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Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle delighted Virginia is back in the Final Four for the first time in 35 years

THEY’RE BACK 

LONG TIME COMING — After a 35-year drought, the Virginia men’s basketball program is back in the Final Four. The champions out of the South Region, the top-seeded Cavaliers (33-3) will face Midwest Region champion, fifth-seeded Auburn (30-9), Saturday at 5:09 p.m. CST from U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. (Getty Image Photo)

DALLAS — The Virginia men’s basketball program is back in the Final Four for the first time in 35 years.

Amongst the UVA alums who seems the proudest is Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle.

Prior to Friday night’s game versus the Memphis Grizzlies in the American Airlines Center, Carlisle spoke of how delighted he is to witness Virginia atone for last year’s NCAA Tournament’s first-round exit by reaching the national semifinals.
The champions out of the South Region, the top-seeded Cavaliers (33-3) will face Midwest Region champion, fifth-seeded Auburn (30-9), Saturday at 5:09 p.m. CST from U. S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

The second national semifinal matchup will pit No. 3 seed Texas Tech (30-6), the West Region champion, squaring off against East Region champion, No. 2 seed Michigan State (32-6).

For UVA, which became the first ever No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed when it was dealt a 74–54 drubbing by the University of Maryland-Baltimore County in last year’s opening round of the Big Dance, Carlisle applauded Cavaliers coach Tony Bennett for a job well done with a program that is making its third Final Four appearance in school history (1981, 1984, 2019). 

IN RETROSPECT 

THE LAST TIME — Carlisle (left) was a member of Virginia’s 1984 Final Four squad that lost in the national semifinals to Akeem Olajuwon and No. 2 seed Houston, 49-47, in overtime.

“They’ve been consistently great all year,” Carlisle said of the Cavaliers, winners of four straight and 13 of their last 14. “I think they’ve only lost two or three games by two or three points. They have a real resolve as a team.”

In reaching the Final Four for the first time since 1984, Virginia demonstrated some much-needed resolve in the waning moments of the South Region final against third-seeded Purdue.

The Cavaliers, in fact, needed a rather awkward buzzer-beater by junior swingman Mamadi Diakite just as time expired to tie the game at 70 and force overtime, then outscored the Boilermakers, 10-5, in the extra session to preserve the win, thus erasing the memory of last year’s opening-round heartbreaker to UMBC.

According to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor, Virginia has a 79.9 percent chance of defeating Auburn, which is making its first Final Four appearance in school history.

Michigan State, meanwhile, has a 61.1 percent chance to upend Texas Tech, according to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor.

As for who Carlisle’s predicting to win the first of two national semifinal games, well, that essentially goes without saying.

PRAYER ANSWERED — The Cavaliers needed a buzzer-beater by junior swingman Mamadi Diakite just as time expired to tie the game at 70 and force overtime, then outscored the Boilermakers, 10-5, in the extra session to preserve the win, erasing the memory of last year’s opening-round heartbreaker to UMBC. According to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor, UVA has a 79.9 percent chance of defeating Auburn, which is making its first Final Four appearance in school history.

“They have a style that you need into today’s game,” said Carlisle, who was a member of Virginia’s 1984 Final Four squad that lost in the national semifinals to No. 2 seed Houston, 49-47, in overtime. “They preach defense first thing and they really understand how to play with each other. You know, the way they won the Purdue game last week was really special.”

Now that they’ve atoned for last year’s postseason disappointment, can the grit and grind Cavaliers manage two more wins to capture the school’s first ever national title?

“They’ve got a real chance now,” Carlisle said.

With a slight grin.

That, much to his delight and to the satisfaction of the rest of the UVA faithful, is a far cry from last year’s disastrous turn of events in the Big Dance.

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

 

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OKC businessman Karim Muhammad aiming to promote his nonprofit organization on national talk and syndicated radio shows

A NATIONAL IMPACT

MAJOR MAJOR STRIDES — A native of Oklahoma City, Karim Muhammad is especially grateful of the immeasurable strides he made through his Teachers Appreciation Foundation, which is steadily attracting more of a national presence.

DALLAS — Karim Muhammad is on a mission.

A great, big one, to be more technical.

Consider, for instance, Muhammad’s fervent, unyielding quest in having a monumental impact as the founder and executive director of the Teachers Appreciation Foundation, his Oklahoma City-based nonprofit organization he founded nearly five years ago.

“Inspiring others is very instrumental (in that I’m afforded the golden opportunity) to encourage them to follow their dreams,” Muhammad told Making Headline News during a weekend interview.

WHAT ABOUT TAF? https://www.taf5.org/

A native of Oklahoma City, Muhammad is especially grateful of the immeasurable strides he’s made through his organization, which is steadily attracting more of a national presence.

So much, in fact, that this young businessman doesn’t shy away from the notion that he’s destined to devise ways to grasp the attention of a few renowned celebrities and political figures.

“Our goal is to convey the mission and the message on a national talk show and syndicated radio talk show,” said Muhammad, referring specifically to the Steve Harveys, Wendy Williamses, Dr. Phils, and the Rickey Smileys of the world, just to name a few.

A former Langston University and Oklahoma State University student, Muhammad’s Teachers Appreciation Foundation is comprised of a five-person leadership board in which his mother serves as President. Pictured with Muhammad is Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt.

A nonprofit organization that went into full operations in June 2014, Teachers Appreciation Foundation’s mission is centered largely on remaining dedicated to the movement of appreciating the school village responsible for teaching the future leaders of the world, as mentioned in a detailed breakdown of this institution at https://www.taf5.org/.

Moreover, this credible nonprofit is widely known for giving back to Oklahoma schools by acknowledging and appreciating educators and support workers in a big way.

Powered by the motto, “The School Village Will Teach The Child” — a catchphrase that was spearheaded by Muhammad’s mother, former longtime educator Miniimah Muhammad — Muhammad was determined to start a foundation that honors school teachers, custodians, school bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and everyone involved in the school system as a whole, he said.

Nearing its fifth year of existence, Teachers Appreciation Foundation has become a fixture, particularly in highlighting what Muhammad describes as “the roots of these phenomenal people” in large part because “they are pieces to the educational puzzle,” he said.

Interestingly and to his credit, Muhammad’s mother — whose teaching career spanned more than three decades — were amongst those elated and enthused about the concept to establish a credible and worthy foundation.

“I want to provide a quintessential service to my community and other communities worldwide,” Muhammad, an OKC Northeast High School graduate, said, explaining his purpose for his organization, which accommodates people 25 years of age and up. “(I love) putting smiles on the faces and bringing excitement to dignitaries, educators and supporting staff.”

