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LeBron James on Mavs star Luka Dončić: ‘He’s a great, young talent; I love his game’

January 9, 2020 Andre Johnson

STAR WATCH

**GREAT COMPANY —** Three-time NBA champion and four-time league MVP LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers has been especially complementary of Luka Dončić, the Mavericks’ prized swingman, who’s been as good as advertised since he made the transition from the EuroLeague to U. S. soil following the 2018 campaign. (**Gary A. Vasquez, USA TODAY**)

DALLAS — Ever since he’s made his NBA coming out party last season, Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić has been the beneficiary of a slew of accolades and figurative pats on the back.

Especially from arguably the best basketball player on the planet.

Three-time NBA champion and four-time league MVP LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers has been especially complementary of Dončić, the Mavericks’ prized swingman, who’s been as good as advertised since he made the transition from the EuroLeague to U. S. soil following the 2018 campaign.

Having been dubbed the best 20-year-old player in NBA history behind James — who entered the NBA at 18 years of age — all Dončić has done since being anointed NBA Rookie of The Year last season is pick up where he left off.

**PLAYOFF PREVIEW?** Heading into Friday night’s nationally-televised showdown against the first place Lakers at the American Airlines Center (8:30 CST on ESPN) in what appears to be a potential playoff preview, the Mavericks (23-14) are currently sixth in the Western Conference standings, having amassed eight more wins than last season after 27 games.. (**Getty Images Photo**)

The 6-foot-7 Slovenian’s 29.6 points per game is third best in the NBA behind Houston’s James Harden (38.5) and Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, the league’s reigning MVP.

Add to the fact that Dončić’s display undoubtedly has given way to the Mavs having become one of the NBA’s biggest surprises this season, and it’s no wonder the greatest player of this generation deems it essential to often give props to a youngster, who’s already assumed the superstar label, a feat he’s emphatically cemented less than one year removed from the ceremonious retirement of Mavs great Dirk Nowitzki.

Much to the delight of Dončić, James is certainly a fan of the NBA sophomore sensation.

“He’s a great, young talent,” James told Making Headline News during a recent interview. “I love his game. He has the ability to not only create shots for himself, but I love the fact that he can get great looks for his team.”

It is, by all accounts, because of Dončić’s remarkable play, coupled with last year’s midseason acquisition of Kristaps Porziņģis, that Dallas will be vying for a playoff spot between now and season’s end.

Heading into Friday night’s nationally-televised showdown against the first place Lakers at the American Airlines Center (8:45 CST on ESPN) in what appears to be a potential playoff preview, the Mavericks (23-14) are currently sixth in the Western Conference standings, having amassed eight more wins than last season after 27 games.

**MAKING NOISE —** Having been dubbed the best 20-year-old player in NBA history behind James — who entered the NBA at 18 years of age — all Dončić has done since being anointed NBA Rookie of The Year last season is pick up where he left off.

“They’re a competitive team with KP (Kristaps Porziņģis) and Luka with (Maxi) Kleber, (Dorian) Finney-Smith, and Seth (Curry) and those guys they have around him,” James said of a Dallas team that has dropped two of three meetings with the Lakers this season. “They play fast. They shoot a lot of threes and push the tempo to keep you off balance. (Mavs coach Rick) Carlisle’s team has always been well-coached.”

Said fellow Lakers superstar Anthony Davis in assessing the resurgence a Mavs team that’s looking to snap a four-year playoff drought: “They’re a very good team. They’re a playoff team. Their cornerstone is KP and Luka with a great supporting cast around them.”

While James has praised the way the Mavs’ leader has gone about adjusting to life as one of the NBA’s young bright stars, Dončić, on the other hand, has always been equally fond of James, a 16-year veteran and 14-time All-Star.

During a game in L. A. last November, Dončić was spotted waiting outside of the Lakers’ locker room, where he received an autographed jersey signed by James.

One of James’ representatives emerged from the locker room with a signed No. 23 jersey that read “To: Luka D, God Bless and continue to #StriveForGreatness.”

All things considered, striving for greatness seems to have become a personal mantra, of sorts, for Dončić, who unquestionably has made his presence felt since he’s entered the NBA ranks.

