I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

JANUARY 3, 2020

VOL IX NO 20

I M essenger ABSOLUTE

BEST

ATLANTA MAYOR KEISHA LANCE BOTTOMS created a buzz about her Macaroni and Cheese, now weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for the best in page 4 Texas!

FIRST LADY Dr. Lois Evans page 24

IMessenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR news@texasmetronews.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com Jessica Hayden STAFFWRITER Marva Sneed EDITORIAL ASSISTANT EDITORIAL TEAM Lajuana Barton Eva Coleman Anthony Council L. Diane Evans Dorothy J. Gentry Vincent Hall Cierra Mayes Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Monique P. Stone Dareia Tolbert Andrew Whigham III Chelle Wilson

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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.

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Our Person of the YEAR Honorable

Judge Tammy Kemp

This was not a tough decision. Judge Tammy Kemp is the real deal. The veteran prosecutor was prepared when she ascended to the Texas 204th District Court in Dallas,TX in 2014 and history will show that having her on the bench has been a blessing to a justice system in need of help. We will take this â&#x20AC;&#x153;hugging judgeâ&#x20AC;?over the â&#x20AC;&#x153;hanging judgeâ&#x20AC;? of the past, any day! In 2019, she presided over the high profile and emotional trial of former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger, who entered business executive Botham Jeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apartment and killed him. Her defense --- she mistakenly entered the wrong apartment and thought she faced an intruder. The trial was intense. Texas Metro News was there and when there were legal questions, we reached out to folks who actually had law degrees and knew what they were talking about. We provided daily coverage, from the court, the streets, and the people. There were numerous twists and turns throughout the trial. Everyone had an opinion. When a guilty verdict was rendered by the jury, folks celebrated and others shook their heads. Then others became incensed and blasted Judge Kemp for the 10-year sentence imposed by the jury. Social media lit up. Folks who couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell you the name of the judges in any other case of a police shooting took out their anger on Judge Kemp. For them, she was supposed to right the wrongs of so many before her. Her life was threatened and she was vilified. The attacks were vicious. And yes, Black people were very harsh. Still Judge Kemp remained focused and steadfast. Next, there were the infamous hugs that took place in the courtroom. Folks wanted revenge, not forgiveness. They wanted Ms. Guyger to receive the penalty that so many others skirted in the past. We understand. We also knew the jury

decided the penalty, not the judge. Those who had never stepped into Judge Kempâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s courtroom professed to know what she did in other cases. They held her accountable for other cases that she had no jurisdiction over. And wow, did she really give the defendant a Bible? When we talked to Black clergy members they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize it was such an issue for their congregants. We think they would be ashamed to hear some

of the comments their â&#x20AC;&#x153;God-fearingâ&#x20AC;? parishioners spewed. Some wanted Ms. Guyger to be treated like an animal. Well, guess what? Ms. Guyger will be released one day and she will be walking the same streets as we do. If she is treated like an animal, what can we expect from her when she returns to society? Judge Kemp and Botham Jeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brother, Brandt, treated Ms. Guyger with compassion; not because of who she is, but who they are. Mr. Jean said his brother would have wanted him to forgive Ms. Guyger. And folks attacked that young man too! Full disclosure: Judge Kemp and the Texas Metro News publisher are sorority sisters and they are both Black women; but neither were reasons she was selected as Person of the Year. It was really disheartening to hear

folks with a platform giving emotional commentary without context and knowledge of Texas law. It was disturbing to hear a judgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response to a question: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure but I think.â&#x20AC;? Yes, we were shaking our heads. After all, we want people to know what they are talking about, investigate, seek answers, or shut up! So what does the Texas Metro News see in Judge Kemp? Well, the Guyger trial was not the first time we were in her courtroom. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen her in action and her temperament and knowledge of the law are well above reproach and highlyregarded. She has a great legal mind and she cares. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably why her court has consistently ranked #1 or #2 for efficiency among felony courts. And her overall handling of the Guyger case? Well, she received nothing but praise as people tuned in to the trial from around the world. Judge Kemp is proud to be a Christian and her faith leads her in all she does. She knows every decision she makes will not be the popular one but she does what is right, according to the law. Judge Kempâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart is pure. She is the type of judge we want serving; the type you want on the bench should you ever find yourself in court. And, to break it down, this OU graduate and former prosecutor is neither a lightweight or a punk. There may be some looking at challenging her seat next time she is up for re-election. They are going to have a fight on their hands because she has served with distinction and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard from a cross section of voters. Hopefully no one will get caught up in the hype or coerced into running because they think she is vulnerable. Texas Metro News applauds her service on the bench and in the community. Years from now, because this decision puts us on the right side of history, others will join us. We are confident! myimessenger.com

INSIDE

TRUTH

HBCUS

QUIT PLAYIN’

Today I have finally, come to the realization that children aren’t the problem and they never have been. It definitely has to be the parents and we need to call it what it is.

The Celebration Bowl, a postseason college football game featuring North Carolina A&T State University, the conference champions from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), and Alcorn State University the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champions featured all the heritage, legacy, pageantry and tradition fans love about Historically Black College and University (HBCU) classic games.

