James Spann

September Meeting

Now, mark your calendars for September 18th.  This will be our first ever LRMF dinner and your spouse orsignificant other is invited.  We will meet at 6:45 at the Manees House at 216 W. 4th Street (which is just aroundthe corner from Dickey Stephens.)  Dinner will begin shortly after 7:00 and we should be finished by 8:30.  This way the evening shift can get back to work and the morning shift can get to bed!

Our speaker for the evening will be James Spann, meteorologist for ABC 33/40 in Birmingham, AL. James was one of the first meteorologist in the country to earn the "Certified Broadcast Meteorolgist" from the American Meteorological Society.  He's won just about every award one can win as a broadcaster and is one of the best guys you'll ever meet.  Funny, engaging and wise you won't want to miss James at September's LRMF dinner. 

Now if that wasn't enough...Paul Novicky formerly of Spaule in the Heights will be catering the dinner and this won't be any ordinary dinner.  This will be one meal you'll kick yourself for missing. 

Space if VERY limited so we'll definitely need RSVPs for this dinner so get your reservations in early.  Once again, thanks to our sponsors, there is no charge to attend any LRMF event but we will be taking up a collection for the Arkansas Baptist Children's Homes.

Listen to the audio...

Letrece Harris

August Meeting

Our speaker for August will be Letrece Harris.  Letrece is someone else who knows a little something about mixing faith and fame as she is the wife of 12-year NFL veteran Jackie Harris.  But Letrece is also a television personality in her own right as the host of In Position Ministries.  Her show can be seen locally on the VTN Network.

In addition, Letrece is the founder of a local women’s bible study and prayer group in Pine Bluff, AR called “Women in Position.” It was a God-given assignment established for the purpose of building spiritual alliances among women in the community.

In July 2006 she launched her radio ministry in Southwest Louisiana. Letrece is also a writer and a published author. Her first book released in March of 2006is entitled “In Position-God’s Plan you Path to Destiny.” It is the first book in a five book series that God has spoken to her to write.  She and her husband Jackie are co-directors of Christian Education in their local church and they have three sons Jackie Jr., Joshua and Jonathan

LRMF luncheons are provided free of charge to every on-air TV & Radio personality in Little Rock.  Be sure and attend and invite your friends to come and enjoy the fellowship and hear about the difference Christ can make in your life!

John Sloan

July Meeting 2

July’s LRMF speaker knows a little something about both the media and ministry having successfully worked in both fields. Before his call into the ministry John Sloan spent several years back in the 90’s as a sports anchor for the NBC affiliate WKEF in Dayton, Ohio and WTLW the CNN affiliate in Lima, OH. Currently John is one of the teaching pastors at Cornerstone Bible Fellowship in Sherwood.

After receiving his degree in communication, with a minor in bible, from Cedarville University, John worked for American Express and then as a sports anchor and reporter with NBC and CNN.  In 2001 John received his Master of Divinity with a concentration on pastoral studies from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and joined the staff at Calvary Church in Valparaiso, Indiana as Associate Pastor and Co-Teacher.  While at Calvary, John completed all course work at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School toward his Master of Theology with emphasis in systematic theology and bioethics.  John and his wife Jenine have four children: Quinn, Lucas, Olivia and Julia.

Lisa Fischer

July Meeting 1

"But as for you, you meant evil against me but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result..."  Gen. 50:20

I received the first call from our scheduled speaker, Alan Williams, around 8:30 am.  He was supposed to arriving in Little Rock around 9:30.  "My plane just arrived from Nashville but we're sitting on the runway.  We haven't even made it to the terminal and it looks like I'll miss the connection to Little Rock,"  He said.  I told him not to worry.  He still had time and could catch the next flight out.  Well, storms cancelled that one which meant everyone got bumped to the next flight so he missed that one too.  When he informed me around 10:30 that the flight wasn't leaving until 12:30 I told him not to sweat it and begin looking for a flight back to Nashville.

Alan made it home OK but what was I going to do for a speaker on such short notice?  Answer:  Lisa Fischer.

Lisa is the co-host of the morning show on B 98.5 radio.  I first heard her "testimony" 8 or 9 years ago and never forgot it.  She is, as we say down south, a Hoot!  Story telling is an art form down here and Lisa is Picasso.  But more than the ease with which she tells it her story is a powerful example not only of the grace and mercy of God but also his sense of humor.  

