I Messenger 12-23-22

Pandemic impacted churches, faith groups

Message from the Dallas Mayor

Season's Greetings!

As 2022 comes to a close, we are wishing you and your loved ones a joyous and peaceful holiday season.

Our city has returned stronger than ever from the COVID-19 pandemic, and that is because of people like you who make Dallas great.

Sending warm wishes and "Big Dallas Energy" to you from our family to yours. And remember, for the latest city updates in the New Year, be sure to visit BigDallasEnergy.org.

Until next time — and until next year,

Mayor Eric Johnson

The First Family of Dallas

THE LAST WORD

Congressman John Conyers (D-Mich.) introduced H.R. 40 in every congressional session from 1989 until he left Congress in 2017. Then, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) ably took the baton and ran with it, amassing more than 200 Congressional cosponsors for...

QUIT PLAYIN’ Pandemic impacted churches

Stevie Wonder did something 55 years ago that most 17-year-olds then and now would find impressive. He released his first Christmas album. His title song is one that you will find as relevant and radical today as the day it first surfaced.

Sam Cooke crooned in the mid-1960s that “A Change Is Gonna Come.” Now more than a half-century later, major change has come for countless churches and faith groups across the land. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought that change.

Dean Sentenced in Jefferson killing!

By Arise Rejoice News Service

A Fort Worth jury on Wednesday afternoon sentenced former Fort Worth police officer Aaron Dean to 11 years, 10 months and 12 days in prison for the fatal killing of Atatiana Jefferson.

Dean, who resigned from the Fort Worth police department shortly after the shooting, was the first police officer in the history of Tarrant County to be sentenced to prison for killing someone while on duty.

Last Wednesday a jury found him guilty in the October, 2019 shooting which fractured the community of Fort Worth. The sentencing phase of the trial began on Friday.

The prosecution, members of Jefferson’s family, and those close to them,

wanted Dean found guilty of murder rather than manslaughter.

The manslaughter charge allows a maximum prison sentence of 20 years in Texas. It even allows for supervised probation.

Once found guilty, Dean was arrested. He had been free on bail since the killing three years ago.

Dean’s lawyers asked for

probation while a lawyer for the prosecution asked for the mandatory sentence of 20 years.

Prosecutors were not pleased with the manslaughter verdict, saying that the real victims of Dean’s actions were Ms. Jefferson and her family.

During the punishment stage of the trial a psychologist, Dr. Kyle Clan-

ton, said that Dean should never have been hired as a police officer. Dean had narcissistic tendencies, he told the jurors.

Dean’s attorney said that sending Dean to prison would be counterproductive and that it would have a negative impact on members of the police force.

He called Dean a very good man who found himself in a very difficult situation.

Dean’s mother said that he became a police officer because he wanted to help people.

A member of Dean’s church called Dean a “good and noble man,” while testifying.

Dean had said that he believed that Jefferson had a gun on the night of her murder, and that he fired

Atatiana Jefferson Aaron Dean

by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Thanks to you!

A little over a week to go in this year and we can call 2022 Black History.

What a year!

Some are ready to call it quits and move on.

But, do we really know what we are moving on to?

For me, I’d rather just take each day as it comes.

Admittedly the past almost three years have been like none other, making me rethink how I feel about so many people, places and things.

If there was ever anything in my lifetime that has been a catalyst for moving me to a point of self actualization quickly, it has to be the pandemic.

While I have talked about majoring in the minors, now I really am unapologetically trying to live my best life and that calls for letting some people and things go, or not letting them in your space.

I have said time and time again that growing up a Black woman in America has kept me in a constant state of action, activism and pandemonium; however, COVID-19 was no joke and it has taken a lot of work for me to see it through!

Which brings me to my truth.

I urge you to get your copy of the special edition of Texas Metro News that hits stands and your inbox this week.

You’ll have an opportunity to read poignant stories about COVID and its impact on our school system, impacting mil-

there are so many who have been challenged to their very core, as a result of COVID-19.

You will also read firsthand accounts, from mothers and fathers, caregivers and siblings who felt the harsh reality of the pandemic.

FaceBook Live, Streamyard, and BlogTalk Radio. You can also see additional coverage on Thizz TV, Black Headlines News, National Newspaper Publishers Association Newswire Service, NABJ’s Black News and Views, the Dallas Morning News; to name a few.

Our team is proud of the work we did on this project and we hope to do more. We want to continue enlightening, inspiring, educating and uplifting with our work and we hope that you will continue to support.

Log on to www.texasmetronews.com and sign on to our daily newsletter and how you can be part of the solution as we deal with addressing the many societal ills that erode our quality of life.

Our special edition will be in schools, libraries, churches, mosques, synagogues, hospitals, government facilities and businesses.

lions of children and educators; as well as their families, colleagues and communities.

You think you’ve been suffering?

Well, I don’t know if it provides much solace to know that you are not alone; that

Thanks to a grant, funded by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and the Chan Zuckerberg Institute, we were able to not only provide the special edition on COVID -19, we also hosted two podcasts - using

So, as this year comes to a close, as we deal with the on-going effects of COVID-19; just know that our team here at I Messenger Media is totally committed to providing quality journalism and addressing the issues and concerns of our audiences.

We thank you for staying on this journey with us!

An Executive Order for Reparations

THE LAST WORD

BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

Congressman John Conyers (D-Mich.) introduced H.R. 40 in every congressional session from 1989 until he left Congress in 2017.

Then, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) ably took the baton and ran with it, amassing more than 200 Congressional cosponsors for the legislation that would study and develop reparations proposals for African Americans.

Had House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) chosen to schedule a vote on H.R. 40, it would likely have passed, given its strong cosponsorship. While as many as 40 senators have supported the companion legislation, S-40, introduced by Sen. Cory Booker, reparations legislation was not likely to pass the Senate.

With Republicans poised to take the House of Representatives, H.R. 40 won’t get a House vote. But President Biden can move the reparations movement forward by signing Executive Order 40 (#EO40), which could establish the commission that H.R. 40 requires.

The organizations that support H.R. 40, including the NAARC, National African American Reparations Commission (on which I serve), and N’COBRA, the National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America, are urging President Biden to sign this executive order on Dr. King’s birthday in 2023.

Callie House was one of the first reparations advocates, advocating for the National Ex-Slave Mutual Relief, Bounty and Pension Act, seeking pensions for formerly enslaved people who fought in the Civil War. The government, of course, opposed her efforts, with the Post Office Department aggressively vilifying her.

House was convicted of postal fraud (the same thing Marcus Garvey was convicted of). Her jury was all white males. She was incarcerated for a year, a blow to the reparations movement. House was a threat to the illusion of white supremacy.

Her organization filed a lawsuit against the US Treasury, seeking to distribute cotton tax revenues to formerly enslaved people. Of course, the case failed, with the US Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court asserting that the government had immunity for the crime of enslavement and owed nothing to formerly enslaved people. In the eyes of white America, House had to be punished for her audacity, thus her conviction and jail sentence.

Callie House sowed the seeds that are now bearing fruit. For example, the notion that cotton tax money should be used to compensate those who picked cotton has borne fruit in the contemporary reparations movement.

In Evanston, Illinois, the first municipality to implement reparations, marijuana tax money is being used to compensate those affected by discriminatory housing policies. Connecting the source of payment to the harm people experienced is Callie House’s legacy.

More than 100 local reparations advocates converged on Evanston from Dec. 1-3 for a gathering sponsored by NAARC and First Repair, the organization founded by Robin Rue Simmons, the former Evanston alderwoman who was the force behind local reparations. Described by some as the “Rosa Parks of the reparations movement,” Simmons has been a visionary in “informing local reparations nationally.” She gathered people from Boston, San Francisco, Asheville, Amherst, Miami, Nashville, Evanston and other cities to share their strategies to obtain local reparations.

Attendees also rallied around the need for an Executive Order (#EA40)

to establish a national reparations commission to suggest ways to provide reparations.

The wealth gap is in the news these days. Black folks have one dollar in wealth for every $10 whites have. The reason for this gap is simple and deliberate.

`It isn’t that Black people don’t save enough. It’s that deliberate public policy has been used to accelerate the white accumulation of wealth (think: GI Bill) while decelerating Black accumulation. The ugly history of the white economic envy that led to lynchings, violent community decimation (Tulsa; Wilmington, N.C.), government-sanctioned land appropriation (sundown towns), and government-sanctioned discriminatory benefits distribution (how many Black veterans were denied benefits) is directly responsible for the wealth gap. This history makes a strong case for reparations.

Some suggest that local remedy is not the same thing as reparations. They are wrong! If a local entity harmed Black people, that entity must fix it, as must the federal government. Every entity that has harmed must remedy that — federal, state, local, corporate, and university. The harm inflicted on Black people has contemporary outcomes and must be remedied.

People who care about national reparations should reach out to their Congress members, especially the White House, to encourage President Biden to sign an executive order. We must also thank Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee for her efforts. Callie House was not the first person to take the reparations struggle to the courts, and the struggle continues. President Biden can move the struggle forward with a supportive executive order.

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

Tis A Time For Political Change

OUR VOICES

Locally in the State of California, we have a first with an African American woman as the first female Mayor of the City of Los Angeles. The significance of this is not that she is a woman, but that she is qualified for the position.

A former member of the U.S. Congress and chairperson of The Congressional Black Caucus; former member of the California Legislature where she served as the first woman to ever become Speaker of the Assembly; and member of the Legislative Black Caucus in the Assembly with a string of achievements.

But perhaps the most important thing about the new Mayor, which represents a change, is her stated commitment to attack the problem of the 40,000 individuals in the City of Los Angeles who are homeless. Although we have millions of dollars

here in California allocated to the issue of homelessness, one unanswered question is how do we reduce or eliminate homelessness without addressing the issues of “rent control?”

The absence of rent control means that landlords can raise rents almost at will, force people out of their homes because they complain about the lack of repairs or other problems with their dwellings and not experience any real problems under the very laws that call such actions “Retaliatory Evictions”. In the City of San Diego, we added one new council member, with those running for office, re-elected. We also experienced redistricting, with changes in the areas now being represented by people re-elected to office.

We also have new mayors in the cities of Chula Vista and National City, California cities connecting with the City of San Diego. All of this represents elements of change and new opportunities for governance for those who see such possibilities. The question here is where do you stand? Do you see the opportunities? Are you concerned about the mounting problem of homelessness and making tough decisions beyond how much money is available to tackle the problem?

Let us hear from you on these issues and opportunities as we confront the changes before us.

The African American Educators Archives and History Program has announced that since last March, when they introduced 30 Charter Members, they are now welcoming an additional nine outstanding individuals as Charter Members: Al Herron, Dr. Genna Rae McNeil, Lucious Newhouse, Anietie Antia-Obong, Betty Perkins, Loretta Simon, Dr.

Each Charter Member donated a minimum of $1,200 toward the installation of the Digital Interactive Wall Project and three grants, totaling $32,975, were received from:

1. Humanities Texas

2. The Dallas Foundation

3. The Addy Foundation

According to organizers, the group is continuing with fundraising efforts and still need the support. As the end of the year approaches, now would be a good time to make a tax-deductible donation to this worthy cause. The honorary co-chairs are Sen Royce and Carol West.