“The days between Christmas and New Year’s day are allowed as holidays; and, accordingly, we were not required to perform any labor, more than to feed and take care of the stock. This time we regarded as our own, by the grace of our masters; and we, therefore, used or abused it nearly as we pleased.” Frederick Douglass circa 1845

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JANUARY 3, 2020

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Real Mac & Cheese

Today I have finally, come to the realization that children aren’t the problem and they never have been. It definitely has to be the parents and we need to call it what it is. Granted, there are some things that children do that they are solely responsible for. Children will do things their parents don’t have a clue about, however. And so I give a shoutout to all parents because I know it’s not easy either way. Still, there’s something to be said about creating a culture, then criticizing the outcome. There will always be differences of opinion, but darn; the lines have become so defined that the respect and love that should be there, well -- World, we have a problem. Which brings me to my truth. I still remember many days when I wanted to be off reading a book or playing with friends, but my mother had other plans. She would call me into the kitchen to learn everything from cleaning a chicken, to JANUARY 3, 2020

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cooking rice that wasn’t gummy, to making a sweet potato pie that didn’t have strings and didn’t sweat (Surely, you’ve seen those pies with that filmy look on the top?) Always obedient, I attended class in the kitchen where Earline taught me what have now become habits, like don’t start cooking if you haven’t cleaned (that meant your behind and the kitchen) first and don’t eat all over the food you are preparing! You also had to learn the art of cleaning as you go. That meant that by the time you finished your meal, the kitchen was clean and didn’t look like what it had been through in the preparing of the meal. One dish that I learned to cook was not one of my favorites growing up, but the older I got the more and more it had become an all-time favorite. I’m talking about macaroni and cheese. Now back in the day, for most holidays and special oc4

casions, we had special dishes like potato salad, sweet potatoes and some type of greens (sometimes collards or it was a mixture of kale and cabbage), a homemade butter pound cake and sweet potato pie, and macaroni and cheese. No offense to Kraft, but back then my family didn’t know you. There may have been times when it was made with government cheese, but our macaroni and cheese was not something you could prepare in 10 minutes! And one cheese was good enough! As a child I would only eat the corner of macaroni and cheese where it was a little crispy, and that was enough. Now, today, it’s a different story. If you want to make me feel good, provide me with a tasty helping of macaroni and cheese. Now, I am challenged somewhat today because I don’t get into the kitchen as often. So, I find myself relying on othmyimessenger.com

er folks prowess in the kitch- This year’s event, in addition from businesses and individuen. Oftentimes, however, I am to the Macaroni and Cheese als. The categories are vegan, disappointed. And we’re in the Cook-off, will feature the ICON meat lovers, traditional; and, South, where men and women Custom Car Show, Vendors, with a twist (some people like swear on their cooking. entertainment, Health Screen- to put onions, spinach, broccoli According to several sources, or other stuff). Dr. Martin Luther I’ve heard folks King, Jr. loved macmention these restauaroni and cheese. rants: Elaine’s Kitchen, Chick-fil-A, OlMy sorority sister, ive Garden, Sweet the Honorable Keisha Lance Bottoms, Georgia Brown, Mayor of Atlanta, Smokey John’s Barbecue, Savory Kitchhas a dish I am anxious to try and the en in Little Elm and Honorable Helen Two Podners. Even Giddings, former Ms. Dorothy Jones TX. state rep., said of Black Jack Pizza she has one I will says she has a recipe! love. And I’ve heard the So, January 20, personal bragging. 2020, as we comSomebody is going This is Atlanta, GA Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms’ world-famous Macaroni and Cheese. memorate Dr. King’s to win! I heard it tastes great! birthday with events Get the entry form. around the world, we’ll see ings, Seminars, live broadcasts, There’s no entry fee! Come who has the best macaroni and giveaways, voter education have a good time, learn and cheese in the Dallas-Fort Worth and registration, food samples grow so you can teach others. and more. Metroplex. More of us need to take our In order to make this a bet- girls and boys into the kitchen, Dallas has long been heralded as having one of the Top 10 ter world, we must be healthy even if they don’t want to go! Martin Luther King Parades in mentally, physically, spirituMy prayer is that in 2020, the USA, with the Elite News ally, financially, socially and we will work at getting back parade, which was taken over holistically. And having fun is on track. We need to produce part of the occasion. by the City of Dallas. and attend more family-oriFollowing the parade, the Let’s get those Macaroni and ented events and participate in Realizing the Dream Healthy Cheese aficionados out of the activities that bring us together Living Expo is held at the Afri- kitchen and over to the African and maybe we can work on the can American Museum in Fair American Museum. greatest of these! Park. We’re looking for the best myimessenger.com

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JANUARY 3, 2020

Celebration of HBCUs

Leaders of the Divine 9 Greek Letter Organizations at the Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, where North Carolina A&T State University walked away with the victory. By Chelle Wilson Photos by Damon Peebles The Celebration Bowl, a postseason

college football game featuring North Carolina A&T State University, the conference champions from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), and Alcorn State University the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champions featured all the heritage, legacy, pageantry and tradition fans love about Historically Black College and University (HBCU) classic games. This year, John T. Grant, the bowl’s executive director, wanted to add a different type of champion to the mix. The Council of Presidents of the National Pan Hellenic Council, representing the nine historically Black Greek-Lettered Organizations, were highlighted at this, the 5th Annual Celebration Bowl, for the work their organizations have done to address systemic issues affecting the viability of the African American community. During the nationally televised Celebration Bowl, the presidents and representatives were recognized on the field along with Vanetta Cheeks Reeder, NPHC National President. Among the facts shared with the crowd about the work of the nine historically Black GreekLettered Organizations is that collectively they have awarded $17,132, 408 dollars JANUARY 3, 2020