Take some time and savor what this beautiful lady has to say and let the Holy Spirit do the rest. Click here to listen to an audio of Lisa Fischer's address to the Little Rock Media Fellowship.

Alan Williams

June Meeting

The speaker this month will be Alan Williams. Alan fulfilled a dream when he walked on and made the Wake Forest University basketball team. But despite his hard work Alan spent his entire career on the bench. He wrote about his experience in the book Walk-On.

Though he wore the jersey for Wake Forest University’s legendary Deacons basketball team, Alan Williams’ experiences on the hardwood were not anything like he pictured as a little kid shooting baskets in the backyard.  In 120 games, the undersized shooting guard played a total of 59 minutes.  During his career, Alan only averaged 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists per year.  He was a walk-on—someone who plays a college sport without an athletic scholarship.  But his limited time on the court didn’t keep him from savoring the game or finding motivation on even his most difficult days.  At many points along the journey, Williams contemplated quitting, but the struggles that followed being ‘the guy that never played’ led to an understanding of the true purpose of life’s tests, and new definitions of victory.

By turns inspiring, candid, and exhilarating, Walk-On traces Alan’s journey from his early teens, where he dreamed of landing a spot at Wake Forest, to his final semester on that historic North Carolina campus.  Along the way, he brings to life the riveting experience of playing for an ACC championship team in one of the country’s most celebrated conferences, and under renowned coaches Skip Prosser and Dave Odom.  Walk-On takes us on the road with the Deacons as they come of age together, learning life lessons that can’t be found anywhere near a win-loss column.  Through the eyes of a writer who is neither a superstar nor headliner, we witness the extraordinary power coursing through ordinary lives.

Even though Alan’s career didn’t result in him being a lottery pick in the first round of the NBA draft, Walk-On gives each of us something to cheer about.  From the end of the bench, a firsthand view of major college basketball proves that ultimate fulfillment in life is not found in how many points we score, but in having a hope and a faith in those things in life which cannot be seen.

It’s a great story of perseverance and faith from the perspective of a teammate who was not the star. After listening to Alan you’ll realize that the Rolling Stones were right: You can’t always get what you want but if you try sometimes you just might find you get what you need. The LRMF meets the third Thursday of each month at 11:45 at Valentine’s Restaurant.

Bobby Magallanes

May Meeting

This month’s speaker will be the manager for the Arkansas Travelers, Bobby Magallanes.  The California native was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 1989 and played 12 seasons of professional baseball with the Mariners, Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros.  Magallanes is married to Claudia and together they have two children, Paulina and Joshua.

Magallanes’ faith first came to my attention last year when one of his players hit a foul ball that struck Tulsa Drillers first base coach Mike Coolbaugh high on the neck killing him instantly.  It was clear then based on his statements and his actions in the midst of a difficult and tragic situation that Magallanes had his feet planted firmly on the Rock.

As you might expect this months luncheon will have a decidedly ballpark theme. We’ll be eating hotdogs and other “baseball food” outside on the patio! LRMF lunches are provided free of charge to every on-air TV & Radio personality in Little Rock.  In addition Beautiful Feet Ministry provides for transportation, lodging and an honorarium for the speakers.  But we need your help!  To sponsor a luncheon please give me a call or e-mail and thank you in advance for your support!

Monte Coleman

April Meeting

Can't say it any other way than, "Wow!" 

UAPB Head Football Coach Monte Coleman spoke to a crowd of more than 30 members of the local TV & Radio media like it was half-time in a big game and we were down by two touchdowns.  Encouraging yet convicting Coleman's message was part sermon, part pep-talk and all gospel.  The Pine Bluff native challenged his audience that in this day and time it was critical that we be imitators of Christ and be willing to give 100% in everything we do since we work for the Lord.

After high school Coleman, the second of seven kids, followed his brother to the University of Central Arkansas.  Though he'd never played high school football he walked on at UCA and started his very first game as a freshman.  After four stellar years he was drafted in 1979 by the Washington Redskins in the 11th of 12 rounds.  By practicing what he preached Coleman played 16 years in the NFL.  By the time he retired he had played in more games than any player in Redskin history.  During their 70th anniversary in 2002 Coleman was named one of the organizations 70 greatest Redskins of all time. 

