I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

VOL X NO 13, DECEMBER 11, 2020

I MESSENGER S G N I W Vickie Johnson named head coach

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WILLIAMS:

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

December 11, 2020

Comments for the week must be preceded by congratulations for President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Compared with most elections I have experienced, the wait for confirmation of their electoral victory seemed interminable. The wait was at times painful, but the outcome exquisite! As expressed during many television interviews, when the Biden-Harris ticket was declared victorious, I felt that our long political nightmare had ended. Whether relief is realized or not, their victory portends a reawakening of a movement toward national unity. At noon on Jan. 20, 2021, the fractious, divisiveness of the #45 administration will come to an end. I am not suggesting that one-on-one hostilities will immediately end, but I know that the bully pulpit of the presidency will no longer promote cross-cultural animus. The never-ending expression of grievance politics will come to an end and I hope weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll then focus on what should be our commonalities. True to promise, the first act of the Biden-Harris administration is a program to bring control to

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the Coronavirus Pandemic in the U.S. Nationally and for inhabitants of the rest of the world, COVID-19 has reshaped our respective cultures, methods of social interactions, and economies. Through words (encouraging COVID-19 best practices), actions (exemplary wearing of face masks), and a proposed national plan to control/end COVID-19, the Biden-Harris administration has articulated an intelligent and viable approach to reducing the effect of or eliminating this disease. Unfortunately, my sense of relief lasted little more than 24 hours. I guess it was foolish for me to expect expressions of familiar norms or propriety from #45â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campaign or the Republican Party. No congratulations! No concession! The presentation of contrived non-evidentiary, legal objections to election outcomes came! Firing of the secretary of defense came and poses an immediate and existential threat to national security! Then came a challenge to the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) before the Supreme Court, which could remove health insurance coverage for over 20 million citizens and for over one million citizens with preexisting conditions! The nightmare continues! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a nightmare of negativity promulgated by maniacal, ego-driven psyche of insecurity. Like a petulant child, #45 has

established handicaps that retard the ability of Biden-Harris to engage in the transition process as established by law. Through an agent of discord, General Services Administration Commissioner Emily Murphy, the Letter of Ascertainment that provides legal authority for the Biden-Harris transition team hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been issued. With the post-election behavior of #45 and his Republican supporters, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing that gives reason to believe that they have taken a more reasoned or conciliatory approach to governance. The remedy available to us requires that we reject conditioning that allows us to believe that we only have a right to challenge issues unique to our specific jurisdictions. Contemporary logic dictates that we understand our broader requirement for engagement. If we endorse the Biden-Harris agenda, we must work to eliminate impediments established by their opposition. Mitch McConnell and the majority-Republican Senate pose the greatest threat to a successful Biden-Harris administration. Just as they frustrated the efforts of the Obama/Biden administration and tried to make it a one-term administration, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do the same for Biden-Harris. The most logical way for us then is to eliminate see WILLIAMS, page 33

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INSIDE

Quit Playin’

I Was Just Thinking

The Last Word

Alison, my middle daughter, introduced me to this great young brother and a writer after my own heart. The book she bought is, “What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker.” As a result, I follow him everywhere. Often in the New York Times, but recently online at “The Root.”

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December 11, 2020

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Be Smart -- Not Fake nothing in comparison to what you could experience at varying stages of infection. And while there are numerous testing sites, too many are operating at full capacity of staff with too few actually coming in to be tested. Some believe that what they don’t know won’t hurt them. Fear can be almost as deadly because there are people walking around with the virus but without symptoms; giving them an opportunity to transmit the virus if they are not following safety protocols. We’ve gone decades without finding cures for numerous ills and we’re looking at a coronavirus vaccine in less than 12 months. There are optimists and skeptics. In the meantime and the between-time, we must deal with the inconveniences of protocols that have been proven to be life-saving. We have to follow the science, as the executive on that all-important Zoom call urged. Then, we look at the political scene and the dominant role that women continue to play. Say it with me, “Kamala!” Rep. Giddings spent 26 years as an elected official. She’s optimistic about the future and the impact that women are having in the

Campaign College

Recently I was privy to two calls where very critical information was shared. One conversation involved information the world needed to hear regarding COVID-19; even though I had concerns about whether or not many would pay attention and take necessary precautions, regardless of who was speaking. The other call was a ZOOM call hosted by the Hon. Helen Giddings and moderated by veteran journalist Melanie Lawson. The webinar was hosted by the Western Area of Black Women Empowering Black Women and was titled, “Are you Really Ready to Run?” That session, according to the former Texas State Representative, was the second session of Campaign College, sharing very insightful information for women interested in seeking elective December 11, 2020

office. Health and public service are two issues that are worthy of paying attention to. Which brings me to my truth. Top officials, who are focusing on science over conspiracy theorists and actors playing roles, are concerned about COVID-19. We must continue to wash our hands, wear our masks and practice social distancing. Sure doing so is uncomfortable and an inconvenience. If you wear glasses, they may fog up and if you have long hair the mask could become entangled and you might lose a few strands in the process of removing the mask. Talk to someone who has survived the coronavirus and they’ll tell you that the minor details that you are complaining about are

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electoral arena. For anyone contemplating seeking elective office, the “Are you Really Ready to Run?” call was very beneficial as the panelists talked about the challenges and responsibilities associated with public service. Sadly, too often folks step into arenas that they are not adequately prepared for, and maybe that’s why so many operate in the impostor realm of life where they fake the funk. That is what happens when you become so caught up in what you perceive as success — headlines, social media likes and cameras. Let’s face it. Some people are successful because of the work they put in; while others fake being successful because social media drives everything they do. Listening to veteran elected officials on the Zoom call, you couldn’t help but reassess your desire to be an elected office if you think the job is easy or glamorous. Lesson to the wise and unwise who think they know everything: You have to do your homework, become a student of whatever you aspire to be, BEFORE, you venture out. On those two calls, there was one message that defies foolishness: as long as you live, you can learn, because you don’t know everything. myimessenger.com

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December 11, 2020

E.G.O. - Edging God Out FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Years ago, I remember encountering this lady who was so bitter. I had done nothing to her but say hello and her attitude toward me was demeaning. I asked a dear friend who was in the room witnessing the behavior to shed some light. This woman’s husband left her and since that time, her pain turned into rage and ultimately, bitterness. Life is not easy, but it is interesting to watch how all of us deal with situations that cause harm. We can choose to either allow those experiences to define us or we can decide to deal with it. Many families and friendships are broken because of bitterness. Incidents that happened years ago still have a grip, impacting our freedom and minds. Bondage is real. As I reflect on the lady I encountered, she did not realize that her pain was keeping her confined from experiencing true happiness. Her ex-husband had moved on to another relationship and was living his life. She on the other hand, was barely surviving. She had every right to be hurt, angry, and even fearful. However, she allowed those emotions to become companions and occupy space that they did not deserve access. Our minds and bodies are powerful tools that God gave us to accomplish our destiny. December 11, 2020

What happens when we allow those tools to become contaminated by poor thinking, bad decisions, and toxic relationships? “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were brought at a price. Therefore, honor God with

