VOL IX NO 48 JULY 24, 2020
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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.
JULY 24, 2020
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College football amid a pandemic is not worth risk to young men’s lives KEEP HOPE ALIVE BY REV. JESSE L. JACKSON
How many lives of young men and women should be sacrificed for entertainment — and for billions in profit? That question can’t be ducked as the NCAA allows colleges to begin “voluntary� football practices, and other college teams begin to practice. Colleges are desperate to open the full football season, a source of millions in profits for colleges and universities. Donald Trump, who pretends that COVID-19 is behind us, wants a return to normal, with stadiums filled with fans cheering their heroes. Players are eager to compete and to display their skills. Only problem is that the coronavirus doesn’t care about profits or presidents, or about fans or coaches. It doesn’t follow polls, doesn’t care who wins the presidential election, and has no party. It is deadly and it’s still here, even spiking in more than 20 states. And now, it’s hitting football players hard. Thirty Louisiana State players are in quarantine, either testing positive for the virus or from being in contact with those who tested positive. Twenty-three Clemson football players have tested positive since workouts started on June 1. Thirteen at Texas, 14 at Kansas State, and more at Alabama, Mississippi, Southern Florida, Auburn, Oklahoma State and others. Houston and Kansas State have suspended voluntary workouts after a raft of positive tests. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the United States’ leading infectious disease expert, warns that football might not be possible now: �Unless players are essentially in a bubble — insulated from the community and they are tested nearly every day — it would be very hard to see how football is able to be played this fall.� For Donald Trump, this is unacceptable. He wants to pretend that the pandemic has been conquered and wants praise
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for the self-proclaimed “phenomenal job� that he has done, even though the U.S. has suffered more victims than any other nation in the world. He sought to kickstart his re-election campaign with a rally in an enclosed arena in Tulsa, Oklahoma, site of one of the worst racial massacres in our history in 1921. Yet, after boasting that a million people had sought tickets for the 19,000-seat arena, he spoke before an arena that was only one-third full. Even the Trumpsters thought twice about gathering in a closed arena to listen to hours of speeches in a crowd parading without masks. Who will be responsible for the athletes whose lives will be at risk so fans can be entertained, and the universities can profit? College presidents now make big salaries, but they should feel a greater responsibility to the young men and women who attend their schools. College coaches make millions at bigtime programs, but they should protect the players that play for them. The NCAA should reconsider its decision to open practices now that the virus has spread so quickly. In the end, sadly, it is likely that the players themselves will have to be the adults in the room. At UCLA, 30 players petitioned the university for additional protections, seeking a Third-Party Health Official to review all safety measures and protocols to ensure the greatest protection possible. They wanted guarantees that players would not lose their scholarships or face retaliation if they chose not to return to the campus for the season this fall. They argued, sensibly, that they could not trust university or athletic department officials who had interests other than their lives and health at stake. With demonstrations in support of the Black Lives movement continuing, it is time for players to speak out. Oklahoma State’s football coach, Mike Gundy, found that out when he wore a sweatshirt from OAN, the virulent right-wing cable network that has consistently mocked Black Lives Matter demonstrations. His see JACKSON, page 5
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INSIDE
MY TRUTH
TERRY ALLEN
THE LAST WORD
Last week I heard someone say that old folks need to move out of the way and let the young folks take over. That statement was probably made in the same conversation when someone was explaining why we shouldn’t vote for someone
President Obama spoke to an audience on the current administration and said, “If we turn against each other based on divisions of race or religion, if we fall for a bunch of ‘okey-doke,’
At least six Black children were killed during the Fourth of You Lie weekend. They weren’t doing anything wrong, just attending a community picnic, or going to visit a grandmother, or riding in a car with her mom.
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JULY 24, 2020
MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher
Youth v. Elderly: Not the fight we need to have Last week I heard someone say that old folks need to move out of the way and let the young folks take over. That statement was probably made in the same conversation when someone was explaining why we shouldn’t vote for someone just because they are Black. Then I was watching reruns of the CBS hit show, Blue
was Black?” Perspective is key, just as perception is! Clearly we have an issue with focusing on the real issues. Which brings me to my truth. At some point in my life, I realized it was easier and more logical to build together than work separately. For-
Bloods, starring Magnum PI, and a district attorney asked a Black juror did he vote to acquit because the defendant was Black. The juror’s response was epic, “Did the other jurors (all white) vote guilty because the defendant
tunately for me, the lesson came early. At a young age, books became my friend. I remember reading, and I paraphrase Malcolm X, who said we must choose issues over individuals; that when we focus on
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personalities, our communities suffer because the issues are not addressed. I see what happens as year after year the focus is on personalities. I also see what happens when your energy and resources are splintered and organization is not your focus. Instead of pooling resources and collaborating with others with like goals and missions; it seems easier to fight close to home, to actually fight the weaker target, instead of going after the larger ones. The young fight the old, degreed attack the lesser educated, and yes, men against women; all with the help of the larger target that we seem too distracted to target. The issues effecting society need all hands on deck. To the person who says the elderly should get out of the way; well, I know many elderly that I would love to have on my side in any struggle. Just last week Rev. C.T. Vivian died at 95 and Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) at 80. When Dick Gregory died, he was still going strong at 84. Businessman Comer Cottrell was 82. Rev. Joseph Lowery was 98. At her passing, the dynamic Dr. Dorothy Irene Height was 98, Dr. Maya Angelou was 86, Mrs. Helen Lowery was 88, Mrs. Coretta
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Scott King was 78, Dr. Betty Shabazz was 61 and educator Dr. Ada Williams was 84. If I had to choose a team! And on the flip side, I’d rather have Sandra Bland who was murdered at 28, the 33-year-old Nipsey Hussle, 25-year-old 2Pac who was realizing the importance of organizing, or 19-year-old Oluwatoyin Salau. Then, too there are the elderly and young who get up every day and all they do is exist - watching tv, playing video games, smoking, drinking, eating, talking loud, inhaling, exhaling… Sadly we have to take the good with the bad. If folks were discarded based on their contributions to society, where would you line up? If you were a strong soldier in your early years, like the aforementioned, or the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. would you want to be cast aside because you got older, or would you hope that someone kept you engaged? I get energized and remain hopeful because of the younger soldiers and older warriors who stay focused. We have to find ways to co-exist and put our resources to work, instead of fighting one another. Or, we’ll just continue to lose. myimessenger.com
Tell the okey-doke we are not a cancel culture. We are the culture of John Lewis. THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN
President Obama spoke to an audience on the current administration and said, “If we turn against each other based on divisions of race or religion, if we fall for a bunch of ‘okey-doke,’ just because it sounds funny or the tweets are provocative, then we’re not going to build on the progress we started.” All the dictionaries define okey doke as rigid or firm stances that foundationally have no importance or hides the truth; a moment of extreme unpleasantness. I.e. Being swindled; hoodwinked; backstabbed. Writer Jenkins says the “The “founding fathers” deliberately arranged a system of governance that would protect the wealthy minority from the majority. Yet it started with ALL Men are created equal, yet Black people did not have a say in the beginning of our country. Is that an okey doke? Beloved, I am asking for a friend. The revolution has been televised! On every screen and on the cover of every magazine or newspaper on your social post and in every Tweet certain individuals are labemyimessenger.com
INFORMED. In order to change the systemic racism in our climate make sure you create a team strategy of agreement by understanding the experience and the songs of our ancestors & our forebears,” Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me around …..I’m gonna keep on walking….” • STAY IN THE MOMENT AND MAKE THE MOMENT PERMANENT. We must not forget that we don’t want symbolic change but system wide changes to all levels focusing first on Social Justice and Economic wealth-building freedom. Have some shortand long-term milestones. Do not settle for the okey doke. Become champions and owners of the narrative. • BUILD POWER! MAKE ECONOMIC DECISIONS Make sure you demand ra-
