The Signal Vol. IX - CrossCultureMedia

Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
Volume IX
CCM Filmmaker
Award Winner
And the winner is…
A Bible
with the Stars
Featuring more than
100 celebrities
CCM talks with
Martha Munizzi
CCMtv.org
“Impact the World”
Filmmaker
Award Special
Edition
3
4
6
7
President / Founder
Damian Cox
VP / Editor / Design
Coordinator
Sheila Cox
sheila@crossculturemedia.org
Promotions / Publicity Manager
Paula Cox
pcox@crossculturemedia.org
Special Feature 2007 CCM Filmmaker Award Contest Winners
CCM News Ensemble cast of celebrities unite – Courtesy of
Inspired By…Media
11 M&E
V3 Releases Much Anticipated Debut CD – Courtesy of EMI
Gospel
12 Healthy Alternatives Healthy Soup Recipe from Patricia Jones
& Wellness Ten Healthy Eating Out Tips - By Kimberly
13 Health
Garrison
Web Design
Gary Gogis / Damian Cox
It’s Our Mission:
Special Feature The Filmmaker Award Results - By Damian Cox
9 Music & Entertainment (M&E) No Limits with Martha Munizzi
10 M&E Pressing On – CCM features new artist, Becky Haagsma
Field Reporter
Richard Cox
Contributors
Inspired By…Media / EMI Gospel
/ Patricia Jones / Kimberly
Garrison / Marriage Today /
Nathaniel Lee / Patricia Jones
President’s Note Christian media shall “Impact the World”
14 Family
Marriage & Money – By Jimmy Evans, Courtesy of
Marriage Today
16 Profile
Attorney, Nathaniel Lee advises on probate distribution
of wealth
18 Up Close
Cross Culture Media interviews Dr. Bobby Jones &
Fred Hammond - By Richard Cox
To provide a media
platform for the purpose of
presenting innovative, Christian
programming and wholesome
entertainment for the advancement
of the Kingdom of God.
12
Cross Culture Media
P.O. Box 68127
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Toll free: 877-MY-CCMTV
www.CCMtv.org
9
13
The Signal
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
2
CCMtv.org
President’s Corner
Greetings! Friends and Partners:
Constant inundation of negative programming
in media outlets such as radio, television, film,
and print only makes me wonder how much
longer people can stand to absorb the content
and subject matter we receive freely in today’s
media environment. How long will today’s
audience tolerate this “media madness” without
aggressively seeking out other programming
options?
Be encouraged, Cross Culture Media and other
organizations like us are doing our part to
make sure that a difference is made by
providing innovative Christian programming
and wholesome entertainment.
If I could pour my passion into words, it would
be so much easier to communicate how the
vision of Cross Culture Media is not only to
present Christian media, but how we are taking
the responsibility of presenting Christian media
with a spirit of excellence. The battle ground is
hostile, thus meaning that the quality of most
Christian media compared to that of secular
seems to be lacking in some areas. With that in
mind, we must take steps to not only develop
our Christian writers, producers, artists, actors,
business people, etc., we must also stay
focused on image, identity, marketing,
packaging, casting, distribution and, also, learn
to examine the content of today’s Christian
programming. What do I mean by this? Well, for
starters, here’s a simple solution - Christian
film does not always have to be traditional. I’m
definitely not saying all Christian media is
traditional; however, I’m challenging studios,
filmmakers, and financiers alike to realize that
there is definitely an audience out there for
Christian media that would be excited about
seeing nothing more than real stories, about
real Christian people, simply “living life.” There
is no real formula to it; however, there is a need
for programming that portrays Christians
moving through life, encountering real, every
day situations while trying their best to live with
accountability, conviction, purpose and, most
importantly, submission to God.
The Signal
Once we’re able to release more of this type of media into the world
as an industry, I believe soon there will be no need to label the media
as “Christian” at all because it will simply be known as, “The Truth!”
CCM’s vision has depth, but we’re definitely not alone; many are
hungry for more Christian and wholesome entertainment presented
with excellence. The vision and passion God has given me for Cross
Culture is also shared by others in the industry right now. Its obvious
how many people are engaged in their calling and are using their gifts
and talents to glorify God through the creation of positive media. I can
only continue to pray and stay diligent in my function and wait on God
to help put all the pieces in place. Quite simply…Kirk Franklin put it
like this, “Are you ready for a revolution?”
The first annual CCM “Impact the World” Filmmaker Award Contest has
occurred, and I am extremely excited to announce that we have a
winner! The purpose of the “Impact the World” award is to showcase
and to promote excellent Christian films to our audience due to the
fact that platforms for Christian films are few and far between. I am
extremely pleased with the response we had our first year. I can only
expect more as people continue to “catch the vision” and “impact the
world” through film.
Damian Cox
Cross Culture Media President
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
3
CCMtv.org
Special Feature
CCM
“Impact the World”
Filmmaker Award
Winner 2006
With so many quality entries in this
year’s “Impact the World” Filmmaker Contest, the decision to
name one award winner was not an
easy task.
We actually went
through two separate processes to
come
up
with
the
winning
submission due to the competition
being so close. Based upon the
required criteria shown below, we
are, indeed, pleased to announce
the winning film to be -- KAIBIGAN.
