We love you Demond!
White House Juneteenth Concert Celebrates Black Music, Denounces Racism
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Correspondent
President Joe Biden delivered a powerful speech denouncing racism in the United States during the White House’s first major Juneteenth celebration, on Tuesday.
The first Black woman vice president, Kamala Harris, began the evening by explaining the origins of Juneteenth and introducing 96-year-old Opal Lee, whose tireless advocacy played a significant role in establishing Juneteenth as a holiday.
I remember writing about Demond Fernandez when I heard that he was leaving Houston to come to Dallas for a reporter position at WFAA-TV
8.
One of the most commented on posts of the year for me, folks in Houston let me know that they were not pleased that he was leaving. Many talked about his character and his journalism.
Sure they wished him well, but they were not happy to see him go.
Fast-forward to today, Dallas is in the same position.
Which brings me to my truth.
Demond is moving to another market where his many skills will be appreciated, utilized, enhanced and celebrated.
He will be sitting at the anchor desk, doing something he is well prepared for and deserving of.
I told Demond that I hoped he would still be reporting because he is an outstanding, highly-regarded, award-winning journalist whose skills would be invaluable in any newsroom.
His new employers agree so he will be reporting as well.
More importantly, he has an impeccable work ethic. He doesn’t wait until there is a story to visit certain areas of a city. When he arrived in Dallas, the Baltimore native put his boots on the ground, exploring the entire D/FW Metroplex. He wanted to delve into the culture, meet and understand the citizens and learn about all communities.
A long-time member of the National Association of Black Journalists and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Demond is a member of the D/FW Association of Black Journalists.
The University of Maryland-College Park alum devoted countless hours to community organizations, programs and activities.
When you get a good thing, you want to hold on to it. Sometimes you have to let go, Demond is going to be alright. He’s a pro. And did I mention the man can sing!
We wish him well and will show this Alpha Phi Alpha Man much love on Thursday, June 22, 5:30-7:00pm at the The Urban Arts Center, 919 Morrell Ave. Dallas 75203.
He deserves our love. He’s the type of guy you love to see coming and hate to see leaving.
If we could all be that way!
The Biden-Harris administration hosted the Juneteenth concert featuring renowned singers Jennifer Hudson, Audra McDonald, and Ledisi, aiming to highlight American values Biden said he believes are under threat.
Addressing the audience, Biden urged Americans to choose love over hate and emphasized the importance of remembering history rather than erasing it.
“As the past few years remind us, our freedoms have been put at risk by racism, that’s still too powerful a force. Hate only hides… And when given oxygen, just a little oxygen, it comes roaring back out again, and we
have to stand up and deny it the oxygen. So, Juneteenth as a federal holiday is meant to breathe new life into the very essence of America.”
Juneteenth, a combination of June and June 19, is called Emancipation Day.
Biden declared it a federal holiday in 2021.
During her remarks Ms. Lee led
Brittney Griner
By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports EditorFor Brittney Griner, there is no place like home.
“Being back in Texas is wonderful. I’m just happy to get some barbecue and just seeing my family again,” she said. “I miss Texas so much. I miss being at home, I miss the culture.
“When you’re from Texas, you know it’s like the best place to be,” Griner continued. “I’m just happy to get back to that; to playing in front of people in Texas.”
The Houston native returned to her beloved state for two games between her Phoenix Mercury and the Dallas Wings at College Park Center on the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington. It has been more
than two years since Griner has played in Arlington. She last played at College Park Center May 29, 2021. The Dallas Wings swept the series.
The Texas ties run deep for Griner. In addition to growing up in Houston, she went to college at Baylor University in Waco where she helped them win a national championship in 2012. She has also won multiple Gold Medals for the Team USA women’s basketball.
“We did a great job bringing our sister home and I am also happy that she wants to play and be out on the court,” said Dallas Wings forward Satou Sabally. “She’s from Texas so it will be a welcoming applause that she deserves. She’s a phenomenal basketball player.”
“It’s important for her to get all
with strong words as she urged the audience to be catalysts for change, saying, “Make yourself a committee of one to change somebody’s mind. If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love.”
If a change isn’t made, she closed by saying that “everyone would be going to hell in a handbasket!”
'no' to
that love and know that we were pulling for her and praying for her in that hard time,” said Dallas Wings center Kalani Brown, who has followed Griner’s career since she was young and who also played at Baylor.
“For her to be playing so well after all of that adversity and she has triumphed over it – I am so proud of her. It just makes me have so much more respect for her.” Brown said. “I am glad that situation didn’t dim her light because she is the sweetest person. Every encounter we’ve had. I never had a negative one. I’m so glad it didn’t change her because it could have easily done that. Thank God for that.”
Griner was freed in December in a prisoner swap with the
The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when a Union general arrived in Texas to inform a group of enslaved African Americans of their freedom after the Confederate states had surrendered to end the Civil War. President Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation had
play
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire
An indictment against former President Donald Trump has been unsealed, showing an astounding 37 felony charges connected to the alleged misuse of confidential data.
Publicly released documents include new details on the criminal charges against Trump and his associate Walt Nauta.
Federal officials seized over a hundred classified documents from Trump’s Florida resort in August, which led to the charges.
The indictment names seven separate statutes that Trump
is accused of breaking and 31 counts of deliberate retention of national security information.
Among the additional allegations are making false statements, conspiring to obstruct justice, hiding evidence, and engaging in a scheme to keep facts from the public.
Information about U.S. and foreign defense and weapons capabilities, U.S. nuclear projects, potential vulnerabilities to military strikes, and plans for possible reprisals were among the sensitive details seized from Trump’s possession upon departing the White House. The indictment shows that the files were from many government
and law enforcement groups.
Those groups include the CIA, the Department of Defense, the NSA, the NGA, the NRO, the Department of Energy, the Depart-
ment of State, and the Bureau of Intelligence and Research.
In addition, the indictment shows that, in two instances in 2021, Trump disclosed confidential material to unapproved parties.