Donors’ names or the names of their organizations will appear

on the donor list on the project’s website and on the donor list of the Digital Interactive Wall Multi-Media Board.

For more information on how to contribute, contact Dr. Alfred L. Roberts, Sr., President, AAEAHP, 214-478-7228. Or visit the website at aaeahp.org to make a contribution to the Digital Interactive Wall Project.

DR.

JOHN E. WARREN

Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

“Although we have millions of dollars here in California allocated to the issue of homelessness, one unanswered question is how do we reduce or eliminate homelessness without addressing the issues of ‘rent control’?”

- Dr. John E. Warren

Roscoe C. Smith, Dr. Velma Prince Smith and Dr. Robert Watkins.

Anietie Antia Obong

Al Herron

Dr. Genna Rae McNeil

Betty L Perkins Dr. Robert Watkins

Dr. Roscoe C. Smith

Loretta Simon Dr. Velma Smith

Lucious Newhouse

Comerica Bank Promotes LaToya Rowell to National Community Affairs Manager

Comerica Bank has named LaToya Rowell its National Community Affairs Manager, reporting to Chief Community Officer Irvin Ashford, Jr.

In her new role, Rowell will oversee Comerica’s national volunteer program and continue to manage community initiatives and partnerships across the bank’s footprint in partnership with the external affairs market team and social impact manager.

“LaToya’s contributions to Comerica are invaluable,” Ashford said. “She has elevated the bank’s presence and impact in the diverse communities we serve through her oversight of our 19 business resource groups and financial education volunteer program. Her proven record of success has paved the way for this new opportunity.”

Rowell’s responsibilities also include developing and maintaining relationships with key community stakeholders. Additionally, she plays an integral role in supporting Comerica’s national business development managers’ efforts to strengthen relationships within the African American, Hispanic, Asian Pacific Islander and Middle Eastern communities.

Rowell, who joined Comerica in 2006, has held various positions, including business affairs coordinator,

contributions and volunteer coordinator, corporate contributions budget specialist, contributions officer, and most recently, community affairs coordinator supporting Comerica’s external community and business outreach efforts.

LaToya Rowell

business, fashion, the arts and entertainment for their career accomplishments and their contribution to society and culture, and creating safe spaces for others.

named Comerica Bank as its 2022 Corporate Volunteer of the Year, a partnership under Rowell’s leadership.

Rowell, a 2022 Comerica Emerging Leaders cohort member, has been selected for multiple leadership and professional development programs. In 2018, the New Leaders Council invited Rowell to take part in its fellowship program, which recruits the next generation of leaders who aspire to create change in their communities. During her time with NLC, she served as the colead for their annual fundraiser and the 2019 finance co-chair.

She also participated in the 2019-2020 Communities Foundation of Texas Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy program.

In November, the National Diversity Council awarded Rowell with its Certified Diversity Professional designation after she successfully passed the DiversityFIRST™ certification program and examination.

She has been honored externally and internally for her work in the community on behalf of the bank. Last month, Rolling Out selected Rowell as one of its Sisters With Superpowers honorees, which celebrates multi-generations of women in entrepreneurship,

In October, the Wilkinson Center presented Rowell with its 2022 “The Great Volunteer Connector” award, recognizing her contributions in connecting Comerica colleagues with volunteer opportunities supporting the Dallas-based nonprofit’s adult education program.

Then, last spring, the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship South Region

A member of the UNT Alumni Association, Rowell, earned a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science degree and a certificate in Volunteer and Community Resource Management from the University of North Texas. She also holds a degree in Multimedia Design with an emphasis in Multimedia Production from the Art Institute of Dallas.

Someday At Christmas!

QUIT PLAYIN’

BY VINCENT L. HALL

Stevie Wonder did something 55 years ago that most 17-year-olds then and now would find impressive. He released his first Christmas album. His title song is one that you will find as relevant and radical today as the day it first surfaced.

My Christmas playlist begins with “Someday at Christmas.”

First, because of its socially “WOKE” message. Second, it never mentions the commercialized trappings we tether to the birth of Jesus. This song captures the “Reason for the Season” and the peace and love Jesus was sent to model for us.

It would do well for us to note that the song was written and released amidst the scourge of the Vietnam War. A war so politically and socially bereft of justice that just talking about it too loudly could get you killed. Dr. Martin Luther King talked about it a lot in 1967. As a result, he never lived to sing “Someday at Christmas” in 1968.

Check out the heaviness of these lyrics.

Someday at Christmas, men won’t be boys

Playing with bombs like kids play with toys

One warm December, our hearts will see A world where men are free

Someday at Christmas, there’ll be no wars

When we have learned what Christmas is for

When we have found what life’s really worth There’ll be peace on earth.

That was 5-1/2 decades years ago, and men are still acting like boys. Grown boys are buying and brandishing weapons that kill innocent people from Ukraine to the University of Virginia. Hadis Najafi, a young Iranian woman, tied her unscarved hair back and was shot to death in broad daylight.

Stevie is right. We don’t

Well, we see a land, but there are still plenty of hungry children and empty hands. Dallas is the capital of glitter in America, but Dallas Public Schools have to offer daily food stipends over holiday breaks and summers. Church parking lots throughout urban American cities have become makeshift grocery stores and food giveaway spots.

This statement may sound harsh, but I’m glad Stevie can’t

Hills, the refrain is the same. “Don’t put them, folks, over here by us!”

Someday at Christmas, man will not fail Hate will be gone, and love will prevail

Someday a new world that we can start With hope in every heart, yeah

Man is failing this Christmas again. Love is gone, and hate prevails. America seems to hate Blacks, “Messicans,” Jews, Gays, and them damn Asians too. African Americans and Africans don’t like each other. Jerusalem and Palestine are further from a “two-state solution” than they were 55 years ago when Stevie Wonder espoused this dream.

However, we must habitually hallucinate a happy ending—the way Stevie did.

Someday all our dreams will come to be

Someday in a world where men are free Maybe not in time for you and me

know what life is worth; therefore, there is no peace on earth.

Someday at Christmas, we’ll see a land

With no hungry children, no empty hand

One happy morning people will share

Our world, where people care

Whoa, someday at Christmas, there’ll be no tears

When all men are equal, and no man has fears

One shining moment, one prayer away From our world today

see all our countrymen and women languishing under bridges and overpasses. He can’t physically see the overnight campgrounds in brush harbors and fields. Meanwhile, mayors appoint “Homeless Czars” and use the houseless and destitute as political pawns.

But don’t just get mad at your so-called leaders. There are no shortages of high-minded selfish bastards in this city who say they want a solution. Just as long as it’s nowhere near where they live. From Highland Park to Highland

But someday at Christmastime!

It’s good to know that this Someday at Christmas, Brittney Griner will be at home and not be a hostage. Twitter and billionaire racists like Elon Musk won’t have a say on this Christmas. It’s hard to conceive it and even harder to believe, but that’s all we have! Thank you, Stevie, for a teenaged dream that still lives on!

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

A Message from our Co-Chair, Bishop William J.Barber II

On Monday, our co-chair, Bishop William J. Barber II, DMin, announced the establishment of the new Center for Public Theology and Public Policy in collaboration with Yale Divinity School. Please read his message to our Poor People’s Campaign community below:

Dear Poor People’s Campaign Family, I am so glad to share this news with you today. As many of you know, I have been a pastor engaged in movement work for three decades. While I will remain co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign and President of Repairers of the Breach, I’m transitioning my pastoral work from the congregation to the classroom. I want to walk with the next generation of moral leaders and share with them what was passed down to me.

This coming year, I will retire as pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church in Goldsboro, North Carolina, where

I have served as senior pastor since 1993. I will join the faculty at Yale Divinity School as a Professor in the Practice of Public Theology and Public Policy and Founding Director of the new Center for Public Theology and Public Policy. The Center will focus its work on the intersection of theology, social justice, and public policy. This endeavor is a continuation and institutionalization of decades-long moral movement-building work that grows out of a deep understanding of theology and practice of public ministry.

The Center will teach and train students to examine the relationship between conventional religious study and practice and their theologically-based moral requirement to care for “the least of these” who face poverty, injustices, and oppression in their everyday lives. Through the Center, students will have the opportunity to participate in social justice movements and to study and learn directly from

clergy and pastors who do social justice work as an integral part of their pastoral obligations.

The Center will also be a collaborative space for scholars, advocates, researchers, economists, and activists to come together to engage in critical research seeking policy solutions to respond to the injustices that plague our nation, and to examine the moral framework and underpinning for the country’s most significant civil and human rights movements. I believe the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy is a new and important addition to the movement’s collective work. It is not a replacement for the work we will continue to do together as we build this Campaign across the nation.

After this incredible year of mobilizing for the Mass Poor People’s and Low-Wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls and surpassing our goal of reaching over 5 million

poor and low-wealth voters in this past mid-term election, I am looking forward to the intensification of our efforts towards ending the interlocking injustices of systemic racism, systemic poverty, the war economy, ecological devastation, and the distorted moral narrative of religious nationalism.

We must continue our work to shift the narrative, build power, and implement a Third Reconstruction Agenda that fully addresses the needs of poor and low-wealth people in this nation.

Forward Together, Not One Step Back!

Bishop William J. Barber, II DMin.

Bishop Barber will continue to serve as founding president of Repairers of the Breach and co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.

Forward Together!

Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival Team

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A Holiday Special

KICKIN’ IT WITH KENDALL GAYLE

BY KENDALL GAYLE WASHINGTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A time for giving

Christmas, a time for giving. This year my mother asked me months in advance what I wanted for Christmas and I could not come up with anything. My mind was so focused on my academics and completing the cheer season, I could not focus on wants.

I think oftentimes we get caught up with what we want and cannot enjoy Christmas for what it is. Yet, this principle does not just apply to Christmas, it applies to life.

Oftentimes we get all caught up in what we want before taking care of what is important. I could have taken the time months ago to make a Christmas list, but all I cared about was taking care of my prior commitments. All I care about is making my last Christmas before I am eighteen the best Christmas yet.

A faded imagination

Up until 5th grade I still believed in

Santa Clause, until my imagination faded away. The moment you stop believing in Santa Clause is the moment you realize that you are growing up.

Christmas always felt like the most magical time of the year when I was a child. When my mom put up all of the decorations, I would pretend that I was in a winter wonderland.

Then it was not a winter wonderland anymore. That’s the thing, when we get older why does our imagination fade away and why do we let it?

When we get older we let the negatives of the world consume us, well I refuse to let it. There are so many positives to life

and we need to remember the things that make us happy.

A new start

When the clock turns 12:00 Fireworks and love appears We say we’ll change

A new start

We say we’ll be better

A new start

All to find ourselves doing the same the next year

A recurring cycle that never ends until we depart

Until we depart earth…

My Father’s Daughter

MAYA’S JOURNAL

BY MAYA PALAVALI EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

The piece is about my relationship with my identity. It is about the realization I had recently of how similar I am to my father and how he is a big part of my life.

I catch myself smiling near a window pane and take a quick glance.