ling us as a cancel culture. It is written that Cancel culture is “the popular practice of withdrawing support for (canceling) public figures or companies after doing something offensive or deemed so”. We are not Cancel culture! We are the extensions of so many warriors of justice such as John Lewis (R.I.P.) who supported change and justice long before we had cell phones and massive economic power. John Lewis spoke that we were all one people who needed to get in “good trouble”. We are Americans who said that silence is not an option for the current climate that has unmasked the condition of injustices that have been simmering for hundreds of years. Just like Rev C.T. Vivian and Congressman John Lewis, we have to get in “Good Trouble”. Let’s do our part to create permanent change send the OKIE DOKE perpetrators back to the 60s Here is my list: • GET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER. Your inner house has to be lifted up with prayer, self-care and a personal journey. This prevents the OKIE DOKE from separating you and breaking your spirit. Amen. YOU Matter! Instill some cultural self-love. • BE SELF-AWARE. BE CULTURALLY
cial equity and economic redress a/k/a reparative concessions to gain permanent and proactive changes to our wealth building. And as we all process our emotions, let us focus our strategies to honor the men in our lives like Congressman John Lewis and Civil Rights leader Rev C.T. Vivian; who disproportionately bear the burden of hatred and the harsh realities of this society each and every day. This is a perfect time to make permanent change. Can we do this? Please email me at the paper and let me know if you will dismiss the okey doke and champion change. Email me at Terryallenpr@gmail.com Terry Allen is a multi-media journalist and board member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
JACKSON from page 2... Heisman Award candidate, running back Chuba Hubbard, called him out, leading to Gundy’s abject apology for what he claimed was an ignorant mistake. Now players need to speak out about their own health and safety. College football is a wonderful spectator sport, but it is not worth the lives of young American men. The same is true for other
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college sports. If college officials, college coaches and the NCAA are not prepared to act responsibly, the athletes themselves must take the lead. Their parents should support them. Thirty players testing positive in “voluntary” practices is 30 too many. It is time to give greater weight to the pandemic experts than to the panicked administrators. JULY 24, 2020
Paul Quinn continues to reign supreme in education arena By ASHLEY MOSS Texas Metro News Amidst a global crisis, Paul Quinn College (PQC) is staying ahead of the curve by offering innovative solutions for its students. Indeed, while other colleges across the country have scrambled to offer realtime solutions Paul Quinn moved quickly to put a plan in place, offering incentives like reduced tuition, laptops to students who need them and a recently- launched tele-health program which offers round-the-clock, nocost medical and mental health services for students. The quick pivot has allowed the college to work towards other goals for the institution, all focused on fostering big dreamers, healthy thinkers and world changers. One such program is the new Urban Scholars program for degree-seekers. A result of a partnership with a for-profit education initiative called the Minerva Project, it will offer a unique chance for students to gain real work experience while tackling some of the country’s most crippling issues. Students must choose a concentration in one of three areas: healthcare disparities, the wealth gap or criminal justice reform. “The students go to school, get a degree in three years and double major in business administration and public policy,” said Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, president of the College. Not only is the program entirely online, allowing students to live, work and affect change right JULY 24, 2020
in their own communities, it comes with a price tag that makes education more than possible for many, he explained. PQC already offers competitive tuition for its students, around $12,000 annually, but the Urban Scholars Program will help eliminate costs through a variety of means, including employer subsidies and scholarships, in addition to a minimally- projected student loan debt. Of the program, “Students say it’s hot,” said President Sorrell. “You’re going to be able to stay at home and learn, being an integral part of the community in which you live.” The college is actively recruiting for its first class of Minerva Urban Scholars. Anyone interested in applying can find more information at https://pqcedu. squarespace.com/. Also on the horizon is still yet another vehicle for change with a partnership that will offer high school students early exposure to college. The project with KIPP TexasDFW is new, but not the school. A statement from Dr. Anthony Smith, KIPP TexasDallas-Fort Worth Regional Superintendent clarified that this will be a relocation of the existing campus at KIPP Oak Cliff Academy(KOCA), just five miles from PQC. Officials say the move comes after deliberate conversations between families, community members and elected officials. “We sought out a safe and permanent home for KOCA because of input from our families, not in the absence of it,” Dr. Smith said.
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Dr. Michael J. Sorrell
“A basement at PQC was home to the first KIPP TexasDFW middle school 17 years ago, and we are honored to begin a new chapter of serving this community together. “KIPP came to us with an idea (to) build a campus that will serve students from pre-K all the way to (grade) 12,” said President Sorrell. “We need to find a way to support the expansion of possibilities in our community.” Supporters anticipate that the option will practically build a pipeline to college and offer a “model for transformation” with a potentially $40-million dollar campus, which could also prime the neighborhood for economic development. Despite enthusiasm surrounding the project and KIPP’s success over the years, there are some who are not supporting the KIPP Project. In a statement released recently, Dallas City Councilman Tennell Atkins said, ‘The Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD) provides high-quality education for our children
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across the city, including District 8. Our schools have produced world-class students that have become leaders and trailblazers locally and nationally, including Thomas Palmer, an alum of Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy at A. Maceo Smith High School, who recently gave a TEDx talk about political awareness among young people. “With that said, I’m troubled about KIPP Academy potentially moving into District 8 on the campus of Paul Quinn College. I support our Dallas ISD schools in District 8, having every confidence in knowing they provide high quality education to the children they serve in our neighborhoods.” The partnership also further cements PQC’s continued commitment to the Highland Hills neighborhood. Among many programs, some halted because of the pandemic, the oldest liberal arts HBCU west of the Mississippi, through partnerships with Minnie’s Food Pantry, the City of Dallas and Lyda Hill Philanthropies; is currently a COVID-19 testing site that has provided more than 3,330 tests, 2,210 boxes of food and 4,100 masks to those in need, in less than a month. When asked how Paul Quinn is managing to stay at the forefront of innovation with programs like the aforementioned, President Sorrell was frank. “You have to be wired to think you can change the world. The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones that do.” myimessenger.com
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JULY 24, 2020
Keep Top Eye Open! QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL
As if racism and oppression were not enough, Black folk also have a history of bearing the weight of those who look like brothers while acting like the others. They profit as Uncle Toms, Oreos, bootlickers, and Afro-Saxons. By any name, they represent a treasonous threat to our liberation. Donald Trump has a Coon Platoon. These blatant opportunists suffer little opposition or penalty for their sins. They proudly walk among us, flaunting their riches while maintaining their rightful place in Massa Donald’s house. Until, of course, there is no further use for them. Even “good Niggers” have a limited shelf life. (Hello Omarosa!) In days long since past, Coons were at least bearable. But, rented Negroes like Clearance Thomass, Ward Connerly, and Armstrong Williams, have birthed a new generation of buck dancers. Social media has allowed them to grow and fester. Trump apologist Terrance K. Williams and racism denier Candace Owens lead the pack these days. Terrence was having the time of his cotton-picking life a few weeks ago in Oklahoma. He and former Republican presidential candidate Herman (COVID) Cain were the lead minstrels. These House Negroes kowtow to racist White folks for pelf and power. They scoff at the 94% of us who would rather die in a shallow grave than vote for Trump! Terrence is borderline illiterate and provides a brilliant contrast to Candace. She is that kind of sista that could go both ways. She splits no verbs and conjugates the King’s English faster and better than 90% of the Whites who hang on her every word. Candace is like the unnamed Governor whom Dr. King described in his “I Have a Dream” speech. Candace’s lips are regularly “dripping with the words of inJULY 24, 2020
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terposition and nullification.” This 30-something race traitor reaps the benefits of cooning through public appearances and her new book. “Blackout - How Black America can make its second escape from the Democratic Plantation. This ignorance obscures the fact that America is a two-party system, and at no time in history has both parties invited us in. She could not wait to pimp the death of
eration of budding coons and race prostitutes is even more valuable to Trump and the racists he directs. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery, but Trump’s legal team read between the lines. You cannot buy a Negro, but it is legal and beneficial to rent or lease one. Trump seems to have spared little expense. Millennials and young adults are too young, but horror still strikes when history rehearses the ritual of “necklacing.”
