I Messenger

VOL IX NO 50 AUGUST 14, 2020

I MESSENGER RUN KAMALA RUN Harris could bring victory for Democrats

LIFE AFTER A Memoir of Inspiration Post Survival

IMessenger An IMM LLC Publication

WILLIAMS: Times Three President Barack Obama delivers awards the 2013 Presidential Medal of Freedom to Cordy Tindell “C.T.�

Vivian during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House on Nov. 20, 2013.

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Established 2011 CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

AUGUST 14, 2020

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Credit: Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson

WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ.

From my youth, I can remember many of the elders lamenting that death comes in threes. In fact, when a community suffered the deaths of two elders, most of the others would walk and talk gingerly in wonderment of who would be next. Although rooted in superstition, the idea of Death Times 3 does sometimes seem to be valid, if not in fact, in circumstance. This month, the occurrence of Death Times 3 seems to be more than mere circumstance with the deaths of Rep. John Lewis, the Rev. C.T. Vivian and Mayor Charles Evers — three luminaries of the civil rights era.

Initially, questions loom: How do we fill the chasm? Who will fill the chasm? There’re some who, in passing, leave an immeasurable vacuum in the ether of history,

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causing all to wonder if this person can ever be replaced. This month, the challenge for the African American community is to resolve or answer these questions three times.

Throughout my life, I have heard and agreed with the premise that African Americans are not monolithic in our philosophies and opinions, and that the voice of one person does not represent our entirety. For the past 75 years, WE have been greatly blessed with any number of thinkers and representatives who have expressed our different perspectives with the singular goal of guiding “the race� to parity in the legal, economic and social structures of this nation. Lewis, Vivian and Evers are three such persons. Each in his own way has led others toward the achievement of the right of all citizens to equally enjoy the benefits that are constitutionally guaranteed.

I cannot do justice to a description of the achievements of any one of these men with the limit of

words available to me for each of my articles, much less three. To the extent that you may be unfamiliar with them, I encourage you to explore their biographies. With human nature as it is, I am sure one will be able to find much to admire and points with which you may disagree, but no one can argue the past significance of their contributions to “The Struggle� and the influence of their engagement upon the future.

As leaders representing the interests of thousands of African Americans, these men had an impact that was matched by a rare few. Although their individual approaches differed in many ways, their personal values drove them to self-sacrifice and lives of service to their communities and the nation. Common to them were character traits that enhanced their ability to guide others and demand results.

They were men of conviction. They identified principles that they consee WILLIAMS, page 16

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INSIDE

MY TRUTH

TERRY ALLEN

THE LAST WORD

Everyone has their own journey. The task of understanding your journey is enough without trying to figure out another’s. For example, you see someone screaming and shouting at a graduation and you give them a side eye;

Eddie Reeves, Founder of Reeves Strategy Group, has joined Vianovo, a leading strategy consultancy at the intersection of business, policy and politics, as part of their Dallas satellite office.

On the same day we learned that the US economy contracted by 9.5 percent in the second quarter of this year, the United States Senate adjourned and went home, even though the economic contraction is the largest

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AUGUST 14, 2020

MY TRUTH

by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Tamecka Grate Frazier

Everyone has their own journey.

The task of understanding your journey is enough without trying to figure out another’s.

For example, you see someone screaming and shouting at a graduation and you give them a side eye; probably thinking they are a bit over the top and just way too much.

But you don’t know what it took to get them to that point.

You don’t know what obstacles they overcame to walk across that stage and who was there to support that journey.

Which brings me to my truth.

I read Tamecka Grate Frazier’s book last month, but it wasn’t the first time I had heard her story. Her journey is definitely one worth knowing and sharing.

Veteran award-winning journalist Gary Reaves reached out to me about Tamecka 24 years ago and asked if I wanted the story.

He was already covering her brutal attack for Dallas-based ABC affiliate WFAA-TV and like a good friend he gave me an opportunity that I immediately accepted.

It was a story that would be carried not only locally and regionally, but nationally and internationally.

The 24-year-old began the year 1996 in a long, complicated surgery after being assaulted by her neighbor’s boyfriend, 26-year-old, Emanuel Moffert.

AUGUST 14, 2020

Your journey is your journey As she was turning 25 in May, Mr. Moffert was sentenced to life in prison for attempted capital murder. He is eligible for parole review January 1, 2026; 30 years to the day of his vicious attack.

When she was able, Tamecka joined me on Soul 73 KKDA-AM to talk about coming home from a New Year’s Eve affair and extending a courtesy to a man who repeatedly stabbed her with scissors before attempting to rape her.

What a way to start the new year!

Fortunately the police arrived before he could complete the rape, but the pair of scissors protruding from her skull was another story.

She was in surgery for 13 hours to remove the weapon that had been thrust four inches into her skull, missing her spinal cord, brain and major blood vessels.

After surgery, doctors referred to her case as a miracle.

Almost 25 years later, Tamecka has released her book, Life After.

She is one of a few “sources” who I have not only kept in touch with but also formed a personal relationship.

Could it have been because when someone lives through

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something so horrific and seemingly miraculous, maybe it made me gravitate toward her?

Or maybe it was her spirit, her warm smile and positive expressions of love for life and mankind.

Over the years we’ve kept in touch. I have never experienced a negative word or action from her and she has continued to evolve, living life to its fullest and shining her love on the world.

Then years later, she became my sorority sister, further sealing our bond.

Yes, we are members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and so many our sisters, or even others who meet her, don’t even know of that part of her journey because she doesn’t wear it on her sleeve like a badge of honor or as an attempt to gain favor or pity.

She moved on and life after

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for Tamecka Grate Frazier has been a blessing for so many.

She’s enjoying life as a wife, mother and grandmother.

She’s a college graduate, corporate executive, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, philanthropist, public servant and now, best selling author!

Then too, she is a fashionista. The sister can dress!

Tamecka is indeed a blessing and her strong, unwavering faith is a testament in itself.

You can order her book through Amazon. Read about her journey and maybe it will inspire you to become a better person because maybe, just maybe, you might realize that your journey has not been as tough as you have made it out to be, or thought it was.

Maybe you’ve got some more living and work to do.

No, Tamecka doesn’t look like what she has been through.

And that is the point.

You just don’t know.

And that’s a larger life lesson for all.

Work on your own journey and stop judging others.

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Some of the 44 NABJ founders gathered back in Washington D. C. in 1975.

Credits : Courtesy of NABJ

Griots in virtual reality I WAS JUST THINKING...

By Norma Adams-Wade

Texas Metro News

Back in Africa, the Motherland, they called storytellers Griots.

Griots kept the oral history of the tribes, and villages in their heads and memories.

Griots were walking data banks. Their memories were archives of detailed ancient happenings. Nothing was written down. It was memorized – and recalled on demand when needed.

That’s why the griots were important.

They would recite the lineage of families, the movement of tribes from one location to the next, significant battles that were won or lost, births, deaths, marriages. Their minds were vaults, storehouses, and time capsules.

I was just thinking... I’m proud to identify as a modern-day griot.

I bring this up because of a group called the National Association of Black Journalists. I also am proud to be one of the 44 founders of that griots group that organized in Washington D. C. on December 12, 1975. During the nearly 45 years since then, NABJ has grown from 44 to more than 3,000 members and is the nation’s largest myimessenger.com

organization of journalists of color.

Storytelling and recording history – our history as descendants of the African diaspora – is what NABJ does. During August 5-8 last week, NABJ held its national convention and career fair in conjunction with the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ).

