Texas Metro News 8-11-22 by Cheryl Smith

• Vol. 10 • Aug. 11 - 17, 2022

MY TRUTH By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

Ever heard about Sankofa? Saluting the 2020 and 2021 NABJ Honorees

Sankofa is an African word from the Akan tribe in Ghana. The literal translation of the word and the symbol is “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.” Which brings me to my truth.

In 2020 and 2021 the National Association of Black Journalists honored several distinguished members and chapters and inducted several outstanding people into the Hall of Fame. Unfortunately because of COVID 19, the pomp and circumstance was viewed digitally and without all the personal hugs that add to the special occasion. This year, the hugs were there in Las Vegas; however a part of me wanted to show some love to those who I will not leave behind. I would have gladly shared with these noble men and women. They are dynamic and worthy of all the accolades:

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See 2020 and 2021 NABJ Honorees, page 13

Pages 7-10

State Fair Classic Bounces Back with New Schedule

By Sylvia Dunnavant Hines Cotton candy, healthy cattle, iconic cooked foods, and fancy cars are all things you can count on from the Texas State Fair. The ever-changing and growing phenomenon is the State Fair Classic Football Game. After over four decades of working with the State Farm Classic, Al Wash, president of ALW Entertainment, is making changes to ensure this year’s game has a record attendance. Over the last two years, the pandemic has had an impact on the game’s attendance. “In 2020, we canceled the fall game and did a spring game. Then we had a snowstorm and pipes that burst at the Cotton Bowl. We had to move the game to Arlington to Ranger Stadium, which didn’t work out as well for us,” said Wash.

This year, Wash has made a few changes and he’s pulling out all the stops to have a record attendance. The game will start two hours later at 6:00 PM. This will allow for a pre show kick-off concert at 4:00 PM, with Grammy award-winning singer, Ashanti Douglas. After the game, the New Orleans Preservation Jazz Band will perform. The jazz ensemble has been performing since 1961. All the concerts will be on the City Stage which is right outside of the Cotton Bowl. “Over the years I have seen things happen. When Hurricane Katrina hit, the students had to evacuate from New Orleans. Then, in 2001, when we were preparing for the game, on September 11, there was a terrorist attack and the entire country came to a halt,” said Wash.

Al Wash proudly holds up a poster for the State Fair Classic showing the new game time at 6:00 PM. The pregame kick-off will feature Grammy award winning singer, Ashanti Douglas.

“We have crossed some hurdles that have been devastating for us, but we have always been able to bounce back to become one of the largest black events in Texas under one roof.”

The State Fair Classic has a rich history extending from the first game in the Cotton Bowl in 1925 between the Wiley College Wildcats and the Langston University Lions. Since 1985, the Classic showdown has been between Prairie View A&M University and Grambling State University. Since then, the pair-up between the Panthers and the Tigers has been the major matchup at the State Fair Classic. From the beginning of the pairing of the two teams, Grambling won every game except for one game until this changed in 2009. Many of the early wins were by legendary coach Eddie G. Robinson, Sr, who received his 324th career win against Prairie View at the 1985 State Fair Classic Game. Robinson, whose coaching career spanned 50 years, has See STATE FAIR CLASSIC, page 15

Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity receives On the Come funding for first-time homeowners Up: 205.Ghee By Asia Nicole Alcorn

2021 Hall of Fame Inductees • A.J. Smitherman, Tulsa Star (posthumously) • Claire Smith, Temple University/MLB Writer • Cornelius “Neil” Foote Jr., Foote Communications, LLC/ University of North Texas • Kirk McKoy, Kirk McKoy Photography, Formerly L.A. Times

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Subsidy recipient Kellye Coleman, along with representatives from Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, First National Bank Texas and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas. Photo: Asia Nicole Alcorn

Kellye Coleman, a 37-yearold customer service representative and single mother of three, had been dreaming of making the transition from renting to homeownership as the rent on her two-bedroom apartment increased each year. Thanks to a no-interest mortgage from Dallas Area Habitat and a $6,000 subsidy, Coleman and her family moved into a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Dallas’ historic Joppa neighborhood in May. First National Bank Texas and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas presented a ceremonial check of $72,000 in Homebuyer Equity Leverage Partnership (HELP) subsidies

Dallas native Christian Houston, also known as 205.Ghee, is a trained musician and budding artist; who’s also the Founder and CEO of FourMobSound, a music company striving to improve the rap industry in Alabama by allowing artists to work and grow their audiences. This 19-year-old is an impres-

See HABITAT, page 6

See ON THE COME UP, page 6

Christian Houston, aka 205.Ghee

By Asia Nicole Alcorn

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Learn. NAVIGATE. Succeed.

DART salutes 2022 Student Art Contest winners

Every decision you make will enable your child to navigate learning opportunities from K-12 through college.

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Lifestyle Metro Calendar powered by Someone Like Me, is a panel with eight queer femme and non-binary artist sworking across mediums and cultures. It will be at the Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street, Tx 75404 through August 20, 2022. **** Sweet Tooth Hotel is presenting their newest exhibit Rewind through August 31. Located at Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm, 970 Garden Park Dr. Allen, TX 75013. Ticket prices range from $15-$35.

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The Bradley Johnson Foundation presents YOUTH S.E.A. Science Economics Arts Virtual Summit, 3-5pm for ages

SEPTEMBER

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12-26. Register on line

2022 UNCF National Walk for Education – North Texas 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM LAKE CLIFF PARK 300 E. COLORADO BLVD.DALLAS, TX 75201

**** The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, located at 2201 N. Field St. Dallas, TX 75202, celebrates its 10th Anniversary with the new exhibit, “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall.” Starting July 9th-September 5th, world-renowned conservationist and ethologist Dr. Jane Goodall – who has famously studied chimpanzees in the wild for more than 60 years – will be celebrated in this special exhibition, produced in partnership with the National Geographic Society and the Jane Goodall Institute.

23 FREE Grant Writing & Business- Workshop with co-host GSA-Albert Garza and SBA-Nancy Alvarez which will be on September 23 and the last Legal Clinic will be October 22.

AUGUST 18

The Southwest Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. partners with Fort Worth ISD, Pragmatic Prodigies, DIG Contracting, Community Frontline, and the City of Fort Worth to address Period Poverty at Morningside Middle School, 2751 Mississippi Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104. 9am-2pm

Soul Food

816 Montgomery St., Dallas

27-30 Join journalism professionals, students, advisers and educators at MediaFest22 in Washington, D.C., Oct. 27-30! Registration is now open!

