I Messenger 10-7-22

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

It’s really easy when you are in the midst of a situation to not see the possibilities. At the time, it’s hard to see anything but what is in front of you. It’s also very easy to become comfortable because it’s familiar. We often believe that walking away from toxic situations is the hardest thing to do.

QUIT PLAYIN’ MRS. OPAL LEE

Man, what a flashback. As I was about to walk into a local 7-11 store, a 10 or 11-year-old Hispanic brother spotted me. He got to the door six paces before me, glanced back, and did something that shocked me. He opened the door for me, said “hello,” and smiled!

Grandmother of Juneteenth Nobel Peace Prize Nominee

The Dallas Morning News 2021 Texan of the Year

Wiley College Head Basketball Coach, former Duncanville Standout Tiffany Jackson Passes Away from Cancer

By Dorothy J. Gentry Sports Editor

Former teammates, play ers, coaches, and WNBA players took to social me dia to mourn Tiffany Jack son who passed away on Monday evening at the age of 37 from cancer.

Jackson was named head coach of Wiley College’s women’s basketball team earlier this year in April. She is a former assistant coach and standout player at the University of Texas in Austin and was a mem ber of Duncanville High School’s 2003 State Cham pionship Team. Jackson finished with 16 points to earn game Most Valuable Player honors for Duncan ville, which went 39-1 that season.

She was also Texas’ Ga

torade Player of the Year that year and was both a McDonald’s All-American and a WBCA All-American, and was the consensus No. 2 national prospect. She was also a well-known member of DFW Elite se lect basketball team. Jack son was recently inducted into the Duncanville ISD Hall of Honor.

Condolences poured out on social media as news of her death became public.

“Gone, but never forgot ten. RIP Tiffany Jackson. ” –University of Texas Wom en’s Basketball posted on Twitter.

“We lost a beautiful soul to cancer today. My heart is so heavy. You never know what people are going through. Please always re member that. Prayers” Nik ki McCray, assistant coach

for Rutgers women’s bas ketball, posted on Twitter.

“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again!!! A lot of girls growing up wanted to be like Candace Parker and Diana Taurasi. I wanted to be like Tiffany Jackson!!! You will be missed!!!” wrote Mesquite Head Girls Bas ketball Coach Kelsi Baker on Twitter.

Yolette McCuin, head women’s basketball coach at the University of Missis

sippi posted: “My goodness another Angel TJack has gone to the heavens. Life is so short! Tell the ones that you love that love them dai ly. RIH”

DFW/Elite Basket ball posted on Twitter: “Prayers for the Jackson family. A beautiful mother, daughter, sister, teammate, coach, mentor and friend. Touched the lives of many, just like her father. RIP Tiff. #TJack”

And former WNBA play er, head coach and Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings posted: “Wow… just hear ing about Tiffany Jackson Prayers up to her family. Such a blow as she was absolutely amazing Going to miss her smile, presence and heart for others #RIH Catchings also played for

Coach Tiffany Jackson

by Cheryl Smith Publisher

What are the adults doing?

There are things you have a right to do and other things are your right because of what others have done. Then too, you can abdicate your rights by not voting!

Looking back, I now realize how many rituals our family had and how we were expected to conduct ourselves during each one.

We didn’t get to question nor dissent.

Parents were there to guide and direct because they knew better. They had been there and done almost everything and we children needed to let experi ence speak!

I know it’s a new day and I am adapting to a different way of living but I must caution folks younger than I am: There are some things I feel “entitled” to because I had to give it, and you are not going to rob me; namely respect!

For example, as a child, grow ing up the pieces of the chicken relegated to the children in my house, were everything but the breasts, followed closely by the wings. I waited in anticipation for the day when I would get to choose; when I would earn, that forbidden piece of chicken.

Then there was that Saturday dose of castor oil. My mother felt we needed to be “cleaned out” so we could start the new week off on the right foot. So cleaning out was what happened and to day when I compare what we ate then with what folks are eating today; a lot of cleaning out needs to be happening!

I encountered the long list where every entry began with:

“Wait until you are an adult or 18!”

Children like to do what they see adults doing, including: drinking alcohol, staying out all night, smoking, wearing certain clothes, not having to tell where you are going and voting!

Which brings me to my truth.

The list should have included, being responsible, paying bills, following the house rules of the people who pay the bills, being respectful no matter how you are being treated, dressing appro priately, and again, voting (can’t stress it enough).

There are things you have a right to do and other things are your right because of what others have done. Then too, you can ab dicate your rights by not voting!

For the record, my grown self is a pescatarian.

Will I take castor oil today? If healthy eating and drinking plenty of water don’t get it, may be a colonic will. It will have to, because I have earned the right to say “NO” to castor oil.

Do I respect my elders, regard less of how they act? Yep!

And just like I saw adults doing, I will go to the polls and vote!

Say it with me: You Deserve Better

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

It’s really easy when you are in the midst of a situation to not see the possibilities. At the time, it’s hard to see any thing but what is in front of you. It’s also very easy to be come comfortable because it’s familiar.

We often believe that walk ing away from toxic situa tions is the hardest thing to do. I would say that staying can be equally as difficult, if not worse, for your long-term health and view of who you are. It’s knowing that you de serve better.

When we look in a mirror, we expect to see ourselves. But imagine if you haven’t seen who you really are in years. Looking at old pictures can remind us of who we used to be—we see ourselves as kids and we may have an idea of what we looked like but there are details that we don’t remember.

For decades, we have seen the adult version of ourselves. Our memories begin to fade affecting our ability to really visualize the totality of who we are. We are more than what we see in the present.

This happens when we are in environments that damage our well-being. We begin to adjust to the chaos, conflict, and confusion.

The picture of who we re ally are and what we can be come is jaded. Life has a way of distorting the way we ap pear because of the traumas we suffer—neglect, aban donment, disappointments, and rejection—are just a few of the experiences that shape who we are.

out caring for our mind, emo tions, and spirit.

The limited view that we have of ourselves affects our thinking, the things we will or won’t do, and even our re lationships. We’ll convince ourselves we need to stay in a relationship or a job because we don’t believe there’s more

even the way we talked about others would be different. We would see our value and ul timately, appreciate the val ue of others even when they don’t see us fully.

We can easily deceive our selves with the lies we are told about our inadequacies, faults and failures. The Bible tells us about self-deception and how it robs us. “Other wise, you are deceiving your selves. For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.” (James 1:23)

The Word of God is our mirror. It reflects to us who we are and the greatness that lies within us. Yet, if we allow the world to show us who we are and not God, if we do not make a practice of seeking God to define us, we are con sistently reinjuring ourselves and others.

We may even externally appear to others as having it all together but internally, we are so wounded. We can be torn to pieces because of the pain. Others may not see it because of the way we dress it up, but in actuality, we are living as a shell of who we could be.

It’s tragic when we can’t see who we were created to be. We can become fixated on our physical appearance devoting so much time to covering up the outside with

for us. We question if we somehow deserve this.

God sees us so different ly than we see ourselves. In Genesis, when God saw what He made, He said it was good. (Genesis 1:31) “For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be re jected.” (1Timothy 4:4) What would happen if we gave thanks to God for all that He created including ourselves and those around us? Our self-talk would change and

God has so much more for you. Just know that YOU de serve better.

To Listen to the Podcast: https://www.audible.com/ pd/THE-TAPESTRY-Podcast/ B08JJNVS4G

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.

The Word of God is our mirror. It reflects to us who we are and the greatness that lies within us. Yet, if we allow the world to show us who we are and not God, if we do not make a practice of seeking God to define us, we are consistently reinjuring ourselves and others.

Collette Flanagan Addresses The UN Human Rights Council On Racism In Policing

Collette Flanagan, Founder, Mothers Against Police Brutality Remarks before the United Nations Human Rights Council

I’d like to thank President Villegas and the Human Rights Council for inviting me here today.

I founded Mothers Against Police Brutality because a police officer in Dallas, Texas, killed my son, my only son, Clinton Allen. A 25-year-old Black father of twin infant boys, Clinton was unarmed that night in March 2013, when a Dallas officer shot him seven times – five times in the chest, once in his raised left arm, and once in the back at close range.

Clinton’s killing contained almost every dimension of the current crisis in policing in the United States. My son was Black, and a Black per son is 2.5 times more likely to be shot to death by police.

My son was unarmed, yet he was perceived by a ful ly armed White officer as a lethal threat. This officer es caped all criminal and civil accountability for killing my son – no charges, no indict ment, no trial, damages.

Clinton was one of the thousand people shot to death every year by United States police. Our family’s grief and struggle are part of an ongoing national crisis. Police in the United States fatally shot more than 7,000 people in the years 20152021. Of the roughly thou sand cases annually of peo ple shot to death by police officers in America, on aver age less than 1% result in an indictment; even fewer cases produce a conviction at trial.

If we are to elevate hu man rights in policing, we will have to address three challenges: the use of dead ly force; the judicial doctrine of qualified immunity; and the treatment of families and communities suffering from racial profiling, police bru tality, and extrajudicial kill ings.

Two Supreme Court de cisions, in 1985 and 1989, govern deadly force policy in

tify the use of deadly force on an officer’s perception of a threat. Officers who rou tinely “shout and shoot” at a suspect will always claim they “feared for their life.” Many lives could be saved if the use of deadly force were based not on an officer’s per ceptions, but on the actual observable conditions at the scene. For example, police officers could be prohibit ed by law from using deadly

police. We must make them whole. We must confront the vast unmet human needs in communities suffering from lack of opportunity, poverty, and racism – communities that remain “high crime” areas despite decades of ag gressive policing. This well documented paradox argues not only for fundamental changes in policing, but also for increased public invest ment to change the social conditions associated with criminal activity.

On October 3, 2022, in Geneva, Collette Flanagan, Founder of Mothers Against Police Brutality, testified before the United Nations Human Rights Council on “racial justice and equality in law enforcement.” Collette is shown here with Jurema Wurneck, a human rights activist with Amnesty International in Brazil, and Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, President of the Expert Mechanism on these issues. Link to hearing: https://media.un.org/ en/asset/k1y/k1yucr31r0.

the United States. The court has ruled that deadly force can only be used when “the officer has probable cause to believe that the subject poses a significant threat of death . . . to the officer or others” and that a specific use of force must be evaluated by what a “reasonable officer” would do. In these two rulings, the court has granted officers almost universal impunity – even when they shoot an unarmed person, like my son Clinton, in the back.