Just like James, his biggest mentor, had done a little more than a decade-and-a-half ago as an NBA newcomer.

“That’s what I like about him,” said James, who has gone on record recently and said Dončić is the kind of player with whom he’d like to play. “He plays the game the right way.”

A pretty remarkably brilliant assessment from arguably the best basketball player on the planet.

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 makingheadlinenews@gmail.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

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Former TCU football player Charles Jones advancing the kingdom mightily as Senior Pastor of New Creation Fellowship Church

December 30, 2019 Andre Johnson

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58 KJV)

TOUCHDOWN JESUS

**GOD’S RED ZONE —** Former Texas Christian University football player Charles Jones is savoring his rightful and well-deserved place as the Founder and Senior Pastor of New Creation Fellowship Church, the awe-inspiring ministry he organized in February 2011 amid deep concern for his family, friends, and the community.

FORT WORTH, Texas — There’s nothing like a praying mother.

If anyone can greatly attest to this notion, it’s Charles Jones.

Consider, for instance, how during his youth, Jones recalls vividly the days during which his mother had steadfastly gone to great lengths to ensure her family’s single-parent household was covered, both in the natural and the spirit.

“I learned how to be strong watching my mom battle through some difficult seasons in life,” Jones told Making Headline News during a recent interview. “There were many times as a single mother she made sacrifices to ensure we were covered. She went without to make sure we had.”

For what it’s worth, it is due in large part to those valuable, life-altering lessons Jones had embraced as a young lad that, by all accounts, have greatly shaped the overall landscape of his life, a life that has catapulted him to the divine purpose for which God created him.

Fast forward a few decades later, and here’s Jones, savoring his rightful and well-deserved place as the Founder and Senior Pastor of New Creation Fellowship Church, the flourishing ministry he organized in February 2011 amid what he described as “a deep concern” for his family, friends, and the community.

MORE ON NEW CREATION FELLOWSHIP: http://www.ncfcogic.org/home.html

Located at 2126 Amanda Avenue in Fort Worth, Texas, New Creation Fellowship is a Church of God In Christ-affiliated institution which, since its inception, has emerged as a thriving, progressive church by which God is manifesting Himself through the evidence of signs, wonders, and rapid ministry growth, according to a detailed introduction at http://www.ncfcogic.org/home.html.

For Jones, 42, his rise to finding his niche in what has become a commendable and well-respected Pastoral tenure had surfaced amid humble beginnings. It was, in fact, because of the influential impact of his mother, coupled with the strict Christian-based principles of his grandmother that essentially had paved the way to the former Texas Christian University football player shifting his focus from the gridiron to the pulpit.

For what it’s worth, it is due in large part to those valuable, life-altering lessons Jones had embraced as a young lad that, by all accounts, have greatly shaped the overall landscape of his life, one that has catapulted him to the divine purpose for which God created him.

“I witnessed her struggle, felt her pain, but every day was another opportunity for her to go out and do what was necessary to provide and survive,” said Jones, recalling his mother’s massive impact on his life during his youth. “We had nothing, but she refused to allow us to look like what we were going through. She pushed my dreams of being an athlete, while praying that the streets, gangs and drugs wouldn’t swallow me up.”

Interestingly, as Jones explained, even when recurring injuries reduced his effectiveness to play for a high-profile Division 1 football program — thus “halted my aspirations as an athlete,” he acknowledged — there was that one person besides God who had — for a lack of better words — proven to his ride or die soulmate.

That one person: Elect Lady Jennifer Jones (or “Lady J”), Jones’ beloved companion to whom he’s been married for 19-plus years. The couple share five daughters (Katelyn, Kylah, KaLeah, Kendall and Charlize), each of whom like their parents, are actively involved in ministry.

THE LEADERS OF NCF: http://www.ncfcogic.org/leadership.html

“I started preaching in the latter part of 2000, and he was called to ministry shortly after, if I’m not mistaking,” said Jones, whose first sermon was given at church of his wife’s father, Superintendent Ray Lee Smith the Greater Rose Hill Church in Terrell, Texas.

