Texas Metro News

Comerica and Project Rise p7

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith Publisher

Amerson’s work celebrated in Arlington

D/FW TO THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

VOL.8 NO. 13 Dec. 25, 2019

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DeSoto Band receives national recognition

Time of year

Another year is rapidly coming to a close and I can’t help but to recap the past year and look forward with anticipation.

2019 was a very exciting year for me because there were so many exciting memories and milestones. I said hello to my newest grandchild, D-Square (actually his name is Davion); my girl (aka Surrogate) Amanda Fitzpatrick and hubby Yusuf welcomed Naomi; and I said farewell to some very special people including 100 year-old legend Garth Reeves; classmates; Sorors Michelle Raglon and Olivia Frazier Kerr; longtime friends Carolyn Davis and fellow Rattler Juanita Benson; as well as the loved ones of many I love.

There have been some disappointments and many causes for celebration over the past year. Everyone can’t handle the emotional rollercoaster. Sometimes help is needed.

Which brings me to my truth.

December has always been challenging for me since 1969.

I remember opening gifts that Christmas morning and hearing the phone ring. Next thing I knew the joy had gone out of the day because the news from the phone call was that my 93-year-old grandfather, Remer Smith, had died.

Christmas Day was never the same.

Then over the years, I’ve suffered other losses that have sent me into deep thought; like the death of my father on December 8, 2004 and my Godmother, Liz on December See MY TRUTH, page 4

Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams and City Council members presented local entrepreneur Dr. Linda Amerson with a proclamation at the City Council Meeting last week.

Mayor Williams announced “Dr. Linda Amerson Day” as September 25, 2019! A true honor!

Dr. Amerson shared copies of her September 2019 'Cover Girl' features in SPLASH and AMUSE Magazines with the City Council members.

With passion and purpose for 39 years, Dr. Amerson has served the community as a Board Certified Trichologist...specialist in alopedia and scalp disorder maladies.

This Texas trailblazer celebrates her 20th Anniversary of the opening Dr. Amerson's International Trichology Training Center, the first in the western USA, 20th Anniversary journalist of 68 national magazines and newspapers with a global readership of over 350 million consumers.

In addition, her 6th Anniversary of alopecia Scholarships...'Paying It Forward' to youth aged 15-19 affected with alopecia and pursuing a college education.

After the presentation, family and friends shared a celebratory toast to Dr. Amerson at the Texas Live Venue.

An awesome way to end 2019!

DFW to USVI Direct Flight Celebration held. See page 12 photos:

Eva D. Coleman

Iota initiates new members

Psi Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. welcomes its newest sorors: La Juna Evette Piper, Lori Mason, Kandre Covington Smith, Lalani Wilson-Jones, Theresa Banks and Carolyn Parker.

Make Your Life a Classroom

I WAS JUST THINKING...

A. MACEO SMITH DR. HARRY ROBINSON, JR. TERRY ALLEN

By Norma Adams-Wade

“Let me tell you a story.”

Dallas public relations and marketing juggernaut Terry Allen said he remembers those words as a familiar line from his mentor -- Dr. Harry Robinson Jr., founding director, president and chief executive officer of the African American Museum in Fair Park.

Allen shared this anecdote about his mentor while he himself was being

honored for achievements in business at the 34th A. Maceo Smith Community Service Awards Brunch on December 14. The African American Museum sponsors the awards. Allen was one of seven local achievers who received the award in different categories.

A recurring theme in remarks from each recipient was the need to inspire and prepare someone to follow your footsteps or later fill your seat; to not

climb to the top alone.

“Go find someone and bring them along with you,” Allen said, making the point that he had mentors who helped him along the way. “I (personally) am grateful to Dr. Robinson...I can’t thank (him) enough. He helped me to feel like a superstar.”

Robinson Jr.’s expertise mainly is in library science and research. But Allen See THINKING, page 9

Desoto Band Director Delton Brown (l). Dr. William P. Foster (r) Special to Texas Metro News DeSoto High School band has been named the NATIONAL WINNER of the Dr. William P. Foster Project Award of Excellence, which recognizes programs serving historically underappreciated student populations. Dr. Foster was the renowned band director of the Florida A&M University Marching 100.

The award is sponsored by the Music Education Alliance, a collaborative of the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA), Music for All (MFA), and National Band Association (NBA), dedicated to the attainment of a high level of excellence for bands at all levels of instruction.

“This is such a great honor for our school and our community,” said DeSoto ISD Director of Bands Delton Brown. “I am grateful for my band kids who work so hard. They deserve to be recognized on a national level. I hold them to such a high, non-compromising standard and I don't let up. Nevertheless, they continue to step up to the challenge and achieve at levels not expected of them because of various reasons.”

“Our administration, staff, and students are so appreciative of our band directors and the tireless hours they dedicate to our students,” said Principal Shon Joseph. “From the field to the concert hall, Mr. Brown and his team have done an outstanding job. We are all proud of our Eagle Band.”

“We are absolutely thrilled that our DeSoto High School Band has received this prestigious honor,” said DeSoto Mayor Curtistene McCowan. “Having watched their halftime and other performances this year and the excitement they bring, this well-deserved level of recognition is really no surprise. Congratulations Eagle Band! The City of DeSoto is proud of you.”

House votes to impeach Trump

President Donald Trump was impeached by the U.S. House of Representatives on charges that he abused his office and obstructed Congress. Next the trial begins.

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DECEMBER 25, 2019

INSIDE EDUCATION

pg. 3

EDITORIAL

pg. 4

PERSPECTIVE

pg. 5

CALENDAR

pg. 8

EVENTS

pg. 10

MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR

editor@myimessenger.com Free -Free Take- One Take One

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CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS Fax (903) 450-1397 1 Year Subscription 50-1397 1 Year Subscription $45.00 $45.00

The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

Healthy Marketing means Healthy Living – it is time for your breakthrough in 2020 Terry’s Tips

By Terry Allen

The best thing about creating a good marketing plan is discovering how your customers find you?

Do you have a healthy marketing plan? What is your face-to-face experience with your customer?

Have you aligned your event with the perfect trifecta of advertising?

The perfect trifecta is creating promotional ads, getting booth space at a high profile event and implementing an awesome face-to-face experience.

I can say that marketing works, and small business owners, here is how you can grow your business in 2020!