In one incident, he shared a “highly confidential” attack strategy with an author, a publisher, and two employees who lacked security clearance.
In the second incident, two members of his political action group who lacked the necessary permission saw a classified map of a military operation.
Seattle Storm at Dallas Wings, College Park Center 1p Arlington, TX
Vinetti’s
Best Southwest Juneteenth Celebration will be hosted by the City of Duncanville, 3 - 10pm CDT Armstrong Park 100 James Collins Boulevard, Duncanville, TX
DALLAS
of the African American enslaved. 18 HAPPY FATHER’S DAY Let’s celebrate the men in our lives! Elite Experience Events Cultural Organization presents Dallas Juneteenth Festival - at Lofty Spaces, Dallas, 816 Montgomery Street City Men Cook African American Museum - Dallas 20 Atlanta Dream at Dallas Wings, College Park Center 7p Arlington, TX 22
It's Not About What You Have But How You Use Your Voice
Autopsy Finds Olympian Tori Bowie Died from Childbirth Complications
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Correspondent
According to an autopsy report, three-time Olympic medalist and world champion sprinter Tori Bowie tragically died due to complications during childbirth.
Bowie, 32, reportedly had a “well-developed fetus” and was eight months pregnant, according to the Florida Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office report.
All Those Black Men Cooks are Your God-Given Pulpit
Big Mama Said
By Terry AllenToday, I am certain that Lucille “Big Mama” Allen’s playbook would place her in the White House as a domestic policy specialist in the United States G.A.D. (Grand Angel Division). When I pull any Lucille “Big Mama” Allen rules from her God-driven and God-inspired vocal ledger, I am guaranteed to influence someone else and definitely pass on wisdom from Big Mama that came to me on the back porch at a time when I had no clue how wise the statement was at the time! She had skin in the game.
then Essence Tour manager.
I remember Susan telling everyone, “You (us/consumers) have to change and redirect companies to the AD pages in the magazine.” She stood in a Los Angeles bookstore during our tour and said, “Think about it. We all use Maybelline but are they advertising in our publications and supporting our stores?”
“ADVERTISE, READ AND SHARE”
Susan told the audiences “Just as our churches have pulpits so do all of us, Essence readers have given me a powerful pulpit. I'm a doer, a worker. What's important to me is my integrity, contributing to the larger good and my family and to moving our people forward.”
Big Mama, I get it.
Big Mama was telling me the same thing! Oh My! What is my pulpit? City Men Cook is my voice!
NBC News reported that evidence indicated that she was undergoing labor at the time of her passing.
The autopsy report determined that Bowie’s death was ruled natural, with toxicology results showing no signs of drugs or other substances in her system.
The examination highlighted possible complications that contributed to her death, including respiratory distress and eclampsia, a condition characterized by seizures, or a coma related to pre-eclampsia.
This high blood pressure disorder can occur during pregnancy.
The Mayo Clinic explained that eclampsia can manifest without any previously observed signs or symptoms of pre-eclampsia, making it difficult to predict and prevent.
Warning signs that may appear before seizures include severe headaches, vision problems, mental confusion, or altered behaviors.
However, in many cases, there are no symptoms or warning signs.
Eclampsia can occur before, during, or after delivery.
Further, Bowie’s death continued to highlight the disparities in the maternal experience of Black women.
On May 3, Bowie’s management company and USA Track & Field announced her death, expressing deep sorrow and condolences to her family and friends.
Icon Management Inc., her management company, described her as a champion and a
Dr. Cowan emphasized the preventability of many pregnancy-related deaths in the United States, with cardiovascular causes being the leading contributors. Among these causes are hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, cardiac and coronary conditions,
“Big Mama just spoke her truth as a Black woman in the voice that would begin with love and leave with a lesson for life. Her lessons became part of our lifetime legacies.
She taught me how to find knowledge, recognize the good and celebrate life. Her most important request from her came as a Lucille “Big Mama” Allen’s grace and mercy statement. She said, “God gives us all a pulpit, mine is just the front porch.” She had a mighty pulpit for sure!
I am reminded of when I worked on the Essence on Tour junket. I managed multiple sites for the vulnerable communications brand and I had the God blessed pleasure of working with Essence Editor-in-Chief, Susan Taylor, who I got to know because of my relationship with the Dallas' beloved Emma Rodgers of Black Images Bookstore and Sharon Wynne, National Events Manager at Black Enterprise but
City Men Cook is entering its 23rd year of transforming the celebration of Father’s Day into a meaningful movement of the way the world views men in relationship to their families and community. High profile DFW leadership, business owners, celebrities, fathers, mentors, and families donate their name and time to the event. Mentors, fathers, leaders and all men in the community cook their favorite dishes and all proceeds go to local charities in Dallas. The event has youth activities, entertainment.
Black and Brown men have participated in City Men cook since its inception, please check the video https://youtu.be/4_yAG31goCY and join us for the largest Sunday Dinner in North Texas.
Celebrate this newspaper! It has a pulpit and you are the congregation. Advertise, read and share. Join me on the Red Carpet at City Men Cook, June 18, 2023 YES, we all must speak out! Will you let me know you got the message at Terryallenpr@gmail.com
Terry Allen is an award-winning media professional, journalist, and entrepreneur. He is also the founder of City Men Cook and 1016 Media. Reach him at terryallenpr@gmail.com
Black women in the United States continue to suffer from the highest maternal mortality rate in the country.
In 2021 alone, the maternal mortality rate for Black women stood at a staggering 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births—nearly three times higher than the rate for white women.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted that this glaring disparity underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and systemic changes to address the healthcare inequities faced by Black mothers.
Bowie’s tragic death came to light when authorities in Orange County, Florida, responded to a request for a well-being check on a woman in her 30s who had been missing for several days.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there were no signs of foul play.
beacon of light.
