I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

JANUARY 10, 2020

VOL IX NO 21

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CELEBRATING SERVICE DR. ANDREA HILBURN ENJOYS 50 YEARS AS A DELTA page 20

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Established 2011 CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

JANUARY 10, 2020

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INSIDE

TRUTH

THE LAST WORD

QUIT PLAYIN’

Recently, there have been so many of my friends who suffered losses of their loved ones. Everyone has to walk their own walk as they reconcile their journey.

As 2019 ticked to a close, the screamingly outrageous headlines have not slowed. Every day there is something, whether it is a flurry of presidential tweets or yet another Republican spouting off about something or other. Who would have thought, though, that amid the Christmas holiday we would learn that billionaire candidate Michael Bloomberg is using convicted prisoners to make calls

If you want me to stay, I’ll be around today, to be available for you to see. But I’m about to go, and then you’ll know, For me to stay here I’ve got to be me.

for his campaign?

– Sly and the Family Stone - circa1973

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JANUARY 10, 2020

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Can we try?

Recently, there have been so many of my friends who suffered losses of their loved ones. Everyone has to walk their own walk as they reconcile their journey. So as I prepare to celebrate the life of my line sister, Lucy Holt Hall, #12 of 34 women who pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 1978 at Florida A&M University; I can’t help but think of what made her a blessing to so many others. Dear Lucy remained the same — a sweet, pleasant soul who was a joy to have around. To celebrate and love people while they are walking among us is the best tribute we can give to one another. Which brings me to my truth. I have to give a big shout-out to businessman Gary Hasty, U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Atty. Edward Spears. Although I have so many veterans in my family and circles, and my heart, Andre Smith, serves in the U.S. Air Force; I didn’t really grasp how important veterans are until I spent JANUARY 10, 2020

time at Heroes House. I have to salute Mr. Hasty because it was his vision to provide housing for veterans. And he could have just provided housing and gone about his business, collecting the rent and making the necessary repairs.

Lucy Holt Hall Instead, he continues to provide for those valiant men and women who live in Heroes House #1 and #2. And it brings me joy to visit with and serve our veterans. You see we have an epidemic. We are not doing the best job of taking care of those who served our country ensuring our freedom while returning home to not so ideal circumstances.

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Sure there are programs and projects that focus on assisting veterans. But did you know that, according to the National Health Institute, more than 50,000 are homeless, and an aver-age of 18-22 American vet-erans commit suicide daily? There are so many other statistics that I can provide on the life of a veteran, instead I say, we can do better. The Office of Veteran Affairs has a lofty goal: “To provide Veterans with better choices and improved access to the benefits, care, and services they need. Veterans are experiencing at each phase of their life journey, establish interactive relationships with Veterans prior to their release from active duty, and ensure VA understands what Veterans need. Concurrently, VA will ensure Veterans have access to information about, and understand, all the benefits, care, and services available to them. This will simplify their transition from military service and enable VA myimessenger.com

to provide choices that meet the needs of Veterans, their families, and caregivers.” A budget of $200 billion is not enough, CLEARLY! And it is a joy to see folks, like our Congresswoman, who are passionate about Veterans. So wherever I am, since May 2014 I have tried to be in Dallas, so I can gather at Heroes House for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans’ Day, and even Christmas; to feed the Veterans. I’m not talking about serving a meal and going home. Nope, we had conver-sations, shared stories, and spread love. I actually had an opportunity to hear about experiences, or I should say war stories. It was interesting to hear about the many challenges they faced, and we must not forget, racism or sexism. Yes, the isms still exist and hopefully I will see a day when they are “wasms.” Together we can make this happen. It starts by being kind, or as the late, great Dick Gregory said, “loving.” We must care about others and not just when what happens to them impacts us. Just as we accept blessings from others, we should each be a blessing to others. Can we try? myimessenger.com

Dianne Gibson cooks salmon croquets for Christmas 2019

Gary Hasty with a Veteran’s child.

Gary Hasty and Congresswoman Johnson at ribbon cutting of Heroes House #2

Part of the team on Christmas Day 2019

One of our holiday get-togethers at Heroes House with Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Judge Cheryl Williams prepares plate for one of veterans, who was also a prisoner of war and served in the VietNam War.

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West honored by 100 Black Men of Greater DFW State Senator Royce West on Saturday received the Political and Social Justice Servant Award from 100 Black Men of Greater Dallas/Fort Worth in recognition of his more than two decades of service to the greater DFW community. “We were honored to present Senator West with this award in recognition of his many years of service to political and social justice causes in the greater DallasFort Worth community,” said Anthony Sampson, President of 100 Black Men of Greater Dallas/Fort Worth. “Senator West’s leadership has resulted in many legislative actions over the years that not only serve to protect young black men in these communities, but that also protect law enforcement officers,” Sampson said. “Senator West’s legislative accomplishments have helped not only these communities, but the entire state, and people of all backgrounds when it comes to social justice issues.”

JANUARY 10, 2020

Sen. Royce West

Sampson cited West’s work at authoring and passing legislation that provided for dash cameras in squad cars, body cameras for police officers, and legislation that helped provide funding for bullet-proof vests that would repel fire from high-powered rifles as among the many achievements leading to West being named recipient of the award. “Senator West has consistently been a leader on issues from healthcare to education as well,” Sampson said. “We

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could not think of a better recipient to receive our Political and Social Justice Servant Award,” he continued. Sampson noted the theme of last week’s event was “Celebrating the Shine in All of Us.” The motto of 100 Black Men of Greater Dallas Fort Worth is “What they see is what they’ll be,” and the group noted that West’s legislative leadership set an example for young people who wish to be involved in their communities across Dallas/Fort Worth. “I was deeply honored to receive this award,” said Sen. West. “It is humbling to be honored by an organization that does so much for our community,” West said.“100 Black Men of Greater Dallas Fort Worth does so much for our community, and it was a great honor to receive this award.”