The two groups have similar missions and every four years meet jointly to strategize for the future and celebration common advancements. The missions include: provide balanced news coverage; tell our own stories and help the world better understand our cultures and heritage; increase our numbers as managers and decision-makers; provide training and development; and help educate and direct students who might be interested in our profession.

The new twist to the NABJ-NAHJ story is that this year is the first time the two organizations are having a combined virtual convention, thanks to the CO-VID 19 pandemic. This joint body was one of the first to venture into the virtual world for a national convention.

Workshops, forums, plenaries, and entertainment all were held on line through digital technology. Luncheons also were included with online speakers, panels and dignitaries and even meals delivered from local eateries to members front doors at

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home. Kudos to the leaders of both groups who plowed ahead when they could have called off the historic gathering. In fact, some membership opined that waiting till next year would be best. But vision and determination prevailed.

I’m glad it did. This griot got to be a part of another chapter of my village life that I can record for generations that follow – this time in both memory and the written word.

Here’s a portion of a letter I wrote for the NABJ newsletter prior to the convention: “To boldly go where no man has gone before.” I’m applying this familiar (Star Trek) phrase to our upcoming, first-ever virtual NABJ-NAHJ national convention... As one of 44 NABJ founders, this scenario so reminds me of more than 44 years ago when we gathered......and (created) our beloved NABJ. This (virtual) stratospheric venture will be similar, and yet far different...

That first voyage on which we founders set sail...was cutting edge. We had neither road map nor NASA mission control center to guide us. This cyberspace venture is another uncharted mission... Let’s come aboard, fasten our seat belts, and ... boldly go where no man (or woman) has gone before.”

Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, Graduate of UT- Austin and Dallas native. One of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), she was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame

AUGUST 14, 2020

We are Waiting on YOU! FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

One of my favorite books is by Laurie Beth Jones, The Path, which is designed to help one build a mission statement. I’m currently taking a course based on this book. This course is helping me think about both my mission and vision. I think for many of us, this is something we don’t have, or we fail to revisit and tweak it if we do. For leaders and quite frankly, for all of us, we need to have our own mission, vision, and core values developed.

Just as organizations and companies have mission statements, it is important that we are strategic in thinking about our purpose. Mission statements serve as a guide in formulating values and goals. There is a difference between mission and vision. The vision is the ultimate result—the big goal we would like to reach, and a mission is the day to day of how we will accomplish the goal.

The mission describes the purpose and the vision shares the future AUGUST 14, 2020

hope of what we want to accomplish. I began to ask this wonderful group of leaders I was working with if they had mission statement and many did not.

Why? Because for so many of us, we go through life doing. We do not take the time to truly examine what it is that we are called to do and an even greater problem is that we fail to ask God to help us in achieving the plans and purpose God has for our lives.

Many people see what others are doing and instead of examining our talents, gifts, or interests, we attempt to do something that we are not called to do, and we definitely haven’t engaged God to determine the steps pre-planned for our lives. We become frustrated because it appeared easy for them without knowing what they have gone through to accomplish the goal and secondly, not paying attention to God’s handiwork in the plan. We operate in our own strength and that will only allow you to go so far.

Jones in her book, The Path, says that Jesus’ mission was to give life and give it more abundantly.

Just about every interac-

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tion Jesus had confirms this—whether the conversation with the woman at the well, raising Lazarus from the dead, or even sharing hope with Zacchaeus. John 10:10 says, “….I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.” We see in scripture that life begins with seeking Him. He was successful in accomplishing His plan because He knew His purpose.

Many of us are like Martha in the Bible. We are so distracted and busy working that we miss out on the real opportunity to find our purpose and operate in it. We are saying yes to others (I am guilty of this) and not so much to saying yes to what is important for us.

Martha was preparing food while her sister, Mary, listened at the feet of Jesus. She was being quiet, still, and learning to gain insight and direction for her life. How often are we doing good work but not the Godwork we’ve been called to because we are sidetracked by what we think is important? Luke 10:42 (NLT) says, “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away

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from her.”

What are you discovering in this time about yourself? Are you discovering your mission? Are you still, quiet, learning and listening to God’s direction so that you can focus on what is important knowing it won’t be taken away from you?

What does abundant life look like for you and what steps are you taking to seek God’s plan for your life to achieve that?

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Are you spending time with God to know the purpose and plan that was prepared for you before you were even born?

God has a purpose and plan for each of our lives.

I hope you will take the time to discover it so that the world can be blessed by your gifts, talents, and purpose. We are waiting on YOU! 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.

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AUGUST 14, 2020

The Back2Skool Series: Teach Them to Pray!

QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL Any religion or spirituality that requires a building is subject to exploitation.

Likewise, any educational process that requires brick and mortar is suspect. Regardless of what the “Head of State” says, learning is a 24/7 process best managed by parents and complimented by educators.

Classroom instruction is always in order at my house.

Every experience is a learning opportunity. It’s been said that there is no wasted time in preparation. Every issue and event is open, and instruction is endless.

This series, “Back2Skool” will consist of four parts, sequenced in the order that fits me. Quit Playin’! You didn’t know that pedagogy was my side hustle? My daughters will tell you that every day with me has an argument that leads to discovery and ends in knowledge.

The first installment rests on the notion that children need spiritual development and growth. I fell upon a prayer model that coincides with essential social justice teachings and what used to be taught in Vacation Bible School.

The “5 Finger Prayer” model does not give your children the exact words, but it does point them in the right direction. Kathryn AUGUST 14, 2020

Shirley’s prescription puts everything in a perspective that promotes humanity over individuality. Just in case your spawn becomes President, this process will deter them from believing that the world was created for their control and consumption.

or pointer finger gives direction, so pray for your teachers, coaches, therapists, doctors, and preachers.

That dreaded middle finger comes next, but it should remind your child to pray for leaders of the church, the government, and business because it is the tallest.

The prayer begins at the thumb because its closest to your heart. “So pray for those closest to you; your family and friends.” The forefinger

It’s hard to fathom praying those who despitefully use you. (Matthew 5:44) However, we must rise above personal prejudices and

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preferences when raising children. Trump overdosed on the recommended daily requirement of narcissism and bigotry.

The fourth finger is the ring finger, and because it is the weakest, it should remind our students to pray for the sick, the poor, and those most in need. The pinkie finger is the smallest and represents us as individuals. Pray for yourself and your needs last. Much of this model could be altered, but the pinkie should always be last.

These prayers require parental involvement and encouragement. My mother had three major religious edicts. You must learn the Lord’s Prayer, the 23rd Psalm, and recite a bible verse before meals. My grandmother said if you didn’t say grace before you ate, you could choke and die. She made a believer out of me!

Evangelicals and religious hypocrites have whined that Madelyn Murray O’Hair doomed the nation with her successful fight to end prayer in school. Their opines are not all bunk, but parents have other options.

I contend that whether the school bells ring in Texas this August or not at all, we still have to teach.

Daily prayers are essential.

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

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Both the economy and the senate stumble THE LAST WORD DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

On the same day we learned that the US economy contracted by 9.5 percent in the second quarter of this year, the United States Senate adjourned and went home, even though the economic contraction is the largest since growth data has been collected. They left without passing the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act. They left without continuing the $600 per week emergency assistance for those out of work because of COVID-19. They left without meaningful action, although another 1.434 million people had filed unemployment claims, an announcement that was made the same day that they fled Washington. Hopefully, if they help constituent service hours in their home states, they will be greeted with resounding boos.

The economic bad news is staggering. According to the Census, more than a third of all low-income households did not have enough food in July. The number was higher for Black and Brown families, at about 40 percent. Hundreds of thousands of businesses have closed – with more than 40 percent of black-owned businesses being shuttered, some permanently. And there is still no coronavirus vaccine. One is expected sometime in 2021. Until then, the economy will continue to be a mess, and the Senate is taking a break.