We cannot continue to jus

force when they encounter a person who is unarmed, having a mental health crisis, running or driving away, sit ting in a parked vehicle.

If “I feared for my life” is a shield against criminal prosecution, then qualified immunity is an officer’s ar mor in civil court. Qualified immunity is an affirmative defense used by officers in wrongful death cases to keep from paying damages.

We must take care of fam ilies that experience injury and death at the hands of

To end extrajudicial kill ings, we must go deeper within our struggling com munities to organize a more sustained resistance. Moth ers Against Police Brutality is building a national network of leaders among direct ly-impacted families who have the staying power to actually deliver the neces sary changes. Through our Fellowship Legacy Program, now operating in ten cities, directly impacted mothers are gaining skills and experi ences that will help them to become leaders in a broad er national movement to change policing.

The police forces of this world are almost a world power in themselves. But those of us who work to bring justice and human rights into law enforcement are a power as well. And I have no doubt that the collective power of conscience against injustice will have, as America’s great est theologian once said, “the final word in reality.”

We Must Cut The Line

QUIT PLAYIN’

BY VINCENT L. HALL

Man, what a flashback. As I was about to walk into a local 7-11 store, a 10 or 11-year-old Hispanic brother spotted me. He got to the door six paces before me, glanced back, and did something that shocked me. He opened the door for me, said “hello,” and smiled!

Man, you can’t imagine how flabbergasted I was. The art of being a gentleman is all but lost in our society. We have allowed blowhards, bullies, and blustery person alities to take center stage. Manhood in America has be come aligned with arrogance, self-righteousness, and myo pia.

This young man needed to know that I appreciated him. His parents are developing an old-school gentleman.

My paternal grandfather, always irascible and moody, insisted that diplomacy was the best policy. Ed Hall said, “It’s nice to be nice, but when you can’t, kick ‘em in the ass.” Which meant…be a gentle man for as long as it’s feasible, but don’t be no fool.

Both of my grandmothers were stickler for charm and chivalry and developed some rigor in me that isn’t wide spread in America anymore. For example, if a woman comes to sit next to a man, he is to stand until she is seat ed and then he can sit. If she gets ready to leave that seat, he should stand until she is gone.

Try it brothers!

If we were standing, facing a woman who was sitting, we had to ensure that she was not staring into our crotch. That sounds extreme, but you would be surprised to know how often that law is violated and found offensive.

There is no way to gauge how many elevators I’ve missed because there were women present who must be allowed aboard before me. It is difficult for me to walk past

Believe it or not, good hab its are easily encouraged. You can do it in your car!

Say you need to change lanes. After eight other “A-Holes” ignored your turn signal, there was one kind soul who beckoned you to cut the line. For them you roll down the window and wave to show your appreciation. They will feel good about it!

Truck drivers and those who know the code do it reg ularly. If you can’t squeeze

your thanks again.

After all, you felt like a but thole when you didn’t let a fellow driver cut the line. You felt uneasy after you lie to beggars who ask you for money. You were being mean when the truth is you would gladly donate a dollar than trade places with them.

Being a gentleman is not all about gender or chiv alry. Being a gentleman is about showering others with a smidgen of the grace that

anyone without gaining eye contact and offering my sal utations. Mama said you have to speak to them if you didn’t sleep with them.

I thank my mother and my family daily for making and molding me into the gentle man I am known to be. They took the time to teach us chiv alry and common courtesy. Courtesy is an essential tool to create and sustain respect ful relationships.

Unfortunately, too many of our young men lack grand mothers or women in their life who require and reward good behavior. So, we should create the type of village that plugs that gap.

your 1978 Cadillac Coupe De ‘Ville in a lane, imagine doing it with an 18-wheeler wagging a 53-foot trailer.

Whenever you see a truck er trying to negotiate a lane change, blink your lights to let the driver know they can cut the line. They will reward you by flashing their trailer lights several times. They just may be carrying that baby formula you need!

The net result is that we all feel good when we know we did a good deed. There is no greater feeling than being acknowledged for showing compassion. My mother says if you say thanks well enough, people want to experience

God showers on you daily. Grandmother Hall said that you might be better off, but you are no better than anyone else.

So, the next time someone needs to cut the line, think about how great the reward is for such little investment. It may cost you 10 seconds, but being kind regularly adds years to your life.

Oh, you don’t want to live long?

Come on, and I’ll let you cut the line. I ain’t in no hurry.

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

Tiffany Jackson Passes Away from Cancer

Duncanville High School and led the team to its 1997 championship.

After Duncanville, Jack son went on to a legendary career at the University of Texas from 2003-2007 un der Hall of Fame Coach Jody Conradt. Jackson played in 123 games with 103 starts. In her freshman year with the Longhorns the team went 30-5 and ad vanced to the NCAA Sweet 16 and finished with a No. 4 final ranking in the Asso ciated Press Poll. Jackson was named the National Freshman of the Year by the U.S. Basketball Writ ers Association and ESPN. com.

In a prepared statement on the university’s website, Conradt said: “Tiffany had a great career and was an

impact player. She was rec ognized for her all-around game and the fact that she was tremendously mobile and could play multiple positions. She was beloved by teammates, and we share in the sadness of her passing.”

Current Texas Head Coach Vic Schaefer said: “We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing Tiffany Jackson, one of the greatest play ers in the history of Texas Women’s Basketball.

“From her days as a play er for DFW Elite to her days as a player at The Univer sity of Texas, Tiffany has meant so much to so many people in this great state of Texas,” Schaefer said. “I know she was so excited to be the head coach at Wiley

College for the upcoming season. She will be sorely missed by so many. Our deepest sympathies go out to her family.”

Jackson is the only per son in program history to have accomplished 1,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, 300 steals and 150 blocks. She currently ranks fifth in school history with 1,917 career points, fourth with 1,039 career rebounds, third with 313 steals and seventh with 181 blocked shots. She is one of only five players in program his tory to record more than 1,000 career points and more than 1,000 career re bounds.

She also made her mark in the WNBA. She was se lected by the New York Liberty with the fifth over

all pick in the 2007 WNBA draft. Jackson would play for nine seasons in the WNBA with the Liberty, Tulsa Shock and Los Ange les Sparks.

Jackson earned a degree in Applied Learning and Development from The University of Texas in 2013.

According to the uni versity, Jackson was diag nosed with stage 3 breast cancer in September 2015 and went into remission in May 2016 after treatment. She joined the Longhorns as an assistant coach in May 2018 after retiring from professional basket ball.

She was named head coach of Wiley College in April 2022. Services for the beloved player and coach are to be determined.

Moving Into the Future

Former DA Faith Johnson Addresses Issues.

I am Faith Johnson and I’m proud to be running for Dallas County District Attorney. Last week I had the privilege of in troducing myself to you and speaking from my heart of my love for the black community and all of Dallas County. My passion for our very special county, comprised of 31 cit ies, and her people runs deep. Often I feel like a Mama Bear wanting to protect her and even as the days and nights grow long on the campaign trail, I find myself more pas sionate and energized than ever to serve this county and her amazing people.

You see, very few people are willing to step out into a role like this because of what is required to do it excellently. But this isn’t a job to me, it’s a calling. A calling is something deeper, more abiding than a

Faith Johnson

job. It reaches into the bedrock of your soul and drives you in a different way than a job does. Jobs are essential and vital for our lives and economies, but I am privileged to step into this calling on my life and I hope you’ll join me. I can’t do this alone. I can do what I’m called to do, but I need you to do what you’re called to do. Because I can’t do what you do

and vice versa.

A strange thing has hap pened in our nation and even in Dallas, County. Criminals and lawlessness have begun to be prioritized over law-abid ing, hard-working citizens and this has happened before our very eyes. For example, when it is official policy to not pros ecute theft under $750, you are communicating that the law of the land allows for thievery up to a certain extent. No parent would tell their child, “It’s okay to steal son, as long as it’s un der a certain amount.” To hear it put in those terms seems ob viously asinine. Yet that is the current policy of Dallas Coun ty and is coming directly from the current DA’s office.

As I’m out on the campaign trail, I’m talking to all kinds of amazing people who do not feel safe. No one cares what the

stats are if they don’t feel safe. Statistics can be shifted and altered to tell whatever narra tive someone wants to tell. But if your car is carjacked or your son or daughter is murdered, no one would ever say, “Well statistics show that crime is down.” Another asinine state ment that is totally disconnect ed from the experience of the citizen.

As your next DA, my prior ity is to throw out all policies that knowingly or unknow ingly incentivize crime of all kinds in our county. My heart and passion is to restore law and order and civil, hospitable environments for our law en forcement officials, our county employees, and our citizens. Our law enforcement teams are working their tails off. But if the leaders of justice aren’t doing their part in enforcing the existing laws and uphold ing justice and righteousness in the land, then we all suffer.

Please come see me at any of my campaign offices listed be low and learn more about me at https://faithjohnsonforda. com. Please take the time to get to know me because we must make it a priority to get to know our county officials and elect strong, competent leaders.

Again, I am Faith Johnson and I’m asking for your vote on November 8th. Join me as we move into the future with a safer and better Dallas!

DeSoto Campaign Office

1223 E. Beltline Rd Ste 114 Desoto, TX 75115

Political Ad. paid by the Faith Johnson Campaign for Dallas County District Attor ney

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson feted at D.C. events before retirement

WASHINGTON — At sever al events during the Congres sional Black Caucus Founda tion Leadership Conference in the nation’s capital last week, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was feted for her three decades of service.

It was a festive but some what emotional afternoon as longtime friends, family, supporters, colleagues and employees, past and present, shared stories as Johnson (D-Dallas) held her last Texas Barbecue on Saturday.

Since she took office af ter being elected in 1992, the

first nurse to serve in the U.S. Congress has held the event to showcase notable people and programs and welcome her Texas constituents.

Closing out her 15th term, Johnson’s service includes serving as chair of the CBC, but also championing causes such as lupus awareness, aid to veterans, improving trans portation, ending homeless ness and STEM education.

At this year’s barbecue, all eyes were on her as numer ous photos were taken and attendees received a parting gift that included a bottle of

Texas hot sauce.

Johnson reminisced about key moments in history since she was first elected and shared stories about her col leagues in Congress and the many challenges they faced as the Democratic Party has only been in the majority 10 years during her entire 30 years rep resenting Congressional Dis trict 30.

