I Messenger 1-28-22 by Cheryl Smith

I MESSENGER VOL XI NO 22 JANUARY 28, 2022

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority salutes members! 50 Year Honorees

Dr. Jennifer Butler Wimbish

Honorable Faith Simmons Johnson

Gwender LiasBaskett

Kathy Campbell

Patricia Godfrey

Beverly A. Tutt

Cynthia Nickleberry

Dr. Patricia Ann Smith

Antoinette Simmons

Carolyn L. Bailey

Dr. Sharon L. Blackman

Mary CrowellRandolph

Catherine Sue Coleman

Running for Change

Amye Thompson Hollins

These are the times!

Cheryl Hickmon and Cheryl Smith

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 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR editor@myimessenger.com www.myimessenger.com

Let’s hear it for SPUD! NBA great Spud Webb is the pride of Wilmer Hutchins High School and at halftime, during the Wilmer Hutchins vs. Lincoln High School Tuesday night, his Jersey was retired. Currently the President of Basketball Operations for the Texas Legends, on the court Webb is probably most remembered for winning the 1986 Slam Dunk Contest, defeating teammate Dominique Wilkins of the Atlanta Hawks; during the All Star weekend that was held in Dallas. Today, he still holds the title as the dunk contest’s shortest winner at 5’7”. He’s also still wellloved and admired for his philanthropy, commitment to youth and support of his community/school.

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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. Photos by Lola Gomez, The Dallas Morning News

January 28, 2022

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INSIDE

QUIT PLAYIN’

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

My electricity went out on Saturday. As I scanned the outage map on my phone, there were many homes in different communities who lost their power as well. The intense winds contributed to some power lines being down. It was a reminder of the Snowmaggeden experience that happened last year.

p12

p40

In Memoriam NBA great, Kobe Bryant, and others died in plane crash January 26, 2020.

Kobe and Gianna Bryant, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester and Ara Zobayan

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January 28, 2022

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

These are the times! I met my sorority sister Cheryl Hickmon when she was a regional representative of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. During the time we spent together it wasn’t an easy time because we were gathered in Dallas, TX for the national convention and several sorors were on a plane traveling to the convention when Delta Airlines Flight 191 crashed. So many lives were lost. As we tried to continue with convention activities and Delta business, the times were challenging and very emotional as we also waited to hear information about the condition of Dr. Kathleen Cooper Wright, the current Southern Regional Director, who was injured on the flight and later transitioned. I recall it being a tough time. It was a similar feeling this week when the news came of the passing of now President Cheryl Hickmon. Yes, from the time she was initiated at South Carolina State University, to this day, Soror Cheryl rose through the ranks; leading January 28, 2022

Cheryl Hickmon and Cheryl Smith

on so many fronts only to have her silenced as she prepared to take our wonderful sisterhood to higher heights. Soror President Cheryl did good work as a Delta and even more for humanity. It was devastating news to hear. Following a rich legacy, anticipation would be a good word to describe how many were feeling about the Hickmon reign and where she would lead

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our precious sisterhood and communities internationally. I received calls, texts and emails from all over. Many know how Deltas love our sorority and our sisters. After a long day, the next day I got a call that Linda Barrett Neal had passed. A realtor and community servant, Linda was such a beautiful and caring person. I would contact Linda often, especially since last

summer after the death of her only child, Nicole Barrett. I tried to follow the directives of so many pastors who said “be there for the family” after time goes on and people go their merry ways. So I made contact with Linda frequently. I know she missed her daughter immensely and she was also dealing with challenging health conditions. I was saddened by her death and tried to think myimessenger.com

Linda Barrett Neal

Clif Sneed

positive thoughts as the next day I made my way to the Hall of State for the visitation for a wonderful sister, Debra Jones.

Debra Jones

Like Cheryl and Linda, Debra touched so many lives in a positive way. She was a wonderful person who brought joy and a smile when she entered a room. She was about lifting as she climbed, helping to educate and enlighten our youth. As if there weren’t enough myimessenger.com

hits this week, another came as the week came to a close. When I was a young preteen running around the streets of East Orange, NJ with my friend Patrice, we’d often see two older men (well not really that old — maybe about five years older) Patrice’s brother Aundre and his friend Clif Sneed. Years later I arrived in Dallas, TX and Clif was already here so Aundre told him he’d better look me up. Clif loved to come by and take me to Outback Restaurants and I loved taking him to Black-owned restaurants for him to treat me! When he returned me home I would usually have the pleasure of teaching him new words during games of Scrabble. I won’t be obnoxious. I’ll just say we had some spirited contests that were usually won by the Wordmeister! Eventually Clif decided that we needed to diversify, so we included his wife Marva and later his assistant, Lori for games of

Spades and Bid Whist. Now I learned how to play Bid Whist at FAMU— it was actually the first “A” I received! Well, I would have received an A had it been a class! Still if you sat at my table, you usually didn’t win, unless you were my partner. So there were many times that I am sure when Clif, Marva and Lori were in the car traveling home they didn’t have nice things to say about me because in Spades and Bid Whist, they were grass and I was the lawn mower. We shared so many wonderful times together that I have to focus on those memories to help during the times when I have to take a heavy sigh; like Friday night when Clif transitioned. A flood of memories overtook me as I recalled him attending the Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thons and supporting me in whatever endeavors I undertook.

