I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

DECEMBER 13, 2019

VOL IX NO 17

I M essenger

FAITHFUL LEADERSHIP

REV. LAVERNE WHITEHEAD REED p

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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.

DECEMBER 13, 2019

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INSIDE

THINKING

LAST WORD

FORWARD

Did I ever tell you that I hated history in school? My, how things can change. I was just thinking about Dr. Robert Prince Jr. and how he and other local Black pioneers helped change my mind about history.

Billionaire Mike Bloomberg entered the already-crowded Democratic presidential primary with a splash. His ad buy of about $35 million represents more than half of what the other dozen or so candidates have spent on the campaign so far.

AG Bill Barr, who looks, laps and lumbers around like Donald Trump’s Saint Bernard, let it rip.

LIVE, from the Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta,GA

Miss Universe 2019

ZOZIBINI TUNZI Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe on Sunday, December 8, 2019 in Atlanta, GA at the historic Tyler Perry Studios. With a degree in public relations, this passionate activist has engaged in the fight against gender based violence. She has devoted her social myimessenger.com

media campaign to changing the narrative around gender stereotypes. She is a proud advocate for natural beauty and encourages women to love themselves the way they are. Ms. Tunzi (26) hails from Tsolo, South Africa and she is bilingual; speaking Isixhosa

and English. The first runner-up was Madison Anderson of Puerto Rico and second runner-up, Sofía Aragón of Mexico. This year’s pageant was again hosted by entertainer Steve Harvey. hotos: Instagram

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Faith and Leadership

Don’t you just love seeing women in positions of power, influence and leadership? In answering her question recently during the 2019 Miss Universe Pageant, Miss South Africa Zozibini Tunzi of Eastern Cape, talked about women in leadership. The very favorable response to her statement was encouraging and impressive. She ended up victorious, winning the title of Miss Universe! Now, too often women are discouraged or either sometimes we discourage ourselves from pursuing leadership roles because we are too young, too old, too big, too small, uneducated, overeducated, we don’t have the look; and I could go on and on. Sadly some of us think that only men should hold certain positions of leadership. I love seeing the responses I get from women, young ladies, and girls; when I compliment them. Maybe if we affirmed one another DECEMBER 13, 2019

more the world would be a much to keep women out of the boardrooms, pulpits, locker rooms, and better place. Someone said, if women were yes, the White House. Women deserve leadership running the world, we’d have roles. We don’t want to hear about “flaws,”because that hasn’t stopped men from serving. Women have shown up and shown out, time and time again. Women have always been the sounding board and the voice of reason. I am so grateful to have so many dyfewer wars. Someone also said, namic women who, some I have if the woman of the house is not never met, but know their works, happy, nary a soul in the house paved the way for me. Which brings me to my truth. will be either! This upcoming weekend LaI’ve seen, on numerous occasions, the marginalization of verne Whitehead Reed will be women. If we are absolutely installed as the senior pastor at truthful; there were men AND Warren Avenue Christian Church WOMEN who didn’t have a le- in Dallas, TX. gitimate reason for not voting for I’m excited for her, the church, Hillary Clinton for President of and the community for starters, the U.S. because she clearly has taken the Sadly, deep in their hearts, they necessary steps for this opportucouldn’t bring themselves to vote nity, for a time such as this. In her words, she is “grateful for a woman. There are still those who want that God has given me this oppor-

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tunity to serve.” Actually she has lived a life of service, living “God’s Plan versus Reed’s Plan.” She’s been a nurse, an educator and eventually she became a Chaplain, before serving in various clergy positions at hospitals and churches. Currently serving as Southwest Regional Chaplain for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Dr. Reed has a number of firsts in her portfolio, including becoming the first African Methodist Episcopal Board Certified Chaplain (BCC) in the state of Texas by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), first African American to serve as Secretary of the Brite Divinity School Student Government, and first professional female and African American Chaplain at Baylor Carrollton Medical Center where she was responsible for the development of the Pastoral Care Department. Hailing from Memphis, TN, Dr. Reed actually marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Once she moved to Texas she earned an Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry degrees. Add a Diploma of Vocational Nursing and completing further studies at The Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, GA; clearly she was building a solid foundation. A past president of the Community Ministers’ Fellowship, the Texas Christian University alum myimessenger.com

said you must “always be open and available to what God has planned for you.” She has served as Interim Pastor of Romine Avenue Christian

in Denton County. She is a member of several professional and civic organizations. A certified crisis intervention counselor, she is a life member of the NAACP and the immediate past Texas/New Mexico State Chaplain for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. It is important to note that as she prepares for her installation and looks forward to the Church celebrating 150 years in existence; Dr. Reed realizes that Church is not just the building, it’s a place where they will address the whole individual and have a presence throughout the community. It’s an exciting time as she invites everyone to come out for the new beginnings and new works as Warren Avenue Christian Church looks at the needs of the people and the community.

This upcoming weekend Laverne Whitehead Reed will be installed as the senior pastor at Warren Avenue Christian Church in Dallas, TX. I’m excited for her, the church, and the community for starters, because she clearly has taken the necessary steps for this opportu- Pastoral Installation Celebranity, for a time such as tion: December 14, 2019 at 7:08 this. Church (Disciples of Christ). A retired Healthcare Chaplain and retired Ordained Itinerant Elder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; she has also served as Minister of Counseling and Life Support at Smith Chapel AME Church, Dallas. Her Pastoral appointments included Dean of Richard Allen Chapel at Paul Quinn College and Senior Pastor of St. James A.M.E. Church, Denton, TX, the oldest African American congregation 5

p.m. a Pre-Installation Celebratory Musical with Mrs. Gladys Facen, Minister of Music and Dr. Glenn Nixon, Guest Musician. December 15, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. Morning Service with Rev. Dr. Marshall Hobbs Sr. and 3:08 p.m. Afternoon Service with Rev. Dr. Ouida E. Lee Come out and see what women do when given the opportunity!