As the first African American and woman to chair the House Science, Space, and Technol ogy Committee after being elected to the position in Jan uary 2019 and the most senior

Texan on the House Trans portation and Infrastructure Committee, she is the Dean of the Texas Congressional dele gation and also serves as Dean of the Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona Democratic Congres sional delegation.

Saluting several mem bers of Congress who previ ously served as chair of the CBC, Johnson laughed as she claimed her term to be the best.

Current and former mem bers of Congress in atten dance joined in the laughter as Congressman Jim Clyburn

As the clock winds down on her historic tenure, the lawmaker hosts her annual barbecue in Washington.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, surrounded by members of her Congressional Family: Bobby Rush (D-IL), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), Joyce Beatty (D-), Cedric Richmond (D-LA), Steven Horsford (D-NV), James Clyburn (D-SC), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) and former Congresswoman and current Secretary of HUD Marcia Fudge.

of South Carolina took to the microphone to praise his friend and colleague.

Elected at the same time as Johnson, he recalled how she came in working and never stopped. It was a strong class, he said and “Eddie Bernice became a mother to all of us.”

He explained, “I have nev er done anything in Congress without checking with Eddie Bernice. What she has meant to this country has not been properly measured.”

The senior legislator, who is credited with “breathing life” into a campaign that led to the election of President Joe Biden, talked extensively about Johnson’s impressive portfolio as he said he pre pares for a time when she will no longer be part of the Congressional Black Caucus, which is comprised of mostly Democratic members of the U.S. Congress.

“It’s going to be a sad day to take the oath and not see you,” he told Johnson. “Eddie has been just great for us.”

And for Johnson, who’s been very vocal about her love for her CBC family, she shared her feelings once again as she pointed out that the members who were very important to

her and she referenced a col umn she wrote a year ago ex pressing the same sentiments:

“We can communicate without saying a word to each other. We can read attitudes without speaking. We can communicate effectively with eye contact.

We are Black in America even when we are of mixedrace parentage or marriage, we find comfort among each other.

Oftentimes, we share expe riences that we do not share

with our closest family mem bers. It’s that common experi ence of sharing the heartbeat of the Nation that no other ex perience offers.

We work together; Eat together; Travel together; Laugh together; Cry togeth er; Fight together; Worship together; Pray together; Workshare together; Plan together; Hurt together; Sit together; Stick together; and support and defend each other — even when we do not wholly agree. We are family!”

On Saturday she was even more candid as she add ed more expressions to that list, receiving loud applause, because for her and others, times were not always fun or good, but they got work done on so many fronts.

Topping off the CBC week end, Johnson was slated to receive recognition for her service in the United States Congress at the CBCF’s Phoe nix Awards. Also honored was Fort Worth’s Opal Lee, the “grandmother of Juneteenth.”

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (left) with Congressman Bobby Rush (D-Ill.), and former Congresswoman and current Secretary of HUD Marcia Fudge at the barbecue on Saturday in Washington. Photo: cus / Cheryl Smith/Texas Metro News

Let It Be Known: FEMA and the Ad Council

OUR VOICES DR. JOHN E. WARREN

Recently the Deputy Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), spoke to stu dents at Howard University as a part of a new “Ready Campaign” aimed at Afri can American communities to encour age advanced preparedness for storms and all natural disasters the Deputy Ad ministrator told the students that FEMA was there to reaffirm its commitment to equity and to say loud and clear that ev ery community deserves to be protect ed from hazards.

After all, September was Disaster Pre paredness month.

Mr. Erik Hooks, the Deputy Admin istrator speaking to the students said, “Blacks are the communities that are on the frontlines of climate change and re lated extreme weather events.”

Hooks also referenced an Environ mental Protection Agency (EPA) re port that said socially vulnerable pop ulations, including Black and African American communities may be more exposed to the highest impacts of cli mate change.

With the full knowledge of how seri ous this matter is to the Black and Af rican American communities in par ticular, one must ask why would FEMA and the Ad Council be addressing this issue with an ad campaign based on Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and college speeches with no dollars to ensure the targeted populations are reached?

How can there be “equity” with no dollars when, in America, issues of

public policy – without dollars – are meaningless? FEMA as an agency of the federal government has a budget for everything it does. If the Black Press, including Black Media, is the “Trust ed Messenger” of our communities for more than 195 years, where are the dol lars to support the campaign?

Let’s look at what FEMA is calling a ‘Readiness Campaign’ based on PSAs running nationwide in Spanish and En glish. The Ads for this campaign have been developed and provided by the Ad Council.

receives more than 1.8 billion dollars from Media among its 385 donors.

The White Press writes off its do nations to the Ad Council, which, in the past and perhaps still does today, provide print ads to small community newspapers which historically ran them for free when they had no paid ads to run.

One of the large contract donors and participants with the Ad Council on various campaigns is the federal gov ernment. The same federal government that, according to a General Account ing Office report, in recent years spent less dollars with the Black Press than its contracts with the Ad Council.

Now FEMA, on behalf of the federal government, is calling for “equity” with out spending “equitable” dollars with the Black Press.

We should “Let It Be Known” that mentioning the word “equity” does not in and of itself produce equitable par ticipation in the programs and policies around us. We applaud the disaster re lief efforts of FEMA, the agency’s efforts and its continued impact in making the difference between life and death for so many everyday.

The ads are both print and electronic. White Media can afford to run them for free and give the appearance of com munity service. But let’s take a look at the Ad Council itself.

It was established as a nonprofit in1942; changed its name during World War II and raised monies for the War ef fort. It reverted to the name Ad Council as a nonprofit after the War, and today

With 1.8 billion dollars in Media con tributions, the Ad Council could have provided dollars by itself for a paid me dia campaign for the local and commu nity newspapers like the Black Press. Let us not forget the multi-billion dollar ad vertising agencies who also contribute to the Ad Council with write offs while too often controlling the trickle down dollars reaching smaller media like the Black Press.

Let It Be Known that the Black Press will be looking more closely at those who come to us in the name of equity with empty hands.

Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

Let It Be Known that the Black Press will be looking more closely at those who come to us in the name of equity with empty hands.

Living in the Sixth Region of Africa

THE LAST WORD

BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

I had the privilege of at tending and addressing the All African Diaspora Sum mit at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana. Convened by Dr. Edward Bush, Pres ident of Cosumnes River College, a community col lege near Sacramento, Cali fornia, the conference drew more than 400 attendees, many from the California Community College system but others from other col leges and universities in the United States and on the Af rican continent.

The keynote speak ers included Dr. Anthony Browder, Dr. Chike Akua, and me. We all pushed the envelope in defining edu cation and how it must be redefined to respond to the needs of a global African people.

As Audre Lorde said, “The master’s tools will not dis mantle the master’s house.”

In other words, tradition al, rote, European educa tion will not empower Black people to embrace our des tiny. Conventional wisdom certainly has its place, but another way of considering

contemporary education is to reflect on Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s declaration that it took him 30 years to get Harvard out of him.

Visiting the African con tinent is a first step toward considering how conven tional education has a brain washing effect. Connecting ourselves to the African con tinent is equally essential. That’s why I was honored to spend a bit of time with Dr. Ereika Bennett, the found er and CEO of the Diaspora Africa Forum (DAF). The Africa Union recognizes this organization as the sixth re gion of Africa.

The five established re gions of Africa are North, South, East, West, and Cen tral Africa. The sixth region is the Diaspora, the collection of 250 million African de scendent people who live all over the globe.

Thanks to ambassador Bennett (officially recog nized as Diasporan Ambas sador to the Africa Union), the DAF now has a flag and will soon have a national anthem. Bennett has been a tireless advocate for the viability of the African con tinent and also an advocate for diasporan interests on the continent, including the possibility of dual citizen ship (which exists in Gha na), the right of abode, and

the ability to do business and to invest.

Many African Americans recognize our ancestral roots, but we must do more than that. Dr. Toni Luck, an activist and entrepreneur serving on the DAF board, says that we can support DAF, its efforts to build bridges between the US and the African continent, and educational efforts to sup port African youth.

She suggests that we all need to expand our knowl edge of the African conti nent, both in the past and today, and become advo cates for Africa in the United States.

I agree with her. Even the least conscious person pos sibly owns a piece of kente cloth, a few cowrie shells, or African-inspired clothing. However, when we get past that symbolic sentimentali ty, we might all ask ourselves what we have done for Africa lately. Wearing African garb on our bodies does not nec essarily demonstrate that we are Pan African people in our minds.

I had the privilege of vis iting the WEB DuBois Cen ter in Accra, where Dr. Du Bois is buried, and the DAF house is located. My visit to the DuBois Center, which I visit whenever I am in Gha na, is an opportunity for me

to reflect on our roots and our need for reeducation.

For example, I referred to the buildings at Elmina as “castles,” Dr. Browder reminded me that these should be described more as “dungeons” than castles. Indeed, when I considered the square footage of these odious edifices, most of the space was used to shackle, torture, murder, and export our people to the service of global predatory capitalism. Not castles, but dungeons and hell holes.

As aware as I think I am, I needed my brother’s per spective to remind me that we must always examine the lens through which we view the world and question whose lens we have adopt ed.

Hundreds of US educators had the opportunity through the Africa Diaspora Educa tion Summit to unpack west ern education and to con sider its dismantling. Carter G. Woodson said it took him 30 years to get Harvard out of him. How long will it take for you to get colonialism out of you? Connecting with the Diaspora Africa Forum (DAF) might help. www.di asporaafricanforum.org.

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

Superb Women

Our Superb Women!

degree in sociology, she has engaged in consulting, press release services, contacting media, photography, referral services, creating and developing marketing and advertising plans, and image consulting for other businesses. She’s a poet, an activist, and a brilliant strategist who has a sense of humor and love for her people. An active participant in the Black Press Initiative and Black News Link, Rina is bold, committed and resilient and she is celebrating the 21 years as a publisher. Check out her publication at www.tncp.net.

ISABELL COTTRELL

Cheryl Smith

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

2021 was the "Year of the Woman," especially the Black Woman! For 10 months we dedicated this space to uplifting Black women and spread ing a message that we need to show love and empower people with love instead of destroying them with hate and disrespect. We celebrate Black Women and call them SUPERB! AND WE ARE KEEPING THE CELEBRATION GOING IN 2022!

RINA RISPER

Rina Risper is focused on educating, motivating, and immersing herself in connecting with people and businesses.

