Visit us at GarlandJournal.com Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/ GarlandJournal Follow us on Twitter@GarlandJournal
Serving North East Texas
My Truth Publisher Cheryl Smith
www.GarlandJournal.com
VOL IX ISSUE 18
JUNE 3, 2020
POLICE MURDER OF GEORGE FLOYD SPARKS UPRISINGS ACROSS AMERICA
Three Things! In a conversation with esteemed publishers of the Black Press, the topic of voting was raised. Specifically, someone asked about what is being done to get out the vote. Good question. It’s a never-ending battle and challenge. Which brings me to my truth. I would love to have the formula that would encourage folks to do several things. I’d like for all households to complete the Census 2020 form. It is critically important that the form is completed so that much needed resources can be allocated. And in addition to the good that comes out of completion of the form, there are also jobs available. I received a note from a Census 2020 exec that I know should be of assistance to some: “There is a big recruiting effort going on due to COVID-19. Many people that were hired had start dates delayed and consequently decided to either look elsewhere or changed their mind. There is also a huge employment
see MY TRUTH, page 5
On Friday, May 29, former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin, 44, was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter.
George Floyd
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia From the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul to the Streets of San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Louisville, Atlanta, Washington, DC, and New York City, and the bright lights of the Big Apple, African Americans are expressing outrage over the police killing of George Floyd, the
Ice Cube to Black Press of America: ‘You’re All We’ve Got’
see George Floyd , page 5
NAACP launches #WeAreDoneDying Campaign
Are We There Yet?, Ride Along, and 21 Jump Street), Cube said he’s merely taking advantage of the opportunities he’s been blessed with. Born in predominantly Black South-Central, Los Angeles, Cube said the Black Press remains as vital today as when he was a baby in 1969. “You [The Black Press] is all we’ve got, to be honest,” Cube stated. “You’re our last line of defense when it comes to the truth, and when it comes to things that are of interest for our people and that’s something we must keep intact, nurture, fund, and do everything we can to keep the Black Press going.” He continued: “You’ve been a lifeline to
see Ice Cube, page 3
Washington, D.C.– The NAACP, the nation’s foremost social justice organization, has launched a campaign entitled #WeAreDoneDying, aimed at exposing the inequities embedded into the American healthcare system and the country at large. From COVID-19 to running while Black in America, the abuse faced by people of color, particularly African Americans is devastating. The campaign is a Call-to-Action and highlights the NAACP’s policy interests and supported legislation for African Americans and people of color, a large demographic that is often left out of recovery effort conversations. The integrated and interactive content will create actionable steps for people to feel empowered by demanding action from their state’s elected officials on issues such as healthcare, education, criminal justice, economic justice, and voting rights. “With crumbling economic infrastructure, our community members face tough choices as access to food, good jobs, and a quality education slips further away,” said Derrick Johnson, president and CEO, NAACP. “These issues are compounded by the lack of strong leadership from the White House. In the absence of adequate guidance, Black lives are adversely affected. We will no longer stand idle as our people suffer discrimination, marginalization, and are offered as disposable for poor decisions by this Administration.”
As the incidence of COVID-19 cases and deaths rise, the Black community is experiencing the worst outcomes. With more confirmed cases and deaths than any other country, African Americans are facing the brunt of this virus. The numbers continue to rise each day while states reopen non-essential businesses with little to no evidence that the country is ready. “The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified the deep-seated racial disparity in America embedded in all aspects of life,” said Leon W. Russell, Chairman, NAACP Board of Directors. “The NAACP Empowerment Programs’ 111 years of advocacy and fighting for the rights of Black people positions us to lead the fight for our community’s interest during this time of uncertainty.” Learn how you can join and get involved with the campaign by visiting NAACP.org. Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities.
Winfrey donates $12 Million for COVID-19 Relief in five cities From Staff Reports During a recent virtual address to the class of 2020 college graduates, media mogul Oprah Winfrey spoke of the need to provide for those impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. “What this pandemic has done is made me think about giving differently. How I give and who’s on the receiving end of that, and how do you do that in such a way that sustains people? I’ve ultimately always believed that you teach people to fish. But sometimes people just need fish and a piece of bread,” the media mogul stated. “Sometimes you need some fish, OK?
min F. Chavis, Jr., and numerous other Black Press of America newspaper publishers have expressed outrage over Floyd’s murder and concern about the rampant killings of African Americans at the hands of police and white supremacist vigilantes acting under color of law. Chauvin inexplicably pressed his knee against a handcuffed Floyd’s neck while the young Black man lay on the ground. The assault went on for nine minutes, with Floyd pleading that he couldn’t breathe. Floyd died a short time later at a local hospital. On Friday, May 29, Chauvin was arrested and charged with
Special to the Garland Journal from the AFRO
Hip-Hop legend talks new movie, Black life in exclusive interview Thirty years ago, Ice Cube debuted his seminal “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” album, which many at the time said was the apex of hip hop’s existence. Today, Cube is not only one of the world’s biggest music stars, but he’s also at the top of Hollywood’s A-list. In an exclusive livestream interview with the Black Press of America, the legend said he takes nothing for granted. “I’m not going to take a day off,” said Cube, whose real name is O’Shea Jackson. “It’s good that people enjoy the work that I do, and I’m going to keep it coming.” Following a long list of blockbusters like Boyz ‘N the Hood, Three Kings, and The Players Club, Cube’s new film, The High Note, debuted May 29 on various streaming services. The only actor to have at least five highly-successful movie franchises (Friday, Barbershop,
latest in a country-mile long list of Black men and women murdered under the color of law. City officials in Minneapolis and St. Paul called on the National Guard, and state police lined the streets there in riot gear. An 8PM curfew was ordered, and an African American CNN reporter was arrested while giving a live report from a hotspot of protests. In California, demonstrators
closed the 101 freeway in San Jose as marchers took to the streets in San Francisco and Oakland. In New York, where the novel coronavirus hit America the hardest and where residents had remained reluctant to gather outdoors, protestors jammed city streets. New York’s Gov. Andrew Cuomo joined an extensive list of politicians condemning the action of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin, 44, who, along with three other officers, were videotaped using excessive force on Floyd. National Newspaper Publishers Association Chair Karen Carter Richards and NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benja-
