I Messenger 7-9-21 by Cheryl Smith

I MESSENGER VOL X NO 42 JULY 9, 2021

Bean Pie my brother, Bean Pie my sister?

R E H T MO EARTH

IMessenger 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 news@texasmetronews.com S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com Jessica Hayden STAFFWRITER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marva Sneed EDITORIAL TEAM Anthony Council Chelle Wilson Dareia Tolbert Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dorothy J. Gentry Eva Coleman Monique P. Stone Lajuana Barton Rebecca Aguilar Vincent Hall MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio

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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 9, 2021

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Young Black Lawyers’ Organizing Coalition releases People’s Brief on the John Lewis Voting Rights Act Brief is a tool to build community momentum for federal legislation to restore the Voting Rights Act As Congress considers federal voting rights legislation, the Young Black Lawyers’ Organizing Coalition (YBLOC) released a People’s Brief on the John Lewis Voting Rights Act recently. Designed to be a community education tool, the brief traces the narrative history of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and discusses, in a clear and accessible way, how the John Lewis Voting Rights Act would restore the landmark legislation and revive its critical voting rights protections. “The goal of this brief is to empower all Americans with the information they need to be effective ambassadors for the John Lewis Voting Rights Act,” said Abdul Dosunmu, the found-

er and chief strategist of YBLOC. “In order to ensure the restoration of the Voting Rights Act and its urgent voting rights protections, we must take the conversation directly into the heart of our communities, clarify the stakes, and mobilize people power. That is what this document aims to do.” This People’s Brief is being released at a critical inflection point for Black voting rights. According to the Brennan Center for Justice, there are 389 proposed voter suppression bills in 48 states. The John Lewis Voting Rights Act would help combat this troubling tide of voter suppression bills by restoring key provisions of the Voting Rights Act.

The brief was crafted with community stakeholders in mind. As leaders engage their communities around voting rights issues, this People’s Brief will be an important community education and empowerment tool. The Young Black Lawyers’ Organizing Coalition (YBLOC) is a nonpartisan, community-centered movement of young Black lawyers and law students working to protect and empower Black electoral voice through voter education, strategic advocacy and impact litigation. We work in collaboration with grassroots Black communities to fight for full access to electoral democracy and to realize full electoral voice. myimessenger.com

INSIDE

Pride’s Juneteenth Celebration

Potter’s House Celebrates

A record number of visitors converged on Dallas this weekend to celebrate gay pride month and the Juneteenth holiday, pumping millions of dollars into the local economy. The event, sponsored in part by Dallas Southern Pride (DSP), was billed as “Juneteenth Unity Weekend.”

Megachurches. Like them or not, there’s no denying the impact The Potter’s House, led by founder Bishop T.D. Jakes, has on the world. From individuals, couples and families to students, the formerly incarcerated and more, Bishop Jakes has come a long way from his first church, Greater Emmanuel Temple of Faith.

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July 9, 2021

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith Publisher

Austin,

We are watching

Legislators are returning to Austin for a special session. Some of the topics Texas Governor Greg Abbott hopes to achieve what he considers a favorable outcome are: prohibiting transgender people from participating in sports leagues that conform to their gender identity; teaching critical race theory; barring doctors from prescribing abortion-inducing drugs by mail or delivery service; social media censorship; and, early voting. If you pay attention to reports here, and almost any other place, about the 87th Legislative Session, you will discern that it won’t be a pleasant experience for many and especially the Democratic legislators. Vitriolic, tumultuous, stressful, challenging and mean spirited are just a few of the words used to describe the gathering in Austin earlier this year. One legislator said it was the “worst session I experienced in my six terms.” As we navigate through life, living with COVID 19 and gearing up for the midterm elections in 2022, you can’t help but feel a little anxiety. July 9, 2021

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You’re about to be deluged with literature from candidates good and bad. You’ll be courted and challenged, maybe even threatened and antagonized. Or, possibly hoodwinked, if you don’t do your homework. Whatever the case, it is imperative that citizens wstart being

more aggressive and informed so they can hold elected officials accountable, They must ask their elected officials to choose people over party and leave petty ways behind. There is too much at stake and the people should not be on the losing end.

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July 9, 2021

THIS ANTHEM DOES NOT SPEAK FOR ME THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

Frances Scott Key, author of the Star-Spangled Banner, our “National Anthem” was a dyed in the wool racist. He opined that “Negroes” were a “distinct and inferior race.” He was a slaveholder from a family of slaveholders who influenced the odious seventh President Andrew Jackson to appoint Roger Taney, the author of the Dred Scott decision (“Blacks have no rights that whites are bound to respect”) to the Supreme Court. Aspects of the “National Anthem” are derisive to Black people. Key disagreed that the formerly enslaved who fought with the British in the War of 1812 should receive their freedom due to their service. The British kept their word, settling formerly enslaved Blacks in the British Caribbean on land they provided them. How, then, does the raving of a racist become our nation’s national anthem, taught in every school, played at every athletic event and assembly, and designed to stir patriotic strings when we hear it? When I hear the words, “land of the free, home of the brave,” I think, “land of the thief, home of the slave.” As early as 1836, abolitionists were mocking the song, taking that offensive line and recastJuly 9, 2021

ing it as “the land of the free, home of the oppressed.” When you delve into the lyrics, Key’s utter contempt for Black people, especially those formerly enslaved people who claimed their freedom by fighting with the Brits, was apparent. But the Daughters of the Confederacy (surprise, surprise) were among those who thought this slave-deriding song should be our national anthem. In doing so, they ensured that generations of schoolchildren would never learn the truth about the hypocrisy of their country, fighting for freedom against the Brits while also fighting for the right to deny others freedom. When Gwen Berry, the African American athlete who has qualified for the 2020 Olympics, turned her back on the American flag while the troublesome national anthem was playing, she invited criticism for her actions and the paradox of the African American reality in this nation. Berry said, “the anthem doesn’t speak for me,” and giving voice to the ambivalence that so many African American people feel about this nation. We are disgusted by the injustice and hypocrisy woven into every fabric of our lives, even as we experience and enjoy aspects of progress and opportunity that distinguish our lives from those of our enslaved foremothers and fathers. She turned her back and covered her face with a t-shirt