George Floyd. Her YouTube video monologue has eight million hits to date. She said that George was neither hero nor martyr and called him a thug. “He was the example of a violent criminal for all of his life.” Candace was roundly lambasted, but she, like Trump, will have a loyal following for the rest of her life. These Negroes put our community’s safety in jeopardy for 30 pieces of silver and a seat reserved for “The Blacks” at Trump rallies. “Negro preachers” like Daryl Scott and Mark Burns hurt us because the world knows how much stock Black America puts in its pulpit. Black preachers have been our salvation from 1619 through COVID-19. Nevertheless, this new gen-
The practice became a deterrent to treason during the Apartheid movement. Blacks that collaborated with, snitched to, or otherwise aided the government were fitted with a rubber tire, filled with gasoline and burned. America’s Coons are having their best years since Reconstruction. However, treason becomes more noticeable as oppression intensifies. As they reminded one another on the Underground Railroad, “Keep your top eye open!”
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Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.
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The enemy within THE LAST WORD DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX
At least six Black children were killed during the Fourth of You Lie weekend. They weren’t doing anything wrong, just attending a community picnic, or going to visit a grandmother, or riding in a car with her mom. One of the children, Secoriea Turner, 8, was an Atlantan, and the day after the killing, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, emotionally addressed the killers, “You shot and killed a baby,” she said. “This random wild, wild West, shoot ‘em up because you can, it has got to stop. It has to stop.” She went on to say, “Enough is enough. You can’t blame this on a police officer. You can’t say this is about criminal justice reform. This is about some people carrying weapons who shot up a car with an 8-year-old baby in the car. For what?” In Washington, D.C., 11-year-old Devon McNeal, ironically attending an anti-violence cookout organized by his mother, was shot in the head by a bullet. An 18-year-old has been arrested, and there are to other suspects. In Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco and New York, our children are being murdered. We can get thousands to the streets for a Black Lives Matter protest. How many can we get out for Natalia, 7, killed in Chicago, or Jace Young, 6, the San Franciscan who was killed attending a birthday party? In 2019, 692 children (0-11) were killed or injured, up from 2014, when 603 were killed or wounded. The Gus Violence Archive, (gunviolencearchive.org), has been counting gun deaths since 2013, says there were 733 child deaths or inmyimessenger.com
juries in 2017, the peak year since they began collecting the data. The murdered children are never the intended victims. Instead, somebody with more firepower than sense, shoots into a crowd gathering, not caring who they hit. And they’ve been killing our children. I could write dissertations about why angry and unemployed young men are running around with guns, settling scores, and securing reputations with no regard for others. But I’m sick of the sociological explanations and the excuses. I’m with Mayor Bottoms. Enough is enough. How do we stop it, though? Devon McNeal’s mother, Crystal, is an anti-violence activist. She organized her gathering to promote the end of violence. But she could not protect her baby boy since all the anti-violence talk in the world can’t protect a child from a fool who is determined to use their weapon to rob, kill, or intimidate.
How do we dismantle the gun culture that dominates so many of our inner cities? Will it take new laws? Harsher penalties for illegal gun use? As Mayor Bottoms said, this is not about the police. Conservatives are right to say we may lose fewer Black lives to police violence to street gun violence. It doesn’t matter, because of every George Floyd, Tamir Rice, and Briana Taylor matters. To lose lives because of police indifference, racism, and evil must be resisted, and the Black
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Lives Matter Movement does that effectively. Black Lives Matter street signs in Washington, D.C., and New York speak to that. Even as we resist police brutality, structural racism, and other inequities, we must fight the enemy within, the callous young men who engage in gunplay on public streets when anybody could be walking by. How to get through to them? Cornel West once described these young men as nihilistic, believing that life has no intrinsic value, simply not caring about social norms and moral values. Anyone who would shoot a deadly weapon into a crowd has no regard for human life. And perhaps one could argue that these young men do not value human life because human life has not valued them. But I’m sick of making excuses for sociopaths, even as I understand the forces that created them. These shootings have to stop! I love looking at Black children, looking at their small, partly unformed faces, and wonder what kind of adult they will evolve into. Too many gun-toting criminals ensure that some of our children won’t have the opportunity to grow up. Class differences among African Americans mean that some fall asleep to the sounds of gunfire, while others know shooting from television. When we say t takes a village to raise a child, what happens to the villagers that would rob a child of life? We need to call these villains out. We need to ask their associates to call them out. Enough is enough. When you say Black Lives Matter, when you march and chant, think of 11-year Devon McNeil, 6-year Jace Young, eightyear-old Secoriea Turner, or seven-yearold Natalia Wallace. Their Black lives matter, too. What must we do to protect our children? Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.
JULY 24, 2020
Part 2: MUA’s Survival During COVID-19 ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON
What does our skin do for us? The skin protects us from microbes and the elements, help regulate body temperature, and permits the sensations of touch, heat, cold and pain. It is the largest organ of the body. The scalp tissue can also feel the soothing touch of a good shampoo, heat when a flat iron, pressing comb or curling iron touches it, coldness of the winter season and pain of any trauma to the
scalp. Put simply, your scalp tissue has a tolerance level, just like your skin. Remember that. Tips for healthier skin: cleanse at least twice daily… morning and a night. Moisturize daily to protect your skin from environmental dryness. Wear a sunscreen during the summer season…sun damage can be painful, as well as darken/damage your skin cells. Pamper your skin with a facial every week to two weeks timeline. Excessive sugar in your diet affects your facial skin. Eat fruits, vegetables and hydrate by drinking water…half your body weight. I am thankful for MUA’s! Crystal has assisted me with
EDUCATOR’S FORUM Saturday, August 8, 2020 11:00am Blog Talk Radio 646-200-0459 Texas Metro News FB Live
What are teachers talking about?
Is it SAFE to go back to school?
Joann Dickerson
LaQueta Sturns-Brew
Debra Brown- Sturns
Cheryl Jackson
Tolernisa Butler
Magnolia
Larry Davis
Tune in as educators from around the country discuss COVID-19 and how educators and students are impacted.