Oprah Winfrey Sometimes you don’t have time to learn to fish. I just need some fish today!” Winfrey made sure that there was plenty of “fish” in the places she’s called home. Through the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, the OWN Network
boss announced she was donating $12 million to organizations dedicated to helping underserved communities in Chicago, Baltimore, Nashville, Milwaukee and Kosciusko, Mississippi. Born in Kosciusko, Winfrey has lived in each of the cities where she’s donating money. “This thing is not going away. Even when the virus is gone, the devastation left by people not being able to work for months who were holding on paycheck to paycheck, who have used up their savings — people are going to be in need,” Winfrey told reporters. “So, my thing is, look in your own neighborhood, in your own
backyard to see how you can serve and where your service is most essential. That is the real essential work, I think, for people of means.” Of the $12 million donations, Winfrey gave $5 million to Live Healthy Chicago, which provides immediate support to seniors and high-risk residents affected by the coronavirus. She gave $2 million to Nashville Nurtures, a collaboration with Mount Zion Baptist Church and Tennessee State University (TSU). Winfrey is a graduate of TSU and began her career in Nashville. She later lived in Milwaukee, where she announced
see WINFREY, page 3
Inside
New Prosecutor in Ahmaud Arbery case refutes conflict of interest complaint
page 3
BRAVO: MARRIED TO MEDICINE page 6
2
16
JUNE 3, 2020 MAY 20, 2020
June 3, 2020 Ask Dr. Amerson ‘’Sexual Assault Awareness’ at 11am CST on DfwiRadio.com guest is Author & Life Coach Maurita Brown shares information about a topic which is often swept under the rug. Statistics given and resources. Tips on hair & scalp care, & alopecia, #ScalpDoctor #39yrveteran #7yrhost Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez with Co-Host Shavonda with a “V” on Hollywoodlive.com from 2 pm-4 pm. Guest: Michelle Priest Vocalist & Don Diego. Sax Player. A Message For You. with Marva Sneed comes to you From Marva with Love, bringing you COVID-19 information on how to get the help you need, News, Resources, Music, and Encouragement. 11 am-1 pm. CST. Facebook/@CherylSmith and BlogTalkRadio.com. 646-200-0459. Today’s guest Michael Guinn Poet of the spoken word. NNPA’s Live Publishers Broadcast Hosted by Stacy M. Brown Journalist/Correspondent 12pm CST 1pm EST. Live on Facebook/ Black Press USA, Vimeo, and YouTube. Nab’a Muhammad- Final Call , Chicago, Dr. R.B. Holmes, Jr. - Capitol Outlook Newspaper Tallahassee, Fl., Trennie Williams- Silver Star News- Memphis, Karl Rodney- New York Carib News. Financial Wellness Webinars 11am – 12noon. If you are a financial coach, bank CRA compliance officer, a non-profit with a financial program, or a community leader join these weekly webinars that equip attendees with strategies to assist during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sponsors: FDIC, Office of the Comptroller of Currency, and the Federal Reserve of Dallas. Contact: Linda Gabriel, 972-761-2809. Register by June 2nd at 5:30pm at: https://cvent.me/rMn5D
June 4, 2020 Goals Don’t Have Feelings Dr. Stacia Alexander. Top Achievers Nonprofit Lawerence Mann and Jalen Brunson Building Athletes for resiliency at 7pm at Facebook/@ GoalsDon’tHaveFeelings www.PositiveInfluences. org Facing challenges today for blessings tomorrow. Dallas Office: 469.227.7847. A Message For You, hosted by Cheryl Smith publisher of Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger. She is a veteran journalist and FAMU graduate, who currently serves as
Virtual Community Calendar Secretary of the National Association of Black Journalists. Join in on Facebook/@CherylSmith and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am- 1pm. Questions ask Cheryl at 646-200-0459.
June 5, 2020 1987 Dr. Mae C. Jemison the 1st. Black woman astronaut. From Marva with Love 11:15 am Terry Allen CEO of City Men Cook and CEO 1016 Media, He hosts the biggest Sunday Dinner on Father’s Day. 12:15 pm. Joseph Abrahams CEO Invest in your Success. How has COVID-19, the Lockdown affected you?
June 6, 2020 1931 Baseball Willie Mays is Born A Message For You. I Messenger Media is continuing to provide thought-provoking, informative, enlightening and entertaining news, and commentary. 1 pm. on BlogTalkRadio.com. NABJ Webinar: How They See Us | Black Male Media Project Moderated by: Bill Whitaker, This is an NABJ initiative designed to accurately reflect the contributions of black males in the media, and promote networking, mentorship, and professional development of black males working in the media. 1:00 pm CST. Register: bit.ly/HowTheySeeUs.
June 7, 2020 Andrew’s World with host Andrew Whigham III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.10 am. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459 on Andrew’s World. A Message For You. I Messenger Media is continuing to provide thought-provoking, informative, enlightening and entertaining news, and commentary. 1 pm. on BlogTalkRadio.com. NBPRS Dallas and NABJ Media Related Task Force presents the “Virtual” Happy Hour with host Terry Allen every Sunday 5:30 pm CST. Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom. us/meeting/register/vpIpcumvrD4jCjxEQOkkv1R6jaqJ1yhGw. Bring your best drink and enjoy the best in online networking! Garland ISD Class of 2020 Graduation Ceremonies, Memorial Pathway Academy at Williams Stadium 510 Stadium Dr. Garland. 8 pm. For more information and all of the details: garlandisd.net/ graduation
June 8-25, 2020
Math & Reading Summer Bridge Camps June 8 – 25, 2020 and July 6 – 23, 2020. On-line classes with designated class times will be offered to help kids stay current during the summer. Classes feature live teacher assistance, virtual field trips, arts projects, Google Classroom, and more. Classes and locations vary. Sponsor: Beacon Hill Preparatory Institute. Contact: 972-329-7779. Website: www.beaconhillprep.org.
June 8, 2020 Happy Birthday to Team Member and a great guy Joseph Abrahams A Message For You, hosted by Cheryl Smith publisher of Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger. She is a veteran journalist and FAMU graduate, who currently serves as Secretary of the National Association of Black Journalists. Join in on Facebook/@CherylSmith and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am- 1pm. Questions ask Cheryl at 646-200-0459. NNPA’s Live Publishers Broadcast Hosted by Stacy M. Brown Journalist/Correspondent 12pm CST 1pm EST. Live on Facebook/BlackPress USA, Vimeo, and YouTube. Bede Emuka -African News-Digest (Houston) Carol Zippert, Greene County Democrat (Alabama) Rod Doss- New Pittsburgh Courier Ken Miller- Inglewood Today Garland ISD Class of 2020 Graduation Ceremonies, Sachse High School at Williams Stadium 510 Stadium Dr. Garland. 8 pm. For more information and all of the details: garlandisd.net/graduation
June 9, 2020 A Message For You, with Anthony Council Morehouse student and I Messenger Media intern. Anthony brings that perspective from those born in this century. Valder Beebe Show That Celebrity Interview, daily shows on 411RadioNetwork.com & SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow; On-Demand (schedule) YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow Garland ISD Class of 2020 Graduation Ceremonies, South Garland High School at Williams Stadium 510 Stadium Dr. Garland. 8 pm. For more information and all of the details: garlandisd.net/graduation.
June 10, 2020 Women’s Issues Town Hall with Royce West & Rep. Victoria Neave. Focusing on issues that impact women. 7 pm-8 pm. Register: www.mobilize.us.
