I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

I M essenger FEBRUARY 21, 2020

VOL IX NO 27

VETERAN EDUCATOR LEVATTA L. LEVELS IS THE CEO

Nation Building at Paul Quinn College

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 MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT 619

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

F r o m S t a ff R e p o r t s

E d u c a t io n a d v o c a t e S e n . R o y c e W e s t (D -D a lla s ), c o m e d ia n R o y W o o d J r. f r o m t h e D a ily S h o w w it h T r e v o r N o a h , a n d N a t io n a l A s s o c ia t io n o f B la c k J o u r n a lis t s (N A B J ) P r e s id e n t D o r o t h y T u c k e r w e r e ju s t a fe w o f t h e v is it o r s a t P a u l Q u in n C o lle g e la s t w e e k . T h e r e â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s q u it e a b it o f a c t iv it y a t t h e o n ly Â H is t o r ic a lly Â B la c k C o lle g e in t h e C it y o f D a lla s Â a n d t h e fi r s t U r b a n W o r k C o lle g e in th e co u n try. In a d d it io n t o h o s t in g t h e N A B J B a s ic s B o o t c a m p , fe a t u r in g jo u r n a lis t s a n d s t u d e n t s f r o m a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y ; t h e r e â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s t h e 2 0 2 0 F o u n d e r â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s D a y C e le b r a t io n o f t h e 1 0 t h E p is c o p a l D is t r ic t o f t h e A f r ic a n M e t h o d is t E p is c o p a l C h u r c h a n d t h e r e o p e n in g o f t h e NABJ Secretary Cheryl Smith and comedian Roy Wood Jr. of the Daily Show with Trevor Noah sign beam at Paul Quinn R ic h a r d A lle n C h a p e l. College, during NABJ Basics Bootcamp, last week. T h e R e v . D r. R a lp h D . W e s t o f C h u r c h W it h o u t W a lls in H o u s t o n , T X ; a n d t h e R e v . D r. F r e d e r ic k D . H a y n e s o f F r ie n d s h ip W e s t B a p t is t C h u r c h in D a lla s , T X w ill b e p r e a c h in g t h is w e e k . A ls o t h e F r ie n d s h ip W e s t P r a is e Te a m , P a u l Q u in n C o lle g e C h o ir a n d t h e 1 0 t h D is t r ic t c h o ir s w ill b e p e r fo r m in g a t t h e E c u m e n ic a l N ig h t , T h u rsd ay, Fe b . 20, 2020 in t h e C h a p e l a t 7 :0 0 p .m . W it h t h e r e o p e n in g o f t h e C h a p e l, w o r s h ip S e n . R o y ce W e s t s ig n s h is to ric b e a m th a t w ill b e p a r t o f th e Tra m m e ll S . C ro w L iv in g a n d L e a rn in g C e n te r a n d H e a lth a n d W e lln e s s C e n te r. P h o to : M a u rice W e s t s e r v ic e s , g r a d u a t io n s , c o n c e r t s , c la s s e s , c o n fe r e n c e s a n d s p e c ia l e v e n t s T h e c o u r t d e d ic a t io n m a r k s t h e 2 7 t h Â c o u r t w ill b e h e ld in s id e . d o n a t e d b a c k t o t h e c o m m u n it y b y B is h o p J o h n R ic h a r d B r y a n t , r e t ir e d S e n io r e it h e r t h e D a lla s M a v e r ic k s o r t h e M a v s B is h o p o f t h e A M E C h u r c h a n d fo r m e r C h a ir F o u n d a t io n . o f t h e B o a r d o f T r u s t e e s o f P a u l Q u in n U n d e r t h e le a d e r s h ip o f P r e s id e n t C o lle g e a n d fo r m e r p r e s id in g B is h o p o f M ic h a e l S o r r e ll, t h e fi r s t n e w s t r u c t u r e o n t h e 1 0 t h D is t r ic t w ill b e p r e a c h in g t h e t h e c a m p u s in s e v e r a l d e c a d e s is v a s t ly d e d ic a t io n s e r m o n o n F r id a y , F e b r u a r y 2 1 , b e c o m in g a r e a lit y w it h t h e n e w T r a m m e ll S . 2 0 2 0 , a t 7 :0 0 p .m . C r o w L iv in g a n d L e a r n in g C e n t e r a n d H e a lt h O n W e d n e s d a y , F e b . 2 6 , D a lla s M a v e r ic k s a n d W e lln e s s C e n t e r, w h ic h w ill in c r e a s e e x e c u t iv e s w ill jo in w it h P a u l Q u in n C o lle g e d o r m it o r y h o u s in g fo r s t u d e n t s a n d p r o v id e le a d e r s h ip t o u n v e il it s n e w e s t b a s k e t b a ll a d d it io n a l c la s s r o o m s , a s w e ll a s h e a lt h a n d c o u r t .Â w e lln e s s /r e c r e a t io n p r o g r a m s .

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INSIDE

TRUTH

ABOUT YOUR HAIR

THINKING

What a year 2019 was. If folks didn’t learn anything, the world is in bigger trouble than anyone could have ever imagined. You’ve heard that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Well, things can’t stay the same. They just can’t!

The terms used to describe hairstyling for the deceased is Desairology, Eternal Grooming, or Make Ready. The Funeral Home Business is a billion dollar industry. Someone dies everyday. The last grooming service for a loved one is most often done by a licensed cosmetologist, barber, braider, or wig stylist

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Wanna feel better? W h at a ye a r 2 0 1 9 w a s. If fo lk s d id n ’t le a r n a n y t h in g , t h e w o r ld is in b ig g e r t ro u b le t h a n a n y o n e c o u ld h a v e e v e r im a g in e d . Yo u ’v e h e a rd t h a t t h e m o re t h in g s c h a n g e , t h e m o re t h e y s t a y t h e s a m e . W e ll, t h in g s c a n ’t s t a y t h e s a m e . T h e y ju s t c a n ’t ! A nd yo u m ay b e o r have to b e c o m e th e c h a n g e w e need. R e a d e rs h a v e b e e n sh a rin g t h e ir t h o u g h t s o n t h in g s t h a t c a n ’t s t a y t h e sam e. H e re a re ju s t a fe w o f t h e t h in g s fo lk s h a d is s u e s w it h in 2 0 1 9 ; in n o s p e c ific o rd e r : 1 . V o t in g 2 . D o n ’t a s k fo r s u p p o r t b e -c a u s e y o u a re B la c k if y o u d o n ’t s u p p o r t o t h e r B la c k in s t it u t io n s o r b u s in e sse s 3 . T r y in g t o g e t h o o k u p s FEBRUARY 21, 2020