Let me help you get you started: 1) Advertise in Print! Take advantage of the up and coming Healthy Living Expo on Dr. Martin Luther King Day and use the power of print media to reach your customers and then prepare/ create an outstanding face-to-face experience for your current and future customers.

2) I Messenger is offering you an awesome King event (Healthy Living Expo) with advertising discounts RIGHT NOW to the Healthy Living Expo, when you secure your business promotion ad 3) Be ready to utilize your print ad and I Messenger social media to drive customers to your outstanding face-to-face experience at the event.

Texas Metro News readers and advertisers will get a FREE social media marketing trial account from me when you join us with a promotional ad and booth at the Healthy Living Expo.

4) Recognize your best customers with special e-blasts announcing your ad and your outstanding face-to-face experience at the Expo

5) Offer free with purchase items that show off your brand – windshield covers, mouse pads, pens, T-shirts, etc. still work to market your services, products and location.

6) Make all of your ads, flyers, photos, business cards and other marketing materials look top notch. Dump all of those home computer generated business cards, handwritten flyers & signs for a professional, polished, consistent look.

Call I Messenger today, 214-941-0110, and get on board for your business Breakthrough in 2020. It is time for your Business Breakthrough.

Email me at terryallenpr@gmail.com to get the other tips to show up and show out at the Healthy Living Expo on January 20, 2020 and reach me by email with any marketing questions you have.

Until then that is my “fiddy� cents. Save or spend it on you!

Terry Allen is an award-winning media professional, journalist and entrepreneur who serves as the Media Related Representative on the National Association of Black Journalists Board of Directors. He is also the founder of City Men Cook and 1016 Media.

Check out The Kinsey Collection at the African American Museum in Dallas 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 214-565-9026

DECEMBER 25, 2019

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EDITORIAL

DECEMBER 25, 2019

Will McConnell let Senate hold a fair trial?

FOR THE PEOPLE

BY SEN.KAMALA HARRIS

NOTE: This was written before the House impeached President Donald Trump.

December 18 — Today the House of Representatives will vote on whether to impeach President Trump. If it votes yes, sometime early in the new year I will take an oath on the Senate floor to uphold the Constitution, review evidence and follow the facts wherever they lead, regardless of party or ideology.

Every one of my colleagues will be required to do the same.

As a former prosecutor, I understand the importance of holding powerful people accountable. I know that every trial requires fairness and truth.

Having worked my whole life serving the people, I know that any trial that abandons the pursuit of truth cannot be considered fair or just.

MY TRUTH continued from front page

22, 2008.

Most who really know me, knew of my fondness for the Godfather of Soul, James Brown.

You see, growing up Mr. Brown was there for me in times when I really felt alone. He could put a smile on my face and a song in my heart. And that in itself is very telling.

As a 10-year-old; I remember going to a concert with relatives in Florida. After the concert, we were escorted back stage and given the choice of meeting five nappy-headed, smelly boys, or the Godfather and the songbird, Lyn

But the Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell, appears more interested in covering up the president’s misconduct than in pursuing truth and fairness. He is already trying to limit the impeachment trial by preventing witnesses from testifying, and he has all but announced a verdict. In doing so, he showed the American people that he has no intention of honoring his oath.

Let’s be clear: Mr. McConnell doesn’t want a Senate trial. He wants a Senate cover-up.

Fortunately, Mr. McConnell does not have the power to unilaterally undermine this trial.

Every single senator will be empowered with an equal vote on how the trial will proceed. Though in just the past year, Mr. McConnell has used his position to unilaterally block Collins.

I chose the Godfather.

After we met and said a few words, he kissed me on my cheek. I was overjoyed! In fact I said then I would never wash my cheek again, but I forgot which one it was.

I also met Ms. Collins and I was told that I met the boys also, but if I did I don’t recall the boys.

Can you guess who those boys were?

Well anyway, decades later, I had a phone interview with Mr. Brown.

It was wonderful. I told him about that meeting and we talked about family and life. When I told Mr. Brown that my father lived about an hour and a half away from his home in Augusta, GA, he invited me to visit the next time I was in town.

Oh how I looked forward to that

allow a trial to proceed this way, and neither should any member of the Senate.

Ensuring the integrity of this trial is a solemn responsibility for every senator, with consequences that extend far beyond any one presidency.

My colleagues and I have a duty to use our voice and our vote to insist on a fair trial, rooted in the pursuit of truth.

We must demonstrate to the American people that in our system of justice all are equal under law, and that there are not two sets of rules, one for Donald Trump and another for everybody else.

We must conduct the Senate impeachment trial in a way that is fair and that reflects impartial justice.

History will judge the actions taken by the United States Senate at a time when our Constitution and the rule of law were at stake.

I’ll be fighting for justice and accountability, and my colleagues should too.

Kamala D. Harris is a Democratic senator from California.

legislation to restore the Voting Rights Act, lower the prices of prescription drugs and address the gun violence epidemic, he cannot wield the same authority in a Senate impeachment trial.

In this trial, senators will be far more than jurors. Every one of us will vote to determine the rules for the trial, decide which witnesses testify and ultimately serve as both court and jury.

Each of us will be called on to uphold our oath with every decision we make.

We will all be held accountable by the American people if we refuse to discover the facts relevant to the articles of impeachment.

The Senate Democratic leader, Chuck Schumer, has made a reasonable request to hear from four additional witnesses with firsthand knowledge of the president’s misconduct and to review documents that shed light on why the administration initially decided to cut off military aid to Ukraine.

We need to hear from Mick Mulvaney, the acting White House chief of staff, who admitted to Mr. Trump’s bribery scheme on live television, and from the former

national security adviser, John Bolton, who has been shopping stories about Mr. Trump to book publishers instead of speaking with Congress. Every senator should want to hear from anyone who can speak directly to the president’s misconduct related to the articles of impeachment.

Even Richard Nixon allowed the key figures behind the Watergate scandal to speak to Congress, and he eventually turned over incriminating portions of his Oval Office recordings to investigators. But Mr. Trump has stonewalled Congress and inhibited our ability to seek justice by demanding that those closest to the center of the Ukraine scandal stay silent.

Senators must be allowed to subpoena relevant witnesses and submit questions to them directly. The Senate should not vote on any article of impeachment or consider a motion to dismiss the trial until we have reviewed the additional testimony and evidence that Mr. Schumer has requested.