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

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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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DECEMBER 13, 2019

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WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND? BY MILES JAYE DAVIS www.milesjaye.net

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

Scalp Micro-Pigmentation (part 2) ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON www.hairandscalpessentials.com

We hope you found Part 1 and 2: Scalp Micro-Pigmentation, informative. Mark Weston elaborates about the future of scalp micro-pigmentation, his training… and shares what the investment and how long training takes. “When I came up with this idea in 1989, I had no clue that it would spawn an entire industry. I believe that the people that are jumping into this without having any idea what they are doing are giving the whole industry a bad name. I have been trying to figure out a way to train people to do this, the biggest problem I have is that to learn to do this correctly, it takes months of training and practice to even think about touching someone’s scalp with a tattoo machine. And then to do it MY way, it’s permanent, so there is NO ROOM for mistakes. My method can take up to 8 months apprenticing DECEMBER 13, 2019

to be knowledgeable enough, and to have enough practice to take another person’s looks into your hands. I have found most people are not willing to dedicate themselves to something that takes too long to learn.” “There are con artists out there giving a couple days or a week instruction these are the people doing the industry and customers a real disservice. They themselves do not know the correct way to do this, and for the sake of financial gain, train good honest people that just want to help others to do this, incorrectly and subject those that want to do it to lawsuits and irate customers because they just made a mistake that the customer will now live with for years to come.” “There are the individuals and companies that just outright lie to potential I MESSENGER

customers saying that their company invented the process, they make all their own supplies and they have been doing it for 10 or 15 years, and then show photos that are not their work. Anything, to separate a customer from his money. The needed investment is more time, than money; practice is paramount to everything else. The next is all the things that go with tattooing: How to NOT spread disease. How to set up the machine, how to check needle sets, how to mix color, how to deal with medical problems that can and do arise. The next is research, people doing this as “professionals” should BE professional, learn about all the different types of skin and how they react to being pierced with a needle and how it acts when pigment is introduced under the skin. The list of what you need to know

to apply SMP properly is very long, and to an apprentice; seemingly forever.” ‘And Sometimes the biggest help that can be given is to NOT do anything’ 1) Mark, please share with our listeners, important questions to ask if they are interested in having this technique…to be aware of a (fraud) and choose the best provider. “As I stated before, there are very few people that have any real experience applying SMP correctly. What is out there, are professional marketers and salespeople. There are a lot of shady people looking to take your money. I myself hate that what should have been a great idea to help men and women has turned into a wallet feeding frenzy of people who have no experience with tattooing or SMP and are just investors. So to help potential customers myimessenger.com

see through the rederick, we have put a downloadable worksheet on our site to help you weed through all the babble and lies that are out there. If you take the time to visit our website, you will find that there is no marketing, only true, straight answers to the real questions you should be asking. (PLEASE GO TO OUR LIBRARY) Ask the provider the questions on our worksheet, if the answers that you get sound more like beating around the bush, walk away, No, make that Run, and don’t look back. There is also a website out there reviewing/pushing SMP companies, they are a for profit page, and we found that they would write a flattering review for any company that sends them advertising money. They claim to be unbiased, but the site is anything but. AGAIN, buyer beware when you are looking for a provider. A mistake at this stage will haunt you for years to come, do your due diligence before you give out a penny of your money. One of the biggest red flags that should pop up to you are; when you call or write an inquiry to a company and that company starts relentlessly calling and writing you, they are not good salespeople, they are con artists. If you call or write us, you get all the true answers you want, and that’s it, we don’t bother you, you call us when you have made the correct decision to come to ARTISTRY CONCEPTS.” 1) Mark talks about henna crown tattoos. “I have only tried henna a couple of times, both ladies turned out to myimessenger.com

have allergies to it and had a bad reaction. I have seen some very nice looking work, so for some it could be a good answer, but it turns out that there is a high probability that the person will have a adverse reaction. The rashes and bumps not unlike that of poison ivy rashes can be very unpleasant. I would suggest that if someone wanted it, to have a test spot done first.” 1) Please share any last thoughts and give your contact information. “My first thought is this: The fact that this new industry is for the moment, unregulated and anyone that wants to drop 150 bucks on some junk tattoo equipment off eBay can attempt to do this kind of work. And you will find them everywhere, in nail salons, permanent cosmetics and hair salons, hair transplant doctor’s offices, even a few tattoo shops. In the tattoo industry we call them “scratchers;” they come in all shapes and sizes, but one thing is always the same, they will all tell you what you want to hear to get you to give them your hard earned cash. In the end you stand a 99.9% chance of being maimed for years to come and find that you wish you had never done it and would give anything to just have you plain bald head back again. If you decide to have this procedure done, PLEASE go into it with your eyes wide open, and if you pick a provider because they are close, gave a cheaper price, called you till you finely just say yes to them, it is YOU that will pay the PRICE.” “And finally, if I was wanting a procedure done that changed my

looks, something that every person that I walk up to for years to come, was going to see and judge me as a person on, I believe that I would seek out the best person in the world to do that procedure, not the cheapest or the closest. But that’s just me. HERE AT ARTISTRY CONCEPTS, We pride ourselves on the fact that we get the smart people. We have just a couple things that we live and work by. 1) Treat every customer the way we would want to be treated. 2) Do every procedure like I was doing it on a family member. PLEASE, If you are looking at getting SMP applied, do yourself a big favor and read through our entire website, in it you will find all the tools you need to make an educated assessment of the providers you are thinking about, and be able to make a decision that you won’t have to be sorry that you made for years to come.” Remember: Not all providers are created equal. Please visit our comprehensive website for our email address: www.artistryconcepts.com For questions contact Dr Linda Amerson, world renown Trichologist. We invite you to tune in to our radio show Ask the Hair and Scalp Doctor at 11am-12pm CST on www.DfwiRadio.com www.hairandscalpessentials. com Twitter: @ScalpDoctor FB: www.facebook.com/Hairand-Scalp-Doctor www.facebook.com/AllAbout-Hair-and-Scalp-Issues

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

COMMENTARY by Dr. Julianne Malveaux

Bloomberg’s apology – Sorry doesn’t always make it right Billionaire Mike Bloomberg entered the already-crowded Democratic presidential primary with a splash. His ad buy of about $35 million represents more than half of what the other dozen or so candidates have spent on the campaign so far. His $54.6 billion net worth (according to Forbes) means he has deep pockets and virtually unlimited funds to spend on a campaign. Some think that he can beat Trump in an election since Bloomberg is far wealthier than him. In addition to his wealth, he’s white and male. Facetiously speaking, what’s not to like? Except. In his 12-year tenure as Mayor of New York City, Bloomberg was an ardent proponent of “stop and frisk,” the policing policy that allows officers to stop virtually anyone without a warrant if they seemed “suspicious”. At its peak, more than 650,000 were detained in a single year. Nearly six million New Yorkers were “stopped and frisked” between 2003 and 2015. The overwhelming majority of those who were stopped – 90 percent -- were African American or Latino. In about 85 percent of the cases, there were no fines or convictions. Civil rights organizations and many others vehemently opposed “stop and frisk.” DECEMBER 13, 2019

