Texas Metro News

EXTENDED COVID-19 COVERAGE INSIDE Civil rights giant I WAS JUST THINKING...

MY TRUTH

Rev. Joseph Lowery dies

By Cheryl Smith Publisher

Friend or Foe?

As a journalist I know, and I have told so many students over the years, “you don’t want to ask ‘that question.’”

For me a “stupid” question” is an ill-prepared question: meaning your facts were wrong and you hadn’t done your research.

On occasion I have had the opportunity to ask a question of both Bill and Hillary Clinton, and then-Senator Barack Obama. In a crowded room, with thousands of journalists each time, I came prepared with the well-researched and rehearsed question.

I also had the knowledge, which was affirmed by two of my journalism/life mentors, the late George Curry and Dr. Julianne Malveaux, that whatever question I asked, there would be those in the room See MY TRUTH, page 12

EXCLUSIVE

HAPPY 106th Birthday!!!

Reverend Dr. Joseph Echols Lowery, 98 October 6, 1921 - March 27, 2020

Reverend Dr. Joseph Echols Lowery

April 1, 2020

By Norma Adams-Wade

Faith and common senseWays to fight coronavirus

See LOWERY, page 16

Chef Brian Hay- EL Centro Dean of Instruction for Culinary Pastry and Hospitality Chef Brian Hay has been working and learning in the food service industry since the late 1980s.

As a young child in Ontario, Canada, he was a faithful viewer of “The Galloping Gourmet,” one of television’s earliest cooking shows.

He moved on to more formal studies earning a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Hotel and

Chef Brian Hay

Food Administration from the University of Guelph, Ontario, and a Master of Science degree in Restaurant Management from Purdue University.

A strong believer in lifelong learning, Chef Hay also holds a number of professional certifications, including a Sommelier diploma from the International Sommelier Guild, See CHEF HAY, page 2

Counseling helps in adapting to new norm A HEALTHY MIND DR. STACIA’ ALEXANDER

Miss ODESSA BOWIE, page 16

Rev. Dr. Joseph Echols Lowery made his transition peacefully at

home at 10 p.m., Friday, March 27, at the age of 98. He was surrounded by his daughters.

Hailed as the “Dean of the Civil Rights Movement” upon

VOL.8 NO. 26

The sudden call to think extremely out of the norm took nearly the entire population of the world out of their comfort zone.

Many took the stance of a

sincere awareness but some were so distanced from it that there was little change in pattern.

They checked in occasionally via the common news cycle and casually mentioned it during the water cooler talk. When another person commented on how much more serious this monster was to the very commonalities of our lives, they were dismissed as being an extremist.

Now that the United States

is fully immersed into this crisis state-of-life, the full impact of the COVID19 has crossed the minds of millions. Even the most casual of conversations has at least one person who is warning the others to take it seriously.

And while the news cycles are focusing on simply protecting and sustaining life, there are also millions of people quarantined See DR. STACIA, page 6

Fannie Mae Miles Bradford Fannie Mae Miles Bradford, at 89, has experienced more in her lifetime than many of the government officials who are advising us about our lives today.

So, Mrs. Bradford is approaching the coronavirus scare with similar stamina that has seen her through many nerveshattering eras. Born December 15, 1930, the Dallas native lived through World War II, the Korean War, Viet Nam War, Civil Rights conflicts, news of various assassinations including President John Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr., polio epidemic Ebola, HIV/AIDS outbreak, 9/11 terrorist attacks, and the Columbia space shuttle disaster.

Also, she remembers a series of fatal shootings at schools, a rash of fatal police shootings of See THINKING, page 5

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APRIL 1, 2020

INSIDE

NEWS

pg. 3

EDITORIAL

pg. 4

PERSPECTIVE

pg. 5

CALENDAR

pg. 10

LIFESTYLE

pg. 13

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

West joins calls for COVID-19 testing in prisons

their basic human rights can be ignored.�

Mr. West, who is running for United States Senate in the July Democratic Primary runoff in Texas, said BOP must begin the testing immediately and quarantine all federal prisoners who test positive for the disease in medical segregation.

State Sen. Royce West (D-Dallas), a “For the safety of both other prisoners nationally known advocate and prison staff, BOP must for restorative justice and come up with a solution criminal justice reform to medically quarantine who served as Dallas infected inmates in a way County’s first minority that protects the prison Chief Felony Prosecutor, population at large and called upon the federal prison staff,� he said.

Bureau of Prisons Friday Mr. West noted that cases morning to immediately of COVID-19 had already test every federal inmate for been detected in Texas COVID-19, take immediate state prisons and BOP staff steps to protect vulnerable in Texas has already tested inmate populations, and positive for COVID-19. make sure prison staff are Also, Mr. West said he Sen. Royce West properly protected. was joining the American “No amount of shelter-inCivil Liberties Union, Due place in our federal prisons can protect the Process Institute, Freedom Works, Justice most vulnerable inmates, or prison staff,�

Action Network, Justice Roundtable, Sen.West said. “Just because someone is The Leadership Conference on Civil and serving time for a crime does not mean

Chef, continued from front page Free - Take One

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50-1397 1 Year Subscription $45.00

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS ubscription $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.

and a Certified Sommelier Certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers. He is also a Certified Executive Chef along with a Certified Culinary Educator with the American Culinary Federation. Future plans include completing additional certifications in Wine and Spirits.

Chef Hay was the Department Chair for ACC’s Culinary Arts program for over a decade. He then moved to become Program Director for the University of South Carolina’s Culinary Arts Certification while teaching classes in Beverage Management and Culinary Fundamentals. He was the Director of Kalamazoo Valley’s Community College Program in Michigan before heading out to start his own consulting business Art of the Pair, where he writes numerous articles related to food and wine pairing.

Where does he get his energy from? He says his own inspiration comes from his family and a simple phrase from Anthony Bourdain: “Good food, good drink, good view, and good company. What else is there in life?�

Human Rights, The Sentencing Project, and We Got Us Now, to call on the U.S. Department of Justice and federal Bureau of Prisons to immediately begin considering compassionate release for vulnerable prison populations who do not pose a threat to society. “We must get medically vulnerable populations out of federal incarceration before their prison sentences become death sentences,� Mr. West said, adding that he was urging Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to immediately call for COVID-19 testing and compassionate release of vulnerable populations in the nation’s federal penitentiary system. “Now is a time to show leadership on behalf of all Americans,� he said. “Senator Cornyn, I call on you to do everything in your power to protect prison staff and inmates in our federal prisons.�

3

APRIL 1, 2020

On Civil Disobedience: The Church and COVID-19 ON CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE BY REV. DR. JEFF HOOD

His huge fist repeatedly struck her face. This wasn't the first time her boyfriend beat her up...but this was definitely the worst.

Hours later, she awoke with blood caked between her face and the floor.

Seeing that her boyfriend was asleep, she quietly ran out the door. Due to multiple warrants, she was too scared to call the police. So, she ran to the only place she knew to go.

Seeing the steeple in the distance, she ran harder. For many years, her church was

known as a place that would help victims of domestic violence. It was her only hope.

Once she got on the lawn, she raced to the side door. There was always someone there. Running up, she missed the sign. Over and over again, she banged on the door. Nobody came.

Backing up, she realized that there was a sign, "Churches are not considered essential based on the recent COVID-19 order...so we have been forced to suspend all social services until the order is lifted."