I see you and whip around: no one’s there.

I just saw you in the way I smiled. I continue on, arms folded.

I have begun to see you in my actions in my words in my mannerisms in my expressions; the shadow I cast is a silhouette of you. even when you are not at my side, I hold pieces of you within me.

I tilt my head up and close my eyes, taking a deep breath.

I will always be a part of you and I am my father’s daughter.

Editor-in-Chief: Kendall Gayle Washington Entertainment Editor: Angelina Liu Layout and Design Editor: Iniya Nathan Editorial Page Editor: Maya Palavali

Credit: Maya Palavali

Top 5 Must See Black Christmas Movies to Enjoy during the Holidays

By Kendall Gayle Washington

Having trouble finding the perfect Christmas movie to watch with your family? Look no further, here are five perfect Black Christmas movies to enjoy.

Almost Christmas:

It is the first Christmas the Walker’s are spending without their mother and her home cooked meal. They are trying to celebrate their mother, but challenges arises as they are overcoming their

personal issues with each other.

A Madea Christmas:

Madea visits her niece Lacey down in Alabama. She discovers a secret about Lacey and they all are trying to figure out how to tell her mother. This is the perfect laugh for the holiday season.

The Perfect Holiday:

A divorced mother of three Nancy begins to feel lonely during the holiday season, her daughter finds the perfect

match for her at the mall!

This Christmas:

The family is celebrating Christmas for the first time with all of them together in years. Ma’Dere is happy to see her children, but it seems that they cannot get along with each other.

Best Man Holiday:

College friends are all back together after 15 years to celebrate the holiday, learning that one of them is ill.

Positive Affirmations Top 5 Must See Black Christmas Movies to Enjoy during the Holidays

Washington

finding the movie to family? Look five perfect movies to enjoy.

Christmas: Christmas the spending without her home are trying mother, but they are personal issues

laugh for the holiday season.

The Perfect Holiday:

A divorced mother of three Nancy begins to feel lonely during the holiday season, her daughter finds the perfect match for her at the mall!

CHRISTMAS Crossword

Christmas: niece Lacey She discovers Lacey and they all out how to tell the perfect

This Christmas:

The family is celebrating Christmas for the first time with all of them together in years. Ma’Dere is happy to see her children, but it seems that they cannot get along with each other.

Best Man Holiday:

College friends are all back together after 15 years to celebrate the holiday, learning that one of them is ill.

He hates Christmas.

How many magi were there?

St. Philip’s School and Community Center Uses Pandemic Tools to Pivot Toward Success

By Sylvia Dunnavant Hines

Nationally schools across the country have dealt with confusion and conflict regarding health restrictions as they tried to find some form of normalcy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yet in the heart of South Dallas, St. Philip’s School and Community Center has used the challenging environment pre -

sented by the pandemic as inspiration for growth and innovative success.

“From the school side, we were able to convert to virtual learning,” said Kellee Murrell, principal of St. Philip’s School. “We also did a lot of professional development for our teachers. We provided resources for our families as they had to transition so that they could access and join in online.”

St. Philip’s School and Community Center is a private Christian school located just minutes from downtown Dallas with students PK2-7th grade.

“Once students were able to enter the building, we had some students whose parents wanted to keep them home. They were able to log in and we use cameras called swivel cameras which allowed those at home to feel a part of the classroom environ -

Dr. Terry Flowers speaks at Praise in the Park.

Credit: St. Philip’s School

ment,” said Murrell, adding that much of their success was based on developing a task force and keeping stakeholders and parents engaged during the various challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was really just a combined effort from the school, our parents, the board and others giving feedback, as to how we were going to transition,” she continued. “We got a lot of great responses from our families that felt we really did a great job during COVID ensuring that our students didn’t miss out academically.”

Even though during the peak of the pandemic the school shifted to virtual learning, they used creative methods to try to include arts and physical education in the routine of their students.

“I would say one of our triumphs was that even though we were distant, we were still together. We over communicated to our families to ensure that they felt safe, and that their children were safe,” said Murrell.

Despite national averages that showed Black and Hispanic students did not fare well during the COVID-19 pandemic, Murrell said their students academically continued to fare very well.

Dr. Terry Flowers, Executive Director of St. Phillip’s said that even in the midst of the COVID pandemic the school experienced an increase in enrollment.

According to a new report from the National Alliance for

Public Charter Schools, enrollment grew 7% at charters between 2019 and 2022, while falling 3.5%, or almost 1.5 million, at traditional public schools over the same period.

“As a Community Center we have a food pantry. Our intention was to continue as best we could to provide services to our community,” said Dr. Flowers.

“Our food pantry is an in-house shopping experience where people go into the food pantry and shop as though they were in a store. We had to pivot, and we moved that activity and operation outside. It became more of a drive through model.

“We are one of few food pantries in all north Texas that continued to provide services even though the need increased by 50 percent.”

Dr. Flowers attributes creative changes in the St. Philip’s Community Center to their ability to successfully provide services without interruption. They also made changes to their senior citizen transportation program which allowed them to provide home deliveries for seniors so that this atrisk population did not have to

get out into the community.

“Even though we were virtual we tried to continue to make it feel like school. We tried to add joy and fun by creating opportunities for kids to get together outside of class.

Movie night is one way to gather the youth together.

“We rented a big screen and people were able to fellowship from their vehicles on blankets while socially distance outdoors. We also allowed families to gather at a local park where there was praise and worship. We called it praise in the park,” said Murrell.

Dr. Flowers said that even though the school has small classroom sizes, social distancing was still challenging.

“We made some investments during the pandemic that are still active for us,” he shared.

“We have temperature check machines; we have hand sanitized stations and masks. We created an isolation room for students that showed COVID symptoms and needed to be placed in a separate space. Many of these modifications will continue should we experience another pandemic.”

This story is part of a project funded from the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) to support original and innovative coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, the coronavirus vaccine, and how these topics intersect into the nation’s K-12 education system.

Destiny is Mine! – A Special Story Time at Interabang Books

The St. Philip’s Creed, written by Dr. Terry Flowers, Perot Family Headmaster, has been brought to life in an illustrated book for children and youth of all ages!

Book enthusiasts and St. Philip’s supporters are invited for a Special Story Time at Interabang Books on January 21st at 10:30 am where Dr. Flowers will do a live reading of Destiny is Mine! and autograph personal copies of the book. The book makes for the perfect birthday, holiday or just because gift, and is now available for purchase on the shelves at Interabang!

Written in 1984, the St. Philip’s Creed has inspired hope, faith and invigorated passion in all that have spoken it for many years. Through vibrant illustrations, Destiny is Mine! encourages children to persevere with a message that the sky is the limit if you just put your mind in it.

Dr. Flowers serves as the Perot Family Headmaster of St. Philip’s School and Community Center, where he started in service as principal in 1983. Dr. Flowers grew up on Chicago’s South Side,

ultimately finding a calling to work with young children. The titles of his three master’s degrees attest to his commitment to education: Early Childhood Education (University of Northern Iowa), Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Administration (Columbia University). He also completed a doctorate in Education at the Teacher’s College of Columbia University in 1995.

St. Philip’s School and Community Center is a private Christian school in southern

Dallas serving over 260 students in grades PK2 through 7th grade (ages 2-13), and a multi-faceted dynamic community center providing a myriad of vital educational, social services, athletic and neighborhood development programs to over 4,000 children, youth, and adults annually. The organization has a mission to transform South Dallas, our city, and the world by FAITH, EDUCATION, and SERVICE. Applications for the 2023-2024 school year are open for PK2 through 8th grade students.

Photo: Dr. Terry Flowers

Pandemic impacted churches, faith groups

Lee Dr. Jerry Christian Rev. Joe Patterson

By Norma Adams-Wade

Sam Cooke crooned in the mid-1960s that “A Change Is Gonna Come.” Now more than a half-century later, major change has come for countless churches and faith groups across the land.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought that change.

“Change has come and we’re likely not going back to old times that will not work anymore,” said Rev. Roy Locke, senior pastor at New Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, 2000 West Pleasant Run in Lancaster. “We’ve got to hold on to those times that were so meaningful; and at the same time stay tuned to where the Lord will lead us.”

Current trends indicate that Rev. Locke’s senti -

ments are being replayed in churches, mosques, synagogues, temples, kingdom halls, and various other worship sites globally. Why? Because the COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on how faith groups carry out their worship services and minister to congregants.

The government first mandated two years ago that worship groups must suspend in-person services to prevent spread of the coronavirus that was rapidly spreading across the land. The government and health leaders then slightly relaxed the restriction allowing about a dozen congregants to gather.

Countless congregations have never returned to their packed Sunday and Satur-

day services. And where hundreds used to gather now many worship services see less than 20 worshipers seated with respectable social distancing in nearly empty pews.

Will young members under the legal voting age continue these trends as they mature? Will they leave in-person worship services entirely – turning completely to social media as a way of worship?

And will social media worship become so entrenched that few followers adhere to the Biblical rule stated in portions of Hebrews 10:23, 25 (NIV) “23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, …25not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, …?”

Dr. Jerry Christian, pastor

at Kirkwood CME Church, 1440 Sunny Glen Dr., in Oak Cliff, said among various ways to keep the congregation in touch with each other – while in-person meetings were shut down, -- his members periodically would gather outside the building for “parking lot praise,” in addition to holding worship and meetings via social media platforms.

“To do anything differently, we would have to figure new ways other than what we’ve already done, meaning Zoom, emails, phone calls, and the “parking lot praise,” Dr. Christian said.

Dr. Christian and other ministers said holding on to their Gen Y and Gen Z members – those born shortly before the year 2000 and soon after – was a challenge that

Dr. Ouida

took much effort from youth leaders and church administrators.

At Kirkwood, youth leaders would hold youth meetings on Zoom -- abbreviated to no more than a half-hour to honor the youths’ short attention span and to prevent them turning off before the meeting would end. The meetings would include Bible lesson games and awards that the youth seemed to enjoy.

Rev. Dr. Ouida Lee has battled diverse issues over more than 30 years in ministry, including as a pastor at several churches in Dallas and nearby towns.

Surviving decades of struggle being a female pastor strengthened her ability to inspire worshippers to stay strong during the pandemic. She always has sought to draw and retain youth and young adult congregants and admits that COVID-19 was an extra challenge.

“Youth ministry is a touchy-feely ministry,” said Dr. Lee who retired in 2019 as pastor at Church of the Disciple-United Methodist in DeSoto, then helped other congregations during the pandemic.

“Having to be isolated one from another made it difficult to address the youth without being present with them…(but) multi-media has been very impactful as relates to being in touch with your faith community. …You can be anywhere -finishing soccer practice or wherever-- and still call in.”

Dr. Lee became a pastor again this past August and currently leads Haven Chapel United Methodist Church in Denison. She collaborates with public and private school administrators and

faith leaders to help youth get on track after church and school closures during the pandemic.

Rev. Locke of New Mt. Gilead said parents often did ask him when the youth would come back to the church. He said his stock answer was: “They will come back when you bring them back!”

classes. He said he and other parishioners noticed symptoms in their youth similar to those the public and media mentioned in students at Dallas public and private schools that also were shut down.

