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Long before his personal encounter with Shaq, young Mekhi Welch has become a gifted sports buff

October 17, 2019 Andre Johnson

MEKHI’S MAD SKILLZ

**HE’S THE TRUTH —** For the child who’s widely known as “Mekhi,” a rather distinctly unique thing occurred some three years or so ago, according to his mother, Tawanna Chamberlain. “Mekhi has been a sports buff since the age of three,” Chamberlain told Making Headline News this week. “But when he started to read around five years old, he asked me to read books to him about the history of basketball and great players.”

DALLAS — Mekhi Welch is just eight years old, meaning for a kid his age, one would think he’s essentially in the beginner’s stage with regards to his knowledge about sports.

For the child who’s widely known as “Mekhi,” a rather distinctly unique thing occurred some three years or so ago, according to his mother, Tawanna Chamberlain.

“Mekhi has been a sports buff since the age of three,” Chamberlain, a Clearwater, Florida resident, told Making Headline News this week. “But when he started to read around five years old, he asked me to read books to him about the history of basketball and great players.”

And just like that, a rising young sports historian, of sorts, was born, considering Mekhi’s sports knowledge is such that he could perhaps teach these old vets a thing of two about arguably some of the celebrated athletes of our generation.

Thanks in large part to his mother routinely reading his autobiographies of Lewis Alcindor, Jr, (famously known today as Kareem Abdul-Jabar), Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality,” “When The Game Was Ours,” featuring Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, Phil Jackson’s “Eleven Rings” Sam Smith’s “The Jordan Rules,” Mitch Albom’s “Fab Five,” Dick Devenzo’s “Stuff Good Players Should Know,” LeBron James’ “The Boy Who Became King,” Stephen Curry’s “The Boy Who Never Gave Up,” “Michael Jordan: The Life,” and “Little Shaq” by Shaquille O’neal,” among others, and it’s no wonder little Mekhi boasts lofty aspirations of someday emerging as household name in what has become a multi-million dollar sport industry, particularly for some the world’s most prominent sports journalists.

LOOK! IT’S DA BIG DIESEL!

**GOTTA LOOK AT THIS THIS —** “Then it happened,” Chamberlain said. “Three days later, I received a personal video message from Shaq to Mekhi and I almost lost it. I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was a surreal moment in time. I couldn’t wait to show Mekhi that his hero, Shaq, had sent him a personal message. When Mekhi saw the message from Shaq, he was overjoyed. He was smiling from ear-to-ear and he talked about the video message all the way to school that morning.”

“We absolutely love to read in our home,” Chamberlain said son’s newfound gift as a sports enthusiast. “In fact, it’s our favorite pastime. We literally own more books than we can count, and when Mekhi would become disinterested with me reading countless of books to him, he would pick up his iPad and Google interesting basketball stats and facts.”

To his credit, the more he deems it essential to become knowledge about sports opposite those up-to-date scores that customarily scroll across SportCenter’s Bottom Line, the more it seems that Mekhi essentially broadens his journalistic mechanics that figure to set him apart mightily from his peers much more sooner than later.

Never mind that he’s only eight years of age.

“Over the last five years, he has become a real life NBA basketball Wikipedia,” said Chamberlain, trying the best she could to assess her young and gifted son’s amazing gift that centered on big time sports. “You can ask him any question you want to about players from Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem, Magic, Kobe, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Isaiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, Tracy McGrady, Charles Barkley, Step Curry, Kevin Durant, Kwahi Leonard, Clay Thompson, Ben Simmons to Zion Williamson.”

Once someone picks Mekhi’s brain about any major professional athlete — past or present — they might as well brace themselves for what essentially will be said next.

“Amazingly, he can recall their height, what cities they were born in, all the teams that each player played on, what year they were recruited and drafted to the NBA, who their rivals were, their current stats, their highest scoring games in a season, the years they were injured, and how the injury impacted their careers,” Chamberlain said. “You should hear him tell the story about Yao Ming.”

And then there is Mekhi’s personal encounter with O’Neal, five-time NBA champion and former LSU All-American.

According to Chamberlain, her son and Shaq established friendship during which an awe-inspiring encounter took place, a development that resulted in her son being the beneficiary.

“Mekhi has always loved Shaq,” Chamberlain said. Since he was five years old, he would tell me that his dream was to play a game of one-on-one with Shaq. To Mekhi, Shaquille O’Neal is larger-than-life. The other day I was in the living room watching something on TV and a commercial for a national pizza chain came on. Just as the commercial came on, Mekhi walked out of his room and was mesmerized by the fact that Shaq was going all around the town delivering pizzas to people.”

Much to his delight, the young sports buff had become even more attentive to the commercial ad featuring his hero.

“Over the last five years, he has become a real life NBA basketball Wikipedia,” said Chamberlain, trying the best she could to assess her young and gifted son’s amazing gift that centered on big time sports. “You can ask him any question you want to about players from Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem, Magic, Kobe, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Isaiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, Tracy McGrady, Charles Barkley, Step Curry, Kevin Durant, Kwahi Leonard, Clay Thompson, Ben Simmons to Zion Williamson.”

“Mekhi could not believe his eyes…he thought that was the coolest thing ever,” Chamberlain recalled. “Right after the commercial went off, Mekhi asked me to call or text Shaq and ask him to bring him a (Papa John’s) pepperoni pizza. I just looked at him with a blank stare—I honestly didn’t know what to say to him regarding his request, because I was thinking to myself, “Yeah right. I don’t know Shaq’s telephone number—so I can’t call or text him and ask him to bring a pizza over here.

“Mekhi wholeheartedly believed that I would know how to contact Shaq and he was very persistent, so he went as far as to go pick up my cell phone and he handed it to me and said, ‘Here mom, please go ahead and call or text Shaq.’”

Interestingly, things would eventually become even more interesting for Mehki.

“Not wanting to let my child down, I grabbed my phone and sent a ‘Hail Mary’ DM to Shaq on Instagram, because my son was standing right there watching me type the message,” Chamberlain said. “No pressure…and I hit, ‘send,’ never thinking that Shaq would actually see the message or read it.”

Boy, was she wrong — wrong for all the right reasons to put it more precisely.

“A few days passed, but everyday Mekhi would ask me, ‘Did Shaq text you back yet?’” Chamberlain said. “While looking for his pizza, he truly believed his favorite player wouldn’t let him down. So I would just remind Mekhi that Shaq is a very busy man, but told him that perhaps when he isn’t so busy, he would make time to respond to my message.”

Once someone picks Mekhi’s brain about any major professional athlete — past or present — they might as well brace themselves for what essentially will be said next.

Suddenly, the long-awaited and figurative slam dunk for which Mekhi had waited was finally executed.