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THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

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The year 2020, a new decade arrives. The Valder Beebe Show in 2019 garnered the attention of *9.7M+ on radio broadcasts, streaming TV, online and in-print. 2019 was a very good year! Now we turn our attention to VISION 2020 Baby Boomers on the Valder Beebe Show. In America, there is an estimated 74+ Million Boomers (as they are known) with 10,000 Boomers retiring daily. The Valder Beebe Show will continuing to bring the best experts to provide insight and report, how Baby Boomers LIVE, WORK, PLAY, PRAY. Stay connected with our column in the Garland Journal, Texas Metro News, I Messenger radio and TV broadcasts, online for answers and information. Dr. Roshini Raj *SupremeServe Analytics VBS: Good day Dr. Roshini Raj, My first guest for 2020, Dr. thanks for returning and helping Roshini Raj, a noted New York City me to launch VISION 2020 Baby gastroenterologist and medical contributor for Boomers on the Valder Beebe Show. You have a NBC TODAY, Good Day New York and returning great topic. guest on the Valder Beebe Show. Dr. Raj is talking about “Giving The Gift of Dr. RR: You know I love to talk about health Health” as I launch VISION 2020 Baby Boomers. and I love talking with you and your vast audience Dr. Raj shares tips on health themed gift ideas about health. Why not give a gift that lasts and is for friends and family including a custom book going to keep them healthy for years to come and containing all their ancestry results, plus details of to get in touch with their DNA. 23andMe is a test what their DNA says about their roots across the that looks at your genes, you can see Dr. Roshini globe. Raj’s full interview. Channel: YouTube.com/ You may think you already know what the atvalderbeebeshow home DNA service 23andMe, offers, but over the past year, it has evolved with a wealth of new Valder Beebe Show THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW On-Demand video: ValderBeebeShow.com, 411RadioNetwork.com, Youtube.com/valderbeebeshow; PODCAST audio: Soundcloud.com/ valderbeebeshow, Soundcloud.com/kkvidfw; Broadcast:KYBS FM Y99.9, KRER FM 102.5, Streaming TV PChatman Network and VBS affiliate broadcasters; On-Demand 411 RadioNetwork.com,. – Now available on 411RadioNetwork APP (download free in Google Playstore); Valder Beebe Show is a Power of 3 Women media influencer consortium partner myimessenger.com

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JANUARY 10, 2020

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Thriving system of convict labor As 2019 ticked to a close, the screamingly outrageous headlines have not slowed. Every day there is something, whether it is a flurry of presidential tweets or yet another Republican spouting off about something or other. Who would have thought, though, that amid the Christmas holiday we would learn that billionaire candidate Michael Bloomberg is using convicted prisoners to make calls for his campaign? He will say he did not know. Or, that “anybody” might have made a similar mistake. After all, subcontracting is the name of the predatory capitalist game. That’s how a convict labor exploiter can bid to pay $7.25 an hour for a job that might pay $11 or $12 an hour on the open market. However, the prisoners will see nothing like $7.25 an hour. Try paying these folks just a dollar an hour or so. The subcontractor, who pays the incarcerated just a dollar for a fair wage, would have to pay ten times that in the regular job sector. Someone who was not exploiting convict labor couldn’t compete with the low pay prisoners are earning. Those who own stock in these prison labor companies are getting their profits, too. The companies who subcontract with prisons are making three or four times what they might earn if they used general labor. The use of convict labor is one of the cruelest illustrations of the evils of predatory capitalism. Predatory capitalists extract surplus resources by tilting the rules of the game to favor capital instead of labor. People who are working full time are getting pennies to the dollar in the name of “crime and punishment.” So, here’s the Bloomberg story. The threeterm mayor of New York contracted with a firm to make phone calls for his fledgling campaign. The women, incar-cerated at a facility in Oklahoma, are obliged to say they are calling for the Bloomberg campaign. They don’t have to disclose that they are incarcerated. Anyone receiving a call is given the impression that they are being called by a campaign volunteer, not an exploited worker. myimessenger.com

Oklahoma limits the amount of money an inmate can make to $27 a month. This money may go for things like phone calls, snacks, or other “prison comfort.” If Pro Com, the company

THE LAST WORD DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

that runs the prison work, says it pays $7.25 an hour for prison labor, but inmates can’t earn more than $27 a month, who wants to bet that these prisoners are working just four hours to reach their maximum monthly pay? Or is Oklahoma paying them a dollar or so an hour, and profiting from their

work by keeping the rest of the money? In this twenty-first century, we are mired in a 19th century predatory convict labor system. Inmates aren’t only making phone calls for Bloomberg’s campaign. They are also making furniture for state office buildings, processing motor vehicle requests, and being used as low-cost substitutes for workers who might be fairly paid. The worst of it is that the work inmates are doing does not guarantee them a job post-incarceration. Instead, their “experience” opens no doors for any future opportunities. Mike Bloomberg should have known better than to subcontract with an exploitative company, but he is probably not the only one doing it. Subcontracting is the norm these days, but few ask who is doing the subcontracting.

Top label designers have low-paid women stitching their garments. Call centers can contract with low paid workers in their communities, or they can save 70 percent by contracting with convict labor. This practice is not only a wake-up call for Mayor Bloomberg, it is also a wake-up call for anyone who is playing in the subcontracting space. Lots of people like to play “woke” and economically progressive. But if your “woke” and cost-cutting ways sideline the people who work for you, then you aren’t actually “woke”, you are just a predatory capitalist, placing profits over people. Economic justice and profit maximization may be incompatible. After he was outed, Mayor Bloomberg said he and his campaign did not know that Pro Com, had contracted with the convict labor providers, and he moved to sever the relationship quickly. Good for him, but Bloomberg is smart enough to ask questions before contracting - not a great move for a candidate who seems to have more money than sense. African Americans are nearly half of those incarcerated in this country, despite being just about 13 percent of the population. This incarceration is a throwback to enslavement when Black folks got major penalties for minor offenses. The convict labor system, especially, oppresses Black people, and the Bloomberg case makes it all too apparent. Convict labor is exploitation and an abomination. It makes black bodies a profit center for capitalistic exploitation. Companies like Pro Com must be held accountable, but so should the many others who thrive on contract labor. It is time to put an end to this exploitation. Instead of throwing billions into his long-shot campaign, why can’t Michael Bloomberg spend a billion or two stopping convict labor? Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist. Her latest project MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is available on youtube.com. For booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com

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JANUARY 10, 2020

Realizing the Dream Healthy Living

Enjoy the Dr. Martin Luther King parade then come join us!

EXPO

January 20, 2020 10a-6p

Building strong, healthy communities physically, mentally, financially, spiritually, holistically and socially

WHO HAS THE ABSOLUTE BEST MACARONI AND CHEESE? We’re looking for the best:

Commercial, Individual and VEGAN

Call 214-941-0110

to enter or for vending opportunities

African American Museum Vendors Workout Sessions Mammograms Health Screenings

Entertainment Good food Yoga Exercise Tips

And many more!