“It’s crazy,” Jones said, explaining the constant pursuit of his wife back during his undergraduate days. “I chased her for two years on campus and she wouldn’t give me the time of day, but in my moment of isolation and when I was battling suicidal ideations, God used her to minister to my brokenness.”

And just like that, not only did Jones witnessed what apparently was a spiritual makeover, of sorts, but God had ultimately blessed him to find his good thing in the process — all because, well, this young preacher had demonstrated enough meekness to embrace a process he appropriately likens to the Biblical character Jonah.

“She took me to church and I saw God clearly,” Jones said of his first real encounter with his wife. “Everything I had gone through had been my belly of the fish experience. All my life, God had been navigating and ordaining things to spit me out on the banks of my destiny.”

IN THE PRESENCE OF ROYALTY

The Joneses share five daughters (Katelyn, Kylah, KaLeah, Kendall and Charlize), each of whom like their parents, are actively involved in ministry.

It wasn’t long thereafter that Jones had officially hung up his helmet and cleats and subsequently commenced to calling audibles for God.

“I accepted my call a few months after that,” Jones explained. “This is the PG (parental guidance) version of my testimony.”

Regardless of how Jones labels his testimony, what matters, really, at this stage in his life is that such an intriguing and tear-jerking memory is what essentially had spearheaded his quest to press and navigate toward a destiny that was accompanied by his heaven-mandated assignment — the birthing of his ministry.

“New Creation Fellowship Church is a vision inspired by God,” Jones said. “In essence, (it is) a Macedonian call that was necessary on my way to heaven…one that was birthed with the purpose of strengthening the nucleus of family, community and the total man, first naturally then spiritually.”

“My wife and children have been awesome supporters of the ministry. It can be a burden at times because they have to share me with so many people, but we’ve learned to balance well over the years. Elect Lady Jones has been very instrumental and an intricate part of what we’ve accomplished. She is a phenomenal visionary and has an eye for development and design. Everything you see, walking into our ministry, she designed it. She took an old school baptist church and modernized it.” — Pastor Charles Jones

Since erecting his ministry, Jones undoubtedly has made his presence felt, not just throughout his congregation, but his family, considering his father is now serving in the ministry.

Since erecting his ministry, Jones undoubtedly has made his presence felt, not just throughout his congregation, but throughout his family, considering his father is now serving in the ministry.

“I started preaching in the latter part of 2000, and he was called to ministry shortly after, if I’m not mistaking,” said Jones, whose first sermon was given at the church of his wife’s father, Superintendent Ray Lee Smith the Greater Rose Hill Church in Terrell, Texas. “(My biological father’s) ministry wasn’t a result of mine. I thank God he got saved and (God) called him, though.”

Ironically, Jones served fervently in Smith’s ministry for a little more than a decade which, to his credit, essentially served as a sign of things to come.

For Jones, 42, his rise to finding his niche in what has become a commendable and well-respected Pastoral tenure had surfaced amid humble beginnings. It was, in fact, because of the influential impact of his mother, coupled with the strict Christian-based principles of his grandmother that essentially had paved the way to the former Texas Christian University football player shifting his focus from the gridiron to the pulpit.

“Superintendent Smith nurtured my gifts and instructed us in the way of holiness,” Jones said. “I’ve never known anyone like him. It has always been a pleasure to sit at his feet and much of the favor I have is a direct result of my connection to him. If we serve well, God will bless us.”

For Jones, God has surely blessed his family and exalted his ministry for such a pivotal time as now.

Eight years and counting to be exact.

“My servitude transcended the pulpit and Sunday morning services,” Jones said. “God told me to make His life easy, hold Him up and do whatever was necessary in order for Him to facilitate vision.”

Just as his praying mother had taught him back in the day.

If anyone can greatly attest to this notion, it’s Charles Jones.

**AT LAST —** “It’s crazy,” Jones said, explaining the constant pursuit of his wife back during his undergraduate days. “I chased her for two years on campus and she wouldn’t give me the time of day, but in my moment of isolation and when I was battling suicidal ideations, God used her to minister to my brokenness.”

For more information about Dallas/Fort Worth-area Pastor Charles Jones New Creation Fellowship Church, or to schedule him for a public appearance or speaking engagement, call 817.707.8445, or connect with him via Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/CDJones23/. Also, send email to: cdjonesministries@ncfcogic.org.