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19-20 Afro Soca Love

Shop Black and celebrate Black 1135 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas Music Show on Friday from 9p-2am Marketplac e- Saturday 11a-6p

20 Dallas Celeb Fashion Awards at the Statler Hotel, 1914 Commerce St, 6p.m. Magic Johnson will receive the 2022 Black Diamond Lifetime Achievement Award

Building Homes for the Heroes fundraiser event at the Redefined Coffee House, 200 W. Northwest Highway, Grapevine, TX 76051

Prairie View A&M University -Dallas Alumni 25th Anniversary Scholarship Gala and Silent Auction Renaissance Dallas Hotel - Mardi Gras Theme 6:30pm

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QUIT PLAYIN’ By Vincent L. Hall Many of my fondest childhood memories were strategically stationed at the church. I had the pleasure of living much of my formative years with my grandparents, specifically the Reveren Zachariah Alexander Peter James John Figures, known to the public and his fellow pulpiteers as Z. R. After living that life, the news that a Flashy Pastor in New York was robbed at gunpoint was alarming and a bit disappointing. The overtures that this Pastor may have some criminality in his background do not alleviate my fears that churches and church leaders have lost a ton of respect. Living in the parsonage of the Goodwill Baptist Church just 60 feet diagonally from the steps of the sanctuary taught me a lot. Anything that I didn’t glean from Papa’s infamous strap, I learned by watching the people who came in and around the perimeter of the church. Most of the “well-trained” pedestrians who sauntered the streets paid strict obeisance to the stature and the sanctity of the church grounds. If a smoker walked by, he extinguished his

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An Amazing Disgrace!

cigarette and resumed his puff sensation after he was well beyond the front door. Likewise, winos, jickheads, and drunks secured their serum safely in their posterior pockets as they made their sinful proces-

was a sinner too; just a different kind. The Church; every church in our community was sacred. You would have thought Jesus could see you from each picture frame. It was the place where I learned

Whitehead on Sunday performs a reenactment of last week’s robbery.

sion toward home or some den of ill-repute. It was not enough that the liquor was hidden in pint-sized paper bags; they eased by as if God's vision was impaired by the church walls. Of course, Rev. Figures had taught us that God was omnipresent and omniscient, so we knew these sinners were just paying their respects. God had the “whole world in his hands” and it was just his “Amazing Grace” that allowed those sinners to live on. I wasn’t smoking and drinking then, but I knew I

what it means to be a gentleman. Our mothers had a healthy disdain for heathens and took stringent measures to see that we didn’t fall among their brood. Once we were in church we couldn’t chew gum, talk, or fidget. My mother scolded me often for having the nerve to put my hands in my pocket as I stood for prayer. She deemed it disrespectful to do anything that did not reverence God or his Holy Temple. Reverend Figures was even worse. He didn’t believe in clap-

ping as a matter of applause or to keep the beat of the music. He could never have accepted the instruments and “worldly music” that dominate today’s church services. God was God, the world was the world and

Photo: Peter Senzamici/Peter Senzamici

never the two were twain. There were several occasions when I despised my rigorous religious regimen. I grew weary of attending Sunday School, Worship Service, and three o’clock Teas with all them old women. The mints, peanuts, punch, and cookies were good. But in the back of my mind, I knew we still had B.T.U. (Baptist Training Union) ahead of us at six post meridiem. The church is different, but we cannot forget that it is the backbone of our escape, from slav-

ery to Jim Crow, to a prolonged struggle for civil rights that still eludes us as a people. The Black Church, which is distinctly different from churches where Blacks are in the majority, has been the incubator and life support of our experience on this continent. My grandfather used to say that you don’t sh!t where you eat. You don’t forget where you come from. You never really miss your water until the baptismal pool runs dry. We have forgotten our roots. Some things are sacred and the more we lose sight of that, the more vulnerable we become to attacks in the church and our homes. Bishop Lamor Whitehead could never led me for two reasons. First, any man of the cloth that wears suits with G’s imprinted on it and the G stands for Gucci and not God, is lost and can’t lead. Second, my granddaddy warned me about the thinking that allows a man to drive a $100k car and live in a $400/month apartment. Whitehead’s storefront could use some of the money he splurged on the “Bishop’s Ring” he claims to have lost. But at any rate, this robbery was an Amazing Disgrace! Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and an award-winning columnist.

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Publisher : Cheryl Smith Editor: editor@myimessenger.com

Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203 Website: www.texasmetronews.com Phone: 214-941-0110

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

OUR VOICES By Dr. John E. Warren Well, Monkeypox is the latest distraction, right after COVID. As serious as both of these are in the pandemic arena, they both can be distractions from many of the everyday issues so many of us contend with like food, housing, employment, and health care. But in the midst of all these, let us not forget that how we vote has much to do with the quality of life we experience in all the areas mentioned here and many more.

We are only about 90 days away from the Midterm elections in this nation which take place the first Tuesday in November. It is no accident that we are not seeing much, if any, local media discussion other than our own. Unfortunately, we don’t have many choices. While the Democrats under President Biden have not delivered on Voting Rights, The George Floyd Act, or John Lewis; Biden and the Democratic control of both the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate remain better alternatives than the Republican Trump-supporting candidates running for office in just about all states. We must start a Voter Registration drive right here where we live. This effort must become as

important to us as putting food on the table and a roof over our heads. Let us not forget what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said in his famous “Give Us The Ballot” speech on May 17, 1957: Give us the ballot, and we will no longer have to worry the federal government about our basic rights; Give us the ballot, and we will transform the salient misdeeds of bloodthirsty mobs into the calculated good deeds of orderly citizens; Give us the ballot and we will fill our legislative halls with men of goodwill and send to the sacred halls of Congress men who will not sin a “Southern Manifesto” because of their devotion to a manifesto of justice;

Give us the ballot and we will place judges on the benches of the South who will do justly and love mercy, and we will place at the head of southern states governors who will have felt not only the tang of the human, but the glow of the divine….” Well, we have been given the ballot for more than 50 years and many of us appear to have forgotten what price we paid for the right to vote; a right that many are seeking to suppress or eliminate. Yes, let’s deal with Monkeypox, COVID, Hate Crimes, and everything else they are throwing at us today, but above all, let’s get registered and prepare to VOTE.

