I Messenger 12-17-21 by Cheryl Smith

I MESSENGER VOL XI NO 16 DECEMBER 17, 2021

BLACK BUSINESSES

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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 17, 2021

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Denton Black Film Festival Announces Grammy Award-Winning MonoNeon as Featured Musical Performer Grammy Award-Winning MonoNeon will be the Denton Black Film Festival’s featured performer during its eighth annual event that will be both in person and virtual, 8 p.m., Jan. 27 at the Margo Jones Performance Hall, 1100 Oakland St, Denton, TX 76201, located on the campus of Texas Women’s University. Tickets are now available. The talented bassist, who has a massive global audience on Instagram and YouTube, recently jumped out on his own as a solo performer. He has performed with some of the legendary artists of our time, including Prince, shortly before his death. In 2020, he won a Grammy as part of his participation on the 2020 NAS studio album King’s Disease. What’s unique and impressive about the right-handed MonoNeon is that he plays he plays left-handed upside down on a right-handed bass guitar, which allows him to use heavy string bending on the upper strings. The night’s performance will kick off with jazz and R&B vocalist Ashleigh Smith, winner of the 2014 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. This year, DBFF is offer-

Festival names talented bassist and experimental musician to perform at the Margo Jones Performance Hall in Denton, 8 p.m., Jan. 27 ing live, in-person events taking place January 26th – 30th and a series of virtual events, January 29th to February 6th. Festival-goers will be able to enjoy a wide selection of high quality films, comedy, screen dance, visual arts, spoken word and the DBFF TechExpo, showcasing some of the latest technologies.

MonoNeon

In addition to ticket sales for MonoNeon, DBFF is offering early-bird pass prices through December 16 where you can save up to 25% on the VIP Gold Experience Pass provides attendance to all in-person and virtual screenings and events, the Silver Experience Pass, allows

access to all in-person film screenings, the Bronze Experience Pass provides access to virtual film screenings only and the Block Experience Pass allowing festival goers to select five tickets between in-person and virtual film screenings for any days of the festival. (Include current ticketing link). The festival schedule releases on December 17 when Pre-Festival prices begin and all tickets and passes are available for purchase. For on-going updates about DBFF, go to DentonBFF.com and follow the festival on social: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. About the Denton Black Film Festival The Denton Black Film Festival is an annual cultural event, featuring the works of emerging filmmakers, creatives from around the country and talented college students, musicians, artists and spoken word poets. Held each January, thousands attend the celebration of storytelling in various art forms, that takes place in venues in Denton, Texas. myimessenger.com

INSIDE

CARTER ALUM PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – Stellar researcher, Magna Cum Laude, HBCU STEM Queen: These are just a few of the titles Alexis VanZandt, a biology major at Prairie View A&M University, has earned during her undergraduate work. And she won’t stop there—her goal after graduation this month is to pursue a career as a physician.

ELLA GOODE JOHNSON The City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture will begin its 2022 calendar year with a new chairwoman of the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission, Ella Goode Johnson. Nominated by Mayor Eric Johnson and confirmed unanimously by City Council, Johnson has more than five years of previous service on the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission

ROSETTA PERRY For 30 years, the Tennessee Tribune and its publisher Rosetta Miller-Perry have set the standard for news covering Nashville and beyond. During a sold-out celebration on Sunday, December 5, Miller-Perry, the trailblazing 2019 National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, captured another high honor.

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December 17, 2021

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Some sense of

He also said, “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane.” The Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation and other partners will be filling a void on January 17. Thousands and thousands come out annually for the Parade but this year the City of Dallas will present a virtual parade. Meanwhile people want to get out and experience some form of normalcy, whatever that is. Many are looking for places to eat and something else to do on this national holiday and we’re providing the venue, the information, food, entertainment and programming that will engage the masses. In 2020, the Expo featured inside and outside vendors, the MAVS MAANIACS, health screenings, giveaways and fun and excitement for the entire family. The food vendors served everything from gumbo and fried fish to monkey bread and vegan dishes. There were several workshops dealing with health, finance, social issues and more. To top it off, several attendees won DNA kits! A highlight was the quest for the best Macaroni Cheese in town. Blogger Lindsay Tigar wrote: “A few days before MLK’s assassination, he was due to have dinner with a pastor at the Monumental Baptist Church, Rev. Samuel Billy Kyles. Kyles and his wife had been preparing for this welcome dinner at their new home and wanted to make sure they served MLK’s favorite foods. One of those was macaroni and cheese, which originated in the South.” The winners were announced and then attendees were able to sample the entries in three categories: Traditional is the macaroni and cheese that your mother or

“normal”

We know there’s a pandemic. There will be challenges, obstacles and roadblocks that will cause us to face, overcome and pivot. We also know that in spite of what is going on in life, we must continue to live until we take that last breath. You’ve heard people say before, “I don’t know how I can live without _________.” Well, guess what, although there are painful days ahead and some are tough, we still manage to live on; until it is our time to transition. We have definitely had some tough times over the past 22 months and in order to navigate through all the drama, we have to do the time and not let the time do us! Which brings me to my truth. Prior to COVID -19, the Don’t Believe the Hype foundation, along with other sponsors, began hosting the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo. Initially held in December and featuring the incomparable Dick Gregory as the headliner, the event was moved to Dr. Martin Luther King Day and partnered with the annual parade commemorating his life. This year the Avenue Proactive Resource Center is joining with the Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation, in conjunction with I Messenger Media LLC (Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger), Comerica, African American Museum December 17, 2021

and others, to host the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo because together we want to build stronger communities. The 5th Annual Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo is scheduled for Monday, January 17, 2022, at the African American Museum in beautiful Sunny South Dallas. This family-oriented, fun and message-filled event is a wonderful way to pay homage to the man who worked to make this world a better place. Dr. King had a dream and he wanted a better world. In order to live in a better world, we must be healthy in a number of ways: mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, socially and holistically. Through the Healthy Living Expo, we will be addressing all of those areas. We will have vendors, speakers and programming geared toward building stronger families and communities. There will be community activists, educators, advisors, and just like in the past, we will also have entertainment, screenings and opportunities to assist attendees in bettering their lives. There will be college representatives, insurance and financial planning advisors, voter registration and education booths and much more. According to Dr. King, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

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grandma made. With a Twist is that special something you add, like asparagus, spinach, or a family secret that is not a meat. Then there’s the meat-lovers, that could have anything from brisket or shrimp, to bacon, chicken or hotdogs. Two Podners, Olive Garden and Eatzi’s walked away with honors. Now unfortunately because of COVID-19, we will not be having a cooking contest but there will be plenty for you to engage in. Also, please know that there will be plenty of safety measures in place and this is important because as late as this week, Dr. Phil Huang, Director of Dallas County Health and Human Services addressed Dallas City Councilman Casey Thomas II and members of the Black COVID Task Force and discussed the importance of getting vaccinated, wearing masks and keeping safe distances. “We need to not let our guard down,” he said, adding that there is the potential for the numbers to go back up if we don’t take precautions. And while we know that there are so many who are concerned about whether they should take the vaccine, Dr. Huang pointed out that 100s of millions of doses have been administered. Yes, people are concerned and so, in addition to financial literacy, food deserts, employment opportunities, healthy eating, CBD and more; the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo will provide answers, support and opportunities. Plan to join us! WHAT: Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo WHEN: Monday, January 17, 2022 - 10am-5pm WHERE: African American Museum in Fair Park Admission: LOVE myimessenger.com

If Only For One Night! QUIT PLAYIN’ BY VINCENT L. HALL

It may not seem like it, but Boyz in the Hood turned 30 this year. The late John Singleton, a filmmaker who changed the game, released his debut project in July of 1991. The epic is a cultural guidepost for anyone who wants to understand life in the “hood” during the 1990s. 2022 could be the bloodiest campaign season our community has seen in at least two decades, which made me recall the movie. We will have heated

Ice Cube

races in the 30th US Representative, District Attorney, and several county judgeships contests. Black folks and the Democratic Party must proceed with caution. This election cycle cannot end with us cannibalizing our own. In the words of my former Pastor, Reverend Mayor Ronald Jones, “If you get your way, get on with it. If you don’t get your way get over it.” Let me share a page from my upcoming book to evoke some history into my political caveat. myimessenger.com

Hopefully, it will be in print before 2022 ends. The book chronicles my observations while riding shotgun for 35 plus years for my brother and mentor, John Wiley Price. Here’s a snippet! “After 20 years and a running gun battle, ‘they’ decided to put up a credible candidate to run against John in the 2004 campaign. Charles Rose, a savvy political operator and a leading voice in the Progressive Voter’s Leagues, got the assignment. All bets were off. He was Justice of the Peace by now but as arrogant and irascible as ever. Much of his ire stemmed from John’s conservatism on the court. When John agreed that two JP courts would consolidate to save money and create convenience for his constituents, the word on the street was that John was taking potshots at specific rivals. With that kind of hostility as a backdrop, we knew the next 90 days would be pure chaos. They were! We’d had a few very tense campaigns in our history, but none nastier or more gut-wrenching than this one. This “Main Street melee” featured late-night yard sign destruction, two-way threats of violence and intimidation, and much more. We hammered and affixed yard signs near the tops of telephone poles using 10-foot ladders. Someone rented a hearse and repeatedly drove it around and in front of South Oak Cliff High School. There was no corpse in it. It contained no casket. The thematic thrust was to portray the political death of John Wiley Price’s reign in Dallas. This cortege, had a “funeral car” set to escort the five-termed

“Can't we have one night where there ain't no fight, and nobody gets shot?” Sheryl, a Car club member in the movie Boyz in the Hood. Commissioner to his final resting place. In true “Black dramacidal” fashion, both cars faced Laurel Land Cemetery’s northern gate. It was less than a mile away. Parenthetically, that was the period of Black Dallas politics