“Then it happened,” Chamberlain said. “Three days later, I received a personal video message from Shaq to Mekhi and I almost lost it. I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was a surreal moment in time. I couldn’t wait to show Mekhi that his hero, Shaq, had sent him a personal message. When Mekhi saw the message from Shaq, he was overjoyed. He was smiling from ear-to-ear and he talked about the video message all the way to school that morning.

“That same day, I was contacted by the National Pizza Chain via Twitter and they made it possible for Mekhi’s entire class to enjoy a pizza party, which made everyone’s day,” Chamberlain continued. “This is the stuff that dreams are made of.”

Much like the wealth of knowledge Chamberlain’s son has garnered as such a young age.

Stay tuned. This kid seems well on his way to making major moves in the sports world, something that, well, perhaps even Shaq has sensed.

REMEMBER THE NAME

**STAR WATCH —** To his credit, the more he deems it essential to become knowledge about sports opposite up-to-date scores that customarily scroll across SportCenter’s Bottom Line, the more it seems that Mekhi essentially broadens his journalistic mechanics that figure to set him apart mightily from his peers much more sooner than later.

“It was so very thoughtful of Shaquille O’Neal to take a few moments out of his busy schedule to send Mekhi a message,” Chamberlain said. “It meant the world to him and it is something that he will never forget.”

With all of the sports knowledge he’s acquired in recent years, how could he?

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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 makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

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Texas mother Aleesha Simmons remembering her son’s legacy through a notable non-profit organization

October 16, 2019 Andre Johnson

DOING IT FOR DOUG

**REMEMBERING DOUG —** According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Doug Williams — who lettered in football, basketball, and track and field for Dallas’ Franklin D. Roosevelt High School — was conditioning in April at a nearby park when he suddenly passed out. To no avail, first responders could not resuscitate him. Williams’ mother, Aleesha Simmons, has since established *“Doug’s Run To The Finish,”* her rising nonprofit organization that is presently in the works and is scheduled to officially go into operations within “four-to-six weeks,” she said.

DUNCANVILLE, Texas — For Aleesha Simmons, it is a dejected, demoralizing feeling she’s repeated said she doesn’t want another mother to have to convey.

The discomfort to which she is alluding is the shocking death of her son, Doug Williams, a then-multi-sport athlete at Dallas’ Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, whose life was cut short back in April amid a sudden cardiac arrest.

He was 16.

According to a report at https://www.your-heart-health.com/content/close-the-gap/en-US/heart-disease-facts/young-athletes.html, sudden cardiac arrest (or SCA) is the leading cause of death in young athletes. Most often, the death occurs during athletic training or competition.

If SCA is not treated immediately, it can lead to sudden cardiac death (or SCD) within minutes, the report said.

According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Williams — who lettered in football, basketball, and track and field — was conditioning at a nearby park when he suddenly passed out. To no avail, first responders could not resuscitate him.

MORE ON SIMMON’S NONPROFIT: https://www.dougsrun.org/

At the time of his death, Williams reportedly was hours removed from having rededicated his life to Christ.

“After my 16-year-old son passed away suddenly in April due to the sudden cardiac arrest, it left me so lost and confused,” Simmons told Making Headline News this week. “And I feel like I didn’t want any other mother to have to go through this, especially not even knowing that something was even wrong.”

While Simmons and her family undoubtedly will be affected by the sudden demise of her son for the rest of their lives, she has — to her credit — deemed it essential to carry on Williams’ legacy through a notable cause.

As Simmons explained, while a majority of the Roosevelt High School community is still very affected by her son’s death, a number of fellow church members and close acquaintances are backing her mightily on bringing about awareness through her fledgling organization.

A native of Chicago who works primarily as a Dallas/Fort Worth-area customer service specialist, Simmons is the founder and director of “Doug’s Run To The Finish,” her rising nonprofit organization that is presently in the works and is scheduled to officially go into operations within “four-to-six weeks,” she said.

Through “Doug’s Run To The Finish,” Simmon’s strategic mission is centered largely on stopping the vastly growing epidemic of sudden cardiac arrest, particularly amongst youth athletes, she told MHN.

In order for this to happen, parents, student athletes, and trainers must become knowledgeable about the various symptoms related to cardiac arrest so that her organization, in turn, can appropriately assist in setting up the necessary screenings, etc.

**GOD’S PLAN…GOD’S PLAN —** At the time of his death, Williams reportedly was hours removed from having rededicated his life to Christ.

Interestingly, “Doug’s Run To The Finish” will host community-wide events during which it will provide credible resources and pertinent information, as well CPR training, which would involve educating certified individuals on how to properly use a defibrillator, Simmons said.

In addition, Simmons emphasized she will execute the essential steps to ensure that area sports teams are equipped with defibrillators to prevent sudden cardiac arrest in the event a student athlete collapses.

As Simmons explained, while a majority of the Roosevelt High School community is still very much affected by her son’s death, a number of fellow church members and close acquaintances are backing her mightily on bringing about awareness through her fledgling organization.

“(I thank) my pastor (Andrew Jackson Jr.), my family and close friends who are deeply affected by my son’s sudden passing,” Simmons said. “This mission is very near and dear to my heart, because the day I lost my son was by far the worst day that I’ve ever experienced in my life.”

For what it’s worth, Simmons has often struggled, particularly with regards to seeing a silver-lining, of sorts, in the wake of Williams’ untimely death.

“Someone told me that my son was a seed and his passing was just the seed being planted and this mission is the fruits of that seed sprouting up and manifesting,” Simmons explained. “So my son lives on through saving the lives of others.”

While Simmons and her family undoubtedly will be affected by the sudden demise of her son for the rest of their lives, she has — to her credit — deemed it essential to carry on Williams’ legacy through a notable cause.

A nonprofit organization that’s geared toward individuals ranging mostly between the ages five-to-25, Simmons said amongst the factors about which she has become thoroughly persuaded is that her son undoubtedly fulfilled the purpose for which God created him.

Now it’s time to effectively carry out his legacy through a notable organization that figures to not just change a generation, but to impact it in the process.

After all, Simmons is fully convinced that is what her young, vibrant, speedy multi-sport athlete of a son would have wanted.

DONATE TO A WORTHY CAUSE: Cash App Aleesha @ $AleeshaSimmons

According to a report at https://www.your-heart-health.com/content/close-the-gap/en-US/heart-disease-facts/young-athletes.html, sudden cardiac arrest (or SCA) is the leading cause of death in young athletes. Most often, the death occurs during athletic training or competition. Williams was 16 at the time of his death.

“My goal is for this campaign to go as far and as wide as it possibly can,” said Simmons, whose organization is already becoming a fixture throughout the DFW Metroplex. “(I’m doing this) knowing that my son’s life has a purpose.”

