Arise & Rejoice

October/November 2017

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October/November 2017

Young People Of Faith page 9

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BOARD CHAIRMAN

Sarah Massey is excelling as a student at the University of Texas at Austin.

She intends to become a physician.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Shepherds in the Pulpit page 4

Grace Place Pastor Ron Carlson and his ministry have transformed the lives of thousands of people in North Texas.

Legal Lines page 5

SENIOR EDITOR COMPTROLLER

Toba Hellerstein, Director TX/Israel Chamber of Commerce

SENIOR ADVISORS

Cooperate fully if you are stopped by the police. Do not make any sudden movements. Keep your hands where the officer can see them.

Business and Enterprise page 6

Starting a small business can add to your family’s income. See the steps you should take.

Education page 7

Begin paying for your children’s college education while they are in elementary school. You will save money!

A Place of Hope page 8

Friends Place is an oasis of support, compassion and safety for people with dementia and their families.

To Your Health page 10

Getting adequate sleep is important to performing well at work and in school, according to health professionals.

Serving The Needy page 12

The Muslim Community Center meets the medical and emotional needs of people from all faiths.

Building Bridges page 13

A chamber of commerce builds economic bridges between Texas and Israel.

EDITORIAL DIRECTORS ADVERTISING DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR

WEB MASTER

Mayor Lee P. Brown Joseph Green-Bishop Joshua C. Johnson

Yolanda Frazier-Gills

Robert Ashley Kareem El Amin Ken Glaser Tim Livingston Kenneth Parker Syed Hassan Elizabeth Sobanjo Julius Sonko Jim Washington Anita Weinstein Mamie A. Williams Michael Williams William Woodfin James Yoon

Sierra Vieregge Samuel Muwanguzi Sarah Davenport John Derewitz

Bhakti R. Maiwala Corey Kirkendoll

Vol. 1 No. 3 October/November 2017

Arise & Rejoice is a publication that demonstrates the goodness and grace that abounds within all people. It seeks to bring all of us closer together, promoting understanding and reconciliation.

It believes in the development of a community of "we" where no one is seen as "the other" and where all people are acknowledged and respected!

Information concerning advertising may be obtained from the Advertising Coordinator, Arise & Rejoice Media Inc., P.O. Box 612964, Dallas, Texas 75231. Contact via Telephone: 214-886-3716, E-mail: joegreenbishop@aol.com. The description and attribution of advertisements are the sole responsibility of advertisers.

Visit us online WWW.ARISEREJOICEMAG.COM

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Pastor Ron Carlson:

October/November 2017 | SHEPHERDS IN THE PULPIT

A PREACHER OF RECONCILIATION

Pastor Ron Carlson said that his suburban church was founded in the 1940s when some people moved from the city of Dallas because the demographics were rapidly changing. The fellowship that he has led for the past 20 years, Grace Place Church of Christ, refused to leave, he said during a recent Bible Study class at the church, located at 402 W. Danieldale Road.

“As things have changed in our city churches have closed or moved by the hundreds,” he said.

“We elected to stay and we are committed to staying. Scripture instructs us to love and accept.

We are all saved by grace. Being critical of others is something that many of us do, and it is wrong.”

A native of Idaho, Pastor Carlson leads a flock that looks like a rainbow. His congregation includes people of many different ethnic groups from many different countries. “Too many of us

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live in climates of fear,” he said.

“I believe that only perfect love will defeat fear.

“Human beings are at times selfish and selfcentered, but we will only find peace if we serve others.”

“Finding and extending grace is very important,” he said. “Grace never gets old. All of us must seek to have lives that are filled with gentleness and reverence. Our faith is our anchor.”

Throughout the years, Pastor Carlson has reached out to those whose lives have been troubled by abuse, drugs and domestic violence. He established a ministry at his church for ex-offenders, offering them housing, job counsel-

Pastor Ron Carlson's ministry has been enhanced by the support of his wife, Sandra. The Carlsons have devoted their lives to embracing people with goodness and grace.

ing and clothing. Many of them whom he assisted are now members of the church. Members of his church have acted as counselors to the men and women his church has sheltered.

“God created the world, and he created all of us,” Pastor Carlson said. “We are all one human family. That is what we must work to create. We must all become people of reconciliation,” he said. | AR

What To Do If Stopped By The Police?

LEGAL LINES | October/November 2017

The overwhelming majority of vehicle stops of citizens made by members of law enforcement in our country do not lead to anyone being harmed or injured. Thousands of these stops take place in America each day. You do not want to be involved in a traffic stop that goes badly. Here are some suggestions to ensure your safety, the safety of your loved ones and the safety of the officer.