Every day was hell!” Ask publisher Cheryl Smith, she’s old enough to remember! LOL When it was all said and done, John prevailed, but battle scars in our community take longer to heal if they heal at all. To this day, some people refuse to speak to me. Dr. Jones’ admonishment taught me to bury political hatchets. Our lives and the inequities we are burdened with are heavy enough. Death cannot be the only cure to our conflicts. The moral to the Boyz in the Hood story came in the final scene. “Dough Boy” sobered from his anger and realized that the murder of his brother, Ricky, and the ones he committed were senseless. Our community must

Sheryl from Boyz in the Hood

that I long to resuscitate. There were a lot of political props, pundits, passion, and participation. Professional political analysts believe that most Americans are more easily motivated to vote against someone than for someone. Creating hatred is a time-tested voting strategy. This election cycle’s oven was set so high that White folks way crosstown were being singed by the heat of the political battle. The bible’s “fiery furnace” was tamed compared to the heat we lived under in this one.

endure the next 90 days without a fight or someone getting shot; literally and figuratively. Campaign and vote for the candidate of your choice. Be passionate and persistent to the end. But Black Dallas ain’t big enough to be splintered. And oh, by the way. John and Judge Rose made earnest peace because, in the end, all they ever had was one another. Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

December 17, 2021

VOTE

VOTE December 17, 2021

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Carter alum graduates from PV with honors By Kerry Laird

Special to Texas Metro News from Prairie View A&M University

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – Stellar researcher, Magna Cum Laude, HBCU STEM Queen: These are just a few of the titles Alexis VanZandt, a biology major at Prairie View A&M University, has earned during her undergraduate work. And she won’t stop there—her goal after graduation this month is to pursue a career as a physician. “Prairie View A&M helped me achieve my goals by providing the necessary skills, resources, and tools to be successful upon graduation,” VanZandt said. “The Biology Department, especially, has gone above and beyond for me as a biology major. The department head, Dr. Harriette Howard-Lee Block, always makes it her duty to do what’s best for the students and gives us any resources deemed suitable.” A solid foundation helps pave the way for a great future, and VanZandt has certainly taken advantage of the opportunities presented to her at PVAMU. Blazing Trails As a first-generation college student, VanZandt carries forward a new legacy for her family, with the determination to inspire others and build a better future where none may exist—a little advice she remembers receiving as a child. “I have always been told two things that I never forgot growing up,” said VanZandt, who hails from Dallas, a graduate of David W. Carter High School in Oak Cliff. “’When there is no room for you at the table, you build your own,’ and ‘one thing no one can ever take from you is your intelligence.’ Therefore, being the first generation is so myimessenger.com

important to me.” VanZandt says she feels the responsibility of being a first-generation college student, as well as the sense of isolation that can accompany the journey. Not only is she one of the first of her generation in the family to attend college, but she is also the first female to finish high school. Even though her oldest brother just finished school, VanZandt said there is no one from the older generations with whom she can discuss some of the issues that arise from the daily stresses of college life.

step-grandfather is, indeed, a PVAMU legacy. In fact, his name is Robert Jones and he was inducted in 2007 into the PVAMU Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the 1963 N.A.I.A. Championship Football Team. How’s that for Panther legacy ties?

“I’ve never had immediate family members with whom I can share my frustrations about the ins and outs of secondary education because they never understood,” said VanZandt. “I plan to instill the importance of education in African Americans from disadvantaged backgrounds like myself.” Legacy blood may not be in VanZandt’s veins, but she is quick to point out that her

• The Purple Jackets • Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society • Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society • Panther Advisory Leaders (PALS, 4 years) • NAACP • Student Partnership and Outreach Team • Women’s Council • SGA Go Green Committee, 2018

Active, Engaged, On Fire While at PVAMU, VanZandt remained active, staying involved in more than ten student organizations from the time she arrived on campus. Student engagements included:

Alexis VanZandt

• Campus Activities Board (CAB) • 2019 secretary for Women of Honor, Excellence and Rarity • National Society for Collegiate Scholars Honor Society • Chemistry Club • Scholars in Undergraduate Math and Science • Minority Association for Prehealth Students VanZandt has also been an active researcher for Gloria C. Regisford, Ph.D., as one of “Regisford’s Lab Rats” in the Biology Department. “These organizations taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, perseverance, and confidence,” said VanZandt. “They truly got me out of my shell and set the foundation for the woman I am today. I learned the importance of community involvement and commitment. These organizations allowed me to make a difference in other students’ lives as a peer mentor and encourage support for the success of 305 freshmen throughout their undergraduate collegiate careers.” Going the Distance VanZandt has proven to be a budding scientist, establishing her place as a researcher among some of the top in the country. With internships throughout her college career that took her to Stanford, Yale, and UC-BerkeSee CARTER ALUM, page 33

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December 17, 2021

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Arts and Culture Advisory Commission Chair Named: Ella Goode Johnson The City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture will begin its 2022 calendar year with a new chairwoman of the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission, Ella Goode Johnson. Nominated by Mayor Eric Johnson and confirmed unanimously by City Council, Johnson has more than five years of previous service on the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission where she represented District 3 as the nominee of City Councilman Casey Thomas. The commission was charged with implementing the 2018 Dallas Cultural Plan which addresses equity, diversity, space for arts, support for artists and a sustainable arts ecosystem, as well as communications about the arts. Johnson was instrumental in the success of that planning effort that engaged more than 9,000 Dallas residents and was unanimously approved is the first Black female to serve as Chair of the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission. For the past four years, Johnson served as the Chairwoman of the Allocations Committee which oversees all OAC funding programs for the Commission. This Committee annually recommends more than $6.5M in funding each year to more than 125 arts organizations and artists. “Especially during the pandemic, I was committed to steering these funding efforts with an approach of flexibility and responsiveness to best support an arts industry in turmoil,” said Johnson, who is also a two-time president of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., an international public myimessenger.com

was instrumental in chartering the UNT National Pan-Hellenic Council. Johnson’s community and civic involvements, include the Theodore and Bertha Roddey Foundation, Dodd Education and Support, Inc, the Priscilla Art Club, Project Male (Cedar Valley College), African American Museum, NCNW, Natl Assn. of Parliamentarians, and the Power of Woman Coalition at Paul Quinn College. The Board Chair of The Black Academy of Arts and Letters, she is a graduate of Leadership Southwest and serves as a volunteer adminis-

Ella Goode Johnson

service organization. Johnson has also championed the rehabilitation of the Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House and Museum. As a proud lifelong, 50+ year member of Delta Sigma Theta, Johnson helped secure a landmark gift of $10,000 from the Dallas Alumnae Chapter for the restoration project. With Ella Goode Johnson as the Chairwoman of the Arts and Cultural Advisory Commission of the City of Dallas, this coming year promises to be one of continued recovery and growth for the entire Dallas arts ecosystem. A few highlights include: the planned Craft House re-opening, the work towards an updated economic impact report (AEP6), and the investments of $250,000 recently received from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the largest NEA grant OAC has ever received. A Superb Woman for June 2021, Johnson is a graduate of UNT, where a library was established in her name, and Amberton University. A General Motors retiree, she is a wife and mother to two adult sons. A native of Hearne, TX, she

trator for the Heads Up! Foundation. Johnson has received UNT President’s Green Glory Award; Texas PTA; Blackshear High Academic Hall of Fame; KKDA’s African American Hero; Dallas Women’s Center/SMU MAURA AWARD; South Dallas BP&W Trailblazer Award; Concord Church Lydia Award. An event planner and Dallas County Elections Precinct Judge, Johnson has served as President and Program Chair for Women’s Council of Dallas. Ella Goode Johnson can be reached at ella.goode-johnson@dallascityhall.com

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held At new Oak Cliff Government Center Photo and Brief

By Marva Sneed Officials and citizens gathered for the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Dallas County Oak Cliff Government Center located at 702 E. Jefferson

Blvd. The $35 million project includes a two-story, 43,000 square foot building that houses Justice of the Peace,and Constables, and Truancy and Tax Departments. It also includes a three-story parking garage with 240 parking spaces.

Justice of the Peace Juan Jasso, County Tax Assessor/Collector John R. Ames, County Commissioner Dr. Elba Garcia, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins and Texas State Senator Royce West

December 17, 2021

Former state District Judge Elizabeth Frizell seeking a rematch against DA John Creuzot Elizabeth Frizell lost the 2018 Democratic primary to John Creuzot by 589 votes. By Krista M. Torralva

After narrowly losing the race for Dallas County district attorney in 2018, former state judge Elizabeth Frizell once again is challenging John Creuzot in the Democratic primary race. Frizell and Creuzot are the only candidates so far to file with the local Democratic party. Monday is the filing deadline. The local Republican party did not respond Thursday about whether anyone has filed for the GOP primary. Frizell lost by 589 votes to Creuzot, also a former state district judge who is serving his first term as district attorney. She filed a lawsuit shortly after the election alleging voter fraud. The suit was dismissed in December 2018. Neither Frizell nor Creuzot could be reached Thursday for comment. Creuzot outraised and outspent Frizell, who ran a largely grass-roots campaign. She got a late boost from civil rights activist Shaun King in the weeks leading up to the March election and garnered more votes on Election Day than Creuzot. But it wasn’t December 17, 2021

Judge Elizabeth Frizell and DA John Creuzot

enough to offset Creuzot’s early and mail-in votes. “We were literally only on the ground in Dallas for a month,” King said then. “We did our best in that month, but we must be on the ground earlier in a race like that.” Frizell and Creuzot ran on similar platforms. They pitched reforming the criminal justice system by focusing more on rehabilitation than incarceration and by strengthening the office’s conviction integrity unit. Creuzot supported the release this year of Ben Spencer, who spent 34

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years in prison for a 1987 deadly robbery that he’s always denied being involved with. Creuzot agreed that Spencer did not get a fair trial because of revelations that witnesses lied and prosecutors withheld evidence. Creuzot has not said whether he will retry Spencer. Creuzot took office in January 2019 and almost immediately acted on a campaign promise to change the office policy on prosecuting marijuana cases. The office stopped taking most first-time misdemeanor marijuana cases because, Creuzot said, data

shows police disproportionately arrest Black people for marijuana offenses even though national studies have show people of most races use marijuana at similar rates. The office also no longer prosecutes theft of personal items worth less than $750, the value of stolen items that under state law is at most a Class B misdemeanor. The change was intended to decriminalize poverty, Creuzot said. His early policy changes drew swift criticism from law enforcement unions and state leaders including Gov. Greg Abbott, who accused him of stoking crime. Frizell was elected to a misdemeanor court in 2006 and a state district felony court in 2014. She presided over that court, Criminal District Court 7, until her resignation in 2017 to run for district attorney. She ran unsuccessfully in 2020 for the state Court of Criminal Appeals. Krista Torralva first joined The Dallas Morning News as an intern on the business desk in 2013. She returned to The Morning News in 2021 as a reporter covering primarily Dallas County criminal courts. Krista graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a major in journalism and a minor in criminal justice.