A purpose that’s still very much justifiable to this day — and beyond.

How befitting for a well-rounded student athlete whom, much to his credit, ran to the finish.

For more information on Dallas/Fort Worth-area Businesswoman Aleesha Simmons of “Doug’s Run To The Finish,” to make a monetary donation, to schedule her for public appearance or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/aleesha.simmons.

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Kennedale (Texas) High volleyball player Alexandria Youngblood is as good as advertised

October 9, 2019 Andre Johnson

ALEXANDRIA THE GREAT

**AIM HIGH —** While she’s just 14 years of age, many whom have followed Alexandria Youngblood’s progress suggest that she’s handled the maturation process in varsity volleyball with ease. Youngblood is a true freshman for Kennedale (Texas) High’s volleyball team

DALLAS — Back in mid-September, Priscilla McKnight Randle took to her Facebook page, where she staged to her timeline a rather spirited announcement concerning her student athlete daughter.

Said Randle before her 500-plus social media followers: “Look who got a banner!!!

#FreshmanonVarsity

#proudmom

#LadyKats.

The banner to which Randle is alluding is a massive image that’s draped on the wall — or perhaps, in the rafters — somewhere inside of Kennedale (Texas) High School, bearing a full body shot of her daughter, Alexandria Youngblood, a true freshman for the Lady Wildcats’ volleyball team.

“We got her started with volleyball as a way to help keep her active and to structure the extra energy she has,” Randle told Making Headline News this week.

**ONE HAPPY MOM —** Back in mid-September, Priscilla McKnight Randle took to her Facebook page, where she staged to her timeline a rather spirited announcement concerning her student athlete daughter. Said Randle before her 500-plus social media followers: “Look who got a banner!!! #FreshmanonVarsity #proudmom #LadyKats.

As it turned out, volleyball essentially has become an integral part of Youngblood’s young life, considering she has made considerable strides in the sport in recent years.

That’s because not only has Youngblood helped propel Kennedale’s varsity squad to a 23-7 record as of October 4, according to Maxpreps.com, but this freshman sensation has become a catalyst on the amateur circuit as a member of a Dallas/Fort Worth-area club team that’s sanctioned by USA Junior Volleyball.

A non-profit organization, USA Junior Volleyball is recognized as the national governing body of volleyball in the United States by the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball and the United States Olympic Committee, according to a detailed introduction at https://www.teamusa.org/usa-volleyball/about-us.

While she’s just 14 years of age, many whom have followed Youngblood’s progress suggest that she’s handled the maturation process in the sport with ease.

“I would say that my level of play has definitely grown over this season,” Youngblood said. “Playing with varsity has given me the opportunity to see more competitive games. It’s definitely getting me ready for the club season.”

To her credit, it would be appropriate to describe Youngblood as a rare gem on the volleyball court.

Amongst the reasons is that not only is Youngblood one of Kennedale’s most physical and versatile players, considering she plays both middle and outside hitter, but her overall body of work is predicated largely on her passion for the game.

Such a trend, as a result, has given way to her having put her immeasurable gifts on display in camps at SMU, Texas A&M, Southern Cal, the University of Houston, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Texas A&M at Corpus Christi.

All of which practically sums up why the sky undoubtedly is the limit for a true freshman who has so much prep volleyball ahead of her.

“We signed her up for a pre-club team when she was 10, and she joined a club team the next year at 11 years old,” Randle said.

**BRING IT —** With three more full seasons of prep volleyball in front of her, the possibility exist that college scouts and recruiters will eventually commence to expressing interest in Youngblood’s services, given she essentially plays the sport year round.

Randle’s daughter hasn’t looked back since, having blossomed immensely throughout a volleyball stint that spans four years.

And counting.

“Alexandria has been blessed with natural athletic ability,” Randle, a DFW-area high school English teacher, said of her daughter. “She has great court awareness and is a joy to watch. She typically catches on pretty quickly to anything she sets her mind to do…be it academics or sports.”

And, of course, her faith walk which, according to her mother, has contributed mightily to Youngblood’s sustained success on and off the court.

WILDCAT FORMATION

**AUDITIONING —** Youngblood has put her immeasurable gifts on display in camps at SMU, Texas A&M, Southern Cal, the University of Houston, the University of Texas at Arlington, and the Texas A&M at Corpus Christi.

“A couple of years ago, one of the elders of our church gave her a scripture to mediate on and told her to repeat it to herself every day,” said Randle, referring to Philippians 4:13. “I can do all things through Christ Who gives me strength.” This is why the sky is the limit for Alexandria. She is God’s daughter, and she can do all things through Him.”

With three more full seasons of prep volleyball in front of her, the possibility exist that college scouts and recruiters will eventually commence to expressing interest in Youngblood’s services, given she essentially plays the sport year round.

**DOUBLE PLAY —** Not only has Youngblood helped propel Kennedale’s varsity squad to a 23-7 record as of October 4, according to Maxpreps.com, but this freshman sensation has become a catalyst on the amateur circuit as a member of a Dallas/Fort Worth-area club team that’s sanctioned by USA Junior Volleyball.

Hopefully they will come calling much sooner than later, Youngblood hinted.

“They will receive a player who loves volleyball with all her heart, (who’s) a hard worker, and a great competitor who is always trying to improve the game,” said Youngblood, when asked what type of player would a college inherit. “College volleyball is a dream of mine, because I will be playing at a higher level and I will be a couple of steps away from playing professionally. Also, the coaches and their knowledge of the game will help me grow as a player.”

A player who’s destined to make certain her full body shot image is erected on a banner at the collegiate level some four years from now.

So far, so good.

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Dallas/Fort Worth disc jockey Dee Porter’s book depicts her battle with homelessness to landing her dream job

October 8, 2019 Andre Johnson

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you; But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:12-13 NIV)

DEFYING MASSIVE ODDS

‘LOOK AT ME NOW…HEYYYYY’ — A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Dee “lilD” Porter is the mastermind behind the book entitled, “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed,” which is a nearly a month removed from its ceremonious release.

DUNCANVILLE, Texas — Dee Porter wasted little time Tuesday morning taking to the airwaves, where she informed her hundreds of thousands of listeners of an awe-inspiring development that, years ago, seemed virtually improbable.

But God…

“I always said that what I went through would make a dope movie, and when one of my friends wrote a book, she really encouraged me to do the same,” Porter, during a recent exclusive interview with Making Headline News, explained, recalling the turbulent, tear-jerking, seemingly insurmountable events that led to her composing her first book. “I toyed with the idea in 2017, and finally got serious in 2018.”

And so it came to pass, the much-anticipated written work by Porter, the ever-so-popular midday disc jockey for Dallas/Fort Worth’s 97.9 The Beat.