JULY 24, 2020
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Tricia Ray
Five Magazine Cover Girl glam looks! The pandemic has impacted her makeup service business. She shares about her survival. Crystal Scott: I have been a MUA for seven years. Crystal Scott Artistry is the name of my business. At the beginning, COVID-19 caused a decrease in business during prom season. But, with the influx of high school seniors wanting senior pictures and the opening of business amid wedding season, business has now increased. I haven’t had to incorporate many changes. As an MUA, sanitation and cleanliness are very important. I have always used disposable wands and refrain from double dipping in tubes products. I sanitize my tools after every client. I now use gloves with clients and wear a mask as the major change. I have not received much feedback at this time, regard-
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ing questions/feedback from customers or new customers about my services? I am also an Elementary School Teacher. We adapted to teaching our students online after spring break. Two tips I would like to share with consumers include: Always wash and sanitize your tools after you purchase them and make sure that your MUA is using clean tools when offering services. Your facial skin reflects how well you take care of it. When I want to have a glam look, my hairstyle of choice is a sew-in. Crystal Scott Artistry www.crystalscotyartistry. com cscottartistry@gmail.com 817.938.3112 Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, 817 265 8854. #39yr Veteran Hairandscalpessentials.com
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Hall of Famer
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JULY 24, 2020
Snipes joins AHF to address AIDS Crisis in Texas Special to Texas Metro News AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the world’s largest, non-profit public health organization addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic, is pleased to announce that Anthony J. Snipes, MPA, ICMA-CM, has joined AHF as a part of its southern bureau leadership team. A graduate of Mercer University (BA) and Florida State University (MPA), Mr. Snipes’ career spans more than 24 years and includes achievements in strategic initiatives that involve budgeting and performance management, public/ private partnerships and organizational/business devel-
opment. Given his current role as national president for the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA), and his many years of service to the organization as public policy chair, Snipes has been a national leader in addressing systemic policy changes that impact local communities. “I am truly excited to join AHF in their efforts to provide the highest quality care to people living with HIV in Texas” Before joining AHF, Mr. Snipes was a municipal executive in different capacities for Dayton, Ohio; Fort Worth, Texas; Austin, Texas; and Missouri City, Texas. In all four cities, he implemented pro-
NAACP GARLAND 8TH LEGAL REDRESS SEMINAR
GUEST PANELISTS:
THE HONORABLE JOHN CREUZOT
Dallas County District Attorney
WHEN
July 28, 2020 7:00—8:30 PM
CHIEF JEFF BRYAN GARLAND POLICE
Zoom Details:
https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/86834377997? Meeting ID: 868 3437 7997 Passcode: 455317 www.garlandtxnaacp.org JULY 24, 2020
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Anthony Snipes
active programs and led innovative initiatives that set a standard for excellence. Early in his career, Snipes worked in the non-profit arena as an Outreach Supervisor and Foster Grandparent Director for the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council in Macon, Georgia. He has earned numerous accolades for inspiring his teams with clarity of purpose and leading them toward a shared view of collective goals. In March 2020, he was presented the 2020 Public Official of the Year by the University of Houston. In his role as Regional Director for Texas, Mr. Snipes will continue his service to the community by representing AHF’s mission and core values on the local and statewide basis, while enhancing relationships with current and new community partners. He will also work to develop and maintain physical sites for healthcare centers, pharmacies, Out of the Closet thrift stores, HIV testing centers, and regional offices. “I am truly excited to join AHF in their efforts to provide the highest quality care to people living with HIV in Texas,” said Mr. Snipes. “After my recent
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retirement from governmental service, this opportunity allows me to continue my life of service to this community, and working with others in the state, to address this public health issue that is disproportionately impacting marginalized populations in Texas and abroad, while also staying in the Greater Houston area to see my two kids graduate from high school in Missouri City, TX.” “We are especially excited to welcome Mr. Snipes to the AHF family not only because of his long track record of excellence in municipal service, but also because of his community service and involvement in strategic locations throughout the State of Texas including Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, and the Greater Houston area,“ said Michael Kahane, Southern Bureau Chief at AHF. “With Mr. Snipes on our team, we have made another big step forward in our efforts to expand services we offer to meet the needs of the diverse and changing demographic of people living with HIV/AIDS, particularly in Texas.” AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, currently provides medical care and/ or services to over 1.3 million individuals in 43 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, please visit our website: www.aidshealth. org, find us on Facebook: w w w . f a c eb o o k. c o m / a i d shealth and follow on Twitter: @aidshealthcare and Instagram: @aidshealthcare. myimessenger.com
The Kings that Rule Our Lives FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW
As cases begin to soar in the US during this pandemic, we are all bombarded with images and words that cause fear and trepidation for many of us. I do believe that in spite of what we are witnessing, we must recognize God’s handiwork. I just finished reading the book, The Shack, and I was blown away by its content. It really challenged my
perspective of God. So often we limit God’s infinite ability based on our limited view and perspective. It is so interesting that the year 2020 is about vision. 20/20 vision is a term used to express sharpness or clarity at a distance. As much as we focus on this as the ideal vision, it is not complete if areas such as side vision, eye coordination, color or depth perception are also at work. We have spent more time paying attention to things in the distance that we’ve ignored what is in close proximity. So many things we are experiencing have existed
I CAN’T STAY HOME BUT I CAN STAY SAFE.
Don’t bring home COVID-19 to your family:
Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
Try to stay separated from others, if you can.
Most importantly, wear a mask.
www.parklandhospital.com/COVIDIsReal
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Care. Compassion. Community.
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but they were not in our view for whatever reason. I believe the pandemic is an opportunity for all of us to have clarity about what is important in our lives. It is a time to dream about possibilities in the face of such uncertainty. And yet, we do know there are so many promises God offers that we must hang on to even when we doubt or find ourselves afraid. Remind yourself of what God has done for you and bring those memories to your remembrance to give you clarity on what has been done before. God is still at work and working in us. God places in each of us desires and dreams. I hope that you are seeking God in this time for revelation, guidance and direction. The fact that God has placed the world on pause is truly a wake up call for us to become more clear on our purpose and passion. It’s time for all of us to become more intentional about God’s design for our lives. In our world, social media has become a place that we are drawn to in order to feel connected and a part of community. For many, it is a place to receive validation and affirmation. Although it can provide that, in this season I would caution you to be discerning about what you share. The Bible says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” (Matthew 7:6 NIV) Right before this passage, Jesus is
sharing about judging others. In this passage, we must judge situations that we are faced with. A loved one recently shared on Facebook something personal and although the intention was good, the impact could have had far reaching consequences that may have been negative. Your pearls are worn close to your heart. If we share information with dream killers, what was sacred becomes damaged and possibly destroyed. Be careful of who you chose to share your vision and dreams with. If they are reckless (like the dogs or pigs in the scripture) or messy, they are not going to give the care and concern. Constructive criticism is always welcomed but if the heart is not well, their response won’t be either. It’s time to dream even as we pivot in this new normal. Seek God for clarity, for vision, and who should even be a part of it. Visit DrFroswa.com for information on her latest book, Fly Away or Austin Brothers Publishing to purchase her previous books, Rules of Engagement:Making Connections Last and Ready for a Revolution: 30 Days to Jolt Your 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.