A nonprofit organization that went into full operations in June 2014, Teachers Appreciation Foundation’s mission is centered largely on remaining dedicated to the movement of appreciating the school village responsible for teaching the future leaders of the world, as mentioned in a detailed breakdown of this institution at https://www.taf5.org/.

Much to his delight, social media has benefited Muhammad’s organization mightily in that it has helped spread the word about his flourishing endeavor, which will be hosting its annual TAF Awards Show in the coming months.

According to Muhammad, he and his staff are in discussion for the 2020 TAF Awards to be held in Oklahoma City (February 1 of that year) and nearby Arlington, Texas (on February 8).

In addition, his organization will be hosting a number of community-related events, most notably its TAF Awards Sponsorship Seminars, which customarily take place the third Thursday of each month and is free and open to the public.

A former Langston University and Oklahoma State University student, Muhammad’s Teachers Appreciation Foundation is comprised of a five-person leadership board in which his mother serves as President.

Dawud Ali is TAF’s Vice President, Moneka Sharee is Secretary, and Julie Sharif and Latasha Howell assume the roles as staff members.

Nearing its fifth year of existence, Teachers Appreciation Foundation has become a fixture, particularly in highlighting what Muhammad describes as “the roots of these phenomenal people” in large part because “they are pieces to the educational puzzle,” he said.

WHAT ABOUT TAF? https://www.taf5.org/

Powered by the motto, “The School Village Will Teach The Child” — a catchphrase that was spearheaded by Muhammad’s mother, former longtime educator Miniimah Muhammad — Muhammad was determined to start a foundation that honors school teachers, custodians, school bus drivers, cafeteria workers and everyone involved in the school system as a whole.

“We want to build the movement of appreciating the whole school body,” Muhammad added. “I want the people who go to school to get their teaching certification and degrees to look forward to the Teachers Appreciation Foundation Awards Show. I want them to look forward to the awards show as the Grammys for teachers and staff.”

Talk about a man on a mission.

A great, big one, to be more technical.

For more information about Oklahoma City-area Businessman Karim Muhammad, or to schedule him for a public appearance or speaking engagement, call 405.532.3488 or write to: P.O. Box 17613, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73136. Also, connect with TAF via Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/teachAF1978/. Also, send email to: tafteam5@gmail.com.

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

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

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Chicago author Jackie Nichols Anderson’s new book having a massive kingdom impact

Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? (1 Corinthians 3:16 NIV)

PROVERBS 31 AFFECT

REAPING A HARVEST — A native of the Windy City, Jackie Nichols Anderson is the mastermind behind her remarkably compelling project entitled, “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman,” a book that officially hit the market earlier this year — this after she needed just a few months to compose it.

DALLAS — Sometime after 9 o’clock CST Tuesday night, Jackie Nichols Anderson was taking questions from the media.

She was all smiles, too.

“If you could see the huge smile on my face right now,” Nichols Anderson told Making Headline News, referring to the media coverage surrounding her newly-produced book.
For Nichols Anderson, a Chicago-based writer, the prelude to her delving off into the ever-so-competitive world of authorship is an awe-inspiring memory she undoubtedly will share for the rest of her life.

PURCHASE JACKIE’S BOOK HERE: https://www.thevisionvoicevalue.com/

A book that is will soon be available for purchase online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble, “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman” is currently available for purchase at Nichols Anderson’s website at: https://www.thevisionvoicevalue.com/.

“I was literally at and event about trading, and the Lord showed me how the fruits of the spirit applies in all situations,” Nichols Anderson recalls. “And with all things, I decided to expand on what He already was working with me on which, in a nutshell, the dynamics of our behavior create the challenges and obstacles in life.”

A native of the Windy City, Nichols Anderson is the mastermind behind her remarkably compelling project entitled, “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman,” a book that officially hit the market earlier this year — this after she needed just a few months to compose it.

GOD’S BEACON OF LIGHT — All things considered, Nichols Anderson is hopeful her pivotal eating habits will inspire others to follow suit — and, of course, purchase her new book, which details her life-altering testimonies.

Nichols Anderson’s “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman” comes amid her 2015 diagnosis with multiple sclerosis.

An accomplished businesswoman in her own right, Nichols Anderson is overwhelmingly grateful to her Creator for providing her with the much-anticipated breakthrough she needed, both in the natural and the spirit.

Especially in the natural, she acknowledged.

IN HER SPIRITUAL ELEMENT 

A book that is approximately one month removed from having been published — “I just got done,” Nichols Anderson says in wonderment — there is, by all accounts a divine message this Christian-based author aspires to send to her reading audience through “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman.”

“Physically seeing how God transformed me, taking the information that helped me to help someone else,” said Nichols Anderson, explaining the purpose for her new book. “We’ve overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.”

A book that is approximately one month removed from having been published — “I just got done,” Nichols Anderson says in wonderment — there is, by all accounts a divine message this Christian-based author aspires to send to her reading audience through “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman.”

“(The) divine message is the fruit of the spirit is what makes a person or woman powerful, retaining and implementing with God has giving to us to be the reflection of Him, to carry out purpose, goals, and plans in life,” Nichols Anderson said.

A book that will soon be available for purchase online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble, “Pillars Of A Powerful Woman” is currently available for purchase at Nichols Anderson’s website at: https://www.thevisionvoicevalue.com/.

“As a counselor, these are the techniques used in counseling, creating coping mechanisms, as well as helping them transform to the best version of themselves,” Nichols Anderson said her new book.

Interestingly, Nichols Anderson has authored other projects, most notably a book entitled, “Veggies All Day.”

“’Veggies All Day’ is a recipe book created to help others see that fruits and vegetables can be eaten all day with all meals,” Nichols Anderson said. “I became a vegan a year-and-a-half ago and it has completely changed my life. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2015, and I knew I had to change some things so my diet or eating lifestyle changed and my exercising turned up.”

GOD’S PLAN — An accomplished businesswoman in her own right, Nichols Anderson is overwhelmingly grateful to her Creator for providing her with the much-anticipated breakthrough she needed, both in the natural and the spirit.

All things considered, Nichols Anderson is hopeful her pivotal eating habits will inspire others to follow suit — and, of course, purchase her new book, which details her life-altering testimonies.

“Getting my children to convert or even eat more vegetables was a challenge, but I overcame the challenge with doing the simple things that I wrote in this recipe book,” Nichols Anderson said. “And now two of my children are converted and one is eating less ground beef and pork.”

Talk about leading by example.

If only you could see the huge smile on her face right now.