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

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Getting Up to Run the Race after Being Tripped FAITHFUL UTTERANCES By Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

We are taught in life to prepare for storms so that when they occur, you can mitigate the damage. We buy insurance for our homes, our cars, our lives to deal with challenges that might occur in the future by investing now. No matter how much you try to prepare for the storms of life, there are certain situations that you don’t see coming. Some situations are not only unfair, but they are unjust. I’ve learned some lessons this week and it’s in those moments that you R.U.N.—but not like you think. Running away is usually the

first thing that we want to do when we are faced with problems that are uncomfortable. It’s a place to re-examine and collect your thoughts as you endure the challenge. For others, we want to rumble—it’s time for battle! We don’t ask questions; we are ready to get our point across by any means necessary. Yet, I would challenge you to do the following instead in the future: R—Run to God and Realize the tactics of the enemy. “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29, NLT) It’s so easy to go to our friends and confidantes first but God is our protector. God can

provide us with wisdom, discernment, and guidance to deal with situations so that we are not responding out of our pain and hurt. Realize that “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10:10) The goal of the enemy is to steal your peace and joy, kill your purpose and hope, and destroy your destiny and your will. When you understand that the tactics do not change from the enemy, you’ll be aware when the trap shows up. U—Understand that you should never suffer in silence and Use your voice. For some of us, when we go through pain, it’s so easy to hide and not share it with others. We put on a face for the world but behind closed doors, we are in tears trying to deal with the anxiety and feelings we are enduring. After you go to

God in prayer, do not allow yourself to be held in bondage to the pain. Use your voice to share your testimony. When I shared with others what I was going through, the love and encouragement that I received was enormous. Had I stayed quiet, I would have missed solutions and support. Don’t allow the enemy to hold you hostage! Your triumph over a situation is by your testimony and God’s power! “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” (Revelation 12:11) N—Never Quit or Give In. For some reason, we told this lie that when we believe in God, life will be easy. That’s so far from the truth. Matthew 5:45 states, “That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sen-

deth rain on the just and on the unjust.” What we do know is that bad things happen to good people. It’s inevitable. Yet, it’s the way we deal with those situations that can determine our outcome. “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” (2 Chronicles 15:7) These situations are often distractions as God gives you greater. So, if you have to R.U.N, run your race with fierceness and tenacity! “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the host of the Tapestry Podcast and the author of three books for women. She is also the Vice President of Community Affairs for the State Fair of Texas. To learn more, visit drfroswa.com.

Economic Violence and the Safer America Plan THE LAST WORD By Dr. Julianne Malveaux The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, signed into law on June 25, 2022, was a win for the Biden-Harris Administration. The legislation was genuinely bipartisan, more so in the Senate, where 15 Republicans joined 50 Democrats to pass the legislation, than in the House, where only 14 Republicans joined Democrats in passing the legislation. While I often think of the Senate as the more partisan of the two legislative bodies, it is notable that 30 percent of Republican Senators were willing to join their colleagues to stop gun violence and to provide funds for mental health, community violence intervention, school safety, and some control. In contrast, fewer than 7 percent of Republican Congressional representatives were willing to cross party lines. Buoyed by the legislative victory, President Biden has now released a Safer Communities

Plan, which is reflected in his 2023 budget. While many aspects of this plan are laudable, one of the most troubling aspects is the plan to commit $13 billion over five years to flood the streets with 100,000 more police officers. The program uses the correct language by saying it will support "accountable" policing, but not a week goes by when we do not learn of the unaccountable policing that rankles anyone who believes in human rights. We don't have to go back down memory lane to call the names of Tamir Rice, Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, or George Floyd. Just this year, there have been more martyrs. Joyland Walker was executed in Akron. Patrick Loyola was killed in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Amir Locke was asleep on a couch in his cousin's apartment in Minneapolis when a no-knock warrant allowed police officers to enter and shoot him in the head. And yet we need more police? Violence is in the news, and it is escalating. During the weekend of July 23-24, 65 people were shot and five killed in Chicago. While many describe Chicago as the epicenter of gun violence, no city is immune to it.

Economic Violence and the Safer America Plan.

No city is immune to other forms of violence, as well. I think, especially of economic violence, how economic tools are used to forcefully take life, liberty, and supply from people. The market forces that create homelessness are forms of economic violence. The gentrification that pushes people out of their neighborhoods is a form of economic violence. Rising prices and the inflation that hits poor people harder are also forms of economic violence. We can get exercised about physical violence, but we are far too silent about economic violence. The World Health Organization defines violence as “The intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or communi-

ty that either results in or has a high likelihood resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment, or deprivation.” Unpacking that definition, it is clear that this country was built on a foundation of violence. Taking Native land and eliminating much of the Native population was violence. Enslaving African people was violence. Lynching was violence. More benignly but still harmful, mass incarceration, gentrification, segregation, and blighted schools are violence. We pass legislation to combat some forms of violence. We decry gang violence without asking where these gangs come from, how they were formed, and what in our culture glorifies violence. I will not make excuses for those who pick up guns and

kill folks, even when it is young men shooting each other in the street. There are not enough “mental health” so-called explanations to contextualize the rabid monsters who shot up Black elders in Buffalo, New York, or baby Latino innocents in Uvalde, Texas. And there is no excuse for the economic violence that traps people in poverty-tinged existences with either inadequate housing or none, with food bank food or less. Poverty is a form of economic violence. Joblessness is a form of economic violence. Predatory capitalism is a form of economic violence, and many corporate entities benefit from economic violence. If we want to combat violence, we need to fight all of it, from the shootings in the streets to the racist killings in supermarkets to the capitalistic violence that pushes people into poverty that can generate nothing but pain, despair, and violence. The Safer Communities Plan is a step in the right direction, but it is a misstep if it hinges on putting more police on the streets. Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA. Juliannemalveaux.com

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ZWHJCOC Presents Session on How to Effectively Communicate with Traumatized Youth Parents, teachers, and coordinators of youth programs are invited to attend a back-to-school session on how to effectively communicate with traumatized youth. This session will engage participants in discussions about helping youth express themselves and will teach creative ways to work with youth who have been traumatized by a crisis or an unexpected event. The theme for the session is “Lost Kids: Painting with a Twist.” The session is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 11, via Zoom and in person at Frazier House, 4600 Spring Ave. What you will learn: 1. How to effectively communicate with children who have been touched by life’s traumas and circumstances.

