I Messenger 1-21-22 by Cheryl Smith

I MESSENGER VOL XI NO 21 JANUARY 21, 2022

LUSIA HARRIS

Debra Hoard Jones

Cheryl A. Hickmon

I Messenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110

Biden’s COVID-19 Directives For Schools And Nursing Homes

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Established 2011 CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back. January 21, 2022

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OUR VOICES BY SEN. ROYCE WEST

President Joe Biden announced two efforts aimed at helping Texas school children and residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. First, President Biden instructed Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to take the steps needed to protect school children by using all available oversight authority – including legal action – to stop governors or other officials’ efforts to “block and intimidate local schools and educators.” The President called out politicians for their attempts to turn public safety measures into partisan disputes for their own political gain. He cautioned that state executives who are taking power away from local educators are “setting a dangerous tone,” for the country. I could not agree more! I fully support President Biden’s directives to Secretary Cardona. We cannot play politics with the lives of Texas schoolchildren when we

know that local school boards and superintendents will do what is necessary to protect students from COVID-19. Secondly, President Biden announced that his administration will require all nursing home workers who serve Medicare or Medicaid clients to be vaccinated. The President correctly noted that the vaccination rates among nursing homes’ staff in Texas trails the overall vaccination rate of the rest of America. I support the Biden Administration’s actions to protect residents in nursing home and long-term care facilities across this nation, and in the great state of Texas. Mask mandates and vaccinations are not and should not be political. These are public health measures we must all pay attention to in order to protect our fellow Texans and save lives. My overriding philosophy of government has always favored local control. I believe that government closest to the people is best for the people. Royce West was first elected to the Texas Senate in November 1992. He represents the 23rd Senatorial District on behalf of the citizens of Dallas County.

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INSIDE

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES Every single day, we are bombarded with so many things to do. Our world is so fast paced that it is easy to get overwhelmed and even overcommit. In our society, we are pushed to focus on being successful versus having a life of significance. In my early twenties, I had this checklist in my head of things I wanted to accomplish.

THE LAST WORD According to MasterCard’s spending reports, consumers spent more than 10 percent more than they did in 2019 before the COVID pandemic even hit. Inflation rose by 6 percent each month in October and November (don’t add it up – it’s monthly, not annual). Unemployment rates are lower than they’ve been in more than a decade.

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BLACK BUSINESS Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, of Friendship-West Baptist Church, recently announced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre. The 100 days began September 23, 2021 and ran through December 31, 2021.

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Mayor Johnson proclaims ‘South Oak Cliff Day’ to coincide with Saturday’s downtown parade DALLAS — Mayor Eric Johnson has proclaimed Saturday, January 22, 2022, as South Oak Cliff Day in the city. Mayor Johnson issued the proclamation to coincide with Saturday morning’s downtown parade honoring the South Oak Cliff High School Golden Bears after the football team’s state championship last month. Mayor Johnson will serve as a grand marshal of the parade. Saturday’s parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. and run East to West along Main Street between the Pearl Expressway and South Griffin Street. The parade will proceed down South Griffin, Young, and Marilla streets before concluding at City Hall Plaza, where Mayor Johnson and others will address the team and attendees. The public and media are invited and encouraged to attend to cheer on the state champions. The mayor previously told the players he would issue the proclamation during an event this month at City Hall Plaza. Here is the text of the mayor’s proclamation: WHEREAS, The City of Dallas is honored to recognize the historic achievement of South Oak Cliff High School’s football team’s victory in the 5A-II state championship on December 18, 2021; It was the Dallas Independent School District’s first football state title since 1958; and WHEREAS, South Oak Cliff High School Golden Bears played the championship game at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington; Competing in front of a packed house of nearly 46,000 spectators, and donning their signature all-white jerseys, the team triumphed over Liberty Hill for a 23-14 win; and WHEREAS, It is fitting and appropriate to recognize South Oak Cliff High School in honor of this momentous occasion; Furthermore, it must be stated that the football players — practice after practice and game after game — persevered and overcame significant adversity both in and out of school to ultimately achieve this victory; They have done the hard work to become not only better athletes, but to become even stronger young men, strengthening their character, faith, and self-confidence in the process, and inspiring the people of Dallas to certainly do the same; and WHEREAS, South Oak Cliff families, teachers, staff, alumni, and coaches were integral to the victory by offering constant guidance and support to the football players and to all of the young people in their community; and WHEREAS, South Oak Cliff, located in the 75216 ZIP code, has overcome historic myimessenger.com

inequities and banded together to make their community safer, stronger, and more vibrant; The people of this neighborhood represent the best of Dallas. NOW, THEREFORE, I, ERIC JOHNSON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DALLAS, do hereby proclaim Saturday, January 22, 2022, as SOUTH OAK CLIFF DAY

January 21, 2022

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

If it was meant for you… I am feeling a certain way about Odinga Kambui. In a letter, Odinga wrote: Open letter to the person(s) who found my lost tan leather shoulder bag The bag fell from my bike on September 29, 2021, while traveling west on Elsie Faye Heggins Blvd, around 4:30pm. It included my phone, drivers license, two bank debit cards, $55 cash, library card, Black heritage stamp collection, Ghananian currency in my day planner. There being no pay phones to call the bank, it would be the following day when the debit card accounts were changed; of course this was after the fraudulent use for a shopping spree had commence, by the person(s) residing at 1718 Driskell St. 75215. At least know that where the online orders were sent to. I left several voicemails at 214298-0762, when the number was active. Never received any response. I would very much the appreciate the bag and January 21, 2022

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contents being returned to the address on the drivers license. No questions asked. I feel the pain and frustration.

I love the journalism students who cross my path and talk about their love of journalism and their future plans for writing that impactful, earth-shattering expose that will lead to world peace or the righting of many societal ills. Which brings me to my truth. I have not reached out to Odinga but I hope the bag has been returned. If you’ve ever had something taken from you or if

you’ve ever lost anything; you know the feeling. It would be different if it was only money but here you have a situation where the person who recovered the bag had an opportunity to return it, instead they opted to be dishonest and unethical. They decided to be a criminal! There really is not much to be said about what happened. Just food for thought: nothing good comes out of doing bad to others. Oh, you might see a temporary benefit or gin, but then reality will set in. You might look at it as a blessing, finding the bag; but you may have blocked a real blessing. By virtue of information in the bag enabling you to do the right thing and you didn’t, you very well may have set yourself up for a serious downfall. You will get what is meant for you. You don’t have to take from others. Trust and believe! myimessenger.com

Look at The Signs! QUIT PLAYIN’ BY VINCENT L. HALL

As we stand on the precipice of yet another Black History Month, I would desire that we as a people Quit Playin’ like so much has changed. Someone removed the “White Only” signs, but they left you the signals. Last week the Dallas Republican Party shuttled out their handpicked “Black” again! But, the Grand Old Party’s message has not changed. “Getting tough on crime” is still afresh on their lips and psyches. The taglines change, but their views on solving crime are nothing more than reiterations of the same old “ish!” You can pluck a few lines from a recent Dallas Morning News article and quickly understand my distrust for the party, especially the Black folks who tether their reputations and political hopes to the Trump’s train. “Faith Johnson, the Republican candidate for Dallas County district attorney, vowed Wednesday to roll back one of John Creuzot’s hallmark policies if she is elected in November. “As your chief law-enforcement officer of this county, I want you to be able to count on me,” said Johnson, who was Dallas County’s DA from 2016 to 2018. “I myimessenger.com

want the shop owners to be able to count on me. I want the large grocery chains to be able to count on me.” As we stand here in the throes of yet another variant of a historic pandemic, the GOP wants business owners to know that their position has never changed. They always promise to prosecute Blacks and ne’erdo-wells without regard to the cost or consequences. “Lock ‘em up” is simple and portable enough for their followers.

the bottom five in education and that says it all. This clan is the same swath of the population who don’t want you to embarrass them or their children with Critical Race Theory. So instead, they define CRT to include any history that calls out White Privilege. We have grown weary of Governor Abbott and his ilk, who want to blame all of racism’s ills on their parents and forbears; when in truth, Jim Crow passed the baton to James Crow Esquire, and