Ask Dr. Amerson ‘Auto Immunity and Alopecia Areata’ at 11am CST on DfwiRadio.com Expert guest is Author & Transformational Coach Sandra Dubose, who will share her testimonial; we will discuss other alopecia categories. Tips on hair care, scalp care, & alopecia. #ScalpDoctor #39yrveteran #7yrhost Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez with Co-Host Shavonda with a “V” on Hollywoodlive.com from 2 pm-4 pm. Guest: Eve Wooten & Samanthea Hunte. Virtual Community Conversation-WOW Dems and NDTDW with Sen. Royce West. Join Senator Royce West on a Virtual Community Conversation across Texas by attending this virtual town hall! This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Senator West’s experience, his vision for Texas, and ask questions. Register: www.mobilize.us 7pm CST. Garland ISD Class of 2020 Graduation Ceremonies, Rowlett High School at Williams Stadium 510 Stadium Dr. Garland. 8 pm. For more information and all of the details: garlandisd.net/graduation
June 11, 2020 A Message For You, hosted by Cheryl Smith publisher of Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger. She is a veteran journalist and FAMU graduate, who currently serves as Secretary of the National Association of Black Journalists. Join in on Facebook/@ CherylSmith and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am- 1pm. Questions ask Cheryl at 646-200-0459
JUNE 3, 2020
New Prosecutor in Ahmaud Arbery case refutes conflict of interest complaint
Joyette M. Holmes By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia
Discovering the hard-cold truth of why unarmed African Americans are being regularly gunned down by law enforcement officers and private citizen vigilantes — and why it is so difficult to bring the perpetrators of these killings to justice — has experienced another setback as underscored in the case of Georgia resident Ahmaud Arbery. In a recent report published by Law.com, Cobb Judicial Circuit District Attorney Joyette M. Holmes, the fourth DA to be assigned the Ahmaud Arbery case, said that questions had been raised about a possible conflict of interest for her – although she made it clear she will proceed with the prosecution of Travis and Gregory McMichael. The case has underscored why so many African American families who’s loved ones are victimized by police and self-appointed vigilantes, fail to receive any type of resolution, let alone justice. “There is always a problem created rather mysteriously when it comes to why these cops and district attorneys can’t do their jobs,” said Thurman Halladay, a lawyer in Florida. “So, the special prosecutor has a conflict? That is America. That is particularly America under the administration of Donald J. Trump,” Halladay stated. The first two DAs assigned to the Arbery case recused themselves because of connections to Gregory McMichaels, 64, a retired investigator for the Brunswick police and district attorney’s office. On May 7, McMichales, along with his son Travis, 34, was arrested and charged with murder and aggravated assault. A third DA on the case stepped aside to allow Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr to appoint Holmes, Law.com reported. Carr has also asked the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Justice De-
partment to review the actions and communications of the first two DAs. They passed on making arrests for the fatal shooting on Feb. 23. The issues Holmes addressed focused on a murder trial in 2016 for Justin Ross Harris, who was convicted for leaving his 22-month-old son Cooper to die in a hot car. The trial moved from Marietta to Brunswick under a change-of-venue order. “The Glynn County District Attorney’s Office vacated a portion of their office space to allow Cobb’s staff to have a workspace for the duration of that monthslong trial,” Holmes said in a written statement to Law. com. “At that time, Cobb’s trial team had professional interactions with employees of the Glynn County DA’s Office, including their investigator, Gregory McMichael. Additionally, in spring 2017, a now-former investigator with our office communicated with McMichael for help locating a witness who lived in Glynn County and was needed to testify in a Cobb murder case. There has been no continuing relationship.” She also specified no continuing relationship between McMichael and Cobb Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Jesse Evans, who has taken the lead and won convictions in many murder trials – including the one moved to Brunswick. Evans handled that with then-ADA Chuck Boring, now director of the Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission. That was before Holmes took over as DA. The Cobb DA then was Vic Reynolds. And Holmes was chief judge of the Cobb Magistrate Court. Holmes and Reynolds became acquainted in 2012, when she was one of four candidates for an open seat on Cobb’s traffic court, ultimately losing to Judge Marsha Lake. That same year, Reynolds – a former police officer, defense attorney and magistrate court judge – was elected district attorney. Before he took office in January
2013, he offered Holmes a job as a prosecutor, according to the Law.com report. A Valdosta native, Holmes had worked as a public defender in Maryland fresh out of the University of Baltimore law school. After moving to Cobb County, she had a private practice in criminal defense and family law. And she worked a stint as a prosecutor on misdemeanor cases for Solicitor General Barry Morgan. But she had never prosecuted felonies until she went to work for Reynolds. Two years later, when Frank Cox resigned the chief magistrate position with more than a year left in his term, Reynolds supported her in applying for the open judgeship. The Cobb County Superior Court bench appointed her, and she won election to the office the next year. In her swearing-in ceremony, Reynolds said, “If you really want to get to know someone, spend several months with them on the campaign trail. In the summer. When it’s 97 degrees, I promise their character will come out.” Reynolds said then that Homes exemplifies all the qualities a judge should have: fairness, integrity, patience, “the fortitude to be tough when necessary,” the “heart to be compassionate when appropriate,” and the “courtesy to treat everyone in the courtroom with dignity and respect.” Holmes left the magistrate court to become a district attorney last year when Gov. Brian Kemp appointed Reynolds to lead the GBI. Holmes talked about professional relationships in general in her statement. She said that, by participating in the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia, “prosecutors and investigators from across the state routinely connect through various training and conferences,” which “is not limited to our office and the Glynn County DA’s Office.” She added that “as in any profession, prosecutors and investigators often change employment from one office to another. The Special Victims Unit of the Cobb DA’s Office includes a prosecutor who came to us after working in the Glynn County DA’s Office. She has no involvement in prosecuting the McMichael case.” Holmes said she addressed those matters with Carr before accepting the case, and she has also discussed them with the parents of Arbery and their counsel. “In unfortunate circumstances, we are sometimes called upon to prosecute people we know professionally,” Holmes said. “Professional interactions between prosecuting agencies and even law enforcement are commonplace and do not create a legal or factual conflict in proceeding with a case.”
Mandate My Ass! QUIT PLAYIN’ Vincent Hall Because it seems as though we’ve been convinced that 26% of the registered voters, not even 26% of the American people, but 26% of the registered voters form a mandate or a landslide. _ Gil Scott Heron “B Movie” lyrics circa Ronald Reagan! At the age of 62, Gil Scott Heron turned a corner and met his final dead-end street, and for him there ain’t no turnin’ back. (Google Winter in America) No serious survey of Black Music prophecy would be complete without researching, reviewing, or reminding us about Gil Scott Heron. His value as a lyricist and a liberator was as luminous as it was legendary. He mixed soul, jazz, rap, and revolutionary consciousness. The man had receipts. Gil was raised in his Grandma Lillie’s house in Jackson, Tennessee. He was born to mother Bobbie Scott-Heron, a singer in the New York Oratorical Society and Jamaican father Giles Gil Heron, the first Black ever to play for Glasgow’s Celtic Football Team. Gil was formally introduced to the stark realities of Black life in America as a young teen. At age 13, his grandma died and he was forcibly baptized into the streets of New York’s Bronx borough. It wasn’t long before his ability to think critically and to write effectively caught the eye of his instructors. He attended Lincoln University in Pennsylvania as a result of the influence that writer Langston Hughes had on his life. Even though he only spent two years at Lincoln, Gil later earned a Master’s degree in Creative Writing from Johns Hopkins University. He also published two novels, “The Vulture” and “Nigger Factory.” Gil Scott despised and disparaged the status quo, and became famous for his one-man nuclear attack on President Ronald Reagan. Gil released songs denouncing Reagan like; “We don’t need no Re-Ron” and spit poems like “Whitey on the Moon.” Gil was always considered an expatriate if ever a patriot at all.
Ice Cube from Page 1
the community, letting the world know what’s going on. We’re underreported and underappreciated. [Public Enemy leader] Chuck D told us a long time ago to ‘Don’t believe the hype.’ You’ve got to listen to the people that love you. So, thank God for the Black Press.” Cube’s message also extended to millennials. “Do your thing,” Cube said, when asked what his message was for young people. “Stay determined and creative. Technology today is perfect for artists to be themselves and do what they feel and not conform to anyone,” he stated, noting that hip hop artist Soulja Boy turned himself into a superstar by creating music from his home. “You have to fall in love with the act of creating something new,” Cube continued.