He was sitting at home watching television. The phone rang. On the other end of the line, was a voice he did not know.

After identifying himself as a local police officer, the voice proceeded to tell him that his son was shot

and killed earlier that night.

Devastated, the man called his pastor. After hearing the anguish in his voice, the pastor raced over to his parishioner's house.

Not long after he got off of the exit, he was pulled over.

Unable to understand what he had done wrong, he rolled down the window. The officer asked where he was going. After his explanation, the pastor thought he was just going to be able to go.

Instead, the officer went back to his car.

After a few minutes, the officer came back with a citation. Immediately, the pastor demanded to know the reason for this ticket.

The officer didn't hesitate, "Ministers are not considered essential workers under the recent

COVID-19 order."

She needed food. The church was closed.

He needed emergency counseling.

The church was closed.

He needed help with his bills.

The church was closed.

She needed somewhere to sleep. The church was closed.

He needed to take a shower.

The church was closed.

She just needed help. The church was closed.

He just needed help. The church was closed.

The church is the largest provider of social services in our country.

Dallas County and various other counties have discouraged/inhibited such work.

Repeatedly, churches and their T:5” in the ministers are not included

definitions of what is essential to our society. The language is all about businesses. While there is room given for churches to meet "virtually," churches can't do the vast majority of their work over a computer screen. More lives will be lost if the church stops being the church. I can't accept this.

We must love our neighbors.

We must stand up for the marginalized and oppressed.

We must. To do anything else would not be the church. When someone asks for the help of churches, I encourage you to help them...no matter what any authority says.

Civil disobedience might be the hallmark of our faith at this point.

Rev. Dr. Jeff Hood studied at Brite DIvinity School. He is a prominent theologian and local activist.

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EDITORIAL

APRIL 1, 2020

WILLIAMS: Setting the record straight WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE

DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ.

TriceEdney – Every time I hear Donald Trump blame President Barack Obama for everything bad, while he takes credit for everything good, I want to scream, but instead, I thought I would do a bit of research. As my friend Dick Gregory would remind me, “Write and speak so your grandmother can understand you.” Let me give that a try.

Before President Obama and his team left the White House, they took the time to brief Trump’s team on everything— including handling pandemics.

Afterall, they had successfully taken us through Ebola. Here’s what I found. Officials took the

time to brief Trump’s incoming administration on a scenario remarkably like the one we are facing now about a possible pandemic. Trump’s team was told about potential challenges.

Among them were shortages of ventilators, anti-viral drugs and other medical essentials.

The Obama team pressed the importance of pandemic preparedness to the persons who would come into the job once the Obama team left the administration. How did the Trump team show their appreciation? They dismantled the National Security Council section that would have helped them in handling a global pandemic such as the one we are facing. How did Trump respond to a question about this? “I don’t know anything about it” and called the reporter’s question “nasty.”

The story doesn’t end here. Trump’s administration eliminated a key American public health position in China intended to help detect disease outbreaks in China. Had Dr. Linda Quick remained in China, she might have been able to give the administration an early warning. She is not being allowed to speak to the public on the issue about what she knew and when did she know it. She might have been able to tell the appropriate persons about the emergence of the virus in China late last year.

Now, Trump finds every way he can to blame China for not having the information our then public health person in China could have warned us. This man takes the responsibility for nothing. He’s been in his job as President for over 30 months— but his go to excuse is to blame President Obama!

At this time, Trump doesn’t seem to care about the tragedy that the delayed information about COVAD-19 is causing is getting people back to work. His responses are in direct conflict with what health experts are advising since there is no concrete information on containment of the virus. We already see that when several Asian nations tried that approach, they experienced a resurgence of the virus; but, Trump wants to open up our country by Easter no matter what! While he interferes with what medical experts are saying, he wants to have the country and the economy “raring to go

by Easter!” Further, he says, “It’s (the country) is not built to shut down. Our people are full of vim and vigor and energy. They don’t want to be locked in a house or an apartment or some space.”

Something is wrong with our

laws about presidents when they can be recorded with over 16,000 lies in less that one term in office and still be in office with no consequences! How can a sane person lead the American people to believe that even as the virus spreads rapidly, we should drop all the precautions and rush back out to save the economy!

This is a time many of us wish we could just skip ahead to November, vote and bring sanity back to our country! In the meantime, continue exercising care by listening to the health experts, washing your hands frequently, practicing social distancing, being kind and helpful to others and praying that you aren’t guilty of being the cause of spreading the virus.

(Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of the National Congress of Black Women and Host of “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-FM 89.3.)

MALVEAUX: CORONA CONFUSION and MARCH MADNESS Basketball fans were looking forward to March Madness, THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

those weeks when the best college teams face off against each other. Madness was replete this March, but it wasn’t on the basketball courts. The dangerous coronavirus which can be transmitted by a cough, a touch, or “direct contact” is spreading all over the world. It is madness that the United States, which loves to brag about our world superiority, comes up short when it comes to coronavirus testing.

Many who have been exposed to the virus have not been tested because test kits are in short supply.

In reaction, March Madness has been canceled, as has professional basketball and other sports. In New York and other locations, public safety prohibits large gatherings, causing St. Patrick’s Day parades to be canceled. Broadway is likely to go dark because of the prohibition of groups of more than five hundred people, and most Broadway theaters hold more than a thousand people.

Some colleges and universities have told students to stay home for spring break and offered online

classes. Some K-12 schools are closed for weeks because of the virus. And millions of workers have been told they should work from home because of the virus.

All of these factors contribute to the volatile stock market; all of

the gains shareholders realized since 2016 have now been wiped out.

Much of this might have been avoided, but for the fact

that 45 did not initially take this virus seriously. Instead, when informed of this pandemic, the President’s initial reaction was a wholly vacuous assurance that the virus was “just like the flu,” and would go away “when it gets hot.” Instead, the repercussions from the coronavirus are massive.

The stock market tanked during the week when 45 first dismissed the virus, and then imposed travel restrictions, preventing some people from traveling to the United States.

The spread of the coronavirus reveals weaknesses in the armor of the country, some describe as “the greatest country” in the

world. The coronavirus has been declared a pandemic, a world emergency. The United States is woefully unprepared to manage this emergency. The focus of this administration has been to slash the public sector and provide tax breaks for the wealthy.

Public health (or any other kind) has not been a priority for this administration.

Managing a world pandemic is beyond the capacity of the private sector.

Both Democratic presidential candidates Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders have given substantive speeches on their approach to this coronavirus.

Unlike the President, these Democrats were concerned with the children who See MALVEAUX, page 5

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APRIL 1, 2020

Social Distancing?

Da Boys in Da Hood didn’t get the memo!

FOLKS GATHERED WITH NO REGARD TO SOCIAL DISTANCING

THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES

BY THOMAS MUHAMMAD

Yeah you saw them too just as I did right? Hundreds of Black folks hanging out on street corners in South Dallas, primarily near liquor-related stores. Drinking, drugging, selling all while practicing NO social distancing as ordered by Dallas County!

Check out the photos here at the corners of Metropolitan/ Second Avenue and Spring Avenue/Sutton Street as examples.

All across the US and the world we are constantly being warned to Stay at Home or we could spread the coronavirus disease to their families, friends and associates.