Last week the Dallas Republican Party shuttled out their handpicked "Black" again! But, the Grand Old Party’s message has not changed. "Getting tough on crime" is still afresh on their lips and psyches. The taglines change, but their views on solving crime are nothing more than reiterations of the same old “ish!” The county jail boasts a larger population than 90% of the towns in Texas, and the Dallas Police Department is understaffed and overwhelmed. Omicron is raging so high that judges cannot impanel juries. But let’s lock ‘em up! However, you resurrected this candidate and this plank because the GOP will always place personal possessions at the top of their list. To hell with rehabilitation, mental illnesses, and homelessness. We rank in

the team has never lost a step. What is worse is that they can always buttonhole a Negro to “legitimize” their platform. The 14th Amendment forbade the sale of Negroes, but renting has always been an option. They can always find a Herschel Walker or an Allen West to do their bidding. You can be Black and a fiscal conservative? Go ahead and wrap yourself in the flag. Both are personal prerogatives. However, these washed-

out, lukewarm, middleof-the-road Negroes, who abhor BLM and criminal justice reform are unbearable. Our schools are in a mess, and Black income is still less. Police brutality is still a reality, and our HBCUs still need charity. Did I bust a rhyme? LOL We are as lost in America today as we ever were. The only difference is that a few more of us navigate this wilderness in exotic cars and live in bigger tents than our parents did. Yet, sadly, we own little of what we have and typically pay higher interest rates than anyone else pays for the dubious privilege. We are co-stars in a movie that we did not audition for. We sing in a choir whose songs don’t stir our souls. We play in a game where the rules are constantly changed to our disadvantage. As a result, most of us bear distrust and resentment for capitalism, the justice system, and anything else that we consider to be controlled by or governed by the rule of racism. Quit Playin’ like you can relax just because they took down the sign. Unfortunately, the signals are still there, and they still appear to be red. Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

January 21, 2022

VOTE

VOTE January 21, 2022

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January 21, 2022

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January 21, 2022

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January 21, 2022

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Priorities: Putting First Things First FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Every single day, we are bombarded with so many things to do. Our world is so fast paced that it is easy to get overwhelmed and even overcommit. In our society, we are pushed to focus on being successful versus having a life of significance. In my early twenties, I had this checklist in my head of things I wanted to accomplish. I wanted to be married, have kids, buy a house, etc. by a certain age. We have our plans and then God has a different plan. Much of our frustration in life is a result of competition with what we think we should accomplish which can be informed often by the opinions of others. We can also make comparisons to others and if we feel we are behind, there is this internal desire to keep up with others. The danger in doing this is that we never know what others go through to get where they are in life. Similar to an iceberg, we only see what’s visible. We myimessenger.com

don’t see the behind the scenes---the tears, the long hours, the pain, challenges—that others endure to arrive at the destination that we are privy to witness and view. So often, we see the result, when we haven’t witnessed the process. Our process can be filled with undue stress when we don’t line up our priorities correctly. Life is going to be filled with unexpected issues but when we have our priorities in place, we can expect that our foundation will sustain us when the storms arise. John 6:22-40 offers some insight on our priorities. Jesus and the disciples left the crowd behind and went away. There are times in our lives that we must find the time to leave and get away from the crowd. Too much time in the crowd listening to the voices, thoughts, and opinions of others can influence us and even deter us from our mission. The scripture states, “When they found him on the other side of the lake, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?” 26 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you

saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. 27 Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” The people were more concerned about taking care of their immediate needs instead of recognizing that they had the Messiah in front of them. How often do we miss opportunities focusing on the short-term instead of seeing the bigger picture and the possibilities? The people missed out what was important. They were more focused on their physical needs than recognizing that when our spiritual needs are addressed first, everything else falls in place. Success is more than stuff, titles, and accolades. Those things will come when you put God’s business first. When you take care of God’s business, God will take care of your business. Proverbs 3 gives us sound advice on having a successful life: “…take to heart my commands. They’ll help you live a long, long time, a long life lived full and well…. Earn a rep-

utation for living well in God’s eyes and the eyes of the people. Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over.” We must get our priorities straight. So many folks are stressed because they are striving for the wrong things. As you create a list of things to do, make sure at the top of your list is building and maintaining your relationship with God. That’s your ticket to a well-lived life. Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the Founder and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, specializing as a Partnership Broker and Leadership Expert for companies and organizations to thrive with measurable and meaningful impact. She also is the VP of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas.

January 21, 2022

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January 21, 2022

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Wear the masks, wash your hands and show love! myimessenger.com

January 21, 2022

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GET THE FUNDING YOU NEED TO HELP KEEP YOUR DOORS OPEN.

YEP, I’M OPEN.

Get up to $15K from Dallas County to help keep your business open.

If your business has been struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s a solution to keep it going. Dallas County offers forgivable loans up to $15,000 for small businesses in need.

This program can assist with:

Eligible businesses must:

3 months of payroll

Be located in Dallas County but outside the city of Dallas

Lease payments

Been in existence since March 1, 2020

Utilities

Have fewer than 100 employees

Renting of existing equipment

Have suffered financially due to the pandemic

Payment of existing business-related loans for equipment vehicles Real estate + $3,000 of restart up capital

For more information, visit DCBusinessAssistance.com or call (214) 875-2187.

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January 21, 2022

Was I a local Hidden Figure? I WAS JUST THINKING... NORMA ADAMSWADE

Ran across an old newspaper article the other day that took me back to my first job after college in the late 1960s. Anybody who knows me well, knows that I do not tell my age – but you can do the math. Special Contributor Teri Webster wrote the article that ran May 23, 2021 on page 10B in The Dallas Morning News. The kicker state: RICHARDSON. The headline stated: Documentary details city’s NASA project impact via Collins Radio. The lead stated: “Richardson has a connection to space exploration dating back to NASA’s manned missions in the 1960s through communication technology that was pioneered by the former Collins Radio Co. that was located in the city.” The article was about Collins’ role in NASA’s early space efforts and how that story is told in the documentary series, The Collins Story: Connecting the Moon to the Earth. The series was released in December 2018 and shown January 21, 2022

The movie Hidden Figures

Credit: en.wikipedia

more recently on May 5, 2021 during an anniversary of one of the space flights. I thought of the popular movie Hidden Figures, about three African-American women whose mathematical calculations helped put a man on the moon and advance other space-age achievements. My mind flipped back more pages and landed

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on that first job at Collins Radio Co. in Richardson, after earning a Journalism degree from The University of Texas at Austin. Collins was not far from Texas Instruments (TI) also in Richardson. Later, I worked at Bloom Advertising Agency, the Black-owned Dallas Post Tribune weekly, and The Dallas Morning News daily. After reading Webster’s

article, I was just thinking… Am I a hidden figure in Dallas? I say that a bit tongue-in-cheek. But when you look at the similar circumstances, it could make you wonder. At Collins, I was part of a small team of copyeditors who mainly were journalism or English graduates, and whose names and faces I have long since forgotten. After reading Webster’s article, I looked up one of my early resumés and, in part, here were the team responsibilities: “Edit copy for tracking antenna technical instruction manuals for National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Apollo space program.” I recalled my thoughts sometimes as I was editing space-age copy. I told myself that it was not so important that I was not a science and technology major. What this job required from me was my English language skill and ability to ensure that the words were clearly stated with correct grammar and punctuation. There were some surprises. Under one of the projects, I learned that I would be investigated to achieve a particular security clearance that would myimessenger.com

Dorothy Vaughan

Credit: nasa.gov

approve me to work on a certain project. If my memory is correct, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) did the investigation. I remember the mystified calls I received from some neighbors in South Dallas, where I still lived with my parents at the time. Why was the FBI calling them to ask about me, they wondered aloud? They seemed satisfied when I explained that it had to do with a project on my job. South Dallas off Bexar Street near H. S. Thompson Elementary School and not far from Lincoln High School – both my alma maters -- is still clear in my mind as I remember those after-college days more than 50 years ago. My lovingly protective parents were wary after I got my first car to transport me to my first job. My mother, Nettie Ruth Ivory Adams, a beautician, would drive me in it up the traffic-congested freeway to Collins and pick me up after work. When we got back home in the evenings, my dad, Frank McLeod Adams, an Army vet and one of Dallas’ early Black mail carriers, was already back from work. He expected a daily report on how the day and driving had gone. One driving memory that makes myimessenger.com