For more information about Chicago-area Author Jackie Nichols Anderson, or to schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via Facebook under: https://www.facebook.com/jackieo.nichols. Also, send email to: jnikk808@gmail.com or connect her via social media at: Instagram: missjackieo_; Twitter: @jackies4eva

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

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

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Carolina entrepreneur Alisha B. Allen deemed a ‘woman of many hats’ as CEO of ABA Enterprises

She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens; She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard;  She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms; She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night; She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff; She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (Proverbs 31: 15-20 KJV) 

For the record, Alisha B. Allen could be what one would appropriately describe as a serial entrepreneur.

Or perhaps a businesswoman of many hats.

Or perhaps…
On second thought, perhaps she could tell it best.
“Multi-business owner,” Allen told Making Headline News this week.

THE LORD’S DOING

DESTINY STEPS — Armed with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Purdue University, North Carolina entrepreneur Alisha Allen oversee an assortment of business ventures, as Founder and CEO of ABA Enterprises.

Indeed she is. And, to her distinctly unique credit, she’s doing a masterful job of juggling multiple endeavors, all the while walking in her divine purpose in the process.

Armed with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Purdue University, Allen oversees an assortment of business ventures as Founder and CEO of ABA Enterprises.

Based in her native establishment of Monroe, North Carolina, Allen is a fixture for a credit resolution company that centers largely on consumer credit education by offering financial workshops, as well as communication on how to increase credit scores, budgeting, and other financial literacy education.

IN HIGH PLACES — To her credit, it seems that Allen’s wealth of entrepreneurship experience has been recognized and applauded in various places around the country, most notably Albuquerque, New Mexico, St. Louis, Florence, South Carolina, Dallas, Charlotte, as well as the North Carolina cities of Monroe, Wadesboro, and Albemarle..

In addition, she is the mastermind of Alisha Allen Realty, whereby she serves as a licensed real estate broker. Her chief responsibilities include — but aren’t limited to — helping individuals sell, buy, or invest in real estate.

And there is “Wake Up & Win,” which Allen’s thriving, progressive ministry that is centered mostly on encompasses financial literacy, home ownership, and business concepts with inspiration by way of speaking engagements, webinars, and church or civic organization events.

In essence, Allen assumes the role as an inspirational speaker through this endeavor.

WHO IS ALISHA ALLEN?

A graduate of Monroe (North Carolina) High School, who’s currently enrolled in Apex School of Theology, where she’s pursuing Master of Divinity, Allen acknowledged that it is due in large part to her life’s competitive drive that has greatly empowered her to gain the essential insight needed to make her dreams a reality.

“I learned to make the woman I was yesterday my biggest competition and I always put a 150 percent effort toward defeating and beating her each and every day,” Allen said. “(What I love most about my businesses is) the freedom to allow God to be CEO and understanding He only entrust the manifestation of what people see into my care. God trust me to run His business ethically, with integrity, and with a spirit of excellence.”

Based in her native establishment of Monroe, North Carolina, Allen is a fixture for a credit resolution company that centers largely on consumer credit education by offering financial workshops, as well as communication on how to increase credit scores, budgeting, and other financial literacy education.

 

To her credit, it seems that Allen’s wealth of entrepreneurship experience has been recognized and applauded in various places around the country, most notably Albuquerque, New Mexico, St. Louis, Florence, South Carolina, Dallas, Charlotte, as well as the North Carolina cities of Monroe, Wadesboro, and Albemarle.

All of which explains why she could be what one would appropriately describe as a serial entrepreneur.

Or perhaps a businesswoman of many hats.

Or perhaps…

On second thought, perhaps she could tell it best.

Allen is an accomplished author, having assembled one book (True Credit Restoration Journal) and two journals (30 Day Money Journal and ABA Enterprises Notary Journal) with a second book release scheduled for May 2019.

 

“(My mission is) to do my part in building stronger individuals, families, and communities so that my work, purpose, and assignment here on earth are consistently being completed,” Allen said.

As for those who have contributed mightily to her sustained success, Allen said, “(I salute) those whom I consider my inner circle and those on the other end of the spectrum those that worked endlessly to block, stop or impede on my success.”

A business-related repertoire that spans more than two decades, Allen will be afforded the golden opportunity to promote her brands during public appearances in in nearby Charlotte April 13 and May 4.

Interestingly, she’s a licensed minister, a certified credit consultant, a certified notary public instructor, and is an ambassador in Monroe and the surrounding areas as a community activist, whereby she facilitates fundraising.

WOMAN OF EMPOWERMENT — A graduate of Monroe (North Carolina) High School, who’s currently enrolled in Apex School of Theology, where she’s pursuing Master of Divinity, Allen acknowledged that it is due in large part to her life’s competitive drive that has greatly empowered her to gain the essential insight needed to make her dreams a reality.

Also, Allen is an accomplished author, having assembled one book (True Credit Restoration Journal) and two journals (30 Day Money Journal and ABA Enterprises Notary Journal) with a second book release scheduled for May 2019.

“I believe wholeheartedly in releasing positive energy, and whatever you release is also what I will receive,” said Allen, explaining why it’s important to esteem others highly than herself daily. “I also believe in the power to (overcome) evil with good, so I strive to do good to all men, for you never know which man plots evil against you.”

Well said by a woman, who could be what one would appropriately describe as a serial entrepreneur.

Or perhaps a businesswoman of many hats.

Or perhaps…

On second thought, she’s already said it best.

For more information about Monroe, North Carolina-area Businesswoman Alisha Allen of ABA Enterprises, or to schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via Facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/SpecialKindaLady. Also, send email to: alisha@abaenterprise.com.

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

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

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Nashville businesswoman Tamica Ross’ organization helping people ‘make their dreams a reality’

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9 NIV)

DALLAS — Just before 10 p.m. CST on Sunday, Tamica Ross took to her Facebook page, where she shared with the masses a rather spirited, blissful announcement.

Said Ross to her gallery of social media followers: Hello FB Friends and Family! I am so excited to announce my upcoming news article. I’m making headlines. Thanking God for this awesome opportunity.

WOMAN OF EXCELLENCE 

DESTINY STEPS — A native of West Tennessee — most notably the Jackson area that is housed in Madison County — Tamica Ross is the Founder and CEO of Lanese Empowerment, a Nashville-based company that is centered largely on inspiring and aiding individuals, particularly youths, as well as young adult men and women.
For Ross, a Mid-South-area businesswoman, she has every right to share of some favorable news that, much to her delight, is a pivotal reminder of just how much God is using her for His glory.
“This business was birthed by (my) own deep desires and determination to live my best life despite the challenges of growing up in an underprivileged environment, where I became a teenage mother at the age of 16 years old,” Ross, during a weekend interview with Making Headline News, said of her quest in establishing what has emerged as a credible endeavor.

