Garland Journal by Cheryl Smith

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VOL XVIII ISSUE 24 JULY 17, 2019

MY TRUTH Cheryl Smith Publisher

Tracks of my Tears Overcoming the feeling of loss is not easy for everyone and people grieve in different ways. During a discussion in class, one student would not accept that his reality was his alone and he couldn’t rely on his own narratives to describe or rationalize for the actions or feelings of others. Too often people will expect others to act as they would in a situation, foregoing what is real for that person. Loss, pain, joy, sorrow, happiness—everyone reacts differently but too often we become judgmental if we feel that the response is not adequate, normal or appropriate. You know the people who will tell, almost demand that you smile; and they don’t have a clue about what is going on in your world. Or, the person who tells someone that you saw them and didn’t speak, when you were totally in another space, dealing with your own issues and really didn’t see them. Compassion is always good. Judgmental behavior is usually negative. When do people learn to stop trying to make their reality the reality of others? When do they realize that the only shoes they are walking in are their own, so they don’t know your truth?

Just like the Black College, or Black-owned businesses, and even the Black Church; the Black press suffers tremendously in America from a mentality that was a direct result of post slavery advances. Once we were given the “privilege” of partaking; ours for some, will never be good enough. Which brings me to my truth. I am in pain. My heart aches. But life has to go on and I must have faith that “this too shall pass.” But right now, I don’t know if I can be consoled. You see, it was July 6 when I heard the news that the Chicago Defender would no longer be available in print. Instead I would have to read the digital version. Now there will most likely be those who say, “don’t worry, don’t despair.” Guess what, I am worried and I do have a feeling of despair, frustration and almost anger. The Chicago Defender is family to me and Real Times Media is a major media force and source in America, especially Black America. I know times are changing and change is good; however, I think about the readers who don’t have use of electronics or internet/Wifi service. Sounds illogic, but I submit to you that everyone in this great country does not have all the “necessities” or “luxuries” that you enjoy. According to a study conducted by the PEW Research Center, “roughly one-in-five American adults are “smartphone-only” internet users – meaning they own a smartphone, but do not have traditional home broadband service.” Also, about 73% of U.S. citizens over 65 use the Internet. So what about the other 27%? I realize that print newspapers have been declining for decades, but did you know that online news sources have experienced a decline in See MY TRUTH, page 4

QUIT PLAYIN’

John Henry and the Statesman! By Vincent L. Hall

“Black” in the day, or as Dr. Jeremiah Wright would call it; B.C. (before cable), Black people were the Mexicans of their era. We say now that Mexicans and immigrants will do the dirty jobs that no one else will. Well, there was a time when Black folk labored below a fair wage and were damn good at it. Ask Big Mama or Granny. These women washed, ironed, cleaned, cooked and nannied for America’s most prestigious families. There are still prominent White families who pile up in their cars to pay their respects to some of our grandmothers on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Mother’s Day. These “domestics” returned to their modest

homes and worked and cleaned with the same intensity and pride. The work we did set the standard for our parenting. And then cable TV took over. Work and thrift were still the order of the day in my generation and 85% of my peers lived a similar experience. On Saturday morning our mamas would slap the taste buds out of our mouths if we had the audacity to turn on a television before the chores were done. Those chores included sweeping, mopping, a proper scrubbing of the latrines and all areas therewith and encompassing. We hung the laundry on clotheslines to dry and mowed the yard See QUIT PLAYIN, page 5

Garland woman assaulted by Uber passengers

serve in the military because of something on their record that can be eliminated. This is an opportunity for them to change their lives for the better.” The Expunction Expo is convened in partnership with local volunteer attorneys, as well See COUNTY, page 8

See DR. LASSITER, page 3

Seated with her attorney Larry Taylor of the Cochran Firm, Uber driver Zonya Robinson recently recounted the attack she suffered at the hands of passengers she picked up from a strip club in Haltom City in early March. A driver for the ride share service for the past two years, Ms. Robinson said she has never encountered the type of customers she did that night and she is disappointed that she didn’t get support from a company she actually enjoys working for. According to Ms. Robinson, she picked up four passengers (three male, one female) shortly after midnigh. A male passenger in the front seat made sexually inappropriate comments toward her and after he continued even though she warned him to stop, she pulled over to terminate the ride. The male passengers when confronted about their behavior began to shout racial slurs.

See UBER ASSAULT, page 2

Dallas County’s Expunction Expo to help citizens clear records

District Clerk Felicia Pitre, DA Creuzot and Chief Public Defender Lynn Richardson.

The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, The Dallas County Public Defender’s Office, and the Dallas County District Clerk’s Office are hosting the third annual Expunction Expo. The Expo aims to clear criminal records of people who, by law, are eligible for an expunction.

“We want to help people who qualify for an expunction get a fresh start so they can become productive and contributing members of society,” says Criminal District Attorney John Creuzot. “Many people may not be able to obtain gainful employment, attend college or

Dr. Wright Lassiter Jr.

Services were held on July 13 for Dr. Wright Lassiter Jr., former chancellor of Dallas County Community College, local minister and educator who died recently at his home in Dallas. He was 85. Dr. Lassiter was appointed chancellor in 2007 after serving as president of El Centro College for 20 years. “It is with tremendous sadness that I inform you of the death of beloved former Dallas County Community College Chancellor Dr. Wright Lassiter Jr.,” said Dr. Joe May, DCCCD’s chancellor. “We all live in the spirit of hope and service that was the trademark of Dr. Lassiter’s life,” said Dr. May said. “He lived by example. He was larger than life, yet he lived with humility. He taught us how to serve our students with passion and focus. “We will carry on his legacy of teaching, leading and ensuring that higher education is accessible to all,” Dr. May said. Dr. Lassiter was the district’s first African American chancellor. During his time as chancellor, he oversaw a $450 million bond election which resulted in the construction of 29 buildings including five new community education campuses. “Dr. Lassiter served many students and employees at DCCCD for over 25 years. His leadership is a testament to his commitment to a higher education for all,” said DCCCD Board Chairwoman Diana Flores. “He often spoke with a quiet eloquence. We are saddened to learn of his passing, and the DCCCD Board offers condolences to his family.” Trustee Charletta Compton recalled Dr. Lassiter as a “dedicated leader who championed worthy causes.” “I first met Dr. Lassiter when I worked at the Dallas Black Chamber where he chaired the Education Committee,” Compton said. “He did an outstanding job as president of El Centro College, and worked well with the Board when he was chancellor. I am sorry to hear that he has passed, but I know that he led a full and active life. My prayers go out to his family.” Trustee Wesley Jameson said, “It was an inspiration to know Dr. Lassiter. His legacy of insightful analysis and intuitive perceptions that he shared with others are a testament to his life’s work. He was a gifted orator who motivated thousands of individuals studying leadership skills. Not only will be he missed for his leadership qualities, but also for his ethics and kindness.” Dr. Jose Adames, president of El Centro College, said he was deeply saddened by news

By Cheryl Smith

Uber driver Zonya Robinson

Dr. Lassiter remembered at services

GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Minority Mental Health Month UV Safety Month

Mark Twain School for Talented & Gifted Admission Previews, Mark twain Leadership Vanguard 724 Green Cove Ln. 5:30-7p. Info: https://www.dallasisd.org. 2019 “Hotter Than July” Happy Hour, Tarrant County Bar Association-Ft. Worth, 1315 Calhoun St. 5-7p. Info: Karmen Johnson @ karmieatlaw@aol.com.

July 21

July 25-28

Ladies First Vendor and Networking Event at Duncanville Rec. Center, 201 James Collins Blvd. 3:30pm7:30pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Alive Dance Conference 2019, Potters House 6777 W. Kiest Blvd. Register: ThePotterHouse.org/Alive.

WAYO Presents 2nd Annual King & Queen Servant Gala 2019 at Villa Luxe Event Hall 5318 Duncanville Rd. Dallas. 6-10pm. Tickets: www.whereareyououtreach.org

July 19-21

Recurring Events Feeding The Needy Hosted by: Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez Live 834 S. Ervay St. Dallas. 3pm5pm. Sundays. Marvelous Marriage Monday’s, Friendship-West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 7-8:30p. In the Memory of Mrs. Roberta A. Johnson of Hamilton Park UMC a Library was established. Donate a Book in the name of your Loved One, R.A.J. Library in Garland, Contact Valder Beebe 214-274-1719.

