June/July 2017
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BETWEEN OUR COVERS | June/July 2017 Š
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Fourth degree black belt and former national Taekwondo Champion Stephanie Johnson, operates Chang Lee's Taekwondo Sports in DeSoto. Her classes include students of all ages and skill levels.
Mayor Lee P. Brown
Joseph Green-Bishop
SENIOR EDITOR
Joshua C. Johnson
COMPTROLLER
Yolanda Frazier-Gills
SENIOR ADVISORS
Young People Of Faith page 8 Young people of different faiths and races participate in a Taekwondo studio operated by Stephanie Johnson a member of Concord Baptist Church
Shepherds in the Pulpit page 4
Robert Ashley Kareem El Amin Ken Glaser Tim Livingston Kenneth Parker Muhammed Riyaz Elizabeth Sobanjo Julius Sonko Jim Washington Anita Weinstein Warner Mamie Williams Michael Williams William Woodfin James Yoon
FatherJames Wesley Harris, Jr. teaches that people grow by understanding their differences and working together EDITORIAL DIRECTORS
Sierra Vieregge Samuel Muwanguzi
Choosing A Lawyer page 5 How To Avoid Financial Stress page 6 Those who find themselves in stressful financial situations will cope better if they recognize the habits that cause their financial problems, and attempt to address them.
Making Sense Of Investing page 7 To Your Health page 10
SENIOR ADVERTISING DIRECTORS
Constance Burton Bill Hoffpauer Aaron Palmer
Vol. 1 No. 2 June/July 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.
Business page 11 New York Life Insurance Agent Joan Hill's life includes helping people and institutions to secure their financial futures.
Real Estate page 14 For the past five years Davena Wellington has provided residential and commercial customers with a state of the art security system that is affordable, and that can be controlled by a smart phone.
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: divinedesigntexas@gmail.com. The description and attribution of advertisements are the sole responsibility of advertisers.
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June/July 2017 | SHEPHERDS IN THE PULPIT
Father Harris:
SEEKING COMMUNITIES OF FAITH AND
P
eople of faith can make the world better by helping their neighbors and by loving one another, said Father James Wesley Harris, Jr., the Rector at St. Anne Episcopal Church in DeSoto. "As people we are moving too fast," said Father Harris. "We are not taking enough time to consider our spirituality. We spend too much time on our phones, and not enough time reflecting on the state of the world, and recognizing that all us can be instruments of peace." Born in Memphis and raised in Tulsa, Father Harris Knew that there was a calling on his life when he was eight-years-old. "I told one of my Sunday School instructors that one day I wanted to become a missionary," he said. "My father, James, Sr. and my mother, Mell, were great role models for my two sisters, my younger brother and me," said Father Harris. "They were anchors in our lives." After earning undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees and pastoring in several parts of the country, Father Harris was called to lead the people of St. Anne in 2014. He and his wife, Laural, have two daughters, Whitney and Erin, along with three grandchildren. "My daughters and their families have been a great blessing in our lives," he said. "My wife and I are a spiritual team. She has been so faithful in her acceptance of the call upon my life." Father Harris is described by many who know him as a "sensational person and priest who never has a negative thing to say about anyone." "As people we are different, yet we have a responsibility to each other," he said. "We will find greater peace in our society if we are willing to sit down with each other, and get to know one another. We are all God's children,� he said. | AR
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Each day Father James Wesley Harris, Jr. is determined to make the world better for all human-beings.