A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Porter is the mastermind behind the book entitled, “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed,” which is a nearly a month removed from its ceremonious release.

BUY DEE PORTER’S BOOK HERE: https://www.grindinginreallife.com/book

A book that is comprised of 88 pages, Porter’s “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed” is foreword by Charlamagne Tha God, the co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show The Breakfast Club With DJ Envy and Angela Yee.

A book signing for Porter’s book is scheduled for October 10 from 7-9 p.m. at Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center in Dallas, located at 4466 South Marsalis Avenue.

A second book signing will take place October 12 from 3-5 p.m. at Dock Bookshop, located at 6637 Meadowbrook Drive in Fort Worth.

From there, Porter will engage in a nationwide book tour that will commence in Shreveport, Cleveland, Columbus, Ohio, and Cincinnati.

Other cities will be added at dates and times to be announced, Porter said.

A book that is comprised of 88 pages, Porter’s “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed” is foreword by Charlamagne Tha God, the co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show The Breakfast Club With DJ Envy and Angela Yee.

A book Porter needed just shy of a year to complete — “I began writing it in January 2018 and finished it in December 2018,” she said — “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed” is deemed a “diary,” of sorts, one that depicts the life of a homeless radio superstar in the making, according to a detailed synopsis of this book at Amazon.com.

Widely known as “lilD,” Porter was once a part-time employee for a Cleveland, Ohio-area radio station — she worked one day a week for $13 an hour — yet she couldn’t afford pay rent and was ultimately evicted from her residence. Consequently, she was forced to move into a motel and often had to settle for staking out in her car when she couldn’t afford a room.

A book Porter needed just shy of a year to complete — “I began writing it in January 2018 and finished it in December 2018,” she said — “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed” is deemed a “diary,” of sorts, one that depicts the life of a homeless radio superstar in the making, according to a detailed synopsis of this book at Amazon.com.

Still clinging to massive dreams of ultimately landing a huge break in this ever-so-competitive radio industry, Porter essentially was faced with two options: return to her native establishment of Shreveport and hit the figurative reset button. Or strategically devise ways to conquer homelessness.

As far as she was concerned, the latter undoubtedly was her only recourse.

That’s because instead of returning to Louisiana, Porter sensed it would be in her interest to stay in Ohio and chase her dreams. Even it meant staking out in a motel or often using the back seat of vehicle as a sofa and mattress.

“If you want something, no matter how unattainable it may seem to other people, if you’re willing to sacrifice for it, your gifts will make room for you. Stay focused.” — 97.9 The Beat Disc Jockey Dee ‘lilD” Porter

To her credit, that’s just what she did.

For her valiant efforts, coupled with some proverbial bend-but-don’t-break faith, this vibrant, brilliantly gifted radio personality had eventually captured the favorable results she so desperately sought.

“I know my purpose is to help others realize their worth earlier in life than I did, and this book is part of my purpose by showing people that there’s beauty in the struggle,” said Porter, adding that at least two more books are on the horizon (“I don’t give away the titles, but they’re both autobiographical,” she acknowledged).

“You will make it through. The universe makes a way for those who align their thoughts and actions to their goal. I’m proof of that.”

Still clinging to massive dreams of ultimately landing a huge break in this ever-so-competitive radio industry, Porter essentially was faced with two options: return to her native establishment of Shreveport and hit the figurative reset button. Or strategically devise ways to conquer homelessness.

As expected, the feedback since the October 10 release of “Route 2: My Choice To Struggle To Succeed” has been overwhelmingly favorable.

“The select people who have read it told me they couldn’t put it down,” Porter said. “Some cried, and overall, they all said they appreciate my transparency.”

As Porter explained, exemplifying transparency, by all accounts, was a foregone conclusion, particularly when she had fully grasped the vision to assemble her book.

“A few people asked why I chose to be so open about the things I’ve been through,” she said. “For me, I’m strong enough to have dealt with it, so I share in an effort to help others deal with their struggles.

SEASON OF THE REBIRTH

For her valiant efforts, coupled with some proverbial bend-but-don’t-break faith, this vibrant, brilliantly gifted radio personality had eventually captured the favorable results she so desperately sought.

“Homeless have faces,” Porter continued. “It’s not always the face of the alcoholic on the corner or the drug addict in the alley. Your coworker could be homeless. Most of us are a couple of paychecks away from a shelter. If you’re couch-surfing, sleeping in your car, or sleeping in a nasty motel for the week…you’re homeless. Homeless have faces: at one time, it was my face.”

All of which practically sums up why this rising Texas superstar disc jockey deemed it essential Tuesday morning to vividly recall her humble beginnings immediately after taking to the airwaves, where she informed her hundreds of thousands of listeners of an awe-inspiring development that, years ago, seemed virtually improbable.

“Love your neighbor,” Porter said.

For all the right reasons.

For more information on Dallas/Fort Worth-area Author Dee Porter, to order her book or to schedule her for a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media at: (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/lildonair/; (Twitter) https://twitter.com/lildonair; (Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/deeportershow. Email her at: deeportershow@gmail.com.

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Brands Suit Warehouse is one of Dallas/Fort Worth’s finest hubs for stylish men’s fashion

September 27, 2019 Andre Johnson

DOING IT BIG IN TEXAS

**WHAT IT’LL BE?** From the latest and up-to-date versions of men’s suits, shoes, neckties, to arguably some of the hottest and most sought after attires for the annual prom seasons, weddings clergymen, etc., Brands is — in playing off of words — committed to staying true to its brand, a movement that has given way to owners Kevin and Nick Ramezani reaping sustained success.

DALLAS — Throughout her tenure in a men’s fashion industry that spans more than four decades, Sebrina Jones has come to embrace one notable trend within the walls of Brands Suit Warehouse.

That is, she has seized the concept that every now and then, some of her most dedicated customer will deem it essential to assist and accommodate other customers.

For Jones, such a pleasant gesture, by all accounts, is what makes her job even more gratifying.

“Yeah…we’re always having customers waiting on customers,” Jones told Making Headline News this week. “They feel so comfortable, they help us. That’s what you call good customer service.”

Not only that, it is due in large part because of Brands’ proverbial guide-you-along concept toward its customers that has contributed mightily it becoming one of Dallas/Fort Worth’s most popular hubs for men’s fashion.

**TRIPLE D SENSATION —** Located at 4140 West Camp Wisdom Road, Suite C — or roughly a half mile south of the Duncanville city limits — Brands has become a fixture in the greater Oak Cliff district of Dallas.

From the latest and up-to-date versions of men’s suits, shoes, neckties, to arguably some of the hottest and most sought after attires for the annual prom seasons, weddings clergymen, etc., Brands is — in playing off of words — committed to staying true to its brand, a movement that has given way to owners Kevin and Nick Ramezani reaping sustained success.