Bowie gained recognition for her remarkable performance as the anchor leg in the 4×100-meter relay team, leading them to a gold medal in Brazil alongside Tianna Bartoletta, Allyson Felix, and English Gardner.
She also won the silver medal in the 100-meter event and the bronze medal in the 200-meter event during the 2016 Olympic Games.
Additionally, Bowie secured the gold medal in the 100-meter event at the 2017 World Athletics Championships in London.
Raised in Sand Hill, Mississippi, Bowie credited her success to her loved ones, particularly her grandmother.
She described herself as a small-town girl at heart, hailing from a place devoid of stoplights.
In linking Bowie’s tragic death to childbirth complications, Dr. Alison Cowan, a practicing OBGYN and head of medical affairs at Mirvie – a company developing prediction tools for life-threatening pregnancy complications – shed light on the importance of awareness and prevention.
In an email to the Black Press,
and cardiomyopathy.
Dr. Cowan highlighted the significance of educating the public about the risks of pre-eclampsia, a high blood pressure disorder during pregnancy that can have severe consequences for both the mother and the infant.
She stressed the importance of recognizing and treating pre-eclampsia to prevent the development of eclampsia, which involves seizures.
Pregnant individuals should be aware of the signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia and attend regular check-ups to monitor their condition.
Dr. Cowan said it is worth noting that many women who develop pre-eclampsia have no identifiable risk factors.
Like her fellow runner, Allyson Felix, Bowie was an elite athlete impacted by this condition.
Mirvie is actively working on developing predictive testing to identify those at the highest risk of pre-eclampsia, Dr. Cowan said.
The initiative aims to inform women of their risk and empower them to take necessary measures for a healthy pregnancy, ultimately reducing the occurrence of similar tragedies in the future.
White House Juneteenth Concert Celebrates Black Music, Denounces Racism
already declared their freedom.
Juneteenth has been celebrated as a holiday in Texas since 1980, and U.S. presidents, including George W. Bush marked the occasion with solemn statements from the White House.
A celebration of community, culture, and music, the White House event on the South Lawn featured performances by marching bands from Morgan State University in Baltimore and Tennessee State University in Nashville.
Other artists included the dance group Step Afrika! and choirs from historically black colleges and universities.
Biden emphasized that making Juneteenth a federal holiday was not merely a symbolic gesture but a statement acknowledging the origin of slavery as
the country’s original sin.
He stressed that the Civil War was not fought solely over a union but was fundamentally about the country and freedom.
Harris expressed that Juneteenth is an occasion to honor Black excellence, culture, and community, stating, “America is a promise – a promise of freedom, liberty, and justice. The story of Juneteenth, as we celebrate it, is a story of our ongoing fight to realize that promise. Not for some, but all.”
In addition to commemorating Juneteenth, the concert celebrated Black Music Month, featuring renowned artists such as McDonald and Hudson.
The event aimed to showcase the richness and significance of Black contributions to American culture.
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AIN’T THAT A …
weeks. If anyone could gauge and gravitate to my angst at paying close to four dollars a gallon for gas or a dozen eggs, Watson could.
Quit Playin’; Johnny Guitar was “fa reel!”
By Vincent L. HallLord, have mercy
I can’t get ahead no way I try
Everything is outta pocket
Somebody do something
The present situation is abstract
Listen, Listen!
– Johnny Guitar Watson
According to the Library of Congress, the term “rhythm and blues,” often called “R&B,” originated in the 1940s when it replaced “race music” as a general marketing term for all African American music, though it usually referred only to secular, not religious music.
Johnny Guitar Watson’s brand of rappin’ R&B was always secular and never considered religious. But he did have a religious following.
Johnny Guitar Watson, the legendary blues artist and groovy griot of the ghetto, has been my passenger of choice over the last few
Johnny Watson Jr. was born a few miles down the road in Houston, Texas, in 1935 and died a few thousand miles away from home in 1996. Unfortunately, Johnny succumbed to life’s ultimate “bitch” while performing in Yokohama, Japan. But by then, he had obtained legendary status among musicians and music lovers.
He was a producer and writer and played keyboards, drums, and guitar. He did a little singing too and amassed almost 20 albums. He was a respected journeyman who finally hit pay dirt with his 1977 album, “Real Motha Fa’ Ya.”
The “Superman Lover” brought the blues into the disco scene and married a few generations of us together at the same party. He was known for his funky soul guitar, oversized sunshades, and a raspy tenor voice.
You might remember that Johnny used the word “bitch” to describe
our circumstances rather than our women. Johnny Guitar could get every equation to its lowest common denominator. He knew how to break it down so that it was eternally and forever broken.
Three barometers indicate how Black folks feel about the economy. We will put up with a lot of mess but finally ask one question. How high are poultry, pork, and petro?
Black Music Month Series
If either is out of reach, we believe the whole damn economy has gone awry.
Because for most of us, when chicken, eggs, bacon, or gas gets too high, the time to conserve and contract has arrived. And my friend, the time is now. So, every time I drive away from the gas pump, I sing karaoke with Johnny Guitar… “Ain’t that a Bitch!”
R&B lovers who are inclined to listen to Johnny Guitar Watson are smart enough to realize that when things get tight and inflation is
high, our habits must change. We need to go back to counting our pennies, eating out in our restaurants, and supporting one another. Can you afford the gas to drive across town and buy dinner too?
Meanwhile, congressional Republicans are trying to put work restrictions on underpaid or unemployed Americans who don’t have enough money to feed themselves or their families. However, they say nary a word of the trillions in welfare that farmers receive. They don’t mention the rich skirting their share of taxes. Ain’t that a Bitch!
You can bet you that if a certain wealthy Dallas billionaire paid 20% in taxes annually, he wouldn’t spend money renting a Negro on the Supreme Court for his funsies and amusement. “Clearance” Thomas would have been pushed overboard off the luxury yacht!
Johnny Guitar Watson died on stage in Tokyo. He was felled by a massive heart attack at age 61. But
if you went to Glendale, California, exhumed his body, drove him to Burger King and bought him an $8 hamburger, no fries, no drink, he would repeat what he sang in 1976.