July 17

A Make Up Blow Out Sale Event, Hilton Garden Inn, 912 Northton St. Ft. Worth. 10a-5p. Tickets: www.themmakeupblowoutsale-group.com.

July 19

Ole School Party Fish Fry Hole in the Wall Edition at Trinity Elk Lodge #480 2607 MLK, Jr. Blvd. 8-2am. Black Marriage Society Meet Up, Don’t Tell Supper Club 2026 Commerce St. 6p. Love & Laugh Hour, Disciple Central, 901 N. Polk St. 6p-10p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com KevOnStage. King Davis Whiteman Band, The Oasis at Joe Pool Lake, 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy. Grand Prairie, 7-11p. The Health - Wealth Connection w/ Robert Selders, Jr., Meadows Conference Center, 2900 Live Oak St. 11:30a.

July 20

Neighborhood Legal Clinic at Friendship-West Baptist Church 2020 W Wheatland Rd. Dallas 5:30pm-7:30pm.

Happy Birthday to Team Member and Special Lady L. Diane Evans

105.7 Rudy Rush Comedy Hour, Arlington Improv 309 Curtis Mathis Way, #147, 6p. Improvarlington.com. AAA Career Fair, 1225 Freeport Pkwy, Coppell. 3p-6p. Visit AAA.com/Careers RSVP to our Career Fair! Neighborhood Legal Clinic, Friendship-West Baptist Church, 2020 Wheatland Rd. 5:30p-7:30p.

Black Women’s Appreciation Event Dallas Edition a The City of DeSoto Civic Center 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 1:30-5:30pm. Antoine White at 314 630 4465.

Free Job Training in Low-Voltage Field: Class Orientation, Frazier House, 4600 Spring Ave. 9:30a-12:30p. Register: www.zwhjcoc.org.

Boney James Live! House of Blues 2200 Lamar, Dallas St. 8-10p. www.houseofblues.com

July 18 - Aug. 3 Father Comes Home From The Wars, MVC Performance Hall Mountain View College, 4849 W. Illinois Ave. 2p & 7p. Shows Info: 972-572-0998.

July 18 Music under the Dome Summer 2019 Feat: Ruben, AAM 3536 Grand Ave. 7:30 &10:30p. Sharon BeeChum 214-414-8893. Open House Networking Lunch Event, KB Studios, 1373 W. Campbell Rd. Richardson 11a-2p. Dinner and Dialogue, Belo Mansion, 2101 Ross Ave. 6p-8:30pm. Credit Score Empowerment Networking Social, GLo Best Western, 1215 N. I-35E, DeSoto. 5-8p.

Battle of 1911 Charity Basketball Game, Presented by: The Winners Club Duncanville Fieldhouse 1700 Main St. 6:30-9:30p. Eventbrite.com. Women Empowering One Another, Church of the Disciple United Methodist, 220 S. Cockrell Hill, DeSoto. 10a.

Brown Girl Brunch, Brown Girl Shop, 324 E. Beltline Rd. #316 DeSoto.1-3p. Eventbrite.com. Ft. Worth BBQ & Brews Tours, Panther City BBQ, 201 E. Hattie St. 1-4p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

July 22 Happy Birthday to Team Member Jihad Muhammad Cardio Hip Hop with JessieMae at LC Fitness 901 N. Polk St. Ste. #370. DeSoto. 6:30pm. Every Mon. & Wed. Info: www.jcfitness.info. Monday Jazz Happy Hour w/ The Willis Duo at The Balcony Club 1825 Abrams Rd. Ste. #B, Dallas 6pm8pm. Free Tickets: eventbrite.com

July23 Small Business Training 2019, Dallas Metropolitan S.B.D.C, Credit Counseling, Bill J. Priest SBI Center 1402 Corinth St. #1534. 6-8p. Register by 7-19, 4p. Eventbrite. The Jazz Jam at Jazz BeCuzz Art Center 9319 LBJ Fwy. Ste. #120. Tickets: via Eventbrite.com. Karaoke Night $2 Tuesday’s at Hero’s Lounge 3094 N. 35 Fwy. Dallas. 7pm-2am. Tickets: eventbrite.com. Love and Miracles Tour, River of Life Church, 335 S. Parks Dr. DeSoto, 7-10p. Tickets: www.ticketslocity.com.

July 24-26 Preparation for Elevation Conference 2019, Turning Point Church of God, 1020 E. Pleasant Run Rd., DeSoto. 9am & 7pm. www.metanoyadallas.org

All You Can Eat Catfish, Rockfish Sea Food Grill, 3785 S. Cooper St. 4-10p. $15.99.

July 24

The Health - Wellness Connection w/ Robert Selders,Jr., Highland Hills Library 6200 Bonnieview Rd. 10:30a-12p.

July 21-23

Prophetic Summit “Summer Slam”, Christ Cathedral Church, 3201 Purington Ave. Ft. Worth. 10a. & 7p. Info: 817-708-2703.

July & August Garland Parks & Recreation Summer Camps Available Garland’s Parks & Recreation Department offers many fun summer camps for children ranging from ages 2 to 17 during June, July and August. A variety of camps offers everything from sports and adventure, to arts and crafts, to video games and STEM learning. Find a camp that fits Garland Parks & Recreation. https://garlandtx.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=135 Learn more and download an application at GarlandYouthCouncil.org. Email GYC@GarlandTX.gov with any questions. July 17 Donate a book in the name of your loved one. Hamilton Park UMC Serenity Garden 99 year old honoree, Mrs. Roberta A. Johnson. In her memory, the R.A.J. Library has been established for Caring Heart Residential facility in Garland, Texas. The facility serves adults in a loving private care residential home. The library is sponsored by the Valder Beebe Show “A New Kind of Spiritual Talk Show”. Donate a book in the name of your loved one. We will place their name tag in your donated book. Contact: Valder Beebe 214-274-0719. July 3 – Aug. 9 Summer Nutrition Programs The City of Garland has proudly supported the Summer Nutrition Program for more than 20 years and wants to ensure the youth in the community continue to receive a meal during the summer break. City Square, an advocacy organization that works to fight poverty in the community, will oversee the 2019 program. The program provides free meals for children ages 1 to 18, Monday through Friday, June 3 through Aug. 9. The program provides free meals for children ages 1 to 18, Monday through Friday, June 3 through Aug. 9. Find a location serving meals near you. For questions, visit www.citysquare.org/food or contact volunteercoordinator@citysquare.org. July 17-August 4 Ethridge Elementary School Uniform Drive, Springcreek Church 2660 Belt Line Rd. Garland 9a-5p. Bless local families by donating these items for Ethridge Elementary K-Grade 5 students in need: Uniform Shirts Red, Navy or White (various children’s sizes)

$9.99 Catfish Wednesday’s, Shell Sack, 770 E. Road to Six Flags St. #100 Arlington. 11a-2p. For locations: www. ShellShack.com Karaoke Night $2 Tuesday’s at Hero’s Lounge 3094 N. 35 Fwy. Dallas. 7pm-2am. Tickets: eventbrite.com. Wednesdays Swing Dance Class at Allure Jazz & Cigar Lounge 110 S. Cockrell Hill, DeSoto. 7:30pm-9:30pm. Instructor: Lady Champagne. Free before 8pm. Women of the West Bible Study, Friendship West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. Wednesdays at 7p.

New Underwear, New Socks. A clothing bin is located in the Springcreek Church lobby for easy clothing drop-off. Or, if you prefer, please donate Online by giving to Local Missions at: https://pushpay.com/g/springcreekchurch?src=hpp&r=onetime&f[0]=Local%20 Missions July 18 Rise X Dallas Health & Wellness Day 4999 Naaman Forest Blvd. Garland. 10am5pm. We have added an extra full day on July 18th that is devoted to HEALTH & WELLNESS. We know how impactful the Last 90 Days challenge and Five to Thrive has been for our community. We want to take it to a WHOLE NEW LEVEL with this addition to our conference. We want to fuel your mind, body, and spirit with a day full of positive energy and acceptance, and we are including some incredible motivational speakers for this special day. This is an OPTIONAL day that requires a separate ticket. July 19 The City of Garland Is Seeking Crossing Guards for the 2019-20 School Year Join the City of Garland team with a rewarding opportunity! The City will host a hiring event Friday, July 19, at Holford Recreation Center, 2314 Homestead Place. There will be an informational session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. followed by on-site interviews from 1:45 to 4 p.m. Participants are required to apply Online for the positions and attend the informational session prior to the on-site interviews. Go to garlandtx.gov. July 19-28 “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” Presented by Garland Summer Musicals 300 Fifth St. Garland 972-205-2790. Witness this Broadway and Film classic, as Adam, the eldest of seven backwoods brothers, and his new wife help his brothers find and court wives of their own. July 20 The Positivity Party, Equinox on the Park, 6200 N. Shiloh Rd. 10a-12p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Join us for a body positive pool party, potluck and photo shoot while you relax and network with women from the area! Hosted by Equinox. Enjoy the beautiful pool at Equinox on the Park while networking with other women.