I have never been in a courtroom where the accused can unilaterally block witnesses from testifying or prohibit prosecutors from asking witnesses questions. No court would

The above article was originally published as a letter to the editor by The New York Times. The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. The article is reproduced here by request.

visit!

As our interview came to a close, he asked me if I was coming to his concert in Grand Prairie. I told him “no” but he asked me again.

Unfortunately I had already given my tickets to super writer Vincent Hall, but Mr. Brown said no worries, he had me covered.

I went to the concert alone and had a great time.

When I visited him in his dressing room, we had a great time talking.

Before I departed Mr. Brown kissed me on both cheeks so I wouldn’t forget this time!

I had such a good feeling and that feeling was with me a few year’s later when I received word of his passing.

So many people called to see how I was doing. That a year prior my dad had passed, just added to the

feeling I was experiencing.

While some would never understand the connection, it doesn’t take understanding to show concern, and sometimes in our busy world, we don’t take time to be concerned about others and what they are going through.

That is why we should all be open to counseling.

There is so much going on in the world that it is sometimes hard to navigate effectively. Also, when you consider all the chemicals that enter our bodies and how many young people are coming here filled with mind-altering chemicals; well, the need for psychological intervention is important.

For that and other reasons, mental health is a component of the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living

Expo at the African American Museum on January 20, 2020.

We need to address the issues effecting our families and communities. Mental illness is real.

It’s nothing to be ashamed of.

And sometimes you need someone to talk you through the challenging times in life. Sure every month can be challenging but even the Center for Disease control reports that December is not the month when most suicides occur. Still the holiday cheer does make one reflect on those not there to share the times, which could lead to depression.

There is help. Let’s get it and give it!

Plan your schedule to join us right after the Dr. King Parade. You’ll be glad you did.

DECEMBER 25, 2019

We’re looking for the best Macaroni and Cheese in the D/FW Metroplex

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DECEMBER 25, 2019 METRO BRIEFS

Glenn Heights Police issue gift cards in lieu of tickets during routine traffic stops

Glenn Heights, TX -- The Glenn

Heights Police Department continued their “Season of Service” efforts by distributing gift cards to the public, providing holiday cheer, during routine traffic stops. Officer Sims, dressed as “Santa Cop”, provided unsuspecting drivers with their choice of either a $25 Visa Gift Card or a $25 Gift Card to Amazon.com.

Officer Illingworth pulled drivers over for minor violations. Once Officer Illingworth informed violators of their infraction, Santa Cop and his Elf danced up to the driver’s side window and pleasantly surprised the driver with the information that instead of receiving a ticket, they would be given a gift card and a candy cane.

This is the second year that the City of Glenn Heights Police Department has operated this program and

provided holiday cheer and relief to the community. Please see the video package attached to this email for visuals of the stops.

About the City of Glenn Heights – Incorporated in 1969, Glenn Heights is perfectly positioned along IH-35 East.

Glenn Heights is a hospitable, business friendly, rapidly growing community divided between Dallas and Ellis counties. The City has a total area of 7.2 sq. miles (18.8 km sq.). More than 50% of the city’s developable land is located along major arterial intersections that are available for retail and office development.

Dallas ISD names 2019-20 Principals of the Year

By Javier Giribet-Vargas Dallas ISD officials announced the winners of the 2019-2020 Principal of the Year award during a special ceremony at the Dallas Arboretum.

The winners are: Elementary: Ida Escobedo, principal of Margaret B. Henderson Elementary School Secondary: Francine Taylor, principal of H. Grady Spruce High School Choice: Nancy Bernardino, principal at Solar Preparatory School for Girls at James B. Bonham For the second year in a row, several school leaders were commended as Master Principals. Fourteen elementary schools principals, five secondary school principals and four choice school principals received awards. These were given based on a measure on the

(From left to right) Dallas ISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa, Dallas ISD board member Dan Micciche, Nancy Bernardino, principal at Solar Preparatory School for Girls, Ida Escobedo, principal of Margaret B. Henderson Elementary, Francine Taylor, principal of H. Grady Spruce High, Dallas ISD Chief of School Leadership Stephanie Elizalde, Justin Henry, president of the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees.

campus growth, achievement and school climate.

School Leadership also recognized the three 2019 National Blue Ribbon

School awardees, the Breakthrough and Accomplished campuses and the principals who were most affected by the October storms.

Happy Holidays to all of our great and loyal customers!

Much Love and Happiness.

From Your Blackjack Pizza Staff Adventure, Victory, and Prayer in the City!

Photos: LP on the Scene

TWO LOCATIONS: 2536 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215 2120 N St Augustine Dr #100, Dallas, TX 75227

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DECEMBER 25, 2019

The 411: Top 5 Beauty Dislikes of Women ABOUT YOUR HAIR

BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

www.hairandscalpessentials.com

You have read what a few men shared in The 411. Now you will hear from women what they like in men regarding beauty and grooming. Men sometimes need suggestions/assistance from a friend, girlfriend or wife to help him stay totally together. On the other hand, there are some men who have the grooming and beauty department down pat! Women will notice when a ‘together brother’ walks into the room looking and smelling good!

There’s something about that confident (not arrogant) walk!

Read the top 5 beauty dislikes women shared to enlighten men.

LaNette Kincaide, Just Pearlz Jewelry 1) No teeth!!!

2) Men with large unkempt beards 3) Hair bumps on back, neck or face 4) Hair growing on or out of ears.

5) Men with dirty unkempt nails or feet Anonymous, Business Owner 1) Missing teeth! Any man over 30 is responsible for replacing and repairing their teeth--and please no gold teeth replacements.

2) Body odor combined with bad breath will run me away quickly!

3) Rough hands, and dirty fingernails. Some men have told me that rough hands is a sign of a working man, and they do not want any soft hands. I do not like rough hands touching me.

4) A man who never offers to massage my tired feet. This can be a turn on!

5) Unkempt beards and mustache.

6) Excessive tattoos--visible on

neck and face.

7) Smoking!

Cigarettes and cigars.

8) Chewing snuff.

Doris Thomas, Catering 1) Dirty fingernails.

2) Body odor 3) Smoking 4) Talking with every other word a curse word.

5) Unemployed, at home with momma, and no car!

6) Toothless! Please get them fixed or get dentures!

7) Uneducated Cheryl Smith, Reporter, Radio Host 1) Poor body hygiene 2) Tats on face, neck or legs 3) Rough feet 4) Poor dental hygiene 5) Flab Anonymous, Professional Exec.

