Texas Metro News

VOL.8 NO. 45

August 19, 2020

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith

Publisher

Remembering DICK GREGORY 1932-2017 “God Bless”

RUN KAMALA RUN

Please wear your mask and wash your hands!

TLBC announces George Floyd Act

for VP slot MOCCA is more than Biden chooses Senator Harris woman and the first Asian From Staff Reports Makeup and Toyota is American U.S. senator.

After an unsuccessful presThe presumptive Democratic more than a Car nominee’s much-anticipated idential bid, Sen. Harris re-

Toyota Avalon

I absolutely love good corporate citizens. Too often businesses, large and small, benefit from communities but don’t do anything to enhance the lives of those who will spend their last dollar purchasing their products and services.

Which brings me to my truth!

When I was approached about participating in Toyota’s Entrepreneurial EnTOURage, I was excited. I am aware of Toyota’s efforts in the areas of diversity and inclusion so

Sen. Kamala Harris

mained at the top of many lists as a potential running mate for whomever was victorious in a very crowded field.

The former San Francisco District Attorney and California Attorney General was optimistic after the announcement and so were others. see KAMALA, page 10

Entrepreneurs Need More Outreach, Funding, Tech Support to survive COVID & Beyond

By J. CUNNINGHAM

Small business owners recovering their economic health from the onslaught of COVID-19 need solutions specifically targeted to them - like more access to capital, technical assistance and better outreach to show them how to get help.

That’s according to small business advocate Regina Smith, Exec-

utive Director of the Harlem Business Alliance and a co-founder of the Black Business Empowerment Commission (BBEC) which works to advocate and support Blackowned businesses.”

Smith who spoke at a virtual panel on reviving small businesses said “We absolutely have to do better,” to an audience of policymakers and entrepreneurs during the virtual panel ‘American

Resilience: The Future of Small Business,’July 31 hosted by The Hill. “Black businesses in New York City are doing horribly and I would imagine it’s the same across the nation.”

Smith, who is also the executive director of the Harlem Business Alliance, said she’s been fielding calls seven days a week from ensee ENTREPRENEURS, page 9

Special to the Texas Metro News

Last week the Texas Legislative Black Caucus (TLBC) announced details for the George Floyd Act, a piece of comprehensive legislation they will file when the Texas Legislature meets again in January 2021. The law will honor the life and memory of George Floyd, a native Houstonian who died in May when a police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds.

Floyd’s death sparked a nationwide rallying cry for police accountability, launching months of protests as part of a movement that has focused communities across the country on the need for swift improvements in law enforcement practices and policies. see FLOYD ACT, page 7

Breonna Taylor case spotlights Attorney General Daniel Cameron torney General assigned in May publican Trump supporter, and to the Taylor case as a special the commonwealth state’s first I WAS JUST prosecutor. He came aboard af- Republican AG in more than 70 THINKING ter the previous county attorney years. The son of a college proBy Norma Adams-Wade

see MY TRUTH, page 2

decision was announced last week to mixed reviews. Former vice president Joe Biden heeded the wishes of many as he announced the selection of Sen. Kamala Harris as his running mate.

In 2017 the Howard University graduate and Oakland CA native became the second Black

Who is Daniel Cameron and what does he have to do with the Breonna Taylor case?

Cameron is the Kentucky At-

Tom Wine recused himself from the controversial case because of a conflict of interest.

Cameron, 34, could be viewed as a political figure at the center of a firestorm. He is Kentucky’s first Black attorney general, a Re-

fessor mother and coffeeshop owner father graduated from the University of Louisville where he played football and the Brandeis School of Law where he was Stusee THINKING, page 5

Daniel Cameron

2

AUGUST 19, 2020

What You Smokin’?

QUIT PLAYIN’ BY VINCENT L. HALL

District Attorney and longtime criminal judge, John Creuzot made an eye-opening presentation at the Community Police Oversight Board meeting. The empirical data he presented on the disproportionate number of Blacks and Browns being jailed for small amounts of marijuana, buoy the case that the system needs an overhaul.

The limited resources of the Dallas Police Department could be better utilized by adopting some of the common-sense strategies put forward by the chief of the District Attorney’s office. Handing out citations for small amounts of marijuana is a no-brainer!

Creuzot’s aim was four-fold and easy to comprehend. This initiative examines the data as it pertains to the City of Dallas Police Depart-

ment, encourages frank dialogue, fosters cohesion among elected and appointed officials, and supports fair and equitable policing.

This effort, presented to the Dallas County Commissioner’s Court

by District Three representative, John Wiley Price, is not an attempt to legalize marijuana. And as quiet as its kept, several public servants that I have discussed the matter with are hopeful. My canvass included current and retired officers who see merit in Creuzot’s argument.

DA Creuzot further pointed to the facts as they pertain to marijuana arrests in Dallas County.

Arresting and incarcerating people for possessing small amounts of marijuana does not reduce violent crime. Meanwhile, the Dallas County Criminal District Attorney’s Office (DCCDAO) shows Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are disproportionately arrested for possessing small amounts of marijuana in Dallas

My Truth,

from page 1... the opportunity to assist and to highlight a Black business, was a no-brainer.

The program was “designed to celebrate and support African American entrepreneurs by partnering with influencers and local entrepreneurs, to share their stories and journeys to success.”

Working with the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce and others, we are one stop as Toyota moves around the country, having already stopped in Kansas

City, MO and Atlanta, GA. Participating also included driving one of Toyota’s premiere vehicles, the Avalon Hybrid. So, for a week I am styling and profiling in a midnight blue luxury fourdoor vehicle with all the bells and whistles.

Now, I’m an SUV type of woman but the comfort and smooth ride was really impressive, and I had all the leg room I needed!

Cruising down the high-

County.

The DCCDAO is committed to enhancing the safety of the community by prosecuting violent and repeat offenders. However, by diverting low-level offenses, we can reduce recidivism and save taxpayers’ money.

Although marijuana usage is virtually the same between Blacks and Whites, Blacks are arrested at a rate of 568/100K, while their White counterparts are arrested at a rate of 156/100K. The five-year graph shown here is as disgraceful as it is revealing.

A staggering 91% of minorities

way was an enjoyable experience. My entrepreneur was equally impressed when I pulled up to the Paradise Salon in Duncanville where MOCCA Makeup & Skincare is located. Owner Kena Williams Baccus comes from a family of entrepreneurs and she takes pride in providing quality products and service.

Since 2003 Kena has been working tirelessly with MOCCA. Community involvement is a priority for the Dallas native as she supports scholarship efforts, provides training for high school and college students, and helps aspiring journalists prepare for photo shoots.

Kena suffered setbacks because of COVID-19 but she quickly pivoted and be-

had cases filed against them, while only 9% were White. These cases require a minimum of four hours in booking and further drain already taxed DPD resources.

It is noteworthy that in 22% of the cases DPD presented, the package weighed more than the marijuana contents. At $217 per test, the change in policy has netted $510,000 in savings over the past 18 months. Class C Misdemeanors will save money, valuable police time, and reduce the number of confrontations on the street.

Many of the societal issues that plague policing these days are far

gan laying the foundation to make her company bigger and stronger. She has kept her loyal clientele by fully utilizing her excellent communication and marketing skills. Especially with the use of facial masks, more and more clients began asking for her skin care regimen. MOCCA was selected because of the quality of the products and the work ethic of Kena and her consultants.

She’s located at 719 South Cockrell Hill Road Suite 100 Duncanville, Texas 75137.

Call her at 682-325-8293. Or order at www.moccacosmetics.com.

I have been a client since the beginning and I proudly say that I don’t wear makeup, I wear MOCCA! And I hope you will too!

beyond their purview and ability to address. You hear very little from this column about the efficacy or the lack thereof of the Dallas Police Department. My mama says, “if you can’t say something good, say nothing at all.”

So here it is; Nothing at All! The Dallas Police Department should consider a move toward ticketing non-violent offenders rather than placing them in a county jail system that fights this current pandemic daily to maintain the health and safety of each inmate and staff at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center.

If COVID-19 has been good for nothing else, it has forced public policymakers to re-examine what they do and how they do it. The top brass at the City Council and Dallas Police Department need to join the overwhelming majority of its citizens.

You have to be smoking something to miss a fix as simple as this one.

What you smokin’?