Now please understand I’m not stuck on stupid! I totally believe that when it comes to serious troubles about to happen to white folks that they have already prepared to write off large numbers of

Vacant lot in Fair Park area.

people of color and the poor.

So yeah I get that these folks are not that important in the whole scheme of things, but speak out we must, if we know better!

In the photos shown here you clearly see dozens of cars parked openly as people congregate to no end with each other.

What you can’t see here are dozens of motorcycles in the middle of the autos, some with two riders!

Not a care in the world!

But again we are reminded daily, in fact hourly, that congregations such as these are dangerous to the public -- that doing this can bring about a community’s death!

Can’t help feeling like going into a screaming fit as I watch the political fights

about ventilators, masks and other PPEs. While Black brothers and others are out in plain sight violating orders and risking the lives of other folks in their communities. Yeah somebody’s playin!

But it also points out one other thing and that is that this community clearly needs a Black city council person, because I can tell you that if the late sister Carolyn Davis was alive these dudes woulda already gotten a “House Call” right on those vacant lots!

In fact I’m almost ready to draft a Diane Ragsdale for city Council petition!

Until then the struggle continues!

Thomas Muhammad is an activist, writer and community servant.

I WAS JUST THINKING,

continued from front page

African-American men, the joy of Dallas black legends: Dr. John Wesley witnessing the nation’s first African- Anderson was her physician as a American president, tarnished by child. A. S. Penn was a principal who the return of racial conflicts after our supervised her early in her career. current President’s campaign to build She taught in Dallas and Fort a wall to keep out undocumented Worth public schools for more than immigrants.

40 years and retired in the midMrs. Bradford, a retired Dallas 1990s. She was “First Lady” and school teacher and long-time director of various ministries and her minister’s wife, said it was faith and late husband, Rev. Bishop J. Bradford common sense that sustained her Jr., was Pastor for more than 40 years through it all and, if her Maker at Mt. Horeb Baptist Church at wills it, she expects 3306 Carpenter Ave. in that approach to carry South Dallas/Fair Park. her on, even through Until Pastor Bradford coronavirus.

Jr. died at 78 in 2007, “Prayer and they were the longest meditation,” she said. serving couple at the “I also have a favorite helm in Mt. Horeb’s scripture and hymn that now 103-year history. speak to every aspect of Of their two sons and my life ... Concerning two daughters, two are the virus, I take all pastors, one the wife of suggested precautions -- Fannie Mae Miles Bradford a pastor, and the other a and then I use common devoted church worker. sense.”

After living for many decades in a On the door of her room at a spacious home near Ledbetter Dr. in senior adult residence in Mesquite, Southern Dallas, the former president hangs the Psalms 23:1 scripture that of Metropolitan Baptist Ministers is part of her regular conversation, Wives & Widows Union in Dallas “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall moved to the senior home where she not want.” has become a popular resident. She And she takes advantage of any admits it took time to adjust to the opportunity to sing her favorite song, new and less independent lifestyle.

“Great Is Thy Faithfulness.”

Giving up driving and shopping on I was just thinking... her own was difficult but doable, What molds a person to form a the octogenarian said. Again, her thick skin against calamity such as scripture, song, faith and common coronavirus? In Mrs. Bradford’s sense directed her, she said. She also case, her early path was cemented is adjusting to the resident’s tightened

by Christian values. She grew operation and rules for visitors even up in the fabled Mill City Dallas through the coronavirus scare. neighborhood and the Greater “Through many dangers, toils Bethlehem Baptist Church in the and snares, I have already come,” area. She spent summers with said Mrs. Bradford, quoting a gospel relatives in the historically-Black song. “It was grace that brought me Lake Como area of Ft. Worth. She safe thus far, and I’m counting on missed many days in elementary and grace to carry us on.” high school because of an anemic Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, awarddisorder, but still graduated from winning journalist, graduate of UT-Austin Julia C Frazier Elementary, Lincoln and Dallas native. One of the founders of H. S., and in 1947 as salutatorian of the National Association of Black Journalists Bishop College in Marshall, TX. She (NABJ) she was inducted into the NABJ Hall rubbed shoulders with some historic of Fame.

6

Counseling after COVID-19,

APRIL 1, 2020 continued from front page

who are suffering silently trying to The call to action of mental health that the room is private. While it is cooperate just to stay alive. Through professionals all over the world is being not required that you have a perfect this cooperation, the very strings which sorely highlighted even though they space for the session, it does need to be hold them together are slowly being are ready to answer the call of duty. private. severed without any one realizing how And the most amazing aspect of their The next factor to consider is long the after effect of this trauma willingness to answer this call, is the accessibility. You can get on most will last. People who were struggling safety at which they can provide the virtual platforms for counseling via with depression pre-COVID19 or now services. your smartphone, tablet, laptop or battling with depression to maintain Virtual counseling has been on a desktop. If you can video communicate composure in the home. The anxiety steady rise for the last five years but with friends, family, and coworkers via levels that were creating waves from actually started in the late 80’s. facetime, messenger, duo or other video people who were already overthinking And here we are, not even 90 days platforms, you can log into a secure every aspect of their lives, platform with a licensed now has a big bad monster to The reality is, many need and will counselor to participate in a fold into every layer of their counseling session. anxiety that is shattering their need for years following, mental The final factor is to ensure learned coping skills. There you are scheduled with a are so many variables of mental health treatment to overcome the licensed clinician. Just as with health that are juggled each and other industries, there are every day by millions and all of threats and dangers experienced people who will work without this is further magnified by the the proper training. There constantly changing unknowns during the first quarter of 2020. are those in the counseling we are harnessed with daily. field who love to help people The reality is, many need yet they do not have the and will need for years following, into 2020, and the data streams are formal training and formal oversight mental health treatment to overcome bursting at the seams because nearly to conduct professional counseling and the threats and dangers experienced every sector of business is operating therapy sessions. Do your research and during the first quarter of 2020. virtually; entire school systems, media ask questions to ensure you are working A year that promised so much for (journalists are broadcasting from their with a licensed or provisionally licensed so many. A new decade touting hopes homes), banking, and even mental (in training) clinician. of financial security, achieved goals, health services.

There are daily mental health hearty relationships, and monumental And clinicians all over the world are challenges even without the presence gains. A year that showed us in a span working diligently to help people adjust of such a formidable virus that people of less than 90 days that we can control to talking about their most intimate encounter. very little outside of our response to thoughts and feelings via a video Embrace the resources available experiences. camera to a person they may or may to you through tele mental health That response is what dictates how not have met before COVID19 set into counseling just as you have embraced people move through challenging the fabric of the psyches of millions. it in other industries. More people and critical times. Positive responses There are three factors to consider are shopping online. More people are full of optimism and hope with when scheduling counseling services; are purchasing their groceries online. an understanding that challenges are Convenience, Accessibility, and More people are using delivery but a bar to jump over even if it is Professionalism. It is likely, after the services. More people are using drive incrementally raised to challenge us. stay in place is lifted, thousands of through banking. More people are Other people have negative responses more people will remain in the virtual watching concerts online. More, more, which cast a shadow even when every counseling realm once they realize how more. effort is made to forge ahead and accessible, convenient, and professional Professional counseling is more not fall short. And just like there are it is. available to you now, as well. Embrace three sides to every story: person one, The convenience factor is a given and watch how much of a positive person two, and the truth, so it is with without any detailed explanation. impact it has on your life. perspectives on experiences.

