Thursday, November 12, 2009

Judge Hatchett Challenges Parents






Judge Glenda Hatchett of the "Judge Hatchett" show brought her high-energy, no-nonsense style of justice to Port Arthur Tuesday night. After she was introduced, the judge said "I need some room" and pushed two tables that were on either side of the podium away so that she could freely walk around. After a few minutes, she left the stage altogether and moved down to the floor to be even closer to the audience. She was the keynote speaker at the city's Youth Empowerment Program at the Bob Bowers Civic Center which attracted a big crowd. The purpose of the program is to inspire and encourage young people to make good choices and lead productive lives.
Judge Hatchett challenged parents to communicate with their children. "Ask them 'how was your day?'", Judge Hatchett said when the kids return home from school. While at first their answers will be short eventually they will open it. She also said it's important to talk to your kids about their dreams. She asked students in the audience to line up and asked each one what they wanted to be. Afterwards a reception was held and Judge Hatchett signed copies of her bestselling book "Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say." I emceed the program along with a young lady named Raven who is a student at Memorial High School. Raven did a wonderful job. Judge Hatchett was very warm and personable and fiesty just like she is on her show. By the way, I didn't know she's no longer doing her show. The show has been in syndication for two years now. She spends her time speaking across the country and she's starting a parenting forum online that will provide tips on raising successful kids.
The evening also featured Motivational Speaker Kemba Smith who spent 6-1/2 years in prison after getting involved with a drug-dealing boyfriend. She cautions young people about how the wrong choices can change the course of your life forever.
Congrats to Acting City Attorney Val Tizeno for putting together a wonderful program!

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