VOL X NO 4 OCTOBER 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
TOP EDUCATOR
Eric Hale is Teacher of the Year
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
THE LAST WORD
S. Curet GENERAL MANAGER stewartcuret@myimessenger.com
BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX
Jessica Hayden STAFFWRITER Marva Sneed EDITORIAL ASSISTANT EDITORIAL TEAM Allana Barefield Andrew Whigham III Anthony Council Ashley M. Moss Chelle Wilson Cierra Mayes Dareia Tolbert Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dorothy J. Gentry Eva Coleman Monique P. Stone L. Diane Evans Lajuana Barton Rebecca Aguilar Vincent Hall MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT FzanStudio
Free - Take One WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Alana King
.EWSSTANDS IN
Rowlett AT .EWSSTANDS IN esquite d,Rowlett ardson Mesquite chardson .Dallas
Black Lives Matter T-Shirts and masks — who profits?
Free - Take One CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION MB Distribution
Editorial submissions editor@texasmetronews.com
& E.Dallas
450-13971 Year 1IMessenger Year Subscription $45.00 3)(903) 450-1397 Subscription $45.00
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 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
I always smile when I see Black Lives Matter T-Shirts until I saw one gracing the grubby back of a white man who had on both a BLM T-Shirt and a MAGA (Make America Great Again) hat. I started to either take a photo or start a conversation because I knew somebody would accuse me of making the combination up. Instead, I wondered where the man got the shirt/hat combo. Was he homeless and got the combo at a shelter? Was he visually impaired and didn’t understand the contradiction? Without starting a conversation, I was left to my imagination. It had me thinking about the production and distribution of BLM wearables and the profit stream they may be creating. You can find custom-designed screened T-shirts online for as little as $5 apiece, and anybody can make T-shirts and a profit. If Black lives, Black dollars, and Black profits matter, it makes sense to look behind the t-shirt to consider the sellers and their motives. You might be funding your oppression by purchasing the right
2
message from the wrong seller. I think the best place to buy BLM clothing and accessories (I’ve seen hats, bags, signs, and more) is from the BLM website, www.blacklivesmatter.org. Things will cost more there than they might cost from a street vendor or another source, but the BLM site profits will fund the movement. From the BLM site, you can also sign up to get email updates. The second best source is a BLACK street vendor, who will at least be able to pocket the difference between what she purchased the shirts for and what she sold them for. Increasingly, COVID-imposed economic hardship has motivated people to take their entrepreneurial ability to the streets. The next best source might be BLM-friendly activist organizations that are selling BLM stuff. It doesn’t hurt them, though, to ask where they got the shirts and where the profits go. The worst place to get BLM material is from a capitalist retail establishment like Walmart, which sells the shirts and (until June) All Lives Matter shirts, Irish Lives Matter shirts, and Homeless Lives Matter shirt. While taking nothing from the homeless or the Irish, in some ways, these shirts attempt to un-
dermine and minimize the purpose and focus of the Black Lives Matter movement. We say Black Lives Matter emphatically because our lives didn’t matter when our country was founded. They didn’t matter when we were lynched, and no one was ever prosecuted. Our lives have little value when we are treated inhumanely, with our little girls being dragged by their braids by rabid police officers, shot in the back, subjected to chokeholds to the point where we can’t breathe, endured a knee to the neck to the point of death and more. Taking the Black Lives Matter slogan and spoofing it (Drunk Wives Matter) attempts to minimize the racism that riddles our country. Walmart took stopped selling the All Lives Matter shirts after getting criticism from the BLM movement, but it still sells Blue Lives Matter shirts and paraphernalia. It sells shirts that say Bartender Lives Matter and Cat Lives Matter shirts as well. While no one has a trademark on the term “Lives Matter,� satirizing Black Lives Matter is, at the very least, disrespectful. It is antiblack hostility. In June, Walmart said see WHO PROFITS, page 6
myimessenger.com
INSIDE
Faithful Utterances
Quit Playin’
I Was Just Thinking
I was recently on a web show and the host said, “Tell us who you are”. It is easy to share your name and your professional title but when someone wants you to really delve into who you are, we often have to think about it. Even in creating social media profiles with limited characters.
It had to be the saddest and yet the most exciting headline ever. NBC Sports laid it all bare. “Dontari Poe becomes first Cowboys player ever to protest during anthem!” Finally! Poe is my hero, and let me tell you why. Not as a journalist, but as a football statistics geek that grew up to be a proud Black man.
Right now, I’m weary of current gloom and doom bombarding us from all media. So, as a respite, I’m taking some steps back in time. When this column debuted about 11 months ago, I told readers that occasionally I would recall slices of early Dallas Black history. Today is such a time.
p6
myimessenger.com
p8
3
p13
October 2, 2020
MY TRUTH by Cheryl Smith, Publisher
ic different ways, in their own way; some healthy others not so healthy ways. Which brings me to my truth. Whether it was at the first day of class, virtually with Dallas College, where I am an adjunct professor; or in an editorial meeting with my team or The Dallas Morning News who we are collaborating with; I stress the importance of wellness checks and I share a little bit of me. That’s right, while some might say that women, especially in leadership, must not show any type of vulnerability because it is seen as weakness. Well, I am an “In spite of” person instead of a “because” person. In a nutshell, yes, I am challenged at times and like falsely-enslaved Solomon Northrup whose life was chronicled in the movie, “Twelve Years A Slave;” I, too, tell myself “I will not fall into despair.” Admittedly I feel as though my life has been filled with pandemics. When you consider being a Black woman in America; the maternal morbidity rate among Black women; mass incarceration of Black men; infusion of guns and drugs into the country’s Black communities; and, institutional racism, we are in a state pandemonium. So here comes coronavirus.
Until I See You Again These are the times that will try the strongest of souls. People I know who are introverts or almost recluses who enjoy being alone are having a hard time with social distancing and self-quarantining and some actually want to get out and be with people. Others who are extroverts, October 2, 2020
and real touchy-feely are trying to cope with having to scale back, not being able to be the life of the party because there are so few parties — well actually, while there are some parties, we really could follow the science and avoid them. Each person is dealing with this COVID-19 pandem-
I MESSENGER
4
In my head, I’m saying, ‘just add it to the list!” I could become an underachiever, a person who does not continue growing and lifting as I climb; and say it is because of COVID-19. Instead, as I deal with these times that test the faith of some and my very fiber, I try to make each day count, working to make this world a better place; in spite of COVID-19. But it is at times challenging. People are in pain. Sometimes when you are in pain, you want to hurt others. Some have heard the phrase, “misery loves company.” It’s true. Yes, there are miserable people who can’t spread love, hope and compassion because they don’t feel it and some may not know what it looks like! Then some people hurt themselves. As we continue to live through and adjust, adapt, or pivot; I am asking that you be a source of love and support if you can, ask for support and love if you need it; and work on being the best that you can be. Sure, no one’s perfect, but you can strive for perfection and through all of this; in spite of this pandemic, come out a better YOU. myimessenger.com
UNI
â„¢
DALLAS
COLLEGE of LAW
B U I L T for T E X A S - S I Z E D D R E A M S myimessenger.com
Version 15- CoL View Book .indd 3
5
3:24 PM October 2,7/9/20 2020
Are you who you say you are? FAITHFUL UTTERANCES BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW
I was recently on a web show and the host said, “Tell us who you are”. It is easy to share your name and your professional title but when someone wants you to really delve into who you are, we often have to think about it. Even in creating social media profiles with limited characters, we have a really difficult time deciding what part of our identities we would like to share with others. Moses wanted to know how to share God’s identity with those he encountered but he was not sure of what to tell others. 14 God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.[a] This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’ In Hebrew, the translation states, ““I am who I am” or “I will become what I choose to become”. God’s identity is not focused in the past tense. Depending on the translation, it is in the present and a continuation into the future. God is ever present not attached to anything. He is just “I AM”.