Monica Johnson

Desree Robinson

2. Parents, teachers and youth program leaders will experience painting with a twist 3. An opportunity to connect with an experienced vendor who can assist you through the process. Presenters are Monica Johnson, founder and chief executive officer of Monica Johnson Enterprises, and Desree Robinson, CEO & founder of Lost Kids.

Johnson has a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapist from Amberton University. She also has a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of North Texas, an MBA, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Dallas, a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Dallas

Brittney Griner Sentenced To More Than 9 Years In Russian Prison

Russian officials contended that Griner committed the crime on purpose. They also levied a fine totaling about $16,400 American dollars on the basketball star.

NNPA/Black Press USA By Stacy M. Brown WNBA Superstar Brittney Griner has been sentenced to more than 9 years in a Russian prison following her conviction on drug charges. Her lawyers called the verdict a disappointment and vowed to appeal. The lawyers of WNBA star Brittney Griner, Maria Blagovolina and Alexander Boykov, said in a written statement following the verdict announcement that the court ignored all the evidence they presented and that they will ap-

peal the decision. “We are very disappointed by the verdict. As legal professionals, we believe that the court should be fair to everyone regardless of nationality,” Attorneys Maria Blagovolina and Alexander Boykov said in a statement. “The court completely ignored all the evidence of the defense, and most importantly, the guilty plea. This contradicts the existing legal practice. “Taking into account the amount of the substance (not to mention the defects of the expertise) and the plea, the verdict is absolutely

unreasonable. We will certainly file an appeal,” they added. Russian officials contended that Griner committed the crime on purpose. They also levied a fine totaling about $16,400 American dollars on the basketball star. Authorities arrested Griner on Feb. 17 at an airport in Moscow after finding less than a gram of cannabis oil in her luggage. She has been detained since then. Recently, American officials revealed that the Biden-Harris administration had offered notorious arms dealer Viktor Bout in exchange for the release of Griner and Paul Whelan. “Today, American citizen Brittney Griner received a prison sentence that is one more reminder of what the world already knew: Russia is wrongfully detaining Brittney,” President Biden said. “It’s unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates. My administration will continue to work tirelessly and pursue every possible avenue to bring Brittney and Paul Whelan home safely as soon as possible.”

Baptist University, and a Diversity and Inclusion for HR Certification from Cornell University. Johnson has first-hand knowledge of the impact of unresolved childhood issues and family conflict, which was fueled by a culture of abandonment; she has taken all this education and experience from transforming companies and employees and is now using her gifts and life experience to invest in and change the lives of our most valuable resource, our youth, and women. Robinson is a native of Dallas, born and raised in the Oak Cliff area. She is the middle child of three raised by a single mother. Desree will share her story of how art gave her the funnel to re-establish her self-worth and the value her purpose has on earth. Desree was once lost, and

now she has found a life of gratitude and abundance to share with youth through M & M Beginners Art School. M & M Arts is a time capsule of creativity, emotional healing, and resolutions through expressive color painting for The Lost Kids who cannot communicate, find rest, and have lost connection with their source of life. She created Lost Kids in 2009 and brought it to life, she says, during the pandemic. Lost Kids is storytelling for children ages 5 and up who experience trauma at an early age. It delivers strength, resilience, and hope and leads to a pathway of overcoming fear and doubt. To register, https://www. zwhjcoc.org/classes. For more information, contact Pamela Washington at pamela.washington@zwhjcoc.org.

Dallas Habitat cont. from page 1 to the Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity. HELP subsidies are offered by FHLB Dallas through its member institutions to assist firsttime homebuyers with down payments and closing costs on new or existing homes. For 2022, FHLB Dallas set aside $4 million for HELP subsidies made available through its members on a first-come, first-served basis.

The $72,000 helped 12 income-qualified, firsttime homeowners with down payment and closing costs in connection with purchasing Habitat homes. “I have always wanted to give my children their own bedrooms,” Coleman said. “We have a huge yard now, and my kids can just run and play outside which they have never been able to do before.”

On the Come Up cont. from page 1 sive individual, majoring in computer science at the HBCU, Alabama A&M University. In his family's Alabama home, 205.Ghee has a built-in studio, where he records most of his hot tracks and he is currently reaching greater heights with his mainstream music, incorporating his unique style of singing, rapping and humming. Back in the Day At 23 months old, Hous-

ton was diagnosed with leukemia. However, he and his family never gave up the faith. They trusted God until he was healed from the deadly disease. “He is a literal walking miracle,” said Rosilyn Houston, mother of the rising artist. “From the moment he entered this world, he has been strong, courageous, resilient and tenacious.” Dope Hip Hop (DHH), a Texas-based music blog, recognized 205.Ghee as one of the best in hip-hop.

In addition to having their own backyard, Coleman’s children live closer to their schools and can enjoy nearby nature trails. “We are honored to partner with FNBT to make the dream of homeownership a reality for Ms. Coleman and the 11 other families who have moved into these homes,” said Bruce Hatton, Vice President and Affordable Housing Program manager at FHLB Dallas. “205.Ghee is certainly a star on the forefront of emerging Texas Hip-Hop artists,” DHH said. 205.Ghee’s deluxe album Redrum was released on August 7, featuring the hit songs She Said and Lexus. “Redrum is a passion project that allowed me to flex my creative, technical and artistic muscles,” 205.Ghee said. “I wanted to show everyone what’s to come as I continue my journey in music.” Stream 205.Ghee’s newest album Redrum (Deluxe) on Apple Music and Spotify.

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Summer Song OF THE WEEK

KICKIN' IT WITH KENDALL GAYLE

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Our Summer Song of the Week, Steve Lacy’s alternative R&B song Bad Habit, from his newest album Gemini Rights, is moving up on the Billboard Top 100.