I’m working forty hours
Six long days
And I’m highly embarrassed
Every time I get my pay
And they working everybody
Lord, they working poor folks to death
And when you pay your rent and your car note
You ain’t got a damn thing left
Ain’t that a Bitch!
Realize that Faith without Works...
I’m sick of this becoming common and I’m tired of a society that is becoming so desensitized because it happens so often.
I’m tired of once again the onslaught of only thoughts and prayers.
By Dr. Froswa Booker-DrewLast week, I was out of town when I received the alerts about the Allen mass shooting. As I scrolled through Twitter, I was horrified of the raw footage of the murder scene. My heart ached and as I fought back tears, I found myself experiencing an array of emotions. I was angry. I was sad. I was disappointed. I was fearful. It was a rollercoaster ride of feelings. I’m heartbroken for the loss of life, for the pain and suffering of these families. I’m angry that so many people who were there are dealing with trauma because of the experience that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
I’m tired of families losing their loved ones to random acts of violence and those who witness these atrocities dealing with injuries and memories for the rest of their lives.
I’m tired of people who have no value for human life who choose to deal with their insecurities, racism, hatred, and unresolved pain by murdering innocent people.
I’m tired of politicians sending condolences who choose to do absolutely nothing but offer lip service. They pander for votes but chose to hand off the significant issues to the next generation to address.
I’m tired of people who don’t vote and do not see the correlation between their everyday lives and these folks who make decisions.
I’m tired of people who do vote
but only focus on single issues, who do not pay attention to how those they elect are impacting other facets of their lives or that only care about how it impacts them and no one else because they aren’t affected.
I’m tired of children and adults losing their lives, of families grieving because of the unexpected loss of life taken senselessly.
I’m tired that there is no safe place. Churches, Synagogues, Malls, Grocery Stores, Schools, Public Places and the list goes on and on and on…
I’m tired that people will live in fear and isolating themselves from enjoying the freedom we are supposed to have in this country.
I’m tired of the divisiveness and rhetoric that creates a ‘us versus them’ dynamic, not recognizing that when one suffers, we all pay the price either directly or indirectly. We all are connected.
I’m tired of the passion to protect unborn babies but when they get
here, we don’t want to make sure they thrive throughout their lives.
I’m tired of mental health being blamed when there are hundreds of thousands of people with mental health issues who do not make decisions to harm others instead of recognizing that we have created a culture that does not value human life. We feast on a diet of destruction and viciousness.
I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired. And you should be, too.
I would be foolish to believe that there is only one problem and one solution. It’s multifaceted. Just as mental health is an issue, it’s not the only issue. Just as guns are an issue, it’s not the only issue. We have got to be willing to address root causes and not just symptoms. Otherwise, we will continue to place a bandaid on a rapidly growing tumor.
As a woman of faith, I believe in prayers. I know they work but I am also one who understands that without action, nothing happens.
James 2:14-18 is a reminder to all of us:
“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?
If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”
America, let’s see your faith AND your works…
Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is an author of three books and the host of The Tapestry podcast. To listen to episodes of the podcast, visit https:// www.spreaker.com/show/the-tapestry_1 and to learn more about her work, go to https://drfroswa.com/
What is Tim Scott Running For?
deep that they are still impactful. Or think Arizona Senator John McCain whose populist Straight Talk Express was a feature of his failed 2008 Presidential bid.
By Dr. Julianne Malveaux
South Carolina Senator Tim Scott (R) has joined the throng of Republicans seeking to unseat the former President as the frontrunner of that party..
So far, he is polling in the single digits, but he has $22 million left from his last Senatorial race that he can use for his Presidential race. Other than the historically myopic Florida governor, Scott has scant competition to date, and from my vantage point he has about as much chance of becoming President as I do. So why is he really in this race?
The siren call of the Presidency beckons many who are long on ambition and short on possibility. But sometimes long shots can make a difference and a statement.
Think Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, whose historic 1984 and 1988 campaigns opened doors for hundreds of African American and progressive politicians, and footprints so
There was Shirley Chisholm, whose Presidential bid was a landmark for Black folks and for women, and Colorado’s Pat Schroeder who considered a Presidential run. All these folks, and most of the others, ran to make a point and make a difference.
What is Tim Scott’s point? In his opening rally on May 22, mostly more diversely attended than usual Republican rallies, he spoke repeatedly of his faith. Punctuating his talk with frequent cries of “Amen, “ faith was part of his theme.
His talk was also replete with American exceptionalism, describing this nation as “the greatest nation on God’s green earth. Those who have experienced American oppression might argue the “great nation” point, but those who oppose truth-teaching claim that children are being taught to “hate” our country, when all Black Studies and Ethnic Studies want to teach is the truth.
What I find fascinating about Tim Scott’s cherry=picking the Bible,
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with his constant scripture quoting, is that he cannot seem to find his way to the scriptures that address the way our Bible treats the poor. In Luke 6:20-21, the Bible reads “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.”
Or, in Matthew 25:35-40, where the Lord says “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat. . .whatever you did for one of the least of these you do for me” Scott criticized people dropping out of the labor market without giving any context to the ways the labor market is changing.
Replete with platitudes, Tim dropped clichés, like “from victimhood to victory.” “I chose personal responsibility over resentment,” he said, and engaged in mindless class warfare.
Biden, he says, wants to get “mechanics and waitresses” to pay for student loan forgiveness. In his rambling hour long speech, Scott dusted off every Republican cliché about poor people, Black people and others. And he offered himself up as proof that there is no racism in this country.
He can’t explain the police killings of Black folks, though he did all he could to block the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act (2020) from passing. His life, he says, proves that opportunity works in America. Clearly he is too myopic to acknowledge that there is not opportunity for everyone.