WHAT ABOUT TAMICA’S ORGANIZATION? www.laneseempowerment.com

A native of West Tennessee — most notably the Jackson area that is housed in Madison County — Ross is the Founder and CEO of Lanese Empowerment, a Nashville-based company that is centered largely on inspiring and aiding individuals, particularly youths, as well as young adult men and women.

As Ross specifically acknowledged, amongst her coaching venture’s strategic objectives is to empower individuals to live their best lives and, most importantly, to make all their dreams a reality.

“Tamica is on a mission to touch over a million people by empowering them to turn fear into faith, passion into purpose, confusion into clarity, gain self-confidence, and the tools needed to take action now, one step at a time on a journey well done,” said a spokesperson for Ross’ Lanese Empowerment. “She is determined to help those with deep desires to help themselves, reach their full potential, and have fun doing it while living their best lives and making all their dreams a reality.”

For Ross, establishing her coaching organization didn’t merely come easy. Not by a long shot.

According to the Chester County High School graduate, arguably the greatest challenge she faced was attracting sustained support from people she sensed had endured similar hardships with which she once struggled.

DREAMING BIG — Interestingly and to her distinctly unique credit, Ross’ venture has come full circle, courtesy of her resiliency through life coaching, free tools and resources, speaking engagements, writing books, providing scholarship funds, summer youth programs, yearly conferences for men and women, and through D.R.E.A.M.S.

Not to be outdone, though, Ross’ thought process was such that if she would persevere long enough, she’d ultimately reap and possess and results she so desperately sought.

The rest, as they say, was history, considering she did just that.

“I refuse to be that person who was afraid to help others succeed,” Ross said. “Therefore, I have dedicated the rest of my life as a life strategist for others with the mission to empower all people, including men, women, and youths to be the best they can be and help make their dreams a reality.”

Interestingly and to her distinctly unique credit, Ross’ venture has come full circle, courtesy of her resiliency through life coaching, free tools and resources, speaking engagements, writing books, providing scholarship funds, summer youth programs, yearly conferences for men and women, and through D.R.E.A.M.S.

HARVEST SEASON UNFOLDING

An academy that’s comprised of a six week training program D.R.E.A.M.S. is designed to walk people through the steps needed to make any dream a reality and live their best lives one day at a time, Ross emphasized.

Having resided in Nashville for the past decade-and-a-half, Ross holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership and Communication from Bethel University in McKenzie, Tennessee.

Consequently, she earned a Master’s in Organizational Management from Nashville’s Belmont University.

As for her coaching organization, she said such inspiration arose from the wide counsel of her mother, whom she says was “strong enough” to beat a drug addiction.

According to the Chester County High School graduate, arguably the biggest challenge she faced was attracting sustained support from people she sensed had endured similar hardships with which she once struggled.

“My grandmother and stepfather have always seen the very best in me,” said Ross, paying homage to others to have paved the way to her success. “My godfather, who has always been a transformational leader in my life, my godmother, who taught me how to love God with all my heart, my children, whom I am dedicated to showing how to live your best life, and some wonderful mentors and leaders in the industry such as Tony Robbins, Valerie Burton, and even Oprah (Winfrey)…as an African American successful women, who started from the bottom and now look at what she has become.”

Given the immeasurable strides Ross has made since the startup of Lanese Empowerment, it’s safe to assume her best and brightest days are well ahead of her — days that will include, among other things, the forthcoming release of her starting lineup of books.

“She is looking forward to releasing her new book series,” said a spokesperson for Ross’ organization.

All things considered, Ross is giddy in that she can finally profess she’s walking fervently in her God-ordained purpose.

Having resided in Nashville for the past decade-and-a-half, Ross holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership and Communication from Bethel University in McKenzie, Tennessee. Consequently, she earned a Master’s in Organizational Management from Nashville’s Belmont University.

“I was told when I started this business that I needed to define a niche,” Ross said. “Well I did and that’s all people who have the desire and passion to live an extraordinary life despite the challenges of bad credit, debt, failed marriages, loss of a job, low self-esteem, terrible childhood, underprivileged environments, or lack of joy in their hearts, confusion about their path in life, bad grades, teenage pregnancy, drug addiction, and even those who need clarity on their career paths.

“God didn’t put me on this earth to help everyone, because I know there are some they I may not be able to reach. However, there are more that I can reach, and I am looking forward to giving it all I got.”

That, to her credit, is worthy of making headlines.

For more information about Nashville-area Businesswoman/Author Tamica Ross of Lanese Empowerment, or to schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via Facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/tamica.ross.75. Also, send email to: laneseempowerment@gmail.com.

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

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

 

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Atlanta businesswoman Alandria Lloyd named Making Headline News International Women’s Day Woman of the Year for 2018

And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. (Joel 2:25 KJV)

 

Just before midday EST on Thursday, Alandria Lloyd paused momentarily to assess the overall landscape of her life, particularly within the past year or so.

THING OF BEAUTY — A native Natalbany, Louisiana, Alandria Lloyd, 33, was named Making Headline News’ International Women’s Day Woman of the Year for 2018, edging out 10 other women across the country who were considered for this honor by the publication’s editorial staff.

As usual, she found herself guilty of praising her way through.

“In the past year, I’ve experienced a lot of losses in the area of relationships and finances,” Lloyd explained. “Some things that I thought to be the right thing, turned out to be all wrong.”

But God…

“Through the losses, I’ve learned to lean on God all the more,” said Lloyd, sounding as if she had become engaged in a testimony service, of sorts. “Even in the midst of losing things God has restored me with better than I had before.”

Fortunately for Lloyd, an Atlanta-area businesswoman and devout woman of faith, it is due in large to her bend-but-don’t-break-faith, coupled with her valiant contributions to her community, that have given way to what ultimately had turned out to be her grandest surprise in some time.

A native of Natalbany, Louisiana, Lloyd, 33, was named Making Headline News International Women’s Day Woman of the Year for 2018, edging out 10 other women across the country who were considered for this honor by the publication’s editorial staff.

MORE ON ALANDRIA L. LLOYD: http://www.alandriaelle.com

CAUGHT OFF THE GUARD — The third year for an honor that was spearheaded by Making Headline News Founder and Publisher Andre Johnson, Lloyd on Thursday morning was surprised after news spread of her being named this year’s recipient, saying “I need some good news today!”

“I was overjoyed and in total shock,” Lloyd said of being dubbed International Women’s Day Woman of the Year. “I’m blessed to be considered for such a great title.”

Originally called the International Working Women’s Day, this day is celebrated annually on March 8 and customarily commemorates the movement for women’s rights.