By Kendall Gayle Washington Editor-in-Chief

The Journey of High School High school is not like the movies. As I am embarking on the end of my high school career, I remember how my younger self expected high school to be like “Pacific Coast Academy,” “Hollywood Arts,” “Seven Seas High” and “East High.” But it’s almost the opposite of every high school TV show. The teachers are less animated, and there’s no singing and dancing students. While my five-year-old self had higher hopes, I am grateful for my high school experience. I matured as a young lady. At my junior retreat, I read the letter I wrote to myself freshman year, and I was shocked. I have always been mature, but reading that letter proved there’s always room for improvement. In that moment, I reflected on everything that has happened thus far in my high school career and I realized it shaped me into the person I am today.

DISD requires clear or mesh backpacks for students, right in time for back-to-school By Asia Nicole Alcorn A lot has changed since the increase of school shootings. Monday, July 18, Dallas district officials announced campus safety improvements. According to the DISD website, all students in sixth through 12th grade must use clear or mesh backpacks, which will be distributed to each secondary student at the beginning of the school year. However, they will be allowed to carry a nonclear pouch (5.5 inches by 8.5 inches) to hold cell phones, money and/or hygiene products. The district understands this change won’t eliminate safety concerns, but it’s the first step to ensuring the safety of students and staff. Time is running out. Are you scrambling to find supplies? Well, maybe you don’t have to! Here are a few back to school drive locations:

Photo Courtesy of DISD

1. Back To School Community Festival by Not My Son

2. Back To School Explosion by Emmanuel New Life Fellowship

Saturday, August 13 at 10 a.m., located at J.P. Hawn Park, 2600 N St Augustine Rd Dallas, TX.

Saturday, August 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., located at Emmanuel New Life Fellowship, 7903 Ferguson Road Dallas, TX.

3. Back To School Fair by St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church Saturday, August 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church, 5500 East Berry Street Fort Worth, TX.

Register here: https :// www.eventbrite. com/e/back-to-schoolcommunity-festivaltickets-370468249507?aff= ebdssbdestsearch

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T op 10 Things to do for Back-to-School By Iniya Nathan and Maya Palavali Back-to-school season has begun, and students, after enjoying the break summer, need to get ready to learn. For those students, we’ve got some tips for a smooth back-to-school experience.

syllabus and what textbooks and other materials you need for class. Buy the textbooks or rent them. Take a look at the syllabus. Make sure on the first day, you feel prepared and knowledgeable about what’s going on. Create study groups Once the school year begins, you may take classes you’re unfamiliar with. Luckily, the people around you can help. As you get your schedule, gather a group of friends or classmates to meet on a regular basis throughout the year. It could be virtually or in-person, depending on which is more convenient. Create a group chat to ask questions and coordinate meetings.

Credit: Maya Palavali

Fix your sleep schedule During the summer, most students start to sleep later and wake up later. Now that school is about to start, students need to go to bed and wake up early to be on time for classes, and still have a healthy amount of sleep. By starting to follow a sleep schedule, students will be more comfortable as sleeping at the proper times will come more naturally to them. Gather school supplies Getting supplies together for the upcoming school year is essential. With all of your utensils in one place, you’ll have the tools to power you through the year. First, check if you have any supplies at home from previous years. Then, go to stores that have back-toschool sales, such as Target or Walmart. Create a checklist of all school supplies you may need and cross off each one as you go along. We recommend adding your personality into what you buy, such as a themed backpack or colored notebooks. Go through the syllabus, textbooks and materials At this point in time, you probably have access to the

Spend time with family Finding time for family is difficult once school starts. You’re always so busy studying or with friends. If you haven’t already spent time with the ones you care about most, it’s best to do so now before another school year goes by. Plan out your outfits New year means new ways to express yourself. If your school permits, let your creativity flow through your style. Go through your closet to find clothing you already love and plan with what you have. Then, go out and shop ‘til you drop; however, be sure to plan outfits as you buy and spend wisely. Taking the time to lay out outfits will help you feel more prepared when school starts. Plan breakfast and lunch School takes up so much time out of your day, meaning it’s going to be hard to spontaneously decide what to eat for breakfast and lunch. You might not even have time to cook or buy fastfood. Planning your breakfast and lunches beforehand means instead of stressing about your next meal, you can focus on your work.

Set up your schedule Your school schedule isn’t something you control, so take the rest of your day into your own hands. Set out a tentative schedule to follow throughout the school year. Map out each day of the week and allot time for specific tasks, keeping in mind your priorities. Then, if you can, try out the

schedule you created to see if it needs any adjustments. You’ll feel much more prepared and relaxed with a set routine. Remember: you can always change your schedule to fit what you may need. Finish any summer work Summer reading, practice worksheets and more, there’s many See TOP TEN, TEN page 10

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B i s h op D u n n e V a r s i t y C h e er : L oVe a n D t a L e n t By Angelina Liu and Kendall Gayle Washington

Credit: Angelina Liu

Loud cheers echoed throughout the vaulted ceilings in Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, TX. on July 20-23, as Bishop Dunne Varsity Cheer gathered as part of the Universal Cheer Association’s 2022 Summer Camp. The theme for this year’s camp was Friday Night Lights. The camp allowed for cheer squads to unite as one and learn more about each other and the sport. Squads enjoyed the onsite waterparks and meals during camp. The camp included stunt

training, team leader programs, game day preparation and dance practice. Before the team went to Great Wolf Lodge, they prepared the week prior in the Bishop Dunne Gym. The Falcon cheerleaders believe there is more to their program than just cheer. During Camp Prep week, the Varsity cheerleaders did stretching drills and a variety of cardio drills to get in shape for cheer camp. After

workouts, each cheerleader had the opportunity to showcase their talents through stunting, tumbling and jumps. The Bishop Dunne Cheerleaders not only become one through their sport, but through team bonding. Over the four days the team spent at Great Wolf Lodge, they become closer than ever — Freshmen were hanging out with seniors, and vice versa. During a discussion with some of

the Falcon cheerleaders the sense of camaraderie and love for their teammates was clear as they shared expressions of purpose and love. Amid cheerleading and team bonding, each day was closed out with a team circle with each cheerleader holding their left hand up because its closest to their heart and spirit fingers because they’re cheerleaders; as they closed out on family. “One, two, three, FAMILY.”

The Trendsetter The Trendsetter is the Texas Metro News youth section, focused solely on the ideals, interests, occurrences and opinions of our youth. Here you will find the latest, hottest, jaw-dropping stories, appealing to those ranging from 13-25. Prepare to be informed and entertained!