Isabell Cottrell is an entrepreneur, philanthropist and community servant.

Dallas College. An award-winning journalist, Debra was a reporter for the Dallas Morning News and Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She received a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. A talented and focused writer, she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the National Association of Black Journalists. Debra Dennis is passionate about civil rights and social action, education, human rights, health, poverty alleviation, social service, veteran support, children, arts and culture.

MEKO KROUT

Isabell Cottrell was born and raised in Bessemer, AL. At George Washington Carver High School she was Homecoming Queen. She furthered her education at Booker T. Washington and Lawson State Jr. College. She also attended the University of Chicago and The London Business School and the Salk Institute for NonProfit ad Anthony Robbins Life Mastery Program. She is a former co-owner of the Texas rangers and a Founder Club Member of the Dallas Cowboys Stadium. A marketing guru, she focused on domestic and international marketing initiative. She also played a key role in Proline Corporation’s focus on establishing its presence in Africa.

DEBRA DENNIS

The publisher of The New Citizens Press, Rina Risper definitely gives a voice to so many and armed with a

Debra Dennis is respected for her work ethic, gentle spirit, resolve and dedication.

Debra Dennis is the senior news manager for

Meko Krout is a self-described executive producer, bestselling author, mother|Public Speaker|A.I.N. Founder and FinTech Geek.

The Chief Administrative Officer at BSB Collaborative,

LLC, Meko Krout works at GirleeGirlz Getaway, of which she is a co-founder. Meko is also founder of Accessories in the Nude Fashion Showcase. In high demand, she studied at Dallas College after graduating from Justin F. Kimball High School and also attended Health Professions Magnet. Meko has made it her mission to help guide women through personal changes. She’s a bestselling author who is a popular speaker and motivator. Meko is a positive and productive force in the lives of so many.

JOY CAMPBELL

Joy Campbell is just the person you need in your life if you are focused on bettering yourself.

a team player and a born leader. A trusted advisor to the Black News Link, she’s a joy to work with and her excellent communication skills are a definite bonus.

BELINDA MAY

An entrepreneur, a caregiver to the community and a philanthropist, that’s Belinda May.

has been employed as an educator for the Dallas Public Schools for almost 30 years. She serves as a Sunday School teacher for the junior girls, and a musician/ choir director for the NBMBC. In Stephanie’s spare time, she loves spending time with family, exercising, decorating, watching Family Feud, and playing spades. Stephanie is a source of inspiration and support so many and she is positively influencing so many young women.

SYBIL WILKES

Sybil Wilkes is the voice of African American consciousness.

A native of Dallas, TX Joy Campbell is an educator, the owner of a nonprofit, she focuses on helping others through community service and ministry. Joy received a degree in business marketing from Prairie View A&M University. She also has a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Community Development. Also a graduate from The Potter’s House School of Ministry, she owns Guiding Minds Ministry, LLC., focusing on the rehabilitation of second chance offenders through education. She also has Your Discovery Place, Inc., a ministry that brings people and services together in a positive way. Check her out at www.guidingmindsllc. com.

CHERYL THOMPSON-MORTON

She is kind, she is patient, she is smart and she is loving; that’s Cheryl Thompson-Morton. Cheryl Thompson-Morton is a leader in promoting diversity and equity in the news industry. A Summa Cum Laude graduate of Drexel University, she is the Black Media Initiative Director for the Center for Community Media at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY. A newlywed, Cheryl leads Lenfest’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy, focusing on individual support to journalists of color, investment in news organizations owned by people of color, and newsroom collaboration programs. Meticulous, focused, engaging and brilliant, Cheryl is

The founder of Home Care Network, Belinda May is passionate about providing improved in-home health care in several locations and she serves more than 33 North Texas Counties. A registered nurse, Belinda is committed to knowing more about the clinical component of her business so that she can help others understand the need for her company’s services. Belinda feels she can serve her patients by knowing what their needs are. The City of DeSoto named February 9th as Belinda Day. Check her out at www. homecarenetwork.com

STEPHANIE D. PRYOR

An educator by heart, First Lady Stephanie D. Pryor inspires in the classrooms of the world.

First Lady Stephanie D. Pryor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church (NBMBC) is faithful and active in all services and functions` of the church. She is a wife of more than 30 years and a mother of four. Stephanie

When you want to know the truth, when you want it broken down, when you want to know what’s really going on, then you want to be informed and entertained…tune in to “Sybil Wilkes, for What You Need To Know. Sybil Wilkes has been an important listener resource for decades. She was known as “The Voice of Reason” on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, where she delivered news, information and entertainment with honesty, accessibility and integrity, earning the trust of her nationwide audience. Hailing from Chicago, Sybil is a graduate of Northwestern University, with a B.S. in Political Science and Communication Studies.

KIM EFFIOM

Kim Effiom, Dallas native, is a wife and mother of four children, Kendrick, Tynee, Laura, and Lauren and four grandchildren, Jordon, Kadence, Cailee, and Yoshima.

communities and multicultural borrowers across the economic spectrum. She is chairwoman of Women Build Dallas. A native of Temple Hills, MD, AJ has a B.S. degree in Marketing from Morgan State University. A wife and mother, she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

CAROLYN MCMILLIAN

Carolyn McMIllian is charming, funny, easy going and full of love.

is the recipient of awards from the Associated Press and the Radio Television and Digital News Association. In 2017, she was part of a team at WRAL-TV that received the National Association of Broadcasters Service to Community Award for the documentary “Black and Blue,” which explored the relationship between local law enforcement and Black communities. As a self-proclaimed “adventurer,” Candace is always looking for enriching experiences, delicious food and interesting people in her community. She has an appreciation for the outdoors and the arts.

SHEWAN FOSTER

Beautiful, talented, smart, fun-loving and full of energy, she’s vested in her community and committed to service.

Kim is a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School of the Performing Arts in Dallas. She has a B.S. degree in Education from Texas A&M University-Commerce and a M.Ed degree in Education Administration from Concordia University. Her new CD, My Father’s Heart, is an outpouring of her deep love of God. She served as choir director at the great New Birth Baptist Church in Dallas for 10 years and she has served as choir director at United Christian Fellowship of Arlington for the past 11 years, Kim also enjoys writing plays, and has written and directed four original plays and adapted two.

AJ BARKLEY

AJ Barkley is a true servant leader and bettering her community is what she is good at!

Carolyn McMillian has worked as a billing/medical director for Loncar Lyon Jenkins for more than 20 years and previously she was an executive secretary at Kaiser Permanente. A graduate of Marshall High School, Carolyn has a reputation for being highly efficient, organized and dependable. Carolyn is a example of a leader who is committed because she is a team player who knows how to step up and galvanize, motivate and take charge.

CANDACE SWEAT

It was a joy to have Candace Sweat returning home to North Texas to join the NBC 5 team in April 2019.

Shewan Foster is making big moves with Queen Bee Lifestyle Management and DivaSport & Entertainment. She also enjoyed stints at Advantage Marketing Group, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas. Shewan received a BS Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Florida A&M University and an MS Degree in Sports Administration from Georgia State University. Hailing from Atlanta , GA she graduated from Henderson High School. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and she loves getting together with her sisters. This Queen of style is a joy to be around and she can be the life of any gathering.

JULIA DUDLEY NAJIEB

Julia Dudley Najieb is an author, journalist, playwright and television producer and director.

AJ Barkley is head of Neighborhood and Community Lending at Bank of America. She is responsible for identifying opportunities to drive successful homeownership and small business ownership among low and moderate income borrowers, underserved

Candace Sweat earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and a graduate degree from Florida State University. Candace

Julia Dudley Najieb is the CEO of Info Media Distribution, creating original video content and online news copy to be distributed through several offline and online news media, video, and audio podcast platforms. She’s also executive producer and publisher of The ONME Network. A talk show host, Julia has managed and produced original, regional, TV news programming for Bounce TV, local NBC & CBS affiliate TV channels, and nationwide business channel, BizTV.

Julia attended Hampton and CSU. A wife and a mother, she received a BA degree in journalism, with minors in French and marketing. Julia is an integral component of the Black News Link. She is also the brains, beauty and BOSSyness of Black Headline News. Check Julia out at www.amptvnow.net.

OCIE KAZEE

The face of grace and style, always wearing a smile, and dressed impeccably, Ocie Kazee is about taking care of business.

charismatic business management executive director, nonprofit co-founder, minister, and community advocate with diversified experience in many areas. Currently the executive director of community engagement and outreach at Mona’s Heart Outreach, Inc. she has worked as the principal owner of DBA Paradigm Market Solutions, as Executive Director of SAN Enterprise LLC, Director of Communications at Destiny Pointe Christian Center and owner of Sassie Face Cosmetics.

ROBIN J. WILLIAMS

Robin J. Williams is bright, energetic and a consummate professional.

outreach coordination – conducting public meetings, hearings, and workshops.

ANGELIA WILLIAMS

A leader, a team player, a servant — Angelia Williams.

Her extensive portfolio includes stints as Vice President of Futures Operations Clearing for Citi, Senior Manager Mortgage Operations for Sourcepoint, Executive Director of Florida A&M University Rattler Boosters, Inc., Corporate Operations Trainer for IBERIABANK Mortgage and Marketing Director for Soul Purpose and Senior Mortgage Underwriter for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Angelia is a graduate of Florida A&M University with a B.S. Degree in Business Administration and Management where she was initiated into the Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, She received her MBA Degree in Human Resources from the University of Dallas. The National Recording Secretary of the FAMU National Alumni Association, she is also a member of The Links, Inc.

DR. CHERYL CARR

Everyone can use Dr. Cheryl Carr, “Your Work Doctor,” in their lives!

Ocie Kazee hails from Dallas, TX and is a member of the L. G. Pinkston High School Class of 1973. A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, she received her MBA in Business, management and Marketing from Abilene Christian University Ocie has served as District Director for State Rep. Eric Johnson. She was also an analyst for JPMorgan Chase, Washington Mutual and Xerox Capital Services. Ocie is always helping someone and providing service with a smile.

L. SHONNY DEBOUSE-YOUNG

L. Shonny DeBouse-Young is a Social Entrepreneur, Community Advocate and Outreach Director. L. Shonny DeBouse-Young describes herself as a

Robin J. Williams is the president of the J Williams Group (JWG), based in Plano, TX. A graduate of UCLA with a Bachelor’s Degree in political science, she received a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Michigan; and she has certifications from the American Institute of Certified Planners and LEED AP BD+C. Robin has served as president of the Sci-Tech Discovery Center Board. She also enjoyed stints as an environmental Lanner for Halff Associates and senior planner for Parsons Brinckerhoff. Robin is a certified meeting facilitator and is experienced in extensive public involvement and

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc, Dr.