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Christmas Wish: Just Say No FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” –Luke 6:35 (NIV) Our culture is quick to dismiss others. Social media is filled with ‘cancel culture.’ If someone does something unacceptable, social media becomes enraged and the demands to end the individual’s career ensues. This boycott includes shaming individuals,

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slamming their reputation, and negating anything they have ever done that may have been positive. As Christians, we have a responsibility to speak out and address those societal ills that plague our communities, but we must not forget to forgive and remember our own shortcomings, faults and failures. In essence, when we deny forgiveness, we deny them the opportunity to receive love. I am so glad we serve a God who forgives us repeatedly. In Matthew 18:21-35, Peter asks how many times he should forgive. Christ answers with a parable of a man in a position of power who forgave his servant. Yet, when the servant was given the opportuni-

ty to do the same for someone else, he forgot how he had been forgiven previously. Jesus answered Peter, “I tell you, not just seven times, but 77 times!” Forgiveness is ongoing and rooted in love. It is accepting we all fall short of the glory of God and that as long as we are on this Earth, we will make mistakes. Forgiveness is about loving others even when they do not deserve it. Forgiveness is about loving ourselves enough to be freed from the chains of anger and hatred. Forgiveness is about obedience to God and loving him through our actions because he continues to give us another chance. As we go through this sea-

son, I hope we are extending the love, grace and mercy Christ has given us to one another. If we are to show the world the love of Christ, it begins in how we love one another (John 13:35) and our willingness to forgive others as he has forgiven us. From the 2020 Buckner International Advent guide. To download, visit https://www.buckner.org/ blog/the-2020-buckner-advent-guide-has-arrived/ 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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December 17, 2021

Rosetta Perry, ‘Queen Mother’ of the Black Press By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

For 30 years, the Tennessee Tribune and its publisher Rosetta Miller-Perry have set the standard for news covering Nashville and beyond. During a sold-out celebration on Sunday, December 5, Miller-Perry, the trailblazing 2019 National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, captured another high honor. “Yes, the 30th anniversary of the Tennessee Tribune certainly has to be celebrated here in Nashville, but this is global,” NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. declared to the hundreds gathered at the Lighthouse on the Lake in Hendersonville. “As of this day, we claim [Miller-Perry] as the Queen Mother of the Black Press of America,” Dr. Chavis exclaimed as the crowd rose, responding with a thunderous ovation of approval. The crowd featured several notable dignitaries, including NNPA Chair Karen Carter Richards, Houston Forward Times Associate Editor Jeffrey Boney, Tennessee State University President Dr. Glenda Glover, Nashville Mayor Jim Cooper, and U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.). Ambassador and Gospel Legend Dr. Bobby Jones served as the introduction speaker, while Dr. Chavis provided the keynote address. “This is a tremendous honor for me to celebrate with December 17, 2021

Rosetta Perry,” Dr. Glover told NNPA Newswire. “We’re so pleased to have someone so courageous and eager to assist in making things right here in Nashville. We really appreciate her because she’s such an institution here and throughout the state of Tennessee.” In November, The Tennessee Tribune, which opened a store in the Nashville Airport, remains as integral today as it was when it began 30 years ago, Dr. Jones asserted.

“That’s why, 30 years later, her words speak to our conscious. She advocates passionately for the future of our city, for affordable housing, for HBCUs, for our communities, and for us to have a better city.” The Tribune reaches more than 150,000 readers with its unique perspective on the issues and concerns of African Americans. The weekly newspaper has become a lifeline for many who desire the unvarnished truth. It also provides a

Rosetta Perry

“Perhaps even more so,” Dr. Jones remarked. “The impact of health disparities, the educational gap, and the voting rights are among the other critical concerns that this wonderful media piece has exposed in our city. The Tennessee Tribune is pressing on and still here, and we want it to be that way for a long time.” A longtime supporter of the Tribune, Mayor John Cooper, called Miller-Perry “a force of nature.” “She began as a pioneer in the industry, and she’s been speaking the truth no matter what,” Mayor Cooper said.

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window into the historical life of Miller-Perry. She joined the U.S. Navy in 1954, and Miller-Perry supported the Civil Rights Movement and joined Dr. Martin Luther King in marches from Selma to Washington. As a federal observer for the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, Miller-Perry arrived in Memphis during the 1968 sanitation workers strike when an assassin’s bullet cut down Dr. King. She remained in government service until she started the Tribune in 1991. Determined to bring a Black per-

spective and speak truth to power, Miller-Perry remained steadfast in operating the Tribune even after banks repeatedly turned down her loan requests. “I’ve been in this business for 30 years, and it was tough,” Miller-Perry insisted. “Many times I’ve had to fight with advertisers, and one time, it almost broke me.” Miller-Perry relayed a story of integrity and activism when Sen. Barack Obama sought the presidency in 2007. “When Obama ran for office, I was so naïve that I went and got the names of every unregistered Black voter in the city of Nashville, and I had the nerve to print those names,” she recalled. “I had a company that paid us over $100,000 a year to advertise, and I banked on that [money]. “We had to bank on that to print, and they closed me down. [However], when they did that, another company came and paid the same amount. Eventually, the other company came back to us, but it has been a struggle for all Black newspapers.” Miller-Perry said there’s a quintessential lesson all Black-owned newspapers must learn. “We have to struggle together,” she declared. “I’ve never in my life said it’s about me. Everything I’ve done in this city is to help other people. I didn’t open the news store just for me. I’m 87 years old, and if I haven’t made any money, I’m not going to make any now. So, we’ve got to be together.” myimessenger.com

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December 17, 2021

Briefs

Study: Diversion Court a success A recent study, conducted by the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute proves DA-driven diversion court to be an overwhelming success by saving taxpayers money while drastically reducing recidivism rates amongst graduates. The Meadows’ Recidivism and Cost Benefit Analysis Report specifically focused on AIM, the county’s first District Attorney-driven diversion court started in 2016. AIM, which stands for Achieve Inspire Motivate, focuses on giving non-violent felony offenders ages 17-24, a second chance at life. The Report shows a 74% reduction in recidivism among AIM Court participants when compared to similarly situated probationers. What’s more is that it has been proven that there is a 94% reduction in recidivism amongst AIM Court graduates. “This impressive 74% reduction in recidivism and positive cost-ben-

efit analysis is proof that collaboration between inspired and creative Judges and the DA’s office can create meaningful change in the lives of our youth,” said Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot. While this diversion program was initiated by the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, the Court’s presiding Judge, Hon. Brandon Birmingham continues to be a vital reason behind the program’s success noted within the Report. “The study proves that a creative approach to reducing recidivism works. Watching the AIM staff effect meaningful, positive change in our youth has been the highlight of my time on the bench,” said Judge Birmingham. “The program is difficult, but the payoff is huge – not just for the individual, but for all of us,” he continued. The AIM Court takes a holistic approach to diversion by providing

Judge Brandon Birmingham

life skills training, counseling, and substance use disorder treatment, if needed. During their 18 months of monitoring and case management, participants are required to obtain either employment or their GED before graduating to become productive, contributing members of society rather than victims of the

criminal justice system’s revolving door. Not only has AIM Court been proven to increase public safety through its reduced recidivism rates, the diversion initiative has been shown to save taxpayer dollars. Specifically, the Report concludes that for every $1 invested into AIM Court, the criminal justice system saves $6.86. It is clear that this study not only sets AIM Court up to be a model diversion initiative in North Texas, but in jurisdictions nationwide. To that end, DA John Creuzot shared his hopes for the AIM Court’s influence on the criminal justice system: “It is my desire that this study provides a pathway for other jurisdictions to implement this type of positive change, thereby reducing incarceration and its costs to the public, while creating safer communities.”

State Fair of Texas and Comerica Bank Bring Trusted World to South Dallas The State Fair of Texas has announced a new partnership with Comerica Bank, which will bring nonprofit organization Trusted World’s work to the South Dallas community. Trusted World provides clothing, food, and other necessities to vetted nonprofits and local schools. Focusing on supporting the whole family unit rather than solely a student, this partnership between the State Fair of Texas and Comerica Bank is designed to expand the support of Trusted World to families and nonprofits in the South Dallas community. December 17, 2021

Although Trusted World has worked with more than 530 North Texas organizations, this partnership is the first time their work will be brought to South Dallas. “We are excited to continue our work with great nonprofits in the South Dallas community,” said Vice President of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas, Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew. “Trusted World has an amazing warehouse in Garland providing needed items to agencies throughout the metroplex. We are excited to fund this

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route for the South Dallas/Fair Park community.” Michael Garrett, CEO and Founder of Trusted World, said “It is a joy to be working with an organization like the State Fair of Texas that provides so much time and commitment in giving back to the community that they work in. It is an honor to work alongside very passionate people.” “At Comerica, we strive to raise expectations of what a bank can be by making impactful and innovative investments in the communities where we live and serve,” said Brian Foley,

Texas Market President. “This strategic partnership with the State Fair of Texas and Trusted World will bring critical resources and services to South Dallas and Fair Park, reaffirming our bank’s commitment to economic and community development in this area.” The program will roll out in early 2022 and is expected to begin with a yearlong commitment. This partnership joins the number of other initiatives funded by the State Fair of Texas. For more information on Fair-supported organizations, please visit BigTex. com/grants. myimessenger.com

FCC Should Adopt Rule Change Empowering Minority-Owned Media Businesses OUR VOICES Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