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Award Winning North Carolina A&T State University Band in scholarships and contributed 4,575,470 hours of community service in 2019. Additionally, the display of Greek unity was one of the most talked about moments of the game. Stronger Together is the theme of the NPHC and the Council of Presidents understands that the work of the nine historically Black Greek-Lettered Organizations is just as important now as it was in the early 1900s, when these organizations were founded. “We are at a precarious time in the history of our nation,” said Dr. Everett B. Ward, council chairman and General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., “The serious nature of these issues in this current climate necessitates intentional strategic action. We are committed to using the power of our 1.5 million collective membership to engender positive societal change.” The Council of Presidents has

outlined voter engagement, 2020 Census, economic impact, minority business development, HBCU sustainability, and healthcare advocacy as strategic priorities the organizations will focus on collectively for greater impact. The Council of Presidents, Executive Directors, and other representatives met prior to the Celebration Bowl at the international headquarters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. There, the distinguished group centered their conversation on planning for voter registration and mobilization efforts as well as increased participation in the 2020 Census. Additionally, attendees brought gifts and toys for Atlanta area youth charities to be distributed throughout the holiday season. Famed radio personality Tom Joyner was inducted into the Celebration Bowl’s Champion Circle, one of the pre-game myimessenger.com

AKAs present check to Tom Joyner events. Joyner, a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., is an alumnus of an HBCU, Tuskegee University, and has been a staunch supporter of these important and beloved academic institutions. Through his foundation, Joyner has provided scholarships to more than 31,000 students, and, in excess of $66 million has been raised to support our HBCUs since 1998. Dr. Glenda Glover, President of Tennessee State University and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., surprised Joyner with a check for $50,000 to the Tom Joyner Foundation. “Alpha Kappa Alpha is pleased to join in this celebration of Tom Joyner on his stellar radio career and induction into the Champions Circle,” Glover said, “More importantly, we celebrate him for his consistent support of students attending HBCU’s. The Tom Joyner Foundation myimessenger.com

supports our education focus under what we call ‘HBCU For Life: A Call to Action.’ We are happy to partner with him once again as we work collectively to ensure the sustainability, financially and otherwise, of our beloved HBCUs.” Joyner, whose mother was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., expressed gratitude for the contribution and requested that it be divided equally and used to fund scholarships at Alcorn State and North Carolina A&T, the schools playing in this year’s Celebration Bowl. In true Joyner style, there was a caveat with the donation. He stated his foundation would work with the alumni associations to award 25 scholarships of $1,000 each on both campuses. “I want you to vet the students, and I want you to make sure that the students

promise to register people to vote in the November election, because we’ve got work to do,” Joyner said, “And I want every student at Alcorn and North Carolina A&T to vote. And if you don’t do it, I don’t know who will.” The Council of Presidents of the National Pan Hellenic Council is comprised of Dr. Everett B. Ward, council chairman and General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Dr. David Marion, council vice chairman and Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Dr. Glenda Glover, International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Reuben A. Shelton, III, Esq., Grand Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Beverly E. Smith, National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Michael E. Cristal, International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.;

Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, International Grand Basileus of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.; Deborah CatchingsSmith, International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.; Andre Manson, Grand Polaris of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., as well as Vanetta Cheeks Reeder, National President of the National Pan Hellenic Council, Inc. The Celebration Bowl’s mission is to provide the schools, alumni, fans, and sponsors with a first-class bowl experience while continuing to celebrate the heritage, legacy, pageantry and tradition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It is managed by ESPN Events, a subsidiary of ESPN, which owns and operates a large portfolio of collegiate sporting events worldwide, including 13 postseason bowl games.

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JANUARY 3, 2020

Fighting Someone Else's

Goliath Story and photos by Elisabeth Treadwell

Long-time Dallas resident Monique Stone has racked up an impressive list of community service and humanitarian deeds that span over 20 years. From 2000 to 2012, she mentored, instructed and inspired thousands of Dallas county youth through Angel Faces, Inc. and The ENCORE Edu/ Arts program she founded. She spearheaded searches that have resulted in the finding of six missing persons, in addition to finding her own biological parents. Since 2006, she has rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed over 300 loose and homeless cats and dogs through her Stray Savers organization. However, her most challenging â&#x20AC;&#x153;act of kindnessâ&#x20AC;?, taking in to her personal home since 2013 over 50 homeless men, women and children, began in 2016. Stone found purpose in assisting these

individuals in children would many aspects be returned of their needs once the from giving electricity was them a clean, restored gave safe place to a befriended lay their head senior couple to helping who lived next them apply for door temporary employment or guardianship benefits. of the children. F r o m Stone, realizing obtaining her needs, documents, volunteered resolving debt to transport or personal the mom to issues to her scheduled Mona, J.J., Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, Mercedes, transporting appointments, Monique, and Cynthia at KwanzaaFest 2019 them to and group sessions, from their jobs hearings, drug employment and and even co-fighting moving into their own testing, visitations and legal battles. Some home. Just after that more. But, one week lived in her home for couple moved out in turned into one year. a few months during September of 2016, And even after mom's their transition, while Stone took into her diligent year long others lived in her home an intellectually compliance, CPS gave home for years. and physically disabled custody of the children A documentary 36 year-old homeless to the next door entitled Homeless to woman. neighbors and closed Hired featuring Stone CPS had taken her the case. Despite, CPS was released in 2016. children from her just knowing members The film documents days before. Her son of that household the two-month journey 4, and two daughters, had criminal records of a homeless couple age 2 months old and and were in the U.S. who Stone took off of 2, were removed from a illegally. the streets. Consequently, the cluttered house with no Aiding them electricity. burden fell on mom through the process of The woman, to sue and battle the searching and gaining thinking that the neighbors for custody