Being able to go into a private room Dr. Stacia’ Alexander, LPC-S is a Licensed Some people will have a combination and talk with your counselor with little Professional Counselor, Counseling Supervisor and of positive and negative responses effort is one of the most favorable Clinic Director. to situations over the cycle of the aspects of virtual counseling. experience.

The primary factor to consider is

Malveaux, continued from page 4 get school lunch when years. The most recent schools are closed. They report card, from 2017, were concerned with the gives us a D+ grade on contingent workers who our infrastructure, our won’t get paid when highways and bridges, they don’t work, unlike public buildings and government and other waterways, and more.

We get a D+, employees who and yet some will be paid no brag about our matter what. “greatness.”

Both Biden Once we were and Sanders a world leader, talked about the weakness in our President Trump but now we are a laughingstock, public health system, and the ways especially when our that hos-pitals will be country has abdicated burdened if this virus from leadership, blamgets worse.

Yet, 45 ing the pandemic on addressed this matter China and Europe.

Anyone who underwith a pithy elevenglobalization minute speech that was stands full of outright lies and knows that our countries are intertwined, and misinformation.

When 45 campaign- there are no borders ed four years ago, he strong enough to elimsaid he’d fix infra- inate disease.

Will March Madness structure, which is a bipartisan issue.

As turn into Adversity soon as he entered April and Miserable the Oval Office, the May? Will Congress infrastructure plan was pass measures that will forgotten. A strong and ameliorate the effects resilient public health of this virus on our system should be part health, and on our of our infrastructure. economy? Candidates Sanders Instead, that sector Biden and has been ignored by have offered ideas to an administration that minimize the impact of would rather feather the the coronavirus.

Is anybody paying nests of billionaires than ensure that everyone attention? who has been exposed to the coronavirus can Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, media be tested.

The National Society contributor and educator. Her of Civil Engineers issues latest project MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is available on youtube. a report card on our com. For booking, wholesale nation’s infrastructure inquiries or for more info visit every two or three www.juliannemalveaux.com

7

APRIL 1, 2020

COVID-19 is impacting the Beauty Industry Entrepreneurship can be the ultimate dream, until a global health crisis occurs, precisely cutting the slay language in the beauty industry…COVID-19 Pandemic!

Image makers include: barbers, hair stylists, nail technicians, wig makers, hair loss practitioners as well as paramedical professionals...Certified Trichologists and Board Certified Trichologiststs.

All are coping with ‘social distancing’ and ‘shelter in place’ executive orders for the first time ever!

Loss of revenue will force many to think of ways of servicing their clients online, or create educational teaching platforms.

At my Clinic, we have adapted by taking a strategic approach to

service new patients.

From the comfort of their home, we are offering Video Consultations, a diagnosis, along with a bonus... microscopic scalp analysis when we are able to reopen.

Creatives may also utilize this time for self care, family time, take an online Seminar, Webinar to enhance their skills, or even begin hosting their own podcast with purpose.

COVID-19 pandemic has inspired many nail designs, now trending on social media since March 10, 2020.

For example, nail designs with clorox, purell sanitizer, lysol spray cans, facial masks, even a miniature toilet paper roller which rolls on the

ABOUT YOUR HAIR

BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

www.hairandscalpessentials.com

nail. In addition, some nail creatives wear surgical gloves with artificial nails glued on the tips. Endless creativity.

Globally, image making businesses are temporarily closed.

In Texas, TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation) did not make the decision to announce closures of businesses, instead Judges of governing Counties enforced an ordinance.

The 1st city was Beaumont on Friday, March 20, then Dallas and Tarrant County, on Saturday, March 21st.

Countless clinics, barber shops, salons, etc...have been impacted the past 1-2 weeks.

Closures thus far, include Trinidad and Tobago, Can-

Photo credit: Dailonsy Nails, Miami

Governor’s executive order on suspending jail releases unconstitutional and public health concern, Rep. Birabil urges From Staff Reports TX. State Representative Lorraine Birabil (D-Dallas) urges Governor Greg Abbott to rescind his executive order blocking the release of certain individuals who can’t pay bail.

On Sunday, March 29th Gov. Abbott issued an executive order barring individuals accused or previously convicted of violent crimes from being released from jails without paying bail.

This order would allow individuals with the same criminal history or charges to walk free if they have access to cash. This is not only unfair but unconstitutional due to its discriminatory nature against poor individuals, said

Rep. Lorraine BIrabil

Rep. Birabil.

The order puts individuals in jails who have not been convicted of a crime as well as law enforcement officers and their families at a greater risk for contracting and spreading COVID-19.

“If our priority is to protect our community, we should be looking at ways to relieve overcrowded jails and law enforcement officers who are risking their lives to protect and serve,” she continued. “Let me be clear, as a mother and a public servant I would never advocate for the release of inmates who are deemed dangerous to our community. Gov. Abbott’s executive order doesn’t target violent criminals, it targets poor people.”

ada, Bahamas, Chicago, Georgia, Wales, UK Wash-ington State, even Australia. The International Association of Trichology, in Australia, has adapted by offering online Webinars on March 22, 23 and 25 to members and non members for Trichologists only.

Great opportunity for continued learning.

With hourly/daily changes being made to flatten the curve of COVID-19, compliance is emphasized daily on a global scale. Please stay as healthy as possible by building your immune system.

All questions may be forwarded to Dr. Linda Amerson LA’s Hair & Scalp Clinic 817 265 8854 Hairandscalpessentials.com #ScalpDoctor

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CORONAVIRUS!

APRIL 1, 2020

REAL TABLE TALK

BY CHAPLAIN DEBBIE WALKER BSN, RN, OCN

T

ake a seat, take a breath, and let me walk you through a straightforward and truthful perspective on this new entity that is the topic of our conversations nowadays, Coronavirus, or COVID-19 which is now a part of everyday conversation.

For the next few minutes, I will give some helpful insight for selfpreservation, and some care tips for your family, your neighbors, and your community circles so that we can get through this together. I have divided this into seven (7) Action Plans for each day of the week.

My prayer is that we shall get through this together, and that you family stay safe.

Action Plan I Self-Care: Care of yourself and prevent yourself from being infected so you can take care of others. Simply stated, proper handwashing is your best protection. Wash your hands frequently and after touching common areas, follow shelter-in-place orders and travel restrictions, cough in the crook of your elbow, keep your hands away from your face, and call health care provider if you feel ill.

Invest in a digital thermometer, take your temperature if it is 99.6f orally, and you have a cough and/or feel sick, call your physician, get tested at a testing site directed by your health care professional. Many areas have drivethru testing sites with certain criteria.

Until you are tested, stay away from others. A six-foot social distance is important when you go outside for food, gas, exercise, and if you are and essential business or employee.

Please pay attention to ever changing instructions. Toss away the worries about not having hand sanitizer or paper towels, the medical community prefers that you wash your hands with soap and water for 20 to 30

seconds. You may dry with a clean wash cloth. Low on toilet paper? Well there is nothing wrong with a good old fashioned bath of a shower for complete cleansing. It is not necessary to purchase expensive body wash, a bar of soap still does the job. Our basic instincts of hygiene should kick in. I am attaching a great guide and link for effective hand washing from the World Health Organization(WHO): Feel free to attach this to all sink areas as a reminder. Sing “Happy Birthday� twice to make sure it is at least 20 seconds.