Mary Jackson

Credit: nasa.gov

me smile now – but not then – were those days when “Mot-dear” would allow me behind the wheel. I would drive the usual route, from South Dallas and up North Central Expressway, to the exit that took us to Collins. When my mom thought I should be slowing down or stopping on the freeway, her foot on the front passenger side, would automatically and involuntarily slam on an imaginary brake, making her head and shoulders jerk forward. She would not say anything, but I knew she was on pins and needles for me behind the wheel. Just a little history: About Collins. “Ham” radio entrepreneur Arthur A. Collins founded Collins Radio Company in 1933 in the basement of his Cedar Rapids, Iowa home. He then advanced to manufacturing transmitters, receivers and aircraft radios. He opened the Dallas production site in 1950. Business magnate Ross Perot unsuccessfully attempted to take over the company in 1969. The founder left Collins in 1972 and started a consulting firm. About the movie. The 2016 movie Hidden Figures was the story of three high-performing Black female

Katherine Johnson

Credit: nasa.gov

math teachers who got jobs with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) during America’s 1960s space-exploration. The women, known as “human computers,” ultimately played important roles – despites racial and sexist discrimination – in space-age achievements including the moon landing. The movie was based on African-American author Margot Lee Shetterly’s book by the same name. Actress Taraji P. Henson played mathematician Katherine Goble Johnson, who calculated flight trajectories for space missions. She ultimately received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor, from then-President Barack Obama. Academy-Award winner Octavia Spencer played mathematician and supervisor Dorothy Vaughan. Janelle Monáe played mathematician and engineer Mary Jackson. So, again, I was just thinking… Was I a hidden figure – despite no mathematical ties? You decide. Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, Graduate of UT- Austin and Dallas native. One of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), she was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame

January 21, 2022

Crosswalks focus on Unity

Elected officials, community leaders and residents of South Dallas celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday with the unveiling of an All Black Lives Matter Crosswalk. The event, hosted by Kirk Myers, CEO, Abounding Prosperity Inc. and District 7 Dallas City Councilman Adam Bazaldua, was held at the intersection of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevards. See photos and locations at www.texasmetronews.com.

Kirk Myers and other dignitaries cut ribbon during ceremony

2021 Dallas City Redistricting

For fair and equal representation

How do you want to be represented for the next 10 years? The City of Dallas invites the public to attend a series of town hall meetings to oﬀer input on the City’s redistricting process, which happens every 10 years after the U.S. Census releases its data. The redistricting process is the redrawing of City Council districts from which Council Members are elected.

january

time

location

Thursday, January 6, 2022

6:30 ‐ 9:30 P.M.

Bachman Recreation Center 2750 Bachman Dr., Dallas, TX 75220

Thursday, January 13, 2022

6:30 ‐ 9:30 P.M.

Lake Highlands North Recreation Center 9940 White Rock Trail, Dallas, TX 75238

Saturday, January 22, 2022

3:30 ‐ 6:30 P.M.

Pleasant Oaks Recreation Center 8701 Greenmound, Dallas, TX 75227

Thursday, January 27, 2022

6:30 ‐ 9:30 P.M.

Exline Recreation Center 2525 Pine St., Dallas, TX 75215

february

time

location

Saturday, February 5, 2022

3:30 ‐ 6:30 P.M.

Timberglen Recreation Center 3810 Timberglen Rd., Dallas, TX 75287

Thursday, February 10, 2022*

6:30 ‐ 9:30 P.M.

City Hall ‐ WebEx * 1500 Marilla, Dallas, TX 75201

* Redistricting town halls at City Hall will be available for virtual and in person participation and will feature ASL interpreters, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Visit DallasRedistricting.com or call 214-671-5197 for more information. January 21, 2022

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Recovery or Crisis? THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

According to MasterCard’s spending reports, consumers spent more than 10 percent more than they did in 2019 before the COVID pandemic even hit. Inflation rose by 6 percent each month in October and November (don’t add it up – it’s monthly, not annual). Unemployment rates are lower than they’ve been in more than a decade. And yet, folks are singing the blues, asking for an extension of child tax credits, looking for support for those living at the periphery, and looking for opportunity. The Scrooges in the house aren’t inclined to do a darn thing about it. Thus you get a Senator Joe Manchin (D-WVA), whose one-trick line is that he can’t support inflation, or a Senator Kristen Sinema (DAZ), a shill for Big Pharma. While some economists are touting economic recovery, others wonder who is recovering. Dr. Algernon Austin, who directs the Race and Economic Justice Program at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, asserts that we aren’t counting disadvantages correctly. In particular, he has written that Black male unemployment is far more severe than the unemployment rate data measure, especially when we consider the employment-population ratio, incarceration, and other factors that leave Black men far more unemployed than myimessenger.com

other men (https://cepr.net/ report/the-jobs-crisis-forblack-men-is-a-lot-worsethan-you-think). In his estimation, about $12 billion is leaked from the Black community because of job losses and related differentials. Austin’s work does not directly address the losses that the Black community experiences because of the differential treatment of Black women, but they are at least equal. Discrimination and differential treatment are a tax on the African American com-

disadvantaged, discriminated against, and robbed of economic agency. I appreciate the many ways that younger Black folks create alternate paths to income and wealth for themselves and their communities, using electronic media, selling their “merch,” and putting their face in the space. However, they should not be denied the mainstream paths to economic prosperity, ways too often riddled with pitfalls, challenges, and just everyday racism. Thus, when conver-

munity, which is often unrecognized. The recent focus on the wealth gap allows us to delve into the history of the gap, the systematic ways that predatory capitalism has extracted wealth from the Black community. It’s not just about the past, though. It is about the current practices that African American workers are

sations about economic recovery occur, it is essential to note that an unequal start will result in an unequal finish. In other words, centuries of discrimination will yield unequal recovery results. This is important because as some, like Senator Manchin, are talking about inflation, some are harder hit

by inflation than are others. When some, like Manchin, talk about low unemployment, others say they can’t find jobs. And while some are talking economic recovery and supply chain issues, others are spending up a storm. Our economy has always been bifurcated, but COVID has made it even more so. President has not done a great job, but he is exponentially better than his predecessor. Yet he has not done enough to close gaps between the haves and the have nots. Many are experiencing an economic recovery, and good for them. Too many, still, are living through an economic crisis, which is not so good for them or their families. The gridlock between Congress and the Senate paralyzes our nation and puts stumbling blocks in the path forward. Are we prepared to allow a few narcissistic laggards to throw a monkey wrench into the Biden plan? And is President Biden prepared to prioritize collegiality over results? When the data is disaggregated, we will find that economic recovery is uneven. The Biden Administration can fix some of this through executive order, and they need to do it as soon as possible. There are young folks who heard our President say he had their backs. Now they want him to exhibit some backbone. Those whose lives are in economic crisis aren’t interested in gloating about economic recovery. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

January 21, 2022

Let’s Get Right to It! WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ.