They took off Friday, July 31, and plan to reconvene on Tuesday, August 4. But in

WILLIAMS, from page 2...

sider “right” and worked fervently to achieve that state of “rightness.” Each of them understood that certain privileges were universal entitlements granted by God and that those privileges could not be abridged by any human determyimessenger.com

the face of an emergency, they might have foregone a long weekend to pass the HEROES Act in some form or another. That’s the rub, though. Republicans think the $3 trillion relief is too much. They don’t want unemployed people to get a federal subsidy of $600 per week. They want people to waive their right to sue employers. They don’t think the federal government should help reopen schools. And rather than sit down with Democrats and work toward a compromise, they stumbled home.

While too many people are hungry, broke, and out of work, the Senate is short on solutions, mainly because the Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell refuses to work amicably with the House of Representatives, led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

And if the economic bad news is not enough, the political news is equally dire.

The President has gone on a mindless rampage, suggesting that elections should be postponed because he does not believe that mail ballots are secure.

Thankfully, the usually spineless Republicans pushed back hard with even McConnell asserting that there will be an election on November 3, 2020. This President considers the economy his strong suit, but

mination or pronouncement.

They were men of humility.

Absent from their personas was the display of bravado or arrogance. They pursued their respective goals with quiet assurance and dedication.

They were men of tenacity and endurance. Under physical and emotional threat, each of these men persevered with tireless endurance. When oth-

with the economy stumbling, he needs to create some distraction. His resistance to having an orderly election is such a distraction.

The challenge is that the economy is likely to worsen before it gets better, and the coronavirus deaths, already at more than 150,000, are expected to grow. Cities and states will continue to have budget challenges.

Too many children will learn little since distance learning requires technology that many poor households lack. Too many people will go hungry. And our “leadership” engages in bombastic and divisive rhetoric. Every reference to the “China virus” is racist and vituperative. Vintage Donald Trump!

These times are replete with contradictions. While the Senate does not want to pass the HEROES Act, it intends to restore the tax deduction for business lunches.

Guess who benefits from that? Undoubtedly not the working poor. Concern for the poor is nearly non-existent, even though the poor, especially the Black and Brown poor, bear the brunt of the coronavirus.

Republicans tend to respond to recession, and one way to fight recession is to pump money into the economy. But their fear that a few poor people will get their hands on “extra” money is greater than their fear of economic recession.

The economy is stumbling, and so is the Senate. And thanks to the recalcitrant Senate, too many Americans are stumbling, hungry, and broke. Things will inevitably get worse before they get better. November can’t come soon enough.

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

ers withered and faded, these men could be counted on to continue the fight.

Laudatory and critical assessments of these men will continue to be made. Critics may dispute their effectiveness in the achievement of their stated goals, but what cannot be disputed is the empty space they leave. Their immediate presence will be

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missed by all who knew them or knew of them. Others will continue to enjoy the benefits of their achievements. Said solemnly, succinctly and with great admiration and respect, they will be missed!

Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of the National Congress of Black Women and Host of “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-FM 89.3.

AUGUST 14, 2020

ABOUT YOUR HAIR

BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

Are you gentle with your hair when it is tangled?

Consumers and hair care professionals should be patient and kind to your hair. Abuse and neglect

may cause you to be your hair’s worst enemy. All hair textures are susceptible to hair breakage and damage from usage of grooming tools.

• Blow dryers should be used with wattage between 1200-2000. High heat settings may cause bubble hair, and severe

You have a unique opportunity to be a part of something new at UNT Dallas College of Law. Our law school - which admitted its first students in 2014 - is not bound by the restraints of traditional legal education.

UNT Dallas College of Law is initiating change. Our curriculum stretches far beyond traditional classroom learning. We provide our students with hands on experiences and meaningful opportunities to engage with members of the community, lawyers and legal scholars.

Our mission at UNT Dallas College of Law is to promote justice and advance human potential through the enterprise of legal education.

OUR MISSION HAS FIVE GOALS: ACCESS Expand access to legal education for those who are capable of becoming legal professionals but have lacked realistic access to legal education.

PREPARATION Our students benefit from the insights of legal educators as well as the input from legal practitioners.

VALUE We create opportunity for students by keeping tuition and debt low while consistently delivering an excellent legal education.

INNOVATION We are a national leader in the advancement of best legal education practices and of the evolving business of practicing law.

COMMUNITY We are valuable partners with legal professionals in the area and the Dallas-Fort Worth community as well.

Follow us: @UNTDallasLaw and @UNTDLaw Version 15- CoL View Book .indd 5

AUGUST 14, 2020

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hair damage. Remember to begin with low then cool setting. Stronger hair textures can tolerate medium to high temperatures.

• Flat irons are very popular and vary drastically in price, for a straight look.

Some consumers choose the detachable device with exchangeable plates. Avoid over-usage.

Damage of trichorrhexis nodosa, ridges and grooves and trichoptilosis is a possibility.

• Curling irons are also very popular. Use curling irons with adjustable heat settings. A variety of metal cylinders are available, according to hair length and desired curl. Allow the curling iron to cool completely before storing.

• Straightening tongs are smaller and more compact than regular flat irons. They are most effective on short hair and bangs. Avoid over-usage of this tool to avoid cuticle hair damage.

• Electrical round hair brush should not be used on weak damaged hair.

• Electrical steam flat

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irons or wands should be avoided on fine, brittle hair textures.

• It is recommended to clean/remove product buildup on the plates of all grooming tools. This will preserve longevity.

Oven cleaner works well for cleaning these tools.

New grooming tools are constantly under construction, to keep up with technology. Remember, you do not need to use every new device on your hair. Just as fashion designs, come and go, hair designs also come and go…are not for everyone. Avoid damage to your precious strands by going to a trusted hair care professional, as well as the expertise of a board certified Trichologist for a microscopic hair strand and scalp analysis.

Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, 817 265 8854…to order our award-winning products go to Hairandscalpessentials.com #Scalp Doctor #39yrVeteran Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, 817 265 8854. #39yr Veteran Hairandscalpessentials.com

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Hall’s

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AUGUST 14, 2020

Communications powerhouse joins Vianovo as partner THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

Eddie Reeves, Founder of Reeves Strategy Group, has joined Vianovo, a leading strategy consultancy at the intersection of business, policy and politics, as part of their Dallas satellite office. Reeves, a staple in the communications community, will join as Partner.

This move, initially announced by Vianovo in mid-July, will position the company to expand their presence and capabilities nationwide and in Mexico.

With a stellar career in integrated and crisis communications, and public affairs, Reeves ups the ante by teaming with the boutique communications firm to provide business strategies for CEOs, philanthropists, founders, and investors.

“Joining a group of seasoned partners who specialize in advising C-Suite executives on matters at the intersection

AUGUST 14, 2020

of business, policy, politics and culture was the next logical step for me,” explained Reeves. “It has always been important to me not just to make money but to help make a better world, and this opportunity will allow me to keep working at that.”

This aligns with Reeves’ lifelong ascent within the industry: from working as an award-winning journalist to press secretary

Eddie Reeves

for politicians in Houston and Austin, to helming C-suite positions for Fortune 500 companies and ultimately helming his own brand and moving to Board positions in organizations that positively affect the community-at-large.

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“Today is a proud day for me and this communications practice,” Reeves said recently via Vianovo’s official announcement.

“I’m thrilled to reunite with my dear friend Blaine Bull and join Vianovo at a pivotal time in the firm’s history.

