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Letitia Scott Jackson’s DFW-based Keeping Families Connected nonprofit organization becoming a national fixture

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“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40 NIV) 

DALLAS — Letitia Scott Jackson took to the airwaves over the weekend for all the right reasons.

Appearing on Dallas/Fort Worth’s 97.9 The Beat, Scott Jackson wasted little time offering some rather profound, spirited words of encouragement to the station’s thousands of listeners across the Metroplex.

ALL IN THE FAMILY 

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW SEASON — A Dallas/Fort Worth-based non-profit organization that Leititia Scott Jackson erected approximately four years ago, the strategic mission of Keeping Families Connected is centered in large part on enriching the lives of young people, most notably through events, as well as by way of providing educational resources, mentoring, and counseling services.
Said Scott Jackson in a rather forthright suggestion. “If you woke up this morning and didn’t thank God for waking you up, you are out of order.”
To grasp a thorough concept of why the opportunistic Scott Jackson deems it essential to embrace virtually every opportunity that’s afforded to her, look no further than how God has gone about moving on her behalf during a time when it seemed countless of others had written her off.

Wrongfully convicted only to wound up emerging victorious during her case that unfolded in the Texas Fifth Circuit Courts, Scott Jackson had become greatly inspired to establish Keeping Families Connected.

STAY CONNECTED: https://www.keepingfamilyconnected.org/

A DFW-based nonprofit organization that Scott Jackson erected approximately four years ago, the strategic mission of Keeping Families Connected is centered in large part on enriching the lives of young people, most notably through events, as well as by way of providing educational resources, mentoring, and counseling services.

“We believe that family matters most,” said a spokesperson for this thriving, flourishing nonprofit organization in a detailed overview at https://www.keepingfamilyconnected.org/.

A native of Houston who was raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, Scott Jackson is thoroughly convinced that her organization is steadily becoming a fixture throughout the region but, most importantly, she’s convinced it aligns solely with the purpose for which she was created.

DOING IT BIG IN TEXAS — Appearing on Dallas/Fort Worth’s 97.9 The Beat over the weekend, Scott Jackson wasted little time offering some rather profound words of encouragement to the station’s thousands of listeners across the Metroplex.

“My mission is for Keeping Families Connected to become a household name worldwide and eventually be able to provide free prison transportation in other states as the need is so great,” Scott Jackson told Making Headline News this week.

In order to better aid and promote her organization — particularly on national platforms — Scott Jackson has announced that she and her staff  will be launching a Keeping Families mobile app, which is scheduled to go into effect as early as June 1, 2019 during its Third Annual Creations of Fashion For A Cause Runway Show.

This yearly event, Scott Jackson said, is designed for children from various walks of life, particularly teens and young adults from Keeping Families Connected, during which they will participate in modeling, as well as meet and interact with professional models.

In order for better aid and promote her organization — particularly on national platforms — Scott Jackson has announced that she and her staff  will be launching a Keeping Families mobile app, which is scheduled to go into effect as early as June 1, 2019 during its Third Annual Creations of Fashion For A Cause Runway Show.

For Scott Jackson, the startup of her organization comes amid arguably the darkest chapter of her life.

“I couldn’t see my kids, because they were left with caregivers, who couldn’t afford to bring them to see them,” said Scott Jackson, recalling the tumultuous developments that fueled her desire to establish her nonprofit. “My daughters were in Louisiana and I was in Texas.”

Still, after the dust had ultimately settled and Scott Jackson had emerged victorious by winning her case, it wasn’t long thereafter that God had emphatically showed her why He had entrusted her to endure, yet conquer so much heartache and pain, both of which she emphatically outlasted.

Look at her today, walking fervently in her purpose as an accomplished businesswoman, who’s also widely known as a published author, public speaker, musician, and humanitarian.

To her credit, she birthed Keeping Families Connected out of “a personal desire,” one that would enable her to customarily make meaningful contributions to the lives of those who are incarcerated while being separated an extended period time from family members.

MAKING MUCH NOISE — Interestingly and to her credit, Scott Jackson’s Keeping Families Connected is, by all accounts, an effective institution, considering it’s also committed to rebuilding families and fostering life skills in youth and young adults from broken homes, Scott Jackson emphasized.

“Ever since (she was wrongfully convicted), she wants to spread the hope of redemption and connection one interaction, a letter to an inmate, and one prison visit at a time,” said a spokesperson for Scoot Jackson’s organization. “She also has a passion for speaking to youth and young adults about making the best choices now based on her own past experiences. She has been blessed to build several businesses and mentor students and members of her church to define their own success.”

“My mission is for Keeping Families Connected to become a household name worldwide and eventually be able to provide free prison transportation in other states as the need is so great,” Scott Jackson told Making Headline News this week.

Interestingly and to her credit, Scott Jackson’s Keeping Families Connected is, by all accounts, an effective institution, considering it’s also committed to rebuilding families and fostering life skills in youth and young adults from broken homes, she emphasized.

“For four years, we have been providing free breakfast, lunch, and transportation to prison facilities throughout the state of Texas for (people), especially kids that have incarcerated parents and individuals that have incarcerated loved ones,” Scott Jackson said.

Talk about being in total alignment with the purpose for which she was created.

COMING FULL CIRCLE 

SEASON OF THE REBIRTH — To her credit, Scott Jackson birthed Keeping Families Connected out of “a personal desire,” one that would enable her to customarily make meaningful contributions to the lives of those who are incarcerated while being separated an extended period time from family members.

“My life’s trials and tribulations set me up for this journey,” Scott said. “I lost my mom, my dad, and my only son to death, and I really feel that God was removing all of my leaning posts so that I could find my connection and my calling in life and, more so, to help me maximize my potential.”

To her credit, she’s doing just that.

And, what’s remarkably astounding is that she’s nowhere out of order.

Not by a long shot.

FOLLOW KEEPING FAMILIES CONNECTED VIA SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook – Keeping Families Connected

Instagram – Keeping Families Connected

Linkden – Keeping Families Connected

Twitter – Keeping Families Connected 

For more information about Dallas/Fort Worth-area Businesswoman Letitia Scott Jackson of Keeping Families Connected, or to schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via Facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/tetiascott. Also, send email to: keepingfamiliesconnected2015@yahoo.com.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.

Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Dallas Mavericks, NBA News, Sports, The Big Feature

Chris Paul on Mavs star Luka Dončić: ‘He probably is the frontrunner’ for Rookie of the Year

HALLE-LUKA

LEADING THE CHARGE — A year after emerging as the EuroLeague MVP during a season that was highlighted by a EuroLeague championship for Real Madrid, Luka Dončić has been as good advertised since being traded on draft night to the Mavericks in exchange for the draft rights to Young and a protected future first round pick in 2019 (Photos by Glenn James/NBAE Getty Images) 

 

Standing in front of his locker, surrounded by a throng of reporters, Dallas Mavericks prized rookie Luka Dončić tried all he could to assess how the Mavs’ furious rally in the waning moments fell short, thus resulting in a 94-93 loss to the visiting Houston Rockets before an announced sellout crowd in the American Airlines Center Sunday night.

Then within minutes, Dončić was eventually brought to smiles, courtesy of some postgame pleasantries passed along in the visitor’s locker room by Rockets star point guard Chris Paul, who was asked whom he senses is the frontrunner for NBA Rookie of the Year.

As usual, Paul — who came away from the league’s Rookie of the Year hardware in 2006 — was rather forthright while chiming in.

“He probably is the frontrunner,” Paul, a 13-year veteran, told LaTambria Smith of Making Headline News. “Trae (Atlanta’s Young) is playing really well, you know what I mean? But both of them are great players.”

KEEPING IT 100 — Houston Rockets star point guard Chris Paul, who was asked whom he senses is the frontrunner for NBA Rookie of the Year. As usual, Paul — who came away from the league’s Rookie of the Year hardware in 2006 — was rather forthright while chiming in.

Though Dončić and Young have seemingly been mentioned in the same breath ever since they entered the NBA last summer, many media pundits believe that Dončić has created more of a continuous buzz as arguably one of the bright stars of the league in the coming years.

A year after emerging as the EuroLeague MVP during a season that was highlighted by a EuroLeague championship and Finals MVP as the marquee player for Madrid, Dončić has been as good advertised since being traded on draft night to the Mavericks in exchange for the draft rights to Young and a protected future first round pick in 2019.

Having started each of the Mavs’ 66 games, Dončić is Dallas’ leading scorer at 21.1 points per outing.

Young, meanwhile, has started each of the Hawks’ 68 games, averaging 18.3 points per contest, second only to John Collins’ 19.8 points.

Like Young, Dončić has been nothing short of remarkable since he set foot on an NBA court.

Consider, for instance, the fact that the 6-foot-7 Slovenian has garnered NBA Western Conference Rookie of the Month for three consecutive months from November through January, becoming only the second Mavs rookie to accomplish such a feat (Jay Vincent earned it three times in during the 1981-82 season).

Mavs coach Rick Carlisle speaks with Dončić during Sunday night’s game against the Houston Rockets in American Airlines Center. Carlisle’s rookie sensation is the first Mavs newcomer to receive Western Conference Rookie of the Month in each of the first three months of the season.

Interestingly, Dončić is the first Mavs rookie to receive Western Conference Rookie of the Month in each of the first three months of the season.

That Paul, a nine-time All-Star, was especially complementary of Dallas’ 20-year-old star rookie had eventually prompted Dončić to exhibit a slight grin, this on a night in which the Mavs had witnessed their winless streak reach five games with just 16 games remaining in the regular season.

“That was very nice of him,” Dončić said after learning of Paul’s comments. “I mean…Chris Paul, I’ve watched him as a kid. He’s a great player and do a lot on the court, and it’s so hard to guard him.”

Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder/Publisher & Editor In Chief of Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, call him at 901-690-6587 or send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

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Accomplished Atlanta author Dr. Carolyn Stephens spearheads a book that figures to change a generation

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. (Romans 8:37 KJV)

GOD’S LEADING LADY 

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW SEASON — An accomplished Atlanta-area author and businesswoman, Dr. Carolyn Stephens is responsible for forwarding the book entitled, “I Am A Black Woman, Volume 2,” her much-anticipated sophomore edition that is is widely known as “One Voice” — a project that addresses a variety of pertinent topics, most notably surviving divorce, sexual and physical abuse, broken identity, and mental illness, among other subjects.

DALLAS — Dr. Carolyn Stephens has something she needs to get off of her chest.

So pay attention.

“The black woman has been stereotypically criticized, marginalized, and sexualized for decades, and most of the negative connotations are a misunderstanding or a traditional belief system that has continued to demean the women of our culture,” Dr. Stephens, during an interview this week with Making Headline News, said, explain in detail the developments that fueled her desire to write an awe-inspiring book.

It is, by all accounts, due in large part to this assortment of stereotypes that Dr. Stephens deemed it absolutely essential to compose a book that figures to enrich and impact a generation for years to come.

An accomplished Atlanta-area author and businesswoman, Dr. Stephens is responsible for forwarding the book entitled, “I Am A Black Woman, Volume 2,” her much-anticipated sophomore edition that is is widely known as “One Voice” — a project that addresses a variety of pertinent topics, most notably surviving divorce, sexual and physical abuse, broken identity, and mental illness, among other subjects.

THE PROVERBS 31 FACTOR 

“I decided to construct a book project that would allow black women to have a voice and vocalize their obstacles, processes, and victories,” Dr. Stephens said.

As this gifted author-turned-businesswoman explained, her primary objective for composing a second edition of “I Am A Black Woman” was centered largely on uniting a dozen black women from various walks of life, all of whom demonstrate the courage to share a common goal and vision as a strategic way to create healing, thus establish a sense of unity within their respective community.

ON ONE ACCORD — More than anything, Dr. Stephens acknowledged, she’s especially appreciative to the gallery of African-American authors who collectively bought into her massive vision to construct a book that figures to impact a generation and will be promoted in a number of establishments around the country, most notably New York, Alabama, Warner Robins, Georgia, Detroit, as well as Florida, Texas, and Jamaica.

“We have chosen to execute this book in the form of an anthology to create a level of cohesiveness between black women in order to demonstrate the results of what we call sister synergy,” said Dr. Stephens, explaining her purpose for “I Am A Black Woman, Volume 2. “This compilation book project not only discloses the many challenges that black women face, such as divorce, sexual and physical violence, single parenthood, etc., but also speaks of the therapeutic resolutions necessary to bring about change.”

Interestingly, Dr. Stephens — who’s widely known also as a public speaker and a clinical therapist — disclosed a rather intriguing statistic pertaining to the struggles a slew of struggles with which countless of black women customarily endure.

MORE ON DR. STEPHENS’ NEW BOOK: https://www.facebook.com/iaabw/

SET ASIDE FOR GOD’S USE — Interestingly, Dr. Stephens — who’s widely known also as a public speaker and a clinical therapist — disclosed a rather intriguing statistics pertaining to the struggles a slew of struggles with which countless of black women customarily endure.