He remained true to his commitment to his “lil nappy-headed sister!” Forever, when I am playing Scrabble, Words with Friends, Spades or Bid Whist; I will remember the looks he gave me when I did what I do! Which brings me to my truth. Love is so beautiful. Life is so beautiful. Find the joy in life while you can. Find joy in the people you come into contact with because otherwise you may be missing out on someone very special. Granted, some people aren’t the joyful type, you say. Well, try ensuring that you aren’t that person! Don’t wait until it’s time to say goodbye to recognize great things about a person. Life will be so much better for you, based on how you view it! Thanks for the memories, Cheryl, Linda, Debra and Clif. January 28, 2022

Wazzup in Black History? QUIT PLAYIN’ BY VINCENT L. HALL

Well, it’s the last week of January and officially Black History Month. Now I know you don’t believe me. Some of us have a hard time believing anything White folks don’t validate often and overtly. So what! We can’t wait for February. Now that Republican governors canceled Critical Race Theory classes, you need as many heritage lessons as we can get you. Let’s begin this BHM (That’s Black History Month or Black History Matters, whichever you prefer) with the Martin show. You may have missed it, but Martin Lawrence and the crew officially started this institution three decades ago this year, We were invited to a snowy and cold Detroit to meet a loudmouthed disc jockey. Martin Lawrence became Martin Payne. As the headliner for WZUP, old “Marty Mar” had us all asking the same question. Whatz Up!? Martin commanded an audience that was about as raucous as he was. Lawrence brought in special guests like Billy Dee Williams to talk about love and Martin’s girlfriend, Gina in the early shows. His daily radio rants made his life transparent. We were privy to his close relationships with Tommy, Cole, and Pam. Martin Payne was never shy about revealing his place in life, love, or laughter. What made Martin a powerhouse was his ability to keep the scripts fresh. Unlike anyone before or since in network teleJanuary 28, 2022

vision, Martin Lawrence effectively created and played several different characters. He was his neighbor, Shenehneh Jenkins, his mother Edna Payne, and another snotty-nosed kid who lived nearby named Roscoe. Then there was the old security guard Otis; martial arts expert, Dragonfly Jones; and a White brother and co-worker of Gina’s named Bob.

But what cannot be ignored is the tremendous talent, and engaging energy Martin brought to each episode. Modern slapstick comics like Lucille Ball or Dick Van Dyke were never as agile and multi-faceted as Martin. he stunts, karate fights, and physical gyrations Martin put into each of his pseudo personalities, and caustic characters stimulate

Martin’s portrayal of the “playa from the Himalayas “Jerome is legendary. Martin became King Beef and the Black Elvis double, Elroy Preston. Many of his younger viewers don’t know how much controversy the show stirred. Several leaders were critical of Lawrence and others who dressed up as females “to get laughs.” Their position was that the American campaign to emasculate the Black male didn’t need any help. And, of course, something was brewing backstage on the set that finally killed the broadcast.

audiences in 2022, just as they did in 1992. Lots of comics have brought fellow craftspersons along. Redd Foxx is known for the fellow struggling comedians he introduced via Sanford and Son. However, Martin introduced differing facets of culture into his productions. He expanded on what he had seen done. OutKast, Notorious B.I.G., old stars from Blaxploitation movies like Pam Grier and Rudy Ray Moore resurfaced and gained new synergies and, even more significant, new opportunities. Martin

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used his spotlight to bring others into the light. Martin also left some iconic episodes that we can never forget. How about his funny re-enactment of the monumental table scene in the film New Jack City when his disc player came up missing? Or the one where his best friend Tommy and aggravating nemesis Pam hooked up? Martin was the “Love Doctor,” which almost got Cole killed! “Raw Dawg” challenged Thomas “The Get Hit Man” Hearns and did not fare well. Kid and the “Forever Shenehneh love ballad hold a place in our hearts…Forever! Martin averaged 11 million viewers weekly during the production of his Afrocentric experiment. The Cosby Show started almost 10 years before, but some Black critics shunned it. The Huxtable household, with its lawyer mom, doctor dad and a house full of kids in designer clothes was far-fetched. We loved the Cosbys because they lifted our status. We loved Martin because it lifted our spirits. One set was our dream home; the other was more like home! American history is much less appealing without Black folks. In every genre of music and every area of entertainment, our presence makes a difference. Martin Lawrence proved that in the five years his show ran and the 25 years it has been dominant in syndication. Martin was a work of genius, and if he were “White”…You fill in the blanks! Here’s to a pioneer in Black history and 30 years! Wazzup! Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.

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VOTE myimessenger.com

January 28, 2022

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January 28, 2022

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January 28, 2022

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January 28, 2022

Attitude of Gratitude FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW My electricity went out on Saturday. As I scanned the outage map on my phone, there were many homes in different communities who lost their power as well. The intense winds contributed to some power lines being down. It was a reminder of the Snowmaggeden experience that happened last year. I was frustrated because I was planning to speak at a virtual conference and there was nothing I could do about it. On top of that, my washer stopped working right before the lights went out. In the moment, I felt like why is this happening to me? I had an array of emotions but all I could do was sigh and do what I could. I could not allow my frustration to overwhelm me because it’s in those moments I’ve learned from the past that you can make decisions that are rushed and irrational. So often life brings challenges that are beyond our control. It’s easy to focus on the challenges around you instead of recognizing the goodness of God. We can January 28, 2022

become so fixated on what’s not working without being grateful for everything that is working. Inconveniences of life will happen, but will we allow those issues to jade all the good that we receive every day? In a world that focuses so often on what’s wrong, we can easily develop an attitude of seeing the glass half empty instead of half full. According to Harvard Health Publishing, “Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.” Greater Good Magazine of Berkely referenced a study that stated, “women who kept a gratitude journal where they wrote about “previously unappreciated people and things in their lives” for two weeks ended up with lower blood pressure than those who wrote about daily events…this and other results suggest that feeling gratitude can be good for healthy hearts.” When we wallow in our feelings, our heart health, and our spiritual health deal with consequences. As illustrated previously, there are consequences to our health but spiritually, if we are not

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careful, our hearts can become hardened because of disappointment. Disappointment can lead us to rely on ourselves more because at the core, we feel as if we can’t trust God or others. It’s okay to feel disappointment but we can not allow ourselves to be defined by it or the situations we face that cause us to feel frustrated, anxious, or afraid. So how do you have an attitude of gratitude even when the world seems to be falling apart? There are scriptures that can help us find the answers we need: • “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) No matter what we face, God wants us to find the good in what we go through. It isn’t to ignore the reality you face but it is knowing that our attitude can make a difference in getting through difficulties. • “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24) Every day we wake up on this side of the dirt is a gift. That calls for celebration that God has more for us to do. Let’s get to fulfilling our purpose and plan.