God resides within us, our decision-making will look very different. We will begin to question the food we place in our bodies. Will this food help or cause problems? When we recognize that God resides within us, we will decide carefully about who we connect to emotionally, spiritually, and physically. “Do you not know that your

your bodies.” (Corinthians 6:19-20) For many of us, this scripture is only about our body, but it is also about our hearts. I remember growing up hearing the expression, “garbage in, garbage out.” When we allow ourselves to be contaminated with emotions, experiences or even excuses, we are diminishing the temple that God has given us to cherish and care for… we are to be stewards of this gift. I, like many, have not always seen it this way. When we recognize that

bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never!” (Corinthians 6:15) Most of us would respond that we are not engaging in activities like prostitution but fail to think about those areas in our lives that bring us down. When we make those choices, we are saying to God that this space is occupied and there is no room for God’s presence. We are literally Edging God Out (EGO), and our egos create this false sense of security that we can do

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whatever we want. You can but in doing so, we abuse the temple and dismiss our value. We were purchased at a price. The lady I referenced wore her anger and bitterness as a badge of protection. These companions had taken up residence, leaving little room for anything, even God, dominating space in her mind, spirit and body. When you comprehend how valuable you are, your vision expands beyond your current condition to embracing the power of your future possibilities. What would happen if we knew our value and walked in that knowledge? It would totally transform our relationships, our health, and our wellbeing. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9). You are worth more than you realize. Begin to see yourself the way God sees you. Everyone and Everything does not deserve permanent access especially when it derails us from what God intended for our lives.

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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“Real American or Blacker?” QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL Alison, my middle daughter, introduced me to this great young brother and a writer after my own heart. The book she bought is, “What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker.” As a result, I follow him everywhere. Often in the New York Times, but recently online at “The Root.” Damon Young took the time to identify 55 “Nickel slick” ways that White folks in the media infer “White people” without saying so. For some, this list was well known, but it’s a useful tool for those of us who don’t always recognize code-switching. Or what I call “literary duplicity.” According to the Hall Dictionary, “literary duplicity” has been fashioned over the few years to imply race and/or stature without directly calling it out. For example, urban tends to describe minorities, White Liberals, and chaos. “Rurals” don’t mind driving to town or working elbowto-elbow with “urban” to make a decent living. “City” paychecks can buy you a fiveacre spread at the corner of Nowhere Lane and Nobody Avenue. That’s where most of our urban police and fire professionals live. Urban politicians make the mistake of offering millions in tax abatements to cash-rich companies when monetary incentives could create better communities. They would rather go half on myimessenger.com

a billion-dollar stadium with Jerry Jones than fortify our neighborhoods’ public safety. Much of this happens right under our noses. You listen to the news religiously but decipher the code words sporadically. Here are most of the terms Damon noted in

class, Citizens, Taxpayers, Homeowners, The military, The Troops, Legal voters, Regular/simple/decent/ rural/normal Americans, Trump supporters, The silent majority, and Law-abiding citizens. Small business owners,

his column. Remember, all of these stereotypically refer to Whites, whether minorities fall into the category or not. “Americans, Real Americans, Middle America, Working-class Americans, Europeans Patriots, Southerners, Midwesterners, Christians, Evangelicals, Redstate voters, Rust Belt voters, Conservatives, Republicans, Families, Veterans and Law enforcement. Soccer moms, Hardworking Americans, The middle

Blue-collar workers, Whitecollar workers, Essential workers, Gun owners, Bernie Bro(s) and Constitutional originalists.” This is a partial list. Go back in your memory and consider how often Donald Trump and Fox News overuse these terms. Go even further back and recall that the Republican Party is rooted in their use. The Civil Rights era ended blatant public displays of racism. So they went underground.

“55 Ways White People say “White People” without actually saying “White People” is a timely reminder. More and more Americans will become more conscious of current events and politics in the future. If Donald Trump did nothing else, he taught young people why elections have consequences. However, none of us can digest news or social mediadriven diatribes without understanding that literary duplicity is at work. You can learn from TV, but you can’t always glean the whole truth on television. Listening is insufficient alone, Google ain’t the endall, and the major networks are a cesspool of opinion and bias. National Public Radio has managed to maintain its purity, but it teeters on financial ruin nationally and on the local level. There was once a famous saying,” Words don’t mean… people mean!” It was a caveat. It instructed you to listen past the words to get the messenger’s meaning. Damon Young pulled the covers on how white people refer to themselves without using white. We won’t go into the code words they use for Black folks. But rest assured that Malcolm X was right. ““What do you call a Black man with a Ph.D.? You call him a ‘nigger’.” Red-State Voters, Evangelicals, and Trumpsters continue to buoy Malcolm’s assertion. However, Damon was right, we just get Blacker! Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

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Risk of teaching about slavery; explain or destroy monuments I WAS JUST THINKING... NORMA ADAMS-WADE

A recent news story lamented the catch-22 of attempting to teach modern day kids about historical slavery. In the first scenario, the teacher – attempting to made the lesson clear – has the students to act out the characters of slave and master. But unintentionally, the teacher picks a vulnerable child to be the enslave African. On the surface, the teacher appears to belittle the captive student, subtly suggest they are inferior, and ends up damaging the child’s ego. Learning about the class project at home, an enraged parent demands the teacher’s head and considers suing school administrators. The teacher is fired for harming the child and discrediting the school. This case really happened. In the second scenario, the teacher is aware that teaching about slavery is a touchy subject. So, they either gloss over the details or hurry through the lesson to the point that the students learn nothing substantive about the subject. There is still another dilemma that seems to have no clear solution. What do you do with Confederate monuments, relics and buildings that honor Old South Civil War heroes? All around the country in recent years, Confederate statues are being pulled down, buildings being renamed, myimessenger.com

and Old South relics either destroyed or prompting angry street protests. Almost like in the Civil War, people are taking sides and belligerently defending their stance. I was just thinking...what do you do to calm the divide? To me, the answer seems stunningly simple. I suggest to the world that remaining statues, monuments, maybe even building be used as teaching tools about the way things were -- but should not Close up view of the Stone Mountain sculpture.

View of Stone Mountain from a distance. Photo Credit: goodfreephotos.com

have been. A strategically placed plaque, mural, well-illustrated sign board or even a video and recording booth could set the record straight, retain the old symbol, and remind the public that this was wrong and must not happen again. These booths where visitors could step up, view and listen could pack a wallop of information, explaining what was wrong about the old way and why it no longer exists. Argue with me if you must. But you will not convince me that this solution will not work. To me, this is the way to avoid

the headache and expense of tearing down or destroying. and could foster teaching opportunities that otherwise would not be available. In some cases, I can agree with relocating divisive statues and monuments to a museum. Advocates of those art pieces and the negative history they produce could visit at their will without disturbing the rest of us. As I see it, both sides could have their cake and eat it too. Researchers tell us about one controversial monument that has sparked recent protests. It would be physically dangerous and time-consuming to get rid of and would cost well over $1million. The massive Stone Mountain sculpture in Dekalb County, just outside Atlanta, Georgia, took almost 60 years to complete. It has been called a monument to white supremacy. Stone Mountain was a longtime sacred site for Ku Klux Klan members for about 50 years beginning in the early 1900s. Members met regularly at the dome mountain of granite and quartz and burned crosses

