I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

I M essenger VOLUME 9

AUGUST 23, 2019 ISSUE 1

RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY

TULISOMA

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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.

AUGUST 23, 2019

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INSIDE

WORDZ OF WILSON

Dr. Malveaux

QUIT PLAYIN’

Brandoniya Bennett, like most 9-year-olds this time of year, was home, perhaps thinking about the new friends or all the things she would learn this school year—after all, 4th grade is a big deal.

There are signs that the 10-year exThe US House of Representatives passed the Securing America’s Fair Elections (SAFE) Act in June by a nearly totally partisan vote of 225-184 in late June.

Surely you read the Black press, so I don’t know how you missed the caveat left for you last time. In my article just two weeks ago, “DPS “Stop and Frisk” Report Card, I gave you an F as it regards the occupation, martial law and otherwise oppressive policing tactics being deployed in South Dallas. Your failing grade has resulted in its first fatality. 14

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AUGUST 23, 2019

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Let’s talk about HIV/AIDS Did you know that more than 52% of new HIV diagnoses occur in the South? We have a problem that we need to address, because it’s getting worse. Recently during a conference call, an intense discussion about HIV and AIDS was held and advocates from the Southern AIDS Coalition, AIDSVu, and Gilead Sciences unveiled new tools and resources about the impact of HIV in the South and Ending the HIV Epidemic. The experts had a plan, an initiative, and the inaugural Southern HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day (SHAAD) was held on August 20, 2019, bringing together advocates from across the country to “raise awareness, erase HIV-related stigma and AUGUST 23, 2019

Control (CDC), more than 52% of new HIV diagnoses occur in the South and an estimated 45% of all people living with HIV in the United States despite comprising only about one-third (38%) of the overall population,” reported experts. “Additionally, in 2017 alone, approximately 2,580 individuals died due to complications related to HIV/AIDS in the Southern United States.” The Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America initiative targeted 48 counties with the highest burden of new HIV diagnoses along with San Juan, PR, Washington, DC, and seven states (Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississip-pi, Missouri, Oklahoma, and So. Carolina) with a substantial rural HIV burden, and 48% of those

discrimination, and advocate for crucial resources and solutions to end the HIV crisis in the South. This national day of recognition will provided a groundbreaking platform for advocates and activists to elevate a critical health crisis.” In sharing information about SHAAD, the experts discussed the impact of HIV, especially in impoverished areas in the South. It’s disturbing to know that the Southern United States has more women, youth, and people of color living with HIV than any other region in the country. “According to the Centers for Disease

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counties are in the South. Experts addressing issues and solutions were: Dafina Ward, Interim Executive Director at Southern HIV/AIDS Coalition Southern HIV/AIDS Coalition (SAC) is the leading sponsor of SHAAD and a nonpartisan coalition of government, community, and business leaders working to prevent new transmissions and build a better South for people living with HIV. Patrick Sullivan, AIDSVu Principal Researcher AIDSVu is an interactive online mapping platform that visualizes the impact of the HIV epidemic on communities across the United States to increase disease awareness and promote data-driven public health decision-making. myimessenger.com

Shanell McGoy, Associate Director of COMPASS Initiative, Gilead Sciences COMPASS is an unprecedented $100 million commitment over 10 years to support organizations working to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the Southern United States. Daniel Downer, Founder, The Bros in Convo Initiative Daniel is a Black, Queer man living with HIV and started The Bros in Convo Initiative, a grassroots organization empowering young bisexual, gay, and same gender-loving men of color in Central Florida to live their best and healthiest lives. In 2019, folks are still silent about HIV and AIDS. We can’t afford to be silent or nonchalant. Which brings me to my truth. I remember the first person I knowingly came into contact with who had full-blown AIDS. We sat for hours in a restaurant talking about his life, which had taken a devastating turn with his diagnosis. myimessenger.com

disease from being in that very position. We’re talking about the mid 80s and so much was a mystery about HIV/ AIDS. The young man talked of the hurt he felt because people did not want to be around him. Talked about as a gay, white male disease; HIV/ AIDS was for many, he said, contracted because

He had been shunned by his family, his church members and anyone else he held near and dear. At the time he was in his 30s and didn’t seem optimistic about making it to his 40s. The man poured out his heart to me because he wanted me to tell his story in hopes that others would be helped. I still remember, him