4 . G o s s ip in g 5 . P e o p le w h o w o n ’t p a y b a c k t h in g s t h e y b o r ro w 6 . T ire d o f lo o k in g a t s a g g in g p a n t s a n d u n d e r wear 7 . L e a v e b e d ro o m s h o e s hom e 8 . Te a c h o u r y o u n g g ir ls t o t re a s u re t h e ir b o d ie s 9 . Te a c h o u r y o u n g m e n t o t re a s u re t h e ir b o d ie s 1 0 . M ille n n ia ls , G e n X e r s , a n d o t h e r s - y o u c o u ld le a r n b y lis t e n in g 11.O u r yo u ng m en need to u se c o n d o m s 1 2 . E ld e r s , a c t lik e y o u k n o w a n d te a c h th e se y o u n g b o y s a n d g ir ls 1 3 . S t o p b e in g a fr a id t o p a re n t o u r y o u t h , e v e n t h o s e y o u d id n ’t b r in g in t o t h e w o r ld 1 4 . K n o w w h a t y o u a re t a lk in g a b o u t 1 5 . M a k e y o u r w o rd m a t te r

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16. R e sp e c t e ve n w h e n y o u a re b e in g d is re s p e c t ed 1 7 . W a lk a w a y fro m u n h e a lt h y re la t io n s h ip s 1 8 . L ife is t o o s h o r t t o b e u n h a p p y a n d u n h e a lt h y 19. B e so m e o n e w h o o t h e r s a re n o t h a p p ie r t o s e e le a v in g t h a n c o m in g 2 0 . M a k e e a c h d a y m a tte r A n d t h is b r in g s m e t o m y tru th . In m y c la s s e s , I d o m in i in t e r v ie w s w h e re I a s k a s e r ie s o f q u e s t io n s t o g e t to k n o w m y stu d e n ts. I e n d m y e x e rc is e w it h , “ Te ll m e s o m e t h in g in t e re s t in g a b o u t y o u r s e lf.” I g e t a ll t y p e s o f a n s w e r s a n d in e v e r y c la s s , s o m e o n e is g o in g t o s a y s o m e t h in g lik e , “ T h e re ’s n o t h in g in t e re s t in g a b o u t m e .” W e ll, I d o n ’t b e lie v e t h e m a n d I t e ll t h e m s o . I g iv e a myimessenger.com

m in i le c t u re a n d t h e n I t e ll t h e m t h a t b e fo re t h e c la s s is o v e r t h e y n e e d t o c o m e b a c k w it h s o m e t h in g ! I b e g in m y le c t u re b y s n a p p in g m y fi n g e r s c o n t in u o u s ly , w h ile a s k in g , “w h a t is h a p p e n in g ? ” They never have an ans w e r fo r m e , s o I a n s w e r, “S o m e o n e ju s t d ie d . A n d a n o t h e r. A n d a n o t h e r.” T h e y lo o k a t m e s t u n n e d . “ T h a t ’s r ig h t ,” I s a y . “P e o p le a re c o n t in u in g t o d ie a n d y o u a re s t ill h e re . W h y a re y o u h e re ? Yo u n e e d t o fi n d o u t w h y y o u a re h e re , w h a t ’s y o u r p u r p o s e , a n d t h e n y o u w ill n e v e r t e ll a n o t h e r p e r s o n t h a t t h e re ’s n o t h in g in t e re s t in g a b o u t y o u !” U s u a lly m y m e s s a g e is t e m p e re d w it h a fe w m o re c h o ic e w o rd s a n d s o m e p e r s o n a l s t o r ie s ab o u t ho w w hen yo u h a v e n o lo v e fo r o r fa it h in y o u ; it ’s h a rd fo r y o u t o v a lu e y o u r life a n d re a liz e y o u r g re a t n e s s . W h e n t h a t t im e c o m e s , y o u w ill b e a re s p e c t fu l a n d lo v a b le myimessenger.com

p e rso n . N o w e ve ryo n e yo u e n c o u n t e r is n o t g o in g t o b e re s p e c t fu l o r lo v in g , b u t t h a t ’s t h e ir is s u e . Yo u a re c lu e le s s a b o u t w h a t is g o in g o n in a n o t h e r ’s w o r ld s o y o u c a n ’t t a k e o n t h e ir b a g g a g e , g a r b a g e o r is su e s. If y o u u n d e r s t a n d w h o a n d w h o s e y o u a re a n d t h e “lit t le ” t h in g s t h a t c a u s e y o u s t re s s o r ir r it a t e y o u ; life w ill s e e m s o m u c h m o re e n jo y a b le . E v e n s o m e o f t h e it e m s lis t e d m a y s e e m lik e a w a s t e o f t im e a n d e n e r g y . Yo u d e c id e . Ye a r s a g o , I h a d ro a d r a g e . I re m e m b e r g e t t in g o u t o f t h e c a r in t h e s n o w a n d r u n n in g u p t o t h e c a r in fro n t o f m e a t t h e lig h t a n d b a n g in g o n a w in d o w . D a m n , I w a s t r ip p in g ! B u t a t t h e t im e , a ll I c o u ld t h in k o f is t h a t t h e id io t a lm o s t r a n m e o ff t h e ro a d ! To d a y , I’d n e v e r ! In s t e a d I t r y t o r a t io n a liz e fo r w h y a d r iv e r is d r iv in g t o o fa s t 5