This submission comes to CCM
from the Philippines. KAIBIGAN or
“My Friend” is a story of spiritual
growth that happens when lead
character,
Miguel, suffers a
childhood
tragedy.
Filmmaker,
Jonah A. Lim, has done a great job
with this project.
The film was judged based upon
the
following
criteria:
Essay,
Cinematography, Audio Quality,
Writing,
Portrayal
of
Biblical
Principles, Relevance to Today and
Originality.
Kaibigan, “My Friend”
2006 “Impact the World” Filmmaker Award Winner
A story of spiritual growth when lead character, Miguel,
suffers childhood tragedy
Click to watch KAIBIGAN on CCMTV.org
“This submission
comes to CCM from
the PHILIPPINES.”
The Signal
Jonah A. Lim
Winning Filmmaker
Dumaguete City, Philippines
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
4
CCMtv.org
CCM’s 2006 “Impact the World”
Filmmaker Finalists
The Green Door
This film is based on a concept that we are all missing
things in our lives; that we all have empty places in our
hearts…Rudolf Steiner, by daylight, a piano salesman,
receives an opportunity to search out the unexpected.
Brad LaBriola
Filmmaker
Philadelphia, PA
Click here to watch The Green Door
Beautiful Ones
This film shows how God has created each one of us
with beauty through our differences.
Ian Brodie
Filmmaker
State College, PA
Click here to watch Beautiful ones
Redemption
The chess pieces in this 3D animation represent the struggle
between Christ in us and our common evil enemy, Lucifer. We
must overcome our fears and take courage in the face of
adversity. Each of us must come to realize our potential as
God's children to become like Him.
Benjamin Rosales
Filmmaker
Sarasota, FL
Click here to watch on redemption
Peaces of Home
"Peaces of Home" illustrates the life of Jesse, a boy
struggling with his mother's abuse caused by his
father's absence. From the young age of 10, Jesse
copes with his pain by running away from home to his
"safe haven”.
Jennifer Kachler
Filmmaker
West Milford, NJ
Click here to watch on peaces of home
The Signal
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
5
Cross Culture Media, Inc. is
offering a $750 award for
Independent Filmmakers!
Recipient of the Cross Culture Media
“Impact the World” Filmmaker Award
shall receive $750 to be used to assist
in the marketing & distribution of the
filmmaker’s project. The recipient of
the “Impact the World” Award will
also have their project aired on
www.CCMtv.org and featured in
CCM’s magazine, THE SIGNAL.
* Up to 5 additional projects may be showcased and
awarded $50 each
Purpose
Empowering independent filmmakers
to fulfill their purpose by aiding them in
bringing Christian films to the masses
CCM
“Impact the World”
Filmmaker Award
2007
www.CCMtv.org
Eligibility Filmmakers of all ages
are invited to submit an application.
Criteria
Projects awarded based on these criteria:
Acting, Audio Quality, Casting, Cinematography, Originality, Portrayal of Biblical
Principles, Relevance to Today, Sets/Locations, and Script
To be considered, these three components must exist:
•
•
•
The application form
A 300-500 word essay of filmmaker’s project interpretation, experience in the
industry, passions, and his or her personal explanation of how Christian films will
“Impact the World”
A copy of the completed film project
Other requirements:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Must be submitted on DVD
Must be suitable for all audiences
Must have evidence of filmmaker’s intent to present Biblical principles
Must be received by CCM by May 4th , 2007
Project must be a short film, feature film, or documentary
*(Unfortunately, music videos are excluded)
Previous applicants and winners may submit new projects
Application packets available at www.CCMtv.org
Applications must be complete to be considered.
Send completed application package to:
Cross Culture Media
PO Box 68127, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268
Deadline: May 4th, 2007
CCMtv.org
CCM News
ENSEMBLE Cast
of Celebrities
Unite
to Record
Audio Bible
Inspired By…
The Bible Experience
Veteran
television
and
film
producer, Kyle Bowser, Grammywinning music producer, Louis
“Buster” Brown and Emmy-winning
casting director, Robi Reed also
serve as executive producers for
z
Inspired By…The Bible Experience, and along with Belk,
Zondervan and Inspired By Media Group will release
Inspired By …The Bible Experience, a dramatized audio
recording of the Bible featuring an unprecedented roster
of stars from stage and screen. More than 80 stars such
as award-winning actors Angela Bassett (Esther), Blair
Underwood (Jesus), Denzel Washington (Solomon) and
Cuba Gooding Jr. (Judas) lend their voices to this project
of biblical proportions to form an all-star ensemble cast.
Releasing this fall, a re-enactment based on the entire
text of the New Testament, Inspired By …The Bible
Experience includes dramatic performances set to sound
effects and an original musical underscore. Developed
and produced by Inspired By Media Group, a company
comprised of new media and entertainment industry
veterans committed to producing creative and culturally
relevant products for the faith-based and family markets.
This first-of-its-kind audio Bible will be published and
distributed by Zondervan, the world’s leading Bible
publisher.
“With the recent resurgence of faith-based entertainment
and its appeal to both urban and mainstream audiences,
this project serves as a cultural bridge connecting people
of all races and ethnicities,” said Ron Belk, CEO of
Inspired By Media Group and one of four of the audio
Bible’s executive producers. “We are excited to partner
with Zondervan to produce this unique and inspiring
Bible.”