Whenever I have had the responsibility during the past six decades to weigh in on a vital civil rights issue on behalf of Black America and other communities of color throughout the United States, I have not hesitated to speak out. Now is the time to publicly address the urgent issue of equal access, diversity, equity, and inclusion of Blackowned media in our nation’s communications industry. In this era of the global digitalization of media and other high technological innovations in the communications industry, Blackowned and other minority-owned media cannot afford to be denied access to the rapidly evolving industry innovations. The issue today is that Black-owned radio stations and other minority-owned media businesses should be permitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compete fairly and equitably with large television and cable stations that geo-target audiences across America. The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has a strategic alliance with the National Organization of Black-Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) and myimessenger.com

with the Multicultural Media, Telecom & Internet Council (MMTC). We are all working together to ensure that the FCC will approve a rule-making change that will enable minority-owned radio stations to engage in geo-targeting of content to their audiences. This change is necessary because the FCC’s antiquated rules, written 40 years ago, don’t give radio stations the chance to compete in the current media environment. The FCC has as its mission to regulate “interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories.” The proposed rule-making change will substantially increase the access to geo-targeting by minority-owned radio stations and other minority-owned businesses that is so vital and effective in today’s global and national media marketplace. This is another crucial national civil rights issue. This is an issue of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Last month I wrote to the FCC to stress this point. I emphasized, “I have spent much of my career as a civil rights leader focused on ensuring that technological developments like the one at issue in this proceeding, lift all of America, and not just some of us. Too often, I have seen the benefits of technological development accrue to

the privileged, with little or no benefit to disadvantaged communities, including some with which I work on a daily basis.” I concluded in the letter to the FCC: “Geo-targeting technology would give minority-owned broadcasters an enhanced ability to compete with the larger station groups…The technology would enable them to better serve their communities with localized content. In addition, for those broadcasters that choose to use this technology, since it is voluntary, they can give minority-owned businesses an affordable outlet for their messages. In short, I now believe that this technology is beneficial to minority communities, including radio broadcasters, small businesses, and the public they serve.” We recall that President Joe Biden announced, “On my first day in office, I signed Executive Order 13985 (Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government), which established that affirmatively advancing equity, civil rights, racial justice, and equal opportunity is the responsibility of the whole of our Government.” We commend the Biden-Harris Administration thus far in its first year striving to move the nation forward on equity and diversity matters even during the persistence of the COVID-19

pandemic and the epidemic of partisan politicization of issues and supporting public policies that will improve and enhance the quality for life of all Americans. On this issue of media reform, we hope and resolutely call for the FCC in 2022 to be aligned fully with the official stated commitments of the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure fairness, equity and diversity. The proposed FCC rule-making change is also supported overwhelmingly by all of the major national civil rights organizations including the NAACP, National Urban League, National Action Network, National Council of Negro Women, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, National Congress of Black Women, Hispanic Federation, National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators, U.S Black Chambers, and many more. The time for the FCC to act and to approve the proposed rule-making change submitted is now because it will help to empower all minority-owned radio and other media businesses. Millions of Americans, particularly from underserved communities, deserve and have a fundamental civil right to have access and to be included. Dr. Benjamin Chavis is president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached at dr.bchavis@nnpa. org.

December 17, 2021

How Many Pastors Can We Have? THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton did the right thing when attending the Amaud Arbery trial. They demonstrated the solidarity that the Black community has with each other when one of us is lynched. Lynching has reverberations. Each of us, every Black person, is repulsed and dismayed when we learn that armed white men, using the pretense of “citizen’s arrest,” can kill any of us. What is a citizen’s arrest, anyway? Is it simply a license to kill? Kevin Gough, the attorney “defending” William “Roddie” Bryant, the man who both took the video of the massacre and participated in it, has asked the judge, each day, to bar Rev Jesse Jackson from the courtroom. How absurd! He says Rev. Jackson’s presence might influence the nearly all-white jury, and I suspect his objections might lay the groundwork for an appeal if the devilish white men are found guilty of murder. Gough’s racism and ignorance have been a constant presence in this trial. He said he didn’t want more Black pastors in the courtroom afDecember 17, 2021

ter Rev. Sharpton sat with the Arbery family. He asked the stupid question, “How many pastors does the Arbery family have.” He had the nerve, though out of the jury’s hearing, to ask if Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock, also a pastor, will be next in the courtroom. What if he was? What Gough does not understand are the many ways that racism connects Black people. In the book Lynching and Spectacle (University of North Carolina Press, 2009), Amy Louise Wood writes, “The news of lynching shook (the author Richard Wright) to his core. Despite, or even because of, its relative rarity, lynching held a singular psychological force, generating a level of fear and horror that overwhelmed all other forms of violence. Even one lynching reverberated, traveling with sinister force, down city streets, and through rural farms, across roads and rivers.” Any of us could be followed and shot on any given day. We have no shield. We can be unarmed and running. In bed and sleeping (ask Breonna Taylor), or simply walking down the street. And white folks see a threat because racism is baked in the cake we call America. When we watch the massacre of Amaud Arbery, we

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see ourselves, our sons, our daughters, our mothers. That connects us. That’s why more than one hundred pastors rallied with Rev. Sharpton outside the Brunswick courthouse in solidarity. I want Revs. Jackson, Sharpton, William Barber, Freddy Haynes, and so many others rally at every massacre. Cause it’s personal. How dare this high-handed man, the offense attorney, question anybody’s religion, pastoral relationships, community connections, or anything else? Gough will go down in the racist’s hall of fame, but he is not the only one. All these “stand your ground” laws are an absurd attempt to allow white people to shoot Black people with impunity. Southern state legislatures empower white people to embrace their racism with firearms, whether they are police officers or ordinary citizens. It is frightening to think that we live in a world where white fear, real or imagined, justifies a Black massacre. On the witness stand, one of the murderers admitted that Arnaud did not say a word to him, did not do a darn thing but try to get away from him. He shot him anyway! So, some random white person follows a Black man and attacks him because he

is “scared.” He should have kept his scared self in his house and called the police. But no, he was a white man with privilege, power, and a weapon. Why should he call law enforcement when he could enforce the law himself? So how many pastors does the Arbery family have? As many as they want. Black folks around the nation and the world are praying for a just result in this trial. We are praying for a judicial ruling that the massacre of Black people is unacceptable. We are praying for an examination of this nonsense called “citizen’s arrest.” And we are praying for our leaders, our pastors, our brothers to keep the faith and keep representing. Kevin Gough does not “get” the Black community, and he doesn’t have to. But what he needs to know, when he thundered about Black pastors, is that all of us, Black people, are connected. How many pastors do I have? As many as will claim me. Hundreds of Black pastors have claimed the Arbery family because they relate to their pain. Whether you are a pastor or not, you should claim them, too. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

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Visit Jacksonville Welcomes Wake Forest and Texas A&M Football Fans to the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Kick-off New Year’s Eve in Northeast Florida cheering on your favorite football team

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.– December 6, 2021—Visit Jacksonville welcomes dedicated Demon Deacon and Aggie fans, friends and family to start their New Year’s Eve celebration cheering on Wake Forest and Texas A&M at the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl at TIAA Bank Field, Friday, December 31. Kick-off is scheduled for 11 a.m. Football fans will find plenty of things to do in Jax. The Gator Bowl celebration starts Thursday, December 30, with team pep rallies at the Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach. Afterwards, stay at the Pavilion and walk around one of the areas best holiday displays, Deck the Chairs, featuring dozens of lifeguard chairs uniquely decorated for the season. Beyond football, Jacksonville offers a getaway that’s equal parts fun and relaxing for foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, families and shoppers. Whether you spend time exploring the Jax Ale Trail, take a walk in the largest urban park system in the country or relax on 22 miles of oceanfront beaches, myimessenger.com

there’s plenty to do in Jacksonville while cheering on your favorite team. Tour the Jax Ale Trail For those looking for local craft beers, three stops on the city’s Jax Ale Trail are located Downtown near the stadium. Intuition Brewery is a two-story tap room with local craft beer and an in-house restaurant serving a full menu to pair with their beers. Bold City Brewery has a taproom just down East Bay Street and Ruby Beach Brewery is around the corner on East Forsyth Street, both within walking distance of the stadium. The Jax Ale Trail unites craft breweries around the city into a fun self-guided tour, complete with a passport to stamp in exchange for prizes upon completion. Soak up the Sunshine State To the adventure seeker, nature lover and golf fanatic alike, Jacksonville has something for anyone looking to enjoy some sunshine. Take a hike through 7 Creeks Recreation Area’s 30 miles of trails, or any of Jacksonville’s 80,000 acres of parks during your visit.

Those looking to get on the greens, Jacksonville and its surrounding areas boast world-class golf courses for every level of play in beautiful ocean-side and riverfront settings. Enjoy a Waterfront Weekend For the fishing enthusiasts, Jacksonville has more than 1,110 miles of interior shorelines, convenient water access and a variety of fresh and saltwater fishing options. With more shoreline than any other city in the nation, Jacksonville is known for its scenic sunrises over its east coast beaches and sunsets going down among bridges across the longest stretch of the St. Johns River. Sink your toes into Jacksonville’s white sand beaches or jog along the Northbank Riverwalk – there is no shortage of beautiful waterfront views. Bring the Family Jacksonville’s natural beauty is accompanied by endless activities for visitors of all ages. Family-friendly to-dos include the city’s six museums (don’t forget your Museum Passport), the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens and the

largest urban park system in the nation. Continue the holiday celebration with a visit to Dazzling Nights at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. The magical light experience continuing through January 9. Downtown you’ll find one of the largest candy shops in the country, Sweet Pete’s, a fully functioning factory with an interactive gallery and treats for the whole family. Seek out the Shops Wherever you are in Jacksonville, you’ll find great shopping. St. Johns Town Center has anything you could be looking for in one place. Closer to Downtown, the Riverside Avondale area has antique shopping, trendy boutiques and an arts and farmers market every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. If you’re beachside, the Beaches Town Center offers boutique shopping and plenty of dining options. Join your favorite football team in Jacksonville. Tickets are on sale now so start planning the ultimate TaxSlayer Gator Bowl getaway today at www.VisitJacksonville.com. December 17, 2021

Call issued to Support Black Businesses ABI - THE ART OF INFLUENCE

Buy Black!

