I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

VOL X NO 6 OCTOBER 16, 2020

I MESSENGER

QUEST

FOR SUCCESS HONOREES

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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.

October 16, 2020

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The perfect storm for disaster - COVID, winter and economic slowdown THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

On October 2, the Bureau of Labor Statistics issued the last unemployment report we will see until after the election. Based on this report, Congress and the Senate must pass the HEROES Act that would give individuals, cities, and states much-needed relief from the corona recession, which continues. Some would say we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need those funds because we are in the middle of an economic recovery, but winter is coming. COVID is currently unchecked in ten states and close to containment in only four â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Alaska, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and Vermont. With more people gathering inside during the winter, we are likely to see more COVID cases. We are not prepared. There seems to have been some progress in developing a vaccine, but most experts say the vaccine will not be widely available until mid-2021. Winter also ushers in the flu season, and hundreds of thousands of people need

flu shots and may not be able to get them. While the flue is neither as contagious nor as lethal as COVID, God bless the person who gets them both! Without a vaccine, the coming of winter puts pressure on small business owners and others and will have some economic consequences. In September, the unemployment treat dropped from 8.4 percent to 7.9 percent, which seems like progress until you realize that the drop in the unemployment rate happened because almost 700,000 people dropped out of the labor market. The lower unemployment rate means that things are getting better for fewer people. The long-term unemployed, who have been out of work for more than half a year, has increased to 2.4 million. Of course, unemployment rate differentials remain. The unemployment rate was 7 percent for whites and 12.1 percent for African Americans. While that unemployment rate gap is as constant as structural racism, it is frustrating to find policymakers behaving like Black unemployment is supposed to be higher than the white rate. Oth-

erwise, why have Democratic and Republican leaders done little or nothing to address that gap and close it. Ten million fewer Americans had jobs in September than in pre-COVID February, and just last week, two airlines said they would lay off 32,000 people. If the HEROES Act does not pass, there may be even more without work. States and local governments are laying people off because they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the revenue stream they projected at the beginning of the fiscal year. Public servants will be cut â&#x20AC;&#x201C; teachers, municipal workers, transportation services, sanitation services, and other services. And the pace of job creation is slowing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in July, the economy generated 1.78 million new jobs; in August, 1.49 million. Last month the economy created only 661,000 new jobs, less than half as many as the previous month. If there was a job creation momentum, it is slowing. Congress can prevent this by passing the HEROES Act. While House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, negotiating for the Democrats, has trimmed the Democratic request see COVID, page 32

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INSIDE

Faithful Utterances

Quit Playin’

I Was Just Thinking

Sunday, September 15, 1963, was just another day in the life of four little African American girls at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. However, by 10:22 a.m. it became evident that there was a different teacher on the Sunday school roster.

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October 16, 2020

MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Shaking my head

Zara

Austin Stevens

Don’t push me, cause I’m close to the edge, just got real. I felt a twinge, down deep. I also felt pressure in my head. This must be what heartache or real despair feels like. Darn Internet. If it weren’t for the Internet, I might have never heard of this horrific case October 16, 2020

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that is causing me so much grief right now. Which brings me to my truth. If there was one time that I knew for sure I couldn’t be a first responder it had to be while reading about the arrival of police to an apartment in Providence Township, PA, where they found a 10-month-old in distress, her diaper saturated with blood. According the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, “At around 10:40 pm on Saturday, Lower Providence police responded to a home in the 3400 block of Germantown Road to a report of an unresponsive infant.” They performed CPR and less than two hours later she was pronounced dead at Einstein Medical Center Montgomery. I haven’t a clue as to what was going on inside the head of Zara Scruggs’ father, Austin Stevens, when the 29 yearold decided to rape her. Currently, Mr. Stevens sits in a jail cell, on a $1 million bail, facing multiple charges including: aggravated sexual assault, rape of a child, involuntary deviant sexual intercourse, aggravated indecent assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. He is set for preliminary hearing on October 13 and I am waiting to hear at the charge of MURDER. The results of the autopsy were equally disturbing. Zara was with her father, co-owner of a construction company, as part of a joint custody agreement with her mother. That overnight visit ended up being her last night on this earth, and sadly, it was a painful one, with her sustaining anal rectal trauma and blunt force trauma to the head before dying. Calling the crime heinous, Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele, said, “This case is deeply dis-

turbing. It is hard to imagine this child’s death being any more traumatic: sexual assault on an infant, followed by inaction by the father to save her life, led to her death.” It appears that Stevens did not immediately seek help for his daughter. Zara’s death hurts. It is also disturbing because she’s not the exception. She’s becoming more the rule. Years ago the Philadelphia Inquirer ran a series on children who were the victims of the their mothers’ lovers, boyfriends, partners or husbands. These men sexually molested children of all ages. People asked back then, about whether those perpetrators were sick or high, and still today some ask if Stevens was on drugs. Folks want to have some way of explaining away this horrible behavior because surely someone in their right mind wouldn’t think committing such a deviant act. While Mental Health Awareness Month is recognized in May, and October 10 was World Mental Health Awareness Day, surely you agree with me that we have a mental health pandemic and this is a subject that deserves our attention, resources and understanding. Thanks to organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness we are having some tough discussions and we have professionals who are addressing the mental health pandemic that is desperately in need of more resources. Mental illness is real, just as mind altering drugs are. No word on what the heck was going on in Austin Stevens’ head. My heart goes out to Zara’s family, especially the grandparents who dropped Zara off for that visit. It is my hope and prayer that nary another child will have to meet the same fate as Zara. myimessenger.com

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I Won’t Complain FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

A friend of mine from Australia sent me a note that read, “all of us here are transfixed by the spectacle of the US election! I’ve never seen one like this!” I reassured her that many of us feel the exact same way. 2020 has been such a different year filled with not only an upcoming election, social unrest, and visible injustice along with a pandemic that has created not only a health crisis but an economic and mental health fallout. All of us in some way have needed to adjust and ‘pivot’ to this new normal. All of these challenges have an impact on each of us. We experience an array of emotions—fear, pain, trepidation, loss, anger, and grief. In this moment, our well-being is challenged. Gallup, which provides significant research on several topics, have conducted stud-

October 16, 2020

ies worldwide on this issue. Because of this expansive research, they can determine when wars will break out based on several factors. What they have concluded is that there are indicators that contribute to well-being which include these five elements: social relationships, financial security, relationship to the community, physical health, and a sense of purpose. When these elements are challenged, societies become volatile. This research is even backed by additional studies such as the Blue Zones Research which has reviewed communities of individuals that live to be over one hundred years of age. Each of these communities around the world have several commonalities such as exercise, purpose, having a sense of belonging, diet, and community. These and other factors contribute to not only our well-being but also to our longevity. In this environment, we must be committed to our well-being and to those who love us, that we are seeking and fulfill-