“For about six months (during the pandemic), we had ceased all activities,” Corbin said of the two Cath-

and his congregation faced a tsunami of multiple catastrophes during the Texas power grid freeze in February 2021, followed about a month later by the government’s mandate that faith groups cease in-person services. The freeze destroyed the church sanctuary, then unrelated state road construction cut off accessibility to the church entrance.

Currently, the church still has not reopened because of continuing reconstruction delays and setbacks. Additionally, poor WiFi reception at the church has meant that leaders must broadcast on social media from home. And construction workers recently hit a wire that shut down transmission.

“It’s been one thing after another, compounded on top of another,” Rev. Patterson said.

Holding the interest of young congregants, as well as some adults, also has been a major task, he said.

Denis Corbin holds dual responsibilities at two multi-ethnic Catholic churches in Dallas -- business manager at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 4910 Bonnie View Rd, in Oak Cliff, and pastoral administrator at St. Anthony Catholic Parish, 3782 Myrtle St. in South Dallas/Fair Park.

Corbin said the parish youth have faith-training

olic parishes ruled by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas. “The kids came back with learning deficiencies like those they would experience if they took a six-monthlong summer break. There was remedial work that had to be done.”

Rev. Joe Patterson is pastor of Greater New Zion Baptist Church, 2210 Pine St. in South Dallas/Fair Park. He

“We work hard to offer the young people incentives and awards, including $25 gift cards to Walmart and other stores, to keep them interested,” Rev. Patterson said.

Youths who were preteens when the pandemic hit now are teenagers, he said, and have lost the benefits of face-to-face worship. “We have to be more interactive with the parents to try to keep the youth involved.”

Pastors and leaders at all the churches contacted said they have learned major lessons:

Rev. Roy Locke: “What we would do differently is not to put so much stock in social media, but continue to have in-person services with people who actually are vaccinated. And we would follow all CDC health measures.”

Deacon Denis Corbin

Rev. Roy Locke

Past worship practices remembered. Future changes inevitable.

This story is part of a project funded from the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) to support original and innovative coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, the coronavirus vaccine, and how these topics intersect into the nation’s K-12 education system.

only after commanding her to drop the weapon.

Jefferson’s nephew, who was with her playing video games on the night that she was killed testified that Jefferson had a gun to protect her family and that he nor his aunt heard Dean’s command.

He said that neither he nor his aunt did anything that could be described as threatening towards the officer that fatal night.

In the judgement stage of the trial the jury found that Dean acted recklessly, but that he did not intend to kill Jefferson.

Under cross examination, Dean testified that he did not alert anyone that he had seen a gun, including his partner, a female member of the police force.

Dean told the jury that

Ms. Jefferson’s mother lived.

During the trial, Dean was characterized as a biased member of the police force who held misgivings against the people who lived in the neighborhood where Ms. Jefferson was slain.

Jury gives former police officer more than 11 years

his actions on the night of October 12, 2018 did not reflect quality police work when he fired through a window at the home where

An attorney for Dean said that while he made mistakes he did not commit murder because he was in fear for his life, and

that his actions were consistent with proper police training.

Prosecutors said that Ms. Jefferson had an expectation of privacy in her home and that Dean violated that expectation.

Lisa Pamplin, a Fort Worth community leader, and former police officer, who watched the case closely, said after the sentence was announced that she hoped that the verdict and sentence would lead to substantive changes in Fort Worth.

Ms. Jefferson, a graduate of Xavier University in New Orleans was a salesperson for a medical supply company.

Traveling with diabetes: Tips for packing, snacking,

monitoring, and

By Shibbi Alexander, N.P.

For patients with diabetes, travel requires an extra layer of planning beyond booking flights, making hotel reservations, and researching excursions. But having diabetes shouldn’t stop you from exploring the world. You just need a precise plan to cover your health needs – whether you’re flying, driving, or cruising.

The most common travel challenges for people with diabetes involve changes in diet, activity levels, time zones, and environments, all of which could hinder your blood glucose control.

Questions about travel come up often in UT Southwestern’s Diabetes Self-Management Education Services clinic, and our specialists are adept at providing everything from health exams and packing tips to assisting with medical documentation.

Whether you’re taking a quick getaway or an extended trip, planning is the key to a safer, more enjoyable journey.

Before you travel

Do your research: Confirm the mode of travel, accommodations, access to food and exercise, nearby hospital/pharmacies, and access to emergency medication

Contact your healthcare provider to ensure your blood sugar is under control and your vaccinations are up to date. You can also discuss your itinerary and how to handle potential challenges, such as:

• Learning how to adjust your insulin doses at different

temperatures or altitudes, which can change how your body uses insulin

• Filling prescriptions in different regions or abroad

• Packing appropriately to stay on top of your blood sugar during the journey and at your destination

• Getting prescriptions in case if you lose or run out of medications

• Ordering a special meal in advance for the flight, if applicable, or pack your own.

Simplify traveling

When it comes to medication and supplies, pack double the amount you’ll need – if you’re going for a week, pack two weeks’ worth of:

• Insulin

• Medications

• Test strips

• Continuous glucose monitor

• Insulin pump and supplies, such as batteries, Lancets and syringes

Patients on insulin pump should carry extra insulin in case of insulin pump failure.

more

Make sure you’re up to date on what is allowed through airport security. People with diabetes are exempt from the TSA 3.4 oz liquid rule for medications, fast-acting carbs such as glucose tablets or gummy/hard candies in case of low blood sugar, and healthy snacks like fruit, raw veggies, nuts, green apples, berries, protein bars, peanut butter crackers, granola bars, and trail mix.

Carry gel packs to keep insulin cool, and alert TSA agents that you have these items and keep them separate during screening. You should print and carry an optional TSA Disability Notification Card [PDF] to expedite the process.

Patients with diabetes should pack medications and supplies in a carry-on, not a checked bag for a couple reasons. First, insulin could get too cold in your checked luggage. Secondly, if your bags are lost or delayed, at least you’ll have your meds with you.

• Asking your pharmacist to print extra labels you can attach to plastic bags

• You may need a letter stating the need for medical supplies to carry to manage diabetes

• Getting a medical ID bracelet stating you have diabetes

If you’re flying, keep medications in the original packaging. Your continuous glucose monitor or insulin pump can be damaged if it goes through an X-ray machine, so ask for a physical screening or metal detector at the security checkpoint. Consider enrolling in the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) precheck online to make the process easier.

When flying or driving

Also, higher altitude may lead to incorrect blood glucose readings – approximately 1%-2% lower against each 300m/1000 feet rise due to lower oxygen pressure. Avoid injecting air into the bottle when drawing insulin from the vial while flying.

Follow these additional flying and driving tips:

• Stay hydrated.

• Walk up and down the aisle of the plane every hour to prevent blood clots

• Remember to stop and get out of the car every hour to prevent blood clots

• Set an alarm on your phone for taking medicine if you’re

Traveling with diabetes takes some planning, but it shouldn’t stop you from exploring the world. Photo: Geneva, Switzerland

Shibbi Alexander, nurse practitioner, specializes in treating patients with diabetes.

traveling across time zones, which can throw off your eating habits and exercise routine.

When it comes to eating, choose healthy food options at the airport or at roadside restaurants, such as:

• Fruit, nuts, sandwiches, yogurt

• Salads with chicken or fish (skip the dried fruit and croutons)

• Eggs and omelets

• Burgers with a lettuce wrap instead of a bun

• Fajitas (skip the tortillas and rice)

Recognize your carbs: Fruits, grains, starchy vegetables, dairy products, sweets, sauces, alcoholic drips. Try to avoid buffets, and space out your meals.

Identify yourself: Wear a medical ID bracelet stating you have diabetes. Always carry a health card with your emergency contact and doctor’s name and phone number.

Test often: Blood sugars can fluctuate with changes like food, exercise/activity, sleep, stress, hydration status, and medications at different time zones. Make sure to check blood glucose levels before meals, bedtime, and as needed. Plan your schedule for insulin administration in different time zones.

If you’re flying, consider wearing knee high compression stockings or thinner socks during the flight. Wear shoes that can be loosened in case of ankle or feet swelling. Pointing your feet and/or flexing your ankles can improve blood flow, decrease swelling, and lower the risk of blood clots.

If you’re driving, along

with packing extra supplies and a cooler of healthy snacks, map out the closest pharmacies, rest stops, and medical centers on the route and near your destination.

During your trip

Being on vacation doesn’t mean you can take a break from good diabetes management. Staying on track will reduce the risk of spoiling the trip – or worse, a medical emergency.

Dining. One of the best parts of traveling is trying new foods. We recommend researching the popular cuisine of your destination so you’re prepared to make healthy choices. While it’s OK to splurge once in a while, you’ll need to understand the amount of carbs you’re eating and adjust your meals and days accordingly.

Activities. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid walking with bare feet. Check your feet more frequently throughout the trip, particularly after hikes, long walks, and showering. Look for signs of blisters, cuts, redness, and swelling. Even a small cut or blister can get worse quickly, resulting in an infection or diabetic foot ulcer.

tary. In warm weather, it’s easier to get dehydrated, which interferes with how well the kidneys can filter excess sugar from the blood.

Traveling to a higher altitude can raise blood sugar levels; the higher you go, your oxygen levels decrease, which signals the body to create additional stress hormones. Those hormones interfere with how well the body produces and uses insulin. Your glucose meter also may not be as precise at high altitudes, so adjust your testing and medication as needed.

Test, test, test. It’s one of the most important things you can do while traveling. Stay

• Hunger

• Irritability or confusion

• Shaking

• Sweating Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

• Confusion

• Dry mouth

• Fruity-smelling breath

• Headache

• Nausea

• Shortness of breath

• Stomach pain

Make sure your travel companions know you have diabetes, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek medical care. Stay alert for signs of diabetic ketoacidosis, a medical emergency that requires immediate care. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, stomach pain, fruity-smelling breath, confusion, and fast, deep breathing. Go to the nearest emergency department if you have these symptoms.

Bring supplies in a carry-on bag when flying.

on top of your blood sugar by checking it more than you would at home, especially if your routine changes or you experience unusual symptoms. If you’re hiking, biking, or doing other activities, pack extra snacks and medication in case of blood sugar swings. It’s a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back in the event of an emergency. Pay attention to your body. Check your blood sugar and adjust your medication or contact your doctor if you experience signs of:

After your trip

When you get home, jot down a few notes about what worked and what didn’t regarding your diabetes management. The next time you travel, you’ll have a baseline from which to plan. If you experienced any challenges, let your health care provider know and make an early appointment. They can provide follow-up care, if needed, and help you figure out how to avoid roadblocks in the future.

While having diabetes presents challenges for traveling, they are manageable and shouldn’t stop you from taking journeys and making memories. Talk with a doctor about your next adventure –a little planning can get you where you want to go, safely.

Environment. Keep an eye on the weather. Blood sugar often rises in cold weather because we may be more seden-

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

• Dizziness

• Fast heartbeat

To schedule a consultation with a diabetes expert, call 214-645-8300 or request an appointment online.

Enjoy the local cuisine when traveling but remember to keep an eye on your carbs and try to make healthy diet choices.