3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas Financial Literacy Voter Education/Awareness Authors Showcase Natural Hair Care Explosion

Car Show and much more

Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Enjoy the Dr. Martin Luther King parade then come join us!

JANUARY 10, 2020

EXPO

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January 20, 2020 10a-6p

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JANUARY 10, 2020

CALL 214-941-0110

Check out The Kinsey Collection at the African American Museum in Dallas 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 214-565-9026

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Healthy Living Expo 1/20/20

Achieving the Unbelievable: Think Like a Marathoner

at African American Museum

214-941-0110

DALLAS/FORT WORTH CHAPTER 2020 Scholarship Luncheon

“Diversity and Inclusion: From Awareness to Action”

January 18, 2020 10:30AM — 12:00PM The Highland Hills Library, 6200 Bonnie View Rd., Dallas, TX 75241

Speaker: Tony Reed, World History Making & Hall of Fame runner, who completed 131 marathons on all seven continents and 50 States.

Our Industry Professional Honoree

Mr. Craig Dunn Executive Vice President and Texas Region Leader AmWINS Brokerage of Texas, Inc.

Motivational and Educational Speaker

January 10, 2020 11 AM -1:00 PM

Think like a marathoner and follow this mindset to win the marathon race of your life. Learn how to Set Short-term and Life-Long Goals; Build Mental Toughness Like a Marathoner; Manage Change & Risk; Expand Your Comfort Zone; and Overcome Obstacles to Success. myimessenger.com

Our Keynote Speaker

Ms. Cynthia M.A. ButlerMcIntyre

Doubletree Hotel Campbell Centre 8250 N Central Expressway, Dallas, Tx 75206 Tickets $50 @ naaiadfw.org

For additional information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Machelle Allums 972-768-3650 or

mallums@senecainsurance.com

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JANUARY 10, 2020

Heroes with Guns the Answer? I WAS JUST THINKING...

True confession: I no longer hate guns. In fact, this lifelong anti-gun advocate has switched sides. No, I will not join the National Rifle Association. I still am By Norma Adamsdiametrically opposed Wade to their stubbornness, I Messenger Media seeming lack of caring, empathy and reason. But I do now believe that having gun-carrying sane people in public places is the solution we seek to the senseless massacres of innocent people in public places. I was just thinking ... I have never held a gun. Guns still scare the tar out of me. But every time I hear about some lunatic nutjob walking into a place filled with law-abiding, defenseless humans and slaughtering and maiming many them like sitting ducks, I wish for someone with firepower to fight back. And, finally, that did happen. Jack Wilson, a sane, gun-carrying, 71-year-old former reserve deputy sheriff stopped alleged psycho killer Keith Thomas Kinnunen, 43, dead in his tracks as the killer tried to wipe out worshippers, positioned like sitting ducks, waiting JANUARY 10, 2020

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for communion. Before he himself was killed, the suspect killed two of the more than 420 worshippers gathered December 29 at West Freeway Church of Christ in the Fort Worth suburb of White Settlement. That was my final turning point. I was proud of Wilson. And no longer willing to keep silent about my switched position on guns. I saw in living color that what I imagined as a solution would, could, and did happen. The public also quietly lauded Wilson as a hero who saved an unknown number of other worshippers who the killer could have massacred. You know the litany of American gun-violence carnage as well as I do. Agencies keep statistics that you can read and weep. Researchers say that in 2019 alone, there were 434 mass shootings in which 517 people died, 1,643 were injured, totaling 2,160 victims. Some researchers cite statistics from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) that keeps track of overall public health. Researchers say these stats show that gun-violence deaths in Texas have increased since 2015 and that in 2017 alone

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in Texas, more than 3,500 individuals died from gun violence. News media have kept us informed relentlessly about the shootings that include on July 7, 2016 in Dallas, five police and the suspect killed, and 11 people wounded. Here are some of the many other catastrophes: May 31, 2019, at a public works building in Virginia Beach, VA, 17 victims (13 dead, four wounded); July 2019, Garlic Festival in Gilroy, CA, 21 victims (four killed including two children, 17 wounded); Aug. 3, 2019, Walmart in El Paso, TX, 46 victims (22 killed, 24 wounded); Aug. 31, 2019, gunman fleeing from police after travel stop in OdessaMidland, TX, 33 victims (8 dead, 25 wounded). Of course, the country still is reeling from earlier massacres: Feb. 14, 2018, Douglas H.S., Parkland, FL, 34 victims (17 killed, 17 wounded); Oct., 1, 2017, Country music festival, Las Vegas, NV, 481 victims (59 killed, 422 wounded); Nov. 5, myimessenger.com

2017, First Baptist Church, Sutherland Springs, TX., 47 victims (27 dead, 20 injured). And there was the gay club, Orlando, FL, 2016, victims 103 (50 killed, 53 wounded; Sandy Hooks Elementary School, 2012, victims 30 (killed 20 children ages 6 & 7, eight adults, 2 wounded); movie theater - Aurora, CO, 2012, victims 82 (12 killed, 70 wounded). And some can remember Aug. 1, 1966 when a sniper killed his

wife and mother then used the University of Texas at Austin clock tower as his perch from which he killed 15 including a pregnant woman and wounded 31. Total victims 48. So, I was just thinking... Many people agree that there are no easy solutions. But I have made my choice and switched from anti-guns to pro-guns in the hands of the right people. How you determine “the right people” is

discussion for another day. Communications consultant James C. Moore wrote a December 30, 2019 CNN opinion piece about the White Settlement church shooting in which he captured the dilemma this way: “There’s little left to do but seek cover. Or take dead aim.” What do you think? Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, graduate of UT-Austin and Dallas native. She is also one of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame.

