I Messenger 4-9-21 by Cheryl Smith

VOL X NO 30 APRIL 9, 2021

I MESSENGER

SUPERB WOMEN

IMessenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR news@texasmetronews.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com Jessica Hayden STAFFWRITER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marva Sneed EDITORIAL TEAM Anthony Council Chelle Wilson Dareia Tolbert Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dorothy J. Gentry Eva Coleman Monique P. Stone Lajuana Barton Rebecca Aguilar Vincent Hall MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio

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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. April 9, 2021

I MESSENGER

Noted attorney, legislator, U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings transitions Congressman Alcee L. Hastings, died Tuesday prior he was the first African American from Florida since the post-Civil War era to be elected to the United States Congress. As a senior leader in the Democratic Caucus, Hastings served in the 116th Congress as Vice Chairman of the powerful House Rules Committee and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Legislative and Budget Process, Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (known as the Helsinki Commission), Senior Democratic Whip, and Dean and Co-Chairman of the Florida Congressional delegation. Throughout his lifetime, Hastings has championed the rights of minorities, women, the elderly, children, and immigrants. Born in Altamonte Springs, Florida, he attended Florida’s public school system and graduated from Fisk University. in 1958. He then earned his law degree from Florida A&M University in Tallahassee. Known to many as “Judge,” Hastings distinguished himself as an attorney and civil rights activist. In 1979, he became the first African American Federal Judge in the State of Florida, when President Jimmy Carter appointed him to the bench. He served in that position for 10 years. In 1992, Hastings was

Rep. Alcee Hastings 1936-2021

elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he established himself as an outspoken leader for making our country safer and more secure. He has worked to protect women and vulnerable populations, fund Head Start and other education programs, and provide family and medical leave to all workers. Hastings has also worked to strengthen Social Security, protect the rights of voters, create tax incentives for small businesses, provide job training for displaced workers, ban assault weapons, and advocate for environmental protections to keep Florida safe for future generations. Hastings has also distinguished himself on the world stage and has become one of the most respected voices in international affairs. He is known throughout the world as an expert in foreign policy. In 2007, Hastings became the first African American to Chair the U.S. Helsinki Commission, an inde-

pendent U.S. government agency created in 1976 to monitor and encourage compliance with the landmark human rights and democracy-building treaty signed in Finland the previous year. Again, serving as Chair, Hastings continues his work in the areas of human rights, economic development, and parliamentary diplomacy. As Vice Chairman of the powerful House Rules Committee, Hastings is an expert in House Floor procedure and the legislative process. Furthermore, as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Legislative and Budget Process, he led Congress’ oversight of matters associated with the inter-branch relations of Congress and the Executive. He is also the former Vice Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI). Hastings is the proud recipient of numerous honors and awards bestowed on him from organizations both at home and abroad. His governing philosophy is simple: he passionately believes that progress and change can be achieved through mutual respect and understanding, and that individuals and communities can see beyond the limits of parochialism,enabling them to better appreciate each other. myimessenger.com

INSIDE

What’s On Miles Mind

The Last Word

Quit Playin’

How has something so seemingly simple become so confusing and complex? When I was growing up there was no confusion about a man, who one was and what it meant to be one. The Marlboro Man, the policeman, reverends, doctors, lawyers, judges, Hoss, Little Joe, Adam and Ben Cartwright and Walter Cronkite-- John Wayne and Shaft.

Many of my fondest childhood memories were framed at the Church. I had the pleasure of living much of my formative years with my grandparents, specifically the Reverend Zechariah Alexander Peter James John Figures, known to the public and his fellow pulpiteers as Z. R.

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April 9, 2021

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

SUPERB BLACK WOMEN Black women. The way the walk, talk, think, stretch a dollar, feed a community, make a boo boo all well, pray, move a mountain, fight off demons and so much more. When no one is at practice, sitting beside the hospital bed, posting bail, ready to battle a drug dealer or going without so you can have; it’s a woman. When you think about the uses and abuses over time; it appears everyone feels like they can take stabs at the Black Woman. The attacks have been so blatant and commonplace that you have women taking on the ways of the oppressors and becoming just as damning, if not more. Which brings me to my truth. Earlier this year, I said that this was the year of the Black Woman. March is Women’s History Month and it is important to support our women. But not just in March. We began celebrating women in our daily e-newsletter (subscribe at editor@texasmetronews.com) at the beginning of March. Then on March 2, we began focusing on women, locally and nationally, as well as internationally. We’re looking for women of all ages and celebrating who they are and what they do. Some people are household names and others you may have never heard of; we want to share their stories and we’re doing it ALL YEAR LONG! Do you know someone we should recognize? Send us their name and how we can find out more about them. Email us at editor@texasmetronews.com. Now we don’t tell that we’re recognizing them and this is not a money making ploy. It’s simple, we just want to spread something these ladies need more of than anything: LOVE! April 9, 2021

I MESSENGER

Here they are! The Superb Women of March 2021: Kamala Harris

She’s our Vice President! ENOUGH SAID!

myimessenger.com

VR SMALL

Dallas-Fort Worth, Inc., where she utilizes her more than 25 years of successful, awardwinning construction experience. A wife, mother, grandmother and guardian; Ms. Bivens is a consummate professional with impeccable work skills, a pleasing personality and strong interpersonal and community relations skills. Her efforts on the Mansfield Commission of Arts, Minority & Women Business Enterprise Advisory Committee and Leadership North Texas helps glean a little information into how she does so much for so many. She’s also fun-loving, passionate about life and loyal to those who she deems deserving.

Her name is “Small” but there’s nothing small about her heart and commitment. VR Small is a Navy Veteran. VR Small is the founder and CEO of the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center in Dallas, Texas. An alum of Lincoln University of PA, she had the Center built to help Veteran women and women military spouse-owned businesses get what they need to help them start their business or grow their business. It has an incubator, so at least six Veteran women can have office space until they can afford market value leasing for office space. The Center has conference rooms and a break room. VR developed a program called the Next Level Business Transformation, it was given to five women, four Veteran women owned businesses and one military spouse-woman owned business. She also formulated a strategic alliance with the Homeless Veteran Services of Dallas (HVSD), which manages the Veteran Transition and Resource Center (VTRC) facility owned by the Veteran Administration. She’s been an adjunct professor and also served on Rep. Victoria Neave’s Sexual Violence Task Force and on the advisory committee of the Center for Women Entrepreneurs at Texas Woman’s University. VR’s ability to engage and develop supportive relationships with key political representatives prompted her invite to testify in support of the original House Bill 2698 to make June 12th Women Veterans Day in Texas. VR, thanks for your service, THEN and NOW!

Edna Pemberton When people speak of Edna Pemberton, they speak of her heart, passion, commitment, service, faith and love. Affectionately called, “Mrs. P,” her story in The Dallas Morning News spoke volumes about her: She was born in Chicago in 1948. She was the youngest of nine children, and, as a toddler, was forced into foster care after her mother died. Everything she owned in her early years had belonged to someone else first. Her first foster father couldn’t get her to talk. Frustrated, he put her arm in bleach to force the issue. She was removed from the house, but the burn scar stayed with her for the rest of her life. She met her husband, DarNell Pemberton, in a Chicago church when she was a teen. They married, and they had four children. When Pemberton’s sister died giving herself an abortion, the Pembertons added six more children to their family. Yes, her heart is huge, and pure. She probably would have taken six more children, if need be. A faithful member of Concord Church, she also worked to establish the Friends of Red Bird Airport and she has worked with numerous groups and individuals, elected officials and community organizers in efforts to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. The recipient of numerous awards for her humanitarian efforts Mrs. Pemberton has a positive and uplifting personality that makes her a joy to know and work with. AND, she and the Barack Obama, yep you know him, Mr. President, shared the stage together.

Lynne Coleman Lynne Coleman is Senior Director, Product Development and Design, Global Product Services and Operations for JCPenney; the company she has worked with for more than 25 years, starting as a Manager Trainee. A graduate of Florida A&M University, where she was initiated into the Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Ms. Coleman hails from Miami, Florida and this wife and mother is a very active member of the D/FW FAMU National Alumni Association, Jack and Jill of America and the Chi Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Well regarded for her business acumen, pleasing and loving personality, and commitment; Ms. Coleman is about taking care of business, lifting as she climbs and exhibiting excellence wherever she goes and whatever she participates in. She is a definite winner and she helps others to grow!

Tammy Thomas In addition to being a financial services representative at McDonald Group, Tammy Thomas is a special education teacher for Dallas ISD- Sarah Zumwalt Middle School. She graduated from Texas College with a degree in political science and Pre-Law and she received a Masters degree from Walden University. Ms. Thomas has a testimony worth sharing; one that will make some shut up and vow to do better because she suffered traumatic injuries in an accident and was in a coma only to come out and be told she’d never walk again. Long before that accident, she was committed to community service and today, this resilient beautiful woman spends more time caring about others than herself. She has logged numerous volunteer hours with Genesis Women’s Shelter, Susan G. Komen and The Bridge Homeless Shelter. After her body went through a “reboot,” she said “re-learned how to talk, write, walk, and cook … everything.” A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, Ms. Thomas began crocheting, as a way to cope. The items she made, including hats, scarves and blankets, she donated to the homeless, domestic violence survivors and cancer survivors. That “ministry” grew and she formed the non-profit, SAG3. The organization is doing so much to help so many and it takes so little to help this superb woman. Hopefully people will embrace her cause and find ways to help her help others at www.sag3nonprofit.org.