Photo Credit: publicdomainpictures.net

there as part of their meeting rituals. The sculpture replicates the giant images of Confederate heroes – Gen. Robert E. Lee, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and Gen. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson riding on horseback. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is noted for mentioning Stone Mountain in his “I Have A Dream” speech during the 1963 March on Washington. “Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia; let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee... From every mountain side, let freedom ring.” So, whether its resolving conflicts about Confederate monuments or navigating the slippery slope of teaching about slavery, know that you cannot please everyone, but finding middle ground is useful. 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

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December 11, 2020

Bright Spots, Bright Smiles Luminova Holidays lights up North Texas Photos and story By EVA D. COLEMAN Lifestyle and Culture Editor It’s beginning to look a lot like… Well, a way to illuminate your life for the holidays with safety in mind! Luminova Holidays at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas lit up the sky and field on Thursday, November 19, 2020 with a media preview night. The outdoor/indoor attraction is a wonderland of elaborate light displays that provide fun and great family photo opportunities. During the continuous season of COVID-19, organizers wanted to provide a break from what has turned into the norm. “The goal is to safely get people out of the house and out of the cars,” Luminova co-producer Dixie Baker said to the crowd gathered around the 65-foot, blue and white tree near the entrance of Globe Life Field. Baker also shared that they are allowing a limited number of tickets per hour to experience the 270,000 square feet of space that includes a large, outdoor ice skating rink, masked carolers, indoor train rides, a brightly lit holiday tunnel and more. Hand sanitizer and washing stations are located throughout the space as well. Attendees enjoying the illuminated mecca were masked up and adhered to social distance protocols with the help of six-feet markers on the floor. Custodial staff were heavily present and observed continuously cleaning multiple surfaces, including escalator handrails, soon after crowd use. The newness of Globe Life Field intrigued many, as attending Luminova Holidays, the first non-sporting event to be held at the new home of the Texas Rangers, was also their first visit to the ballpark. This sentiment was not lost on one attendee in particular as a newly-elected member of the Arlington City Council. “I just got elected to Arlington City CounDecember 11, 2020

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cil, District 6 At Large on November 3rd,” councilwoman Ruby Faye Woolridge proudly said with a bright smile. “This is my first event, Luminova, and you need to come out to Luminova, it is awesome.” The Xi Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated member was also excited to experience a holiday staple up close. “They have authentic reindeer; I just got through playing with one,” Councilwoman Woolridge said. “You’ve got to come out and enjoy this experience. The families will love it!” Luminova Holidays will shine bright until January 3, 2021. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit luminovaholidays.com.

Luminova co-producer Dixie Baker (center) with Arlington dignitaries

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December 11, 2020

EVANS VICTORIOUS

Pastor elected Mansfield Mayor By ASHLEY M. MOSS Staff writer The Rev. Michael Evans, a longtime civic leader and educator, became the first African American mayor of Mansfield Tuesday, after he ran a campaign pledging to refrain from dirty politics and to build unity in the city. “To God be the glory,” said Evans, who is pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Mansfield, late Tuesday night after the election was declared for him. “We’re Mansfield strong,” he said. According to unofficial results, Evans earned 53.84 percent of the ballots cast in Tarrant County while his opponent Brent Newsom earned 46.16 percent, according to unofficial election results provided to Texas Metro News by Belinda Willis, director of communications and marketing for the city of Mansfield. Evans claimed the historic win after building a multiracial coalition of supporters and campaigning for nearly a year. “I’d attribute the win to the grassroots effort of folks who came to work together,” he said after the polls closed Tuesday.” We refused to attack the other campaign. We handled our business.” Evans, who previously served several years on the Mansfield school board, won more than 4,700 votes to Newsom’s roughly 4,000 votes. About 8,800 Mansfield December 11, 2020

Mayor elect- Rev. Michael Evans

residents cast ballots in Tuesday’s runoff election. Evans’ supporters gathered at a parking lot late Tuesday night after the polls closed. Drivers stayed in their cars

“Thank you now for the man of God who you have placed for such a time as this,” said a man who identified himself only as a church member during his prayer. “God continue to move on his heart. God continue to give him clarity not only on how to lead your people at Bethlehem, but to lead the city of Mansfield.” While the majority of Mansfield lies in Tarrant County, portions of the city spills into both Ellis and Johnson counties. In Ellis County, Evans won seven votes while Newsom won a total of five as of 11

Rev. Michael Evans with Mansfield voter Courtney Hester, 20, on Tuesday

and honked their horns as they listened to singers, church members and others speak about Evans’ leadership and pray for him. One church member thanked God for Tuesday’s victory during the event which was broadcast by Evans’ campaign on Facebook.

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p.m. Tuesday, according to Ellis County’s official election website. Election results were not immediately available in Johnson County, but ballot numbers were included in the total votes released by Mansfield city officials. Newsom, who is a Mansfield City Council member and

the son of former Mansfield school superintendent Vernon Newsom, could not be reached late Tuesday for comment. He did not return phone calls left at his campaign office Tuesday night. A message left for him on his personal Facebook page was not immediately responded to. Evans called Newsom “a fine human being” Tuesday despite being forced to address racially-tinged rumors, apparently from Newsom’s supporters, suggesting that Evans would reduce police funding and support “lowincome” housing. Newsome, who is white, was endorsed by an unnamed law enforcement group, according to his campaign’s website. Evans posted a video Tuesday hours before the polls closed to his campaign’s Facebook page. He asked voters to ignore the“dog whistling” which he attributed to law enforcement who supported Newsom. Evans said in his post he has worked 27 years for law enforcement. “Come on guys. Let’s stop the dog whistling,” he said in the video. “Y’all know better than some of the stuff we’re saying. Cut that mess out.” “Let’s not tell lies. We ain’t doing that - defund the police and low income housing,” he said. “That’s stereotyping. That’s kind of tacky.” Earlier Tuesday, while campaigning at the Tarrant County Sub-Courthouse on East Broad Street, Newsom denied that race played any see MAYOR on page 17

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Mayor,

from page 16... factor in Tuesday’s runoff. “Elections shouldn’t be about race. They should be about Mansfield,” he said. “Whether white, Black, Asian, Hispanic, I’ve not had those conversations (about race).” Instead, he said, rising taxes are a more pressing concern for Mansfield homeowners. “My concern is growth and making sure that we manage the property taxes appropriately,” Newsom said Tuesday afternoon. “In our data and research, that’s what everybody says - property taxes.” Still, some voters said Tuesday’s runoff offered a chance to diversify Mansfield’s all-white city council. “I’ve lived in Mansfield for 27 years and and I’ve never seen (ethnic) representation,” said Marisela Aramino, 39, a Latina and former teacher in the Mansfield school district. “That’s something that’s

important for me and my kids to experience.” Another voter said she cast her ballot for Evans, an educator who has been among the first African Americans to serve in a number of civic and religious roles across the state, to bring a different voice to city government. Courtney Hester, 20, a Tarrant County College myimessenger.com

student who is white, said her vote for Evans was a reflection of her commitment to the Black Lives Matter movement. “I’ve lived here since I was eight years old,” she said before casting her ballot at the Tarrant County SubCourthouse. “I’ve been following the work of Black Lives Matter, but I realized if I’m going to preach BLM, that I need to actually get out and be committed to helping and actually supporting Black people.” Evans and Newsom advanced to the December runoff election after beating a crowded field of candidates during the Nov. 3 primary election. Evans compiled 11,000 votes—or nearly 40 percent of the ballots cast— while Newsom won 8,300 votes - or 30 percent - of ballots cast. Two other candidates, George Fassett and Terry Moore, rounded out the field. Evans succeeds David Cook, who stepped down from the position last December