• “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Even when I experienced the power outage and my washer’s unwillingness to cooperate, I found myself praying. It’s in the moments that I’m learning that I can call family or a friend but why not reach out to the Creator who knew this was going to happen before I did? We are blessed with a new day every morning we wake up and each day, God gives us more chances, more grace, more mercy. If God can extend this to us, how can we make ourselves ready to receive these gifts? Yesterday was hard but today is a new day for good things to happen. Believe and Receive It! Let’s commit in 2022 to living our lives filled with gratitude. Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the Founder and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, specializing as a Partnership Broker and Leadership Expert for companies and organizations to thrive with measurable and meaningful impact. She also is the VP of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas.

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January 28, 2022

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TSU School of Business Advisory Council appointee Dallas business and community leader Ahmad Goree has been appointed to serve a three-year term on the Texas Southern University’s Jesse H. Jones School of Business Advisory Council. As a council member, Goree will play an important role in advising on strategic, operational, and financial direction of the school. Goree is a native of Dal-

las and currently works at the US Small Business Administration overseeing economic development activities across 72 Texas counties. He has served as an adjunct professor of government at Mountain View College and senior aide for business and commerce to State Senator Royce West. He most recently was honored by the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce

(the oldest Black Chamber in the nation) as it’s 2021 A. Maceo Smith Emerging Leader and was also a 2021 40 under 40 honoree by the Fort Worth Business Press. Read more about the TSU’s Business Advisory Council here: http://www. tsu.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/jesse-hjones-school-of-business/ about-jhj/advisory-council/index.html

TSU Regent Ron Price, TSU President Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, and TSU Business Advisory Council member Ahmad Goree

DART Extends Free Transit for Riders through February 6 Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has extended the free ride program for the New Bus Network through February 6. DART will also offer 50% off full-fare rides purchased with any contactless payment option from February 7 until end of service on February 21. Learn more about contactless payment methods at GoPass.org. Contactless payment options include:

• GoPass® app • GoPass® Tap card • Contactless Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards with contactless payment at the validators • Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, and more with contactless payment at the validators DART Paratransit services will be free from January 24 - February 6, and $1.00 from

February 7 - February 21. The DART New Bus Network Free and Reduced Rides promotions are valid on all DART transit services throughout the entire DART Service Area including buses, light rail, TRE (between EBJ Union Station and CentrePort/DFW Airport Station), GoLink, Dallas Streetcar, and Paratransit Services. With the goal of providing greater frequency, longer

service hours and improved access to destinations across North Texas, DARTs new bus network launched on January 24. The new bus system is designed to ensure passengers have quick and easy access to employment, education and entertainment destinations. More information about DART’s new bus network is available at dartzoom.org. https ://www.dart.org/ news/news.asp?ID=1624

ZWHJCOC OFFERS CLASSES IN HOW TO FIGHT AGAINST DEBT Avenues to fight against debt and how to prepare for retirement are topics for upcoming classes offered by the Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. Community Outreach Center. Nick Farley, a licensed insurance financial coach, will present both topics Feb. 3 and Feb. 10 at Frazier House, 4600 Spring Avenue. Sessions are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition to a discussion of these topics, one-on-one consultation sessions are planned to help participants work through the process toward creating wealth. The sessions will explore the following topics: • How to Create Smart & Safe myimessenger.com

Streams of Income • How to turn Compound Interest into a Safety Net for Retirement. • How to become Debt-free using Insurance policies • The Importance of having a Financial Coach vs. Insurance Agent • Secrets that the Insurance Industry doesn’t share. Farley has a Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Central Arkansas, a Masters and Doctorate from Covington Theological Seminary. He is a retired school superintendent; retired pastor; licensed insurance agent

and master financial coach. Farley is married with two grown daughters and three stepchildren. He is a former chaplain at a residential treatment center; has written 13 books and has toured the U.S. and several foreign coun-

tries conducting educational seminars. To register, go to www.zwhjcoc. org and click on Events > Classes. For more information, contact Jasmine Anderson at jasmine.anderson@zwhjcoc.org. January 28, 2022

January 28, 2022

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ZAN WESLEY HOLMES JR. COMMUNITY OUTREACH CENTER PRESENTS IN CONVERSATION WITH MARC MORIAL , NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE Title Sponsor:

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Warrior Lawyers Like Lani Guinier THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

The amazing attorney, law professor, lawyer, author, and activist made her transition on January 7, 2022, even as Black folks and our allies were engaged in the legislative battle to solidify our voting rights. In the middle of the struggle, a beacon, a woman who loved voting rights and fair representation more than life itself, was taken from us. Lani Guinier was a woman who turned chicken spit (or something) into chicken salad. In a unique act of personal and political betrayal, Former President Bill Clinton first nominated Guinier to be Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, then bowed to right-wing pressure to withdraw her nomination. If Guinier had her way, she would have preferred to defend her record against inaccurate attacks. Instead, she went on to write brilliant books and provocative articles. Her theme, often the tyranny of the majority. The loonies on the right who vilified Guinier might take a more careful look at her work. They called her a “Quota Queen” and ridiculed her views on cumulative voting as “anti-democratic.” Cities like New York and San Francisco now use ranked-choice voting to elect leaders. Both London Breed in San Francisco and Eric Adams in New York won myimessenger.com

their seats thanks to rankedchoice voting. Legacy Guinier. Some Republican minorities that attacked Guinier might find some solace in her views. She wrote that a 51-49 split should not mean that the 51 percent gets all the power. Instead, there have to be methods of power-sharing. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and his cronies don’t get that. They want it all. Guinier wanted to find a way to share power, man-