Demetria Bivens Demetria Bivens is a business development consultant specializing in corporate partnerships, business strategies, and contract management. She is the founder, president and owner of DLB Consultants and in the construction business, a industry dominated by males, Ms. Bivens has gained a reputation for being well-prepared, knowledgeable and experienced. With over 20 years of experience, Ms. Bivens strives to educate and develop contractors to successfully perform in the construction industry. She also serves as executive director of the National Association of Minority Contractors, myimessenger.com

April 9, 2021

Angela Willis

an author, she is also the publisher of a magazine. What is equally impressive, however; has to be her love that she displays and spreads wherever she is. A graduate of Shaw University, among her many affiliations, Ms. Williamson is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc, and The Links Inc (Mid-Cities Chapter).

Angela Willis is the Founder of the Road to Economic Empowerment Enterprises, Road to Economic Empowerment Training and Events, LLC (R2EE) and a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty. R2EE Training and Events is a consulting firm that offers advice, mentorship, and training in cultural diversity, ethics, and leadership. Ms. Willis wants to provide a foundation for young companies, women, and men to build upon, grow, and produce economically so they can complete their assignment in life and empower others. She offers Financial Education Seminars and an Alzheimer’s & Caregivers Financial Health Symposium.For over 15 years Ms. Willis, who proudly hails from Oak Cliff and attended Dallas Baptist University, has focused on girls in their teen years, working with them to deal with personal struggles as they are taught basic life skills, offered spiritual/ correctional guidance, support, and encouraged to give back by participating in various community projects. A member of the Society of Human Resources Management and Natl. Association of Realtors, this Skyline High School graduate is also a member of Sweet Fellowship Family Center.

LeTitia Owens LeTitia Owens is a superbly divaish woman who is a joy to be around. She’s vibrant, talented, resourceful, intelligent, beautiful and oh my, she can sing! She also has a journey that is worth sharing because she definitely does not look like what she has been through! Her works have been celebrated and she is a recipient of several awards. Ms. Owens went from being homeless to being a blessing for the homeless. She also started an organization that helps people in need, Where Are You? You can find her in the streets, feeding the homeless and spreading joy. She studied education at Texas Woman’s University and her portfolio includes a dynamic person who in addition to being a philanthropist, has also perfected her skills as a make-up artist, radio host and event planner. She serves on the board of the Citizen Homelessness Commission for the City of Dallas.“Titia” is also a national recording artist. And she is a designer and her creative juices are always flowing!

Marguritte S. Johnson

Natalie Jenkins Sorrell

Marguritte S. Johnson is passionately intentional about BEING the CHANGE that she desires to SEE in the world TODAY! She serves the community as a social activist and Executive Director of Stand 4 Sisterhood and Pro Activism Inc. Ms. Johnson recently launched 4CORE: an inter-generational mentoring network for girls and women committed to advocate for one another and pay it forward. She is also CEO of MSJ-PRO Services,LLC - a consulting firm specializing in formations, filings, and funding strategies for both non-profit and for-profit entities. Ms. Johnson officiated as Executive Pastor for 10 years at LIFE Intl’ Ministries and since 2018 has served on the advisory board for DISD Innovation Design Entrepreneurship Academy. In 2020, she received an Honorary Doctorate in Christian Counseling. Ms. Johnson influences the community as a speaker, author, public notary, certified mental health first aid responder, content creator and credentialed mediator.

Natalie Jenkins Sorrell is the first lady of Paul Quinn College, the oldest liberal arts HBCU west of the Mississippi River. It’s a role she graciously and gracefully navigates as she interacts, supports and mentors the students while also building relationships with alumni, faculty staff, and yes, possible funders. A graduate of Spelman College and Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, she’s a heavyweight in the business world. Ms. Sorrell is the Deputy Chief Investment Officer for the $3.4 billion Employees’ Retirement Fund (EFR) of the City of Dallas. Additionally she has years of board service including with the Dallas Metropolitan YMCA, Parkland Hospital and on the Advisory Board for the endowment of St. Phillip’s Academy in Dallas. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she is also active in the community through The Links, Inc.

Cheryl Polote-Williamson

Katrina Pennie Harrison Pitre

You are seeing the fruits of years of preparation, laboring and faithfulness as nationally acclaimed multi best-selling author, award-winning filmmaker and executive producer, transformational speaker, and certified success coach Cheryl Polote Williamson star shines brightly. Ms. Williamson is the CEO and Founder of Williamson Media Group, LLC, and Cheryl Polote Williamson, LLC, where her knowledge, expertise, and resources connect others to their purpose and, she is also Founder and CEO of Soul Reborn, a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization that has supported more than 10,000 disenfranchised, under-served, and previously incarcerated women. In addition to being April 9, 2021

I MESSENGER

Katrina “Pennie” Pitre is the President and CEO of Skyline Ranch and Banquet Facility. Pennie has an outstanding record of service in this community. She has served on the board at St. Phillips School and Community Center, American Heart Association, Dallas County Foster Care and the Dallas International Street Ministries. A graduate of Bishop College where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Pennie has a degree in Marketing and Marketing Management. A consummate professional, she also attended the University of North Texas and worked in sales at Neiman Marcus. Pennie is a joy to know.

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Tonya Veasey

founding member of the Dance Council of North Texas, the Advisory Board of the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and The International Association of Blacks in Dance. A proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University and the first African American to earn a Master of Arts Degree in Dance and Related Arts from Texas Woman’s University, she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Trinity Chapter–The Links, Inc., The Society, Inc.–Dallas Chapter, Charter 100, Dallas Chapter Associates of Jack and Jill of America, Lifetime member of NAACP, The Dallas Holidays Bridge Group, Bridge Interest Group, and the 13 Hearts Bridge Club. There’s so much more that can be said about this gracious, classy woman, who is absolutely SUPERB!

Tonya Veasey is the president and CEO at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF). For more than 20 years, Ms. Veasey has provided counsel to top corporations, nonprofits, public entities and elected officials in issues management, crisis communications, corporate social responsibility, and diversity and inclusion strategy. In 2006 she founded Open Channels Group (OCG+), a purpose-driven full-service communications and marketing agency based in Fort Worth. She has worked as a legislative staffer, a nonprofit organization leader, a registered lobbyist and as the public affairs director for a Fortune 500 Company. She was honored by the Fort Worth Business Press as one of 2017’s Great Women of Texas. A recipient of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce 2009 “Quest for Success” award, as well as the 2007 Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce Madame C. J. Walker Award, she was recognized as the City of Fort Worth’s 1999 Woman of the Year in Public Service. She earned an Executive MBA at Texas Christian University and a bachelor’s degree from Paul Quinn College. A born leader, don’t be surprised if she ends up in the White House!

Dr. Keisha Williams Lankford Dr. Keisha Williams Lankford is a Cedar Hill Independent School District Trustee. An active member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., she is an educator and community leader with a passion to inspire and motivate others, she strives to demonstrate how to overcome obstacles and provides the guidance that is needed. A consummate professional and leader, as the Founder and Director of The Avenue P.R.C. & Co Director of Lankford Avenue, she is dedicated to improving the quality of life for others. She and her husband have organized several events that positively impact the community in the areas of education, parenting, emotional, mental and physical health. An advocate for many, she has a beautiful personality and a loving, giving spirit.

Vicki Meek Vicki Meek is a nationally recognized artist, hailing from Philadelphia. When you talk of fierce, fearless and undeniably creative, you have to have Vicki on your mind. Her works are in the permanent collections of the African American Museum in Dallas, The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Fort Wayne Museum of Art, Paul Quinn College and Norwalk Community College in Norwalk, Connecticut. She was awarded three public arts commissions with the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Art Program and was co-artist on the largest public art project in Dallas, the Dallas Convention Center Public Art Project. She was selected as one of 10 national artists to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Nasher Sculpture Center with the commissioning of a site-specific installation. In addition, this independent curator writes cultural criticism for her blog Art; Racenotes (http://art-racenotes. blogspot.com) and Dallas Weekly. She retired in March, 2016 as the Manager of the South Dallas Cultural Center and is currently a full -time artist and COO of USEKRA: Center for Creative Investigation in Costa Rica, a retreat founded by Elia Arce. Check out www.vickimeek.com

Cynthia Trigg Cynthia Trigg is the superintendent and founder of Evolution Academy Charter Schools, for inclusion. Cynthia founded Evolution Academy Charter School in 2002, opening the first campus in Richardson. She has since expanded and opened campuses in Houston and Beaumont, Texas. She has also been on the forefront of technological advancements in student learning. Since the inception of Evolution Academy, she has used advanced technology to help students accelerate learning. A visionary, she also rolled out an online learning platform one year prior to the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic and enrollment in the online program is open to high school students across the state of Texas. This wife and mother cares. She partnered with the Sprint’s 1 Million Project Foundation to bridge the gap and provide free wireless devices and 10GB of high-speed wireless data access per month for nearly 800 high school students who didn’t have access to the internet at home so they could participate in online learning.