Sec. 1) Dirt under fingernails 2) Out of shape for his age 3) Scraggly/unkempt beard or mustache 4) Poor oral hygiene 5) Spends too much time grooming Ivy N. McQuain, Written by INC, Author 1) Ungroomed hair. I know that some men like to look rough and touch, but it bothers me to see any man with their hair not freshly shaven.

2) I love a taper cut on a man-but cannot stand for a man to keep his hair all wild and crazy looking.

This goes double for men with dreadlocks. Tip fellas, keep your twists and locks up.

3) Unhealthy looking teeth.

Ugh! Your smile is one of the most important things you wear, next to clothes, so when you smile and your teeth are missing, stained or look like a war broke out in your mouth, it is a complete turnoff.

Go to the dentist! Not just to have a pretty smile but because poor dental care can and will lead to other health issues.

4) Too much style! Yes I love for a man to be fashionable and trendy but when it looks like he is trying to be the next regular Usher or Lil Wayne then it’s too much. The keys to fashion is making it your own and moderation. Do not walk around in sagging skinny jeans.

Matter of fact, just don’t sag or wear skinny jeans.

5) Busted and crusty feet. I know men think going to the nail salon is for women, but it’s not.

Men need to take careof their feet with simple tricks like lotion and clipping your toes nails. It doesn’t hurt for you to get the dead skin off of your heels and to invest in eliminating corns and bunions.

That doesn’t make you a manly man to go around tearing up bed sheets.

6) Dirty fingernails. I can’t stand a man with dirty fingernails.

Talk about drive me crazy. No you don’t have to run to the nail salon to keep up a fresh manicure, but at the least clean and trim your nails, and not with your teeth.

Anonymous, Engineer 1) Yellow teeth 2) Unkempt appearance (i.e. torn clothing, dirty clothing, clothes with stains) 3) Too focused on himself 4) Not interested in what interests me 5) Selfish Well men you have heard from these women’s viewpoint. We hope these two articles have enlightened you and sparked some discussions.

All questions should be forwarded to world-renowned Trichologist, Dr. Linda Amerson 817 265 8854.

W e a ls o in v ite y o u to tu n e in W e d n e s d a y s a t 1 1 a m -1 2 p m C S T o n A s k th e H a ir a n d S c a lp D o c to r on w w w .D fw iR a d io .c o m .,w w w . h a ira n d s c a lp e s s e n tia ls.c o m T w itte r: @ S c a lp D o c to r F a c e b o o k : w w w .fa c e b o o k .c o m / H a ir-a n d -S c a lp -E s s e n tia ls.c o m

Teens receive “Gift of Tech” from Comerica Bank

Special to Texas Metro News C o m erica Ban k su rp rised lo cal h ig h stu d ents fro m th e Pro jec t Still I Rise U rb an Sch o lars Pro g ram w ith tech n o lo g y p acks at th eir h o lid ay co m m u n ity service p ro jec t o n Th u rsd ay even in g.

Th e stu d ents d eco rated Bu ckeye C o m m o ns H ead Start, an d later w ere p resented w ith p erso n al lap to p s an d th e acco m p anyin g accesso ries (b ag an d m o u se) an d service p lan s as a rew ard fo r th eir h ard w o rk an d d ed icatio n in th e classro o m an d co m m u n ity.

Research sh o w s n early o n e in five teen s h ave tro u b le fin ish in g th eir h o m ew o rk b ecau se o f a d ig ital d ivid e – o ften referred to as th e “h o m ew o rk g ap” – fo r teen s w h o lack access to d ig ital tech n o lo g ies (co n sistent access to a co m p u ter an d /o r intern et co n n ec tio n ) at h o m e.

Teen s fro m lo w er-in co m e h o u seh o ld s, are esp ecially likely to face sch o o l-related ch allen g es as a resu lt. [So u rce: Pew Research C enter] “Fo r th e p ast d ecad e, C o m erica Ban k h as p artn ered w ith Pro jec t Still I Rise to h elp em p o w er to d ay’s yo u th fo r to m o rro w ’s o p p o rtu n ity th ro u g h acad em ic en rich m ent, m ento rin g an d lead ersh ip d evelo p m ent,” Pete G u ilfo ile, C o m erica Ban k C h ief C red it O ffi cer an d Pro jec t Still I Rise vo lu nteer said.

“C o m erica is co m m itted to h elp in g clo se th e h o m ew o rk g ap b y eq u ip p in g yo u th in th e co m m u nities w e serve w ith reliab le tech n o lo g y to o ls fo r fu tu re su ccess.”

Pro jec t Still I Rise, In c., is a co m m u n ityb ased n o n p ro fit o rg an izatio n fo u n d ed

Project Still I Rise Urban Scholars Board Members and volunteers and Comerica Bank CHief Credit Officer Pete Guilfoile Pete Guilfoile, Comerica Bank Chief Credit Officer and Project Still I Rise volunteer presenting the Gift of Tech Project Still I Rise Urban Scholars with Pete Guilfoile, Comerica Bank Chief Credit Officer and Kevin Mondy, Project Still I Rise Founder

in 2002. Th e m issio n o f th e ag en c y is to em p o w er to d ay’s yo u th fo r to m o rro w ’s o p p o rtu n ities th ro u g h acad em ic en rich m ent, m ento rin g, an d lead ersh ip d evelo p m ent p ro g ram m in g. PSIR’s h ead q u arters o ffi ce is in D allas, Texas.

Th e U rb an Sch o lars p ro g ram is d esig n ed to assist stu d ents w h o are tran sitio n in g b etw een acad em ic settin g s.

Particip ants enter the U rb an Sch o lars p ro g ram d u rin g th eir n inth -g rad e year an d b eyo n d.

G rad u atin g h ig h sch o o l sen io rs are aw ard ed a o n e -tim e sch o larsh ip fo r th eir co m m itm ent to service an d acad em ics. Stu d ents p articip ate in

co m m u n ity service p ro jec ts, p ro fessio n al d evelo p m ent w o rksh o p s, an d co rp o rate en g ag em ent o p p o rtu n ities.

U rb an Sch o lars also h ave th e ch an ce to b e jo in ed b y a p o o l o f Pro jec t Still I Rise, co lleg iate stu d ents tw o tim es p er year fo r co llab o rative w o rksh o p s.