to run for Texas House of Representatives District 96 seat. Evans is president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas, the state’s largest organization of Baptist churches. He is one of the first African Americans to serve as president of the predominantly and historically white group of Baptists. He said in a message three weeks ago to Texas Baptists that Jesus had called his followers to love others. “I believe we are called to unity in the spirit of love,” Evans said to fellow Baptists during his presidential message delivered virtually to the group. It was reported in an article in the group’s newspaper, The Baptist Standard. A former U.S. Navy officer, Evans and his congregation built a 135,000 square-foot independent living complex for senior adults in the city. Evans said he would continue to focus on public

safety and lowering property taxes by implementing “smart growth” strategies in the city and region, including inviting affordable housing and master-planned housing developments. “The answer to the tax problem is embedded in fiscal responsibility and smart economic development that helps to lessen the tax burden on the citizenry.” he said. “A smart growth strategy will drive the economic development plan along with spending priorities that are to be determined after the basic needs of safety, infra-structure upkeep and growth are met.” He said he would work with all sectors of the citizenry to accomplish those goals. “We are folks in this city who are coming together because we want the same thing, that’s who we are,” he added. “We have more in common than we do otherwise.” Texas Metro News editor Valerie Fields Hill contributed to this report.

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Dallas Wings Name Vickie Johnson Head Coach By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor That she just became the only Black woman head coach in the WNBA – in the backdrop of 2020, the #SayHerName and Black Lives Matter movements and the murders of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd among others – is not lost on Vickie Johnson. “I take great pride in that. I know this is an incredible moment for all of us and for the League,” said the new coach of the Dallas Wings. “I’m a Black woman. I walk this every day. But it’s more than just that it’s about being a role model for all people Black women, white women – everyone; young guys, young girls and more, so I take great pride in that and everything I do. Johnson, 48, knows and accepts that fact that she is role model. “I hope they see me and they are proud and one day want to be like me – not only just me but my team as well” she said. “We represent a very small group of people being professional athletes, being professional coaches and we take great pride in that.” The Wings on Wednesday officially announced the hiring of Johnson, a two-time WNBA All-Star, as the team’s head coach. She joins the Wings after serving as an Assistant Coach with the Las Vegas Aces franchise, helping guide Las Vegas to the best record in the WNBA this past summer. The Aces made the team’s second consecutive trip to the WNBA Playoffs and earned a berth in the 2020 WNBA Finals. myimessenger.com

“Vickie was the right person son was retained as an assisto lead out team at this time,” tant coach on Bill Laimbeer’s said Wings President and staff where she was prior to CEO Greg Bibb. “Someone coming to the Wings. who can relate to the players, “I am excited to be able to who understands the chal- work with a promising group lenges of the profession and of young and talented players. someone who knows how to My goal is to build a strong develop the skill sets of young foundation and a championprofessional athletes. ship team. I know that it will “As an original member of take time, hard work and dedthe WNBA, a two-time All- ication, and I am up for the Star and a respectchallenge. I have ed assistant coach established Dallas who has served as my home base under some of since 2004 and I the game’s most have been an acsuccessful head tive member of coaches and an this community. I individual who is am now thrilled to proud to call North be able to coach in Texas home, Vickthe city that I love.” ie Johnson met or Coach Vickie Johnson Johnson said exceeded all the she has talked criteria we were looking for in with the team and is looking our head coach.” forward to coaching what Johnson – who has lived in has been one of the youngthe North Texas area since est WNBA teams the past two 2004 – is not only a WNBA seasons. She inherits an excoach, she is also a for- tremely talented team includmer player. She was drafted ing the reigning 2020 WNBA twelfth overall by the New scoring champ Arike OgunYork Liberty during the in- bowale; Satou Sabally who augural WNBA season of finished third in 2020 Rook1997. She became a two-time ie of the Year voting; veteran WNBA All-Star (1999, 2001) Allisha Gray - the 2017 WNBA and the first player in fran- Rookie of the Year - and Isachise history to record 2,000 belle Harrison, the 2019 Assopoints. Johnson would go on ciated Press Comeback Player to score 3,000 points with the of the Year. Liberty in eight seasons be“The thing I love about this fore finishing her career with young team is the passion the San Antonio Sliver Stars they have and the willingfrom 2006 to 2009, winning ness to be better. It’s just a the Kim Perrot Sportsman- matter of bringing it all toship Award in 2008. gether. They have all come In 2011, Johnson was hired from prestigious universities by the Silver Stars as an as- so they know how to win,” sistant coach. She served in she said. “I have to put them that role for seven years be- in position to be successful fore spending one year as the on and off the court. It’s also head coach in San Antonio. important to talk about off When the Silver Stars relocat- the court and touching the ed to Las Vegas in 2018, John- community; we’re role mod-

els and every aspetct of it and I want to make my team represents that. “I am going to help them reach another level and develop their skills to fit into a system that will highlight their talent as individuals and as a team. But it will be a team aspect all the way through,” Johnson stressed. “Chemistry is the key to success and also sisterhood. Not just in season but off season. It’s very important for them to reach out and ensure they are okay as people first and then as teammates. “ As excited as Johnson is to take the reigns of the Wings, the players are equally thrilled at their new coach. “I’m really excited about Coach Johnson coming on board,” said Ogunbowale. “She has a great reputation and it will be exciting to be coached by someone who played in the WNBA. We’re a young team, and I know I’m looking forward to her leadership.” “The future is very bright in Dallas,” said Gray. “And with the hire of Vickie Johnson I’m sure she will do great things for the Dallas Wings organization.” A Louisiana native, Johnson was a two-letter athlete in high school before beginning her collegiate career at Louisiana Tech University in 1992. She was the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year in 1995 and a two-time All-American, leading her team to the NCAA Championship game in 1994. Johnson ended her collegiate career with 1,891 points and 831 rebounds, earning an induction into the Louisiana Tech Hall of Fame in 2007. December 11, 2020

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December 11, 2020

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The Most Important Factor in Your Family’s Education is

YOU Give your family the best chance for success by supporting their education at home and at school. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, sticking to a schedule, partnering with teachers and administrators, utilizing culturally sensitive best practices, and tapping into local resources are just a few of the ways that you can support distance learning at home and keep your family on track for educational success.

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December 11, 2020

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Dallas COVID-19 Resources

MO’ BETTAH WINGS

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

Slow the spread of COVID-19 The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay at home.

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11am-10pm Monday-Saturday 12-8 Sunday

Wash with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

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Visit dallascityhall.com/COVID19 for a list of resources and up-to-date information about COVID-19.

December 11, 2020

214-421-5387

Two Podners Bar-B-Que & Seafood 1441 Robert B Cullum Blvd. Dallas, Texas 75210 December 11, 2020

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December 11, 2020

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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. Everyone may order from our website, and we will ship your product order to you. http://www.hairandscalpessentials.com We need your support. In addition, we offer Video Consultations globally! We will schedule an appointment, give a diagnosis, them make a recommendation. We are available to serve you in the comfort of your home. Call us today - 817.265.8854 http://www.hairandscalpessentials.com We need your support.