Uber assault, continued from front page She said she got out of the car to ensure that they left the vehicle. Two of the passengers, Konstantino Garefos and Jesse Mosley, also got out and threw bottles at her. Shielding her face from the oncoming bottles she suffered deep cuts and excessive bleeding. Additionally, the Garland resident said, the passengers were “inebriated,” and called her “nigger,” in addition to asking her to perform sexual acts. For her, equally insulting and egregious has been the lack of response from Uber officials. Ms. Robinson filed a complaint with Uber regarding this incident and received no response. With a variety of initiatives recently announced by Uber to enhance passenger safety, she questions whether the company values the safety of its drivers. In response to I Messenger Media’s query, an Uber spokeswoman said, “Violence has no place anywhere and what’s been described is unacceptable. Our team has been in contact with Ms. Robinson and following her reports, we permanently banned the rider accounts from the Uber app. We will fully cooperate with law enforcement and will provide information to them that would be helpful for an investigation.” Ms. Robinson was critical of Uber’s efforts, saying she was told the case was closed. “There’s no program in place,” Ms. Robinson said, adding that drivers can not carry guns, knives or even Mace. “They don’t want you to protect

Zonya Robinson with her attorney, Larry Taylor yourself and they aren’t protecting employees.” On May 14, a Tarrant County grand jury indicted Garefos for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Mosley was not indicted, even though he threw a bottle at Robinson’s head. Atty. Taylor said they have not filed a lawsuit yet. Uber’s response is important. “There should be safeguards in place,” he said. “Employees must be protected. And Ms. Robinson is not the first employee to speak out about assaults by passengers. There have also been assaults involving drivers. A representative responding to email requests decried the assault on Ms.

Robinson, calling it unacceptable. When asked why she continues driving for Uber, Ms. Robinson said, she likes the flexibility and freedom. Also, she asked, why should she quit? Instead “Uber needs to make some changes.” According to the spokeswoman, Uber has a team dedicated 24/7 to investigate specific reports and will remove an individual’s access to app if they violated Uber’s Community Guidelines. They also have many of the same transparency and accountability features that riders do, such as feedback and ratings for every trip and there is a GPS record of each trip. Unfortunately, nothing helped Ms. Robinson on that fateful night.

Happy Birthday to our Newest Team Member Cierra Mayes Senior Line Dancing at Latino Cultural Center 2600 Live Oak St. 10am. Free DCDP is on the move Grand Opening Party, 1414 N. Washington Ave. 5:30-7p. How To Build a Powerful Personal Brand Book Launch Event, Addison Treehouse 14681 Midway Rd. #200. 6-8p. Register: www.MakinganImpactBookLaunch. Small Business Training 2019, Dallas MSBDC, Legal Preparation for Sm. Bus., Bill J. Priest SBI Center 1402 Corinth St. #1534. 8-10a. Register by 7-22, 4p. Eventbrite.

When Women Pray “Prayer Brunch”, NaKayshions Wedding and Event Center, 432 S. Clark Rd. Cedar Hill, 11a-2p. Tickets www.dearfemalepreacher.com.

Texas Health “On the Go” Mobile Unit, Inspired House Of Prayer C.O.G.I.C. 3354 Balomeade, Lancaster. Call for Appt.: 855-318-7696 Mon.-Fri. 8a-4:30p.

July 25

Mark Twain School for Talented & Gifted Admission Previews, Mark twain Leadership Vanguard 724 Green Cove Ln., 5:30-7p. Info:www.dallasisd.org/twain.

July 26-27 Verna’s H.E.L.P. Foundation Job Fair & Legal Clinic at 680 Hwy 80 E. Mesquite. Both days 10am-1pm.

July 26

Hall of Fame Rodeo, Cowtown Coliseum 121 E. Exchange Ave. Ft Worth. 8p. Eventbrite.com. Latin History for Morons: Starring John Leguizamo, Winspear Opera House 2403 Flora St. 8p. www.attpac.org

July 27 Iyanla Vanzant Acts of Faith Remix, Winspear Opera House 2403 Flora St. 8pm-10pm. Tickets: www.attpac. YOUth Explosion 2019 Back2-School Fundraiser at Grace Community Baptist Church 310 S. Clark Rd. Cedar Hill. 5-8pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com An Evening of Jazz with Norman Brown and Tom Braxton at Radisson Hotel 2540 Meacham Blvd. Ft. Worth. 9pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Breeze Fashion Statement, Pon The Corners 7600 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. 7p. Black Women and Mental Health, Regal Center 8828 N. Stemmons Fwy. #225. 8:30a-12p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Desperate for Jesus Ignite The Spirit of Power, Love & Self-Control, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, 8a-4p. Register: ocbfchurch.org/dfj.

What’s going on

GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

A Fool’s Folly BY HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON CONGRESSWOMAN

#ustoo: Phenomenal Woman Transforms the Narrative BY PATTY BATES-BALLARD

The hundreds of thousands of distressed desperate women with babies, children and men from Central America, South America and Africa who journey thousands of miles from their countries, risking their lives and leaving those that they love behind to enter the United States for a new life will not be stopped by a Southern border wall. That belief is simply folly, or at worse, political rhetoric designed to win over emotional voters that can be easily manipulated during the election season by an administration whose life expectancy, many predict, will conclude in 2020. Serious thinkers understand that a comprehensive federal immigration strategy and a working relationship with the leaders of nations such as Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are critical to stem the

tide of the massive numbers of migrants that are moving north. Perhaps the president and those who help him to shape his immigration policy might consult with people such as the president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, who recently suggested that migrants would main in the country that he leads if there is sufficient employment and a safe environment. President Bukele recently urged Washington to become his country’s partner in creative a massive jobs programs in El Salvador. He said that he believes his government, with assistance from President Trump, could create nearly 400,000 jobs that do not exist today. Those jobs, President Bukele said, would discouraged Salvadorans from seeking a life in the United States, he added, saying “… if people have an opportunity

for a decent job, a decent education, a decent health care system and security, I know that forceful migration will be reduced to zero.” No one wants to leave their home. If the average person were to examine their own lives and found that they were jobless and fearful, they would search for a place where they could earn an income and raise their families in peace. Isn’t that what the first settlers in this country did when they fled what they characterized was tyranny in England? So, history teaches us that those who stand at our Southern eager to enter and those who are walking towards it are not much different from those who settled what is now the United States of America, which we have declared as the “the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

Dr. Lassiter remembered... Continued from page 1

of Dr. Lassiter’s death. Early on in my presidency, I had the pleasure of sharing lunch with Dr. Lassiter. He appeared to be a kind and wise soul who graciously shared with me some of his wealth of experience. I will forever be grateful,” Dr. Adames said. Born in Vicksburg, Miss., Dr. Lassiter received a bachelor’s degree from Alcorn State University; a master’s degree from Indiana University, and a doctorate in education from Auburn University. He arrived in Dallas in 1983 to become president of Bishop College, now Paul Quinn College. Dr. Lassiter was the recipient of numerous awards and honors. In 2013, the early college high school at El

Centro College was renamed in his honor, The Dr. Wright L. Lassiter Jr. Early College High School. In 2002, he was nominated by Pres. George W. Bush and confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as a member of the National Advisory Council to the National Endowment for the Humanities. He previously served as a commissioner for the United States Commission of Minority Business Development and as a member of the Texas Council for the Humanities. In 2006, BKM Total Office of Texas, a Dallas-based furnishing company established the Dr. Wright Lassiter Jr. BKM scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to students attending any of the seven DCCCD

colleges who are majoring in entrepreneurship studies and other disciplines. Dr. Lassiter retired in 2014 but continued to serve as a graduate school faculty member at Dallas Baptist University. An ordained minister, he taught at Concord Baptist Church and was an interim pastor at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, both in Dallas. In 2016, he received the national Leadership Award from the American Association of Community Colleges. A lifelong learner, Dr. Lassiter was the author of several books. He is survived by his wife, Demetria Lassiter; two adult children and two grandchildren. His first wife, Bessie Lassiter, died in 2014.