The Signal
comprise
the
multimedia
company’s senior management
team. Additional production team
members include industry veteran
Chip Hurd, the project’s senior
director. Wren T. Brown, Andi
Chapman and Mark E. Swinton
round out the directional unit.
Nancy Sprow serves as the project’s
line producer.
In addition to Bassett, Underwood,
Washington and Gooding Jr.,
Inspired By …The Bible Experience audio Bible features a crossgenerational
roster
of
talent
representing a wide variety of
entertainment
genres
and
personalities. With more than 80
African-American celebrities and
notable personalities recorded to
date, television and film favorites
such as James Avery, Tisha
Campbell Martin, Loretta Devine,
Charles
Dutton,
Robert
Guillaume, Jasmine Guy and Boris
Kodjoe are among the ensemble
cast. NFL Hall of Fame running
back Jim Brown , inspirational
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
7
CCMtv.org
Speaker Iyanla Vanzant, minister Juanita Bynum and legendary gospel
singer, Shirley Caesar are also featured. Voices from the music world
spanning gospel, hip-hop and R&B include: Common, Faith Evans,
Heavy D., Anthony Hamilton, Kirk Franklin, MC Lyte and Angie Stone.
The company also plans to launch Inspired By …The Bible Experience,
Old and New Testaments in 2007, as well as a number of other Inspired
By… branded products, including an accompanying soundtrack.
CCM President, Damian Cox; Inspired
By Media Executive Producer, Louis
“Buster” Brown; CCM VP, Sheila Cox
“I am
proud to
be a part
of this
landmark
project…”
Blair
Underwood
“I am proud to be a part of this landmark project that has afforded me
the opportunity to collaborate with so many of my peers to bring this
unique and timely version of the Bible to the global marketplace,” said
Blair Underwood.
Inspired By … The Bible Experience will be recorded using
Zondervan’s Today’s New International Version (TNIV) Bible translation,
a version selected by Inspired By Media Group because it represented
the best combination of accuracy and readability for the audio Bible
product and is targeted specifically for the 18 to 34 year-old
demographic.
“Zondervan recognizes that there is a large and powerful audience
looking for this type of culturally relevant product,” said Paul Caminiti,
Zondervan vice president and publisher of Bibles. “We’re excited about
the opportunity to bring Inspired By … The Bible Experience to the
urban Christian market and expect it to have strong crossover appeal.”
About Inspired By Media Group
Branded by its signature banner Inspired By …, Inspired By Media
Group, Inc., is committed to serving the faith-based and general markets
by creating family-oriented products that are culturally relevant in scope.
With more than a combined 40 years in the convergent areas of music,
television, film, theater, literature, new media and technology, the
company is an industry leader in delivering contemporary multimedia
products. Visit Inspired By Media Group on the Web at
www.inspiredby.com.
About Zondervan
Click to Watch
“the bible experience”
trailer on ccmtv.org
Zondervan is the leading Christian communications company in the
world. Zondervan, a division of HarperCollins Publishers, produces
Bibles, books, new media products, gift products from its Inspirio group,
the children’s products from its Zonderkidz group. The world’s leading
Bible publisher, Zondervan holds exclusive North American publishing
rights to the New International Version of the Bible, the bestselling
modern English translation in the world. More than 215 million copies of
the NIV have been sold or distributed worldwide. Visit Zondervan on the
Courtesy of Inspired By Media
Web at www.zondervan.com.
The Signal
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
8
Click here to
Watch Exclusive
Cross Culture
Media Interview
with Martha
Munnizi on
CCMTV.org
Concert DVD & CD NOW AVAILABLE
CCMtv.org
Music & Entertainment
New On the Scene…
N
BECKY
HAAGSMA
“Pressing On”
New on the scene, Becky Haagsma brings song to the masses
through her new CD, “Pressing On”. Pressing through whatever
challenges she faces, Becky expresses her honest heartfelt
feelings in song as a singer, songwriter, and worship leader. You
can hear the passion in her music. It is deeply personal and
heartfelt. She combines her life’s experiences, soulful gift of
song, “catchy” melody lines, and meaningful lyrics to apply to
your life.
About Becky:
^ 33 years old
^ Married to Randy Haagsma
^ 2 children – Christian (12) &
Hannah (3)
^ Licensed practical nurse
^ Member of Life Church
^ Home - Bloomington, in
^ Passion - She has found no greater
joy than to sing of the faithfulness
of God
Becky shares her passion: “I pray that people would come to
know that Jesus is real and that they can have a personal
relationship with him…everyday (The sinner and the Christian,
alike). God isn’t something we experience on Sunday morning at
church…I have said so many times…’God isn’t a part of my life,
He is my Life’. We were made to worship him, and our very lives
should express our worship to him in every thing we do…how we
treat our husbands and children, how we behave at work, how we
talk to/about others; all should reflect the glory of God. And I
believe when people walk in that thinking, we behave differently.