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that said “activist athlete” in the spirit of Frederick Douglas, who famously asked what the Fourth of You Lie could mean to the Negro. Generations have been taught the Star-Spangled Banner without understanding its author or the meaning of its lyrics. That the Daughters of the Confederacy championed it ought to say enough. Since their inception in 1894, those women have been determined to embrace the Southern “Lost Cause.” Historically openly racist, they endorsed the Ku Klux Klan at their 1919 convention. They have supported or funded the erection of statues and memorials to Confederate leaders. They have never refuted their racist views, although they have had many opportunities to do so in contemporary times. Their headquarters in Richmond, the cradle of the confederacy, was damaged by fire last year as people protested the massacre of George Floyd at the knee of Derek Chauvin. Their ideology ought to be equally incinerated. While many opposed the national anthem, Woodrow Wilson, whose own racial views were questionable, embraced the anthem. Still, it was not made official until the passage of HR 14 in 1929. Before that, America the Beautiful (oh beautiful, for gracious skies) was considered the national anthem. The Ray Charles rendition,

and his struggles to sing it in Georgia, are more impactful emblems of “America” than the lyrics of a slaveholder could ever be. Gwen Berry said the anthem did not speak for her, but it still seems to speak for so many of our fellow citizens who mindlessly sing racist lyrics penned by a slaveholding man. As long as this is our international calling card, so long as this is the music that accompanies our athletic victories, we tell our Black athletes that they are valued for their athleticism, but not for their lives and for the injustices they experience. To force someone to stand up and listen to that nonsense is to shove patriotism down the throats of those who feel somewhat less than patriotic. It is entirely possible to excel in one’s sport and look askance at American hypocrisy. Gwen Berry is one of a long line of activist athletes. She deserves applause, not approbation. She says the Star-Spangled Banner doesn’t speak for her. It doesn’t speak for me either. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist, and social commentator.

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Rebirth of a Nation WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ.

Some of my “vintage” or “experienced” readers may remember or actually saw the movie “Birth of a Nation.” Not the 2016 Nate Parker version — I’m referring to the 1915 silent film, originally called “The Clansman,” by D. W. Griffith. In short, it glorified the KKK and denigrated civil and human rights for formerly enslaved persons using the “Black man, white woman” paradigm. Although praised at its release, the original “Birth of a Nation” is now understood as a gross misrepresentation of reality and historical revisionism at its worst. What it did was give cover and justification for the racist social constructs of the antebellum South and the general acceptance of the theory and practice of white racial superiority in the nation. Across the Potomac River in Virginia, a mere 31 miles as the crow flies, from Washington, D.C., lies Loudoun County, Virginia. Loudoun is the fastest-growing county in

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Virginia and is listed as the wealthiest county in the United States. By most measures, including the newness of housing and commercial structures, supporting infrastructure, and the quality of schools, Loudoun is a desirable place to live and raise a family. One could reasonably believe that, given the academic and technical skills necessary to command the salaries necessary for the designation of wealthiest county in the nation, Loudoun is a well-educated and enlightened community. Since, by my definition, education is an ongoing endeavor and enlightenment is the willingness to explore the full dimensions of the truth, calling Loudoun well-educated and enlightened is an arguable proposition. Sadly, Loudoun, like many other social arenas, is currently embroiled in a controversy related to the teaching of “Critical Race Theory” in the Loudoun County Public Schools. The interim school superintendent asserts that CRT is not being taught, yet there is vigorous opposition to that type of instruction in the schools. Opponents of CRT assert that it is anti-American and that it teaches students that

America is racist, American culture is inherently bad, and that America’s entire system must be radically altered to make it better. Listening to a local D.C. radio news station, I heard a person identified as a Loudoun public school history teacher claim that CRT imposed feelings of guilt on white students and a sense of inferiority upon African American students. It is open to argument, but my assessment of that teacher and others who protest against CRT is that “their” misunderstanding of historical truths and personal feelings of guilt inspire their opposition. My reality informs me that, just as America has made great accomplishments and led innovation to the benefit of the world, it has a history of violence, brutality and ruthlessness that has been encoded in its genetic profile. To reject the truth of CRT (America’s racism) is to ignore and deny: • The dispossession of Native America lands and the “Indian Wars” which eradicated generations of native people. • The establishment of “Indian Schools” which had the expressed purpose of destroying Native American

language and culture. • The brutal, more than 200-year enslavement of Africans kidnapped from their homeland. • The denial of full participation in the American lifestyle (Jim Crow laws). • The innumerable rapes, lynchings and murders of people of color. • The “documented” systemic exclusion of people of color from educational, employment and housing opportunities. • The duplicitous pattern of policing in communities of color. • A myriad of other racially inspired physical and emotional indignities and assaults. To those who oppose CRT, I will not allow your embarrassment or guilt to erase the truths of our collective histories. I will not sit quietly while you ignore our past and continue with your opportunistic patterns of discrimination. My voice will ring loudly! As for your guilt, get over it! Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of the National Congress of Black Women and Host of “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-FM 89.3.

July 9, 2021

Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center offers multiple programs for members to engage with health and wellness services and be empowered to live healthy lifestyles. These services are available online with your smart phone or computer, and in person at our Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center location.