It’s disturbing to know that the Southern United States has more women, youth, and people of color living with HIV than any other region in the country. of “deviant sexual behavior.” Before we parted company, I assured him that I would tell his story with sensitivity and fairness. Then I did something that he said folks never did to him anymore. I took his hand and shook it.

saying to me, over 35 years ago, that more people were going to become infected and end up dying because they have their heads in the sand. He tried to make and off-color joke by saying that people like him, gay and black, actually caught the 5

The look on his face, said it all. He seemed grateful that here I stood, not treating him as though that handshake would kill me or that I would contract the disease. I wrote the story and presented it to one publisher who wanted absolutely nothing to do with the story. Then I took it to James A. Washington and the story ran on the front page. Maybe that’s one of the reasons that Jim deserved to receive the National Association of Black Journalists’ 2019 Legacy Award. Just like he supported aspiring journalists, he was also committed to supporting and uplifting our communities. Right now we need more advocates like the aforementioned and Mr. Washington. Sadly the HIV/AIDS epidemic has gotten worse.Ignorance is not acceptable. For that man who gave me the story, and for the countless who have died because of causes related to HIV/AIDS, we have work to do.

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AUGUST 23, 2019

It’s very personal WORDZ OF WILSON

BY CHELLE LUPER WILSON “There is really nothing more to say—except why. But since why is difficult to handle, one must take refuge in how.”

and mad at the same time.” That’s what Saige, my 10-year-old daughter said to me after watching the tearful lament of a grandmother robbed of the simple joy of waking Brandoniya, her beautiful

-Toni Morrison

Brandoniya Bennett, like most 9-year-olds this time of year, was home, perhaps thinking about the new friends or all the things she would learn this school year—after all, 4th grade is a big deal. Maybe, she was making an Instagram video showing off her newly done nails as she shared with the world the best things about the day or her dreams for the future. There are many things that Brandoniya had to look forward to; looking out for stray bullets should not have been one of those things. “Mommy, I’m smad. I’m so sad AUGUST 23, 2019

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granddaughter, every morning. She begged to hear her Niya say, “Granny, 30 more minutes, 30 more minutes,” just one more time. Sadly, she won’t get that chance because Brandoniya Bennett was 6

shot and killed by gunfire targeted at the wrong apartment. After a few moments, Saige asked what I feared would come next. I feared it because I had no words to answer her question, “Why?” On the heels of mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton and the terror inflicted by the gunman in Philadelphia, seemingly the singular loss of life can be more easily tucked away and forgotten. We don’t galvanize, contact our elected officials, and hold rallies when “just” one life is lost. Well, what about 135 lives? According to the Texas Tribune, 135 people have been killed by gun violence in Dallas this year alone. Those 135 lives should mean something to more than just their individual family and friends. Their lives should mean something to each one of us. I have a friend who says people myimessenger.com

are inherently selfish and won’t care about anything unless they are personally affected. I don’t think that one has to lose a child to be concerned about gun violence. As Toni Morrison said, “nevertheless, as a human being you have responsibilities to the community, period.” At some point, we have to put ourselves and our selfishness aside and fully realize this is not a problem we can continue waiting on someone else to fix. We are that someone who could and should do something. I can’t stop thinking about Brandoniya as my children head off to school. It’s a challenge to hold back the anxiety, since traditionally safe spaces, like home, school, and church, are proving to be no match against the deadly spray of bullets. It is unfathomable that there has yet to be any real legislation passed myimessenger.com

around gun control. For now, we have only “thoughts and prayers” to keep our children safe…oh and the bulletproof backpacks that you can now order with your school supplies. Am I alone in believing that this does not have to be our new normal? Gun violence is so pervasive in this country that Amnesty International has recently issued a travel warning calling for visitors to the United States to exercise extreme caution due to rampant gun violence. As Morrison stated, the “why is difficult to handle,” so, I ask, how can we solve the problem of gun violence in this country? I hope we find the solution soon, because today, no refuge is found in this how. Chelle Luper Wilson is a writer, author, speaker, community servant and the International Secretary of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 7

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AUGUST 23, 2019

16th Tulisoma South Dallas Book Fair

Join authors, literary lovers, poets, rappers, and unpublished writers of all ages at the 16th Tulisoma: South Dallas Book Fair (SDBF) experience on August 24, 2019 at The African American Museum in Fair Park, located at 3536 Grand Avenue (entrance gate 5). Tulisoma is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features award-winning authors ReShonda Tate Billingsley and Carole Boston Weatherford.