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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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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.

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Is Dallas entrepreneur Sakina G. Jackson the seasoning mix industry’s best kept secret?

September 23, 2019 Andre Johnson

OVERFLOW SEASON-ING

**SALT OF THE EARTH —** The proud creator and CEO of what is technically known as Big Toe Seasonings LLC, Sakina G. Jackson’s products are steadily attracting more of national presence, considering she’s fielding orders all across the country.

DESOTO, Texas — Just recently, Sakina G. Jackson took to her Facebook page, where she staged a rather spirited post to her timeline.

Don’t get twisted, mind you. She wasn’t merely bragging.

If nothing else, she was only enlightening the masses of the continuous buzz surrounding what is shaping up to be a globally-acclaimed invention for the ages.

Said Jackson before her hundreds of social media followers: “I’m just saying! Get you some Big Toe Seasonings.”

For what it’s worth, Jackson undoubtedly has earned the right to exemplify such passion for a product that figures to turn heads in countless of households and restaurants for years to come.

Never mind that she senses those avenues by which to start a company is very much like birthing a baby — to put it more appropriately.

MORE ON BIG TOE SEASONING LLC: https://bigtoeseasonings.com/

“Growing up in a family of seven, five siblings and being a tomboy, winning in life has always been a goal,” Jackson told Making Headline News this week. “I started working in Corporate America in the 90’s as a legal services company (during) which there were many competitors. Learning to be my best in all areas of business was imperative.”

Speaking of being her best, Jackson’s entrepreneurship track record is such that she’s been nothing short of remarkable.

The proud creator and CEO of what is technically known as Big Toe Seasonings LLC, Jackson’s products are steadily attracting more of national presence, considering she’s routinely fielding orders all across the country.

Interestingly, she’s essentially gotten a massive portion of the Southern region on lock, most notably in the tri-state areas that’s comprised of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.

“I was able to visit cities such as Jackson Mississippi, Meridian, Mississippi, Selma Alabama, Monroe, Louisiana, just to name a few…and on to Columbus, Georgia,” Jackson said. “My products have traveled to more places than I have myself have (she continued while laughing). I am hoping to catch up.”

**FINISHED PRODUCT —** Because of her impressive Corporate America resume, coupled with a solid support system that’s spearheaded by her parents, Raymond and Bobbie Jackson, as well as her grandmother, Vessie Jackson, and, most of all, “my big faith in Jesus,” she acknowledged, it’s safe to assume that Jackson’s Big Toe Seasoning’s best and brightest days are well ahead of it.

Most recently, Jackson engaged in a rather festive and intriguing tour she famously dubbed as “FLAVAs,” during which she was afforded golden opportunities to put her immeasurable entrepreneurship skills on display.

As usual, she was as good as advertised, in large part because consumers have come to embrace — and savor — Jackson’s delectable, mouthwatering seasonings, especially her annual holiday season’s faithful three: Lemon Pepper, Creole, and the Big Toe’s ever-so-popular Bless Yo Heart seasoning, a traditionally historic southern catchphrase Jackson’s granddaughter is responsible for having named.

**LOCKED AND LOADED —** Interestingly, Jackson essentially has gotten a massive portion of the Southern region on lock, most notably in establishments such as Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. “I was able to visit cities such as Jackson Mississippi, Meridian, Mississippi, Selma Alabama, Monroe, Louisiana, just to name a few…and on to Columbus, Georgia,” Jackson said.

A native of Dallas, Jackson’s rise to reaping sustained entrepreneurial success comes amid a season during which she had already emerged as a beneficiary of an unlikely breakthrough.

Jackson enjoyed a stellar stint in the Corporate America sector when she was promoted to a city government post in nearby Cedar Hill for what was supposed to be a two-week temporary assignment.

Such an assignment had ultimately lasted some eight years which, to Jackson’s surprise, had given way to her being named Director of Municipal Court.

DID YOU KNOW…

“I do attribute this growth to a manager, who saw my leadership qualities, which quite frankly, stemmed from several years in corporate and my vast entrepreneurial skills,” Jackson said. “Becoming a mother heightened this desire as I wanted my children and grandchildren to know that if they educate themselves in whatever they set out to do in life, they too, can achieve success. I now have moved into inspiring friends, women, veterans, youth to live their truth.”