If I had a dollar for every time Scott said “radical left” or “left” I’d be dining resplendently this evening..He did a masterful job of tarring the left and making empty promises about what he will do. I’ll give him credit for energy and enthusiasm, but look askance at his promise to build up the military so that our allies can “respect” us while our adversaries will “fear” us. Military might, at what cost? Is every military dollar being spent efficiently?
What is Senator Tim Scott running for? Secretary of Commerce, Labor or Housing and Urban Development? He mentioned his Empowerment Zone legislation (which many say has not ;yielded great results)?
Does he want a role in foreign relations, given his rhetoric about China? Does he want to beTrump’s running mate? Or Secretary of Education (“less CRT and more ABC”)?
Or is he running for chaplain?
“Stop cancelling our founding fathers,” Scott said of the slaveholders who dehumanized millions of Black people. “I am the candidate the far left fears the most,” Scott roared. “The truth of my life disrupts their lies,” he said.
Tim Scott doesn’t understand that it’s not just about him. The fact that he lives the American dream doesn’t mean that millions of others are missing it.
What is Tim Scott running for? I think he is running against a series of simple truths. Our nation is in decline thanks to the culture wars he so willingly participates in. Platitudes and attitudes won’t change any of this. As long as Republicans are willing to punish the poor, restrict women’s right to choose, and improve our education, we will keep spiraling downward. And the scripture-quoting man needs to understand that Bible-thumping is not public policy and faith without works is dead (James 2:26).
Living with schizophrenia: Family’s 30-year journey
Our Voices By Jenise GriffinWhen I’m not fulfilling my job as publisher and editor of the Florida Courier and its sister newspaper, the Daytona Times, much of my time is spent tending to the needs of my 57-year-old mentally ill brother.
It has been 30 years since my brother was diagnosed with schizophrenia. It was a frightening diagnosis that shook my family to the core. After all, we grew up in a nice, no-drama Christian home of three pretty good kids and two great parents. Our dad had become a pastor late in life and our mom was the consummate homemaker and ideal preacher’s wife.
A football high school standout who went on to earn a college degree in psychology – of all majors – my brother started acting erratically in the early 1990s. There were delusions, and he began hearing voices that told him negative things about himself. My father sought help for him through the local mental health center. My sister and I consumed
as much information that was available online at the time. We attended a support group for families offered by the local National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
And we did what people of faith did when faced with a crisis. We fasted and we prayed.
We as a family also kept much of it to ourselves because at the time it was a taboo subject, especially for Black church folks. And still is to some degree. My brother tried but stumbled and fell. Over and over again. He was Baker Acted. He did drugs. Arrests. Jail time.
Eventually, he had to be institutionalized. For 23 years, the state was my brother’s keeper.
He was a resident of multiple mental health hospitals and treatment centers. South Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center in Florida City. North Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center in Gainesville. South Florida State Hospital in Pembroke Pines. Treasure Coast Forensic Treatment Center in Indiantown. Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee, where he spent the most time.
Most of our holidays over the years were spent on the road – traveling to see him at state facilities where we could only spend a few
hours each visit. Trying to make the best of a bad situation, we made sure those visits were filled with chats of hometown gossip, news about family births, weddings and reunions. We offered laughter and loving words of comfort and hope.
After a few years of his diagnosis, we got over the shame. No suffering in silence. As my mom would always say, “Who cares?’’ My brother had a serious brain disorder, and he could not survive it without family. Who cared that others knew? Most were dealing with their own trials and tribulations.
My brother was blessed. Many of the residents in those facilities are forgotten. We witnessed many walking around like zombies –sick, heavily medicated and abandoned. And many were African American men. Somebody’s baby far away and no balm from home.
A few weeks before my mom died in 2020, my brother was released to the care of my sister and brother in-law and was able to see our mother just days before she died at age 90.
My parents are both gone, but my small immediate family is blessed to have a great host of supporters. Extended family members and friends who know our journey offer words of encouragement and
support. Just them asking about him and how he’s doing is often enough.
‘More Than Enough’
Mental Health Awareness Month is in May and the National Alliance on Mental Illness has observed it with a “More Than Enough’’ campaign.
NAMI’s website states that, “It’s an opportunity for all of us to come together and remember the inherent value we each hold — no matter our diagnosis, appearance, socioeconomic status, background or ability. We want every person out there to know that if all you did was wake up today, that’s more than enough.
“No matter what, you are inherently worthy of more than enough life, love and healing. Showing up, just as you are, for yourself and the people around you is more than enough,’’ it continued.
A post on the website states: “I live with schizophrenia. I am not a burden. I Am #MoreThanEnough.’’
My brother has lived with me now for nearly two years. My sister and her husband are just 10 minutes away, along with my grown niece and nephew, who have been a tremendous help.
I won’t lie. It’s a struggle. I have
had to take antidepressant medication, get counseling and engage in support groups to help me cope.
There are still occasional days when my brother’s ready to give up, when he asks us to give up on him and let him be cremated. He longs to live the life of someone “normal’’ – someone not required to take a heavy dose of hard to pronounce pills twice a day or attend therapy, or see a doctor regularly, or attend group classes. There are days when he’s loud and unruly and quite annoying.
And then there are days of great joy – when he shares fun childhood memories, shows off his dancing skills at family gatherings. There are the long, glorious chats with his high school buddies who check on him, his jubilance when his sports teams win a game, and the peals of laughter when he’s watching Wayne Brady on “Let’s Make a Deal.’’
He lives with schizophrenia. His life has value. He’s showing up, often doing the best he can. And that’s more than enough.
Obesity Crisis Is Not a Hopeless Fight for Black America
By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr.
From less access to quality healthcare, to the exclusion of anti-obesity medications from Medicare, and most Medicaid and general insurance coverage, our healthcare systems under-prioritizes the well-being of Black Americans. And we’ve learned from history that until we make our voices heard, this crisis will continue to be brushed aside.
Within the next seven years, researchers anticipate that half of American adults will live with obesity. Within the next seven years, researchers anticipate that half of American adults will live with obesity.