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

TEXAS METRO NEWS 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

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.

3

AUGUST 19, 2020

METRO BRIEFS

Big Ten might be cancelled, President Trump weighs in

11-year-old Nigerian Boy is Coming to the U.S. for Ballet An 11-year-old Nigerian boy’s dream came true all from one video going viral.

Anthony Mmesoma Madu, of Largos, made a captivating video dancing that reached millions and celebrities such as actress Viola Davis.

Madu is shown practicing outside of his dance school,Leap of Dance Academy, where he started dancing barefoot in the rain in a pair of shorts and a tank top. The feedback of the video was positive as social media users expressed happiness at seeing a boy who loves to dance ballet. Madu has now received a scholarship to New York’s

By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD Staff Writer

By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD Staff Writer

By ALLANA J. BAREFIELD Staff Writer

Anthony Mmesoma Madu, an 11-year-old ballet dancer, poses during a rehearsal with other students at the Leap of Dance Academy in Lagos, Nigeria July 27, 2020. Picture taken July 27, 2020. (REUTERS)

prestigious American Ballet Theatre. As of now, he will attend a virtual three-week Young Dancer Summer Workshop remotely and has been given internet access.

Next year, he then will travel to the U.S. to work on his craft, with the help from his scholarship from Ballet Beyond Borders.

Eyes were on the Big Ten Conference and other schools, wondering if there will be a season this year. According to reports, the Big Ten committee has agreed to cancel the 2020 football season and will try for a comeback in the spring.

Pete Thamel, a spokesman for the Big Ten said there has been no vote from the league’s chancellors and presidents. Other conferences such as the SEC, Big 12, ACC and Pac-12 all have to make a decision soon on what this season will look like for the teams.

Already, football teams have stepped up and made their own decision. For example,

Dallas Native receives Book Deal on Dallas Hip Hop Scene

David Benedict, athletic director for UCONN said in a statement that the football team will not be playing in 2020. While Trevor Lawrence, a Clemson quarterback, posted a flyer on social media with #WeWantToPlay and #WeAreUnited.

Even President Trump retweeted Lawrence’s post and said, “the student-athletes have been working too hard for their season to be cancelled.”

Athletes and sports fans are waiting on the final vote.

This Dallas native is beaming from her exciting news that went viral on Twitter on Aug. 10. Taylor Crumpton wrote in caps, “I’m just a girl from Dallas, Texas who got a book deal to write about Hip-Hop in dirty dirty Dallas.”

Crumpton, who now lives in Oakland, has focused on pop, politics and music writing. The Abilene Christian University’s bylines can be seen in Marie Claire and Nylon. During her time on campus she advocated for Black students and wrote on topics such as reproductive justice. Crumpton then posted another tweet with a list of Amazon books to see which ones people would be interested in reading when it comes to Hip-Hop and the Africa diaspora.

Even, a reporter, Emily Bloch wrote,

Credit: Taylor Crumpton’s Twitter

Taylor Crumpton

“Yes!!! I’ll preorder so fast. Congratulations!”

Crumpton is proud of her roots so much that she wore a Dallas shirt in the picture with her tweet.

Zula B. Wylie Public Library in Cedar Hill

By MARVA J. SNEED

www.grandpasecret.com

Looking for some safe activities for the kids? Check out the Zula B. Wylie Public Library in Cedar Hill.

The library is open Monday-Friday 10: am-4:00 pm and curbside services are available.

The mission of the Zula B. Wylie Public Library is to be the community place that acts as the Door to Discovery connecting the culturally rich and diverse community to resources and services that promote lifelong learning, personal growth and development, and awareness of the arts.

They have the Summer Reading Challenge with prizes, Cedar Hill Garden Discovery, The Happiness Advantage Book Club, Story Time Live on Facebook, and more virtual activities.

A year ago, Mayor Stephen Mason, Cedar Hill City Council announced the location of the new Library. The site, located near

the Cedar Hill Government Center and the intersection of Pioneer Trail and N. Cedar Hill Road, was recommended by a citizen committee that studied a number of options.

The City Council awarded design contracts to PGAL for professional architectural and engineering services and Ten Eyck Landscape Architects for landscape architectural design services for the new public library and signature park project. The design process kicked off the summer in coordination with a citizen design committee and with ample opportunity for public input.

Aranda Bell is the Manager of Library Services. She was excited to talk about the development of the Toastmaster International Group to inspire and motivate your team Challenge with the toastmaster’s proven educational programs. Enrollment is open.

Enroll at: http://www.toastmasters. org/membership. For more on the Zula B. Wylie Public Library of Cedar Hill www. cedarhilllibrary.org.

4

AUGUST 19, 2020

WILLIAMS: A ‘Dirty’ Word?

WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE BY DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ.

Politics can be strange! Sometimes the analysis of a political campaign can raise as many questions as it answers. From discussion around the current Biden campaign we have learned that, depending upon one’s perspective, the word “ambitious” holds both positive and negative connotations. Some seem to think of ambition as synonymous with arrogance.

As a former teacher, I’m almost tempted to offer a short presentation on the denotative and connotative qualities of words. Instead, I’ll ask a few simple questions: What’s wrong with ambition?

When did it become a negative?

And, since the word was cast upon a Black woman who is a potential vice presidential candidate as a negative aspersion, what is the problem with an ambitious Black woman?

Given the examples of ambitious Black women in the history

of this nation, we can ask whether a woman like Harriett Tubman was arrogant or ambitious, or whether her goals, over objections of the slave-holder class, served a higher purpose. She was a no-nonsense freedom-seeker who tolerated nothing less than total commitment from others as well as herself.

Who would dare question the motives of women like Mary McLeod Bethune, Ella Baker, Diane Nash, Amelia Boynton, Fannie Lou Hamer or Dorothy Height?

Did Rosa Parks keep her seat out of arrogance or did her ambitions for “her people” supersede her concerns for personal safety?

Were the efforts of Mary McLeod Bethune undertaken for anything other than providing an opportunity for Black youth to educate themselves? Can we evaluate the actions of Baker, Nash, Boynton or Hamer as anything more than altruistic ambitions for the benefit of our race?

At great risk, they placed their convictions and bodies between those who would attempt to hold on to the social and cultural restrictions that established the boundaries of Jim Crow-ism. Did

Dr. Height, who conjoined the interests and goals of civil rights and women’s rights do so for the purpose of self-aggrandizement?

The ambitions of all these women were selfless and based upon service for a greater good.

The tradition of Black women in service to our communities is highlighted with women of great ambition. Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the first Black woman candidates for a major political party to run for the office of president of the U.S. Barbara Jordan, the first Black woman was elected to the Texas legislature, and later the first Black woman elected to Congress from the Deep South. Chisholm and Jordan ambitiously laid the foundation for the current lineup of Black women politicians.

It’s doubtful that in 2013, when Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi founded Black Lives Matter, they realized it would evolve into a human rights movement with the ambitious goal of eliminating violence and systemic racism towards Black people.

Sojourner Truth, Ida B. Wells and Black women by the thou-

Shirley Chisholm (U.S. Library of Congress)

sands number among those in history who overcame, instilled, motivated and supported their own and the ambitions of their families.

We wouldn’t see the brilliant Black women being considered for Joe Biden’s running mate were it not for their ambition to play a large part in leading this country to “a more perfect union.” Ambition is the fuel that propels us to the goal of being our better selves.

Ambition is not a dirty word.

Instead of viewing the concept or quality of ambition through the lens of negativity, race or misogy-

ny, thank God for ambitious Black women.

If we think critically and answer honestly, where would our communities, our nation or our world be now without the ambitions of strong, thoughtful women of color?

Without argument, women shape the world and there’s nothing wrong with the desire to shape it in its best form.

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

Black Women rising despite obstacles THE LAST WORD BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX

Women won the right to vote a century ago. On August 18, 1920, the 19th Amendment passed.

The white women’s equal rights struggle began in 1776, though, when Abigail Adams, the wife of our second president and member of the constitution-drafting Continental Congress, sent her husband a letter. She urged him to “remember the ladies.”

She further wrote, “All men would be tyrants if they could.

If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment a rebellion and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation.”

The Continental Congress did not remember the ladies, and it reduced African American enslaved people into a fraction of a person for census and political representation. The National Women’s Suffrage Association (NWSA) because white women like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and

Susan B. Anthony refused to support the 15th Amendment, which gave Black men, but no women, the right to vote.