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Telehealth nutrition and wellness services:

Diabetes self-management education classes Medical nutrition therapy counseling Group Lifestyle Balance™ weight loss classes Healthy Eating & Exercise Lifestyle Program (HELP) diabetes prevention classes Church (PEERS) health discussions on health topics Tweeners education and Nutrition Youth Program Community Health Worker (CHW) certification training classes CHW – continuing education classes

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classes •

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Cooking Well with High Blood Pressure classes

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A Taste of African Heritage cooking classes

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A Taste of Latin American Heritage cooking classes

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Happy Kitchen® cooking classes, offering help with buying and preparing healthy food on a budget

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Balanced living classes on time and stress management and self-care

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Telemedicine clinical care: •

Cooking Well with Diabetes

Group fitness classes includes ZUMBA® and general fitness classes for all levels

Primary care visits with a doctor or nurse practitioner Curbside care, which includes flu shots and medication pick up

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Farm Stand - Online ordering/curbside pickup of fresh fruits and vegetables

For information: 214.865.3060 BSWHWCMEMBERSHIP@BSWHEALTH.org

4500 Spring Avenue | Dallas, TX 75210

July 9, 2021

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July 9, 2021

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ACLU Texas http://www.aclutx.org/ http://www.facebook.com/acluoftexas http://www.twitter.com/aclutx

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July 9, 2021

Sis Eartha Muhammad

MOTHER EARTH July 9, 2021

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Natural Baked Goods may be the best dessert you’ve ever had By AMORE Texas Metro News Bean pies are now infused into the Black food experience like soul food. Unlike most soul food, the bean pie consists of healthy components that are full of nutrients. In the 1930s the Nation of Islam’s eternal father, The Hon. Elijah Muhammad, introduced the pie as the dessert counterpart to his How to Eat to Live diet utilized by his followers. Muhammad’s better health doctrine sparked wellness consciousness throughout the Black community and with such came the popularity of the bean pie. In the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex Mother Earth Natural Baked Good’s bean pie is at the helm of numerous dinner tables as their premier dessert choice. Sis Eartha Muhammad, a member of N.O.I. Muhammad Mosque No. 48 in South Dallas, is the owner of Mother Earth. When people say, why make a pie out of beans? Her response is quite simple. “The navy bean is full of protein, anti-oxidants, anti-radiation properties, this why The Hon. Elijah Muhammad gave it to us to eat as a complete food.” Navy beans have been called one of the healthiest foods on earth. This bean has been hailed as a great source of cholesterol-lowering fiber. It also minimizes blood sugar levels from a rapid rise, this makes the bean good for diabetics. In addition, the bean also provides energy, helps maintain memory, and lowers risk of heart attack. People who are not familiar with the bean pie often imagine it as a pie full of whole beans, which is not widely appealing. That’s not the case. myimessenger.com

Bean Pie my brother, Bean Pie my sister?

Mother Earth’s Blueberry Bean Pie Credit: Mother Earth

July 9, 2021

The navy beans are cooked and pureed then seasoned with spices and sweetness that gives the bean pie a taste likened to sweet potato, or pumpkin pie, but better according to patrons of it. Rashad Miller is definitely sold, he had this to say about Mother Earth’s. “I fell in love with these delicious pies at first bite. I can’t imagine a better all-natural dessert to enjoy with my favorite coffee or just with a glass of something. At the end of the day Sis. Eartha exceeded my sweet tooth expectations.” Sis. Eartha comes from a lineage of bakers. Her mother baked often, which gave way to Eartha’s intense love for it. “I picked up what I could from my mother. I grew up like most girls at the time, playing with the Easy Bake oven, it was a form of entertainment for us. I started baking, and it became a means of art and creation for me. I have been baking ever since,” said Sis. Eartha. Although she went to college to be trained as a technical illustrator, Eartha continued her creativity and art with her company, Mother Earth. She has expanded greatly on the use of the nutritious navy bean, to not just include her bean pies of which she

July 9, 2021

has added blueberry, banana, apple, and peach cobbler flavors; but to her delicious bean cookies, cakes, apple turnovers, and her decadent bean pie cheesecake with strawberry topping. Although Mother Earth’s bean pie, cakes and cookies have become a fixture to people within the metroplex, she continues to get rave reviews from coast to coast. “The bean pie crust is to die for not too sweet just Right. And those cookies all man fantastic,” said Pamela Jones. Dalton Hill had this to say, “my family and stomach were blessed with the best cheesecake and bean pie ever. Great muffins, cheesecake, and cookies!!” DJ Charlie Chan Soprano is the deejay for Rock and Roll Hall famed group, RUN DMC, he had this to say about Mother Earth. “If you could go to jail for murdering food, I would be in jail for life. Mother Earth Natural Baked Goods, I will be a lifelong customer,” The deejay’s favorite is her banana bean pie. Experience what might very well be the healthiest dessert in the world, the bean pie. Mother Earth Natural Baked Goods can be reach at 214-4023307 or www.motherearthbakedgoods.ecwid.com

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Votes to thwart election bills now - were needed even before 2020 OUR VOICES BY SEN. ROYCE WEST

Although some may question why the Texas Legislature is days away from the start of a Special Called Session, some know the ground was made fertile when the votes were counted from the November 2020 Elections. One could say outcomes of Texas legislative races at least resemble what took place in Congress. Democrats gained three seats in the U.S. Senate. With an effective 50-50 total in both caucuses, gridlock remains. Democrats picked up two seats in the Texas Senate, but saw the goal line again move to guarantee success on controversial and partisan issues for the majority party. In Congress, House Democrats lost seats won in 2018, but held their chamber majority. But hopes of Democrats picking up enough seats to control the Texas House were dashed when no additional seats were gained. With Republican rule of both chambers, Democrats lack the muscle to force compromise. And without a clear majority in the myimessenger.com

U.S. Senate, the minority party leader resumes and redesigns methods used to obstruct the agenda of former President Barack Obama. One of the powers of the United States President is to nominate members to the Supreme Court. Republicans have appointed six of nine sitting justices. We later saw how the then-Republican Senate Majority Leader unabashedly reversed the position on presidential nominations used when he blocked Obama’s final chance to narrow the Court’s majority. Those of us who opposed SB7 - the most recent Republican effort to protect election security as they say, or further suppress votes as Democrats say - again missed an opportunity to make sure they are not successful. Apparently, the fix is easier said than done. WIN MORE ELECTIONS! Only we can come to our own rescue. Because no one else can save us. SB7 is based on a defeated former president’s false claim that the 2020 Election was stolen. As is too often, it passed the Texas Senate by the vote of 18 Republicans to 13 Democrats. The Texas Senate can’t save us. Texas House Democrats