Cheryl Carr received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and her MBA from Southwestern College after receiving a B.S. degree from the University of Maryland in Munich. In addition to certification In industrial and Organizational Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, she received a Doctorate of Business Administration, Leadership and Organizational Development/Positive Applied Psychology from Argosy University Chicago. Also a community servant, she has volunteered as a reading tutor for Reading Partners, a Court Special Advocate for Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support; and she is an adjunct professor and mental health expert.

JANICE BISHOP LEMELLE

Janice Bishop LeMelle is a professor, counselor and PR consultant.

Kabrina is a servant leader. She is an advisory board member of the MINT Foundation and a past board member of the Dodd Education and Support, Inc. Kabrina is a graduate of Wilmer-Hutchins High School.

LISA ROGERS

Lisa Rogers, PhD is an educator, author, trainer, speaker and private tutor.

of Applied Arts & Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, she received a Master of Business Administration in Executive Leadership, a Masters of Arts in Women’s Studies and a Doctor of Philosophy in Multicultural Women and Gender Studies from Texas Woman’s University. She also has a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from SMU.

L. MICHELLE GIPSON

L. Michelle Gipson is charming, loving and a consummate professional.

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a charter member of Pi MU Chapter at Baylor University where she received a B.A. Degree in Sociology and Communications and a Master’s Degree in Sociology and Gerontology, Janice Bishop LeMelle sure knows how to inspire and uplift others! A licensed Christian Counselor, she is also a professor at Dallas College (Mountain View). She has also taught at the University of North Texas at Dallas, Dallas Baptist University, Tarrant County Community Colleges and Texas Woman’s University. A wife and mother, she is the owner of Jebi Unlimited, representing artists, managing and booking talent, helping companies secure sponsorships and planning events.

KABRINA LUCKEY GREEN

Kabrina Luckey Green focuses on bettering herself, her colleagues and work environment. She stands for justice.

A consultant at Verizon Communications, she received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics, Materials and Supply Chain Management from the University of North Texas. She also received her MBA in Strategic Leadership from Amberton University. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,

A special education teacher for more than 21 years, Lisa Rogers, PhD., has also enjoyed stints at Kaplan University, Westwood College, Waco Independent School District, Cesar Chavez Academy, and Parkdale Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Baylor University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Grand Canyon University, and a PhD in Leadership for Higher Education from Capella University.

ANGELA JOHNSON

Angela Johnson, PhD is an author, entrepreneur and a scholar.

The Founder and CEO of Angela Arnell Johnson LLC, she has served as executive director of Deaf Action Center and Vice President of Development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University where she received Bachelors

A freelance writer, L. Michelle Gipson has worked as a proposal manager and bids & proposal specialist at EF Johnson Technologies, Inc.; as a proposal development coordinator and pharmacy care coordinator for US Bioservices; and in several positions for CVS Health. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in English with an emphasis on creative writing and a Master of Arts in Biblical Theology from North Central University.

LOLA WILSON

Lola Wilson is a leader, businesswoman and community servant.

Lola Wilson is a senior consultant with Espy Sports Group, providing high-level branding and marketing. She has served as a deputy director for Biden for

President; regional director for Beto for Texas; acquisitions assistant for Panini (NBA Summer League); executive assistant for West Brand (Kanye West); marketing coordinator for Compound Entertainment; and executive/personal assistant to Roy Williams. Lola received a Bachelor of Applied Science in Theatre from Clark Atlanta University and she was 1st Attendant to Miss UNCF, 1st Runner Up to Miss UNCF and Miss Black & Gold. Her volunteer efforts have extended to Minnie’s Food Pantry, North Dallas Food Pantry and Greater Cornerstone Baptist Church.

SHEILA SOLOMON

Sheila Solomon is a podcaster on Chicago Media Talks and strategic alliance manager at Rivet360.

National Association of Hispanic Journalists and Native American Journalists Association. Highly regarded and decorated, Sheila is a team player and a fearless leader.

KELIA BAZILE

Kelia Bazile is often praised for her servant leadership style.

Dr. Sybril Brown, affectionately known as “Dr. Syb,” is a Vanderbilt-educated, Harvard-trained, twotime Emmy award-winning multimedia journalist, author, international speaker and presenter. Dr. Syb is a Professor at Belmont University, where she is close to celebrating her 20th anniversary. A board member of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and TEDx Nashville, Dr. Syb earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Vanderbilt University, her M.Ed. in College Student Personnel from Loyola University of Chicago and her B.A. in Broadcast and Electronic Communication from Marquette University. She has also been a faculty consultant for the Association of American Colleges and Universities, a general assignment reporter at WTCF, assistant professor at Middle Tennessee State University, senior public affairs officer at Vanderbilt and desk assistant at WBBM. A well sought after speaker, her passions include volunteering.

DR. “LISA PEARL” THOMPSON

She has an infectious smile waiting for you to match her loving heart!

Recently promoted to Vice President of Operations at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Kelia Bazile has an impressive portfolio that includes 27 years in leadership at Taco Bell. Kelia wears a smile that is infectious and is described as “high energy.” She is described as a versatile leader with a proven track record of building sales and maximizing profit by developing and leveraging the talent of a diverse leadership team. She received her Masters of Business Administration from Dallas Baptist University. Hailing from Vacherie, LA, she graduated from St. James High School. A wife, mother and grandmother, this matriarch is a consummate motivator, mentor, and supporter. Family is very important to Kelia and she leads by example.

DR. SYBRIL BROWN

They call her Dr Syb.

Sheila attended Hampton University, graduating with a degree in Mass Media Arts. A former adjunct journalism instructor at Columbia College - Chicago, Sheila hails from Virginia where she graduated from Newport News High School. She is the president of the Board of Directors of Journalism Funding Partners and has enjoyed stints at Bay City News, The Obsidian Collection Archives, City Bureau, Chicago Tribune, Daily Press, and Charlotte Observer. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Sheila is a life member of the National Association of Black Journalists,

From Northside Elementary in DeSoto, Lisa Pearl attended Skyline High School and then it was off to college where she received her journalism degree from Southern Methodist University, Next it was an MBA from Prairie View A&M University. She also studied educational administration and leadership at the University of North Texas, and received her doctorate degree from Texas A&M University. She has taught at several universities, including North Carolina A&T State University, Argosy and Prairie View And &M. Her research interests are: School community relations, School board/superintendent relations, Crisis communication and Women’s leadership. An active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Lisa is a sisterfriend, always sharing an encouraging and positive word. A servant leader, Lisa is committed and involved and a team player. Beauty and brains, she’s the real deal and the smile is genuine!

Follow

Facebook:

The wonders of the fair

Bright lights, fried food, fun rides- what more can a kid like?

MAYA’S JOURNAL

BY MAYA PALAVALI EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

When I was younger, my family and I would go to the State Fair whenever we could. The cacophony of it all fascinated me.

The interesting people I would meet and stalls of games I could play were in endless supply. I would become a different person at the fair by directing my family around, yelling encouragement at random ride goers and acting like an experienced veteran.

Over the years, each one of our schedules became filled with various events and activities. As we went less and less, the gap between me and the fair grew wide.

When I first went after a while, my most favorite parts of the fair became overwhelming. The bright lights became too much and the food became too greasy. I became quiet, not like the kid I was in the fair.

My family noticed the shift and asked me about it. I had no answer at the time, but I came up with one as I went to sleep later that night. I realized that I began

to think of excitement as a bad type of emotion. I had avoided the fair to focus on other priorities that, in hindsight, did not matter all too much.

I thought of myself as someone who is higher than getting easily excited. I had never noticed until I went to what was once my favorite place.

The fair made me realize that I did not want to continue living my life thinking positive emotions are not worth it. I began to work on becoming a person that I would be happy with at the start of the next day.

I actively tried to do what I love instead

of listening to what I thought was socially acceptable. I have a special connection whenever I go to the fair now.

I get ready like I used to do, with sunglasses and a tote bag on my arm. I beg my whole family to go, even if it is not the most convenient.

I may not go on most of the rides or eat as much fried food, but that does not mean that my enthusiasm is less.

I am not the kid I used to be, but I enjoy it just the same. I encourage you to go to the State Fair and go on rides or eat the food; think about what you love and do it.

You will not regret it.

to keep up with the

The Trendsetter

OUT

the QR code to follow our Spotify and see what we are listening to!

IT IS THAT TIME OF YEAR THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS HAS ARRIVED

By Angelina Liu

The smell of fried oreos, snickers and funnel cakes wafts through the open field as the sounds of children screaming and carnival rides echo all around the carnival grounds. The famous Big Tex statue casts a friendly wave over crowds of people trying award-winning baked goods and barbecue at the annual Texas State Fair in Dallas Fair Park.

The State Fair was established in 1886 and promotes agriculture, local business, education and community. The fair is the longest running in the nation, spanning 24 days from Sept. 30 to Oct. 23.

According to the State Fair of Texas website, the fair offers a variety of exhibits focusing on agriculture and livestock. Fairgoers are encouraged to feed furry friends at petting zoos and learn about different livestock species during the daily

guided tours through the livestock barns.

The State Fair is also home to one of the world’s largest collections of Art Deco structures. By offering a wide variety of educational as well as entertaining exhibits through the grounds. The State Fair of Texas also supports the individual missions of its fellow Fair Park establishments which focus on educating visitors about Texas history and agriculture.

Top 10 things to do at the State Fair of Texas

By Kendall Gayle Washington

1.

Watch the opening day parade: each year the fair begins with the annual parade through downtown Dallas

2.

Say Howdy to Big Tex!: Go ahead and get a picture with the face of the State Fair of Texas; he’s been there since 1952.

3.

Grab a corndog: Before you go on a ride the first item that you need to grab is a Fletcher’s corn dog.

4.

Ride the Ferris Wheel:The Ferris wheel also known as the Texas Star is 216 feet tall and can carry up to 264 passengers. Not only does the ride give you a view of Fair Park you get to see the Dallas skyline!

5.

Catch a Live Show: The fair has many live shows, you can find family friendly entertainment in the children’s area. One of the most popular shows is the Lone Star Stampede, a live horse show!