Whether we accept it or not, obesity continues to be a complex, chronic disease that kills thousands of Black Americans every year. Indeed, nearly half of Black Americans live with obesity, so we cannot afford to ignore this national emergency any longer.
The public discourse around weight loss that has taken over re-
cent headlines has entirely missed the mark. Our mainstream media, social media, and content providers are all either dissecting whether a movie star used weight loss medication or analyzing whether these medications are safe to take, even though they’re FDA approved.
The fact of the matter is that we are squandering a critical moment to focus on the deadly disease of obesity, and missing the opportunity to save thousands of lives, particularly Black lives. Within the next seven years, researchers anticipate that half of American adults will live with obesity. This is a personal health burden and a public health crisis, and we should talk about it as such.
Turning the narrative around on this disease, and on Black wellness overall, is critical to stemming obesity’s growth. The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a trade association of more than 250 Blackowned community newspapers and media companies from across the United States, has consistently been the voice of the Black community since its founding 83 years ago.
I serve as the organization’s President and CEO and right now, we’re calling on our members to
elevate the conversation on the obesity crisis to one that clarifies the facts, shares reliable resources, and advocates for impactful changes for the benefit of our community’s health and longevity. We can address obesity in a way that gives hope, because this is not a hopeless fight.
munities. This makes it nearly impossible for many Black residents to eat well even if they wanted to. That is to say, many people cannot access one of the key tools for combating obesity — a healthy diet — because of factors outside of their control.
It’s also important to note that obesity is a complex disease that may require more than diet and exercise. Our understanding of the disease has changed drastically over the years thanks to scientific research and advances.
ing or seeking the care they need. Societal weight biases strain the mental health of people living by obesity, prevent people from living their healthiest lives, and contribute to our country’s stagnant healthcare policies that exacerbate obesity’s disproportionate impact on Black communities.
To start, it’s vital that we correct the misinformation. Too often, people don’t know that obesity is a chronic disease and a long-term illness, with multiple contributing factors outside of a person’s control: environmental circumstances, inherently racist healthcare programs, poverty, and genetics. In cities across the country, like Washington, D.C., where nearly half the population is Black, food deserts and food swamps have become the norm in Black com-
Where diet and exercise are not enough, some people may need the extra support of anti-obesity medications to fight the disease. Just as many of us take medications to manage hypertension, diabetes, or cholesterol — conditions you may have inherited — medications for chronic weight management may be needed as well.
Further, combating severe obesity may even require bariatric surgery. Chronic diseases are treated with a range of treatment options, and obesity is no different.
To be clear, the perception that people who live with obesity just need to take better care of themselves is false and dangerous, as it prevents thousands from receiv-
From less access to quality healthcare, to the exclusion of anti-obesity medications from Medicare, and most Medicaid and general insurance coverage, our healthcare systems under-prioritizes the well-being of Black Americans. And we’ve learned from history that until we make our voices heard, this crisis will continue to be brushed aside.
Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an expert on obesity, noted that we have been living through three pandemics: COVID-19, racism, and obesity. We must prioritize combating the obesity pandemic with the same energy we use to combat COVID-19 and racial injustice. Our lives depend on it.
Lost art of fighting – with hands:
sian inventor, military engineer, and writer.
Part II
In part I of this discussion, we recalled “the good ole days” when kids who had a beef with each other fought it out – by hand. They exchanged punches and bruises, exhausted themselves, made up, and shortly were friends again. They lived to fight another day, and as years passed, looked back on the disagreement and laughed about it as a learning experience.
Not so today. Enter stage left the mass-killing power of the deadly AK-47 and AR-15 semi-automatic rifles that pro-gun advocates refuse to call “assault weapons.”
I was just thinking…what is it about these two rifles that have so scarred our society in the hands of individuals who should not have access to them? Let’s explore.
AK-47. This shoulder weapon has been in use for 76 years, since 1947. It was designed by Mikhail Timofeyevich Kalashnikov, a Rus-
AK-47 stands for “Automatic Kalashnikov 1947.” Kalashnikov for the name of the inventor and 47 for the year he designed it. As we said in Part I, media reports usually add the word “style” when mentioning the two weapons in news stories to avoid confusing them with the original models.
curacy. It still remains very popular, though more efficient military firearms have been designed. As the popularity grew, the inventor was quoted saying he lamented the direction society had taken his AK-47 invention. He said he designed it as a “weapon of defense, not a weapon of offense.”
Below is the other weapon fre-
Colt-manufactured derivative of the weapon called the M16.
Eugene Stoner, Armalite’s lead gun designer, created the weapon shortly after the company began operating in 1954. He designed it for civilian use, mainly for local law enforcement and game hunters. It now is considered among the nation’s most popular high-powered semi-automatic
one can buy this deathly weapon at age 18, and in Texas with almost no regulation. Researchers say about 500 companies currently manufacture their own AR15-style firearm. The now vilified National Rifle Association (NRA) estimates there are about 8 million AR-15-style rifles in circulation in the U. S.
Under former President Bill Clinton, the federal government banned semi-automatic assault weapons from 1994 to 2004. After that decade, sales and popularity ballooned. Debate also heightened concerning how to confine its use to responsible and mentally stable individuals.
(TO
BE CONTINUED)
The Soviet Armed Forces began using this attack and defense rifle in 1949, lauding it for being an improvement over previous combat weapons, and easier to mass produce. It holds 30 rounds and can fire 600 rounds per minute, depending on how quickly the shooter can reload. Eventually, Soviet soldiers reported some problems with the weapon’s ac-
quently used in mass shootings.
AR-15. The letter ID of this weapon does not stand for Automatic Rifle or Assault Rifle – a common misconception. This weapon is named after its American manufacturer, Armalite Rifle. The 15 represents the model.