Mrs. Ann Williams Now here’s one for the history books, for sure. Mrs. Ann Williams is a real jewel. She started the Dallas Black Dance Theatre in 1976 and it has become Dallas’ largest dance company and the nation’s fourth largest African American dance company. She started it with the simple goal of inspiring minority children to see themselves as professional dancers; but the theatre did so much more. It gave many young boys and girls, “purpose,” and “hope.” When many had no where to turn, the theatre doors were open to them and helped shaped many a life. What a blessing! She is also a myimessenger.com

Sarah Bright Smith Mrs. Sarah Bright Smith is a gracious, loving, kind, compassionate woman who is a joy to be around. A graduate of Florida A&M University, she was initiated into the Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and her line sister was Mona Humphries (BAILEY), who went on to become National President of the organization. A life member of the FAMU National Alumni Association, Mrs. Smith has lived a life of service and she is still very active today.

April 9, 2021

Dr. Dorothy Irene Height

Texas; she loves creating memories with her husband-best friend, and being a new mommy to baby, Eli Jr.

When the name Dorothy Irene Height, is spoken, it is spoken with reverence. Height, a Delta, began as a caseworker for the New York City Welfare Department before transitioning to a career as a civil rights activist, leading the struggle for equal rights for women and African Americans. Dr. Height joined the National Council of Negro Women at the behest of Mary McLeod Bethune, also a Delta. She brought unsurpassed growth and modernization as the 10th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated from 1947 – 1956. Height continued to serve humanity in various capacities for the next 50 years, leaving a legacy that will live on forever.

Honorable Marcia Fudge The Honorable Marcia L. Fudge is the 18th and current Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. She is a committed public servant who brings a hard-working, problem-solving spirit to Congress and to the task of creating jobs, protecting safety net programs, and improving access to quality public education, health care and healthy foods. First elected in 2008 to represent the people of the 11th Congressional District of Ohio. She is a past national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and she has served the people of Ohio for more than three decades, beginning with the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office. She was later elected as the first African American and first female mayor of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, where she led the city in shoring up a sagging retail base and providing new residential construction.

Cheryl Wattley When you walk into a courtroom and you see her, you’d better make sure she’s on your team or you are definitely on the wrong side of the law and history! Cheryl Brown Wattley joined the inaugural faculty of the UNT Dallas College of Law from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. She serves as the Director of Experiential Education overseeing the law school’s externship program; the Community Lawyering Centers; the Joyce Ann Brown Innocence Clinic; and the law school’s Community Engagement Program. Professor Wattley graduated from Smith College, cum laude, with high honors in Sociology. She received her Juris Doctorate degree from Boston University College of Law, where she was a Martin Luther King, Jr. fellow and recipient of the Community Service Award. She continues to work with Centurion Ministries, a non-profit organization based in Princeton, New Jersey, devoted to the vindication and liberation of persons wrongfully convicted and imprisoned.

Honorable Maryellen Hicks Judge Maryellen Hicks is a trailblazer. She is the first African American and first female justice on the Texas Second Court of Appeals; first and only African American female to serve as a State District Judge in Fort Worth, Judge of the 231st State District Court, 1983-1993; First African American Probate Court Master in Tarrant County, first African American and first female Municipal Court Judge and Chief Municipal Court Judge for the city of Fort Worth. She received a bachelors degree from Texas Woman’s University and this past President of the Black Women Lawyers of Tarrant County was the first African American to earn a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Texas Tech University School of Law.Judge Hicks hosted “Speak Out” talk show on Soiul 73 KKDA Radio Station, for 22 years. She is the founder of the African-American Summit for Peace, Justice and Equality and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, The Chums Inc., and Lone Star Sistas, A Golden Heritage Life Member of the NAACP, she is also a Federated Club member serving the Odessa Social, Civic and Arts Club, of which her mother was a founder.

Dareia Tolbert Jacobs Dareia Jacobs is a TV & radio personality, author and educator who has worked in media and communications for more than a decade. She has served as a radio personality for one of the nation’s top inspirational radio stations, Heaven 97 KHVN, and she recently joined Philly’s Favor 100.7 FM, out of Philadelphia. As an educator, she is a transformational and inspirational conduit for students who have a lack of motivation for learning. Dareia graduated with a B.A. degree from Lane College where she set her sight on excelling in the Mass Communications field. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dareia is progressively and intentionally climbing the ladder of success. She has made appearances on Channel 30.8 BPEN and The WORD Network. Charismatic, witty, outspoken and a charming socialite on and off the air, Dareia received a commendation from Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson for her many achievements in radio broadcasting and was honored as a 2016 Who’s Who in Black Dallas inductee. Married to Pastor Bishop Eli Jacobs of Resurrection Body of Christ Church in Dallas, April 9, 2021

I MESSENGER

Matrice Ellis Kirk Nothing pretentious about this lady. She’s the real deal with a heart that is pure and spiritually grounded. A wife, mother, executive, lover of the Arts and community service; Matrice graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in economics and she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Links Inc. Ms. Ellis-Kirk chairs the AT&T Performing Arts Center and is a board member of the DFW Airport Authority. Her early career was as an officer in commercial banking at MBank, the vice president of the Office of Management and Budget at Dallas Area Rapid Transit, and leading the Dallas office of investment banking firm Apex Securities. She is currently Managing Director at RSR Partners.

myimessenger.com

Erika Nicole Johnson

Technical Education Center. The Lifestyle and Culture Editor for I Messenger Media, Eva is the President of the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists, a member of the NABJ (former national convention chair), and Ivy Leaf Reporter for the Omega Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.Eva was appointed to the Texas Education Agency’s Arts, A/V Technology and Communications Industry Advisory Committee and the STN Board of Directors as the Southwest Region Director.

We are celebrating this young lady, Erika Nicole Johnson, because she is absolutely adorable, respectful, kind, compassionate, spiritually grounded and loving. She is also super talented! We must celebrate ALL accomplishments of our young. She is the current Misss Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University crown. The past year has been challenging and the Coronation on March 7, 2021, should have taken place in October 2020. W can still show her love and the showering of gifts that she would have received at a different time in history. Her cash app is $erikanxcole Let’s show her some love.

Dr. Vivian Bradley Johnson

On March 2, 1955, 15-year-old Claudette Colvin was arrested when she refused to give her seat to a white woman on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. She was inspired by school lessons on the Constitution during Black History Month. She said, “…as a teenager, I kept thinking, Why don’t the adults around here just say something? Say it so that they know we don’t accept segregation? I knew then and I know now that, when it comes to justice, there is no easy way to get it. You can’t sugarcoat it. You have to take a stand and say, ‘This is not right.’ And I did.”

Dr. Vivian Bradley Johnson is the Senior Vice President of Clinical Services at Parkland Hospital Systems and a proud graduate of Florida A&M University (FAMU), where the names Bradley and Johnson are legendary. Dr. Vivian served as Miss FAMU her senior year, in 1981. Frederick II served as Mr. FAMU. Then here comes Michelle Marva who followed in her mom’s footsteps and was crowned Miss FAMU in 2017. And if that wasn’t enough Black History, here comes Erika, the baby of the bunch; who was crowned Miss FAMU on March 7, 2021 (a little late because of COVID-19). A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Links, Inc., Dr. Vivian is a former Vice President of the D-FW FAMU National Alumni Association. She is also a co-founder of the Dallas Metroplex Council of Black Alumni Associations.

Summer Faussette

LaToyia Dennis

Summer Faussette is Comerica Bank’s National African American Business Development Manager supporting its ongoing commitment to building strong relationships with African American business leaders, entrepreneurs and communities across all markets. These responsibilities are an extension of Faussette’s current role as Vice President, External Affairs - Arizona.As National African American Business Development Manager, Faussette will collaborate with Comerica’s African American Business Resource Groups, Chief Diversity Officer Nate Bennett, and Chief Community Officer Irvin Ashford, Jr. on building external partnerships with African American nonprofit organizations across the bank’s national footprint.