SDBF will spotlight literary art activities for all ages. Budding authors can expect information on how to self-publish their books. Enjoy a free Hip Hop Gospel Extravaganza after party celebration from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. co-hosted by radio personalities, Veda Loca and DJ Kayotic, from 97.9 the Beat and S.L.A.P. founders, King Ashoka and Eric Sony, on the Museum lawn. FEATURED AUTHOR RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY ReShonda Tate Billingsley is an award-winning and national best-selling author and journalist. #1 national bestselling novels include Let the Church Say Amen, I Know I’ve Been Changed, and Say Amen, Again, winner of the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work. Her collaboration with Victoria Christopher Murray has produced four hit novels, Sinners & Saints, Friends & Foes, A Blessing & a Curse, and Fortune & Fame.

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BET released a movie in 2013 based on ReShonda’s book Let the Church Say Amen in which she had a minor role. She also had a role in the made-for-TV movie The Secret She Kept based on her book of the same title. Visit ReShondaTateBillingsley.com, meet the author on Facebook at ReShondaTateBillingsley, or follow her on Twitter @ReShondaT.

regularly. She moved to Houston, Texas, where she graduated from Madison High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin. She married Dr. Miron Billingsley, a native of Helena-West Helena (Phillips County); they had three children.

A journalist, public speaker, publisher, editor, ghostwriter, and producer; it is for her work as an award-winning national bestselling author that she is most known. Since publishing her first novel, My Brother’s Keeper (2001), through her own publishing company before Simon & Schuster/Pocket Books began publishing it, she has authored more than 40 additional novels and contributed to several anthologies. Most of her novels have been published by Simon & Schuster/Pocket Books and have spanned several genres, including nonfiction and both teen and adult fiction. She was inducted into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame in 2010.

For more than 20 years, ReShonda Tate Billingsley worked in television as an anchor and reporter. In 2007, having already published several novels, she left her broadcasting job to write full time.

ReShonda Tate was born in Kansas City, Missouri, to Bruce Tate and Nancy Kilgore. She moved to Arkansas at a young age and was raised in her mother’s hometown of Smackover (Union County), as well as in Louann (Ouachita County) and El Dorado (Union County). She also spent time with her paternal grandparents in Norphlet (Union County). Her grandmother, Pearly Hicks, encouraged her to embrace her love for storytelling. She credits her time in the state as the foundation for her writing career and continues to visit family in Arkansas

She has received several awards for her faith-based and family-themed works. Three of her novels have been nominated for NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Literature, with Say Amen, Again (2011) winning in 2012. Other awards and honors include Black Writers Alliance Gold Pen Award for best new author (2002), Let the Church Say Amen being named one of Library Journal’s Best Books 2004 in Christian Fiction, National Association of Black Journalists “Spirit in the Words” award on five occasions, Texas Executive Woman on the Move (2006), Rolling Out Magazine’s Top 25 Women of Houston (2009), African American Literary Award for Best Teen Fiction for Drama Queens (2011), African American Literary Award for Best Christian Fiction for Fortune & Fame (2014) with Victoria Christopher Murray, and Mama’s Boy being named one of Library Journal’s Best Books of 2015 in African American Fiction.