JULY 24, 2020
Coping during COVID-19 By Shonedra Redd Texas Metro News I hung up the phone with my sister earlier this week. All I could hear was the sheer disappointment in her voice as she explained that her college graduation was now non-existent. In addition, her restaurant management hours had been cut with unemployment as a viable option. An example, amongst many stories to be uttered, of how the coronavirus is “disturbing the peace”...a whirlwind, agitating and even demolishing lives like a wrecking ball and chain. Feeling hopeless and full of despair, many are scrambling to find answers to their essential questions, “How am I going to pay my bills,” “How do I balance working and teaching my children at home,” or “When will the worst become better?” In times such as these, I ask that you reflect on the words of the seasoned and wiser when they say, “BABY, Trouble Don’t Last Always.” However, while troubles seem insurmountable, may I suggest five practical ways to keep your mind and spirit at ease during the storm? Prayer and Meditation- At this moment, our world has found itself in a state of chaos. My challenge is to manage those things which are in your control. Prayer and meditation are coping tools one can use to manage their anxiety and to re-focus on those things which are wholesome. Take 15 minutes a day to indulge in that much-needed quiet time that brings peace and relaxation to your mind, JULY 24, 2020
Shonedra Redd
body and soul. Other benefits include but are not limited to: stress reduction, improved health, and assisting in managing thoughts. Exercise- Evidence shows that exercise reduces stress, depression, negative moods and anxiety. Although we are currently practicing social distancing, you are encouraged to step outside for a little bit of sunshine and fresh air. Maybe, the walk or run you were putting off — can finally be completed! Do not gather in groups, but exercise alone or by keeping a 6-foot distance from your exercise partner and others. If anything, exercise from the comforts of your own home. Continually, running back and forth to the refrigerator is not an OPTION. Therapy- Prayer, Meditation, and Exercise are great ways to keep the mind sane. However, social isolation can place individuals in dark places when left idle to their own thoughts. During this time, consider talking with a mental health professional. If you have access to benefits, many employers allow for free therapy sessions in their healthcare plan. If not, some clinicians work with patients on a sliding scale, which allows the fee per ses-
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sion to be variable, based on the patient’s income. Take advantage of your tele-therapy sessions today! Family Bonding- Build closer bonds with family members in your home. Parents hug your children a little tighter, love on them more! Children appreciate the sacrifices that your parents make daily to create a meaningful life for you and your family! For many, friends have turned into family. Pick up the phone and tell them how much you love them and care. Even consider hosting a virtual party on platforms such as Zoom or Google Meets to continue building connections. The owner of Family First Counseling, Megan R. Pickens, LPS-S says, “To take care of your mental health, make sure you are connecting with others using the telephone, apps that connect or social media.” You don’t have to be completely isolated. Complete isolation can lead to depression. When meaningful connections are made the world can restore itself to wholeness. Completing Unfinished Tasks- What is on your to-do list? Is it a book that needs to be read? Maybe, it is a house project in the bathroom or
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Megan R. Pickens
kitchen? It could be as simple as balancing your checkbook! Get IT done! If you have some extra time on your hands take advantage of using it wisely. Just the other day, I read a REALLY good statement that spoke to me and challenged how I am managing my own time in this season, “If you don’t come out of this quarantine with a new skill, a side hustle started, or more knowledge, you never lacked time; you lacked discipline.” Got Discipline? Dealing…right now many of us are dealing and surviving. While working to keep your head above water, selfcare and strive to implement a coping skill above that fits you best in your current circumstance. Again, trouble doesn’t last always. If you desire to be more like the seasoned and wise, you want something to show for it! Why not a better YOU!? Clients can get in touch with Megan R. Pickens, LPC-S for therapy sessions at www.ffctexas.com or they can call the office at 817-969-5114. Sessions are ONLY via video at this time and sessions with student interns are $25. myimessenger.com
Advocates tackle bolstering Black entrepreneurship in Town Hall on State of Black Business By. J. H. CUNNINGHAM Black business leaders and supporters strategized on solutions to save African American livelihoods at a virtual town hall on the state of Black-owned businesses. The panelists discussed the specific needs of the more than two million Black-owned businesses in the United States and what should be done to ensure they survive the economic shut down wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic and protests over systemic racism. The June 27 panel, hosted by Doni Glover, the CEO of DMGlobal Marketing and Public Relations, featured the Rev. Michael Carter, founder of Black Wall Street USA, photographer Regina Boone, Atlanta attorney Karen Hines, and Texas Metro News publisher Cheryl
Smith. The panelists agreed that Black-owned businesses were in a state of crisis, and called on the government, corporate America and the Black community itself to step up and do more - like increased access to capital, holding elected officials accountable and confronting collective psychological impediments to success - to ensure that Black businesses thrive. While many recent protests in the country have focused on social justice, the fight also must include economic equity, according to Zevilla Jackson Preston, co-founder of the Black Business Empowerment Commission. “As we engage in this struggle again, it has to be about economics,” Jackson Preston said, noting that Black voters needed to pay attention
Doni Glover
to the candidate who had a plan for Black economic parity. “Without economic justice, we don’t see Black people moving forward in this century.” Smith said that the pandemic, coupled with protests and racial unrest, has Black people in a state of
“pandemonium,” that they are too familiar with because Black-owned business have always been overlooked and Black people racially profiled. However, Smith noted the number of younger people participating in recent protests showed that change was afoot, and that the community nevertheless needed to hold their elected officials responsible.” “We can’t afford to sit out this election,” Smith said, “and then we have to keep the pressure on those we elect into office - and I don’t care what color they are. “Black people need to stand up. Now is the time for us to step up. Now is not the time for a Corona-cation!” Black people also needed to embrace the tenets that allowed “Black Wall Streets,” see BLACK BUSINESS, page 31
Fund supports local business Guns and Roses Boutique has been a staple in Dallas, TX for more than eight years. On Friday, May 29, 2020 the boutique was destroyed by selfish looters who took advantage of the protest. The restoration of Guns and Roses Boutique starts NOW! Princess Pope, owner and leader has been a prominent pillar in the community, and often praised for her support. As a fashion industry leader, she provides education and mentorship to aspiring myimessenger.com
fashion designers and entrepreneurs. A donation campaign was started to help cover damages to Guns and Roses Boutique. The donations will be spent to cover any expenses the insurance does not cover, including but not limited to: inventory, property damage, merchandise and loss of use for the business. The GoFundMe link is https://gf.me/u/x5qxji for Rebuild Guns and Roses Boutique.
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Princess Pope stands in front of her boutique shortly after fending off looters JULY 24, 2020
www.grandpasecret.com
Please wear your mask and wash your hands! JULY 24, 2020
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Nena’s Finds Boutique A Uniquely Stylish, Fashionable Boutique for women of all Sizes! Ranging from Pretti and Petite to Pretti and Plus! Nena likes to be a bit edgy, blingy ... But she keeps it Chic with Sophisticated Style!
Nena’s Finds is your one stop shop for an Eccentric flare!
214.623.7314
nenafinds17@gmail.com Schedule your Sip n Shop, Trunk Show, Girls Nite Out or Wardrobe Revamp with Nena’s Finds today!