Ain’t I A Woman, thundered Sojourner Truth. The battle lines were drawn between Black men and white women. And few were willing to notice the Black women on the sidelines. It reminds me of a Black Enterprise cover, circa about 1980, where a Black man and white woman were arm wrestling, presumably over who should benefit from affirmative action. There was no Black woman on that cover, not even

standing on the sidelines. When Akasha Gloria Hull, Patricia BellScot, and Barbara Smith wrote their book, All the Women Are White, All the Men Are Black, But Some of Are Brave (Feminist Press 1982), Black women cheered. These sisters realized that with race/gender conflict, Black women are too often discounted, by Black men, but especially by the white women who purport to be allies.

History will reveal that white women have used their whiteness as a shield against both Black men and women, espe-

cially as they have falsely accused Black men of rape.

Their false accusations resulted in the destruction of several Black communities. Very recently, the Women’s March leaders asked Tamika to step down from their Board (she stay until her term was up) because she embraced the intersectionality of unapologetically Black activist and gender-affirming warrior. In this era of racial reckoning, white women have much to explore and grapple with. Too many of them are so myopic that they don’t get it. see ECONOMY, page 6

5

AUGUST 19, 2020

Slowing Down to Stop FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

BY DR. FROSWA BOOKER-DREW

Lately, I think we have all been overwhelmed by Zoom meetings.

It seems as if we are busier than we were before and as a result, I find that more people are drained and exhausted. Even in being confined in our homes, we are rushed.

We are eating shorter lunches to make room for more calls. We are going to bed later, getting up earlier. Even as the world has paused for the pandemic, our pivoting has caused panic.

We are trying to keep up on an unending wheel that continues to pick up speed. Most people I talk to are overwhelmed, struggling and for one friend, less motivated than before.

During this season, we must be mindful of our own mental health and the toll that it takes to deal with the uncertainty of an unknown assailant—the virus—as well as the racial injustice that we continue to witness along with the Census, upcoming elections and being con-

fined to our homes. It is a lot to process and there is so much that we do not understand. There is a young entertainer who recently posted that she could no longer take the isolation and lack of intimacy and wanted things to be done.

Many saw it as a cry for help and others viewed it as a suicide note. It is troubling to see the impact this having on all ages. Young people are no longer able to enjoy the social aspects of school and college as they were before. Our seniors are isolated from family and friends.

Those who are single are also alone often without visitors for months.

We were designed to be in community and wired for relationship.

For those who are not disconnected because our work continues to create more meetings, calls, emails, text messages, and social media inboxing, we can feel like we are on all the time. Our downtime is oversaturated with reading Twitter, Facebook, and other platforms that slowly distract us and take time away from those things that really pour back into us. In this season, there are those of us who are losing ourselves.

Luke 8:43-48 says, “And a woman

was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.”

But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.””

Metaphorically, many of us are bleeding out and if we are not clear about who we should seek, we will go to so many remedies that the world will give to us that we will never be healed. We seek out comfort in ways that are temporary fixes, never offering real peace and restoration. You must be willing to own your need and take the risk to seek what God has for you and that is only by reaching out to Him. For others, we are daily pouring into others, not recognizing that for every person that pulls at us, power leaves us, too. Jesus knew that and rejuvenated himself by getting away with those closest to Him and other times, by being in solitude and in prayer. Even in the midst of COVID with so many distractions and issues that we face, there is healing available. All we need to do is ask.

Read 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Slow down, seek God, and He will heal you, and show you the way to restoration.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the author of three books for women. Her upcoming Podcast, The Tapestry, airs on Society Bytes Radio on Mondays at 1 PM CST. To listen, visit https://www. drfroswa.com/TapestryPodcast/. To connect to or learn more about Dr. Froswa’, visit drfroswa.com.

Thinking,

paid for 26 billboards displaying the magazine cover of Taylor throughout the Louisville area. from page 1... dent Bar Association president. That’s 26 for each year of TayIn other words, he has all lor’s life.

I was just thinking... It apthe credentials for a political pears that Winfrey’s intervenrising star who has caught the tion is getting results where little eye of President Trump. The else has.

This August, the case commander-in-chief seems to has seen more movement than consider Cameron an ally afit has in months.

Cameron met ter Cameron complimented with Taylor’s family for the first Trump at a political rally. time on August 12, more than What does this have to do 150 days since the 26-year-old with Breonna Taylor?

Well, some observers have emergency medical technician questioned whether Cameron’s died from the police bullets fired in her Loupolitical leanings isville residence may explain why on the night of there have been March 13. no arrests in the Police went to Taylor case and the wrong home why it has moved seeking a drug so slowly. Camsuspect.

Taylor eron holds all and her boythe cards right friend, Kenneth now in whether the Louisville, Alexis Franklin, digital artist Walker, awoke when police bust from Dallas and Houston Kentucky police in but did not officers who fired knock.

Walker told investigators shots – including eight that inhe picked up a gun that he had vestigators say killed Taylor -a permit to carry, thinking he will be prosecuted. After much and Taylor were being invaded public protests, changes were by robbers.

Police fired back, made early on in police procestruck Taylor eight time and she dures, but to date there have died. been no arrests or charges.

Walker was arrested for firing Enter entertainment media at police but later released after mogul and billionaire Oprah lawyers and community leadWinfrey. ers intervened on his behalf.

Winfrey recently has taken a Wide-spread public protests visible interest in the case. The have continued.

Lawyers have super-star celebrity was not on pushed for justice.

Various ofthe cover of her popular O Magficials have resigned.

The FBI is azine for the first time in the investigating.

One officer was publication’s history. Instead, Winfrey ran an artist rendition fired. Two others are on adminof Breonna Taylor. Inside the istrative leave. None have been magazine, Winfrey commented charged nor arrested.

Ben Crump, a well-known on the need for justice for Taylor attorney representing Taylor’s saying, “We can’t be silent.” family has said recently that The cover art was done by a he sees indications that arrests rising star, self-taught, digital may come by the end of Separtist Alexis Franklin, 24, of Daltember or early October. las and Houston. Winfrey also Norma Adams-Wade is a veteran, award-winning journalist, Graduate of UT- Austin and Dallas native. One of the founders of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), she was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame

6

AUGUST 19, 2020

Women, Voter Suppression. The Birth of Apathy. Black from page 4...

By ALLEN R. GRAY Dallas Area African American Newspaper Publishers

It is difficult to determine where the line between voter suppression ends and voter apathy begins.

What is certain, though, is that the line of demarcation between the two has been blurred by decades upon decades of interference from damning schemes that strip Black Americans of their legal right to have a say when it comes to elections.

Know that voter apathy for Black voter apathy is not innate. It is instead a psychological implant that has been nurtured over time and has evolved over generations due to the many mutations of the poll tax. The poll tax wasn’t born during post-Civil War Reconstruction, though. The concept of the poll tax dates to the time of Cleopatra’s Egypt, and essentially all conquering nations since that time have used a “head tax” or capitation to sustain its government and fund wars; but Americans during the 19th century took the poll tax to a whole new level.

During the period of Reconstruction, when newly freed slaves gained the right to vote, various forms of the poll tax became a lot more creative than guessing the number of jelly beans in a mason jar. The Grandfather clause, for in-stance, said that you could only vote if your father voted. Which meant that all former slaves were left out. Then there was the literacy test, which asked that you be able to read (literature supplied by election officials) before you could vote. Blacks were asked to read complex legal documents, while whites were asked to read literature with simple sight words. The voting dilemma became even more compounded when we consider that only people who qualified to vote prior to the Civil War, or whose ancestors qualified to vote were allowed to cast ballots during elec-

tions. This requirement eliminated an entire nation of newly freed slaves. White men, of course, were exempt from the rigors of poll taxation in any form. These methods of suppression towards Blacks sustained well into the early 1900s.

The monetary poll tax, which is perhaps the most infamous of all poll taxes, often ranged anywhere from $1.50 and greater per voter.

That doesn’t seem like much by today’s standards—but when you consider that in 1905 the average Black family earned around $3 per week, sirloin steaks were 10 cents a pound and the homes sold for approximately $3,500—potential voters were forced to decide whether to vote or feed their families.