“Over several years of working in my practice, I discovered that 98 percent of my patient population was African-American single women, who were often- times diagnosed with dual diagnoses as a result of the traumatic experiences they have endured,” Dr. Stephens explained. “I was challenged to explore the emotional triggers and root causes that produce many of the toxic behaviors demonstrated among many black women that oftentimes cause us to stay divided.”

All things considered and to her credit, such a discovery practically sums up why Dr. Stephens thought it necessary to assemble a second edition of “I Am A Black Woman.”

“As a result of launching this project, a loving sisterhood was birthed and has now developed into a long awaited movement,” Dr. Stephens said of her forthcoming book, which is scheduled to be officially released in June. “The sisterhood of the IAABW represents the edification and affirmation of the black woman.”

More than anything, Dr. Stephens acknowledged, she’s especially appreciative to the gallery of African-American authors who collectively bought into her massive vision to construct a book that figures to impact a generation and will be promoted in a number of establishments around the country, most notably New York, Alabama, Warner Robins, Georgia, Detroit, as well as Florida, Texas, and Jamaica.

“Myself and the co-authors of IAABW would like to help support the healing process of the black family and see the revival of the black community through love, strength, and prosperity,” Dr. Stephens said.

BUT GOD — As this gifted author-turned-businesswoman explained, her primary objective for composing a second edition of “I Am A Black Woman” was centered largely on uniting a dozen black women from various walks of life, all of whom demonstrate the courage to share a common goal and vision as a strategic way to create healing, thus establish a sense of unity within their respective community.

Ironically, Dr. Stephens thought it essential to compose a book in a rather similar fashion, or one that would be centered primarily on African-American men.

Just recently, Dr. Stephens announced that she will be producing an “I Am A Black Man” book that is slated to be released in October 2019.

“The IAABW movement is continuing to grow,” Dr. Stephens said. “We are proud to announce the launching of (I Am A Black Man), thus solidifying our belief that we are a community that is strong and powerful.”

So pay attention.

CHECK OUT THIS FOOTAGE: 

For more information about Atlanta-area Author Dr. Carolyn Stephens, or to order her book, schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing, or speaking engagement, call 404.839.5102, or connect with her via Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/drcstephens. Also, send email to: dr.carolyn21@yahoo.com.

CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.

Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

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Washington, DC-area author Kinite McCrae’s unorthodox connection to God gives way to an inspiring new book

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8 KJV)

 

As it pertains to her faith walk, Kinite McCrae is…well…let’s put it this way:

Her walk with God is somewhat unconventional, to say the least.

By and large, McCrae isn’t whom many would deem “your typical” Christian story.

For starters, she was not raised in the church, nor did she grow up in a Christian-oriented community.

MASSIVE KINGDOM IMPACT — A native of Washington, DC, Kinite McCrae’s “I Am A Christian…This Is Why: A Logical Response To The Skeptic” will make its debut on November 18, a book that will be available for purchase on Amazon.com and on her personal website at https://www.authorkinite.com/.

Come to think of it, in fact, she spent her early adult years mostly skeptical about what she described as “organized religion,” not to mention the authenticity of the Bible until she consequently decided to embark upon a rather unorthodox journey, one that was centered on her having studied world religions in a search for truth.

What she had eventually discovered was that, well, only what we do for Christ will last.

That’s because during her in-depth spiritual journey, she had ultimately come to grips with the notion that Christianity is, in fact, logical and intelligent and that conclusion had eventually given way to her to accepting Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior.

PURCHASE AUTHOR KINITE’S BOOK HERE: https://www.authorkinite.com/

Interestingly, that McCrae had made peace with God was a life-changing development, of sorts, an awe-inspiring occurrence that had proved to be the precursor to her present ministry, one that inspired her to compose the book entitled, “I Am A Christian…This Is Why: A Logical Response To The Skeptic.”

A book whereby God has infused within her the vision to compose some five years ago, McCrae’s “I Am A Christian…This Is Why: A Logical Response To The Skeptic” has been deemed what this writer has dubbed “a quick read,” one that provides what she labels to-the-point arguments, evidence-based answers, not to mention one that raises logical questions as a strategic way to provoke readers to engage in critical thinking, all the while assuming the desire to go further in their search for truth.

“Life happens and in my busyness, I put it on the back burner until this year, the Holy Spirit would not let me rest until I finished this book,” McCrae told Making Headline News during a recent interview. “After I returned from my mission’s trip to Africa, I was so inspired, I was able to finish in about two weeks.”

Much to her delight, McCrae is just days away from witnessing her newly-produced book make its much-anticipated presence on the market.

A native of Washington, DC, McCrae’s “I Am A Christian…This Is Why: A Logical Response To The Skeptic” will make its debut on November 18, a book that will be available for purchase on Amazon.com and on her personal website at https://www.authorkinite.com/.

When asked what was the single, most underlying reason she chose to produce her new book, McCrae said, “Most Christians know what they believe, but have difficulty explaining why they believe, which are two different questions with two different answers. I want to help equip Christians to logically and intelligently explain the why behind the what. (Furthermore), I want to help the skeptic or the person that’s on the fence by answering some of the difficult or confusing questions about Christianity.”

For what it’s worth, McCrae has gone to great lengths through her soon-to-be-released book to remind God’s people that we serve an “intelligent God” and an “intelligent Spirit” which means we should be able to defend the faith both intelligently and spiritually, she acknowledged.

WHO IS KINITE McCRAE? https://www.authorkinite.com/

HARVEST SEASON UNFOLDING — Much to her delight, McCrae is just days away from witnessing her newly-produced book make its much-anticipated presence on the market.

“After all, He said, ‘Come let us reason with one another,’” said McCrae, reciting the familiar Biblical passage that is Isaiah 1:18. “And the word, ‘reason,’ requires an exchange of intellect and ideas.”

A little less than two weeks away from its official release, McCrae is extremely grateful of the early favorable feedback of her book.

“It has been amazing,” McCrae said of the hoopla and buzz surrounding her newly-assembled written work. “I’ve had so many people tell me that I have explained things in a simple and logical way, a way that they never thought about before or had explained to them in all their years of church. And now they finally understand. I’m so humbled by that, because I know that the revelation truly comes from God, but that He would use me…all I can say is what is man that He is mindful.”

Fortunately for McCrae, God has already shown her much favor through a book that has yet to hit the market.

“I’ve already spoken at several conferences leading up to this launch, where I’ve had the opportunity to encourage and exhort woman, men and, youth,” said McCrae, whose official book launch is November 18 at 12 p.m. EST and will be hosted by her church (located at 3801 West Braddock Road in Alexandria, Virginia, inside T. C. Williams High School Minnie Howard Campus).