I believe the combined expertise of this stellar team of senior level leaders will help Vianovo take on even more high-stakes work for leading companies and causes.”

Earlier in his career, Reeves served as press secretary for former U.S. Rep. J.J. ”Jake” Pickle, D-Austin, and former Houston Mayor Kathy Whitmire, and was an award-winning columnist for the Austin AmericanStatesman.

“I have known both Eddie Reeves and most of the Vianovo partners for decades, and I’m not sure which party is getting the bigger win in this teamup. Well, actually, I do: It’s their clients,” said former U.S. Trade Representative and Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk. “They all set a high bar not only for providing

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excellent advice and counsel to their clients, but in their commitment to the community – something that is as important now as it ever has been.”

Reeves currently sits on the board of the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and chaired the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau. He also served on the boards of Parkland Health and Hospital System, the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic, and the World Affairs Council of DallasFort Worth.

Vianovo is a boutique consultancy that counsels companies, causes and public figures on high-stakes brand, policy and crisis issues. Founded in 2005 by a bipartisan group of leading political strategists, the firm has offices in Austin, Dallas, Washington DC, and Mexico City. Through its investment group, Vianovo Ventures, the firm partners with early-stage companies and investors.

Terry Allen is a multi-media journalist and board member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

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Joe Biden selects Kamala Harris as Running Mate

By STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

California Sen. Kamala Harris is Joe Biden’s choice for vice president.

Following months of speculation and debate over whether Biden should pick a Black woman as his running mate, Harris was named Tuesday as Biden’s choice.

Biden reportedly had called Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), former Ambassador Susan Rice, and three other candidates to inform them on Tuesday morning that they were not his pick.

Harris had routinely been seen as the top pick, but her clashes with Biden during the Democratic debates appeared to give Biden pause.

However, Biden had been photographed recently with talking points which noted not to hold a grudge against Harris.

Sworn in as Senator in 2017, Harris became the second African American woman and the first South Asian-American senator in history.

She has said that her life as a prosecutor and fighting justice was inspired by her mother, an Indian-American immigrant, activist and breast cancer researcher.

Growing up in Oakland, Harris had “a stroller-eye view of the Civil Rights movement,” according to her official biography.

Through the example of courageous leaders like Thurgood Marshall, Constance Baker Motley, and Charles myimessenger.com

Biden reportedly had called Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), former Ambassador Susan Rice, and three other candidates to inform them on Tuesday morning that they were not his pick.

— NNPA NEWSWIRE

California Sen. Kamala Harris is Joe Biden’s choice for vice president.

Hamilton Houston, Harris said she learned the kind of character it requires to stand up to the powerful and resolved to spend her life advocating for those who could not defend themselves.

After earning an undergraduate degree from Howard University and a law degree from the University of California-Hastings, she began her career in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.

In 2003, Harris became the District Attorney of the City and County of San Francisco.

Among her achievements as District Attorney, Harris started a program that gives

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first-time drug offenders the chance to earn a high school diploma and find employment.

Having completed two terms as the District Attorney of San Francisco, she was elected as the first African American and first woman to serve as California’s Attorney General.

In this role, she “worked tirelessly to hold corporations accountable and protect the state’s most vulnerable people,” according to her biography.

Over the course of her nearly two terms in office, Harris won a $25-billion settlement

for California homeowners hit by the foreclosure crisis, defended California’s landmark climate change law, protected the Affordable Care Act, helped win marriage equality for all Californians, and prosecuted transnational gangs that trafficked in guns, drugs, and human beings.

Since taking office, she has introduced and cosponsored legislation to raise wages for working people, reform our broken criminal justice system, make healthcare a right for all Americans, address the epidemic of substance abuse, see KAMALA, page 31

AUGUST 14, 2020

Briefs

Rep. Sherman says give workers time off to vote

Rep Carl Sherman Sr.

Lancaster, Texas – State Representative Carl Sherman (District 109)has asked businesses to remember to allow essential workers time off work to vote.

When early voting began for the July

14 Democratic Party Primary Runoff Election Rep. Sherman was there to cast his vote on opening day.

“Remember we must all take part in our civic duty while remembering to monitor the situation with COVID-19 too,” Rep. Sherman said. “More important are the businesses who employ the essential workers who are our heroes and are sacrificing so much for us while exposing themselves to the pandemic.”

Rep. Sherman also urges anyone who can to vote early to do so before Election Day. “If you take part in early voting you

By MARVA J. SNEED Staff Writer Yes, It was time to treat myself. I needed a makeover. I called up Kena Baccus at Mocca Cosmetics. I asked if I could come in and she said yes. As we gracefully age our skin changes.

My skin has become a little more oily.

So I knew it was time for a makeup change.

I needed something new. I was greeted with a smile. Mocca Cosmet-

ing-information-2/ for a list of 37 full-time early voting locations in libraries, schools, churches, city halls, and recreation centers throughout the county.

About District 109: Representative Sherman proudly represents the citizens of House District 109, which includes DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Glenn Heights, Hutchins, Lancaster, Wilmer, as well as parts of Ovilla, Ferris, Seagoville, and Dallas. He sits on the House Appropriations Committee, House Corrections Committee, and the House Administration Committee.

2026 Might be a Big Year for Dallas Hosting the World Cup

Treating Myself

Kena Baccus

can vote at any polling location.”

As a reminder, Texas law gives employees the right to take time off work, without fear or retaliation, for the civic responsibility of voting. This time off is paid for anyone who works during times that the polls are open.

Rep. Sherman also says in the future he would like to see Texas name Election Day as a State Holiday. Election Day is currently a public holiday in nine states and the territory of Puerto Rico.

To locate your nearest polling place visit https://www.dallascountyvotes. org/early-voting-information/early-vot-

ics is practicing all the acceptable guidelines for assuring the customers’ safety. She took my temperature and asked me to wash my hands and then she washed her hands. I felt really comfortable with that.

She looked at me and right away she knew what I would need. She gave me samples to apply and it was so simple I could see the difference in how she instructed me to apply the makeup.

All of the products were great. Mocca Cosmetics by Kena Baccus was a real treat for me.

By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD Staff Writer The Dallas Sports Commission, the Dallas Cowboys and FC Dallas recently announced that Dallas will be bidding to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event will have a total of 80 matches which will include 60 in USA, 10 in Mexico and 10 in Canada.

The event will consist of 48 national teams. Dallas is one of the 17 cities bidding to be able to host the event. Other candidate cities include Boston, Orlando, Houston and Miami.

Before a decision is made, FIFA will visit each place to see what will be the best fit. Monica Paul, executive director of the Dallas Sports Commission, thinks that

Dallas is ready for this big step.

“We are also thrilled that Dallas will have the possibility to welcome the world and put our passion for soccer on display for the greatest global sporting event,” Paul said in a release. “We have been working on this bid for over a year and look forward to the next step in the process to ensure Dallas is a host city.”

Gus’s World Famous Fried to open new hot spot in Deep Ellum

By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD Staff Writer Get ready to grab some your favorite chicken in Deep Ellum. Gus’s World Famous Fried is a Tennessee-based chain that is branching out. The chicken spot is about to AUGUST 14, 2020

open its fourth location in Texas, following Houston, Fort Worth and Austin. It’s been three years since they opened the Fort Worth location and the Deep Ellum location will be at 2904 Commerce St. at the corner of Malcolm X Boulevard.

The opening is planned for later this

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summer. Their signature item is their spicy fried chicken. Customers can also purchase sides, such as macaroni and cheese, baked beans, fried okra, and potato salad. Stay updated on their Instagram @gusfriedca so you won’t miss out on the details for this Dallas restaurant.