Winfrey from Page 1
Please wear your mask and wash your hands!
3
a $100,000 gift to SaintA and the Nia Imani Family, Inc., which assists those in need of housing and mental health care. In Baltimore, where she once worked, Winfrey is donating money to Living Classrooms Foundation and Center for Urban Families. Win-
Check out more of the B Movie Vibe, and while you’re at it, contrast his subject with the subject that resides in the White House now. “But, oh yeah, I remember. I remember what I said about Reagan, I meant it. Acted like an actor. Hollyweird. Acted like a liberal. Acted like General Franco when he acted like governor of California, then he acted like a Republican. Then he acted like somebody was going to vote for him for president. And now we act like 26% of the registered voters is a mandate. We’re all actors in this I suppose. We all saw Donald J. Trump, like Reagan before him, transfer himself from liberal Democrat actor to staunch if not starchy Republican. And just like Reagan, he was elected by 26% of the registered voters. Trump garnered 46% or 63 million votes, three million less than Hillary Clinton. But only 55.7% of all the registered voters voted. Heron said, and I agree, that Trump ain’t got no mandate. We can easily vote his fat funky ass out of office. To quote Public Enemy and my publisher Cheryl Smith; “Don’t Believe the Hype!” Spit some mo, Gil!! “The idea concerns the fact that this country wants nostalgia. They want to go back as far as they can even if it’s only as far as last week. Not to face now or tomorrow, but to face backw a r d .” And yesterday was the day of our cinema heroes riding to the rescue at the last possible moment. T h e day of the man in the white hat or the man on the white horse - or the man who always came to save America at the last moment - someone always came to save America at the last moment especially in “B” movies. And when America found itself having a hard time facing the future, they looked for people like John Wayne. But since John Wayne was no longer available, they settled for Ronald Reagan and it has placed us in a situation that we can only look at — like a “B” movie.” Donald John Trump ain’t no John Wayne and there is no White Man in no White hat that can save America now. The only way this movie has a happy ending is if all the colors of America come shining through. Mandate my Ass! “If you do something you really love and are satisfied with finishing a great project, you never know what you’ll get out of it.” Cube’s new film, The High Note, stars Tracee Ellis Ross and Dakota Johnson. “It’s a great movie about the music industry. I play the manager of superstar Grace Davis. This story is of this assistant of this superstar and her journey,” Cube said. “Tracee Ellis Ross had a front-row seat to one of the biggest superstars in the world (her mother, Diana Ross), was going to work all the way around.” Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr, NNPA President and CEO, saluted Ice Cube for his outstanding achievements and ongoing commitment to the empowerment of Black America. Chavis said, “Ice Cube continues to represent the best of the genius of hip hop that transforms the world into a better place for who cry out for freedom and justice.” frey also said she’s giving $115,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of East Mississippi. “I want to be able to reach people who have been incarcerated and are coming out of prison,” Winfrey noted. “I want to reach mothers of domestic violence. I want to reach people. I want to feed people. I want to help people get access to testing.
4
JUNE 3, 2020
What about our children? WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (TriceEdney) - Like many who’ve had to shelter in place, I’ve had time for introspection and reflection. I’ve had to limit contact with family members, but I’ve had the opportunity to share memories and plan for future engagements with them. As leader of a national organization, I’ve had to plan for the utilization of new creative procedures to keep our organization operational. I’m a community activist, so I’ve had to examine and evaluate the impact of COVID- 19 on our communities. While much has been said about the current disparate im-
pact of COVID-19 on communities of color, very little attention has been placed on a plan for healing that will be essential post-pandemic. I place special emphasis on the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of our youths. I can only imagine the weight of uncertainty that has been added to their customary burden. If not before COVID-19, our children must suffer to varying degrees with emotional distress that can only be labeled Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The American Psychiatric Association defines PTSD as “a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who’ve experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault. People with PTSD have intense, dis-
turbing thoughts and feelings related to their experiences that last long after the traumatic event has ended. They may relive the event through flashbacks or nightmares; they may feel sadness, fear or anger; and they may feel ... estranged from other people.” I would think the initial temporary school closures were greeted by our youths as an extra spring break. I’d also speculate that, when these closures were applied to the remaining school year and students realized a longer separation from friends and nor- malcy, they had to face another demoralizing disappointment in a sequence of many. For many, food and shelter security became real and immediate. Some have become victims of domestic violence sparked by routine practice or
proximity anxiety. For many more, illness and death of family and friends and the real potential of personal illness or death have become thoughts which are their constant companions. More long term, the educational disparities and academic gaps suggest loss of future opportunities for some. Academic and athletic scholarships which depend on evaluation results of completed school years will not be realized. These obvious assaults on the mental health of youths will go unchecked and unanswered. Historically, our communities have been reluctant to accept the existence of mental health problems, ignoring rather than addressing them. If healing is our true purpose, we must first acknowledge the full scope of the issues — general
and individual — which confront the target of our concern. We can no longer count on the intestinal fortitude of victims to shepherd them through their trauma. Some need help. We must become more thorough and sincere in demonstrating our concern. Instead of the casual, “How ya doing?” our inquiry must be a more thorough one like, “Is there anything I can do to help you?” or a variety of probing questions that’ll help our youths express themselves. We must remember that their healing begins with us. Unchecked, the impact of their trauma becomes generational. (Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of the National Congress of Black Women (www. nationalcongressbw.org) and host of “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-FM 89.3 radio.)
Rites of Passage - 2020 TO BE EQUAL Marc Morial “No one does big things by themselves. Right now, when people are scared, it’s easy to be cynical and say let me just look out for myself, or my family, or people who look or think or pray like me. But if we’re going to get through these difficult times; if we’re going to create a world where everybody has the opportunity to find a job, and afford college; if we’re going to save the environment and defeat future pandemics, then we’re going to have to do it together.” – President Barack Obama, National High School Class of 2020 Commencement Like proud fathers everywhere, I was looking forward to the high school graduation of my only son this spring. It’s a rite of passage not only for the young men and women making a transition into adulthood, but also the families who nurtured
them along the way. None of us could’ve imagined how commencement ceremonies would be derailed by a global pandemic that shut down schools and colleges and robbed graduating seniors of long-awaited rituals like proms and class trips. My family planted a sign in our yard to show how proud we are of my son. But that march across the stage to receive a diploma, to shake the hand of the principal or the dean and to hear the exuberant cheers of friends and family, simply is not to be in 2020. But the incredibly bold and creative ways America’s high school and college graduates have found to celebrate are among the most inspirational moments to emerge from this challenging time. Social media overflows with moving videos of “commencement for one” celebrations in families’ homes. A suburban New York high school will hold commencement at a drive-in theater, with graduates popping through their sunroofs
to cheer and toss their caps. The vice principal will hand out diplomas with a 6-foot retractable arm. High schools in Florida will hold a drive-through graduation at Daytona International Speedway, with graduates driving across the finish line to accept their diplomas and take a victory lap. One graduating senior in Los Angeles, Lincoln Debenham thought of a way to make graduation special for everyone: he asked President Barack Obama to deliver a national address. And President Obama obliged – not just for high schools, but colleges as well. He was introduced for his high school commencement speech by Chicago Urban League Project Ready student Aniyah Fisher, who served as an intern at the Obama Foundation as a part of the Youth Job Corps Program and is headed to the University of Michigan in the fall. I had the honor last week of addressing the 2020 graduates of the nation’s Historically
Black Colleges and Universities, along with President Obama, actor Kevin Hart, NBA stars and Vince Carter, and choreographer and National Urban League honoree Debbie Allen. The event, Show Me Your Walk: HBCU Edition, was a joyful celebration of pride and hope for the future. I reminded the graduates that they stand on the shoulders of the generations that have gone before. And they must be strong enough to lift up the generations that come after. The members of the Class of 2020 will carry with them forev-
er the lessons of graduating into a world beset by a pandemic and economic crisis. It can be easy to dismiss the familiar themes of commencement speeches as meaningless platitudes. But as President Obama told the HBCU graduates, this pandemic has torn back the curtain on the idea that many of the folks in charge know what they’re doing, and If the world’s going to get better, it’s going to be up to the class of 2020. Marc Morial is the president and CEO of the National Urban League.