God is faithful and I thank him for the opportunity to serve him. I
thank him for the anointing he has placed on my life, and I pray
that I carry the presence of the Lord in a manner that is pleasing
to him, that I will always be aligned in proper order, that I will put
‘theory into practice’ in the assignment he has given to me, that
his anointing will work through my personality to do
anything his grace requires and that by my obedience, lives
will be touched and changed with the transforming truth of
Jesus! “
The Signal
Click to listen – ”manner of man”
Click to listen - ”More than conquerors”
Click to listen – ”adonai”
CD availability
“Pressing
On”
is
available
online
at
cdbaby.com, on most digital distribution
sites (i-tunes, Verizon, napster) and at live
venues.
For more information on Becky Haagsma,
visit www.beckyhaagsma.com
or to schedule an event, please
send an e-mail to:
becky@beckyhaagsma.com
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
10
CCMtv.org
Music & Entertainment
The first dose of
It's the kind of record that speaks to young people that like to have fun — “A lot of
people shy away from church and the Gospel, because they think they are going to be
judged, or put down, or preached to,” says Shelley, “and they don’t want to hear that.
They just want you to be real with them. And that’s exactly where we are coming
from.”
More than two years ago, V3, sisters Latoya, Shelley and Sacha Vinson along with Creative
II Management teamed up with EMI Gospel in pursuit of taking back everything that the
enemy was set to destroy by force. “We’ve worked with a lot of kids who were fighting
depression…drug addiction…serious issues, says Sacha and serious issues demand a
serious response.”
As the children of a pastor/father, and a mother who was a professional singer, songwriter
and recording artist, the sisters grew up singing under their mother’s careful tutelage, and
guided by the spiritual teachings and example set for them by their dad. V3’s musical
influences range from traditional and contemporary gospel to mainstream pop and R&B, as
they fuse the inspirations of their mentors with cutting-edge, 21st-century sensibilities to
create a sound both exciting and entirely their own.
Their self titled project is a profound journey into that rare, anointed place where
entertainment, inspiration and worship meet in perfect harmony, and the natural
intersection of gospel and contemporary R&B. With Latoya and Sacha both co-writing a
number of the album’s songs—and receiving the perfect production touch from
artist/producer, Antonio Neal, Josiah Bell, Robert Marvin—better known as Double Dutch,
Creative II Studio Producers B. Russ/Rusty Soul and William Holt/Crisis Situations the
album packs a lyrical power equal to its formidable musical punch.
The ladies kicked off their promotional tour this month partnering with the national Boys &
Girls Club visiting radio, retail outlets Columbus, Toledo, Grand Rapids, Chicago, Cedar
Rapids, Des Moines and New York City.
This fall, V3 will receive an innovative fashion makeover from famed New York stylist Isaac
Mizrahi as special in studio guest on his show. Air dates TBD.
The Signal
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
11
V3
…coming right
up, with
the release of
their
ANTICIPATED
debut
album
now
available!
To find more on V3, visit:
www.v3place.com and
www.Myspace.com/V3music.
Courtesy of
What CCM has been up to:
•
•
•
•
•
Independent Filmmaker Awards
Online Magazine, The Signal
Artist Interviews
Ministry Messages
Worldwide Outreach
“Catch the Vision – Impact the World”
www.CrossCultureMedia.org & www.CCMtv.org
Providing a media platform for the purpose of presenting innovative Christian programming
and wholesome entertainment for the advancement of the Kingdom of God
Healthy
Alternatives
2 bay leaves
1/8 tsp. allspice
2 tsp. orange peel zest
¼ cup fresh orange juice
For the Body & Soul…
Registered
Dietitian,
Sauté onion in olive oil over medium
heat until softened. Stir in carrots
and cook 2 minutes or until
softened. Peel and dice 1 apple. Stir
peeled apple, stock, sweet potatoes,
water, bay leaves and allspice into
onions and carrots. Bring soup to
boil; reduce heat. Cover and simmer
20 to 25 minutes or until vegetables
are tender. Finely dice remaining
apple. In skillet heat olive oil and
apple, stirring about 5 minutes. Stir
in orange peel and remove from
heat. Remove bay leaves from soup.
Puree soup in blender in batches.
Return all batches to stockpot. Stir
in orange juice, simmer about 5
minutes or until heated through.
Serves 5.
Patricia
Jones, Food Service Director for
JEWEL
Educational
Services
utilizes her gifts to bless others
through the authoring of her book,
“Nourishment for the Body and
Soul”.
This
book
features
a
collection of recipes to cleanse the
body naturally – no additives, no
preservatives, no refined sugars.
Cross Culture Media, once again,
finds some wonderfully, healthy
alternatives to the norm. Let’s take
a look at some of her insight and
recipes.
Carrot & Sweet
Potato Soup
1 cup water
3 tbsp. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
½ pound carrots, sliced
2 golden delicious apples
12-14 oz. vegetable stock
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and
diced
The Signal
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
To purchase Pat’s book, call or
write: 317-507-3154
www.pjones@jewelchristianacademy.org
12
CCMtv.org
Health&Wellness
Hey, Don’t Dig Your Grave
with a Knife and Fork
Ten Tips to Eating Healthily While Dining Out
By Kimberly Garrison
3
I
t is inevitable that sometimes you’ll have to eat a
meal out. Ideally, it is best to make healthy and
nutritious meals from scratch. However, in our fastpaced world, this is often easier said than done.