C o m erica In c. (N YSE: C M A) is a fin an cial services co m p any h ead q u artered in D allas, Texas, an d strateg ically alig n ed b y th ree b u sin ess seg m ents: Th e Bu sin ess Ban k, Th e Retail Ban k, an d Wealth M an ag em ent. C o m erica fo cu ses o n relatio n sh ip s, and h elp in g p eo p le an d b u sin esses b e su ccessfu l.

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DECEMBER 25, 2019

CALENDAR

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Diabetes Awareness Month Family Caregivers Month Recurring Events Feeding The Needy, host, Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez, 1641 Corsicana St, Dallas. 3-5p., Sundays.

The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection, African American Museum 3536 Grand Ave. Till 3-1-20.

2020 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade: Sign Up, for info contact: La Ronda Bacon or Natashia Cooper at the King Center, 214-670-8418.

DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day

Holiday Brunch, Omni Ft. Worth Hotel, 1300 Houston St. 10:30a-2:30p. RSVP: 817-350-4106.

Entrepreneurs of Excellence Dinner and Networking Event, Speaker, Shonny DeBouse-Young, host Danica Williams, 211 N. Ervay St. Dallas 7-10p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Sisterhood Speed Dating, host Benisha Jones, Pan African Connection, 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 7-10p.

Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

New Beginnings NYE 2020 Celebration, NYLO Hotel, 8201 Preston Rd. Plano. 6p-1a. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Night with the Nupes Pajama Party, host NOLA Cajun. Brick House Lounge, 2525 E. Arkansas Ln., Arlington. 9p-2a. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Ujima – Work & Responsibility

NYE Party hosted by African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 8:30-12:30a.

Sacrificial Fridays, Inspiring Body of Christ, 7701 S. Westmoreland Rd. 7:30p. IBOCCHURCH.ORG.

Rhythm, Jazz & Vibes w/Saxophonist Marcus Anderson, Sway’s Rm. In The R Lounge, 1175 N. Watson Rd., Arlington. 9p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

NYE in Dallas: Party On The Plaza, 1500 Marilla St. 7p-12:30a.

Up Town Happy Hour Friday’s, Tate’s, 2723 Mc Kinney Ave. 4.-10p. Evenbrite.com.

Sip N Jam, host Conscious-Development Band, The Wine Therapist, 1909 Skillman St. 8:30p.

DECEMBER 28

The MLK Fresh Produce Distribution Center, Bldg. A 2929 MLK, Jr. Blvd. Wed. 10:30a. Sat. 10a.

Pre New Years Eve Soul Bash, The Warehouse, 1125 E. Berry St. Ft. Worth. 8p.

JimAustinonline.

Lyfe Jennings, House of Blues, 2200 N. Lamar St. 7p.Tickets LiveNation.com.

Holiday at the Arboretum, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd. 9a-5p. 12-31.

WAYO for the Homeless Presents: Christmas: In Memory Give back, Cornerstone Baptist Church 2815 Ervay Bldg. B. 3-5p.

A Smooth Holiday Groove “A Winter Affair” host DFW Live Events, Mercury Studio, 6301 Riverside Dr. Bldg. 1, Irving 7:30p-1a.

Help Someone DFW, host, April Mccloud & Rashawn Jones across from 2320 Poplar St. Ft. Worth. 10a-2p. Free, Info: Eventbrite.com.

NYE Smooth Jazz, Jeffery Smith, Vandell Andrew & Amp, host Dallas Jazz Series, Dallas Sound Lab 350 E. Royal Ln. #119, Irving. 8p-1a. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Kwanzaa Begins Umoja – Unity

West African Dance Kwanzaa on the Dance Floor, host Bahdae Dance. Pan-African Connection, 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 12-1:30p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Simple & Health Cooking Classes, Foremost Family Health Center, 2922 MLK, Jr. Blvd. Bldg. B. 1-2p.

DECEMBER 29

Conversations at The West, Friendship-West Baptist Church, 2020 Wheatland Rd. 7p.

Dallas Mavericks vs San Antonio Spurs, America Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave. 7p. Tickets: Ticketmaster.com.

DECEMBER 27 Kujichagulia Self Determination

Jokes & Smokes Comedy Show NYE Pre-Party, Host: Flo Hernandez & Uncle Hollywood, Allure Lounge 110 S. Cockrell Hill Rd. 8p.

Pajama Vision Board Party, Bishop Arts District, Host: Brown Sugar Beauty Supply. 7p- 11a. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Fourth Fridays Concert O.T. & The Funk, host Arts DeSoto, Corner Theater 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 8-10p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

JANUARY 3

New Years Eve Kuumba - Creativity

End of the Year Vendor Bash!

Young Black Entrepreneurs Networking Group, Nirvana Event Center 9550 Skillman St. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

DECEMBER 26

DECEMBER 31

Ujamaa – Cooperative Economics 2nd Annual Pre New Year’s Eve Smooth Jazz, DFW Social 40, DFW Airport, 2400 Aviation Dr. 7p-12a. Tickets: www.dfwsocial40.com.

Jeff Aycock Presents: “Jazz for the Season” Red Carpet Invitation, Black Box Theatre, 211E. Pleasant Run Rd. DeSoto.

Christmas One Service, Friendship-West Baptist Church, 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 10a.

NYE Smooth Jazz Sunday Brunch, Joyce Spencer & Friends, 1505 Elm Street Owner Association, 1505 Elm St. 11:30a-3p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

DECEMBER 30 Nia - Purpose

Gary Owen’s DFW-NYE Take Over IV, The Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Performance Pl. 7p-2a. AXS.

NYE 2019 Living My Best Life, The Attache Cigar Lounge, 4099 W. Camp Wisdom #101. 9p.

JANUARY 4

NYE Celebration, An Evening of R&B, Jazz and Dancing, Thorntree Golf Club, 825 W. Wintergreen Rd. DeSoto. 9p-1:30a. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Arthello Beck Gallery Presents: Nitashia Johnson The Self Publication, South Dallas Culture Center, 3400 Fitzhugh Ave. 1p.

New Light Church Night Watch 2019 Service, 9413 Elam Rd. 9p. Info: www.newlightchurchdallas. com 8th Annual Night of Hope, Blaine Stone Lodge, 5331 Weatherford Rd. Midlothian.