According to www.internationalwomensday.com, organizations and individuals around the world have collectively become committed to helping women and girls achieve their ambitions, challenge conscious and unconscious bias, as well as call for gender-balanced leadership and value women and men’s contributions equally.

Also, this day was designed in part to create inclusive flexible cultures. From awareness-raising to concrete action, organizations rallied their people to pledge support to help forge gender parity on International Women’s Day and beyond, according to a spokesperson for IWD.

The third year for an honor that was spearheaded by Making Headline News Founder and Publisher Andre Johnson, Lloyd on Thursday morning was surprised after news spread of her being named this year’s recipient, saying, “I need some good news today!”

Having authored “Fasting For Change” Prayer Journal, Lloyd is also the proud founder of Change Agent Outreach Ministries, LLC, a relatively newly ministry she established in November 2017.

Given the notable strides she’s made within the past year, many who know Lloyd agreed that this honor was well deserved for an empowering, beloved woman who has gone to great lengths to give back mightily to her community.

Lloyd is the proud founder of Change Agent Outreach Ministries, LLC, a relatively new ministry she established in November 2017.

An organization that is powered by her A’Maya’s Army nonprofit organization, Change Agent Outreach Ministries’ primary focus is centered on serving single mothers, particularly those who have suffered the lost a child (or of children).

“My ministry is encouraging and mentoring mothers who have experienced a similar loss,” Lloyd said in a January interview with Making Headline News.

In the coming months, Lloyd will be afforded the golden opportunity to further promote her organization.

From June 22-24, Lloyd will host A’Maya’s Army Mothers Retreat, a three-day event designed to encourage and inspire mothers who have experienced the loss of a child.

DONATE TO ALANDRIA’S RETREAT HERE: https://www.gofundme.com/grieving-mothers-retreat

Accompanied by the theme, “Mask Off,” the weekend retreat will take place at the Evergreen Marriott Resort in nearby Stone Mountain, Georgia, during which attendees will have an opportunity to take off the mask and openly express how they feel without the fear of judgment.

“I chose that theme, because after a woman loses a child, she learns how to wear a mask,” Lloyd said. “The mask is used to make others comfortable around her while she’s in mourning. The mask is pretending like all is well, even though she’s breaking down inside. My mission is to motivate mothers to keep pursuing purpose and to know that there is life after loss.”

YOU GO GIRL — Given the notable strides she’s made within the past year, many who know Lloyd agreed that this honor was well deserved for a businesswoman who has gone to great lengths to give back mightily to her community.

All things considered, if anyone can greatly attest to being left to press and navigate their way through arguably the toughest of losses, surely, Lloyd can — especially after having to make sense of having suffered the losses of premature babies at the ages of 15 and 16.

“After losing two children so close together, I was on the verge of losing my mind,” Lloyd said during an interview with MHL in January.

Nearly two decades removed from having witnessed undoubtedly the darkest chapters of her young life, Lloyd on Thursday was blindsided by a rather unlikely honor.

Talk about fielding some much-needed good news on an otherwise challenging and gloomy morning.

“I intend on hosting and being a part of more empowerment seminars for women,” Lloyd said in the wake of her latest notable honor. “I’m in the process of developing tools to share with women to empower themselves by living their dreams and embracing the purpose God has given unto them.”

What a difference this past year has made.

 

AN ALANDRIA LLOYD RELATED STORY:

Atlanta-area businesswoman Alandria L. Lloyd defies seemingly insurmountable odds, organizes a kingdom-advancing ministry

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

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Memphis’ Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad creating a continuous, massive buzz throughout the Bluff City and Mid-South

 

TEN-NES-SEE AND TASTE THIS CHICKEN SALAD, Y’ALL — An up-and-coming business that is located at 3709 South Hickory Ridge Mall in Suite 460 of the historic Hickory Hill Ridge Mall, Darwin and Kyra Henderson’s Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad has become a popular establishment for Memphians, giving the buzz it has created since its inception a little more than a year ago.

 

Fortunately for Memphis-based entrepreneur Kyra “Sha” Henderson, she thought it essential some time ago to thoroughly embrace the life-changing advice of her husband, Darwin Henderson.

OMG! LOOK AT THIS! Widely considered a “game changer” according to Kyra Henderson, her husband’s delectable, mouth-watering chicken salad has become one of the most sought-after products throughout the Memphis-metropolitan area, let alone a favorite amongst those who weren’t particularly fans of such a food.

That’s because her beloved companion, to his distinct credit, is responsible for encouraging his wife to broaden her entrepreneurial horizon by sharing his famous chicken salad with those outside of their family.

“After being asked several times by family and friends to make it, I thought, ‘Wait a minute, my husband might be on to something great,’” Kyra Henderson, a native Memphian, told Making Headline News this week. “So I took it to beauty shops and barbershops and it became a high demand on Saturdays.”

That Kyra Henderson had graciously heeded the advice of her husband and other family members has benefited her mightily.

So much, in fact, that the Hendersons essentially are building an impressive empire right before our very eyes as owners of Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad.

An up-and-coming business that is located at 3709 South Hickory Ridge Mall in Suite 460 inside the historic Hickory Ridge Mall, Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad has become a popular establishment for Memphians, given the buzz it has acquired since its inception a little more than a year ago.

Widely considered a “game changer” according to Kyra Henderson, her husband’s delectable, mouth-watering chicken salad has become one of the most sought-after products throughout the Memphis-metropolitan area, let alone a favorite amongst those who weren’t particularly fans of such a food.

“Our product is made fresh daily,” Kyra Henderson,  a 1991 Memphis Hamilton High graduate, said.

Not only that, what has set the Hendersons’ product aside from others similar to it is that their chicken salad is filled with a unique smoked flavor that keeps customers coming back for more.

So what is Darwin’s secret?

Good luck trying to convince him to relinquish or share a famous recipe that figures to remain undisclosed indefinitely.

FOLLOW ALEX FARMS HICKORY SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD VIA SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/alexfarmschickensalad/.

“The secret is it is full of love,” Kyra Henderson said with a straight face while displaying her customary signature smile. “We love what we do and love the smiles on our customers’ faces after they taste it.”

WE AIN’T TELLING Y’ALL NOTHING — What sets Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad aside from others similar to it is that its chicken salad is filled with a unique smoked flavor that keeps customers coming back for more. So what is their secret? Good luck trying to convince the Hendersons to relinquish or share a famous recipe that figures to remain undisclosed indefinitely.

So scrumptious and desirable the Hendersons’ chicken salad is that those who customarily find their way inside the Hickory Ridge Mall can’t seem to think of enough favorable names for it.