Think about it. I am is a powerful, present focused statement and what we attach to it is just as powerful. During the Civil Rights Movement, men marched with signs that stated, I am a man. This was an exclamation of their identity that was not recognized in their treatment. Affirmations are a way to declare a person’s possibilities and purpose. Individuals like Louise Hay wrote books and recorded videos encouraging the audience to tap into the power of connecting ‘I am’ to words like powerful, smart, and beautiful. Affirmations are important but I see this a bit differently---it is connecting the power of who God is to what we say about ourselves. Everyday, we speak words over ourselves and others. When we say things like I am stupid, dumb, or less than, we are combining the sacredness within ourselves with the less than—less than what we were created to be. 1 John 4:4 NLT says, “You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” God’s Spirit that lives in us is greater and when we
Who Profits, from page 2... it would spend $100 million over five years creating a “center for racial equity.” Though its CEO, Doug McMillon, explicitly said “Black Lives Matter” at a June virtual company-wide meeting, the commitment was vague. Walmart, one of the largest employers of African AmeriOctober 2, 2020
cans, put their money where their rhetoric is and pay people fairly, provide good benefits (including health care and paid sick leave), and establish a center for racial equity. With 2019 profits exceeding $123 billion in profit, they can certainly afford to spend a fraction of
I MESSENGER
6
combine the “I AM” with a descriptor of anything less, I wonder if we are diminishing the greatness within ourselves. Think about this. Genesis 1:27 states, “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” If we are created in the image of God and God’s Spirit lives within us, then it is imperative that we are intentional in the way we see ourselves and others. This does not mean that we are God, but it does require us to understand the responsibility we have in the way we view ourselves especially in the present and future. We cannot change the past, but we can commit to understanding the power that God has placed in each of us. It is what we choose to do with that power, and it begins in our understanding of what God says about us and what we say about ourselves. Proverbs 18:21 (GNT) states, “What you say can preserve life or destroy it; so you must accept the consequences of your words.” What are you saying about yourself? Are you speaking
life or death over your life and possibilities? Do you understand who you are and whose you are? Just as we feel it is important to know your family history and identity, I believe the same is true for our spiritual identity. A famous philosopher said, “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.” If God spoke life into existence and you are created in the image of the Creator, be mindful of what you are speaking into existence daily. There are real consequences beyond just the words. You will become what you choose to become.
one percent of those profits on racial equity. There are online T-shirt companies that sell Black Lives Matter and Blue Lives Matter T-shirts, missing BLM’s whole point. They include Wild Bobby and Old Glory Merchandise, neither of which is Black-owned. They are just capitalists hedging their bets, just like the white-owned stores that
offer discriminatory service but put BLM signs in their window. Instead, why not look for a Black-owned t-shirt company. All you have to do is google “Blackowned T-shirt company,” and dozens pop up. Don’t let the BLM movement be a profit center for predatory capitalists. Ask questions before you buy. Buy Black.
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.
myimessenger.com
myimessenger.com
7
October 2, 2020
Poe and Good Trouble! QUIT PLAYIN’ VINCENT L. HALL It had to be the saddest and yet the most exciting headline ever. NBC Sports laid it all bare. “Dontari Poe becomes first Cowboys player ever to protest during anthem!” Finally! Poe is my hero, and let me tell you why. Not as a journalist, but as a football statistics geek that grew up to be a proud Black man. This ain’t an editorial. This is a testimony. As young as age eight, I knew every player and stat of every Dallas Cowboy, from Bullet Bob Hayes to Dandy Don Meredith. My ties to the sport were as tight as youngsters are today with Madden Football. The Dallas Cowboys were my endall. And this was back in the day when 60% of the games were on the radio. The NFL blacked out coverage on any game that didn’t sell out their tickets. My uncle knew how enamored I was with football, and he scooped me and my brother Victor up. We were within walking distance of the Cotton Bowl, and I can still remember Uncle Allen passing the ticket agent $5.00 so we could walk through those turnstiles! Kids got in for a buck a piece, and it was “open container.” Unc had his Cutty Sark; we had prime seats, and it was a wonderful day in Sunny South Dallas. The October 2, 2020
Cowboys beat the Giants. By age 16, I couldn’t understand why my other uncle and most Black men hated the Cowboys so vehemently. Uncle Richard explained it to me in a way that made me understand. It also gave me some insight into the hell I was catching in my first year at integration. Skyline High was host to weekly race riots…I needed a broader perspective.
all-time favorites, were “severed” from the Cowboys. The former for being “too political,” the latter for being “insubordinate,” but both were traded to San Diego. Hmm! In every facet and vocation, Dallas deals harshly with Black men who stand up to the system. Jerry Jones is just the latest Massa to demand compliance from his
not going to be in the forefront, we need to know we have your support in that type of way.” I love this dude, no matter what his stats are. It may not be as noteworthy, but his courage puts him in my ring of honor with Ali, Smith and Carlos, high jumper Rose Robinson and LeBron James. Football has come a long
Dontari Poe (in circle) kneels
Uncle Richard was quiet and monotone, but a critical thinker. He said, son, if a team moves out of a stadium in a Black neighborhood, to move to a White neighborhood, with 15,000 fewer seats, and their chief objective is money, that should tell you something. I recalled how the Cowboys organization mistreated Black players who stood up. Standout athletes like TE Pettis Norman and RB Duane Thomas, two of my
I MESSENGER
team. I like Poe because he told Jerry’s World upfront what he planned to do, and he did it. Dontari Poe, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, September 2020 “Haven’t talked to Jerry at all,” Poe said. “I hope he comes out and shows his support. … You are an owner of an NFL team — you get what I’m saying? The majority of this team are these people that are being oppressed. So even if you are
8
way since my Cotton Bowl days. I cannot afford season ticket prices, but I stop everything when the name Dontari Poe is mentioned. This ain’t throwing shade, just pointing out how the liberation debts get paid! Somebody has to act up to get America to act right. Poe is in “good trouble.” Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and award-winning columnist.