dramatically broke quorum on May 30, the eve of the final day of the 87th Session, to at least temporarily kill SB7. I said temporarily, because a similar bill will be the agenda’s headliner when we reconvene in Austin days from now. The Texas House can’t save us. The U.S. House alone can’t save us. They’ve already approved HR 1 - the For the People Act, which would among provisions, prohibit gerrymandering by ordering an independent commission and stop voter rolls from being purged within six months of an election. On a moment’s notice, Speaker Nancy Pelosi would garner the votes to again pass HR 4 - the John Lewis Voting Rights Act that would restore sections of the Voting Rights Act that were rendered nil by the Supreme Court in its 2013 Shelby v. Holder ruling, which declared the formula used to enforce preclearance of election changes was outdated. (Which also means the U.S. Supreme Court won’t save us.) Current Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell took typical pleasure in blocking test votes for HR 1. It and HR 4 are locked away, where ever he dooms all Democrat initiatives to remain. I had

to shake my head when McConnell borrowed a line to tell reporters that the two federal voting rights bills are, “a solution in search of a problem.” As comprised, the U.S. Senate can’t save us! Despite the fact that the outgoing Texas Secretary of State, the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security - Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and former protector of the former president, former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr - all echoed that the 2020 Election was “the most secure in American history” and free of any massive voter fraud effort, SB7 is part of a coordinated national effort by Republicans to maintain power. I have said repeatedly that elections have consequences. For Democratic elected officials and voters who believe in democratic values, the consequences of not winning elections will continue to be evidenced if too many who are negatively impacted by the actions of Republicans do not turn out to vote. NO ONE ELSE WILL SAVE US - BUT US! Royce West was first elected to the Texas Senate in November 1992. He represents the 23rd Senatorial District on behalf of the citizens of Dallas County.

July 9, 2021

Dallas Southern Pride’s Juneteenth Celebration Pumps Millions of Dollars Into Local Economy Record high attendance leads to dozens of COVID-19 vaccinations and hundreds tested for HIV A record number of visitors converged on Dallas this weekend to celebrate gay pride month and the Juneteenth holiday, pumping millions of dollars into the local economy. The event, sponsored in part by Dallas Southern Pride (DSP), was billed as “Juneteenth Unity Weekend.” Early estimates indicate at least 20,000 people poured into the region, filling local hotels, restaurants and shops. They were treated to three days of events, a block party and pool party as well as health screenings. Event organizers also vaccinated nearly 100 attendees against COVID-19. “We are beyond pleased with this year’s unprecedented turnout for Dallas Southern Pride,” said lead event organizer Kirk Myers. “I want to thank everyone who traveled to our beloved Dallas to participate in this year’s Juneteenth celebration just days after the historic vote to make it a federal holiday. I also want to thank Dallas city leaders and the Dallas Police Department for partnering with us to make this recordbreaking event safe and enjoyable,” Myers said.

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This year’s event also marked many firsts, including: • HIV positivity rate drops below 10 percent among more than 200 attendees tested • 50 attendees sign up for the HIV prevention drug PrEP • Dallas flies official gay pride flag over Dallas police headquarters • The Dallas Police Department held a recruitment drive targeting LGBTQ applicants • The Dallas skyline was lighted in the Juneteenth and Black Pride colors • The Dallas Southern Pride Official Pride flag is debuted and flown for the first time at the Sheraton Market Center.

testament to the enormous trust our supporters have given us. That’s why planning is already underway for the 2022 Dallas Southern Pride/Juneteenth celebration, when we hope to welcome even more visitors to our great city. Dallas Southern Pride dates back to 1997 when a small group of Black LGBTQ friends gathered to celebrate and uplift each other. In 2016, Juneteenth was included in the celebration to honor the essence and spirit of Black culture.

The three-day DSP event was also a shot in the arm to the area economy, including: • Generating an estimated $2.2 million in revenue for local businesses hit hard by a nearly year-long pandemic shut down • Employing hundreds of “gig workers” previously sidelined by the corona virus pandemic • The Sheraton Suites Market Center Dallas host hotel and two overflow hotels sell out • More than two dozen vendors— the largest number in the event’s history—participate in the block party This year’s massive success is a

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July 9, 2021

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Meg-A-mazing By EVA D. COLEMAN Lifestyle & Culture Editor Megachurches. Like them or not, there’s no denying the impact The Potter’s House, led by founder Bishop T.D. Jakes, has on the world. From individuals, couples and families to students, the formerly incarcerated and more, Bishop Jakes has come a long way from his first church, Greater Emmanuel Temple of Faith, founded in 1980 in Montgomery, West Virginia. A Fourth of July, Sunday morning celebration of 25 years in Dallas delivered the artistry of ministry, worship and praise. “We got a whole lot done in 25 years,” Bishop Jakes told the massive crowd in attendance and those tuned in via live stream. Throughout the celebration, a hush came over the

The Potter’s House celebrates 25 years in Dallas room as attendees smiled and swayed as Gospel great and featured musical guest Yolanda Adams sang her classic hit, Open My Heart. The Potter’s House members Pat Smith, Marvin Jones, Ayoka Lawson and Steven Sledge served as emcees, leading attendees through a journey that featured video tributes, vignettes of leaders impacted by the ministry and a series of clips from past services showcasing Bishop Jakes and many others. Smith is a 24-year member and ordained elder in

Bishop T.D. Jakes at The Potter’s House 25 Year Celebration

the church, while Jones is a member known for his portrayal of Tobias Whale in the CW series Black Lightning. Lawson serves as Director of Arts and Music and Sledge

Maestro Jamar Jones plays piano directly across from Bishop Jakes

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has been a member since 1996. Tributes on-screen came from former presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama, singer Anthony Hamilton, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, author and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and many others. Emcee Sledge shared that The Potter’s House has “over 90 active ministries, is in over 170 countries, reaching over 1.5 million souls.” Language is no barrier. A video vignette featuring a couple who work as translators for the ministry gave a glimpse into translators working around the globe to ensure Bishop Jakes’ messages are fully and accurateJuly 9, 2021

Bishop T.D. Jakes and First Lady Serita Jakes surrounded by The Potter’s House staff members

ly received. The celebration was heavy on the arts. The visual display was stunning and dancers were emotionally engaging with choreography that energized the crowd. Many of the performances correlated to several of the

Yolanda Adams singing

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ministry video flashbacks, including a past sermon that highlighted pianist and music composer Jamar Jones along with a young child with different playing abilities to emphasize the importance of practice and embracing your beginnings. Maestro Jones then appeared live at the piano on the floor level directly in front of Bishop Jakes, displaying his masterful skills. A special tribute was given to The Potter’s House Director of Dance Mickye Castillo who suffered a foot injury in December 2019 that transformed her ability to dance. Dancers shared testimonials of her impact via video as well as live performances synced with videos from the past. Bishop Jakes praised her impact and led the entire congregation in prayer for Castillo. During the celebration, a

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Dance performance

clip from when the church was three years old had Bishop Jakes sharing his sentiments on the growth from 50 families who settled in Dallas from West Virginia, saying “It’s not about good preachin’, it’s about awareness.” The unrelenting vision of Bishop Jakes reaches far and wide, revolutionizing health, wealth and mindset.