It is extremely important that parties to a traffic stop, members of law enforcement and citizens, remain respectful towards each other.

If you are stopped and asked to produce documents it is crucial that you inform the officer that you need to go into your glove

Under no circumstances should you obstruct or interfere with an officer as he or she is conducting his or her duty.

compartment to produce your proof of insurance or your license, if that is the case.

It is equally important that you remain in your vehicle unless you are asked to step outside of it by the officer. A traffic stop can be stressful for you and for the officer so you want to ensure that things proceed smoothly, and

without incident.

At all times during the stop, keep your hands where the officer can see them and avoid making any sudden movements. If you want to use your phone, ask the officer’s permission. If you are arrested, you have a Constitutional right to remain silent. If you choose to exercise that right you should inform the officer.

Additionally, the Constitution gives you the right to refuse a search of your car. Without your consent, a lawful search of your car will require the officer presenting you with a search warrant.

It is prudent to keep your hands on your steering wheel or on the dashboard while being questioned by an officer.

If there is another passenger in the front seat of your car suggest to him or her that they place their hands on the dashboard as well, and that they do not reach for their phone or make any sudden movements. Remember, it is not wise to threaten that you intend to file a complaint. If you feel that you were mistreated you can file a complaint after the stop is over.

Parents with teenage children should have a discussion with them regarding what they should do during a traffic stop.

It is important that teenagers understand how they should conduct themselves during encounters with members of law enforcement. The principle objective in all of this is safety! | AR

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Starting A Small Business October/November 2017 | BUSINESS

The North Texas region is one of the most vibrant business markets in the country. Each month thousands of new residents are moving into the area and there is tremendous opportunity for people who want to go into business for themselves. If you are employed, you may not want to quit your job, but you may want to begin a small business that operates on the weekends or on the days when you are not at your regular place of employment.

Here are some tips that you want to consider before starting a business. You may have a good idea, and you do want to be prudent before you invest your time and your money in a venture that you think has potential to earn income for you and your family.

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It is important to start small, particularly if you do not have an abundance of capital to invest in your venture, or to hire employees. A wise step to take is to write a business plan. It does not have to be an extensive document. In fact, it can be one or two pages.

Share your idea with members of your family and with others that you trust. Ask for their suggestions before you proceed.

A very important element of your business plan is a mission statement. Define for yourself and for others what you plan to accomplish. Identify your target audience and outline how you plan to approach them, and how you intend to sell your products or your services.

Make certain that you create a

If you are employed, you may not want to quit your job, but you may want to begin a small business that operates on the weekends or on the days when you are not at your regular place of employment.

budget for your business. In the beginning you should attempt to keep your expenses as low as possible. Your numbers are important, particularly if you are

seeking investors. People will invest if your numbers are sound.

Create an online presence for your business and let others know about it. If you establish a Face Book page ask your friends to share it with their friends. Give your friends some type of incentive for sharing your idea with others such as giving them a discount on your goods and services.

It is a good idea to create a separate bank account for your business. That way, you will not fall into the trap of mixing your personal and business funds. That can create a headache when it comes time to filing taxes.

Take a chance, but be prudent as you move forward. Many large companies started with small ideas and prudent plans! | AR

Prepaying For College In Texas

EDUCATION | October/November 2017

Investing in the Texas Tuition College Promise Fund is a wise investment for any parent or guardian. The state guaranteed program allows a family to prepay and save college tuition at any Texas college or university.

Many parents who pay into the fund when their children are young have realized significant savings.

The Promise Fund is administrated by the Texas Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board.

While it does not pay for graduate studies or room and board, it will allow you to pay towards tuition by purchasing “tuition units.”

Many parents who have used

the fund say that it helped their families tremendously when it was time for their sons and daughters to attend college. Some families enter the fund when their children are in elementary school.

By purchasing tuition units at today’s costs you essentially “lock in” future costs for higher education. Units can be purchased for as little as $25.00. By participating in the fund and paying for education costs at today’s rates, you will weather future increases in tuition costs. There are federal tax benefits associated with the plan and payment options are flexible.

Enrolling in the plan is quite simple and is not time consum-

Many parents who have used the fund say that it helped their families tremendously when it was time for their sons and daughters to attend college. Some families enter the fund when their children are in elementary school.

ing. It can be done online or by mail. There is a nominal enrollment fee. In addition to parents, non-profits that award scholarship to students can also take advantage of the plan’s benefits.