myimessenger.com
myimessenger.com
9
October 2, 2020
We Must Prepare for this Hurricane Season and the Next By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson We are now almost four months into the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season and quickly approaching what is likely to be the most active and dangerous portion of the season. The time to begin educating yourself and preparing for potentially destructive storms coming our way was months ago, but if you find yourself unprepared, prepare now. A community’s ability to effectively respond to the threat of a hurricane is dependent on many factors including: accurate weather forecasts; dependable communication by federal, state, and local decision-makers of those forecasts and of their evacuation recommendations; and adequately equipped first responders. In late May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released their 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook and made clear that due to multiple climate factors, this year’s hurricane season was going to be very active in the Atlantic—with a prediction of 13-19 named storms. NOAA released an update to their outlook in early August with a new and daunting prediction; we could experience 19-25 named storms in the Atlantic this year. The Agency stated in their August update that this Atlantic hurricane season has the “potential to be one of the busiest on record.” Our great state of Texas is October 2, 2020
no stranger to devastating storms. Across the state, we are still recovering from Hurricane Harvey. In late August, Hurricane Laura barreled its way through western Louisiana and wreaked havoc on everything in its path. Compared to what was originally expected, Texas’ gulf shores were mostly spared by Laura. It is vital that we take this close call as a warning and prepare for the potential of dangerous storms during the remainder of this 2020 hurricane season. And then we must prepare for 2021 and beyond. The situation we now find ourselves in is made more complicated and riskier by the current coronavirus outbreak. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the scientists of NOAA and the National Weather Service (NWS) continue to staff Weather Forecast Offices 24/7 to ensure the public is made aware of critical weather and climate events. In order to keep Americans in the path of an extreme storm safe while also protecting them from potential COVID-19 infection, it’s more important now than ever that the information provided to these people is timely, accurate, and easily accessible. Hurricane preparedness is built on a foundation of federal investments in advancing our weather models and prediction capabilities. These investments help ensure accurate and timely forecasts are disseminated to the public. As climate change continues to intensi-
I MESSENGER
Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
fy the severity and frequency of extreme weather, we must continue to support the next generation of innovative technologies that improve upon our current forecasting capabilities in order to strengthen our preparedness and protect Americans. As Chairwoman of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I believe that robust federally funded R&D initiatives are an essential part of advancing our understanding of severe weather, which help experts to make well-informed, lifesaving decisions that prepare Americans for whatever lies ahead. Collaboration between the public, private, and academic sectors of the weather enterprise has strengthened our forecasting abilities. These
10
research-to-operations partnerships, which are supported largely in part by federal investment into weather research, are vital to improving our weather models and forecasts. While we know we are in for a potentially dangerous remainder of this hurricane season, I am confident in the abilities of our federal agencies like NOAA and NWS that partner with state and local decision-makers to provide the forecast information needed to prepare communities at risk of being impacted by dangerous storms. Supporting, and strengthening the federal science and research coming out of these agencies is how we will boost our preparedness for this hurricane season and the next. myimessenger.com
myimessenger.com
11
October 2, 2020
October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
12
myimessenger.com
Recalling early Dallas Black-owned “jitney” cabs I WAS JUST THINKING... By Norma Adams-Wade
Texas Metro News
Right now, I’m weary of current gloom and doom bombarding us from all media. So, as a respite, I’m taking some steps back in time. When this column debuted about 11 months ago, I told readers that occasionally I would recall slices of early Dallas Black history. Today is such a time. I was just thinking...and remembering a conversation I had more than 30 years ago with a man who was informing me about early Black-owned taxi companies in Dallas called “jitneys.” This historic 1920s photo shows noted Black nationalist Marcus Garvey riding in Harlem in a car similar to the ones that made popular jitneys during that period. Photo courtesy: Getty Images Before Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), and in the early days of public street cars ly after World War II in Dallas and pushed merged it with two other Black-owned cab that ran along electric-powered overhead upward to reach a comfortable living as a companies -- State and West End – in 1972 rail lines, Black-owned “jitney” taxi cars business-owner. and changed the company name to Termiserved various Black neighborhoods in DalThe name “jitney” came from the fee nal. las and flourished largely during the 1920s. charged to ride in the private autos: the With more than 700 cabs in the midJitney taxis in Black neighborhoods were nickel or five cent coin that was commonly 1980s, Terminal was Dallas’ largest cab privately-owned big automobiles that indi- known as a jitney. Randall said that in later company – ahead of the well-known Yellow vidual Blacks owned and used to transport years, the fee rose to 10 cent and the private Cab Company that had about 500 cabs. neighbors, friends, and community resi- autos became known as “10-cent jitneys.” Hearing about the Black-owned jitney dents to their destinations without them He said the bigger the cars, the more peo- taxi services in Dallas reminded me of the having to depend on ple drivers would pile days of the Montgomery bus boycott. The public streetcars. in, tightly crammed difference was this: Popular pick-up and in order to earn more In Montgomery, the Black-owned transdrop-off points were money plus provide portation was provided by individual “speakeasy” night riders needed trans- car-owners to transport Black community clubs and bars in Black portation. Passengers residents who refused to ride public buses neighborhood entereven rode on the side because of the bus companies’ discriminatainment areas. One boards, clinging to tory policies. Blacks long had been forced well-used area in Dalwhatever they could to sit at the back of buses and give up their las was the Thomas grip, Randall said. The seats if a White person boarded and there Avenue and Hall Street big cars would follow were no available empty seats. intersection, known the streetcar lines and In Dallas, the Black-owned transportaas Thomas and Hall, skim off passengers tion was provided by Blacks who has found early 1900s Ford Model-T that also made a in the State Street and An ways to purchase or fix-up” a car and charge popular jitney cab. Photo courtesy: Getty Images waiting for public transThomas Avenue comportation to arrive. The a small fee as . as a way to both earn money munity. jitneys also would go into areas in the Black and provide a needed service. The gentleman who kept me enthralled community where public transportation This has been one of many rich but litwith his recollections of Dallas Black com- would not go. tle-known Dallas Black history stories. I feel munity jitney taxis was Ezell Randall who Randall said he bought a new car in better already just telling it. owned North Dallas Cab Co. when I in- 1948 and became a driver for North Dalterviewed him in the mid-1980s. Randall, las Cab Co. --Dallas’ oldest black-owned Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning already an established business-owner cab company, founded by Zeb McDaniels journalist, Graduate of UT- Austin and Dallas naand senior citizen, related vivid memories in the 1920s. Randall became manager in tive. One of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), she was inductof how he began with a factory job short- the 1950s, bought the company in 1969, ed into the NABJ Hall of Fame myimessenger.com
13
October 2, 2020
Hall’s Honey Fried Chicken
(214) 371- 3020
4845 S Lancaster Rd. Dallas, TX 75216
October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
14
myimessenger.com
NOTORIOUS