8p-2a. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Nye 2020 feat: Yella Beezy and family, BH Lounge, 2525 E. Arkansas Ln. Arlington. 8p.

JANUARY 1

Happy New Years Imani - Faith

Celebration of Haiti’s 216th Year of Independence, host Professor Nyembo the Pan-Africanist, Taste of Miami Restaurant, 202 S. Main St. #19-05, Red Oak. 4p.

2020 New Years Resolution Run! Run On! 5400 E. Mockingbird Ln. 9a. Info: 214-821-0909.

Jamrok Wednesdays, A Night of Jamaican Music, Art & Culture, Hero’s Lounge, 3094 N. Stemmons Fwy. 7p-2a. Tickets Eventbrite.com.

Patient Care Technician Training; Oak Cliff Works, Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce, 1001 N. Bishop Ave. Wed. Info: Loren 214-943-4567 x208.

JANUARY 2

Business Basics 101 Workshop, host Genesis Preferred Solutions. Friends of the Zula B. Wylie Library, 225 Cedar St. Cedar Hill. 11a-1p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com Soul Breakfast Saturday, Gran Gran’s Catfish & Soul Food, 205 S. Main St. Red Oak 7a-10a.

For the Love of Jazz & Poetry host The Food for Soul Experience. Sway’s Room-Inside The R Lounge 1175 N. Watson Rd., Arlington 9p-12a. Tickets Eventbrite.com.

Code Compliance with the City of Dallas, host Coffee & Politics 101.

African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave. 10-11a.

Glitter & Goals Vision Board Party, host, Major Kee’s Boutique. D.L. Hopkins Senior Ctr. 206 James Collins Blvd. Duncanville 12-3p. Eventbrite.com.

JANUARY 5 Dallas Zoo Lights: by Reliant, Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Fwy. 5-9p. Tickets: mydallaszoo.com.

J5 Brunch, host Richardson-Plano Alumni Chapter Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Hilton Anatole, 2201 N. Stemmons Fwy. 11a-2p.

Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

New Year Extravaganza w/The Solid Gold Soul Experience, host, A E Group. American Shaman 3801 W. President George Bush Hwy. #130. 7:3011:30p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

The Color Purple, host Bass Performance Hall. Bass Performance Hall, 4th & Calhun Streets, Ft. Worth. 6:30-9p.

Tickets: www.basshall.com.

DWE Feed The Homeless, host Dallas Women Entrepreneurs. Whole Foods 250 McKinney Ave. 10a1p. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Jazz Brunch Sundays at Vinetti’s 14833 Midway Rd. Addison. 11a-3p.

Conversations at The West, Friendship-West Baptist Church, 2020 Wheatland Rd. 7p. Thu.

Sunday Community Drum Circle, Pan African Connection, 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. 2-5p.

Reggae Sunday Brunch at Hero’s Lounge 3094 N. 35 Fwy. Dallas. 11a-3p

9

DECEMBER 25, 2019

Crump talks, ‘Open Season: Legalized Genocide of Colored People’

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Famed Civil Rights Attorney Ben Crump has written a new book that examines the troubling history of environmental racism in America.

“Open Season: Legalized Genocide of Colored People,” the 272-page book that’s already the top seller on Amazon.com in the category of Civil Rights Law, tackles how environmental racism pertains to the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, and Newark, New Jersey.

In the book, Crump explores how marginalized communities largely are overlooked by the institutions charged with protecting them.

Crump also summarizes the state of civil and environmental rights in the U.S. As he prepared a return to Flint, Crump vowed to avoid distractions, including a recent $100 million lawsuit filed by George Zimmerman against the attorney and the parents of Trayvon Martin.

“The parents of Trayvon Martin and I don’t want to give any attention to this frivolous and unfounded lawsuit

Thinking,

at all. We believe attention is what he’s seeking,” Crump said.

“It’s so asinine that the actions of the killer of their teenage son will continue to devastate them over and over again. Every year he comes up with something like the selling of the gun. It’s just horrific what this individual does. We rather focus on something more important, like in Flint, and this guy is only a distraction.”

Crump’s return to Flint, where he planned to hold rallies over two days to keep attention on the continued water crisis, comes nearly four years after he and hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons went house-to-house delivering water to families throughout the city.

“We found out that not only was there a water crisis, but Flint was a food desert,” Crump stated. “So, we have to focus on this because it’s important.

We have children who have problems with brain development because they were poisoned by the government wantonly.”

While Crump’s new book digs deeper into the Flint crisis, it also

continued from front page

said Robinson Jr., 78, was a reliable fount of general wisdom whenever he (Allen) needed a jumpstart during some business snag or a lift when he felt downcast during some task.

I was just thinking how Robinson’s Jr.’s impact with the museum in Dallas is strong enough that earlier this year some supporters tried to launch an effort to name the museum in his honor while he is alive. They cited the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, renamed in 1998 for its founder, physician Dr. Charles H. Wright who was alive when the museum was renamed. He died four years later at age 83.

Allen urged the audience at the

Doubletree by Hilton Hotel to be more dedicated to preparing a new generation of leaders and community advocates – particularly among young African-Americans. Failing to prepare will mean that other races will fill the seats that African Americans fought to gain as a way to advance our culture, Allen said.

“I need you to do one thing,” Allen said. “Help me to identify my replacement (and yours) when our fire is quenched.”

Museum trustee board chair Rev. Vonciel Jones Hill reiterated Allen’s admonition to prepare young successors for our seats and complimented Dr. Robinson Jr.’s

Michael Brown’s life under the rug,” Crump continued.

“The government called in the National Guard. And I remember being there with the media and the crowds of people and the National Guard with militarized and an assault rifles,” he said.

Crump continued: And you have these young people

without fear. And this one brother specifically walked right up to the National Guard, who has their rifle trained on him. The man’s face was practically touching the tip of the rifle, but he just had enough at that moment.

“He said, with the rifle in his face, ‘go ahead and shoot me with all these cameras here, because you’re going to shoot us anyway when they go away, so shoot and kill me now so the people can see how you kill us.’

“I thought that was riveting because I said he’s right. It is important that people see how they’re killing us. But not just with bullets in the police shooting cases, but more poignant, how they kill us every day in every city, in every state, in every courtroom in America legally with these trumpedup felony convictions.”

With the book, Crump stated that he seeks to hold a mirror to the face of all Americans and force them to acknowledge the hypocrisy.