I recently became a volunteer docent at the African American Museum of Dallas. I’m White, and I have invited friends of all backgrounds to take tours with me. At a time when most Americans say race relations are getting worse, I’m on board with Dallas’s Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation effort to transform our country’s false narrative about African Americans and other People of Color. Curated by Jennifer Cowley, the #ustoo Phenomenal Woman art exhibition is a PHENOMENAL opportunity to experientially transform our narrative. Featuring 20 local African American woman artists, the exhibition was conceived in response to Bette Midler’s #metoo tweet referencing the John Lennon/Yoko Ono song, “Woman is the N----of the World.” The false narrative about

surrounded by the words, “In a society that profits from your self-doubt, loving yourself is a rebellious act.” An incredible handlettered trio of “Phenomenal Woman” paintings by Nicole Angelica lifts up three remarkable Black women: Maya Angelou, Michelle Obama, and Oprah Winfrey. Abi Salami’s painting, “Lady African Defiantly Shackled” personifies Africa’s unwillingness to succumb to the vestiges of colonialism and her “unapologetic belief that she deserves a proper seat” at the international table. Missy Burton’s “Dada” and “A Woman’s Work,” Yolanda Burton’s “Balance,” Tyra Goodley’s “Bus Stop,” and others exude the perseverance, camaraderie, and ingenuity African American women offer each other and the world day after exhausting day. Yet many works, including Monday’s “Ain’t I a Woman,” Jennifer Cowley’s “Shadow

LeShae’s exquisite “The Secret Society of Womb Guardians” explore the divine feminine while VET’s “Love Potion,” Lauren Cross’s “So Great in Her Gardens,” and Kaneem Smith’s heart-rending “Cotton Belt Memorial” creatively pay homage to those who have crossed over to the other side. The exhibit is a celebration of Black beauty, Black resilience, Black hair, Black bodies, Black creativity, Black girl magic, and Black lives, interpreted by artists who live life as African American women. The sense of freedom and joy expressed here invites a reconsideration of our still mostly White maledominated society. At the artists’ talk in May, it was clear that these 20 African American women have found a rare, life-sustaining connection that promises more inspiring art to come. I’m convinced that for our

Big Tex is Hiring: State Fair of Texas

Seasonal Job Applications Now Available The 2019 State Fair of Texas® is a little more than 90 days away, and Big Tex is officially looking for job applicants. Seasonal job applications are now available online for a variety of departments and positions. The State Fair is a beloved Texas tradition, so it’s easy to see why working at the Fair is just as fun as attending the annual event. The Fair provides more than 7,000 seasonal job opportunities every year, with approximately 2,200 people employed directly by the State Fair of Texas. The minimum wage for job openings paid by the State Fair of Texas for 2019 is $11.15/ hour, raised from $10.00/hour in 2018. As the annual event is a collection of small businesses, the remaining seasonal positions report to independent contractors including concessionaires, ride operators, and vendors. Applications for seasonal positions can be found online, with opportunities available in the following areas: Clean Team, Commercial Vendor Booths, Coupon Sales, Creative Arts, Food

and Beverage, Games, Gates, Greenhouse/Landscape Operations, Guest Services, Livestock, Maintenance, Plumbing, and Security. To apply for a seasonal position at the State Fair of Texas, please visit BigTex.com/ Jobs. In addition to encouraging job seekers who don’t have access to a computer to visit their area public library, the Fair has partnered with several local organizations who will be opening their computer facilities to those wanting to fill out job applications. Assistance with the application process, resumes, creating professional email accounts, and virtual phone numbers will also be offered at specific locations through CARDBoard Project. Please find details on all participating locations: Cornerstone Baptist Church 1819 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Dallas, TX 75215 (214) 426-5468 Monday – Friday, 10 am – 5 pm Saturdays, 10 am – 1 pm Cornerstone Kitchen (with online application assistance in partnership with CARDBoard Project) 2815 S. Ervay St., Bldg B.

Dallas, TX 75215 (214) 421-5532 Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10 am – 1 pm Frazier House 4600 Spring Ave. Dallas, TX 75210 (214) 324-4443 Mondays & Wednesdays,10 am–2 pm Martin Luther King, Jr. Library (with online application assistance in partnership with CARDBoard Project) 2922 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Dallas, TX 75215 (972) 571-3202 Wednesdays, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm West Dallas Public Library (with online application assistance in partnership with CARDBoard Project) 2332 Singleton Blvd. Dallas, TX 75212 (214) 670-6445 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm Details related to future potential locations will be posted as they become available at BigTex.com/Jobs. Themed “Celebrating Texas Creativity,” the 2019 State Fair of Texas runs Friday, September 27 through Sunday, October 20 in Fair Park.

Homeschool students tour museum with Patty Bates-Ballard

African Americans I learned growing up -- invented to justify slavery -- involved many dehumanizing messages and images. But the entire narrative can still be conveyed in the one very powerful, hateful, hurtful n-word. The #ustoo Phenomenal Woman exhibit responds powerfully in oils, acrylics, watercolors, mixed media, photographic works, and music. Vivid colors, unexpected materials, skewed perspectives, exaggerated brush strokes, and affirming language convey literal messages yet also stir emotions that take the viewer beyond the visible to discover even deeper meanings. A number of works evoke strength and resistance to discrimination and oppression. Stacie Monday’s “Rebel” is a beautiful portrait of a confident African American woman

of Herself: Mommy’s Got You,” Tschaner Sefas’s “Nurture Me Please,” and Fiera Smith’s “Don’t Tell Me to Smile” explore the vulnerability of Black women and insist that Black women be supported in their vulnerability. These paintings are vital because a 2017 Georgetown University study found that adults view young Black girls as less innocent and in less need of protection than White girls of the same age. The Georgetown researchers say they think this “adultification” of Black girls may contribute to the higher rate of school suspensions for Black girls (five times more likely than White girls). Artist Classi Nance Jimoh’s artist statement transforms the narrative with the assertion, “We are all women enough to deserve the covering of love and safety.” Choke’s “Atabey” and “Fire Panther” and J.

city and nation to heal and progress, we must shed our false narrative and embrace a more authentic narrative about African American people that centers their beauty, brilliance, talent, and generosity. The exhibit continues through August 3. I hope you will call soon to schedule your tour and come prepared to be transformed. Patty Bates-Ballard is Creative Director and Owner of WordSmooth, co-author of the book Navigating Diversity, and developer of the Harvesting Respect communications education program. Previously the Diversity Director for the Greater Dallas Community Relations Commission, she has worked in the field of multi-cultural relations for more than 20 years. She coordinates the student Culture Club at Dallas Academy and is a volunteer docent at the African American Museum of Dallas.

GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

Meharryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Juul Grant is Good News THE LAST WORD By DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX Should Meharry Medical College, a Historically Black College (HBCU) established in 1876 in Nashville, have accepted $7.5 million from Juul Labs, the controversial e-cigarette company that provides an alternative to smoking tobacco? Meharry says it will use the grant, the second-largest it has ever received, to study public health issues and African Americans, including the health effects of tobacco products. They will establish a Center for the Study of Social Determinants of Health, and, according to its President, Dr. James Hildreth, â&#x20AC;&#x153;begin conducting fully-independent research into the health conditions and issues related to tobacco and nicotinedelivery products.â&#x20AC;? Critics say that Meharry

has made a deal with the devil since African American people smoke more and have a higher death rate from tobacco-related illnesses than other racial and ethnic groups. They think Meharry should have passed on the Juul donation because they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe that the historically Black Meharry canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take Juulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s money and continue to make a difference in Black lives. I say nonsense! Juul will not be dictating the topics or terms of research with Meharry. The Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s President, Dr. James K.K. Hildreth, Sr., who has been determined to increase the amount of research that Meharry students are doing, says the college approached Juul, not the other way around, and they did it with their eyes wide open. He says he is confident

that the new research center Meharry will establish will be independent of Juul. They wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have input to the research topics that Meharry tackles, nor will they determine the course or direction of research. Most medical colleges, including Meharry, turn down contributions from tobacco companies. As Meharry and Juul were exploring the possibility of the donation, Altria, a tobacco company, acquired 35 percent of Juul. Should that have killed the deal? It caused Meharry to pause. But eventually, they decided to accept the money because they believe they can use it for the greater good. I agree. President Hildreth has been a biomedical researcher for more than 36 years. In a letter to the Meharry community, he reminded them that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The bodies of black Americans have historically been the subject of scientific experimentation with no control on our part. If it takes an unorthodox partnership to change that dynamic, then let

the research begin.â&#x20AC;? I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t read that part of Hildrethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letter without thinking of the Tuskegee syphilis experiments, where the federal government funded research on the effects of untreated syphilis on black men. Medicine to cure syphilis was withheld from the men in the experiment. The federal government did this! The commercial use of Black bodies included the harvesting (and reproduction) of the cells of Henrietta Lacks, a Black woman whose DNA is still being used today for medical research. And, when we think of experiments on Black bodies, one must think of the odious J. Marion Sims, who was called the â&#x20AC;&#x153;father of modern gynecology.â&#x20AC;? He earned his fame by conducting painful experiments on enslaved women. Thank goodness New York City removed his statue from Central Park! Meharry doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t aim to hurt the six million African Americans who are smokers or to profit from them.

They aim to have a seat at the research table, a place from which Black researchers, and Black research institutions, have often been excluded. Juulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contribution allows Meharry to pull up a chair to the research table and participate in the scientific inquiry about the health effects of cigarettes and other tobacco products, critical investigation given the fact that African Americans are more likely to die from tobacco-related illnesses than others. Dr. Hildrethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letter to the Meharry community outlines several research questions. What is the long-term impact of e-cigarettes? Does vaping cause developmental health issues? Are vaping devices effective as smoking reduction or cessation devices? Will laws prohibiting tobacco sales for those under 21 improve health outcomes? San Francisco recently passed legislation outlawing the sale of vaping devices. How effective are such laws? These are questions worth answering through

Equal Pay Equal Pay, Equal Pay

KEEPING HOPE ALIVE The Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., founder and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, is one of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foremost civil rights, religious and political figures.

As the exhausted and thrilled U.S. womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team celebrated its victory in the finals of the 2019 Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cup, the cheers of the crowd in the Stade of Lyon soon turned into a chant: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Equal Pay, Equal Pay, Equal Pay.â&#x20AC;? Even as they fought their way to the fourth U.S. Women World Cup championship, the U.S. team was waging a battle â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in the court of public opinion and the courts of law â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for equal treatment in wages, working conditions and investment in the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game. And if there is any justice or common sense in the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s employer, U.S. Soccer,

they will be as victorious in the quest for equal pay as they were in their quest for the World Cup. These are truly American champions. It took immense courage â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and no small amount of moxie â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to file a class-action lawsuit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; joined by all 28 members of the team â&#x20AC;&#x201D; alleging gender discrimination by their employer only 93 days before their opening match in the World Cup. This only added immensely to the pressure on them to succeed on the field. They would be playing for their country, for themselves, but also for all those who will come after them. One of their leaders â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Megan Rapinoe â&#x20AC;&#x201D; won the â&#x20AC;&#x153;golden bootâ&#x20AC;? as the top scorer in the World Cup, as well as the Most Valuable Player Award. She accomplished this even while expressing her own values. Trump criticized her for deciding not to sing the national anthem. She announced that she wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t interested in going to the White House. Her lavender hair symbolized her celebration of LGBTQ rights. She naturally became a target of some on the right. She dismissed charges that she was unAmerican: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m particularly uniquely and very deeply American.

If we want to talk about the ideals we stand for, the song and the anthem, and what we were founded on, I think Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m extremely American.â&#x20AC;? She surely got that right. She also had the unified support of her teammates, who praised her as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;warriorâ&#x20AC;? on and off the field, calling it a privilege to be her teammate. As Christen Press put it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been beautiful to see her fearlessness as we get to the highest level and the highest stages, that she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t back away, she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t shy, but the opposite: She gets even bigger.â&#x20AC;? As did the entire U.S. womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team. Inspired by the example set by Billie Jean King and Venus Williams in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tennis, they took on their employers, criticized FIFA for its unequal treatment of the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game, and stood up for equal rights, waging a fight that would benefit their successors if not them. As Alex Morgan, one of the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest stars stated, â&#x20AC;&#x153;My hope is that we have equality within football in my career, but I think ultimately it would be good in my lifetime. Even if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reap the benefits, my hope is that the next generationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole focus is what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meant to be: And that is to play football.â&#x20AC;?

On Wednesday, the champions will be celebrated with a classic Manhattan tickertape parade through the â&#x20AC;&#x153;canyon of heroesâ&#x20AC;? on Broadway. The cheers will be deafening; confetti will fill the air. Lavender hairdos will be seen throughout the crowd. And once more the chant will begin: â&#x20AC;&#x153;equal pay, equal pay, equal pay.â&#x20AC;? Let us all pay tribute to the skill, the courage and the grit of these remarkable young women. They won the cup, even as they waged the fight for justice. They have inspired an entire generation of youngsters who watched their epic play on the field. They have earned the respect of their peers across the world. Remarkably, the Dutch team posted its own tribute video to the American women before the final game, stating, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You showed us where dedication and ambition can bring you.â&#x20AC;? Inspired by the Americans, the level of play is rising across Europe and across the world. And now we must all support them to ensure that they gain justice at home even as they have gained victory abroad. (You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson by email at jjackson@rainbowpush.org. Follow him on Twitter @RevJJackson.)

NAACP to host LGBTQ town hall FROM THE NAACP BY DERRICK JOHNSON

Derrick Johnson is the President and CEO of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Thousands of activists, artists, entertainers, civil rights and social justice leaders will gather for the 110thâ&#x20AC;ŻNAACP Annual Convention in Detroit, Michigan, July 20th to 24th. The five-day convention will include continuing legal education seminars, federal legislative and public policy workshops, youth workshops, civic engagement workshops, the signatureâ&#x20AC;ŻNAACP Experience, and more. The LGBTQ town hall entitled, The State of LGBTQ People of Color in America, will take place on Tuesday, July 23 at 2:30 pm at the COBO Center. â&#x20AC;ŻThe town hallâ&#x20AC;Ż will focus on establishing collaborative partnerships to ensure that all individuals are

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protected under the law irrespective of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, and social classes to eliminate race-based discrimination. Panelists will include: Curtis Lipscomb, Executive Director, Safe Brave Space LGBT Detroit, Michelle Elizabeth Brown, Radio Host, Public Speaker, Author, and Activist, Nicole Denson, International Activist and Warrior and Attorney Robert Marchman, PFLAG National Board Member â&#x20AC;&#x153;Effective policy changes are dependent on the active participation of all citizens. Without full inclusion, we acquire an outcome that is less than desirable communally,â&#x20AC;? said NAACP National

Health Manager & LGBTQ Lead Rev. Keron R. Sadler. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The LGBTQ communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voice rings loudly in the effective process to build and sustain systemic change toward a stronger democracy.â&#x20AC;? To ensure that the LGBTQ voice is captured as we advocate for civil and human rights, we will explore distinct priorities that include a strong yet diverse representation of the Black LGBTQ population during this facilitated town hall. This dialogue will explore various topics including: Effective Strategies for LGBTQ Activism; Acceptance & Inclusion; Representation in the Workplace, Congress and Media; and the LGBTQ power in the area of Voting Rights. Convention participants, grassroots leaders and sponsors will also gather for an LGBTQ networking reception, where they will hear from NAACP leaders about their current work in addition to our stance around equal protection for all under the law. The

Cheryl Smith Publisher

editor@myimessenger.com

NAACP along with other grassroots entities will come together over hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres and drinks identifying ways to prevent stigma and discrimination through an inclusive intersectional approach. As we leverage partnerships, it is critical to identify ways to serve the LGBTQ community collaboratively with national LGBTQ organizations. Honorary Reception: This convention for the NAACP LGBTQ Taskforce marks the 10 year anniversary, of the taskforce. During the NAACPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centennial Convention hosted in New York City (July 15, 2009), we officially unveiled the LGBT Equality Taskforce. The taskforce co-chaired by the late Chairman Emeritus, Julian Bond and CA-HI State/ State Area Conference President & National Board Membership, Alice Huffman, was officially formed in February 2009 during the Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national board meeting.