It is the 15th weapon design that the Armalite company produced. Vietnam War soldiers used a
firearms. The light-weight rifle weighs about 6 pounds and can easily be customized with fancy attachments -- tactical lights, magazines, stocks, buffers, muzzles, etc. --that fascinate gun-enthusiasts at crowded gun shows.
Unfortunately, because of its power, ease and efficiency, the AR-15 has become the go-to weapon for mass shootings. Any-
Part III will examine the now-vilified National Rifle Association (NRA) – its history, purpose, leaders, and who it attracts as members.
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Call issued to Support Black Businesses
Haynes: "Buy Black"
By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro NewsWhen Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, announced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre, we joined the movement. December 31, 2021 marked 100 days of featuring Black Businesses. and we decided that the struggle continues and we must also. So enjoy reading about more Blackowned businesses and please support.
HIRUNA
Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III
DESIGNS
HiRuna Designs is a Black-owned Caribbean-inspired business. Their mission is uncomplicated: to create thoughtful yet impactful skincare inspired by the islands of St. Vincent and The Grenadines. Their bath and body products are cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and handmade. They handcraft and package each product in their Little Elm, Texas studio, using sustainable, clean, and certified cruelty-free ingredients. Shop their oils, body butter, sugar scrubs, soaps, bath bombs, and more. Order online with free regional shipping. Website: https://www.hirunadesigns.com/
JOURNEYFIT
The reality of fitness is: everyone is on a fitness journey. You are either: thinking about getting in shape but don’t know where to start; in good shape but you want to be in better shape; or once, twice maybe even three times attempted to reach your fitness goals but got frustrated and gave up. If this is you JOURNEYFIT is for you. Victoria Thomas is one of the top trainers in Dallas, Texas and the owner of Journeyfit LLC., a sports performance and fitness studio in Richardson, Tx. Join the JOURNEYFIT Movement. Visit the website: https://www.journeyfit.net/
COLE’S CUSTOM CHEESECAKES
Cole Jones is the owner and baker of Cole’s Custom Cheesecakes. Cole has spent the last decade teaching, coaching, and mentoring leaders across the U.S. in food service. The pandemic brought about major changes to Cole’s
Brittney Griner
cont. from page 1
U.S. releasing Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. She had been detained in Russia for 294 days since her after being arrested in February 2022 after authorities found hash oil in her luggage.
She returned to the WNBA but won’t be playing abroad again, unless it’s with Team USA.
“I’m never playing overseas again,” the two-time Olympic gold medalist said during her first press conference since being released. “The only time I would want to would be to represent the USA.” Photos of her family is what helped her keep her head and her hopes up while imprisoned.
“Just being able to see their faces, that did it for me. The moment where you kind of want to give up, you look at the photos and it kind of brings you back to what you’re waiting on,” she said. “You’re waiting to be back with your families, with your loved ones in a safe place.”
Through a horrible ordeal Griner is happy to be back home with family and grateful for the resiliency she displayed.
“I’m no stranger to hard times. Just digging deep,” she said. “You’re going to be faced with adversities in life. This was a pretty big one. I just relied on my hard work to get through it.”
life. He found himself taking in his Grandmother. Cole’s grandmother was a phenomenal baker, using recipes that were passed down from generation to generation. At 90 years old she is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Cole challenged himself to pick up her whisk and bake. Cole’s Custom Cheesecakes was created and operates in honor of her. They offer homemade desserts for all to enjoy, specializing in Cheesecakes, Custom Cheesecake Cakes, Mini Cheesecakes, and more. Experience the decadence. Check out the website. https://colescustomcheesecakes.com/ (817)993-9147 or email: cole@colescustomcheesecakes.com
HAIR SLAYED BY THE GODS
Hair Slayed by the Gods’ beauty is where you can shop an amazing selection of high quality, yet-affordable wigs. But, don’t mistake them with the little old wig shop at the corner. Besides the hundreds of human hair wig styles, they also carry a variety of different hair pieces from lace front wigs, ponytails, and crochet hair. No matter your style, Hair Slayed by the Gods can introduce you to the best hair extensions and wigs online. Check out the reviews, sign up for their newsletter, and shop for your new look https://hairslayedbythegods. com/. Follow them on Facebook.
DREAM TUMMY
What’s so great about Dream Tummy? Dream
Tummy helps to strengthen the immune system, is guaranteed to lose inches off your waist, and is great alongside your workouts. Dream Tummy will have your body feeling bloat-free and healthier. One cup of Dream Tummy will have you feeling like a new person. The best detox to help you to achieve and maintain your healthy, beautiful body. They only stock products made with natural ingredients. Water and fresh lemons are the main source of ingredients,followed by spices and of course, apple cider vinegar. To get your Dream Tummy, visit the website. https://dreamtummy.net/
J & S CATFISH
J & S Catfish is located in Oak Cliff. The fish is actual USDA catfish. The orders are made fresh to order and are always piping hot when you arrive. One customer said, “The flavors on the catfish are so good, it’ll have you craving for more and asking yourself ‘Why didn’t I order more?’” Their service is good. Just drive up, call in order, give your parking number and they will bring the food out to you. They also have delivery options.
If your mouth is watering and you want real catfish-to-go, stop by J & S Catfish at 4831 S. Lancaster Road, 214-3764110. Follow them on Facebook @jscatfish
DEFIANT DREAMER CREATIVE AGENCY
Defiant Dreamer is a full-service creative agency that can provide innovative and effective solutions to businesses. They specialize in creating engaging websites as well as brandrelated content for startups, and small to medium-sized companies. Their team of skilled designers, developers, and brand ambassadors work closely with each client to deliver customized solutions that match the client’s brand specifications and business goals. Defiant’s services include brand development, graphic design, website development, social media management, content creation, and digital marketing. If you have a project in mind and you want to grow your business and give it a new look, contact the Defiant Dreamer Creative Agency.
https://defiantdreamer.com/ 214-876-9840 or email: info@defiantdreamer.com.