Justice Ginsburg’s death could prove fatal to American Democracy By STACEY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia Ruth Bader Ginsburg – affectionately known as The Notorious R.B.G. (after the famous moniker of the late hip-hop star, The Notorious B.I.G.) – held on as long as she could while fiercely battling metastatic pancreatic cancer. At 87, the popular Supreme Court Justice had battled cancer and several other maladies, for some time. Just days before her death, as her strength waned, Ginsburg dictated this statement to her granddaughter Clara Spera: “My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed.” Echoing the sentiments of many, both inside and outside of the political spectrum acclaimed novelist Terry McMillan stated, “I was praying she could hold on.” The author and many others realized that, in sphere of today’s of American politics, where one of the two dominant parties is essentially wholly controlled by President Donald Trump and the hard-hearted Sen. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, if they choose to ignore the Justice’s dying wishes, the Republicans, who control the Senate, have the votes to quickly confirm Ginsburg’s replacement. This is the case even as the president – and possibly McConnell – head toward lame-duck status. In spite of the an result from the impending confirmation process and it’s connectivity to an election that will occur in less than 45 days, the life and achievements of Ruth Bader Ginsburg are to be celebrated. America’s loss of one of its notable and
myimessenger.com
most courageous jurists is palpable. and its ideals, and that’s how she’ll be “We have lost a champion of jus- remembered, Obama expressed in a tice, an icon and patriot, a woman written statement. “But she also left who lived the concept of building instructions for how she wanted her a more perfect union,” D.C. Mayor legacy to be honored,” the popular Muriel Bowser affirmed. former president observed. “Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Obama recalled when Republifought for us until the very end, and cans refused to hold a hearing or an it is that fighting spirit – that we were up-or-down vote on his Supreme fortunate as a nation to benefit from Court nominee, Merrick Garland, time and time again – that made us and they invented the principle that love, respect, and admire her. We are the Senate shouldn’t fill an open seat heartbroken.” on the Supreme Court before a new Hillary Shelton, the Chief Lobby- president was sworn in. ist of the NAACP, “A basic principle called Ginsburg’s of the law – and of death a sad day everyday fairness for America. “We – is that we apply are losing a real rules with conchampion for Civsistency, and not il Rights, Voting based on what’s Rights, Women’s convenient or adRights and Human vantageous in the Rights on our Sumoment,” Obama preme Court,” Sheldemanded. ton posited. “The rule of law, Shelton honored the legitimacy of Justice Ginsburg Ginsburg for breakour courts, the funing through many barriers to the full damental workings of our democraparticipation of all Americans and cy all depend on that basic principle. demanded that Republicans wait As votes are already being cast in this until after the election to confirm a election, Republican Senators are successor. now called to apply that standard. “It is our hope that whoever fills “The questions before the Court her position would have her same now and in the coming years – with values. We also urge that the presi- decisions that will determine whethdent withhold the nomination to fill er or not our economy is fair, our that position until after the election,” society is just, women are treated Shelton exclaimed. equally, our planet survives, and our “It was Mitch McConnell who in- democracy endures – are too consisted not to allow President Obama sequential to future generations for to fill a position in his last year in courts to be filled through anything office. We urge that there not be a less than an unimpeachable process.” nomination or consideration by the Sixty years ago, the Brooklyn born U.S. Senate until after the November Ginsburg applied to be a Supreme election.” Court clerk. She’d studied at two of Through her cancer, Ruth Bad- the country’s finest law schools and er Ginsburg fought to the end with had ringing recommendations. But unwavering faith in our democracy because she was a woman, she was
15
rejected, Obama recalled. Ten years later, she sent her first brief to the Supreme Court – which led it to strike down a state law based on gender discrimination for the first time. And then, for nearly three decades, as the second woman ever to sit on the highest court in the land, she proved a warrior for gender equality – someone who believed that equal justice under the law only had meaning if it applied to every single American. “Over a long career on both sides of the bench – as a relentless litigator and an incisive jurist – Justice Ginsburg helped us see that discrimination on the basis of sex isn’t about an abstract ideal of equality; that it doesn’t only harm women; that it has real consequences for all of us. It’s about who we are – and who we can be,” Obama remarked, noting that Ginsburg inspired the generations who followed her. Justice Ginsberg always voiced strong and principled demands for justice and equality for all, and she was a lifelong champion of women’s and civil rights, declared Marcela Howell, the founder, and president of “In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda.” “We are putting the U.S. Senate on notice; we demand that no nominee be voted on until a new president is elected. We will take to the streets in protest if McConnell and his cohorts do not abide by their own precedent,” Howell avowed. “We promise to continue Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s fight for freedom. As we mourn, we will honor her life and legacy by fighting hard to demand a worthy successor. And we will fight even harder to ensure that all votes are counted on Election Day.”
October 2, 2020
www.grandpasecret.com
Please wear your mask and wash your hands! October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
16
myimessenger.com
Alopecia Month Series: ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON
Did you know lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood disease? It affects the immune system, causing damage to any organ system in the body. It is not contagious. We have serviced mainly discoid lupus patients, assisting with flair-ups of pruritus and reducing inflammation. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, women of color have the highest risk at 90%. The common age of development is between 15-44, during child- bearing years. Unfortunately, lupus can be disabling and fatal, yet managed through aggressive medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Strokes, seizures, heart attacks, miscarriages and
myimessenger.com
organ failure may occur. Nationwide, there are 1.5 million Americans diagnosed, with an estimated 119,000 Texans. There are four types of Lupus: • Systemic lupus erythematosus-causes inflammation in various parts of the body. Can range from mild to severe. Male and females may complain of alopecia. • Cutaneous lupus erythematosus-limited to the skin. Lesions and rashes are common. The scalp may also be affected, also called ‘discoid’ lupus. Male and females complain about alopecia, patchy hair loss and scalp color pigmentation. Approximately 10% of consumers with cutaneous lupus will develop systemic lupus. • Drug-Induced lupus-prescription drugs are the cause of lupus-like symptoms. • Neonatal lupus-is a rare form that can affect infants of
women who have lupus. • Hydroxychloraquine has been talked about in the media over the past few months to treat COVID-19 patients. That debate I will not comment on. However, this medication has been used for many years for lupus, arthritis and malaria patients. Listen to your body for any changes and talk to your medical doctor. Some of the common symptoms may include: anemia, extremely tired, weak or achy feeling for days, even after plenty of sleep, sudden rash on your skin, redness or rash across your nose and cheeks in
17
the shape of a butterfly, unexplained fever higher than 100F, seizures, convulsions, confusion, chest pain while taking deep breaths, swelling in both legs and ankles simultaneously, paleness in fingers, and/or toes, sores in your mouth or nose lasting more than a week, joint pain and swelling, protein in your urine, or depression to name a few. Eight Support groups are available in Texas. Talk to your medical doctor for help. Dr. Linda Amerson, Board Certified Trichologist, 817 265 8854. #39yr Veteran Hairandscalpessentials.com
October 2, 2020
October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
18
myimessenger.com
Nena’s Finds Boutique A Uniquely Stylish, Fashionable Boutique for women of all Sizes! Ranging from Pretti and Petite to Pretti and Plus! Nena likes to be a bit edgy, blingy ... But she keeps it Chic with Sophisticated Style!
Nena’s Finds is your one stop shop for an Eccentric flare!