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Gus Fried Chicken

Credits : Photo courtesy of @gusfriedca on Instagram

myimessenger.com

Briefs DeSoto’s Glover to lead Parks system After conducting a thorough national search to find a permanent Parks & Recreation Managing Director, the City of DeSoto concluded that Chris Glover, who has been serving as interim director, is to be their permanent choice.

Glover, a 20-year veteran of DeSoto’s Parks System, has served twice in the interim role during his career in DeSoto. Mr. Glover has been serving as Interim Parks & Rec Director since May of 2020 when previous Director M. Reneé Johnson left DeSoto to become an Assistant Director for the Dallas Parks Department.

“I am honored to be named to the post of Managing Director of DeSoto Parks & Recreation and would like to thank the City Manager, Mayor, and City Council for the confidence that they have shown in me,” said Chris Glover. “I have been proud to

be a part of this great community DeSoto Mayor Curtistene S. Mcand look forward to continuing to Cowan echoed Wright’s sentiments provide DeSoto’s residents with the adding, “Those of us who have very best recreational opportunities known Chris over the years have possible.” always been impressed by his posiGlover’s hiring was praised by tive attitude, strong work ethic, and DeSoto City dedication to the Manager Branwell-being of the don Wright who people of DeSoobserved, “I have to. His selection seen Chris take to lead DeSoto’s on some daunting parks system into challenges and the future is exeach time he has cellent news for thoroughly imour great city!” pressed me with Glover joined his leadership, DeSoto Parks his innovative & Recreation in Chris Glover solutions, and the January of 2000 poise that he has shown while han- as a Recreation Manager but quickly dling some very tough assignments. took on responsibilities far beyond Chris was truly the best person for the scope of that position. Chris exthe job!” ercised oversight for several major

construction projects including the Grimes Baseball Complex, Moseley Aquatics Park, Meadow Creek Football Complex, Zeiger Softball Complex, and DeSoto’s Recreation and Senior centers. Under his leadership, the Parks & Recreation Department significantly contributed to the economic development of DeSoto through hosting youth tournaments which generated an estimated five million dollars annually to the city’s economy. He was also instrumental in assisting the department’s efforts to secure a coveted CAPRA accreditation through the National Recreation and Parks Society. DeSoto Parks & Recreation is one of only 171 parks and recreation agencies in the United States to possess this designation.

He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree for the University of North Texas and is a resident of DeSoto.

Fund supports local business Guns and Roses Boutique has been a staple in Dallas, TX for more than eight years.

On Friday, May 29, 2020 the boutique was destroyed by selfish looters who took advantage of the protest. The restoration of Guns and Roses Boutique starts NOW! Princess Pope, owner and leader has been a prominent pillar in the community, and often praised for her support.

As a fashion industry leader, she provides education and mentorship to aspiring myimessenger.com

fashion designers and entrepreneurs.

A donation campaign was started to help cover damages to Guns and Roses Boutique.

The donations will be spent to cover any expenses the insurance does not cover, including but not limited to: inventory, property damage, merchandise and loss of use for the business.

The GoFundMe link is https://gf.me/u/x5qxji for Rebuild Guns and Roses Boutique.

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Princess Pope stands in front of her boutique shortly after fending off looters AUGUST 14, 2020

www.grandpasecret.com

Please wear your mask and wash your hands!

AUGUST 14, 2020

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AUGUST 14, 2020

LAWYER BEGINS 200-MILE TREK FOR JUSTICE

Leon Reed Jr.

By ASHLEY MOSS Texas Metro News FORT WORTH - It’s a long walk to justice, but a Fort Worth attorney says it’s a necessary journey.

Monday, Leon Reed, Jr., a personal injury and criminal defense lawyer, began the trek from Fort Worth to 1100 Congress Ave, the Texas State Capitol – on foot.

“This is something that has been on my mind for a while,” said Reed, 52, during an exclusive interview last week with Texas Metro News.

“I struggled a long time with how I could make a difference.

I’ve been to protests over the years, but I felt under-utilized, like I could be doing more,” he said. “This isn’t something that I look forward to doing.

“Right now it’s just something that I have to do. Maybe along the way, we can all come to understand that we are better for this.”

Calling his journey a “Walk for Reform,” Reed will travel along Interstate Highway 35W South through the Texas Hill Country and into the Capital City. For his safety, he will be accompanied by a friend, who will drive a recreational vehicle along the route so that Reed can rest, take bathroom breaks and retire for the night.

He will walk up to 30 miles each day, he said, adding that the 188 -213 mile journey will take him about eight days.

AUGUST 14, 2020

Reed expects to arrive in Austin by August 19.

Once there, he plans to hand-deliver a letter to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott outlining his recommendations for legislation to require policy and practice changes in local police departments.

Reed says he will make his recommendations public after meeting with the Governor, but says they will broadly address officer recruitment, training and development, police operations and departmental accountability.

Reed, who has practiced law since 2004, has, for years, collected data on racial profiling and police use of force within the Fort Worth Police Department. Clear patterns exist, he said.

“I’ve been tracking police-related data in Fort Worth since 2002, and the numbers have continuously shown that people of color, and particularly African Americans, are stopped, searched, and arrested in far greater percentages than their respective populations,” Reed said.

“Minorities are still being unfairly treated by the police, and this isn’t about a few bad cops. This is about a system that needs a complete overhaul to fundamentally change what police encounters should look like.”

The TCU grad and Texas Tech Law School alum says he will also share his recommen-

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dations with Texas legislators.

“I’m doing this so that every member of the Texas Senate and House can see the data that underscores the need for reform with their own eyes,” he said.

Reed planned his Walk for Reform after watching a television interview of Gov. Abbott broadcast during memorial services for Houston native George Floyd, a Black father who was handcuffed and died after a Minneapolis police office kept his knee pressed into Floyd’s neck for nearly eight minutes and 46 seconds.

The widely broadcast incident led to marches across the world calling for police reform and denouncing police brutality against African Americans.

Reed, who is African American, has drawn supporters for his cause.

Sara Vargas, 25, of Fort Worth, was one of 60 people who joined Reed at a remembrance Sunday for Atatiana Jefferson, the 28-year old woman who was fatally shot last October in her home by a Fort Worth police officer.

To honor Jefferson, Reed had the corner of Evans and Allen avenues, the site of the Atatiana Jefferson Memorial, officially added on Google maps.

Vargas said she told Reed, “I’ll help out any way I can.”

So, on Sunday, Vagas and five others walked with Reed from Fort Worth’s City Hall to the memorial event for Jefferson.

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“If I can’t walk 200 (miles), I can at least do (the nine miles) he walked today,” she said.

Vargas was inspired to follow Reed’s campaign in hopes of affecting change in police departments across the state, she said.

“Fort Worth isn’t the only city this happens in,” Vargas said.

“Hopefully, the change is widespread, not just in Fort Worth, but in Texas, and eventually throughout the nation. Police reform is needed now more than ever.”

On Sunday, Reed was frank about embarking on his trip.

“I’m getting nervous,” he said in a YouTube update that he broadcast to followers. “But God.” Still, in the wake of Jefferson’s death and on the six-year anniversary Sunday of the death of Michael Brown, the Ferguson, Mo. man shot by police officers, Reed said he holds out hope that his plan for police reform, if implemented, could have lasting implications for Texas and the nation.

“If you believe the world can be a better place, and you think that you can take a part in it, then do it. Go for it,” he said. “I want to leave the world a better place, and I know there are people out there who feel the same way.”