Dr. Frederick D.Haynes III

Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, recently announced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre. The 100 days began September 23, 2021 and run through December 31, 2021. In the call, Friendship-West is “committed to economic justice in supporting Black-owned businesses, advocating for just lending practices, and working towards comprehensive sustainable community development.” On the FWBC Facebook page, it reads: “Our goal is to continue the legacy of Black Wall Street by circulating our dollars within the Black community to strengthen our economic base.” We are joining the movement and you can too at www. texasmetronews.com and https://www.facebook.com/ groups/100daysofbuyingblack In support of this initiative, for the next 100 days, in this spot, we will feature a Black-owned business!

LAVISHLOCS HAIR COMPANY

Jasica Gray is the founder of LavishLocs Hair Company, a custom hair boutique and wig studio. Based in the Dallas area since 2015, is located at 4281 Belt Line Rd, Addison, Texas. After realizing there was a gap in the market for high quality and custom fit wigs and hair extensions, she created LavishLocs Hair Company to provide personalized and private services for clients who want a custom hair identity and don’t know where to start. Jasica’s passion to enhance women’s natural beauty and educate on the importance of hair care is the special treatment you will get at LavishLocs. Looking December 17, 2021

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ABI is a full service ad agency that offers the full suite of advertising and public relations services including distinct branding, easy to use web design, eye-catching print and digital ads, smart social media and memorable television and radio concepts. Sophia Johnson and her team have built a company that could authentically attract and communicate with the whole audience, filling a void in the agency world. Next they developed a proprietary process, Audience 360, that lets research and strategy guide creative + tactics. They believe that at ABI, “our dogs wag the tails. Our Diversity is Intentional.” ABI is proud to be comprised of a multi-cultural, multilingual and multi-generational team. They have two offices: 972.716.0070 - 400 N. Saint Paul Street, Suite 300, Dallas, TX 75201 or 817.369.5847 2833 Crockett Street, Suite 500, Fort Worth, TX 76107

MICHELE JANINE LLC

for a new stylist, stop by LavishLocs in Addison. For more information on LavishLocs visit www.lavishlocshair.com or call (214) 377-9355

Michele Janine LLC is a business that specializes in natural healing herbs while promoting “A Healthy Sea Moss Lifestyle” as well as “Eating to Heal.” Sea Moss contains 92 of the 102 minerals that our bodies need like zinc, iodine, iron, myimessenger.com

curated, contemporary take on fitness, beauty, fashion, and anything else that makes them the best version of themselves. Alexia was recognized as the first Black woman to create a perfume in Grasse, France. Alexia decided to channel her collective 15 years of experience into a retail brand that empowers women and inspires them to live a healthy, sexy, confident life unapologetically and on their own terms. Check Eat. Sweat.Undress at: https://eatsweatundress.com/

ALL IS WELL HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS AND ACADEMY

and more! It is rich in amino acids, vitamin C, vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals. Sea Moss, often referred to as Irish Moss, has a wide range of benefits that support good health. There are 10 Benefits of Sea Moss. Visit “Michele Janine LLC” to

tech platform, that Erica Molett founded, teaches young students concepts in STEM, gaming, coding, Esports, and more! Banneky recently partnered with both Microsoft, and Warner Bros. The team at Banneky feels EVERY student is BORN BRILLIANT and they LOVE showcasing and nurturing their GREATNESS!

EAT.SWEAT.UNDRESS.

buy and learn more about the healing of Sea Moss. https://www.mjanine.com/

BANNEKY.COM

Eat.Sweat.Undress. is a female-founded and led brand that offers fitness, wellness, beauty, and fashion products and services to enhance the lives of women. ESU products and services are meant to build an undeniable sense of confidence in anyone who uses them. Founder Alexia Hammond’s ultimate goal is to become a go-to resource for anyone seeking a

Banneky.com is an educational tech platform hyperfocused on middle and high school students who love art, sports, and gaming. The multimedia and gamified platform connects the dots between their passions, their classrooms and their future careers. They deliver kidproduced content by the Banneky Squad, entertaining math and science lessons, and bts access to the brands and influencers they follow, to nurture their brilliance and spark innovation. This Dallas-based educational myimessenger.com

Meet Charmaine Hogan, BSN, RN, CCM, WCN-C; CEO and Program Director of All is Well Healthcare Solutions and Academy in Little Elm, TX. She teaches emergency training at all levels (CPR/First Aid) and she teaches entry-level healthcare professionals. She’s a faithful member of Life-Changing Faith in Frisco, TX. The school is based in Little Elm, TX with plans to expand to two (2) other states in the

future and will offer a variety of healthcare training classes. She is on a mission to teach, educate, inspire the future compassionate healthcare professionals. All Is Well Health Care Solutions and Academy 940-4402923 or 469-305-1899 www.AllisWellHCS.com

December 17, 2021

EXTRAVAGANT EVENTS, CUSTOM EVENTS & WEDDING PLANNING

DON DIEGO

Don Diego is an award winning saxophonist who has been traveling the world for the last30 years serenading fans everywhere from corporate events to festivals. An alum of Texas Southern University, Don Diego and the Don Diego Band brings high energy jazz, funk, R&B concert style to any event or venue

No faking and shaking here. If you’re looking for a REAL event planner, you want a pro, like Lesia Ramsey of Extravagant Events, Custom Events & Wedding Planning. The epitome of elegance, fun and excellence you can expect the same from any event that she plans. As the owner and lead planner, this hands-

and professionalism when working with planners, brides, promoters or individuals. He can handle all venues, including your home, virtually or on a rooftop! Private, Personal or corporate, call him. He shows up and shows out. Every. Single.Time! Book him for your entertainment needs, at telea@phenixx.com, bookings@dondiegoband.com or call 214-886-2775. Check out his music at www.dondiegojazz.com. You won’t be disappointed.

AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM

The African American Museum is the only one of its kind in the Southwestern Region devoted to the preservation and display of African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. It has one of the largest African American Folk Art collections in the US. The Museum combines the research of its world-renowned staff with its

award-winning design expertise to create high-quality exhibitions and events. Under the leadership of CEO and Founder, Dr. Harry Robinson and Deputy Director Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney, there’s a wonderful team that oversees this absolutely beautiful facility that is also perfect for dinners, weddings, lectures, receptions and more. Call 214-565-9026 and become a member, or schedule a tour or event today. Check it out at www. aamdallas.org

EVANS ENGRAVING

Evans Engraving & Stamping Inc is one of Dallas’ treasures. The Evans family provides custom engraving and premium awards for every occasion. Since 1973 they have offered an enormous selection of trophies, plaques, glass and acrylic awards. The Evans family takes pride in producing and delivering great work. They are meticulous and high performing. They are also well-

on coordinator takes the worry away from the client and works tirelessly to stage an event that focuses on the clients and their interests. Always scoping out innovative ways to showcase her works; Lesia focuses on bringing different themes, people and vendors together to create memorable experience. Check out her Platinum Affair, Golden Hour, and Silver Soiree at extravangeventsdfw@gmail.com or 469-774-0875. The website is www.extravagant-events.com December 17, 2021

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known for their philanthropy. You can trust Evans Engraving to make any celebration an unforgettable memory. Located at 208 S Tyler Street Dallas, TX, you can check them out on line at www.evansengraving. com or call(214) 948-1274

SOUTHERN DALLAS BUSINESS & LIVING MAGAZINE

email at southerndallasmag@gmail.com. Mr. Thomas is committed to serving his readers and communities. He’s got Southern Dallas County covered!

NENA’S FINDS

people guarantees a shopping experience like no other. She’s dedicated to dressing women from the inside out and when necessary, from the outside in. The best part about shopping at Nena’s is the atmosphere of the establishment. Nena’s Finds 215 W Tyler St, Gilmer, TX 75644. Open 10 am Friday -Sunday (214) 623-7314 to make an appointment in Dallas or Gilmer

BJW CONSULTING GROUP, LLC

Nena Hayden, CEO & Founder of Nena’s Finds Boutique, set up shop in downtown Gilmer this year. Since 2017, her boutique in Dallas has been a place where customers could play dress up, find their style, try new colors and get a new attitude, but the experience was convenient to only Dallas customers. Now Gilmer has access to the Nena’s Finds Boutique experience! Nena’s magnetic personality, incomparable eye for fashion, and passion for helping

Southern Dallas County Business & Living Magazine was founded in 2010 by James Valentino Thomas II, focused on educating, inspiring, informing and uplifting its’ readers. Southern Dallas Magazine is a monthly publication that has over 400 locations throughout the Dallas, Colin and Tarrant County area which includes Dallas, Desoto, Cedar Hill, Grand Prairie, Lancaster, Carrollton, Richardson, Plano, Duncanville and Arlington. You can find it online as www.southerndallasmag.com If you ever have a story that you feel needs to be told, then 972-765-6201 or myimessenger.com

BJW Consulting Group, LLC is a one stop motivational speaking and training firm with the goal of empowering people to deliver their best performance. And best performance is exactly what you get with President and Chief Executive Officer, Bernice J. Washington, the nationally recognized and respected former corporate executive. Ms. Washington is a certified master coach and member of the International Coaching. She’s a natural on runways, stages and red carpets. The Southern University graduate is star power and she can ignite an audience and move a room to action with her voice, her style and her voice. Ms. Washington is a great mistress of ceremonies, moderator, panelist and speaker. Reach out to her at www.bernicewashington.com December 17, 2021

FIRE N ICE PRIVATE BASKETBALL SKILLS TRAINING ACADEMY

NAKED FACÏALS

Linsie Márie, known as the “Dallas Vegan Facialist and Kitty Specialist,” is the aesthetician and owner of Naked|Facïals; Dallas’s premier vegan skin spa, specializing in vegan facials, hydrafacials, geneo

owners believe music, coffee, and culture brings people from all walks of life together, which is why they take pride in being the “ultimate hubspot” for Black excellence. They consistently use Black vendors for many of their delectable food and beverage options. Along with being a coffee bar, the restaurant features Black-owned wines and spirits. They host monthly events and gatherings. Soirée is located in Trinity Groves at 320 Singleton Boulevard, Suite 190 in Dallas. The coffee bar is open during the week from 7AM to 5PM and during the weekend from 8AM to 4PM. www.soireecoffeebar.com or (972) 850-9030 for more details or to plan a private [soirée] event!