Editor-in-Chief: Kendall Gayle Washington Managing Editor: Asia Nicole Alcorn Entertainment Editor: Angelina Liu Layout and Design Editor: Iniya Nathan Editorial Page Editor: Maya Palavali Credit: Angelina Liu

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Positive Affirmations

Back-to-School Crossword

Top 10 Things to do for Bac k-to School cont. from page 8 different assignments you probably needed to get done over the summer that you forgot about. Check to make sure you have no assignments, and if you do have assignments, get them done as soon as possible. It’s better to come to school with everything in order, rather than working on assignments you should’ve gotten done. Find your workspace

1. Person who plans lessons and helps you learn. 3. Another word for quiz. 5. Use this to find a country. 6. Yellow vehicle that brings kids to school. 8. The teacher sits here.

Across:

2. An orange tool used for writing. 4. It has a keyboard and a screen. 7. Where you go to play at recess. 9. Pink item that helps remove mistakes. 10. Read these at home or at school. ANSWERS: Down: 1. Teacher, 3. Test, 5. Map, 6. Bus, 8. Desk

Down:

We all need a place to unwind while also being productive. Go out and look for a place to work after school or during the weekends (we suggest finding a quiet place in your local library or a coffee shop near you). Set aside time in your weekly schedule to visit this spot to complete schoolwork. If you want to be extra prepared, find a few locations where you can work in case your favorite place is busy when you need it. It’s always important to find comfortable places to promote productivity.

Across: 2. Pencil, 4. Computer, 7. Playground, 9. Eraser, 10. Books

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The Weeknd live at The AT&TStadium in Arlington

You’re invited to the

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2022 Johnson - Jordan Dinner, DALLAS COUNTY

DEMOCRATS unity!

Building power through SEPTEMBER 7th, 2022 | FAIRMONT DALLAS

See Chris Brown & Lil Baby @ The Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas!

| VIP Reception: 5:30 PM | Start Time: 6:30 PM

Special guest speaker: BETO O’ROURKE GUEST SPEAKERS: BRAD SHAM AS EMCEE,

CONGRESSMAN COLIN ALLRED, AND CECILE RICHARDS. 2022 DALLAS COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY JJ DINNER WITH KEYNOTE SPEAKERS BETO O'ROURKE, CECILE RICHARDS, FEATURING REP. COLIN ALLRED WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2022 AT 6:00 PM THE FAIRMONT HOTEL, 1717 N AKARD ST, DALLAS, TX 75201 VIP RECEPTION AT 5:30 PM DINNER AT 6:30 PM

PAID FOR BY THE DALLAS COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY

DallasDemocrats.org | @DallasDemocrats

Scarface at the The House of Blues

Jubilee Theatre presents DREAMGIRLS at BASS HALL 817-212-4280

11 The Southwest Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. partners with Fort Worth ISD, Pragmatic Prodigies, DIG Contracting, Community Frontline, and the City of Fort Worth to address Period Poverty at Morningside Middle School, 2751 Mississippi Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104. 9am-2pm

23 McKinney Oktoberfest

SEP 23 AT 12 PM – SEP 25 AT 7 pm Historic Downtown McKinney 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney

12 Kevin Hart live @ The AAC in Dallas!

13 Dallas Margarita Festival Presented by Casamigos Tequila From $5 Ferris Wheelers Backyard & BBQ 1950 Market Center Blvd. 12 PM – 6 PM

25 Women In Business Luncheon A luncheon celebrating all 25 Women in Business honorees will take place at the Fairmont Dallas Hotel. Tiffaney Dale Hunter and the other honorees will be featured in the September 2 issue of the Dallas Business Journal.

SEPTEMBER 7

October 7 Friday night- Vinettis 14388 Midway, Addison, TX 5 PM until hosted by Mr. and Mrs. James Price

Doc Shep Speaks Show! A fresh perspective, but still entertaining! Welcome to The Doc Shep Speaks Show!!!. Tuesdays at 11 am. CST Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and YouTube Live @docshepspeaks.

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

I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade “History Class is in Session” Join in on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am -1 pm. CST. Wednesdays. Join the conversation call 646-200-0459.

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CADNET CLASSIFIEDS

ARRESTED Ed Bell Construction Company An Equal Opportunity Employer

Ed Bell Construction Company Opportunity Employer

An1,Equal August 2022

Ed Bell Construction is a Dallas based heavy highway contractor doing business in the North Texas market since With clients such as TxDOT, Dallas County Public Works, and the Cities of Dallas, June 1,1963. 2022 Fort Worth, Richardson, and Mansfield (plus many others), we have a strong backlog of work in the highway market locally.

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community. Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or

maybe YOU? Crimestoppers 877-373-8477

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

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Available: multiple openings Rate: Negotiable • Form Setter (Structures, Paving) Must have own transportation • Rough Terrain Operator Years of Experience required will vary,Crane from 6 months to 2 years (depending on position) Physical • and Drug Screen Required Boom Mobile Crane Operator (CDL) Must have a Clear Background Motor Operator Must be • at least 18 yearsGrader old (CDL Driver, 21 yrs)(Earthwork)

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Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line Available: multiple openings in-stallation and service. Now Rate: Negotiable featuring our free shower package Must have own transportation Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! & $1600 off - limited time! FinancHelp and Support our Veterans. Years of Experience required will vary, from 6 months to 2 years (depending on position) ing available. 1-855-417-1306 Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax Physical and Drug Screen Required deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398 Protect your home from pests Must have a Clear Background safely and affordably. Pest, rodent, HughesNet Finally, super-fast Must be at least 18 years old (CDL Driver, 21 yrs) internet no matter where you termite and mosquito control. Call live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! for a quote or inspection today 844394-9278 Data is Here. Stream Must APPLY IN PERSON at 10605 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75220Unlim-ited from 7am-11am Mon-Fri. Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Please visit our website: www.edbellconstruction.com/careers Installation. Call 866-499-0141 Discount air travel. Call Flight Or email your resume to: careers@edbellconstruction.com Services for best pricing on Become a published author. We want to read your book! domestic & international flights Dorrance Publishing trusted since inside & from the US. Serving United, 1920. Consultation, production, Delta, American & Southwest & promotion & distribution. Call for many more. Free quote! Have travel dates ready! 844-951-2014 free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998

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DAILY REMEMBRANCE

Health & Fitness

OF F

ER Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunder-standings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guaran-tee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

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2020 Hall of Fame Inductees:

• August 11 - 17, 2022

2021 Hall of Fame Inductees:

Fred Sweets

Pam Johnson

Pam Oliver

Mary Mitchell

John McCaa

A.J. Smitherman

Claire Smith

Cornelius “Neil” Foote Jr.