Supporters can support the effort by visiting the campaign’s social media. Search for ‘Walk for Reform’ on Facebook and on Instagram @walkforreform. myimessenger.com

All-natural face, body cream ‘rejuvenates’ skin of its users

By DONALD LEE A trip to the nail salon to have a facial done a while back proved to be a bad experience for Houston resident Tremeker Amanda Artmore, who says her face received serious burns from the hot wax that was applied.

But rather than panic, Artmore, an aromatherapist, saw the experience as more enlightening than frightening. It provoked thought, which, in turn, compelled her to beeline to the laboratory.

“So that’s why I came up with an all-natural cream product,” the 41-year-old CEO of Intense Heat Cosmetics says, referencing her new concoction, one created to alleviate such conditions as blemishes, eczema, pimples, burns and dark spots.

The organic face and body cream also is effective in treating skin cysts, varicose veins, razor bumps, and it rejuvenates the skin, Artmore, a Beaumont native, says.

“My daughter started using your cream (recently) and it is doing an amazing job,” Kenesha B., one of Artmore’s customers, told her. “We have tried so many different things for her acne but nothing seemed to help. Her skin is myimessenger.com

Tremeker Amanda Artmore

smooth now and she said it makes her skin feel clean and refreshed.”

Shalequa L., another customer, just can’t seem to stop singing Artmore’s praises.

“Can you say, ‘No breakouts’ with my highly sensitive skin?” she says.

“Blemishes on the left side of my cheek were gone in three days. Blemishes were worse on my right

cheek and cleared up in one week,” she says. “I have very dark circles under my eye and they are clearing up after three weeks of consistent use. Everyone is noticing a change and they are saying my complexion also looks lighter.”

Artmore, a 1997 (Beaumont) West Brook High School graduate who attained a business degree from Lamar State College in Port Arthur in 2002, says when she applied the cream to her own face after her ordeal, she saw a profound difference in five days.

“After my face was burnt, my doctor sent me --- the same day --- three prescriptions to use,” she says.

“I started using them. (On) day three, I didn’t see a difference. That’s when I said, ‘You know what? I’m going to make my own face cream.’ ” While Artmore is mum

Instructions on how to apply the skin cream:

• Wash your face with an antibacterial soap, pat dry and apply the organic cream to your entire face or a designated area. Massage cream into your pores for three to five minutes.

• The cream can be applied two to three times a day. Makeup can be applied at least 30 minutes after the face has been moisturized with the organic cream.

• Aging spots are also areas the cream can be applied to, creating a more youthful appearance.

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regarding the ingredients she uses to create such a transformational product, there are some things she doesn’t mind sharing.

“It takes me about 20 minutes to make batches of cream,” she says, adding that the product must be kept refrigerated because of its all-natural ingredients. “When I first started, I had to make different types of cream to see what would go inside the cream so it wouldn’t mold.”

The cream-colored product, which can be used by men, women and children, works for babies and all ethnicities, Artmore says.

Right now, Intense Heat Cosmetics, which Artmore founded in Beaumont six years ago, just produces the cream and an all-natural lip gloss. But the company has plans for an air mist that users can spray on their bodies to protect them from the sun.

Plans also are in the works for pitching the face and body cream to major retail outlets.

For more information about the Intense Heat face and body cream, Tremeker Amanda Artmore may be contacted at (832) 815-4411 or tartmore2@yahoo. com. Donald Lee is a free-lance writer and copy editor. He may be contacted at (225) 773-2248 or leedonaldj@gmail.com. Also visit http://www.DonaldJLee. com.

AUGUST 14, 2020

WRONG CHURCH

Supporters say “Don’t Come for Us!” More than 500 drivers – some estimates put the number higher - snaked through Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood Sunday in a massive and lengthy showing of solidarity with the Friendship-West Baptist Church, one week after congregation leaders said a white motorist group had tried to intimidate worshippers on their own campus – and on the date they had planned a Black Lives Matter rally at the church.

Drivers lined up at the Barack Obama Male

Leadership Academy as early as 7:30 a.m. Sunday, some with signs reading “Defund the Police” and “Black Lives Matter” posted on the side of their vehicles, for the “Ride-In For A New Dallas” drive through Oak Cliff.

By the time the caravan pulled out from the Academy around 9:30 a.m., vehicles decorated with streamers and balloons lined Stag Road and wrapped around Bonnie View Road.

“We wanted to come out here to support our love for our community and to show that we can be collaborative and

AUGUST 14, 2020

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By ASHLEY MOSS Texas Metro News

we won’t be intimidated,” said Matt Houston, former president of the board for the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce.

“We want to ensure that all of our voices are heard,” he said.

Sunday’s caravan pulled out from Stag Road and made a 20-minute drive through Oak Cliff, ending at Friendship-West.

The event culminated with a message from The Rev. Frederick Douglass Haynes III, senior pastor of Friendship-West, and a voter registration and census rally.

“It’s not enough just to ride,” Haynes said. “Now,

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Dr. and Mrs. Frederick D. Haynes III following Sunday service and rally

myimessenger.com

Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III

we’ve got to work.”

Organizers said Sunday’s “Ride-In” was part of a call to action issued to Oak Cliff residents, churches and allies of the Black Lives Matter movement to unify with Friendship-West and stand against racial intimidation tactics.

Dr. Haynes issued the call along with Dallas Black Clergy for Safety, Equity and Justice, a group comprised of African American pastors, after a “Blue Lives Matter” group of motorists gathered on the church property a week ago without proper permission and disrupted plans for a Black Lives Matter rally.

Claudia Hill Thompson of Oak Cliff heard the call and showed up Sunday.

“I back my pastor and I back my church,” she said Sunday.

“This is our community and we’re going to support them however we can. All lives cannot matter until Black lives matter.”

On Aug. 2, an estimated 1,000 white motorists driving pickups, cars and motorcycles, including at least one driver who flew a Confederate flag atop his vehicle and another who displayed a Trump flag, filled the parking spaces at Friendship West Baptist Church, a congregation of mostly African Americans in historic Oak Cliff.

The motorists blocked drive lanes preventing some church members from entering or exiting the parking lot. Friendship-West had planned to host a Black Lives Matter rally that day.

Organizers of the “Back the Blue” and “Blue Lives Matter” event said they merely were taking a break from their own ride-related rally when they gathered on the Friendship-West parking lot.

Haynes said the motorists’ presence was uninvited, unwelcome and “a slap in the face” to all Black churches, many of whose parishioners he said do not support policies touted by President Donald Trump.

“They violated our sacred space on so many levels,” Haynes said last week, adding that the incident was an example of “white supremacist intimidation.”

Sunday morning’s event brought out community leaders and supporters from other churches and neighboring communities, saying they wanted to make it clear that supporting Friendship-West was not only the right thing to do, it was the only thing to do.

James Allen, a retired police officer and former President of the Black police organization, Texas Peace Officer Association,

said the event was about more than the drive.

“It’s about getting marching orders to get organized for voter registration, the Census and getting other churches involved,” he said.

Jasmine Crockett, who is the democratic nominee for Texas House District 100, was among Sunday’s attendees, as was Sen. Royce West and Judge Eric Moye.

“We see that fear and intimidation tactics are being used to deter people and it will prayerfully be just the opposite and motivate people,” she said. “I think voters should show up by any means necessary in November and

MO’ BETTAH WINGS

11am-10pm Monday-Saturday myimessenger.com

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vote their conscience. I’m definitely interested in heightening the punishment for persons that trespass at a church for the purpose of intimidation and or hate.