“You have to at least acknowledge the racism and discrimination in the institutions of governance. If you don’t ever admit it, we can never solve

the problem,” he stated.

It took about three years for Crump to write “Open Season,” and he called it one of the most challenging tasks he’s undertaken.

“You sit there and remember all those things that have happened to black and brown people in this country, and it just breaks your heart,” Crump said.“Over and over again, no matter what the situation is, for people of color, we get the most injustice.

“You can give me any situation, and they will find a way to make sure that marginalized people of color don’t get equal justice. That’s what we have to fight against. That’s what we’re fighting against in Flint, Newark, Baltimore, Washington, and other communities,” he continued: “If this water crisis in Flint would have happened in a white community, it would be a national catastrophe.

Lightning would strike and thunder would boom. I mean people would go to jail. “But, because it’s a majorityminority community, it’s almost as if Americans don’t know it happened.

They say, ‘it doesn’t affect me, just those Black and brown people, so it doesn’t matter.’”

example.

“Terry is correct,” Rev. Hill said.

“We have to bring along the next generation. ...I am so glad that Dr. Robinson and ... (his supporters) had the good sense to bring along the next generation.”

Rev. Hill also paid tribute to her predecessor as board chair, the late Dr. Wright Lassiter Jr. who died July 2 at age 85. She and entrepreneur Matt Houston, who moderated the program, urged guests and the public to support the museum in Lassiter’s fashion by giving of their time, finances and “kind words.”

They also said the award’s namesake, A. Maceo Smith, was the guiding light for business and community service in Dallas’ African American community. Smith organized the

Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce (previously the Dallas Negro Chamber of Commerce) in 1933.

He came to Dallas as a high school teacher and began a crusade of founding African American organizations and movements to advance voting, education, business and community development, and cultural pride.

He became a U. S, Department of Urban Development executive and achieved heights such that a downtown Dallas federal building is named in his honor.

In his benediction, Rev. Mark Proctor summed up the program’s recurring theme: “We are not truly a success, until we have a successor,” Rev. Proctor said.

Other award recipients and their

categories were: Joyce Foreman, Dallas school board trustee (education); Lyria Howland, public relations and diversity strategist (youth involvement and mentorship); Paulette Johnson, Trucker’s Café owner and chef (civic engagement & human services); Alyson Rae Lawson, 7-11 franchise owner/business & finance executive (under age 40 achiever); Vicki Meek, independent art curator and arts administrator (art & culture); Earl Thompson, school coach and North Texas youth Football League president (youth involvement shared with Lyria Howland).

explores racism across the country.

In one section of “Open Season,” Crump talks about one of the incidents that inspired him to continue his work as a civil rights attorney.

“When we were in Ferguson, Missouri, in the aftermath of the killing of Michael Brown, who was shot and killed in broad daylight, there were these young Black Lives Matter activists who refused to let them sweep

Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, graduate of UT-Austin and Dallas native. She is also one of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame.

10

DECEMBER 25, 2019

FROM THE CAPITOL

BY CONGRESSWOMAN EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON Congresswoman Johnson represents the 30th congressional district of Texas in the US House of Representatives.

Presidential Shame and Pity The late Michigan Congressman John Dingell was one of the finest public servants to have ever served in the United States House of Representatives.

And for the president of the United States to belittle his memory is illustrative of a gross lack of decency and character that cannot be tolerated.

In a speech, immediately after he became only the third president in U.S. history to be impeached, Mr. Trump said that Congressman Dingell, the longest serving member in the history of the House of Representatives, was watching events in the nation from hell. The hideous comment stabbed at the very core of decent people wherever they are found.

My congressional colleague, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, who now represents the district that her husband once did, was more than personally devastated. . She said that the remark hurt her deeply, as it would anyone who loved their spouse, and who had witnessed them selflessly serve our nation for more than half a century.

While Mr. Trump was building a hotel and entertainment business, the late Congress Dingell was helping to build and sustain a great nation.

Respected by members

of both major political parties, Congressman Dingell’s positive imprint on our nation’s fabric is unquestionable.

The inappropriate remark by Mr. Trump and unkind comments he made regarding Congresswoman Dingell brought to mind what he once said about the late Senator John McCain, whose status as a war hero the president questioned.

Those that worked with Senator McCain and large numbers of citizens who knew his history as a prisoner of war were shocked and angered. We did not expect words of that nature to come from the mouth of a resident of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. It was a substantial departure from normalcy.

To their credit, Republican members of

Congress from Michigan have asked President Trump to apologize to Congresswoman Dingell for the comments he made about her husband. I also call on him to apologize.

This is not the first time that President Trump has used offensive language while referring to others.

If he does not understand the harmfulness of his ugly rhetoric surely responsible members of his party do.

They must understand that his comments are damaging to the soul of our nation and to the office of the presidency. Shame and pity on those who do not understand, and who do not demand that the president stop! + Congresswoman Johnson represents the 30th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. She is the chairwoman of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.

11

DECEMBER 25, 2019

31st

Year

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DECEMBER 25, 2019

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continued from front page

American Airlines has launched new winter service to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands with the arrival of flights from Chicago (ORD) and DallasFort Worth (DFW) began December 21, 2019.

Flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport began serving Cyril E. King International Airport on Saturdays, through April 4, 2020. Flights from Dallas-Fort Worth will operate year-round on Saturdays.

Utilizing Airbus 319 equipment with a 128-seat capacity, American Airlines #1109 departs Chicago at 9:20 a.m., arriving on St. Thomas at 3:59 p.m. The return service AA #1109 departs St. Thomas at 5 p.m., landing in Chicago at 8:34 p.m.

The Dallas-Fort Worth service, on Boeing 757 aircraft with 176 seats, departs Dallas-Fort Worth on AA #1237 at 8:55 a.m., landing on St. Thomas at 3:40 p.m. AA #1251 departs St. Thomas at 1:51 p.m., arriving in Dallas-Fort Worth at 5:32 p.m.

"American Airlines is pleased to provide nonstop service to the beautiful island of St. Thomas from these important hubs," said Alfredo Gonzalez, American's Managing Director, Caribbean. "We would like to thank the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, the Virgin Islands Port Authority, and other agencies for working seamlessly with us to make these flights possible."

"We are delighted to inaugurate these flights which open up and enhance the very important Chicago and Texas markets," said Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism. "We are very happy with the deepening of our partnership with American Airlines and look forward to working with their team to bolster airlift to our Territory this winter and beyond."