These insidious measures worked to suppress the Black vote for more than a century, despite legislation that mandated otherwise. The “Reconstruction Amendments” attempted to rectify Blacks’ right to vote. The 13th Amendment (1865) freed the slaves; the 14th Amendment (1866) gave Blacks citizenship. (The Black Codes, laws aimed at oppressing Blacks, were also enacted in 1865.) The 15th Amendment (1870) outlawed discrimination in voting rights but it had no penalties for violating of those rights. So, in 1870, the Enforcement Act attempted to give teeth to laws that had bark but no bite.

After decades of protest and civil unrest, the House passed the 24th Amendment in 1962 eradicating the poll tax for federal elections.

Then the landmark Voting Rights Act was passed in 1965 that sought to secure Blacks’ right to vote unencumbered. Yet, voter suppression in some form lingered, nonetheless. In 1966, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections also rendered the poll tax unconstitutional for state and local elections. Yet, as recently as 2013, that same U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Shelby v.

Holder that states had the right to

do things like limit early voting and require voters to show photo IDs. The spirit of Jim Crow laws has proven to be that revenant who can mutate and transform depending on the climate and circumstance.

While in the past voter suppression was much more obvious, today’s systemic racism has a more covert means of undermining the voting rights of targeted demographic groups.

Today, we would be hardpressed to find the Ku Klux Klan at polling places burning crosses and crops to turn voters away, but contemporary methods of suppression have proven to be just as effective acts of violence. Here are some contemporary tactics used to turn voters away from election polls: • Voter ID requirements allow election officials to use false claims of rampant voter fraud to justify strict requirements like a photo ID, or laws requiring a physical street address discriminate against minorities groups that are more likely to have P.O. Box addresses, such as Native Americans living on reservations.

• Lack of language access, where election officials refuse to translate materials or offer language assistance (as required by law), which suppresses the voting of Asian Americans and Latinos.

• Voter roll purges, claims to remove duplicate names, the names of the de-ceased, or the names of convicted felons. The purge actually deletes the names of millions of eligible voters and disproportionately effects communities of color.

• Polling place closures/consolidations, where election officials have closed thousands of polling places, largely in communities of color. Recently in Chicago’s Cook County alone, which has the largest non-Hispanic black population in the country, 95 polling places were either closed or moved.

• Lack of funding for elections, demonstrated its affect when dursee VOTER, page 9

Black women get it. Gwen McKinney, Patricia Ann Ford, and a coterie of their friends have launched a great website that explores the intersection of suffrage, race, and power,(srp@ unerased.com) and the ways that the majority narrative has too often erased the contributions that Black women have made to suffrage and justice.

Most feminists know about Susan B. Anthony, but how many white feminists know of Nannie Helen Burroughs or Ida B. Wells?

Black women often advocated for the same rights that white women did, but in protest, thanks to southern women and their racist mindset, Black women were excluded from public activity or asked to march at the end.

That nonsense did not discourage the women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority in 1913 when they pushed their way into the center of the march.

The historical relationship between Black and white women is ugly, but in this era of Black Lives Matter, Black women are rising.

Despite extremely nasty shade, which I won’t dignify with a reference, there is at least a 60-40 chance that a Black woman will be Joe Biden’s running mate.

The Higher Heights for America PAC is named after Dr. Dorothy Height (higherheightsforamerica. org) and supports Black women running for political office. They describe their space as “a political home for Black women,” and thy see to elect, mobilize, and amplify Black women.

They are among those who celebrated Cori Bush’s surprising victor over incumbent William “Lacy” Clay in the St. Louis congressional primary. Actually, it shouldn’t be much of a surprise.

Bush planned her work and worked her plan as a visible presence in St Louis, an organizer for

Black Lives Matter and a grassroots activist. Her win is a victory for Black women, for progressives, and activists.

Even as Black women are rising, ugly racism too often attempts to put us in our place. In Aurora, Colorado Brittney Gilliam had planned a girl’s afternoon with her sister, nieces, and six-yearold daughter, Instead, they were confronted by the police because they mistakenly identified her car as “stolen.”

Our “law enforcement” officer pointed guns at the young, innocent Black women and girls, and they were forced to lay, face down, on hot asphalt as they were handcuffed. Later, the police tepidly acknowledge their “mistake.”

Later the police chief, Vanessa Wilson, apologized and offered therapy for the children.

Brittney told a CNN anchor that the chief could “shove it” as she found it insincere. Incidentally, Valerie Wilson is a white woman who bet out three Black men for the job. Would they have handled this differently?

As always, the pace of progress oscillates with two steps forward and one step back. Black women are rising politically, but some things change slowly. Where are the majority women’s organizations in Aurora, Colorado?

Pandemic notwithstanding, why are they silent? Would the Aurora police have treated a white woman with four young people in the car? Ain’t I A Woman?

7

AUGUST 19, 2020

Floyd Act, from page 1...

State Rep. Harold Dutton, TLBC Chair, emphasized that improving the police environment is a necessary first step to addressing the systemic racial injustice that exists in Texas.

“The road to justice in Texas, particularly for Black and brown people, has been fraught with dead ends the dead ends of white supremacy and bigotry,” said Chairman Dutton. “Today we are here to open that road for all Texans.

We recognize this is the first step to equal justice, and we respectfully ask all the people in Texas and all the legislators in Texas to join us.”

In response to Floyd’s death, TLBC members hosted a series of town halls on changes that community leaders and advocates believe are necessary to combat racism and disproportionate punishment against the Black community. Those conversations culminated in today’s announcement of the George Floyd Act, legislation that has been spearheaded

by State Rep. Senfronia Thompson, the longestserving Black legislator in the state and Chair of the Texas House Public Health Committee.

“The George Floyd Act addresses the injustices that George Floyd experienced at the hands of police officers all his life, and that black people experience routinely,” said Chair Thompson. “We all are going to have to come together to pass this law and take the necessary step to a more equal and freer Texas for everyone.”

Rodney Floyd, George Floyd’s youngest brother, spoke during the press

The George Floyd Act will be filed as a comprehensive law containing several important provisions that advocates and legislators have long sought to put into law. The Act will address: 1. Qualified Immunity – create a new state law allowing victims and families of victims of police violence to sue law enforcement for any violation of a person’s rights.

2. Duties of Peace officers – requires all officers to prevent crimes and rescue those at risk of death of injury, including when it is at the hand of another officer.

3. Limit Use of Force – Puts a ban on chokeholds, emphasizes de-escalation in all situations, and severely limits an officer’s ability to use lethal force.

4. End Arrest for Fine-Only Violations – Officers can no longer arrest anyone for offenses that are merely fines, a long-awaited final piece of the Sandra Bland Act. 5. Requires Corroboration for Undercover Testimony – No longer can a person be convicted solely on the word of an undercover and potentially corrupt officer.

6. Departments Hold Officers Accountable – Creates a strong disciplinary matrix that holds officers accountable for their actions.

The George Floyd act has already gained support from a diverse collection of crucial advocacy groups, including the Texas NAACP, Mothers Against Police Brutality, ACLU of Texas, Texas Coalition of Black Democrats, Black Lives Matter Houston, Texas Organizing Project, and more. conference to express support for the George Floyd Act and share his appreciation for legislators for acting after his brother’s death.

“This Act has so many pieces that are way overdue,” said Rodney Floyd. “The George Floyd Act will hopefully be passed so we can achieve

justice we are all comfortable with. He is smiling and cheering on the bill, knowing that his death wasn’t in vain, and we thank you for the support.”

Tezlyn Figaro, Senior Advisor of The George Floyd Foundation thanked Chair Thompson for her leadership and for reaching out to the family.

“This bill is the first Texas legislation that includes participation from the George Floyd Foundation and will allow the Foundation to actively participate in social justice, education and advocacy,” said Tezlyn Figaro.

“It’s very important when the family has the opportunity to be involved and actually have a seat at the table.”

State Senator Royce West, who will be the Senate sponsor of the bill, talked extensively about the critical police reforms that are part of the bill – and the unity it will take to get it done.

“The bill creates a path for strong disciplinary actions for police and our police unions,” said Senator West. “Is it going to be easy? No. But all of us stand together to make these reasonable recommendations and we invite all our colleagues – including the Governor – to be a part of it.”