When you go out, use your knuckles to press elevator buttons, commonly used pin pads, open doors with your elbow, use your back if possible, and use hand sanitizer if you have it. If you do not have hand sanitizer, take your bar of soap in a plastic baggie with you and wash your hands (if there is no soap). Never dry your hands on your shirt or pants. I make it a practice of making hand hygiene the first thing I do when I enter my home, and or touch a common surface.

Many spray commonly touched areas with disinfectant spray such as door knobs, key pads, and handles.

Remember, keep a social distance of at least 6 feet when you are out. I have chosen to use self-check-out, and take my own bag into the store.

Action Plan II Community Care: Consider for a moment who on your street, in your building, in your family, in your circles are disadvantaged by age (65 years or older), disability (physical and mental), and/or social (food insecure, laid off, or homeless), and reach out to them.

If you have, share, if you need, ask.

There is a well-known proverb of the monkey trap that shows how the monkey holds on tightly to the rice through a small hole in the coconut,

9

APRIL 1, 2020 and is thus is trapped by the idea of “what has worked in the past works now”. (The Book of Awakening, 2018) Only through generosity and care for one another, sharing as we are taught in grade school can we make it through this together. Bartering is an old way of economics that may very well be a survival techniques for a collective community. Many of us have hidden artistic talents that in the absence of money may be our new business venture. Time is on our side. With many ecommerce sites, assisting others with $5.00 can go a long way with meal planning. A bag of rice, pinto beans, and a pound of ground beef can feed a family of 4 dinner for about $5.00. We must become creative with how we shop, perhaps spending an extra $5.00 at the store can buy a loaf of bread, a dozen eggs, and peanut butter for your neighbor. This puts everything in perspective now. Blessings will abound when they can return the favor.

Action Plan III Faith in Humanity: Be anxious for nothing, talk with one another. We are in this together, become creative with ways to connect with your circle. Make the old-school telephone calls to check on one another. Use video conferencing mediums such as Zoom to create groups to have a fun evening out, to share your musical talents, and/or to share family events, prayer, stories, games. Sign up is FREE, attached is the link https://zoom.us/signup Go into your hallways, your porches, your balcony, your stoops (6 foot distances) and introduce yourself. Be creative, have talent shows, share cooking tips (not the food), play guessing games. Group chat texts with humor can see you through. Do not be embarrassed to admit that you are struggling, share your tears and joys. Lift one another up. If you are a faith community leader, check on your membership via way of a phone call, a text, a drop by their home (with social distance), to let them know they are not alone. This is the time to get a pet if you live alone, and/or a plant to have something depend on you. Many animals are suffering during this outbreak, and many studies show how being a pet parent can help with loneliness.

Many programs will give you free pet food.

Action Plan IV Healthy Cells: Keeping your immune system healthy by maintaining a balance between rest, activity, and nutrition. The cells charged in building our immunity must be cared for. It

is recommended to get about 7 or 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep daily to fight off infection according to Healthy Sleep 2020. Take a moment to browse this link which also states that healthy sleep keeps blood sugar levels stable in diabetics as well. https://www.healthypeople. gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/sleep-health In addition, daily exercise outdoors is great for your mental and physical health. When was the last time you threw a baseball in the park, or rode your bicycle? A simple walk around the block does not cost anything. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water (three to four 480 ml water bottles) daily unless you are on a fluid restriction. I like to add a wedge of lemon or lime for the vitamin C. If you are like me, and prefer tea, I make a mint tea with a little honey and lemon.

Green tea is also an excellent choice as well. I avoid sugar, if possible and opt for honey. A list of inexpensive foods that I add to my pantry to keep me in good health are onions, garlic, greens, fresh ginger root, turmeric, tomatoes, o r a n g e s , pineapple (rich in Vitamin C and Zinc), Cinnamon, and red pepper flakes. I have made an adjustment to purchase frozen fruits and vegetables which keep and store better.

Wash your fresh produce prior to cooking, and try to shop during non-peak time, or during senior citizen/disabled times if you fall in this category. Taking a brisk shower/bath daily will boost your circulation, and help you to feel better. Remember your skin is an organ, and keeping clean is very important, not just washing your hands.

Try to reduce your stress levels by adding music if you are also struggling with difficult diagnoses such as cancer. (The Effects of Music Therapy on Anxiety and Depression of Cancer Patients, 2016).

Follow your provider’s directives for treatments, and make sure you have a 30 to 90-day supply of medications. Many drug

companies will assist with co-pays, or reach out to the essential social workers to help you if you need assistance with your medications.

Some pharmacies offer more cost-effective alternatives why you physician approval.

Reading, prayer, journaling, painting, are also other therapies, and can pass the time.

Action Plan V If you have credible information share it.

Please do not share information that has not been verified, and/or untrusted news sites.

Believe the responsible journalists and news sites.

Make the adjustments with the most updated information. If you have a degreed health care professional in your family, get updates from them if possible, and support them emotionally.

We must flatten the curve so that our health care communities can take great care of those who must be hospitalized.

This is an excellent time to talk frankly with your loved ones regarding what their Advanced Directives to Physicians and Family or Surrogates, Medical Power of Attorney, and Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate(DNR) Information forms filled out for your state. Be aware that most medical facilities will not allow visitors due to concerns for community spread, thus these documents are very important. I am attaching a link for Texas available in English and Spanish. https://hhs.texas.gov/laws-regulations/forms/ advance-directives

Action Plan VI Routine for Sanity: Set a Routine and stick to it. It is very important to get out daily and smell the air, listen to the sounds, stretch your arms up to the sky. Is it sunny today, are the clouds out, is it raining? Life will continue. If you can, dig into

the earth and plant something that you can eat.

Teach your children about gardening, even a small tomato plant on a balcony has powerful messages of sustaining one’s self. Watching a flower bloom for the first time is healing.

Nurture one another, really listen. You may not agree with the other opinion, but allow the person to talk, two ears, one mouth is what our Creator gave us. Play some old board games such as checkers, dominoes, truth or dare, or spades inside your home. Have the kids put on a talent show. Have your own church service, share it with streaming. Do you have a sewing machine? Make something together from a favorite clothing item, or T-shirt. See who comes up with the best idea. This is a time for families to reconnect. Put the cell phones down during this time. Limit your intake of the news to just 1 to 2 hours per day, and sit down and have a what is “news” in your life conversation.

Cook together at home, sit at a table together, make meal prep stations, assign a Chef, and Sous-Chef, add music, make it fun, post a menu for the night.

Action Plan VII Illness/Recovery: What if you are sick and test positive? Notify your employer, circle, community that you have contact with so that they may get tested. Follow your health care professional’s advice strictly.

Know when to seek emergency medical attention. Call 911 and tell the 911 operator that you think that you have COVID-19, and put a mask on.

When to Seek Medical Attention If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.

Emergency warning signs include*: • Trouble breathing • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest • New confusion or inability to arouse • Bluish lips or face *This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

The following is a trusted link for up to date information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html#warningsigns Chaplain Debbie Walker, BSN, RN, OCN is the Executive Director of The American Black Cross, a 501(c)(3) NonProfit based in the Dallas, TX area. She is married to Ernest Walker, is a mother, an ordained minister, and community education through print, radio, and television since 1998 under 411Mag Ministries.

