Getting to Know the Kingdom Man of the Month for August: Christie Knowles
We "walked" into UPC Easter of 2007 and have enjoyed being a part of this Orlando family ever since.
A Bahamian by birth, I moved to the United States to complete college in 1997 at 17, and have been in Florida ever since. I graduated from Bethune-Cookman College with a degree in Computer Information Systems, then UCF with a Master's in Management Information Systems. Currently, I'm employed at Starwood Vacation Ownership in the IT department with primary focus on application development and support.
I met my wife in college and this past May celebrated 8 years of marriage. We have a small family with our son, Christie IV "CJ" being our only child.
I spend a lot of time studying and trying to learn new things, but I'm also very involved in our local Toastmasters and Alpha Phi Alpha, fraternity chapter.
The last 18 months have been a trying time for my family but through God's grace and mercy we are excelling. Positive attitude and knowing where strength comes from is how we survive the day.
Question #1: What is the best type of music? Why?
In my opinion, Jazz is one of the best types of music. It appeals to all groups and generations, and has a way of making you feel what the musician is feeling with or without any words. I was first introduced to Jazz through a favorite television show, Cosby Show. My favorite song is "In A Sentimental Mood" by Duke Ellington.
Question #2: Would you rather sky dive or wind surf? Why?
This is difficult, both aren't very safe. I thing I would prefer sky diving; I like the freedom of not being tethered to a boat and the ability to see the vast majesty of the earth from so far up. Who am I kidding, I'll probably settle for that sky dive in a tube ride on International Drive; I'm not much of the adventure type.
Question #3: Besides Jesus, if you had any man in history that you'd like to meet, who would it be? Why?
You probably won't find him in any history books, but the person I would like most to meet would be my father. I lost my father when I was very young and think that he would be proud of where I am now in my life. Sitting down and having a conversation with him, if only for a few hours would be awesome.