Located at 4140 West Camp Wisdom Road, Suite C — or roughly a half mile south of the Duncanville city limits — Brands has become a fixture in the greater Oak Cliff district of Dallas.

Brands and Suit And Shoe Outlet offer a variety of brand name men’s fashion attire from Falcone, Stacy Adams, Maurizio, Brand Q, Karl Knox, Renoir, Globe, Gorgio Brutini, Calvin Klein, Steven Land, Verse 9, Encore, and Inserch, among others.

A native of Dallas, Jones, 60, has been employed by Brands since 2009 and, much to her delight, she has developed a close-knit bond with a number of its regular customers.

Prior to joining the Brands team, Jones had already established solid and immeasurable men’s fashion resume, considering she had compiled more than 30 years of professional experience.

“I have a lot of favorite customers,” Jones said. “I have customers who have been with me for over 30 years.”

**LEADING BY EXAMPLE —** Prior to joining the Brands team, fashion coordinator Sebrina Jones had already established solid and immeasurable men’s fashion resume, considering she had compiled more than 30 years of professional experience.

Prior to its Camp Wisdom location that went into operations in 2006, the Ramezanies’ company was named the Big And Tall Fashion For Less and was housed in nearby Mesquite, Texas.

Brands’ original store, meanwhile, was located in Cedar Hill.

The Ramezanies have since expanded their business, thus adding Suit And Shoe Outlet, which essentially is located across the street from their primary site in the historic Red Bird Village.

Both locations, in fact, offer a variety of brand name men’s fashion attire from Falcone, Stacy Adams, Maurizio, Brand Q, Karl Knox, Renoir, Globe, Gorgio Brutini, Calvin Klein, Steven Land, Verse 9, Encore, and Inserch, among others.

**WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED —** It is due in large part because of Brand’s customary guide-you-along concept toward its customers that has contributed mightily it becoming one’s Dallas/Fort Worth most popular hubs for men’s fashion.

Interestingly, Jones said that plans are effectively underway for management to erect an online site, where customers can shop and have items shipped to them anywhere around the country.

“Whatever you want, we’ve got it,” said Jones, placing even more emphasis on the company’s key ingredient that is efficient customer service. “We don’t turn you a loose until (you’ve found what you want).”

Every now and then, Brands’ customers might perhaps find themselves becoming the beneficiaries of jokes, Jones acknowledged with a grin.

Interestingly, Jones said that plans are effectively underway for management to erect an online site, where customers can shop and have items shipped to them anywhere around the country.

“We even joke with you,” Jones said a routine gesture that customarily makes her job more amusing.

Fellow Brands’ fashion coordinator Guen Abello Bethley, like Jones, has gone to great lengths to find her comfort zone with a company whose best and brightest days are well ahead of it.

STAR WATCH — Brands’ fashion coordinator Guen Abello Bethley has had the pleasure to accommodating the fashion needs of a host of globally-acclaimed celebrities, most notably Joe Jackson, the late father and manager of pop music icon Michael Jackson, who passed away in June 2018 at the age of 89.

“Working for this company gave me an opportunity to develop my skills in fashion coordinating and store management,” Bethley said.

Credit the fact that she’s also had the pleasure to accommodating the fashion needs of a host of globally-acclaimed celebrities, most notably Joe Jackson, the late father and manager of pop music icon Michael Jackson, who passed away in June 2018 at the age of 89.

“I’ve grown so much as an individual,” Bethley said, “and I am a better fashion consultant and a regional manager because of this company.”

For more information on Brands Suit Warehouse or Suit And Shoe Outlet, call 972.298.0800. Also, send email to: mensgalleryusainc@yahoo.com.

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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.

North Carolina author/businesswoman Keisha Boatwright nominated for two awards

September 9, 2019 Andre Johnson

DOUBLE YOUR PLEASURE

MAKING MAJOR STRIDES — A native of Newark, New Jersey, Keisha Boatwright is up for a pair of ACHI Magazine awards: Author of the Year and Health and Fitness.

For what it’s worth, Keisha Boatwright could be appropriately described as a woman of many hats.

It is, by all accounts, because of her immeasurable community service through her endeavors that Boatwright has emerged as an official nominee for not one, but two notable awards.

A native of Newark, New Jersey, Boatwright is up for a pair of ACHI Magazine Awards: Author of the Year and Health and Fitness.

Having authored two books to date with a few more on the horizon, Boatwright has contributed mightily to two collaborative written works: “Unleashed Travails: From Pain to Purpose,” a 70-page project that was assembled by three other authors.

Boatwright also played a major role in “The Purposed Woman 365 Day Devotional,” a collaborative Amazon bestseller that made its official release earlier this year.

VOTE HERE FOR KEISHA BOATWRIGHT: https://www.achimagazine.com/achimagazineawards

A 14-year Navy veteran, Boatwright is a certified Yoga instructor (RY-200hr) and is a member of the Bella Hearts nonprofit organization.

On September 14, she will be afforded the golden opportunity to promote her books when she participates in the Rockin With The Bellas 5K Run & Walk.

As for having become a nominee for two awards, Boatwright told Making Headline News it’s all in God’s plan for such a jubilant time as now.

“(I’m very) much elated,” said Boatwright, who’s aiming to solidify the ACHI Magazine’s Health and Fitness Award for a second consecutive year.

Now she’s hoping to come away with multiple awards, particularly since her brilliantly compelling gifts as an author have been as good as advertised.

“(I’m very) much elated,” said Boatwright, who’s aiming to solidify the ACHI Magazine’s Health and Fitness Award for a second consecutive year..

“(I’m) super excited about (being nominated for) Author of the Year,” Boatwright said.

According to Boatwright, biography and letters are being accepted through the first of October and must be submitted at: https://www.achimagazine.com/achimagazineawards.

A publication that centers largely on “Strength In Sisterhood,” The Annual Fourth ACHI Magazine Awards Tour will take place in 10 different cities, starting in October.

Having authored two books to date with a few more on the horizon, Boatwright has contributed mightily to two collaborative written works: “Unleashed Travails: From Pain to Purpose,” a 70-page project that was assembled by three other authors. Boatwright also played a major role in “The Purposed Woman 365 Day Devotional,” a collaborative Amazon bestseller that made its official release earlier this year.

Having become a fixture for the Greensboro, North Carolina-based Bella Hearts, Incorporated nonprofit organization, Boatwright said being nominated for two awards is a testament of her hard work in recent years.