State Representative Nicole Collier, Chair of the Texas House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee, was clear that the George Floyd Act is a crucial first step – one to be followed by numerous laws in the upcoming legislative session.

“What you see today is the first of a series of legislation that is going to address policing and criminal justice reform,” said Chair Collier.

“We won’t back down until there are serious police reforms here in Texas.”

Call now (214)372-6321

6090 Bonnie View Rd, Dallas, TX 75241

MO’ BETTAH WINGS

2860E. LEDBETTER DR. (Inside Valero) DALLAS, Tx.75216

11am-10pm Monday-Saturday 12-8 Sunday

8

AUGUST 19, 2020

Trichologist Perspective

ABOUT YOUR HAIR BY DR. LINDA AMERSON

Have any of you heard someone say, “Your hair is dead, and so it does not matter what you do to it”. This is not true. Your hair and scalp have a tolerance level. But is it dead or alive? Actually Yes and No. Trichology emphasizes hair science microscopically, getting to the root of the problem.

Hair is Dead The hair outside your scalp, physiologically speaking, is dead. It has no nerves, or live

components. In addition, when hair is cut, you feel no pain, nor does it bleed or pull a muscle when stretched. Hair elasticity is an external component. However, a person can feel hair blowing in the wind, pain of someone pulling their hair, or tangled and matted hair combed out.

However, for a dead fiber it is quite remarkable. A healthy hair strand will stretch up to 30% of its length, can absorb its weight in water and can swell up to 20% of its diameter.

Many consumers get bored with their hair and alter its appearance frequently. Diva changes can be daily, weekly, every 2 weeks, etc.

This variety includes: changing its color, shape, curl pattern, twist and set it, braid and weave it, spray it in various styles, tease, pull it to an amazing heights and degrees.

Yet despite all of this abuse, many consumers do not realize your hair has a tolerance level. There is a breaking point, boiling point and Alopecia a possibility…with excessive abuse to your hair. In addition, scalp sensations may be felt.

Hair bulb is Alive Hair grows from a single follicle where the bulb forms under the scalp tissue. Blood capillaries surrounding the follicle carry the nourishment needed for cell production and growth of the hair bulb. The size of the follicle may produce one to eight strands growing from it. This reveals the variations of fine/thin hair textures, medium hair textures, thick hair textures, as well as combination hair textures. Each follicle has its own blood, nerve and muscle supply. The nerves

and muscles give the hair its tactile properties, allowing the slightest movement to be felt.

Important fact: each of us is born with a specific number or follicles, which naturally cannot be changed. However, with hair transplants procedures, this expensive procedure has attracted many consumers, as well as micropigmentation.

Put simply, hair is extreme-

ly sensitive to any metabolic change, and it is often a result of these internal problems that hair loss and scalp conditions may occur. Seek the expertise of an expert for a microscopic analysis.

Dr. Linda Amerson, doctor of Trichology, Arlington, TX (817) 265-8854 or view our website at www.hairandscalpessentials.com #ScalpDoctor #39yrVeteran

Healthy Youth Project to Expand to Multiple Dallas Middle and High Schools Program Educates Youth on Healthy Cooking; Helps Combat Childhood Obesity From Staff Reports COVID-19 has heightened the awareness of food insecurity and nutrition in underserved communities. The Healthy Youth Project addresses the importance of nutrition and access to fresh produce for the most vulnerable students in the public food system.

“It goes beyond simply providing meals to inner-city high school students with meals; it’s providing the education to lay a strong foundation and understanding for a sustainable healthy future,” said Debra Peek Haynes, who launched

The Healthy Youth Project in response to the increasing rate of obesity and health disparities among the nation’s children.

A healthier diet has a significant impact on students’ overall mental and physical health. For the past two years, the Healthy Youth Project used an interactive curriculum to educate students on healthy cooking, eating and how to develop an organic garden on the school campus.

During the 2020-21 school year the program will expand from one campus to nine middle and high schools in underserved communities in Dallas.

Haynes, president of De-

Debra Peek Haynes

bra’s Healing Kitchen and DHK Wellness Strategies, Inc., a resident of Dallas, Texas, founded Healthy Youth Project as a demonstration of her 30 years’ commitment to building bet-

ter and healthier communities, both nationally and internationally. “Since fresh produce is essential for better health we must address why our children lack access to nutritious life giving foods,” she explained, adding that the project is adaptable to in-classroom engagement or virtual learning.

According to The State of Childhood Obesity “The national childhood obesity rate is 18.5%. The rate varies among different age groups and rises as children get older: 13.9% of 2 to 5-year-olds, 18.4% of 6 to 11-year-olds and 20.6% of 12 to 19-year-olds have obesity. There

also are striking racial and ethnic disparities, 25.8% of Latino children and 22% of Black children have obesity.”

Texas Capital Bank and Toyota Motor North America, on different scales, support this project through their community outreach programs.

“This program provides important life skills that lead to healthier lifestyle choices,” explains Alva Mason, senior manager, Toyota Social Innovation.

To learn more about The Healthy Youth Project teaches visit: https://www.debrapeekhaynes.com/healthy-youth. html.

9

AUGUST 19, 2020

Voter,

from page 6... ing the 2000 presidential election in Florida there was failure in the recount process, flawed ballot designs, and voting machines that overheated and failed.

• Provisional ballot requirements, if a voter’s eligibility is in question they may use a provisional ballot to be counted until eligibility is confirmed. However, localities determine how many provisional ballots are printed, which meant that in certain localities far less were printed than were actually needed.

• Reduced early voting, early voting is essential to hourly workers who don’t have expendable time, because of work or child care obligations. Recently, time apportioned to early voting has been drastically cut which negatively affects communities of color.

• Reduced regular voting hours, negatively affects low-income workers, who don’t have the convenience of arriving to work late or taking extended midday breaks; or who are strapped due to childcare arrangements.

Other means of suppression are poorly trained volunteer poll workers, partisan election administrators, and the creation of at large local offices to dilute the minority vote.

These tactics of voter suppression have proven to be particularly fruitful in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and especially Texas.

In the wake of this century long onslaught on voter suppression a toll has been taken on Black voters.

In 1890, the qualified Black voters registered to have their voice heard was at 90 percent. By 1940, only 3 percent of qualified Black voters were registered. Today, less than half of all registered Black voters regularly participate in elections. Although, if Blacks have someone they feel is worth voting they have shown to be less apathetic.

With Obama on the ticket in 2008 and 2012, the number of Blacks that voted rose tremendously. Yet when they needed to vote the most in 2016, Black voter turnout fell drastically.

And eight percent of the Blacks that did vote that year voted for Trump. Political districts with a relative low percentage of registered

Blacks voting is routinely high, compared to districts with a greater percentage of registered Blacks where the voting is repulsively low; and Black women tend to vote more than Black men.

Since 1865 to the present, the provocateurs of this most insidious scheme have done a most commendable job of implanting the spirit of apathy deep within the psyche of African American voters— while the victims have proven to do very little to assuage its effects.

There is, however, a ray of hope for the minority voters.

From 2014 to 2018 Blacks have had the highest voter turnout upsurge of all demographic groups, with an increase greater than 18 percent. The status of Black voting isn’t what it used to be 20 years ago, but it surely isn’t what it was in 1890.

The issue of Jim Crow being dead has been greatly overstated. He has merely changed his name to systemic racism, a more covert method of depriving citizens seeking to be heard at polling places. If ever there was a time to shake off the effects of the psychological implant know as apathy, the time is now.

Entrepreneurs,

from page 1...

trepreneurs who have been working hard to change their business models in order to adapt to the new restrictions that coronavirus has brought. She said small business owners have still struggled to obtain financing from federal initiatives - like the Paycheck Protection Program - to keep their companies afloat.

“Moving forward, it’s critically important for the programming to be designed for micro entrepreneurs,” Smith said, adding that funds should be allocated to and dispersed by community based organizations with strong ties to the neighborhoods they serve.”

“It’s crucial that these lending institutions and the government engage grassroots organizations who are connected to these communities,” Smith said.”If organizations such as ours were funded to do this kind of work, we’d be more successful.”

Smith was joined by Ramiro Cavazos,

President and CEO of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and entrepreneur Nathalie Huerta who owns The Queer Gym in the Bay Area.