6.

Explore Fair Park: The Texas State Fair is an astronomical sight to me. It is held at Fair Park, a Historic Landmark.

7.

Fried Everything: Grab some fried oreos, funnel cakes, fried chicken, and more!

8.

Ride a Swan Boat: After riding all the rides in Midway, eating a corn dog, and a sweet State Fair

lemonade take a ride on the Swan Boat.

9.

Cotton Bowl: Watch a game at the cotton bowl, one of the most popular games is the Prairie View A&M vs Grambling State University football game that has been going on since the 80s.

10.

Texas Auto Show: Wanna look at the newest latest cars check out the Texas Auto Show and find over 400 models!

Positive Affirmations

you’re going to afford

Check out and scholarships to take stress. Scholarship

To apply, you must either be or high school college graduate

Deadline is Jul.

Essay

Deadline is Nov. 20, 2022.

6. Unigo $10K Scholarship

State

a. Requirements: You must be a student and legal U.S. resident (including District of Columbia) and submit an online written response to the essay question. Ages 14 years and older may apply. Deadline is Dec. 31, 2022.

7. Top Ten List Scholarship

You must be a graduate student enroll within 12 or older, or at of your parent a free account 31, 2022.

Scholarship

You must be or Permanent be a current home-schooled) school in the U.S. graduating academic school have a 3.0 GPA, pursue a degree post-secondary be a child or former owners of Cocacompanies, The CocaCompany divisions, application opens

Apocalypse Scholarship

You must years and older be enrolled by institution of Deadline is Oct. 31, Scholarship

Complete the and FAFSA.

a. Requirements: You must be a student and legal U.S. resident (including District of Columbia) and create a Top Ten list of why you should get the scholarship. Ages 14 years and older may apply. Deadline is Dec. 31, 2022.

8. Ron Brown Scholarship

a. Requirements: The scholarship is for Black and African American high school seniors who come from economically challenged backgrounds and have a focus on serving the public. You must submit two letters of recommendation, your SAT or ACT scores, an official transcript and answers to essay questions. Deadline is Jan. 9, 2023.

9. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

a. Requirements: You must be a high school senior and part of a minority group. You must demonstrate a need for financial aid and have exhibited traits in leadership or civic engagement. You must also submit copies of standardized test scores, transcripts, four essays and letters of recommendation. Deadline is Jan. 12, 2023.

10. I Have a Dream Scholarship

a. Requirements: You must be a U.S. student, 14 years and older (enrolled or planned to be enrolled by 2027, in a postsecondary institution of higher education). You must also fill out the application form and complete the essay. Deadline is Jan. 31, 2023.

Nationally

Aid For Black Jack Pizza

By Marva Sneed

There was love every where when the Iota Phi Lambda sorority sisters of Dorothy Jones showed up and let Ms. Dorothy know that they were by her side all the way. They present ed her a check to help her rebuild Black Jack Pizza. Two weeks ago a stolen car crashed into the South Dal las pizza restaurant, leav ing several injured and the business was destroyed. Ms. Dorothy is looking for ward to reopening. If you would like to do nate to the Black Jack Piz za Emergency Fund go to: https://www.gofundme. com/f/black-jack-emer gency-and-recovery-fun.

Iota Phi Lambda Sorority showing their love to the Black Jack Pizza Family

Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Presents Ms Dorothy Jones with a Check

Iota Phi Lambda presents a check to help Ms. Dorothy Jones and the Black Jack Pizza Family Rebuild

Dorothy Jones and President Beverly of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority

Call issued to Support Black Businesses

Buy Black!

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

When Dr. Fred erick D. Haynes

III, of Friend ship-West Bap

inbound freight service in the Southern and Midwest Regions of the United States. The core business is specializing in refrigerate transportation, LTL, dry van, and dedicated power only. They are available for small package delivery service in the DFW metroplex. Newhouse Transportation was established in 2015. Their motto is “If You’re open, We’re open!”

For your delivery and transportation needs visit the website: https://www.newhousetrans.com/

Contact Info: Location, 9800 Hillwood Pkwy Suite 140, Fort Worth, TX 76177,

Main: (866) 922-1915 email roxanne@newhousetrans.com.

BIG TOE SEASONINGS

Dr. Frederick D.Haynes III

tist Church, an nounced 100 Days of Buying Black in acknowledging the 100th Commemoration of the Tulsa Race Massacre, we joined the move ment. December 31, 2021 marked 100 days of featuring Black Businesses. and we decided that the struggle continues and we must also. So enjoy reading about more Black-owned businesses and please support.

ANNIE ADMIN VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS

Annie Admin Virtual Assistants

Founder, Erica Davis left her career in business banking to launch Annie Admin, with a desire to provide quality administrative support to the small businesses in her area. From her experience as a smallbusiness lender, she witnessed many of her clients struggle to keep their businesses alive because of unreliable administrative staff. As a result, their sales were struggling — as was their family life and personal health. Since the start of Annie Admin Erica has built a strong team that’s passionate about serving business owners of all trades. The virtual assistants at Annie Admin can keep your calendar full of valuable appointments, and your life free of unnecessary stress. Does your business need admin help? Contact Annie Admin at 817-678-8076 and their location is 1953 Golden Heights Rd. Fort Worth, Texas 76177. Visit the website: https://annieadmin.com/

NEWHOUSE TRANSPORTATION SERVICE, LLC

Newhouse Transportation Services, LLC is a common carrier and contract carrier who provides outbound and

NORTH TEXAS ENTREPRENEUR EDUCATION AND TRAINING LLC

Darlisa Diltz, Managing Director/ Owner of the North Texas Entrepreneur Education and Training Center. Established as the first minority owned Entrepreneur Center in North Texas, NTEETC is an education and training facility designed with early stage entrepreneurs in mind. They provide entrepreneurs an opportunity to come and establish their business value right out of the gate. As a network of business professionals, they are seasoned in growing and developing aspiring entrepreneurs from many stages in the business cycle. The starting point for Entrepreneur lifestyle seekers to come, learn, and be exposed to the realities of business ownership, without making a lofty investment into something that will develop into nothing. Contact Info: 5555 Rufe Snow Dr. Suite 300, North Richland Hills TX, 76180

(817) 618-0229 email info@nteetc.com Website: www. nteetc.com

SCRATCHMENOT

Parenting can be a roller coaster. The ups of your baby’s laughter, smiles, and sweet little fingers and toes are followed by the downs of colic, teething, and, for many, scratching. If you are experiencing your baby getting no relief from itching and scratching their delicate skin and visits to the doctor didn’t provide the help you needed. Try ScratchMeNot is a “flip mitten” that would open and close, keeping your baby safe during scratching moments. ScratchMeNot using the highest quality fabrics found, like organic bamboo and cotton, that would be soft against delicate baby skin but also stand up to lots of wear and tear and washing. For more info visit the website: https://www. scratchmenot.com/ They are open Mon-Fri 10 am-5 pm CST.

Big Toe Seasonings and Rubs were birthed from a long lineage of Amazing family cooks and chefs. It is well known that Texas is Home to everything BIG that includes BIG TOE Seasonings & Rubs. Good tasting food was always and to this day a cornerstone in our family of CEO Sakina Jackson. There is a saying in her family kitchen that has been spoken for years to indicate how scrumptious the many delicious meals taste. “Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm that’s so good, you put your BIG TOE or FOOT in that.” Another family saying was “You put everything in there except the KITCHEN SINK.” If you are looking to enjoy the heart of family meal time, lasting memories and GREAT flavors make Big Toe Seasonings a part of your family. Family Reunions, Backyard Barbecues and Seafood Boils will be treasured forever. Visit the website and order your Big Toe Seasonings. https://bigtoeseasonings. com/

LEMONADE WITH LOVE

Young Entrepreneur, Tiani Mitchell

One of the youngest entrepreneurs joining this spotlight is Tiani Mitchell. She’s had her own Mobile Lemonade stand since she was 5 and now she is 14. Tiani said in an article by Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas, “Since I started selling cookies, I was inspired to make and sell my own products and become an owner of something,” She was at the Sister to Sister Fitness Festival recently. She has many more flavors. Follow Tiani on Instagram @ lemonade_with_love_tiani and Facebook @Tianimitchell

For orders and more info contact her mother, Ro Mitchell at 214-735-5279.

JEFRI SPENCER SINK

Your skin is valuable. That’s the reason Jefri Spencer, puts resources into excellent skin health management items and adopts a comprehensive and proactive strategy to magnificence and is the initial step to a lifetime of sound skin. Jefri Spencer was established by Kapri Willis, a Navy veteran and skin enthusiast who has a knack for research and innovation. They offer natural and well thought out skincare. The products are for everyone, no matter the gender or color. They strive themselves on bringing back the love in self-love and in inner peace. Try these products for women and men, body, and the home shop online at https:// jefrispencerco.com/

We salute: Mrs. Opal Lee

National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month 2022

By the President of the United States of America

While our Nation has made significant progress in addressing domestic violence by responding to the stories and leadership of courageous survivors, as well as through advocacy and legislative action, domestic violence none theless remains all too common in America. During National Do mestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, we continue to shine a light on the causes of this scourge, strengthen the ability of Federal, State, Tribal, territorial, and local officials to take action, and call on all com munities to strengthen preven tion efforts. My Administration is working to ensure that all sur vivors have access to justice and the support they need for their healing and well-being.

When I introduced the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in the Senate in 1990 with the sup port of many members of the Congress and community advo cates, we began to bring these cases of abuse out of the shadows. For too long, few in this country were willing to call domestic vio lence a national epidemic. VAWA increased survivors' access to services and support, empow ered Federal law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable, and enhanced the enforcement of protection orders across State lines. In March of this year, I was proud to sign the VAWA Reau thorization Act of 2022 into law, which extends all current VAWA grant programs until 2027 and increases services and support for all survivors, including by strengthening access to services for survivors from underserved or marginalized communities. It

also enhances evidence-based, trauma-informed trainings for law enforcement officers in volved in assisting victims and investigating these crimes.

While we know that VAWA is making a significant difference, we also know that much work still remains. Millions of women and men are impacted by some form of intimate partner abuse each year. Domestic violence can cause injury, fear, post-traumatic stress disorder, housing insecu rity, missed school or work, and other devastating consequences. Historically underserved popu lations, including LGBTQI+ sur vivors, persons with disabilities, immigrants, racial and ethnic mi norities, and American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Ha waiians face some of the highest rates of domestic and sexual vio lence, along with additional bar riers to safety and support. The effects of this epidemic stretch well beyond the home, impacting extended families, schools, and the workplace.