“All are welcome (to attend the book launch),” said McCrae, requesting that those who plan to attend to RSVP at www.authorkinite.com, considering lunch will be served. “Also, they don’t have to wait until 12 noon to show up; all are welcome to join us that morning for worship services, which begins at 9 am with breakfast.”

Also, McCrae announced that her forthcoming book is the first of the “I Am” series and that additional written documents are in the works, which will explain what she describes as other Bible difficulties, most notably heaven, hell, and life after death.

“I discovered early on that my spiritual gifts are exhortation, teaching and leading,” McCrae said. “So I would say that with this book, I will exhort, teach and through the work of the Holy Spirit, take part in leading many to Christ.”

Never mind that her walk with God has been somewhat unconventional, to say the least.

For more information about Washington, D.C.-area Author Kinite McCrae, or to schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media under: Facebook: authorkinitemccrae; Instagram: @kinitemccrae; Twitter: @authorkinite. Also, send email to: authorteam2@gmail.com, or call 703-577-7029.

CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.

Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Dallas Mavericks, NBA News, Sports, The Big Feature

Dallas Mavericks point guard Dennis Smith Jr. looking to add Slam Dunk champion to his banner rookie season

DALLAS — Approximately 90 minutes prior to the Dallas Mavericks’ final game before the All-Star break on Tuesday, Mavs point guard Dennis Smith Jr. sat in front of his locker, trying all he could to keep from basking in the glory of the moment.

Too late.

AIR DALLAS — Dallas Mavericks rookie point guard Dennis Smith Jr. will compete in the Verizon Slam Dunk Contest as part the NBA All-Star festivities Saturday Night at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles on Saturday. The former North Carolina State star is the third player in Mavs history to participate in the Slam Dunk Contest. (Photo by Lecka/Getty Images North America)

That’s because Dallas’ prized rookie was a couple of days away from showcasing his skills on the NBA’s most celebrated and star-studded stage.

A former North Carolina State star, Smith Jr. will compete in the Verizon Slam Dunk Contest as part the NBA All-Star Game festivities Saturday Night at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles on Saturday.

An event that will precede the Taco Bell Skills Challenge and the JBL Three-Point Contest, Smith Jr. is the third player in Mavs history to compete in the Slam Dunk Contest, joining Tony Dumas and Michael Finley.

Finley, who played for Dallas from 1996-2005, finished third at the event held in Cleveland in 1997. Dumas, whose four NBA seasons were spent mostly with Dallas from 1994 to 1996, failed to advance past the first round of the 1995 competition held in Phoenix.

The 67th Annual All-Star Game is Sunday at 7 p.m. CST on TNT and will feature Team Stephen versus Team LeBron.

For the 20-year-old Smith Jr., whose 48-inch vertical leap during a pre-draft workout with the Los Angeles Lakers last summer reportedly tied an NBA record, if things go his way Saturday night, the possibility exist that he will emerge as the Slam Dunk champion.

According to odds makers, while labeling this year’s competition as an open race, they predict the winner of this year’s event will likely come to down to Smith Jr. and newly-acquired Cleveland power forward Larry Nance Jr., with the 6-foot-3 Smith edging out Nance in the finals.

Joining Smith Jr. in the Slam Dunk competition are fellow rookie Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz, Indiana Pacers guard Victor Oladipo, the field’s only All-Star, and Nance Jr., a second-generation dunk contest participant, whose father won the contest in 1984.

Mavs coach Rick Carlisle said that Smith Jr. appearing on the league’s grandest stage this weekend for the All-Star festivities is testament of the solid work he’s put it prior to entering the NBA as the No. 9 overall pick last June.

“I’m humbled by it,” Smith Jr., during an interview with Making Headline News, said of being selected to compete in the Slam Dunk Contest. “It’s a blessing to be there. You know, you work hard and dream about things like that and, finally, it’s a great honor for me. It’s a blessing.”

Though Mavs coach Rick Carlisle earlier this week was complementary of his star rookie being selected for a chance to become the first slam dunk champion in team history, he also took the time to pass along to the team’s second-leading scorer some pertinent advice that was comprised of just two words.

“Be safe,” Carlisle said.

Aside from joining arguably the NBA’s finest players this weekend in Los Angeles, where he will also compete for the U.S. Team in the Mountain Dew Kickstart Rising Stars game Friday night, Smith Jr. described participating in the Slam Dunk Contest as a “dream come true,” considering he’s spent years watching YouTube footage of Michael Jordan and a host of other electrifying dunkers.

“I like Vince (Sacramento Kings veteran Carter), T-Mac (Tracy McGrady), Jordan,” Smith Jr. said. “You know, there’s a couple of others…Steve Francis. And Penny (Hardaway). That’s my dawg, but I’m not going to throw him in (on the list).”

According to odds makers, while labeling this year’s competition as an open race, they predict the winner of this year’s event will likely come to down to Smith Jr. and newly-acquired Cleveland power forward Larry Nance Jr., with the 6-foot-3 Smith Jr. edging out Nance in the finals. (Photo courtesy of Bleacher Report)

For what it’s worth, Carlisle said that Smith Jr. appearing on the league’s grandest stage this weekend is a testament of the solid work he’s put in prior to entering the NBA as the No. 9 overall pick last June.

“I want him to learn from it,” Carlisle said. “He’s hard to guard and he gets his teammates involved. You know, I love the way he’s being an aggressive scorer with the awareness of putting his teammates in position to score. From the perspective of how he understood the game even before coming to the NBA to where he is now, you know, he’s made tremendous strides there.”

If things go his way Saturday night, the Mavs’ prized newcomer will add yet another notable accolade to what is already a memorable rookie campaign.

What: Verizon Slam Dunk
When: Saturday, Feb. 17 | 8 p.m. ET  (3rd Event)
TV: TNT 
Where: STAPLES Center

 

Andre Johnson is the Founder/Publisher And Editor In Chief of Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, call him at 901-690-6587 or send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Dallas Mavericks, NBA News, Sports

Mavs guard Devin Harris on tragic death of his older brother: ‘He was a guy that everybody knew and everybody loved’

REMEMBERING BIG BRUH — Speaking publicly for the first time since his brother, 38-year-old Bruce Harris, died last week as a result of injuries he sustained in a crash, Dallas Mavericks veteran guard Devin Harris on Monday spoke with reporters prior to the Mavs’ game versus the Golden State Warriors, during which he spoke briefly about his close-knit relationship with his older brother.