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State District Judge Tammy Kemp wants to let the judicial process play out Written By NewsOne Staff

Prove me wrong. That was essentially the message a judge told defense lawyers who claim they need to move a murder trial for a white former police officer who killed an unarmed Black man in his own home in order to secure an impartial jury. State District Judge Tammy Kemp, who is presiding over the trial that will decide the fate of Amber Guyger — the former Dallas cop who shot Botham Shem Jean after illegally entering his apartment last year — said the judicial process needs to play out instead of expecting her to make a hasty decision. Judge Kemp delayed ruling on a change of venue motion filed by the defense last month. Instead, the judge wrote in a separate ruling that she would only decide on changing the venue once the process of questioning prospective jurors is “completed or it becomes apparent” during the interviews “that a fair and impartial jury cannot be selected in Dallas County due to the pervasive publicity in this case.” That last sentence seemed to imply that Kemp still believes that “a fair and impartial jury” can still be selected in Dallas County. The location of the trial is key to both the defense and the prosecution because of how much race factors into the case. Guyger, who is white, killed Jean, who was unarmed and Black, setting off a racial firestorm that has continued since that fateful September night last year. Dallas County is nearly 24 percent Black and Dallas the city is 24 percent Black. The working logic is that Black people would be more sympathetic to Jean’s death, something the defense wants to avoid by moving the trial to other neighboring, whiter counties where the chances of Black jurors are much lower. myimessenger.com

Amber Guyger

Botham Shem

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AUGUST 23, 2019

COMMENTARY by Dr. Julianne Malveaux

Who cares about fair elections? There are signs that the 10-year exThe US House of Representatives passed the Securing America’s Fair Elections (SAFE) Act in June by a nearly totally partisan vote of 225-184 in late June. Only one Republican voted for legislation that would mandate paper ballots, increase election security, and create safe-guards to prevent foreign interference in our elections. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) opposes the legislation and won’t even allow it to be introduced or voted on in the Senate. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) was eloquently angry when she raised a series of questions, “I just would really like to know from my Republican friends, what’s wrong with replacing outdated, vulnerable voting equipment? What is wrong with AUGUST 23, 2019

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requiring paper ballot voting systems to ensure the integrity of our elections? What is wrong with enacting strong cybersecurity requirements for elections technology vendors and voting systems? We must be relentless in the defense of our democracy, fighting on all fronts to keep America safe.” Republicans don’t seem to want to defend democracy, though. They simply want to win. And McConnell, who behaves like the 45th President’s handmaiden, has abandoned his duty as Senate leader in favor of partisan shenanigans. Former special counsel

Robert Mueller III testified that Russian election interference was happening even as he testified, too many Republicans chose to ignore his warning because it does not serve them. McConnell is among those who seem to hope that Russian interference aids Republicans and perhaps ensures the reelection of the most odious human being ever to occupy the Oval Office. Meanwhile, people are organizing and attempting to overcome interference by mobilizing the Democratic base of voters. Barbara Arnwine, who founded and leads the Transformative Justice Coalition (www.tjcoalition.org) gathered dozens of activists to participate in a day-long strategy session on voting rights on August 7, 54 years after the Voting Rights Act was passed in 1965. Arnwine’s organization is among the many planning to ensure both voter turnout myimessenger.com

and election fairness in the upcoming elections. With so many focused on the 2020 election, and appropriately so, it is essential to note that 2019 elections are also significant. Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi will elect governors, New Jersey, and Virginia are among those who will elect state legislators, and some cities will elect mayors. Activists can use these elections to test our broken system, and as practice, perhaps for 2020. But activists must also be clear that Republicans don’t seem to want fair elections. If they did, McConnell would schedule a vote on the SAFE Act, which provides dollars for better, safer, voting technology. Both houses of Congress are on recess this August month, and won’t reconvene until after Labor Day. Most members of Congress will say that they aren’t taking a six-week vacation because they are also working in their districts. Citizens need to meet with them, organize town hall meet-ings, and get input from myimessenger.com

those recalcitrant Republicans (all of the Democrats voted for the SAFE Act) on why they eschew fair elections. Some of them use a “state’s right” argument, suggesting that states can manage their own elections on their own terms. African Americans understand states’ rights all too well. States’ rights made

it necessary for our nation to pass a Voting Rights Act, despite the guarantees included in the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments. The question to ask is the questions Speaker Pelosi asked when the legislation came up for a vote on June 27. What’s wrong with election fairness? It is indisputable that

Russia interfered in the 2016 elections to aid the 45th President. It is undeniable that millions of voters have been purged from the polls since 2016 with Secretaries of State eager to influence elections, as they did in both Georgia and Florida in 2018. It is indisputable that while Florida voters attempted to restore votes to former felons, the legislature undermined that vote by requiring people to pay all fines and fees before they are allowed to vote. If the Congressional vote on the SAFE Act is any indication, Republicans don’t want election fairness. They want to win by whatever means necessary. We’ve invaded foreign countries to “ensure democracy,” but our Congress does not have the decency to ensure democracy at home. Since the government won’t do its work, civil society organizations will have to. Kudos to Barbara Arnwine and the Transformative Justice Coalition for their work on voter fairness!