SHOAGIES
Shoagies serves Chicago
Authentic Style Foods & Hoagies. Their original recipes are authentic, their homemade flavors are hand-blended seasoning and spices are just some of Shoagies key ingredients.
They locally source the vegetables and import their specialty items from Chicago. They don’t cut corners when it comes to bringing that Chi-Town flavor that we all know and love. They have fast delivery requests for your orders up to 72 hours in advance. Check out their menu on the website.https://www.shoagies.com/ 5121 Collin McKinney Parkway, Suite 200 McKinney, 214-842-8448. Hours Sun & Mon Closed, Tue-Thu 12 to 8 pm, Fri 12 to 9 pm, sat 2 to 10 pm.
KENDALL KARSEN’S UPSCALE SOUL FOOD
Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food is owned by Chef Kevin Winston and nestled in Oak Cliff. Chef Kevin is rethinking classic Southern food. What’s remarkable about the dishes at Kendall Karsen’s is their confidence. The no baked ribs meat falls off the bone. The greens are seasoned to perfection. The outstanding hospitality of this ultra-friendly team keeps customers coming back.
3939 S. Polk St., #305 Dallas, 214-376-2171, Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 12-8 p.m.; Sunday 12-7 p.m. Call make your order, pay, and pick up your order. Follow Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food on Facebook and Instagram @kendallkarsensupscale)
BLEU REIGN SHIN SPA
Bleu Reign Skin
Spa invites you to a uniquely personalized and luxurious selfcare experience. Irtashia Horn created Bleu Reign with a goal of not only providing clients with top-notch services but also educating them on how to maintain radiant skin at home between treatments. The spa also provides an array of products and kits to take home for use. Visit the website to explore all the services that are offered.
You will find them in Arlington, 1201 N. Watson Rd. Suite 162, 817- 689-6353 or email: Spainfo@bleureignskin.com. https://www.bleureignskin.com/
POSITIVE TOUCH THERAPY, LLC
Positive Touch Therapy, LLC provides a unique massage experience and is owned by Yvette Ward, a massage therapist in DFW. At Positive Touch Therapy, your wellbeing takes center stage as the dedicated team of massage therapists prioritize giving you a massage to promote your well-being by relaxing your mind, releasing stress and anxiety, and renewing your body naturally. Check out the website to book online. All services are by appointment only. Open Monday to Saturday and closed on Sunday. You will find them in Duncanville at 210B S Cedar Ridge Dr. Ste. 101A, (469) 386-8446, https://yvetteward.com.
SWEET THINGS OF MIDTOWN
Sweet Things of Midtown is a local Dallas cookie bar with good ole fashion favorites mixed with famous sweet delights. Sweet Things of Midtown is dedicated to providing joy and comfort to your day with heartfelt affirmations in each box. Make your next celebrations something to talk about with their famous Milk & Cookie Cake it’s soft and moist and has 10 layers. Order from Sweet Things on their website. They deliver to six drop-off points in DFW. Sweet Things of Midtown is spreading sweetness and positivity until it’s contagious. https://www.sweetthingsofmidtown.com/ 469-8203376, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @ sweetthingsofmidtown
Brittney Griner, Phoenix Mercury Harassed At D/FW Airport
By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports EditorWNBA star and Texas native Brittney Griner and her Phoenix Mercury teammates were apparently harassed at D/FW Airport today per reports.
Griner and her teammates were confronted by a Blaze Media YouTube personality in Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport on Saturday morning before flying to Indiana after the team played the Dallas Wings twice in Arlington this past week.,
Per reports, Alex Stein, a Dallas native who has gained some notoriety for confronting politicians, posted a photograph on Twitter saying, “I just met my favorite WNBA player. Video coming soon.” Stein then also posted a brief clip of him yelling at Griner as she walked through the airport.
Word of the incident at the airport – where the players were approached by a man in the airport who was threatening and filming it – first surfaced Saturday morning after Mercury player Brianna Turner tweeted out the following:
“Player safety while traveling should be at the forefront. People following with cameras saying wild remarks is never acceptable. Excessive harassment. Our team nervously huddled in a corner unsure how to move about. We demand better.”
The WNBA and the Players Association both released statements Saturday afternoon as they worked to gather details and ensure the team safely left Dallas.
“As we gather additional information about today’s incident at the Dallas Airport, it has come to our attention that this was orchestrated by a social media figure and provocateur. His actions were in-
appropriate and unfortunate.”
“The safety of Brittney Griner and all WNBA players is our top priority. Prior to the season, the WNBA worked together with the Phoenix Mercury and BG’s team to ensure her safety during her travel, which included charter flights for WNBA games and assigned security personnel with her at all times. We remain steadfastly committed to the highest standards of security for players.” WNBA
The WNB Players Association said:
“As we continued to hear from our members throughout the start of the season and particularly today with the situation involving the Phoenix Mercury at the Dallas airport, we are quite clear that the matter of charter travel is NOT a “competitive advantage” issue.
Griner Post GameWe cannot help but wonder if the league and teams preclude more reasonable and flexible rules regarding charter travel in 2023 in order to seek leverage on this issue at the bargaining table.
What BG and all of her PHX teammates experienced today was a calculated confrontation that left them feeling very unsafe. Everyone who was paying attention knew this would happen. We could have and should have been more proactive.
Allowing teams to fly charter is ONLY about player health and safety, and until the league and teams take this issue seriously, situations like this will continue to occur.
Every commercial flight forced upon our players is a threat to their health and safety. We implore the league and the teams not to wait another day to change the rule regarding travel.”
The Phoenix Mercury team also released a statement:
“We are reviewing the incident that took place today at the Dalla Airport. The health and well-being of our players and staff are our top priority and we will always take every step within our power to protect player safety.
“We are committed to our support of BG and advocating for all American hostages abroad. We will continue our support of marginalized communities and fighting the kind of hate that targeted us today. No one, regardless of identify, should ever fear for their safety. We will be coordinating with the WNBA on next steps”
Stay tuned to Texas Metro News for more on this breaking story.