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ASK ALMA GUESS WHAT TIME IT IS Dear Alma, I’m 28, and I ended my last relationship about three years ago. I had been dating this guy since college and thought he would be the one I’d marry and have children with. Shortly after college, I moved to his hometown while he stayed in the area where we’d attended college (my hometown). We had a great relationship for several years before he became frustrated with our long-distance status. I made the very difficult decision to move back to be closer to him -- don’t worry; I nailed an awesome job before I made the trek. You probably saw this coming: We broke up about a month after I’d moved back. Only we didn’t actually break up -- we took “a break” and maintained an on-off relationship for the next two years. It was only last year that we finally admitted that we weren’t going to make it work. We met up, talked for over an hour, cried a little and shared a kiss. During our conversation, he confessed that he’d met a woman he really liked during an out-of-town trip for work. I wished him well and soon found out that they were officially dating. He inmyimessenger.com

formed me that he wasn’t sure he could just be friends with me and that she probably wouldn’t like it if he and I maintained a friendship. It hurt, because we had been so close. I stopped talking to him and blocked him on social media so neither of us would be tempted to reach out. Earlier this year, I received a Facebook message from his new girlfriend, basically asking if he had cheated on her with me. I balked at being involved in their drama (especially while I was doing my best to forget about him and the loss of our relationship) and told her she needed to ask him if she had doubts. I emailed him to let him know what was going on and asked him to make sure I was left out of it. Fast forward to last week when one of my best friends called to ask if I’d heard the news: they’re engaged. Alma, I know this isn’t the guy for me, but I’m still devastated. I can’t believe he’s engaged to this woman he’s known for barely a year. It adds insult to injury that their relationship was even more long-distance than ours, and I’m skeptical about anyone who Facebooks an ex to find out if their partner is being faithful. Why am I so upset?

And how do I get out of this funk? Anonymous (Clutching my pearls) Lawd, have mercy; you’re still pinning for that man! You and I both know that you’re not over him. Clearly you had him pegged as your husband and the father of you children. But you didn’t mention when and how he proposed to you. That leads me to believe that this is a situation where he knew you were his Eva while you thought you were his Eve. I’m sorry, Sweetie; he still holds the keys to your heart. I can understand your heartbreak at the thought of him marrying someone else. It feels like she’s walking down your isle, but, she’s not. He’s no longer your boo. He told you that. But it wasn’t what you wanted to hear. I can’t sugar coat this thing because that’s just not the kind of girlfriend I am. If a man tells you he doesn’t want to be with you, believe him. Your purpose-filled path in life is never connected to anyone who can walk away. Be it The Hilton or The Heartbreak Hotel, check in for a moment, but don’t try to live there. Pull back the covers from over your head.

Wipe your eyes, blow your nose, pack up your heart and check out. Ready to release and let it go. Never convince yourself to settle for a one-sided relationship. We all deserve an Oleda Adams, “You can reach me by sail boat, climb a tree and swing rope to rope” kind of love. Over the years, I’ve discovered the loves that I found weren’t always the best loves for me, but the love that found me – oh girl! You ain’t seen nothing yet. You hear what I’m saying... Go have lunch or drinks with that guy who asked you and stop texting the one that won’t text you back. Open yourself to receive the kindness of that guy you won’t give a second glance and see where it leads. Take a step off your “comfort-zone” doormat. Maybe he speaks another language, or is possibly from another country. The world is your oyster. There’s a fantastic man out there waiting to meet you. If necessary, he’ll move or maintain a long-distance dance, just for you. You will hold the keys to his heart and you’ll quickly recognize and appreciate his efforts, birthed from the pain of this life lesson. Alma

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ASK ALMA By Alma Gill

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JANUARY 10, 2020

DEDICATED DELTAS Beverly K. Childs Bonella Edison Carol J. McLaurin

Jeanne A. Hawkins

Jessie M. Jordan

When past National President Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre keynotes the Founders Day Luncheon for the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she will also be paying tribute to women who in totality have amassed 750 years of service. Scheduled for January JANUARY 10, 2020

Kathaleen Gipson Reynolds

Dr. Andrea Leverett Gwendolyn Brown Hilburn Sneed

Marilynn Sims Gordon

11, 2020 at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, 400 Olive Street, 11:30am., this yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; luncheon will commemorate 106 years for the public service organization that was founded at Howard University in 1913. Dr. Andrea L. Hilburn, who was initiated at then North Texas State University (now the

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Janice Elaine Garrett

Helene Marie Henderson Jones

University of North Texas) is the current president of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter. With more than 400 members, this chapter has an impressive roster that includes Dallas Police Chief U. Renee Hall, former Dallas County District Attorney Faith Johnson, Dallas City Councilwoman myimessenger.com

delta sigma theta sorority

honors 50 and 25year members at annual founders day luncheon pictured: 50 year

25-YEAR HONOREES: Angela Berry Roberson, Dr. Ambronita R. Douzart, Votika Robinson Mitchell, Lana A. Davis and Lisa Baker

members

Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre Carolyn King Arnold, Judges Etta Mullin, Aiesha Redmond, and Delta Sigma Theta National Secretary Elsie Cooke Holmes, National Association of Black Journalists National Secretary Cheryl Smith, Top Ladies of Distinction National President Sharon Beard, and Rev. Dr. LaVerne Whitehead Reed. It was a historic day for Dallas, Texas, in 1924 when the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was established. Soror Frederica myimessenger.com

Chase Dodd, one of the 22 National Founders, organized the chapter and served as its first president. Along with Soror Dodd, the following sorors will long be remembered as the cornerstones of the chapter: Jessie Pollard, Ruth Mason, Ruby Pollard Reed, Nettie Wycliff, Rowena Wilkins Blackmon, Lillian Thompson, Koletta Jefferson Washington, Marie Starks Burke, Jessie T. Rice, Rezolia Thrash, Doris Tipps, Irene Dobbs Jackson, Deraline Winston 21

McKenzie, Leatrice Porter, Myrtle Saddler, and DeArtis Pryor Purify. Today, as inheritors of a remarkable legacy of greatness, the Dallas Alumnae Chapter has withstood the test of time and continues to grow tremendously in its membership, which enables the chapter to be in the forefront fulfilling the mission of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. empowering people and making a difference in the Dallas, Texas community. I MESSENGER

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The 411: Top Five Beauty ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON www.hairandscalpessentials.com