 

DALLAS — Trying hard to make sense of his brother’s tragic death, Dallas Mavericks veteran shooting guard Devin Harris felt it was time to step out for some fresh air.

Even if meant temporarily rejoining his teammates.

Speaking publicly for the first time since his brother, 38-year-old Bruce Harris, died last week as a result of injuries he sustained in a crash, Devin Harris addressed reporters prior to the Mavs’ game Monday night versus the Golden State Warriors, during which he spoke briefly about his close-knit relationship with his older sibling.

Appearing rather teary-eyed while fielding questions from the media in front of his locker, the Mavs’ reserved guard spoke about how anguished times are now for him and his family, who are presently preparing to lay his brother to rest.

“I lost my brother tragically,” Harris said. “It’s been a tough week. My family is taking it pretty hard as you would expect them to…probably the saddest thing I’ve had to deal with as far as trying to explain it to his kids and my kids.”

As expected, the support from the Mavericks and community has been overwhelming said Harris, a 13-year-veteran who is in his second stint with Dallas.

“The support I’ve gotten from the team and the community has been great,” Harris said. “And I ask for a little privacy as we try to deal with this for the next couple of weeks and hopefully we can get back to some type normalcy.”

Granted an immediate leave of absence by the team, Harris said there is no timetable for his return to a Mavs squad that fell to 0-4 on the season following Monday night’s 133-103 loss to the defending NBA champion Warriors in the American Airlines Center.

Prior to the game, Golden State superstar Stephen Curry took a moment to console Harris’ 9-year-old nephew, Brayden, amid his father’s death, a meeting that was set up by Curry’s brother, Seth, a backup guard with the Mavericks, and Warriors guard Shaun Livingston, a longtime friend of Harris.

According to a Dallas police statement,  Harris’ brother died in the afternoon on October 12 as a result of injuries from a 1:40 a.m. crash on Texas U.S. 75 just north of Loop 12 in North Dallas. Officer Tamika Dameron, a police spokeswoman, said Harris and another man were in a disabled vehicle when it was slammed from behind and set on fire by a car with two 23-year-old men.

Consequently, all four occupants were taken to Presbyterian Hospital about a block from the site of the crash.

Harris died hours later.

“We still don’t have a whole lot of details,” Devin Harris said. “All we know is the car broke down and he got rear-ended and that’s as much as we know. I mean, there are still some details to be collected and we look forward to having those answers.”

NOTABLE ASSIST — Prior to Monday night’s game between the Dallas Mavericks versus the Golden State Warriors in American Airlines Center, Warriors superstar Stephen Curry took a moment to console Mavs guard Devin Harris’ 9-year-old nephew, Brayden, amid his father’s tragic death, a meeting that was set up by Curry’s brother, Seth, a backup guard with the Mavericks, and Warriors guard Shaun Livingston, a longtime friend of Harris.

Five days removed from fielding the devastating news of his brother’s tragic death, Harris sensed it was time to seek some sort of solace as his bereaved family prepares to bid farewell to Bruce.

“I can only sit in the house for so long and…I mean, to get out and get some fresh air,” Harris, a native of Milwaukee, said. “You know, (my teammates) are my brothers too. I spend every day with them, so just to see them and be around them has helped with my healing as well. It’s been that way when other things have happened, so I don’t see why it would be any different now. I’ve worked out the past couple of days, but it still hasn’t really felt normal. But like I said, hopefully it’ll get back to that feeling.”

Asked to assess his brother’s legacy, Harris, hinting that he plans to dedicate the remainder of the season to Bruce, said, “I mean, he was a guy that everybody knew and everybody loved. I mean, he touched a lot of people, whether it was here in Dallas or whether it was in Milwaukee. He had the biggest heart and he was a great father and a great brother, and I think we will try to display that when we remember him.”

The Mavericks return to action Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. CST when they welcome the Memphis Grizzlies (3-0) to the American Airlines Center.

 

Andre Johnson is the Founder/Publisher And Editor-In-Chief of Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, call him at 901-690-6587 or send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

 

 

 

 

Amateur Sports, Dallas Mavericks, Entertainment News, General Assignment Reporting, High School Sports, High Schools, Lifestyle, Money And Business, Politics, Religion, Sports, The Big Feature, Vacation

Dallas/Fort Worth-area couple establish notable non-profit organization amid son’s death-to-life encounter

HOLDEN IT DOWN — Jarron and Dana Franklin-Holden are Co-Founders of Holden Strong Awareness Campaign, a newly-organized non-profit organization that is geared largely toward preventing sudden cardiac events in student athletes by providing affordable annual cardiology physicals — or EKGs — per visit for student-athletes ranging in grades 6 through 12.

DALLAS — For Jarron Cordell Holden and his wife, Dana Franklin-Holden, all that matters is their son is what they describe as a “typical teenager.”

Having resumed what Dana referred to as “much normalcy and quality of life as possible,” she and her husband thought it essential earlier this year to establish a non-profit organization that could greatly benefit and enhance the lives of youths throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

The Holdens are Co-Founders of Holden Strong Awareness Campaign, a newly-organized non-profit organization that is geared largely toward preventing sudden cardiac events in student athletes by providing affordable annual cardiology physicals — or EKGs — per visit for student-athletes ranging in grades 6 through 12.

In addition, Holden Strong Awareness Campaign’s mission includes, among other things, offering CPR and AED training and certifications, as well as other community-related enrichment activities that would prove beneficial to student-athletes.

“We as parents are now very passionate about stressing the importance of annual cardiac care in student athletes, because we never want any other family to endure what we experienced first-hand,” Dana told Making Headline News this week.

That about which the Holdens experienced essentially resulted in arguably the biggest scare and shock of their lives.

SAVORING THE ABUNDANT LIFE — Last year, the Holdens’ son, then-13-year-old Jarron Cordell Holden II, had suddenly collapsed then went into an apparent cardiac arrest while playing a pickup basketball game at the Bob Knight Fieldhouse in nearby Duncanville, Texas. According his mother, the couple’s son had expired twice from the time of his collapse and prior to his emergency arrival to nearby Charlton Methodist Hospital. Fortunately for the Holdens, after their son was transported to the Children’s Hospital of Dallas, doctors consequently had informed them that it was due in large part to the swift reactions of first responders that Jarron II is alive today.

Last year, their son, then-13-year-old Jarron Cordell Holden II, had suddenly collapsed then went into an apparent cardiac arrest while playing a pickup basketball game at the Bob Knight Fieldhouse in nearby Duncanville, Texas.

According his mother, the couple’s son had expired twice from the time of his collapse and prior to his emergency arrival to nearby Charlton Methodist Hospital.