Trump! A Real OG, becomes President then goes to prison THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES Thomas Muhammad “I’ll tell you the truth when I can,” ABC News’ Jonathon Karl said Trump boldly told him during an interview. Yep that’s today’s “Magical Thinking” President Donald Trump! He was not supposed to be in the White House! After all he wasn’t part of the political insiders, the ones who historically have gotten the nod to serve. Sure he was one of thousands of top political donors, who got in pretending to be a self-made billionaire, but him in an elective office? Nawaaa! So now the guy is president and true to form the crook came out and now look at him? He’s been impeached among other things and he recently fired in just under six weeks four Inspector Generals when firing just one could set off WW2 in the US Congress. And he came into office when his party not only won the White House, they controlled both
the Senate and the House. And man that power went straight to his head. The Dude was having big fun! Politically he came in the spirit of Ross Perot campaigning against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Most people forgot how NAFTA was extremely unpopular with both the Republican and Democratic parties even when their leaders were! The Donald seized on that unpopularity and rode it along with the largely unpopular immigration issue into the White House and he acted like a Real Street Original Gangster (OG). With his 70 million plus Tweeter Feed he forced the Republican Party leaders to completely have his way on any and every subject! Even when it was clear he didn’t know what the hell he was saying. And his biggest asset was that he didn’t mind lying! He has no scruples! As a presidential candidate he lied about losing thousands of friends in the Twin Towers that fell in New York on 9/11, when in reality he lost zero friends. It was simply a way to benefit from the misery of real
victims. Shameless! His administration is experiencing a money scandal nearly every month, but that shouldn’t be a surprise us! Remember that theme song that opened his tv show “The Apprentice” each night was “For the Love of Money” by the O’Jays cause heloves money more than life! He’s had a winning strategy since coming down those Trump Tower escalators denouncing immigration and spewing fire and brimstone against crime in America. And his solution was to close the border between the US and Mexico! He knew that every US President, from George W. Bush to Barrack Hussein Obama has tried in vain to solve that problem for White America. Obama tried so hard he gained the nicknamed “Deporter In Chief” by American Latino leaders. So, yes Trump’s been true to his OG status and he has been this way all his life, corrupting everyone he comes in contact with. But now he’s running out of time! The election is a few months ahead and the statute of limitations is still about two years off! You see the one thing
he hadn’t counted on was the Repubs losing power and boy he was completely shocked when they lost the House! He was scrambling around asking what is “Mid-Terms” when told of the new Democrats oversight as they took 40 seats and charge of the Majority. He’s even screamed that he wants Obama in prison along with former Vice President Joe Biden. And it really hit him when in a recent televised interview Biden emphatically committed that if he’s elected he won’t pardon him. Keep in mind that it is well established that the only thing keeping him out of prison is that he’s president. Which means if he loses, he’s prison bound! Right! Don’t pass go, go directly to jail! Why not a little Monopoly joke for a fake billionaire, lol! You don’t think this is serious just remember his former lawyer Michael Cohen is currently serving time for their crime and it’s a State case, so there’s no pardon powers Trump can count on to keep himself out! And he’s pissed off a whole lot of people in both parties! So you damn skippy he’s desperate! He’s got to win this elec-
tion baby! Even if it means sacrificing thousands of American lives to do it! This Coronavirus thing jacked up his reelection plans as he was going to run on the economy! He’s so desperate he’s tried to play doctor floating a deadly idea of people should inject Clorox for the virus. And, if his hypocrisy wasn’t bad enough he’s now finding out just how important those Mexicans are! He’s been denigrating them for over three years to find out it’s primarily Immigrants who were very critical to the nation’s food supply. Let’s chant all together, “Build That Wall!” Lol! So we know who he is right? As my homey, the late Dallas singer Willie Hutch sang, call him “Slick!” Remember Slick ain’t got no regrets, Slick ain’t got no sorrow, if he don’t get you today, he’ll get you tomorrow!” Until then The Struggle Continues... Thomas Muhammad is Chairman of the National Black United Front (NBUF)Dallas Texas Chapter
JUNE 3, 2020
Focused on the Rock FAITHFUL UTTERANCES Dr. Froswa Booker Years ago, I remember this hearing this story: “An instructor once stood up before his class with a large empty mayonnaise jar. He filled the jar to the top with large rocks and asked his students if the jar was full. The students said that yes, the jar was indeed full. He then added small pebbles to the jar, and gave the jar a bit of a shake so the pebbles could disperse themselves among the larger rocks. Then he asked again, “Is the jar full now?” The students agreed that the jar was still full. The professor then poured sand into the jar to fill up any remaining empty space. The students then agreed that the jar was completely full.”
The professor went on to explain what the jar represents in our lives. The rocks represent the important things in our lives like family and faith. The pebbles are the things that we want but could live without. These are things that are important but not critical like your car or eating at restaurants. The sand is the filler. Things like watching television, spending time on Instagram or Facebook--those things that eat away at our time. As we go through this unchartered territory, we are coming to a number of realizations: • Life is precious and a gift every day. • We’ve taken a lot of things for granted always assuming they would be there. • Some priorities that were important in our lives have now changed and we see that they have not served us well.. The rocks in our life are critical. They are our stability. A life that is meaningful is filled with relationships and a connection
to our purpose. We must focus on those rocks. More importantly, in this celebration of Easter, we must look to the cornerstone that God has given to us. Isaiah 28:16 says, “Therefore this says the Lord God: ‘Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.” The Bible provides multiple references to the “rock”. 1 Samuel 2:2 “There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.” Psalm 18:2 “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Matthew 7:24-27 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, be-
cause it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”” The most important rock in our lives is our faith. It serves as our foundation, our guide, our focus. No matter what we are going through, do not lose sight
5
of the rock and our faith in Jesus. He is our rock! Stay focused on what is important, friends! Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the Founder and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, specializing as a Partnership Broker and Leadership Expert for companies and organizations to thrive with measurable and meaningful impact. She also is the VP of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas.