From the church’s MegaCARE initiatives that have streamlined natural resources to providing a hospital wing for expectant mothers in Kenya; caring for the underserved has been a top priority both locally and abroad. Thousands attend the MegaFEST conferences for education, rejuvenation and entertainment which dually myimessenger.com

Bishop T.D. Jakes leads prayer for Director of Dance Mickye Castillo

President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama video tribute

The Potter’s House congregation lift hands in prayer

brings major economic benefits. There is also the Texas Offender Reentry Initiative (TORI), which gives help, hope and connectivity to those reentering society and employers seeking to hire, while providing guidance to stabilize families involved. Newly announced efforts by Jakes Real Estate Ventures, LLC to revitalize an area long-talked about

The Potter’s House 25th Anniversary event emcees Marvin Jones, Ayoka Lawson, Pat Smith, Steven Sledge

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in Atlanta is just one project that keeps The Potter’s House focused on growth and development in key areas. In developing a massive residential and commercial space to live, work and play, this new effort follows the development of its signature community project, Capella Park, in South Dallas. This fraction of what has been achieved over 25 years rightfully crowns Bishop Jakes as an unmatched, global leader with signs of wisdom to show for it. “I earned this gray hair and I thank God for every strand of it,” Bishop Jakes laughed as he addressed the crowd. Near the conclusion of the celebration, leaders joined Bishop Jakes and First Lady Serita Jakes on and in front of the stage. Bishop Jakes stressed the importance of showing those who work to keep everything going for The Potter’s House. The ministry is now five locations strong, with additional campuses located in Fort Worth, North Dallas, Denver and Los Angeles. “We only did it by God’s grace and your support,” Bishop Jakes said, later adding, “As long as He (God) is there, we will be here.” July 9, 2021

Dallas Arboretum Honors Internationally Renowned Zimbabwean Sculptor

Dominic Benhura, Linda Todd, Mary Brinegar, Dr. Frederick Todd

On June 23, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden held a special dinner to honor international acclaimed Zimbabwean stone sculptor, Dominic Benhura who was in Dallas for the Summer of Sculpture exhibit, ZimSculpt. Known as one of the leading Zimbabwean stone sculptors, Benhura has been sculpting since he was a young boy, learning the skill from his cousin, master sculptor Tapfuman Gutsa. Benhura sold his first piece when he was 12 years old. When he became a father, Benhura began sculpting mothers and children interacting, and these are some of his more popular pieces. He said, “These pieces don’t have faces, so they can be from any culture.” ZimSculpt features the talJuly 9, 2021

ent of several contemporary Zimbabwean artists with more than 100 hand-selected, exquisite sculptures artfully displayed throughout the garden. These contemporary pieces, created by the Shona people of Zimbabwe, are carved from various types of serpentine and semi-precious stone, often weighing tons, and can be as large as seven feet tall. ZimSculpt runs through August 8. ZimSculpt is supported in part by the Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District, The Dallas Mavericks and Texas Telecom Credit Union. Tickets must be pre-purchased online or by calling 214515-6615. Wearing a face covering is required for all guests five years of age while visiting the Dallas Arboretum, unless medically unable to do so.

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Dominic Benhura

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I want a DNA test ASK ALMA BY ALMA GILL

Dear Alma, My wife and I divorced after 38 years of marriage. I still don’t understand why, I want to work it out, but she does not. I had intended on spending the rest of my life with her and now that won’t happen. We had our up and downs, but overall I thought we had a solid commitment and happy marriage. I was happy. She said that she was not and that I never listened to her. She also gave many other reasons that I don’t think are true or care to discuss. Sometimes I feel like my life is over. I have listened to all her lies and lately I’ve been thinking about my children and how I don’t think they look like me and I wonder if I am their father. When they were young and we were married I didn’t think much about it. But now they are all

adults and listening to their mother and all of her lies, it makes me wonder. I want them to have a DNA test and I want my wife to pay for it. I do not want to discuss this with anybody in my family. Can you tell me where to get a DNA test of your children? Signed, I Want A DNA Test Dear DNA Test, Oh no I won’t, but what I will do is try to stop you before you commence to making a mockery of your marriage and children with such foolery. Don’t you dare consider asking your adult children for a DNA test. You’ve raised them and they believe you to be their father, so then, that’s it – you are! Your statue of limitations to confirm that has passed. Look on the bright side, like my mama use to say, “you feed ‘em they’ll favor you.” LOL. So put your glasses back on. I get the impression you’re a man of few words, and since I totally disagree

with you, I won’t keep you long. Asking for a DNA test from your children will only devastate and alienate them and you don’t want to do that. You’re hurt and the thought of finding love again seems impossible. Understandingly so, you were not planning to live out your latter years alone. Here’s my point, as long as you have life, you have another chance at love. The mind can be tricky during the healing process of heartbreak. Having endured more than a few myself, I remember every negative thought or action becomes totally consuming, taking you to a place where you can’t clearly decipher rational from irrational. I’m sorry you weren’t able to work things out with your wife, but I assure you, your life will get better. Check out some old family pictures, you’re surely to be surprised and I hope tickled by the moments of reminiscing. Your kids look like you when you were younger, it’s you who

changed. Age crept up on you and made a few adjustments, LOL. Please, adhere to my advice, drop the notion or need for a DNA test. Don’t demean the love of your children as a pawn to get back at your wife. Whenever there’s an opportunity for you to continue to be the best father possible, you should take it. Invest in yourself, get back out there, go the church, volunteer, join a gym. I know it may seem difficult as the days go by, but wake up appreciating life every day. This experience is the end of marriage, not your life. Meet death by surprise, don’t allow it to become a destination. The rest of your life can be the best of your life. It all depends on you. Alma Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans more than 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.