Because of her impressive Corporate America resume, coupled with a solid support system that’s spearheaded by her parents, Raymond and Bobbie Jackson, as well as her grandmother, Vessie Jackson, and, most of all, “my big faith in Jesus,” she acknowledged, it’s safe to assume that Jackson’s Big Toe Seasoning’s best and brightest days are well ahead of it.

**FOR STARTERS —** A native of Dallas, Jackson’s rise to reaping sustained success comes amid a season during which she had already emerged as a beneficiary of an unlikely breakthrough. Jackson enjoyed a stellar stint in the Corporate America sector when she was promoted to a city government post in nearby Cedar Hill for what was supposed to be a two-week temporary assignment.

So don’t get it twisted.

“In all honesty, I have come to know that how we treat and help one another is a direct correlation with our own joy and happiness,” Jackson said. “A soul that simply exists to please him or herself is usually in my experience a very sad individual…a void of inner joy. Therefore, I live to inspire others of all ethnic groups, ages, and cultures. It is my truth.”

Bless her ‘lil heart.

For more information on Dallas/Fort Worth-area Businesswoman/Author Sakina G. Jackson, to presale order her book or to schedule her for a future book signing or speaking engagement, call 214-680-5552 or write to:

Sakina Jackson, Marketing & Promotions Executive, Big Toe Seasonings & Rubs, P.O. Box 1578, DeSoto, Texas 75123-1578. Connect with her via social media at:

(Instagram) bigtoeseasonings

(Facebook) bigtoeseasonings

(Tumbler) bigtoeseasonings

(Twitter) bigtoeseasonings

(YouTube) bigtoeseasonings. Also, email her at: info@bigtoeseasonings.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.

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.

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Is longtime Dallas/Fort Worth businesswoman Kristen J. Price the real estate industry’s best kept secret?

July 3, 2019 Andre Johnson

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (Philippians 4:6 KJV)

DOING IT BIG IN TEXAS

DESTINY STEPS — A native of Dallas, Kristen J. Price, 52, is owner and chief executive officer of Hylton Homes Realty, LLC.

DALLAS — Earlier this week, Texas businesswoman Kristen J. Price wasted little time offering a thorough assessment of her drive in her selected line of work.

She was only keeping it 100.

“Let’s face it,” Price explained during an interview with Making Headline News. “There’s an increasing number of individuals that have the same ethnic makeup and background as myself, who have the thought in their minds that they will never be able to own their own home. I’m here to let them know differently. If they have the desire, tenacity and dream to give it a try, I am here to make that dream a reality with my professional knowledge and guidance in the real estate industry.

“You too can own your own home,” Price continued. “Not just one, but two, three, or however many your heart desires.”

MORE ON HYLTON HOMES REALTY, LLC: https://www.hyltonhomesrealty.com/

A company that is widely known for specializing in Dallas/Fort Worth-area homes for sale, Prices’ Hylton Homes Realty is your residential realtor resource for buying and selling your next North Texas home, as mentioned in a detailed introduction of her venture at https://www.hyltonhomesrealty.com/personalinfo.html.

To grasp a thorough concept of why Price speaks with such passion and splendor when assessing the joy of functioning mightily in her element, look no further than the immeasurable strides she’s made as one of Texas’ most resourceful and efficient real estate brokers.

A native of Dallas, Price, 52, is owner and chief executive officer of Hylton Homes Realty, LLC.

A company that is widely known for specializing in Dallas/Fort Worth-area homes for sale, Prices’ Hylton Homes Realty is your residential realtor resource for buying and selling your next North Texas home, as mentioned in a detailed introduction of her venture at https://www.hyltonhomesrealty.com/personalinfo.html.

Interestingly, with Price’s expertise and knowledge of the real estate industry, she will steadfastly work tirelessly on her clients’ behalf, all the while making their next home-buying or home-selling experience a pleasant and successful one.

“Therefore, whether you are considering selling a home, looking for a new build or an existing home or in the preliminary stages of a Dallas area real estate search, you have found the best in professional service,” said a spokesperson for Price’s Hylton Homes Realty.