Hundreds thronged to Bloomberg’s Upper East Side home to protest the policy. But the thenMayor was adamant that “stop and frisk” was justified, and explained that more Black and Brown people were being stopped because more of them were committing crimes. But the era of “stop and frisk” was an era where any Black or Brown person, regardless of their appearance or status could be stopped. A few of those who should not have been stopped sued. Many protested. Some considered ‘stop and frisk’ the byproduct of racism and racial profiling and chose not to take the legal route. The era of stop and frisk exacerbated tensions between “law enforcement” officers and the Black community. And until recently, Mayor Bloomberg stood by his stop and frisk policy. Then a week before his entry into the contest for President, Bloomberg “apologized” for the stop and frisk policy, speaking at an African American megachurch in Brooklyn, New I MESSENGER

York. His very cynical use of the Black church, along with the timing of the so-called apology, is highly suspect. And the decadetoo late apology, offered with no remedy, is meaningless. The very wealthy Mr. Bloomberg could accompany his apology with a sizeable donation to criminal justice reform. He could break off a few million and donate it to the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, the Latino Justice PRLDEF, the American Civil Liberty Union, or any of the other organizations fighting for criminal justice reform. An apology, without an offer to redress the wrong, is meaningless. A simple apology, especially after all the harm that was done, is as sorry as the words “I’m sorry.” Sorry doesn’t always make it right. The apology seems to have been made to aid the Bloomberg presidential campaign, but most people won’t be fooled. Despite his money, Bloomberg is a late entry into the race. His wealth is the only thing that makes him stand out, but not by much, since there is another wealthy white man – Tom Steyer – in

the race. Some say it takes a big person to acknowledge their wrong, but Bloomberg left office in 2013. He’s had at least six years to apologize. In the years since Bloomberg left office, tensions between Black and Brown citizens and police officers have risen. Trigger-happy cops have killed too many Black and Brown folks. Do the names Tamir Rice, Philando Castille, or Michael Brown mean anything? If Mayor Bloomberg were sorry, he could talk about the flaws in our criminal justice system. Instead, he has offered a half-baked apology without acknowledging or attempting to remedy, the impact his unjust policies had on Black and Brown lives. The current President is proof positive that money, integrity, and sagacity are not positively correlated. Bloomberg’s tepid apology may be further evidence that the wealthy don’t think the rules apply them. Mike Bloomberg clearly has money to burn, but it would be great if he burned it for criminal justice reform than for an ill-fated, vane, presidential campaign. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, media contributor and educator. Her latest project MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is available on youtube.com. For booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com

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Keeper of the Treasure Did I ever tell you that I hated history in school? My, how things can change. I was just thinking about Dr. Robert Prince Jr. and how he and other local Black pioneers helped change my mind about history. History and the history books I had read before my enlightenment were just wrongly presented to me, I ultimately concluded. Basic United States history as presented to me as a young student really had little to do with me, I felt at the time. History was just about a bunch of dead people who did not look like me and who gave me the impression they did not care about me and my life as well. And then I discovered Black history, and particularly history of African Americans in Dallas and the communities where they lived. Wow. What a treasure trove. DECEMBER 13, 2019

I WAS JUST THINKING... By Norma AdamsWade I Messenger Media

Dr. Robert Prince Jr. was a keeper of the treasure. I did not get to pay homage to him when he died recently on October 16 at age 89. I knew Dr. Prince Jr., the physician, and his father, Prince Sr., Dallas high school math teacher, fairly well. It makes my head swim to think about the two Princes – royalty indeed -- and people like them who helped fortify the foundation of Dallas’ African American community that we are left to preserve. I was just thinking about Dr. Prince Jr. after I ran across a book he wrote while I was looking for a historical reference on my bookshelf. I

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took the autographed copy down and began thumbing through the pages. Current years began to fall away and rich memories leaped forward. Prince Jr.’s 1993 book, A History of Dallas from a Different Perspective, regurgitates Prince Jr.’s countless recollections of the Black Dallas he knew growing up as the child of accomplished parents in the historic State-Thomas Black community. As an adult, Prince Jr. lived on celebrated McShann Road, but that is fodder for discussion at another time. By the way, Prince Jr.’s late sister, Dr. Jeanette

Elaine Prince Lockley, PhD, was no slouch either. Both she and her brother were born in Dallas at Black-owned Pinkston’s Clinic in that community. She earned her doctoral degree in mathematics from Stanford University in California and later became chair of the Mountain View College mathematics department. Before her brother earned his doctoral degree in medicine, his bachelor’s degree was in chemistry, and their father taught mathematics. For the life of me, my arts and literature mind cannot comprehend excelling in those areas of science learning. Though I soared in language arts, English and reading, I only managed to pass those science-related courses on a wing and a prayer – more prayer than wing. When Dallas Black Dance Theatre unveiled myimessenger.com

a state historical marker at its permanent headquarters in 2013, Dr. Prince Jr. was there to speak with dignitaries and elected officials. The headquarters is in the original landmark Moorland Branch YMCA in what is now the Downtown Dallas Arts District. Prince Jr.’ dad was a Moorland board member when his son was growing up in the 1930s through ‘50s. “I am on familiar ground,” the then 82-year-old Dallas Black griot had said in a deep reverent tone. “I spent many, many hours at this spot. I have memories.” The dedication page of

the

Dr. Robert Prince Jr.

physician’s book on Black Dallas gives a strong hint of his sensibility toward local Black history. It reads: “This effort is dedicated to the memories of Allen Brooks, Pat

Jennings, Sam Smith, and “Uncle” Cato. The victims of lynch mobs in Dallas.” Oral history through storytelling was a valuable method of informing a young lad of his and his family’s life legacies.

Prince Jr. explained in his book preface: “As an inquisitive youth, I read Dallas’ history with much skepticism. The older history books virtually ignored the role of the African slave in the development of Dallas and Texas. I can vividly remember the stories I heard the old folks tell about slavery and reconstruction. ...Why was none of this recorded in the history books written by white men? I vowed to study and substantiate these stories that I heard as a child while living in Freedman’s town.” And Doc, we are awfully glad that you did.

MADAME TREASURER

TX State Rep. Toni Rose (4th from left) re-elected Treasurer of the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women with other officers. The National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women (NOBEL Women) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization primarily composed of current and former black women legislators as well as many appointed officials.