o r s lo w ; w h y t h e y w o n ’t y ie ld o r le t m e m e r g e in t o t r a ffi c ; o r w h y t h e y a re s t ill s it t in g a t t h e lig h t w h e n it has changed. It ’s a m a z in g h o w b e t t e r y o u w ill fe e l a b o u t life w h e n y o u s t o p s w e a t in g t h e s m a ll t h in g s . I b e lie v e e v e r y o n e h a s s o m e t h in g g re a t in t h e m . S o m e t im e s , h o w e v e r it a p p e a r s t o b e e a s ie r fo r t h e n o t -s o -g re a t t h in g s t o s u r fa c e a n d d o m in a t e o u r liv e s . I g u e s s it ’s t im e fo r u s t o s p e n d m o re t im e g e t t in g t o k n o w a n d b e c o m in g m o re c o m fo r t a b le w it h o u r s e lv e s . S o m e t im e s it o n ly t o o k o n e c la s s p e r io d fo r a s t u d e n t t o c o m e b a c k w it h a n a n s w e r t o m y q u e ry. O n c e m a n y o f th e m k n e w th e y h a d a c a r in g e a r, t h e y o p e n e d u p a n d s h a re d v e r y in t e r e s t in g t id b it s . It ’s a m a z in g h o w y o u c a n m a k e a n o t h e r fe e l g o o d a b o u t t h e m s e lv e s , b u t fi r s t y o u h a v e t o fe e l g o o d a b o u t y o u r s e lf! I MESSENGER

FEBRUARY 21, 2020

God’s not making more land

I WAS JUST THINKING...

Some say writer Mark Twain said it. Others say entertainer Will Rogers said it: “Buy land. They’re not making it anymore.” Dallas businessman Robert Pitre has acquired more than 130 acres of commercial land in Dallas County over the last 50 years. Pitre remembers that his grandfather Harvey Forward gave him that advise By Norma Adamswhen Pitre was a young boy Wade in Beaumont, Texas. Ministers I Messenger Media later gave the saying a higher authority. “Buy land, ‘cause God’s not enterprises including a car dealership making anymore,” preachers said. Whoever said it first and best, it’s in the South Dallas/Fair Park area. Pitre’s zeal for landownership is solid advice. Land is a highly-pursued, reminiscent of a Dallas pioneer Africanvaluable commodity. American landowner. And-erson I was just thinking.... Were Dr. Martin Bonner was born into slavery and came Luther King Jr. and others correct when they tied lack of land ownership to the overwhelming problems that plague African-Americans today? In one public appear-ance in the mid1960s, Dr. King spoke about the link between land ownership and freedom: “In 1863, the Negro was told that he was free... But he was not given any land to make that freedom meaningful...The nation, through... Congress, (also) was giving away millions of acres of land in the west and mid-west...(to) white peasants from Europe...Not only did they give the land, they built land grant colleges...,” Dr. King is quoted as saying. During Black History this month, panels, lecturers, professors and organizations across the nation are exploring myriad aspects of life of the African diaspora. Land ownership or the lack of it, is a viable topic for them. In January, I wrote about Dallas A n d e rs o n B o n n e r businessman Robert Pitre who spoke about his passion for owning land. Pitre and his lovely wife, Pennie, of course, into his own during Reconstruction own the 90-acre Skyline Ranch at about a decade after slavery ended. 1801 E. Wheatland Road, off Houston His first land deal was purchasing School Road at I-20 in Oak Cliff/ more than 60 acres in Far North Dallas Southern Dallas. The entrepreneur/ County in the 1870s. Ultimately, he philanthropist also owns other owned about 2,000 areas mainly along White Rock Creek before he died in the FEBRUARY 21, 2020

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1920s at approximately age 82. (Bonner did not know his exact birth date.) Medical City Dallas Hospital on Forest Lane near Richardson sets on land he formerly owned. Bonner is largely forgotten now, but is a compelling story unto himself. Clarence Glov-er Jr., known as “Professor Freed-om,” is a historian of African-American culture, an educator, minister, community advocate, and youth mentor. He grew up on farm land and has studied the impact of land and agriculture on the African diaspora during and after slavery and today. Glover, who vigorously promotes community and home gardens and re-evaluating the virtues of cotton, says descendants of Africa in America have thrown out the baby with the bath water when it comes to honoring land. “Land is the fundamental resource needed to live on, grow food on, and provide other resources,” Glover said. “When we do not have land or choose not to be a part of the agrarian system, we abdicate that resource to others.” He said a modern trend called the Green Movement is capturing attention of Millennials of various races who are pointing their children toward nurturing the ground on which we walk. There is potential bounty in African descendants re-evaluating land and the value of owning it, advocates say. Afterall, said one, do not discount a divine presence in tow as these song lyrics suggests: “My Father is rich in houses and land, He hold(s) the wealth of the world in His hands. ...rubies...diamonds...silver and gold. He has riches untold ...(and) I’m a child of the King.” myimessenger.com

Hair discrimination is alive and well Andrew Johnson, a high school wrestler, was forced to submit to the humiliating act of having his dreadlocks shorn or have his New Jersey team forfeit their match to the opposing team. A gleeful white woman seemed too pleased to invade the young man’s person, and his team won, but at what price? When this happened in December of 2018, there was a national outcry, and the referee was suspended. A year later, DeAndre Arnold, a senior at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, Texas was told that he would not be able to graduate unless he cut his hair. He’s been growing his dreads for more than five years, often wearing them in a bun so that they did not violate the school rule that hair could not touch the collar. This is part of a pattern of policing Black hair in our nation’s high schools and workplaces. And these dress codes are an attack on Black people, designed by white people and for white people. Hostility toward natural hair, locs and twists is really unvarnished hostility toward Blackness and its manifestation. It is an insistence that Black people conform to Eurocentric norms. Andrew Johnson and DeAndre Arnold made headlines, but many cases do not. Often, the “code” is subtle, and the backlash painful and undeniable, but never spoken. So many women are told that their hair is “too wild” or “ungroomed” as if bone straight hair is the only way to wear it. And perhaps it is not said so much as hinted. And Black women (and men) have the choice of playing the game or stalling their careers. This doesn’t happen so much on the coasts, in California, New York and the District of Columbia. But it happens enough that activists have worked to outlaw hair discrimination. myimessenger.com

THE LAST WORD DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

On July 3, 2019, California became the first in the nation to outlaw discriminating against natural hair. The CROWN Act, or Create a

Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. A few days later, New York State passed a similar law, as did New Jersey. A few cities and counties, like Cincinnati, OH and Montgomery County, Maryland, have also followed suit. A dozen or so other states and municipalities have explored, and even introduced legislation that prohibits discrimination against those who wear natural hair, braids, locs, or twists. Despite legislation, hair discrimination is alive and well. The text of the California legislation explores the history of hair discrimination. It reads in part, “The history of our nation is riddled with laws and societal norms that equated ‘blackness,’ and the associated physical traits, for example, dark skin, kinky and curly hair to a badge of inferiority, sometimes subject to separate and unequal treatment.” The bill goes on to say, “Professionalism was, and still is, closely linked to European features

and mannerisms, which entails that those who do not naturally fall into Eurocentric norms must alter their appearances, sometimes drastically and permanently, in order to be deemed professional.” The fact that a diversity of hairstyles needs to be addressed through legislation speaks to the intransigence of white supremacy, the need white supremacists have to require Black people to conform to their standards. Even as the population of people of color grows in our nation, white supremacists are holding on, strong, to their racist norms. Some of them don’t even think they are racists. They are, indeed, “nice” people. They speak of neatness, wildness and their own discomfort with “different” hair. They think that folks should go through having their hair fried to make other people comfortable. I really don’t care how people wear their hair. It, truly, is a matter of choice. And hair does not have to be political. But hair choices must be respected and discrimination against natural hair, braids, twists, and locs cannot be tolerated. Intolerance about natural hair is intolerance against Black people. It is, at best, unacceptable. Kudos to California State Senator Holly Mitchell for starting the ball rolling. Congratulations to those who worked with her to pass this important legislation. And shout out to the others who have embraced her legislation by introducing it in other states. Hair discrimination is not the most egregious injustice that Black people experience, but it is an injustice nonetheless. Just ask DeAndre Arnold, who won’t be able to march with his peer graduates because he wears dreads, or the wrestler, Andrew Johnson, whose locs were shorn because a racist referee had neither intelligence nor tolerance.

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Higher Levels Educational Group provides fully comprehensive educational services to maximize organizational performance Levatta L. Levels is a 30-year veteran educator in which she has been an elementary teacher, assistant principal, principal, bilin-gual specialist, director, assistant superintendent and superintendent. Currently, Ms. Levels is the Chief Executive Officer of Higher Levels Educational Group, Adjunct Professor, Author, Advocate, and Professional Mentor. As the CEO, Ms. Levels provides professional development and mentoring throughout the country. For the inaugural implementation of the Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign, Ms. Levels served as an Academy Facilitator, in which she served as an online instructor for the Teacher Efficacy Academy – TEA I and TEA II. She managed participants in the TEA-assigned region strengthening teacher effectiveness. She furthered her work with DTEC by collaborating with the Texas Team advocating for the implementation of the Every Student Succeed Act FEBRUARY 21, 2020

L e v a tta L . L e v e ls across the state. Working with the Texas Education Agency, she provided training and mentoring to principals throughout the state of Texas over the last 10 years. Known for her “leadership abilities” she has worked with many schools towards improving student academic achievement and building principal leadership capacity. She has served many professional and civic organizations, including Delegate to the Texas Democratic Convention representing Senate District 23, DeSoto

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Chamber of Commerce Board, Leadership Southwest Board, Big Brothers Big Sisters Southern Region Board, University of North Texas Exes Board, and the University of North Texas Advisory Council. She is active with the Texas Association of School Administrators, National Council of Negro Women, Parent Teacher Association, UNT Trailblazers, Texas Counseling Association, Texas Association of Black School Educators, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the Zeta Eta Alumnae Association. Ms. Levels is a Doctoral Student at Texas A&M University-Commerce. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Education with a focus on Education Administration from the University of North Texas and completed the Superintendent Certification program with the University of Houston-Victoria. She is most proud of her two children Leah and Lofton, and granddaughter London. myimessenger.com

FROM THE NNPA BY GWEN MCKINNEY

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

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Dallas Alumni Kappas celebrate 85th anniversary Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc was founded by 10 African American male students in 1911 on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington. It is the 2nd oldest existing collegiate Greek Letter Organization and 1st fraternity incorporated as a national body with over 800 chapters throughout the U.S. and international chapters around the world. Soon after the fraternity’s founding in 1911, it rapidly expanded to several undergraduate chapters followed by the chartering of Alumni Chapters across the country. The Dallas (TX) Alumni was chartered in 1935 by 11 esteemed members of the organization. For 85 years, the Chapter has adhered to its motto, “To Become The Premier Leader In Service And Community Impact.” Members have included prestigious men such as Master Educator Floyd Wilkerson, Physician Dr. Emmitt J. Conrad and Engineer/Corporate Executive James C. Mitchell, to name a few. The Chapter will serve as host of celebratory events during the week of February 28 – March 8, 2020. The Chapter is excited as it anticipates receiving and hosting hundreds of brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi, and other guests from across the country for this celebration. The Dallas (TX) Alumni Chapter’s Anniversary Celebration The Aloft Hotel – Love Field, 2333 W. Mockingbird Lane is the host hotel for the Dallas (TX) Alumni Anniversary Celebration. myimessenger.com

The schedule for the week is: February 28, 2020: Community Service Project – Margaret H. Cone Head Start Center - 2919 Troy St., Dallas, TX 4:30 –6:30 pm March 1, 2020: St. Jude Sunday of Hope Worship Service - Friendship West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Rd, Dallas, TX 75232 – 8am & 11am March 2, 2020 – Chapter Bible Study – MEMBERS ONLY 2515 Martin L. King, Jr. Blvd., Dallas, TX - 75215 – 12:30 – 2:30pm March 5, 2020 – Nupe Jazz Thursday – Sandaga 813 – 813 Exposition Ave., Dallas, TX 75226 9 – 11:30pm March 6, 2020 – Community Service Project – Trinity Heights Elem. School - 1515 Lynn Haven, Dallas, TX 75216 – 2:00 – 4:00pm March 7, 2020 – DAC presents – 85 Years of Service in North Texas: The Unmistakable Impact of the Dallas Alumni Chapter Aloft Hotel – Love Field – 2333 W. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75235. - Presale Tickets for the event may be purchased for $50 early and $60 at the door. Attire is Semi-Formal

