alone!
FEELING BOXED IN?
GET OFF THE COUCH!
by jason slater
“Consider trying outdoor activities such as
sledding, ice skating, snowboarding, skiing”
Here are some ideas for
the winter hibernator.
• Blast your favorite music! Clean up! Whether it’s a closet,
your home office, your room, whatever it is... be productive
while rockin’ out!
• By dough from your favorite pizza shop (we recommend
Bertucci’s Brick Oven Pizza, it’s less than $2 per raw dough),
invite some friends over to make pizza’s and play some old
school board games.
• If you’re in New England, plan a trip to NYC for a day. A
list of free TV show tickets and discount Broadway shows
can be found on www.NYtix.com, www.MenuPages.com
can assist you in finding restaurants.
• Surprise someone! Hand write a letter to someone and
send it by snail mail. It’s rare to get a letter from a friend or
family member these days.
• Consider trying outdoor activities such as sledding, ice
skating, snowboarding, skiing...Try something new! Make
a list of things that you have never done before but would
like to do.
Put the list where you can see it and find ways to make it
happen. (Be responsible, of course!)
volunteerism
A Story of Love
by Sharona Resnick-Kravitz
Twenty years ago, if someone had told me that I would be dedicating my life to rescuing dogs, I would have laughed. I was
working in real estate and was traveling throughout the southwest as a freelance photographer. I was content with my
three dogs that I cherished and adored. I should have suspected something back in 1994 when God led me down that very
path. One could say it was just by chance, but I say it was by design. After a photo shoot in the slot canyons of Arizona, I
stopped in a little Circle K store needing a coffee for my ride to the airport. I was to spend a week in New Mexico before
heading back to Connecticut. Sitting outside the store was a tiny puppy, all alone. I paused, but continued on into the store.
Seeing that there was only one other patron in the store, I asked if the puppy was hers. Rather defensively she said “Yes,
why?” I replied “Well, he is out there alone, and it is a big intersection. He could be killed.” “So?” she replied. Taken aback
at this response, I was speechless, but when she asked “Do YOU want him?”, I said “How much?” “Five dollars” was her
answer. After handing over the money I thought to myself, “Well, now what? I have just under an hour to board my plane,
and figure out what I’m going to do with this little puppy for a whole week!” Well, God intervened again because just as I
was leaving the store, a van with the name Broadway Cattery and Grooming rolled by. I called immediately and found they
had room to board my new friend. I had him for 15 minutes and he was going away already! I checked in daily with them,
and my week in New Mexico passed with no incidents. I never told my husband I was coming home with an addition to the
family! When the attendant appeared at the luggage carousel with my little doggie crate, my husband looked at me and said,
“What did you do?” But when he got a look at “Mutley”, a shaggy doxie/yorkie mix, his heart was stolen. Saving Mutley 13
years ago was the beginning of many happy, some sad days while rescuing dogs and puppies. By 2005 we had joined up with
another rescue group and entered the world of Petfinder.com, a melting pot of animal rescues nationwide.
Working in rescue we spoke to many people, most never actually in person. During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays we were working around the clock e-mailing desperate pleas all over the eastern coast to save dogs and puppies from certain death. Most of us also work
full time jobs so this was done at night after work, stolen hours during the day and way into the early morning hours before work. We know
that many dogs did not make it to their forever homes. Thousands went way too early to the Rainbow Bridge and some languished in cold,
dirty shelters pining away for a loving hand to pet them, a good meal and a soft bed. We saw first hand the cruelty of man to animals and
the depravity of their souls. We said goodbye to dogs we had never met, only had seen their faces. But once you have seen them, you are
haunted forever by the senseless slaughter of these loving animals. Kittens and dogs who would never find homes found themselves crossing
over into a world that we hope offered them comfort and safety. Exhausted we searched for every e-mail not wanting to miss one urgent
request, one more dog to find room for, bulging at the seams in our own homes we squeezed in one more, one more to save, one more to
share our bed with.
We have become a disposable society and once Christmas wears off, and the cute puppy now weighs 100 pounds and eats
8 cups of food a day and needs to go to the vet, it starts all over again. Some with their little red Christmas ribbons still on
them. Dumped, discarded like yesterday’s trash. We take this seriously, we all volunteer and we pray for a better place for
these beloved animals, we pray we can save one more before we turn off the computers for the night, we pray that we have
cross posted everyone so that they all get a fair chance at forever. We spend our last dollars on a treat, on gas to get them
to their new homes, to get them shots and neutering. We have forgone social lives to work on networking, watching, calling
one more person who might just be the right one to give another darling baby a new home. We are possessed with a desire
so strong to work magic to hope that someday every dog and cat, all creatures if possible, will know the love of a human
companion.
In 2006, we started Smooch’s Pooches. We continue to strive towards the common goal we all share. We say never again and then we see
another face and know they might not have tomorrow and we borrow from friends to take in one more that we hope we can find a home for.
I know I will never be rich with money. I will never drive a sports car. I will never have a closet with more dresses than jeans. But I am rich
in my heart, I am rich in the friends I have made and I am rich in knowing that I have given so many people something they needed… love.
The warm nose on their face as they wake up in the morning, the gentle, sweet kiss at night, the warm body against them when they are sad
and lonely. I have given them companionship, have made them laugh and smile.
I am rich not by some standards and some might say, “So what it’s only a dog!” Those are the people who are truly poor.
Mutley is getting old now, his beard is more white than grey and he is slowing down.
When I look into his sweet eyes I know that I did the right thing. As I help him on the
bed now I know that our time, at last, is coming to an end. But while I may ignore
him at times he still chooses to sleep with me and be by my side. He knows that the
rescue dogs come and go but he is with us forever.
Smooch’s Pooches “Dedicated to Finding Forever Homes for Wonderful Dogs”
For more information, you can contact Sharona by visiting www.smoochspooches.petfinder.
com
Nui was found wondering the streets of Hartford, CT. until he was picked up
by animal control and brought to a kill shelter. Dogs brought to this
shelter are only given 2 weeks, then are euthanized.
Saving a life is the most rewarding feeling ever. “When we got him he
was very underweight and scared, he didn’t even know how to play withdog toys or bones. Since then, we have seen him change into a healthy,
content, happy dog, with a second chance at life. Nui is not just a pet,
he is part of the family and we can’t imagine our lives without him”.
Here is One Praise Fashion Director Tiffany Lee with
Nui, one of Sharona’s many rescue happy endings.
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"2 Chronicles 5:13 "The trumpeters and singers joined in unison, as with one voice,
to give praise and thanks to the Lord."
God. Music. Fashion. Life.
MAGAZINE
SPRING 2007
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JACKSON WATERS
Our favorite newcomers-
for 2007!
It’s pop rock with a southern flair.
To listen to Jackson Waters before their March 6th,
2007 release,
Come Undone
visit: www.myspace.com/jacksonwaters
www.jacksonwaters.com
MAGAZINE