214.623.7314
nenafinds17@gmail.com Schedule your Sip n Shop, Trunk Show, Girls Nite Out or Wardrobe Revamp with Nena’s Finds today!
myimessenger.com
19
October 2, 2020
I AM NOT A PODCAST LOREN JACOBSON Assistant Professor of Law, UNT Dallas College of Law As many professors are doing this semester, I am teaching my law school classes at least partially online. In one of my classes, which is taught as a hybrid, my students attend synchronous lectures online for only 25 minutes twice a week. Despite the short period, I am constantly amazed at how many students, rather than fully concentrating and taking notes during class, are eating, playing with their pets, driving, and hanging out in coffee shops during class. This is so even though my syllabus tells students that I expect them to “be in a workplace conducive to learning.” Many of these students are serious and, I assume, take their stud-
October 2, 2020
ies seriously. So why the behavior that is so unconducive to learning? It occurred to me that the necessary move of classes online and out of the classroom has not just meant that our students are no longer in a physical space of learning, but that my classes now seem to some students more akin to a Netflix series, a YouTube video, or a podcast than a class. The demographic that makes up law school students spends a lot of time online, most of it dedicated to social media, streaming services, and podcasts. In 2018, Nielsen reported that adults in the United States spent an average of 11 hours a day listening to, watching, reading or generally interacting with media. Now, with the move to having classes online, our classes may not seem that
I MESSENGER
Loren Jacobson
different to our students than other online activities. I had this revelation when a student asked me whether she could listen to class while she was taking a long drive out of state. This student was being diligent. Under normal circumstances, she would miss class, but now that class was online, she could at least listen to it while driving. But it occurred to me, what do I do on long drives out of state? I listen to podcasts, which are informational and educational. I realized, then, that I had turned into a podcast. And what do people do while they are watching Netflix or Hulu, scrolling through social media, or listening to a podcast? They eat, play with their pets, drive, and hang out in coffee shops. The move to online classes, then, has led to their “podcastification”—maybe engaging, maybe entertaining, certainly informational and educational, but without the seriousness
20
and soberness of a physical classroom. I am not sure what the answer to this problem is. Those of us who teach online have been bombarded with ideas and ways to help keep our students engaged in online classes. While many of the suggestions are useful, and I’ve implemented a number of them, I think that at least for some of our students, none of these measures will help because it really is the medium that is the issue. As long as our classes are just another online activity, they will lack the gravitas that is usually associated with the classroom as a space of learning. While I love podcasts, I, for one, am looking forward to the day when I am no longer a podcast, but am once again a professor. Loren Jacobson Pronouns: she, her, hers Assistant Professor of Law UNT Dallas College of Law Tel. 214-571-2412 lawschool.untsystem.edu
myimessenger.com
Parkland: Don’t drink bleach to prevent COVID-19 By MARVA J. SNEED Staff Writer On the season premiere of “From Marva with Love,” safety was of primary concern, especially when drinking bleach has been offered as a cure for coronavirus. Cristina Halloway, the Public Health Educa-tion Manager for the North Texas Poison Center (NTPC) at Parkland Health & Hospital System talked about the warning from NTPC: “Don’t drink bleach to prevent COVID-19.” The Center is again reminding residents of the dangers of drinking bleach. The NTPC reports that there have been 46 cases of bleach ingestions in the region since August 1, 2020. Misleading and inaccurate information is circulating online about how to prevent the spread of
myimessenger.com
COVID-19. While disinfectants like bleach can help control the spread of the virus when used to clean surfaces; ingesting bleach or other cleaning products is downright dangerous and can lead to serious injury, including burns. Ms. Halloway talked about the safe use of bleach and offered safety tips to prevent severe injuries from disinfectants.MS: What is the first thing you should do if you are exposed to bleach? CH: You should call the North Texas Poison Center. Your local poison centers in Texas are available 24/7 with specially-trained and bilingual nurses, pharmacists, and physicians to help answer questions or concerns. The toll free number is 1-800222-1222. MS: What are the health
risks of using disinfectants in this unauthorized way?CH: You brought up a good tip to never mix cleaners, especially bleach. Bleach should never go with anything else. It is kind of that one special cleaner that when mixed with other cleaners can create dangerous gases. So we want to be careful with that. You mentioned that if we want to be extra clean, we want to use something else — vinegar, bleach, ammonia. There are so many cleaners. The best thing is to pick one and stick to that one at least in that area or at least for that day until it dries. Also, the effects from someone’s exposure will depend on how they use the product especially when it comes to using bleach. They must be using it in a well-ventilated area.
21
We could be cleaning a bathroom with none or closed windows, or the door closed for privacy; you want to make sure that the area is well-ventilated. The fumes can be strong and cause burning eyes and if someone were to ingest, it can cause burning of the throat and can cause a person to vomit if you swallow enough of it. There can be more serious effects. There was so much more to the conversation with Cristina Halloway. To hear the full interview go to BlogTalkRadio.com/Cheryl’s World “From Marva with Love” or Texas Metro News’ Facebook page and see the video. For more info call the Poison Control Center Center at 1-800-222-1222. Tune in to “From Marva with Love” on Fridays from 11 am to 1 pm.
October 2, 2020
October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
22
myimessenger.com
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.
23
October 2, 2020
214-421-5387
Two Podners Bar-B-Que & Seafood 1441 Robert B Cullum Blvd. Dallas, Texas 75210 October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
24
myimessenger.com
“We are open for carryout. We care about our customers and our community and we thank you for your business during this difficult time.�
Hours of business: Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-9:00 pm. Friday 11:30 am-10:00 pm. Saturday 12:00 pm-10:00 pm.
(469) 899-7927
140 S Clark Rd Cedar Hill, TX 75104
3309 S Malcolm X Blvd
Call orders in (214)-859-3472
Dallas, TX 75215
myimessenger.com
We run specials Monday-Thursday
25
October 2, 2020
EAT ZONE Best Food in Town The Hidden Secret of OakCliff 2 Burgers for $5 2 Pc Grilled/Fried Ăžsh
3917 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Suite 103 Dallas Texas 75237.
469-399-0096
Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-8p. 3003 E. Illinois Ave,75216
214-376-9663
During this pandemic we are still open for call-in and pick up orders. We have specials Tuesdays $5 burger baskets with fries and Wednesdays $5 chicken strip baskets with fries. Our menu is filled with so many delicious items. We have Bar-B-Q plates, Crab boils and so much more. We would love to serve you.