The annual enrollment period for the Promise Fund will end at the end of February, 2018. The program is guaranteed by the state of Texas. Additional information on the fund can be found by going to www.texastomorrowfunds.org. Remember, the sooner you get started with a program to pay for the education of your children or grandchildren the less difficult it will be once they are ready for college or university. | AR

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Faith Love and Dementia

October/November 2017 | COVER STORY

Marylynne Henry's life changed dramatically when her husband, Rodney, suffered a severe brain injury that led to severe dementia.

Rodney Henry went from a successful career in commercial construction to having to be cared for by his wife, the owner of Friends Place Adult Day Services located at 1232 W. Belt Line Road in DeSoto.

Five days each week, the Henry's travel from their home to their place of business where Mrs. Henry supervises a staff of 15 professionals while her husband participates in activities such as bingo, painting, reading, gardening, art and light exercises.

"My husband's condition has given me great purpose," said Mrs. Henry, a native of Pennsylvania who came to Texas for college and met her husband here in

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Rodney and Marylynne Henry

1972.

"We discovered that he had dementia in 2007," she said. "One year later I had to take him to a daycare facility before going to work each day. It was difficult, but it was what I had to do. We

are family."

Modeled on the Richardson based facility that cared for her husband, Mrs. Henry started Friends Place in October of 2012 with four employees and five clients which are referred to as members. Now nearly 40 adults spend their days with Mrs. Henry and her team of caregivers.

Mr. and Mrs. Henry have two children. Diane is an auditor for a major business in North Texas.

Ryan teaches English in China.

"My husband likes to take naps in a recliner that we have in our facility," she said. "I have also discovered that he has an interest in painting. That was something I did not know."

Mrs. Henry said that people needed to become more knowledgeable about dementia, and the

"Dementia is a serious problem in our society.

We are devoted to helping our members and their caregivers.�

emotional and economic costs it creates. "We need more people involved," she said.

"I believe that the tragedy that occurred in my family's life has led me to a place where I can assist others in a meaningful way," she said while greeting the daughter of one of her members.

"My goal is to provide an environment for our members that is loving and caring," Mrs. Henry said. "God has given me a peace that allows me to help my husband and others," she said. | AR

Marylynne Henry, center, and members of her team are committed to serving those who suffer from dementia.

Encouraged By Faith Now a second-year student at the University of Texas at Austin, Sarah Massey wants to one day become one of this country's leading physicians.

"I have been interested in science since I was in the second grade," said Ms. Massey, a member of Concord Baptist Church, and an honors graduate from Bishop Dunne Catholic School in Dallas.

Raised in Concord where her parents, Mark and Angela, are members, Ms. Massey said that her family and her faith have been crucial to her success as a student.

"My faith has encouraged me to be a better person, she said.

Her maternal grandparents, Pastor Fred and First Lady Bobbie Powell, have played a significant role in her spiritual growth, Ms.

YOUNG PEOPLE OF FAITH | October/November 2017

“I am grateful to my parents for instilling in me a sense of Godliness, and for teaching me to care for other people.�

Massey said.

"I am in a study group at school," Ms. Massey said.

"Prayer is a very important part of what we do. Without prayer it appeared as though the world was collapsing around me," she said.

"I have had the opportunity to study and travel abroad, " she said. " I have met and worked with students from various cultures and backgrounds. We are all important in God's universe, and in God's plan." | AR

Sarah, center, has been encouraged to pursue greatness by her parents.

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The Importance Of Sleeping October/November 2017 | TO YOUR HEALTH

Getting a sound night’s sleep is crucial to the maintenance of a quality life and good mental health, according to doctors and sleep experts. Sleeping is extremely important, they said. A proper sleep determines how our bodies feel while we are awake, and even affects brain function.

Sleep deficiencies cause harm and can impact thinking, interaction with others, work habits and learning. A lack of sleep can also lead to chronic and persistent health conditions. Studies have shown that the inability to sleep can lead to difficulties while making decisions. Depression, behavioral problems and emotional instability are also linked to sleep deprivation.

Serious illnesses or health con-

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Studies have shown that the inability to sleep can lead to difficulties while making decisions.

Depression, behavioral problems and emotional instability are also linked to sleep deprivation

ditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and high blood pressure can result from a lack of quality sleep.

Studies have shown that having a sound sleep enables employees to work better at their jobs, and enables students to learn more.

Most people are unaware of the dangers associated with not getting adequate and quality sleep. A lack of proper sleep has a negative effect on the ability to operate a car properly.