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research. From where I sit, Meharry should have negotiated for a much more substantial contribution from Juul, and perhaps they will. After all, according to Dr. Hildreth, the tobacco industry â&#x20AC;&#x153;has taken our money and delivered sickness and death in return. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We at Meharry intend to advance the fight for better health and longer life by turning that insidious relationship on its head.â&#x20AC;? Bravo, Dr. Hildreth. If Meharryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research can help us learn more about addiction, and if the research can be used for tobacco use prevention, then Meharry is doing the right thing. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see others lining up to fund Meharryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research and fundraising for HBCUs is extremely challenging. I look forward to the work that the Center for the Study of Social Determinants of Health will produce. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is a writer, author and economist. She is the president emerita of Bennett College.

MY TRUTH Continued from page 1

recent years? The most successful newspapers are those that can embrace and capitalize off of multimedia platforms. Digital is not the enemy, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the future. Sometimes I have felt, however, that for those of us in the business of the Black Press, as hard as we work, we never get the love from those we are a voice for, Black People. Sadly, most Black-owned newspapers are free and still you have Black People, who are the main focus, will turn up their nose, waving their hands as if to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;move aside,â&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;get out of my faceâ&#x20AC;? if you try to pass one to them. At I Messenger Media, we are using print, broadcast, digital and if we have to, drums; to tell our stories, to continue being a voice for the voiceless. We love our people and we love the stories we are able to share that might not ever be told. We appreciate the love we receive from many. There are those who show love when they see us coming and they make up for those who will jump for joy and post all over social media when they see themselves in mainstream publications, but barely acknowledge Black Press coverage, until they get into trouble. Just like the Black College, or Black-owned businesses, and even the Black Church; the Black press suffers tremendously in America from a mentality that was a direct result of post slavery advances. Once we were given the â&#x20AC;&#x153;privilegeâ&#x20AC;? of partaking; ours for some, will never be good enough. Recently I picked up the Korean Weekly. At first glance, I was sure it was a monthly or an annual publication. Imagine my surprise to learn this more than 160-page publication comes out every week! The Korean business, church and education communities support that paper. Founded in 1905, the Chicago Defender did receive significant support, at one time. It was considered to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Newspaper,â&#x20AC;? even printing daily for several decades. I have so many wonderful stories about the Chicago Defender and I wish Mr. Hiram Jackson much success, because I will be watching and learning as we also continue diversifying our revenue streams and hopefully continue providing a print copy to the percentage of readers that have no desire to read electronically, for whatever reason. It hurts to see the change with the Chicago Defender, and I know I will manage; but I take solace in knowing that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong leadership and a visionary leader at the helm. I just hope that people will support the efforts. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about survival and the Black Press not only needs but deserves support. I hurt, just like when I hear about a Black college or business closing. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to hear â&#x20AC;&#x153;this too shall pass,â&#x20AC;? or the likes of â&#x20AC;&#x153;thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the way of the world.â&#x20AC;? My pain is real, but I use it to move me to action, to make me work harder to put out a better product and to earn support from the communities we serve and the business communities. So, like so many others, sometimes when I am not smiling, just think of the song, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tears of a Clown,â&#x20AC;? and give a person some space.

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, !VAILABLE .EWSSTANDS the Black Press strives to help ATevery person inINthe firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyoneGarland,Rowlett is held back.

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GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

PERSPECTIVES

America’s teachers deserve a raise FOR THE PEOPLE BY SEN.KAMALA HARRIS

Every child deserves a world-class education, regardless of their ZIP code. Of all in-school factors that impact their success, there’s nothing more important than our teachers. That’s a fact. But we’re not acting like it. In America today, there’s a drastic teacher pay gap—and it’s growing. Public school teachers earn 11 percent less than similar professionals, teachers are more likely than non-teachers to work a second job, and the average teacher makes $1,000 less than 30 years ago. The teacher pay gap is a national failure that’s holding America back. From city schools in major urban centers, to rural schools like those in South Carolina’s “Corridor of Shame,” we’ve failed to give teachers the respect and resources they deserve. It’s time for a bold, national response. So let’s speak the truth: America’s teachers are drastically underpaid and they deserve a raise. That’s exactly what Kamala Harris intends to give them as President. We’ll make the largest investment in teachers in American history and provide the average teacher a $13,500 raise, entirely closing the teacher pay gap. States will receive the largest federal investment in teacher pay in history—enough to increase pay for nearly every teacher in America and entirely close the teacher pay gap.

• Under our plan, the average teacher in America will receive a $13,500 raise, the equivalent of a 23 percent increase in base pay. • The Department of Education will work with state education agencies to set a base salary goal for beginning teachers in every state. The goal will account for the average salary earned by similarly educated professionals in the state starting out their careers. It will also increase based on years in the classroom and advanced qualifications to keep up with higher wages earned by similarly experienced professionals. Under our plan, states and school districts will increase every teacher’s salary until, at a minimum, they meet the goal. • States, districts, and schools will be required to use funds to increase base teacher pay, not replace existing education funding. • Funding will allow states to fully close the 11 percent total compensation gap that accounts for benefits and the larger gap that exists when just comparing wages. We’ll provide a base level of funding to every state in the country, and then incentivize states do their part to take full advantage of our plan. • Under our plan, the federal government will immediately invest in public schools to provide the first 10 percent of funding

needed to close the teacher pay gap color disproportionately learn and next generation of high-achieving work in these schools. For examcollege students of color into the in every state. ple, nearly 45 percent of Black and profession. • Then we’ll incentivize states Latinx students in America attend to step up and do their part: For We’ll support the right of public edpublic schools that will receive this ucators to join and engage with their every $1 a state contributes to increasing pay, the federal governadditional investment. union, and bring the fight for student ment will invest $3 until the teachWe’ll support programs dedicated to needs and better pay to cities and state er pay gap is entirely closed by the teacher recruitment, training, and pro- capitals across America. end of Harris’ first term. fessional development—particularly at • From West Virginia to • To receive Oklahoma to Califunding, states fornia, Americans are will be required to standing up in solidari“We’ll make the largest investment in maintain their share ty for dignity and equity of the investment in our classrooms. We teachers in American history and provide over time, including the average teacher a $13,500 raise, entirely need to strengthen the by increasing pay to hand of our teachers to closing the teacher pay gap.” cover their share of continue the fight for —Senator Harris wage inflation. the resources their stuAmerica’s highdents need and the reest-need public schools, which dispro- HBCUs. spect they deserve. portionately serve students of color, • Our plan will include a • That’s why we will fight for will receive funding to increase teacher multi-billion dollar investment every education professional to pay even further. in programs that help elevate the have the ability to join a union and • Under our plan, every pubteaching profession and support bargain collectively. lic school in America will be able principals and other school leadWe estimate this plan’s cost to the to pay their teachers as much as ers. This includes high-quality federal government will be in the range other comparable professionals in teacher and principal residencies, of $315 billion over ten years. It will be their state. But tackling decades of early-career induction programs paid for by strengthening the estate tax inequality requires we go further. that pair new teachers with men- and cracking down on loopholes that Our plan makes an additional tors and master teachers, career let the very wealthiest, with estates targeted investment, beyond just ladder models that allow for worth multiple millions or billions of closing the gap, to pay teachers advancement opportunities for dollars, avoid paying their fair share. in America’s highest-need schools teacher leaders, and “Grow Your This plan is about more than just more than other comparable proOwn” programs that help increase salary. It’s about making an investfessionals in their state. In allocatteacher diversity. ment that will yield big returns for our ing the investment, we’ll take into • Half of this funding will country. It’s about valuing and respectaccount the extent to which these be dedicated to high-quality pro- ing the working people who lay the schools face high rates of funding grams at HBCUs and other Mi- foundation of our future economy. It’s inequality. nority Serving Institutions (MSIs). about guaranteeing the opportunity • Our plan will help these Teachers of color are significantly for every child to succeed. high-need schools reduce teacher underrepresented in our educaturnover, attract talented young tion system. We need to change graduates and experienced eduthat. Nearly 40 percent of all Black Kamala Devi Harris is an American cators, and improve teaching and teachers and 50 percent of all lawyer and politician who has served learning conditions for our kids. Hispanic teachers graduate from as the junior United States Senator • Students and teachers of MSIs. We’ll help them bring the from California since 2017

Are you budgeting your money?