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

The Fly Jock signs off

By FAMU Cheryl Tribute to a Legend

Thomas E. Joyner is a media mogul. He’s our 9th Wonder of the World! He has successfully navigated a career in radio, television, the big screen, the world wide web and in the streets; telling the stories that wouldn’t get told, and sharing the information to empower millions. Mr. Joyner earned the nickname “The Fly Jock” and “The Hardest Working Man in Radio” by working long hours and flying between his morning job (in Dallas, TX) and afternoon job (in Chicago, IL) every weekday for eight years, collecting over seven million American Airlines frequent flyer miles. The recipient of numerous awards, not only has he had a successful career, he has opened the door for so many others and he has launched many careers; while also finding and supporting causes that he believes in. Friday, December 13, 2019, the Tuskegee Institute (now University) alum will sign off, drop the mic, bid his millions of listeners farewell; after 1/2 a century in radio. Mr. Joyner set DECEMBER 13, 2019

the stage and took the risks to change how and why people stayed glued to their radios. He gave listeners a reason to wake up in the morning and tune in. His show w a s n ’ t about solely entertaining folks. A grandson of an educator, he became an educator on the airwaves, using his microphone to empower a nation. Everyone came to his show to reach the masses because they knew “everyone” was looking to the Tom Joyner Morning Show to shed light on any and everything relevant. Then in addition to establishing a syndicated radio show, this son of a Tuskegee Airman took his talents to television, the Internet, a family reunion and a party with a purpose. He championed, in fact became the biggest

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champion, of historically Black colleges and universities with the Tom Joyner Foundation; which has raised more than $60 million for students attending HBCUs. Yes, he knows how to throw a good party. Folks came and had a good time, but they came away with something also — knowledge. His contributions to the industry and this world are indisputable. A frequent speaker on college campuses, Mr. Joyner is a Hall of Famer. He is the MVP. He is the ace in the hole. And Tom Joyner cares. And he knows how to assemble a solid team committed to the causes that matter. The Tom Joyner Morning Show with the woman who made female media folk proud,

co-host Sybil Wilkes, also features Roland Martin as well as “Inside Her Story” with Jacque Reid. Sherri Shepherd, Kym Whitley, Guy Torry and Damon Williams are special co-hosts weekly. Most times when Mr. Joyner was on vacation, long-time radio personality Skip Murphy held the fort down. Over the years, guests have ranged from presidents and CEOs to child stars and entertainment legends. There have been the wrongly convicted as well as those who helped free them, and entrepreneurs to the scholars and college professors or community activists. There’s also comedic relief from numerous comedians, including long-time regular, Huggy Low Down. That Mr. Joyner is stepping aside does not sit well with many listeners. But many are optimistic that when the mic is shut off, it won’t be the last you hear from this media giant. He’s already almost sold out his “Fantastic Voyage” for early 2020. If he never does anything else, however; most will agree that his legacy is intact and the least we can all do is say: “THANKS TOM JOYNER!” You are the GREATEST! myimessenger.com

QUIT PLAYIN QUIT PLAYIN

by Vincent Hall

A low Barr in history

By VINCENT L. HALL Vincent L. Hall is

an author, activist

and award-winning columnist

“I think today, American people have to focus on something else, which is the sacrifice and the service that is given by our law enforcement officers,” Barr told the crowd. “And they have to start showing, more than they do, the respect and support that law enforcement deserves and if communities don’t give that support and respect, they might find themselves without the police protection they need.” – William Barr, US Attorney General, Dec. 3, 2019

This is what your Attorney General said on the eve of the 50th observance of the FBI’s assassination of Fred Hampton. So you didn’t get the memo wrong. Some of these White folks have really lost their minds! AG Bill Barr, who looks, laps and lumbers around like Donald Trump’s Saint Bernard, let it rip. To take license with anyone’s speech is always dangerous, but let me tell you what I heard. Barr was saying if these Niggers and Nigger lovers don’t bow down to our local police, we will just walk and see how well they can do without us. Well, Mr. Barr, we already myimessenger.com

know how communities in a capitalistic society do without police protection. Black communities have rarely been protected from criminals with or without badges. Urban dwellers in Chicago, Detroit, Houston, or Dallas can let you in on a secret. Your threat to remove law enforcement is like Trump’s attempts to remove all Mexicans; you a day late and two pesos short, hombre. Elliot Hannon, an editorialist for “The Slate,” reacted to Barr’s speech at the Third Annual Attorney Generals Award for Distinguished Service, and he apparently heard what most of us heard. “One way to read Barr’s comments is as a not-sothinly-veiled threat to communities, particularly communities of color, that have serious and legitimate issues with how they are treated by law enforcement. The “respect and support” portion of the comment is pretty straightforward and a common refrain among law enforcement that bristles at criticism. Barr is America’s top cop, after all, and has said similar things in the past. “There is another development that is demoralizing to law enforcement and

dangerous to public safety,” Barr said in a speech earlier this year. “That is the emergence in some of our large cities of district attorneys that style themselves as ‘social justice’ reformers, who spend their time undercutting the police, letting criminals off the hook and refusing to enforce the law.” Barr, like his predecessor, Massa Jefferson Beauregard Sessions, does not follow the will of America’s majority. They greet criminal justice reform measures with that played-out 1980s “Tough on Crime” bullshit. Barr veils it, but he sounds like Detective Mark Fuhrman from the O.J. Simpson trial. A witness testified that Furhman said he would like to put “niggers in a pile and burn them. The only good nigger is a dead nigger.” December 4, 2019, was the 50th anniversary of Fred Hampton’s assassination. Obviously, it was another of the reasons we should be grateful, according to Barr’s lopsided logic. Since the FBI could not kill the spirit of resistance among the Black Panther Party during the late 60s, they marshaled a local police department to take down Fred Hampton. In the trial, the usual defense of “we thought our lives were being threatened” was

disproved. The Chicago Tribune revisited the tragedy a few pages from where they ran Barr’s comments. “Survivors Harold Bell and Hampton’s fiancee, Akua Njeri, then known as Debra Johnson, testified at the 1972 criminal trial against the state’s attorney and officers in the raid that Hampton was pulled alive from his bed and shot dead after the group had surrendered. Later, an FBI whistleblower said the agency coaxed local law enforcement across the country, including Chicago police, into deadly clashes with heavily-armed Black Panthers. “In 1983, a federal judge approved a settlement that awarded $1.85 million to survivors of the raid and families of the two men who were killed, to be paid by the federal government, the city of Chicago and Cook County.” Let me help you Mr. Barr. We’ve never been ungrateful and we support good cops. However, we would be much more grateful if cops protected us like they protect folks who look like you. Your comments were a low bar for the office of AG.