“It has been called several things like additive, unbelievable, breath-taking, and just plain out good,” Kyra Henderson said. “We don’t take this lightly being that we are husband and wife and that God gave an idea to us that has taken off by surprise.”

As if Memphians haven’t become addicted to Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad, it seems the Hendersons’ product is starting draw rave reviews amongst residents outside of the Bluff City.

According to Kyra Henderson, one customer actually caught a flight bound for Memphis just to make a special visit to her place of business and purchase the famous chicken salad.

Talk about having a monumental impact in a once downtrodden, storm-damaged Southeast Memphis-area mall that appears well on its way to returning back to respectability.

 

TALK OF THE TOWN — Interesting enough, the array of stories, testimonies, and positive feedback surrounding Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad are one what the Hendersons will cherish for a lifetime.

“What we found out was all different ages and ethnic backgrounds love our product, so we decided to step out on faith and open up in the Hickory Ridge Mall Food Court, which is an area that is on the road back to thriving again for businesses,” Kyra Henderson explained. “We have now been located in the Hickory Ridge Mall for little over a year, and it has been absolutely amazing how our business has thrived in this mall.”

Interesting enough, the array of stories, testimonies, and positive feedback surrounding Alex Farms Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad are what the Hendersons will cherish for a lifetime.

Heck, you’ve just gotta love Darwin, the mastermind behind what is shaping up to be a family-oriented empire — with God, their Helper, leading the way.

“My husband has always enjoyed cooking for friends and family, and this product was made by my husband for our son’s graduation dinner when he graduated from elementary school and he is now a senior in college,” Kyra Henderson said. The name (of the business) comes from our daughter, whose her name is Alex. She is the taste tester. She tells her dad what is needed for each batch to go out perfectly every time.”

In that case, heck, you’ve just gotta love Alex too.

 

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

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

 

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Toronto, Ontario-based author Efia Leatham enlightening and changing a generation through her inspiring book

 

ISN’T SHE LOVELY? Toronto, Ontario-based author Efia Leatham’s The Daily Word: Frame Your Day for Victory In 60 Seconds, by all accounts, is a written document that will greatly help readers focus — and refocus — their thoughts to position their day and ultimately reap positive and successful results.

Just after sunrise Saturday morning, as always, Efia Leatham took to her Facebook page and offered some life-enhancing, thought-provoking, spiritually gut-checking words of encouragement.

In addressing the masses, Leatham wrote: “Good morning! Today as you go forward in victory, it is time to open your ears and listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying. It is one thing to hear what is being said, but it is another thing to listen. God wants you to actively tune your ears to His frequency and turn off the sounds of the world around you. It is in hearing that you shall live….”

BETTA GET IT — A 376-page book that was officially released on May 26, 2016, The Daily Word, according to a description at Amazon.com, is widely viewed as a tool and resource, of sorts, to encourage, inspire, and share real love as Leatham’s reading audience seek answers to address thoughts pertaining to being loved, all while recognizing and connecting with their purpose.

Ironically and to her distinct and immeasurable credit, that she routinely shifts her ears to God’s Voice and deems it essential daily to seek Him for direction and purpose are amongst the reasons Leatham is savoring yet another monumental milestone, all while simultaneously living the abundant life Christ came to give us.

BEACON OF LIGHT — The Daily Word, by all accounts, is a written document that will greatly help readers focus — and refocus — their thoughts to position their day and ultimately reap positive and successful results.

“The vision was given last year January, but it had been in the works brewing for four years,” Leatham told Making Headline News this week.

The vision to which Leatham, a Toronto, Ontario native, is alluding is her much-anticipated, awe-inspiring book entitled, The Daily Word: Frame Your Day for Victory In 60 Seconds.

ALL IN GOD’S TIMING — In further detailing the purpose and mission for her book, Leatham emphasized that her desire to finally assemble it was simple: because God said it was time.

A 376-page book that was officially released on May 26, 2016, The Daily Word, according to an eloquent description at Amazon.com, is widely viewed as a tool and resource, of sorts, to encourage, inspire, and share real love as Leatham’s reading audience strategically seek answers to address thoughts pertaining to being loved, all while recognizing and connecting with their purpose.

BUY EFIA’S BOOK NOW: https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Word-Frame-Victory-Seconds/dp/0995186804.

WALKING IN VICTORY — By and large, people who routinely seek, pray to and cry out to God must first know what it means to walk in victory and, most importantly, do it with the right motives, something by which Leatham’s book teaches. In a nutshell, the time has come that we grasp that vital notion that victory begins in the mind.

In essence, The Daily Word is a spiritually-empowered beacon of light in a variety of aspects in that it greatly helps readers observe life through God’s lenses of love so that they, in turn, can command — and possess — their daily victories.

Wait, people of God.

There’s more to this tear-jerking, captivating book that figures to not only lift up Christ but, most of all, inspire people to draw closer to Him.

The Daily Word, by all accounts, is a written document that will greatly help readers focus — and refocus — their thoughts to position their day and ultimately reap positive and successful results.

ARMED WITH WEALTH OF GODLY BEAUTY — Ironically and to her distinct and immeasurable credit, that she routinely shifts her ears to God’s frequency and deems it essential daily to seek Him for direction and purpose are amongst the reasons Leatham is savoring yet another monumental milestone while simultaneously living the abundant life Christ came to give us.

“It’s important how you start your day and with what thoughts you leave your house with,” Leatham wrote in her Amazon description of her book. “Your thoughts will determine your attitude and your attitude will determine how you walk out your day. With rightly positioning your thoughts, you will be able to have good days, everyday regardless of what comes at you, because you are focused and destined to win in all things.”

In further detailing the purpose and mission for her book, Leatham emphasized that her desire to finally assemble it was simple: because God said it was time that her voice be heard not just north of the border, but around the world — so that men would see her good works and glorify Him, if you will.

Now, in less than one year since its much-anticipated inception, Leatham — all because she steadfastly obeyed the voice of God — is enlightening and reminding the universe on the importance of winning everyday regardless of their present situation and circumstances.

“It all starts in the mind, and with the right mindset, you can achieve victory,” said Leatham, whose desire to compose her book was fueled after attending her Uncle Cliff’s funeral in September of 2012 . “As a man thinketh in his heart so is he. In this particular time and season of life, with people looking for answers and seeking truth, The Daily Word provides the reader clear and articulate positive reinforcement, helping one to better frame their thoughts in a constructive way that will remind them of God and how He can give them strength to make the best of each and every day.”

By and large, people who routinely seek, pray to and cry out to God must first know what it means to walk in victory and, most importantly, do it with the right motives, something by which Leatham’s book teaches.