LaToyia Dennis Author, national mom advocate and social influencer LaToyia Dennis recently launched Melanin Moms Media, a national digital advertising and marketing firm specializing in connecting women of color to national brands. The Dallas Baptist University and University of Dallas graduate started Melanin Moms Media to connect mom bloggers and influencers of diverse racial backgrounds to their target audiences. “I decided the time was right to start a company that pulled my experience, expertise, and passion together to help moms of color influence the world,” she added. “My mission is to help moms live a life of purpose, fully engaged, and financially free.” Melanin Moms Media is free to register and open to mom influencers, bloggers, and service providers worldwide. Women control between $5 - $15 trillion in worldwide spending and are responsible for 85% of all consumer purchases. One in five Americans are women of color, which is 20.3% of the US population. “There are an estimated 85 million mothers in America, and we are creating an opportunity for brands to partner specifically with moms of color to influence the world,” said Dennis. “Melanin Moms Media is holding a space for brands to partner with us to create and implement quality campaigns, captivating digital content, event activation, and brand engagement using moms of color influencers to reach moms of color consumers.” https://melaninmomsmedia.com

Claudette Colvin

Eva D. Coleman Fort Worth native Eva D. Coleman is a former Miss Paul Laurence Dunbar High School (89-90) Eva is an award-winning journalist and educator. In addition to being named Teacher of the Year by the Student Television Network (STN), she was named journalism educator of the year by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). .Ms. Coleman has impacted numerous students during her 17-year tenure in Frisco ISD, including teaching roles at Frisco High School, Lone Star High School and the Career and

There’s so much more we can say about these outstanding women. And there are so many more. So, again, send in your nominations to editor@texasmetronews.com. And guess what, when you look into the mirror there’s a superb woman looking right back at you; even if you haven’t realized it yet! We salute these women., and those unnamed, who are responsible for breathing life into this world. And as we salute one another, let’s vow to not be a part of the travesty that has been perpetrated against us forever and ever. Let’s put an end to the worse kind of violence that is contributing to the demise of a civilized society -- one that does not value its women! This is my truth, what is yours? myimessenger.com

April 9, 2021

I MESSENGER

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April 9, 2021

Man is more a concept than a gender WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND

MILES’ JAYE How has something so seemingly simple become so confusing and complex? When I was growing up there was no confusion about a man, who one was and what it meant to be one. The Marlboro Man, the policeman, reverends, doctors, lawyers, judges, Hoss, Little Joe, Adam and Ben Cartwright and Walter Cronkite-John Wayne and Shaft. A father was a man, a soldier was a man, a gangster was a man. The one in charge, running things, was a man. A Pope was a man, a mafia Don was a man, a General was a man, a boss was a man. Martin was a man, Malcolm was a man, Ali was a man, Frazier was a man, Sidney Poitier was a man. The President was a man, the Vice-President was a man, the trash collector was a man, mail was delivered by a man. There was the assumption of strength, power and leadership that defined a man. Man was created in the image of God. Man was brave, adventurous, ingenious, inventive, creative and artistic. Man ruled kingdoms and harnessed the power of wild animals to do their bidding in fields of war and the power of other men in fields of cotton and sugar and tobacco. Man is brutal and savage. It was in Genesis, the very first April 9, 2021

book of the Holy Bible, that man slayed his own brother. Man betrayed and disobeyed God Himself by eating from the Tree of Life. Man brought us Jews, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and all that we worship today. Man brought us laws, customs and traditions observed and in practice for thousands of years, in every corner of the planet earth. Now man ventures into the cosmos to claim whatever is there. A Pharoah is a man, a King is a man, a Czar is a man, an Emperor is a man, a Caesar is

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was a man, Richard Allen was a man, Marcus Garvey was a man, Frederick Douglass was a man, W.E.B. DuBois was a man, Jackie Robinson was a man, Langston Hughes was a man. With so many examples of what it is to be a man, how could we fall so far from what a man is? Today, man is more a concept than a gender. Adam represented man, not an individual, but a man. From the ground, from the dirt, from clay, from ashes he came and to ashes he did, and we shall

A man is his soul, his mind, his heart. A man, rich or poor, is deeply connected to the ground he walks upon and the sky overhead that he sings to and prays to. A man honors the land, ground, dirt, and soil toiled for generations. A man’s ancestors live with him in his spirit.”

a man, Genghis Khan was a man, Kublai Khan was a man, Saladin Ayyubi was a man, Chaka Zulu was a man. King David was a man, Abraham was a man, Moses was a man, Jesus Christ was a man, Muhammad was a man. Paul Robeson was a man, Othello was a man, James Baldwin was a man, Richard Wright was a man, Duke Ellington was a man, Billy Strayhorn was a man, Count Basie was a man, Adam Clayton Powell was a man, A. Phillip Randolph was a man, Medgar Evers was a man, George Floyd was a man. Marvin Gaye

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no doubt return. Man is not swag. Man is not charisma. Man is not a six-pack-- neither Ali nor Frazier wore a six pack into the Championship ring. Man is not neck chains and face tats. A man is not his bag. A man is not his power, or his politics, a man is his word, and his beliefs, and his practices. A man is his soul, his mind, his heart. A man, rich or poor, is deeply connected to the ground he walks upon and the sky overhead that he sings to and prays to. A man honors the land, ground, dirt, and soil toiled for generations. A man’s ancestors live with him in his

spirit. A man’s hands should touch the earth and the sand, cool still waters, oceans, rivers, lakes and streams. A man should reach to the and the heavens by day and the stars by night for peace and tranquility. A man may possess lust, pride, gluttony, wrath, envy, sloth and greed-- the Seven Deadly Sins, but a real man seeks his God for forgiveness and goodness. A true man knows that the most beautiful of musical tones is that of atonement. A man with a humble heart will always trump, outlast and outdistance a man with the hardest of hearts, even if it is only his legacy that survives the battle. Brutal men, drunk with power ran America for the past four years. They ruled with hatred, hostility, xenophobia and racism. They exhibited no signs or evidence of compassion and tore America apart at the seams. Men desperate to maintain power violently attacked the Capitol buildings in Washington, D.C. and gained only infamy for their troubles. I’m hoping and praying that better men will prove better leaders, better stewards of this experiment they call Democracy, better keepers of the land, the peace and the people, and I’m thanking God for providing woman to make man’s work more tenable. That’s what’s on my mind! Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com

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After March, Black Women’s Organizations Still Matter THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

March was Women’s History Month, and the perfect time to lift the Black women’s organizations that make such an essential difference in our lives. Last year, both the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women (NANBPW) celebrated their 85th anniversary. Thanks to COVID, neither organization had the opportunity to celebrate in the way they planned; now they are celebrating by Zoom. The differently scaled celebration does not diminish the importance that these organizations have. When I think of NCNW, I think of the late Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, who used to say, “If I tap you with my finger, you may or may not feel it, but if I combine these five fingers into a fist, you will definitely feel it. “ Dr. Height was not a pugilistic woman, but she was a fervent believer in the power of the collective. And NCNW, an “organization of organizations,” certainly fits that bill. Too many times, in modern history, NCNW, the collective, has been present. Many of us, for example, attended Labor Secretary Alexis Herman’s confirmation hearings, many wearing the crimson and cream colors of Delta Sigma myimessenger.com

Theta sorority, Ms. Herman’s sorority (and also mine). Deltas were not the only people in the house. Other Divine Nine sisters joined us, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Zeta Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho. We made an impression, and those senators prepared to grill Herman had to think twice because we were there. Black women had a tremendous impact on this current election. I think of LaTosha Brown, a Black Votes Matter leader, and the tireless work she did to get voters out. I think of Melanie Campbell and the sisters of the Black Women’s Roundtable. There are so many more Black women and Black Women’s organizations that made a difference in this election. President Biden has acknowledged the Black community and Black women in particular. It is crucial, though, that our coalition continues to stay active and connected. One Black woman, Kristen Clarke, has been nominated to serve as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. Already the right-wing is going after her with their usual smear campaign tactics, taking comments out of context and blowing them up. The same coalition that worked to get the vote out now must work to support this exceptional woman. Similarly, two other women of color are being smeared. Vanita Gupta, President of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights,

Dr. Dorothy Irene Height

has been attacked by rabid right-wingers. Another woman of color, Neera Tanden, who leads the Center for American Progress, has been attacked for her tweets. Really? Her tweets, some say, are vicious. When have tweets adhered to a civility protocol? The coalition of Black women who have always made a difference must step up to support these women, too. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, the founder of NCNW, was a firm believer in diversity and inclusion. She reached out to white women who shared our values and worked in coalition with them when she could, given the constraints of the time. She would approve supporting sisters Gupta and Tanden, women of color just like us. While we might not be on the same page as these sisters on everything, we have enough in common to be passionate in their defense. The smear tactics that the rabid right uses to smear these women are unacceptable. They are the same tactics

that these people use against Vice President Kamala Harris. We need to make sure they don’t work. I often wonder what motivated Dr. Bethune to form an organization in the middle of the Great Depression, when overall unemployment rates soared to 25 percent and Black unemployment was two or three times higher. In 1935, food lines snaked around city blocks and down dusty roads in rural communities. Too many Black folks were pushed to the back of the line or denied assistance altogether. The indignities were innumerable, but Bethune shrugged them off to build a powerful organization with unprecedented access to President Roosevelt. She walked into Roosevelt’s office with the collective strength of Black women in her fingers or her fist. Black women’s organizations don’t get the credit they are due, so these organizations must be lifted in Women’s History Month. What would our nation be without these organizations who get out the vote, raise money for scholarships, provide social and civic services, and do so much more? I don’t want to know the answer. All I know is that Black women’s organizations matter. We must celebrate them! Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