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July 9, 2021

BIG MAMA SAID

IF THE LORD SAYS THE SAME, THEN I WILL TOO THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

Like Big Mama’s more than a notion, I know so many other mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts and black women who have uttered that statement, “If the Lord says the same I will too”. The phrase is a staple thought in our community. Maybe it came off as just a catchphrase to you or maybe you thought it was an easy response for a churchgoer to say instead of Hello or Goodbye. I decided that since Lucille “Big Mama” Allen said it, then I would unravel my understanding of it. The statement definability has religious connotations not like some of the phrase including “If Fate decrees”, and “Anyway the wind blows it is ok with me”, or “What a blessing, it must be my lucky day “, all of which relates to the future, but does not have the religious connotation “IF THE LORD SAYS THE SAME“ has. The idea is, “If the Lord permits.” The spiritual Christian submits himself to the will of God. He keeps God’s viewpoint on his whole life. We say, “The Lord willing; I will do this or that.” This attitude demonstrates submission to God’s will. It should be more than a jingle July 9, 2021

but an orientation of life that accepts God’s providence for my life, “I accept what God chooses to do with me. This is far from a magic formula for one’s life. Big Mama told us many times that our way is not our way yet it is God’s way. What I understood from Big Mama’s statement fell along the lines of God and Fate. I evaluated what she meant –“ barring some unforeseen act or occurrence that God does NOT bless me through then things will work out and I will be here.” I do recall when on a family visit to one of my Big Mama’s 21 siblings like Aunt Rosa, Aunt Lillian or Aunt Mary, as they ended the visit they would say “Cille” you coming back right? She would always respond with, ““If the

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Lord says the same I will”! My French quarter family customized the phrase when we visited with them. They would answer with, “If God is willing and the creek don’t rise”! Amen! What I do know is “If the Lord says the same I will” was tied to 2 important factors. It was tied to the 1) future and 2) God’s will. Lucille “Big Mama” Allen knew one thing. If we lived under God’s will, we had a better chance for the best future outcomes. She knew a spiritual presence insured a Godly viewpoint on life by dependence on God’s will and our ability to implement divine decision-making. Lucille “Big Mama” Allen knew that God governs what we accomplish. Not only are our lives in his hands, our

success is in his hands. “Some people use the shortness of life to reason not to act under God’s will. Big Mistake! We are still in a state of turmoil as some pundits unravel years of social justice, destroy gains in voting opportunity and create revisionist history. I say to you, let us honor the truth of God in the way we think about our truth and the way we talk about the fullness of God. In closing, my question is, “Do you think you can choose to create a positive interaction for 30 days. My answer is “If the Lord says the same I will” Got a story to tell? Email me at terryallenpr@gmail.com Terry Allen is an award-winning multi-media journalist and owner of 1016 Media.

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Pondering what’s up with all the Hate WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND

MILES JAYE How dare you hate me! How dare you dare to hate me! How dare you despise me, detest the sight of me. How dare you hate me human. You hate me free. You hate me, a man. You hate God for loving me. How dare you hate my mother. How dare you hate my father. How dare you hate my sister and brother. How dare you hate my children. How dare you hate my loving family and friends-- my people. Isn’t it I, who should hate you and every generation of you and yours who have hated me and mine? Isn’t it I, who should hate you for every stretch of red

earth that black feet traversed en route to hell, here? Isn’t it I, who should hate you for every one of millions of corpses flung overboard ships to no return? Isn’t it I, who should hate every buyer and seller, every bid at every auction, trading people as livestock? Shouldn’t it be me who hates you for every lash and every blood drenched stripe on a Black man’s back? Shouldn’t it be me who hates you for every rape, each time you put your hands on my mother’s mother? Shouldn’t it be me who hates you for every drop of sweat we sweat, picking crops for your profit? Shouldn’t it be me who hates you for every grain of rice, granule of sugar, leaf of tobacco, boll of cotton? I should hate you for every acre of land you’ve stolen from my people-- every

house, farm and barn. I should hate you for every church you bombed and burned-- you love to burn. I should hate you for every town and city you bombed and burned-- you love fire. I should hate you for every bullet and every young black man you’ve killed-- you love to kill. If only… hating you would bleach the sadness, dim the sorrow and mute the pain and suffering you bring. If only… hating you could revive the countless lives you’ve robbed us of, the joy you’ve pirated from us. If only… hating you would rejoin families broken by men and women too broken and wounded to love. If only… hating you would stop me from hating me-- I might find peace. 1 John 4:20 says, “Whoever claims to love God, yet hates a brother or sister is a liar.”

Ecclesiastes 3:8 says there is, “A time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” Luke 6:27 says, “But to you who are listening I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.” Maya said, “Hate has caused a lot of problems in this world, but it has not solved a single one.” Martin said, “Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” I ask, how much love does it take? No justice, no peace? I say, only within our hearts and minds, free of hate, can we find an abiding love and lasting peace. I can’t afford to wait for you to not hate me, to love you. That’s what’s on my mind! Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com

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July 9, 2021

Dr. Nicole Labeach THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW BY VALDER BEEBE