6090 Bonnie View Rd Dallas, TX 75241 Hours of services may differ
Phone: (214) 372-6321
October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
26
myimessenger.com
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.
myimessenger.com
27
October 2, 2020
Trustee Aubrey Hooper moves on from DeSoto ISD By ASHLEY MOSS Staff Writer Trustee Aubrey Hooper will end his nine-year tenure as a member of the DeSoto ISD School Board this week. Hooper credits his mother’s career under the late Dr. Emmett Conrad, the first African American Dallas ISD trustee, as the fuel that sparked his passion for public service. “I can still recall the many stories about his legacy and his imprint on Dallas County through his work in the medical field and as the first African-American trustee in the Dallas Independent School District. Dr. Conrad’s service inspired many throughout the county to become invested in education and helped paved the way for me to have the
opportunity to serve today.” A member of Alpha Phi AlThe Morehouse College hon- pha Fraternity, Inc., Hooper has ors graduate received a Master served alongside elected offiof Arts in Urban Affairs from cials, including Dallas County UT Arlington and has served in Commissioner John Wiley leadership capacities with com- Price, Texas Senator Royce munity organizations West, and U.S. Conand non-profit groups gresswoman Eddie including, most reBernice Johnson. He cently serving as the previously served as NAACP Dallas presia Campus Adminisdent, the Second Vice trator/Principal at the President of the TexMedlock and Youth as State Conference Village Campuses at of NAACP Branches, the Dallas County JuAubrey Hooper Assistant Secretary of venile Department, the NAACP National and has been recogBoard of Directors and the Vice nized and highlighted for his Chairman of the NAACP Na- public service by the Texas Legtional Education Committee. He islative Black Caucus, Dallas also served as a member of the ISD, and UTA. In 2017, he was NAACP Finance, Advocacy and also named to the DeSoto ISD Policy, Image Awards, and Exec- Hall of Honor. utive committees. “Each day of the last nine
DeSoto ISD School Board. Trustee Hooper is standing in center.
October 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
years and four months have been singularly focused on being a difference-maker,” said Hooper. “Every day I wake up, I ask the Lord to help me fulfill my purpose and be humble enough to accept what comes with fulfilling my purpose.” Following this transition, Hooper plans to build his consulting practice, Blind Spot Diagnostic, LLC. and will launch a non-profit focused on educational equity, social justice, juvenile justice intervention, and community development. He also plans to be involved in the upcoming election season. “I have tried to move us closer to that reality and with my departure from the Board, my service to DeSoto will never cease,” said Hooper. “I am forever DeSoto.”
Photo courtesy: DeSoto ISD
28
myimessenger.com
myimessenger.com
29
October 2, 2020
BRIEFS
Paul Quinn College Has New Partnership with Guild Education Network Historically Black Paul Quinn College has partnered with the Guild Education Network providing an opportunity for PQC to be join one of America’s best companies and Guild employees will have access to PQC’s course offerings and four-year degree. “We are ecstatic to become a member of the Guild Network,” said Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, president of Paul Quinn College. Sorrell believes both of their goals align with one another and will be beneficial in the long run. “Guild’s commitment to helping hardworking Americans achieve their educational and economic dreams is something that we strongly identify with. We are honored to have been se-
Former DISD student is now a Principal
Dr. Micheal J. Sorrell
lected by them for this important work.” Guild Education’s premise is to supply educational opportunities to their workforce. Guild partners with employers and organizations to help elevate their skills. Guild has been recognized in the past by Forbes Cloud 100 and Fast Company Most Innovative of the Year.
Attorney Justin A. Moore wants more for Breonna Taylor News that the three officers responsible for Breonna Taylor’s death would not go to trial for her murder caused protests across the country and commentary from around the world. The Kentucky grand jury indicted officer Brett Hankison, because of the bullets he fired into the walls of the adjoining apartments upon entering Taylor’s apartment. Attorney Justin A. Moore said he was upset to hear that the jury voted in the favor of the police officers, but he was not surprised. “I can see a lot of people feel like they wasted their entire summer fighting for this case and fighting for their voices to be heard,” Moore said, adding that he wished the grand jury was presented with evidence that could October 2, 2020
Breonna Taylor
have indicated that the case clearly warranted a charge of manslaughter. Moore said he wanted to see Hankison prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, instead of the possible 15 year sentence he could receive if found guilty of wanton endangerment. “But there’s not really much there, they didn’t leave us with a lot to hold onto,” he said.
I MESSENGER
Former DISD student is now the newest principal of Adelle Turner Elementary School. Derek Thomas, a product of William Anderson Elementary, Longfellow Middle and Skyline High Schools, said he wants to see change and believes he is the perfect person for the job since he used to be a former student within the District. In order for him to prepare for the position, Thomas went back to the books. A graduate of the University of North Texas, he received a masters degree in Educational Leadership from Southern Methodist University. “The best principals that I know
Principal Derek Thomas
are principals who are forward thinking, who study their craft, who study content,” Thomas said, adding that he wants to be an advocate for his students and would like to see them excel in every aspect. “We want our scholars to be great and successful in every way.”
Concord Church Begins Tutoring Program Education is key for the next generation of leaders but sometimes it can be challenging so Concord Church is opening up their doors with a no-cost weekly after-school tutoring program. Dr. Marlow Daniel McGuire Sr., associate pastor at Concord, talked to parents about options for area youth. “It is more of a need now than it has ever been due to the impact of COVID19,” the Pastor said. “We formed an education task force that are composed of principals, administrators, educators and we are working out a plan.” Dr. McGuire said his two children, who are virtually learning, sometimes find the process difficult. He wants all students to be up to date with their curriculum and the church can help. “Concord has for some time been very big about education in the community and being a strong supporter
30
Dr. Marlow Daniel McGuire Sr. Photo courtesy: Dr. Marlow Daniel McGuire Sr.
of education,” he said, adding that the program is open to all children who are learning online and in person from grades 1-12; social distancing will be in full effect; and, there will be a limit on the amount of students that can attend. Dr. McGuire said he hopes to have the program fully operational by the end of October and needs the help from volunteers. Volunteer Form: https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCe-6QrXKuBgkZ0TlklorV3saqTnXr-3DlNJWvySzPdxwb5Q/viewform myimessenger.com
GUTTA MAMIS AT THE MOVIES BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ
GUTTA MAMIS is a local movie with local producers, writers and actors from the Dallas area. The movie was previously a novel from screenwriter N’Tyce. Recently I had the opportunity to see a Dallas advanced screening (it’ll come out in November on various PPV platforms), but here are my thoughts on the movie. The movie revolves around three central characters, Shinette, played by Porsha Hall, Tierra, portrayed by Santosha Nicole and Tierra’s sister Tonia, who is played by Sophia Knolton. Shinette and Tierra are ride or die chicks who have each other’s back in a life of crime. While Tonia is the voice of reason, doing all she can to convince her sister to leave her current life of prostitution and crime and to come home to her daughter
myimessenger.com
(played by Sophia’s real life daughter Savannah). This is definitely an adult drama about crime, sex and life in the hood. If you want to take a step out on the wild side, this movie is for you. The two homegirls run into a serious challenge when what was to have been a simple robbery of a drug dealer’s money leaves them with a dead body to dispose of. Shinette tells her friend that things will be alright if she just never speaks of the incident to anyone, however; with a guilty conscience she mentions it to her on again/off again boyfriend, unaware that he is part of the drug dealers crew. Suddenly the body count starts rising when the drug dealer sends assassins out to get his drugs back and kill the two women. No one can be trusted. We even discover that Tonia’s husband is a crooked cop when he gets involved in the fray. I loved the character that Porsha Hall played. She was one bad B who knew the street life game and you knew she was not to be messed with. The movie is not yet rated, but if I could guess it’d probably be an R or TV MA. I’ll mention again, this is a movie for mature audiences. However, if you’re up for a movie about crime, drugs, sex and violence, I would rate GUTTA MAMIS on my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” a LARGE.