Fortunately for the Holdens, after their son was transported to the Children’s Hospital of Dallas, doctors consequently had informed them that it was due in large part to the swift reactions of first responders that Jarron II is alive today.

“Thankfully, there was a working Automated External Defibrillator (or AED) at the facility, and the first responders were literally around the corner and began CPR on him within five minutes,” Dana explained.

Interesting enough, the Holdens don’t shy away from the notion that their relentless faith, coupled with the fervent prayers of family members and friends undoubtedly had played a major role in their son having staged arguably the most dramatic comeback of his young life.

“We also realize and thank God that He revived and restored our son,” said Dana whom, during her son’s unlikely death-to-life encounter, had periodically kept the social media world abreast of the developments surrounding Jarron II.

COMEBACK FOR THE AGES — Oddly, even as Jarron II was left fighting for his life — he was on life support — doctors had ultimately discovered that he did not sustain any brain damage due to loss of oxygen. Still, he had to undergo a battery of sonograms, MRI’s, EKG’s and other procedures. Also, he had to undergo asopen heart surgery four days after his 14th birthday to repair what doctors deemed a congenital heart defect known as anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (or AAOCA).

Surprisingly and much to the delight of the Holdens, Jarron II had returned to school after a 20-day hospital stay that included more than a week in the Intensive Care Unit.

Oddly, even as Jarron II was left fighting for his life — he was on life support — doctors had ultimately discovered that he did not sustain any brain damage due to loss of oxygen. Still, he had to undergo a battery of sonograms, MRI’s, EKG’s and other procedures. Also, he had to undergo asopen heart surgery four days after his 14th birthday to repair what doctors deemed a congenital heart defect known as anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (or AAOCA)).

After six weeks of recouping comfortably in his nearby Cedar Hill, Texas home, Jarron II eventually had re-emerged as the typical teenager for which he is widely known.

HIGH FIVES AND FIST BUMPS — Come Saturday, the Cedar Hill and surrounding communities will be afforded the golden opportunity to embrace Jarron II and bask in the glory of his death-to-life experience during a 3-On-3 basketball tournament powered by Holden Strong Awareness Campaign at Dallas’ Paul Quinn College.

Come Saturday, the Cedar Hill and surrounding communities will be afforded the golden opportunity to embrace Jarron II and bask in the glory of his death-to-life experience during a 3-On-3 basketball tournament powered by Holden Strong Awareness Campaign at Dallas’ Paul Quinn College.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE FOR THE 3-ON-3 TOURNAMENT: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holden-strong-3-on-3-basketball-tournament-and-fundraiser-tickets-36114590713

The fundraising event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and, according to Dana, it will aid the Holdens mightily in helping them to promote a newly-established non-profit that figures to evolve as a fixture throughout the DFW Metroplex.

“There was no one to compete with when it came to (forming) this organization,” said Dana, a native of New Orleans. “It was born out of our thankfulness to Jesus Christ for sparing our son, Jarron, II’s life.”

All things considered, for the Holdens, all that matters is their son is what they describe as a “typical teenager.”

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.

Andre Johnson is Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

 

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Dallas/Fort Worth business couple Carlton and Kim Horne taking professional massage therapy to a whole new level

DEFYING ALL ODDS — Carlton and Dr. Kim Horne are co-owners Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic in Mesquite. All things considered, Dr. Horne, with the unyielding support of her husband, had spent the ensuing four years composing and compiling research, even having gone as far as to publish a dissertation over female entrepreneurship and self-efficacy.

MESQUITE, Texas — Dr. Kimberly Horne was downright frustrated.

She was for quite a while, too.

Little did she know, however, such frustration was a setup for a God-orchestrated supernatural blessing, of sorts.

During a weekend interview with Making Headline News, Dr. Horne — whom, along with her husband, Carlton Horne, is co-owner of Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic in Mesquite — spoke at length about her decade-long tenure as an independent contractor for Massage Envy during which she endured a slew of obstacles and hurdles about which she had to clear.

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW: https://www.artoftouchmassageandsalon.com

“The frustration started to settle in when I would get repeated professional athletes coming to see me for deep tissue massage,” Horne, 41, explained. “I wasn’t fully able to craft their massage session and do my own techniques that I learned from my domestic and international travels.”

All things considered, Dr. Horne, with the unyielding support of her husband, had spent the ensuing four years composing and compiling research, even going as far as to publish a dissertation over female entrepreneurship and self-efficacy.

“I felt compelled to establish my own massage practice,” Dr. Horne said.

The rest, as they say, was history.

FAMILY FOCUS — Armed with more than a 15 years of experience in the massage therapy industry, the Hornes are especially grateful and humble of the notion that their credible business venture not only was birthed by of them having to overcome and conquer a slew of business-related challenges but, most of all, their business consequently has allowed them to put their entrepreneurial gifts on display outside of the United States.

The Hornes’ long-awaited dream would ultimately become a celebratory reality, considering this couple joined forces and established Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic in the greater outskirts of the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Located at 909 E Davis Street in nearby Mesquite, Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic is widely known throughout the Metroplex for greatly aiding its clients to rediscover their sense of well-being, courtesy of personalized therapies that nurture both body and mind.

During their sessions, in fact, clients routinely are afforded the golden opportunity to enjoy a professional therapeutic experience that will, in turn, allow them to achieve calm, relaxation and peace inside and out, according to a detailed description of this business establishment at https://www.artoftouchmassageandsalon.com

“Our experienced staff of massage therapists are able to offer you everything from the best relaxation massage to the treatment and rehabilitation of injuries,” said a spokesperson for Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic.

MORE ABOUT ART OF TOUCH MASSAGE THERAPY: https://www.artoftouchmassageandsalon.com

Armed with more than a 15 years of experience in the massage therapy industry, the Hornes are especially grateful and humble of the notion that their credible business venture not only was birthed by of them having to overcome and conquer a slew of business-related challenges but, most of all, their business consequently has allowed them to put their entrepreneurial gifts on display outside of the United States.

KISS OF SUCCESS — The Hornes’ long-awaited dream would ultimately become a celebratory reality, considering the couple joined forces and established Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic in the outskirts of the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

In a nutshell, while Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic is housed in Mesquite, this brilliantly dazzling establishment — to the Hornes’ credit — is starting to savor a global presence.

“Our business venture has taken us overseas and has allowed us to experience different cultures and their practices when it comes to massage therapy,” said Carlton Horne, 44, a native of Longview, Texas. “(Our) personal mission in being business owners as massage therapists is to assist clients in having a better understanding that this temple that we live in is the only one we’ll ever get and it’s up to us to take care of our physical body.”