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

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AUGUST 23, 2019

AND JUSTICE FOR ALL By Judge Brandon Birmingham

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AUGUST 23, 2019

QUIT PLAYIN

by Vincent Hall

Strike One, Dear Mr. Mayor Surely you read the Black press, so I don’t know how you missed the caveat left for you last time. In my article just two weeks ago, “DPS “Stop and Frisk” Report Card, I gave you an F as it regards the occupation, martial law and otherwise oppressive policing tactics being deployed in South Dallas. Your failing grade has resulted in its first fatality. The time for you to muster the courage to call the Governor and rescind the Department of Public Safety Gestapo is now! This was a half-baked, cockamamie, ill-founded idea from its inception. Anyone with a teaspoon of common sense or “mother-wit” would have dismissed it as unthinkable from its inception. When you considered the idea of having a “rural road posse,” patrol an inner-city maze, something should have snapped. If you had extrapolated the idea to any logical ends, it would have resulted in a DPS officer(s) killing of someone in South Dallas. The only question would be when and how many. Think of it this way. Would your friends; the residents AUGUST 23, 2019

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Mayor Eric Johnson of Highland Park have questions if one of their own were shot and killed at home by a Balch Springs officer? If the FBI posted agents on every corner surrounding Strait Lane or points contingent, would you expect to get any calls of concern or protest? If a Houston resident was shot and killed by two officers from the Desoto PD... How would the people of Harris County react? This ain’t rocket science dude, and based on your educational vitae and your “experience,” this has to be slow pitch for you. Councilman Bazaldua homered, so I don’t get why you and the 14

other three so-called Negro councilmembers fanned the ball. Maybe I should appeal to you in the dugout; so let’s talk team. Because you are a rightfully proud father of two sons, who will have to overcome the increasing odds of being forced to face their own day of interaction with the police, I want to share a passage with you. It was published by my daughter and two other Black female professors in the American Psychological Journal in 2016. This is the conclusion, but it offers the basis of a long and troubling academic study about Black Male-Law Officer relationships. “Black and Blue: Exploring Racial Bias and Law Enforcement in the Killings of Unarmed Black Male Civilians ‘In this review, we have outlined some social psychological mechanisms underlying racial bias as well as a few distinct features of police work and the individuals attracted to that work. We consider the intermingling of racial bias and policing in perpetuating excessive use of force during encounters between myimessenger.com

police officers and unarmed Black male civilians. In exploring the unique effects of racial bias, we reviewed research suggesting that people hold subconscious beliefs that Black youth are perceived as adultlike, and Black male adults are subhuman, superhuman, criminal, and violent. Negative racial biases influence how Black male civilians are treated. Our review summarizes that as compared to White males, Black males are more likely to be targeted, perceived as suspects, and evaluated as less innocent and more threatening. Next, we propose that police work attracts individuals with distinctive traits (i.e., high collective identity orientation, conformity, and power values,

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SDO). We also explain how DPD cadets are developed in value similarities among officers this environment and still have problems. What would make anyone think that DPS or any other outside police force could be deployed in Dallas’ “hot zones?” And once again, ask yourself if said hot zones were inhabited by anyone other than the poor and minorities would you have even let along with the perceived threats this happen? Would you allow inherent in the work may create this to happen in wealthy White an impactful schism between neighborhoods or the one your officers and civilians. Finally, we family lives in? Mr. Mayor...no matter how wellhighlight how these distinctions may set the stage for especially intended you may have been... precarious encounters between you blew it! Be the man I hope you are and officers and Black male civilians.’” The Dallas Police Depart-ment the father that I pray you better is known nationally for the design become. and rigor of its cadet training. Fix this ‘ish!