Joe Biden vs. Donald Trump: Who’s Black? BlackPress USA EXCLUSIVE Paris Dennard A bigot is defined as “a person who is intolerant toward those holding different opinions.” By that definition, Former Vice President Joe Biden is a bigot. At the end of a recent interview on the very popular radio show, “The Breakfast Club,” Joe Biden said, “If you have a problem figuring out whether you’re for me or Trump, then you ain’t Black.” For a man who claims to have graduated with honors from so many elite schools, and is married to an educator, it is surprising that he would say “You ain’t Black.” Maybe that is how he speaks on a regular basis, or maybe that is how he speaks when talking to Black people. The last thing that any freethinking, civically engaged Black person needs in 2020, is a 77-year-old white man from Delaware “whitesplaining” Blackness to us. I was born Black, still live the Black experience as a Black man in America every single day. My family comes from the
South, and we have experienced discrimination, racism, bigotry, and survived Jim Crow. My Papa was a proud member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, founded by Dr. King, and still knowing my history, I am a Black man voting Trump. Try as they might, the one thing Joe Biden and his liberal friends can’t take away, define, or critique is my Blackness because I am voting for Donald Trump. In 2016, President Trump looked at the conditions and statistics of many predominantly Black cities in America and saw that despite being led by Liberal lawmakers, our communities were faced with high crime, high unemployment, and poor public schools. Real estate values were down and there were not as many opportunities to advance as there should have been. He asked us to trust him, listen to his plans and vote Donald J. Trump because at that point he said: “What do you have to lose?” In response to Joe Biden’s bigoted comment, Charlemagne tha God said, “It don’t have nothing to do with Trump, it has to do with the fact I want something for my communi-
ty.” At the end of the day that is exactly what the Black vote is about in 2020, our community. Identifying who has the record and resolve to get things done for the Black Community. I have worked most of my adult life advocating, promoting, and defending my community inside the Republican party at all levels and have seen many results. However, I have seen the most results for my community under the Trump Administration. Joe Biden asked The Breakfast Club audience to look at his record. That was not a gaffe, he was serious. For 44 years Joe Biden has been either MIA or on the wrong side of history when it comes to fighting for the Black Community. Let’s start with his record on justice. We all know Joe Biden was the architect of the infamous 1994 Crime Bill that literally locked up thousands of men that look just like me. Biden was proud of his record on mass incarceration of Black men that destroyed communities, dismantled families and stifled black wealth for generations. How many strikes do we give Joe Biden until we say enough is enough, you are out? Out of touch, out of the mainstream,
outside what Black Americans need in leadership. Thankfully, Black people can look at the record of Donald Trump on the issue of Criminal Justice Reform and see the thousands of people who went home because of his bold advocacy of the First Step Act righting Biden’s wrongs in just under four years. In 2012, Joe Biden told a predominately Black audience in Virginia, “They’re gonna put y’all back in chains,” referring to Republicans. Joe Biden can’t accept that the Republican Party has historically been and currently is the party of freedom, and opportunities for everyone, especially the Black community. We have a Republican President and candidate in Donald Trump, and an entire party that believes in school choice. We believe giving all parents the ability to place their children in better performing schools no matter your socio-economic background, color and zip code is the right thing to do. But Joe Biden only sees color and class saying, “poor kids are just as smart as white kids.” The media needs to stop calling these statements gaffe s because they are not. Call them
George Floyd from Page 1 third-degree murder and manslaughter. Later on that day, bail was set at $500,000. He faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted. “This is not a new story, this is a continuing narrative,” Governor Cuomo stated. “This is just another chapter in the book called: Injustice and inequality in America.” Earlier, former President Barack Obama released a statement weighing in on the injustice regularly experienced by African Americans. “This shouldn’t be ‘normal’ in 2020 America. It can’t be ‘normal,’” Obama stated. “If we want our children to grow up in a nation that lives up to its highest ideals, we can and must be better. “It will fall mainly on the officials of Minnesota to ensure that the circumstances surrounding George Floyd’s death are investigated thoroughly and that justice is ultimately done.” “But it falls on all of us, regardless of our race or station — including the majority of men and women in law enforcement who take pride in doing their tough job the right way, every day — to
MY TRUTH from Page 1
opportunity with the Census Bureau for those who have been laid off, furloughed or lost their jobs due to COVID-19.” Just look at that. There are people who want to work and here’s an opportunity with jobs paying in the range of $22 an hour! Now, I say, if you didn’t complete the form, you don’t need to be eligible for employment!
Video showed police officers holding George Floyd down
work together to create a ‘new normal’ in which the legacy of bigotry and unequal treatment no longer infects our institutions or our hearts.” Margaret Huang, president, and chief executive officer of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), said the organization joins with its allies in condemning the recent police killings of Floyd, Tony McDade, Sean Reed, and Breonna Taylor. “Following the tragic killing of Ahmaud Arbery by a former police officer, the impact of these murders reaches
Find out more information at https://2020census.gov/ Then there’s social distancing; wearing a mask and gloves, while also taking precautions to avoid spreading or catching the coronavirus. Unfortunately there are those who are not taking the virus seriously and it is no wonder when you consider all the misinformation that is being presented. What we must understand is that as more and more tests are conducted, information we received initially is changing.
across the country, and there must be accountability. It is absolutely imperative that local police departments and district attorneys investigate, arrest, and prosecute officers and all who violate the rights of the people who live in the communities they are charged to serve,” Huang stated. “Equally important, law enforcement must stop responding to peaceful protest of police killings with more violence. Police are obligated to protect those in the community, and punishing peaceful protest is a gross abuse of human rights,”
Since we’re constantly receiving new information; it is imperative that we are not reckless, that we don’t take chances. Instead we must err on the side of caution. Now last week, activist Rae Lewis Thornton celebrated her 58th birthday and 37 years living with HIV/AIDS. She has traveled the country stressing the importance of safe sex as one way to prevent the spread of the virus. We must realize that almost four decades later, there is still
dog whistles, call them bigoted, call them offensive, call them racist. In 2020, there is a clear choice to be made for the Black Community. We should examine the records of both Joe Biden and Donald Trump and vote our interests. By all objective measures, President Trump remains the champion for the Black Community in this election. His record of support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, school choice, opportunity zones, criminal justice reform, minority businesses, kidney health, and direct aid and support to underserved communities during this global pandemic makes him worthy of our vote in November. Black people are signing up for Black Voices for Trump because he has kept his promises to our community. The bigoted statements and damaging policies of Joe Biden need to remain quarantined with him in his Delaware basement. Paris Dennard is a GOP political commentator, strategist, and Senior Communications Advisor for Black Media Affairs at the Republican National Committee. Follow him on Twitter at @PARISDENNARD.
she stated. We stand with millions of people across the country who are rightfully outraged by the killing of unarmed Black people, the lack of responsiveness, the lack of action and President Trump calling for violence against those demanding justice for Mr. Floyd’s death.” Florida Rep. Val Demings, who is Black and a former Orlando police chief, wrote an op-ed for the Washington Post Friday, noting that, “as a former woman in blue, let me begin with my brothers and sisters in blue: What in the hell are you doing?” “As law enforcement officers, we took an oath to protect and serve. And those who forgot — or who never understood that oath in the first place — must go. That includes those who would stand by as they witness misconduct by a fellow officer,” she wrote. Dr. Chavis added, “The NNPA, the voice of Black America, calls for an independent investigation into the police murder of George Floyd. We do not trust the perpetrators to investigate themselves. Black America’s cup has run over with grief, anger and rage as a result of these continuing racially motivated murders. If there is no justice, there will be no peace.”
no cure for HIV/AIDS. Many didn’t listen and still in 2020 we are reporting new cases. So are you optimistic enough about there being a cure for COVID-19 in a few months? When will we learn? Good question. You’d better dial back and pay attention to those who know what they are talking about. Now back to that discussion. In case you forgot, there’s an election soon. That’s right, on July 14, 2020 we need all eligi-
ble voters to go to the polls for the run-off election. And yes, you are expected to return to the polls on November 3, 2020 for the general election. Actually not only expected: urged, begged, threatened, coerced, encouraged; everything but bribed. Despite the declarations that your vote doesn’t matter or your candidate is not on the ballot. Your vote does count and is very important. If you really want to see the power of the ballot, vote and fill out the census form.