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December 11, 2020

A Celebration of the Life of

Janet Walton

Janet Walton 1943-2020 Janet (Jan) Walton was known for her tenacity, culinary skills, intellect and uncanny sense of humor. She was a mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Her decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease came to end on December 5, 2020 at the age of 77. She was born to Jeff Dennis (JD) and Rosie Williams on March 2, 1943 in Junction City, Arkansas. Although her life took many twists and turns, she went back to school at the age of 40 and became a Certified Registered Nurse; devoting over 20 years of her life to serving others in the medical field. Those who knew her best will never forget the taste of her mouthwatering rolls or her spectacular cakes. There is no length that Jan wouldn’t December 11, 2020

go to for those that she loved. When her Aunt Annie Lou Lewis was battling breast cancer she would drive from Dallas, TX to Milwaukee, WI just to accompany her on doctor visits. Jan was preceded in death by her mother, father and devoted brother, Robert Williams. She leaves to celebrate her life and cherish her memories: her daughters, Sylvia Dunnavant (James) Hines; Kitti G. Sendontae; son, Joseph (Krystle) Walton IV; grandchildren, Jaysen Scott, Shelby Walton, Julian Walton, Journee Walton, Jordan Walton, Uriel Gozlan, Gabby Gozlan and Nathaniel Gozlan; brothers, Giovanni Wilyama, Clarence Williams, James Williams, Billy (Diane) Williams, Jimmy (Camille) Williams; sister, Dorothy

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(Dennis) Byas; great grandchildren, Jayda Scott, Jaliyah Scott and Dylan Walton, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of other relative and friends. In her later years, she was affectionately referred to as simply Miss Jan. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Her celebration of life is scheduled for 2:00 PM (CST),

December 13, 2020 in the “Peggy Jo Mayse” Chapel of Evergreen Funeral Home at 6449 University Hills Blvd, Dallas, TX 75241. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Celebrating Life Foundation, www.celebratinglife.org or mail donations to 10455 N. Central EXPY, Ste 109-124, Dallas, Texas 75231. (Due to COVID-19 this service will be livestreamed.) myimessenger.com

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December 11, 2020

DISTORTIONS, DISTRACTIONS AND DELUSIONS THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

The right Reverend Raphael Warnock, senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Dr. Martin Luther King’s church, is running for the U.S. Senate from Georgia. Warnock is a man of God, a humble man, with one of these both booming and melodious voices that pulls us up on our feet and inspires choruses of “Amen,” “Tell it, brother,” and “No, you didn’t.” Warnock, who weaves his biblical reflections with a message of social justice, preaches in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Warnock also reminds me of Rev. William Barber, Rev. Freddy Haynes, and my own pastor, Rev. William Lamar of Metropolitan AME Church in DC. These men don’t think the Bible is a book we should put on a shelf and cherry-pick. Instead, they claim the Bible as a guide to Christian living and Christian obligation. Warnock and Jon Osoff are Democrats running in Georgia’s runoff election, and both are in tight races. The rhetoric that has bandied about is laden with untruths. These two races are so important that the candidates are expected to spend $150 million on them. Why? Because the current Senate December 11, 2020

composition is 50 Republicans and 48 Democrats. If both Warnock and Osoff win their races, Democrats will control the Senate, with VPelect Harris as the tie-breaker. Kelly Loffler, a multimillionaire Barbie look-alike who uses her hair as punctuation, seems to have had her Republican operatives comb through several of Warnock’s sermons. Without evidence, she describes him as anti-police; anti-Israel; anti-Semitic (it is possible to

President-elect Joe Biden

be critical of Israel without being anti-Semitic); anti-jobs (what Black pastor do you know who is anti-jobs); pro socialized medicine; pro-communist. Indeed, her condemnations illustrate how out of step she is with many of the African Americans she hopes to represent and her insular reality and cultural disconnect. She partly owns Atlanta’s Women’s National Basketball Association team but has been openly critical when the players on that team wear Black Lives Matter t-shirts. She has said she

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thinks the Black Lives Matter movement has Marxist roots. I don’t believe Loeffler knows a Marxist from a telephone pole. Republicans bandy about terms they believe will alienate voters. To let them tell it, President-elect Joe Biden is a “socialist” (not), Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris is a “far-left liberal,” and Rev. Raphael is “pro-communist.” Joe Biden is about as moderate as they come. He has not yet said that he supports “Medicare for All,” but he supports protections for those with pre-existing conditions, just like 70 percent of all Americans do. VP-elect Harris has been so frequently mischaracterized that refuting baseless claims is futile. Here is what we know – she is a savvy attorney who has increasing responsibility in the Democratic Party. She brings enthusiasm and energy (not to mention diversity) to the ticket. The attempts to disparage her are at best mean-spirited and anti-black (attack her on the issues, don’t call her a “monster”). Warnock has described Loeffler’s attacks on him as “division and distraction.” I might add “delusional” to the alliteration. Extracting a passage from a sermon in which Warnock reminded us that God comes first, Loeffler attempted to spin his sermon into an attack on the military. The Bible verse Warnock was quoting, Matthew 6:24, remind us that

God comes first and should gain our allegiance above money or the military. This is basic Christian doctrine. Many of us believe in the omnipotence of God. Warnock did not attack the military; he asserted that our primary obligation is to God. But words like “socialist” and “left-wing radical” are inflammatory terms, even if those who use them don’t know quite what they mean. If feeding the hungry is socialist, then so was Jesus. If clothing the naked is socialist, so is our Lord. If healing the ill is a socialist initiative, then, of course, Raphael Warnock seems like a socialist to the woman who is worth at least $520 million and has all the health care she can afford. Warnock advocates for expanding the Affordable Care Act, a move anathema to conservatives who want to maximize the profit they can extract from sick people. Rev. Raphael Warnock, like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a Morehouse man. There is an adage – you can always tell a Morehouse man, but you can’t tell him much. Warnock would like us to tell him that we have his back in a pivotal race that may determine how effective President-elect Biden can be. Ignore the racist rhetoric and check out this powerful preacher and civic leader. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

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DEAR SANTA

AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

Have you ever wondered what happens with the thousands of letters to Santa that are delivered to the post office each year? DEAR SANTA is a heart warming documentary about how the post office handles those letters each year with a program called Operation Santa. The film takes us to post offices all over the US and shows how volunteers look through the letters and fulfill the wishes of the kids who write them by actually delivering them their special Christmas wish. It’s a real labor of love making sure the kids, most of them underprivileged, get a gift at Christmas time. The kids request all kinds of things from a bunny rabbit to a puppy and volunteers from all over the United States do their best to make their dreams come true. Most of the volunteers are myimessenger.com

We’re open and ready to serve you!

regulars who hold fundraisers and hit up fellow employees for donations for the kids. The best part of the film is the wonder of the kids when the US Post Office delivers their presents. The requests are wide and varied. In one kid’s letter he didn’t ask for anything; he just wanted to be loved as a gay child. Another child, who lived in New York City, wanted a limousine ride for him and his family on Christmas day. (He got his wish.) During this time of so many negative things happening in our world DEAR SANTA is a shining example of what people can do if we work together. The only drawback of the film is it gets a bit monotonous. For me it took too long to get the payoff; which is the kids getting their toys. The movie is available on Prime Video. The movie has not been rated and it has a run time of 1 hour and 24 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate DEAR SANTA a MEDIUM.