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GOOD BOYS Review by Hollywood Hernandez

Director Gene Stupnitsky, who also directs the TV show The Office, takes his shot at directing an R rated comedy with the movie Good Boys. He’s created a very adult and raunchy comedy that is also sidesplittingly funny. The movie is about three sixth grade boys who have been invited to their first boy-girl party where there will be kissing. However, none of the boys have ever kissed a girl before, so they go on a discovery trip to learn about what kissing a girl is all about. The three boys get involved with and don’t have a clue about, sex-toys, internet porn, and drinking beer. It’s a coming of age film for the three boys and while it’s so vulgar I was embarrassed, it’s so filled with laughs that, if you are not totally offended, it will keep you laughing for the myimessenger.com

entire movie. The three boys all have personal issues that they try and keep to themselves. One boy’s parents are going through a divorce, another wants to be a singer but he’s afraid of the teasing he’ll get from his classmates, and finally, the third of the boys are seriously involved in romance and 21

he is driven to learn about the physical aspects involved in the kissing game. The three young actors are Jacob Trembly, who plays Max, Lucas, played by Keith L. Williams and the third young actor, Thor, is played by Brady Noon. Together they play their roles with innocence, but together they are about as raunchy, even while being unaware, as you’ve ever seen. The movie is rated R for some very crude sexual content (do not take young kids to this movie). It has a run time of 1 hour and 29 minutes. I laughed for the entire movie. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale”, Good Boys rates a LARGE. I Messenger

AUGUST 23, 2019

From Marva with By Marva Sneed

On From Marva with Love I had the pleasure to interview Natasha Wells and Dur-ant Searcy. Natasha is a gifted professional opera singer. She also is an accomplished actress and her theatre and stage debut includes her recent staged reading of “Confessions of the Slave Nat Turner” with MBS Productions. Durant Searcy is also a gifted Singer/ Songwriter from Fort Worth, Texas. His single “Timeless”, which he wrote and coproduced was released and well received in 2013. His new EP “CRASH” is available on all digital platforms May 17, 2019. Together Natasha and Durant collaborated on his new single ‘No Pressure’. Written and Co-Produced by Durant. When I heard it I fell in love with it. It gave me cold chills; the sound is smooth and sexy. Their voices complement one another. MS: Durant tell us what No Pressure is about? DS: No Pressure is about two people in love. It’s early in their relationship and they AUGUST 23, 2019

Natasha Wells and Durant Searcy don’t know how to express their feelings. She has feelings for him and she doesn’t want to put any pressure on him. He thinks if he shares his feelings that it will show him to be week. Battling how they feel and in the end nobody wins. MS: Where did the inspiration come from for this song? DS: I have experienced that in every relationship that I’ve had and also other people even my friends. I combined theirs and mine. That’s where the inspiration comes from and also a little frustration.

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MS: Natasha what is coming up for you? NW: In the summer I take a break from auditioning. I do sing at a Catholic Church it will ending for the summer. I have a trip planned to go to Canada for a little rest and relaxation. MS: Why did you change from gospel music to opera? NW: I started in Middle School my teacher called my mom and said did you know your daughter can sing? My mom said yes she hums around the house. My teacher then said no she can really sing she should pursue it. It all started from there. I

entered into competitions that I won. This got my confidence up so I decided to take it further. I heard my first Opera at Mountain View College and I feel in love. No Pressure is on all digital platforms I Tunes, Spotify and etc. Since the release the video is now out you can see it on YOUTUBE.com. Tune in to “From Marva with Love” Fridays 11am1pm on BlogTalkRadio.com Cheryl’s World.

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AUGUST 23, 2019

Rejecting Hate! FROM THE CAPITOL

BY CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON Congresswoman Johnson represents the 30th congressional district of Texas in the US House of Representatives.