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of her children. Stone was shocked to hear this revelation, and that the children would not be returning to the mom after all of her compliance. It was at this point that she took control of the the situation and the epic legal battle to get the mom's children's back began. First and foremost, Stone had to distance the mom from her children's abusive father. As he was held as the main culprit in her CPS case. She then pleaded with four local low-cost legal organization's to take the mom's case. But, none would touch it. Frustrated, Stone attempted to write and submit the petition to modify the previous custody order herself and asked the court for a Home Study to be officially initiated. After a month, both were approved. Then all matters relating to the children were placed in the hands of their appointed Attorney Ad Litem, myimessenger.com

The Assistant District Attorney. Together, Stone and the mom presented the complicated case to The Genesis Battered Women's Center. One of the center's compassionate Attorney's agreed to take the mom on as a client and proceeded expeditiously. All the while the neighbors (who called CPS in the first place) had mounted up a heart-less smear campaign against the mom. Hoping to poison the children's view of her and prejudice the court. They bullied the mom at every turn and denied her court ordered visits for a year. Also, blasting Stone's support of her and labeling Stone as a “Nobody.” Fortunately, the Judge saw through their scheme and penalized the neighbors for their unscrupulous behavior. Re-iterating, that the goal of the State of Texas in every instance is to reunite the children with the biological parent(s), if at all possible. Yet, the presiding Judge in the 304th District Court was facing a challenging dilemma. The mom had been declared as intellectually disabled since age seven. Unless a family member or a responsible, stable someone stepped up and volunteered to become that families parental supervisor, she could not legally return the children to the mom. In addition, the children would have to reside at that persons home until myimessenger.com

Monique, Mercedes, J.J., Cynthia, Mona and family pet, Bella

adulthood. With no willing relatives in the mom's life, the Attorney's presented the dilemma to Stone. Without hesitation she agreed to the commitment on behalf of the mom and the children she never met. After a 33-month battle, the Judge ordered the neighbors to return the children to their mom. As you can imagine, the children suffered severe emotional, physical and psychological trauma from the abrupt and long separation. It took Stone (and mom) a year to breakthrough and see signs of the reversal of the alienation effects of the children by the neighbors. The children were behind in their educational, social, emotional, speech and physical development. The overweight three-yearold had never been immunized and was still wearing diapers. She was still on the bottle and most of her teeth had to be surgically removed due to milk decay from being given a

bottle at bedtime. The two oldest children were often locked in a dark closet for hours. The girl slept on a sofa, the boy slept on the floor. Mom's three children's birthdays were never celebrated. They received no presents on their special day or receive any gifts at Christmas like the grandson. Mom's three children never went Trick or Treating or to Easter events while living with the neighbors. They were not allowed to play outside and every gift the mom gave to her three children, the neighbors locked them up in an outside storage. The neighbors, engulfed in a self-serving battle, ultimately evoked more harm on the children than the mom ever did. Today, mom and the children, almost 4, 6 and 8, are healthy and doing very well. They live in a positive and supportive environment where they can thrive and

strive to be their best self. Their grades have gone from failing to better. Their self-esteem and self-confidence is slowly being restored. The children are learning self-respect and how to respect others despite their maltreatment. They don't steal and hide food or act out in public anymore. In the beginning, the two oldest children manifested their anger towards mom in a physically and verbally aggressive manner. Blaming her for their separation and immolating their father's abusive actions. But, that behavior, especially, has subsided. “It will be a slow recovery process for all of them, including myself,” said Stone. “They have missed out on a lot and we plan to make up for that. Their health and wellness is getting back on track. I'm mentoring mom and helping with decision making. Also, teaching her cooking, cleaning, laundry and parenting skills. So, they have a chance now. These three are not going to slip through the cracks. I'll see to that and so will their mom despite her limitations. After all, it was her unwavering love for them and her willingness to fight “Goliath” to get them back that drew me in. Once I committed myself that was it. And, I would have never quit until all three children were returned to their mom.”