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JANUARY 10, 2020

Senghor to keynote 2020 King Symposium Smiley debuts

Shaka Senghor

The Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture in partnership with Café Momentum will present the 15th Annual MLK Symposium on January 20, 2020, 7:00 – 8:45 pm at Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas. The cost is $20 per person. Educators and students are free. Shaka Senghor, author of The New York Times and Washington Post’s Best Seller Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison and Criminal Justice Reform Leader will be the keynote speaker at the event. Shaka Senghor was sent to prison when he was 19 for second-degree murder. During Shaka’s incarceration, he received a letter from his son that devastated him. He realized that he had to do something different to give his son a father that he could be proud of. At that point, he challenged himself to write a book. He wrote his first book in solitary confinement, where he spent seven years, and from there he wrote five more books, one of which was Writing My Wrongs. In a conversation on VLAD TV, Shaka said, “The book has been an amazing experience. The people who have read it, who are talking about it, who I’ve had discussions with; you know what they’ve shared with me is that this has been the piece that has been missing in this whole conversation around criminal justice. It’s that first-person account of what the system is really like and what leads to somebody being caught up in JANUARY 10, 2020

the system.” He has received many awards and fellowships, and has taught at the University of Michigan. The Rickey Smiley Morning Show debuted at the start of the new year, weekdays from 5am-9am ET. Easily entertaining a wide variety of listeners, the “can’t miss a minute” morning show perfectly blends music, exclusive comedy and spiritual entertainment with today’s hottest topics in news, entertainment and sports. Rickey Smiley was recognized by the National Association of Broadcasters in 2017 as recipient of the Marconi award for “Top National/Syndicated Talent.” Mark McCray, VP of Programming and Operations

expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating, "We are excited to welcome Rickey Smiley and his team to lead mornings on Majic 94.5. His brand of comedy and attention to community is exactly what we need to help take our amazing station into the next decade!" Rickey uses personality, humor, conviction and relevant information to deliver a high-energy morning show engaging his listening community in unexpected

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ways. His show has distinguished itself with its innovative mix of entertainment and an unfiltered view on contemporary Black life and parenthood, focusing on family, community and mentorship. Rounding out the show is a cast of personalities known to spark engagement and laughs: Eva Marcille – Mom, model and entrepreneur who contributes a relatable woman’s point of view with a sharp wit and sometimes challenging position Gary Wit Da Tea – Listeners count on Gary for the hottest entertainment gossip and a colorful opinion on just about everything Da Brat – The same in-your-face candor that made her a hip hop star makes her a listener favorite, bringing wit, humor and a fresh outlook every morning Rock T – A sports analyst with a hip hop flair, he not only reports the sports news...he predicts it as well Special K – A master at finding the funny in the headlines, Special K takes the role of news correspondent to hilarious new levels The show will be enhanced with fresh and energetic soundtracks of R&B hits that adults want to hear, expanded social and digital opportunities to grow tune-in and extend audience engagement beyond the airwaves, as well as a connection and commitment to community – on and off air – from family and parenting initiatives to supporting education and HBCUs. Rickey reinforces his radio brand 24/7 interacting online, socially with five million followers, through his stand-up comedy, reality-based TV shows, and publishing – all amplifying his voice! Having attended Alabama State University and participated in numerous HBCU tours, Smiley is an ardent supporter of education – especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Listeners will be comforted by the components they already know such as a diverse and opinionated cast of co- hosts guaranteed to incite conversation, reaction and laughs, interactive features that entertain, encourage and engage the listening audience and live on-air interviews that connect listeners with the personalities they want to hear from. myimessenger.com

We’ve got work to do, together

FROM THE NAACP BY DERRICK JOHNSON

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

Georgia - We won a lawsuit formerly incarcerated persons. challenging the state’s decision not to process 53,000 voter registration In communities across the country, applications, the majority of which NAACP members and supporters are on belonged to African Americans. the frontlines of activism and advocacy. We share in these victories as we prepare Tennessee - Our state conference was for the challenges we will face in 2020. the lead plaintiff in a case that challenged This is just the beginning. a Tennessee law that wanted to make it Become a 2020 recurring donor today more difficult to register people to vote. and help ensure that the NAACP is never behind in the fight.Let’s get to work. Indiana - We won an injunction against the state’s use of the “Cross- In solidarity, Check System” to purge voters from the rolls without first seeking to contact Derrick Johnson Connecticut - We are challenging the purged voter via mail notification as @DerrickNAACP President and CEO the statewide practice of counting required. NAACP incarcerated people as residents of the Florida - We are plaintiff in a case legislative districts where they are held, rather than in their home districts. Our contesting state lawmakers’ attempt P.S. Making a monthly gift is a big commitment, lawsuit is the first in the nation that to circumvent the will of the voters by and I understand if you’re unable to do so right weakening Amendment 4, which restored now. Please know you can always make a single challenges this practice. voting rights to certain categories of gift to support the NAACP’s work. Just as we were ringing in the New Year, we received great news on a legal case filed by several NAACP branches in North Carolina. A judge blocked the state’s voter ID law citing a “sordid history of racial discrimination and voter suppression.” 2019 was a pivotal year for civil rights. And you were with us every step of the way. Whether we are the plaintiffs bringing a case forward or the legal counsel arguing the case, we continue to fight for our rights in the courts:

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JANUARY 10, 2020

From Marva with By Marva Sneed

On “From Marva with Love” I interviewed the Deputy Commissioner of Tourism of the United States Virgin Islands Neelia Ross. The United States Virgin Islands is located in the Northeastern Caribbean Sea which consists of three Islands St. Croix, St. John, and St Thomas. St Thomas is known as the gateway to the Caribbean. St Croix is known as a nesting ground for endangered sea turtles. You can take a day sail to the beautiful Buck Island Reef National Monument to explore and snorkel. St John is called Love City because it is a small intimate community that is known for being safe and friendly. When traveling to the U.S.V.I. it is a part of the U.S. Territory and as a U.S. citizen, you don’t need a passport. The U.S.V.I. has formed a partnership with American Airlines and launched a new winter service flight from DFW Airport to St. Thomas on December 21, 2019.

NR: So we are rebounding and we are definitely open for business and Investment. We are here in Dallas to promote our direct flight to St.

Thomas Virgin Island on Saturdays. We are promoting the flight so that we can build up the frequency to get it to be a daily flight. Right now on St. Croix we are celebrating our Carnival through January 6, 2020. There are three flights daily from Miami to St. Thomas and three daily flights to St. Croix from Miami. We are inviting people to come down to enjoy the cruise and Christmas MS: The USVI was hit Carnival. And St. Thomas by so many Hurricanes how will have Carnival in April has the Islands rebounded? and of course, we will JANUARY 10, 2020

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direct flights from Dallas to St. Thomas so we are inviting everyone to come and party with us. And This summer for 4th of July we have the St. John Carnival so we are inviting everyone to come on down there’s no excuse. If you get a flight to St Thomas you can get a ferry and get to St. John in munites or a seaplane and get to St. Croix in munites.