10

Middle School Teacher Zooms ahead with Online Learning

APRIL 1, 2020

Mayor Johnson creates new reporting requirements on ventilators, hospital bed capacity for COVID-19 response From Staff Reports

Jouet Daniels had no idea the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic was coming, but she was already prepared. Last year, to help her students prepare to take the state’s standardized STAAR test, the seventh grade English teacher began hosting study sessions on the Zoom video conferencing application.

The result? Her students had an 88 percent passing rate and 30 percent mastery - the highest scores for sixth graders in the entire district.

This year, Ms. Daniels expanded her online sessions to include evening and weekend tutoring for students who need extra help with class work. “It has helped with their progress especially for students who need tutorials,” Ms. Daniels said. “It has increased their confidence and helps to reinforce skills we have gone

over in class.”

While the education world is scrambling to transition to online learning in response to coronavirus, Ms. Daniels has already established her virtual presence. Students and their parents know how to reach her.

“I want my kids to still be diligent and understand that just because we’re having these difficulties now, we should stay engaged and get the education we need,” Ms. Daniels said.

Ms. Daniels said the uncertainty of not knowing what’s next can be uncomfortable, but with the right attitude, online learning can provide students with invaluable experience.

“This is college and career readiness at its finest,” Ms. Daniels said. “To be able to go to school online and speak with your instructor. This is preparing them for life.”

Restaurants authorized to sell bulk product from distributors to public

restaurant. Under this guidance, restaurants will be able to sell items like packaged meat, fruit and vegetables, and dry goods directly to the public to prepare and consume at home.

This guidance will allow distributors and restaurants to provide Texans another source of food outside of grocery stores and prepared food from restaurants. These bulk food items would be available for purchase through restaurants offering drive-thru, delivery, pick-up, and curbside service.

AUSTIN- Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to issue guidance allowing restaurants to sell bulk retail products from restaurant supply chain distributors directly to consumers provided that such foods are in their original condition, packaging, or presented as received by the

Mayor Eric Johnson on Monday issued a new set of emergency regulations that require hospitals to report daily information to the City regarding bed and ventilator capacity.

The regulations also suspend board and commission meetings — excluding the Park Board and City Plan Commission and any other boards and commissions required to meet for pursuant to, or in compliance with, state or federal law — through April 29. Any meetings during that time must take place via teleconference or video conference.

In addition, the mayor updated the City’s emergency regulations to match Dallas County’s recent orders, including the new order regarding long-term care facilities and construction.

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson Mayor Johnson is implementing the City's regulations pursuant to March 12 declaration of a local state of disaster, which is valid through April 29 unless the declaration is renewed or rescinded prior to then.

The reporting requirements are intended to help the City assess the needs of the medical community and prepare for a possible surge in hospitalizations related to COVID-19’s spread.

“We stand with our medical

community. The leaders of hospitals in Dallas have been critically important sounding boards for me in the last few weeks, and we rely heavily on our front-line healthcare workers, including our paramedics, our nurses, and our doctors," Mayor Johnson said. "They act heroically every day. We need them more than ever to get through this, and we will do all we can to help them during these difficult times."

Mayor Johnson and other City officials plan to address the media at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 31, in the City Hall Flag Room, 1500 Marilla Street, Dallas, TX 75201.

City Hall closed to the public In order to keep City of Dallas staff and residents healthy, City facilities will be working remotely effective immediately. City Hall will only be accessible to residents who have an appointment. The City of Dallas is open and continues to operate.

For more information on closures visit dallascityhall. com/COVID19.

APRIL 1, 2020

AiRS Foundation on Breast Reconstruction Surgery during COVID-19

With the rapidly unfolding COVID-19 pandemic and hospitals across the country tending to those infected by the virus, many non-urgent elective surgeries are being canceled including breast reconstruction and some mastectomies. While a decision has not been made on a national level, the decision to limit or cancel non-urgent elective surgeries is currently a local decision and each hospital system is creating their own standards for moving forward.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has recommended that all members review scheduled elective procedures and office visits to minimize non-essential risk to exposure and possibly transmission, according to a recent statement from the New York State Society of Plastic Surgeons.

This decision stems from a concern for the health and safety of all patients and healthcare professionals, and stopping the spread of COVID-19. Hospitals across the country are becoming rapidly overwhelmed by patients requiring intensive care and ventilators for lung conditions caused by the virus, which are the same machines that would be used during elective surgeries. Additionally, medical staff is running low on protective supplies and equipment for themselves that are optimal for surgery.

“This is not an ideal situation for patients with breast cancer or women who have recovered and are awaiting breast reconstruction,” explains Dr. Jonathan Bank, New York based boardcertified plastic surgeon and member of Alliance in Reconstructive Surgery (AiRS) Foundation’s Medical Advisory Board. “At this time mastectomies are on a case-by-case basis dependent on the hospital; however treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation are still proceeding. There will also be adjustments to treatments, for instance a patient with early-stage breast cancer who was set to have a mastectomy may now instead get a lumpectomy or radiation treatment. Unfortunately, at this time there are almost no breast reconstructive procedures being conducted as they are deemed an elective surgery.” “However, the role of breast reconstruction remains pivotal as an important option to the complete recovery of breast cancer patients and that is why AiRS is continuing to keep our focus helping these women with breast cancer,” explains Dr Rod Rohrich, AiRS cofounder and a board certified plastic surgeon.

Dr. Bank points out that it’s especially important for those with breast cancer who have compromised immune systems take extra precaution during this time and follow safety guidelines set forth by the CDC. Breast cancer treatments make the immune system

weaker, and therefore may put those at higher risk of complications should they become infected with the virus. These steps include social distancing, washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face and clean and disinfect surfaces you touch daily.

“Now more than ever we want women to know that we are here for them and a resource,” explains Morgan Hare, co-founder of the AiRS Foundation. “We don’t know what the future holds and when women will be able to schedule breast reconstruction surgeries again, but we are closely monitoring the situation. We are working remotely so we can continue to provide information about reconstructive surgery, answering phone calls and are still accepting applications and processing them for funding. We can be reached through our website, AiRSFoundation.org, and are also available by phone or email. We will continue to do everything we can to assist people during this difficult time.”

AiRS Foundation— a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to financially helping breast cancer survivors who have had a mastectomy to pay for their reconstructive surgery who could not otherwise afford it—wants the public to know they are still working and accepting applications for breast reconstruction assistance. In addition to providing financial assistant, AiRS Foundation acts as a resource and a support system; educating women on surgical options, assisting with understanding their health insurance coverage, and offering support every step of the way through their patient advocacy program run by volunteers and breast cancer survivors.

Those wishing to contact the AiRS Foundation can do so through their website AiRSFoundation.org, email info@ airsfoundation.org or by phone (866) 376-6153.

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12

APRIL 1, 2020

Lil' Marco Plays Hide and Seek scheduled for release

TV and videos and listening to the Author/Illustrator Sharon radio that emergencies can and will Jones-Scaife has announced the happen. upcoming release of a new book Additionally, according to Parents. for kids, 'Lil' Marco Plays Hide com one of the top fears that children and Seek.' grapple with is fear of the weather. “It Through a story of hide is up to parents to help their children and seek, featuring the series overcome fear, whether it’s fear of character, Lil' Marco, Ms. the monster under the bed, fear of Jones-Scaife highlights the insects, or weather-related fears,” importance of being prepared said Ms. Jones-Scaife. “This story will when faced with weather-related Sharon Jones-Scaife help them start the fear conversation emergencies. The new children's with their children.” book is slated for release May 3, 2020.