“There’s a long painful history of traumatizing and vandalizing Black churches. In a state like Texas, I should be able to get bipartisan support for protecting our churches,” she added.

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Dr. Amerson adapts to Temporary Business Closure Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, has adapted to the temporary closure of LA's Hair and Scalp Clinic. We continue to offer our award-winning products to consumers. Our exclusive products are manufactured by a facility in Garland, TX. Premium quality natural ingredients are used to assist with dry, oily, itchy, flaky, inflammed scalps, as well as hair breakage, hair thinning and regrowth.

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AUGUST 14, 2020

Hanging with Hollywood

COLD FEET

MOVIE REVIEW BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

COLD FEET is a Nigerian romantic drama that shows infidelity is the same, no matter what the culture or language. The film begins with a loving husband, played by Jim Ikye, treating his wife, who he absolutely adores, to a surprise birthday party followed by an exotic vacation to celebrate the couple’s fifth year wedding anniversary.

His wife, played by Joselyn Dumas, is a workaholic and is hesitant to leave her work behind but agrees to the second honeymoon.

While at the resort Omoye (Dumas) runs into an old lover and during their stay the two become entangled, however; her old flame Tare (Enyinna Nwigwe) is at the resort with his girlfriend, who he plans to propose to. It is an excellent story about the lives of two couples and the heartbreak that is caused by infidelity.

Beverly Naya plays the girlfriend of the unfaithful boyfriend Tare.

The movie has plenty of unpredictable plot AUGUST 14, 2020

twists that will keep you entertained and the acting is excellent. Dumas plays a character who is very unlikeable, but that changes in the end and Naya’s character is gut-wrenching as a scorned lover.

As far as the male characters are con-

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cerned Ikye is very likable as a husband who’d do anything for his wife while the other male lead, Nwigwe, is despicable as a character who hurts everyone in the movie without any hint of guilt.

Ultimately the movie has a very satisfying

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ending with a lesson learned as well. The movie, showing on NETFLIX, is rated TV14 with a run time of 1 hour and 37 minutes. on my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate COLD FEET a MEDIUM. myimessenger.com

Letter to Automakers outlines concerns regarding fairness and equity for Black Automotive Media Special to Texas Metro News The Black Automotive Media Group (BAMG), has challenged the nation’s automakers to address fairness and equity regarding Black media who cover the industry.

BAMG is a distinguished group of seven Black reporters and writers who have over 150 years of combined experience in automotive journalism within radio, television, print, videography, event planning and influencing, and social media.

They represent a coalition of Black journalists who either work for or own various automotive media platforms.

In a letter to 20 U.S. market automaker brands, the BAMG outlined concerns over a lack of inclusion for Blacks in automotive media and in automobile industry corporate positions.

Automakers were asked to take action on the three pillars outlined in the letter: • Access to press and special events • The lack of automotive advertising and marketing dollars for Blackowned Websites, newspapers, magazines, broadcast media, and marketing events • The lack of Black professionals who participate in developing, designing, engineering, or promoting new vehicles The letter also noted the lack of diversity on the North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) Jury, a prestigious panel of 50 North American journalists and engineers, which as of the release of our letter had no Black Jurors.

The BAMG feels that addressing these pillars is crucial to reversing decades of exclusion that Black automotive journalists have faced. As a result of the letter, all manufacturers responded, and a series of video calls were executed. The myimessenger.com

conversations were informative and sometimes uncomfortable, and souls on both sides of the discussions were bared. “We need to be an adequate part of the solution,” said one automaker.

“We need a strategic corporate reset,” said another.

“These are interesting times of reflection for everyone. But it also marks a moment of introspection for each individual that, in turn, comprises the totality of corporate culture in America,” said BAMG member Kimatni D. Rawlins.

“And the auto industry is not absolved due to equivalent philosophies, directives, and practices that have excluded African Americans from receiving a fair share of the resources and opportunities extended to mainstream media.”

Some brands responded with immediate solutions and pledges to enhance their diversity efforts to at least 15% for press event representation. However, a few were less than contrite, which was disturbing. The BAMG made it clear that diversity directives can only be successful when the mission and portfolio are integral parts of the corporate vision.

Other progress includes electing two Black male journalists onto the NACTOY Jury shortly after a panel discussion with the Motor Press Guild (MPG) on the plight of Black journalists in automotive media, and after the BAMG in-

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dustry letter reached automakers. Most manufacturers asked for assistance from the BAMG in identifying the “next generation” of young Black journalists and social media devotees who are rising stars in automotive media.

These conversations are but a first step in a long journey, as a dedicated, long-term approach will help strengthen relationships not only with Black media but also within the African American community.

According to http://www.nielsen. com, Black Americans contribute $1.2 Trillion annually to the U.S. economy, and their marketing and media value should reflect our buying power within the automotive sector.

The BAMG expects to meet quarterly with manufacturers to assess progress made towards greater inclusion.

Members of the Black Automotive Media Group include: • Greg Morrison, Bumper2Bumpertv • Roosevelt Gist, AutoNetwork.com • Kimatni D. Rawlins, AutomotiveRhythms.com / FitFathers.com • Frank Washington, AboutThatCar. com • Ken Chester, RoadWorthy Drive Productions • Ronda Penrice, Freelance Writer • Brian Armstead, Autosense/ Roadgear AUGUST 14, 2020

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MAY 20, 2020

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar

Best Southwest, State Rep. August 12 Carl Sherman (District 109) Hollywood Live! With Michael facilitates the TGIF Legislative “Hollywood” Hernandez and Series: kicks off Friday with speaker Co-host Shavonda with a “V” Adriana Cruz speaking about Economic Fields, on Hollywoodlive.com. From Development. Your Life. Your Community with Rep. Toni Rose, speaking about 2 pm – 4 pm.

Mental Health and Health Care. Register: bestsouthwestresources.com or call 972-780-5099. 8:00 am.

Texas Women’s Foundation Leadership Forum Virtual SeAugust 15 ries. Texas Women’s Foundation celebrates and recognizes the amazing Meet A Black Mental Health Professional: We Are leadership of the Maura Women Helping Here, hosted by Dr, Tanisha Guy & Megan Pickens, LPC-S. 7 pm Women and Young Leader Award recip– 9 pm. A 2-hour event will introduce you to 20 Black mental ients during a six-part series feat. each health professionals. Register: Eventbite.com. awardee. Moderated by: Jana Etheridge Capital One. Feat: Karla Garcia. 10:00 am.

Lind D. Lee Presents Back 2 Basics Seminar. Three Meet A Black Mental Health Virtual Clinics designed to equip and enrich the Proverbs 31 Professional: We Are Here, hosted Woman. 4 clinics/1virtual location: Cooking Chef LaShawna

by Dr, Tanisha Guy & Megan Pickens, King-Perry, Fashion Guru Daphne Askew, and Sewing SeamLPC-S. 7 pm – 9 pm. A 2-hour event will stress Tuesday Hodge. https://bit.ly/Back2BasicVirtual 10 amintroduce you to 20 Black mental health 12 pm CST. professionals. Register: Eventbite.com.

Plano Child Care Learning Academy 50th Gala Anniversary. 5:00 pm. CST Streaming live on Facebook Homeschooling This Fall? Edu@planochildcarelearningacademy. Donations: https://placators, Parents, Lets Organize. no-day-center.square.site/ Hosted by Akwete Tyehimba owner of Pan African Connection. Online Event: Positive Reflections Ministry https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4281209704 Free Groceries (Includes meat, 7:30 pm. non-perishables goods & produce while supplies last) Pick up location: August 13 Pleasant Zion Missionary Baptist SoulJazz Thursdays Under The Stars. At 813 Sanda- Church 1910 N. St Augustine Rd. Dallas ga, 813 Exposition Ave. 8:00 pm-12:00 am. Enjoy the sounds from 9 am to 1 pm. Call 214-208-5536 of Natural Change Under the Stars. Food Truck, BBQ, Hookahs, August 16 and Cigars. Doors at 8PM. For info: info@sandaga813.com.