April 9, 2021

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So Why Should I Be Ashamed? FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Shame and guilt are two powerful emotions. I think many of us have experiences from our childhood that shape who we are because of those moments of being laughed at, bullied, or even violated by others. If we are not careful, those emotions drive us to cover them up with addictions to food, sex, overspending, or other self-destructive behaviors. Guilt is about behavior. Shame is about how we see ourselves. We can change behavior but what happens when we don’t feel that we can change ourselves? One of the first examples of shame was in the book of Genesis in the Bible. Genesis 2: 25 states that “Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.” The serpent comes, twists what God said and based on inaccurate information, they made a decision. They went against God’s command and ate the fruit. In Chapter 3:7, “Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?”10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was myimessenger.com

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We can also change the narrative from one that the serpent gives us filled with inaccuracies about ourselves to one that is liberating, freeing, and honest.”

afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?”12 The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” 13 Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?”

down and unable to really address what we are feeling. Isn’t it interesting that instead of taking responsibility, Adam blamed Eve for his decision? Shame often keeps us from looking in the mirror, afraid of what we’ll see or experience when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. We also hide not only from ourselves, but we hide from God. We allow

Shame did not enter the lives of Adam and Eve until they were aware that they were exposed. In their discovery, the immediate response was to hide. They covered themselves and instead of addressing their vulnerability of being naked, they covered it up. God was obviously fine with their nakedness/vulnerability because they were created that way. Yet, we can see this as weakness instead of seeing it as the opportunity for freedom. For many of us, we do the exact same thing. We cover up our shame with layers of other issues that keep us weighted

our shame to keep us from being in relationship with God because we feel worthless, unacceptable, and dirty. Scholar Brene Brown researches guilt, shame and vulnerability. She says that shame is an “intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging.” We experience “uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure. When we feel dark emotions—when we feel grief or shame or fear, scarcity, disappointment—we feel risk and uncertainty, and we

feel emotionally exposed and raw. But vulnerability is also the birthplace of love, joy, belonging, trust, intimacy, creativity, and all of the good things.” Vulnerability isn’t a bad thing. What would have happened if Adam had been honest about what occurred instead of hiding and blaming? What would have occurred if they both remained in their initial state, naked and without shame? God wants us to be in that space of openness and willingness to commune even when we want to retreat away from the pain. It is within those moments of transparency with God and with ourselves, that we can experience a deeper relationship. We can also change the narrative from one that the serpent gives us filled with inaccuracies about ourselves to one that is liberating, freeing, and honest.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the Founder and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, specializing as a Partnership Broker and Leadership Expert for companies and organizations to thrive with measurable and meaningful impact. She also is the VP of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas.

April 9, 2021

Kill the Trend! QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL Many of my fondest childhood memories were framed at the Church. I had the pleasure of living much of my formative years with my grandparents, specifically the Reverend Zechariah Alexander Peter James John Figures, known to the public and his fellow pulpiteers as Z. R. Living in the Goodwill Baptist Church’s parsonage just 60 feet diagonally from the steps of the sanctuary taught me a lot. Anything I didn’t glean from Papa’s strap, I learned by watching the people who came in and around the perimeter of the Church. Most of the “well-trained” pedestrians who strolled the streets paid strict obeisance to the stature and the church grounds’ sanctity. If a smoker walked by, he extinguished his cigarette and resumed his puff sensation after he was well beyond the front door. Likewise, winos, jickheads and drunks, secured their serum safely in their posterior pockets as they made their sinful procession toward home or some den of ill repute. It was not enough that their liquor was hidden in pintsized paper bags; they eased by as if the church walls impaired God’s vision. Of course, Rev. Figures had taught us that God was omnipresent and omniscient, so we knew these sinners were paying their respects. God had the “whole world in his hands,” and it was just his “Amazing Grace” that alApril 9, 2021

lowed those sinners to live. I was not smoking and drinking then, but I knew I was a sinner, too, just a different kind. The Church; every Church in our community was sacred. You would have thought Jesus could see you from each picture frame. It was the place where I learned what it means to be a “gentleman.” Our mothers had a healthy disdain for heathens and took stringent measures to see that we did not fall among the brood of them. Once we were in Church, we could not chew gum, talk, or fidget. My mother scolded me often for having the nerve to put my hands in my pocket as I stood for prayer. She deemed it disrespectful to do anything that did not reverence God or his Holy Temple. Reverend Figures was even worse. He never condoned clapping as a matter of applause or keeping the beat of the music. He could nev-

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er have accepted the instruments and “worldly music” that dominate today’s church services. God was God, the world was the world, and never the two were twain. There were several occasions when I despised my rigorous religious regimen. I grew weary of attending Sunday School, Worship Service, and three o’clock Teas with all the older women. The mints, peanuts, punch, and cookies were good. However, in the back of my mind, I knew we still had B.T.U. (Baptist Training Union) ahead of us at six post meridiem. All that good religion came rushing back to me the other day as I heard the news that another young Black man was gunned down. Which one? Pick one! Similar murders are happening among our Brown brothers. What have we become? What are we teaching this generation?

My childhood has long since been gone, but some images do not die. I finally rid my subconscious of that “White Jesus” that “Lorded” over the walls of seemingly every Black Church. Nevertheless, I cling to the Ten Commandments, and “Thou Shall Not Kill” is chief among them. America does not have the answer for the growing issues of men and violence. Young men of all races seem less inhibited about taking another life. We politicize their espoused beliefs, but frankly, whether they quote Trump, Farrakhan, or The KKK is less critical than their propensity to use lethal force as an option. Church and religion cannot solve all our problems, but we need to kill this trend. Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

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April 9, 2021

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April 9, 2021

West is about the business of Garland By CHERYL SMITH Angela Graham West wants Garland citizens to know a few things about her that she hopes will provide insight into why she would be the ideal person to join the Garland City Council after the May 1, 2021 election. In a four-way race for the District 3 seat, she faces Vickie Jackson-High, PC Mathew and Edward Moore. In District 1, Jeff Bass, John Grimley and Angie Whitney each hope to avoid a runoff and in the other three Districts — 6, 7, and 8; Robert Vera, Dylan Hedrick and Robert John Smith are the unopposed incumbents. In the nonpartisan race for mayor, incumbent Scott LeMay is being challenged by Roel Garcia. Interestingly, all candidates except for the incumbents are first time council candidates. Out of the nine sitting members of the Council, two are African American, Rev. Ricky C. McNeal and veteran council member B.J. Williams; who returned to the council in November 2020, after sitting out a term. Rev. McNeal, who was president of the Garland NAACP was appointed to fill the District One seat after the sole candidate in the November election withdrew. A special election was called for May, however according Garland statutes he was ineligible to seek office. West, who is proud of her Jamaican heritage, is a financial planner with LPL Financial, which has offices in Ft Lauderdale, Dallas, and Washington, DC; and she has earned a doctorate degree in April 9, 2021

Business from Kansas State University. Although she’s a fairly new transplant to the area, this businesswoman does not see that as giving her opponents any leverage. She said her family moved from Dallas to Garland because in addition to Garland being a beautiful city, there were also the possibilities of having a neighborhood with land. Touting the many positive reasons for choosing Gar-

in Fayetteville, North Carolina and safe, beautiful family-type environments, sounds ideal. A conversation with the wife and mother is pretty calm and relatively low key as she talks about why she chose to seek office. Her husband, former U.S. Congressman Allen West, is heavily involved in politics, but her focus was on why Angela, not Allen, is the candidate on the ballot.

Angela Graham West

land, she said she is focused on community and business; that citizens should be concerned about the type of businesses that come into neighborhoods and change the entire dynamics. “I see the benefits of having enclaves that benefit communities,” she explained, adding that there are enough pawn shops, auto repair shops and other businesses along those lines that are not necessarily appropriate for the neighborhoods she thinks of or wants when talking about Garland. It is also something she witnessed, she said, when living

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For her, the election and ultimate focus is about public service, giving and working. “My campaign is about bettering the community, not about using this position as a stepping stone to a higher office,” she said. “I want to make sure this area stays in the best possible shape.” And for her, the best possible shape has to do with ensuring that there are small business opportunities and that the businesses that are in the community are ones that also foster the neighborly spirit that is associated with her vision of a neighborhood,

where families and businesses thrive. Not too much to ask, especially from an area that’s touted as one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, in addition receiving positive reviews about quality of life. Although the 2010 census boasted a little over a quarter of million citizens, a lot has happened since and last count, city officials reported an increase that now has that number at just about 240,000 resident with an estimated median household income in 2019 of $62,556; which was a huge jump from year 2000, when it was $49,156. Garland is large in terms of the area, with 57 square miles of land area, and it has a lot to offer, admits West, adding that she‘d like homebuyers and the right businesses to head East instead of North, when looking for land, homes and other opportunities because Garland has so “much to offer.” Those 57 square miles can call for some coalition building as three counties: Collin, Dallas and Rockwall can lay claim to portions of the city. During that census, Garland also had an African American mayor in Dr. Ronald Jones, and citizens were optimistic about the future growth as more and more citizens were eyeing the Lone Star State as a place to stake their claims. For West, who is proud to note that she speaks her mind, being part of the continued growth and development of Garland is all this mother of two wants to do. Early voting begins on April 19, 2021. myimessenger.com