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

ASK ALMA By Alma Gill

Sense of entitlement Dear Alma, I have a problem with my mother-inlaw. She does not treat my husband and his brother the same. My husband and I have two grown children—a son and a daughter. Both are living on their own; neither is married; and my son lives in another state. My husband has one brother. He’s gay and doesn’t have any children. I don’t think he ever will. Every Christmas my mother-in-law gives my husband and me $250 each. She gives our adult children $250 each, and she gives my brother-in-law $1,000. We don’t think that’s DECEMBER 13, 2019

fair. She’s giving us less money because we are a family. I have a right mind to bring this to her attention. What do you think? —Anita, Chicago Hold on, Miss Candy Cane, That’s not your right mind speaking. That’s your wrong mind—so don’t you listen. You’ve worked yourself into a tizzy because, basically, you want your MIL to give you and your husband more money. No, wait; or maybe you want her to stop giving your adult children money…I’m confused. Either way, it ain’t your money to regulate. You I MESSENGER

can’t tell a gift giver how to give. Evidently she’s budgeting $2,000 to spend on her family. Clearly, she’s dividing the amount in half between her two sons. She’s giving one son the full amount, and then she’s dividing the rest by the number of immediate family members of the other. And you have a problem with that? Tough tinsel! The fact that your MIL gives money, period, is a generous act in itself. Stop scrutinizing her gift-giving practices. Where’s the gratitude in knowing you’re on her gift list and not her sh*t list. You see what I’m sayin? What you and

your husband need to do is—drop it. Stop looking for ways to compare the brothers, cause that’s really what this is all about. Everybody’s grown now, so get over it. Christmas is a season filled with priceless holiday traditions. What’s more important than making family memories that will last a lifetime? Before you both are uninvited home for the holidays, check your gift-giving guidebook under chapter “Common Sense.” I’m sure it mentions that your MIL isn’t obligated to give a Christmas gift to any of you. Alma myimessenger.com

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

DALLAS/FORT WORTH CHAPTER 2020 Scholarship Luncheon

“Diversity and Inclusion: From Awareness to Action”

Our Industry Professional Honoree

Our Keynote Speaker

Ms. Cynthia M.A. ButlerMcIntyre

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

Motivational and Educational Speaker

January 10, 2020 11 AM -1:00 PM Doubletree Hotel Campbell Centre 8250 N Central Expressway, Dallas, Tx 75206 Tickets $50 @ naaiadfw.org

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

mallums@senecainsurance.com

DECEMBER 13, 2019

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THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW BUMBLE ON-LINE DATING APP By VALDER BEEBE

As a new decade arrives in the year 2020, things continue to change and on-line dating is a major change from those born between 1946 to 1964. This group is keenly known as Baby Boomers. Gen X born between 1965 to 1979 and the Silent Generation 1928-1945 are all in the view of online dating. On-line dating is no longer just for millennial born (1980-1994). As the Valder Beebe Show launches “Baby Boomers 2020” I invited Clare O’Connor, Bumble’s Editorial Director into our Dallas studios. Bumble is a locationbased social and dating application that facilitates communication between interested users. Female users

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can make the first contact with matched male users. Who isn’t leery of trying something new, especially online dating? To help overcome the fear of this social phenom, many dating experts advise women to control the experience by making the first move. Trying a dating app that specifically designed for Women, is a great first step. In a recent survey an estimated one-third of marrying couples in the U.S. met online, and as many as 15 percent of American adults have used dating sites or apps. (Even Martha Stewart, uses online dating). One of the most successful social media apps’ is Bumble. It’s free and with this app,

“every night is ladies’ night: Swipe right on a man that is appealing to you, and if he’s interested, it’s up to you to make the first move. With daily life being so hectic, many women find that it’s difficult to cut out time for a social life. Utilizing a dating app, women control the amount of time to search, to find someone interesting. If you seek: Maximum efficiency, using this app puts women in the driver’s seat of their dating life. Being in control gives a woman more confidence”. VBS: Audience, three ideas for dating success. 1. Select and Meet 9 people. (Our brains are best equipped to handle five to nine options—anymore, and we go into cognitive overload. “At that point you just start looking for reasons to say no, like ‘Look at his ugly shoes,’” says a Psychologist. Pick nine, meet in person, then take a break while you get to know at

least one.) 2. Set 3 deal-breakers. “If there’s something you truly can’t tolerate—smoking, for instance—okay, but give clients a limit,” says dating experts.” Most people focus on wants hot, funny. You find the right one when you focus on needs: communication, mutual respect.” 3. Give it 3 dates. Even if you don’t feel “chemistry”. Chemistry doesn’t last. Attraction is important, but if someone meets your needs, you may find the attraction follows.-Text provided in conjunction with Ms O’Connor’s publicists Clare O’Connor full i n t e r v i e w … … . Yo u Tu b e. com/valderbeebeshow Valder Beebe hosts the Valder Beebe Show on FM and streaming TV: ValderBeebeShow. com, 411RadioNetwork.com; SoundCloud.com/ valderbeebeshow FM Broadcast: KKVI FM 89.9, KRER FM 102.5;Streaming on ROKU & Amazon Fire: YouTube/ValderBeebeShow; VBS affiliate broadcasters; PChatman Network [Roku TV]

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COMMENTARY The unencumbered right to vote in elections has been eliminated and severely restricted for hundreds of thousands of our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s citizens since 2013 when the U.S. Supreme Court decided to diminish the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by eliminating a provision in it that mandated federal oversight of jurisdictions whose policies and practices were biased, and in violation of the U.S. Constitution. With a full understanding of the importance of giving every eligible voter the right to select those who represent them in the halls of government, all of my Democratic colleagues in the House of Representatives voted on December 6th to pass H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act. The legislation, if successful in the Senate and signed into law by the president, would restore

DECEMBER 13, 2019

a much-needed provision in the Voting Rights Act, requiring federal intervention in states where restrictive voting practices and behavior is present. Only one Republican member in the House voted in favor of the bill which was passed by a vote of 228 to 187. Sixteen years ago when the 1965 Voting Rights Act was considered in Congress it was extended without little opposition in the House of Representatives, and with no opposition in the Senate. The president, George W. Bush, eagerly signed the bi-partisan legislation. All of that has changed now with a Republican Party influenced

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by dogma articulated by the current occupant of the White House, aligned with socially regressive forces that assist him in the enactment of his non-inclusive agenda, and his divisive government. Approximately half of the states in the country, taking advantage of the Supreme Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision, have voting practices such as photo identification requirements, which have produced hurdles to voting, particularly for racial minorities and students who tend to support the Democratic Party. A number of state legislatures, emboldened by the 2013 Supreme Court decision, have shamefully passed voter suppression laws designed to prevent racial minorities from voting, using such tactics as relocating voting precincts great distances from the home of voters, and establishing time limits for the periods in which people may

register to vote. These actions have been deplorable. I urge the Republican-controlled Senate, especially the two Republican Senators that represent the state of Texas, to quickly consider H.R. 4, pass it and send it on to the White House. If its members do that they will demonstrate that they consider voting a sacred right which people marched for, fought for and died for in our country. Voting is the breath that gives our democracy its very life. We must extend it fully to all eligible citizens. Fairness demands the passage of the legislation in the Senate. It will be reprehensible if the Senate fails in its duty. If they do not pass the legislation, the entire world will witness that its members have no concern for full citizen participation in our democracy.