Let’s face it; most Americans are not indulging in an
occasional meal at a restaurant. The typical American
age 8 and older consumes an average of 4.2
commercially prepared meals per week, according to
Meal Consumption Behavior report documented by the
National Restaurant Association. That translates into a
whopping excess of more than 1 billion commercially
prepared meals consumed per week and 53.5 billion
per year.
Even more alarming, many people consume all of their
meals out. Many people stop at Dunkin Donuts for
coffee and a breakfast sandwich on the way to work,
pick up a salad at the salad bar, and dine with friends at
the latest trendy restaurant and that does include the
two stops made at the local convenience store for
snacks or that afternoon latte.
Typical restaurants are not in the business of providing
healthy and nutritious foods. Restaurants want to buy
low (cheap, fat, salty, and sugar-laden foods) and sell
them high at premium prices. That’s the bad news.
However, the good news is you can enjoy eating out
without hurting your waistline or your wallet. What
follows are 10 tips to eating healthy and wise:
Let it Go to Waste . . . or Let it Go To
Your Waist
Dressing on the Side, Please
Always order salad dressings and other sauces on
the side. Two Tablespoons of dressing is a
serving. Now you have control over your intake.
4
Skip the Appetizer or Share
Now-a-day’s appetizers are actually meal portions. If
you must indulge - share the appetizer.
5
Liquid Calories Count Too
Save yourself a ton of calories and a bundle too by
drinking water, diet soda, or unsweetened tea or coffee
instead of regular soda or alcoholic beverages.
6
Choose Meat Wisely
When dining out opt for baked, broiled, or grilled lean
meats like white meat chicken, tilapia, or steamed
shrimp. Remember 3 ounces is a serving of meat.
7
Share Dessert
When it comes to desserts, less is more. Instead of
eating that big pie ala mode by yourself, share it with
the entire table. That way everybody gets a taste and
avoids the additional 800-1200 calories found in many
restaurant desserts.
8
Just Say “No” – to French Fries
We all love them but French Fries are just loaded with
excess calories and fat. Only order French Fries if there
are 10 or more of you at the table and you’re going to
share the one order.
1
Portion control doesn’t mean you have to cut out your
favorite foods. It simply means reducing to the serving
size. You can include your favorite foods in a healthy
meal and still slim down. For example, eat ¼ cup of
Mom’s macaroni and cheese instead of your usual cup.
2
Soup It Up
Soups are great, but watch those cream based ones that
can pack a real wallop.
The Signal
9
Veggies Galore
Be sure to order 2 or more orders of steamed
vegetables in place of rice or pasta.
10
Hold the Mayo
Making your sandwich with mustard instead of mayo
will save you about 95 calories per 1 tablespoon
serving.
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
www.kimberlygarrison.com
www.1on1ultimatefitness.com
13
Marriage & Family
CCMtv.org
Marriage
& Money
money language determines how you
view money and use money to express
yourself.
RECOGNIZING YOUR MONEY STYLE
The first group is the “Driver”. For the
“Driver”, money is equated to success it
“Amiables”. To them, money means love
and affection. The lack of money
translates as an inability to demonstrate
love. “Amiables” communicate love by
sharing what they have with those
By Jimmy Evans
UNDERSTANDING BASIC
PRINCIPLES
OF ALL THE ENEMIES
THAT CAN ATTACK THE
INTIMACY AND SECURITY OF
A
MARRIAGE,
MONEY
PROBLEMS ARE AMONG THE
MOST DESTRUCTIVE. IN FACT, THEY ARE
THE NUMBER ONE REASON WHY
COUPLES DIVORCE. ON THE OTHER
HAND,
ONE
OF
THE
GREATEST
POTENTIAL BLESSINGS IN MARRIAGE IS
THE FINANCIAL BENEFIT IT CAN
PROVIDE. STATISTICALLY, MARRIED
COUPLES ARE BETTER OFF FINANCIALLY
THAN SINGLE OR DIVORCED PEOPLE.
BUT, THE TRUTH IS, MOST HUSBANDS
AND
WIVES
VIEW
MONEY
VERY
protects against fear of incompetence.
For this person, competence is
measured by the amount of money
gathered.
“Drivers” communicated love by
showing what money has done to bless
and improve the lives of those around
them. The weakness of this money
language is that “Drivers” can be overly
dependent on money for their
significance, and they tend to be more
materialistic.
Another language is that of the
“Analytic”. Money for this group of
people wards off chaos and problems.
They are well-structured financially and
they are good long-range money
planners. “Analytics” communicate love
by saving money and looking out for the
future well-being and interests of those
they care about.
DIFFERENTLY.
One of the most intriguing studies
I’ve read on this subject was by Dr.
Kenneth Doyle, a financial psychologist
at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Doyle
concluded from his studies that there
are four basic “money languages”
people speak. In other words, your
The Signal
The weakness of this group is that
“Analytics” can be unyielding and
legalistic regarding budgeting and
money issues. It’s common for people
who are around “Analytics” to feel less
important than money. “Analytics” can
unintentionally communicate a
disregard for the feelings of others
because of a conservative financial
attitude.
The third money language is
“Amiable”. Relationships and people are
the focus of the financial desires of the
Summer/Fall Special Edition 2006
around them, especially family and
friends.
The weakness is that while
“Amiables” are generous and goodhearted, they are often poor money
managers with little or no financial
structure or long-range planning.