MEET THE WOMAN WHO CREATED A DIRECTORY FOR BLACK PEOPLE TO FIND BLACK LAWYERS

Because Of Them We Can https://www.becauseofthemwecan.com/ By

BOTWC Staff

Civil rights attorney Kisha A. Brown, Esq is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and Wellesley College. Brown was the first woman named Director of the Baltimore City Civil Rights Office, and she worked in the Maryland office of the Attorney General as the Director of Civil Rights and Director of Legislative Affairs. She uses her voice to speak on issues such as diversity, police reform, education, anti-discrimination, ex-offenders and community empowerment.

The entrepreneur decided to launch Justis Connection in 2018 after feeling like the demand for Black lawyers had been far too high for too long. Brown said, “I felt the need for this from the minute I started law school. I had people asking, ‘Hey, do you know somebody who does family law? Do you know somebody that does criminal law?’ And on and on. And then you sort of go through your phone, and you start emailing folks because you want to make that connection. And

This company is helping potential Black clients find Black lawyers!

that’s something most Black people experience because we don’t have Black lawyers in our inner circle.”

The company was designed to establish and maintain the relationship between clients and Black lawyers. Right now you can find about 30 attorneys available in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. This month, Brown plans to expand the services to Atlanta, Chicago and Orlando, and soon start networks in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Texas.

The referral network has been beneficial to clients, such as Cassaundra Brownell who tried the service after becoming frustrated with the lawyer she hired for her architecture firm. Brownell said, “[it’s] like we had to prove something to him, we had to make a change. We were looking for someone where our needs could be met versus feeling like we had to build credibility with the attorney

first.” Justis Connection was able to connect Brownell to Kerry J. Davidson, who was phenomenal and got the job done.

Brownell spoke on his experience, saying, “Having a Black attorney is such a bonus because he relates to us. They have gone through some of the same challenges that we go through as a Black entrepreneur,” Brownell said. “With a Black lawyer, you start with credibility; you don’t have to build it with them. They understand you. There’s a greater sense of urgency in responding to your needs.”

“Aligning Black people with Black lawyers is the right thing to do, not only for that person, but also for the system because when we challenge the system and the wrongdoing that occurs to us, the system shifts,” Brown explained.

Visit Justisconnection.com today!

Photo: Anu Kemet, Kisha A. Brown and Kerry J. Davidson

Briefs

More Than A Big Mac!

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND THEIR COVID-19 EXPERIENCE

By Jesus Maria Garcia

In March 2020 of my junior year of high school, everything went to a shutdown. Not only did my siblings and I stop going to school, but my dad also stopped going to work and all of us remained in the house together.

School Provided Laptops

At my school, they prepared students that needed a laptop by assigning each student one.

I was one of those students that received the laptop of course by signing a paper. If anything were to happen, then I would be held responsible for paying $200 for the damages or losing it.

Obviously I made sure to take care of it. Also, the school created their own website in which we students needed to stay connected with everything when it comes to news, class codes, and resources.

At first, I thought COVID 19 would not be so important and that the spread would not reach the U.S borders, but no! I was wrong about the outcome.

I did feel scared about the pandemic as the news was updating about the large numbers of people getting affected, people passing away by COVID, people calling it a hoax, any doctor’s recommendation of how to safely deal with the situation.

McDonald’s Provided WiFi for One Student During Pandemic

I felt safe being in my home and not being exposed to people who had it.

Normally school would continue, but it was online. At my home we did not have Wi-Fi of our own. You may be wondering how I did my assignments and attended classes by Zoom?

To answer your question, I used McDonald’s Wi-Fi behind my backyard. I was surprised about it as well and utilized it to my advantage until school was over.

However, I probably was not the only one since the McDonalds Wi-Fi is free, so sometimes it was slow. I’m so glad McDonald’s was here when I needed it!

On Lockdown

During lockdown I liked it that I did not have to wake up too early to get ready and then go to school. Also, for me as an introvert it was great to not go to school because I would dread socializing.

Depression

Since I was dealing with depres-

sion due to my mom passing away in the summer of 2019, the Fall of 2019 I was not doing so well and did not want to be surrounded by people.

When teachers or students would casually talk about death it would trigger me to the point of crying. I am aware that some people do not

signments; while also helping them out in areas they needed help on.

Senior Year

In my senior year I continued the online classes since my dad felt like it still was not safe for me and my siblings to go to school. Finally we got Wi-Fi of our own.

I would say for graduation they only wanted us to make sure we all passed the STAAR exams, apply to at least the college of our choice, and pass all our classes to be able to purchase the cap and gown.

Jesus Maria Garcia

like being isolated or feeling caged in their own home.

I, on the other hand, felt I needed to isolate myself from people and try to find myself, even though I live with my siblings and my dad.

The challenging part for me during the pandemic was ensuring my younger siblings were attending Zoom meetings and doing their as-

We did the ceremony in person, but they gave each student a limited number of tickets, eight per student, which is okay for me. But the ceremony was weird because it has been like ages that I have seen my fellow classmates since the pandemic.

Overall, I am grateful to still be alive, have achieved my high school diploma and to be currently attending the college of my choice.

Jesus M. Garcia attends Dallas College and she hopes to eventually become a Dental Hygienist. Currently living with her siblings and dad, she enjoys creating art.

Briefs Someday At Christmas!

Stevie Wonder did something 55 years ago that most 17-year-olds then and now would find impressive. He released his first Christmas album. His title song is one that you will find as relevant and radical today as the day it first surfaced.

My Christmas playlist begins with “Someday at Christmas.” First, because of its socially “WOKE” message. Second, it never mentions the commercialized trappings we tether to the birth of Jesus. This song captures the “Reason for the Season” and the peace and love Jesus was sent to model for us.

It would do well for us to note that the song was written and released amidst the scourge of the Vietnam War. A war so politically and socially bereft of justice that just talking about it too loudly could get you killed. Dr. Martin Luther King talked about it a lot in 1967. As a result, he never lived to sing “Someday at Christmas” in 1968. Check out the heaviness of these lyrics.

Someday at Christmas, men won’t be boys

Playing with bombs like kids play with toys

One warm December, our hearts will see A world where men are free Someday at Christmas, there’ll be no wars When we have learned what Christmas is for When we have found what life’s really worth There’ll be peace on earth.

That was 5-1/2 decades years ago, and men are still acting like boys. Grown boys are buying and brandishing weapons that kill innocent people from Ukraine to the University of Virginia. Hadis Najafi, a young Iranian woman, tied her unscarved hair back and was shot to death in broad daylight.

Stevie is right. We don’t know what life is worth; therefore, there is no peace on earth.

Someday at Christmas, we’ll see a land

With no hungry children, no empty hand

One happy morning people will share Our world, where people care Whoa, someday at Christmas, there’ll be no tears

When all men are equal, and no man has fears

One shining moment, one prayer away

From our world today

Well, we see a land, but there are still plenty of hungry children and empty hands. Dallas is the capital of glitter in

America, but Dallas Public Schools have to offer daily food stipends over holiday breaks and summers. Church parking lots throughout urban American cities have become makeshift grocery stores and food giveaway spots.

This statement may sound harsh, but I’m glad Stevie can’t see all our countrymen and women languishing under bridges and overpasses. He can’t physically see the overnight campgrounds in brush harbors and fields. Meanwhile, mayors appoint “Homeless Czars” and use the houseless and destitute as political pawns.

But don’t just get mad at your so-called leaders. There are no shortages of high-minded selfish bastards in this city who say they want a solution. Just as long as it’s nowhere near where they live. From Highland Park to Highland Hills, the refrain is the same. “Don’t put them, folks, over here by us!”

Someday at Christmas, man will not fail Hate will be gone, and love will prevail Someday a new world that we can start With hope in every heart, yeah

Man is failing this Christmas again. Love is gone, and hate prevails. America seems to hate Blacks, “Messicans,” Jews, Gays, and them damn Asians too. African Americans and Africans don’t like each other. Jerusalem and Palestine are further from a “two-state solution” than they were 55 years ago when Stevie Wonder espoused this dream.

However, we must habitually hallucinate a happy ending—the way Stevie did.

Someday all our dreams will come to be Someday in a world where men are free Maybe not in time for you and me But someday at Christmastime!

It’s good to know that this Someday at Christmas, Brittney Griner will be at home and not be a hostage. Twitter and billionaire racists like Elon Musk won’t have a say on this Christmas. It’s hard to conceive it and even harder to believe, but that’s all we have! Thank you, Stevie, for a teenaged dream that still lives on!

10-year-old survivor became the voice of Uvalde

By Dallas Morning News Editorial

Caitlyne Gonzales should not be a finalist for The Dallas Morning News Texan of the Year. Her name should not be familiar to people across the state. She should not be haunted by evil dreams every time her mother wishes her “good night.” She should not have a habit of visiting the graves of classmates. She should still be under the innocent, fifth-grade impression that, as she told classmate Marley Arellano this summer, the president of the United States is named Joe Byron.

But in Caitlyne’s life, and the lives of thousands of Texans affected by gun violence, what should be is shattered, and what should never be has become horrifyingly real.

Caitlyne is a survivor of the school shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde on May 24. That day, she huddled in the corner of Room 106, holding Marley’s hand, listening to a gunman execute 19 of their classmates and two teachers across the hall, saying “good night” as he pulled the trigger.

Caitlyne knew all the victims, and since that awful day she has spoken for them. She demanded accountability for the law enforcement personnel who loitered for more than an hour in the school hallway listening to gunshots. She visited the nation’s capital and asked lawmakers to pass gun reform so that her nightmare might not be visited on others. She kept the memory of her classmates alive, speaking at rallies and memorials, visiting the shrines and murals created in their memory, decorating their graves.

Washington Post reporter John Woodrow Cox called her “Robb’s most public survivor, a voice for her friends who were dead and for those who were alive but too daunted to say anything ... a 4-foot-8, 75-pound embodiment of the maroon ‘Uvalde

Strong’ flags flying all over Texas.”

Standing before senators, a school board and hundreds of grieving Texans, Caitlyne shouldered a burden that should never have been hers and seemed much too large for someone in sneakers and a hair bow. The father of one of the victims captured her fierceness brilliantly when he tweeted a photo of Caitlyne speaking to the Uvalde school board along with another of the “Fearless Girl” sculpture facing down the Charging Bull statue in New York.

to come. But Caitlyne sees herself as a “helper,” Cox reported, so her response to tragedy has been to do what she can for others. In that way, she represents the community of people who have supported one another over the last seven months, through the aftermath of tragedy, through the funerals, through a media frenzy, through Día de los Muertos and the start of a school year and the first holiday season without loved ones.

For most 10-year-olds — indeed, for most adults — the trauma she lived through might have been enough to ruin a soul, to curl up a promising young life in a ball of anxiety, anger, confusion, escapism and self-harm. Indeed, Caitlyne will have to deal with post-traumatic stress for years

It’s too much to expect Caitlyne Gonzales to facilitate the healing our state needs or the gun reform our politicians ignore. For us to burden her with that expectation would only serve to compound her loss. Her nomination here should be read as a note of gratitude for the strength she has already shown, not an appointment to the role of Uvalde spokesperson. Caitlyne needs to be a kid in 2023.