This OWN Network unscripted relationship series asks couples whether it’s time to go their separate ways... or Time to PUT A RING ON IT! The series is hosted by Master Relationship Expert Dr. Nicole LaBeach and she stops in at the Valder Beebe Show studio to discuss how to tell if your relationship is your happily ever after. The show follows three longtime couples, with help from master relationship coach Dr. LaBeach, who embark on the ultimate relationship test. From week to week the couples are pushed outside their comfort zones to confront the question they’ve been too afraid to ask and the couples will finally find out if they are truly meant to be together by dating other people, and in doing so they’ll discover if there’s a love connection they’ve been missing all along. Will they decide it’s time to go their separate ways, or is it finally time to put a ring on it? For nearly two decades, Dr. LaBeach has offered leaders, clergy, celebrities, athletes, and entrepreneurs critical tools to advance their personal and professional wins. As an author and multi-hyphenated development professional, her wisdom has inspired the audiences of Essence Magazine, The Steve Harvey & Tom Joyner Morning Shows, The Valder Beebe Show, T.D. Jakes, TV One, Aspire TV. Now a featured guest on the Valder Beebe Show having the show’s platform that reaches 89.9 percent women of its 9.7 million listeners, viewers, web visitors and publication readers of the show’s syndicate column THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW. –Dr LaBeach publicists provided text in conjunction with the Valder Beebe Show VEB: Dr. Nicole, thank you for being here for the first time on the Valder Beebe Show. Please explain a bit of what a master relationship expert is and what you do? NLB: My commitment is to help couples experience a more meaningful relationship. VEB: I’ve seen you at work in Put A Ring On It. My team and I believe whenever a July 9, 2021

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Dr. Nicole LaBeach

couple buys a new home it should include access to Dr. Nicole LaBeach (laughter). NLB: I like that! (Laughter). Well that’s a tall order but I will give this advice. Couples should see a relationship counselor at least once a quarter. This can keep the relationship on track. VEB: What is a common thread in couples on Put A Ring On It? NLB: They are all couples who have been in a relationship three-to-14 years, are they

really committed to the process of figuring out if this could be forever? Or should we go our separate …….. Dr. Nicole LaBeach complete interview…… SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow; more interviews: YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow: Broadcasting to a national & global audience: ValdeBeebeShow.com ; KKVI FM Radio, KRER FM, 411RadioNetwork, Streaming TV, Social Media, Print Publications I MESSENGER, Texas Metro News, and Garland Journal News.

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July 9, 2021

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.

July 9, 2021

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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!

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July 9, 2021

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F9 The Fast Saga AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

Get ready for the summer blockbuster that Paramount Pictures hopes will be the action series to get us back into our local movie theater. F9 THE FAST SAGA has already grossed over $250 Million worldwide and Paramount is banking on a huge opening weekend in this post pandemic era. Technically F9 is the 10th Fast and Furious movie, if you consider the Dwayne Johnson and Jason Stratham movie, HOBBS AND SHAW. According to Box Office Mojo, the Furious series has grossed an estimated $1.6 Billion combined. And already they are mapping out F&F 10 with talk of a spin-off movie starring Tyrese’s character Roman. When the movie starts Dominic and Letty (Michelle Rodriquez), along with their young son, are living off the grid in a wooded, isolated location. Their tranquility comes to an end when the rest of the team travels out to the farm to enlist their help after Mr. Nobody’s (Kurt Russell) plane crashes in a heavily patrolled military outpost in an isolated area of Spain. Dominic refuses at first until his wife hops on a motorcycle and heads down the mountain to join the rest of the team at the rendezvous site; leaving Dom home alone to care for their young son. In the morning Dom comes flying down the airfield runmyimessenger.com

way in a muscle car to reluctantly join the rest of the team. Watching the movie you have no idea who Dominic gets to take care of their son, since they live in such an isolated area, but that’s just one of the many things you have to suspend looking at using reality if you want to enjoy the movie. There are a lot of situations that are simply not possible in the universe we live in but strangely enough the team pulls them off anyway. (My favorite is the car that Tyrese and Ludacris strap rockets on and blast into outer space, but I digress.) In F9 Dom’s chief nemesis is his younger brother Jakob, played by former WWE pro wrestler John Cena, who becomes a super spy after spending his entire life in the shadow of his older brother. He’s buffed up and Dom and the team have to thwart his, and his partner’s, plan to use a device to take over the whole world. Charlize Theron is also back as Cipher, the woman who’s also hellbent on world domination. If you like action movies this one has something for everyone. There are plenty of hand to hand combat scenes between the two Toretto brothers, plenty of explosions and car chase scenes, as a matter of fact there is one scene with both when the Spanish Army chases the team in an explosive minefield. Flying cars, mountain jumping cars, a space rocket car and my favorite is a magnetic device the team installs in their cars that does all kinds of things that are scientifically impossible

(remember the suspended reality part). The whole cast is back in this 9th installment of the series. There’s some great humor between the characters played by Ludacris (Tej) and Tyrese (Roman) and a small role by Helen Mirren as Quennie. She’s a jewel thief who bumps into Dom on a caper at a fancy hotel and while in hot pursuit by the London Police she gives Dom

a ride in a stolen car. There is much to like about F9 THE FAST SAGA but more than anything else I enjoyed the heavy theme of friendship and love of family. The movie does run a little bit long (2 hours and 25 minutes) and it’s rated PG-13. It is showing exclusively in theaters. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate F9 THE FAST SAGA a JUMBO. July 9, 2021

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar

Minority Mental Health Month

Every Friday Night Don Diego and The Razz Band at Club Odyssey, 7439 Westmoreland Rd. 6 pm. Face Mask Required.

UV SAFETY The Black Church Month JULY 8

Jam to Give - Rob Holbert Band / Cedar Hill Shares, at Hillside Village, 305 FM 1382 #590. 7-9 pm.

SoulJazz Thursdays Feat: Natural Change Band. Hosted by Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 8 pm-12 am. Visit www. sandaga813.com. Food Pantry at The Wilkinson Center, 3402 North Buckner Blvd., Dallas, Phone: (214) 821-6380. Hrs: Mon-Thurs. 9 am12 pm. Tues 1 pm-4 pm. Call for an appointment. Frito-Lay in Person Hiring Event: Irving, Supply Chain. Host Frito-Lay Careers. Doubletree DFW Airport 4441 W. John Carpenter Fwy, Irving. Reg: https://bit.ly/3heO6Bb. 8 am-2 pm. Lala Healthcare Solutions, Pediatric Home Health Training Lab Open House at 1341 W. Mockingbird Lane, Suite 113W 5:30-8:30 pm. RSVP at: espy.lolawilson@gmail.com.

JULY 9-10 David Whiteman Band at The Oasis at Joe Pool Lake, 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie. Fri. 7:30 pm. and Sat. 11:30 pm.