March 8, 2020 – Chapter Worship Service St. Paul United Methodist Church 1816 Routh St., Dallas, TX 75201 For more information and updates of Dallas (TX) Alumni Chapter’s 85th

Anniversary Celebration activities, visit www.dallasalumni.org

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

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

FEBRUARY 21, 2020

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PAID BY EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON FOR CONGRESS

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Jarvis Christian College Senior, Honour Adewumi

as a research mentor on various research projects to multiple students. In addition to all other extracurricular activities, Ms. Adewumi currently serves as the Student Government Association President. After graduating in May 2020, Miss Adewumi intends to pursue a Ph.D. in bioengineering. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eddie

Congresswoman Johnson recognizes 2020 as International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife Honour Adewumi recently published two original peer-reviewed research articles in The iMedPub Journal and The Journal of Bioresearch Communications. A senior, Honour is the first student in Jarvis’ history to publish research articles. Her work on cancer research will pave the way to treating breast cancer and other cancers that are especially devastating. Every year in the USA, there are more than 266,000 new diagnoses of breast cancer. Honour's research was supported by grants from The National Science Foundation (NSF) and The Welch Foundation -- both of which were awarded to Jarvis Christian College. Dr. Shakhawat Bhuiyan (Principal Investigator) and Dr. Glendora Carter (Co-Principal Investigator) played a huge role in guiding, supervising and funding this research. Read Honour's published articles via the links: Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles Induce Apoptosis in MCF-7 Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells Curcumin Downregulates the Expression of p44/42 MAPK and CausesCaspase-mediated Cell Inhibition in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells Honour was born in the Republic of Benin, a French colonized country in West Africa. She grew up speaking French and English. At the age of 16, she moved to the United States to pursue her education at Jarvis Christian College located in Hawkins, Texas. She is pursuing a major in chemistry and biology with a minor in mathematics. Active on campus, she has served FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Bernice Johnson and Congressman David P. Joyce have introduced a House resolution recognizing 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, as designated by the World Health Organization in honor of the 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale, a founder of modern nursing. The House of Representatives recognizes and celebrates the essential contributions that nurses and midwives provide to the workforce, research, and the health of this nation. Senators Jeff Merkley and Roger Wicker have introduced a companion resolution in the Senate. “The World Health Organization has rightfully recognized the incomparable contributions of nurses and midwives to the advancement of health care in our country and across the globe. As the first registered nurse elected to Congress, I am proud to lead this bipartisan resolution honoring 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “This resolution will honor the four million nurses in the United States and twenty million nurses across the world, and it acknowledges their tireless efforts to continually provide high-quality transformative health care in all communities, including rural, underserved, and vulnerable areas.” “As the Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, and as the proud husband of a nurse, I am honored to introduce this resolution alongside Congresswoman Johnson to recognize 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife,” said Congressman Joyce. “There’s a reason why nursing is the most

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trusted profession in America. With more than four million registered nurses in the United States, nurses are the lifeline of our nation’s health care system. I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan effort to thank these hardworking men and women for their dedication to America’s patient population and celebrate their essential contributions to the health of our nation.” “As the largest group of health care professionals in the U.S. and the most trusted profession, nurses are with patients 24/7 and from the beginning of life to the end. Nurses practice in all healthcare settings and are filling new roles to meet the ever-growing demand for health and health care services,” said American Nurses Association President Ernest J. Grant, PhD, RN, FAAN. “Despite the major role nurses play in health care delivery and community outreach, there are opportunities to increase understanding of the value of nursing in order to expand investment in education, practice and research, as well as increase the numbers of nurses who serve in leadership positions. The Year of the Nurse is a launch pad for greater recognition and appreciation of the nursing profession in every segment of healthcare as they lead, excel and innovate wherever they practice or work.” “As a nurse educator, I have been privileged to help prepare future generations of nurses and have seen the positive impact nurses have in healthcare delivery throughout the country, especially in rural and underserved areas,” said Dr. Ann Cary, Chair of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Board of Directors. “I would like to thank Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Congressman David Joyce, along with the bipartisan original cosponsors, for recognizing the vital contributions nurses and nurse educators provide to our patients, our communities, and the health of our nation. “As the voice of academic nursing, AACN recognizes the central role nurses play in ensuring that all Americans have access to highquality, patient-centered care,” said Dr. Deborah Trautman, AACN President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are honored to see the House of Representatives acknowledge this work by introducing this resolution, and we look forward to joining them as we celebrate the Year of the Nurse and the Midwife.” myimessenger.com

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Plantation Politics in Minority Broadcasting When I tell you that you can count the number of African American commercial TV station owners in the U.S. on one hand, I mean it literally. There are only five – and I’m one of them. Less than 1% of the nation’s 1,400-plus commercial television stations are owned by African Americans – a shocking and shameful reality in a nation that purports to be the world’s example of a free and diverse press. Minority media ownership is a fundamental part of our commitment to create and support an educated and well-informed society because it allows news and information to be presented by different (and often ignored) perspectives. Earlier this month in Congress, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on Communications and Technology will hold a hearing, “Lifting Voices: Legislation to Promote Media Marketplace Diversity,” to shed light on the challenges uniquely faced by minority broadcasters and close the loopholes that allow huge corporations to put these minority voices down. This hearing couldn’t come at a more urgent moment as the 2020 election cycle is well underway, giving broadcasters and station owners enormous influence over the content and information that voters receive. My own experience as an African American media broadcast owner is a case study in how our system is not supposed to work. I am president and CEO of Marshall Broadcasting Group (MBG), a television broadcasting company that owns three full power television stations in the United States. In 2014, I was contacted by former FCC Chairman Dick Wiley about a potential opportunity to partner with Nexstar Media Group to acquire one or more FEBRUARY 21, 2020