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JANUARY 3, 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

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EXPO

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January 20, 2020 10a-6p

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JANUARY 3, 2020

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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COMMENTARY by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Calling the Nation to Prayer

Healthy Living Expo 1/20/20 at African American Museum

In the history better because Congressman Lewis of the United decided nearly seven decades ago States Congress to devote his life to improving the there have been human condition. few legislators He has toiled relentlessly and with the moral unselfishly for us. and spiritual As a small boy, he saw beyond presence of the parcels of farmland, where Congressman John Lewis, who since his parents were sharecroppers, to 1987 has courageously represented the very halls of Congress where the people of the 5th Congressional decisions were made that shaped District of Georgia in the United the future of a nation, and where he States House of Representatives. would one day be referred to as its A close disciple of Dr. Martin “conscience.” Luther King Jr., We remember too well Congressman Lewis was a Sunday in March of the youngest speaker at 1965 when a younger the historic March on John Lewis, with his Washington in 1963. Southern Christian His speech, along Leadership Conference with that given by colleague, Rever-end DALLAS/FORT WORTH CHAPTER Dr. King, shall live in Hosea Williams and 2020 Scholarship Luncheon our nation’s historical others, was trampled records forever. by a vicious mod “Diversity and Inclusion: Hon. John Lewis Congressman Lewis of Alabama Street From Awareness to Action” has been an elegant rose troopers while peacefully in Congress, providing his colleagues exercising their constitutional right and his nation with wisdom, grace of assembly. and strength. He has prayed for No doubt, the Congressman others when many could not pray prayed as he lay on the ground for themselves. Now it is our time to as the hoofs of horses and unruly pray for him. state agents ran across his body. Our Industry Professional I am asking the people of the 30th It was prayer that comforted Our Keynote Speaker Congressional District of Texas and him then and prayer that will Honoree Ms. Cynthia M.A. Butlerothers throughout the nation and comfort him now. Mr. Craig Dunn McIntyre the world to join me in praying for Like many of you, I am a fervent Executive Vice President and Texas Motivational and Educational Region Leader Congressman Lewis who recently believer in prayer. It is a shield Speaker AmWINS Brokerage of Texas, Inc. announced that he has stage 4 during the fiercest storm. pancreatic cancer. And during this season of January 10, 2020 11 AM -1:00 PM When asked about his immediate turbulence that our dear friend is Doubletree Hotel Campbell Centre plans, Congressman Lewis said that experiencing, we must lift him and 8250 N Central Expressway, Dallas, Tx 75206 he would continue his fight in the his family by praying. Tickets $50 @ naaiadfw.org halls of government for policies and We must be there for him just as For additional information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Machelle Allums laws that lift the American people he has been there for us all these 972-768-3650 or mallums@senecainsurance.com and that embolden the American many years. + Congresswoman Johnson Democracy. “We have many represents the 30th Congressional bridges to cross,” he said. “With District in the United States of God’s grace I will be back on the Representatives. She also chairs the House Committee on Science, Space front lines soon.” and Technology. The people of America are myimessenger.com I MESSENGER JANUARY 3, 2020 13

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Happy Holidays to all of our great and loyal customers!

Much Love and Happiness. From Your Blackjack Pizza Staff Adventure, Victory, and Prayer in the City! Photos: LP on the Scene

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TWO LOCATIONS: 2536 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas,

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Parrish to be honored by St. Luke “Community” UMC Men’s Ministry The public is invited to join the men of the St. Luke Community United Methodist Church in honoring Roland Parrish, as the 2020 recipient of the James C. Belt Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award. The presentation will take place at the 2020 Honors Brunch set for 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020, at Paul Quinn College, 3837 Simpson Stuart Rd., Dallas. Chair of the selection committee, Terry Robinson said, “The Belt award is presented annually to an individual with a record of outstanding vision, dedication and commitment to serve the citizens of their community and the state.” The late attorney James C. Belt Jr., for whom the award is myimessenger.com

named, was a well- Magazine’s BE 100 known attorney and as one of the Top activist 100 Black who served O w n e d St. Luke Businesses UMC and in the U.S. represented Mr. Parrish a variety of earned his civil rights b a ch e l o r ’s causes for and MBA several at Purdue Roland Parrish President, CEO/Owner of Parrish decades. University’s McDonald’s Restaurants According Krannert to Mr. School of Robinson said Business. the goal of the A scholar/athlete, recognition “is to he lettered four shine a light on years, served as team deserving individuals captain, was a twowho have given of time MVP for the their time serving all Purdue track and people and ensuring field team while that justice prevails making the Dean’s for all.” List seven out of Mr. Parrish is eight semesters. He President, CEO/ is a Past Chairman/ Owner of Parrish CEO of the National M c D o n a l d ’ s Black McDonald’s Restaurants, Ltd., Owner/Operators which owns 23 Association. McDonald’s in Mr. Parrish North Texas that made a $2M gift consistently makes that supported Black Enterprise renovations of the 15

former Management and Economics Library at Purdue University which was renamed the Roland G. Parrish Library of Management and Economics. His gift of philanthropy also led to the Rev. John and Marie Parrish Medical Clinic in Fort Portal, Uganda, named in honor of his parents. The clinic opened in 2016. Mr. Parrish is married to Jewel and they have three children. For more information about this event, contact Terry Robinson at (214) 732-3417. For ticket information, email umm.stluke@ gmail.com. All proceeds go to the James C. Belt Jr. scholarship fund at Paul Quinn College.