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

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HBCU Homecoming 2019 dates: Alabama A&M University Visitor: Texas Southern University Louis Crews Stadium, Huntsville, AL Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 2 PM Alabama State University Visitor: Prairie View A&M University ASU Stadium, Montgomery, AL Date: Nov. 28, 2019 | 2 PM Albany State University Visitor: Lane College Albany State University Coliseum, Albany, GA Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 2 PM Alcorn State University Visitor: Savannah State University Spinks-Casem Stadium, Lorman, MS Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 2 PM Benedict College Visitor: Miles College Charlie W. Johnson Stadium, Columbia, SC Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 2 PM Bethune-Cookman University Visitor: South Carolina State University Municipal Stadium, Daytona Beach, FL Date: Oct. 26, 2019 | 4 PM Bowie State University Visitor: Chowan University Bulldog Football Stadium, Bowie, MD Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 1 PM Central State University Visitor: Fort Valley State University McPherson Stadium, Wilberforce, OH Date: Oct 12, 2019 | 1 PM Clark Atlanta University Visitor: Savannah State University CAU Panther Stadium, Atlanta, GA Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 2 PM Delaware State University Visitor: South Carolina State University Alumni Stadium, Dover, DE Date: Oct. 10, 2019 | 1:30 PM Edward Waters College Visitor: Allen University Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, FL Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 3 PM Elizabeth City State University Visitor: Lincoln University (Pennsylvania) Roebuck Stadium, Elizabeth City, NC Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 1:30 PM

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Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 2 PM

Fayetteville State University Visitor: Livingstone College Luther Nick Jerald’s Stadium, Fayetteville, NC Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 2:00 PM

Lincoln University (Pennsylvania) Visitor: Virginia Union University LU Football Stadium, Lincoln University, PA Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 1 PM

Florida A&M University Visitor: North Carolina Central University Bragg Memorial Stadium, Tallahassee, FL Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 2 PM

Livingstone College Visitor: Fayetteville State University Alumni Memorial Football Stadium, Salisbury, NC Date: Nov. 2, 2019 | 1:30 PM

Fort Valley State University Visitor: Morehouse College Wildcat Stadium, Fort Valley, GA Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 2 PM

Miles College Visitor: Clark Atlanta University Sloan-Alumni Stadium, Fairfield, AL Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 4 PM

Grambling State University Visitor: Texas Southern University Robinson Stadium, Grambling, LA Date: Nov. 2, 2019 | 2 PM

Mississippi Valley State University Visitor: Virginia University of Lynchburg Rice–Totten Stadium, Itta Bena, MS Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 2 PM

Hampton University Visitor: Virginia University of Lynchburg Armstrong Stadium, Hampton, VA Date: Oct. 26, 2019 | 2 PM

Morehouse College Visitor: Benedict College B.T. Harvey Stadium, Atlanta, GA Date: Oct. 26 2019 | 2 PM

Howard University Visitor: Norfolk State University William H. Greene Stadium, Washington, DC Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 1 PM

Morgan State University Visitor: Delaware State University Hughes Stadium, Baltimore, MD Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 2 PM

Jackson State University Visitor: Alabama State University Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, Jackson, MS Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 2 PM

Norfolk State University Visitor: Morgan State University William “Dick” Price Stadium, Norfolk, VA Date: Nov. 2, 2019 | 2 PM

Johnson C. Smith University Visitor: Shaw University Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, NC Date: Oct. 26, 2019 | 1 PM

North Carolina A&T State University Visitor: Howard University Aggie Stadium, Greensboro, NC Date: Oct. 26, 2019 | 1 PM

Kentucky State University Visitor: Clark Atlanta University Alumni Stadium, Frankfort, KY Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 1 PM

North Carolina Central University Visitor: Norfolk State University O’Kelly–Riddick Stadium, Durham, NC Date: Nov. 9, 2019 | 2 PM

Lane College Visitor: Kentucky State University Lane Field, Jackson, TN Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 2 PM

Prairie View A&M University Visitor: Virginia University of Lynchburg Panther Stadium, Prairie View, TX Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 2 PM

Langston University Visitor: Texas Wesleyan University W.E. Anderson Stadium, Langston, OK Date: Oct. 26, 2019 | 2 PM

Saint Augustine’s University Visitor: Johnson C. Smith University George Williams Athletic Complex, Raleigh, NC Date: Nov. 2, 2019 | 1 PM

Lincoln University (Missouri) Visitor: Northeastern State University Dwight T. Reed Stadium, Jefferson City, MO

Savannah State University Visitor: Albany State University

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Theodore A. Wright Stadium, Savannah, GA Date: Oct. 26, 2019 | 3 PM Shaw University Visitor: Livingstone College Durham County Stadium, Durham, NC Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 12 PM South Carolina State University Visitor: Morgan State University Oliver C. Dawson Stadium, Orangeburg, SC Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 1:30 PM Southern University and A&M College Visitor: Alabama A&M University A.W. Mumford Stadium, Baton Rouge, LA Date: Nov. 2, 2019 | 4 PM Tennessee State University Visitor: Austin Peay State University Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 4:30 PM Texas Southern University Visitor: Missouri S&T BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston, TX Date: Oct. 12, 2019 | 2 PM Tuskegee University Visitor: Miles College Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium, Tuskegee, AL Date: Nov. 9, 2019 | 1 PM University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Visitor: Lane College Golden Lion Stadium, Pine Bluff, AR Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 3 PM Virginia State University Visitor: Bowie State University Rogers Stadium, Ettrick, VA Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 2 PM Virginia Union University Visitor: Chowan University Location: Hovey Field, Richmond, VA Date: Oct. 19, 2019 | 1 PM West Virginia State University Visitor: West Liberty University Lakin Field at Dickerson Stadium, Institute, WV Date: Oct. 5, 2019 | 1 PM Winston Salem State University Visitor: Shaw University Bowman Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem, NC Date: Nov 2, 2019 | 1:30 PM