For the “Expressive”, money is
acceptance: it purchases the respect
and admiration of others. It provides the
basis of relationship with desirable
people. “Expressives” communicate love
by shopping, purchasing and spending
to gain acceptance from a select group.
This language can be used in a negative
way to hide feelings of pain, insecurity
or incompetence. Rather than relying on
God, “Expressives” can be overly
dependent on money to solve problems
and calm fears. Why is all this important?
Understanding your financial languages
can help stop fights over money and
actually lead to healthy discussions. It
can also help you appreciate the fact
that what you may be interpreting as a
financial weakness in your spouse could
actually be their effort to express love
to you.
CONTROL OF THE FINANCES
No marriage should have one-sided
decisions. God created marriage as a
partnership between two equals.
Therefore, a husband should never
dominate his wife. Being the head of the
home isn’t about domination and
control. Being the head of the home
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“The picture of a perfect
marriage is two servants
in love.”
means taking the initiative and being a
Christ-like leader for the well-being of
the wife and children. True love is
sacrificial and selfless.
Men are not the only ones prone to
domination. Women can be just as
controlling when it comes to finances.
Some women believe that they make
better decision, while other women may
see their husbands as irresponsible
when it comes to finances. In either
case, there will be problems. Be careful
not to judge ear other’s weaknesses.
Judgment is a serious issue, and it will
breed contempt and disrespect for your
spouse that will damage your
relationship.
The picture of a perfect marriage is
two servants in love. For you and your
spouse to truly become “one” in
marriage, you must surrender your
individual control and work for shared
control.
The first way to do this is by creating
a budget together. This is the most
proactive way to fend off arguments and
avoid the pitfalls that your differing
financial views may create.
Working through a budget allows
financial differences to be discussed
before the money is ever spent. It gives
you a setting that is not strained by
pressing financial needs or wants and
places you on a level playing field.
Some people feel insecure if they
disagree or have differences with their
spouse. It is ok to have differences, as
long as you commit to work through
them. In fact, it is beneficial for you to
have different money languages,
because you will then have very different
The Signal
strengths and weaknesses which will
help to provide balance in your finances.
You may not always agree, but it should
also be understood that you will come
to a mutual decision. Be willing to give
up some ground to each other, but most
of all pray and ask God to give you
wisdom.
Proverbs 22:7 tells us, “The rich rules
over the poor, and the borrower is
servant to the lender.” While I do not
think that this means that we cannot
borrow, it does caution us against the
bondage of debt. Couples who fight
about finances are often over their
heads in debt. When the debt payments
that are due each month challenge or
exceed their ability to pay them,
tremendous stress is put on the
marriage. I recommend that you take
steps to avoid or resolve the pitfalls of
debt.
First, don’t owe God. Malachi 3
commands us to tithe our first ten
percent to God. You rob God when you
do not tithe, and you miss out on the
blessings that God desires to give
you. God doesn’t need your money,
but He wants your heart.
The two are closely connected.
Giving to God shows that you believe
that God has authority in the area of
finances and puts Him on your side. As
a response to your obedience to trust
Him, God promises to open the windows
of heaven and pour out blessings to the
point that you won’t be able to contain
them (Malachi 3:10).
able to tithe, save, and pay for essentials
without taking on debt. Saving helps
secure the future and therefore gives a
feeling of assurance.
Borrow wisely and cautiously. Make
sure that you can pay off your debt
without strain. Avoid credit card debt.
The interest is high and the purchased
items are usually highly depreciative,
meaning that they lose value. While you
may have to borrow for a house or even
a car, make sure that you get the best
interest rates and pay off the debt as
quickly as possible.
Don’t be prideful or timid – get
financial counsel. The wealthiest people
are the most likely to hire financial
advisors. People who struggle with
finances are often threatened by outside
input and will not seek help. If you are
in serious debt, you need to seek help.
It won’t go away without a conscious
effort and a plan. No matter who or what
created your situation, there is help and
hope for you. People who are willing to
learn are the ones who overcome
financial problems
God wants you to enjoy the blessings
of life. It is our prayer that as you seek
Him for your finances, you will find
security, comfort and peace.
Scriptures for meditation:
I Timothy 6:10
Proverbs 3:9
Luke 12:34
Malachi 3:8-10
Matthew 6:33
Next, save and live within your
means. If you are not saving, you are
not within your means. You should be
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Profile
This article provides a brief overview of the
approach to intestate distribution adopted by
many states and possible state law
implications on the provisions of a will.
A person is said to die “intestate” if they have
not executed a valid Will. In the absence of a
Last Will and Testament, the laws of “intestate
succession” apply. If a person is married at
the time they pass away, under “intestate
succession”, the percentage share going to
the spouse depends on whether the spouse is
a “first” spouse or a “subsequent” spouse. A
first spouse is generally entitled to one-half
of the net estate if the decedent is survived
by at least one child or grandchild. However,
if the spouse is a second or subsequent
spouse, and no children were born of the
marriage, they are generally only entitled to
one-fourth of the net proceeds from a
decedent’s real property and one-half of the
net proceeds from a decedent’s personal
property. If the decedent has no spouse and
no children, their estate is generally divided
between their siblings and parents equally,
except the surviving parent cannot receive
less than one-fourth (1/4) share. Additionally,
if there are no children, parents, or siblings,
the estate will pass to the descendant’s
grandparents,
and
if
there
are
no
grandparents then to the decedent’s uncles
and aunts. If none of the above survives the
decedent then the estate generally escheats
to the state.