Elaine’s

Jamaican Kitchen

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December 11, 2020

Maskne: Tips to avoid skin outbreaks ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

The COVID-19 Pandemic has contributed to many changes. One requirement is the wearing of face coverings and face masks. The creativity of designers and seamstresses have been unleashed. The world has seen a wide variety of creative designs, ranging from logo for business, fundraisers for non-profits, donated masks for 1st responders, personalized masks, to cute superhero designs for kids. Bottom line, money is being made from mask/face coverings. Consumers wear face coverings/ masks from a few hours to many,

Dr. Hauschka

therefore affecting facial skin. Esthetician Tomorrow Leigh shares about acne mechanica. The dreaded combination of wearing a PPE mask causing skin irritation and

break out. Believe it or not there is actually a medical term for this, acne mechanica. Simply put prolonged wear of facial protective equipment can impose heat causing friction, occlusion and dehydration to the skin. Combine that with a moist environment from talking, breathing or sweating and a perfect recipe for breakouts can occur. To help aide with treating Maskne; be sure to wash your face daily with gentle cleansers, this will help to prevent dirt and oil from being trapped on the skin’s surface. Also gargle with mouthwash to help kill germs in your mouth so the hot air that sits on your skin beneath the mask can be neutralized. Try not to over stimulate your skin with a plethora of topical acne products. Over use of too many acids, glycolics, benzoyl peroxides and retinols can cause itching, redness, irritation and over processed skin. Commit to maintaining a daily skincare regimen that works for you and use only one of the above-mentioned products to help aid with breakout (preferably during your night time cleanse). Follow with a toner, moisturizer (sunscreen if outdoors) and then with a large brush apply a light amount of Dr. Hauschka’s Silk Body Powder to your face before putting on your mask to create a protective barrier for your skin. This powder is antibacterial and helps assist with the oil, dryness, irritation and a host of other conditions that occur when wearing a protective mask. If you wear a cloth mask wash after each wear with a gentle detergent and throw away your disposable masks daily. Remember to be kind and gentle with your skin and; love the skin you dwell in.

Dr. Amerson is open to more road trip collaborations with beauty/barbers industry professionals, as well as women’s church groups, conferences, expos and seminars. Help is Available! 817 265 8854 www. hairandscalpessentials.com #ScalpDoctor #40yrVeteran

December 11, 2020

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The Mother Ghost ASK ALMA BY ALMA GILL

Dear Alma, I have a friend and we’ve known each other most of our lives. We’ve spent many years together going on family vacations, dealing with marriages and divorce. We had children around the same time and we’ve always been there for each other. We are now at the stage where you take care of your parents. I’m not taking care of my mom, she’s in a nursing home, but my friend decided to take care of her mom at home. Her mother recently died, but before she died, she told my friend that she would come back and visit her. My friend believes that her mother is back in the house. She told me the lights are blinking on and off in one room and she also said there’s one step that squeaks now that never did before. I think that’s crazy and she thinks it’s her mother. What’s the best way to explain to her, her mother cannot come back from the grave? Name withheld Hold up, wait – it could happen…shaking my head,

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naaawwww, LOL, I don’t think so. If you’ve followed Ask Alma for half a minute, you’d know I’ve lost my mother, father and one and only big sister Kim, so when it comes to grieving, I’m at the head of the line. I never thought my sister was gonna die, even when she

start to smell it, but we’re a PG publication here, so let’s just keep it moving, LOL. Humans, unlike our furry K-9 friends, don’t go looking for something for the sake of looking. We always have an agenda, an inkling, something that doesn’t sit right in our belly.

nothing you or I can say or do to change that. And why should we? When I see a beautiful red bird, I say hello to my grandmother, she loved birds. I don’t think the red bird is my grandmother, just like if the lights are flickering in my house, my first thought is to change the bulb.

As far as your friend is concerned, like my mother used to say, if you go looking for it honey, you’ll find it. Well, actually she said, if you keep stirring sh*t, you’ll start to smell it, but we’re a PG publication here, so let’s just keep it moving, LOL. Humans, unlike our furry K-9 friends, don’t go looking for something for the sake of looking. We always have an agenda, an inkling, something that doesn’t sit right in our belly. You know what I’m saying. She’s looking, so just let her look. Yea, she’s stretching, but that’s her broken rubber band to bend. was in a coma. I would talk to her and say, “You can open your eyes now, it’s just me in the room.” After she died, I had to pretend she was in the Bahamas, unreachable for the first six years. I remember telling my father, I don’t know what I’ll do without you. He lovingly answered, “Yes you will, you’ll know.” When it came to my mama, don’t you dare speak the words. I could not even entertain the thought. My heart broke, I was broken. Some might call it irrational, but you’ll never know until it happens to you. As far as your friend is concerned, like my mother used to say, if you go looking for it honey, you’ll find it. Well, actually she said, if you keep stirring sh*t, you’ll

You know what I’m saying. She’s looking, so just let her look. Yea, she’s stretching, but that’s her broken rubber band to bend. I’m not sure why her mom would tell her something like that, although we’ve all got our “Why did my mama say that?” stories to tell. If she believes her mom can operate her lights from heaven, it’s

This, my friend, is not a dilemma you should elect yourself to correct. Let her look for her mama in every twinkling star and tri-color rainbow she can find. As long as she’s paying her electric bill and ain’t breaking any laws, l say, let her grieve her mama as she pleeze.

WILLIAMS,

their campaigns and call every eligible voter we know in Georgia to encourage them to vote. Once more, we must vote as though our lives depend on it — they do!

from page 2...

the Republican majority in the Senate. We can do that by supporting the Rev. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff in their Georgia Senate run-off elections. If we are not Georgia residents, we can donate to

Alma

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.

December 11, 2020

A Reckoning with Monuments THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW BY VALDER BEEBE

In trying to make sense of today’s hateful events in America, I’ve begun researching what I believe to be the unresolved root of many conditions. I started with 1691, the Civil War, Reconstruction Era, Daughters of the Confederacy, and 40 acres and a mule. In my research I’ve learned about Nathan Bedford Forrest, a slave trader who was by some accounts one of the richest men in the south before the Civil War, a confederate military

general, and the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, post-Civil War, I wanted to know more. Then arrived; Along With That Devil’s Bones. When the author Towne O’Neill first moved to Alabama, as a white Northerner, he felt somewhat removed from the racism Confederate monuments represented. Then one day in Selma, he stumbled across a group of citizens protecting a monument to Confederate general Nathan Bedford Forrest, a slave trader and officer who became the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. O’Neill sets off to visit other disputed memorials to Forrest across the South, talking with men and women who believe they are protecting their heritage, and those who

Connor Towne O’Neill

have a different view of General Forrest’s poisonous history. O’Neill’s deeply personal analysis makes it clear that white supremacy is not a regional affliction but is in fact coded into the DNA of the entire country. Down Along with That Devil’s Bones presents an important and eye-opening account of how we got from Appomattox to Charlottesville, and where, if we can truly understand and transcend our past, we could be headed next. VBS: Connor, can you tell my audience why you wrote Down Along with That Devil’s Bones? CTO: I had this strange chance encounter a few years ago on the 50th Anniversary of Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama. I was there as a journalist to report on this gathering. It’s 50 years later and President Obama was there to mark the occasion with a speech, along with 40,000 other Americans. While there I met a group called the Friends of Forrest. This group told me of a decade long battle of the statue of Nathan Bedford Forrest (remember who he was). VBS: What a dichotomy; you on the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge which symbolizes Civil Rights, the American dream and believers in Nathan Bedford Forrest’s hateful words ……. Connor Towne O’Neill complete interview…… SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow: Broadcasting to a national & global audience: ValdeBeebeShow.com ; YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow; KKVI FM Radio, KRER FM, Streaming TV, Social Media, Print Publications IMESSENGER, Texas Metro News, and Garland Journal News.