“When it comes to health and fitness, I’m passionate about teaching yoga,” Boatwright said. “It doesn’t matter if I have full class or a small class, I’m going to give it my all. I’ve taught donation-based yoga classes for three years. “When it comes to (being an author), I’ve always been passion about writing. I believe someone read my story and was inspired and empowered by it.”

And, if she happens to comes away with both awards in the categories for which she’s been nominated, Boatwright said, “I will humbly and gratefully accept the awards. All praises are due to God, Whom all blessing flows from.”

For more information on Greensboro North Carolina-area Businesswoman/Author Keisha Boatwright, to order her books or to schedule her for a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/MzKesh. Email her at: soulistickesh@gmail.com.

CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE

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.

Ex-MLB relief pitcher LaTroy Hawkins to make guest appearance at Dallas’ Back To School Connect Fest Aug. 31

August 30, 2019 Andre Johnson

DALLAS — A former big leaguer will be the featured guest during Dallas/Fort Worth businesswoman Letitia Scott Jackson’s Back To School Connect Fest.

Powered by Scott Jackson’s Keeping Families Connected, this event will take on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, located at 9200 Inwood Road in Dallas.

Former Major League Baseball player LaTroy Hawkins will make a guest appearance at this event, during which organizers will host backpacks and supplies giveaways.

During last year’s Back To School Connect Fest, Scott Jackson and her team managed to accommodate around 200 children with backpacks and other supplies. This year, she expects more than 400 children to be the beneficiaries of school supplies.

“Yes indeed. To God be the glory. This year will be epic, unlike last year,” Scott Jackson told Making Headline News this week. “We make kids that are separated from their parents our first priority.

REGISTER FOR BACK TO SCHOOL CONNECT FEST HERE: https://www.keepingfamilyconnected.org/

“We are elated that although we aren’t government funded, we are blessed to have the support of those like Anita and LaTroy Hawkins, DeLisa Rose, Bill Ferrar, Master Minded Group, Word of Deliverance Family Life Church (of Shreveport, Louisiana), We Works, Inc., and last but not least my hubby, Fred Jackson.”

A former relief pitcher, Hawkins enjoyed an MLB stint that spanned 21 seasons with 11 different teams: Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, Baltimore Orioles, Colorado Rockies, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, New York Mets, and the Toronto Blue Jays.

Upon his retirement following the 2015 season, Hawkins had been the only active player to join the 1,000-games-pitched club and, at 42 years of age, he was the oldest active player in the majors.

Besides Hawkins, there will be guests appearances by Wallo and Brother Ben X at this year’s Back To School Connect Fest.

A DFW-based nonprofit organization that Scott Jackson — a native of Houston — 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/.

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.

CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE

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/Fort Worth entrepreneur Shanna Boger setting herself apart as one of nation’s finest event planners

August 1, 2019 Andre Johnson

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm 37:4)

IN A LEAGUE OF HER OWN

**A CUT ABOVE THE REST —** A Dallas/Fort Worth-area businesswoman in her own right, Shanna Boger, 46, is owner and CEO of the PRP Luxury Group, a progressive and thriving event planning venture she established some five years ago.

DALLAS — For Shanna Boger, she was practically born into it.

“My parents were entrepreneurs,” Boger, during an interview this week with Making Headline News, said explaining the memorable developments surrounding her rise as an accomplished entrepreneur. “Both of them had side businesses, plus full-time jobs, so I always knew I would have a business…just didn’t know what type of business.”

It didn’t take her very long to figure that out.

That’s because Boger essentially wound up following in the massive footsteps of her beloved mother, whose entrepreneurship craft was that of a florist and wedding planner when her daughter was a child, growing up Bossier City, Louisiana.

MORE ON PRP LUXURY GROUP: http://prpluxurygroup.com/

**BAYOU BEAUTY —** A Fall 1994 graduate of Grambling State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting, Boger’s PRP Luxury Group has been operations for five years and counting. The key to her reaping sustained success through an endeavor whose best and brightest days are well ahead it: going above and beyond to ensure that she exemplifies top-notch customer service.

A Dallas/Fort Worth-area businesswoman in her own right, Boger, 46, is owner and CEO of the PRP Luxury Group, a progressive and thriving event planning venture she established some five years ago.

In essence, PRP Luxury Group is widely regarded as a boutique wedding and event company, one that specializes in full-service wedding planning, luxurious floral and event design, not to mention custom stationery and curated gifts.

“My parents were entrepreneurs,” Boger, during an interview this week with Making Headline News, said explaining the memorable developments surrounding her rise as an accomplished entrepreneur. “Both of them had side businesses, plus full-time jobs, so I always knew I would have a business…just didn’t know what type of business.”

All things considered, Boger has her mother to thank, in large part because even as a youngster growing up in Louisiana, she was the beneficiary of some brilliant hands-on training, of sorts.

“She did all the weddings in our community and I hated it,” Boger jokingly said of her mother’s immeasurable impact as a local businesswoman. “So I decided to go to college and major in accounting and get a desk job.”

As it turned out, that proverbial desk job was essentially short-lived, considering…well, Boger was practically birthed into the ever-so-competitive industry of entrepreneurship.

“I did that (desk job), but I reached a glass ceiling and the entrepreneur bug was a burning in my spirit and I could not shake it,” Boger recalled. “I have always been creative, so I took my creativity and decided to build my own business. And I came back to my roots: weddings and events.”

And the rest, as they say, was history.

Today, unlike never before, Boger is functioning fervently in the divine purpose for which she was created, reinforcing among other things, that when parents train up children in the way they should go, when they mature in age, they will not depart from it.

“My mother, of course,” said Boger, when asked who were amongst those who inspired and pushed her to delve off into entrepreneurship. “(Also) Kae Whitaker of Kae Whiter Media Group, Preston Bailey, Kathy Romero, and Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events.”

A Fall 1994 graduate of Grambling State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting, Boger’s PRP Luxury Group has been operations for five years and counting.

The key to her reaping sustained success through an endeavor whose best and brightest days are well ahead it: going above and beyond to ensure that she routinely exemplifies top-notch customer service.

In essence, PRP Luxury Group is widely regarded as a boutique wedding and event company that specializes in full-service wedding planning, luxurious floral and event design, not to mention custom stationery and curated gifts.

“I love helping people create a beautiful event that celebrates life,” Boger said. “My clients are very important to me. Bringing my clients’ vision to life is my No. 1 priority.”

Having had the luxury of hosting the bulk of her events in Texas, Boger boasts lofty aspirations of planning and designing events globally.

Given her immeasurable and remarkably compelling gifts as an event planner, such a notable milestone figures to come to fruition — much sooner than later.

A business that accommodates clients ranging mostly in ages of 25 to 44, Boger announced that plans are effectively underway to partner with the newly erected Lakeview Event & Conference Center in nearby Arlington, where she will engage in hosting an Open House event in October.