There’s an obvious scheme afoot to return the United States to a period in time where we lived with a completely different social construct and contract. There are those who are diligently working to return us to a time before many of the hardfought and recently won constitutional protections we (supposedly) now enjoy. The very ones who think we benefit disproportionately are the ones working overtime to steal our hard-earned gains. They pretend not to understand when we point to their efforts to oppress and diminish those rights. They seem to nonchalantly say, “We didn’t really intend for non-white people to ever become equal.” There is one political party that has fully embraced the political and social philosophies of white supremacy. Every time we see news reports, we know which political party that is! They’ve even found help

January 21, 2022

among select people of color who have been adequately rewarded to “move on up and live high on the hog” as payment to deny the circumstance which the masses protest. They know better, but, at the expense of our people, are willing to go along for a self-serving purpose! Sadly, the other political party seemingly does not recognize the current and ongoing threat to our democracy. Their infighting and constant focus on two recalcitrant members provide the perfect example of an unforced, self-induced error. I do not negate the importance of the progressive work being done, but there is an unacceptable naivety of blindly working for progressive outcomes while the mechanics of their destruction are being codified daily by political opponents in increasing numbers of states. Even a blind man can see that Republicans are committed to converting our democracy into a fascist, permanent majority. True to his word, the disgraced, twice-impeached expresident’s three appointees

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to the Supreme Court are intent on establishing a pathway to the elimination of Roe v. Wade. Although I value the sanctity of life, I equally value the right of a woman to make cogent decisions about her health and life. As an attorney, I see no clearer indication of their true intent than their allowing the Texas abortion law to stand, concurrently, in contradiction to decided law (Roe). Almost daily, we are witness to the imposition of new laws giving Republicans the authority and means to override voter outcomes that are unfavorable to them. In their flagrant attempt to overturn the 2020 elections, Republicans have assigned the label of “illegitimate” votes and voters in areas occupied by voters of color. Their voter suppression laws and activities shout their belief that the votes of people of color matter less than those of their “white base.” Left unchallenged, the outcome is clear. We may not know how far some will choose to take us, but we understand the direction they

will want to go. You must protest these negative eventualities. You don’t need flowery rhetoric or a well-designed script. We have no time to waste! Write or send your emails to: • Sen. Charles Schumer, US Senate, Washington, DC 20510 • Sen. Mitch McConnell, US Senate, Washington, DC 20510 • Sen. Joe Manchin, US Senate, Washington, DC 20510 • Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, US Senate, Washington, DC 20510 • The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, US House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515 • Congressman James Clyburn, US House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515 Explain that you support the John R. Lewis Voter Rights Act and want it passed into law, even if it requires a “carve-out” of the Senate filibuster. The future is critical. We can’t wait for others to act. Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.

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January 21, 2022

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Maya Angelou Is First Black Woman On U.S. Quarter By Stephenetta "Isis" Harmon Texas Metro News

The late Maya Angelou is now the first Black woman to ever appear on U.S. currency. The U.S. Mint announced that a new quarter featuring the legendary poet and activist went into circulation Monday. You should be able to get your hands on one by late January. While the coin still features George Washington on the front “heads” side, the “tails” side features an image of Angelou with her arms spread and a bird in flight behind her in homage to her autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” “As a leader in the civil rights movement, poet laureate, college professor, Broadway actress, dancer, and the first female African American cable car conductor in San Francisco, Maya Angelou’s brilliance and artistry inspired generations of Americans,” said Rep. Barbara Lee (DCA). “I will forever cherish the private moments I had the privilege to share with Maya, from talking in her living room as sisters to her invaluable counsel throughout the challenges I faced as a Black woman in elected office. I am proud to have led this effort to honor myimessenger.com

The legendary poet and activist is featured on the ‘tails’ side of the new coin design. Maya Angelou

Credit: Getty

these phenomenal women, who more often than not are overlooked in our country’s telling of history. If you find yourself holding a Maya Angelou quarter, may you be reminded of her words, ‘be certain that you do not die without having done something wonderful for humanity.’”

Credit: U.S. Mint

The new quarter is the first in the American Women Quarters Program hon-

oring women who have impacted American history. The program was created after the passing of Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020 spearheaded by Lee. It comes after Barack Obama’s administration first introduced plans to replace Andrew Jackson with abolitionist Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill in 2016. Those plans were later halted by Donald Trump’s administration and a new call issued by the Biden administration to revive is now on hold. The U.S. Mint is set to release four more quarters this year as part of the program. The other featured women are Sally Ride, the first American woman astronaut in space; Anna May

Wong, the first Chinese American film star; Wilma Mankiller, the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation; and Nina Otero-Warren, the first female superintendent of Santa Fe public schools and first Latin woman to run for Congress. “Each time we redesign our currency, we have the chance to say something about our country — what we value, and how we’ve progressed as a society,” said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in a recent statement. “I’m very proud that these coins celebrate the contributions of some of America’s most remarkable women, including Maya Angelou.” The new quarters will be printed through 2025. January 21, 2022

January 21, 2022

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Legendary Basketball Hall of Famer Lusia Harris Dies By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor

To many, Lusia “Lucy” Harris was the original “Hidden Figure,” her contributions to the sport of basketball largely unnoticed for decades. She scored the first points in Olympic women’s basketball history in the 1970s and was drafted by the NBA’s New Orleans Jazz in 1977 (the first and only woman to be officially drafted by an NBA team). In 1992, she became the first Black woman inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. And finally, after decades of relative anonymity, she was finally getting the recognition she deserved for her pioneering efforts in basketball. She was finally receiving her flowers thanks to publicity surrounding a popular documentary about her life. And now she’s gone. Harris, whose story is told in this year’s documentary short, “The Queen of Basketball,” died Tuesday in Mississippi at the age of 66. Her family confirmed her unexpected death in a statement. The cause of death has not been released. “We are deeply saddened to share the new that our angel, matriarch, sister, mother, grandmother, Olympic medalist, The Queen of Basketball, Lusia Harris has passed away unexpectedly today in Mississippi, her family said in a statement. “The recent months brought Ms. Harris great joy, including myimessenger.com

the news of the upcoming wedding of her youngest son and the outpouring of recognition received by a recent documentary that brought worldwide attention to her story. She will be remembered for her charity, for her achievements both on and off the court, and the light she brought to her community, the State of Mississippi, her country as the first woman ever to score a basket in the Olympics, and to women who play basketball around the world.” “The Queen of Basketball,” a documentary directed by Ben Proudfoot, has won several awards since being released during last year’s Tribeca Film Festival including: Best Short Documentary – The Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards; Best Short Documentary –

Lusia Harris

shortchanged and denied opportunities. “We just want the world to know [she] was the greatest ever. I just want women, especially female athletes, to see this.” While a student at Delta State, Harris led the school to three consecutive AIAW championships (1975, 1976 and 1977), tied with Immaculata for the most AIAW championships of any college.

She was only woman officially drafted by NBA Palm Springs Shortfest; Best Short Documentary & Best of Fest – Nevada City Film Festival. The film also won the Best Documentary Short award at the 2021 Palm Springs ShortFest, making it eligible for consideration for the 2022 Oscars. Oscar nominations are due to be announced on February 8. Hall-of-fame NBA player Shaquille O’Neal, who served as executive producer on the documentary, told The Hollywood Reporter earlier this year: “She was a woman athlete, a Black woman athlete and she’s been historically

During each of those title runs, Harris was named MVP of the AIAW national tournament. She finished her college career with 2,981 points (25.9 ppg) and 1,662 rebounds (14.4 rpg). As a senior, she was awarded the Honda Broderick Cup as the best collegiate athlete in any sport. Harris also made history in international basketball, earning a gold medal as a member of the 1975 U.S. Pan American Team that competed in Mexico City. Per ESPN, women’s basketball debuted in the 1976 Olympics and Harris scored

the first basket of the competition in the Montreal Games, leading the United States to a silver medal as its leading scorer and rebounder. In 1977, Harris made history again when she was selected by the New Orleans Jazz with the 137th pick of the 1977 NBA draft; the first-ever woman to be drafted to the NBA. Due to her pregnancy, she never reported to training camp or played with the team but still remains the only woman ever to be officially drafted by an NBA team. Harris did play for the Houston Angels of the now-defunct Women’s Professional Basketball League (WBL). She is also a member of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame and several other Halls including the International Women’s Sports Hall of Fame and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. For more on the life and career of Lusia “Lucy” Harris, visit the following sites: - https://www.wbhof.com/famers/ stewart/ - https://www.theblacksportswoman. com /the-dominant-lusia-harris/ - https://www.blackpast.org/africanamerican-history/harris-lusia-1955/#:~:text=In%201992%20 Harris%20and%20former,Woman’s%20Sports%20Hall%20of%20 Fame. It’s important to note that Dallas Skyline’s own Donnie F. Wilson is also listed as an executive producer on the documentary, The Queen of Basketball. January 21, 2022

Delta Sigma Theta President, Cheryl A. Hickmon, passes From Staff Reports Texas Metro News