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JANUARY 3, 2020

Teens receive “Gift of Tech” from Comerica Bank

Special to Texas Metro News

C o m erica Ban k su rp rised lo cal h ig h stu d ents fro m th e Pro jec t Still I Rise U rb an Sch o lars Pro g ram w ith tech n o lo g y p acks at th eir h o lid ay co m m u n ity service p ro jec t o n Th u rsd ay even in g. Th e stu d ents d eco rated Bu ckeye Com m ons H ead Start, an d later w ere p resented w ith p erso n al lap to p s an d th e acco m p anyin g accesso ries (b ag an d m o u se) an d service p lans as a rew ard fo r th eir h ard w o rk an d d ed icatio n in th e classro o m an d co m m u n ity. Research sh o w s n early o n e in five teen s h ave tro u b le fin ish in g th eir h o m ew o rk b ecau se o f a d ig ital d ivid e – o ften referred to as th e “h o m ew o rk g ap” – fo r

teen s w h o lack access to d ig ital tech n o lo g ies (co n sistent access to a co m p u ter an d /o r intern et co n n ec tio n ) at h o m e. Teen s fro m lo w er-in co m e h o u seh o ld s, are esp ecially likely to face sch o o l-related ch allen g es as a resu lt. [So u rce: Pew Research C enter] “Fo r th e p ast d ecad e, C o m erica Ban k h as p artn ered w ith Pro jec t Still I Rise to h elp em p o w er to d ay’s yo u th fo r to m o rro w ’s o p p o rtu n ity th ro u g h acad em ic en rich m ent, m ento rin g an d lead ersh ip d evelo p m ent,” Pete G u ilfo ile, C o m erica Ban k C h ief C red it O ffi cer an d Pro jec t Still I Rise vo lu nteer said. “C o m erica is co m m itted to h elp in g clo se th e h o m ew o rk g ap b y eq u ip p in g yo u th in th e co m m u n ities w e

serve w ith reliab le tech n o lo g y to o ls fo r fu tu re su ccess.” Pro jec t Still I Rise, In c., is a co m m u nity-b ased n o n p ro fit o rg an izatio n fo u n d ed in 2002. Th e m issio n o f th e ag en c y is to em p o w er to d ay’s yo u th fo r to m o rro w ’s o p p o rtu n ities th ro u g h acad em ic en rich m ent, m ento rin g, an d lead ersh ip d evelo p m ent p ro g ram m in g. PSIR’s h ead q u arters o ffi ce is in D allas, Texas. Th e U rb an Sch o lars p ro g ram is d esig n ed to assist stu d ents w h o are tran sitio n in g b etw een acad em ic settin g s. Particip ants enter th e U rb an Sch o lars p ro g ram d u rin g th eir n inth -g rad e year an d b eyo n d. G rad u atin g h ig h sch o o l sen io rs are aw ard ed a o n e -

tim e sch o larsh ip fo r th eir co m m itm ent to service an d acad em ics. Stu d ents p articip ate in co m m u n ity service p ro jec ts, p ro fessio n al d evelo p m ent w o rksh o p s, an d co rp o rate en g ag em ent o p p o rtu n ities. U rb an Scho lars also h ave th e ch an ce to b e jo in ed b y a p o o l o f Pro jec t Still I Rise, co lleg iate stu d ents tw o tim es p er year fo r co llab o rative w o rksh o p s. C o m erica In c. (N YSE: C M A) is a fin an cial services co m p any h ead q u artered in D allas, Texas, an d strateg ically alig ned b y th ree b u sin ess seg m ents: Th e Bu sin ess Ban k, Th e Retail Ban k, an d Wealth M an ag em ent. C o m erica fo cu ses o n relatio n sh ip s, an d h elp in g p eo p le an d b u sin esses b e su ccessfu l. Project Still I Rise Urban Scholars Board Members and volunteers and Comerica Bank CHief Credit Officer Pete Guilfoile Pete Guilfoile, Comerica Bank Chief Credit Officer and Project Still I Rise volunteer presenting the Gift of Tech Project Still I Rise Urban Scholars with Pete Guilfoile, Comerica Bank Chief Credit

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Spies in Disguise By Hollywood Hernandez

scenes that are a lot of fun to watch.

Spies In Disguise is the new animated film starring the vocal talents of Will Smith and Tom Holland. Holland is the latest Spiderman. In the movie, Holland’s character is nothing like Spidey.

The movie doesn’t have a Disney feel to it but it’s still a very enjoyable film that is perfect for the entire family. What I liked most about Spies In Disguise is that it’s a buddy film with two men who play characters that are as different as they can possibly be. And the pigeons are hilarious.

Holland plays a nerdy scientist who comes up with amazing formulas and inventions, but he’s a little socially awkward in dealing with the staff of agents. While Will Smith is the voice of Lance Sterling, a super cool secret agent who is a loner that works his missions by himself and he usually gets his man. myimessenger.com

While in Walter’s lab Agent Sterling drinks a formula that turns him into a pigeon. Now the super suave, super cool spy has to depend 17

on Walter, and some fellow pigeons, to clear his name from a shape-shifting bad guy who turns himself into Lance. There are some great action

Spies In Disguise is rated PG with a run time of 1 hour and 41 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I give this movie a JUMBO.

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ASK ALMA By Alma Gill

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KwanzaaFest 2019 a wonderful affair!

