Our people: Clovis pastor keeps busy

Clovis resident David Dawson has lived in Clovis for 38 years. He spends his time doing many things including being a singer, songwriter, producer, motivator and pastor. If you know Dawson, you’re wondering why he didn’t list coach. He said he’s not a coach, he’s a motivator.

“Coaches have to understand the player is the one playing the game,” he said.

Dawson and his wife both worked with Play Inc. for many years before it’s downfall and continued with youth sports programs after.

Dawson has been singing since he was 4-years-old and signed a recording contract in the early 2000’s which garnered him an appearance on BET. He now produces his own records.

Dawson is the pastor of Pure Heart Word Center. He said he was hurt and went into a coma for four days nine years ago. He said God showed him visions that God had a purpose for him.

“And I did it. Why? Because no doctor, no magic, no pill can give you life the next day. Only God can. He’s good,” Dawson said.

What are five websites that you visit daily? Facebook, Hotmail, MSN, rivals.com, cnjonline.com and NM Preps

When I get in my car, the first thing I listen to is... what my spirit tells me to pray.

My family and friends call me... DD.

After a long, hard day, I love to... enjoy my kids having fun and making noise.

One of my favorite childhood toys is... bicycle.

One movie I could watch over and over again is... ”Pootietang.” It’s silly to the 10th power and its a family-friendly movie. No bad words or nothing, it’s just funny.

My favorite bad-for-me food is... tropical blizzard from DQ.

The most unique place I’ve ever traveled is to... Amsterdam.

What’s your idea of a perfect day? When I come across happy people all day.

Who is your favorite entertainer? Jesus is the start of the show.

What is your theme song? America Bless God.

If I had an open plane ticket to anywhere, I would go to... back to Great Britain to get some fresh fish and chips.

What would you like printed on your gravestone? See you in heaven.

Who’s invited to your fantasy dinner party, and why? Jesus, my family of course, Michael Jordan, a few Clovis friends.

What do you think about Clovis? Still has serious issues. Some of them are still black and white, some are still clique issues. The churches here don’t bond well enough together and I include myself in that. I know there is still racial tension here. My kids came home crying several days when Obama became president. It’s getting better but there are still things we need to work out.

What is your favorite taste? Good BBQ.

What’s your favorite TV show? “Sanford and Son.”

What’s so great about your favorite sport? Basketball. My son is good at it and seems to have a future.

Tell us about a time your cried. When my son was born on Father’s Day.

Tell us about a happy time. When I married Gerri.

What would you be doing if you weren’t doing your job? Probably coaching basketball at a college.

What do you envision your life being like in 10 years? Getting my last child through high school and watching John John play in the NBA.

What is your greatest hope? All my children get a good relationship with Christ.

What do you like about your job? God is my boss.

Who is your hero and why? Dad and Mom — because they made us believe we were somebody.

Tell us about your greatest individual accomplishment. Became a national gospel artist. Proved people wrong who talked about me.

If I could do anything, I would... build a multipurpose youth center here in Clovis.

What is your most prized possession? My salvation.

What is your greatest fear? Have none.

What was your most embarrassing moment? I forgot the words to one of my songs during a concert. It was packed. I just threw stuff in there real quick. Unless someone knew my song, they wouldn’t have noticed.

What is your favorite smell? Ozone right before it rains.

What’s your favorite part about your job? Receive a word from God to help others.

Tell us about your first date. Nervous as all get out!

Tell us how you met your spouse. Church convention — took my breath away.

When you were a kid, what did you think you’d be doing as an adult? Playing pro baseball.