BY PLURIA MARSHALL JR. PRESIDENT / CEO MARSHALL BROADCASTING GROUP

TV stations. As a longtime media executive, I naturally expressed my interest. After several meetings with Nexstar executives, Nexstar agreed to an FCC-imposed mandate to guarantee a $60 million bank loan so I could acquire three TV stations in Texas, Louisiana and Iowa. Why did Nexstar agree to guarantee the loan? Because they had a $500 million acquisition on the table that was going to be rejected unless they helped a minority business owner get into the TV business (simultaneously helping the FCC honor its diversity mandate). And that’s not just me talking – that’s exactly what then-FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler told Nexstar: Help a Black man get into TV broadcasting – by providing the loan guaranty and other assistance – or the FCC will not approve your transaction. Without MBG’s help, then, Nexstar’s $500 million acquisition would have never been approved. What’s more, Nexstar would have forfeited millions of dollars in fees and deposits. In theory, Nexstar’s long-term commitment was to help MBG get a secure footing in broadcasting, acquire more TV stations and, ultimately, become a thriving minority broadcaster in its own right. In reality, it was something else. Before the ink on the agreement was dry, Nexstar reneged on most of its obligations under the FCC agreement. Notwithstanding that, Nexstar did call in its marker for FCC approval of a larger, unrelated transaction. Once Nexstar’s larger deal was approved, it took active measures to sabotage MBG and run us

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out of business. They overcharged us for stations, interfered with our operations, imposed oppressive fees for shared services, withheld working capital, and eventually caused us to default on our credit facility. This is not how companies that claim to be committed to media diversity should treat their minority broadcast partners. In my opinion, it represents the calculated scheme of a predator who exploits and manipulates the system to subsidize its own interests and ventures – all with U.S. tax dollars and blessing. The biggest failure was our system – set up by Congress and run by the FCC – that lacks the accountability, follow-up and protections to not only encourage minority broadcasters, but to support us as we grow and thrive. In fact, even when these abuses were brought to the FCC’s attention in the form of a complaint, the FCC ignored them and rewarded Nexstar with approval of an even larger merger, allowing them to purchase Tribune; a company previously denied to Sinclair for similar abuses. The only thing worse than our government turning a blind eye to minority broadcasters is when government officials actually do something to assist media diversity, only to have those efforts thwarted by the disingenuous actions of corporations like Nexstar. Starting with the recent hearing – but not ending until we’ve leveled the playing field – let’s demand that Congress take the necessary steps to support minority broadcasters who want to grow and enrich our media landscape, unshackled to bad actors like Nexstar. I’m proud to be a pioneering African American broadcast owner, but our country would be much better off if I was one of many. myimessenger.com

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A mean-spirited budget proposal number of adults who qualify for the program by expanding BY CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON work requirements for people who, due The budget proposed recently to no fault of their own, are by the Trump administration unable to work. It seems that the for fiscal year 2021 is meangovernment has little concern spirited, disruptive and contains about whether people, including recommendations and policies children, go to bed hungry. that undermine working people Sadly, in a nation in which and those in need of a safety-net 500,000 people are homeless on to simply help them and their any given night, and many others families survive. live in inadequate housing, the The $4.8 trillion plan calls proposed budget calls for a steep for unacceptable decreases in reduction in a federal rental student loan programs, Medicaid, assistance program designed to housing assistance programs, the assist people who live near or food stamp program, programs below the poverty line. that protect the environment and The budget would also eliminate Social Security Disability among federal funding for others. communities that It would severely harm poor have public housing people, injure the middle class, that is in need of and would increase income repair. It also would disparities in our country. It is require tenants who unacceptable and fair-minded live in public housing people in Congress will do all to pay more of their that we can to see that it does not income towards become a reality. rental units. Many During a period in which many of these people are people live in the midst of food barely making it with deserts, and are able to feed their the incomes they families because they receive have. some assistance from the federal If all of this were government, the Trump budget not enough, the proposes to cut $15 billion from budget proposes the Supplemental Nutrition demonstrative cuts Assistance Program. in Medicaid and It also seeks to decrease the

FROM THE CAPITOL

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in financial subsidies that are available under the Affordable Care Act, while neither the administration nor its allies in Congress have come up with alternative healthcare plans for the American people. The administration is calling for cuts in vital programs while requesting an additional $460 million increase in military spending, letting everyone know its priorities are far from doing what is in the best interests of the American people. + Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson represents the 30th Congressional District of Texas in the United States House of Representatives where she chairs the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.

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BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020

ASK ALMA

Let’s really talk My

husband

cannot He was doing it before you (for better or worse) and of when it didn’t bother

let things go – he holds grudges for way longer

live with it. It’s a part of

married him. You heard him during

you so much early in the

his personality, and he relationship. Funny how

than the offense is worth. the courtship and thought ain’t gonna change. Nobody’s perfect, and if

He brings up things that it wasn’t so bad. You

things switch after many years of marriage.

anyway,

he’s been doing this with

What wuz cute is about

ago to remind me of what thinking, “Aww, I can

his family, it’s really just

to get on your last nerve.

happened months/years

married

him

handle it.” It wasn’t cute a continuation of who he All of

he says are my faults.

married folks know what

It’s not just me; he

You heard him during the

gives his sister grief for dropping him when he was one and she was three. Aside from pointing out

that

ridiculous

he’s

being

when

gets going on some old grudge, do you have any suggestions on how I can make him stop? Name withheld Dear

Nameless

I’m talking about. LOL. Anyway, back to my

courtship and thought it

suggestion: When he gets

wasn’t so bad. You married

space. Meditate on things

him

happy. I’m sure he has

anyway,

thinking,

going, leave him in his about him that make you many other qualities that

“Aww, I can handle it.” It

you admire.

wasn’t cute then, and it’s

husband. I can understand

not cute now.

were looking for, but it

That’s why he’s your if this isn’t the answer you will keep you guys united

One,

as one for many years

News flash: You can’t then, and it’s not cute now. truly is. change another person’s personality. Your husband

Your question should

So, follow through on

the decision you made be: How do I live with

didn’t start this yesterday. when you said your vows FEBRUARY 21, 2020

you long time

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it? Well, remind yourself

to come. Your or my answer can’t change your husband. That Sweetie is an act myimessenger.com