Kirk McKoy

Monica Roberts

Cathy Hughes

Clarice Tinsley

Yamiche Alcindor

Rachel V. Scott

Rehema Ellis

Rochelle Riley

Rodney A. Brooks

Roland S. Martin

Libor Jany

Malika Andrews

Kevin Merida

Kimberly Godwin

Art Norman

Jenise Griffin

Janis Ware

Dr. Sherri Williams

Aprill O. Turner

Grant Moise

Ramona Logan

Susan Mango Curtis James McJunkins Sr. Chelle Luper Wilson

Arthur Cribbs

NABJ Los Angeles

Mahmoud Hussein

The Trace

Elaine Houston

Michigan State University Association of Black Journalists

Howard University Association of Black Journalists

The Dallas Morning News

Sonceria Messiah Jiles Anas Aremeyaw Anas

Giulia Heyward

Tenisha Taylor

Memphis Association of Black Journalists

Saluting the 2020 and 2021 NABJ Honorees cont. from page 1 • Monica Roberts, TransGriot (posthumously) • Rochelle Riley, City of Detroit/ Author • Rodney A. Brooks, U.S. News & World Report/Author • Roland S. Martin, #RolandMartinUnfiltered/Black Star Network 2021 Special Honors: • Journalist of the Year: Libor Jany (Star Tribune) Michael J. Feeney Emerging Journalist of the Year: Malika Andrews (ESPN) • Chuck Stone Lifetime Achievement: Art Norman (NBC Chicago) • Journalist of Distinction: Jenise Griffin (Florida Courier/Daytona Times) • Legacy Award: Janis Ware

(The Atlanta Voice) • Ida B. Wells Award: Sonceria Messiah Jiles (Houston Defender) • Percy Qoboza Foreign Journalist of the Year: Anas Aremeyaw Anas (Insight TWI) • Journalism Educator of the Year: Dr. Sherri Williams (American University) • Patricia L. Tobin Media Professional Award: Aprill O. Turner (Higher Heights for America) • Angelo B. Henderson Community Service: Tenisha Taylor (Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation) • Student Journalist of the Year: Giulia Heyward (Hussman School of Journalism and Media) • Best Practices: The Dallas Morning News - Grant Moise

• Professional Chapter of the Year Award: Memphis Association of Black Journalists • Student Chapter of the Year Award: Howard University Association of Black Journalists 2020 Hall of Fame Inductees • Fred Sweets, Photographer and Editor • Pam Johnson, Former Director, School of Journalism, Western Kentucky University • Pam Oliver, Senior Correspondent and FOX NFL Reporter • Mary Mitchell, Columnist, Chicago Sun-Times • John McCaa, Anchor, WFAATV 8 • Cathy Hughes, Urban One, Inc. • Clarice Tinsley, KDFW-TV FOX 4 News

2020 Special Honors • Journalist of the Year: Yamiche Alcindor • Michael J. Feeney Emerging Journalist of the Year: Rachel V. Scott • Legacy Award: Rehema Ellis • Chuck Stone Lifetime Achievement Award: Kevin Merida • Journalist of Distinction Award: Elaine Houston • Ida B. Wells Award: Kimberly Godwin • Journalism Educators of the Year: Susan Mango Curtis and James McJunkins Sr. • Angelo B. Henderson Community Service Award: Chelle Luper Wilson • Patricia L. Tobin Media Professional Award: Ramona Logan

• Student Journalist of the Year: Arthur Cribbs • Best Practices Award: The Trace • Percy Qoboza Foreign Journalist Award: Mahmoud Hussein • Student Chapter of the Year: Michigan State University Association of Black Journalists • Professional Chapter of the Year: National Association of Black Journalists – Los Angeles I felt compelled to honor these folks and look forward to celebrating this year’s honorees. If you see any of these folks - give them some love. Or, you can celebrate them on social media. It’s not too late. We must take them with us as we move forward.

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areas. According to Washington, who worked in Florida early on, Florida had more activity in the market during the winter due to people retiring and escaping the cold of the north.

By Iniya Nathan

Dear first-time buyer, You are probably confused about what’s going on in the market and wonder how to proceed. After collecting advice from some real estate agents, I now have answers to some of your questions. 1. What is going on in the market right now? “In 2005 to 2012, we were going through a recession and there weren't a whole lot of offers on properties,” 40-year broker, Kenneth Washington, Sr. said. “Now we have different companies who have moving people from New York, key brands moving from California, and we have all these investors buying homes. That has made it difficult for an individual to be able to compete in the market we’re in now.” For the past few years, the market has been a seller's market as opposed to a buyer's market. This means that the market is in the seller's favor, there are too many people wanting a house and not enough homes in the market. A buyer's market, by comparison, is when there are houses on the market and not many people looking to buy them. Because of that, many houses are being sold over the appraisal value, which makes it harder to find a home within a smaller budget. 2. Where do I start? According to real estate agent, Lee Holtzman is to get pre-approved for a loan. “Let’s say you’re hooked up with your realtor, you’ve found your property,” Holtzman said. “There’s 3 or 4 other people putting offers on it too. If they already have a pre-approval letter from a loan officer and you don’t, you are not going to be considered. You’ve wasted your time and the agent's time.” Holtzman also mentions the importance of getting pre-approval from a mortgage broker, not an online lender. “Online lenders get paid when you take the application,” Holtzman said. “Whether you get approved or not. Where’s their motivation to make sure you actually get qualified and get the

5. What else should you know? Bina Todi

Hemlata Mistry

Kenneth Washington

Lee Holtzman

Photo: Facebook

Photo: Kendall Gayle Washington

Photo: RE/MAX

interest rates they promised you? Mortgage brokers that are not online get paid at closing.” The next step is to get a real estate agent. “Always get hold of a good Realtor who knows the market area, knows the city, because they are going to take you to the best places,” Realtor, Hemlata Mistry said.