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JULY 24, 2020
Still seeking justice for Breonna Taylor I WAS JUST THINKING... By Norma Adams-Wade
Breonna Taylor
Texas Metro News
“The dead can not cry out for justice. It is a duty of the living to do so for them.” -- Novelist Lois McMaster Bujold Breonna Taylor’s blood cries out for justice. Countless avengers across the nation are seeking justice for her. But justice has been slow, very slow in this needless death that occurred four months, nine days ago. “Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” --Benjamin Franklin. I was just thinking... Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky, as well as Atatiana Jefferson in Fort Worth, Texas are examples of the untold numbers of African-American women, and other women of color, who have died unjustly at the hands of police. Taylor, 26, was an emergency medical technician (EMT). Jefferson, 28, was studying premed. JULY 24, 2020
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Some advocates for Taylor and Jefferson point out that crimes against African-American women often are overlooked because of the huge number of African-American men killed and mistreated by police. All police are not bad. Bad police make it hard for good ones. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” --Martin Luther King Jr. Justice came soon enough in Jefferson’s death when Ft. Worth police officer Aaron Dean was indicted for murder – a rare move when any police officer kills a citizen. A neighbor has asked police to do a welfare check on Jefferson’s home because her front door was open October 12, 2019. Officer Dean went to the home but ended up fatally shooting Jefferson through a window of her home, apparently thinking she was a suspect. Police reports say the officer did not give a warning before firing the fatal bullet. In Taylor’s case, protests have contin-
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ued since she was killed in her apartment on March 13 this year. Protesters and attorney’s for Taylor’s family say there appears to be no movement in the case, while the FBI and Kentucky Attorney General say they still are investigating. No one has been arrested for her murder in this Louisville birth place of Muhammad Ali and residence of Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. “There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.” --Elie Wiesel According to investigators, three plain clothes officers bust into Taylor’s apartment near midnight in what authorities describe as a raid looking for a drug dealer. Police later discovered they had the wrong house and found no drugs or illegal property. But the noise of the break-in awoke sleeping Taylor and her then-boyfriend Kenneth myimessenger.com
Walker who grabbed a gun thinking the noise was an intruder. In the confusion that followed, one officer was shot in the leg. Taylor was shot eight times and died at the scene. The boyfriend was arrested but community pressure got him released and cleared of charges. But no one has been held accountable for Taylor’s death. The slow movement of the case has sparked national protests from famous and little-known individuals. “Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted; the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most; that has made it
possible for evil to triumph.” --Haile Selassie “You just need to be a flea against injustice. Enough committed fleas biting strategically can make even the biggest dog uncomfortable and transform even the biggest nation.” --Marian Wright Edelman Writers for different media give the following suggestions for people who want to help bring justice for Breonna. “If you want peace, work for justice.” --Pope Paul VI 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
• Sign the change.org petition at this site: https://www.change.org/p/andy-beshear-justice-for-breonna-taylor • Post about her on social media using hashtags #Breonna Taylor and #JusticeForBre. • Donate to the Justice for Breonna Taylor Go Fund Me site at: https://www.gofundme.com/ f/9v4q2-justice-for-breonna-taylor • Make calls to the following persons to urge them to bring justice soon for Breonna Taylor: KY Attorney General/Special Prosecutor in Taylor case Daniel Cameron 502-696-5300, Kentucky Governor Andy Breshear 502-564-2611, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer 502-574-2003, Louisville Public Safety chief Amy Hess 502-5747660. • To see a list of actions Louisville city government has made as a result of the Breonna Taylor case, visit: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/mayor-greg-fischer
Atatiana Jefferson
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JULY 24, 2020
Glen’s Kitchen From Marva with BY MARVA SNEED
On “From Marva with Love” we showcased Glen and Catina Wilburn, the owners of Glen’s Kitchen, where you can get soul food and barbecue. Enjoy great ambiance and people, with excellent food service. They also cater and host private parties. Chef Glen’s menu has everything from fried chicken, hamburgers, and seafood to Turkey legs stuffed with dirty rice. Customers are raving about this fast-food restaurant. MS: Tell us about Glen’s Kitchen. CW: We have been here at 3817 Camp Wisdom Rd. for one year and three months. Because of the pandemic, you know we kind of slowed down a little bit but we’ve been doing okay. We are surviving. The restaurant serves several different delicious items. We have so many good things on the menu. We have
baked potatoes. We have stuffed turkey legs. We have crab legs, fish, and chicken. My husband is the chef. He does all of the cooking. He creates recipes. MS: Is Glen’s Kitchen a dine-in or take-out? CW: We are a dine-in, but because of COVID-19 we have kind of stopped. We will allow dining in when the customer has traveled a distance to sit and dine in. Otherwise, we’re doing take-out. Most of our customers are curbside pick up. We do have the option of the Uber Eats and Grub Hub for delivery. Catina went on to say that they love what they do. They are signed up with a Black-owned business group and it has allowed them additional business. She also said that they would like to continue with the ad in Texas Metro News. Their business is growing toward being able to hire employees. They distribute Texas Metro News with every takeout order. Glen’s Kitchen hours are 11 am-8 pm Tuesday - Saturday.
Glen and Catina Wilburn of Glens Kicthen
They have specials on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Call in your order at 469-399-0096 Tune in to “From Marva with Love” on BlogTalkRadio.com/Cheryl’s World Fridays 11 am - 1 pm.
MO’ BETTAH WINGS
$5 Daily Specials 10% Teachers Discount 11am-10pm Monday-Saturday JULY 24, 2020
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12-8 Sunday
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Inaction is not an option. Complete the 2020 Census to shape the next ten years for your community. The power to change your community is in your hands. We can help inform funding every year for the next ten years for public services like healthcare, childcare programs, public transportation, schools, and job assistance. And our responses determine how many seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives. But time is running out, so complete the census today online, by phone, or by mail.
Complete the census today at:
2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.
myimessenger.com 2019_Census_Community_DM_Size J.indd
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JULY 24, 2020 7/6/20 4:54 PM
214-421-5387 Two Podners Bar-B-Que & Seafood 1441 Robert B Cullum Blvd. Dallas, Texas 75210 JULY 24, 2020
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“We are open for carryout. We care about our customers and our community and we thank you for your business during this difficult time.�
Hours of business: Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-9:00 pm. Friday 11:30 am-10:00 pm. Saturday 12:00 pm-10:00 pm.
(469) 899-7927
140 S Clark Rd Cedar Hill, TX 75104
3309 S Malcolm X Blvd Dallas, TX 75215
Call orders in
(214)-859-3472
We run specials Monday-Thursday
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JULY 24, 2020
EAT ZONE Best Food in Town The Hidden Secret of OakCliff 2 Burgers for $5 2 Pc Grilled/Fried Ăžsh
3917 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Suite 103 Dallas Texas 75237.
469-399-0096
Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-8p. 3003 E. Illinois Ave,75216
214-376-9663
During this pandemic we are still open for call-in and pick up orders. We have specials Tuesdays $5 burger baskets with fries and Wednesdays $5 chicken strip baskets with fries. Our menu is filled with so many delicious items. We have Bar-B-Q plates, Crab boils and so much more. We would love to serve you.