Fire N Ice PBT is a professional basketball skills company that helps athletes achieve their full potential. Founded by Keisha Anderson, former WNBA basketball player. FirenIce is headquartered in Dallas, TX and focused on a mission to provide a professional

HOLLYWOOD JANITORIAL AND RESTROOM SUPPLIES, LLC

facials, vegan brazilian waxing, body facials, body contouring and body massage for men and women. Her mission is to help men and women relieve stress while revealing that you too can look beautiful wearing your bare naked skin. All products are clean, vegan, and organic. Ms. Marie also teaches one on one Brazilian Waxing classes that include education, demonstration, practice materials, and an esthetician student-to-business owner workbook. Email her at hello@nakedfacials.com or call 214-937-9957. The spa is open most days from 10AM to 7PM and is located inside Salon Boutique in The Colony, TX.

SOIRÉE COFFEE BAR

LaFree and Clive Ryan are the owners at Soirée Coffee Bar; a place to eat, drink, and gather. The December 17, 2021

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Hollywood Janitorial and Restroom Supplies, LLC, was born from Hollywood Janitorial Services that began as a cleaning service that catered to high-

and fun environment to teach basketball. Firenice is dedicated to developing its clients regardless of skill level. Firenice’s goal is to incorporate life learned lessons while focusing on the fundamentals of the game. They believe that coaches have very important responsibilities and amazing opportunities to have a positive impact on player’s lives. They are focused on keeping things fun, allow clients to be successful and ensure players have a solid foundation! Find out more at www.firenicepbtskillsacademy. Email firenicepbt@ gmail.com or call 469-235-2369

CURTIS & CARTWRIGHT TRANSPORT SERVICES, LLC. end, private clubs, supermarkets and department stores. Their products are formulated differently from those cleaning products sold by the every-day retailer and the chemicals are cost-effective and innovative-a combination of the old chemical formulas and new formulas that make the job easier. The CEO is Lawrence Doughty, a certified service disabled veteran who learned the basics of cleaning while serving in the United States Air Force. 4041 West Wheatland Road, #156-104, Dallas,Texas 75237, 469 513-2800 Fax 469 513-2402 Find out more at Hollywoodjanitorialsupplies.com

President and Chief Executive Officer Terrence D. Curtis Sr. started the trucking company in 2014. Curtis & Cartwright Transport Services. LLC., a certified MBE myimessenger.com

M CASE

transportation company with operations focusing on dirt and flatbed hauling services is located in Arlington, TX. Curtis & Cartwright Transport Services. LLC has worked with various construction companies and general contractors to complete deliveries of various building materials, including: sand and gravel. Also a licensed Class A barber who built a successful barber business and later became an instructor, Mr. Curtis is committed to doing the job and doing it right! Give him a call at 720-476-0268.

Nikquisa Nunn is a personal trainer, professional bodybuilder, and author of The Weight is Over. She sets people on fire with her commitment to healthy living. Her motivational style and personal experience with weight loss have proven effective in helping clients achieve superior results! Following her own dramatic weight loss of 90 pounds, Nikquisa embarked

ALLAN BAILEY JOHNSON GROUP LLC.

John Bailey, Founder and CEO of Allan Bailey Group, the largest African American owned and operated corporate real estate advisory firm in Texas, and Avery Johnson, former NBA champion and NBA Head Coach of the Year partnered to form Allan Bailey Johnson Group, LLC (ABJ) — Corporate Real Estate Solutions; committed to providing a complete outsourced commercial real estate solutions team. Their services include facilitating leasing transactions between tenants and landlords, research and site selection, lease administration, investment strategy, transaction management, and more with a diverse team of professionals. Located at 2501 N Harwood St., Suite 2410 Dallas, TX 75201, check them out at www.allanbaileyjohnson.com or 469-718-7985. myimessenger.com

NIKQUISA NUNN - PERSONAL TRAINER

Luke Mack is a local dad and frontline healthcare worker who recently created a collection of face mask cases under his new label, M Case. This new Dallas-based, Black-owned business launched a debut collection of reusable and durable mask cases designed to provide extra protection and sanitization for extended face mask use. Designed for the “new normal,” M Case reduces the likelihood of lost masks, assists with the storage of masks, and helps wearers, protect what matters most. Available in six styles, M Cases range in style from the “everyday tote” and the sleek “out on the town” option, to cases specifically designed for healthcare workers. There’s also one with a UV Sanitizer interior. Visit the website: https:// justmcase.com

on an impressive bodybuilding career. She earned IFBB Physique Pro Card at the Master’s National Bodybuilding Competition in Pittsburgh PA on July 18, 2019. Prior to winning her IFBB Pro Card, she placed highly in several figure competitions. Nikquisa provides personal training, nutritional advice, weight loss, muscle tone, and cardio fitness. Visit her website: https://www.nikquisa.com to start your healthy living journey.

December 17, 2021

SOCIALLYWIZE

In 2019 Tracey Pugh founded Sociallywize, an online platform to provide social skills tools and encouragement gifts. She has spent more than 20 years as an educator working with students and families and implementing these skills and life lessons in her own life. According

scientifically advanced Dallas-based skincare company designed for women of color and Sipho has partnered with the Neiman Marcus brand. Its’ award-winning skincare products, including the Cleansing Whip, Gel to Milk Cleanser, and Even-Tone Serum are available online at https://www.yangubeauty.com/ as well as the Yangu Beauty Day Cream, Night Cream, Renewal Oil Gentle Makeup Remover, and Bright Eyes Cream products. Sipho is passionate about having women of color define their own beauty and interested in the enhancement of their beauty rather than changing it. Shop Yangu Beauty online and at Neiman Marcus. For a limited time, online orders have free shipping.

VISIONARY VIBES

SAVON AROMATIQUE

to Ms. Pugh, it’s important to understand what we are asking of our kids/students when they are learning and working on social communication. We’re asking them to shift how they think about social and then to change the related behavior. Sociallywize has coaching sessions, skills, anxiety, and academic skills sessions

available. She has adult services also. Visit the website: www.sociallywize.com. For speaking engagements, email tracey@sociallywize.com

YANGU BEAUTY

Sipho Gumbo is the founder and creator of Yangu Beauty and Munhu, Inc, a non-profit that supports and educates children orphaned by AIDS. Yangu Beauty is a December 17, 2021

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Danielle Ezzard’s Savon Aromatique is a New Yorkbased company that creates handmade naturalproducts from the best ingredients which are nourishing and pampering for every skin type, especially sensitive skin. Danielle created Savon Aromatique in her kitchen as she worked on remedies to treat her eczema. She has created soaps with soothing properties of the milk and the humectants properties of the honey. Savon Aromatique products can be bought online at

https://savonaromatique.com/ with free shipping on all orders over $75.00. Enjoy products for soothing and luxurious baths, nourishing, moisturizing body products that your skin will love, and calming scents to fill your home as you relax. Contact Danielle Ezzard for your custom orders at 646-430-6200 or email: savonaromatiquesoaps@gmail.com.

Visionary Vibes is a youth artistic expression and mindfulness 501c(3) non-profit organization established to give a positive outlet to youth and teach coping mechanism skills that will help remedy the daily stressors of life by teaching Leadership, Teamwork Communication and Problem Solving Skills, Work Ethic and Flexibility/Adaptability Founded by Mariah Griffo, Visionary Vibes is hosting a toy drive through December 20 for a minimum of 60 kids in southern Dallas. Bring any new toys, gadgets or clothes to Loc’d n Healing, 1340 N Town East Boulevard, Suite #3, Mesquite. Monetary donations will be accepted via Cashapp at $visionaryvibes. Reach out to Mariah.Griffo@gmail. com. Follow @visionaryvibes and @locdnhealing on Instagram and Facebook, or VisionaryVibes.org.or call 219-877-4333 myimessenger.com

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December 17, 2021

State bound! South Oak Cliff dominates Lubbock-Cooper, advances to championship game South Oak Cliff is the first Dallas ISD team to reach the state title game since Lincoln in 2004. By Shawn McFarland

ABILENE – There’s something special about doing something for the first time. Doing something that hasn’t been done in a long time, and doing something that, in turn, places one a step closer to doing something that hasn’t been done in an even longer time. It’s just … “It’s just very inspiring,” Dallas ISD superintendent Michael Hinojosa said, as he watched a celebration continue on in front of him at Abilene’s Shotwell Stadium on Friday night. Powerade-soaked players scrambled across the turf. Jason Todd, South Oak Cliff’s head coach since 2015, had a line of colleagues, athletes and community members waiting to hug him. A trophy – the fifth South Oak Cliff has collected on its month-long run of success – was passed around for photo ops. It’s been 17 years since a Dallas ISD football team played in a state championship game. It’s been 63 years since a Dallas ISD team won a state championship. It’s the first time that South Oak Cliff will have ever played for one. Inspiring, indeed. December 17, 2021

South Oak Cliff wide receiver Kylin Mathis (3) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of a Class 5A Division II state semifinal against Lubbock Cooper at Shotwell Stadium on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, in Abilene, Texas. Photo Credit: Smiley N. Pool/The Dallas Morning News, Smiley N. Pool / Staff Photographer

“[Dallas] has been waiting to get behind a team that can bring a title home,” Todd said. “And South Oak Cliff is that team.” South Oak Cliff (14-1) never trailed Lubbock-Cooper (13-2) in the 5A-II state semifinal on Friday. It led by 28 points at halftime, and gave the thousand-plus blackand-gold clad supporters that made the near-three hour drive from the metroplex to west Texas a reason to feel inspired as it advanced into the 5A-II state championship game with a 44-10 win.