In a nutshell, the time has come that we grasp the life-changing, wholesome, vital notion that victory begins in the mind.

“The book provides real tips through challenging the thinking and that one can use right now to start walking in a victorious mindset,” Leatham, who currently resides in Toronto, said. “Experiencing God’s love for you as you get your day started or whenever you read it is where it all begins, and I want everyone to experience God’s love in its fullness.”

REMEMBERING CLIFF — Leatham’s esire to compose her book was fueled after attending her Uncle Cliff’s funeral in September of 2012.

Just as she had earnestly desired in a Facebook post shortly after sunrise Saturday.

“It started as text messages and Facebook posts for friends and family and from there was sent around the world by the recipients of the message,” said Leatham, explaining other factors that led to her producing her book. “And not a day has ever been missed since then. After spending time in prayer and fellowship each morning with the Lord, He gives me a word to share with His people.

“I know this is all Him, because if it was me, I would have been tapped out of things to say to build, strengthen and encourage others probably after 30-to-60 days,” Leatham continued. “But I am now about to hit five years this year. God is ever so good.”

All the time.

And all the time, God is ever so good.

 

For more information about Efia Leatham’s, The Daily Word: Frame Your Day for Victory In 60 Seconds, follow Efia on Facebook under Efia Leatham. Also, send email to: ejleatham@gmail.com. 

 

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

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

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Duncanville (Texas) High shooting guard Erik Talton is as good as advertised while boosting his recruiting stock

TEXAS HIGH RISE — Duncanville shoting guard Erik Talton, a 6-foot-2, 155-pound senior was seen dunking for the first time when he was a sophomore. It was long thereafter that he began to add to his basketball repertoire, having established himself as a player whose strengths consists of shooting mid-to-long range, creating his own shot off the dribble and, most importantly, demonstrating the ability to get his teammates in the flow of the game. (Photos courtesy of Cross Town Images)

DUNCANVILLE, Texas — Without question, Kenneth Talton loves his son.

Surely, he wants the best for him.

So much, in fact, that every now and then, Talton deems it necessary to demonstrate some tough love as a way to steer him in the right direction.

Take, for instance, how some time ago when Talton’s son, Erik Talton, assembled a Facebook page. You know, as expected, he was only doing that about which his peers were engaging in.

MAKING MAJOR MOVES — An honor student who’s ambition in the coming months is to suit up in college basketball uniform, Erik Talton is an electrifying, high-leaping shooting guard for perennial power Duncanville (Texas) High, which checked in at No. 25 in the state in the latest Maxpreps.com poll that was released last week.

Still, his father had other reasonable ideas. By all accounts, he sensed that Facebook could potentially be a recipe for disaster for a kid with dazzling basketball skills.

“When I discovered that Erik had created a Facebook page and that he was using it to communicate with his friends, I immediately made him take it down and began to educate him on social media,” Kenneth Talton told Making Headline News on Monday. “I told him the first thing he did wrong was not getting my permission and that there was a reaction for every action he makes wrong, right or indifferent. I felt that he was too young to engage in social media.”

Consequently, Kenneth Talton’s firm gesture and forthright response to his son having erected a Facebook, as it turned out, has proven beneficial in a variety of ways, most notably on the basketball court.

CHECK OUT ERIK TALTON: http://www.ncsasports.org/mens-basketball-recruiting/texas/duncanville/duncanville-high-school1/erik-talton.

Although his father unceremoniously suspended his Facebook account, Erik Talton, to his created, essentially has been nothing short of impressive. In fact, while playing alongside fellow Duncanville seniors Dexter Johnson, Jr. and Tyler Watkins — the three have been teammates on the same AAU team since fifth grade — Erik Talton, for a lack of better words, have posted favorable statuses not on social media, but on the court as evidenced by the slew of recruiting analysts that have followed him in recent years.

An honor student who’s ambition in the coming months is to suit up in a college basketball uniform, Erik Talton is an electrifying, high-leaping shooting guard for perennial power Duncanville (Texas) High, which checked in at No. 25 in the state in the latest Maxpreps.com poll that was released last week.

Although his father demanded that he unceremoniously suspend his Facebook account, Erik Talton, to his credit, essentially has been nothing short of impressive.

In fact, while playing alongside fellow Duncanville seniors Dexter Johnson, Jr. and Tyler Watkins — the three have been teammates on the same AAU team since fifth grade — Erik Talton, for a lack of better words, have posted favorable statuses not on social media, but on the court, as evidenced by the slew of recruiting analysts who have followed him in recent years.

For starters, the 6-foot-2, 155-pound senior was spotted dunking for the first time when he was a sophomore. It wasn’t long thereafter that he began to add to his basketball repertoire, having established himself as a player whose strengths consists of shooting efficiently from mid-to-long range, creating his own shot off the dribble and, most importantly, demonstrating the ability to get his teammates in the flow of the game.

For his valiant efforts, his solid body of work has drawn the attention of several schools, including Frank Phillips College, Hartnell Junior College in California, Northeastern Junior College in Colorado), The King’s College in New York, Norwich University, Luther College, and Kansas Wesleyan University, he said on Monday.

“I have the qualities that college coaches are looking for in a player,” Erik Talton said. “I come from a family of athletes and educators. I’m not afraid of a challenge or hard work, and I have great passion for the game. I am a high energy player, very athletic, I pride myself on defense as well as offense and I work extremely hard in the classroom and on the basketball court. I challenge myself daily to improve on my skills.”

COLLEGE BOUND FOR SURE — For his valiant efforts, his solid body of work has drawn the attention of several schools, including Frank Phillips College, Hartnell Junior College in California, Northeastern Junior College in Colorado), The King’s College in New York, Norwich University, Luther College, and Kansas Wesleyan University, he said on Monday.

Still, he realizes now is not the time to go on cruise control, in large part because he has yet to field any official offers. How else to explain his remarkable display this past summer when following what was a banner junior campaign, he enjoyed what he described as a “very big summer” on the AAU circuit when he averaged 20 points per game and led his team to consecutive championships in two major tournaments (The Great American Shootout in Duncanville and the Fab48 in Las Vegas)?

In essence, Erik’s Talton’s progress on and off the court emerged amid the wake of adversity, according to his father.

“The adversities Erik had to overcome from losing his cousin which was his best friend at the age of six and, at the age of eight, having multiple surgeries on his forearm and maintaining his drive and his desire to once again play sports at the same level prior to his injury, to the custody issues between his mom and me, which ultimately led to him moving completely with me,” Kenneth Talton said.