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ing our purpose, and fiercely taking care of ourselves. It is so easy to become dismayed and hopeless because of the daily onslaught of negative and frightening information. If we are not careful, we can become complacent and complain. There is nothing wrong with venting and releasing our frustration but when we complain, we must step back and really analyze it at the core. When we complain, it is an issue of trust. Instead of going to God about our issues, we take it to others not standing on the promises of God and the hope that we have as believers. Complaining is not allowing God a chance to fix our problem. We have already given up. The Bible provides examples of the problem of complaining or grumbling. In the Book of Exodus, the children of Israel were not only frustrated about being in the wilderness, but they had experienced a series of events that were traumatic. They left their homeland to leave their oppressive conditions in Egypt. In leaving, they were chased by their oppressors who were revengeful and willing to kill them. Even though they witnessed the hand of God in rescuing them and watching a miracle with the parting of the Red Sea, they soon found themselves in a new set of circumstances. They wanted water. And Food. And Different Options of Food. And soon, their old lives did not

seem so bad compared to the desert. Exodus 16:8 says, “And Moses said, “When the Lord gives you in the evening meat to eat and in the morning bread to the full, because the Lord has heard your grumbling that you grumble against him— what are we? Your grumbling is not against us but against the Lord.” In their frustration, they forgot what God had previously done and they failed to trust the promises to come. Right now, it is so easy to see the many problems that seem to be unending and unsolvable. In these moments, we must remember how we have gotten through both individually and collectively. The stress is real and yet, the solution is within our reach. The solution to complaining is gratitude. We must remind ourselves that we are overcomers and that what is in us is greater than what is in the world. We’ve got this and while we celebrate the victory in advance and believe in the promises we’ve been given, we must also continue to live our lives in the fullness of our purpose, our health, our connections and in our faith. When we focus on who God is and commit to our well-being and to the well-being of those around us and our communities, we have the right to vent, but we will not complain. Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the Founder and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, specializing as a Partnership Broker and Leadership Expert for companies and organizations to thrive with measurable and meaningful impact. She also is the VP of Community Affairs and Strategic Alliances for the State Fair of Texas.

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October 16, 2020

Vote for Them! QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL Sunday, September 15, 1963, was just another day in the life of four little African American girls at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. However, by 10:22 a.m. it became evident that there was a different teacher on the Sunday school roster. The history of American apartheid and discrimination was on full display. The Jim Crow South was evil and it sentenced them to death. The Congressional court summoned by the late John F. Kennedy and led by President Lyndon Johnson was solidly in deference to many Southerners. The Civil Rights Bill and Voting Rights Act passed in Congress. Some historians speculate that of all the vile and vicious attacks by the Klan and other supremacist militias, killing these young girls was the most disgusting, but paid the highest dividends. Some of the Civil rights activists of that day placed the blame squarely on Alabama’s Governor, George Wallace. Just one week before the bombing, Wallace either brazenly declared or properly prophesied these murders. The Governor of Alabama and the chief spokesperson October 16, 2020

for “states’ rights told the New York Times that to stop integration, Alabama needed a “few first-class funerals.” There is no doubt that Wallace wanted a King funeral, but he ended up with four princesses instead. According to a Washington Post story the next day, “Thousands of hysterical Negroes poured into the area around the church, and police

the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church’s steps. Chambliss was arrested, charged with murder and the possession of 122 sticks of dynamite without a permit. Nevertheless, on October 8, 1963, Chambliss, aka “Dynamite Bob,” was found not guilty of murder. Instead, he received a hundreddollar fine and a six-month jail sentence for having

fought for two hours, firing rifles into the air to control them. When the crowd broke up, scattered shootings and stonings erupted through the city.” Birmingham Police killed two Negro teens, Johnny Robinson and Virgil Ware, 16 and 13, respectively. Robert Chambliss, a cardcarrying cadet of the Ku Klux Klan, was identified as the church bomber. A witness alleged that he placed 19 sticks of dynamite under

the dynamite. The church bombing and this blatant betrayal of the law marked a turning point in the civil rights movement. White Northerners were incensed. They had witnessed the peaceful assembly of 250,000 protesters two weeks earlier. The March on Washington, spearheaded by Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream,” offered an opportunity. The church bombing served as a pointed

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example of the racism and hatred King denounced. In 14 days, America went from hopeful to dreadful. In November 1977, Chambliss was tried again for the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church bombing. At the age of 73, Chambliss was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. Chambliss died in an Alabama prison on October 29, 1985. But the lives of the four little girls should never die. These martyrs would never know they were destined for eternal fame 57 years ago. It belittles, and it besmirches their legacy that African Americans must be courted and cajoled to go to the polls. After the deaths of 14-year-olds Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson, Adie Mae Collins, and 11-yearold Denise McNair, we should always be the first to arrive and the last to leave whenever a ballot is available. George Wallace’s campaign for White Supremacy and segregation was defeated in 1963. In 2020, Donald Trump’s campaign that will not condemn racism and White Nationalism is on the ballot! Vote him out in respect and regard of the four little girls we lost 57 years ago. The polls are open NOW! Go Vote!

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

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October 16, 2020

Let’s Keep Main Street, the Heart of America, Going Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson One of the primary roles government plays is to provide for the relief of its citizens through the creation of social programs that benefit the greater society. As a seasoned federal legislator, I have learned this lesson up close and personal. This is not a new phenomenon as we have seen examples many times over since our founding in 1776. So, in 2020, there is precedent for best practices and how to effectively deliver on our promise to be the voice of the people. However, the needs of everyday Americans are not being met. Since March, numerous problems caused by the Coronavirus Disease’s (COVID-19) global pandemic and the failure of the Trump administration must be addressed now. In Congress, we stand on the October 16, 2020

front lines of providing assistance for families suffering as a result of this deadly virus that has now killed more than 213,000 – just in the United States alone. Unfortunately, and once again, our President has walked away from his responsibilities to protect the American people. He has shown the world who he is and what he truly represents. In good faith, I along with my fellow House Democratic colleagues, cannot separate financial support to the airline industry when everyday working people are hurting. Let’s be clear – it is all deficit spending. Nevertheless, government’s rescue must come to the aid of its people in as fair a way, as possible. We should provide the resources in a broader spectrum that is equitable to everyone who needs it – not just Wall Street but Main Street as well. We need a stim-

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ulus plan that provides relief for as many individuals, families, and our small business owners, who are the heart of America and backbone of this nation. As Chair of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I will continue to push for an evidence-based plan that relies on science to crush the coronavirus. Specifically, a comprehensive package should include funding for our essential employees such as: health care front line workers; first responders; sanitation workers; transportation workers; food service and food production workers; teachers; school districts; and any others who provide services that are critical to keeping the American infrastructure intact. Lastly, at this crucial juncture in American society, relief for industries and social services that are critical to the

health of our economy and lively hoods is tantamount. From airline industry employees, restaurants, small and medium-sized businesses, to local municipalities and state governments, each of these components need financial support. So how can we parse out one to have greater necessities than the other? In closing, President Trump has walked away from even trying to negotiate with the Congress in our joint effort to provide relief. His actions show that he simply does not care. Nor does he relate to the daily struggles of the average American who pays their taxes, goes to work, and simply wants to provide for their families. In times like these, we need leadership who not only cares but knows how to govern, so that we can keep our businesses open and all of the American people working. myimessenger.com

Long seen as a rising star for GOP, Kentucky AG now faces heat for handling of Breonna Taylor case "This story is being reprinted in Texas Metro News as part of a partnership with The Dallas Morning News."