Over the past three decades, I have continued this commit ment to preventing and address ing domestic violence and all forms of gender-based violence. To strengthen our support for victims during the pandemic, when we saw a rise in domestic violence as survivors experienced increased isolation, economic insecurity, and barriers to ac cessing help, my Administration increased funding for shelters and supportive service providers and offered targeted resources to culturally-specific, communi ty-based organizations that ad dress the needs of survivors in marginalized communities. In total, we have invested nearly $1 billion in supplemental funding

from our American Rescue Plan to bolster these programs.

I also created the White House Gender Policy Council and called for the development of the first-ever Government-wide Na tional Action Plan to End Gen der-Based Violence, as well as updates to the 2016 United States Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence Glob ally. These strategies will provide a roadmap to guide my Admin istration's whole-of-government effort to end domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of gender-based violence.

My efforts did not stop there. Last year, I signed the Nation al Defense Authorization Act to fundamentally shift how the mil itary investigates and prosecutes domestic violence, sexual assault, and related crimes. I also issued an Executive Order to imple ment important reforms to the military code. We owe it to those who bravely wear our Nation's uniform to improve support for survivors and expand prevention of all forms of gender-based vio lence.

In July, I signed the Safer Com munities Act and provided signif icant resources for States to im plement extreme risk protection order laws and also expanded measures to prevent abusers con victed of assaulting their current or former dating partners from buying or owning guns. Millions of women across America report being threatened with a gun by an intimate partner, and evi dence suggests that when a gun is present, the risk of death from domestic violence is five times greater. Additionally, because cyberstalking, sextortion, and other forms of intimate partner violence involving technology

are becoming increasingly com mon, we established a new White House Task Force to Address On line Harassment and Abuse and expanded efforts to prevent and address these harms.

As we continue the essential work of ending domestic vio lence, we can all help build a cul ture where abuse is not tolerated and where survivors are heard, supported, and protected. We can express our gratitude to the remarkable people and organiza tions that offer care and critical services to survivors of domestic violence, and we must remain committed to building a better world where all people can feel safe and respected and live free from abuse.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by vir tue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2022 as Na tional Domestic Violence Aware ness and Prevention Month. I call on all Americans to speak out against domestic violence and support efforts to educate all peo ple about healthy relationships centered on respect; support victims and survivors in your own families and networks; and support the efforts of victim ad vocates, service providers, health care providers, and the legal sys tem, as well as the leadership of survivors, in working to end do mestic violence.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thou sand twenty-two, and of the In dependence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-seventh.

Friends Helping to Reshape the World

Ramon Flanigan and Sa meer Ahmed have bridged racial and cultural gaps that consume so many others. Both are graduates of South ern Methodist University. Ra mon, whose ancestral roots are in America, and Ahmed whose family came to Amer ica from India have dedicat ed their lives to community wellness, healthcare, and in clusion. And as much as pos sible they pursue those goals together.

Among the most signifi cant social change voyages in which the two are involved is a primary health care, mental health care, and social service non-profit named the Mus lim Community Center for Human Services, which has become a welcomed haven and, safety net for multitudes of people from various parts of the world. Services provid ed at the Center are (low-cost or free for the uninsured and under-insured.)

“We believe that wellness is a fundamental right in to day’s society,” said Sameer, who practices law and serves as the organization’s board chairperson. “People who do not have to concern them selves with the costs of treat ing sickness and disease are able to make contributions in our society that potentially benefit all people.”

The non-profit, founded by Sameer’s father, Dr. Basheer Ahmed, about 25 years ago,

helped refugees who came to America from war-torn Bosnia 25 years ago. Now its clientele includes people of many faiths. Its 24 -member board of directors includes Christians, Jews, and Mus lims. Its principal office is in Richland Hills, Texas.

“Sameer introduced me to our work,” said Ramon who is also a member of the Cen ter’s board of directors. “It is especially important to me to work with a group of people who are making fundamen tal change in our society. The work that the Center per forms is a beacon of light for people that are underserved and marginalized. We give people hope, and that is a good thing.

Ramon said that he and Sa

meer share many core values. “My friendship with him has led me to the work that the Center does. I am grateful that Sameer is in my life, and immensely proud of the work that the organization does for others.”

“In any given year more than 25 physicians, dentists and professional counselors volunteer, giving the Center their time and their services because they are concerned about people,” said Dr. Shee za Moshen, the executive director and chief operating office of the Center.

“We touch the lives of ap proximately 120 families each month,” Dr. Moshen said. The clientele is about six percent white, 15 percent Hispanic, 12 percent Black,

and 30 percent South Asian. Our staff and our board are multi-racial, and interns from local colleges and universi ties, including UT Arlington, UT Dallas, Texas Women’s University, the University of North Texas, and Texas Chris tian University perform espe cially important tasks at the Center.

Dr. Moshen said that the need for institutions such as the Center was exhaus tive. “We are in this for the long-haul.” she said. (“The Pandemic and immigration have increased the need for the work that we do.”)

Joseph Green-Bishop Senior Director

Ramon Flanigan, left, and Sameer Ahmed, are friends with NFL great Eric Dickerson

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

Jaymes and Ajeenah R. Carey-Denson Celebrating on their Wedding Day

Mr. and Mrs. Brown 29 Years

Mr. and Mrs. Murry Celebrate their Wedding

Mr. and Dr. Karen Hills-Pruden Vow RenewalLamont and Ilis L. Hawley Anniversary

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Fleming Anniversary

Rey and LaDonna Colon 1st YearRyan and Tiffany James Celebrate their Marriage

Fred and Tammy Barrow 22 Years Celebrating C.L. Harper High School 50th Class Reunion

Herb and Mira Lowe Anniversary

Mr. & Mrs. Demond Adams Wedding Celebration

Darryl and Tanya Harris Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. Woolridge 51 Years

Metro

October

State Senator Royce West is celebrating 29 years representing Senatorial District 23, at the Tower Club, 1601 Elm Street, 48th Floor in Dallas, 2-4p.m. RSVP at 2149GO WEST or email royce.west@ roycewest.org.

PASTORS LUNCHEON

The Pastors Luncheon will be 11:00 a.m. Typically hosted during the State Fair of Texas, this event was designed to create an environment to celebrate congregations and invites clergy leaders from the community to fellowship.

*** Dallas- Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists (DFW/ABJ) honors NABJ award winners at Soiree Coffee Bar, 320 Singleton Blvd Suite 190, Dallas, TX 75212

The keynote speaker is Judge Kim Brown with special guest speaker: His Royal Highness Prince Gharios EL Chemor Royal House of Ghassan www.awayoutproject.org or annas housegala@gmail.com

2022 Dallas HBCU Invitational  5:00 PM –

Sat, Nov 12, 2022, 7:00

PM CST

Paul Quinn College  3837 Simpson Stuart Rd  Dallas, TX 75241

Tickets: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/2022-dallas-hbcu-invitation al-tickets-381336366337?aff=erellivmlt

This invitational highlights HBCU Women’s Basketball programs over two days! Look forward to action-packed college basketball supporting the women’s sport and culture!

dynamic HBCU women’s basketball teams

Paul Quinn College

Love Wins! Free Weddings

Tie the knot with Hon. Martin Hoffman, presiding! Judge Hoffman will waive his officiant fees all day at George Allen Courts Building. Love Wins! Wedding Receptions: Dallas County Democrats, Dallas-Ft.Worth HRC, and Stonewall Democrats of Dallas present Love Wins! Weddings Reception at Alexandre’s in Oak Lawn.

11

Meet and Greet Fundraiser Dinner Reception, 6:30p.m. 3311 Regent Blvd, Irving. Presented by Sai Business Investments LLC for Judge Mike Jones, Veretta Frazier, District Attorney John Cruezot, Nicole Taylor; Judges Maria Acaves, Nancy Kennedy, Dana Huffman, Mary Brown; Jeca Williams, Dianne Jones and LaDeitra Adkins.

13

The Press Club of Dallas 10th Legends of North Texas Journalism at Texas Theatre. LEGENDS: Ed Bark, Karen Blair (posthu mous), Karen Blumenthal (posthumous), Cheryl Hall, Molly Ivins (posthumous), Verne Lundquist, Murphy Martin (posthumous), Scott McCartney, Laura Miller, Liz Oliphant, Bob Schieffer and Brett Shipp.

***

15

Join Councilwoman Shaunte L. Allen from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm for the “Parenting Under High Stress: Resources for Relief” Sum mit at 1932 S. Hampton Road, Glenn Heights, TX. The Parenting Under High-Stress Summit offers resources for parents and teens. You will receive advice and encouragement from mental health experts and school counselors. And, you can participate in a meditative writing session or a yoga session. Free of charge. Register NOW: https://forms.office. com/r/K9D8ADPDsX

5th Annual Dallas Black College Expo at Paul Quinn College -10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Meet with colleges, communities colleges, uni versities, trade schools. Get incredible information on Financial Aid, 411 for the Student Athlete, Booming Careers, Internships, How to Start a Business and more!

Anna’s House 10th Annual Domestic Violence Gala 2022 at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, 7p.m.

EARLY VOTING

The Viola’s House presents “Pathways to Redemp tion” Inaugural Black Tie Gala featuring Adrienne Banfield-Nor ris “Gammy” at 7:00pm in the Statler Hotel Grand Ballroom, Dallas.

Celebration of Life for Thomas Ali Muhammad

The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 11:00a.m.

NOVEMBER

World According to Andrew on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. CST. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call 646200-0459 on Andrew’s World.

Was Just Thinking with Nor ma Adams-Wade “History

in Session”

call 646-200-0459.

the

in on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm. CST. Wednesdays.

Lifestyle Metro

TX/OU Alumni Weekend presented by BEST Dallas Black Ex-Students of Texas

Fri, Oct 7, 2022, 5:00 PM –

Sun, Oct 9, 2022, 5:00 PM CDT

Dallas 2443 Walnut Hill Lane Dallas, TX 75229

Derall

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) keynote speaker for the 37th Annual Luncheon: Allyson Felix, who reigns as the most decorated American Track & Field Athlete of all time after winning her bronze and gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Themed “Transforming Communities,” this year’s event will take place 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at

Real and

5th Annual Dallas Black College Expo

Quinn

Dallas Alumnae Chapter

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,Inc’s

Taste of Business Annual Community Networking Event - Free Community Pop Up at Woodhaven

in Fort Worth, 12 noon - 3p.m. Call 817-438-6348

and

by

Briefs

Stacey Abrams: ‘Give People a Reason to Vote’

gubernatorial race in 2018 by just a few votes.