MS: St Thomas was named the best Caribbean Cruise Destination in the Caribbean. So how long have you been working as Deputy Commissioner of Tourism with the USVI? NR: Yes, I have been working with Tourism for four and a half years. And yes St. Thomas is voted to be the number one destination. There are tons to do on St. Thomas. There is a new pirate museum opened. They have some of the most

beautiful beaches and great shopping and of course, they have amazing cuisine. I am definitely inviting everyone to come down wheater it’s cruising or air for everyone to come down and experience a piece of our paradise. MS: With the direct flight to the Islands from Dallas, what will this partnership do for Dallas and the USVI?

round.

NR: It is a great partnership absolutely. We do have a great amount of Virgin Islanders live in the Dallas area so we’re hoping that we can get everyone to come home more often. It’s much easier and more convenient to visit families and enjoy festivals year-

For more on my interview with the Deputy Commissioner of Tourism of the United States Virgin Islands Neelis Ross go to BlogTalkRadio. com Cheryl’s World to “From Marva With Love”. For information about U.S.V.I. visit: visitusvi.com Tun into “From Marva With Love” Fridays on B l o g Ta l k R a d i o. c o m Cheryl’s World from 11 am – 1 pm. myimessenger.com

Human Trafficking Conference planned North Texas Chap- ters of The Links, Inc., will host the Human Traf-ficking Awareness Conference, Satur-day, January 11, 2020, 1:005:00pm at the University of North Texas at Dallas, 7300 University Hills Boulevard, Dallas, Texas, 75241. Chairing the event is former Texas State Representative Helen Giddings. She is joined by a committee of key members of The Links, Incorporated from the Dallas, Fort Worth, Mid-Cities Texas, Plano-North Metroplex, Trinity, and Greater Denton Chapters (the North Texas Cluster). The purpose of the Conference is to shed light on and promote much-needed awareness of this dreadful activity and to inform the public of the seriousness and pervasiveness of human trafficking impacting North Texas. The North Texas Cluster has partnered with several key agencies throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Collin County, and the State of Texas to come and share experiences, concerns, and solutions to help fight the growing cause of Human Trafficking. The opening session, Under-standing Human Trafmyimessenger.com

DA John Creuzot ficking, will be moderated by Clarin Gniffke, Co-Chair for Public Awareness Committee, North Texas Coalition Against Human Trafficking. Panelists include Alan Schonborn from the Texas Governor’s Office, Carrie Wright, Director of HighRisk Youth, Dallas Advocacy Council, and Kim Robinson from New Friends New Life. There also will be breakout sessions for youth, parents, and persons seeking victim assistance facilitated by professionals from law enforcement, medical agencies, and area community colleges. Speakers include Dr. Stephen Sellers, Methodist Dallas Center; Matt Osborne, New Friends 27

New Life; Colette Williams, Collin County Community College; Joy Brooks, Prayer For Freedom; Mark Penley, Deputy Attorney General for Criminal Justice; John Creuzot, Dallas County District Attorney; Tonya Stafford, It’s Going to be OK; Carrie Wright, Dallas Children’s Advocacy; Alisa Evans, Alive at Last; and Noel Mendoza, Mosaic Family Services. Members of The Links, Incorporated are influential decision makers and opinion leaders, individual achievers and women who have made a difference in their communities and the world. They are business and civic leaders, role models, mentors, activists and volunteers who work towards a common vision by engaging like-minded organizations and individuals for partnership. With more than 5 million service hours recorded in the past three years, members regularly contribute more than 1 million documented hours of community service annually. To arrange interviews or photographs please contact: Helen Giddings, Event Chair, at 214-943-1068 or via email at hgmultiple@aol.com.

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JANUARY 10, 2020

ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

www.hairandscalpessentials.com

Be kind to your hair! Your neglect and abuse can cause you to be your hair’s worst enemy. Although IMAGE is socially important, there are consequences which may result from hair abuse! Professionals and consumers must first obtain the right tools for the variety of hair textures. Also, referrals to a doctor of Trichology for alopecia, damaged hair, hair shedding, hair breakage, dry hair, or all other problems associated with hair or scalp disorders. Heat damage from styling/grooming tools may include: • Blow Dryers-when using a blow dryer, be careful not to over dry the hair particularly on a high heat setting. You could contribute to a hair shaft defect known as bubble hair, which further damages the hair shaft. Choose a dryer that has balanced weight in your hand. It should also fits comfortably and not be too heavy, and a long enough power cord for easier mobility. It should have heat settings JANUARY 10, 2020

Is Your Hair Under Attack?

of low, medium, high, crimping, and waving and cool air. Wattage the hair. Avoid over between 1200-2000 is usage of this tool as sufficient. you may contribute • Curling Irons-are a to hair shaft defects popular tool. However, such as trichorrhexis these hot little devils nodosa, ridges and have a metal cylinders, grooves on the hair shaft, which require careful trichoptilosis, tapered usage on all hair hair, and on goes the list. textures. Always test the • Mini Flat Irons-Work heat temperature on a well for short hair styles. white towel or paper • Straightening Tongstowel to avoid scorching are smaller and more and damaging the hair. compact than the A variety of sizes are regular flat iron. They available according are the most effective to hair length, and on short hair and bangs. the desired curl size. Again, avoid over usage Professional curling of this tool, as this may irons should have more contribute to further than one heat setting, hair damage. and fit easily in your • Thermal Straitening hand. Make sure your Ironsalso called hair is thoroughly dry pressing combs or prior to using a curling hot combs. Thermal iron. Professionals please straitening irons are educate your client’s used popularly on ethnic home maintenance hair textures. Use extra recommendations for caution when heating the hair style to avoid your thermal iron. Over any further damage to heating this thermal the hair shaft. iron may contribute • Flat Irons - to hair breakage, These irons are central centrifugal very popular, and scarring alopecia (ccca), vary in price. Some scorching of all hair consumers choose the textures, ridges and detachable style, which grooves in the hair, includes detachable brittle hair, and on goes plates for straightening, the list. Hair does have

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a tolerance to heat used on it. These irons are available in both marcel or electric. • The Nouri Edge Stick is another alternative to straightening the hair. It has a guard on the sides to help to avoid scalp burns. Good for children and adults. To conclude, it is important to keep the plates and barrels of any heat implement clean. Styling products may build up quickly and make these tools extremely hard to use, not to mention unsanitary. One suggestion is to use oven cleaner, to spray and remove the buildup weekly or when buildup is visible. There are other professional items available to also assist with buildup removal. Furthermore, always remember to turn off or unplug your heat appliance after usage.