I WAS JUST THINKING NORMA ADAMS-WADE

It was clear from the beginning that U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and President Donald Trump wanted rising Republican star Daniel Cameron to win the Kentucky attorney general’s race last November. So say many commentators and news analysts who have followed the career of the young lawyer, who some observers say viewed McConnell as a father figure and who McConnell, in turn, had viewed as a worthy protégé since Cameron won a high school scholarship in McConnell’s name. Perhaps the most interesting characterization of Cameron, who was 34 during his campaign, was as a charismatic Republican version of a young Barack Obama during the latter’s early political campaigns. Cameron presented as clean-cut, nice-looking, articulate and having all the right credentials of a middle-class family (his mom a college professor, his dad owner of a coffee shop), strong education and blue-blooded, professional supporters. Yet Cameron’s work as special prosecutor in the police shooting of Breonna Taylor by Louisville police sent his meteoric rise into a nosedive. Many African-Americans now roundly condemn him as a sellout and right-wing puppet. In July, he even was criticized for celebrating his secmyimessenger.com

ond marriage during the height of protests over Taylor’s death. Cameron fends off most criticism as just par for the course. Meanwhile, police associations and many conservatives — including high-profile author and commentator Candace Owens — continue to back Cameron. Still being debated is whether Cameron’s political views

Protests like this one held Friday, Oct. 2 by University of Georgia students in Athens, Ga., were reignited nationwide after the grand jury handed down its decision in the Breonna Taylor case. Credit:Joshua L. Jones

and staunch support of law enforcement and many conservative causes tainted his prosecution of the three police officers accused in Taylor’s death. The case has seen many rapid developments. But for better or worse, Cameron will likely remain in his role. He is is up for re-election in 2023 and, in the meantime, is in charge as the Taylor case proceeds. In his first political race, Cameron became Kentucky’s first Black attorney general and the first Republican to win the office since World War II. His rise was so slick and impressive that he even dazzled the state’s

Black community leaders, Black Democratic loyalists and radical Black independents who have traditionally viewed any Black Republican as, in one observer’s word, an “oddity.” At the University of Louisville, Cameron was a defensive back for the football team, president of the Student Bar Association at the school’s Brandeis School of Law, and the law school’s commencement speaker. He spoke at this summer’s Republican National Convention, and Trump included him on his early list of 20 possible Republican nominees to replace the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Ricky L. Jones was one of Cameron’s left-leaning college professors. In an op-ed piece titled “The Curious Case of Daniel Cameron” that ran last October in the Louisville Eccentric Observer, an alternative weekly, Jones wrote that his former student was “a favorite of right-wingers ... [who] has been personally groomed by McConnell ... [and] even caught the eye of President Donald Trump.” In the column, Jones, who is Black, wrote that he and Cameron were “as different as night and day.” Yet despite all the cards indicating he shouldn’t like Cameron, he found that he did. “I’m a radical ... who doesn’t like most politicians on either side of the aisle,” he wrote before going on to say that among his students, Cameron “was actually one of my favorites ... one of the smartest, most respectful undergraduates I’ve ever encountered, and I’m happy to

see him do well.” However, interviewed by Louisville NBC affiliate WAVETV on Sept. 23 after the acquittal of two of the three police officers accused in Taylor’s death and what many labeled a slap-on-the-wrist indictment of the third, Jones roundly denounced Cameron as smug, arrogant, tone-deaf and myopic. By now, details of the Taylor case are highly known, and the spotlight continues to glare on Cameron. The attorney general took office in January, then Taylor was killed in March. Protests grew as the case lagged, and calls for the officers’ arrests drew widespread support from both average citizens and celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey and Beyonce. Cameron finally announced the grand jury’s decision on Sept. 23. Taylor, a 26-year-old emergency medical technician, and her boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, were in bed at their Louisville apartment about 1 a.m. March 13 when they were wakened by loud knocking at the front door. Plainclothes police officers were there to execute a warrant in a narcotics case and burst into the apartment. According to records, Walker, a licensed gun owner, struck an officer in the thigh after firing in the belief that an intruder was entering. In response, records indicate, police fired 32 times, with six bullets hitting Taylor in the hallway, killing her. No drugs were found. Throughout a slow and tedious six-month investigation, demonstrators across the nation demanded that murder charges be filed. Investigators see COVID, page 30

October 16, 2020

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Mixed Emotions

Kick Off Early Voting

By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD

As the sun rose on Oct. 13, voters were already in line at polling locations waiting for the doors to be opened at 7 a.m. Tears rolled down veteran journalist Roland Martin’s face as he pulled up to Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, prepared to cast his vote. It was only 27 minutes into early voting and he saw voters who were already lined up. “I’m a grown man, but I have no problem showing this type of emotion because I know what is at stake for our people,” said Martin, who in addition to being the host of the popular digital show, Roland Martin Unfiltered, is the vice president of digital for the National Association of Black Journalists. The emotions hit Martin all at once, he said, when he noticed the amount of African Americans standing in line. Martin said he has voted all of his life but this year it is different because of so many issues, from the pandemic to police brutality. “I know what Black folks have been through in this country,” the Houston native said, adding that while a frequent flier, because of COVID-19 he hadn’t been on a plane since February but he flew to Dallas where he is a registered voter, to cast his vote in this election. After leaving Friendship-West, Martin cast his vote at the location where his parents are working the polls. “They impressed upon me the power of voting and civic engagement, and it’s only fitting,” Martin said. Xiara Day, who is a graduate research assistant at Texas Southmyimessenger.com

ern University, also cast her vote right when Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston opened. She saw a line wrapped around the corner with over 100 voter but it didn’t deter her to turn around and jump back into her car. Day

Jamie Foxx promotes early voting in video on social media.

said she would like for everyone to take advantage of the early voting option. “Voting early is essential,” Day said. “This option is very accessible as there are often multiple days of early voting so that every voter has a chance to cast their ballot.” Celebrities are also getting in on the get out the vote efforts Media titan Oprah Winfrey started calling Texans to see if they were set to cast their votes since she can’t knock on people’s doors. Winfrey wore a “Your Voice Matters” T-shirt and volunteered with politician Beto O’ Rourke and his nonprofit organization PoweredByPeople to spread the word to Democrats about early voting. Actor, Jamie Foxx, took to social media to inform Texans specifically that early voting is essential. Foxx grew up in Terrell, TX, which is about an hour outside of Dallas, and he was passionate about voting in the two-minute video.