Huerta agreed with Smith - a co-founder of the Black Business Empowerment Commission, which works to advocate and support Black-owned businesses - that the government and banks have to do a better job of making sure that entrepreneurs are aware of the resources that are available to help them.

“If we don’t know that help is available, how do we reach for it,” Huerta asked.

In remarks after the panel, Rep. Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) said moving forward that Congress would be looking into waste and fraud within the PPP program, and he’d co-authored a bill that would make businesses affected by recent civil unrest over systemic racism eligible for government backed loans where 75 percent of the debt would be forgiven.

“When it came to getting the PPP loans, early on it was tough for some,” he said, adding, “I’ve learned a lot of lessons as we’ve gone along.”

10

AUGUST 19, 2020

Dale Long

Betty Culbreath

Mayor Curtistene McCowan

Rev. Frederick D. Haynes

Thomas Muhammad

KAMALA, from page 1...

Dale Long, retired City of Dallas administrator and veteran mentor with Big Brother, Big Sister organization. A former KDFW-TV Fox 4 Hometown Hero “I’ve been watching the news all day. I like her (Kamala Harris) and liked her when she was running against Biden for the Democratic presidential nomination. She stands out as the only incumbent African-American female U. S. Senator. She comes across as very smart. She knows the business, knows the country, and has an impressive background as the former District Attorney in San Francisco.

Looking ahead, she might be the right person to follow after Biden and become President. I suspect President Trump will find a way to beat up on her because he is working hard to find ways to get re-elected. He has already said that Biden made a mistake by boxing himself in, saying he would pick a woman VP. Trump said that statement could be an insult to men.”

Betty Culbreath, political operative, Republican Party member, former chair of Dallas City Plan Commission and member of various city boards, including former chair of the DFW Airport Board “Frankly, I hope that she will help the (Democratic) ticket, although Biden presumably

Diane Ragsdale

Jasmine Crockett

Councilwoman Shaunte Allen

would take the Black vote anyway. I had thought maybe he would pick someone from a southern state to help draw that vote. I hope people won’t get hung up on (Harris’) race as a factor and (Biden) lose out by some people not voting because of that. If I had been Biden, I probably would have gone with Susan Rice (former national Security Advisor) because of her service and experience. President Trump likely will continue to attack Harris as being too aggressive, painting that as a weakness and unwomanly, while many others see her as strong and smart. I don’t think Trump’s strategy will work. But people who are for Trump are going to be for him regardless. But the undecided voters will make a difference.”

Rev. Frederick D. Haynes III, Sr. Pastor - Friendship-West Baptist Church “I am hyped with anticipation! Kamala Harris is a dynamic force of nature. She is brilliant, competent and eloquent. Joe Biden has done this nation a

great service by selecting her as his running mate. We will need that kind of transformative ticket at the top to rescue this nation from the double pandemic we are in! “ Thomas Muhammad, chair of the National Black United Front, Dallas Chapter “There currently is a strong urge, particularly since March, for a national strategy for saving this country. And although I consider myself a citizen by default, I think she is an excellent pick to move that strategy forward. It’s clear that this man in the White House has no idea how to move the country through one of the darkest periods in modern history. As a result of (Biden’s) choice, there is some hope for a strategy. I personally think Elizabeth Warren would have been better. She was my choice for President. Still, Harris is a good choice for this period in time.

And, this gives her a start on a future presidential run.”

Angela Luckey, Grand Prairie NAACP President “It’s an excellent choice. I’m

pleased with the fact that she’s the running mate.” “ Having Kamala Harris on the ticket is big for the United States.

She is the person that can get Vice President Biden elected. I think that’s the way they should go.”

Diane Ragsdale, managing director of South Dallas/Fair Park Inner-city Community Development Corp. and former Dallas City Council’s deputy mayor pro tem“I’ve very happy with his choice. I’m proud to be able to support the ticket with my work now. If it had not been the right choice, I would vote but not walk. Now I’m inspired to get out and knock on doors. We have a demon in office that we need to get out. I supported Elizabeth Warren during the primaries.

I felt she was most progressive and capable... But I will support this ticket now actively not passively.”

Atty. Jasmine Crockett - Democratic nominee - TX State Rep. District 100 “I’ve admired, modeled, and

Angela Luckey

tracked Senator Kamala Harris’ career since she was first elected as the youngest District Attorney in San Francisco. I sat in awe as she was elected the first woman and Black Attorney General of California.

As the first Black Woman Attorney to represent my district, I know what it’s like to be the “first” to do something in 2020.

One thing about Black Women, when we’re the first to do something— we make sure we’re not the last.”

Councilwoman Shaunte Allen - City of Glenn Heights “It was a solid choice, she has the experience and is a solid pick.

She will balance Joe Biden out. I feel that Stacey Abrams is more progressive and in tune with the people, and what she gets from them she would take back ‘this is the law, this is what we are going to do and that’s it.’ Get to know Senator Harris’ background. She stands on Healthcare and Immigration Act. These are concerns for Texans. Her background speaks for itself.”

Mayor Curtistene McCowan of DeSoto, Texas “She is smart and exciting” She has my full support. I am behind the Biden/Harris ticket. The mayor also went on to say she was excited that Senator Harris will be the first Black woman to run as VP and she will be a heartbeat away from the President.”

Contributors: Norma Adams-Wade, Allana J. Barefield, Ashley Moss and Marva Sneed.

11

AUGUST 19, 2020 AT THE MOVIES

BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ

WASHED Season 2 is an independent TV series that was shot entirely in The Dallas-Fort Worth area and features an ensemble cast of primarily Dallas area actors. Season One is currently playing on Amazon with season two due out on September 2nd.

I had the opportunity to watch the first three episodes of the new season.

So, the obvious question is” is it any good?”

I’d have to answer that question with a resounding, YES! The movie tells about the lives of men and women. Most of them are on the verge of making their dreams come true; while some of them are living lives where their

WASHED dreams never came true.

The movie, directed by local award-winning director Jerod Couch, has a very good cast and the cast is very likeable as milliumms who are out in the world trying to find their way.

According to Couch, he experienced most of these same things himself. Couch is a native Dallasite and he puts the spotlight on this city. The series is called WASHED because most of the characters are washed up.

I enjoyed WASHED. It is not rated but the show does contain adult language and situations. I can’t wait to see the rest of the season.

On my “Hollywood PopCorn Scale” I rate WASHED a LARGE.

THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

BY VALDER BEEBE

My team learned about International Female Ride Day® Mon August 22, 2020 to celebrate and empower more women through power sports.

The event sponsors Polaris and Black Girls Ride join the 14th annual global event that calls on all females to “Just Ride!”

Saturday, August 22, on six continents in over 120 countries.

I was honored to talk to Porsche Taylor, Founder & Editor-In-Chief of Black Girls Ride Magazine. Black Girls Ride is not an exclusive racial statement; It is an inclusive celebration of all women who live to ride. You’ll find women of all ethnicities in our pages. We believe that all women who ride are Beautiful Bikers.

That said, we are unapologetic about giving a voice to women

BLACK GIRLS RIDE PORSCHE TAYLOR of color in motorsports. We are often asked, “Why call it Black Girls Ride?” My direct answer is simple. There is a need for the voice of all women in motorsports, but specifically for

Porsche Taylor

Black Women, to be heard.

We overspend on bikes, accessories and gear, yet remain under represented in motorsports media, marketing and advertising. We intend to be the change we want to see. We take pride in bringing you articles on professionals like Peggy Llewellyn, Crystal Dickerson,

and SJ Harris. We are honored to feature living legends like Ms. Showtime, Secret the Cross Country Rider and Suicide. We focus on the women who have endured to be simply seen as equals, highlighting female MCs that represent with Pride and Dignity in their communities. While there are levels to the MC lifestyle, allow us to cross the entire spectrum.

We recognize all women, regardless of bike or club status.

From 250cc to 1400cc and beyond, we believe we are all united as sisters on ground.

VBS: Porsche, educated and my audience about Black Girls Ride. I’m fascinated.

PT: In 2011 I CREATED Black Girls Ride Magazine which is the premier motorcycle women for women in power sports.

The goal was to create a platform that represented women see PORSCHE, page 13

Do you know this man?