But before 2022 ends, we’ll thank her for speaking up. She should not be a finalist for Texan of the Year, not for her ties to a tragedy. But for her grace, courage and maturity beyond her years, she is.

Caitlyne Gonzales, 10, pauses next to a mural of her best friend, Jackie Cazares, who was killed in the May 24 mass shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Tex.

Photo: Washington Post photo by Katherine Frey / The Washington Pos

Caitlyne Gonzales is a finalist for Texan of the Year

Dallas city, county officials say they’re working with El Paso on plan to help migrants

By Everton Bailey Jr. and Josephine Peterson

An influx of migrants being bused from El Paso is expected to hit Dallas next week, authorities say.

Rocky Vaz, Dallas’ emergency management office director, said Tuesday that El Paso city and county officials have been coordinating with Dallas on how to help migrants crossing the southern border get to other parts of the country where they can be met by relatives or sponsors.

The effort is largely being led by local nonprofits working at Oak Lawn United Methodist Church, which has been the receiving point in recent years for asylum seekers bused from the border and a detention center in Anson — more than 170 miles west of Fort Worth.

“The plan is they will come here with airline tickets provided by El Paso for transfer on the same day,” Vaz said. He said the city is helping nonprofits process people after they arrive, feed them, provide a place for them to stay temporarily and get to their flight out of Dallas Love Field or Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

He estimated the process would take between six and 10 hours per person.

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser declared a state of emergency Saturday because of concerns over the city’s capacity to handle thousands of migrants arriving daily. The increase is because of the pending end of Title 42, a COVID-19 pandemic-related policy that has allowed U.S. border agents to expel migrants on public health grounds more than 2 millions

times without giving them a chance to apply for asylum.

The policy was established under the Trump administration in March 2020. It was slated to end on midnight Wednesday, but the U.S. Supreme Court extended the restrictions after Republican attorneys general in 19 states, including Texas, argued that getting rid of Title 42 would

asked the court Tuesday for a delay until at least after Christmas.

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego told The Dallas Morning News last week that the city’s and county’s plan to address the increase in migrants includes transporting hundreds of people a day on buses to areas with major airport hubs, such as Dallas,

Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said no county money or resources are being used related to helping asylum seekers. He said he personally is helping local faith-based organizations connect with El Paso County officials.

Jenkins said discussions related to busing migrants began six weeks ago with El Paso County working with Dallas County officials to help them book flights from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Flights straight from El Paso are less frequent and more expensive.

cause a spike in illegal immigration at the southern border.

Opponents of the restrictions have argued that it was put in place to bar access to people seeking asylum under the guise that it’s necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Biden administration is asking the Supreme Court to end asylum restrictions, but

Houston, Phoenix and Denver.

He said they’re estimating between 4,000 and 5,000 people arriving in El Paso per day.

Dallas Responds, a collective of nonprofits and faith groups, estimates up to six buses of migrants each week will arrive in Dallas from El Paso, according to Almas Muscatwalla, the collective’s liaison with border and governmental agencies.

“This is not a political stunt to dump people in other states,” Jenkins said, referencing Gov. Greg Abbott’s ongoing strategy of state-sanctioned busing of migrants to predominantly Democrat-run cities such as New York, Philadelphia and Chicago. “This is for people waiting for their American trials to be with their family here and work through the immigration process.”

Staff writer Dianne Solis contributed to this report.

Migrants, who arrived by bus from El Paso, walk into Oak Lawn United Methodist Church in Dallas in June 2022.

Photo: Elias Valverde II / Staff Photographer

Authorities say migrants being bused from El Paso are expected to start arriving next week.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! December 2022

Abijah and Shuntae Chatman 17 years

Mr. and Mrs. Miles Peterson

Darqwan and Serenia Parsons Newlyweds

Sonja C. and John Blackwell 34 years

Mr. Dayle and Patsy Greene 50 years

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! December 2022

Tracy P and Tina Clinton 12 years

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

Tawni and Arbrook Haynes 18 years

Darius and Shayna Whiteside 17 years

Mrs. and Mr. Henderson 46th heaveny Anniversary

Frank and Renee Duggan 12 years

James and Rosalyn Jones Cantue 16 years

Metro Community Calendar powered by

DECEMBER

Children’s Holiday Tea 2022 at the Heard-Craig Center Fri, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Heard-Craig Center for the Arts, 205 W Hunt St McKinney, TX

JANUARY

1

Dallas County Democrats 2023 Swearing-In

Ceremony

Holiday at the Arboretum

8525 Garland Road

27

The Servpro First Responder Bowl is back in Dallas, TX on Dec. 27 at the Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Tickets are on sale now. All first responders are eligible for up to four free tickets to this year’s game. https://bit. ly/3NxokH3 #SFRB #EverydayHeroes

30

It’s a Scavenger Hunt! Garland Fri, 10 AM – 8 PM Plaza Garland, 3161 Broadway Blvd Garland, TX

31

Old City Park Guided Tour Sat, 5 – 7 PM 1515 S Harwood St Dallas, TX

Celebrate the New Year and our reelected and newly elected Dallas County Officials at the beautiful Tower Club downtown. While statewide elections didn’t go our way, Dallas County voters flipped three county seats red to blue, resulting in a Dallas County government that’s nearly all Democratic (one seat remaining out of more than 40) and more reflective of our county!

Time: 1:00-3:00 PM Tower Club 1601 Elm St 48th Floor Dallas, TX 75201

16

Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo at Dallas’ African American Museum, 10a-6p Call 214-941-0110 for vendor information!

St. Philip’s School and Community Center will host its 23rd Annual Parrish Family Destiny Award Luncheon featuring a conversation with Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Sterling K. Brown, 11:30 am at the Hilton Anatole. The Student Showcase is from 10:30-11:15 am.

CHECK OUT WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

New Year’s Day Sunday Service & Potluck — CityBridge Sun, 10 AM – 1 PM

CityBridge Community Church, 6400 K Ave Plano, TX

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

Send your calendar items to editor@texasmetronews.com or call 214-941-0110

The World According to Andrew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call 646200-0459 on Andrew’s World.

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

Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by

DECEMBER

22

25

Sunday Brunch. BRUNCH VIBES ALL DAY LONG!

From 12 pm to 12 am at

McKinney Avenue Trolley HOLIDAY EXPRESS board

one of the vintage trolleys for the 6th Annual McKinney Avenue M-LINE Trolley Holiday Express. From 6 to 7 pm. at McKinney Avenue Trolley Uptown Station 2700 Cityplace West Boulevard Dallas. Tickets: http:// bit.ly/3Vx5D949

23

PAUL CANNON LIVE 9 pm Friday’s at Greedy’s 921 West Belt Line Road ##110 DeSoto.

Lady’s Night Tickets: http://bit.ly/3VhrotE

24

Zag Afro Fusion

KaraokeNights. Karaoke night every Friday and Saturday in The Colony. From 7 to 11 pm at Zag Afro Fusion Cuisine 5000 Main St Suite 214 The Colony. Tickets: http://bit.ly/3OMgcCQI

ESO Mimosa Bar 2150 East Lamar Boulevard #Suite 120 Arlington. Tickets: http://bit.ly/3iq3ddW 26 ***

Soul Line Dance Tuesday

Celebrations of Light Kwanzaa: Dec. 28-30 at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1515 Young St., Dallas. ***

Pop-Up Craft: Drum: Dec. 28 from 2 to 3 p.m. at Forest Green Branch Library, 9619 GreenvilleAve.,

(Virtual Dance Session)

This is a FREE Dance Session via live stream from the BE! Creative Arts Center YouTube Channel. The live stream begins @ 7:05 PM CST https:// www.youtube.com/BECreativeArtsCenterAtlanta 27

R&B THE TRAP TUES-

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Wed, Dec 28 – Thu, Dec 29 2500 Victory AvDallas, TX

29

SOUL JAZZ THURSDAYS

The Night Before Kwanza Wed. 10:30-11:00 at Bookmarks in North Park Central Dallas, TX.

31

The Light Park

DAYS at AMORA KITCHEN & ULTRA LOUNGE 12255 Greenville Ave. #130 10 pm to 2 am. https://bit. ly/3P0SSSk

with Natural Change Band AT SANDAGA at Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. Dallas. 8PM-12AM. www.sandaga813.com

Dec. 29-31

The Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc are collecting COLLECTION SITE Starlight Event Center 1010 Parkerville Rd., Cedar Hill TX COLLECTION DATES (TIMES)

THURSDAY, 12-29 (FROM 5 TO 7PM) FRIDAY, 12-30 (FROM 5 TO 7PM) SATURDAY, 12-31

(FROM 7 TO 8AM)

Contact Bridget Nevels at DA1913.ERT@gmail.com

30

Jerry Pinkney Day and Kwanzaa Celebration: Dec 30 from 11 a m to 1 p m Register online to receive a link to the virtual event

Steppers New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball Step into 2023! At Crowne Plaza 7050 North Stemmons Freeway Dallas. A two day event. 5pm. Friday to 1 am

1800 W. Lamar Blvd., Arlington, TX 76006

The Light Park is open at Hurricane Harbor in Arlington. The drive-through light show features millions of Christmas lights and festive music.

Check out TheLightPark. com/Arlington for more information on tickets, times and more

JANUARY 16TH

Sunday New Year’s Day. https://bit.ly/3iyV9YF

Denzel Washington Born 1954

Call issued to Support Black Businesses

Buy Black!

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

When Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, announced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre, we joined the movement. December 31, 2021 marked 100 days of featuring Black Businesses. and we decided that the struggle continues and we must also. So enjoy reading about more Black-owned businesses and please support.

MARY’S TWISTED KITCHEN

in striving for greatness and paying it forward. Legends Do Live is a nonprofit 501c3 that funds and equip disadvantaged youth and communities through workshop programs and events.

Website:http://www.legendsdolive.com/donate or call Small at 713-701-7644. Follow on Facebook @ legedensdolive.

DAMIAN’ CAJUN SOUL FOOD CAFE

Where authentic Louisiana Cajun and Soul food is served. It’s a family owned and operated cafe and they’re originally from New Iberia, Louisiana. They have a great menu. They host private parties. Online ordering is available.

DEON WILLIAMS AGENCY

Divine Braids location is at 1311 marketplace drive suite 130, Garland. https://divinebraids.com/ 972-947-3091.

W=ME3 WEALTHGEVITY

DR RALPH STEELE

Mary’s Twisted Kitchen great American soul food restaurant and food truck 1223 E. Redbird Ln. Dallas. 214-710-8462. www. MarysTwistedKitchen.com

LEGENDS DO LIVE & EDUCATIONAL

ENTERTAINMENT

Jarren Small, cofounder of Legends Do Live & Educational Entertainment]

Mr. Small is a millennial mogul from Missouri City, Texas. Mr. Small believes

myimessenger.com

Deon Williams is a service disabled veteran of the United States Air Force, Deon comes to the Farmers family with a spirit of service! He has adopted the core values of “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in all we do!” Deon has the knowledge and experience to help you better understand your coverage options–whether that’s auto, home, renters, or business insurance. Even helping you find insurance for your fur babies.