6090 Bonnie View Rd Dallas, TX 75241 Hours
of services
may differ
Phone: (214) 372-6321
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Dr. Amerson adapts to Temporary Business Closure Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, has adapted to the temporary closure of LA's Hair and Scalp Clinic. We continue to offer our award-winning products to consumers. Our exclusive products are manufactured by a facility in Garland, TX. Premium quality natural ingredients are used to assist with dry, oily, itchy, flaky, inflammed scalps, as well as hair breakage, hair thinning and regrowth. Everyone may order from our website, and we will ship your product order to you. http://www.hairandscalpessentials.com We need your support. In addition, we offer Video Consultations globally! We will schedule an appointment, give a diagnosis, them make a recommendation. We are available to serve you in the comfort of your home. Call us today - 817.265.8854 http://www.hairandscalpessentials.com We need your support.
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JULY 24, 2020
OUR HEROES By CHERYL SMITH Texas Metro News At a time when the country is in a state of pandemonium with the increase of COVID-19 related deaths; many are mourning the deaths of two civil rights icons. First news spread of the death of venerable activist, Rev. Cordy Tindell “C.T.” Vivian on Friday, July 17. Later in the day it was announced that longtime U.S. Congressman John Lewis had also transitioned. President Barack Obama, upon hearing of Dr. Vivian’s passing, said, “I have to imagine that seeing the largest protest movement in history unfold over his final months gave the reverend a final dose of hope before his long and well-deserved rest.” It was last December when Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) urged the nation and world to pray for her colleague who had been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. “Congressman Lewis has been an elegant rose in Congress, providing his colleagues and his nation with wisdom, grace and strength,” she wrote. “He has prayed for others when many could not pray for themselves. Now it is our time to pray for him.” When the congressman shared his diagnosis, he said he would continue his “fight in the halls of government for policies and laws that lift the American people” and that embolden the American Democracy. “We have many bridges to cross,” he said. “With God’s grace I will be JULY 24, 2020
Rev. C.T. Vivian
back on the front lines soon.” And he stayed on the frontlines until the very end. The son of sharecroppers, the Alabama native helped organize sit-ins and protests as a student at Fisk University. A Freedom Rider, tales of the brutal beatings he received are legendary and the topic of history classes on the struggle for justice and equality. Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa, Vice Chair Carla Brailey, Finance Chair Chris Hollins, Treasurer Mike Floyd, and Secretary Lee Forbes issued the following statement: “… the world lost two of its greatest giants, John Lewis
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and CT Vivian. John Lewis was everything that is good about this country and everything that we, as Texas Democrats, strive to be. John Lewis taught us that it doesn’t matter where you come from or how comfortable you are -- if you possess true bravery, profound humanity, and a willingness to sacrifice, you too can change the course of history. “Lewis was a profound man who lived an extraordinary, resilient life. A rebel and a changemaker, Lewis was the youngest leader at the historic march to Washington. He knew that with every step he took to challenge the status
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quo, his life would be filled, at times, with pain and anguish, but lived it every day with the joy, grace, and courage that some of us can only dream of. .” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson shared his expressions, upon hearing of the Congressman’s passing. “Congressman John Lewis was a true civil rights icon and an American hero. His commitment to the fight for justice, fairness, and equality was universally admired. He will be sorely missed. My heart goes out to his family.” Born in Boonville, MO; his life-long work as an activist spanning more than seven myimessenger.com
decades, began in 1947 when he participated in a protest at a lunch counter sit-in. Both Rev. Vivian and the Congressman are recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which was presented by President Barack Obama in 2013. An active member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the founder of the C.T. Vivian Leadership Institute was also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The Rev. Al Sharpton shared his sentiments in a statement, “The passing of C.T. Vivian should cause us all to pause and celebrate the life and sacrifice of this giant. He made this nation and world a better place. RIP, my friend.” First elected to Atlanta City Council in 1981, the member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., served in Congress for the past 33 years, since his election in November 1986. President Obama wrote of Cong. Lewis: America is a constant work in progress. What gives each new generation purpose is to take up the unfinished work of the last and carry it further — to speak out for what’s right, to challenge an unjust status quo, and to imagine a better world. John Lewis — one of the original Freedom Riders, chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the youngest speaker at the March on Washington, leader of the march from Selma to Montgomery, Member of Congress representing the people of Georgia for 33 years — not only assumed that responsibility, he made it his life’s work. He loved this country so much that he risked his life and his blood so that it might live up to its promise. And through the myimessenger.com
Cong. John Lewis
decades, he not only gave all of himself to the cause of freedom and justice, but inspired generations that followed to try to live up to his example. Considering his enormous impact on the history of this country, what always struck those who met John was his gentleness and humility. Born into modest means in the heart of the Jim Crow South, he understood that he was just one of a long line of heroes in the struggle for racial justice. Early on, he embraced the principles of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience as the means to bring about real change in this country, understanding that such tactics had the power not only to change laws, but to change hearts and minds as well. In so many ways, John’s life was exceptional. But he never believed that what he did was more than any citizen of this country might do. He believed that in all of us, there exists the capacity for great courage, a longing to do what’s right, a
willingness to love all people, and to extend to them their God-given rights to dignity and respect. And it’s because he saw the best in all of us that he will continue, even in his passing, to serve as a beacon in that long journey towards a more perfect union. I first met John when I was in law school, and I told him then that he was one of my heroes. Years later, when I was elected a U.S. Senator, I told him that I stood on his shoulders. When I was elected President of the United States, I hugged him on the inauguration stand before I was sworn in and told him I was only there because of the sacrifices he made. And through all those years, he never stopped providing wisdom and encouragement to me and Michelle and our family. We will miss him dearly. It’s fitting that the last time John and I shared a public forum was at a virtual town hall with a gathering of young activists who were helping to lead this summer’s
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demonstrations in the wake of George Floyd’s death. Afterwards, I spoke to him privately, and he could not have been prouder of their efforts — of a new generation standing up for freedom and equality, a new generation intent on voting and protecting the right to vote, a new generation running for political office. I told him that all those young people — of every race, from every background and gender and sexual orientation — they were his children. They had learned from his example, even if they didn’t know it. They had understood through him what American citizenship requires, even if they had heard of his courage only through history books. Not many of us get to live to see our own legacy play out in such a meaningful, remarkable way. John Lewis did. And thanks to him, we now all have our marching orders — to keep believing in the possibility of remaking this country we love until it lives up to its full promise.” JULY 24, 2020
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July 22, 2020 Happy Birthday Jihad Muhammad
Meet A Black Mental Health Professional: “We Are Here”, hosted by Dr, Tanisha Guy & Megan Pickens, LPC-S. . 7– 9 pm. The event will introduce 20 Black mental health professionals. Reg: Eventbite.com. Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez and Cohost Shavonda with a “V” Fields, on Hollywoodlive.com. From 2 pm – 4 pm. Guests: India Roberts-Tax Expert., Vocalist Kevin Hawkins, Comedian Lisa Love.
Virtual and liVe Community Calendar
Desperate for Jesus Women’s Conference Hosted by Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. Chrystal Evans Hurst and Priscilla Shirer, 7-24 at 7pm and 7-25 at 9 am for a spirit-filled, free, Online conference. Features two amazing speakers and women of God, Jackie Hill Perry and Katherine Wolf. It’s FREE, but you must register at www.DFJ2020.com.
July 27, 2020
Curbside Market by La Francaise Bakery 10 am – 2 pm Curbside Market @ La Francaise Bakery 201 Gold St., Garland.