Probate
Distribution of Wealth:
A General Perspective
R
General Intestate Distribution
By Nathaniel Lee, Esq.
Real Estate. 401(K). Stocks. Bonds. Automobiles. The list is
endless. Over the course of a lifetime a person can purchase,
inherit or collect an endless amount of property. Upon a
person’s death, their estate must be distributed to the
decedent’s heirs. A person’s estate consists of those assets that
are in the decedent’s name only. For this reason, investigation
into bank accounts and real estate titles is a must. Further, life
insurance, stocks or other assets with beneficiary designations
should be researched to determine if the assets are part of the
estate.
“A Last Will & Testament
sets forth how this
property will be
distributed after a
person’s death.”
A Last Will & Testament sets forth how this property will be
distributed after a person’s death. If a Will is not created, then
state law determines how property will pass down to one’s
heirs.
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CCMtv.org
There are also specific laws defining who is an heir. Half-siblings, or siblings that have a
different Mother or Father, generally inherit the same as full blood siblings. Similarly, adopted
children inherit the same as full blood children. However, step-children and step-siblings do not
inherit at all. Children born out of marriage naturally inherit from their Mother, but not their
Father. Generally, a child’s Father must either marry the mother or have paternity established
before a child is eligible to inherit from their father. In most instances paternity can be
established at any point during the child’s life. In some states however, if a person dies and
paternity was not established, the child will not inherit unless they are under the age of twentythree (23) years and take legal action within five (5) months after the date of death.
Testate Distribution
A person is said to have died “testate” if they have executed a valid Last Will and Testament
prior to their death. To be valid, a Will must be properly executed and witnessed under the
applicable state law. Further, it should be the original Will, as opposed to a copy. A copy of a
Will can be probated under certain circumstances, but it is always best to have the original to
stop any possibility that the original Will was destroyed and thus distribution should be by
intestate succession. When a person has passed with a valid Will, their property will be
distributed according to the terms of the Will.
Actions That May Alter the Course of Descent
Regardless of whether a person has died testate or intestate, in some states there are laws that
prevent certain persons from inheriting or not inheriting from an estate. First, a person who has
been found to have caused the death of the decedent, generally cannot inherit themselves, but
holds those assets as a “constructive trustee.” In some states if a civil action is initiated in order
to determine if a beneficiary is a constructive trustee then the proof must only arise to the
preponderance of the evidence standard that the beneficiary killed or caused the suicide of the
individual. If a constructive trust is established, then the property that is subject to the trust is
treated as if the constructive trustee had died immediately before the decedent. Second,
adulterous spouses, or spouses that have abandoned one another without just cause, are
generally not to take part in a decedent’s estate.
Finally, in many states a Will cannot disinherit, or cut out, a spouse or minor child even if it is
validly executed. Many states have enacted laws that entitle a spouse or minor child to a
$25,000.00 election over and above their share. Additionally, if the spouse does not like the
share that was left to them, they can elect to “take against the will”. Under these circumstances,
in place of what the will has allotted for the spouse, they will inherit, one-half (1/2) of the net
estate. A second or subsequent spouse will only receive one-third (1/3) of the net personal
estate and one-fourth (1/4) of the fair market value of real estate.
Conclusion
Considerable thought must be made when deciding how a person wants their property
distributed after death. It is important to consult with an Attorney who has knowledge of your
state’s Probate laws to discuss how you wish to have your property inherited. It is also important
to have a properly executed Last Will and Testament in place at the point of your death to
ensure that your property is inherited the way you chose, not the way the state in which you
reside would choose for you.
*This article is not intended to be legal advice and should not be taken as such. A person interested in
drafting a Will or learning more about intestate distribution should consult an attorney in the state they
reside. The above article is intended to be a general approach to intestate distribution of wealth and is not
the law enacted in all of the United States
LEE COSSELL KUEHN & LOVE, LLP, is a general civil law Firm that was originally established in
1984 as Watkins and Lee. Over the past two decades additional partners have been added. The firm consists of skilled
and experienced attorneys, paraprofessional, and support staff dedicated to providing high quality, efficient, effective
and economical legal services.
The Firm’s downtown Indianapolis office building is located at 127 East Michigan Street, on the corner of Michigan
and Delaware Streets. The office is convenient to federal and state courts, city and county government offices, as well as
banks and other institutions. Its attractive facilities are equipped with the state-of-the-art technological and managerial
resources required to provide the Firm’s clients with effective and efficient services.
Nathaniel Lee, Senior Partner
LEE COSSELL KUEHN & LOVE, LLP
(317) 631-5151
The Signal
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CCMtv.org
Up Close
G
Get ready to be inspired and be blessed as
the windows of heaven are opened on
Sunday mornings with the awesome sounds
of Bobby Jones Gospel Music. The new
season of Bobby Jones Gospel starts airing
on Sunday, October 8, 2006. This is BET’s
Bobby Jones Gospel 27th
CCM Special
Season and this year’s
By Richard Cox
theme is Legends
& Classics, Bringing
it Back!