AWE-INSPIRING SXSW EXPERIENCE By Monique “M. P.” Stone

When I say last year’s SXSW was amazing, I mean it was AMAZING. SXSW has evolved to becoming the largest Festival and Conference of it’s kind and it all takes place in Austin, Texas. Last year’s festival ran from March 4-17. It was 14 straight days of unparalleled education, enlightenment, discovery, interaction, entertainment, connecting and networking. In conjunction with dining, partying, powerwalking, touring, shuttling, scootering, pedi-cabbing, Face-Booking, Snap Chatting, Instagram-ing, Twittering, photo-flashing, podcasting, news reporting, production crew filming and just overall amazing. SXSW possessed all the ingredients necessary to deliver the proverbial “WOW” factor. CNN described SXSW as “An annual conglomerate of conferences, screenings, parties, premieres, interactive media and music founded by Roland Swenson, Louis Jay Meyers, Louis Black and Nick Barbaro. The purpose of SXSW is to create an opportunity to develop careers by bringing together people from around the globe to meet, learn and share ideas.” SXSW, also known as “South By” has grown from 700 registrants in 1987 to over 40,000 company and individual registrants in 2018 according to myimessenger.com

Wikipedia. Over 300,000 attendees convened on downtown Austin last year and the economic impact on the economy was 350.6 million. When I say SXSW was huge, I mean it was “HUGH” and no way to experience it all in a day or two. There were back to back and over-lapping events at the Austin Convention Center the entire time. In addition, like in previous years, hundreds of pop up events were held in houses, businesses, parks, clubs, hotels, restaurants and even vacant lots to attract people to their product, service or message. SXSW was contained mainly within a 12 by 12 block radius with shuttle services to events scheduled a few miles away. Almost every business in the downtown Austin and surrounding areas tapped into the 33 year old Conference and Festival’s popularity and shared in it’s message and wealth. In summation, I was totally in awe. When I was covering the Red Carpet events, I truly felt as though I were at a Hollywood or New York film premiere, only right there in Austin. Moreover, everyone I encountered, from the SXSW staff, volunteers, convention center staff, vendors, exhibitors, partnering businesses and service providers were all extremely and genuinely friendly and helpful. However, this year’s 2020 SXSW is shaping up to be the biggest and most significant in the 34 year Conference and

Festival history. The mind-blowing lineup of keynote and featured speakers include Oscar and Golden Globe winning film-makers, writers, producers, actors and Grammy Award winning musicians, composers, songwriters and rappers. In addition to, best-selling authors and highly recognized comedians, politicians, educators, pod-casters, critics, science, interactive and tech industry rock stars. Personalities and celebrities confirmed to be in attendance this year will be Janelle Monae, Kenya Barris, Rashida Jones, Jaboukie Young-White, Jameela Jamil, Julianne Moore, Charlamagne tha God, Spike Jonez, Stephen Cobert, Michael Moore, Gayle King and many more. The film screening and entertainment line up is equally as stellar. There’s no doubt that there’s something for everyone at SXSW. It’s an experience well worth the ticket price. Deadlines for discounts are fast approaching. For more information or to experience the 2020 SXSW premier global Conference and Festival March 13-20 in Austin for yourself, log on to www.sxsw.com/attend. Join IMessenger Media’s Texas Metro News and The Garland Journal as we bring you daily and live coverage of this epic event on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and online at www.texasmetronews. I MESSENGER

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Make Ready Grooming of a a loved one. Everything is in writing, and the price is locked in for BY DR. LINDA AMERSON expenses, however www.hairandscalpessentials.com other expenses may The terms used to describe be required, such as hairstyling for the deceased flowers, limousine service, or is Desairology, Eternal grave site digging, just to name Grooming, or Make Ready. a few. The family has choices The Funeral Home Business including: an organ donor, is a billion dollar industry. donate their body to science, Someone dies everyday. The cremation, casket, mausoleum, last grooming service for a or pine box. loved one is most often done Furthermore, Dr. Terry S. by a licensed cosmetologist, Masters, Funeral Director of barber, braider, or wig stylist. Bethesda Funeral Homes in If the family would like the Mexia and DeSoto, TX shared fingernails of their loved one info about ‘Personalized polished, this service may also Funerals’...also called ‘Lavish be done by the professional. Funerals.’ These type of funerals If there is damage, cuts, or are popular globally per the discoloration to the hands, families request. One example, the morticians may cover the Dr. Masters shared, a man hands with a bible, scarf, or wanted to be laid to rest in his handkerchief. car...so the family granted his In the U.S. alone, there are wish. The motor was removed thousands of Funeral Homes prior to lowering the car into and growing. In Texas, there are the oversized grave. Another numerous Funeral Homes. The example includes a reality TV Texas Prepaid Fund has grown show. Golden Gate Funeral to approximately $17 million. Home, Dallas, TX began a Pre-Need Counseling Services Reality Television Show on are available to consumers the TLC Network, showcasing to lighten the burned during ‘Personalized Funerals’ a difficult time of transition ABOUT YOUR HAIR

FEBRUARY 21, 2020

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under the head-ing “The Best Funeral Ever.” I have watched this program, observing a casket made in the shape of a barbecue pit, yet the body was never shown. The Owner, John Beckwith confirmed that the body is never shown in televised segments. In addition, in other countries such as Ghana, India, etc, custom caskets may be ordered according to a person’s profession. Dr. Doris Whitaker, who works at Grimes Funeral Home, Houston, TX said family members need to be aware of choosing the right garment for a loved one. If it is a female, make sure the garment is not low cut in the neckline area. If it is too low cut, they will add a scarf or cloth insert in that area to conceal cuts, scars, incisions, etc. Do not bring hanging earrings...studs are preferred. Retired National Beauty Culturist’s League Instructor of Desairology Dr. Dorothy Ward shared some valuable information for beauty professionals, who offer this service. 1)Protect yourself. Use gloves, gowns, a mask and myimessenger.com

covered shoes. A)You will need the following Implements: combs, brushes, chips, hairpins, sheen and holding hair spray, oil, gels, colors, color rinses, rollers, thermal combs and irons, thermal stove, blow dryer, shears, clippers, and head rest. If you use a flat iron, use a disposable kind, not one that you use daily on your clients. The reason is, the embalming fluid affects the heating mechanism, therefore it will not get as hot you will notice on other clients...even after cleaning it. 2) Some funeral homes will have the hair already shampooed, however, if you are required to shampoo the hair, remember these hazards. Test the water to make sure it is not hot. Hot water will cause hair removal. Be sure to rinse thoroughly all-foreign matters from the hair and scalp before proceeding with a service. Be sure to test curlers-hair is easy to burn as well as the hairline skin can burn easily. Hair is in a very dry state and very easy to lift from the scalp due to various causes of death and conditions. Be cautious around the hairline also with hair colors. 3) Procedures: Examine the scalp in order to make sure myimessenger.com