QUIT PLAYIN’

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INTERLUDE By Cierra Mayes

Cierra Mayes is a 2019 graduate of the University of North Texas

Wednesday, July 10, 2019, marked the eighth episode of “Cierra’s Interlude” by me, Cierra Mayes. Cierra’s Interlude is a podcast platform I created to give current college students and former students the opportunity to tell their truth. My show airs on Blog Talk Radio every Wednesday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Every week, I talk about different subjects that are related to life after college. The show also talks about the importance of adulting and time management. I am a recent graduate from the University of North Texas with a focus in Broadcast Journalism. Recently, I wrote an article, “If I would’ve known, what I know now,” in Texas Metro News, about my personal experiences in college and growth over the years. This is one of the many reasons why I chose to create a podcast that would help out the student community. On a recent episode, I had the opportunity to interview Aneaise Dorsey, also known as my mother. She’s a registered nurse, who’s had a passion for nursing since high school. Aside from her career path, she shared her trials and triumphs with financial issues, budgeting, and credit history. With that being said, are you budgeting your money? In conversation, we talked about how to save money and knowing the importance about gaining credit. Here is a brief of our conversation. Cierra Mayes: Can you

tell me about the nursing home you and your friends tried to open a few years ago? Aneaise Dorsey: Actually, it was a home health care agency we tried to open around 1995. We were open for about five years and it was me and three others that split the home health care agency. They ended up having substantial budget cuts and the way the

C.M.: What did that situation teach you? A.D.: It taught me a whole lot. Now I save more, and I budget much better. I tell anybody to save because you never know when it is going to be a rainy day. Before I got into financial difficulties. I had every credit card you could name. I got my credit card when I was in nursing school and like I say, you’ll have good credit and then they’ll send you pre-approved credit cards that you would think you would have to open. C.M.: Did your parents ever explain that to you?

Aneaise Dorsey C.M.: I know a few years ago you ran into some financial issues that affected you in the long run. Can you share a little bit about that? A.D.: Seven years ago, I ran into financial difficulty and it was due to overextending myself. I was just buying a lot of stuff and not necessarily saving. What brought on the financial difficulty was because my hours were getting cut and it happened so quick. I always tell someone that if you can have a side hustle or perhaps a second job, not where you have one stream of income but two, it would help.

A.D: High school and my parents did not explain that to me. Due to President Obama being in office with the financial crisis that happened when he got in office, he put in regulations that now credit card companies have to tell you that if you owe on a balance and don’t swipe the card anymore you may owe more than the balance you had to pay off because of interest. It was a pleasure talking to her and hearing her advice on credit, how to maintain your credit, and for college students to save no matter how much money you get to always put back. It is important for college students to know how to save properly and avoid financial problems during or before graduating from college.

Left: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson; Right: animated rendition of John Henry with a non-motorized push instrument with blades that looked like they came off the water fans that cooled our homes. It was work, it was expected, and it was an illuminating introduction to honest living. Somewhere we compromised our collective will to distinguish our race by the honor of our toil, thrift and tenacity. There was no dishonor in picking cotton. The dishonor came in the exploitation of child labor and the slave wage scale that plantation owners got rich on! At the age of 10 or 11, me and my bestie; Marqueis Scott, would drag a lawnmower and a can of gas all over East Oak Cliff. We knew where the single women were and always underbid our competition. These days, I watch moms walk by their heavyweight sons, some of them six-foot and over 200 pounds, to pay a lightweight Mexican brother with an accent for what we used to beg to do. I’m sorry, but some of our

children are just sorry. Or trifling, as my mama would say. But that’s not their fault… It’s ours! You can’t keep a job mopping floors when you have to keep pulling your pants to cover the crack of your ass. And those expensive nails won’t last a week when you have to bust suds two or three times a day. But I guess dishes don’t pile up when there ain’t no turnip greens and cornbread in the stove. Has cooking become antiquarian too? Teach your children the folklore of John Henry; “The Steel Driving Man.” He worked himself to death, but as a people, we wore his example as an aegis of honor. The muscular John Henry became famous for winning a race against a steam-powered hammer, before dying of exhaustion. Nowadays we are often seen as lazy, listless, shiftless and shallow. And that ain’t just what White folk think of you. We need to revisit the yesteryears before PlayStations and

social media. Black parents demanded that their children perform superior grade work before they were rewarded with leisurely exploits. There is no more honorable man or woman than those who earn their keep in honest labor. Every Black child needs to master a trade and a profession. PERIOD! Dr. Martin Luther King put it this way; “If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.” Netflix will soon release a movie about John Henry starring Dwayne (The Rock) Johnson. Watch it with your kids, but share the story of John Henry in print first. Oh, and after the movie is over; find some work for them to do! #teachunclevinny #QuitPlayin

Have a safe, productive and happy summer!

GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

Around town with Hollywood

From Marva with Love: Soulful Prayers

BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

Cheryl Polote-Williamson

THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW A Nigerian Story BY VALDER BEEBE ValderBeebeShow.com

Charity and watchdog group Save the Persecuted Christians and coalition member the International Committee on Nigeria (ICON). Nigerian activists have descended on Washington and other U.S. cities this week looking for your support…..what would you be willing to do if your daughter went missing? What would you do if your culture was being threatened and annihilated? In the Valder Beebe Show studio, my guests: Alheri Magaji, daughter of Adara Senior Chief, her father, the Chief was unjustly imprisoned for 100 days by Kaduna state government, Mercy Maissari, an Adara victim kidnapped, ransomed and then released Napoleon Adamu, a survivor of Benue programs. All are here in the United States traveling from their home country Nigeria to give firsthand account of the tribulations, terror and tensions of being a Christian in Nigeria. These distinguished guests (Mercy is a daughter of a Nigerian Chief) share insider details about kidnappings, killings, rape of women, men, children and Christians. VB: To set an understanding for the reader; my guests are in the United States from Nigeria. Thanks to Talk Show host Ester Davis, Ester Davis Show, for arranging

this studio interview for the Valder Beebe Show. Boko Haram waving the black and white flag used by the Islamic State and wearing balaclavas, military fatigues and ammunition belts, members of the group released some of the abducted girls in Dapchi early in February 2018. Over 100 girls have been released since then, but many are still missing. Alheri Magaji, Mercy Maissari and Napoleon Adamu are a part of a delegation to the United States to present their case for the United States for intervention in their political strife at home. The group is attempting to get an appointment with Vice President, Mike Pence in Washington, D.C. The Valder Beebe Show was granted this interview: VB: Your delegation is here seeking assistance from the U.S. for multiple situation happening now and the recent past in Nigeria, tell me about the. I am aware that you are the daughter, Alheri Magaji, of Adara Senior Chief in Nigeria. Your father was incarcerated for 100 days unjustly by the government. Your ethnicity has been threatened as the Islamic military faction are trying to wipe away your Tribe. I’m attempting to get my audience to understand why your father was

imprisoned unjustly and what this is such a travesty? Alheri Magaji: Thank you for listening to me and giving me time to talk. The matter is complicated, and I will attempt to make it as short as possible. The Governor of my region who is Muslim, abolished my Tribe without due process, as if we no longer exist. My Tribe which is 95 percent Christian is the largest Christian community. This was done recently. We are a threat, because we are Christians. Unjustly imprisoning my father was also a way to say “we do not exist.” VB: I believe what Martin Luther King, Jr. said in his reference to justice so I will paraphrase “a threat to Christians anywhere is a threat to Christians everywhere.” Listen On-Demand @ 411RadioNetwork. com and SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow. ValderbeebeShow.com, 411RadioNetwork. com, Youtube.com/valderbeebeshow, 411RadioNetwork.com; Podcast audio: Soundcloud.com/valderbeebeshow, Soundcloud. com/kkvidfw, 411RadioNetwork.com, PChatman Streaming TV Network and VBS affiliate broadcasters. Now available on 411RadioNetwork APP