DECEMBER 13, 2019

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

Mavs hold annual dinner with Santa for area youth

Luka Doncic Maxi Kleber with Santa

Photos and Story by Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor It was a night of bikes, balls, baby dolls and more as over 50 at-risk children from local non-profits Rainbow Days and VogelAlcolve enjoyed an evening with the Dallas Mavericks at their annual Dinner With Santa. The entire Dallas Mavericks team, the Mavs Maniacs, Mavericks staff, Mavs mascot Champ, a special visit from Santa Claus and Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall were on hand for the event which was part of the Mavs’ NBA Season of Caring initiatives. “We are making dreams making come true and fulfilling their wishes and things they want for Christmas,” DECEMBER 13, 2019

Tim Hardaway Jr., J.J. Barea and Jalen Brunson

Ms. Marshall said. “This says so much about our team and the spirit of giving back. They do it all year but this is a special time of year. “There are kids who are homeless who really don’t have means that others have and our players have decided that this is important enough for them, the night before a double-header weekend. They are here to be a blessing to these kids,” she said. “This is what this holiday season is all about; experiencing it with children through their eyes.” The children enjoyed a delicious Christmas meal, Santa read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and each child received a dental kit from Jefferson Dentaland a personalized bag full of presents and necessities from the Mavs players to take home and enjoy during the holiday

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Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall

season. “It’s a lot of fun,” said Mavs player Maxi Kleber. “The kids come here and we try to provide them with food and presents. It makes us smile to see them smile. They have a good time and we have a good time. “We’re more than basketball players and the organization is more than just a basketball club. For those kids, they will remember this for the rest of their lives. This is a very special moment and you feel very proud as a player to be part of that.” The Mavericks are dedicated to building a stronger community through educational programs, health and wellness initiatives, environmental efforts, support for military veterans, and grants to nonprofit organizations. myimessenger.com

LIFESTYLE ON THE SCENE WITH HOLLYWOOD: Coats and Cocktail event held at Frontiers of Flight Museum at Love Field.

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Diabetes Awareness Month Family Caregivers Month RECURRING EVENTS Feeding The Needy Hosted by: Hollywood Hernandez Live 1691 Corsicana St., Dallas. 3-5p. The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection, African American Museum 3536 Grand Ave. 9-21-19 - 3-1-20. Regional Premiere of Colman Domingo’s DOT, South Dallas Cultural Center, 3400 S. Fitzhugh Ave. Thur. 7:30pm, Fri 7 Sat. 7:30p Sun. 3pm. Tickets: www.soulrep.org 12-5-22-19.

West African Drumming and Dance Class, South Dallas Culture Center, 3400 Fitzhugh Ave. 11a-1p. 10-26-12-7 Ages 5-18. Info: Marilyn Clark, 214-6711998.

Activity Center, 600 W. Ave A, Garland. 4:30-10:30p.

Arthello Beck Gallery Presents: Nitashia Johnson The Self Publication, South Dallas Culture Center, 3400 Fitzhugh Ave. 11-9-1-4-20.

Wealth Think Bank Social Hour Event, American Legion Post 379, 1245 N. Industrial Blvd. Bedford. 7-10p. 817-729-0543.

December 11-14

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, City of Glenn Heights 400 E. Bear Creek Rd. 5-7p.

Fair Park Days: Fun Activities for all, Fair Park Lagoon, 1010 1st Ave. Free Parking at Gates 5 & 6. 10a-2p. Contact: aanold@brvcorp.com. December 11

If Scrooge Was A Brother, Jubilee Theatre, 506 Main St. Ft. Worth. 8-10p. Tickets: www.jubileetheatre. org. 11-22-12-22-19.

Jim Austin Online Holiday Mega Mixer, The Warehouse on Berry, 1125 E. Berry St., Ft Worth. 5:30-9p. Eventbrite.com.

2020 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade: Sign Up, for info contact: La Ronda Bacon or Natashia Cooper at the King Center, 214-670-8418.

The Polar Express, In the Omni Theater, Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History, 1600 Gendy St.11:15a-1:15p. Tickets: fwmuseum.org.

Dallas Zoo Lights: by Reliant, Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Fwy. 5-9p. Tickets: mydallaszoo.com. Now til 1-5-20.

Animated Christmas Tree in the District, The Shops at Willow Bend, 6121 W. Park Blvd. Plano. 6a-12a.

Prairie Lights-Holiday Lights Experience, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy. 6p. Tickets: Prairielights.org. 11-2812-31. Vitruvian Lights, Vitruvian Park, 3966 Vitruvian Way, Addison. 5-11p. Parking Free. 12-1-1-1-20. 2020 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade: Sign Upcontact: La Ronda Bacon or Natashia Cooper at the King Center, 214-670-8418. Patient Care Technician Training; Oak Cliff Works, Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce, 1001 N. Bishop Ave. Every Wednesday Info: Loren 214-943-4567 x208. The Polar Express, In the Omni Theater, Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History, 1600 Gendy St.11:15a-1:15p. Tickets: fwmuseum.org. Until. 1223-19. Animated Christmas Tree in the District, The Shops at Willow Bend, 6121 W. Park Blvd. Plano. 6a-12a. Until 12-28-19. Holiday at the Arboretum, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd. 9a-5p. Through 12-31.

DECEMBER 13, 2019

December 12-14 Skyline Presents: “Sister Act” A Divine Musical Comedy, Eastfield College Theatre, 3737 Motley Dr. Mesquite. 7:30p.Tickets: https://m.bpt.me/ event/4443727

December 12 The Stormproof Way To Build Your Brand, Microsoft Store North Park Center 8687 N. 75 Exp. #1612, 7-9m. Reg: meetup.com/entrepreneur-brandstorming. IHCC Holiday Reception, Texican Court 501 W. Las Colinas Blvd. 6: 30p. RSVP: www.IrvingHCC.com.

DBCBA Annual Holiday Party, Venture X Dallas Campbell Center. 8350 N. 75 Fwy. 5:30-8p.

Project Unity,Together We Dine, Highland Park UMC, 3300 Mockingbird Ln. 6-8p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. St Philips School & Community Center, Admissions Preview, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. 8am. For 20202021. Christmas Performance, St Phillips School & Community Center, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. 6:30p. 25 Shades of Blue, Black Police Association Christmas Party, 211 Centre St. Dallas. 7p-12a. Tickets: 214-421-7644

December 13 DBDT Presents: Espresso Nutcracker, Majestic Theatre1925 Elm St. 7p. Tickets: www.attpac.org.