The book also provides a little extra help Written in cute rhyming stanzas and paired with vibrant and engaging illustra-tions, Lil' for parents, to move them beyond talk to Marco Plays Hide and Seek not only leads preparation. “I included emergency preparedness children on a trail of fun play, but also introduces in-formation and activity sheets that relate to the safe places to hide when faced with weather- story theme,” she said.

Following the story, are five different activities related emergencies.

Weather emergencies don’t cross a parent’s as well as tip sheets and a planning sheet. “It is an mind until an emergency happens, and that’s established fact that children feel safer when they too late. For parents who think talking about know what to do in an emergency situation,” Ms. emergencies will upset their child, Parents.com Jones-Scaife concludes.

Lil’ Marco Plays Hide and Seek is an engaging reports otherwise. Kids know from watching

My Truth continued from front page who felt they had a better question or that my question was not good enough.

Like Marcus Garvey said, “Every man has a right to his own opinion.” So, while my question may not have been “the question” for every other journalist, no one could not say that I hadn’t done my homework.

I’ve never been shot down at a press conference or during any interviews; however I have seen a reporter taken to task, like the time actor Samuel L. Jackson shut down a young man.

Reporter: “You said that rappers shouldn’t be actors and…”

Mr. Jackson (cutting the reporter off) “That is not what I said. What I did say was…”

I breathed a sigh of relief. I could think of ways the question could have been framed better and I hope the young man learned from the experience.

Mr. Jackson was neither degrading or verbally abusive, but he stood firm in his truth.

Which brings me to my truth.

I was, am, and will probably always be mortified when I recall the way three women were treated by the man who is viewed as the most powerful person in the free world.

Even the most seasoned veteran has experienced or can recall that point in their career when they faced the ire, or got chided during a press conference; but nothing to the degree to which April Ryan, Abby Phillip and Yamiche Alcindor were bullied, berated and actually ridiculed by President Donald Trump.

I don’t care what journalism school you attend, I don’t think it could prepare you for the tongue lashings these women received, especially from the President of these United States.

Sure we were taught about going into opposing arenas, like having to cover white supremacists, the Ku Klux Klan, or similarly hostile environments; but not the White House!

I’ve even been in discussions with journalists, who felt as I did that an illprepared journalist was embarrassed for not having their facts together so they

story of hide and seek as well as an emergency preparedness manual, all in one. The story is sure to charm and delight, while the informational pages will educate and enforce preparedness. It

asked a “stupid” question. But never were they berated to the degree we have witnessed recently.

This president has an issue with Black women especially, it seems. Several words have been used when referring to Black women: dog, stupid, lazy, loser…

This man, raising his voice, at a grown woman, ordered her to sit down! Then in the same breath he wants to talk about being respectful and everyone should respect the office of the presidency.

I agree we should respect the office.

We must respect ourselves enough to, as our First Lady Michelle Obama said, “when they go low, we go high.”

April, Abby and Yamiche continued to take the high road, in spite of the abuse they suffered.

Yes, Trump’s behavior is the kind you think of when talking about the Violence Against Women Act(VAWA).

A big thanks to Vice President Joe Biden who as a Senator in 1994 drafted VAWA after what was called “Anita Hill hearings” but should have been called the “Clarence Thomas Hearings,” and Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX) for sponsoring the VAWA

is available in print and ebook at online retailers.

Published by Frog Pond Publishing, a division of Coffee Creek Media Group, author/illustrator Sharon Jones-Scaife grew up in Marvell, Arkansas, the fourth of 15 children. As one can imagine, she spent a great deal of time reading to her younger siblings. She is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a BA in Graphic Design and Illustration. she is the publisher of Teen Graffiti, a magazine that serves as a voice for teens and as an avenue of communication, allowing teens to express their opinions, concerns, and ideas through poetry, essays, articles, and photography. Ms. Jones-Scaife is also the author of I Miss You Papa, Mrs. Hughes is Missing, It's Bedtime Lil' Marco, and Becoming, a collection of original poems and illustrations.

A resident of Sachse, Texas, she spends her time supporting her son in basketball, creating adventures with her grandchildren, running, cycling, writing, and of course, reading. Ms. Jones-Scaife is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at sharon@coffeecreekmediagroup.com.

Reauthorization Act. If you are defining emotional abuse, you can’t help but describe the president’s behavior. According to an article republished in domesticviolenceinfo.ca, emotional abuse includes verbal abuse such as yelling, name-calling, blaming, and shaming.

Sadly, I think that when the president goes low, many Republicans, and many Democrats, as well as numerous others don’t go high, they probably go somewhere and get high!

What else could explain their behavior or lack thereof ? Why are they silent?

I know, some would say that white women, who are noticeably silent, suffer from the after effects of slavery also.

They see their husbands doing wrong and in their passive aggressive way, they turn their heads and may even do a little talking, but when it’s time to lynch, sell, or rape; they say nothing because they are standing with their man/master!

Now we don’t expect Melania Trump to speak out about her husband. In her subtle way; however, maybe she is. She talks about cyber-bullying while her man is the poster child. Possibly she is telling

us to read between the lines.

Many have solutions to dealing with bullying.

I think if I had been in the room or on the lawn when the abuses occurred, I would have come behind my colleague with the very same question attempting to get an answer, because each time the questions were valid.

Let’s show some support to these journalists, and others like Jim Acosta, Peter Alexander and Emily Cochrane.

There’s been some support but not nearly enough. The National Association of Black Journalists and Journalism & Women Symposium (JAWS) were quick to rebuke the President, and so were others.

You can write a letter, either to the perpetrator or those on the receiving end. You can use the power of the vote also.

Do what you’d want someone to do were it you being brutalized.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

Are you friend or foe?

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APRIL 1, 2020

THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

Chef Cassondra Armstrong

By VALDER BEEBE

IMESSENGER up (not hoard) food, and Texas Metro what do we buy?

News is committed CHEF: Now is a to providing accurgreat opportunity ate coverage of to do plant base.

COVID19 along Incorporate those with the virus’ imvegetable in there pact on Texas, the because we know nation and its global vegetables are really affect. The Valder good for us. We’re Beebe Show which not able to move has a reach via FM around as we once Radio broadcasts, did or like to. We are streaming TV presnot only operating Chef Cassondra Armstrong ence and of course in-place, we need to our feature, THAT exercise in-place and CELEBRITY in IMESSENGER, Texas we need to watch what we are eating. I Metro News and the Garland Journal am suggesting that we fill up on; beans, News. greens and vegetables and things that Our commitment [Valder Beebe we can prepare a lot of and prepare in Show] is to emerge better, smarter and large portions, then freeze for multiple with new tools, ideas and philosophies meals. to prosper mind, body and soul, are VBS: Chef, that’s great advice strong. Yet we must make it through because all of the things you are the current Pandemic and food is focused on are low cost foods. essential. We all must eat. In the DFW CHEF: Absolutely, and those are the area healthy eating chef, Cassondra things that are remaining on the shelves Armstrong, for over a decade has in the supermarkets. Yes we are talking been planning, preparing and serving about hoarding toilet paper, can goods healthy meals to working families, and other essential things we need. senior citizen and entrepreneurs who Place your attention on vegetables and have less time to cook at home. Her dried food when preparing to stay at company Culinary Concepts has a home. Vegetables are still remaining food delivery branch, to her catering on store shelves. services that delivers prepared meals VBS: Every week or as often as I for a day, week or month to shut in can I will have Chef Cassondra as my seniors and Metroplex families. guest to guide us through ‘what to eat I invited Chef Cassondra into the during the quarantine.’ Topics: food Valder Beebe Show studios to share preparation and storage and how to with my audience of viewers, listeners remain healthy during the pandemic. and readers about what to buy as we From a diet viewpoint we will touch on are quarantined, stay-at-home, WFH pre-existing conditions. (work from home), schooled-at-home.