Said Dr. Horne: (Our) personal mission is to show others that entrepreneurship is obtainable if you believe in yourself and your dreams. I am on a personal mission to educate people and show them that massage is no longer available through luxury spas and upscale health clubs.”

Amongst the reasons, Dr. Horne acknowledged, is that massage therapy is widely considered part of what she describes as complementary and alternative medicine.

“It’s increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations,” Dr. Horne said. “Studies demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain, and muscle tension.”

Located at 909 E Davis Street in nearby Mesquite, Art of Touch Massage Therapy Clinic is widely known throughout the Metroplex for greatly aiding its clients to rediscover their sense of well-being, courtesy of personalized therapies that nurture both body and mind.

All of which practically sums up why the Hornes’ flourishing business is making a strong case in emerging as of the DFW’s most popular massage therapy venues.

So far, so good for a Dream Team massage therapy couple whom, given how they’ve steadfastly managed to defy the greatest of odds en route to going into entrepreneurship operations, realize wholeheartedly that their best and brightest days are well ahead of them.

“Each day, I look at myself in the mirror trying to figure out what’s next on the list to accomplish,” said Dr. Horne, a native of Terrell, Texas. “There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t reflect and think about what I could have done differently. When I have to make presentations, I ask myself if I could have presented the information better, or if I have to explain a process, I ask myself if I explained it as well as I could have.  When I see people dealing with back issues and taking steroid injections, I ask myself if I could make a difference in that person’s life.”

AWWWWWW — So far, so good for Dream Team massage therapy couple whom, given how they’ve managed to defy the greatest odds en route to going into entrepreneurship operations, realize wholeheartedly that their best and brightest days are well ahead of them.

Added Carlton Horne: “It’s very important that I inspire others daily, because I’ve been blessed with a gift, and in order for my gift to flourish, it’s my calling to share the knowledge that I have been blessed with.”

Not to mention being blessed in that they defied the greatest of odds, all while collectively delving off into the competitively unique world of entrepreneurship.

 

MAKING HEADLINE NEWS SALUTES CARLTON AND KIM HORNE: 

 

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.

Andre Johnson is Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

 

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Dallas-area realtor Efrem J. Windom’s proven track record with pro athletes, consumers benefiting him mightily in competitive real estate industry

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:13)

 

TEXAS-SIZE IMPACT — An accomplished realtor for the past 15-plus years, Efrem Windom has become a fixture in the ever-so-competitive real estate arena, most notably through Private Label Realty/EPIC Property Consultants, a credible real estate company whereby its mission is to find prospective home-buyers the right home at the right price, while providing extraordinary expertise, according to a detailed description of the company at www.privatelabelrealty.com.

DALLAS — Efrem J. Windom doesn’t shy away from the notion that he grew up in what is deemed one of the poorest communities in Dallas/Fort Worth’s Metroplex.

Regardless, because of who is he and because of where his Creator is destined to take him, he was determined not to become a product of his environment that is famously known as the historic Oak Cliff district.

Not that Windom’s steadfast desire to prosper and excel, thus maximize his potential are knocks or attempts to belittle those who are still based in his native setting. But amongst the things about which Windom believes he was destined to do was devise ways to not just broaden his entrepreneurial horizon but, most importantly, he was empowered fervently to walk in his destiny in the process.

A TRUE PRO — Fifteen-plus years removed from having delved off into the popular real estate industry, it’s safe to assume that one of Oak Cliff’s finest — a longtime ordained minister — is effectively walking in his divine purpose — and not just by way of advancing the kingdom.

And so it came to pass that years after having attended Grambling State University courtesy of a band scholarship and on to Weatherford College, where he studied music education that Windom took a massive leap of faith by stepping into an industry that has only heighten his quest toward making his dreams realities.

An accomplish realtor for the past 15-plus years who thrives off of his compelling catchphrase, “Relationships And Real Estate Go Hand In Hand,” Windom has become a fixture in the ever-so-competitive real estate arena, most notably through Private Label Realty/EPIC Property Consultants, a credible real estate company whereby its mission is to find prospective home-buyers the right home at the right price, while providing extraordinary expertise, according to a detailed description of the company at www.privatelabelrealty.com.

In addition, the company for which Windom has been afforded the golden opportunity to put his immeasurable real estate talents on display has turned out some of the real estate industry’s top-producers, according to a spokesperson for the company.

Amongst the reasons is that according to the spokesperson, each and every one of the company’s agents is experienced in their market area and highly regarded for their quality service and professionalism.

WALKING IN HIS DESTINY — And so it came to pass that years after having attended Grambling State University courtesy of a band scholarship and on to Weatherford College to study music education that Windom took a massive leap of faith by stepping into an industry that has only heighten his quest to make his dreams realities.

A Private Label Realty group that is comprised largely of highly experienced agents based in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Plano, San Antonio, Scottsdale and Denver, Windom, to his distinctly unique credit, has been appropriately thrust amongst an elite gallery of arguably some of the finest real estate agents in the Southwest and heartland regions of the country.

For what it’s worth, he has his native Oak Cliff establishment to thank, particularly as it relates to providing him with the inspiration he needed to, you know, see from beyond where he was.

MORE ABOUT PRIVATE LABEL REALTY: http://www.privatelabelrealty.com/

“Growing up in a life of lack and poverty really inspired me to become a realtor,” Windom told Making Headline News this week. “I watched people who dreamt of having a nice home, dreamt of owning instead of renting. While growing up I had a love for music and being a musician, but it was something about the career of real estate that kept my interest.”

The rest, as they say, was history.

Fifteen-plus years removed from having delved off into the popular real estate industry, it’s safe to assume that one of Oak Cliff’s finest — who happens to be a longtime ordained minister — is effectively walking in his divine purpose, and not just by way of advancing the kingdom and luring people to Christ.

“When I accepted my calling into the ministry in my early 20’s, I realized that the real estate business was a business that was very close to doing ministry,” Windom said. “This business allows me to serve people, to comfort them, to utilize my wisdom, knowledge and faith for their benefit.”

By and large, there is a feel good countenance, of sorts, that comes with aiding and witnessing clients fulfill their lofty goals and ambition, Windom acknowledged.

“It’s nothing like seeing a family get their keys to their new home, or a single mom get the keys to a new home for her and her kids,” he said. “Also I wanted to start a business that will allow me to have freedom in my schedule so that I can be free to spend time with my children freely, go to their schools and have lunch with them and attend their extra-curricular events freely.”