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

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The First Lady Lois Evans Expressions of support and love poured in on December 30, 2019, following the announcement that Dr. Lois Evans had transitioned. A leader among women, Dr. Evans had celebrated her 70th birthday on December 1, 2019. She was employed by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, the Grand Old Gospel Fellowship Ministry, Dallas Federal Savings and Loan, as well as numerous executive management positions with The Urban Alternative, which she co-founded with her husband Dr. Tony Evans in 1982. She served as Executive Vice President from 1989 to 1995 and Senior Vice President till 2019. Dr. Evans was also founder of the Pastors’ Wives Ministry. She served in the office of the Senior Pastor at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church, National Religious Broadcasters Board, and The Urban Alternative Board of Directors. Dr. Evans served on the NRB Television Board and as the 1st President of the Global Pastors’ Wives Network. In addition, she was a member of Leadership Southwest, sponsored by the Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce and served on the Board of the Christian Management Association. She was also the Founder of The Pastors’ Wives Ministry and the First Lady Conference. Honored in 1995 with the Good Samaritan Award from Dallas Baptist University for outstanding JANUARY 3, 2020

Christian service to the community; in 1996, she received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Eastern College and in 2000 she received the Status of Women Award from Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She also received The Woman of the Year in Ministry Award presented by the Women of Influence, Inc. Dr. Evans traveled throughout the United States, the Caribbean, China, India, South America, Europe and West Africa. In addition to many magazine and newsletter articles, Dr. Evans was a contributing author to Promises Promises: Understanding and Encouraging Your Husband (Vision House, 1996). She is co-author of Our Love Is Here To Stay (Multnomah Publishing, 2004), author of Seasons of a Woman’s Life (Moody, 2000—Out of print), and Stones of Remembrance: A Rock-Hard Faith for Rock-Hard Places (Moody, 2006) with Jane Rubietta.. She also recorded two albums in 1983 and in 1989. Married for nearly 50 years to her favorite pastor/teacher and best friend, Dr. Tony Evans, Senior Pastor of Oak Cliff Bible

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Fellowship, she has four children: Chrystal, Priscilla, Anthony, Jr., and Jonathan, five granddaughters and eight grandsons, and two greatgrandchildren Ways you can help the Evans family during this time: The following request appeared on the Urban Alternative website: Ways You Can Help the Evans Family During this Time Pray for Dr. Evans and the entire Evans family. Send cards of encouragement to Dr. Tony Evans or any member of the Evans family to: c/o The Urban Alternative, PO Box 4000, Dallas, TX 75208. In lieu of flowers, the Evans family would love for your help in continuing the ministry to Pastors’ Wives that was dear to Lois’ heart. You can send contributions to The Urban Alternative and notate

Pastors’ Wives Ministry in the memo of your check at any time, or you can contribute electronically at tonyevans.org/loisevans on or after January 2nd. In honor of Lois, the Evans family would love for you to send flowers this week to your Pastor’s wife. Lois loved receiving flowers but she also loved giving them. Because her passion was ministering to pastors’ wives and making sure they felt loved and cared for, your gift of flowers in her memory would be a gift to her family as well. Thank you for loving the Evans family, and thank you for your ongoing prayers. Service Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship 1808 W Camp Wisdom Rd Dallas, TX 75232 January 6, 2020 11:00a.m. myimessenger.com

Photo: FaceBook

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Metropolitan Dream Center

Me t ropolit a n D a lla s Alu m n a e Ch a pt e r - De lt a Sigm a Th e t a Sororit y, In c. Exe cu t ive Com m it t e e

AK A OAO He a lt hy f or t h e Holidays 2019

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Ch rist m a s in t h e Pa rk

Te x a s St a t e R e p. Ton i R ose

Te x a s St a t e R e p. Yvon n e D avis

D a lla s Cit y At t orn e ys Of f ice

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Holiday Ma gic w it h Th e Gre a t e r De n t on Cou n t y Ch a pt e r Lin k s! 27

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ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

www.hairandscalpessentials.com

Hair accessories are a billion dollar industry. Accessories are meant to enhance the hair, conceal fine, limp, sparse, damaged or broken hair strands. When consumers are informed, they understand the importance of proper usage. Daily enhancements may damage your hair and contribute to alopecia and cicatricial alopecia when used improperly. • Bobby pins & Hair pins should have rubber tips on the ends. If you have been reusing your hairpins and the protective nylon coating is no longer visible, it is time to throw them away. Check the closures to make sure they offer the right amount of tension. Exposed ends may scratch delicate scalps, cause hair tangling and snagging or ripping of hair. Furthermore, some consumers may develop an allergic reaction to the nylon coating on bobby pins and should discontinue usage. Lastly, if you feel any scalp pain after inserting a bobby pin or hair pin, remove or reposition it. This recommendation also applies for your Hairstylist, who may use a hair pin or bobby pin for your up do style. Tell him/her it is too tight. JANUARY 3, 2020

Hair loss from Hair Accessories

• Hair clips should be used with caution. Adjust tension on the hair if it pulls the hair. There are so many options available on the market, such as snap open, clips with closures on the end, various colors & shapes, etc. • Barrettes are used on daily basis on children’s hair. Parents/ Grandparents should always adjust the tension, to ensure it is not too tight. If the hair is wet or dry, your can contribute to hair breakage when using hair barrettes incorrectly. Sometimes, parents unknowingly use barrettes incorrectly on their child 0-2 years old on fine, sparse hair textures. Pulling the hair too tight they attach 5-20 hair barrette(s) to let everyone know she is a girl! Stop it! Another option is a stretch headband. Give your child’s hair time to grow. • Hair chains have been popular since 2012. Celebrities began this trend. Unfortunately, the small links in the chains may snag, pull, tear and rip delicate strands. They inadvertently can pull at fragile hair strands, create split ends and potentially cause serious snarls, tangles and other hair related loss. If hair chains