Right from the beginning Foxx grabbed the listeners attention with his familiar voice,“Texas, what up? It’s your boy from Texas.” He went on to show the viewers ballots he had in his hand

Oprah Winfrey, volunteered with politician Beto O’Rourke and his nonprofit organization PoweredByPeople to spread the word about early voting.

told them that early voting ends on Oct. 30. “This is the most important election of our lifetime,” Foxx said, as he encouraged everyone that he wants them to get their vote on and to not be upset if they miss out. “I don’t want to hear nothing ‘bout we didn’t show up at the polls.” Texan native, Alexus Christian, felt encouraged when she watched Foxx’s video. She said she was ecstatic to see a celebrity of his magnitude reminding everyone that voting is for the every day person. “Celebrities like Jamie Foxx have the influence to inspire generations of all ages and walks to be proactive in the country’s decision making, by ensuring that the right to vote is not just reserved for the seasoned and rich, but accessible to all,” Christian said. Foxx also suggested that voters take their friends with them

to go vote since the lines will be long and to talk about the latest news regarding the Cowboys or Texans. He then explained that all voters should have some form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, Texas driver’s license or, U.S. citizenship certificate with photo, when they show up at their polling location. But for local Lois Monk, having her identification didn’t prevent her from being turned away at the polls. She arrived at the Duncanville Library before 6 a.m. and had waited four hours to try to cast her vote before being turned away. Poll workers explained to Monk that she had received a mail-in ballot and can’t cast her vote in person since she received the mail-in ballot. Monk said she never requested a mail-in ballot and is confused as to why she was advised to mail her ballot in or to wait until the mail-in ballot is canceled in the system. Monk is a senior citizen and diabetic and said she felt that there were efforts to discourage her participation. She said she also not pleased with Texas having only one dropoff box in each county. “I just want to get out and vote,” Monk said. “Do they really expect, senior citizens, to drive all the way out there, are they crazy?” In other areas, early voting has gotten off to a tough start with Georgia having voters waiting six-eight hour lines and in Virginia, a cable was “accidentally cut” and the voter registration online system went down on the last day for citizens to register. October 16, 2020

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October 16, 2020

I MESSENGER

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ELECT

JUDGE

Brandon Birmingham

FOR TEXAS COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS PL. 9

• Experience

Primary Election:

March 3, 2020

• Integrity

General Election:

• Independence

“ This bench does not belong to me, it belongs to the people.” BB

Trim

JUDGE

Front

•

Judge of the 292nd Judicial District Court, a felony trial court in Dallas County, Texas

•

Presiding Judge of AIM Court: a unique second chance court for youthful offenders.

•

Presiding Judge of Felony Domestic Violence Court: a program designed to protect victims of intimate partner domestic violence.

•

Former Presiding Judge of all Felony District Courts in Dallas County.

•

Visiting Professor, SMU Dedman School of Law

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Frequent Lecturer for Continuing Legal Education courses accredited by the State Bar of Texas

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Former Chief Felony Prosecutor and Cold Case Unit Chief, Dallas County District Attorney’s Office

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Creator and host of “A Murderous Design”, a true crime podcast about famous trials

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Judge Birmingham and his wife Carrie have been together for nearly 25 years, and are the proud parents of two children.

judgebirmingham.com

ELECT

November 3, 2020

POL. ADV. PAID FOR BY BRANDON BIRMINGHAM FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN.

Back

Brandon Birmingham

FOR TEXAS COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS PL. 9

GHAM FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN • Experience

Primary Election:

March 3, 2020

• Integrity

General Election:

• Independence

November 3, 2020

•

Judge of the 292nd Judicial District Court, a felony trial court in Dallas County, Texas

•

Presiding Judge of AIM Court: a unique second chance court for youthful offenders.

•

Presiding Judge of Felony Domestic Violence Court: a program designed to protect victims of intimate partner domestic violence.

•

Former Presiding Judge of all Felony District Courts in Dallas County.

•

Visiting Professor, SMU Dedman School of Law

•

Frequent Lecturer for Continuing Legal Education courses accredited by the State Bar of Texas

•

Former Chief Felony Prosecutor and Cold Case Unit Chief, Dallas County District Attorney’s Office

•

Creator and host of “A Murderous Design”, a true crime podcast about famous trials

•

Judge Birmingham and his wife Carrie have been together for nearly 25 years, and are the proud parents of two children.

judgebirmingham.com POL. ADV. PAID FOR BY BRANDON BIRMINGHAM FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN.

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Back

www.grandpasecret.com

Please wear your mask and wash your hands! October 16, 2020

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October 16, 2020

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October 16, 2020

“WHITE” WHAT’S ON MILES MIND

MILES JAYE Who’s White? Nobody! No one is White! Adam and Eve were not White. Joseph and Mary were not White. Matthew, Mark, Luke and John were not White. Jesus Christ was not White. God is not White! To look at Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise, Angelina Jolie, or Marshall “Eminem” Mathers, and see only White, celebrity notwithstanding, would be to do them, their culture and their heritage a disservice. We classify human beings using Archaeology, Paleontology, Biology, Physical and Social Anthropology. Rather than “White”, humans are more effectively classified as Anglo-Saxon, Germanic, Slavic, Gaelic, Norwegian, Danish, Swedish, Celtic, Irish, Scottish, Lithuanian, Czech, Welsh, Polish, Georgian, Caucasian, Latvian, Belgian, Bulgarian, Baltic, Croatian, Romanian, Italian, Greek, French, or Ukrainian to name a few and in no specific order. These are nationalities and regions, none of which utilize the term “White.” Geneticists observe homo sapiens at the molecular level. They study genotypes and phenotypes and the 23 pairs of maternal and paternal double helix DNA strands that make up our chromosomes. They have reported no genetic coding for “White.” October 16, 2020

In the mid18th Century, German anthropologist Johann Friedrich Blumenbach, dubbed the Father of Physical Anthropology, collected an estimated 80 female skulls, categorizing them according to beauty. White was not among the categories, he opted instead for five categories: Caucasian (White), Mongolian (Yellow), Ethiopian (Black), American (Copper), and Malay (Tawny or orangebrown colored). The Black Sea slave trade, pre-dating the Atlantic slave trade marketed, among others, Caucasians or Circassians-- the term “White” was not used in bargaining. In “The Invention of the White Race”, author Theodore Allen argues that the “White” race was invented as a “ruling class social control formation.” Allen published two theses under the titles: Volume 1: “Racial Oppression and Social Control” and Volume 2: “The Origin of Racial Oppression in AngloAmerica.” In them, he stresses the concept that “White” is a socio-economic construct introduced in America in the late 1600’s to protect the interests of the wealthy ruling elite. He states that between the years 1619 and 1691 not a single official government document includes the term “White.” In “The Isis Papers” psychiatrist and author, Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, posits the levers controlling “White Supremacy” and