December 11, 2020

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Virtual and liVe Community Calendar

Human Rights Month December 10

Empowering The Masses Disaster Relief Drive Through Food Pantry at 3314 Detonte St. Dallas. 10 am-12 pm. www. empoweringthemasses.org.

1950 Political Scientist Dr. Ralph Bunche was the 1st Mountain View Church of Christ Distribution of Free Groceries, 7979 E. R.L. Thornton Fwy. 9 am-12 pm. Drive-Thru. Black awarded a Noble Peace Prize North Texas Food Bank and My Possibilities present Drive-In Movies on Mapleshade. 7 pm. It’s A Wonderful Life. Tickets: ntfb.org/ moviesonmapleshade! Balch Springs Chamber of Commerce and Carstar Toy Giveaway!! At Civic Center Parking Lot at 12400 Elam Rd. Balch Springs. 11 am. Info: 972-557-0988. Important Town Hall Black Health Schools & Organizations hosted by BlackDoctor.org. Streaming Event: Facebook.com/ BlackDoctor.org. 5 pm CT Am I OK? Hosted by Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority A real life discussion on Mental Health and the Law. 6:30 pm. Via Zoom. Register: www.dallaalumnae.org

Dec 11-13 Klyde Warren Park Tree Lighting Celebration presented by the Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District. Individual Tree Lighting. A holiday tradition in a safe and socially distanced way. Free. Time: 6 pm. Each night.

December 11 1964 Dr. Martian Luther King, Jr. was Awarded a Noble Peace Prize The Bear Creek Food Distribution Mon, Wed, & Fri. 11 am-3 pm. 2700 Finley Rd. Irving. Drive-Thru. Kimbell Art Museum Presents: Queen Nefertari’s Egypt. The One for Whom the Sun Shines. Beautiful Companion. First Royal Spouse. Tickets: https://www.kimbellart.org/content. Parkland Free flu shots drive-thru flu and COVID-19 testing Monday – Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ellis Davis Field House, 9191 South Polk St., Dallas.

December 12 Birth of Henry Armstrong prize fighter holder of three titles at one time, born in 1912 Dallas Black Dance Theater presents Virtual Espresso Nutcracker. 7 pm. CST/8 pm. EST. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

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The Monologue Project Performance & Workshop with Stacy Rose. Host, Bishop Arts Theatre. For info: 214-9480716. Register: https://bit.ly/34rHJnW.

Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez Live Podcast on Facebook @HollywoodHernandez, at 2 pm. Guests Ask Dr. Amerson Show at 11am CST September is Alopecia Awareness Month. Dr. Linda discusses healthy hair and scalp talk, and alopecia talk, on FB Live and DfwiRadio. com.

December 17

National Association of Black Journalists 45th Anniversary Celebration Via Zoom. Moderated by: Kay Angrum. Honoring Founder, Dewayne Wickham Founders’ Appreciation Award Recipient. RSVP: https:// Bit.ly/NABJ45 7:30 pm EST.

D.O.B. of Deborah Sampson Gannett, who fought in the Revolutionary War as a man.

Dec. 18-20 Klyde Warren Park Tree Lighting Celebration presented by the Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District. Individual Tree Lighting. A holiday tradition in a safe and socially distanced way. Free. Time: 18&19 at 6 pm. 20th , 7:30 am. & 4 pm.

December 13 D.O.B. Caesar A. W. Clark Renowned clergymen in 1914 Soul Talk Hosted by Denton Black Film Festival, Variety of Music, Art, Poetry, and Film. Online event, Info: Eventbrite.com .com

December 14

December 18 In 1989 Robert Robinson Savannah City Alderman was killed by a mail bomb in his office. Valder Beebe Show KKVIDFW.COM FM 89.9. 12 pm.

D.O.B. Congressman and President of Howard University Jon Mercer Langston in 1829 Marvelous Marriage Mondays at Friendship-West Baptist Church Register for Virtual event, online at friendshipwest.zoom. us/.../upcpcOmhqz4rqNU 7-8 pm.

December 15 In 1960 Etta James records her hit song “At Last” Work Smart Workshop hosted by American Association of University Women with support from the Coca Cola Foundation, invites HBCU Alumni, faculty, and students. 6–7 pm EST. Zoom Reg: https://bit.ly/35t0Wow. Help! The Lullaby House Collect for Toy Drive. at 1022 Ruth St, Cedar Hill, 400 S. Montreal Ave, Dallas, and 7441 Marvin D. Love Fwy, Dallas. Contact Lullaby@Lullabyhouses.org.

December 16 In 1961 The Albany Movement coalition of CORE, SNCC, SCLC and NAACP was organized in GA. Walk-In Wednesdays Parkland’s Community Oriented Primary Care health centers where Dallas County residents. 9 am-12 pm. and from 1 - 4 pm. throughout the winter months. Locations, visit www.parklandhospital.com/locations Heart of the Headwrap-Virtual Event Presented by Chesley Antoinette 4-5 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

28th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS / KWANZAA CONCERT. Host The Black Academy of Arts & Letter Inc. Bruton Theater, 650 S. Griffith St. 10 am. Tickets via: Ticketmaster.com.

December 19 D.O.B. of Carter G. Woodson in 1875 Christmas Jazz Concert Feat: Tom Braxton & Tatiana Mayfield. Host Jim Austin Online, at The Warehouse 1125 E. Berry St. Fort Worth. 8 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Empowering The Masses Disaster Relief Drive Through Food Pantry at 3314 Detonte St. Dallas. 10 am-12 pm. www. empoweringthemasses.org.

Andrew’s World with host Andrew Whigham III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call 646-200-0459. on In The Middle with Ashley Moss. “Talking about topics that Matter” Join in on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio. com at 11 am-1 pm. CST. Mondays. Join the conversation call 646-2000459.

DFW News & Tings 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. Doc Shep Speaks Show! A fresh perspective, but still entertaining! Welcome to The Doc Shep Speaks Show!!!. Tuesdays at 11 am. CST Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews, @ fnsconsulting, and YouTube Live @ docshepspeaks.

I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade “History Class is in Session” Join in on Facebook/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm. CST. Wednesdays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459. 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 646-2000459.

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Mountain View Church of Christ Distribution of Groceries, 7979 E. R.L. Thornton Fwy. 9 am-12 pm. Drive-Thru Only. National Association of Black Journalists 45th Anniversary Celebration Virtual Awards Feat: Jennifer Holiday via Zoom. ree Tickets RSVP: https://nabj.digitalvirtualspaces.com/ register. Pre-event Reception 6:30 pm CST. Show starts at 7 pm. Post-event after party 9-10 pm. with DJ Andre Mack live afterparty host.