Towards the bottom of the Statue of Liberty, one of the world’s most enduring symbols of freedom and renewal, is a poem written by the 19th century author and activist, Emma Lazarus. The writing has brought tears to the eyes of millions of people who have come to the United States from Europe, Asia, Africa, Central and South America and other places throughout the globe, yearning for freedom, fleeing tyranny, starvation, war and death. Ms. Lazarus wrote the poem guided by a warm heart, a compassionate conscience and a vision of a better life for all of those who were fortunate enough to find their way to the shores of our country. Now, some in the current administration, without warm hearts, guided only by cruelty and political calculus are AUGUST 23, 2019

attempting to reverse a policy that has helped to make our democracy and our nation stronger, and culturally and economically sound. These men and women are concerned that the demographics of America are changing too rapidly, and from their perspectives a nation that is less white is a problem. It will not be as good as one whose majority population consists of people with European roots, they believe. Some in the White House have issued new guidelines that would limit the number of legal residences from Africa, Asia, South America and the Caribbean who are able to become American citizens. Starting in the early fall, most immigrants that cannot show that they can exist in America without assistance from the government will

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be denied green cards, and will be placed on paths leading towards deportation. The rule also reflects President Trump’s stated preference for immigrants from Nordic countries. No doubt his preference is flavored by his characterization of certain African countries as places where no decent person would live. This new unsavory rule will establish an unfortunate precedent in American immigration policy. We have never denied citizenship to people who had little or nothing in their personal bank accounts. If the proposed standard had been in place relatives of some of our greatest scientists, artists, physicians, educators, elected officials and entertainers would not have qualified to become American

citizens. If we head in this direction, the flame proudly held high by ‘Lady Liberty’ in the New York Harbor will be distinguished, the victim of small minds with bigoted hearts, armed with a malicious agenda. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson represents the 30thcongressional district of Texas in the United States House of Representatives. She also chairs the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.

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Anemia and Alopecia ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON www.hairandscalpessentials.com

11.5-15.5, depending on the testing laboratory. Another iron test is serum ferritin. The average reference ranges of ferritin are 15-170, depending on the testing laboratory.

It is estimated that millions of people in the United States suffer from iron deficiency anemia. The three most common causes of anemia are caused by iron, folate and B-12 deficiencies, as well as other causes. Anemia that occurs with iron deficiency is called hypochromic micocytic anemia. Men may have anemia, however it is more common among teenagers, and women whom experience a monthly cycle. There are reported cases were young girls as young as 7, 8 and 9 years old have begun puberty. During Consultation, I have experienced these hormonal changes in 7, 8 and 9 year old girls affecting the hair growth cycle. Parents need to know that generations have changed, where children are developing much earlier. There are men who suffer from anemia. Take your health serious. How is anemia measured? Anemia is measured in a blood test. This test measures red blood cells, with the normal reference range being approximately AUGUST 23, 2019

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Symptoms of anemia include: Cravings to chew or eat ice Telogen Effluvium Cravings to eat red dirt Hair thinning Dry hair Poor scalp circulation

women complain about a constipation side effect. Diet combined with iron supplements will help to resolve anemia. A healthy body promotes healthy hair and scalp. Contact world-renown Board Certified Trichologist Linda Amerson, D.T, BCT, IIT (817) 265-8854. We invite you to tune in every Wednesday at 11am CST to Ask the Hair and Scalp Doctor Radio Show on www. DfwiRadio.com. www.hairandscalpessentials.com www.facebook.com/Ask-the-hair-andscalp-doctor-radio-show www.facebook.com/Hair-and-ScalpEssentials Power of 3 Women Media Consortium

How do you cure anemia? Have your blood work checked and monitored by your medical doctor. Often times you will be required to take iron supplements or given a B-12 shot if you are extremely lower than average range. Iron is easily digested by your body, however many

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AUGUST 23, 2019

ASK ALMA

Shamed Christian Dear Alma,

pained by the future that lies ahead for them – a future we I am crushed and ashamed view through the prism of our that my daughter is pregnant. own failed life choices and My young, unmarried, “from a experiences? Mother to mother, you do Christian home” daughter is need to ring your daughter’s pregnant. This is just the worst thing bell one good time – with that could have happen. Her words, of course, nothing demeaning or physical. father died when she was Lay it all out. Let her know young, and I feel like this is that you are disappointed. all my fault. I sent her to visit family for You’ve got to or you’ll release that negative energy in the summer and she came another direction. back pregnant. How can I Be clear that ever show my face in church disappointment does not again? Ashamed mean you won’t support her. Reassure your daughter that you love her Lookahear, sister Mary unconditionally. Don’t forget Magdalene, to give her a hug. I’m not sure what church You’ve got to make a you attend, but you need to decision right here, right now, find one with some scaredto support your daughter and kneed folks. lay down the future rules of Sure, this is a bad situation, but let’s put things engagement. For example, she will be a into their proper perspective: First, why is it that mothers mother! Not the baby mama, feel so totally guilty when our baby friend or co-mother to young, unwed daughters get Grandmama’s baby. You hear me? This is not pregnant? your baby. Are we simply As for your church family, embarrassed, or are we AUGUST 23, 2019