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snag, pull, rip and damage her extensions, it’s not as serious a matter as if hair chains cause damage to natural hair. Hair chains may also cause damage to naturally textured tresses such as curls, waves, kinks and coils. The little links in the chains can become embedded in delicate curls or coils, causing major tangles. If you must wear hair chains, be very careful to inspect the hair accessories before attaching them to your delicate strands. • Banana clips are still worn by consumers. Always use caution. The metal springs can ruin your hair when used incorrectly, as well as hair breakage and thinning is commonly visible. • Rubber bands should not be used on the hair. Uncovered rubber bands can be very damaging to the hair! Hair breakage is a common result when using uncovered rubber bands, tangles, snagging, ripping and pulling. Always, choose covered ponytail holders or cloth ponytail bands to keep hair in place. Parents, this is a must for your child’s/ grandchild’s hair care. • Head Bands are popular, however, avoid wearing hair bands on

a daily basis. There are several options on the market, stretch, nonflexible, etc. Parents, you really need to pay closer attention to the one size fits all. Your child may have a larger head (no offense) and the chosen headband may be too small for your child’s head size. Most commonly, if you or your child’s hair is dry, damaged, or chemically over-processed. You may be contributing to limited hair restoration. • Clip in hair extensions added to fine, fragile hair textures will cause additional hair breakage, and hair thinning. In conclusion, most female consumers/ children love the options available in hair accessories. Parents also love to see their baby girl’s hair enhanced with ribbons, elastic balls, jewels, headbands, flowers, bows, etc., but do not go overboard! Yes image is important. In reality, there are also dangers of damaging your hair or your child’s hair if accessories are used frequently and improperly. Bottom line, stop putting so much emphasis on what is on your child’s hair and focus on the importance of what is in their head. myimessenger.com

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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There is No “Free Time” “The days between Christmas and appear statistically. Black folk will lose New Year’s day are allowed as holidays; opportunities in this backlash just as we and, accordingly, we were not required did post-Reconstruction. My Hispanic brothers are striving to perform any labor, more than to feed and take care of the stock. This time we toward the mark, and for me, it’s deja vu. regarded as our own, by the grace of our masters; and we, therefore, used or abused it nearly as y we pleased.” Frederick Douglass circa 1845 It’s the end of the year, and I'm just about at Vincent L. Hall is the end of my rope. My an author, activist children are thriving and a source of great personal and award-winning pride. I’m fat and ugly but without the need or use columnist of prescription drugs. My pockets are empty, but they always have been. So it was necessary Watching them progress politically and to dig deep into my own psyche as 2019 economically is like watching a movie that we once starred in. They see the openings ebbs at its shoreline. My worries are about the future of for progress that our parents saw in the Black people…Seriously! We just ain’t 1970s, thanks to affirmative action and gettin’ it! Reading a small segment of civil rights activism. Mexicans in this the self-written; “Narrative of the Life community and throughout the nation of Frederick Douglass, an American are rising, and they have the numbers on Slave,” multiplied my fears. Somehow, their side. Asians and Middle-Easterners show we continue to miss the mark of a people who must think critically and operate up disproportionately in our commerce, generally as shop-owners. They see the shrewdly to survive. On the one hand, I worry because of vestiges of the “American Dream” and evil men like Donald Trump, who, by his are not about to let you pilfer or steal it wit and cunning, convinces millions to from them. And rightly so, they catch hell claim the falsehood of White privilege. from the proverbial “White Man” too! They made their own breaks and can’t Self-confidence and racial pride are not themselves an issue. However, when self- afford or do not condone affirmative love eventuates in feelings that range action per se. You won’t see a Jamaal or from subtle biases to downright hatred of Keisha serving you General Tso’s Chicken “others,” it is socially untenable. America or working the front desk of motels run is far too demographically diverse at this by our brothers and sisters from India. These groups tend to family first. point. It seems that every race and region The vitriolic spittle that Nationalists under the influence of Trumpism utter of America’s people take life, labor, and in public and private either promote or liberty as a more significantly regarded portend violence. Physical violence will franchise than do Black people. No one be seen, but political violence will only has suffered more or worse than us. Yet,

too many of us want life to be an endless series of good times. Listen again to Douglass’s description of how “free time” was consumed among slaves. “The staid, sober, thinking and industrious ones of our n u m b e r would employ themselves in making cornbrooms, mats, horse-collars, and baskets, and another class of us would spend the time in hunting opossums, hares, and coons. But by far the larger part engaged in such sports and merriments as playing ball, wrestling, running foot-races, fiddling, dancing, and drinking whisky; and this latter mode of spending the time was by far the most agreeable to the feelings of our masters. A slave who would work during the holidays was considered by our masters as scarcely deserving them. He was regarded as one who rejected the favor of his master. It was deemed a disgrace not to get drunk at Christmas; and he was regarded as lazy indeed, who had not provided himself with the necessary means, during the year, to get whisky enough to last him through Christmas.” During this break between Christmas and New Year’s, maybe we should all “reject the favor of the master.” Working late hours and during breaks and vacations brought us from Frederick Douglass to Barack Obama. Think soberly about that in your “free time.”

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QUIT PLAYIN B VINCENT L. HALL

Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist and award-winning columnist. JANUARY 3, 2020

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