CHEF: You can connect with me at VBS: Chef, Dallas is under stay-at- www.chefcassondra.com home order by City of Dallas officials.

Chef Cassondra Armstrong’s full We are being told to stay at home, stock interview, SoundCloud.com/kkvidfw 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; OnDemand 411 RadioNetwork.com,. – Now available on 411RadioNetwork APP . Valder Beebe Show is a Power of 3 Women media influencer consortium partner.

At the movies with Hollywood BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

U n co rk e d

With the coronavirus keeping moviegoers at home, NETFLIX gets into the fray of first-run movies with the new PPV film called UNCORKED. It’s a movie that is hard to define.

It’s about a young man named Elijah, played

by Mammoudu Athie, who wants to be a master sommelier. (A sommelier is a wine steward who is a wine expert and knows everything there is to know about wine, from what food the wine is compatible with to a description of the wine and even which part of the world the wine came from.) So, is it a movie about the world of wines?

Elijah also has a hardcore father, played

by Courtney B. Vance, who wants his son to take over the family business, a BBQ joint in Memphis which has been family owned for three generations.

Niecy Nash adds some flavor to the movie as the momma who loves her husband and loves her son.

While she wants what’s best for her family business, she also wants her son to be able to

pursue his dreams.

Finally, there’s also a love story between Elijah and a young woman, Tanya (Sasha Compere) who he meets in the liquor store where Elijah works part-time.

She’s a lot like Elijah’s mother. She loves her man but is willing to make the sacrifice needed for him to achieve his dream.

So what kind of movie is UNCORKED? The answer is “all of the above.” And to me, that is the problem with the movie.

The short 111-minute movie runs off into too many different directions without giving a complete story on the family dynamic, the interesting world of being a wine expert, or the love story between Tanya and Elijah.

I was disappointed in the weak storytelling of the movie and, while the characters are likable and interesting, there just wasn’t enough meat on the bone.

Uncorked is unrated and currently showing on NETFLIX. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate the movie a MEDIUM.

14

APRIL 1, 2020

Florida actress pursues childhood dreams

From Marva with

By Marva Sneed

On From Marva with Love, Jacksonville, FL native Markia “Harmuny” Butler talked about her career. A Florida A&M University Journalism graduate, she has put all of her skills to use while becoming an actress, dancer, writer, and business owner. Markia lives in Los Angeles, CA. She starred in her first independent short film that she wrote, directed, and produced and she also has launched a clothing brand, “Let Your Love be Real.”

MS: Markia, Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got started on this journey?

MB: Yes ma’am. It is an honor and a pleasure to be on your show. How I got started.

Well, I guess you can say being a youth with a dream and really fighting for your dream and understanding that no one is going to hand it to you or no one

Markia “Harmuny“ Butler is going to give it to you. And acknowledging that you have certain gifts and talents that you would love to utilize. Since I was maybe in the fifth grade I always wanted to be an actress.

I literally sat in front of the TV over in Jacksonville, Florida, just sitting in front of the TV knowing that is something that

SAVE THE DATE

Cheryl Smith’s

SAVE THE

JUNE 6, 2020

Cheryl Smith’s

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We talked about so much more of her journey. To hear the entire interview with Markia, go to https://www.blogtalkradio. com/cherylsmith/2020/03/13/from- Celebr marva-with-love-featuring-marva-sneed-bkaFor 25 years we’ve been awar coka-on-cheryls-world.

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Markia’s clothing line website is LetYourLovebeReal.com and MarkiaButler. com also you can follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube @ MarkiaButler.

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I wanted to do. When I went home and opened up my fifthgrade yearbook, my ambition was to be an actor in fifth-grade.

It was always something that was burning on the inside of me at a young age. My parents kept me in dance class and stuff like that. Even though it was so far from Hollywood, New York, and Broadway, I still had that ambition. That is something I want to do. How can I do that?

MS: You wanted to be an actress, so what made you go into journalism?

MB: I always ask myself that question. It can be literally more like guidance from God. When I was in high school my junior and senior year they always placed me in front of the camera doing the morning announcements, the news.

I always had this voice and face to be in front of the camera.

I was in theatre in middle school and academics in high school. I was in a program called 4-H in high school. I loved to volunteer.

I loved to be at the forefront picking up on certain issues.

When I was in 4-H and high school, it was like journalism telling people the truth and what needed to be done. The writing was really interesting to me as

am the

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APRIL 1, 2020

Bowie,

continued from front page St. Paul UMC Senior Pastor Richie Butler said that more than 106 cards have been mailed to its oldest member, and perhaps the oldest person in No. Texas. Odessa Bowie,who turned 106 years old, Sunday March 29. The gesture was in lieu of a birthday party the Church planned in her honor. “Since her church family can’t celebrate with her, Pastor Butler said, “we coordinated a church-wide birthday card mailing.

But, now we have expanded our efforts for an online community wide virtual celebration.

The church started a campaign on its facebook page soliciting at least 106 birthday shout-outs!

Her grandson, Marcus Bowie says his grandmother is in good health and he is thankful that she is still with them. Mrs. Bowie has been a member of St. Paul for over 80 years.

Rev. Joseph Lowery, continued from front page his receipt of the NAACP’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Lowery had assumed and executed a broad and diverse series of roles over the span of his nine decades: leader, pastor, servant, father, husband, freedom fighter and advocate.

Born in Huntsville, Ala., on October 6, 1921, his legacy of service and struggle was long and rich. His genesis as a civil rights advocate dates to the early 1950s, when he headed the Alabama Civic Affairs Association, which led the movement to desegregate buses and public accommodations. In 1957, with friend and colleague Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he was

He served as Vice President (1957-1967), Chairman of the Board (1967-1977), and as President/CEO (1977-1998).

To continue his legacy and promote non-violent advocacy among future generations, The Joseph E. Lowery Institute for Texas Metro News Publisher Cheryl Justice & Human Smith talks with Rev. Joseph Lowery Rights was founded during his visit to Dallas. Photo: Kim Floyd in 2002 at Clark Atlanta University. a co-founder of the Southern The Institute was Christian Leadership later renamed to include and Conference (SCLC). honor Dr. Evelyn Lowery, his

beloved partner in marriage and the movement for 67 years.

Calling on his over 40 years as ‘pastor’ and in his inimitable style, Dr. Lowery delivered the benediction on the occasion of President Barack Obama’s inauguration as the 44th President of the United States in 2009.

Later that year, President Obama awarded him the nation’s highest civilian honor, The Presidential Medal of Freedom, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to the nonviolent struggle for the causes of justice, human rights, economic equality, voting rights, peace and human dignity.