2020 Arlington NAACP Community Legal Clinic 9 am- 1 pm. Virtual Zoom. Reg: https://forms.gel/woznCHeM7WVKBrcD8.
DeSoto Fourth Friday Concert DeSoto Gospel Live Host Arts DeSoto and City Hall. DeSoto is going VIRTUAL! Back by popular demand, DeSoto Fourth Friday Music Series online on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ArtsDeSoto. 8- 9 pm.
Mayor’s Milk Initiative: S. Dallas at Paul Dunbar Learning Center 4200 Metropolitan Ave. Dallas. 9 am - 12 pm. No ID required anyone is welcome.
July 25, 2020 Happy Birthday Cierra Mayes
July 24-25, 2020 JULY 24, 2020
RBPOA-Dallas Monthly Members Meeting. Retired Black Peace Officers’ Association of Greater Dallas, 211 enter St. Dallas. 12:45-2:00 pm.
Positive Reflections Ministry Free Groceries. Pick up location: Pleasant Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1910 N. St Augustine Rd. Dallas from 9 am to 1 pm. Call 214-208-5536. The 2nd Annual DFW HBCU Alumni 5K. 7–11 am. The DFW HBCU Alumni Run/Walk is a event that brings together alumni and supporters of HBCU’s around the Dallas/ Fort Worth Metro to raise awareness and scholarships for DFW. Tickets: $15-$35 at Eventbrite.com.
“South Dallas Census Car Caravan”!! We will count Dallas completely !! 2020 Census Caravan Starting Location: Parking Lot of The Lord’s Missionary Baptist Church, 6122 Bexar Street, Dallas. We will line up for the Census Caravan at the church at 9:30am and will start at 10am. Please confirm your participation so that we will know that you will be in the Caravan. Mythe Y. Kirven E: mythe.y.kirven@2020census.gov.
4th Annual Expunction Expo (Clear Criminal Record) Application Deadline: Monday, July 27, 2020. If you have a criminal record, under certain circumstances, you may have your record expunged (cleared). INSTRUCTIONS: If you do NOT have Internet access, call Dallas County at 214-653-2905. Otherwise, go to: www.Dallascounty.org/expunction.
July 28, 2020
Happy Birthday Haley Bolden
Together We Test Free Covid-19 Testing at Friendship West 616 W. Kiest Blvd. 9 - 1 pm. In partnership with Project Unity, Catalyst Health Network, St. Paul United Methodist Church, Stratifi Health, & Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. You must wear a Mask. Info, email atrusty@friendshipwest.org.
Safe Space Conversations About Race (Virtual) July 23rd & 30th; 5:30pm. Visible Unity invites you to a safe conversation about race in a civil, healthy setting with no experts or panelists – just everyday people who seek to be the change. 20 persons per session. Register: info@visibleunityinc.org. Include your name, city, race, age (18+), and which Thursday session. Contact: Ann Fields, 214-263-7791.
Summer Camp Online at The African American Museum. For children 10-15 only. Four days and 3 hours each day. African American History. Register: www.aamdallas.org.
July 24, 2020
July 23, 2020
On-Line African American History Courses. July 23rd & 30th; 7–9pm. The African-American Museum sponsors Online history courses every Thursday in July and August. Classes limited to 30. Cost: $50. July Courses: Africans in the Atlantic World; Africans & the Origins of American Slavery; and Antebellum Slavery Resistance. Info: 817-406-8443. www.aamdallas.org.
July 27-30, 2020
Disaster Relief Drive Through Food Pantry. Free food safely loaded into the trunk of your car. Saturday 10-12 pm. at 3314 Detonte St. Dallas. www.empoweringthemasses. org. For Information call 972-460-6316. Live Music at The Warehouse Lounge Who DAQ Daiquiries host Jim Austin 1125 E. Berry St. Ft. Worth 8:0011:00 pm. Celebrate With Us. Featuring Reuben Lael. Tickets: www.jimaustinonline.com.
Anti-racism Discussions - I Am Not Your Negro (Part 1) Hosted by Grace United Methodist Church. 7–8:30 pm. Tickets: https:// us02web.zoom.us/meeting Online event. Our Anti-racism Film Discussion series continues with a 2-Part Discussion focusing on the powerful work of James Baldwin as presented in the film “I Am Not Your Negro.”
July 29, 2020 Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez and Co-host Shavonda with a “V” Fields, on Hollywoodlive.com. From 2 pm – 4 pm. Meet A Black Mental Health Professional: “We Are Here,” hosted by Dr, Tanisha Guy & Megan Pickens, LPC-S. 7 – 9 pm. The event will introduce you to 20 Black mental health professionals. Register: Eventbite.com.
July 26, 2020 Tribeca Drive-In at AT&T Stadium One AT&T Way, Arlington 7:30 -11:30 pm. Tickets: www.tribecafilm.com.The “Tribeca Drive-In” series, which will feature an exciting slate of over 30 iconic films, comedy acts, and more. Food Distribution Hosted by Holy Covenant United Methodist Church 1901 E Peters Colony Rd., Carrollton. 1-3 pm. If you would like to help, we need volunteers to fill bags and volunteers to load bags into cars on Sunday, July 26th. Sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040b4babaf2ba0fb6-food5.
I MESSENGER
BLACK LIVES MATTER #NationBuilding w/ Michael Sorrell, at 12:30 pm. CDT, Wednesdays on Facebook & Twitter. Follow Paul Quinn College’s President, Michael Sorrell on all social media platforms. @MichaelSorrell on Twitter & Instagram and @Michael J. Sorrell on Facebook. A Message For You, with Anthony Council Morehouse student and I Messenger Media intern. Tuesdays at 11am Anthony brings that perspective from those born in this century. Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation. Andrew’s World with host Andrew Whigham III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459 The Stimulus Show, hosted by Cheryl Smith publisher of Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger. She is a FAMU grad and secretary of the National Association of Black Journalists. Join in on Facebook/@CherylSmith and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am Mondays. Call 646-200-0459. SIP and Eat with LaShante’ “The Lifestyle Chef.” LaShante Williams, Every Thursday at 7pm CST on FB live and IG live and https://www.instagram.com/ lashante@thelifestylechef/
A Message For You, The Stimulus Show with Marva Sneed from11 am -1 pm. CST, Wednesdays and Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.
A Message For You, with I Messenger Media multi-media journalist Allana Barefield and the legendary Norma Adams-Wade. Mondays at 11am. Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation.
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BLACK BUSINESS, from page 15...
or prosperous Black-owned business zones, to succeed, according to the Rev. Carter, including a commitment to keeping their money within the community. “There are burgeoning Black entrepreneurs needing our support and our dollars,” the Rev. Carter said. “We must raise the level of recycling the dollars among our own people.” Jackson Preston, of the Black Business Empowerment Commission, agreed, and called for a “PHD” agenda: “purchase Black, hire
Black and deposit Black.” Saturday’s town hall was facilitated by the Black Business Empowerment Commission, a national grassroots group dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses. The BBEC plans to host monthly town halls on Black economics on the last Saturday of the month. The next virtual meeting will be held July 25 at noon. Visit the BBEC’s website, www.bbecommission.org, for more information.
We’re open and ready to serve you!
Elaine’s Jamaican Kitchen
(214) 565-1008 2717 Martin L. King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215
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I Messenger
Do you know this man?
POLICE have not apprehended “Pookie” the serial rapist. We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers.
HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST
He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community. Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU?
877-373-8477 JULY 24, 2020
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