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April 9, 2021

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COVID-19 Call the hotline The bestHotline way to 24-7 protect yourself and others is to 214-670-INFO (4636) to get information regarding: stay at home. •Current COVID-19 Regulations & Testing Locations •Employment Assistance •Federal Relief Payment Information •Volunteer/Assistance Opportunities •Rental/Mortgage, and Eviction Assistance •Small Business Assistance •Social Services (food pantry, childcare assistance, senior assistance, unsheltered resident assistance and mental health resources) •Utility Payment Assistance

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April 9, 2021

NABJ President calls for News companies to provide Coping Resources during Chauvin Trial As the trial of Derek Chauvin becomes a central focus of the news cycle, we urge news companies to provide resources to Black journalists and communicators to help them cope with the emotional trauma of covering, rewatching and hearing the testimonies of George Floyd’s death. For many reporting on this story, they must work hard to balance the reality that Floyd could have been them or their loved ones while also maintaining their professionalism, as they report the facts. Covering the trial may also trigger trauma tied to past experiences and previous stories of Black citizens harmed at the hands of police. We urge our members to take advantage of coping and Dorothy Tucker Photo Courtesy NABJ mental health resources made available by their companies and health plans or to request such resources if they are not readily available. We also remind members to turn to one another and the NABJ Family for comfort when things get too heavy and revisit our Coping and Safety Resources link (which includes past mental health and coping webinars) to help with dealing with the various emotions they may be feeling. The link is here: https:// nabjonline.org/blog/resources-forcoping-and-safety/ Our prayers and thoughts are with all journalists who are carrying a huge responsibility in this defining moment in our nation’s history. April 9, 2021

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April 9, 2021

What We Learned from Day 1 of Derek Chauvin Trial By NEKIMA LEVY ARMSTRONG From the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder It was previously believed that Derek Chauvin pressed his knee into George Floyd’s neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds. During opening statements of the Derek Chauvin murder trial, the state prosecution team made clear that Chauvin actually kept his knee on Floyd’s neck for 9 minutes and 29 seconds. This was not a split-second decision on Chauvin’s part. He did not fear for his safety. This was torture, as evidenced by the smug look on Chauvin’s face at the time and the fact that he even appeared to bounce on Floyd’s neck as bystanders pleaded with him to release Floyd. Chauvin’s defense team plans to present evidence that he acted within the scope of the training that he received through the Minneapolis Police Department. In other words, his defense lawyers will argue that he was trained to subdue criminal suspects using the dangerous technique that he used on Floyd. The prosecution team has made clear that they plan to refute Chauvin’s assertion by calling Minneapolis Police Chief Arradondo to the stand. The Chief will likely testify that Chauvin did not act in accordance with departmental training or protocols when he pressed his knee into Mr. Floyd’s neck for a grueling 9 minutes and 29 seconds. April 9, 2021

Derek Chauvin

During opening statements, Chauvin’s defense team attempted to cast blame on bystanders who were present during the deadly encounter; claiming that the crowd grew increasingly large and angry, and called officers bad names. Defense counsel claimed that the behavior of the bystanders diverted the attention of the officers away from Floyd. Two bystanders testified about what they witnessed and/or documented regarding Chauvin and the other three officers’ conduct who aided and abetted Chauvin. It is important to keep in mind that bystanders were attempting to stop the police from murdering a Black man in broad daylight. Were it not for the bystander video the world might not know what really happened to Floyd. The crowd of bystanders exercised a great deal of restraint by trying to reason with the officers, rather than getting physical. Both the prosecution team

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and the defense alluded to the fact that there will likely be dueling medical expert testimony regarding the exact cause of death of Floyd. It is likely that multiple doctors will testify during the trial, as expert witnesses. Prosecutors will use medical testimony in an attempt to show that even with drugs in Floyd’s system, and his pre-existing medical conditions, the cause of his death was Chauvin’s knee on his neck. Defense attorneys will attempt to use medical evidence to infer that Floyd’s consumption of fentanyl and other alleged substances, coupled with an underlying heart issue, and a (bogus) medical condition called “excited delirium” are responsible for Floyd’s death, and not Chauvin’s knee. The defense team will attempt to put Floyd on trial and argue that he is responsible for his own death. Defense attorneys have already made note of Floyd’s weight and height, in comparison with Chauvin’s weight and height. They will claim that Floyd injured his own nose (which was bleeding) and body as a result of a struggle with officers in the backseat of a squad car. They will also argue that Floyd refused to follow officers’ orders from the moment they encountered him in his vehicle. They will argue that he resisted arrest and that officers used the level of force reasonably

necessary to subdue him. Now of course, no reasonable police officer would draw a weapon on a person and use deadly force because of their use of an alleged counterfeit $20 bill to buy cigarettes. Cup Foods had no business calling police over an alleged counterfeit $20 bill and could have identified a more humane and appropriate way to address the situation. It is not a secret that Minneapolis Police have a reputation for engaging in excessive force, deadly force, over-criminalization of Black residents, and harassment of those they deem to be “undesirables.” Once Cup Foods made the unwise decision to call Minneapolis Police, the call should have been de-prioritized in light of the more serious crimes taking place in the city. And it certainly should not have taken five officers to come upon the scene for such a minor infraction that should have resulted in a warning, at best, or a citation at worst. Instead, the 911 call, in this case, became a death sentence for an unarmed Black man and father who pleaded with officers for his life and called out to his mother for comfort and relief. From where I sit, this trial is a formality. We all saw what happened. We all know why it happened. Derek Chauvin must be held see TRIAL, page 28

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April 9, 2021

Trial,

from page 26... accountable under the law for the murder of Floyd. Nekima Levy Armstrong is a civil rights attorney, forApril 9, 2021

mer law professor, activist, legal scholar, and national racial justice expert. She is the founder and owner of Levy Armstrong, PLLC Law Firm & Black Pearl, LLC Consulting. In 2017, she was named 100 People to Know by Twin Cities Business. In 2016, she

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received the Distinguished Service Award from the Governor’s Commission on Martin Luther King Day. In 2015, she was named one of “40 Under 40” by Minneapolis/ St. Paul Business Journal. In 2014, she was named a “Minnesota Attorney of the

Year” by Minnesota Lawyer and recognized as one of “50 Under 50 Most Influential Law Professors of Color in the Country” by Lawyers of Color Magazine. This article originally appeared on the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. myimessenger.com

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April 9, 2021

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April 9, 2021

May 1st opening day debuts with first ever Black Heritage Celebration

Summer at the Arboretum Features the Popular ZimSculpt, an Exhibition of Contemporary Zimbabean Stone Sculptures April 9, 2021

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden presents the return of the international blockbuster exhibit ZimSculpt, a world-renowned collection of hand-selected, modern Zimbabwean stone sculptures. As the signature event of Summer at the Arboretum, ZimSculpt runs from May 1 to Aug. 8. To celebrate the opening day of ZimSculpt, the Dallas Arboretum hosts the first ever Black Heritage Celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The day is filled with events surrounding ZimSculpt, cooking demonstrations and Black-

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owned businesses showcasing and selling their crafts. From 2 to 4 p.m., the Don Diego Band performs jazz and R&B. ZimSculpt features the talent of several contemporary Zimbabwean artists with more than 100 hand-selected, exquisite sculptures artfully displayed throughout the garden. These contemporary pieces, created by the Shona people of Zimbabwe, are carved from various types of serpentine and semi-precious stone, often weighing tons, and can be as large as seven feet tall. ZimSculpt is passionate

about promoting the work of some of the finest Zimbabwean sculptors. Therefore, as part of the exhibit, guests are welcome to watch artists and sculptors Passmore Mupindiko and Brighton Layson demonstrate their artistry daily as they carve statues with chisels, hammers, files and sandpaper. (More information about the sculptors can be found at the end of the release.) According to Jim Ryan, Dallas Arboretum board chairman, “After their popular success in 2017, we’re excited to welcome back ZimSculpt to myimessenger.com

showcase the magnificent contemporary sculptures that fit perfectly in our garden setting. The statues have been described as strong and delicate, stark and complex, contemporary and exquisitely handmade. We invite you to see them this summer.” Visitors may purchase any of the sculptures on display in the garden, as well as the ones created by the onsite artists in The Marketplace, which is located in the Dallas Arboretum’s Pecan Grove. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the sculptures and items in The Marketplace supports the Dallas Arboretum. ZimSculpt is supported in part by the Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District. Tickets must be pre-purchased online or by calling 214-515-6615. Wearing a face covering is required for all guests five years of age while visiting the Dallas Arboretum, unless medically unable to do so. About the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is located on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218. The Dallas Arboretum is also the home of the internationally acclaimed Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. The Arboretum is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. General admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and older, $10 for children 3-12 and free for Arboretum members and children two and under. There is an additional cost of $3 per person for entrance into the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. On-site parking is $15; pre-purchased online parking is $8. The Dallas Morning News is the principal partner of the Dallas Arboretum. The Arboretum is supported, in part, by funds from the Dallas Park and Recreation Department. WFAA is an official media sponsor for the Dallas Arboretum. For more information, call 214.515.6500 or visitwww.dallasarboretum.org. myimessenger.com

Meet the Artists Passmore Mupindiko Passmore Mupindiko started carving in wood in 1992 after his father passed away. As he developed these masterful skills, he transitioned to carving and working with stone in 1998. He continued to improve his knowledge of care, maintenance and carving of stone at the Tengenenge Arts Community. His main subjects in stone are leaf-bowls, slender Guinea fowl, shells and leaf heads. Mupindiko has also taught sculpture workshops on the coast at camps for children and adults to

learn step-by-step the art and uniqueness of Zimbabwean stone carving and maintenance. Since 2004, he has toured with ZimSculpt. He serves as

a vital support role to this culturally unique exhibit by installing, polishing, caring, removing and packing the fragile Zimbabwean stone sculptures.

sculpture and care for stones reflects what an artist feels, thinks and sees. Since 2019, he

has toured, presented and provided support for various ZimSculpt exhibitions.