Bldg. 1010 1st St. Ave. Info: johnwileyprice. com/kwanzaafest. KwanzaaFest 5K Walk/ Run, by: Methodist Health System. Fair Park (Auto Bldg.) 1010 1st Ave. 8a. Sign Up: johnwileyprice.com/ kwanzaa-5kwalk.php. Pastoral Installation of Dr. LaVerne Whitehead Reed, Warren Ave Christian Church Disciples of Christ, 2431 Warren Ave. Saturday - 7:08p, Sunday -10:30a,

3:30p.

December 14 Spike Lee Live!, Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St. 8p. Tickets: attpac.org.

Unity in the Community, Networking Mixer, Host: FUBU Mobile DFW, 209 E. Pleasant Run Dr. 6-10p. Free. Eventbrite.com. TeamEarthquake 2nd Annual All White Christmas Party, Magnolia Hotels 1401 Commerce St. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. New Mount Zion Baptist Church, Holidays Gala, Hyatt Regency, 300 Reunion Blvd. 6p. Tickets: nmzbc.org.

Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s Cold and Classy Affair, African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 7p, Holiday Hike, Cedar Hill State Park,1570 FM 1382 W, 11a-12p. Meet at the Duck Pond Trailhead.

Christmas Toy Drive,Smoking Jacket Cigar Lounge, 1435 N. Hwy 67 # 100, Cedar Hill. 7-10p. Bring an unwrapped toy.

The MLK Fresh Produce Distribution Center, (Building A) 2929 MLK, Jr. Blvd. Saturday’s 10:a-2:p.

32nd Annual Prayer Breakfast, Host: Garland Chamber of Commerce, The Atrium 300 5th St. 7a. Reg: Eventbrite.com.

27th Annual Christmas Kwanzaa Concert, Naomi Bruton Theater, 1309 Canton St. 10a. Student Morning Performance. Tickets: Box Office: 214-7432400.

Who Are We To Judge: The Christmas Story, by Snoop Robinson, Friendship-West Baptist Church. 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 4p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Literature for Justice Launch Event: Women Writing Beyond Bars, African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 6-8p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

December 14-15

Prestonwood’s Gift of Christmas, Garland Senior

29th Annual KwanzaaFest, Fair Park Automobile

Holiday Celebration, Lancaster Recreation Center, 1700 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, 6p.

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Christmas Store, St Phillips School & Community Center, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Donations, contact LaSheryl Walker lwalker@stphilips.com. DACED 2019 Holiday Party, Joe’s Crab Shack, 1340 N. Peachtree Rd. 7-10p.

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34th A. Maceo Smith Community Service Award Brunch, Congrats. to Terry Allen, Double Tree Hotel, 1981 N. Central Exp. Richardson. 10a.

Positive Influences Presents: Anger Management, 8828 N. Stemmons Fwy, #225. 9a-5p. Register: 469-227-7847. Dallas Black Expo: Holiday Jingle & Mingle Shopping, Crown Plaza Suites, 700 Ave. H. 10a. Info: 214: 617-EXPO. TB Tour The Reunion Immature, The Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Performance Pl. 8p. Tickets: AXS.com. Christmas Gala w/NiaSimone, Presented by: In the Spirit Entertainment, The Experience Restaurant & Performing Arts Ctr. 1713 Crossroads Dr. 7-11p. Breakfast w/ Councilman Casey Thomas II, Dallas Executive Airport, 5303 Challenger Dr. 10a. Kleberg-Rylie Rec., Winter Wonderland, 1515 Edd Rd. Dallas. 11a-3p. $2 or 2 can goods. Michelle Onuoha, 214-670-8648. 27th Annual Christmas Kwanzaa Concert, TBAAL Naomi Bruton Theater, 1309 Canton St. 8p. Public Performance. Tickets: Box Office: 214-743-2400.

December 15 Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer, Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St. 1p. Tickets: attpac.org. Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration, St Luke Community UMC, 5710 E. R.L. Thornton Fwy, 4-5:30p. Info: 469-609-7322.

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Vitruvian Lights, Vitruvian Park, 3966 Vitruvian Way, Addison. 5-11p. Parking Free. 12-1-1-1-20.

Black Excellence-DFW Poetic Experience, One Love Lounge, 2315 S. Cooper St. Arlington. 6p. A Soulful Christmas Carol, DeSoto Corner Theatre, 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 3-4:40p. Tickets: desototexas.gov.

December 16 Ribbon Cutting & Open House for the new District 104 Office, State Rep. Jessica Gonzales, 400 S. Zang Blvd. 5:30-8:30p 512-463-0408. FEDDs Postcards and Holiday Cookie Exchange, Times Ten To, 2018 Kidwell St. 6:30-8:30p. Linny Nance’s Hour of Power, Balcony Club, 1825 Abrams Rd. #B. 8:30-9:30p. Holiday at the Arboretum, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd. 9a-5p.

December 17-22 Once on this Island, Winspear Opera House 2403 Flora St. Times vary. Tickets: www.attpac.org.

December 17

December 18 105.7 Rudy Rush Comedy Hour, Arlington Improv 309 Curtis Mathis Way, #147, 6-11:59p. Improvarlington.com. The MLK Fresh Produce Distribution Center, (Bldg. A) 2929 MLK, Jr. Blvd. 10:30a-1:30p. The Polar Express, In the Omni Theater, Ft. Worth Museum of Science, 1600 Gendy St.11:15a-1:15p. Tickets: fwmuseum.org. Animated Christmas Tree in the District, The Shops at Willow Bend, 6121 W. Park Blvd. Plano. 6a-12a.

December 19-22 Black Nativity By Langston Hughes, African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. Times vary. Tickets: At the door only.

December 19

Nanette Lee’s Phat Tuesday’s Holiday Edition, Dallas Hyena’s Comedy Night Club, 5321 E. Mockingbird Ln. 7-10p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Prairie Lights-Holiday Lights Experience, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy. 6p. Tickets: Prairielights.org. 11/28-12/31.

Arlington Mayor recognizes Dr. Linda Amerson, Arlington City Hall 101 Abram St. 3rd Fl.6:30pm.

Ginuwine, House of Blues, 220 N. Lamar St. 7p. Tickets: LiveNation. com. Holly Jolly Kick Back Senior Benefit, bring a new pair of socks. 3315 S. Lancaster Rd. Dallas 5-8p. RSVP: by 12-16, district110.Rose@house. texas.gov. Night of Lights, The Point Event Center, 1511 FM 664, Waxahachie.

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DECEMBER 13, 2019

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