Lani Guinier had many others to inspire her, including Elaine Jones, Director-Counsel of the NAACP LDF from 1993 through 2004, and the first woman to lead the organization. Guinier benefitted from Elaine Jones’ mentorship and, as an LDF attorney, won 31 of the 32 cases she prosecuted. I’m not trying to write an obituary. I’m just thinking out loud about an amazing woman who blazed trails, made a differ-

Lani Guinier

age compromise, and ensure that the 49 percent had a say. Republicans have so rigged the rules that they flex majority muscles even when they are in the minority. Democrats have forgotten how to fight back, complacently leaning into an unfair process that includes filibusters, gerrymandering, and downright theft. Lani Guinier was inspired by Constance Baker Motley, the first woman to work for the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, when she was hired in 1946. Guinier was 12-years-old when she learned of Attorney Motley and saw her as an inspiration.

ence, shrugged off adversity, and fought passionately for the Black vote. As she makes her transition, we are struggling. One of her contemporaries, fellow Harvard Law grad and civil rights attorney Gail Wright Sirmans, observed that we “recycle our struggles.” From the end of enslavement, the issue of Black voting rights has been a challenge to our nation. There were grandfather clauses and poll taxes, and when they were eliminated, there were other hurdles to clear. This is not just a Black thing. To discourage disabled voting, some polling places have been

put on a hill, challenging to navigate in a wheelchair. People can’t bring absentee ballots to their grandmothers and grandfathers to discourage elder voting. To prevent youth voting, students who spend the majority of their year in their college town have to clear hurdles to have the right to vote. Not to mention the shenanigans, the robocalls that say voting will be the next day, the threat that immigration officials will show up at a voting place to check citizenship, the ways that polling places change at the last minute. Lani Guinier was down for this fight, and she was aware of the attacks on our right to vote. She represents a long line of Black warrior lawyers like Constance Baker Motley, Elian Jones, Sherylinn Ifill, Kristen Clarke, Barbara Arnwine, and others. These sisters are warrior lawyers. Lani Guinier was among the best of them. These warrior lawyers are necessary in these times. We count on them to strap on their armor and prepare for this next fight. There are no rights without voting rights. There are no rights without voting rights. President Biden, step up. You said you had our backs. Vice President Harris, continue to speak up. Lani Guinier, rest in peace and power. Guide our leaders, through your spirit, to do the right thing. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

January 28, 2022

Here’s How Young People Can Save America OUR VOICES BY REV. JESSE L. JACKSON, JR.

A new year is a time for reflection on the past and hope for the future. My new year’s wish this year is that across the country, every high school gives each graduate a diploma and a voter registration card, and every center of education and training — whether community college or four-year university, technical training or business school — ensures that every entering student is registered to vote. The energy, the urgency, the imagination of the young offer this country the best hope for salvation. The young generation is the most diverse and the least racist of Americans. By a stunning seven to one, Gallup found 18to 29-year-olds supported the racial protests triggered by the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. Young people mobilized the largest interracial demonstrations in history in response. They care about inequality: 70% of voters under 45 would raise taxes on the wealthy. They care about equal justice: 81% support giving permanent legal status to the Dreamers, and 83% support gay marriage. They are fearful about their January 28, 2022

own futures. A global survey of 10,000 young people between 16 and 25 found about 60% were “very” or “extremely” worried about climate change. And nearly two-thirds felt their government was failing them on climate change. Many of the young are alienated by today’s Republican Party and its race-bait politics, but they are frustrated with both parties. As Harvard University professor Thomas Patterson reported, exit polls show voters under 30 have backed the Democratic Party presidential nominee by more than 3 to 2 over the past five elections. Joe Biden’s victory over Donald Trump was propelled by young voters. Exit polls show voters under 45 gave Biden a 57 percent to 43 percent split in the two-party vote, while Trump won older voters by about 52-48. But young voters are increasingly turned off by a politics that doesn’t work for them, frustrated by the gridlock in Washington, by the corruption and cynicism of our two major parties. Republicans have responded to this reality not by reaching out — as many young Republicans urge them to do — but by trying to suppress the vote of young people. They work particularly hard to keep students from registering at their universities (making it far less likely that

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they vote anywhere). They oppose automatic voter registration and same-day registration, confident young and people of color will be less likely to jump the hurdles needed to register and vote. New energy to save democracy Voting by the young should not be a partisan issue. The 26th Amendment, which lowered the voting age to 18, was passed with bipartisan support in 1971 when Richard Nixon was president. It was ratified by the states faster than any other amendment in history. Part of that was that 18-yearolds were eligible for the draft, and if they were old enough to fight, surely they should be old enough to vote. Part of it was the legacy of the civil rights movement, with the NAACP and union and young civil rights activists pushing to expand the right to vote. Today Republicans are doubling down on their efforts to constrict the vote in states across the country. My wish will be fulfilled only if young people mobilize and defend their right to vote — and if they mobilize and vote in large numbers this coming fall. This young generation faces dire challenges. Catastrophic climate change. Global pandemics. Savage inequality. Entrenched racial discrimination. Pervasive corruption. Bitter partisan division. A country fighting endless wars abroad

even as it declines at home. Growing anger at a failed establishment, shaking even the foundations of democracy. These challenges will only be met by new generations bringing new energy, new ideas, new idealism and new movements to break through our partisan gridlock. The challenges are great, yet we know that when young America acts collectively on a moral issue, we always win. Young America walked the halls of Congress to abolish slavery — and won. Young America rose against apartheid. James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, Michael Schwerner and Medgar Evers were martyred, touching the conscience of the nation. John Lewis and Hosea Williams, as students, walked across the Edmund Pettus Bridge and stood tall. Students rose to end the war in Vietnam. Now, in this dark time, the former Confederate states have once again led a reaction, seeking to discredit elections, voting against free public education, against relief from student debt, against action on climate change. Young America must rise again or live with regret. If they come alive, they can write their own history, save democracy and keep hope alive. The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is president and CEO of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.