31
We’re open and ready to serve you!
Elaine’s
Jamaican Kitchen
(214) 565-1008 2717 Martin L. King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215
October 2, 2020
Word OneDrive
Day of Dignity 2020 1
Accessibility Mode
Edit
Download
Employment Opportunity
Funeral Director/Embalmer Black and Clark Funeral Home
Page 1 of 1
100%
Send resume to: Administration Black and Clark Funeral Home 2517 E. Illinois Dallas, Texas 75216 bcfh@blackandclark.com
College of Education and Human Services
th u r T at ike L Wh n dps sium u o S Sym o
Dr. Kimberly McLeod, Dean
Host a
I CAN’T B
s Raci
m an
d
THE BREAw T ’ N er A IC Po
e ileg s P r i v cious Bia s n o c Un
e ileg s P r i v cious Bia ns E Unco
w er d Po
EATH
’T BR
Keynote Speakers
Education Law enforcement Elected officials / Mental health public policy Student voice Faith-based community
n sm a Raci
Hear leading voices in multiple disciplines on systemic racism, trauma in the Black American community, and the call for equity.
I CAN’T BRE I CAN
September 24, 2020 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. CST
HE AT E R
HE AT
Virtual Symposium
Symposium Strands:
tamuc.edu/COEHS Click to register!
October 2, 2020
Ambassador Andrew Young
I MESSENGER
Give Feedba
Zoom
Page
Donna Y Ford, PhD
32
myimessenger.com
Count it all joy Longtime school social worker Lisa Vernon launches MarloJoy Solutions By EVA D. COLEMAN Lifestyle and Culture Editor
Lisa Vernon
Lisa Vernon has connected resources for underserved and vulnerable populations in the Frisco area for numerous years. The licensed social worker, educator, public speaker and creative director officially launched her multifaceted company, MarloJoy Solutions, LLC, during two back-toback, socially-distant sessions on Sept. 26, 2020 at One River School in Frisco, Texas. The art and design
school served as the perfect sponsor and backdrop for Ms. Vernon’s event. As a widely-known dancer with emphasis on the arts, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduate, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work, has partnered with them on various occasions, connecting others with culture and creativity through personal awareness. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Ms. Ver-
non acknowledged her “sisters” in the room and everyone else individually too, expressing deep appreciation for her network of supporters. With MaloJoy Solutions, Ms. Vernon strives to make a difference in the lives of others through healing and advocacy. Services provided include: Counseling & Life Coach, Social Justice, Talent Acquisition, Movement & Artistic Integration and Curriculum Writing. For more information, visit www.marlojoysolutions.com
First Black Male Teacher is Texas Teacher of the Year By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD Staff Writer Congrats are in order for elementary school teacher Eric Hale who is Texas Teacher of the Year. Hale teaches third graders in the Dallas Independent School District at David G. Burnet Elementary School and he found out the good news during the recent Texas Association of School Administrators and Texas Association of School Boards Convention. When Hale heard the announcement he said he was completely overjoyed. This accomplishment makes him the first Black teacher to ever receive the award. For the selection process, there were several judges inmyimessenger.com
cluding: leaders in the communities, business owners, and a member from the State Board of Education. He has won numerous other awards. Hale was honored by the Dallas Mavericks as a finalist for the Classroom Champions in 2018 and coached the first ever Dallas ISD Amazing Shake Competition Champion awarded in June 2018. According to his bio, in 2015, he was named a Distinguished Teacher(Exemplary) for ranking in the top 1% in district-wide teacher performance and was later recognized among his peers as Teacher of the Year. In 2016, he was a top 10 finalist for the prestigious Fishman Prize for Superlative Classroom Practice, which spotlights public school teachers who demon-
Eric Hale, DISD Texas Teacher of the Year
strate exceptionally effective teaching with students from high-poverty communities. Hale’s story is of trials and triumphs growing up in and out of shelters. His grandmother played a huge role in his life to stay the course. “She supported me, she taught me how to pray, and
33
she gave me faith in God,” Hale said. “The same way I fight and advocate for my kids, I learned that from my grandmother.” Hale graduated from Wright State University with a BS in Organizational Leadership and MEd in Education Administration from Texas A&M Commerce. October 2, 2020
WEtv Marriage Boot Camp THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW BY VALDER BEEBE
I enjoyed speaking with WETV Marriage Boot Camp: Hip Hop Edition stars Willie Taylor and Shanda Denyce. On this season of WE tv’s hit series Marriage Boot Camp: Hip Hop Edition, tempers flare and drama ensues as five hip hop couples hunker down to take some tough love from Dr. Ish Major to help them improve their troubled relationships. Among them, Taylor and Denyce’s problematic marriage previously caught viewers’ attention on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood.
October 2, 2020
Taylor is one of the lead singers of the award-winning R&B group Day26 who were assembled on MTV’s hit show “Making the Band 4” by Sean “P. Diddy” Combs. Denyce is a singer-songwriter who was in the all-girl R&B group X’clusive. The Chicago-based couple have been married for 12 years and have three children together, but their union has been plagued
I MESSENGER
Shanda and Willie
by communication issues and infidelity. They never talk about their problems, but just brush everything under the rug until the storm passes. As the dramatic season finale of Marriage Boot Camp: Hip Hop Edition approaches, the couple discussed with me what they may have learned during the show’s intense therapy sessions; as well as what their future holds as a couple. VEB: Willie and Shanda I know you guys came to the Valder Beebe Show to give the audience the total 411. WT: Well, we are here to give you as much as we can (laughter)…..the rest you will tune into Hip Hop Edition season finale. VEB: Give me and the audience a bit of your history to get to know you both better. SD: I’m Willie’s wife and I’m an artist from back in the day who never came out. WT: Making the Band 4 was probably the original you have seen me on, Day26, then from there we did Love & Hip
34
Hop Hollywood. Now Marriage Boot Camp. VEB: Willie, I’ve spoken to the host of Marriage Boot Camp, Dr Ish Major, so I will ask you the same question; it is almost impossible for ordinary people behind closed doors to solve their marriage problem, but you are doing it in public, on TV, is there truly any answer for your marriage problems? WT: If you allow yourself to live in the eye of the public, if you allow yourself to be on a reality show, you lock the privacy away. Really, you are living in a world where people have opinions and you do not let their opinions alter your mind or alter your……. WETV Marriage Boot Camp complete interview…… S o u n d C l o u d . c o m / valderbeebeshow: Broadcasting to a national & global audience::ValdeBeebeShow.com : YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow: KKVI FM Radio, Streaming TV, Social Media, Print Publications (IMESSENGER, Texas Metro News, and Garland Journal News).
myimessenger.com
16
MAY 20, 2020
Virtual and liVe Community Calendar
September 23-25 Big Tex Virtual Job Fair 9 am-4 pm. Reg: www.Eventbrite.com.