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“White Nationalism” are found in “economics, education, entertainment, labor, law, politics, religion and war,” in order to ensure the survival of those classified as “White.” She speaks of genetic annihilation, stating “Historically, white males worldwide have suffered the deep sense of male inferiority and inadequacy because they represent a mutant, genetically recessive, minority population that can be genetically annihilated by all non-white people-- males and females.” According to National Geographic magazine’s September 1960 issue, an article titled “Finding the World’s Earliest Man” Zinjanthropus, found in the region of Olduvai in the African nation of Tanzania, could not have been “White.” His fossil was an estimated 600,000 years old. Neanderthal remains were found in Germany’s Neander Valley roughly 150,000 years ago. Its type is broken down scientifically in this manner: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Primates; Suborder: Haplorhini; Infraorder: Smiformes; Family: Hominidae; Subfamily: Homininae; Tribe: Homini; Genus: Homo; Species: Homo Neanderthalensis. No matter if you are or are not familiar with this classification terminology; suffice it to say, nowhere is the term “White” to be found. Although symbols of White Supremacy can be found on national flags such

as those of Great Britain, Germany, Russia, S. Africa or America and statues and names for everything from streets and highways to airports and government buildings, racial oppression is neither natural nor is it permanent. The season of racial oppression in America has been long, but in our lifetime, it will end. It will end by the deconstruction of the very complexes that house and seat the assemblies of injustice and catalogue the documents of injustice we call statutes and laws, and by the dismantling of their devices and machinery. To see Donald Trump and see only “White” is to overlook his German, Scottish parentage and all that it implies in historical alliances and familial ties between the Germans, Russians, Scots and the British. It’s deeper than “White.” It’s deeper than his father’s Nazi and KKK connections, so fascism and racism should no longer be in question. However, the DNA may reveal Trump for the true Neanderthal he is. When you submit your saliva to an Ancestry service, don’t be surprised if they identify your roots in specific regions of Africa, Europe, or Asia, but what should surprise you is if they cite White, Black, Red, Yellow or any other color-- it’s much deeper than that. That’s what’s on my mind! Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com

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October 16, 2020

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Dallas COVID-19 Resources

MO’ BETTAH WINGS

COVID-19 Call the hotline The bestHotline way to 24-7 protect yourself and others is to 214-670-INFO (4636) to get information regarding: stay at home. •Current COVID-19 Regulations & Testing Locations •Employment Assistance •Federal Relief Payment Information •Volunteer/Assistance Opportunities •Rental/Mortgage, and Eviction Assistance •Small Business Assistance •Social Services (food pantry, childcare assistance, senior assistance, unsheltered resident assistance and mental health resources) •Utility Payment Assistance

Slow the spread of COVID-19 The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay at home.

Safer at home

2860 E. LEDBETTER DR. (Inside Valero) DALLAS, Tx.75216 myimessenger.com

11am-10pm Monday-Saturday 12-8 Sunday

Wash with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

Keep your mouth and nose covered while out in public.

Visit dallascityhall.com/COVID19 for a list of resources and up-to-date information about COVID-19.

October 16, 2020

214-421-5387

Two Podners Bar-B-Que & Seafood 1441 Robert B Cullum Blvd. Dallas, Texas 75210 October 16, 2020

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are open for carryout. We care about our customers and our community and we thank you for your business during this difficult time.â&#x20AC;?

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

Call orders in (214)-859-3472

Dallas, TX 75215

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We run specials Monday-Thursday

October 16, 2020

EAT ZONE Best Food in Town The Hidden Secret of OakCliff 2 Burgers for $5 2 Pc Grilled/Fried Ă&#x17E;sh

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

October 16, 2020

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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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October 16, 2020

Quest for Success Honorees Once again the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce is honoring the Quest for Success award recipients; four entrepreneurs and four non profit organization leaders. The recipients were unveiled at this year’s virtual event where Dallas MAVS CEO Cynt Marshall was the speaker.

Debra Nixon Bowles Director of Women Called Moses Coalition and Outreach.

Joseph Akintolayo CEO of Renaissance Payments, Inc.

Debra Nixon Bowles works with survivors of domestic violence and provides shelter resources through her nonprofit organization. Bowles is committed to helping individuals overcoming obstacles. In her childhood, and in relationships, Bowles suffered abuse and understands what it takes to get out of harmful situations.

Mr. Akintolayo is the founder and CEO of Renaissance Payments, Inc, a Dallas financial technology startup, and created the MyCARESAct app. The app helped more than 120 businesses connect to find funding for the establishments. This included 80 members of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce.

Kenya Mobley On Track Truck Driving School

Phillipa Williams Executive Director of ilooklikeLOVE

On Track Truck Driving School is located in Arlington, TX where Ms. Mobley offers services for people to learn how to drive trucks and to enhance the transportation industry. She also has online classes available. Mobley motivates Texans to start their career through her driving school.

October 16, 2020

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Ms.Williams launched the blog ilooklikeLOVE in 2015 to be a space for motherhood. ilooklikeLOVE is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, providing resources and empowerment opportunities through its community pop-up diaper pantry and mentoring for single mothers. She has partnered with Dallas WIC as a provider of diapers and other well-baby items through her monthly “Diaper Day at WIC” events. In 2018, 38,150 diapers were distributed to 616 families.

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Ira Molayo I Am A Golfer Foundation, Founder and Vice-Chairman

Lady Jade Founder of Project 16 Lady Jade is known by her voice as part of the syndicated show, DeDe In The Morning. The radio personality has a passion for children and she has also dedicated her time to foundations, recreation centers, and foster facilities. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Lady Jade recently started a nonprofit organization, Project 16, which serves the underprivileged youth by giving support and instilling basic life skills.

Mr. Molayo is the Director of Golf at the Cedar Crest Golf Course. Molayo graduated from David W. Carter High School and attended Southern A&M University in Baton Rouge, LA. He furthered his education at Amberton University in Dallas, before attaining PGA membership in 2007. He also volunteered his time to his PGA section and served on the Northern Texas PGA Board of Directors as an At-Large Director from 2013 to 2018. Molayo was inducted into the African American Golf Hall of Fame in 2017. He has been instructing youth and helping them to perfect their skills for more than 20 years.