Located at 4201 Gateway Dr. Colleyville, TX. Call Deon at 469-756-3292, also visit: www.DeonWilliamsAgency. com

DIVINE BRAIDS

Divine Braids, was started by Olivia Nancy A. Djan and Rudy Mutombo. They have a passion for beauty. The braiding salon is in Garland ,Texas. Experience the meticulous techniques of their well-trained master braiders. With their techniques, we guarantee neat and long lasting braids.

A Structured Settlement Broker in Financial Services, Dr. Ralph Steele can assist in your Structured Settlement. Steele can help get you an Equity Fund. Wealthgevity can review, assets, complete your annual Financial Exam and assist you in having financial freedom and generational wealth W=me3. Call Steele at 817-729-0543, website: https://wme3cash.com/ email: rsteele@ mediationworlds.com

ALYSSA A HOGAN ENTERPRISE LLC

AAH Helps Business Owners start, and Organizations grow with Business and Strategic Planning & Development, Leadership Training and More. AAH Enterprises consulting and training company was established in 2016 by Alyssa A. Hogan. Need these services for your business? Visit the website: https://alyssaahogan.co/ call 407-308-5838 or email: info@Alyssaahogan.co

Dr. Frederick D.Haynes III

Mavs Host “Cookies with Santa”

The Dallas Mavericks are continuing to spread Christmas cheer throughout the Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex; this time at their annual Cookies with Santa holiday event.

Cookies With Santa, presented by Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics, the Official Dentist of the Mavericks, featured an evening of food, fun and fellowship with the entire team, Santa Claus, the ManiAACs, D-Town Crew, Champ and MavsMan all welcoming children from Vogel Alcove.

The evening was spent playing games, making holiday crafts, and enjoying cookies while listening to a special reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas. Each child received a gift bag full of presents and necessities from the Mavs, including wish list items, clothing and dental kits provided by Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics, to enjoy during the holiday season.

Santa Mavs

Photos: Dorothy J. Gentry

Santa Luka

Santa

Frank Ntilikina

Santas

Santa JaVale

McGee

Santa Reggie Bullock

He Who Troubles His House Will Inherit The WInd!

THE BLACK CARD

BY TERRY ALLEN

I don’t think I will get much disagreement, when I say the “Big Mama” Playbook was deeply rooted in biblical structure and presence. Let me remind you again that Lucille “Big Mama” Allen filled her three sons and three daughters, 16 grandchildren, 50 great grandchildren, 38 greatgreat grandchildren, seven great great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and bonus family members with wisdom that would now make all of her children social media influencers on TIK TOK, Instagram, Facebook (Meta) and even the now reputation-risky Twitter.

This latest advice comes straight out of biblical scripture: ‘The one who troubles his family will inherit nothing, and the fool will be a servant to the wise person.’ Proverb 11:29

What is its most used intent: A foolish member of the family could get into a situation and squander the entire wealth of the

family, bringing poverty on them all, leaving nothing but “the wind” to inherit.

In the same situation or a different one, the fool can destroy the reputation of a family. Even more, “When people create problems within their family, community, or country, they ultimately suffer the consequences of their actions.”

What else does it mean? Big Mama meant “Righteous people follow God's will, bring honor and blessing on themselves, and have hope.

That message resonated in Big Mama’s love for the holiday season, she was more the secret weapon of recovery because she used Christmas as a cover for helping those who were too proud to ask for help or admit they are falling short of resources.

She loved the holiday could disguise random acts of kindness as a giving measure without bringing shame to those she helps and it would also eliminate the presence of arrogance or almost eliminate the presence of arrogance.

Big Mama was what we could call, today, unapologetically self-aware and

a historically humble servant.

She would always give her loving messages very proudly with her hands on hips stance, standing on the back porch or sitting proudly on the front porch stoop where she commanded her audience of sons, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, great great-great-grandchildren nieces and nephews.

Big Mams would close with reminding us that this verse is a promise that God will never forsake those who seek Him. He will provide for our financial, physical, and spiritual needs.

Big Mama said that the special meaning in this verse also has to do with God Big Mama’s investment in me has inspired me to invest in others. I rarely refuse giving others my last because God will replenish it tenfold.

Last week, I asked a student to take a picture of our Dallas PRSA team during our retreat. I discovered he was short on funds.

I gave him 50% of my cash app balance. I then went and troubled the house as I asked the 20+

others just to give him $5.00.

I then found money in my glove compartment that was the same amount I gave the student. Did Big Mama say inherit the wind? See? But God!

So, in closing, I ask you to use Christmas to do three things.

1. Disrupt the emotional downtime and depression that comes with the hyped need to connect that is prevalent during the season by cheering up someone/anyone.

2. Dismantle the barriers/ baggage to call and connect with your strong friends

3. Disseminate resources & gifts, not just the downtrodden, but to the people in your proximity network that are barely staying above water. Now - Go be Great! I dare you!

Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy Winter Solstice. Also, Eid Mubarak, Happy Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Festivus to you and yours. Who has a testimony? Email me at terryallenpr@gmail. com and let me know!

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

Things Parents Should Know Sending

Their Kids Back To School

By Breonna Randall Howard University News Service

For the first time since March 2020, millions of students, pre-kindergarten to high school seniors, will be attending in-person classes. Aside from attending class, they will be also participating in extracurricular activities, like sports, music and clubs. Parents have many concerns and questions. Howard University News Service reached out to five physicians for answers, Dr. Hadie Shariat, pediatrician, Howard University Hospital; Dr. Katherine Hager, Infectious Disease Fellow, Howard University Hospital; Dr. Catherine Marshall, pediatrician at Balboa Pediatrics; Dr. Andrea Goings, pediatrician, Baby Doc House Calls, and Dr. Stacey Eadie, pediatrician at her own private practice, Peds in a Pod.

Should I get my child vaccinated?

The unanimous opinion among our doctors was if your child can get vaccinated, they should. The only thing that has proven to be effective so far in fighting COVID-19 is the vaccine, they said. While a tiny fraction of people has died from the vaccine, more than 600,000 have died from the disease. Children under the age of 12 cannot be vaccinated, though pharmaceutical companies are working on a vaccine for them.

What if my child is too young for the vaccine?

In this case, the doctors advise, your child should stay away from unvaccinated adults, stay away from crowded indoor places, always wear a mask and keep

practicing social distancing and good hygiene. Also always remember to keep up with your local safety guidelines. Guidelines and prevalence of coronavirus are different in different cities and states. Residents may need to be more careful in some locales.

What kind of mask should my child wear and how many do they need?

The readily available blue and white surgical masks are the best

ber it needs to be cleaned daily, never wait more than a day to clean or rotate your child’s cloth mask. N-95 masks are said to be the best option, but only if they have been fit tested by a doctor to a child’s face. Children with disabilities who are not able to wear a mask all day should wear a shield.

What should be on my backto-school shopping list?

between classes and the handles and locks to their lockers. Finally, most schools do not have automatic sinks or dryers. So, students should consider using paper towels to turn handles off and on and opening doors after washing their hands for at least 20 seconds.

Are there warning signs that my child may have been exposed to the coronavirus?

Children, especially younger children, seem to always have a sniffle or runny nose. However, in today’s climate, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

option for students of all ages. They will protect your child if they are wearing them properly. The mask should cover their nose and their mouth. If the mask falls to the ground or gets wet either by sneezing into it or from water, they should be discarded, and a new mask put in place. Younger children should carry about a half a dozen surgical masks with them a day.

Students in grades 9-12 should not need to change theirs as often. They may only need to have about three. For older children doubling up by wearing a surgical mask and a cloth mask on top throughout their school day is the best option.

If your child is most comfortable wearing only a cloth mask, that is fine, but remem-

You should buy everything that you would already get but more. Make sure your child has more than enough supplies, so they won’t need to ask their classmates to share. Young children like to chew on their pens and sharing those supplies could increase the spread of germs. Aside from masks, you may want to add new items like hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

What are some school habits my child needs to break and new ones they should include?

The number one habit that children of all ages need to break is sharing. They should not share toys, school supplies, food, drinks or anything else. It won’t be easy to get young children to unlearn “sharing is caring,” but it is very important that they try their best.

Other habits that students need to break is any unnecessary touching. Hugging or kissing other students is a no-no. Students have been away from their friends for a very long time, and they may want to show physical affection towards each other when they reunite but it is very important that they don’t as much as possible.

They should also use disinfectant wipes to clean their desks

Children, especially younger children, seem to always have a sniffle or runny nose. However, in today’s climate, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Every day after you child comes home, spend two minutes with your child and let them tell you about their day without asking any specific questions. In that time, they may tell you if they shared toys or snacks with anyone that they shouldn’t have. If your child is having a cough or runny nose, yes it could be allergies or a common cold, but do not risk the safety of your family and others. Keep your children home and quarantine them until they can take a Covid-19 test at a medical facility, not an at home rapid test. A two-year old may get sick and have just a runny nose or sore throat from the disease, but if they infect their grandmother, for example, she could end up in the hospital on a ventilator.

Are extracurricular activities okay for my child to participate in?

There is nothing wrong with your child returning to their extracurricular activities, just as long as these activities are supervised and are following all Center for Disease Control and Prevention and local health guidelines.

John “Big John” Lee Robinson

John Lee Robinson was born on December 14, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, to Earl and Anna Robinson. John was the second oldest boy of 7 siblings. John accepted Christ at an early age at Salem Baptist Church in Dallas, TX, and was a faithful servant of the Lord throughout his life, transferring his membership to Warren United Methodist Church in the 1980s and finally to Camp Wisdom United Methodist Church in 2015.

John received his formal education at Lincoln High School in Dallas, TX, and attended the business management certificate program at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX.

John met the love of his life Rodest Marie (Smith) Robinson, at Paul’s Restaurant in Dallas, TX, whom he affectionately named “Shorty.” John and Shorty were married on August 20, 1966 and were together for 68 years. Three children, Joyce Marie Joseph, Lynda

Joyce Smith, and Frederick Euguene McMillian, were nurtured, cherished, and raised in their blended family; one angel baby is remembered and cherished.

God to conceal a matter, But the glory of kings is to Search out a matter” Proverbs 25:2. John searched out matters, educating himself, and was no stranger to the library, immersing himself in the study of various subject matters from business to state and local laws. John was sharp, educated, and astute. Big John was a supervisor for the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Dallas, TX, for 47 years and was loved, well-liked, and respected by many.

John could crack a joke and was a comedian at heart. John was fun and the life of the party, winning several steak-eating competitions. John and Shorty traveled and enjoyed life together.

Robinson, Charlie Roy Robinson, and Sade Taylor.

John, affectionately known as “Big John,” will be remembered as a man of integrity, a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and teacher to many. John was gifted with numbers and business acumen. “It is the glory of

On December 9, 2022, John went home to be with our Lord Jesus Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents: Earl Robinson and Anna Saniferd Robinson; his children: one angel baby, and Lynda Joyce Smith. Three siblings: Earl

CORTNEY D. PERKINS

Cortney was the last child of four children born to the parent of Angela R. Perkins on September 4, 1986 in Dallas, Texas.