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“We started making believers out of everybody,” South Oak Cliff’s Kyron Chambers said. “We said that we were going to make it for Oak Cliff. We were going to win it for Oak Cliff. It’s bigger than us, it’s bigger than just South Oak Cliff. It’s for the community, and that’s why we play so hard.” It’ll play Liberty Hill, which beat Crosby on Friday night, on Saturday, Dec. 18 at 11 a.m. at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Lincoln was Dallas ISD’s last representative in the

state title game, when it lost to Kilgore, 33-27, in double overtime of the 4A-II championship in 2004. Booker T. Washington won a Prairie View Interscholastic League title in 1958. Carter was stripped of its 1988 title by the UIL. Those who drove out to Abilene didn’t need to wait long to watch South Oak Cliff do something special. South Oak Cliff’s Randy Reece caught the game’s opening kickoff, eluded a few Lubbock-Cooper defenders and See CHAMPIONSHIP GAME, page 31

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State bound! South Oak Cliff dominates Lubbock-Cooper, advances to Championship Game cont. from page 30

South Oak Cliff players, including defensive back Semaj'dre Gasaway (27) , defensive lineman Kelan Durant (52) and defensive lineman Courtland Kidd (right) celebrate as time expires on a victory over Lubbock Cooper in a Class 5A Division II state semifinal at Shotwell Stadium on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, in Abilene, Texas. Photo Credit: Smiley N. Pool/The Dallas Morning News, Smiley N. Pool / Staff Photographer

sprinted down the right sidelined 82 yards for a touchdown just 15 seconds into the first quarter. “That right there,” South Oak Cliff’s Qualon Farrar said. “That sparked the game for us.” Lubbock-Cooper answered in methodical fashion, with a 17-play, 92-yard drive with two fourth-down conversions mixed in that ended in a 28-yard field goal. It took Lubbock-Cooper eight minutes to score its first three points. It took South Oak Cliff just slightly over eight minutes – spread across the first and second quarter – to score three more touchdowns, take a 28-3 lead with 6:57 left in the first half and, effectively, myimessenger.com

all but punch its ticket to Arlington. Farrar scored a 2-yard rushing touchdown just five seconds into the second quarter to take a 14-7 lead. South Oak Cliff quarterback Kevin Henry-Jennings, who picked up an offer from SMU on Wednesday, connected with Kylin Mathis for a 78-yard touchdown just under three minutes later. Farrar scored again, from four yards out, with 6:57 left in the second quarter to take a 28-3 lead. A field goal from Diego Varela, with 1:56 left in the half, gave South Oak Cliff a 31-3 lead. “That was the plan,” Farrar said. “That was the plan from the start of the game. We were supposed

to get on the gas in the first half and keep them where they were at in the second.” South Oak Cliff outscored Cooper 13-7 in the second half to maintain the advantage. Cooper was held to 282 yards of offense, and South Oak Cliff’s defense intercepted three passes and recovered a fumble. “Everybody had doubted us,” Chamber said. “We had to show everybody what we could do.” A Dallas ISD spokesperson said that it pre-sold 1,200 tickets for Friday’s game. It’s safe to expect an even bigger crowd on Saturday in Arlington. It’s a shorter drive. Plus, South Oak Cliff has more history it wants to make.

Game on - South Oak Cliff Football BY THE HUB

With the entire city rallying behind the South Oak Cliff Golden Bears on their historic playoff run, there are a few ways to watch the team in action for the 11 a.m. kickoff on Saturday, Dec. 18, at AT&T Stadium. SOC will face off against Liberty Hill High School for the UIL 2021 State Football Championship in Arlington. Let’s make sure to pack the stands and support the entire South Oak Cliff community by attending. All SOC fans should purchase tickets in advance through the UIL’s online ticket process, where a $5 discount will be applied using a SOC-designated discount code. Tickets are required for all individuals ages 1 and up. Ticket and Discount Code Information Fans must purchase a general admission ticket through the SeatGeek app and can apply the following discount code for South Oak Cliff: 5ADIIN. It is recommended to download the SeatGeek App on Apple or Android first if purchasing tickets using a mobile device. Please note that discount tickets, which are available for $15, do not have an option to print. General admission tickets purchased without the SOC discount code and sold through SeatGeek will be $20. AT&T Parking Information Parking is only available for purchase on game day, and not in advance. The stadium only accepts credit cards for parking, which means there is no cash parking option at the stadium. The cost to park is $20 per car and $50.00 for buses or RVs. Watch Party at Ellis Davis For fans who are not able to make it to AT&T Stadium, the district is hosting a Watch Party at Ellis Davis Fieldhouse, located at 9191 S. Polk St. Admission is free; however, everyone must pre-register online here to attend and receive an electronic ticket from GoFan to enter. Tailgating will be allowed in Parking Lot A beginning at 8:30 a.m., and all district policies will be followed. Doors inside Ellis Davis will open at 10 a.m., and fans can enjoy concessions and three jumbotron monitors to view the game, which begins at 11 a.m. Only clear bags will be allowed inside, and visitors will not be allowed to go in and out at Ellis Davis. The maximum capacity for the Watch Party will be 2,500, and the event will end immediately following the conclusion of the game. December 17, 2021

December 17, 2021

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BIG MAMA SAID

WE HAVE TO MAKE A WAY OUT OF NO WAY THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN As a member of the Allen Household, Big Mama’s simple proverbs motivated us as well as some of these wisdoms also came from many mothers in my community. My soul is warmed and motivated to know so many of you understand what Big Mama’s PlayBook meant. So I know you also had a Big Mama. Big Mama would speak and make a way out of no way all the time. She was grounded by Isaiah 43.19 “ Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not

Carter Alum

cont. from page 7

ley, VanZandt gained valuable, hands-on knowledge and critical skills that will career her deep into a career in medicine. “These internships helped with deciding what I want to do,” said VanZandt. “They exposed me to several career paths in the STEM field and medical field. I also learned key skills such as communication, public speaking, time management, and more.” VanZandt became so involved and skilled as a researcher in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics arena that her college nominated her as an HBCU STEM Queen for OLAY/ EBONY Magazine, representing PVAMU. VanZandt went on to win and serves as one of 10 finalists. myimessenger.com

perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” She strongly believed in the worst of issues, survival is an issue for the UTMOST! In the process of making her own “way out of no way,” Big Mama drew on faith, strength, and support from a variety of sources - their families and communities, a higher power, ideas from the past, other people and places, and within themselves. We all lived there in her house and her wages were around 50.00 a week. Big Mama showed me how to make a way out of no way. She was the proof that Africa Americans have exemplified a bounce-back spirit that is fundamentally American by believing that change is going

to come, even in the worst of circumstances. Our community is in an intense round of events and needs that have to have the right reaction. Over the years and especially during the two pandemics, African Americans have acted to change and build their lives despite tremendous obstacles. Similarly, racism has taken many forms in American society, as have the solutions and strategies African Americans have developed to combat it. I am personally lifted by Big Mama teaching and experiences as I experienced my own shift in employment and saw the fight for my own justice and the infusion of turn behind a blatant lie! I had to rethink the notion

of inclusion. I begin to see that it is the responsibility of African Americans to fight for the freedom as granted to them and to view freedom, along with its privileges and responsibilities, as deserved by them. The cost of winning true freedom has been a continuous struggle, with victories as well as defeats. Endgame: I am not defeated, I am rerouting. I am glad to be a Big Mama Griot. Lucille “Big Mama” Allen would not have it any other way. So, do you have a Big Mama blessing? Email me today @terryallenpr@ gmail.com

“Becoming an HBCU STEM Queen, by EBONY, has opened up so many opportunities for me that will positively impact my career,” said Van Zandt. “I have received so much publicity and support. I have been able to network with individuals of high stature and meet celebrities that have given me advice.” VanZandt says the opportunities opened to her after becoming an HBCU STEM Queen include a substantial scholarship, inclusion in the February EBONY Magazine issue, and a summer internship with Procter & Gamble. And this marks only the beginning of VanZandt’s bright future. Her reasons for entering a career in medicine stem from an end-of-life event in her family and a desire to give back to the community. “I plan to attend medical school and become a cardiothoracic surgeon or an emergency

medicine physician,” said VanZandt. “After the passing of my grandmother, I decided to pursue a career in medicine. I also plan to start my practice with dreams of helping and aiding the Black community in healthcare and also assisting with orphanages, due to my upbringing.”

be described as “amazing,” said VanZandt, with encouragement that inspires students to “fulfill dreams and achieve goals.” Through faith and commitment to her dreams, VanZandt rose to the top despite struggles along the way. “There were times during my years at PVAMU where my family was homeless,” said VanZandt. “For two years, my mother didn’t own a home or have a stable place to live, but I worked hard and would help her any way I could, even if it meant I had nothing. I plan to show my peers to remain optimistic and let them know their future is bright, no matter their upbringing. “My advice to current students is to get out of their shells, stay persistent, stay focused, persevere, and always keep God first. Your upbringing and background do not dictate your ending.”

Keep to Family, Faith “I attended Prairie View because it felt like a family the minute I stepped on campus,” said VanZandt, remembering her initial trip to PVAMU. “Prairie View sucks you in and treats you like one big family. I fell in love with the culture, the history, and Prairie View’s never-ending goal to Produce Productive People in the professional world.” VanZandt knows a thing or two about the importance of family and a place that feels like home. The support she received from the university throughout her time at PVAMU can only

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

December 17, 2021

Nena’s Finds Boutique A Uniquely Stylish, Fashionable Boutique for women of all Sizes! Ranging from Pretti and Petite to Pretti and Plus! Nena likes to be a bit edgy, blingy ... But she keeps it Chic with Sophisticated Style! Nena’s Finds is your one stop shop for an Eccentric flare! 214.623.7314 nenafinds17@gmail.com Schedule your Sip n Shop, Trunk Show, Girls Nite Out or Wardrobe Revamp with Nena’s Finds today!