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Running for Change Amye Thompson Hollins on why she deserves your vote Amye Thompson Hollins

My name is Amye Thompson Hollins, and I am running for Dallas County District Clerk in the upcoming 2022 Democratic Primary election. I am running to restore leadership accountability to the District Clerk’s Office by reinforcing, reevaluating and redirecting the duties of the deputy clerks. I plan to improve morale through motivation of middle and senior level management. I will be a stalwart supporter for the staff and leaders who work the closest with the public. January 28, 2022

I will improve the quality of the relationships between the Clerk’s Office, the judiciary, and all constituent services to provide a better experience for the community. Role and responsibilities The District Clerk is the custodian of the records for all district court proceedings including Criminal, Civil, Family and Juvenile District Courts, as well as Family IV-D (child support), Tax, and Magistrate Courts. The District Clerk also operates three

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passport offices. The District Clerk’s Office is responsible for processing cases filed by attorneys, pro se litigants and citizens. When cases are filed, they are sorted and sent to the district courts to be reviewed and ruled upon by a district judge. Once a disposition in a case has been reached, the records are maintained and made available to the legal community and public through the District Clerk’s Office. Currently there are more than 3,000 cases backlogged in the District Clerk’s

e-filing system. This case backlog represents a gross level of injustice for each person or family attached to each case. The legal system will appear to fail the community if the District Clerk’s Office does not manage the document flow more efficiently. This responsibility lies with the elected District Clerk who is failing to manage her department of 250-270 deputy district clerks. We must put the District Clerk’s Office under new management by electing a more capable leader. myimessenger.com

It is time for new leadership My opponent rules the District Clerk’s Office with an iron fist, and nothing happens without her knowledge and approval. This poses a problem when the elected official will not read or respond to emails that require her approval. For example, my opponent chronically WILL NOT APPROVE qualified (experienced, bilingual, and sometimes even LGBTQ+) candidates for hire, creating the current persistent and systematic staffing problems. Under the current administration, you will find an employee handbook full myimessenger.com

of outdated, even discriminatory language as well as prohibitions and penalties that are stricter than the Dallas County Code. It is the elected official’s responsibility to APPROVE changes. Additionally, department supervisors, managers and HR can present candidates for hire, innovative ideas, and improvement plans, however, in order for any progress to occur, my opponent must check her email, review what has been sent to her and APPROVE every single thing that happens in the department. Her lack of trust and inability to delegate has propelled this department

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into a downward spiral of poor morale. A District Clerk elected by the citizens of Dallas County should make reports to the Commissioners Court. A District Clerk should submit reports when he/she travels, and a District Clerk should require reporting when others in the department travel for business. Setting the record straight In an endorsement interview with a local organization, my opponent misconstrued the facts in order to mischaracterize me and secure the support of the organization. When asked the question about my attendance while employed as the HR Representative at the District Clerk’s Office, the current elected official took the opportunity to tell the virtual and in-person audiences, including the president, vice president and endorsement chair that I had taken an entire year off of work. The pandemic hit home for me just like it hit home

for every other single parent around the country. Below are the facts regarding my work attendance from March 2020 through March 2021. • March 24, 2020, the Dallas •

•

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County Judge announced stay home stay safe measures including the ability to work from home for all individuals who could perform their duties by teleworking. On or about March 26, 2020, my opponent’s chief deputy approved my ability to telework until further notice. In April 2020, I submitted a doctor’s note substantiating my need for increased protection against the Covid-19 coronavirus and to justify my continued need to telework, because of two previous pulmonary embolisms and treatment of a lifetime blood thinner regimen. In May of 2020, I began submitting weekly work duty reports as requested each Friday through April 2, 2021, without issue. On July 5, 2020, I underwent major surgery during

a time when only medically necessary surgeries were being performed. This decision was made after having tried several other unsuccessful non-invasive treatments. My opponent agreed with and in fact, empathized with the need to take care of this health issue. • After vaccination on March 5, 2021, I returned to the office work environment in person on April 5, 2021. My employment record, which is subject to the Open Records Act (ORA), will show evaluations with stellar marks and no mention of an issue with attendance, before and after the pandemic. In a shameless attempt to gain political points, it is clear my opponent has knowingly and intentionally chosen to mischaracterize an approval to telework and an official notification of an FMLA-protected surgical procedure. myimessenger.com

WHO IS AMYE THOMPSON HOLLINS? • Lifelong Democrat and 47-year resident of Dallas County • HR expert with more than 20 years of experience • Educated in Dallas ISD • Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas • Master of Business Administration in Human Resources from the University of Dallas, Irving, Texas • Member of Central Pointe Church of Christ • Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. • Devoted mother of a 9-year-old daughter who attends Dallas ISD school and is a competitive swimmer with the Park South YMCA Documented community and public service leadership experience

Opponent has history of bias The current District Clerk has used her bias and power to hire family and friends, and subsequently creates her own problems. Continued, forced, bad hires and an inability to lead the department with consistent proven practices like fairness, thoroughness, and sound decision-making, create an HR nightmare that requires close contact with the District Attorney’s Office. As the next District Clerk of Dallas County, I plan to re-engage and reallocate the bilingual incentive for skilled, bilingual clerks as opposed to hiring professional translators. This incentive will be made available to current staff and new hires who pass required skills tests. Hiring and promotion standards will be made on the basis of experience and skills, as opposed to bias and favoritism. We cannot allow biased incumbents who are not capable of managing to hold onto positions, that actually belong to the citizens of Dallas County, simply myimessenger.com

because they were elected in the past and have a sense of entitlement. Failed communication and foresight, failed delegating and planning, and failed implementation and execution have led to an e-file desk with 132 pages of backlog. As a result of the poor leadership, I decided I was not going to stay in a work environment that does not allow for educated input, and subjects employees to a micro-managed office culture that is equivalent to modern-day tyranny. Check the record. I was not the first HR Representative to leave the department quickly. Anyone who has a duty to be accountable, or the wherewithal to stand up to unfair, illegal practices will not last long under the leadership of the current administration. On August 5, 2021, after much meditation and prayer, I left the office to run for office. It is time for change in the Dallas County District Clerk’s Office and I need your support. Early voting is February 14-25, and Election Day is March 1, 2022.