So far, so good for this well-established and credible real estate agent, who doesn’t shy away from the notion that amongst his primary objectives is to reach out to several of the area’s professional athletes and to persuade them to buy into the rich, notable concept of a businessman whom, given his remarkable track record, has proven time and again to get his clients just what they expect — the home of their dream.

“I have been in the real estate business through the ups and downs of our economy,” Windom, who specializes in the DFW and surrounding areas, said. “I have had the opportunity to counsel and advise many sports figures regarding the relationships and personal goals. Doing this also gave me the desire to serve them regarding their real estate needs. One of the challenges that many high-profile sports athletes have regarding doing business is trust. Sometimes, it is hard to trust people and their motives. This is why trust and respect are huge components in how I conduct business.”

Spoken like a true pro of a realtor.

 

For more information about Dallas/Fort Worth-area realtor Efrem Windom of Private Label Realty/EPIC Property Consultants, call him at. 469-989-0196 Also, send email to: efremsells@gmail.com.

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.

Andre Johnson is Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Amateur Sports, Dallas Mavericks, General Assignment Reporting, High School Sports, High Schools, March Madness, NBA News, Sports

Arizona youth basketball player Hannah Young learning life lessons, fine-tuning her skills with help of former WNBA player

HANGING OUT WITH HANNAH — For the past four years or so, amateur athlete Hannah Young has been training and acquiring some pivotal life lessons from former WNBA player Bridget Pettis, who is currently an assistant coach for the Dallas Wings. For Young, who resides in Arizona but is visiting relatives in the Dallas/Fort Worth-area until mid-July, that she’s been afforded the golden opportunity to broaden her athletic mechanics at the disposal of a notable former pro is starting to benefit her mightily.

DALLAS — Hannah Young is pretty young, 11 years young to be exact.

But not too young to make some relatively cool connections with a household name in women’s professional basketball.

For the past four years or so, Hannah has been training and acquiring some pivotal life lessons and on-the-court pointers from former WNBA player Bridget Pettis, who is currently an assistant coach for the Dallas Wings.

For Young, who resides in Arizona but is visiting relatives in the Dallas/Fort Worth-area until mid-July, that she’s been afforded the golden opportunity to broaden her athletic mechanics at the disposal of a notable former pro is starting to benefit her mightily.

A former University of Florida standout, Pettis spent eight seasons in the WNBA during the 1990s and 2000s, first for the Phoenix Mercury, then Indiana Fever. Having appeared in 228 games while making 71 starts, Pettis scored 1,408 career points before calling it a career. Hired as an assistant coach in March 2014 by the Tulsa Shock, Pettis retained her position after the team relocated to Dallas two seasons ago.

A former University of Florida standout, Pettis spent eight seasons in the WNBA during the 1990s and 2000s, first for the Phoenix Mercury, then Indiana Fever.

Having appeared in 228 games while making 71 starts, Pettis scored 1,408 career points before calling it a career.

Hired as an assistant coach in March 2014 by the Tulsa Shock, Pettis retained her position after the team relocated to Dallas two seasons ago.

GOSH, SHE’S TALL — Add to the fact that this speedy, multi-sport athlete is 5-foot-7 and still has much growing to do, and it’s no wonder the sky’s the limit for a youth athlete whom, even as a preteen, is seemingly holding herself to a high standard, particularly as it pertains to long-term ambitions.

Even before the franchise had headed South from Oklahoma to Texas, Hannah was — for a lack of better words — getting the hookup, courtesy of a true pro, a trend that has given way to some sustained success for an amateur athlete who boasts lofty aspirations of appearing on a WNBA stage someday.

“Hannah’s work ethic is what stands out to me,” Hannah’ grandmother Aretha Young told Making Headline News this week. If she is unsure of what to do, she will go to the park and practice on her free time.  That’s commitment.”

Such a commitment to athletic excellence has been monitored closely by Pettis, something that figures to aid Hannah as she prepares to make her AAU basketball debut this fall.

SIGN OF THINGS TO COME — All things considered, if this young athlete – whose athletic IQ appears to be higher than that of an 11-year-old — continues to demonstrate the competitive drive that has caught the attention of a former pro basketball, chances are a slew of college will wound up vying for her services.

Add to the fact that this speedy, multi-sport athlete is 5-foot-7, is pretty efficient as a newcomer to the volleyball circuit, and still has much more growing to do, and it’s no wonder the sky’s the limit for a youth athlete whom, even as a preteen, is seemingly holding herself to some pretty high standards, particularly as it pertains to long-term ambitions.

“I plan to continue working hard,” Hannah said. “I want to get a college scholarship. I would like to attend University of Hawaii.”

All things considered, if this young athlete – whose athletic IQ appears to be higher than that of an 11-year-old — continues to demonstrate the competitive drive that has caught the attention of a former pro basketball player, chances are a slew of colleges will wound up vying for her services by the time her prep career culminates.

IN HANNAH’S OWN WORDS — “Working with Coach Pettis is an amazing experience,” said Hannah, who has become a fixture at WNBA games. “Coach P makes getting better on the court fun. Our lessons were not just about what to do on the court, but also about what to do in the classroom. Books first, basketball second.”

Just as they did for her biggest mentor, who also happens to be her grandest Yoga partner.

“Working with Coach Pettis is an amazing experience,” said Hannah, who has become a fixture at WNBA games. “Coach P makes getting better on the court fun. Our lessons were not just about what to do on the court, but also about what to do in the classroom. Books first, basketball second.”

By and large, the camaraderie Hannah has established with Pettis figures to impact her young life for years to come, especially since she’s already playing with and competing against individuals a few years older than her.

Given her solid work ethic, coupled with the immense strides she’s made in recent years, Hannah doesn’t seem fazed by such a challenge.

MAD SKILLZ — By and large, the camaraderie Hannah has established with Pettis figures to impact her young life for years to come, especially since she’s already playing with and competing against individuals older than her. Given her solid work ethic, coupled with the immense strides she’s made in recent years, Hannah doesn’t seem fazed by such a challenge.

If nothing else, she fully welcomes them.

“This summer, I plan to attend training camps, train harder, and focus on getting better,” said Hannah, who plays for several teams in Arizona, most notably a team sanctioned by Give N Go Hoops (http://www.givengohoops.com)  and the City Of Surprise Basketball And Volleyball Leagues (https://www.surpriseaz.gov/ 233/Sports-Programs)

“My nana (grandmother) has supported me and is always there to cheer me on.”

Just like her “she”-ro, the former WNBA pro.

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you have a child or team that is seeking exposure and would like an in-depth sports news story, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him for details under “Andre T. Johnson.”

Andre Johnson is the Founder and Publisher of Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.