4. When is the best time to buy a house? According to Holtzman, it depends on preference. “In the summer there might

higher priced than in the dead of winter. Homes that are on the market during the wintertime are going to be priced more reasonably. You might even get a better interest rate. That’s be-

3. Should I be renting or buying? “When you rent, just lift up the toilet seat every month,” Holtzman said. “Put a couple of 100 dollars in there and push it down. All you’re doing is putting a roof over your head. If you own a home, you’re not opening up a toilet seat, you’re opening a bank vault.” The general consensus says you should be buying, not renting if you can afford it. If you can buy a house now, then you should buy it, according to Hemlata Mistry, instead of waiting for prices to drop. “What I’ve noticed in the real estate industry is that the price is not going to go down,” Mistry said. “They stay there for long term.” “When you’re buying, you are building some equity,” Realtor, Bina Todi said “When you are renting, you are paying someone else’s mortgage.” Many first-time buyers don’t need all the space a house provides, which is why Hemlata Mistry suggests buying smaller properties such as townhouses or condos. These properties are less expensive and more suited to people in their 20s. “All that money that you’ve spent on rent, you can’t get that back,” Mistry said. “But if you bought it, that goes toward equity, and sooner or later you can sell it and get a bigger house.”

Photo: Davide McBee from Pexels

be a higher interest rate because there’s more activity, more buyers, people selling, schools letting out, vacations being planned, and people want to be in a home before summer vacation is done,” Holtzman said. “So, in the spring and summer, you’re going to find quite a few homes out there that may be

cause there’s less activity. If you don’t mind a house that might need a fix-up or a few changes, look during the fall or winter. But if you’re looking for something specific you might find it in the summer or spring because there’s more to choose from.” While this is true for the Dallas area, it might not be for all other

You will probably have buyer’s remorse after buying a house, according to Lee Holtzman. “When you get a contract accepted your brain says, ‘I just committed to 30 years,’” Holtzman said. “‘That's a long time.’ It could scare you. Everybody gets buyer's remorse. But here's the thing, you're going to pay to stay anywhere. If it's an apartment, you're going to pay to stay, in a house, you're gonna pay this guy. So don't worry about the buyer's remorse.” Washington recommends looking into new home buyer programs in your area and buying new constructions to help compete against the current market. “If you get a contract on a new construction, a new construction can’t take more than one contract,” Washington said, to better explain. Bina Todi recommends making decisions based on your finances. “Even when the market is crazy, don’t go beyond your limits in your budget because if you’re paying too much you will be stressed,” Todi said. “Buy a house if you are comfortable.”

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State Fair Classic Bounces Back been recognized as having one of the best records in history. “Over the years, I have seen Prairie View become more competitive against Grambling,” said Wash. “It used to be back in the time when Eddie Robinson was the head football coach that everybody knew that Grambling was going to beat Prairie View 50 to nothing, but they still showed up for the game.” Wash, attributes Coach Robinson for his involvement with the game. At the root of the State Fair Classic is a deep rivalry between Grambling State and Prairie View A&M that attracts people to come to Dallas from over 4,000 miles away. “People come as far away as Alaska and Des Moines, Iowa. We have attendees from places that you would not even think would come to the game – like Hawaii and New Mexico. Of course, we have local people from Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana as well,” said Wash. According to Wash, about 25,000 people come from out of town to attend the game. “Since Grambling is in Louisiana and Prairie View is in Texas, you would expect Prairie View to have the most fans at the game. But I don’t think that is the case,” said Cathy Conwright, president of the Metro DFW Alumni Chap-

ter of Grambling University. She said this year the Grambling host hotel for out-of-town guests is already near capacity. Faithful Grambling fans like

Grambling State University Cathy Conwright

Conwright are looking forward to this year’s historic game between the two teams. Even though previous matchups between the two has given Grambling the competitive advantage of 26 wins to 9 losses over three and a half decades, the last four games have been won by Prairie View. “This year we expect to change Prairie View’s winning streak. We have a new head coach, Hue Jackson. The motto that we have given him is Huedat, in honor of the famous New Orleans Saints’ fan chant – whodat. Our hashtag is #Huedat,” said Conwright,

who is a member of the Wayne Family. With over 40 members to graduate from Grambling University, in 2010, her family captured the Guinness Book of World Records for the most family members to graduate from the same university. With both schools having students from North Texas, the game is very competitive. The festive half-time show and the battle of the bands help bring out school spirits. According to Wash, a lot of football players went to high school together and now they are playing at opposing colleges. For them, a win is mostly an opportunity for bragging rights. “When I was in school attending Prairie View, we only beat

Al Wash in office

Grambling one year. This was out of the whole four years that I was there. Then there was a series of 10 to 12 years that we

lost every game. Yet, that didn’t bring a damper to the school,” said Lalonni Hagerman, president of the Dallas Prairie View Alumni Association, and the fi-

Prairie View A&M University Lalonni Hagerman

nancial secretary of the National Association. “For some odd reason even if we knew the outcome of the game was that we were going to lose, we still came out to support the school. Our Panther Pride was still always there,” said Hagerman. For the first time in two years, the week leading up to the game will be packed with outside events. Many of the activities will not be advertised. There will be everything from a press conference on Monday at the Cotton Bowl to a comedy show at the Arlington Improv, with Shuckey Duckey and some of his comedi-

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an friends on Wednesday night. National Recording Artists, Steven Ray Ladson and saxophonist Don Diego, will perform at Club Odyssey on Wednesday evening as well. There will be an exclusive VIP Corporate reception for Grambling and Prairie View alumni, with national recording artists, Steven Ray Ladson and saxophonist Don Diego “I like to see people enjoying themselves. We have always been in the top three in attendance when it comes to classic games. Due to COVID, the last few years, we have been in the top five consistently,” said Wash. With new coaches, alumni enthusiasm, and a week of stellar activities, Wash is looking forward to everything lining up in his favor. “I am a winner. I would like this to be the number one in attendance for the Classic games for the year,” said Wash. Some of the sponsors for this year’s game are McDonalds, the City of Dallas, State Fair of Texas, Methodist Hospital, Cricket Wireless, and Chevy. “As always, we are looking for a win and safety as the alumni gather to fellowship this year. People will be cheering on their children, nieces, and nephews as we all have a good time and watch the game,” said Hagerman.

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