• Executive Board Chair of the T. Boone Pickens YMCA; recipient of the 2017 Sam Winstead Volunteer Service Award Winner • League of Women Voters; Member of Voting Rights and Redistricting Committees to speak for the underserved in the black and brown communities and those in special interest groups who were negatively impacted in the state’s interpretation of the 2020 census data. Provided impact statements and testimony on the state and local level. • Personalized Learning Preparatory at Sam Houston Elementary School PTA; currently serves as Parliamentarian, ensuring students have an advocate at the table and meetings are productive and orderly. • Friends of Personalized Learning Preparatory at Sam Houston PTA; Founding Board Member, advocating for and raising funds to supplement programming for teachers that will improve services to students. • Executive Board Member and Immediate Past President (20152019) of the Metropolitan Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; Southwest Region Inaugural Delta P.E.A.R.L. 2019-2020; Chapter of the Year in 2019; and 2018 Texas/New Mexico (TX/NM) Service Award Recipient. • Led and organized efforts to edify high school-aged students to receive scholarship funds by engaging in social and civic responsibilities like volunteering, voting and improved writing skills, improving chances of college readiness and raising social awareness in the next generation of inner-city young adults. • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. TX/NM 2020 Census Coordinator; led effort to connect organizations across the states of Texas and New Mexico, combining forces with the Census Bureau, civic organizations, universities, and faith-based organizations to increase those counted. • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Texas Redistricting Cohort Chair; led statewide effort to fight for fair and equitable redistricting practices that would lead to fairly drawn maps, collaborating with faith-based, social, civic, and voting rights organizations throughout the state and locally in Dallas. Vote Amye Thompson Hollins for Dallas County District Clerk. Your CHOICE for CHANGE! #ElectAmye www.amyefordistrictclerk.com Political ad paid for by the Campaign to Elect Amye Thompson Hollins, Lalonni DuBose Hagerman, Treasurer.

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Delta Sigma Theta Sorority

Salutes Members!

Dallas Alumnae Chapter annual Founders Day program held Carolyn L. Bailey is a graduate of Lincoln High School in Port Arthur, TX and she received her BS Degree in biology from the University of North Texas and M.ED. from Texas A&M Commerce. A retired educator and member of Friendship-West Baptist Church, she was inducted into the African American Educators Hall of Fame. Dr. Sharon L. Blackman received her Bachelors Degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She also earned a M.ED and Doctorate of Education. A retired higher education administrator, she is a member of The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer. Kathy Campbell received her BA degree in biology from the University of North Texas. A member of Concord Church, she is an analyst and enjoys traveling, reading and playing the piano. Catherine Sue Coleman received her BA in English and Art from Albion College. A member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church, she is retired from American Airlines after 28 years. Mary Crowell-Randolph received a BS degree from Bishop January 28, 2022

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College. A member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church, she is a tax accountant who enjoys cooking, and attending concerts, sporting events and family events. Patricia Godfrey received a BS degree in mathematics from Prairie View A&M University. She also received a MS degree in Mathematics. A grant manager, she is a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church where she has held several positions including editor of newsletter. Honorable Faith Johnson attended Georgia State University. She received BA, Masters of Counseling and Juris Doctorate degrees. An attorney, former Dallas County District Attorney and Judge, she is a member of The Potter’s House of Dallas. Gwender Lias-Baskett attended Bishop College, receiving a BA degree in sociology. A retired educator, she is a member of Cross Fellowship Church. She enjoyed teaching, public speaking, traveling, reading and writing. Cynthia Nickleberry received a BA degree from Prairie View A&M University. An award-winning educator, she is a member of Galilee Missionary Baptist

Church and enjoys sewing and cooking. Antoinette Simmons received a BA degree in Speech and Drama from Fisk University. A storyteller/librarian, she is a member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church and St. James Episcopal Church. Dr. Patricia A. Smith received a BS degree in education from Langston University. She also received MA, MS and doctorate degrees. A member of Redeemer Baptist Church, she is a H.R. Prof. and college professor. Beverly A. Tutt received a BS degree from the University of North Texas. A food manufacturing supervisor, she is a member of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, gardening and shopping. Dr. Jennifer Butler Wimbish attended Hampton University and is the President-Emeritus of Cedar Valley College. A member of Concord Church she is cochair of the Collin County/Dallas area Poor People’s Campaign and enjoys line dancing and gardening. myimessenger.com

50 Year Honorees

Honorable Faith Simmons Johnson

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Kathy Campbell

Patricia Godfrey

Beverly A. Tutt

Gwender Lias-Baskett

Cynthia Nickleberry

Dr. Jennifer Butler Wimbish

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Dr. Patricia Ann Smith

Antoinette Simmons

Carolyn L. Bailey

Dr. Sharon L. Blackman

Mary Crowell-Randolph

Catherine Sue Coleman

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25 Year Honorees

Dr. Stephanie Coleman-Newton

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Charlotta Woodberry Burney

Jacquelyn D. Kay

Miranda Denise Greer

Francheska Asberry Jackson

Cecelia B. Williams

Nettye F. Medlock

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Betty Joyce Culbreath

Brenda Fay McCoy

Colette Haigler

Dr. Bobbye Bell Lowe

Kimberly Laura Sims

Tonya Wilson

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Shalisha Parker

Peggy Youngblood-Stubblefield

Margaret Jones-Peel

Pamela Yvette Hunter

Sharon Royal Hunt

Karla L. McGary

January 28, 2022

Remembering Hollywood Hernandez For years many have read his movie reviews in Texas Metro News and partner publications. A friend and comrade, he loved life and lived it to the fullest.