Dr. Candace Brown-Evans Lead dentist and CEO of Fresh Dentistry

Taylor Toynes Founder of For Oak Cliff

Dr. Evans grew up in Dallas and attended Lake Highlands High School in Richardson ISD. She then went to Baylor University to pursue a degree in B.S in Family and Consumer Sciences. On her campus, she was involved in organizations and served as president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She also received her DDS at Baylor. She is now an active member of the Texas Dental Association and serves as a committee member for the Urban League of Greater Dallas Young Professionals.

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Mr. Toynes grew up in the Oak Cliff area where many of the locals would go to jail than college. Toynes is passionate and committed to helping people not become a statistic. Toynes graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in Political Science and Government and then went and pursued his Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at Southern Methodist University. Toynes is widely respected in the area and known for the event Back to School Festival for Oak Cliff; where students receive backpacks with school supplies.

October 16, 2020

Annual Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee goes global as a virtual event As citizens across the country are either voting or preparing to vote in the November presidential election, organizers are planning to commemorate “Bloody Sunday,” a brutal moment that shocked the nation and led to the protection of voting rights for all Americans. For its 56th anniversary and the first time ever, the annual Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee, a celebration of the victories of the voting rights movement will be hosted virtually March 4-7, 2021. In addition to interactive workshops, storytelling by Foot Soldiers of the voting rights movement, awards ceremonies, a virtual expo floor, and a concert with world-renowned musicians, this emotional and thought-provoking celebration is bringing an exciting experience born in Selma to touch every corner of the globe.

According to Principal Co- Dr. James M. Lawson, Dr. Berordinator Drew Glover, with nard Lafayette, Lennox Yearthe honoring of the late U.S. wood Jr., and Jesse Jackson; Congressman John Lewis who Congressional Black Caucus personifies the spirit of the Foundation Chair Tonya Veacivil and voting rights move- sey; Grammy Award-winning ments, this year’s theme, “Be- musician Joan Baez; and acyond the Bridge: People Pow- tors Martin Sheen and Louis er, Political Power, Economic Gossett Jr. with more signing Power,” focuses on encourag- on each week. ing worldwide conversations “Having the opportunity about the impact of to modernize the key moments in hishistoric event and tory and the need to take it to the global build on the works stage will provide of those who paved access to countthe way. less new potential A stellar list of acchange-makers,” tivists, philanthroGlover said. “Our pists, and socially focus on developconscious support- Drew Glover ing new leaders and ers have pledged bridging the past their support as members of with the present allows us to the Honorary Committee, recommit to the struggle to including Dolores Huerta; build a better future.” Martin Luther King III; Mary The theme, says Glover, also Liuzzo-Lillieboe; Kerry Ken- represents the importance of nedy; Charles Steele, Jr.; Revs. not just celebrating this critical

event in history on its anniversary, but also ensuring that conversations are happening within families and across generations about what it symbolizes, thus paying homage to ancestors of the movement and committing to the future. The Bridge Crossing Jubilee, Inc., the organization responsible for coordinating the annual event, has said that it will be watching the progression of COVID-19 closely. “For now all activities including the march will be hosted virtually. For the safety of the people of Selma and potential Jubilee attendees, this year we ask that you help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and join the celebrations virtually,” he added. To connect, visit www.selmajubilee.com or call 334526-2626 to pre-register and get priority updates, special offers, and opportunities to win prizes.

Thinking,

Georgia students in Athens, Ga., were reignited nationwide after the grand jury handed down its decision in the Breonna Taylor case.(Joshua L. Jones) Debate continues over what Taylor family lawyers and supporters see as discrepancies and curiosities regarding events of the night Taylor died. Questions include: Did officers knock on Taylor’s door and announce themselves as police? Why did Cameron argue to the grand jury that neighbors, but not Taylor, were endangered? And did Cameron display a pro-police agenda in the evidence he chose to present? He argued that a witness said police announced themselves

al. The city of Louisville agreed last month to pay the Taylor family a $12 million wrongful-death settlement and to make changes to police policies. The FBI is still exploring whether the case involved civil rights violations. So, as Jones, the university professor, wrote in his opinion piece: “Let’s see how this scene in the curious case of Daniel Cameron ends. It should be interesting.”

from page 11...

focused on three officers: Detectives Myles Cosgrove and Brett Hankison and Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly. Protests ignited anew after a grand jury declined to indict any of the officers for Taylor’s death, saying that the three were protected by law because Walker fired first. Hankison was indicted on a charge of wanton endangerment after it was found some of his bullets entered a neighboring apartment where people were sleeping. Protests like this one held Friday, Oct. 2 by University of October 16, 2020

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before entering. But Taylor attorneys wonder if jurors heard from the dozen people who the family says contended no such announcement was made. Critics continue to revile the criminal justice system as incapable of fairly representing people of color and the underserved — and Black women in general. Even an unnamed grand juror filed a court motion asking that jurors be allowed to speak publicly to counter some reports about evidence they did or did not receive — a rare move since grand jury proceedings are generally kept secret. There’s no predicting where the case will go from here, including during the officer’s tri-

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

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The War With Grandpa AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

The movie studios that are releasing The War with Grandpa have decided to go “all in” with their new Robert De Niro comedy; being released this weekend exclusively in movie theaters. Here’s the link where you can find the film showing near you: https://www.warwithgrandpa.com/ Unfortunately, 101 Studios

Fegley, out of his room and into the attic. Although he loves his grandpa the sixth-grader enlists his Junior High pals to help him launch a war to drive his grandpa out of his room. He soon finds out that his grandpa is no push-over and he enlists his friends (Walken, Cheech Marin, and Jane Seymour) to start a war of their own. As the movie tagline says, it’s “Old School vs New Cool.” The movie is filled with endless pranks and slapstick falls and explosions and then at the end, grandpa tries to bring the whole family together with a

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Elaine’s

Jamaican Kitchen and Brookdale Studios have chosen the wrong movie to make that bet with. It’s hard to believe that such an incredible cast, De Niro, Uma Thurman, and Christopher Walken, could make such a bad movie. I love Robert De Niro, but I cringed at every single scene the award-winning actor was in. The premise of the movie is Ed’s (De Niro) daughter (Uma Thurman) takes him out of his home to come live with her family because he can no longer take care of himself. The move forces his grandson, Oakes myimessenger.com

syrupy and heartfelt message about the need for families to support each other. The message is simply too little and delivered way too late in the movie. There’s another De Niro film coming up in a few weeks called The Comeback Trail. It’s also an action/comedy and I can only hope that it’s a more satisfying movie than The War with Grandpa. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” this m ov i e rat e s a SMALL.