National Museum of African American History & Culture Livestream Tour. Event by Texas History & Culture. 3-4:30 pm CDT. Eventbrite Reg: https://bit.ly/3hh07F8. Keep Calm I’m a Cancer Day Party w/ DJ Kid Capri, by FollowYaDJs.com. SANDAGA 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 3-8-pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Mannie Fresh @ APEX Fridays: Cancer’s Night Out, at Herrera’s Addison 4021 Belt Line Rd. Addison. 9 pm-2 am. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

“Dallas Love Field’s Lead with Love” Live. Feat: Veletta Forsythe Lill, Benjamin Espino, Viola Delgado. 12:30 pm CDT. On he Love Field’s Facebook and YouTube pages 2021 Fellowship of Professional Women Summer Lunch Series, “Thrive” at Park City Club, 5956 Sherry Ln. #1700 11:45 am-1 pm. Reg: www.fpwdallas.org.

JULY 14

Dallas Record Show. Host Vinyl Record Show. Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S. Main St. 8 am-6 pm. Tickets: www. vinylrecordshow.com.

Happy Birthday to Stewart Curet I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

TBAAL presents: Beyoncé The Musical. Written and Directed by Curtis King. TBAAL 1309 Canton St. 1-4 pm. Tickets: 214-743-2400.

JULY 11 West End Association Outdoor Market. Host The West End, 607 Corbin St, Dallas. 1 am-5 pm. NEO SOUL SUNDAYS feat Bonnie & Clyde The Band, at Lava Cantina, The Colony, 5805 Grandscape Blvd, The Colony. 4 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio. com 8-10 am. It’s thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news commentary. Join the call at 646200-0459.

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Bastille on Bishop. Host Go Oak Cliff. In the Bishop Arts District, 500 N. Bishop Ave @ Davis St. 6-10 pm. Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson.12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson.

JULY 15-16 NABSW Annual Conference: Wellness Warriors The Fight Calls for Social Work Actions. Host National Association of Black Social Workers. Online, Reg: bit.ly/2SNK7lF. 8 am. CDT.

JULY 15 Deep Ellum Wine Walk: Summer in the City! Host Discover Deep Ellum. On 2650 Main St, Dallas, 6-9 pm. Tickets: https:// deep-ellum-wine-walk.square.site/

JULY 12

If It Don’t Feel Like 90s RnB Dallas Edition, at the House of Blues, Dallas. 2200 North Lamar St. 9 pm-2 am. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

July 9, 2021

Mix & Mingle. Host Garland Area Democratic Club at 340 Coneflower Dr. Garland. 6:30-7:30 pm. Info: http://garlanddemocrats.org/

R+B Brunch: Rhythm & Booze at DAQ’s Daq’s Luxury Daiquiri Lounge, 8700 Preston Rd. Plano. 12-3 pm. Tickets: daqsallfolks. com.

JULY 9

AHYONZ Feat: Kenya C. @ Legends Restaurant, 700 S. Cockrell Hill Rd. Duncanville. 10 pm. It’s Free.

Soul Line Dance Tuesday - LIVE! (Virtual Dance Sessions) Hosted by BE Creative Arts Center. 7-8 Pm CDT. Website: www. becreativeartscenter.com to register.

July Town Hall w/ Rep. Crockett. Online Event. 7-8 pm. CDT. Reg: bit.ly/3dNGHGV.

Frisco Rotary Farmers Market, 6048 Frisco Square Blvd. Farm fresh produce and more. 8 am-12 pm.

Down Town Comedy at TBAAL Feat: Big Sean Larkins host Trina Jeffrie in The Clarence Muse Café Theatre, 1309 Canton St. Fri & Sat at 9 pm. Tickets: 214-743-2400.

From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, & BlogTalkRadio. com. Join in the call at 646-200-0459.

THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @docshepspeaks. Judge Givens’ Equitable Justice themed Art Competition and Campaign Kickoff. Lofty Spaces816 Montgomery St. Tickets: www.ambergivens.com/events. 7-9 pm.

JULY 10

The Connections For Positive Priorities And Common Sense” with Debra Brown-Sturns. Guest: Dewone Bennett, Therapist On Facebook.com/TexasMetroNews & BlogTalkRadio.com. 7-8 pm. 646-200-0459.

JULY 13

NAACP Legal Advocacy Institute, Redistricting, Race, an Representation, 8 am-CDT-2 pm. CDT. Reg: bit. ly/3hj8IrX.

The Connections For Positive Priorities And Common Sense” with Debra Brown-Sturns. On Facebook.com/TexasMetroNews & BlogTalkRadio.com. 7-8 pm. 646-200-0459.

JULY 16 Happy Birthday to Becky Lewis Jam to Give - Rob Holbert Band / Cedar Hill Shares, at Hillside Village, 305 FM 1382 #590. 7-9 pm. From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

JULY17 R+B Brunch: Rhythm & Booze at DAQ’s Daq’s Luxury Daiquiri Lounge, 8700 Preston Rd. 12-3 pm. Tickets daqsallfolks.com. 2021 Trap Paint Dallas. Host Green Light Events. The Empire Room,1225 N. Riverfront Blvd. 2 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. The Dallas Pancakes & Booze Art Show. Host The Pancakes & Booze Art Show at Deep Ellum Art Co. 3200 Commerce St.8 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

JULY 18 The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio 8-10 am. CDT Thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and news commentary. Join at 646-200-0459. BRIO SUMMER JAZZ SERIES presents... “Tatiana Ladymay” Mayfield Live Concert at Nack Theater, 6500 Preston Rd. #101 Frisco. 6 pm. Tickets: www.brioexecutive.com. 2021 Trap Paint Dallas. Host Green Light Events. The Empire Room 1225 N. Riverfront Blvd. 9 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. Art Overdose DTX. Host Eye Opener ENT at SANDAGA 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 4-9 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Real Men Real Talk Virtual, - Our State of Mind. Feat: Royce Da 5’9”. Host The African American Male Wellness Agency. Online: realmenrealtalkvirtual.eventbrite.com 6 pm. CDT.

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July 9, 2021

www.grandpasecret.com July 9, 2021

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July 9, 2021

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July 9, 2021

ARRESTED

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

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

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

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477 July 9, 2021

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