Coleman returned to Arkansas in 2004 and in 2007 after two years as an assistant Coleman was named the head coach of the UAPB Golden Lions.

While many athletes have a tough time making the transition from the spotlight to “normal life” Coleman has been able to thrive.  Click Here to hear Coach Coleman’s story which is sure to inspire, encourage and motivate you to become the person God created you to be.

Click here to listen to an audio of Monte Coleman's address to the Little Rock Media Fellowship.

Jason Truby

March Meeting

We know it’s not easy maintaining our Christian witness in the highly visible world of local television media…imagine what it’s like being a Christian in a popular rockband. Say hello to Jason Truby.

That’s Jason on the right as lead guitarist for the Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum band P.O.D. Jason joined the band shortly after writing the song Sleeping Awake which was featured in the movie The Matrix Reloaded. After three years with POD Jason left the group in 2006 to focus on his solo career and has sincereleased two albums which you can read about at www.jasontruby.com.

Be sure and attend and invite your co-workers to this months Little Rock Media Fellowship where Jason will be sharing his story and his music. This month’s luncheon will be Thursday, March 20th at Valentine’s Restaurant from 11:45am-1:00pm. And as usual thanks to our great sponsors lunch is provided at no cost to you!

Next month's speaker will be Monte Coleman, formerly a football linebacker who played for sixteen seasons with the Washington Redskins.

Cary Martin

February Meeting

The rain and icy weather couldn't keep a good crowd from attending the Feb. meeting of the Little Rock Media Fellowship.  One good reason was the food.  Valentine's Restaurant out did themselves with their pasta and meatballs...and let me tell you...this was not your momma's pasta and meatballs.  Top that off with an assortment of desserts including the best tiramisu you've ever eaten and it was quite a lunch!

Of course the main reason for the crowd on such a lowsy day was the speaker.  Cary Martin was terrific. Cary is the president and cofounder of Little Rock Tours, Inc. Cary and his wife, Gina, started the company in response to the demand for a quality daily sightseeing tour around the city. In business for less than a decade Little Rock Tours was honored to be nominated and selected for membership in the Arkansas Small Business Hall of Fame 2007!

Prior to Little Rock Tours, Cary Martin was the primary news anchor at KATV Little Rock, the local ABC affiliate. He was recognized for excellence with two regional Emmy awards for investigative reporting and best news anchor. Cary was also nominated for a national Emmy for investigative reporting. Cary and Gina are members of the Pleasant Valley Church of Christ. By the way, Cary is also a licensed minister and has even performed a few weddings in the area!

Cary is the current president and co-founder, along with his wife Gina, of Little Rock Tours, Inc.  But before he became a hall of fame business owner he was an award winning former reporter and anchor for such stations as KVOA in Tuscon, WKRC in Cincinnati and KATV in Little Rock.  The tale of his journey through the trials and trevails of television news kept the crowd riveted but his encouragement to put faith and family first really hit home.  You can hear Cary's message by clicking here!

Next month's speaker will be Jason Truby, formerly of the rock group P.O.D. 
Check him out at www.jasontruby.com.

William Young

January Meeting

What a great first meeting! 

We had 27 on-air personalities from the local TV & Radio media show up for lunch at Valentine's Restaurant to fellowship together, enjoy a terrific lunch and hear from a wonderful speaker.  William P. Young is the author of The Shack and shared his personal story behind how this remarkable book came together and by the time he was through he had several in the room in tears.  If you get a chance pick up The Shack at www.theshackbook.com or at selected local bookstores.

Here are some of the comments from the luncheon:

"This event was outstanding.  Paul’s message was touching as well as reassuring.  I wouldn’t change a thing if I were you.  It’s amazing how God brings “His” people together.  Thank you for inviting me.  And may God continue to bless this fellowship." 

"Very enjoyable time.  Great lunch and great speaker.  I would give it at least 4 stars out of 5!  Seriously, great job!
BTW-Matt, you way over married!"  (I agree!)

"I had a fantastic time at the Media Fellowship today.  It was a learning experience that I know I’m going to look forward to each month.  It’s a fantastic thing a group like this has been needed for a long time."

Remember, there is no charge to attend an LRMF luncheon so we’re depending upon your support to maintain this outreach.  Thank you ahead of time for your support.

Click here to listen to an audio of William Young's address to the Little Rock Media Fellowship.