December 17, 2021

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December 17, 2021

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Virtual and liVe Community Calendar HIV/AIDS Awareness

NFBPA North Texas & DBCC Holiday Mixer at First United Bank, 1845 Woodall Rodgers Fwy #200. 6:30-9:30 pm. Tickets: bit.ly/2ZVpCXN.

SUNDAY SERVICE at DAQS Daq’s Luxury Daiquiri Lounge, 8700 Preston Rd. Plano. 12-3 pm. Tickets: daqsallfolks.com.

RECURRING

Friday Night Jazz, at Nosh And Bottle, 370 W. Las Colinas Blvd. Irving. 8-11 pm.

Virtual Soulful Christmas feat: Tamela Mann Online Premiere Online event 7 pm CST at brownbaptist.com.

2021 Fall Exhibitions Ruth Mae McCrane, at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 10 am-5 pm. Info: aamdallas.org.

DECEMBER 18

Black Nativity at Bishop Arts Theatre, 215 Tyler St. 8 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3G1hEvL Dates and Times may vary. (Dec. 2-18)

DECEMBER 16 ZWHJ Outreach Center Types of Entity Structures at Frazier House, 4600 Spring Ave. Tickets: www.zwhjcoc. org/classes 11 am-12:30 pm. Arlington Black Chamber Networking Mixer at 1010 Collins Event Center, 1010 N. Collins St. 6-7:30 pm. Tickets: bit.ly/ABCCDec2021. LCUPN “Tis the Season to go a Holiday Appreciation Mixer and Anniversary Celebration at Fogo de Chão, 5908 Headquarters Dr. #K150, Plano. 6-10 pm.

A Blue & White Christmas Party at African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 8 pm-12 am. Tickets: $25 bwcp.eventbrite.com. Empowering The Masses Disaster Relief Drive Through Food Pantry at 3314 Detonte St. Dallas. 8 am-11 pm. Info: call 972-460-6316 2021 Winter Warm-Up Distribution Drive Through 9-11 am at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 2922 MLK Jr. Blvd. Reg: https://bit.ly/3DsCkLB. Ugly Sweater & Toy Drive Sophisticated Saturday @ House Of Blues, 2200 N. Lamar St. 10 pm-2 am. RSVP: Jay Day 469.213.0961 DeSoto Christmas Musical feat: Gary Edwards at Black Box Theater, 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 7 pm. Tickets: desotoevents.eventbrite.com.

The NETwork DFW Toy Drive and Ugly Sweater Charity Event at Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 6-8:30 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/31ZmvP6. Mona’s Heart Outreach, Christmas Drive Through Drop Off. New unwrapped toys. At Destiny Point Christian Church, 2350 E. Mayfield Rd. Arlington. 4-7 pm.

DeSoto Teen Council Silent Party, DeSoto Civic Center, 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 7-10 pm. Tickets: desotoevents.eventbrite.com. DeSoto’s 48th Annual Hometown Holiday Parade. 10 am. Parade starts at 901 S. Polk St and ends at DeSoto Town Center. Free bit. ly/2ZnE22M.

DECEMBER 17 Center Table Fall Harvest Food Pantry at Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center, 1800 Bonnie View Rd. 9-11 am. Dr. MLK Jr. Scholarship Essay Contest deadline by 5 pm. Awards announced at MLK Jr. Gala 1-15-21 Apply: https://bit. ly/3Drf3tn. CHERYL’S WORLD Tune in to Cheryl’s World on BlogTalkRadio.com, FaceBook Live and Streamyard for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative and entertaining news and commentary. Call 646-200-0459 to join in.

DeSoto City Council Holiday Toys and Food Giveaway, at Les Zeiger Park, 405 Eagle Dr. 1-4 pm.

Atatiana Project Gala at Arts District Mansion, 2101 Ross Ave. 6-10 pm. Reg: bit. ly/3liJSdF.

Mona’s Heart Outreach, Inc. Volunteers Needed. Weekly on Saturday, 11:30- 4:30 pm. At 2350 E. Mayfield Rd. Arlington.

DECEMBER 19

DECEMBER 23

SUNDAY SERVICE at DAQS, Daq’s Luxury Daiquiri Lounge, 8700 Preston Rd. Plano. 12-3 pm. Tickets: daqsallfolks.com.

Afrofire in Plano: a fire afro fusion workout! at The Mat Yoga Studio Plano 3136 Independence Pkwy. #B. 7 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/30jFeob

DECEMBER 27

The Evelyn Hotel Toy Drive at The Evelyn Hotel& Spa, 4801 Spring Valley Rd. #104, Farmers Branch. 12-5 pm.

DECEMBER 24 CHRISTMAS EVE

DECEMBER 20

AFROJams Christmas ft. BeBe Winans on Facebook Live @afrotainment 7-10 pm. Info: http://www.afrotainment.us/

Chocolate Secrets Open Mic Monday Chocolate Secrets, 3926 Oak Lawn Ave. 7:30-11pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3mGIBN2 The Best of MoTown: Live Christmas Tribute Edition at The Wild Detectives 314 W Eighth St. Oak Cliff. 7 pm. https://bit.ly/31xQn5h. Rhythm & Rhymes Monday at The Living Room Shisha Lounge, 5449 N. MacArthur Blvd. #B Irving. 9-1 am. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3xihQDO.

Church Eleven32 Christmas Eve Celebration, at Allen Performing Arts Center, 300 Rivercrest Blvd. 3p or 5pm. Reg: https://bit.ly/3GCZwIN. A Glass Full of Jazz @ Distinctive Vines Wine Lounge, 1110 S. Akard St. 5-11 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3GAvtSb

DECEMBER 21 Oak Cliff Thrives with Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce.6-7:30 pm. Tickets: oakcliffchamber.org/oakcliff-thrives. Apply Today.

DECEMBER 25

Soul Line Dance Tuesday-Live! Virtual, host BE Creative Arts Center. 7 pm CST. Reg: www.becreativeartscenter.com FREE

That Dope Day Party in UPtown @ Palms, 2922 N. Hall St. Every Satur”DAY” 3-10 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3oQJ9lK

UnMasking Truth! Video Series: Black Presence in the Bible at Kingdom Living NOW! – Fellowship 982 N. Garden Ridge Blvd #140 7 pm.

The Brightest Show South of the North Pole at The Light Park in Lone Star Park, 1000 Lone Star Pkwy. Grand Prairie. 12 pm. Tickets: https://bit. ly/3pYF5kv

MERRY CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 22

DEC 26-JAN1

Wine Down Wednesdays at Distinctive Vines Wine Lounge, 1110 S. Akard St. 5-9 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3InI90b. DJ’s Steak House Wine Down Wednesdays, 14925 Midway Rd. #101 Addison 3-5 pm. For RSVP call 469-914-0094 after 4 pm.

The W.I.N.O.R. Tour Host Shavonda with a “V” Mi Amora Wednesdays at AMORA KITCHEN & at The Blues Place, 3100 Grand Ave. 8:30 pm Tick- ULTRA LOUNGE, 12255 Greenville Ave. #130. 10 ets: 214-418-3122. pm-2 am. Reservations: 469-844-8545 Sundays “The World According to Drew” with Andrew Whigham, III 8-10 am CDT.

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Tuesdays “DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW” with Dr. Felicia Shepherd, 11 am CDT,

Thursdays

Wednesdays “I was just thinking...” with Norma Adams-Wade, 11 am- 1 pm. CDT.

“The Connection” with Debra BrownSturns, 7 pm. CDT.

Kwanzaa

DECEMBER 26 Umoja: Unity - Unity of the family, community, nation and race

Kujichagulia: Self-Determination - Being responsible for your own conduct and behaviour Chocolate Secrets Open Mic Monday Chocolate Secrets, 3926 Oak Lawn Ave. 7:30-11pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3mGIBN2.

DECEMBER 28 Ujima: Collective work and responsibility Working to Help each other and in the community Oak Cliff Thrives with Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce.6-7:30 pm. Tickets: oakcliffchamber.org. Soul Line Dance Tuesday-Live! Virtual. 7 pm CST. Reg: www.becreativeartscenter.com. FREE

DECEMBER 29 Ujamaa: Cooperative economics - Working to build shops and businesses Kwanzaa Ujamaa Cooperative Economics at Grow DeSoto Market , 324 E Belt Line Rd. 4-7 pm.

DECEMBER 30-31 Revive 2022 at Concord Church, 6808 Pastor Bailey Dr. 7-11 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/33qgIDd

DECEMBER 30 Nia: Purpose - Remembering and restoring African and African American cultures, customs and history

Fridays “From Marva with Love” with Marva Sneed, 11 am-1 pm CDT.

December 17, 2021

AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ WEST SIDE STORY is a remake of the original Broadway play from 1957. It’s directed by Steven Spielberg and is a very updated take on the original play. First the movie is culturally accurate with Latino actors playing the Puerto Rican actors in the film. In the original movie version “Maria” was played by American actress Natalie Wood. In the version Maria is played by Latina actress Rachel Zegler, the product of a Columbian mother and an American father. The story is about two rival gangs, The Jets and the Sharks, who hate the other’s presence in the neighborhood. The white kids feel like the Puerto Ricans are trying to take over the neighborhood and the Puerto Ricans just want to be left alone to enjoy their new neighborhood. The choreography in the movie is absolutely amazing. The dance scenes along with the colorful outfits worn by the Puerto Ricans absolutely make the screen pop with color. Spielberg does an excellent job with the filming of the movie.

WEST SIDE STORY

Also the old songs are reviewed with a very modern touch and I had forgotten how many classic songs come from the original stage play. Songs like, “I Feel Pretty,” “Somewhere,” “Tonight” and of course “Maria” are all reprised in the movie. The actors give a spirited performance in all of the roles. Speilberg’s updated version

of WESTSIDE STORY is a pure delight. The forbidden love story between Maria and Tony (Ansel Elgort) is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. I Loved it. The movie is rated PG-13 for violence and has a run time of 2 hours and 36 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” WESTSIDE STORY rates a JUMBO.

www.grandpasecret.com December 17, 2021

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December 17, 2021

ARRESTED

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

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

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

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477 December 17, 2021

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