Some studies have shown that

sleep deprived drivers are as dangerous as those drivers who have consumed dangerous amount of alcohol.

A relationship has been discovered between sleep deprivation and obesity in teenagers. One study indicated that for each hour of sleep lost, the chances of becoming obese increased.

Adequate sleep also enhances the body’s ability to release hormones that promote normal growth in young people.

Quality sleep is also important

to repairing heart and blood vessels, according to researchers at the National Institutes of Health in Washington. The problem of inadequate sleep is prominent among young people, particularly teenagers and those in their early twenties.

According to a study by the United States Department of Transportation, nearly four percent of all automobile accidents on highways are caused by sleep deprived drivers. Many of these crashes result in fatalities, federal officials said.

Going to bed earlier and not drinking alcohol or eating heavy foods at night will fight sleep deprivation, researchers said. Exercising regularly will also help the problem, they added. | AR

October/November 2017

The exhibit highlights African American achievements and struggles during World War II both abroad and at home and explores how the war served as a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement.

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Serving The Needy With Love

October/November 2017 | A FAMILY OF FAITH

At the core of Dr. Basheer Ahmed's life is a moral obligation to contribute his time, his resources and his talents to improving humanity.

A native of India, Dr. Ahmed, a well-known psychiatrist in North Texas, says that his faith commands him to "help all people, regardless of background, color or faith.

His view of the world and his passion for goodness led him to found the Muslim Community Center for Human Services in 1998 by reaching out to Muslim health professionals that agreed to donate their services to people in need.

The Center, whose name in Arabic means the healing place, provides dental, medical and mental health services to low income people in North Texas. It also gives domestic violence counseling. Dr. Talaun Simmons, a member of the Potters House, has been the executive director of the Center for more than a decade.

At the Center, located in North Richland Hills, health professionals donate their time and skills to ensure that people without health insurance are given the same medical treatment as the insured.

Those who can afford it pay a $25.00 fee.

The Center works with area churches and community residents to coordinate health expos.

In its infancy all of the medical professionals that donated their services were Muslims. While most of the patients were not members of the faith.

"Our doors are open to all people," said Dr. Ahmed who is heavily involved in interfaith activities in North Texas, and works closely

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Dr. Sarah Zaheer donates her time and talent to help patients at the Muslim Community Center. She views her work as a calling.

“Our long-range vision is to continue our work.

There are great needs in our society, and we have been placed here to meet them.�

with organizations that service people of the Jewish and Christian faiths.

A member of the National Association of Free Clinics, the health clinic is open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 am until 5 pm. A relationship with Quest Labs, a national pharmaceutical firm, affords clients a 75 percent discount on all lab work.

"Our long-range vision is to continue our work," said Dr. Ahmed. "There are great needs in our society, and we have been placed here to meet them," he said. | AR

Dr. Basheer's vision has been enhanced by Dr. Talaun Simmons who runs the day to day activities of the Center.

A Chamber Builds Bridges

A FAMILY OF FAITH | October/November 2017

Working with the leadership of some of the largest companies in Texas inspires Toba Hellerstein, the executive director of the Texas-Israel Chamber of Commerce.

Founded in 2007, the primary objective of the Chamber is to create economic relationships between companies in Texas and those located in Israel.

A native of New York, Ms. Hellerstein has guided the Chamber since November of 2016. The organization’s principal office is located in Dallas. A number of prominent business leaders in North Texas are members of the Chamber’s board of directors.

“I am blessed to do the work that I do. My work allows me to support the people of Israel in an important way.”

United States and in Israel as they pursue business opportunities. Additionally, the Chamber helps businesses as they attempt to find investors and markets, Ms. Hellerstein said.

Recently, Ms. Hellerstein led a seminar on business opportunities in Israel at a forum held at Temple

Shalom in North Dallas. “I am the only full-time staff member at the moment,” she said. “I am blessed to be doing the work that I do. My work allows me to support the people of Israel in an important way,” she added.

To learn more about the chamber write: info@TexasIsrael.org | AR

Toba Hellerstein

“The principal function of the chamber is to help to establish economic relationships between Israel and Texas,” said Ms. Hellerstein who prior to joining the Chamber advised companies that were interested in investing in the Middle East.

In May, the Chamber helped to organize and participated in an Israel-Texas water collaboration conference which was held at Texas State University. Attendees included officials from Texas state government, private water experts from Texas and representatives from water companies in Israel.

Among the Chamber’s priorities is to assist companies located in the

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