By Myía Borland, HU News Service

tacey Abrams shared her plans if elected as the Georgia governor this November and challenges facing Black voters during a Q&A session hosted by the National Association of Black Jour nalists Political Journalism Task Force on Monday afternoon.

“People don’t live one-dimensional lives,” Abrams said. “They don’t get to choose between being worried about housing and health care, between thinking about climate action and cli mate change when extreme weather events affect the coast. … We have to have conversations about all of the issues, and it’s important for voters to know where the candidates stand.”

One participant asked about the lack of “energy” surrounding the cam paign and general desire for people to vote. “I can’t be a new candidate every time,” Abrams replied. The Democratic candidate reflected on her first cam paign run, which spanned 18 months and had moments of defeat as well as triumph.

“What felt to folks at the end as sort of an inevitability, took 18 months to build, but it was also true that I was brand new,” she said. “At the time, the White House was inhabited by someone who was seen as anathema to almost every single community. … That is not the case this time. It’s much easier to generate enthusiasm when there is a clear understanding of who the opposition is, who the villain is.”

Abrams then directed her response to her Republican competitor, Brian Kemp, whom she described as “getting credit for being a mainstream Republi can when he is just as hard right, just as offensive as Donald Trump was to the needs of our community.”

Kemp serves as the 83rd governor of Georgia and is running for re-elec tion against Abrams after winning the

In terms of initiatives and issues that may attract Georgia voters to the polls in just a few weeks, Abrams pinpointed four areas of concern that require action: being able to make a good living. education, health care and housing.”

first and foremost make certain that we have a transportation and evacuation plan for those who are typically left behind.”

Abrams, who grew up in Gulfport, Mississippi, emphasized the need to anticipate bad storms and have the course of action prepared prior to any destruction.

Abrams’ final point for environmen tal initiatives stemmed from her claim that Kemp does not see climate issues as a real threat to Georgians.

“We need to anticipate that climate action is real,” she said. “This current governor refuses to say so; I do. It’s in sufficient to bring a battery company to Georgia when you don’t acknowledge that the reason for that battery compa ny is that we need clean air and clean water and that we need to stop drilling off the coast.”

As for how Abrams’ aims to get more African American voters to the polls this year, she said, “Voting is math.”

“You can carve out any certain community,” she began. “Unless you have 100 percent participation rates, the attribution of success or loss can always be characterized as a commu nity’s fault. That is both disingenuous, and I think that it is wrong. I think the responsibility of candidates is to reach into communities and give people a reason to vote. But you have to under stand what predicates their refusal to or their disengagement from voting.”

Abrams addressed challenges for African American voters and how she would provide support throughout the community if elected.

“There’s distrust,” Abrams said. “People aren’t quite clear. … They know what their challenges are; they don’t know whose fault it is. And thus, they don’t necessarily know who can fix it.”

When asked about her Coastal Resil ience Response Plan and South Geor gia Readiness Response Plan, Abrams shared that she would make environ mental justice a priority as governor.

“Environmental justice is incredibly important to me,” she said. “I actually interned for the Office of Environmen tal Justice when it was first created under Bill Clinton, I did my summer internships with the EPA (Environmen tal Protection Agency), and I’m from a coastal community that was ravaged by hurricanes year over year. I want to

“We need to have a plan in place to move them inland and to provide housing for long term. It cannot be simply over a weekend. Typically, re covering from a hurricane takes weeks to months on end.”

To add to that, Abrams explained her Small Business Investment Fund, which was designed to combat finan cial hardships for business owners who do not have the same access to resourc es as larger corporations.

“I am building the Small Business Investment Fund, because small busi nesses statewide are 99 percent of the businesses 43 percent of the jobs. We need to be investing and making sure those small businesses have the same type of resilience that large companies get.”

“For African American voters, voter suppression is a very real barrier, but so is the lack of delivery of resources and the consistent underinvestment in our communities,” she said. “My re sponsibility in this campaign is to point out why that happened. And this elec tion year in a unique fashion, it can ac tually be solved. With this election we can elect a governor who can actually provide access to resources.”

“Georgia is sitting on a $6.6 billion surplus that can invest in every single fundamental that we need to see ad dressed.”

Myia Borland is a reporter for HUNewsService.com and an Inside Climate News Environmental Justice Reporting Fellow. Reprinted by permis sion. Howard University.

Stacey Abrams

Briefs

As part of a successful diversity strategy, corporate leaders must take the time to realign and shift workplace values and organization al standards to support a positive, inclusive, and high-performing work environment.

Corporate leaders are also strug gling with how to develop return to office strategies, where many diverse groups say they want a more flexible schedule during this post-pandemic period, according to a recent McKinsey study.

In this informative and instruc tive guide, “Achieving Culture Transformation Through Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,” KEIRUS by KJE, a seven-year-old strategy con sulting, technology and leadership development firm, offers business leaders recommendations on how to develop successful DEI strategies and behaviors that lead to a win ning culture.

In this informative and instruc tive guide, “Achieving Culture Transformation Through Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,” KEIRUS by KJE, a seven-year-old strategy con sulting, technology and leadership

development firm, offers business leaders recommendations on how to develop successful DEI strategies and behaviors that lead to a win ning culture.

“Ever since George Floyd, some companies have taken steps to ad dress diversity and inclusion within their organizations,” said Kelley Johnson, the company’s founder and CEO. “But many are still stuck. That’s leaving a lingering question for many of these business leaders, ‘Now what?’”

In the guide, Johnson clearly spells out what leaders can do to change. “Leaders committed to cul ture transformation value the busi ness case for DEI and its influence on innovation and creativity,” she explains. “Transformative leaders understand the importance of mod eling cultural agility and consistent ly embracing the arc of change.”

The guide lays out the role of the leader in driving culture transfor mation, what steps they can take to improve their corporate culture and employee engagement and how these changes have a direct impact on improving a company’s ROI.

Kelley Johnson

Johnson says leaders better en gage with their employees when they can build trust. They can build more trust by spending more time exploring their employees’ person al beliefs and biases, embracing the value of everyone’s uniqueness, and creating “authentic and mutual connections.”

KEIRUS’ experience working with companies of all sizes also shows that toxic workplaces create tension, lack of trust, and ‘quiet quitting’ –ultimately leading to unhappy –and unproductive – employees.

“When employees understand that it is okay to be different and authentic,” Johnson said, “you cre ate a culture where everyone con

Business Leaders Struggling To Figure Out Return To Office And Best Approaches To Engage Employees Parkland Media Pitches

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Parkland offers no-cost mam mograms, education. During October, Parkland Health will offer events throughout Dallas County to promote breast health and breast cancer awareness. Parkland will host itsannual “Come Together for the Cure” Breast Health and Wellness Expo on two Sat urdays this month (10/8 and 10/15).

The interactive event for breast can cer fighters, survivors, caregivers and friends will feature Parkland financial assistance, breast health education and community resources, blood pres sure/glucose screenings, flu shots and more. The events will also offer no-cost mammograms for those registering in advance.

Another benefit of breastfeeding –

breast cancer prevention. Experts cite many important health benefits of breastfeeding for babies. But one that’s not often discussed is that women who breastfed have a lower risk of develop ing breast cancer. A Parkland women’s health expert can talk about how breast feeding is beneficial to the health of mothers as well as babies.

Fair foods without the guilt? The

tributes fully and are more likely to embrace diversity, equity, and in clusion. These factors spark a transi tion in the workplace culture where intersectionality and innovation are at the forefront.”

Additionally, KEIRUS by KJE’s guide urges leaders to identify areas to improve; collect data to measure, monitor and assess prog ress; challenge limited mindsets to encourage diverse thought ; change behaviors by “engaging heads, hearts and hands” and providing consistent feedback and commit ment to its team members.

Johnson continued, “We know the culture transformation process is not cookie-cutter or a check-thebox exercise. It should reflect the in dividual organization as an integral part of their mission and values.”

Success does begin at the top, the guide asserts. “If leaders aren’t on board with the vision, progress is limited. The leader must also understand that transformation is a long-haul undertaking and will not happen overnight ; diligence, difficult conversations, and perse verance are critical to results.”

State Fair of Texas is open and that means plenty of fried…well, everything. Like fried soul food eggroll, funnel cake chicken sandwich and loaded queso fries. Sound irresistible? Yes, but we all know these yummy treats full of saturated fats and sugar aren’t good for us. A Parkland dietitian can offer some healthier ways to re-create some of these guilty pleasures.

Dallas-based non-profit to offer ‘on-the-job’ training to marginalized filmmaking communities

Reel Shot Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-prof it organization providing opportunities to inspire underrepresented filmmakers through job shadowing and training with industry professionals on feature and short films. Reel Shot, Inc. kicks off its sec ond motion picture project in November.

Reel Shot will offer participants access to industry professionals to learn handson principles regarding motion picture

development. This includes produc tion management, technical execution and the initial development process of film-making. Participants in the program will work side-by-side with professional mentors to help further their develop ment.

“Our focus and goal is to give underrep resented storytellers a platform to dive into the world of filmmaking with a level

of on-the-job training from those already working in the field,” explained founder, Rock White.

Reel Shot’s first movie project, LowKey Hustle, is now streaming on FUBU (For Us By Us) Network.

For more information or to support the Reel Shot mission, visit reelshotfilms.org or email at office@reelshotfilms.org. Fol low on Facebook and Instagram.

Prairie View A&M

lead by halftime to grab

up

fifth straight victory over

The lineup

Xavier Lodge throws hands in air

PV Foxes- syncronized dancing

Photos: Nina Garcia

PVU player- 16 Chris Herron

GSU Head Coach Hue Jackson

Practice kick- Reyes & Jasso

PV Court

PVU Coach Lemke pep talks with player

GSU brass line

PVU Sideline practice- Reyes, Jasso & Villagomez

PV Court 2

Wideshot of PVU at halftime

The SFC crowd Beach ball boppin'

PV Black Foxes show out

GSU Drum Major

PV Court

TIGER- GSU's Mascot

A view of TSFC from inside the Cotton Bowl

ARRESTED