All questions and inquiries should be forwarded to Dr. Linda Amerson. www.hairandscalpessentials. com w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / divadoctor09 myimessenger.com

Subscribe today, call

214-941-0110

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JANUARY 10, 2020

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Recurring Events Feeding The Needy, host, Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez, 1641 Corsicana St, Dallas. 3-5p., Sundays. The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection, African American Museum 3536 Grand Ave. Till 3-1-20. 2020 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade: Sign Up, for info contact: La Ronda Bacon or Natashia Cooper at the King Center, 214-670-8418.

JANUARY 8-14 Dallas Market Center Total Home and Gift Market, Dallas Market Center, 2100 Stemmons Fwy. 8:30a6p. Each day. Contact: 214-744-7444.

JANUARY 8

Church, Edison’s Dallas, 1724 Cockrell Ave. 7p. Tickets: pushplay.com.

JANUARY 10

Greek Weekend of Action, host Veda Loca, Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 10a-5p. Eventbrite.com.

Happy Birthday to team member and Author of “Quit Playin” Vincent L. Hall

Math Tutoring, Dr. Martin Luther King Branch Library 2922 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 11:30a-2:30p. Preregistration: www.intellichoice.org/sign-up.

Ntheknow.com 2nd Friday’s Network Society, Nylo Dallas Plano Hotel 8201 Preston Rd. 5-8p. RSVP: Eventbrite.com. Ladies Night, The Attache’ Cigar Lounge, 4099 W. Camp Wisdom #101. 8p. Info: 972-685-6296. See it Through In 20/20, host Single life at The Potter’s House, 6777 W. Keist Blvd. 7-10p. Register: Eventbrite.com.

Sandra Moncriffe for Judge Reception, Veritas Wine Room, 2323 N. Henderson Ave. #103. 5-7p. Tickets: www.sandramoncriffeforjudge.com.

Muffins with Marty Jo Taylor for Judge, Vote Marty Jo, 2626 Cole Ave. 7:30-8:30a. Eventbrite.com.

The Power of Broke, host The DEC at Redbird, 3662 E. Camp Wisdom Rd. 6-8p. Eventbrite.com.

The Original Lady of White Rock Lake Ghost Hunt, host Hunted Rooms America, White Rock Lake, Dallas. 7-11p. Tickets: hauntedrooms.com.

DFWJAMSESSION Presents Open Mic, Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 9p-1a. Tickets: rcandthegritz.com.

2020 Scholarship Luncheon, host NAAIA DFW Chapter, Doubletree Hotel, 8250 N. 75 Exp. 11a-1p. Tickets: naaiadfw.org.

The Dr. MLK Fresh Produce Distribution Center, Bldg. A 2929 Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd. 10:30a-1p.

Poetry & Jazz #3, Featuring: Se7en the Poet, Clarence Muse Cafe’, 1309 Canton St. 9p. Ticketmaster.

JANUARY 9 CD Release & Listening Series, Clarence Muse Cafe’, 1309 Canton St. 7:30p. Tickets: 214-743-2400. DPD Listening Session w/ Chief Hall & Councilman Narvaez, Mattie Nash Myrtle Davis Rec. Center, 3710 N. Hampton Rd. 6-8p. Kin-folk D Ray Performing Live, David’s Poor Pub, 1313 S. Lamar St. 6:30-11p. Tickets: myafton.com. Weekly Toastmasters Meeting, host Oak Cliff Chamber, 1001 N. Bishop Ave. 6:30p. Free Winter Wellness Event, host Kika Stretch Studios, Ventura X, 5301 Alpha Rd. 6-8p. Simple and Healthy Cooking Classes, Foremost Family Health Center, 2922 Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd. 1-2p. Plano Parks & Rec., TLAC (Think Like A Cop) NOW, Carpenter Recreation Center, 6701 Coit Rd. 6-8p. Info: www.tlacnow.com. Dr. MLK, Jr. Toastmasters Club, 2922 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Bldg. A, Activity Rm. A, 6:45p. Contact: 214-670-8418. Free Skill Quest Career Readiness, Dr. MLK, Jr. Community Center, 2922 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Info: 214-879-9950. 9-11a.

JANUARY 10-12 METRO Celebrates 30 Years, M.E.T.R.O. Christ

JANUARY 10, 2020

Office of Business Diversity, host Coffee & Politics, African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 10-11a.

Girls Night Out: “A Season of Sisterhood”, St. Philip’s School, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. 6p. Friday-8a. Saturday Reg: stphilips1600.org. Well Med 1st Anniversary, Guest Founder of the Commodores Thomas McClary, 3107 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. 10a-3p. Info: 972-942-7728.

JANUARY 11

Roundtable Breakfast - “Annihilation Of The Black Male in America, TBAAL 1309 Canton St. 10a. Ticketmaster.com. Public Conversation w/ Deanna Moton, Feat: Carolyn Arnold King & Norma Adams-Wade, Pan African Connection, 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 5p. North Texas Cluster of The Links, Inc. Conference Against Human Trafficking, UNT Dallas, 7300 University Hills Blvd. 1-5p.

JANUARY 12 A Musical Celebration to honor Dr. Oscar Williams, host TBAAL, Clarence Muse Cafe’, 1309 Canton St. 7p. Ticketmaster.com. Just Mercy Movie Watch, host No. Dallas Suburban Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Studio Movie Grill, 13933 N. 75 Exp. 2p. dstndsa.org. The Color Purple, Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St. 1:30p & 4:30p. Tickets: www.attpac.org.

JANUARY 13 Sorors Only Founders Day Celebration, host S.W. Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of DST, Inc. Forever Swing Dallas Venue, 2021 N. Hampton Rd. #175, DeSoto. 7-9p. Tickets: swdcadeltas.net.

JANUARY 14 St. Philips Admission Open House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. 5:30p. Register: stphilips1600.org. Cafe’ Con Nosotros, host IHCC, 8:30-9:30. RSVP: https://irvinghcctx.chambermaster.com/ Free Legal Aid, Legal Aid of Northwest Texas, 1515 Main St. 4p. Info: 214-748-1159. Police District 1 Listening Session, host Chad West, Tyler Street Church, 927 W. 10th St. 6-8p. Equity Symposium, 38 Annual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. host City of Dallas, Paul Quinn College, 3837 Simpson Stuart Rd. 9a-3p.