The national president of one of the nation’s oldest sororities comprised of Black professional women, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., died Thursday morning after a brief illness, the organization announced. Cheryl A. Hickmon, who also was chairwoman of the sorority’s National Board of Directors, had suffered from an unspecified condition, according to the organization’s announcement, which was posted on its official Facebook page. “The entire sisterhood of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated mourns the loss of President Hickmon,” the statement read. “During this difficult time, we ask that you respect her family’s privacy and keep them in your prayers. Dallas-area resident Elsie Cooke-Holmes, who serves as the sorority’s national first vice

Cheryl A. Hickmon

president, had assumed duties during Hickmon’s illness. Ms. Cooke-Holmes is a member of the Dallas Alumnae chapJanuary 21, 2022

ter and could not be reached at the organization’s Washington, D.C. national office Thursday afternoon. Spokespersons for the national office of the sorority were unavailable. Delta Sigma Theta was founded as a community service Greek-letter organization by 22 students at historically

About Cheryl A. Hickmon A native of Hartford, Connecticut, she was elected the National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., in November 2021. Cheryl is currently a member of the Hartford Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and was initiated through the Al-

Cheryl A. Hickmon

Black Howard University in 1913. The same year, members of the sorority - all African American women - marched with white peers in the women’s suffrage march in Washington, D.C. The organization has since grown to include more than 100,000 active college-educated women who are committed to uplifting Black communities and people by conducting voter registration drives, raising scholarship funds, hosting health awareness events and promoting the arts, among other services.

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pha Xi Chapter at South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, South Carolina. For 39 years, she has been a continuously active and involved member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and has held numerous elected and appointed leadership positions at the National, Regional, and Local levels of leadership. Some of the positions in which she has served Delta are: National First Vice President, National Secretary, Eastern Regional Director, South Atlantic Regional Representative, Co-Chair of the National

Scholarship and Standards Committee, Co-Chair of the National Leadership Academy, Co-Chair of the National Documents Review and Revision Task Force, and Chapter President of the Hartford Alumnae and Alpha Xi Chapters. Professionally, Cheryl is employed at Montefiore’s Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Health (Hartsdale, New York), a division of the Montefiore Medical Center and a teaching hospital of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Cheryl supervises the In Vitro Fertilization Laboratories for Andrology and Endocrinology. She is a licensed Clinical Laboratory Technologist and has worked in the Reproductive Medical Laboratory for more than 30 years. Cheryl is highly skilled and experienced in the specialties of Andrology and Endocrinology and states that one of her greatest joys is assisting couples with the gift of children. Cheryl shared her skills and services to the communities in which she lived via the NAACP, NCNW, National Brotherhood of Skiers, and St. Monica’s Episcopal Church. She is the daughter of the late Dr. Ned Hickmon of Hartford, CT and Bishopville, South Carolina and the late Consuella Anderson Hickmon of Hartford, CT and Cincinnati, Ohio, and she has two older brothers Ned and David Hickmon with whom she is very close. She lived her life by the motto ... “Don’t measure life by the number of breaths you take but by the number of moments that take your breath away.” myimessenger.com

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January 21, 2022

SB 8 abortion law stands as 5th Circuit sends case to Texas Supreme Court, plaintiffs expect delays The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling sending Whole Woman’s Health vs. Jackson, a limited challenge to Texas’ Senate Bill 8, the most restrictive abortion law in the nation, to the Texas Supreme Court was criticized by plaintiffs Tuesday, a move they say will only delay the outcome. The plaintiffs say sending it to the Texas Supreme Court instead of the federal district court will prevent a decision and ultimately delay relief. “The 5th Circuit has once again defied a Supreme Court ruling and delayed a reckoning on SB 8. As a result, Texans will continue to have to travel hundreds of miles to access abortion care, and those without means to do so will be forced to continue their pregnancies,” said Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights. “There is now no end in sight for this injustice that has been allowed to go on for almost five months,” Northup said. Since Senate Bill 8 was enacted on Sept. 1, abortions have been cut by approximately 50% according to one study done in October. Some women have crossed state lines to obtain abortions after six weeks, as The Dallas Morning News reported some traveling to Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Arkansas and Louisiana. The primary case challenging the new law was argued before the U.S. Supreme Court on Nov. 1, and the ruling on Dec. 10 allowed SB 8 to stand while allowing some challenges to continue, but with a limited scope of who could be sued. January 21, 2022

Democratic colleagues surround State Rep. Donna Howard (in orange) after she challenged Republican sponsors of SB 8 the fetal "heartbeat" bill Wednesdaiy in the Texas House. The bill passed second reading, 8163 and is scheduled for a final vote that would send it to Governor Greg Abbott's desk. Credit: Bob Daemmrich / Daemmrich/CapitolPressPhoto

Monday’s decision sends the case to the Texas Supreme Court to determine whether or not SB 8 would allow state licensing officials to discipline or take away medical licensing from doctors who violate the six-week ban on abortions. Defendants argue that the question requires certification in Texas because it is a question of state law, not federal law.

The question before the state Supreme Court is: “Whether Texas law authorizes the Attorney General, Texas Medical Board, the Texas Board of Nursing, the Texas Board of Pharmacy, or the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, directly or indirectly, to take disciplinary or adverse action of any sort against individuals or entities

‘There is now no end in sight for this injustice,’ Center for Reproductive Rights CEO says. Plaintiffs say sending it to the Texas Supreme Court will only delay the outcome. Texas is arguing that the question regarding state medical licensing officials must be certified in the state Supreme Court because it is a question of state law. If the court decides to accept the case, it will go back to the 5th Circuit and then back to lower federal courts.

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that violate the Texas Heartbeat Act.” On the three-judge panel, one circuit judge, Stephan Higginson disagreed with the majority opinion stating “by granting the defendants’ certification motion, we contravene the Supreme Court’s mandate, effectively telling the Court that

its opinion was advisory.” David Coale, an appellate lawyer in Dallas, explained that the process at the Texas Supreme Court will not necessarily be speedy. “There’s no way this is going to move that fast, even if it went back to the district court, the district court would have to send it to the circuit court, there would be stays, and of course in the background is this U.S. Supreme Court case that may overrule Roe entirely in five months,” he said. “I can’t imagine any court really wanting to jump out there in front of Dobbs unless they absolutely have to.” During oral arguments on Jan. 7, Judge Edith Jones, a conservative appointee, asked Marc Hearron, lead attorney for the plaintiffs, if the case would be “alive or dead” after the Supreme Court rules on another case, Dobbs vs. Jackson, a Mississippi case that directly challenges Roe vs. Wade, the case from Texas that legalized abortion in 1973. A decision is expected on Dobbs in June. “What happens when the Supreme Court, if the Supreme Court, as many expect, says something about Roe vs. Wade that implies that Senate 8's prohibition on abortions after heartbeat? Maybe? What happens then?” Jones asked Hearron. Hearron referenced the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that already said that the case “should enter appropriate relief without delay.” The Texas Supreme Court could announce its decision to accept or deny the case as soon as Friday. myimessenger.com

IN MEMORIAM

Debra Hoard Jones Debra Hoard Jones was the first born to the union of Claudia and Arthur Owen on November 7, 1953. A brother and two sisters completed the family. Debra Kaye joined church at an early age in the Lubbock Community. The family moved to Dallas, Texas in 1969. Debra Kaye enjoyed school, graduated from Pinkston High School and entered the Xerox Corporation Marketing Education Center, working in Customer Service inhouse and in the field. Possibly her first national ad was an AT&T commercial while working at Xerox, where the modeling and fascination with couture designer brands was born. The positive attitude she always attributed to her upbringing. Debra Kaye had a very uncrushable spirit. Full figure models were not fully recognized in any

market statewide, but Debra Kaye persevered. Late in the 70's, Ebony Fashion Fair announced their annual lineup to 49 cities highlighting a 'Size 14 Cover Girl Model'. Dallas was very proactive. Debra Kaye was the first professional full figure model for