December 11, 2020

FAMU Partners with Williams Black Ambition Initiative to launch Black and Latinx entrepreneurs developing start-ups By ANDREW SKERITT Special to Texas Metro News Florida A&M University (FAMU) President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., joined Pharrell Williams to announce the launch of the Grammy Award winning artist’s Black Ambition, a non-profit initiative to provide a launching pad to success for Black and Latinx entrepreneurs developing startups in technology, design, health care and consumer product services. The centerpiece of the initiative are two prize competitions, The Black Ambition HBCU Prize and the Black Ambition Prize, which culminate in one major national event. “Recent events and tragedies have illustrated the always existent stark divisions in the American experience, and while entrepreneurship has long been a tenet of the American dream, marginalized people have faced long-standing barriers to success,” said Williams, a producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. “With Black Ambition, the goal is to help strengthen the pipeline of talented entrepreneurs and close the opportunity and wealth gaps derived from limited access to capital and resources.” In partnership with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the Black Ambition HBCU Prize will offer prizes and menDecember 11, 2020

President Larry Robinson

“Our students don’t just have a passion to make a difference for themselves. Once they do well, they pay it back to their families and communities,” Robinson said. torship for current and former HBCU students as they develop or seed early-stage ideas and launch companies in technology, design, health care and consumer products and services. The grand prize winner will receive up to $250,000 and at least nine additional teams will receive smaller prizes. Teams must include at least one current HBCU undergraduate or graduate student (full-time or part-time), one recent alum within two years of graduation, or one former student within two years of attending the institution who is a member of

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Pharrell Williams

the founding team. This HBCU-affiliated individual must identify as Black/African/African American and/ or Hispanic/Latino/a/Latinx. The goal is to address the Black and Latinx wealth gap by creating entrepreneurship opportunities for HBCU students and former students. It will also provide mentorship, which Williams called the “strategic scaffolding,” that enables talented entrepreneurs to succeed. President Robinson said FAMU students and alumni are perfectly positioned to

benefit from this project. President Larry Robinson said, “the more successful our students become, the more likely they will be willing to give back to their alma maters to support future HBCU students.“ “We are ready for this initiative. We have a long history of entrepreneurship at Florida A&M University. This is the right place,” said Robinson, who joined Williams, Norfolk State University President Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D., along with fellow panelists Willa see FAMU, page 39

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December 11, 2020

Revitalize South Dallas Coalition Verify details w/sponsors. RSDC does not sponsor/endorse these events

Green Mountain Energy “Sun Club” Grants for Non-Profits Application Always Open. If your have a non-profit; have operated for at least 3 years; and have annual revenue of $250,000, you may be eligible for a sustainability grant from Green Mountain. Projects Types: solar and other energy upgrades; urban farming; programs that support energy efficiency, conservation, and education; or even suggest a project. Funding Range: $50,000 - $400,000. Contact: Sunclub@ greenmountain.com. Apply: https://www.greenmountainenergy.com/sun-club/apply/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=

nities. The Dallas Development Fund thru the City’s Economic Development Department administers the program. Project Types: Opening or expanding a facility that provides healthy foods; mobile or home food delivery; purchasing or upgrading technology; starting or upgrading a garden. Eligibility requirements must be met. Contact: Heather Lepeska, 214-670-1222; Apply: http://dallasecodev.org/DocumentCenter/View/2488/ Healthy-Food-Dallas-Community-Solutions-NOFA Math & Reading Virtual Private Tutoring Registration Open. Classes: January 18, 2020 – May 14, 2021 (Mon & Weds and Tues & Thurs). Times vary. Beacon Hill Prep will continue to tutor students virtually in math and reading using live teacher assistance, Google Classroom, Gideon Curriculum, social connection, and more. Beacon Hill wants students to excel beyond their grade level. Contact: 972-3297779. Website: www.beaconhillprep.org.

Holiday Wish Project for Seniors Ends December 14th. Dallas Park & Rec Senior Program is matching seniors with Secret Santas. Gifts will be handed out December 18th at a drive-thru Holiday event. Dropoff locations: Park’s Senior Program, 3012 S. Hampton, 75224; or Recreation Services Division, 8007 E. Northwest Hwy, 75238. Wrap the gift for your senior. Contact: 214-671-1602. Free Mental Health Counseling Sign-up: https://www.signupgenius.com/ Harmony Community Development Corpogo/9040b44adaf28a5f49-senior ration offers mental health counseling at no cost. During the pandemic, families are expeHealthy Food Dallas Initiative: riencing anxiety, loneliness and isolation; as Funding Available well as job loss and relationship challenges. Apply by December 18th. Up to $70,000 in Contact: 214-467-6770; harmonycounseling@ forgivable loans for non-profits to increase harmonycdc.org. Website: www.harmonycdc. food access options in low-income commu- org.

Contact event sponsors to re-verify event information Send information for this newsletter to: Ken Smith; info@rsdc.us December 11, 2020

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FAMU,

from page 36... Seldon, senior adviser for Black Ambition and partner at Bridgespan, and Darla Vaughn, head of Brand Marketing at I am OTHER during the virtual press conference Tuesday to announce the initiative. Black Ambition offers potential benefits beyond minting successful entrepreneurs, Robinson said. “Our students don’t just have a passion to make a difference for themselves. Once they do well, they pay it back to their families and communities, ” Robinson said. “And the more successful our students become, the more likely they will be willing to give back to their alma maters to support future HBCU students.” The Black Ambition Prize will find, support, and seed

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early-stage companies in tech, design, healthcare, and consumer products and services. Ventures must have at least one founder or co-founder who identifies as Black/African/African American and/or Hispanic/ Latino/a/Latinx. The grand prize winner will receive up to a $1 million prize and at least nine additional teams will receive smaller prizes. For both prizes, a member of the founding team is defined as having a senior role, such as VP or C-level role. The prize will launch with a nationwide call for applications from eligible founder teams. Independent application reviewers will score eligible applications on the strength of their idea, with the strongest applications advancing to the major national event. In July 2021, the two competitions will culminate in teams vying for these prizes

by presenting to judges and investors. In addition to financial awards, the entrepreneurs will receive mentorship and feedback as well as access to peer networks and expert connections. All screened applicants will receive access to online resources, information about business resources, and high-level feedback. Semifinalists will also receive cohort-based mentorship. Finalists will receive personal mentorship, opportunities for media exposure, and introductions to venture capitalists, angel investors, and accelerator partners. Black Ambition’s longterm vision is for inclusive entrepreneurship to be the new normal. The start-up non-profit initiative will be led by an all-star advisory team that includes Williams, with support from The Bridgespan Group, a global nonprofit organization that advises mission-driven

organizations, nonprofits, philanthropists and impact investors. Virgil Abloh, the artist, designer, and philanthropist, is actively involved with the initiative and contributed the Black Ambition logo and identity concept design. Black Ambition is supported by funding from Adidas, Chanel, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, The Rockefeller Foundation, Tony’s Chocolonely and the Visa Foundation. Individual donors include Ron Conway and SV Angel and Jonah Peretti. For more information on Black Ambition, competition eligibility, and how to apply, visit www.blackambitionprize.com and follow them on Facebook (@blackambitionprize), Twitter (@blackambitionpz) and Instagram (@blackambitionprize). Black Ambition is a fiscal sponsorship project of PolicyLink.

December 11, 2020

FEBRUARY 8, 2019

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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 December 11, 2020

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