there is not any seepage from an autopsy or abrasions of the scalp. If scalp looks OK, proceed with cleaning the scalp and hair with tepid water and shampoo, or a dry shampoo substance. Towel dry or blowdry all excess moisture from the hair. Use careful strokes with the comb or brush so that the hair will not tangle, because the hair is easy to comb out at this point. Select a style and proceed to press the hair if it is virgin hair. Curl the hair so that it can be styled to accentuate the person’s face, since the concentration is only on the front and sides. Remember that the right side is the viewing side. Be sure you have the proper implements to achieve whatever style you wish to accomplish, such as, combs, brushes, clips, hairpins, hair sprays oils, gels, hair colors and rinses and shears and clippers. 4) The time spent for grooming depends on the stylist’s ability and expertise. Price is determined between the mortician and the stylist. The average rate is currently $50 per person and up. 5) Remember that the appearance of the body leaves an everlasting impression on the family and friends. It is always a rewarding experience 25

when a job has been well done. One that warrants the pleasure of you receiving compliments from the family, morticians and friends. 6)Always be open-minded, compassionate, nonjudgemental, responsive communicator and listen to the family’s request and desire. You will meet people of all religious denominations and all socioeconomic circumstances, who will rely upon your support, good organizational skills and knowledge of the products and services available when making funeral arrangements. Life’s journey is not always easy. We have challenges… then learn how to overcome them. Obstacles…then step or jump over it. At the end of the journey, the casket is closed forever. All questions should be directed to Dr. Linda Amerson 817 265 8854. We also invite you to join us Wednesdays at 11am-12pm CST with Ask the Hair and Scalp Doctor on www. DfwiRadio.com. Check out our social media links: www. hairandscalpesentials.com www.twitter.com/ScalpDoctor www.facebook.com/Hair-andScalp-Essentials

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THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

OXYGEN NETWORK ‘THE WITNESS’ By VALDER BEEBE

The Valder Beebe Show roster of varied guests continue to inform our audiences on subjects that matter. Stay informed by connecting with ValderBeebeShow.com. Former Jehovah’s Witnesses speak out about sexual abuse they endured during their time with the organization in Oxygen’s investigative special…The Witnesses. I spoke with investigative journalist Trey Bundy who has been working for years to empower the public to protect children within the insular institution, reporting the stories of survivors of sexual abuse. The Jehovah’s Witnesses religion has long relied on its own governing body to set the course by which its followers live their lives. By examining the organization’s policies and practices, the special explores whether those procedures operate to conceal the identities of potential child predators. Through shocking exclusive interviews and firsthand accounts, the special follows Trey’s journey as he inches closer to unveiling dark secrets behind the institution. Former Witnesses Debbie McDaniel, Deloris Lyles, Sarah Brooks and Chessa Manion share deeplyemotional stories depicting a broken system that has failed to protect some members of the organization. Their testimonies, along with the work of attorney Irwin Zalkin, who provides legal services to victims of abuse, provide a detailed look at the flawed inner-workings of the organization’s guiding practices. “The Witnesses” highlights their search for justice, along with the growing number of former members who are speaking out to FEBRUARY 21, 2020

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change the institution. Trey Bundy is an investigative reporter with The Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR).—Text provided by Trey Bundy’s publicists in conjunction with the Valder Beebe Show VBS: As I speak with you on this FM platform that reaches across the nation, you have fascinating information about your special on Oxygen network about The Witness. Would you share with my audience what we will be viewing? TB: I started reporting on the Jehovah Witness child sexual abuse in 2015. What the viewers will see and hear is; what is a matter of policy by the organization, the policy of protecting child abusers. VBS: Over the years there have been many who were a part of the Jehovah Witness religion, who have shared in public that they believe that the Jehovah Witness organization is a cult. Stories and reports of unusual things going on with those inside the religion. Now with the Oxygen special we will hear that that is sexual abuse of minors and cover ups of these crimes? TB: Sure there has always been sexual abuse. I don’t count myself as somebody who necessarily looks at this religion as a cult. I don’t have any problem with the religion at all in terms of their belief system. The issue that we take and the reason we are reporting on this is because there are demonstrable policies in the organization going back decades that child abuse is to be kept confidential. We’ve seen proof of this in civil lawsuits and internal documents of the religion. As long as there are protected predators there are news stories……. Trey Bundy’s full interview……. YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow myimessenger.com

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Hanging with Hollywood

The Photograph MOVIE REVIEW BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

Just in time for Valentine’s Day weekend, here comes the smart romantic movie, The Photograph. I call it smart because of the positive depictions of African American life and the characters in it. The main characters are Mae, played by Issa Rae, and Michael, portrayed by Lakeith Stanfield. She is a curator at the Queens Museum and he is a writer for a magazine called The Republic. The movie runs with two parallel storylines. The current story with the professional couple going through the ups and downs of a new relationship and the background story of Mae’s mother, who passed away without ever informing her daughter that she was sick. She was a photographer and a single mother with serious issues involving myimessenger.com

men and relationships. The two stories are woven together to make a very entertaining movie about a mother and daughter’s relationship and how the past has an impact on our current day life. The chemistry between Rae and Stanfield is sizzling. They heat up the big screen with an obvious

love for each other, however, neither of them has the courage to go all the way in on a committed relationship. Mae fears that she is just like her mother, a free spirit who cannot commit to an exclusive relationship and Michael is a “player” who jumps from relationship to relationship. Director Stella

Meghie, who also wrote the script, does a masterful job with the talented ensemble. She gets much of the credit for making such a smart film. The rest of the cast is strong. Chante Adams as Mae’s mother gives an Oscarcaliber performance and Lil Rel Howery, as Michael’s best friend, gives the film a real comedic edge. I liked how Director Stella Meghie took the high road in her portrayal of the African American cast. This is truly a black love story but it can be enjoyed by all. The movie is rated PG-13 for some very sexual scenes (but there is no nudity) and it has a run time of 1 hour and 46 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” The Photograph rates a JUMBO.

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