Soul Rep Theatre presents world premiere of FLESH AND BONE Photos credit: Sonny Jefferson

Soul Rep Theatre Company continues its 2021-2022 season with the world premiere of its newest short film, FLESH AND BONE – at The Texas Theater in Oak Cliff on Saturday, February 12 at 7 PM. The film is directed by Tonya Holloway, co-founder and newly appointed Associate Artistic Director of Film, a direct result of Soul Rep’s successful recent season of virtual offerings. Co-written by Holloway and

Co-Founder/Executive Director, Anyika McMillan-Herod, FLESH AND BONE stars prolific character actor of film, television, and stage, Gregg Daniel, Grammy-nominated R&B duo, Yarbrough & Peoples, company member, Douglas Carter, and newcomers Tony Williams and Stakaih Washington. Tickets are $25 and are available now for the in-person world premiere at The Texas Theater, located at 231 W. Jefferson Boulevard, in Oak Cliff. For tickets, visit www.soulrep. org.

Flesh and Bone - Thomas and Puddin: Gregg Daniel and Alisa Peoples as "Thomas" and "Puddin".

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Flesh and Bone: Gregg Daniel and Stakaih Washington as "Thomas" and "Rachel".

A talk back with members of the cast and the director will take place after the screening. FLESH AND BONE will also begin streaming on February 13 through the end of the month. Streaming tickets will go on sale February 7. This heartwarming contemporary film is set in a fictitious South Dallas haunt called Blues Jook and Chicken and centers on “Thomas Wescott”, an elderly Black man who on the anniversary of his daughter’s death undergoes an awakening by the sight of the jook joint’s newest employee, “Ra-

chel”, whom he believes is his daughter. The colorful characters of Blues – including the owners “Puddin” and “Abe”, a musician, “Weeping Willy” and the dependable server, “Vaughn” must rally together to help Tom, who is an alcoholic and street poet, through his trauma and grief. Soul Rep’s dynamic 20212022 season is sponsored in part by the generous support of Texas Instruments, City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs, Heritage Giving Fund, Moody Fund for the Arts, TACA and The March Family Foundation. myimessenger.com

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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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Metro Community Calendar powered by January 2022 22 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! 4050 McEwen Rd. Building 8 Suite 8103, Farmers Branch. 6 to 8 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3KfAXo3

28 The Vin Collective: Bottles, Bites, & Binge-Worthy - Featuring Diana Bandoh. 6:30 to 9 pm. 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 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

Neo Soul Day Party hosted by DFW Social 40, feat: Soulful Soundz Live at Michael’s of Las Colinas, 925 W. John Carpenter Fwy. #100, Irving. 8 to 11 am. Tickets: https://bit. ly/32ATme5 Valentine’s Open House at Cake Carousel Inc. 4623 S Cooper St, Arlington. Annual Valentine’s Open House. 10 am to 4 pm. Sign up at www.cakecarousel.com or call us at 817-3755894. Illusion of Inclusion - Black History by DeSoto Parks and Recreation Department. The kick-off to Black History Month with guest speaker, Dr. Umar Johnson discussing “Illusion of Inclusion”. 5 to 7 pm at De Soto Corner Theater, 211 East Pleasant Run Rd.

30 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

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.

BBW Presents A Black Diamond Affair Grown & Sexy by Beautiful Black Women, Inc. BBW hosts a casual Black DIAMOND Affair you do not want to miss. Ticket price includes entry, food, drink (BYOB) & live entertainment. 4 to 9 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3qTZszv

Black History Pop Up Shop by Latoya Shelby Pop up shop for small business owners! Networking & Shopping Event. Come out & support us! 1 to 5 pm at Paez Event Center, 1425 Justin Road Ste 700, Lewisville.

The B.A.C. 2 BLACK FEST (Black Arts Centennial) by Infinite Arts Movement, celebrating over 100 years of Black Arts through music, poetry, dance, and supporting Black Owned Businesses at Frisco School Of Music & Performing Arts, 9360 Preston Rd. Frisco. 7 to 10 pm. Register/Tickets: https://bit.ly/3rHHlf9

Galentines Day: Candle-Making Party! by The CandleLIT Experience. Galentines Day is all about celebrating your love for the ladies (gals) in your life or self-love. 8 to 10 pm at SOAR Creative Studio, Uptown Dallas. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3tQmRDR

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.

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

February 2022 4 Shades of Black at South Dallas Cultural Center, 3400 South Fitzhugh Avenue, Dallas. Presenting six works by talented arts professionals, as we commemorate a range of Black experiences through the fluidity and power of movement and sound. 7 to 9 pm. Tickets: https:// bit.ly/33Krrc3

5 Patton Oswalt Live: Who’s Ready to Laugh? Majestic Theater, 1925 Elm St, Dallas. 7 to 11 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3HHVZcE

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 646-200-0459 on Andrew’s World.

Valentine’s Chocolate & Wine Walk McKinney. Drink wine, eat chocolates, and shop Downtown McKinney with your GALentines or your sweetheart at the Valentine’s Chocolate & Wine Walk in Historic Downtown McKinney. 12 to 6 pm. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3GPKCQ1 Chocolate Galentines Brunch. Get super cute, grab your bestie, or come alone and join us for a Chocolate Galentine’s Day Brunch at Thirsty Cupcake, 502 South Old Orchard Lane, #Suite 134, Lewisville. 11 am to 2 pm. Tickets: https:// bit.ly/3tTnIDQ

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.

27 Dallas Stars vs. Buffalo Sabres, American Airlines Center,

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.