Gregory Porter and Ledisi Live. At The Theater at Grand Prairie, 1001 Performance Place, 7:00 pm-11:30 pm.

Tickets: www.axs.com. Now On Sale - Show Date: Thurs. August 13, 2020. Date is subject to change.

Food Drive Hosted by Trinity Church 1231 E. Pleasant Run Rd., Cedar Hill 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. Trinity Church hosts a food drive. The more groceries they get, the more They are able to give away! Info: (972) 291-2501 or www.trinitychurch.org.

August 14 MLK Back To School - Drive Thru Festival 10 am 1 pm. at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, 2922 MLK Blvd. Dallas. Register via https://MLKBACKTOSCHOOL. Eventbrite.com. and drive through the MLK, Jr. Community Center parking lot and pick up free a backpack stuffed with school supplies and more. Registration is required to attend.

Friendship-West Presents Spiritual Care. Hosted by Be Made Whole Counseling Center.

Spiritual Care of our souls helps to encourage us through difficult times.1:00 pm CDT via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/8567036848? Access Code: 856 703 6848.

AUGUST 14, 2020

Black Out The System - Rally & March #BLM Hosted

by Dallas Community Police Oversight Coalition. Main Street Garden Park 1950 Main St, Dallas. 3:00 pm-6:00 pm.

August 19

Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez and Co-host Shavonda with a “V” Fields, on Hollywoodlive.com. at 2 pm – 4 pm.

August 20 The next Tri-Cities NAACP General Membership meeting, will be held via zoom conferencing on Thursday, August 20, 2020 at 7:00pm.

August 21 Friendship-West Presents Spiritual Care. Fridays Spiritual Care of our souls helps to encourage us through difficult times.1:00 pm CDT via Zoom: Click the link below. Enter the access code.https:// zoom.us/j/8567036848? Access Code: 856 703 6848.

Best Southwest, State Rep. Carl Sherman (District 109) facilitates the TGIF Legislative Series: Education during the Pandemic.

Register: Call 972-780-5099 or www. bestsouthwestresources.com. 8:00 am.

South Dallas Summer Drive-In at 1920 Martin Luther King Blvd. A summer drive-in that aims to bring together the Dallas community through cinema that explores and celebrates the black experience. Free via www.

Eventbrite.com 8:00 pm-11:59 pm.

August 22

August 17 Marvelous Marriage Mondays at Friendship-West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 7:00 pm-8 pm. Helping Marriages be More Marvelous! Reg: friendshipwest.zoom.us/ meeting/register/upcpcOmhqz4rqNU-lYrUaJHUISSKLziBMg. Fluffy-N-Fitness in the Park at Vandergriff Skatepark 2800 S. Center St. Arlington. 7:00 pm.

Meet A Black Mental Health Professional: We Are Here, hosted by Dr, Tanisha Guy & Megan Pickens, LPC-S. 7 pm – 9 pm. A 2-hour event will introduce you to 20 Black mental health professionals. Register: Eventbite.com.

August 18

BLACK LIVES MATTER #NationBuilding w/ Michael Sorrell, at 12:30 pm. CDT, Wednesdays on Facebook & Twitter. Follow Paul Quinn College’s President, Michael Sorrell on all social media platforms. @MichaelSorrell on Twitter & Instagram and @Michael J. Sorrell on Facebook.

A Message For You, with Anthony Council Morehouse student and I Messenger Media intern. Tuesdays at 11am Anthony brings that perspective from those born in this century. Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation.

Andrew’s World with host Andrew Whigham III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459 The Stimulus Show, hosted by Ashley Moss a Poynter Koch Fellowship with I Messenger Media, LLC. Join in on Facebook/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am Mondays. Join the conversation call 646-2000459.

SIP and Eat with LaShante’ “The Lifestyle Chef.” LaShante Williams, Every Thursday at 7pm CST on FB live and IG live and https://www.instagram.com/ lashante@thelifestylechef/

From Marva with Love with Marva Sneed from11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com.

Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Glenn Heights City Council Meeting, City Hall 1938 S. Hampton Rd. Glenn Heights 7:00 pm-9:30 pm.

Virtual Budget Town Hall - Districts 9 and 14 Hosted by Dallas City Hall. Share your input on the proposed Fiscal Year 2020-21 with Council Members Paula Blackmon and David Blewett. 5:30 pm-7:00 pm. Link: bit.ly/3gkNYx8 Event code: 146 014 8074 Password: 8m85kFiypJY Dial in: 408-418-9388.

I MESSENGER

A Message For You, with I Messenger Media multi-media journalist Allana Barefield and the legendary Norma Adams-Wade. Thursdays at 11am. Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation.

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KAMALA, from page 13... support veterans and military families, and expand access to childcare for working parents.

Earlier Tuesday, President Donald Trump suggested that “some men are insulted” that Biden had long ago narrowed his search to women. However, Trump’s statements were seen as a last-minute bid to rattle the Democrats.

Women’s groups and the civil rights community in recent days had blasted media members and individuals on social platforms for racist and sexist attacks against Harris and others who were considered in the vice-presidential sweepstakes.

In an open letter by nearly 700 Black women leaders, the attacks were roundly denounced.

“Black women are many things. We are business executives, political strategists, and elected officials, philanthropists, and activists,” the letter, circulated throughout the media and posted to various social media accounts, read.

“We are health and wellness practitioners. We are entertainers and faith leaders. We are wives, mothers, daughters, educators, and students. We set and shift culture. We build power, and we are powerful.”

Counting among the many Black women who signed the open letter are Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, Maya Cummings, Dr. Hazel Dukes, Suzanne DePasse, Valeisha Butterfield Jones, Cora Masters Barry, Melanie Campbell, and Karen Boykin-Towns.

“We are the highest propensity voters in this nation.

We are a coalition of Black women leaders, who, in this inflection point of the Black liberation movement, where myimessenger.com

people around the world are galvanized to action, know that the time for Black women in the United States is now,” the women penned in the letter.

Earlier, 100 prominent Black men including Sean “Diddy” Combs, Charlamagne Tha God, NBA Star Chris Paul, Bakari Sellers, and rapper Doug E. Fresh, signed a letter of solidarity calling for Biden to select a Black woman.

“As someone who has said throughout the campaign that VP Joe Biden needs to choose a Black woman VP, the urgency for that pick has gone from something that should happen to something that has to happen. It disgusts us that Black women are not just being vetted in this VP process but unfairly criticized and scrutinized,” the men wrote in the missive.

“Was Joe Biden ever labeled ‘too ambitious’ because he ran for president three times?

Should President Obama not have made him the VP because he had to worry about his ‘loyalty’ when he clearly had ambitions to be president himself? Why does Senator Kamala Harris have to show remorse for questioning Biden’s previous stance on integrated busing during a democratic primary debate?”

We’re open and ready to serve you!

Elaine’s

Jamaican Kitchen

(214) 565-1008 2717 Martin L. King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215

BEST

SCHOOLS FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS

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AUGUST 14, 2020

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FEBRUARY 8, 2019

I Messenger

Do you know this man?

POLICE have not apprehended “Pookie” the serial rapist.

We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers.

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?

877-373-8477 AUGUST 14, 2020

I MESSENGER

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