MOM KNOWS BEST

Today, unlike never before, Boger is functioning fervently in the divine purpose for which she was created, reinforcing among other things, that when parents train up children in the way they should go, when they mature in age, they will not depart from it.

“(I just want to) be an inspiration to people, to live life the fullest,” said Boger, explaining her mission that’s aligns with her customer service goals and objectives. “I want to be an inspiration to people, to show them that God will give you the desires of your heart, as long as you honor Him in everything you do.”

Not to mention obey His Voice, even if it comes through your mom.

Something to which this remarkably gifted Texas entrepreneur can greatly attest.

For more information about Dallas/Fort Worth-area Businesswoman Shanna Boger of the PRP Luxury Group, call 972.379.9172 or send email to: hello@prpluxurygroup.com. Also, connect with her via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram at: @prpluxurygroup.

CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE

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.

Winners BBQ has been nothing short of remarkable since its 2015 Dallas/Fort Worth inception

June 5, 2019 Andre Johnson

“The highest human act is to inspire.” — Late superstar rapper Nipsey Hussle

WINNER’S CIRCLE

**DOING IT BIG IN TEXAS —** A former Iowa State football standout, DeAndre Jackson had ultimately delved off into the ever-so-competitive world of entrepreneurship as the proud founder of Winners BBQ, a family-owned restaurant that has established three franchises since its inception in 2015.

DUNCANVILLE, Texas — If there’s one thing that DeAndre Jackson has learned as a former athlete, it’s how to make good on a seemingly unfavorable situation.

Consider, for instance, how when Jackson’s bid to land on an NFL roster spot fell short amid a career-ending ACL injury, he diligently had become resourceful in that he miraculously found his niche, both as an athletic trainer and real estate agent.

Much to his delight, things for the Garland, Texas native would only get better.

A former Iowa State standout, Jackson had ultimately delved off into the ever-so-competitive world of entrepreneurship as the proud founder of Winners BBQ, a family-owned restaurant that has established three franchises since its inception in 2015.

MORE ON WINNERS BBQ: https://www.facebook.com/winnersbbq/

https://m.facebook.com/winnersbbqaustin/

**THEY ARE LIT —** Winners BBQ, in fact, has become a fixture throughout North Texas, in large part because consumers have come to enjoy — and embrace — its delectable meat plates, meat by the pound, its assortment of sandwiches, not to mention its smoked turkey legs, as well as its distinctly unique meat loaded potato that’s famously deemed “The G.O.AT.”

Winners BBQ’s original location is housed at 3200 14th Street in nearby Plano. A popular Dallas/Fort Worth restaurant that Jackson owns along with his cousin, Tevin Jackson, Tevin’s wife, former University of Texas and professional track and field star Nichole Denby-Jackson, Winners BBQ has since added two locations — one in Cedar Hill and in Austin.

Following what the Jacksons described as “massive success” of the Plano location, DeAndre opened Winners BBQ Cedar Hill in 2017, and in less than three months ago, Nichole, Tevin, and Nichole’s sister, Nichale, opened the Austin location.

For DeAndre Jackson and Co., it’s been all good ever since.

RED ZONE EFFICIENCY

To their credit, the Jacksons have gone to great lengths to form what has become an All-Star lineup of Winners BBQ CEOs.

“We pride ourselves on bringing flavorful craft BBQ with having a one-of-a-kind menu and delivering exceptional customer service,” Nichole Denby-Jackson told Making Headline News this week.

Winners BBQ, in fact, has become a fixture throughout North Texas, in large part because consumers have come to enjoy — and embrace — its delectable meat plates, meats by the pound, its assortment of sandwiches, not to mention its smoked turkey legs, as well as its distinctly unique meat loaded potato that’s famously deemed “The G.O.AT.”

Following what the Jacksons described as “massive success” of the Plano location, DeAndre opened Winners BBQ Cedar Hill in 2017, and in less than three months ago, Nichole, Tevin, and Nichole’s sister, Nichale, opened the Austin location. For DeAndre Jackson and Co., it’s been all good ever since.

And then there are Winners BBQ’s mouth-watering sides and its kids menu, not to mention its sweet and tangy BBQ sauce and its flavor-packed dry rub, which takes all of its smoked meats to “another level of flavor,” DeAndre Jackson acknowledged.

Interestingly, Winners BBQ has earned mentions in a slew of food publications, trends that have given way to this star-studded restaurant chain having garnered a host of food awards and magazine honors.

“As high profile collegiate and professional athletes, we are highly competitive by nature and this competitiveness and drive spill over into every faucet of our lives,” DeAndre Jackson explained. “Sports is what we all have in common, and the discipline, dedication, perseverance, mental toughness, sacrifice, motivation, and determination that athletics have instilled in us has taught us very valuable life lessons and how to never quit, no matter what curve balls life throw your way.”

To their credit, the Jacksons have gone to great lengths to form what has become an All-Star lineup of Winners BBQ CEOs.

Surely, their competitive drive as former athletes has contributed mightily to their sustained entrepreneurship success.

For starters, DeAndre and Tevin Jackson, both were legitimate hopeful to land NFL contracts before injuries reduced their effectiveness, thus bringing their careers to unceremoniously ends.

**ON A MISSION —** As for the Jacksons’ mission for having delved off into entrepreneurship, what it all boils down, they said, is devising ways to leave a legacy for their children — and their children’s children.

Both, in fact, had sustained torn ACL’s, and were forced to tackle — and sack — what they label as the “real world” for the first time in a long time.

And then there was Nichole, a Los Angeles native, who was the catalyst of Texas’ track and field program that captured a national championship before she enjoyed a professional stint with Nike and Adidas that spanned a decade.

Interestingly, Nichole maintained a top-10 world ranking and represented the U. S. on its World Championship Team, as well as served as an alternate on the U. S. Olympic team.

Winners BBQ’s original location is housed at 3200 14th Street in nearby Plano. A popular Dallas/Fort Worth restaurant that Jackson owns along with his cousin, Tevin Jackson, and Tevin’s wife, former University of Texas and professional track and field star Nichole Denby-Jackson, Winners BBQ has since added two locations — one in Cedar Hill and in Austin.

As for the Jacksons’ mission for having delved off into entrepreneurship, what it all boils down, they said, is devising ways to leave a legacy for their children — and their children’s children.

“My personal mission is to be able to pass down something for my children to own and start them off at an even better place in life than I was,” Nichole said. “I would also love to use my platform to motivate and inspire others, whether that be on speaking panels, through a published book, public appearances, and various events or seminars.

“Another mission is to have enough financial freedom for me to give back to many communities through charitable acts of kindness and build water wells in certain parts of Africa for those without clean water,” Nichole added. “We are all big on philanthropy and are big advocates for our community.”