(214) 565-1008 2717 Martin L. King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215

October 16, 2020

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COVID, from page 2... from $3 trillion to $2.2 trillion, Treasury Secretary Mnuchin seems less flexible, offering $1.6 trillion. They say they are moving closer to an agreement. Tell that to someone who doesn’t have a paycheck. Just like the coronavirus has hit people unevenly by race and income, so has the economic downturn. Those with more income recover more quickly and hurt less, but the lower-income people recover far more slowly. One in five of the workforce is teleworking. How many are low-income people? Business on Capitol Hill goes on as usual, except for the fact that so many Senators have been exposed to COVID (along with the President and close advisors) that they will not do October 16, 2020

any legislative work until October 19. However, they may still hold hearings on Amy Comey Barrett, who 45 has nominated to the Supreme Court. Mitch McConnell will rush through confirmation for Barrett, but slow walk aid for others. His priority is partisan control, not the people. Partisanship won’t do much for McConnell if the confluence of winter, job loss, and COVID hit the economy. Legislators were surprised by COVID and its economic impact in March. If they ignore this now, with the coming storm, it’s because they really don’t care.

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

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BIG MAMA I DON’T EAT OKRA, SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER! THE BLACK CARD BY TERRY ALLEN

I come from a down home country culture where back porch wisdom ruled, and certain standards were deep tradition in my family. For example, everyone was home on Sunday for dinner, no exceptions. You never spoke up around your elders. Remember, children are supposed to be seen not heard? In Big Mama’s house, you did your homework before dinner and before play. You had school clothes and play clothes in my family. The

traditions were so strong. We had food rules as well. Rice was dinner food. We only had cabbage if Aunt Rosie cooked it because Big Mama said. “You can’t eat anybody’s cabbage. You know what happened to Cousin Pearl. Everybody can’t cook cabbage.” Then she would set the rules for the house. We were a Gold Medal, Tide, Clorox, Brillo and Palmolive family, no exceptions. My grandmother, Lucille “Big Mama” Allen always said, “Beloved, this house will always have rules. There will be no cabbage, no okra, no chitterlings in this house.” So, her inner strength

drove all of us throughout my growth form our childhood to our adulthood. So, let me tell you my own Okra story. I had a speaking engagement on the West coast one evening and had to be on the East coast to speak at a luncheon full of nonprofit directors the next day. I am flying against the clock and four time zones, so I had to leave the evening engagement and go straight to the airport. On the plane all I had were pretzels and peanuts and I arrived one hour before my next speech. I was so hungry going on the stage that I asked the host, Connie, to please save me something to eat when I finish. After the speech, I

Credit:Wikipedia

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ate two bowls of nice butterlaced, spice filled beans and veggies. I asked the host as I took my tenth bite, “this is good what is it?” She said, “It’s my family Okra recipe.” I choked and began to spit it out. Shouting to her, “I don’t eat okra!” “You just did, three bowls full,” she laughed. In conclusion, I learned I liked okra. At least hers! The lesson was that I have used too many external rules to guide my internal choices. I had given my power to my grandmother’s experiences. On that day I spoke my own truth to power and ate two more bowls of Connie’s okra delight. Hummph! I later married Connie. I spoke my own truth to power. Thank you, Connie, and thank you, Iyanla for having the same Okra liberation. Right where I am, the greatness of God is too. So during this civil unrest and failed leadership, I will speak my truth at the polls, in the streets, and at home. I will vote for things that power me. I will give up all those external messages for my own inner authority to make an America that I love. Stories are powerful. Next week, I will tell you my chocolate cake story. Stay tuned! Thanks, Cheryl Smith for my platform. Terry Allen is a multi-media journalist and board member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

October 16, 2020

BRIEFS Dallas Public Library extends locations New Restaurant, Soul 2 Soul Southern Kitchen, is bringing the flavor to help with budget and reach In the middle of COVID, some are looking for something to watch or read and Dallas Public Library is meeting the demand with expanded curbside pickup at 11 locations, including the Martin Luther King Branch Library. Library goers can pick up their items from Tuesday to Saturday, between 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Jo Giudice, director of libraries for the City of Dallas, said she is excited to have opened every single library location for curbside pickup to reach more neighborhoods. “It was our goal all along to offer services citywide and we’re able to do that,” Giudice said, adding that materials can be checked out on the website or phone.

According to Giudice, this is an opportunity for locals to take advantage of the library and save money. “Most people right now are in a position that are watching their budget,” Giudice said. “Having books, CDs, DVDs at your disposable for free, is important, I think people need the diversion, they need help with their education.” Library card holders also have access to free limitless online tutoring, virtual storytime, gardening programs, and depending on the program; the cardholder will be able to pick up fun kits to buy supplies. For more information: http://dallaslibrary2.org/ covid-19/

Tiffany Sharonda Mahon is a light for others Entrepreneur, Tiffany Sharonda Mahon isn’t allowing COVID to stop her plans for success. She has felt inspired despite losing four jobs in the middle of a pandemic and finding herself in a “dark place.” Still she said she wanted to be a light for others. Mahon started the nonprofit, Modest Muse, to build women up mentally, physically spiritually and emotionally. “I wanted to develop a place where people can come to talk about their anxieties, traumas and insecurities in order for women to come together and grow,” Mahon said. The go-getter, has brought on 20 board members to her nonprofit focus in the areas of depression, building confidence and business development. October 16, 2020

Latasha and Derick Williams

Tiffany Sharonda Mahon

She’s also a multi-business owner, investing in real estate and a new juice bar, Taste of Gaia which is located at 211 N. Ervay Street and will be opening Oct. 16.

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A new restaurant has arrived on the food scene and is bringing flavor to their customers. In June Latasha and Derick Williams opened Soul 2 Soul Southern Kitchen in June at 4001 W. Wheatland Road. In the midst of a pandemic, many restaurants closed but the couple believed in themselves and moved forward with their plans that were put into motion when the couple moved to the Dallas area from Mississippi three years ago to open up an establishment. “What better place than to open in Dallas, to bring some of that home cook southern food,” Latasha said. Cooking has always a common factor for the Williams. Derick’s family had a restaurant back in Mississippi and Latasha said she learned her skills

Credit:Courtesy of Latasha Williams

from her grandmother. “A lot of the recipes for the restaurant are from my grandmother and his grandmother,” Latasha said. “It has been a passion of ours, it has always been a vision, and we came in and did it.” The Williams care about the community and even partnered with Methodist Hospital and had a mammogram truck in front of their restaurant earlier this month for exams. “Most of the time African Americans don’t go to the hospital or doctors because of insurance or lack of knowledge,” Latasha said. Soul 2 Soul has only been opened for four months and is already making a difference with their food and advocacy. myimessenger.com

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Now – Oct. 30 Early Voting now through October 30th. Poles are open from 7 am-7 pm. Find a polling place: https;//dallascountyvotes.org. For all voting information in Texas: VoteTexas.gov

VOTE 2020 Virtual Party with a Purpose Fundraiser for Sen. Kamala Harris, Congressman Mike Espy and Representative Yvonne Lewis Holley. 9 am- 1 pm. Register: Eventbrite.com.