Women, Words, and Wisdom: Songs by Black Female Composers by Fort Worth Opera. Fort Worth Opera’s smash-hit Black History Month concert, A Night of Black Excellence: Say It Loud - Songs of a Revolution. 2 to 3:30 pm at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3AunwMn

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Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by January 2022 27 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

Together We Vaccinate by Project Unity. Project Unity is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our communities. 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

Virtual experience moderated by legendary Hip-Hop announc- 5:30 am CST. Free UNAPOLOGETICALLY BLACK Yoga for Black Joy & Radical Self-Care. Reg: https://bit.ly/3tQ7Y4r er, M.C. Lyte. @AMLKC on Facebook. 12 pm.

ASALH’s Black History Month Festival Opening. Online event by 11 Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The Association for the Study of African American Life and HisTowards a Black Historical Consciousness in Teaching Black tory hosts its second annual virtual Black History Month FestiHistory. Online workshop by School Outreach at The New York 30 val. The opening session will describe the month-long celebraPublic Library. While Black history is a popular subset of history tion of the 2022. 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Reg: https://bit.ly/33CnKFu education, most learners uncritically engage with the subject Octavia E. Butler Slow Read, a slow read of Octavia E. Butler’s leaving major gaps in how we understand Black people’s histobody of work, hosted by Njeri. Online event tickets: https://bit. ry and culture. 8 to 9 am CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/3KBl2Aq ly/332Qc2E 12 noon to 1:30 pm CST. 2

Arlington Black Chamber January General Meeting & Business Exchange at Tu-Chi Social Club of Arlington, 2525 E. ArkanUnderstanding Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Webinar, Online sas Ln, Suite #253, Arlington. 6 to 8 pm. Tickets: bit.ly/ABCColorism Origins: Secrets of the 1817 Slave Registers. Part of event. Instructor: Jaymi Dormaier, LMSW. Facebook live @ CJan2022. Be sure to bring plenty of Business Cards. the Black History Month 2022 - February online events col- MindspringMentalHealthAlliance. 12 to 1 pm, CST. lection by Black History Speaker, Paul Crook. A Black history HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO month masterclass on what the 1817 Slave registers reveal about the origins of colorism. 1 pm CST. Vision Night 2022 Online event by Friendu Saturday, January 29 ship-West Baptist Church. Join for a Vision 31 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Night 2022 recap of 2021 and cast a vision for the New Year! 7 to 8:30 pm Streamed on JOIN US FOR: www.friendshipwest.org. UNLEASH THE POWER OF YOUR VOTE ! • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) screenings and education

Bexar Street

E-mail us your questions at CommunityDevelopment@phhs.org

5411 Bexar Street Dallas, TX 75215

January 31, 2022 February 18, 2022

Early Voting

Feb. 14 - 25, 2022

Election Day

March 1, 2022

Visit public libraries and community centers near you for printed

LWV Voter Guides Need help finding your nearest community center?

Call 214-688-4125 Leave a message and we will return your call with nearby community centers and in-person voter registration sites.

BE AN INFORMED VOTER VOTE411.org

Dallas County Elections Office

Digital voter guides, learn about ballot items, candidates and their positions. 1/22

Care. Compassion. Community.

Register2Vote.org

29 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/3eMNGQq10 am to 1:30 pm

Registration is good for all elections. But if you move or change your name, you must update your registration.

Texas voters must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens, and registered residents of the county in which they are voting.

In-Person Voter Registration MLK, Jr. Library 2922 MLK, Jr. Blvd.

Empowering Voters. Defending Democracy.

Saturday, Jan 29th 11 am - 2 pm

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/

DallasCountyVotes.org Find locations and times for early voting and election day.

Watch for your official blue voter registration card coming in the mail from your county elections office in January confirming you are registered to vote!

Last Day to Register to Vote

Together We Vaccinate by Project Unity, Project Unity is committed to the health, safety and well-being of our communities. Held at Balch Springs Civic Center, 12400 Elam Rd. For ages 5 and up. 10 am to 1 pm. Reg: https://bit.ly/3v1bDem

20 Banned Black Films you need to see. 15 years of African Odysseys. Online event by Black History Walks. Selection of banned Black films screened by the African Odysseys film Chicago Classics: Black History Month. Online event by Chica- programmed over the last 15 years with facts, statistics, and go Literary Hall of Fame. Our Chicago Classics series continues reasons. 11am CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/33OuPCC with a themed program celebrating Black History Month. Host Jarrett Neal. 6 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/3KAJ92g

• Behavioral Health information

Vote by Mail Application Due

Pleasant Grove Library 7310 Lake June Rd.

Have Questions? Call 214-688-4125

February 2022 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

15 Understanding PTSD Trauma impacts everyone differently, depending on the nature of the trauma, presence or lack of social supports, participation in treatment, and coping mechanisms. Online event. Instructor: Jaymi Dormaier, LMSW. Facebook live @MindspringMentalHealthAlliance 12 to 1 pm

17 Mutual Survival: Black-Jewish Relations in the 21st Century. Online event by Wassmuth Center for Human Rights. Phillip Thompson, Idaho Black History Museum, discusses the crucial Women of Color Devotional “Get Together” 1st Sunday Eve- collaboration of Blacks and Jews during the 20th and 21st Cennings by Urban Spirit Publishing and Media Company. Readers, turies. 7 to 8 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/356GXzc writers, and editors of the Women of Color Daily Devotionals for a great time at our monthly “Get Together” Info: www.ur18 banspirit.biz 6 to 7 pm.

Moving Together UNAPOLOGETICALLY BLACK Therapeutic Yoga I Am Not Your Negro - James Baldwin - Film History Livesfor Black people.-- Online event by Oya Heart Warrior. 4:30 to tream by Washington DC History & Culture. 7 to 9 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/3AnAprG

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www.grandpasecret.com

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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 28, 2022

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