A 1985 graduate of Dallas’ Wilmer-Hutchins High, Price holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas in nearby Denton.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER — A 1985 graduate of Dallas’ Wilmer-Hutchins High, Price holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas in nearby Denton. Consequently, she advanced her education when she earned a Master of Science Degree in Human Relations and Business in 2000 from Amberton University in nearby Garland.

Consequently, she advanced her education when she earned a Master of Science Degree in Human Relations and Business in 2000 from Amberton University in nearby Garland.

As for her immeasurable experience in the ever-so-competitive real estate industry, Price’s tenure spans some 15 years, five of which she served as a sales agent and 10 years as an independent broker.

She is scheduled to teach what is known as the Military Relocation Professional Class on July 17 at the MetroTex Association of Realtors.

Also, Price will conduct a live recording with other media analysts at her local church, Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church on July 8 at 6:00 p.m. CST.

Given the immense strides she made over the course of the past decade-and-a-half, it’s safe to say that even in the wake of her sustained success, Price’s best and brightest days as a real estate broker are well ahead of her.

This, to her credit, essentially means that Price hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down any time soon, considering she’s walking diligently in her divine purpose.

“Service is my personal mission,” Price said. “I love offering my professional service, expertise, and knowledge of real estate to the consumers. I work for and with my clients. Notice I said ‘for them’ first. I put all of my clients’ interests before my very own. It’s not about me, but all about them and assisting them with accomplishing that one goal of home ownership.”

When asked who were amongst those who inspired her to delve off into such a rewarding and commendable industry, Price deems it essential to customarily recall a somewhat intriguing memory.

“A realtor by the name of Candy Hudson — who represented my husband at the time — and me in the sale of our first home,” Price explained. “She stated to me one day after a meeting with us, ‘Kristen, have you ever thought about doing real estate?’ My response was, ‘No.’ She went on to say that, ‘I think that you would be good at it, because you are such a great communicator.’”

GOD-ORDERED STEPS

To grasp a thorough concept of why Price speaks with such passion and splendor when assessing the joy of functioning mightily in her element, look no further than the immeasurable strides she’s made as one of Texas’ most resourceful and efficient real estate brokers.

And the rest, as they say, was history, particularly with regards to Price appropriately heeding the wise counsel of Hudson.

“There was not much thought given to the conversation until after we had moved into our new home in Mesquite, Texas,” Price said. “The rest is history.”

Here she is today, not only steadily setting herself apart as one of Texas’ most resourceful and efficient real estate brokers but, much to her delight, she routinely goes to great lengths to ensure that her clients’ dreams become realities in the process.

All because, well, she was determined to the trust process of what it takes to become a fixture in one America’s most popular and competitive industries.

DS-TEXAS’ OWN

“Winston Churchill stated that, ‘Success is the ability to go from one failure to another, with no loss of enthusiasm,’ said Price before backing up such an analogy with the familiar Biblical verse that is Philippians 4:6. “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.”

All things considered, coupled with the divine calling on her life, that’s just what Price has done — made her requests known unto God.

And left the results to Him.

Look at her today, having emerged as one of Texas’ most resourceful and efficient real estate brokers.

For more information on Dallas/Fort Worth-area Businesswoman Kristen J. Price of Hylton Homes Realty, LLC, call 214-802-0038. Also, connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/kristen.hylton.37, or email her at: kristenjprice7@gmail.com.

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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.

Texas ‘Living Legend’ Bishop John Lewis Johnson to be honored for 60 years as Senior Pastor of Greater Progressive COGIC

May 21, 2019 Andre Johnson

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV)

60 SHADES OF GRACE

FORT WORTH, Texas — Bishop John Lewis Johnson.

Clearly, such a name ought to ring a bell, should have by now undoubtedly become a fixture throughout the historic Church of God In Christ, a religious-based organization that is widely regarded as the largest Pentecostal church and the fifth largest Christian church in the country.

To grasp a thorough concept of why Bishop Johnson should have garnered a well-respected, unprecedented presence in the national church at this stage in his ministerial tenure, look no further than his immeasurable, well-publicized track record as one of Texas’ oldest clergymen, who is the Senior Pastor of Greater Progressive Church of God In Christ in Fort Worth.