Oct. 15- Nov.8

Forest of Fear, One of the best displays of Halloween spirit in Texas, Loyd Park at Joe Pool Lake, 3401 Ragland Rd. Grand Prairie. Fri. & Sat. (10-17) 7-10 pm.

My Red Hand My Black Hand, Presented by Cara Mia & Soul Rep Theatre. Streamed auto play. See the preview performance at 7:30 pm.- Indigenous People’s Day - For tickets: www. caramiatheatre.org or www.soulrep.org for tickets, more info.

Oct. 15 & 16 5th Annual Re-imagine Communities 2020 Virtual Summit. Sponsor: Capital One. If you’re a civic leader, nonprofit, corporation, or organization, this summit is for you. 11 am–1:30 pm both days are Free. Reg: www.reimaginecommunities.com/

Now-Oct. 18 2020 State Fair of Texas, enjoy some of the iconic sights and tastes of the State Fair of Texas from the comfort of your own home. 10 am-9 pm. http://www.bigtex.com.

October 15 Tri-Cities NAACP Monthly Meeting. Meeting will take place using the Zoom Conference System. 7 pm. Register: Zoom Meeting ID: 828 5414 3872 Passcode: 6277B A COVID Conversation The Health Injustice. Host Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Zoom Webinar 7-8:30 pm. Register: www.DallaAlumnae.org. Big Tex Fair Food Drive-Thru at Fair Park 3809 Grand Ave. 10 am-6 pm. Tickets: bigtex.com/big-tex-fair-food-drive-thru SoulJazz Thursdays Under The Stars feat. Natural Change at 813 Sandaga, 813 Exposition Ave. 8:00 pm12:00 am. Enjoy the sounds of Natural Change. Info: email info@sandaga813.com.

October 16 43rd Annual Dr. George D. Flemmings Freedom Fund Virtual Event. Host Fort Worth Tarrant County NAACP. Feat: Eugene Lee. 7-8:15 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

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BLACK LIVES MATTER 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 on An-

Sunday Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood. Hosted by Dallas Farmers Market and Lonestar Specialty Foods. 10 am-5 pm. Info: https://bit.ly/3nKPflf “Grow Together” Art Show & Hair Care Product Launch, Jam Box Fitness Lounge, 921 N. Riverfront Blvd. #500 2-5 pm.

Kountry Wayne LIVE in Dallas, at Addison Improv, 4980 Belt Line Rd. #250. 6 pm. Tickets: ImprovTX.com/Addison

In The Middle with Ashley Moss. “Talking about topics that Matter” Join in in Facebook/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am-1 pm. Mondays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459.

October 19

L. G. Pinkston High School Virtual Groundbreaking, Online Event host DISD. Premier online at www.dallasisd.org/bond2015. 12 pm. The new school is scheduled to open Spring 2022 at 2815 Bickers, Dallas. The Valder Beebe Show on KKVIDFW.com 9 am. CT. Guest Dr. Bob Arnot, Emmy award-winning broadcast journalist and Valder Beebe fight COVID spread with giveaway of adult and children protective masks on the Valder Beebe Show.

October 17 Prayer in the City. Online prayer meeting every 3rd Saturday 10:00 am. Register: www.Eventbrite.com they will send info. Meet, Connect & Learn with Council member Mark D. Cooks, Hosts City of Duncanville. How to Review Your Ballot Before Going to the Poll. Guest Esmeralda L. Garcia, Dallas County Elections. Online event. 10-11:15 am. https:// bit.ly/3lE2kuE

Virtual “Cooking with Craig” Facebook LIVE Cooking Demo Hosted by Hampton Bays Public Library. 5:30 pm CDT – 6:30 pm CDT. Just go to https://www.facebook.com/Hampton-Bays-Public-Library..

Happy Birthday to Team Member Nina Garcia Virtual Parenting Classes. Classes offered for parenting of ages 6–12 where you’ll learn effective ways to communicate and discipline your children. 6:15–8:30pm. Sponsor: Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. Register: https://bit.ly/34x2gGq How To Do Business with The City of Dallas Non Profit. Feat: Chhunney Chheann, Zarin D. Gracey & Jessica Galleshaw 3:30 pm Webinar: https://bit.ly/34SzSP7 Meeting# 126 977 2026 Password: CityofDallas (24896332 from video systems)

Ask Dr. Amerson Show at 11am CST September is Alopecia Awareness Month. Dr. Linda discusses healthy hair and scalp talk, and alopecia talk, on FB Live and DfwiRadio.com. Hairandscalpessentials.com. Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez and Cohost Shavonda with a “V” Fields, on Hollywoodlive.com. From 2 pm – 4 pm.

#CAP - College Readiness & HBCU Spotlight: Grambling State University by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Chi Zeta Omega Chapter. Online event. Reg: Eventbrite.com 10:30 am-1:30 pm.

October 22

Forward Dallas Neighborhoods Summit. Citizens are invited to a virtual summit to learn how to get involved. 10 am–2 pm. Free. Contact: 214-679-8900 Register: https://bit.ly/34TrLSl Community Porch Grab-N-Go, Viola House, 1828 South Blvd. Dallas. 9 am-1 pm. All pregnant moms and families with children ages 3 and under.

Doc Shep Speaks Show! A fresh perspective, but still entertaining! Welcome to The Doc Shep Speaks Show!!!. Tuesdays at 11 am Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation 646-200-0459.

October 20

October 21

Joy Comes In The Morning feat. April Ryan Hosted by Friendship-West Baptist Church Online event: https://bit.ly/3jXJwq2 10 am.

October 18

Sunday Happy Hour, NABJ Media Related Task Force, with host Terry Allen, Guests: Dale Smith CEO BCTV & Dr. K. L. Newhouse CEO, Knew Image Communications Media. 5:30 pm CST. Reg: https://bit.ly/2FOlwGG bring your best drink and enjoy the best in online networking!

Think Like An Olympian, Hosts, City of Balch Springs & Southeast Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Speaker: Johnny Quinn, U.S. Olympian, Former Pro Football Player. Virtual Luncheon: ceo@ balchspringschamber.org. 12-1 pm.

Forest of Fear, One of the best displays of Halloween spirit in Texas, Loyd Park at Joe Pool Lake, 3401 Ragland Rd. Grand Prairie. Fri. & Sat. 7-10 pm.

I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade “History Class is in Session” Join in on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm Wednesdays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459. The Bare Truth with Allana J. Baredierld. “Always Audacious, Accurte and Authentic” On Facebiik/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio. at 11 am-1 pm. Thursdays. Join the call at 646200-0459 From Marva with Love with Marva Sneed from11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Oct. 23-24 Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Ranch Rodeo, host Red Steagall. Cowtown Coliseum Fort Worth Stockyards.8 pm. Tickets: www. stockyardrodeo.com

October 16, 2020

FEBRUARY 8, 2019

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 October 16, 2020

I MESSENGER

myimessenger.com