The Kim Dawson Modeling Agency and the rest is history. Debra Kaye was a natural to the world of glamor, high fashion, excellence in poise and love for beautiful clothes. In the Ester Davis Showroom, where we special-

ized in African American designs and designers, she was tops in sales with buyers, specialty boutiques and classic ladies-of-distinction. She worked for State Representative Helen Giddings for many years and enjoyed immensely her work with the communities solving problems. Debra Kaye's work as a DIFFA Board Member brought new light to the organization and her beloved African American myimessenger.com

community was the beneficiary of her style and expertise. Debra Kaye and her husband, Fred Jones (Jones 2000) entered entrepreneurship out of a need for more awareness, hands on engagement with youth and community outreach. Debra Kaye leaves to mourn her life, a loving husband of 28 eight years, Dr. Fred A. Jones, and Fred's sister, Crystal Doughman (Tom) of Cleveland, Ohio; one brother, Arthur Owen (Carroll); sisters, Demetra Forshee and Lydia Wyatt (Clarence); three sons, Michaelon Hoard, Brandon Hoard (Natasha), and Kourtney Hoard (Jai); six grandchildren, Dhakirah Hoard, Kharizmah Hoard, A'riyan Hoard, Akyrie Hoard, Aniyah Green, and Dylan Hoard; nephews, Chad Forshee, Colby Forshee, Nicholas Doughman, Mendus Forshee, and Frank E. Forshee; nieces, Bella Forshee and Leaha Forshee. Debra Kaye had a mighty host of friends, clients, and former students. January 21, 2022

Healthy Living Expo educates, entertains and vaccinates

Photos by Charles "CITY" Gbadebo

At the 5th Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo, where Dr Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy is celebrated annually at the African American Museum, there was steady flow as everyone adhered to safety precautions while enjoying good food, entertainment, sessions dedicated to healthy living, financial literacy, voter education and registration.

Queen

Dr. Brianna Brown and Dr. Alex Brumfield

Photos credit: Charles "CITY" Gbadebo and Marva Sneed

Adapt-Able Scuba

Adaptive Foundation

Amye Thompson Hollins

Black Enlightenment

Foremost Family Health Centers

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Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo 22

Judge Raquel Rocky Jones

Judge Tammy Kemp

Judge Valencia Nash

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Mabel's Afro Beads

Terry, Kena and Andrew

Dr. Stacia Alexander

Mother Earth Natural Baked Goods

Pecan Pies & Treatz owner Joni Gilmore

Paws of Hartz

Vendor Room 1

Queen Abenu

Smo-Quiche Chef Cheron Sneed

Tracie Shelby

Motorcycle Riders and MOCCA

Nena's Finds

Dr. Marvin Dulaney

Family

Family Affair

Dr. Harry Robinson And Eva Coleman

Little Aimee Better Shot

Lankford Avenue

McShann And Smith

Brandon Jones of Comerica Bank

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myimessenger.com African American Museum Staff Members

CBS II's Steve Pickett Live

Mocca

Katrice Hardy of the Dallas Morning News

Leah Frazier

Call issued to Support Black Businesses Buy Black!

Dr. Frederick D.Haynes III

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

ESPORTS NETWORK, INC.

of Engineering. Jacob is the past president of National Association of Multi-Ethnicity in Communications and member of National Association of Television Programming Executives, Licensing International Merchandising Association and Toy Manufacturers Association. Located at 129 S. Main St. Suite 260 in Grapevine, find out more by listening to www. esportsfpn.com.

Jacob R. Miles, III is CEO of MAP Esports Network. an integrated multimedia esports and video game network. He is an award winning entrepreneur, Esports Executive, original Kenner Star Wars Engineer; and Media, Entertainment and Toy Industry Analyst. He attended the University of Cincinnati School

WARNING RADIO

January 21, 2022

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Warning Radio - KVWR-95.5FM is “The Peoples Station.”There’s also the Warning Weekly monthly newsletter that you can subscribe to at warningradio.

com or by calling 214-371-3464. Online DIsk Jockeys are Veno, Goodie Ray and V.I.P. There’s more exciting news to come. Warning Radio also supports local artists by encouraging them to send their original music to: goodieray@warningradio.com. Currently serving southwest Dallas County, the signal will be stronger in the very near future and the content will be something you will look forward to tuning in to 24-7 for Gospel, R&B, Hip-Hop and Underground. According to the owner, Warning Radio is “Bringing Radio Back!” Lock in 95.5 on your dial!

THE ZEIGLER AGENCY

The Zeigler Agency (Allstate Insurance Agency) in Frisco, TX is owned by Chris Zeigler. Opened in August 2015 to provide superior customer service, Chris is also the owner of Jazz 3 Salons and sas previously been recognized as a top manager with several companies. A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the student government association when he attended Grambling State University where he graduated with a BA in management, he also received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, management and Operations from Philander Smith College. Chris has myimessenger.com

been recognized in Who’s Who in Black Dallas; Contact Zeigler Agency in Frisco for all your Auto, Home and Financial needs. Call 469-535-2500

CEDAR CREST DEVELOPMENT COMPANY L.LC

Dr. David L. Willis is the managing partner of Cedar Crest Development Company L.LC, where he has consulted or developed over $450 million in new real estate development/ construction. He grew up in West Texas and attended West Texas State University where at the age of 26 he was also the youngest Head Men/Women’s Track Coach in Division I. A life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity; Dr. Willis received a BS degree from West Texas A&M University and a Doctorate in Divinity from Trinity International Seminary. He has almost 20 years of experience with HUD Programs in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Cedar Crest Development Company LLC 1412 Main St., Suite 1000 Dallas, Texas 75202 dwillis@rei-development 469-774-8011

Awards and 1 Grio Award. Showcasing a dynamic Black programming lineup. BCTV has been developing the most responsible views of Black culture in the country. Hidden Colors, the Willis Johnson Show, Black News, original Black movies produced right in Dallas and are all exclusive to BCTV. If you have a ROKU box BCTV is under the streaming channels at Black Contemporary Television Check them out at www.bctv. tv.

IMPACT PERFORMANCE GROUP, INC

KANARYS Impact Performance Group, Inc. works with major investors utilizing public and private capital to develop Healthcare and Commercial Projects. Over the past 35 years, CEO Don Lee has completed more than $3.5 Billion Dollars in Commercial Real Estate and technology related projects. Leadership, enthusiasm, vision, and a recognized ability to execute opportunities are characteristics that have marked his successful career. Don is routinely invited to speak about the benefits of diversity in a rapidly evolving and global economy. Today, IPG operates throughout the South Western Region of the United States, with offices in Texas, Louisiana, and North Carolina.

EVENTS BY KENNA

THE JWE GROUP

The JwE Group was founded in 1979 by businessman Joe Walker as a strategic positioning, community relations, public affairs, consulting, branding and outreach firm. Joe Walker chaired the Lone Star CRA Fund and Lone Star Opportunities Fund V. JwE is credited with helping to bring home equity lending to Texas. Joe provided consulting service to Texas Instruments Minority Women Business Development and Corporate Affairs Programs. JwE also did extensive work with the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, the oldest and largest African American Chamber of Commerce in the nation. Call 214-522-3637

BLACK CONTEMPORARY TELEVISION

Dale Smith is the founder of Black Contemporary Television. With more than 30 years of experience in television, production, distribution, advertising and strategic AV social media planning, Dale is an award-winning journalist; bringing home 11 Telly myimessenger.com

Bennie King founded VenueCenter, an online platform that modernized and changed the way consumers and planners approach the event planning and booking process. His new venture which he cofounded is Kanarys, a technology platform that fosters collaboration between companies and employees to improve Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and bring about lasting change. We help companies get the specific data and insights they need to diagnose, prioritize, and optimize DEI efforts by facilitating transparency and providing a safe, anonymous way for empldoyees to let their voices be heard. Born in Dallas, Mr. King attended Skyline High School and graduated from the University of Texas where he became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Interested in Improving DEI at your Company? Email. companypartners@kanarys.com. Check out website at www.kanarys.com