To his distinctly unique credit, Bishop Johnson’s pastoral career is nearing an unprecedented six decades, an awe-inspiring, unfathomable feat that will be commemorated during his 60^th Pastoral celebration on Friday, June 7 at 7:30 p.m. CST at Dayspring Family Church, located at 618 North Belt Lane Road in nearby Irving.

MORE ON GREATER PROGRESSIVE COGIC: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greater-Progressive-Church-of-God-In-Christ/108099512564454

**TO GOD BE THE GLORY —** To his distinctly unique credit, Bishop John Lewis Johnson’s pastoral career is nearing an unprecedented six decades, an awe-inspiring, unfathomable feat that will be commemorated during his 60th Pastoral celebration on Friday, June 7 at 7:30 p.m. CST at Dayspring Family Church, located at 618 North Belt Lane Road in nearby Irving.

A gallery that will be comprised of his membership, colleagues, family members, and a host of well-wishers will collectively engage in a celebratory praise and worship service, during which they will pay homage to 93-year-old Bishop Johnson, who has been the face of Greater Progressive COGIC dating back to May 23, 1959.

The service will be highlighted by a featured speaker, Superintendent Melton R. Timmons, the Senior Pastor of Jones Valley Community COGIC in Tyler, Texas.

Timmons serves as Secretary for COGIC’s National Board of Trustees.

THE CHURCH’S HIGHEST OFFICE

All things considered, Bishop Johnson has surely earned the right to be celebrated for his exceptional body of work as one of God’s beloved spokesperson, one who has evolved as a beacon of light in his own right, particularly in the national church.

Having sold out completely to God on February 15, 1949 at the tender age of 23, it was within the walls of the very historic church he pastors that he surrendered his life to Christ.

A little more than a year later — April 26, 1950, to be technical — Bishop Johnson had graciously accepted his divine calling to preach the Gospel.

To his credit, he’s been on God’s battlefield ever since, considering his ministerial resume includes having served under the leadership of the late Elder D.C. Littlefield, during which he was the Greater Progressive COGIC’s Assistant Pastor for just shy of a decade.

Interestingly, Bishop Johnson was officially ordained as an Elder in 1959, a milestone that had ultimately given way to his ceremoniously appointment by the late Bishop F. L. Haynes as Senior Pastor of Greater Progressive on May 23, 1959 (he was installed by the late Bishop D. L. Smith).

Following a notable presence in the Texas Northeast First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction — a stint that included having assumed roles as trustee and chairman of the Board of Superintendents, as well as a Program Planning Committee member — Bishop Johnson was promoted to Administrative Assistant to the Office of the Bishop on December 29, 1992. Consequently, he was consecrated as an Auxiliary Bishop by Presiding Bishop Charles Edward Blake Sr. during COGIC’s 109^th National Holy Convocation on November 13, 2016.

Years before assuming his heavenly promotion to the highest office in the church, Bishop Johnson was the beneficiary of an honorary doctorate by Dallas’ Paul Quinn College on October 17, 1990.

Three years later, he was recognized by a host of delegates in the Fort Worth Community when he was deemed a “Living Legend.”

Bishop Johnson is the former husband to the late Mother Alma Katherine Johnson, a union that lasted 65 years before her demise.

Labeled a “gospel giant” by his peers and colleagues, Bishop Johnson’s unparalleled preaching tenure spans nearly seven decades, a stint that’s also accompanied by 49 years as a District Superintendent and 44 years as a Jurisdictional Administrative Assistant.

WELL DONE

**MASSIVE TRACK RECORD —** All things considered, Bishop Johnson has undoubtedly earned the right to be celebrated for his exceptional body of work as one God’s beloved spokesperson, one who has evolved as a beacon of light in his own right, particularly in the national church.

A pastoral career that will reach 60 years as of May 23, Bishop Johnson currently serves as a Senior Advisor to Texas Northeast First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Prelate, Bishop J.E. Hornsby.

Clearly, such a name ought to ring a bell, should have undoubtedly become a fixture throughout the historic Church of God In Christ.

For 60 years…and counting.

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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.