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rise above the whispers of your “we-don’t-sin” Christian friends (and you stop doing it, too, in case you were a part of that group). Find some “here-comestrouble” Bible-reading sisters and brothers. You know what they say – trouble don’t last always, but “him and his boys” are always waiting for you, just around the corner. After you make your way through these muddy waters, the baby will be born healthy and as cute as ever. You’ll look down into those beautiful brown eyes and see the faces of your loved ones who have gone on to glory. You’ll also see that expression – Grandma, you got me, right? LMBO. Get ready to love your grand like no other. Don’t be embarrassed. We all have neck bones in our closets. It’s just that some of us have gone vegetarian and forgot when we used to eat meat! Alma myimessenger.com

LIFESTYLE by Valder Beebe

Summer under the stars

Once again TCM presents its unique and much-loved tradition Summer Under the Stars, wherein each day of the month is devoted to a full 24 hours of films featuring a single outstanding actor or actress. Alicia Malone is a host on Turner Classic Movies (TCM), as well as a film reporter, film critic, writer and all-around movie geek. Previously, Alicia also served as the host of FilmStruck, Turner’s streaming service for movie lovers, and was the host/creator of Fandango’s series Indie Movie Guide. In September 2015, she gave a TEDx talk on the lack of women in movies and why that needs to change. Because of her passion for supporting women, she was also named one of the 100 #WorthyWomen of 2016. Her first book, ‘Backwards and in Heels’, about the past, present and future for women in Hollywood was released in August 2017 and her most recent book, ‘The Female Gaze: Essential Movies Made by Women’ was released in November 2018. TCM will show 24 hours of movies from 31 different stars, one for every day of the month. Just myimessenger.com

a few movies you should look for in August….…* Lena Horne – the inspiring story of a woman of color who refused to be stereotyped, but was often relegated to smaller roles (Aug. 6 on TCM) * Ava Gardner – the beautiful bombshell whose beauty often got in the way of directors taking her seriously (Aug. 8 on TCM) * Rita Moreno – a first timer to Summer Under The Stars and another great woman who blazed a trail... many are familiar with West Side Story, but not her wider career (Aug. 10 on TCM) * Dustin Hoffman – another first timer, a modern actor who was an unconventional star (Aug. 25 on TCM) * Walter Brennan – an example of a character actor people might recognize but not know much about, and how we shouldn’t overlook people who weren’t big name lead actors (Aug. 27 on TCM)Text provided by Alicia Malone’s publicists VBS: Alicia Malone welcome back to the Valder Beebe Show. I’m so excited I get to speak with you about TCM Summer Under the Stars and it returns to Turner Classic Movies. AM: I’m so glad you are a fan 29

of TCM Summer Under the Stars. I’m a big follower also. We take one entire day, 24-hours and devote it to a different star. Not only do we play the biggest stars Humphrey Bogart, Jimmy Stewart. We also choose stars you may not know very much about like, Liv Ullman, Paul Lukas and Bryan Dunn Levy who was an actor who played a lot of gangster roles. VBS: Tell us a little about Walter Brennan. He was by no means and lesser known actor yet most of us (Baby Boomers) know him strictly from TV, specifically the real McCoy’s TV series. AM: He’s [Walter Brennan] an actor you may recognize because he played a lot roles in westerns. August 27th is dedicated to him. Walter Brennen has the most Oscars dedicated to…….complete interview Valder Beebe Show THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

ValderBeebeShow.com, 411RadioNetwork.com, Youtube.com/valderbeebeshow, 411RadioNetwork. com; Podcast audio: Soundcloud.com/valderbeebeshow, Soundcloud.com/kkvidfw, 411RadioNetwork.com, PChatman Streaming TV Network

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AUGUST 23, 2019

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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AUGUST 23, 2019

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