6
JUNE 3, 2020
BRAVO: MARRIED TO MEDICINE THE CELEBRITY INTERVIEW Valder Beebe This year, National Women’s Health Week came as the nation and the planet is dealing with a Pandemic. That’s why it’s more important than ever to recognize the issues affecting women’s health according to Dr. Jacqueline Walters – a practicing OB/GYN in Atlanta, Georgia who is one of the stars of Bravo’s hit show, ‘Married to Medicine’. As a trusted health and lifestyle expert, Dr. Jacqueline Walters, affectionately known as ‘Dr. Jackie’ on Bravo’s MARRIED TO MEDICINE, has garnered the respect of her peers, patients, and the public with her blend of passion-driven clinical knowledge and compassion. She has a passion for prevention, especially when it comes to women’s health. In the Valder Beebe Show studio. Dr. Jacqueline explained why National Women’s Health Week (May 10-16) this year provided special challenges with the stress of quarantines, a pandemic and sheltering in place. The US Department of Health
and Human Services points out that heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, depression and autoimmune diseases are the top five health issues facing women. Dr. Jackie is featured in the Valder Beebe Show THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW to remind women to take care of themselves. Dr. Jacqueline Walters is a philanthropist, health expert, women’s advocate, and
Dr. Jacqueline Walters award-winning OBGYN on a mission to impact the lives of millions. This Board-certified OBGYN lives by the philosophy “work hard, play hard.” After graduating from the University of Mississippi and Alcorn State University and earning her medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, she completed her residency in Obstetrics and
Gynecology from the Medical Center of Central Georgia and Mercer University. Dr. Jackie is a two-time breast cancer survivor. VBS: Welcome, Dr. Jackie. First, during this Pandemic what are you and the stars of Bravo’s Married to Medicine, doing on the show to educate the public during this Pandemic? JW: Not a lot we can do, but social distance, wear masks and boost our immune system. VBS: Believe it or not Married to Medicine is in the position to be a role model. Viewers emulate the behavior of what they view on TV. JW: Well, we at my facility wear masks, wash our hands and practice social distance. This is the protocol for all who enter my office. VBS: National Women’s Health Week, what recommendations do you have for women and especially those who are mothers? JW: Beyond, take care of yourself every day, I’ve written “Queen V: Everything You Need to Know About Sex, Intimacy, and Down there Health Care…..” Dr. Jacqueline Walters full interview…….YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow
Queens make own decision ABOUT THE HAIR Dr. Linda Amerson Wigs, Wigs, Wigs! The longer the better to enhance physical appearance. Long hair is a stigma from Tot and Tiaras, to Ms. International Beauty Queen. Hair extensions are used for added fullness and length, gowns, talent, swimsuits & questions. Care for your scalp should not be neglected. Regular shampooing, and moisturizing for natural hair, under wigs is very important! It’s a new day! Many beauty contestants are saying NO to wigs. In 2010, Kayla Martell won the Miss Delaware Crown. She tried four times! Three of those times she competed bald. Perseverance pays off. Kay lost her hair in the fifth grade because of alopecia areata. She feels more approachable in public when she wears a wig, and people do not worry if she is ill. However, She loves the way she looks bald. Kayla has been an advocate to encourage young girls diagnosed with alopecia areata.
In 2011, Sandra Dubose-Gibson was crowned Mrs. Black she contestant began her singing talent with her original song, “I’m Beautiful,” removing her wig after her first few notes. At 25, she was diagnosed with alopecia areata, which progressed into alopecia totalis.
Pic Credit: Sandra
Ms. Plus Intercontinental North America. When she first began her pagenatry, Dr. Dickerson said she did not realize how expensive it was. She had to get used to the glam look and wearing wigs during pageants. She does not have alopecia. In 2019, Miss South Africa,
Sandra Dubose
Kayla Martell
Sandra is the author of, “My Crown and Glory, It’s Not About the Hair.” She is a mother of two girls, and an advocate for positive self-esteem…with or without hair. In 2013, Angelica Galindez won Miss Philippines Earth USA, Diagnosed also with alopecia totalis, her drive is to empower other women suffering with alopecia. In 2019, Dr. Meaghan Dickerson of Houston, was crowned
Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe. She took a stand agains prejudiced beauty standards for Black women. She refused to wear a wig for the pageant…winning the crown with her natural, short unprocessed hair. I could go on and on about other bold, bald beauty queens, and advocates who are using their platforms. Alopecia does not define them. Kudos!
Temporary could be permanent ASK ALMA Alma Gill I’m friends with my next door neighbor. She’s not my BFF, but we hang from time to time. Her husband is in the military and she doesn’t have family in the area. She and I have a lot in common — we’re around the same age and like the same things. She has a son, and I have a daughter. The kids both go to the same high school. Yesterday my neighbor stopped by to tell me they are moving. Her husband has been transferred to another state. She asked me if I would let her 17-year-old son live with us while he finished his last year of school here in our town. She said they would pay room and board for him. I’m not married, and I’m not sure how it would be with a teen boy in my house. What do you think? Not ready to be a grandma Dear Not Ready, Good googaly woogaly, my Mama use to say. That’s a whole lot of turkey, greens, potatoes and gravy served up on your fine china. Hmmm, let’s ponder, should you try to eat all of it, fork-full by spoon-full or just
push yourself away from the table without a bite? Listen to your stomach. Do you have an appetite for this? Yes, it’s a risky situation, we both would agree. I don’t know this young man, and since you didn’t speak of his personality or character, this leaves me to assume. I’m going with a positive approach, concluding he’s a pretty good kid. Here’s what I’d suggest, make a list. Yep, write down the pros and cons of this possible yearlong endeavor. Identify every thought that comes to mind — what you expect and what scares you the most. I’d say work on this for more than a couple of days. You need to be prayerfully on your knees for at least a week. You also have to consider your daughter. This would be life-changing for her as well. All three adults need to sit down at the table hashing out the good, bad and the ugly. Thoroughly examine what room and board will cover. Obviously rent and utilities, but what about food? Boys his age can eat you out of house and home. This I know for sure. Will he stay with you during the week and go home on the weekends? What about extracurricular activities? Are you responsible for getting him there, or does he have a car? Does he have a girlfriend? Are you friends with him, or does
he see you as an authoritative adult? Like I said, we’re talking a full plate here. It could be a sacrifice and or a blessing to all involved. Taking in this teen doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It’s only temporary, and he has parents. Many teens who were taken in by outside adults have gone on to do great things. One example is Michael Oher, the professional football player whose story inspired the movie “The Blind Side.” Remember? He was cared for by a family so he could finish high school. If you like this young man and wouldn’t mind him living in your home, tell his parents you’re willing to give it a try for the first semester — that’s three months. If things seem to work out, commit to the next semester. That way, he knows he has to follow the rules and live up to your and his parents’ expectations. This is a huge responsibility, and the answer to the question of “will this work” is up to him. I salute you, single mama. You must be holding it down. Otherwise, his parents wouldn’t have asked. In the same vein, you are not obligated. If you don’t want to, don’t do it, and don’t feel bad about it. Tell his parents it just wouldn’t work. Best wishes and blessings to you while you pray on your decision, whatever you decide is the right thing to do. Alma
The Wretched HOLLYWOOD’S REVIEW Hollywood Hernandez THE WRETCHED is a very uneven movie. It’s a teenage angst movie and it’s a horror movie that’s not really all that scary. The movie is about Ben, played by John Paul-Howard who goes to work for his estranged father at a boat dock after his mother sends him away for the summer. It’s a coming of age film about a teenager whose parents are going through a divorce. While living with his father Ben encounters a thousand-year-old witch who’s posing as his neighbor next door. The witch and is here on earth to steal men’s souls. The witch has that ugly-body transformation similar to the little girl who steps out of the TV in THE RING. That is the only scary thing about the movie. The majority of the movie is about the young man trying to fit in an upscale community as a working class dock worker.