JANUARY 15

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Wreath Laying Ceremony for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, 2922 Dr. MLK. Jr. Blvd. 12 noon. Wednesday Night Worship, Speaker: Rev. Michael Fisher Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church,1819 N. Washington Ave.7-8p.

JAN 16 - FEB 2 “The Rat Pack Lounge”, Granville Arts Center, 300 N Fifth Street, Garland. 7:30-9:30p. Tickets: sa1.seatadvisor.com.

JANUARY 16 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Workforce Opportunity Fair, J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1515 Young St. 11a-3p. DPD Listening Session w/ Chief Hall & Councilman Atkins, Dallas Public Library Highland Hills, 6200 Bonnieview Rd. 6-8p.

ULO 2020 Founders Day, host Upsilon Lambda Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Hyatt Regency 300 Reunion Blvd. 7-11p. Eventbrite.

Black State of Emergency-Standing up for Black Lives, Bob Bolen Public Safety Complex, 501 W. Felix St. Ft. Worth. 4p-7p. Info: info@thengan.com.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dallas Alumnae Chapter, Founders Day Luncheon, Speaker Cynthia M.A. McIntyre, Sheraton, 400 N. Olive St. 11:30a.

Just Mercy, host DFW Open Caption Movies, 8301 Ederville Rd. Ft. Worth. 7:15p. amctheaters.com.

The Cliff Annual Awards & VIP Reception, host Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce, Emcee Rep. Yvonne Davis, The Kessler Theater, 1230 W. Davis, 5:30-8p. Info: Mr. Cooks, 214-943-4567 x202.

FEDDs Postcard Party, host Funky East Dallas Democrats, Matts Rancho Martinez, 1904 Skillman St. 6:30-8:30p.

Ribbon Cutting State Re. Jessica Gonzalez, host Oak Cliff Chamber, 400 S Zang Blvd. #1214. 5:308:30p. Info: Zanir Ali, 469-826-3291.

Start up Success for new Entrepreneurs, Business Lounge Dallas, 13740 Midway Rd. #528. 7-9p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

2020 Festival of Laughs, The Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Performance Pl. 7-9p. AXS.com.

South Oak Cliff HS Ribbon Cutting, host Next Generation Action Network, South Oak Cliff High School 3601 S. Marsalis Ave. 11a-2p. DPD Listening Session w/ Chief Hall & Councilman Bazaldua, Exline Rec. Center, 2525 Pine St. 10a-12p. Learn About Crystals, Pan African Connection 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 3p. Dr. King’s Remembered in Time-DFW Poetic Showcase, host Young Black Entrepreneurs, 4300 W. Northgate Dr. 7-11p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

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JANUARY 14-20 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Week, Dr. MLK, Jr. Community Center, 2922 Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd. 8-11:30a. For more Details: 214-670-8418.

JANUARY 17 37th 2020 A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Naomi Bruton Theater, 1309 Canton St. 10a. Student Performance. Tickets: Box Office: 214-743-2400. Dr. MLK, Jr. Celebration, Yvonne Orji, Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St. 8p. Tickets: AXS.com.

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Gone, But Don’t Forget Me! If you want me to stay, I’ll be around today, to be available for you to see. But I’m about to go, and then you’ll know, For me to stay here I’ve got to be me.

ministers are. Y’all need Jesus, and that’s their primary calling. I’m just using preaching as a segue to say what Sly said. “If you want me to stay, I’ll be around

QUIT PLAYIN

– Sly and the Family Stone - circa1973

By VINCENT L. HALL

academic refueling. Ignorance is kryptonite. Besides that, there’s a book in me that has to come out. The next six to nine months will benefit me and anyone willing to read the contents that show-up beneath my weekly byline. The end result will be a fresher and more challenging context and argument. In the meantime, my publisher Cheryl Smith has a litany of influential writers and free thinkers. Stay tuned to this channel. I hate to lose my space, but sometimes progression requires digression and redirection. So, let’s pick up where Sly left it. The last verse in the song is rendered with verve and expression. Imagine as you read the words that it is sung with fortissimo and with staccato. “When you see me again, I hope that you have been the kind of person you really are now. I’ll be so good; I wish I could…I’d get the message over to you now.” 2020 will be a year of karma, correction, and consequences. Don’t believe me just watch! However, before you know it, I will be right back here with you. I’m available today, but to be me, I gotta go for a while.

Allow me to borrow Vincent L. Hall is those words from a fellow native Texan, Sylvester an author, activist Stewart, aka Sly Stone. He and award-winning penned the song as a threat to leave his then-girlfriend. columnist Since my first “Quit Playin’ article appeared in January of 2003, I today, to be available for you to see. But have come to love my readers more and I’m about to go, and then you’ll know, For more. However, and like Sly, I gotta go for me to stay here, I’ve got to be me.” Sly a while in order to be me. wrote these words to a woman he would If you ever wanted to understand a eventually marry. I relay them to you to fraction of the stress that preachers are announce a coming respite and to assure under, try researching, writing, rewriting, my return to you. and publishing an article weekly. After I’ll be back, but I gotta take a break. My this week’s sermon, the next round knowledge is dwindling because the last has to be in the chamber and ready to few years have been limited to internet/ fire. Meanwhile, and most concerning, cable news (ICN) education. “Amens” don’ t come easy. You know what that is, an ICN Dr. Zan Holmes distinguished himself education is what Trump has. All he as a Man of God and a man on the street knows is what he gathers by local stimuli. by keeping a bible in his left breast pocket He doesn’t read books or engage any while clutching a newspaper in his right critically crafted treatises or sit among the forearm. brain trusts. Speaking truth to power and to the The net result is that you appear powerless requires endless reflection and intelligent on the surface, but underneath research. My best efforts have been to that veil is nothing. The only thing worse curse loud enough to get your attention than finding an empty wallet is spotting while adhering to my own Christianity. play money. Please don’t waste any time calling the Quit Playin’, you’ll see me again. Fool me once, shame on you; Or diocese, don’t summon the Methodism or whatever former President George W. check the seminaries for my credentials. Vincent L. Hall is an award-winning Bush said! This is no claim that my post is Over the next few months, I have got writer, author and activist. anywhere near as important as your to read some whole books and get some myimessenger.com

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JANUARY 10, 2020

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