ASK ALMA WHO’S TRIPPING? BY ALMA GILL Dear Alma, I have never been this shocked and pissed all at the same time. My niece must be trippin! She has got to be crazy! I just received a group email of pictures of her wedding with a note that says here are the pictures from my wedding. What wedding! I didn’t even know she was getting married. This was not a backyard just pulled together in a couple of days weddings either. This was in a beautiful location in one of the historic districts in our city. She had a large bridal party of 10. Everybody in our family was there, all of our family and friends. I have four sisters and all of them were there except me. All of our cousins, aunts, and uncles. The only two people who weren’t there were me and my mother. I talk to my sister on a regular basis and how in the world could she not mention her wedding. I can’t believe this! How could she pull off such an elaborate event without INVITING us? Dear NOT invited, Well, as kind and as gently as I can declare, TBT, she didn’t want you or your mother to attend. Which brings to

mind this question: What exactly did her auntie and grandma do or say that would exclude them from her wedding? Why did she obviously tell her mom/your sister/ her grandma’s daughter and the rest of the wedding party not to include you in the planning? Ok see, you ain’t giving me all the ingredients to this cheesy beef casserole. Where’s the meat? You and I both know that every bride that’s able painstakingly takes the time to dream, plan and execute the best wedding she can possibly imagine. She surrounds herself with the people she loves and all the friends and family members who are important to her and her impending groom. Again, I ask, what did you do? You had to say or participate in something so hurtful or trifling, that it made her not want to share this special day with you. Think back. What was it? Clearly, whatever it is, it’s huge. The four of you, yes, I said four, the bride, her mother (your sister), you and your mom need a cool and calm, let me try to understand where you’re coming from. No weapons allowed. Sit down around the kitchen table. And you need to find out the root cause of

the problem. I’m sure you, as her aunt, and your mom, her grandmother were heartbroken to find out about the wedding in a group email and on Facebook. Carry that empathy to the table. Let her know you were surprised and shocked that you missed such a special occasion in her life and even more dumbfounded that you were not invited to be a part of it. Keep it plain and simple, all you need is one word: Why? When she speaks, keep silent, and listen. Stop, rewind, press play – I said yawl (you and your mama); you just need to listen. She has something heavy on her heart that needs to be said. If you listen with your broken heart and overflow of unconditional love, you can mend this. There will be many a sad occasion for everybody to congregate. You know kinfolks are never too busy to attend funerals, and life’s too short to miss out on joyful celebrations. Be the first to apologize and fix this family foolishness. Stop wasting what should be treasurable (is that a word? LOL) times and magical memories. All of our days above ground with family are a blessing. Alma

Cheryl Polote-Williamson is an award-winning entrepreneur and executive producer, best-selling author, speaker, philanthropist, and a noted transformational leader – helping over 200 individuals in their quests to becoming best-selling authors and has instrumentally catapulted their careers through what she has coined “AuthorPreneurship.” Cheryl is the CEO of Cheryl Polote Williamson LLC, in addition to the CEO of Williamson Media Group. Last month she held the launch and book signing of Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication with God. The book features selections from 52 authors with prayers dedicated to every situation (good or bad) that may occur in one’s life. From “A Prayer for Soulful Purpose” by co-author Tilda Whitaker to “Waiting for Justice” by co-author Charmaine Roots Castillo to “Jobless: But, God I Trust You” by co-author Tammy L. Woodard, and “The Ability to Lean on the Lord” by best-selling co-author Courtney Williamson -- Soulful Prayers will powerfully change the lives of whoever has it in their grasp. The proceeds of the book will go to Cheryl PoloteWilliamson’s non-profit Soul Reborn - for underserved women providing lectures, classes, summits and conferences on leadership, entrepreneurship, money management, etiquette, storytelling, and philanthropy. On From Marva with Love on BlogTalkRadio.com Cheryl’s World, Mrs. Williamson said, “Soulful Prayers is the quintessential book for every believer – no matter where he or she is in their relationship with God.” MS: What was the intention with Soulful Prayers? CPW: The intention behind Soulful Prayers, the book came about because so many people would ask me how I can pray to God, I don’t speak eloquently. I don’t know what to say. Prayer is a simple conversation with God you don’t have to have the right

grammar, you don’t have to have the whereto and thou fore’s, or turn to Luke 12 chapter this or that all God wants is to hear from you. I started sharing with people that they could just say, “Jesus Jesus help me” and “God would help them” or “Jesus Jesus” or just moan. People then started to believe that God heard their prayer and they didn’t have to be eloquent. I began to take this into my spirit and I asked God what you want me to do. God said to me I want you to gather people from all over the globe together and do books on prayer. So people who feel like their prayers are not being heard and they don’t know what to say to me “God” they can grab a prayer out of this book and realize it’s just an intentional conversation with me “God.” I crying out to you “God” it’s the desires of my heart. The desire is for people to have a work book, a tool, a vehicle so that when they need a job, or grieving the loss of a child, or justice. There is a prayer in this book for you. The Intention is everybody to know that when you go to God in prayer it is a conversation between you and Him with no middle man just you and God. MS: You have written 13 books. In your bio it states you have helped people in their quests to becoming best-selling authors. How would a person start if they wanted to write a book? CPW: I always love it when people ask me this question and the answer is just start. People feel like they have to get a writing coach, or I have to take classes. The thing is those are the things that will hold you back because you are constantly looking out. Look within yourself. Go to the dollar store and get a note book and start writing, don’t edit it, don’t ask anybody’s opinion. Everybody will tell you why you can’t write the book and nobody will purchase it. Get a note book and just start writing. Carve out time every day. Don’t format it just write. Tune in to From Marva with Love, every Friday at 11 am-1 pm on BlogTalkRadio.com.

GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

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Do you know this man?

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community. Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother? aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU?

Butterfly

I emerge from this darkness changed. Leaving behind so much of what was me; whole but with missing parts. Pushing myself through a realization that does not include you, physically. Your transformation complete.

Mine ... only beginning.

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GARLAND JOURNAL - JULY 17, 2019

EXPUNCTION, continued from page 1 as students from the University of North Texas (UNT) Dallas College of Law and the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Dedman School of Law. Dallas County District Judges and the Dallas City Attorney Community Courts are also vital partners in this endeavor. This year’s Expo is at Jubilee Park Community Center, 907 Bank Street, Dallas. Since its inception in 2017, this event has helped clear over 400 criminal records. Per Texas statute, individuals who have offenses on their criminal record MAY qualify for an expunction if any of the following apply: · They were arrested but a charge was never filed with the DAs Office or was no billed by the grand jury; · They have a criminal charge that was dismissed; · They were acquitted on their charge by a judge, jury, or appellate court, or; · They were convicted of a crime but later pardoned by the Governor of Texas or the President of the United States.

a volunteer attorney at the Pre-Qualification Clinic on Saturday, September 14, 2019. · Those granted expunctions will be invited to a graduation

ceremony on Saturday, December 7, 2019. · Only Dallas County offenses will be considered.

You are not eligible for an expunction if: · your case is still pending; · you were convicted, even if you just paid a D a l l a s - F o r t W o r t h A s s o c i a t i o n o f B l a c k J o u r n a l i s ts fine; or · you were placed on probation, community supervision, or deferred adjudication, even if your case was later dismissed. How To Participate in the Expunction Expo: · Anyone who JULY 2019 MONTHLY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS believes they are NAVIGATING THE NABJ CONVENTION eligible for an NABJ19 SOUTH FLORIDA AUG. 7-11 expunction must WORDS OF WISDOM pre-register between NABJ FOUNDER NORMA ADAMS-WADE July 8, 2019 through July 28, 2019 at www. NABJ ELECTION SEASON d a l l a s c o u n t y. o r g / MEET THE CANDIDATES expunction; or in Hosted by URBAN ONE Dallas person at one of the designated locations listed below. · If the individual TUESDAY, JULY 23, 2019 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM has any offenses that URBAN ONE DALLAS may be eligible for 13760 Noel Rd. Suite 1100 expunction, they will Dallas, TX 75240 be contacted and RSVP dfwabj@gmail.com www.dfwabj.com invited to meet with

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