The pace of the movie is really slow It takes Ben what seems like forever to find something on his search for paranormal activity. The recent SCOOB! does a better job at handling a mystery and it’s more entertaining, too. THE WRETCHED is on Prime Video. It’s not rated but it has some disturbing images. The movie runs 1 hour and 45 minutes and on my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate the movie a MEDIUM.
Dorothy Jones of Black Jack Pizza time because the whole world is paralyzed. The city is opening FROM MARVA up but I’m not going to open up WITH LOVE for dine-in because I don’t have the room. If one somebody gets to eat there then everybody will Marva Sneed want to eat there. We will still On “From Marva with Love,” continue to do take out. we heard from Dorothy Jones, MS: Tell us about the work the owner of Black Jack Pizza in you’ve done with Lincoln High Dallas, TX. With two locations, School. Black Jack Pizza is Black-owned DJ: Oh yes, we worked with and a family-owned business Lincoln High School and sent with a staff of family and close the students to summer camp friends. This group works to- with Coach Bishop. And when gether to present an atmos- they were 40-0 we gave them a phere where customers from all huge pizza party. It was a surover the metroplex come and prise the day they came, I was enjoy eating away from home. really busy, but I went and got MS: Ms. Dorothy can you a cake that had 40-0 on it. We tell us a little had the Lincoln bit more about Basketball Team Black Jack Pizon one side and za and why you my customers started it? on the other. It DJ: Well worked out perI’m going to fectly. There is a tell you about way to do whatBlack Jack Pizever you want za, We opened to do and God and we’ve been will bless you to there about 30 do it. years or more Black Jack and it’s been a Pizza has two very great oplocations 2536 portunity for us. Martin Luther Our customers King Jr Blvd DalDorothy Jones just love us and las, TX 75215 we love them. (214) 565-1025 And my son always wanted a and 2120 N St Augustine Suite pizza place and I’m keeping the 100 Dallas, TX 75227 (972) 329dream alive. We have the best 1414. Ms. Dorothy says since customers in the world. COVID-19 “No More Hugs and MS: Being in the community, Kisses... JUST GOOD FOOD! what are some of the things that There was so much more Black Jack Pizza is part of? to the interview with Dorothy DJ: In the City we are a part Jones. Go to BlogTalkRadio. of the NAACP and we also have com/Cheryl’s World to From a Prayer Line in the City. We Marva with Love https://bit. pray and at times like these we ly/2Sn3L4F to hear the full inreally need to pray. It’s praying terview.
JUNE 3, 2020
7
CADNET CLASSIFIEDS Autos Wanted CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models 2002-2019! Any Condition. Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-985-1806 Health & Fitness GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515 Miscellaneous
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855520-7938
NAACP Texas Afro-Academic Cultural Technological Scientific Olympics www.texasact-so.org
Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-855-498-6323! FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]
ACT-SO is a yearlong enrichment program designed to stimulate, improve and enhance academic and cultural achievement among African-American high school students. Students can select up to three competitions from a total of 32 offerings in STEM, Business, Humanities, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Culinary Arts.
Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-877-626-2213
ELIGIBILITY
Students interested in participating in NAACP ACT-SO must meet the following eligibility requirements: • Must be a citizen of the United States or hold a permanent resident visa card. • Must be enrolled in grades 9-12 at the time of application • Must be an amateur (having not received wages for professional services) in the categories of competition. • Must compete in a local ACT-SO competition in order to qualify for the national competition.
Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-609-2189 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for [350+ ] procedures. Real dental insurance -NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-308-2834 www. dental50plus.com/cadnet #6258
Contact the Program Closest to Your Residence Austin
Melinda Walker ericsnina8@hotmail.com 512-293-6554
Fort Worth
Sundra Davis SundraDavis@att.net fwactso20@yahoo.com
Garland
Joyce Miller garlandtxactso@gmail.com garlandtxnaacp.org/actso
Houston
Avelina Holmes actso@naacphouston.org
Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e FREE. FREE iPhone with AT&T’s Buy one, Give One. While supplies last! CALL 1-866-565-8452 or www.freephonesnow.com//cadnet
San Antonio
Konise Millender actso210@gmail.com
Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855481-3969 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/national **STOP STRUGGLING ON THE STAIRS** Give your life a lift with an ACORN STAIRLIFT! Call now for $250 OFF your stairlift purchase and FREE DVD & brochure! 1-866-471-1334 HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data. FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-973-9254 Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-402-0373
Use RoundUp Weedkiller? Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, and Leukemia may result from RoundUp exposure. A recent $2 Billion Judgment was awarded in a RoundUp injury case. Call 1-619-493-4791 or email RoundUp@breakinginjurynews.com and let us begin work on your RoundUp case today.
AIRLINE CAREERS
Cross country Moving, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers. Get Free quote on your Long distance move. 1-844-452-1706
Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-855-404-2366
Lung Cancer?
Wanted To Buy
800-481-7894
IDEAS WANTED!
Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or the military may be the cause. Family in the home were also exposed. Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer. Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit.
Get Your Free Inventor’s Guide
CALL 800-353-6102 NOW Helping inventors and idea people since 1989.
Davison charges fees for services 32
FEBRUARY 8, 2019
DISH Network $59.99 For 190 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $19.95/month. Call Today for $100 Gift Card! Best Value & Technology. FREE Installation. Call 1-855-837-9146 (some restrictions apply)
Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.
I Messenger
Do you know this man?
Love Lives
POLICE have not apprehended “Pookie” the serial rapist. We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers.
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?
877-373-8477
Darkness and clouds surround me and yet, I’m covered. Plucked from my life without warning. I turned for a second. One second and you were gone. A void vast. Attempting to catch my breath. With each a calm. When the heat of this situation is too much, I’m covered. When the deluge of tears attempts to drown me, I’m covered. When sadness envelopes me, I remember what you said, and I am covered.
8
JUNE 3, 2020