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

12 16

MAY 20, 2020

August 19-21

AUGUST 19, 2020

Virtual and liVe Community Calendar

Senior Info and Wellness Virtual Vendor Fair, at Alan E. Sims Cedar Hill Recreation Center, 310 E Parkerville Rd. 12:00 pm. The Cedar Hill community week of August 17- 21 for our Senior Information and Wellness Virtual Vendor Fair!

August 19 Back to School Cut + Autographed Book. Hosted by Alton’s Old School Barbershop, 1911 Abrams Parkway #102, Dallas. 10:00 am–6:00 pm. For a limited time, purchase: https://altons.square.site/product/limited-special-kids-cutautographed-book-/36?cs=true.

Girl, TALK! The Protection of Rejection. Hosted by Melanin Manifestival and To’Ccorra Hill. Online event. Tickets: https://www.melaninmanifestival.com/ 7:00-8:30 pm.

Drive-Up and Stock Up! School Supply Giveaway. Hosted by Garland Parks, Rec. & Cultural Arts. Friendship House, 620 W Avenue B, Garland. 5:30 pm–7:00 pm. Free Backpacks with school supplies. Children must be present. For kindergarten to eighth grade. Info: call 972-205-3090.

August 20 Elections Town Hall: Educating & Mobilizing Through the Movement, Tri-Cities NAACP. Feat: Toni Pippins-Poole, Dallas Election Department and Jasmine Crockett, Crockett Law Firm, PPLC. Online Event https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/85487180332 at 7:00 -8:30 pm.

Food Drive Hosted by Trinity Church 1231 E. Pleasant Run Rd., Cedar Hill 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. The more groceries they get, the more They are able to give away! Info: (972) 291-2501 or www.trinitychurch.org.

Celebrity And Friends Live at Arlington Improv. Hosted by Celebrity The Comedian. Arlington Improv as we LAUGH thru today’s madness. 8:00 pm– 11:00 pm. Tickets: www.improvtx.com.

How To Be Anti-Racist Online Workshop Hosted by Enoch Pratt Free Library and Brittany Oliver. 2:00 pm3:00 pm. Reg: Eventbrite.com. Info: http://www.brittanytoliver.com/ The 24th Annual Dallas Mayor’s Back to School Fair (Walk-Up Only) Hosted by Dallas ISD, at Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave. 5:00–7:00 pm. Register: http://giveaway. mayorsbacktoschoolfair.org/.

August 21

Friendship-West Presents Spiritual Care. Fridays Spiritual Care of our souls helps to encourage us through difficult times.1:00 pm. Zoom: Link and access code.https:// zoom.us/j/8567036848? Access Code: 856 703 6848.

Best Southwest, State Rep. Carl Sherman (District 109) facilitates the TGIF Legislative Series: Education during the Pandemic. Register: Call 972-780-5099 or www.bestsouthwestresources.com. 8:00 am.

South Dallas Summer Drive-In at 1920 Martin Luther King Blvd. A summer drive-in that aims to bring together the Dallas community through cinema that explores and celebrates the black experience. Free via www.Eventbrite.com 8:00 pm-11:59 pm.

The 24th Annual Dallas Mayor’s Back to School Fair (Drive-Thru Only) Hosted by Dallas ISD, at Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave. 9:00 am–2:00 pm. Register here: http://giveaway.mayorsbacktoschoolfair.org/.

August 22 Meet A Black Mental Health Professional: We Are Here, hosted

by Dr, Tanisha Guy & Megan Pickens, LPC-S. 7 pm – 9 pm. A 2-hour event will introduce you to 20 Black mental health professionals. Register: Eventbite.com.

The African American Film Critics Association invites you to a Summer Screening of House Party. Reserve your seat: houseparty.aafcascreening.com Screening 2:00 pm. 4-4:45 pm. Talk Back with Reginald Hudlin.

Prayer in the City. Online prayer meeting every 3rd Saturday 10:00 am. Register: Eventbrite.com they will send info.

Freedom for the Children. A peaceful walk for children.

10:00 am at Round Saloon, 3912 Cedar Springs Rd. Info: www. fredomforthechildren.org.

Meet, Connect & Learn Are You a Senior Citizen, a Caregiver, or a Family in Need. Host, Mark D. Cooks Duncanville City Council. Online even.

Guest Speaker: Sharla Meyers, CEO, Community Council https://us02web. zoom.us/j/89657228662 Meeting ID: 896 5722 8662.

August 23-29

Annual Black Winemakers Scholarship Dinner.

A virtual event raising scholarship funds for Dallas-Ft. Worth students attending Jackson State University. Tickets: http:// dfw-jsu.org. Info: www.dfwjsunaa.fundraising@gmail.com.

August 23 I Still Have a Dream Community Showcase. Host We Are Cocoa. City of Dallas - City Hall, 1500 Marilla St, Dallas.

6:00 pm–8:00 pm. Tickets: https://www.wearecocoa.org/ Live Performances, Community Photo Shoot, Raffle & Giveaways.

Social distancing and masks are required!

Day of Service!! Hosted by Rho Phi Kappa Fraternity, Inc. Dallas Downtown, with other fraternities and sororities a National Day of Service. 9:00 am–4:00 pm. Back to School Supply Drive & Distributing Hygiene Packs to the homeless. Contact : rhophikappa@gmail.com for location and to donate.

Mavs Playoffs, Host CutiePies Pizza at 2916 McKinney Ave, Dallas. 2:30 pm-5:30 pm. 214-238-6348 info@cutiepiespizza. com. Luka and the Mavs will take on the Clippers in the first round of the NBA Playoffs! Limited capacity so arrive early and follow proper social distancing and safety ordinances.

August 24-Sept. 2 BiteNites Restaurant Week. Hosted by Watters Creek, 970 Garden Park Dr, Allen. From August 24 – September 2.

Participating restaurants include The Blue Fish, Cru Food & Wine Bar, Edith’s French Café, Frogg Coffee Bar & Creperie, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, and PF Chang’s. Info: (972) 747-8000.

August 24 Fluffy-N-Fitness in the Park at Vandergriff Skatepark 2800 S. Center St. Arlington. 7:00 pm. Fluffy-N-Fitness.com.

Makin’ Money Mondays Host Wealth Architect. Need some financial wisdom? We got you covered. Hosts Kirsten Elise Dunn, successful social entrepreneur and real estate investor, and Jack Waldron, Executive VP at Five Rings Financial, on FACEBOOK LIVE @WealthArchitect. 11:15 am–11:45 am. FREE!

A Message For You, with I Messenger Media multi-media journalist Allana Barefield and the legendary Norma Adams-Wade. Thursdays at 11am. Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation.

BLACK LIVES MATTER #NationBuilding w/ Michael Sorrell, at 12:30 pm. CDT, Wednesdays on Facebook & Twitter. Follow Paul Quinn College’s President, Michael Sorrell on all social media platforms. @MichaelSorrell on Twitter & Instagram and @Michael J. Sorrell on Facebook.

A Message For You, with Anthony Council Morehouse student and I Messenger Media intern. Tuesdays at 11am Anthony brings that perspective from those born in this century. Live on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews & Blog Talk Radio.com Join the conversation.

Andrew’s World with host Andrew Whigham III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8 am.-10 am. Sundays Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459 The Stimulus Show, hosted by Ashley Moss a Poynter-Koch Fellowship with I Messenger Media, LLC. Join in on Facebook/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com at 11 am Mondays.

SIP and Eat with LaShante’ “The Lifestyle Chef.” LaShante Williams, Every Thursday at 7pm CST on FB live and IG live and https://www.instagram.com/ lashante@thelifestylechef/

13

AUGUST 19, 2020

Fast nickels beat slow dimes THE BLACK CARD

BY TERRY ALLEN

My past columns have stated wisdoms taught to me during my SMU school years by my Grandmother, lovingly known as BIG Mama.

As a NABJ board member, I attended our recent virtual conference, NABJNAHJ20 Virtual. It was a major success! So many shining moments happened but one moment that stood out that resonated with me.

During a Toyota sponsored NABJ town hall session, Where Do We Go From Here: What’s Our Collective Strategy to Overcome Social Injustice? with Marc Morial -NUL, Jericka Duncan-CBS, Eric Deggans- NPR and Renee Montgomery-WNBA spoke in the same tone as my Texas Metro News column did weeks ago: We Need to Make This Moment a Movement by Maintaining Momentum.