Brighton Layson

Brighton Layson, who began his career in engineering, began sculpting in 1999 when he worked as his brother’s assistant sculptor at Gwindingwi Sculptors in Zimbabwe. He started making sculpting tools and is now a major supplier of these tools in the art industry. Along with other sculptors, he formed the Tafara Mabvuku Art Association (TAMAA). In 2014, he was invited to join renowned Dominic Benhura’s Studio. Using nature as his main inspiration, Layson believes stone

April 9, 2021

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar National Financial Literacy Month April 1 April Fool’s Day

Caribbean Saturday’s Pop Up DFW at 3409 Main St. Suite B Dallas. No Cover B4 11:00 pm. with RSVP: Eventbrite.com.

Apex Startup Program has a Free Masterclass: How to Start a Trucking Company at: my.demio.com. 11-12 pm. CDT.

New Mount Zion Baptist Church presents Story of the Resurrection Easter Celebration at New Mount Zion Baptist Church, 9550 Shepherd Rd. Dallas. 1-3 pm. Social Distancing.

April 7

April 4

Charles R. Drew dies in 1950 Linny Nance Network. Hosted by The Free Man, 2626 Commerce St. 7-10 pm. Grandscape Texas, Grand Opening Live Performers. Explore, Experience, Enjoy Grandscape Texas, 5752 Grandscape Blvd., The Colony. 4-9 pm. CDT. Justice for Greenwood Virtual Town Hall. Hosted by Justice for Greenwood Foundation. Watch at 6:30 pm. CDT. Online https://www.facebook.com/justiceforgreenwood/live.

I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Easter Sunday Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio. com 8-10 am. on Sundays. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Call in at 646-200-0459.

April 2-4

Neighborhood Credit Union presents a Virtual Financial Literacy: Credit Scores & Reports Workshop. Online: myncu. com. 11:30-12:30 pm. Journey Woman Publisher Carolyn Ray presents Solo Travel Safety for Women: Tips from a Self-Defense Expert, Lorna Selig. Reg: https://bit.ly/3m0L18C. 3 pm. CDT. Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson. 12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson.

Ubuntu Market, for Small Business. Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 12-5 pm. For vendor Info: Email: adjwoahogue@yahoo.com.

Easter at One Community Church at One Community Church, 2400 State Hwy., Plano. For times each Church Campus Location, RSVP: https://www.visitonecc.com.

April 2 Willie “Bill” Pickett dies in 1932 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CDT, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. TBAAL presents Promising Young Artists, Feat: Jada Arnell. Muse Cafe Theatre, 1309 Canton St. Tickets: Tickemaster.com. 9 pm. Project COVID Virtual Job Fair / Career Expo Event in Dallas. Times and dates vary. Reg: projectcovid.org/we/jobfair. Flexible Hires Virtual Job Fair / Career Expo Event. Hosted by Officejobs.org. First Friday of every month Times vary. Reg: https.//flexibalhires.com/jobexpo.

The National Civil Rights Museum presents Remembering MLK: The Man. The Movement. The Moment. Online: april4th.org 5-6:30 pm. CDT.

April 3 Carter G. Woodson dies in 1950 Fruit of Calvary Worship Night. Event hosted by Chris Liverman. Online on Facebook.com/Chris Liverman. 6 pm. CST. “Black Laughs Matter” Virtual Comedy Show. Feat: Ajaye Mae & Marcus Williams. Online. Tickets: Eventbrite.10 pm CDT.

April 8 1974 Henry Aaron hits his 715th home run Ready, Set, Go - Design Your 2021 Action Plan! Session II. Online at: AARP Michigan. Reg: https://aarp.cvent.com/ Ready48 10-11 am. CST.

April 5 Collin L. Powell born in 1937 Dallas Examiner presents Monday Night Politics May 1st City Council Election Forums. Panel includes District 8 candidates (South Oak Cliff). Contact: Mbelt@Dallasexaminer.com. Register: http://bit.ly/3cVOBN8 6 pm. lota Lambda Zeta presents Mental Health Mondays Segments Part II. Live on Facebook/Iota Lambda Zeta 6-8 pm. CST Reg: http://www.iotalambdazeta.webs.com.

Delta Sigma Theta Arlington Alumnae presents Financially Free with DST. Reg: http://bit.ly/390FYzI. 6:308:30 pm. CST. AARP presents African American Family Research, Dallas. Feat: Pamela Bailey of Big Family Search. Online event, register at: bit.ly/3mlrapS. 6-8 pm. CDT. Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce presents Let’s Get Connected. Hosts: Darry Brewer and author, Stae Hall and owner of iSALT. Reg: https://bit.ly/2PFJqsC. 7-9 pm. CDT. Eventbrite.

April 6

1909 Matthew A. Henson reaches the North Pole

South Dallas Concert Choir presents Seven Last Words of Christ: A Spiritual Journey. Online: southdallasconcertchoir.org. 12 pm. Donate at: SouthDallasConcertChoir.org.

April 9, 2021

Billie Holiday born in 1915

THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @ fnsconsulting, and You Tube @docshepspeaks

April 9

Traders Village presents Big Mamou Cajun Fest at Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Rd. Grand Prairie. 11 am-5 pm.

April 10 1975 Lee Elder was the first Black to play in a Masters Championship Howard County Unit of National Association of Parliamentarians presents Parliamentary Law Day. Online Tickets: hcu.pld.eventbrite.com. 8 pm. CDT. “Black Laughs Matter” Virtual Comedy Show. Host Terry Dorsey. Features: Dawn B. Online event. Eventbrite.com 10 pm CDT. GLOW # 12 | DJ PLAYBOY B-day Bash | feat PLATINUM KIDS from NYC at Heroes Lounge, 3094 N. Stemmons Fwy. 4 pm-3 am. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Chris Howell Foundation, Winter Relief Drive. Tarrant County College-South, 5301 Campus Dr. Fort Worth. Free at Eventbrite.com. 9 am-1 pm.

April 11 1881 Spelman College in Atlanta GA Opens The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. on Sundays. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459. An African American and Latinx History of the United States. Event by Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History. Online: tinyurl.com 2 pm CDT. Neo Soul Sundays feat: Melodie Nicole at Lava Cantina, 5805 Grandscape Blvd. 4-10 pm. Tickets: maturepartycrowd.com.

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Paul Robeson born in 1898

The Jirah Nicole Show with Jirah Nicole. From 11 am-1 pm. CST Tuesday’s on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@ TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

BE Creative Arts Center hosts Soul Line Dance Tuesdays– LIVE Virtual Dance Sessions. Streamed Via: Facebook.com/@ becreativeartscenter 7-8 pm CDT.