Cortney “Monkey Badass” was an outgoing, loving person. Cortney would give the shirt off his back to those he loved. He was helpful, generous, caring and uplifting. Cortney was an athlete. Growing up he would win trophies from the West Dallas Boys Club.

Cortney enjoyed living his life for his children. He enjoyed spending time with his mother and other family members. Cortney was a football fanatic and a die hard Cowboys Fan…

Cortney loved football so much that he began to get involved with the West Dallas Vikings Little League. Cortney was a person with a past that did not allow it to dictate his future. Cortney had a direction. Cortney was loyal

John leaves to cherish precious memories, his loving and devoted wife, Shorty, Rodest Marie Robinson; one daughter, Joyce Marie Joseph (Johnny, Sr.), and one son, Frederick McMillan (Angela); seven grandchildren, Johnny Joseph Jr. (Latitser), Chasity Joseph, Zandra L. Robinson, Ashley D. Smith, Monica Bivins, Frederick McMillian, Jr., and Brandon McMillian (Rachel); three sisters, Joyce Feggett (Harace), Vera Jones and Esther McClendon; two god-children, Rodest Marie Polk and John Nealy; one caregiver, Deloris Williams, who we express our sincerest gratitude to for the faithful care and service she provided to John; Wilentz Horn, who was like a son to John and Shorty, and John’s personal chauffeur throughout the years; and a multitude of great-grandchildren, his quiver was full, and his legacy will surely live on.

and because of that he would allow the two to mix. Cortney was willing and he was changed.

Cortney leaves to cherish his memories: his mother, Angela Perkins, sister, Sorena Perkins; three children, Dion, Kourtney, Kamille Holt and Micheal Patrick Perkins; nephews, Kenny, Corey, Da’Marcus, Mikeail and Micheal; niece, Antawanett Jackson; one uncle, Moby Perkins; and a host of cousins, family and friends.

Wanda Kaye Sampson-Pruitt

IN THE CARE OF Singing Hills Funeral Home

Wanda Kaye Sampson Pruitt was born on March 26, 1954, in Dallas Texas to Jimmy and Susie Mae Sampson. She was educated in DISD Public Schools and graduated from Woodrow Wilson, Class of 1972.

Wanda Kaye accepted Christ and knew Him as her personal Lord and Savior. She served God and Greater Mt. Sinai on the Usher Board for over 40 years and also served as the Usher Board President until her health began to fail. It’s been said that Wanda Kaye would greet you as you entered the sanctuary with a huge smile and a bit of correction if you showed up tardy or missed too many Sundays. It wasn’t uncommon to catch her dancing during a good

gospel song or on the usher board annual day straight down the middle aisle. She

served The Lord’s House according to Psalms 84: 9-12.

Wanda Kaye worked just short of 40 Years at Texas Instruments before retiring. Then decided to rejoin the work force by driving children to school for DISD for a few years, even the children called

her granny just like her very own grandchildren. Moma met no strangers, always had a big smile, loud laughter and a crazy comment or two to make you laugh, could entertain a whole room and loved her family endlessly. If you wanted to dance, she’d be your partner and even danced with a community group, Divas and Dudes. You could always find her playing bingo, dominos with her boy cousins, nephews or grandsons and its been said she’s taken down a few good deacons at the church picnics.

Wanda Kaye was proceeded in death by her parents, Jimmy and Susie Mae and all of her siblings: L.D. Mackey Jr, Tommy Lee Mackey Sr., Stella Louise Wren, Amanda Joyce Gibson and Kenneth Ray Sampson.

Mrs. Wanda Kaye Sampson-Pruitt went home to be with her Lord very early December 9th, 2022 after battling Multiple Myeloma with all of the strength, tenacity and even glimpses of her big beautiful smile and laughter. She leave to cherish her memory husband; Andrew L. Pruitt, The Girls; Constance Renee Crow (Rodney) and Charnita Rochelle Loving, GrandBaby: Conda Rochelle McGee (Marcus), Grandson: Christopher Jerard Brisco, The Boys: Michael Dwayne Loving Jr and Aaron Maurice Loving Sr. and yes, Wanda Kaye has 3 Great Grandchildren: Parker (SugahBaby) Simone, Erin (Tink) Abrielle and Aaron (Aj) Maurice; Aunt Laverne Winn and an amazing host of nephews, nieces, cousins, friends and extended family.

Matty McKinney Johnigan

IN THE CARE OF Singing Hills Funeral Home

Matty Ruth Davis was born on September 9, 1928, to the parentage of Eddie Davis and Mattie Epps. In Houston, TX. She graduated from Booker T Washington High School. She continued on her journey to a higher education and received her degree from Texas College in Tyler College. She then proceeded to her post graduate work at Texas Southern University in Houston, TX. The fruits from these experiences were careers in Education, Girl’s Basketball Coach, dietician, secretary and enumerator for Polk’s City Director. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, 2 brothers, a sister and a great-grandson.

She is survived by a daughter, Pamelia Moore, a son, Michael McKinney (Zenobia), a grandson, Cedric McKinney (Ursula), 3 granddaughters, Rhetta Jones

(Bruce), Shawnda Tate (Sean), Chevon McKinney, 3 great granddaughters, Jade McKinney, Taylor Tate, Kenadie Tate and 2 great grandsons, Semaj McKinney, Jordan McKinney and a host of nieces and nephews.

She had been a member of St. Paul A. M. E. Church for more than 60 years serving in many capacities voluntarily, appointed and elected as follows: church secretary, church school teacher, class leader (37 years), President of Commission On Membership and Church Growth, President of Evangelism Team (E. Team), Charity Davis WMS, Steward and President of Lay Organization for 25 years. Under her administration as Lay President these ministries were established: Ministry of Seniors both inside and outside of our Zion, Outreach to church and community special needs through our Resource Bank, Visitation Ministry. Support to Sister Lay Organizations (Ministry of Love) and most

precious the Ministry of the Incarcerated.

Many honors, rewards, recognitions, certificates and plaques had been bestowed upon her. Briefly, certified as Conference Evangelistic Instructor (CEI) by the Department of Church Growth & Evangelism, certified by Prism Fellow Ministry (aftercare), Laura Dodson Spirit Award from GDD, Lay Person of the Year Connectional Lay Biennial and also GDD Lay and appointed Mother of St. Paul AME/ February 2012. She was celebrated in 2018 as the Lay Organization’s Woman of the Year. She was faithful to her calling with thanksgiving, humbleness, everlasting gratitude to a powerful God who can do everything no matter how big or small.

DART CLIMA SEVERO ALERTA

Con temperaturas que se esperan bajar a clima congelado, los centros de tránsito de DART siguieran abiertos desde 5:00 a.m. hasta 10:00 p.m. el viernes 23 de diciembre y el sábado 24 de diciembre.

El personal estará disponible para ayudar a los pasajeros con la planificación de viajes.

Las ubicaciones de centros de tránsito incluyen las siguientes:

• Addison: Centro de tránsito de Addison

• Cockrell Hill: Centro de Transito Cockrell Hill

• Dallas: Centro de tránsito East Transfer Center del Distrito Comercial Central (CBD) de Dallas, Centro de tránsito West Transfer Center del CBD de Dallas, Estación de Illinois, Estacion de JB Jackson/MLK, Estación Ledbetter

• Garland: Estación del Centro de Garland, Centro de tránsito de South Garland

• Irving: Estación Downtown Irving/Heritage Crossing

• Plano: Estación Parker Road

Para obtener más información, visite DART.org/StayWarm o llame al 214-979-1111

Vernon Oakes of Everything.Coop Shares 5 Reasons to Support Cooperatives During the Holiday Season

Vernon Oakes, General Partner in Everything.Coop Communications and host of the leading weekly national radio program for the U.S. cooperative community shares five tips on why we should support cooperative during the holiday season and all year long.

First, it is important to share what a cooperative is. A cooperative, often shortened to “co-op,” is a business that is owned and operated by and for the benefit of its members. Cooperatives are all around us, there are over 64,000 cooperatives in the US and most are likely right in your neighborhood and brands you can purchase in your local stores. From consumer-owned rural utility co-ops that provide electrical power to financial co-ops to co-ops that operate food stores, hardware, and building supply businesses, provide education, daycare and health services, food brands among many other things, co-ops are all around us.

Some coops you may be familiar with include companies such as ACE Hardware, Cabot Creamery Cooperative, REI, FTD Florists and your local credit unions. When we support Cooperatives, we support its members and in turn support our community. This is important all year long and something to consider when we evaluate how we will spend our money during the holiday season and in the new year.

1. Cooperatives Help the Economy Cooperatives build stronger communities by keeping money, resources, and jobs local while increasing the communities’ economic power. Coopera-

tives have the ability to create more jobs than a traditional business model, and they also ensure that wealth distributes more evenly. When you support a cooperative you are supporting economic growth in your community.

2. Cooperatives foster equity and social inclusion- Within the structure of cooperatives, there is a shared value of equity for all, with equal voting rights, this structure encourages contribution and shared responsibility among its members. Co-operatives are democratic organizations, focused on delivering their mission to their members rather than only focusing on the return to investors. When you purchase with a cooperative, you can be confident that the profits are going right to the members that have shared ownership.

3. Cooperatives help build a

sustainable communityCooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities. Gener-

ties with the knowledge and skills needed to participate fully in society.

4. Business Sustainability - Cooperatives have the ability to be anchors in the community, cooperatives promote economic growth through stable local jobs, consistent services, high industry standards and increased community investment.

5. Shared Values. All coops operate under a set of shared values that include self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, cooperative members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.

ally, cooperatives support inclusive and equitable membership for all people, irrespective of sex, age, race, ethnicity, and persons with disabilities, migrants, indigenous peoples and youth. This structure allows for accessible lifelong learning opportunities which in turn empowers communi-

Cooperatives help to build a stronger community and to sustain that strength long term Support your community by supporting a cooperative this holiday season. To learn more about Cooperatives listen to Everything.Coop on Apple Podcasts

Vernon Oakes hosts the leading weekly national radio program for the U.S. cooperative community. He is General Partner in Everything. Coop Communications, LLC, a media company that promotes cooperative business models by providing education and resources specifically for under resourced Americans and their communities and he is a member of the Cooperative Consulting Group, Columinate.

Photo: Pexels.com

Host of the leading weekly national radio program for the U.S. cooperative community reasons for consumers to reevaluate where they spend and to support cooperatives during the holidays

Vernon Oakes

With temperatures expected to drop below freezing, DART transit centers will remain open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23 - Saturday, Dec. 24.

Staff will be on hand to assist riders with travel planning.

Transit center locations include:

• Addison: Addison Transit Center

• Cockrell Hill: Cockrell Hill Transfer Location

• Dallas: Central Business District East Transfer Center, CBD West Transfer Center, Illinois Station, J.B. Jackson, Jr. Transit Center, Ledbetter Station, MLK, Jr. Station

• Garland: Downtown Garland Station, South Garland Transit Center

• Irving: Downtown Irving/Heritage Crossing Station

• Plano: Parker Road Station