“That caused him to transfer his junior year from one school district (Mansfield High), where he was well established as a student athlete and played varsity since his sophomore year to another school district. He understood the impact that such a move could have on his basketball career at the college level.”

All things considered, such an untimely move from nearby Mansfield to Duncanville has in no way, shape or form hamper Erik Talton, who admittedly feels confident about his chances of playing at the collegiate level.

And to think, he didn’t need a Facebook page to express to the masses who he is.

The basketball court was a big enough platform.

“Whatever college offers me scholarship, they will get a player with tenacity, who’s a competitor, an athlete, a hard worker, a defender, a shooter and a winner,” Erik Talton said.

What a favorable difference that tough love has made.

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amateur Sports, CBS College Basketball, ESPN College Basketball, General Assignment Reporting, High School Sports, High Schools, Sports, The Big Feature

Duncanville (Texas) High point guard Tyler Watkins making a strong case that he’s worthy of a hoops scholarship

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TANTALIZING TYLER — A slim, speedy 6-foot-1, 156-pounder, Duncanville High senior point guard Watkins has yet to receive any official offers. However, chances of that changing in the foreseeable future certainly appears likely, considering he’s at least in the discussion amongst the schools that have him under their radar. According to Watkins, Midwestern State, Southern Nazarene, University Of Massachusetts at Lowell, Oklahoma Wesleyan, and Paris Junior College are among the schools that have expressed interest in Watkins, the catalyst of a Duncanville team that is ranked No. 25 in Texas according to Maxpreps.com’s latest poll.

DUNCANVILLE, Texas — Tyler Watkins doesn’t just think he can.

Heck, he’s literally gone from thinking to knowing.

Take, for instance, how late Sunday night, Watkins, a senior point guard for Duncanville (Texas) High, dauntlessly issued a rather bold, spirited declaration when asked what he would like for college scouts and recruiters to know about him, particularly his quest toward garnering an athletic scholarship.

TANTALIZING TYLER — A slim, speedy 6-foot-1, 156-pounder, Duncanville High senior point guard Watkins has yet to receive any official offers. However, chances of that changing in the foreseeable future certainly appears likely, considering he’s at least in the discussion amongst the schools that have him under their radar. According to Watkins, Midwestern State, Southern Nazarene, University Of Massachusetts at Lowell, Oklahoma Wesleyan, and Paris Junior College are among the schools that have expressed interest in Watkins, the catalyst of a Duncanville team that is ranked No. 25 in Texas according to Maxpreps.com’s latest poll.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Watkins, reciting the familiar Biblical passage of Philippians 4:13, told Making Headline News.

And just like that, the kid whom, for a majority of his young life, has established a keen reputation that suggest, among other things, that he’s capable of defying the toughest of odds, appears destined to stage the unthinkable.

Once again.

A slim, speedy 6-foot-1, 156-pounder who grew up sleeping with his basketball tucked under his arm, Watkins has yet to receive any official scholarship offers. However, chances of that changing in the foreseeable future certainly appears likely, considering he’s at least in the discussion amongst the schools that have him under their radar.

According to Watkins, Midwestern State, Southern Nazarene, University Of Massachusetts at Lowell, Oklahoma Wesleyan, and Paris Junior College are among the schools that have expressed interest in Watkins, the catalyst of a Duncanville team that is ranked No. 25 in Texas according to Maxpreps.com’s latest poll.

“I’d like colleges to know that I am noticeably  hard-working and a humble ball player,” Watkins said. “I am also highly dedicated to playing basketball and becoming a better player.”

Aside from his mental assertiveness and favorable IQ as the Panthers’ floor general, Watkins acknowledged that amongst his notable strengths is his ability to penetrate and attack the rim, not to mention demonstrating the ability to become the floor facilitator.

TEXAS TOUGH — Aside from his mental assertiveness and favorable IG as the Panthers’ floor general, Watkins acknowledged that his amongst his notable strengths is his ability to penetrate and attack the rim and demonstrating the ability to become the floor facilitators.

Conversely, arguably his most notably weakness, in his estimation, is his inconsistency to shoot from long range, although he possesses an attractive midrange shot and has proven to be an aggressive defender.

“I work on (my mechanics) every single day and I lift weights about three times a week,” Watkins said.

Among those who are especially working diligently to help steer Watkins in the right direction, particularly with regards to upgrading his stock in landing a scholarship, are his parents, Leonard and Wendy Watkins.

Both of whom are Corporate America professionals, Tyler Watkins’ parents have demonstrated unyielding support for a kid who first picked up a basketball at the age of four.

That he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down any time soon, Tyler’s parents, like his teammates and Duncanville’s coaching staff, are hopeful he’s afforded the golden opportunity they sense he deserves — putting his immense skills on display at the collegiate level.

MOM KNOWS BEST — The good news, at least for Tyler Watkins, is that the interest he’s generated in recent months is valid proof that he’s at least being considered for a full ride scholarship. “The sky is the limit for Tyler because never gives up,” Wendy Watkins said. “Tyler goes to the gym seven days a week, and he constantly tells us, ‘No Days Off.’”

“The moment I realized that Tyler may actually have a future in basketball was after several coaches came to me after a tournament handing me their cards saying,  ‘If your son ever needs a team to play for, please call me,’” Leonard Tyler said.

The biggest mystery that remains, particularly at such a crucial stage in their son’s prep basketball career, is at what point will college coaches approach them with that same enthusiasm.

The good news, at least for Tyler Watkins, is that the interest he’s generated in recent months is valid proof that he’s at least being considered for a full ride scholarship.

“The sky is the limit for Tyler because never gives up,” Wendy Watkins said. “Tyler goes to the gym seven days a week, and he constantly tells us, ‘No Days Off.’”

PUTTN’ IN WORK — Aside from his mental assertiveness and favorable IG as the Panthers’ floor general, Watkins acknowledged that his amongst his notable strengths is his ability to penetrate and attack the rim and demonstrating the ability to become the floor facilitators.

Added Leonard Watkins: “Tyler deserves the chance to play on the collegiate level because he is the most hardworking and humble individual I know.”

Not to mention that floor general for an upstart Duncanville team that could stage a dramatic and lengthy postseason run, a trend that, to Tyler Watkins’ credit, would in all likelihood, boost his recruiting stock.

By and large, the good news is he’s still got time to make a favorable impression during what has been a rather compelling scholarship audition.

“The college that offers me will be inheriting both a player and a student dedicated to helping not only myself, but others,” Tyler Watkins said. “I play hard both offensively and defensively.”

That’s because for a kid who boasts lofty aspirations of playing college basketball, he doesn’t just think he can compete with and against the finest players.

Heck, he’s literally gone from thinking to knowing.

 

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