LEGAL LINES | June/July 2017
The Importance of Legal Representation If you have been charged with a criminal offense, served with divorce papers, injured in an accident, or received notice of a lawsuit, you should seek and retain the advice of legal counsel. Even those who are not facing court proceedings will find the advice of lawyers valuable. Lawyers can be very helpful to those who are suddenly confronted with confusing rules and regulations involving business transactions, estate planning, the writing of wills and tax laws. If you are charged with a crime you should contact a lawyer immediately. There are certain rights that you have that you may not be aware of that can protect you. Most people are not aware of these rights, but a lawyer will know what they are, and advise
you regarding your constitutionally guaranteed protections. In American society, the law is designed to protect people, their businesses and their property. The law, however, can be very confusing for most people who have not had legal training. Services provided by lawyers in our society are
different. Some lawyers practice criminal law while others have practices that are civil in nature. If you have been charged with a crime, you do not want to engage the services of a lawyer whose practice is primarily civil litigation. Consequently, if you have been injured in an accident, you
do not want to hire a bankruptcy attorney. You want to engage the services of a firm or an individual whose practice is consistent with the situation that you are facing. When hiring a lawyer it is wise to check with a local bar association or ask a friend or neighbor if they know a quality lawyer who produced results that were beneficial. Sometimes it is best to speak with more than one lawyer before you make a decision on legal representation. Retaining an experienced lawyer is crucial for individuals who are seeking justice and fairness. The laws of this country exist to protect its citizens. Legal representation will help to guarantee that you are the beneficiary of that protection. | AR
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June/July 2017 | BUSINESS
Avoiding Financial Stress We live in economically challenging times and the lack of income and personal savings are major sources of stress in our lives, and in the lives of our children. While many parents believe that children are not concerned about the financial state of their households, some studies indicate that 30 percent of young people are worried about their family’s financial condition. A survey from the American Psychological Association found that more than 75 percent of American families said that income was a “significant” reason for stress. The mental uncertainty that is associated with inadequate income should be recognized, and people should take steps to manage and
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abate the related stress, according to financial experts and sociologists. Those who find themselves in stressful financial situations will cope better if they recognize the habits that cause their financial problems, and attempt to address them. Many financial experts recommend that families get together and identify ways in which they can reduce the amount of money that they spend for living expenses. It is not uncommon for those who are facing economic uncertainty to turn to habits such as drinking, smoking and gambling. Financial stress can lead to arguments between family members that often permanently damage re-
Arguments about money tend to be extremely emotional and stressful. lationships between spouses, and between parents and children. It’s been found that arguments about money tend to be extremely emotional and often the stress associated with arguing creates permanent damage in marriages and relationships. It does not have to be that way. If you are unable to control your spending habits and your problems worsen, you should seek the advice of a professional credit counseling service. Or seek out a financial
planner who can help bring your family’s expenses under control. It is important to include your children in your discussions about family financial matters. Let everyone know the items that are most important to the success of your family. Including your children will assist them in understanding the importance of saving money for their futures. Work as a team when it comes to financial matters. Select a regular time during the course of the month to review and discuss financial issues. Make managing your money as much fun as possible. In the long run, every family member will benefit; your family will become strong and grow closer. | AR
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June/July 2017 | YOUNG PEOPLE OF FAITH
h t i a F
and
Former National Taekwondo Champion Forges Future Leaders
Tae
o d n o w k S
tephanie Johnson prepares young people for their futures by teaching them martial arts and the importance of helping each other. While growing up in South Dallas, Stephanie Johnson never thought that she would one day be included among the finest martial arts professionals in the country. Raised by her great-grandmother, Ms. Johnson, a member of the Concord Baptist Church in Dallas, spends her time teaching skills that instill discipline while she molds young minds. "I work with children as young as three, and with adults who are middle age," said Ms. Johnson, a 4th degree black belt who operates Chang Lee's Taekwondo Sports located at 917 North Hampton Road in DeSoto. "When I work with young students I attempt to instill in them a sense of confidence, self-respect and positive direction, said Ms. Johnson whose business is open Monday thru Friday from five until eight in the evening. "My students include young people from various ethnic groups in North Texas," she said. "We compete together. We practice together. We travel together. We have become family, she said. "Starting and maintaining this business has been a walk of faith," said Ms. Johnson, a member of the security ministry at her church. "I see each of my students as members of my extended family. My husband, Kevin, is very supportive of me and my business. My son has also been a great asset to me." A 2008 national champion, Ms. Johnson said that she takes great joy in helping young people prepare for their futures. "Through my work I attempt to instill self- confidence and discipline in my students," she said. “I urge them to get involved in their communities, and to help others." | AR
Johnson teaches her students self-discipline and the importance of hard work.
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YOUNG PEOPLE OF FAITH | June/July 2017 Many of the studio's students participate in martial arts competitions throughout Texas and the region.
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June/July 2017 | TO YOUR HEALTH
You are What You Eat! Some of the leading causes of death such as cancer, stroke, heart disease and lung disease can be avoided by improving personal health habits, according to health professionals. Staying physically active, eating properly and not using tobacco products are examples of practices that contribute to quality health. A significant number of researchers conclude that health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can be controlled or even prevented by a proper diet. It is very important that our bodies receive the proper nutrients that they require. A number of nutrionists recommend that people consume vegetables, fruits, dry beans, low-fat dairy products, fish, whole grain breads and cereals. Some other foods that
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are considered beneficial are lentils, peanuts and chickpeas. Among the fruits that are very good to consume regularly are apples, avocadoes, bananas, blueberries, oranges and strawberries. Apples are a very good source of fiber. They contain vitamin C and
various antioxidants. Avocados are ripe with fiber, vitamin C and potassium. Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6 while blueberries and oranges also contain antioxidants. Eating the right type of vegetables is important. Some extremely
healthy ones include broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, cauliflower, kale, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, celery, eggplant, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, squash, turnips and zucchini. It is best, nutrionists say, to eat several different types of vegetables on a daily basis. Eating fish and seafood is recommended by many health professionals. They contain omega-3 fatty acids and iodine. Both of these nutrients are extremely important. A number of studies have found that people who consume fish and other seafood have a lower risk of heart disease and dementia. Lean beef, chicken breasts and lamb are among the meats that are healthy. Non-processed gently cooked meats are good for people, and contain many vital nutrients. | AR
BUSINESS | June/July 2017
Helping Others Plan! A large part of Joan Hill's life is helping people and institutions to secure their financial futures. A graduate of Xavier University in New Orleans, Ms. Hill is an agent for New York Life. She specializes in life insurance, annuities, long term care, retirement savings, education planning and key person protection. "I want to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and institutions,)" said Ms. Hill who lives in North Garland with her husband, Arturo, and their sons. After graduating from university, Ms. Hill worked in the IT Industry where she helped to develop voice technologies that helped banking consumers. "I have always been a people person," she said. "And I am delighted to be associated with a
"I have always been a people person ... And I am delighted to be associated with a company such as New York Life that is dedicated to financial stability for all people."