This winter, American Airlines also increases capacity to St. Thomas with the addition of a third daily flight between Miami and St. Thomas.

The third daily flight, which began earlier this week, operates as a "same day turn", departing Miami International Airport at 8:35 a.m. and arriving at Cyril E. King International Airport at 12:14 p.m. The return service departs St. Thomas at 1:06 p.m. the same day it arrives, landing in Miami at 3:11 p.m.

American will also extend Charlotte-St. Croix flights during the holiday period, and will serve the island with thrice weekly flights from Miami over the summer.

For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI). When traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens enjoy all the conveniences of domestic travel including on-line check-in - making travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands easier than ever. As a United States Territory, travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands does not require a passport from U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but U.S. citizens.

13

DECEMBER 25, 2019

Hanging with Hollywood

STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER MOVIE REVIEW

BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

VH1 Black Ink Crew

By VALDER BEEBE

STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER is the ninth installment in the STAR WARS movie series and somewhere at about the sixth movie the series got really way off course after George Lucas left the series and most of that blame went to J.J. Abrams.

In this final STAR WARS movie Abrams should get the credit for wrapping up the movie series on a positive note.

While some of the previous movies were a bit confusing and figuring out the new characters without a program was a real task for the average moviegoer THE RISE OF SKYWALKER is a straight-ahead story of good against evil in a story that is easy for the most casual of STAR WARS fans to understand.

The movie also has some surprises and the alien creatures are back as the best of the best from any previous movie. With the exception of the original, the final STAR WARS saga may be the most enjoyable of them all.

It’s an interesting, yet simple plot. The Resistance faces The First Order, the good guys vs the bad guys, for one last time with some great plot twist and special effects.

Rey, played by Daisy

Ridley, leads the Jedi rebels against The Sith, who are led into battle by Kylo Ren, played by Adam Driver.

The evil Galactic Emperor, Palpatine, played by Scottish actor Ian McDiarmid, is just as creepy and sinister as he was in the previous STAR WARS movies beginning with the 1980s THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. Chewey, Lando (Billy Dee Williams), Finn, played by John Boyega, and all of the good characters from the previous movies like C-3PO, and R2-D2 are all back for this one last go-round for the movie. Carie Fisher appears through archival footage and Mark Hamill is in the finale as Luke Skywalker.

In what promises to be one of the eagerly anticipated movies of the holiday season moviegoers will be delighted with this final STAR WARS movie. The movie is rated PG-13 and runs 2 hours and 21 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale Rating” STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER gets my highest possible rating A JUMBO (with extra butter)!

Interviewing millennial reality show stars is always revealing.

In conjunction with talking about their upcoming season 6, Black Ink Crew’s Char maine’s responded to an audience member’s questions about gun violence in Chicago.

Ryan Henry’s success and hustle with his tattoo business has broken down barriers and established 9MAG into one of the most soughtafter tattoo shops in Chicago.

This season, the stakes are high for Ryan as he enters therapy after realizing he’s been using his shop to avoid dealing with the death of his sister. With the help of his brothers Don and Phor, Ryan is determined to keep his circle tight, and continue to develop his relationship with his son while co-parenting with Rachel.

Charmaine Walker is celebrating entrepreneurship in a maledominated industry by opening one of Chicago’s first female owned and operated tattoo shops. With the help of a renowned British tattoo artist, they plan to employ true Chicago natives, who have struggled through the system and know how to work a tattoo gun.

This massive shake-up in the Windy City tattoo industry threatens to take 9MAG’s spot at the top.-Text provided by Black Ink Crew publicists in conjunction with the Valder Beebe Show.

VBS: Ryan & Charmaine you are here to represent VH1 Black Ink Crew. Charmaine you are representing women entrepreneurs in a non-traditional female business.

CW: It’s really an honor being in the position that I am in, yet being male or female being an

CHARMAINE AND RYAN

entrepreneur is challenging. I’m the owner of the first owned and operated female Tattoo shop in Chicago. The audience will see a female owner who is not a tattoo artists owing and manage a Tattoo shop which has been a male dominated business field.

RH: This is going into our sixth season. You see me become an adult and being a man.

VBS: Becoming an adult, let’s expound on that. You have made the decision to seek therapy which is a non-traditional choice for African Americans, especially males. Tell my audience a little about that choice.

RH: ABSOLUTELY! Being accountable for my actions.

Moving forth and growing in what I am doing. Looking back on five-10 years ago I felt I could solve my problems. Now being mature looking forward and getting a different view is what going to therapy provided me in solving business and personal challenges.

VEB: This is for you from our Facebook audience. A recent weekend 15 people were caught in gun violence in Chicago. Your shop is in Chicago, how does that impact your business?

CH: The violence impacts the entire city of Chicago no matter where you are located. We‘re somewhat sheltered because……

Black Ink Crew full interviewYouTube.com/valderbeebeshow

Valder Beebe Show THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW On-Demand video: ValderBeebeShow.com, 411RadioNetwork. com, Youtube.com/valderbeebeshow; PODCAST audio: Soundcloud.com/valderbeebeshow, Soundcloud.com/kkvidfw; Broadcast:KYBS FM Y99.9, KRER FM 102.5, Streaming TV PChatman Network and VBS affiliate broadcasters; On-Demand 411 RadioNetwork.com,. – Now available on 411RadioNetwork APP (download free in Google Playstore); Valder Beebe Show is a Power of 3 Women media influencer consortium partner

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DECEMBER 25, 2019

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DECEMBER 25, 2019

Realizing the Dream Healthy Living

Enjoy the Dr. Martin Luther King parade then come join us!

EXPO

January 20, 2020 10a-6p

Building strong, healthy communities physically, mentally, financially, spiritually, holistically and socially

WHO HAS THE ABSOLUTE BEST MACARONI AND CHEESE? We’re looking for the best:

Commercial, Individual and VEGAN

Call 214-941-0110

to enter or for vending opportunities

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Entertainment Good food Yoga Exercise Tips

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And many more!

3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas Financial Literacy Voter Education/Awareness Authors Showcase Natural Hair Care Explosion

Car Show and much more

Realizing the Dream Healthy Living

Enjoy the Dr. Martin Luther King parade then come join us!

EXPO

January 20, 2020 10a-6p