September 23-30 Dallas Free COVID-19 Testing at 8207 S Hampton Rd, Dallas, 9 am-7 pm. Hosted by Go Get Tested. Register: http://gogettested.com/
September 23 2020 Census Day Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez and Co-host Shavonda with a “V” Fields, on Hollywoodlive. com. From 2 pm – 4 pm. Job Readiness Sessions & Hiring Events, Online Application Assistance, with Zan Wesley Holmes, Jr. Community Outreach Center. Beginning Sept.9-Nov. 4 Zoom. Info: Jasmine Anderson at jasmine.anderson@zwhjcoc.org Salsa Wednesday at Vidorra by DJ Wander at Vidorra Dallas 2642 Main St. 7-10 pm. Ask Dr. Amerson radio Show at 11am CST continues to spotlight National Alopecia Awareness Month with expert guests. Feat: Tomorrow Leigh, Esthetician. Healthy hair/scalp care tips, and alopecia discussion on DfwiRadio.com.
September 24 TAMACC Webinar with Dr. Anthony Fauci. A webinar discussion with Dr. Anthony Fauci about COVID-19 and the Hispanic and Minority Communities. 12:00-1:30 pm. Online @TAMACC. 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. Twilight Thursdays host Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. 8525 Garland Rd. 9 am-8 pm. Hours are extended. Tickets must be reserved in advance at: https://bit.ly/33DXaHG.
September 25-October 18 2020 State Fair of Texas At Home. Virtual State Fair of Texas from the comfort of your home. 10 am-9 pm. Info: bigtex.com.
September 25 Dr. Amerson’s day from Arlington Mayor myimessenger.com
Big Tex Fair Food Drive-Thru at Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave. 10 am-6 pm. This is a one-of-a-kind drive-thru experience. Celebrates all things Texan. Tickets: bigtex.com/big-tex-fair. Austin Street Center 20th Annual Humble Beginnings Luncheon featuring: Tony and Grammy Award-Winning performer, Leslie Odom, Jr. at 11:30 a.m. at Omni Hotel 555 S. Lamar St, Dallas. For Info: www.austinstreet.org/humblebeginnings. DeSoto Fourth Friday Concert - DeSoto Gospel Live Featuring: Adrion Butler hosted by Arts DeSoto and City of DeSoto. The City of DeSoto is going VIRTUAL! DeSoto Fourth Friday Music Series online! On Facebook at www.facebook.com/ArtsDeSoto. & www.ArtsDeSoto.com. 8 - 9 pm.
September 28
Monday Night Politics: Meet The Candidates. Host Dallas Examiner. Judge of 14 Judicial District, Judge of 95 Judicial District, Judge of 162 Judicial District, and Judge of 254 Judicial District. Online Event: https://bit.ly/3is39Wh 6–8 pm. Info: www.dallasexaminer.com.
September 29 Texas Woman’s Foundation 35th Annual Luncheon Virtual Event. Speaker America Ferrera. 11:30 am CDT - Virtual Lobby and Sponsor Activations Open 12:00 pm CDT - Luncheon Program Begins. Tickets: www.txwfluncheon.org
Friendship-West Presents Spiritual Care. Hosted by Be Made Whole Counseling Center. Spiritual Care encouraging us through difficult times.1:00 pm CDT via Zoom: https://bit. ly/2FhHYYY Access Code: 856 703 6848.
Building A More Equitable Future For African American in Dallas at Bill J. Priest Institute A Campus of El Centro College 1402 S. Corinth St. 6- 7:15 pm. Free Reg: Eventbrite.com.
Infant Mortality Awareness Webinar. Morning and afternoon sessions held. Sponsors: Dallas Health Start & Parkland. Contact: 214-590-1670. Register: https://bit.ly/32qQRH2
Hollywood Live! With Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez and Co-host Shavonda with a “V” Fields, on Hollywoodlive.com. From 2 – 4 pm.
9th Annual Dallas Hunger Summit (on-line) 10–11:30 am. Free. Malik Yakini, Director, Detroit Black Community Food Security Network.. A Zoom link will be sent after you register. Register: https://bit.ly/2DWrjcy.
Ask Dr. Amerson Radio Show at 11am CST continues to spotlight National Alopecia Awareness Month with expert guests. Healthy scalp/hair care tips, alopecia discussion, our award-winning product line and more. DfwiRadio.com.
75th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA.) Innovative Finance Strategies for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for all persons of African descent. Hosts HBCU and UNDP. 8-11 am. Reg: https://bit.ly/3ksyA3h. Info: Dr. Farid I. Muhammad (773) 756-5722.
September 26 Positive Reflections Ministry Free Groceries (Includes meat, non-perishables goods & produce while supplies last) Pick up location: Pleasant Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1910 N. St Augustine Rd. Dallas from 9 am to 1 pm. Info call 214-208-5536.
Virtual Community Engagement. Keynote Speaker: State Representative Lorraine Birabil. Reg: big.tex.com/community-engagement-luncheon. 11:30 am-1 pm.
October 1
Sunday Happy Hour, NABJ Media Related Task Force, host Terry Allen, Guests: Ron Carter, CEO Carter Agency and Karen Wilson Cheif PR Sytategist. 5:30 pm. CST. Reg: https://bit. ly/2FOlwGG bring your drink and enjoy the best online networking!
September 27 Big Tex Fair Food Drive-Thru Concert Series. Presented by Chevrolet: Big Tex Fair Food Drive-Thru Concert Series feat: Fort Worth band, Squeezebox Bandits at Fair Park. Tickets: bigtex. com/big-tex-fair-food-drive-thru. 11 am-6 pm.
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 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.
September 30
AARP Online Career Expo Navigating The Job Market During Times of Uncertainty. 12 pm. CT. Register: https://onlinexperiences.com/scripts/Server.nxp?
Live Music Feat: David Whiteman Band at The Warehouse Lounge 1125 E. Berry St. Ft. Worth. Virtually or in Person 7:30 pm. Tickets: www.Eventbrite.com
BLACK LIVES MATTER
Breast Cancer Awareness Month First Saturday Harvest Project Food Rescue, Free Fruits and Veggies, at Pan African Connection 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 10:00 am-3:00 pm. Free Fruits and Veggies until their gone. Call 214943-8262. Brem For the Bust. A kick off start for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Feat: Dr. Rachel Brem and Dr. Angela Marshall. Reg: www.Eventbrite.com/brem-for-the-bust
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.
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. Barefield. “Always Audacious, Accurate and Authentic” On Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & 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.
October 5 November General Elections Voter Registration Deadline Mon., Oct. 5, 2020, is the deadline to register to vote in the November 2020 Presidential and General Election. To register, find your precinct, change your name or address, etc. at: https://www.dallascountyvotes.org/
35
October 2, 2020
32
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 2, 2020
I MESSENGER
36
myimessenger.com