company such as New York Life that is dedicated to financial stability for all people." Ms. Hill said that she is extremely proud to be a part of a New
York Life program, started in 2010, that is dedicated to financial stability and empowerment in the African American community. "It is called the 50 Billion Dollar
Empowerment Program and is designed to empower and financially educate the African American community. It is extremely important," Ms. Hill said. The program was the brainchild of Eugene Mitchell, a senior vicepresident at New York Life in New York, Ms. Hill said. Twelve hundred New York Life agents throughout the country are involved in the program, Ms. Hill said. "The work that I do gives me the opportunity to impact someone's life in the present, and for generations to come," said Ms. Hill who attends One Community Church in Plano with her family. Ms. Hill can be reached by phone at 469 412 5758 or by email jcoleyhill@ft.newyorklife.com | AR
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June/July 2017 | A FAMILY OF FAITH
Syed Hassan Inspires Others B
elieving in and serving others is at the heart of Hassan's beliefs. Syed Hassan has been an active participant in Democratic Party politics in Texas for more than two decades. Born in Pakistan, he studied economics at Michigan State University before coming to Texas where he went to work for American Airlines. Hassan, his wife, Tazeen, and their two sons, Babar and Faiz, have lived in South Arlington since 1995, where he has been a Democratic Party Precinct Chair since 2002. Currently, Hassan is running for a seat on the Tarrant County Board of Commissioners. "I have always believed in servCONTINUED ON PAGE 13
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Syed and Tazeen Hassan have a history of social and political involvement in North Texas.
A FAMILY OF FAITH | June/July 2017
"Civic engagement is very important to me. There are many issues in government that impact the lives of people and as an elected official I want to be involved in establishing programs and policies that make our society better for all of its people." Syed works closely with leaders such as former senator Wendy Davis.
CONTINUED .... ice to others," said Hassan who was a delegate to the 2004 Democrat Convention in Boston where former President Barack Obama delivered the keynote address. "Civic engagement is very im-
portant to me," Hassan said. "There are many issues in government that impact the lives of people and as an elected official I want to be involved in establishing programs and policies that make our society better for all of its people."
"The diversity of our country and its communities is what makes us great," he said. "There is no other country on the face of the earth like America." Hassan said that one of the remarkable characteristics about America is the constant dialogue
that takes place among its people. "As a country we do have our challenges," Hassan said. "But we are able to communicate with each other because we sit down and sort out our differences. We are able to listen to, and reason with one another." | AR
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June/July 2017 | PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE
Securing Your Home and Business Peace of mind has always been extremely important to Davena Wellington. Not only in her own life, but in the lives of others. For the past five years Ms. Wellington has made that a principal objective by providing residential and commercial customers with a state of the art security system that is affordable, and that can be controlled by a smart phone. "I receive tremendous satisfaction in the work that I do," said Ms. Wellington, a security consultant with Central Security Group, a Fort Worth based firm that also has remote locations throughout North Texas. "We provide security systems that allow our customers to remotely use cameras to protect their properties," she said. "Additionally, our system allows its users to con-
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"Additionally, our system allows its users to control their lights, their locks and even their room temperatures while they are away from their properties. We are affordable, and we offer superior customer service." Davena Wellington wants to help you protect your home and business.
trol their lights, their locks and even their room temperatures while they are away from their properties. We are affordable, and we offer superior customer service." "Our system allows people to
protect their properties. It can also be used during a medical emergency," she said. "This is very important for seniors, and for those who live alone." A member of City Temple Sev-
enth Day Adventist Church in Dallas, Ms. Wellington and her daughters are actively involved in volunteer activities throughout North Texas. While growing up in St. Louis, Ms. Wellington's parents taught their children the importance of making contributions to others, and to the community. A family friend, Ms. Butler, also helped to instill personal values in her that she practices today. "My daughters and I regularly volunteer in women's shelters, schools and at food banks," she said. "We have found that sharing our talents enrich our souls." Ms. Wellington can be reached by phone at 817 691 5235 or by email at: Davena.Wellington@CentralSecurityGroup.Com | AR
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