Events by Kenna is a full-service event planning, management and production company dedicated to creating exceptional events with thoughtful detail and dedicated customer service. Kenna Roundtree Williams is the Chief Experience Officer for Events by Kenna. Events by Kenna handles a wide range of corporate, nonprofit and social events, including the Galas/Fundraising Events, Conferences/ Meetings, Corporate Retreats, Award Shows, Teambuilding Events, Seminars, Trade Shows, Golf Tournaments, Sporting Events, Festivals and more! Reach out to Kenna at www.https://eventsbykenna. com/ or call 214-497-9948 January 21, 2022

BLACK SANDS ENTERTAINMENT

Founded by two Army veterans, Black Sands Entertainment , is the number one indie Blackowned comic publisher in the nation and has the infrastructure and discipline to scale rapidly into a multimillion dollar brand with the publishing of unique titles; which began a little over five years ago. They recently appeared on Shark Tank, showcasing the talents and skills of Manuel and Geiszel Godoy. They walked away with a deal that included two Sharks: entertainer, comedian and businessman Kevin Hart and billionaire owner of the Dallas Mavs, Mark Cuban. With its own animation studio, Black Sands is growing and they are also hiring. Check them out at https://www.blacksandsentertainment.com/

HYLTON HOMES REALTY

Hylton Homes Realty is considered the “top Dallas Realtor web site servicing the DFW Metroplex and surrounding areas in greater Dallas County!” Specializing in Dallas area homes for sale, Realtor Kristen Price says she will work tirelessly on your behalf to make your next home buying or home selling experience a pleasant and successful one. Joined by fellow realtor Chastity Hylton, Kristen is a member of the National January 21, 2022

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Association of Realtors and must act according to and abide by a specific code of ethics, which guarantees the optimum level of service for your real estate needs when buying or selling a home. Check them out at www.hyltonhomesralty. com. Located at 6429 Seco Blvd, Dallas, TX 75217, give them a call at Phone: (214) 802-0038.

BOV DESIGNS

bouquets; event design; and event rental that include an additional hour for set up and clean up, wifi, access to a tv, speaker and microphone. Amber also provides the Balloon Bcademy so you can become your own boss, designing balloon displays. Check out the site at www. airdesignsdfw.org

AIR DESIGNS GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Serving clients since 2015 at BOV Design Event Studio, Svonnie Trailer says she can transform any space into a masterpiece. Recently launched in the DFW area from her home base in Louisiana, she’s also looking for event venues, photographers and MUAs as she builds her team. They have done events from small intimate parties, weddings, birthday parties, baby/ bridal showers, proms and much more. Under the direction of Ms. Trailer, the team is made up of “hard working, professional, well-trained individuals that work well under any type of pressure.” And get this, “Smiling and friendly faces are required!” There’s also a Girls Mentoring Program, Balloon Design Class and more. Check them out at www.myblessedbyvon.com or call 337-212-4611.

AIR DESIGNS

Air Designs is a perfect event space for private dinners up to 50 people. Created by Amber Brown, who had a passion for planning her children’s birthdays, Air Designs is located at 6407 Brentwood Stair Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76112. Air Designs has affordable packages for Balloon Art: from balloon garlands to balloon

Allyson Rhodes is a freelance graphic designer and photographer, with a passion for photography and design AIR Designs is dedicated to delivering creative and effective visual design. From corporate boardrooms to family portraits, from nonprofits to large companies – AIR Designs can work with you on your next design or photography project. If there was one word to describe Allyson’s work, it would be “passion.” She is passionate about the work she produces and the results she provides her clients. Check out her website at airgraphicdesign.com and reach her at allyson@airgraphicdesign.com or 214929-3342.

BRANDON BROWN

Brandon Brown is #anotheronetvservices. He’s showing his work on social media. Brandon prides himself on getting in, taking care of business and getting out, on to the next client. He’s on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/groups/935495459851576/ user/100000542202148/ myimessenger.com

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January 21, 2022

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A ward W inning

Sunday Brunch B U F F E T

M a k e Yo u r R e s e r v a t i o n s TO DAY ! 97 2 - 2 9 6 - 0 4 0 3

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January 21, 2022

Metro Community Calendar January 2022 20 Happy Birthday Sanko Prioleau Chocolate and Art Show Dallas at Lofty Spaces, 816 Montgomery St. Dallas. Chocolate And Art Show is Back. Indulge yourself in some of Dallas’ finest up-and-coming artists, photographers, and creators! 8 pm. Tickets: https://bit. ly/3GQ3uP3. Greater Keller Chamber Diversity & Inclusion Council for the first mixer of 2022! At Soul Fire Brewing Co. 206 N. Oak St. Suite 180, Roanoke. http://soulfirebrewing.com/

the Celebration of Champions Parade or sponsorship, contact Ken Carter at kencarter@focuspr.com or call (214) 7441431. 10 am to 12:30 pm. 777 Main St. Dallas. Meet Judge Paula Rosales at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Senator Royce West in support of Judge Paula Rosales’ re-election campaign. Special appearances from Judge Thomas G. Jones, Honorable Diane Ragsdale, and Reverend Dr. Michael G. Waters. RSVP to campaign@judgerosales.com 6-7:30 pm.

Jan 23 Happy Birthday Jessica Hayden

The Vin Collective: Bottles, Bites, & Binge-Worthy - Featuring Diana Bandoh. Tickets and Location: https://bit.ly/3DtmkbU Black & Bitter Coffee Presents Poetry On The Patio by Mike Guinn Ent at Black & Bitter Coffee and Books 100 South Main Street #101c, Duncanville. 8-10 pm Tickets: https://bit.ly/3262g2N Dallas Black Dance Theatre presented by DeSoto Parks and Recreation Department. DBDT: Encore! is under the artistic direction of Nycole Ray. The dancers appear to levitate across the stage as they perform Opaque, a mysterious and majestic work as well as Spiritual Suite which will stir your soul. 7 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3FE5rwm

Jan 29

8 am to 11 am

All DAQ Jazz The Perfect Date Night at DAQs Luxury Lounge, 8700 Preston Rd. Plano. Live Music and Dinner every Friday night beginning at 7 to 10 pm. Charles Ledbetter on Sax. Reservations Strongly Encouraged: http://www.daqsallfolks. com/

21 – 29

Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration & Peace March - City of Cedar Hill, Texas – Government Center, 285 Uptown Blvd. 3 pm. S and S Premier Presents A Pop Up Shop experience fit for all Kings, Queens, Prince & Princess at Eleven86 Real Artesian Water, 206 W. 6th St. Ferris. 12 to 6 pm. Vendors contact Jay at 972-786-2010.

Little Women, Brodie Copeland Theatre at Willow Bend Center of the Arts, 6121 W Park Blvd, Ste. B216, Plano, (Jan 21, 7 pm; Jan 22, 1 pm & 7 pm; Jan 22, 2 pm; Jan 27, 7 pm; Jan 28, 7 pm; Jan 29, 1 pm & 7 pm)

Jan 30

Jan 25 Happy Birthday Bethany Sargent

Jan 22 Arlington Foodies Farmers Market Birthday Celebration, celebrating three years of Arlington Foodies Farmers Market! Live performances in the Gazebo and CAKE! At 3206 Smith Barry Rd, Pantego. 6 to 9 pm.

Neo Soul Day Party at Michael’s of Las Colinas, 925 W. John Carpenter Fwy. #100, Irving. Tickets: https://bit.ly/32ATme5

Valentine’s Pop-Up Expo + Day Party at Illusion Event Center, 1201 W Camp Wisdom Rd, Suite 340C Dallas. Enjoy some great music, eat some good food and sip on some tasty drinks while you shop and socialize. This event will have some of DFW’s best small business owners. 1-5 pm.

Feb 12, 8 pm Miss Dee’s Kitchen by Award Winning Producer/Director Snoop Robinson at TBAAL, 1309 Canton St. Tickets: http:// snooprobinson.com/index.html

Feb 26, 9 am Frozen - Let it GO!, Dallas Drone Racing, 2304-2312 Sandy Lake Rd, Carrollton Erykah Badu at The Factory In Deep Ellum by Music Concerts Online. Attendees must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of the event OR full COVID-19 vaccination prior to entry for live events at The Factory in Deep Ellum and/or The Studio at the Factory. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Concert from 8 to 11 pm.