BET’s Bobby Jones
Gospel 2006 Fall
Season
When you tune in
on Sundays you
will see some of
your all-time favorite gospel pioneers and
legends such as The Caravans, The
Mighty Clouds of Joy, Shirley Caesar,
Dottie Peoples, Tramaine and Edwin
Hawkins, Richard Smallwood to name a
few. There are also current artists featured
such as Fred Hammond, Karen ClarkSheard, J Moss, Byron Cage, Donald
Lawrence, Tye Tribbett, Take 6, Smokie
Norful, Kierra “Kiki” Sheard and more.
Some of the choirs featured are Freda
Battle and the Temple Worshippers, New
Direction, The Anointed Pace Sisters and
others.
You will enjoy the classics tunes of
yesterday and be introduced to new
released music featured by some of the
artists. This year show will continue the
tradition of showcasing new gospel talent
such as violinist Karen Briggs, and artists
such as Kelly Price, Tony Terry, Kenny
Latimore and Chante Moore, The Murrils,
The Singletons, Dave Hollister, DeWayne
Woods and more.
Cross Culture Media was at the taping of
Bobby Jones Gospel and interviewed some
of the artists featured on the show.
CCM and Dr. Bobby Jones
The Ambassador of Gospel Music is
internationally known for showcasing the
best in gospel music. Bobby Jones Gospel
has been with BET since the company
started in 1980. Dr. Bobby Jones is host
and executive producer of Bobby Jones
Gospel and producer of Video Gospel.
The Signal
Dr.Bobby Jones & CCM Reporter, RIchard Cox
He has received many prestigious awards over the years showcasing
gospel music with pride and excellence all over the world.
Cross Culture Media (Richard Cox): Tell us about the new BET Season of
Bobby Jones Gospel called Legends and Classics, Bringing it Back!
Bobby Jones: Well, I’m really excited about the theme Legends and
Classics Bringing it Back. I like the idea that we are concentrating on
traditional gospel music in front of the people this season, so that the new
music that is being produced and presented now won’t overshadow the
roots of what it is that we do. I like the title that we have chosen Legends
and Classics. The talents and guests have been phenomenal this season.
It’s just good stuff. There are some changes with the show where we have
a new set and a new director. We have people that understand a little
more about what we’re doing and how we’re doing things which always
makes things easier for people like me who host the show. I’ve been
doing this show for 27 years and when you make a change like that it is
quite a task to take on. So if you’re familiar with the style of music and
what it represents and how it’s to be presented I think we are now in that
groove and I love it! I like how we have brought in artist of all dimensions
of singing that has been an added feature to the show. Now I have more
liberty to be like myself now.
CCM: I heard you mention about a museum being named in your honor in
Florida. Tell us about this museum.
Jones: I’m extremely happy about it. For the first time for this music, Fort
Lauderdale is planning to erect a structure in my honor that will be called
The Bobby Jones Educational Complex. It will preserve our music and have
demonstrating activities inside. It has already gone through the first 3 or 4
levels of approval.
CCM: Are you playing a part in any upcoming plays, movies, etc?
Jones: Yes. I was fortunate enough to get the role as a preacher and my
choir as the choir in the movie Dirty Laundry, www.dirtylaudrythemovie.com.
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The movie features Loretta Devine, Jennifer Lewis and a lot of other actors. It’s a great movie. I’m not sure when it’s going
to be in theatres. It had several premieres all over the country. Of course it swept the Black Film Festival winning Best
Picture, Best Actress, Best Director and Best Supporting Cast. So I’m excited about that.
CCM: Give us your website information.
Jones: My website is www.bobbyjonesgospel.com.
CCM and
Fred Hammond
For over 18 years, gospel
listeners around the world
have known Fred Hammond
as a talented songwriter,
bassist and vocalist. He has
become known within the
music industry as a gifted
musical
arranger
and
producer. His work with Face
to
Face
Productions
Corporation, the company
for which he is both founder
and CEO, has earned him the
title of the “Babyface” of
gospel. Hammond and his
group, Radicals for Christ,
have headlined so many
concerts over the years.
Cross
Culture
Media
(Richard Cox): Tell us about
your upcoming CD.
CCM Reporter, RIchard Cox & FredHammond
Fred Hammond: It’s coming out October 3, 2006. It’s called Free to Worship. It has a nice different sound. It has a Texas
flair to it…Texas singers...Texas musicians. It’s a nice twist for me.
CCM: Since you have moved to Texas tell us about that experience.
Hammond: I live in Dallas Texas. It’s been a wonderful place…. a wonderful time. I don’t know nobody there. I moved on
the unction of the Holy Ghost.
CCM: Are you the Minister of Music at any particular church in Texas?
Hammond: Not at all. I’m a worshipper in the church. I’m at the Potter’s House with T.D. Jakes.
CCM: What kind of advice do you give upcoming artists?
Hammond: Be excellent and be ready to walk through the door. Have your stuff together. You need to know what your
walk is… know what your vision is. Determine who you want to target. Don’t worry about trying to be Hip-Hop or try to be
this or that, but try to be true to who you are. Do the music inside of you and you’ll be alright.
CCM: Give us your website information.
Hammond: You can catch me on the real Fred Hammond on www.myspace.com/fredhammond. I spend more of my time on
that site more than the other sites. Another website is www.fredhammondmusic.com.
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