DeAndre and Tevin Jackon both were legitimate hopeful to land NFL contracts before injuries reduced their effectiveness, thus bringing their careers to unceremoniously end. Both, in fact, sustained torn ACL’s, and were both forced to tackle — and sack — the real world for the first time in a long time.

In addition, the Jacksons announced strategic plans to create what they call the “WINspiration Foundation,” an organization that would allow them to display their notable philanthropy efforts.

“Something that I learned from the late great Nipsey Hussle is that the highest human act is to inspire,” Nichole said. “If I can use my platform to reach at least one person — I would love to inspire many — I would be happy.”

Said DeAndre Jackson: “It is important to pass down knowledge and wisdom to better those around you and make them want to become the best versions of themselves and to be able to pass down and instill these things in the next generation which will pick up the baton as it will be their turn to run the world.”

Just as the Jacksons are presently doing as successful entrepreneurs — this after having made good on seemingly unfavorable situations.

Talk about true Winners.

For more information about Texas entrepreneurs DeAndre Jackson, Nichole Denby-Jackson, Tevin Jackson and Nichale of Winners BBQ, call 972.424-2400 (Plano), 205.572-0256 (Cedar Hill), 512.861.5066 (Austin), or connect with Winners BBQ via Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/winnersbbq/.

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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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Mid-South AAU hoops player Christian Brown following in foosteps of his mom and dad

May 17, 2019 Andre Johnson

BEAST MODE

He’s only 12 years of age.

But for a youth basketball player, Christian Brown is a beast on the court.

To his credit, he certainly went into full beast mode during what was a memorable AAU game between Brown’s Murfreesboro, Tennessee-area Storm squad versus Eagleville.

In a game that will go down as arguably the most memorable one to date for Brown, his Storm team faced a 12-point deficit with inside of two minutes remaining.

That is when spectators witnessed flashes of greatness surrounding a kid who’s nearing 6-foot as a preteen.

Brown was the catalyst for a Storm team that stormed back in the waning moments, erasing a double-digit deficit and miraculously coming away with a 50-49 victory, having outscored the opposition, 18-3, the rest of the way.

In manufacturing 17 points in what was an AAU game for the ages, Brown managed some late heroics when he stole an in-bounds pass and was fouled as a result.

His two clutch free throws helped the Storm ease out to the final margin and, most importantly, his immeasurable display proved to be a microcosm of his resiliency for which he customarily exemplifies in close-game situations.

So remember the name, much sooner than later: Christian Brown.

Because if there’s one thing he’s proven, it’s that his best and brightest days are well ahead of him.

“I always tell him he’s destined for greatness and to always make the most of each day,” said Chelsea Brown, Christians’s mother, during interview with Making Headline News this week. “That day will be confirmation of what we speak into his life on a daily basis.”

If anyone can appropriately assess — and critique — Christian’s progress on and off the court, it’s his mother.

Chelsea Brown was a basketball standout in her own right, most notably in high school, where she starred for perennial power Memphis Whitehaven (from 1990 to 1992), which boasted a number of Division 1 recruits. Brown went on to star at SWAC member Southern University from 1992 to 1995, capping off what was stellar basketball tenure for the native Memphian.

RESPECT DA HAVEN

**IN RETROSPECT —** Christian Brown’s mother, Chelsea Brown, was a basketball standout in her own right, most notably in high school, where she starred for perennial power Whitehaven (from 1990 to 1992), which boasted a number of Division 1 recruits.

Given that her son seems on path to following in the footsteps of his parents – both his mother and father are former athletes — it’s safe to assume that, well, the apple didn’t fall very far from the tree (with all due respect).

“Of course, I will be overjoyed to see his dreams and aspirations come to fruition,” said Chelsea Brown how special would it be if her son is fortunate to sign a National Letter of Intent to play college basketball. “But most of all, I’m thankful for the opportunity for him to continue to grow as an athlete.”

Chances are, the 5-foot-10 Christian Brown will grow — literally and figuratively — in the foreseeable future as he looks ahead to next season as one of the marquee players for Rocky Fork Middle School in Smyrna, Tennessee.

A slim 113-pounder — yet with so much growing to do and weight to put on — Christian often rotates between playing the small forward and shooting guard positions.

In addition to his attractive length for a 12-year-old, he’s proven to hold his own and make his presence felt, particularly against bigger and more experienced players, a trend that shouldn’t merely come as a surprise, considering Christian began playing competitive basketball at five years of age for the Rutherford County basketball league.

“He beat everyone down the court and played good defense,” Chelsea Brown said. “And he was the tallest kid on the court most of the time.”

The possibility exist that will surely be the case when he transitions to the prep basketball ranks, an attribute that figures to garner the attention of scouts and recruiters.

“He never ceases to amaze me,” Chelsea said her son’s continuous progress. “I love watching him exceed my expectations through growth and development. He always plays to the end.”

He sure does.

Remember that recent game against Eagleville?

His mother sure does. There’s a good chance she won’t be forgetting it, either.

**FULL RIDE —** Brown (in powder blue) went on to star at SWAC member Southern University from 1992 to 1995, capping off what was stellar basketball tenure for the native Memphian.

“I actually witnessed him lead his team to victory with two minutes on the clock and they were down by 12,” said Chelsea in pure wonderment. “I saw it in his eyes. He reads his opponents and went into (attack mode) and came out victorious.”

That, to his credit, figures to be a sign of things to come — much sooner than later.

“My parents always tell me that as long as I work hard, developing as a student-athlete, they will always provide an avenue for me to succeed,” said Christian, who recently was the beneficiary of the Athlete Academic Award, given to the student-athlete with the highest grade point average (he manufactured a 3.6 GPA), as well as being named Offensive Player of the Year in both football and basketball.

In addition to his attractive length for a 12-year-old, he’s proven to hold his own and make his presence felt, particularly against bigger and more experienced players, a trend that shouldn’t merely come as a surprise, considering Christian began playing competitive basketball at five years of age for the Rutherford County basketball league.

“My dad is always there to support me, and his presence always motivates me to play hard.”

Interestingly, although he has plenty of basketball left to play before bolting the high prep ranks, Christian doesn’t shy away from the notion that’s he’s presently auditioning for a full-ride athletic scholarship.

As far as he’s concerned, there’s no time to waste, not when he’s closing in on 6-feet in height as a preteen and making his presence felt against more experienced players.

“I would like (scouts and recruiters) to know that I am a hard worker and coachable,” said Christian, who will attend a hoops camp at Duke University over the summer. “I am a team player and have experience, playing every position on the floor. Most of all, I’m always open to learning and using skills learned from camps and other resources.”

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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.