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April 10-11

Dr Stacia Alexander LPC-S presents a Power Peace Prosperity Masterclass. Reg: www. PowerPeaceProsperity.com 7 pm. CDT

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BIG MAMA SAID:

MY BIG MAMA SAID PRAY FOR THE PRIVATE MIRACLES AND SHOW UP AND BE READY THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

She never spoke badly of anyone at all, she always would take the high road no matter what was being said about others during her inner circle talk. Yes, my Grandmother, Lucille “Big Mama” Allen, during her lifetime instilled so many lessons in all of us. This one was hard one for me to execute and she knew it. She repeatedly said find the good in all people and that would be enough! Over my lifetime I finally knew what she meant. I stopped to observe her words in the conversation she had with her church sisters. When they ‘discovered’ information about another person she would always interject the negative comments with a “high road.” I recall one of their conversations when a member of the small community got an eviction notice on her door. One of the Church Sisters would lean back, roll her eyes and with a certain amount of authority say, “You know Sister So-and-so got an eviction notice and her husband left her over two months ago.” All of the church sisters would go in on what they myimessenger.com

“

I stopped to observe her words in the conversation she had with her church sisters. When they ‘discovered’ information about another person she would always interject the negative comments with a “high road.” I recall one of their conversations when a member of the small community got an eviction notice on her door.”

knew and you would hear one sister comment on the philandering husband. You would then hear one say he flirted with her, as if that empowered her during the gathering.

the Big Mama Rule- “Children should be seen not heard”, I heard Big Mama call out each of the other sisters with several questions: Evie can you make that peach cobbler this

The comments were never supportive! No one said “poor child” or “I feel so bad for here”. Even though they used many words from the Bible, none of them were – “Let’s pray for Sister Brown” or “I hope God intervenes with a miracle.” Yet as I sit there following

week for ten people? What about you Rosetta can also give us 2-3 of those special cakes? And Charlene, “can you get Joe to give us some ribs for say our entire bible group?” She begins to ask each and every one to complete a task? Her last question was always

about time. “What are you all doing Saturday at noon?” They all agreed then they asked, “Lucille what is this for?” She stood up on the porch and said, “we are going to have a picnic bake sale fundraiser for Sister Brown to pay her rent.” She reminded each church sister what was done for them, the reason it was done and how we all pitched in! She found the good in them. Big Mama made each one of them remember how they received help as well as how the church family helped them. In closing, she then pushed them to reward others with the power to give back. FYI, she received Church Mother of the Year for three years in a row, uncontested! Big Mama, I get it now. Find the Good in Everybody. Recognize Their Soul. You Will Be Rewarded. I do it every daydo you? Terry Allen is an award-winning multi-media journalist and owner of 1016 Media.

April 9, 2021

Single Dad Needs Help ASK ALMA BY ALMA GILL

Dear Alma, I’m a single dad who recently relocated with my job. I’m raising my 11-yearold daughter alone. Her mom passed away 4 years ago. After my wife passed, I decided to focus on my daughter and do my best to raise her alone. I meet and date women but none of them seem to understand I am not interested in getting married. They all think my daughter needs a mother. I don’t have a problem with that, because I know that’s my decision

to make. I’m aware there are some things she needs to learn from a woman, but my question is, are there any programs offered to girls to need support from women? Please don’t say the church, been there done that. Raymond W. Hi Raymond, Please accept my sincerest condolences to you and your sweet daughter. I appreciate your emailing me. That warms my heart. I think this situation is much easier to resolve than you think. Yes indeed, there are some organizations you can explore for your daughter. Of course the Girl Scouts is what first comes to mind. May I suggest along with checking

out various organizations, that you talk to her and find out what she’s interested in. Does she like to dance or play a sport? Once the two of you figure that out, get her involved. If she’s participating in something that she loves, she’ll make friends quickly and begin to open those doors of communication. Unlike boys, girls talk to each other about everything. Once she finds her favorite BFF, she’ll be fine. Ok, I’ll stay away from mentioning the church as a resource, LOL. I hear you without speaking a word about that one, LOL. You can also check out local sorority chapters. They usually offer mentoring sessions during the school

year as well as summer programs. I participated in The Delta Teen Lift Program as a preteen; Google and see where they are in your area. It’s sponsored by Delta Theta Sorority, Inc. Don’t worry Daddy, you’re on the right track.The unconditional love you have for your daughter is really all she’ll need. The love, support and guidance she receives from you will propel her to reach for the moon while she’s dancing with the stars. Alma Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans more than 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.

www.grandpasecret.com April 9, 2021

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April 9, 2021

WNBA celebrates 25th Season

New theme, logo and more highlight landmark seaon By DOROTHY J. Gentry Sports Editor There’s a saying that “you can’t be, what you don’t see.” Sydney Colson knew she wanted to be a professional basketball player when she saw women playing on TV. “I grew up in Houston and watching the dynasty that was the (Houston) Comets and seeing those women dominate like that fueled and inspired me to want to keep working to play in the WNBA one day,” said Colson, who plays in the WNBA for the Chicago Sky. The WNBA was founded in 1996 with eight teams and a mission to uplift, encourage and showcase women athletes in the sport of basketball. “Playing with and against some of the best basketball players in the world is obviously going to make you a better athlete, but there’s also much to be said about playing in a league of grown women who are intelligent, outspoken, courageous, and down to ruffle some feathers,” Colson continued. “Not that we all have it figured out, but it’s empowering to be around fearless women who have a grasp on who they are and what they want in this life.” Over the years, despite challenges and setbacks, it remained steady and steadfast. It eventually grew to 12 teams, all while giving young girls dreams and hopes that one day they too, can be a part. Those fearless women who make up the WNBA are now celebrating its landmark 25th season. April 9, 2021

YEAR 25 Highlights of Year 25 include a new campaign theme Count It - a new 25th season commemorative logo which will be displayed on the courts, new team uniforms and new game ball, and a 25th anniversary advisory council made up of legends of the league. Additionally, all 12 WNBA teams will host specially-themed events and fan promotions all to celebrate ways its players have shattered expectations and have stood at the forefront of advancement, inclusion and social change for 25 years. “We are celebrating a quarter of a century of the impact the WNBA has made on sports and society, and on generations of young and diverse athletes,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. THE CELEBRATION Among the highlights of the 25th season are:: WNBA 25th Season Advisory Council The new advisory council for the 25th season is comprised of women’s basketball pioneers and WNBA legends including:

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four-time WNBA champion and four-time WNBA finals MVP Cynthia Cooper, WNBA champion and founder of Electra Beverages Fran Harris, two-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP Lauren Jackson, two-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP Lisa Leslie, WNBA All-Star and current ESPN reporter and analyst, Rebecca Lobo, four-time WNBA champion and threetime MVP Sheryl Swoopes, four-time WNBA champion and current University of Minnesota Women’s Head Coach Lindsay Whalen and Teresa Weatherspoon, five-time WNBA All-Star and New Orleans Pelicans Assistant Coach The council will meet periodically to help generate innovative ideas on how to grow the game and its fanbase. The W25 The League will select and honor its greatest players since its inception with the W25, who will be selected based on their overall contribution to the league and community. WNBA fans will also have the chance to vote on their favorite players. WNBA 25 Greatest Moments The WNBA’s 25 Greatest Moments will also be determined during the season and the moments ranked from No. 25 through No.1 and unveiled during the second half of the season and the playoffs. New WNBA Outfitting and Game Ball for 25th Season Leading up to the start of the 25th season, Nike will celebrate the league’s athletes with new uniforms and the official Wilson-

brand WNBA high-performance game ball will be unveiled. WNBA Social Justice Established last summer, the WNBA Justice Movement, led by the League’s Social Justice Council, will continue to lead work in the community to combat racial and gender inequality, promote advocacy for LBGTQ+ rights, and champion reform in systems where injustice persists. WNBA Commissioner’s Cup: This season also marks the debut of the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup, described as a “competition within a competition” featuring player prize pools. Engelbert said it was born out of the League’s collective bargaining agreement, with the players and League creating this additional revenue model and asset as a way to drive more interest in the WNBA. As the WNBA prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary, its identity is that of a League rooted in defying expectations and excelling in the face of adversity. It’s a League that means a lot to its fans and its players and it has every intention on being around for another 25 years.

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Godzilla vs Kong

AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

If you like Old School Monster Movies, you’re going to love Godzilla VS Kong. The two iconic monsters battle it out in a new film that is a sequel to two movies, 2014’s Godzilla King of The Monsters and 2017’s Kong Skull Island. Back in 2010, Legendary Entertainment acquired the rights to both monsters and for nearly 10 years they’ve been developing a movie with the two titans as adversaries. The film was originally to be released in 2019 in theaters but was, of course, delayed by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kong gets the majority of the film’s screen time. When the movie starts, he’s back on Skull Island and being constantly monitored by a company’s team of scientists. Dr. Ilene Andrews (Rebecca Hall) is the head of the Kong observation team and her adopted daughter Jia (Kaylee Hottle), a young deaf girl who develops a special bond with Kong, is communicating with him through sign language. The observation team decides to use Kong to lead them to Hollow Earth, a legendary space that lies at the center of the earth. They face all kinds of creatures inside Hollow Earth and with Kong’s help, they escape to find some type of emergence going on that leads both Kong and Godzilla to Hong Kong for an epic showdown. myimessenger.com

Armed with a giant battle ax, found in Hollow Earth, which is made of one of Godzilla’s dorsal fins, the two titanic monsters wage battle in the streets of Hong Kong; doing destruction to the entire city. The fight scenes between the two monsters are epic and made me wish I could have viewed the film on the big screen. All of the movie’s CGI effects and the film’s cinematography are amazing. The movie is well worth the wait. In the end, Godzilla and Kong have to team up to defeat a robotic Godzilla-looking creature with the fate of the world laying in the balance. The movie ends with the possibility of a sequel in the Monster Universe. It just depends on how the film is received by the movie-going public. (Which has been good so far. It made over $9 million on its opening day in theaters.)

The movie will be shown on HBO Max for the entire month of April and is also currently showing in movie theaters. It’s rated PG-13 for some creature violence; which may

frighten small children, and has a run time of 113 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate Godzilla VS Kong a LARGE.

April 9, 2021

ARRESTED

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community.

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU?

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477 April 9, 2021

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