On the hills of

PORSCHE, from page 11...

of color. There simply was not much representation in motor sports primarily, motorcycling and evens of that nature. We wanted to be the change we wanted to see. What happened, there

We have to be warriors for the movement and embrace both coins the unprecedented ground-breaking partnership TMN has with the Dallas Morning News, this unique alignment of the column and the panel (found on YouTube currently) is further confirmation that we are on target.

I witnessed speaking truth to power. I saw a call for warriors to choose between becoming a fast nickel or a slow dime. A Nickel Warrior dedicates themselves to the service of fighting for and protecting a physical kingdom.

A Dime Warrior makes a commitment to demonstrate peace, commitment to disseminate peace, convey brotherly love, and do the work necessary for justice and for the service to others.

Both show up for the battle that takes place both spiritually and physically as they demand honesty and social justice.

My Big Mama’s first mind would tell me that Black people, especially Black men, are at risk

as this country and this world are in the middle of a worldwide reckoning on race.

She would say that, “the ancestors have risen up to drive justice to their people.”

She most likely would be right. As communities call on their leaders to impact systemic racism, the call to action has risen in both sectors, public and private.

Wisconsin, Ohio, California, Nevada and Michigan became the latest states to declare racism a public health crisis.

So, are you ready to join me and go beyond a culture of conversation and build a spiritual-driven army of warriors that are ready to step into their strength and power?

Are you ready to be a fast nickel or a slow dime? Can I save you a seat at the table?

Email me at Terryallenpr@gmail.com

are women that ride with us all over the world.

VBS: What has been the greatest opportunity for Black Girls Ride Magazine?

PT: That is a great question. I think, I (via Black Girls Ride magazine) would be able to bring the platform to the motor sports industry to showcase women

of color and our place at the table. We’ve about to showcase in social media we are a force. Primarily social media Instagram approx.

42, 000 followers, another 25,000 followers on Facebook and ------Porsche Taylor’s Complete interview: SoundCloud. com/valderbeebeshow

Terry Allen is a multi-media journalist and board member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

Valder Beebe hosts the Valder Beebe Show on FM and streaming TV: ValderBeebeShow.com, 411RadioNetwork.com; SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow FM Broadcast: KKVI FM 89.9, KRER FM 102.5; Streaming on ROKU & Amazon Fire: YouTube/ValderBeebeShow; VBS affiliate broadcasters; BMIA, PChatman Network [Roku TV].

Nena’s Finds Boutique

A Uniquely Stylish, Fashionable Boutique for women of all Sizes!

Ranging from Pretti and Petite to Pretti and Plus!

Nena likes to be a bit edgy, blingy ...

But she keeps it Chic with Sophisticated Style!

Nena’s Finds is your one stop shop for an Eccentric flare!

214.623.7314

nenafinds17@gmail.com Schedule your Sip n Shop, Trunk Show, Girls Nite Out or Wardrobe Revamp with Nena’s Finds today!

(469) 899-7927 3309 S Malcolm X Blvd Dallas, TX 75215

Hall’s Honey Fried Chicken (214) 371- 3020 4845 S Lancaster Rd. Dallas, TX 75216

14

AUGUST 19, 2020

Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-8p.

3917 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Suite 103 Dallas Texas 75237.

469-399-0096

During this pandemic we are still open for call-in and pick up orders.

We have specials Tuesdays $5 burger baskets with fries and Wednesdays $5 chicken strip baskets with fries.

Our menu is filled with so many delicious items.

We have Bar-B-Q plates, Crab boils and so much more.

We would love to serve you.

WE’RE OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

2536 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Dallas, TX 75215

(214) 565-1025 2120 N St Augustine Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75227

(972) 329-1414

Thanks for your cooperation and continued support of Black Jack Pizza!

No More Hugs and Kisses...

JUST GOOD FOOD!

Elaine’s

EAT ZONE Best Food in Town The Hidden Secret of 1441 Robert B Cullum Blvd.

OakCliff Dallas, Texas 75210

214-421-5387 2 Burgers for $5 2 Pc Grilled/Fried Þsh

EAT ZONE Best Food in Town The Hidden Secret of OakCliff 2 Burgers for $5

3003 E. Illinois Ave,75216

2 Pc Grilled/Fried Þsh

214-376-9663

Jamaican Kitchen

We’re open and ready to serve you!

(214) 5651008 2717 Martin L. King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215

15

AUGUST 19, 2020 FREE!

Savings Include an American Standard Right Height Toilet FREE! ($500 Value)

Walk-In Tubs

WALK-IN BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500 ✔ Backed by American Standard’s 140 years of experience ✔ Ultra low entry for easy entering & exiting ✔ Patented Quick Drain® Technology ✔ Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, INCLUDING labor backed by American Standard ✔ 44 Hydrotherapy jets for an invigorating massage Limited Time Offer! Call Today!

877-381-3271

Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/network

BOUNCE BACK

How burdened a heart ravished by grief, left to ache and bleed alone. How heavy the soul engulfed by grief, once happy now, left alone. Yet, in the still of the darkness, in time there will be a light. Through the depth of your sadness, your focus will guide you through the night.

IDEAS WANTED!

Get Your Free Inventor’s Guide

CALL 800-353-6102 NOW Helping inventors and idea people since 1989.

Davison charges fees for services

DENTAL Insurance Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about

No wait for preventive care and no deductibles –

Keep your own dentist! You can go to any dentist

Coverage for over 350 procedures including

you could get a checkup tomorrow

$1 a day* you want

cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns…even dentures

NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits

you can receive

FREE Information Kit

1-877-308-2834

www.dental50plus.com/cadnet *Individual plan. Product not available in MN, MT, NH, NM, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6096E-0917 MB17-NM008Ec

CADNET CLASSIFIEDS Autos Wanted C A R S / T R U C K S WANTED!!! All Makes/ Models 2002-2019! Any Condition. Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing!

We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-985-1806

Miscellaneous

Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-481-3969 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/ national

Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-5207938

HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/ mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data.

FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-973-9254

Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim?

Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-855-498-6323!

FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-402-0373

Health & Fitness GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515

Become a Published Author.

We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance PublishingTrusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-877626-2213 Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare!

Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888609-2189 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

Coverage for [350+ ] procedures. Real dental insurance -NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!]

Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-3082834 www.dental50plus. com/cadnet #6258 Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how

Satellite Internet That is Unlimited With No Hard Data Limits!

2

25 Mbps Download Speed 25mbps download and 3mbps upload1

No Hard Data Limits Wi-Fi Built-In Connect your wireless devices at home

2

Call For Special Offers In Your Area Pricing varies by region

CALL TODAY - LIMITED SPECIAL OFFERS IN YOUR AREA!

1-855-973-9254

HughesNet is a registered trademark of Hughes Network Systems, LLC, an EchoStar Company.

2 If you exceed your monthly plan data, you will experience reduced data speeds until the start of your next billing period. Reduced speeds will typically be in the range of 1 – 3 Mbps and may cause Web sites to load more slowly or affect the performance of certain activities, such as video streaming or large downloads/uploads.

to get the Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e FREE. FREE iPhone with AT&T’s Buy one, Give One. While supplies last!

CALL 1-866-565-8452 or www.freephonesnow.com// cadnet

Cross country Moving, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers.

Get Free quote on your Long distance move. 1-844452-1706 Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-855404-2366 DIRECTV - Switch and Save! $39.99/month. Select All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/ Movies On Demand. FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade.

Premium movie channels, FREE for 3 mos! Call 1-855781-1565 DISH Network $59.99 For 190 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $19.95/month. Call Today for $100 Gift Card! Best Value & Technology. FREE Installation. Call 1-855837-9146 (some restrictions apply) Wanted to Buy Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201

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 misunderstandings, 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 guarantee 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.

16

AUGUST 19, 2020

Comerica is here.

These past few months have been trying. But, despite the setbacks, uncertainty and challenges we’ve all experienced, one thing is certain. Comerica is here.

We’re standing by you with the financial support and know-how our communities need to keep moving forward.

We invite you to talk with an experienced advisor today and see how we can help refinance debt or free up much-needed cash with a home equity line of credit.

To find a banking center in your community, visit Comerica.com.

®

MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER. Comerica Bank NMLS ID: 480990 Loans are subject to credit approval. CB-271820-03-01

RAISE YOUR EXPECTATIONS ® 06/20