Feb 27 1 pm to 5 pm Dallas Stars vs. Buffalo Sabres, American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas

Jazz Brunch & Paint by In Living Colour. Dallas this is going to be fun! A weekly paint party that caters to Black Culture! In Living Colour, 4050 McEwen Rd. Building 8 suite 8103, Farmers Branch. 2 to 4 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3Ic7TMh

Mardi Gras Oak Cliff Parade, the 2022 Mardi Gras Oak Cliff parade route runs along Davis St. from Nova (near Kessler Theater) into the heart of Bishop Arts. 4 to 6 pm. Interested in participating in the parade? Sign-up here: https://bit. ly/3KhMJOI.

February 2022

MARCH 2022

Feb 5, 7 to 11 pm

Mar 19, 6 to 9 PM

Jan 26-29

8 am to 10 pm. CST Denton Black Film Festival. The Denton Black Film Festival returns this January with a virtual festival

Patton Oswalt Live: Who's Ready to Laugh? Majestic Theater, 1925 Elm St, Dallas

Kaleo in concert, The Pavilion At Toyota Music Factory, 300 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving

Jan 27

2022 Citywide SOC Celebration of Champions Parade, by SOC Alumni Bear Cave. The Celebration of Champions Parade Committee is excited to announce its partnership with the City of Dallas and the Office of the Mayor for the 2022 Citywide Celebration of Champions Parade honoring Dallas South Oak Cliff High School and their historic football state championship victory! To participate in

January 21, 2022

Artist Therapy Thursdays featuring Mary J Blige. Part of the Sip-n-paint collection by In Living Colour Paint and Sip Studio. Treat yourself to a Day of Paint, Good Music, Great People and Good Vibes Only! In Living Colour, 4050 McEwen Rd. Building 8 Suite 8103, Farmers Branch. 6 to 8 pm. Tickets: https://bit. ly/3KfAXo3

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Jan 28 6:30 to 9 pm

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Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by JANUARY 2022

Travel Indoors! (Black Travel Summit Digital Sessions) by Black Travel Summit. Instagram Live monthly digital sessions with a variety of Black travel influencers, Black ski groups, Digital Nomads, and more discussing a variety of topics to get you traveling more, for less. Reg: https:// bit.ly/3eJozhu 12pm CST

Happy Birthday Sanko Prioleau Beyond Washington Online event broadcast via Facebook Live. @ Mosaic Templars Cultural Center 6 to 7:30 pm CST Let's Talk... Conversations on Race, Equity, & Belonging by Chantelle Fitzgerald. Multiple dates. Online event Reg: https://bit.ly/3pRYxiB 4 to 5:30 pm CST

21 The Art of Racial Healing: Public Policy and Its Role in Racial Justice. Online event by Arkansas Peace and Justice Memorial Movement, Osyrus Bolly and Kwami Abdul-Bey. Osyrus Bolly will be discussing his work in the public policy sector and how students can get involved. 6 pm CST. Reg: https:// www.facebook.com/APJMM2019

22 Native Conversations: Early Colonial Settlement and the First Deeds -- Facebook Live to explore the interconnected relationships between the Dutch, Swedes, English and Algonkian peoples in their respective regions/colonies, with Drew Shuptar-Rayvis. @MuseumOfNativeAmericanHistory. Reg: https://bit.ly/3FQP0xx 11 am to 12 pm Together We Vaccinate by Project Unity, Project Unity is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our communities. Like many other organizations helping on the vaccine effort, we want us all to return to a sense of normalcy. Held at, Balch Springs Civic Center, 12400 Elam Rd. For ages 5 and up. 10 am to 2 pm Reg: https://bit.ly/3v1bDem

Arlington Black Chamber January General Meeting & Business Exchange at Tu-Chi Social Club of Arlington, 2525 E. Arkansas Ln, Suite #253, Arlington. 6 to 8 pm. Tickets: bit.ly/ ABCCJan2022. Be sure to bring plenty of Business Cards.

2022 DFW Chapter Kickoff- A Promise Kept, hosted by the National Black MBA Association - DFW Chapter in the SMU, Crum Auditorium, Collins Executive Bldg. 3150 Binkley Ave. Register at https://bit.ly/3eMNGQq 10 am to 1:30 pm

Together We Vaccinate by Project Unity, Project Unity is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our communities. Like many other organizations helping on the vaccine effort, we want us all to return to a sense of normalcy. Held at, St. Luke Community United Methodist Church 5710 E R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas. 11:30 am to 2:30 pm Reg: https://bit.ly/3v1bDem

MLK Celebration and Peace March by City of Cedar Hill. A special tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. King followed by a community peace march in honor of the civil rights movement and unity. 3 pm. At Cedar Hill Government Center 285 Uptown Blvd.*TENTATIVE DATE* Happy birthday Jessica Hayden

30 Octavia E. Butler Slow Read, a slow read of Octavia E. Butler’s body of work, hosted by Njeri. Online event tickets: https://bit. ly/332Qc2E 12 noon to 1:30 pm CST

Online event. Instructor: Jaymi Dormaier, LMSW. Facebook live @MindspringMentalHealthAlliance 12 noon to 1 pm

4 Panel–Reviving the Black Cooperative Intentional Community Movement Online event by Reviving the Black Cooperative Movement. 6 to 7:30 pm. Reg: https://www.ic.org/event/reviving-black-ics-panel/

6 Women of Color Devotional “Get Together” 1st Sunday Eveers, writers, and editors of the Women of Color Daily Devotionals for a great time at our monthly “Get Together” Info: www. urbanspirit.biz 6 to 7 pm.

12 Together We Vaccinate by Project Unity, Project Unity is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our communities. Like many other organizations helping on the vaccine effort, we want us all to return to a sense of normalcy. Held at, Balch Springs Civic Center, 12400 Elam Rd. For ages 5 and up.

FEBRUARY

Happy birthday Bethany Sargent

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Small Businesses are you interested in doing business with the City of Arlington? You don’t want to miss this FREE matchmaking event from 1-4 pm CST. Register here if you have the proper NAICS code: https://lnkd.in/etAk_Jg7. You MUST have a capability statement to participate. If you need assistance developing a capability statement, please email spelile.rivas@uta.edu for a FREE one-on-one development session.

26 The Denton Black Film Festival returns with a hybrid festival. Campus Theatre, 214 W Hickory St, Denton.

1 Journey through African American History, by Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission. By popular demand, the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission will present and encore presentation of The Arkansas African-American History Makers Virtual experience moderated by legendary Hip-Hop announcer, M.C. Lyte. @AMLKC on Facebook. 12 pm.

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Understanding Oppositional Defiant Disorder [Free Webinar]

nings by Urban Spirit Publishing and Media Company. Read-

Let’s Talk... Conversations on Race, Equity, & Belonging by Chantelle Fitzgerald. Multiple dates. Online event Reg: https:// bit.ly/3pRYxiB 4 to 5:30 pm CST Watch Party! Network Like You Mean It with The Career Mavericks with Alysha M. Campbell, and Jessica Sinclair by U.S. Black Chambers Community Economic Development Corporation, online event. Reg: https://bit.ly/3qJ2J3o 1 to 2 pm CST

Preparing for Cognitive Incapacity: Why it’s Important and the Nightmares you Risk - Free webinar. Reg: https://bit. ly/3pNFXYX Presenter: Rex Hogue, Attorney & Partner Haiman+Hogue, PLLC, 10 to 11:30 am

10 am to 1 pm. Reg: https://bit.ly/3v1bDem

15 Understanding PTSD [Free Webinar] Online event. Instructor: Jaymi Dormaier, LMSW. Facebook live @MindspringMentalHealthAlliance 12 noon to 1 pm

20-22 Tracing African Jamaican Roots: Secrets of 1817 Slave Registers Uncovered, by Ancestry Talks with Paul Crooks. Blending Black ancestry with Black history. Paul Crooks reveals how he used the 1817 Slave Register trace his ancestry and bring his back story to life. 1 to 2 pm. Booking Information: https:// paulcrooks.info/black-genealogy-online-events

January 21, 2022

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January 21, 2022

ARRESTED

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

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

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

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477 January 21, 2022

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