Texas Metro News 2-16-23

MetroNews

Community Ceremony Held

By Texas Metro News Team

By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

Being Mentally Healthy is Also About Balance

Brittney Griner has been home for a little over two months and she remains in my thoughts and prayers. I don’t have knowledge of what she experienced while imprisoned in Russia but the thought of imprisonment anywhere is frightening and was stressful for me as I put myself in her shoes.

The 118th Congress didn’t begin as many anticipated in January, 2023.

Airline tickets were purchased, hotel rooms reserved and it was off to the nation’s capital for the swearing of the 118th Class.

For Jasmine Crockett, this would be her second ceremony as a representative after serving in the Texas House the previous two years.

Texas was well represented to witness Rep. Crockett become only the second person to represent the 30th Congressional District, following in the footsteps of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson who retired in 2022, after serving since the District was established 30 years ago.

The historic moment was scheduled to happen immediately following the installation of the House Speaker on January 3; however that moment was delayed until January 7.

Going into the process, no one could imagine that it would take days and 15 votes before U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy re-

Rep. Jasmine Crockett Brings Process to the People

When Brittney returned home I didn’t cheer at first. Instead I sat in silence. I was a bit overwhelmed. I didn’t know whether to laugh, cry or shout.

For months I followed her situation and was not pleased about the silence from so many, nor the explanations for remaining silent.

Sure there were dynamics in play that international scholars addressed; however, for me the silence was deafening, and another example of how Black women are devalued. Which brings me to my truth.

Recently I had an encounter with Jet Blue Airlines.

Actually there were several encounters and I was not pleased that I had spent my

ceived the necessary votes.

By then, many family friends and constituents had returned home, so it was only fitting that a “Community” ceremony was held in Dallas, at the Hall of State.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Whip Katherine Clark joined several digni-

taries from across the country, including Congressman Marc Veasey, Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III of Friendship-West Baptist Church and Johnson, at the standing room only event.

It was a humble Crockett who addressed the cheering crowd.

“It was an honor to be

sworn-in to the 118th Congress surrounded by loved ones and this beautiful community I am blessed to serve in Washington,” said Rep. Crockett. “Each member of our community has a role in not only my success, but in making this community stronger.

HELD, page 6

Additional Police Officers Facing Discipline for Beating Death Food Basket brings fresh food to Southern Dallas

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

Seven more Memphis police officers are facing discipline in the aftermath of Tyre Nichols’ death, according to City Attorney Jessica Sink.

The officers will be given an internal statement of charges, which will inform them of policy violations.

Sink stated that a hearing and written decision will follow.

CNN reported that the action is not criminal in nature, but Sink stated that the final round of charges will be filed this week.

The opening of the Food Basket grocery store ends a two-year dry spell for an East Oak Cliff area.

"I've opened hundreds, if not more than that, supermarkets. The company operates five Cash Saver supermarkets, three of those in other inner-city Dallas neighborhoods,” said Food Basket general manager Bill Davidson during the grand opening ceremony.

The Food Basket store fills a grocery store gap created by the January 2021 closure of the Save U More store at

the same location. The City Council supported incentives in 2014 and 2016 to assist with the development and construction of the initial grocery store and in Sep-

tember 2022, the City Council approved the sale of the store to the new operator.

“They promised to pay Dallas $2.8 million if they

Brittney Griner

Tyre Nichols

US Representative Jasmine Crockett

Photos & Story By Marva Sneed

Food Basket Grand Opening Randall Bryant Chairman of the Board of Directors at Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, Councilman Tennell Atkins District 8, Bill Davidson Food Basket General Manager, and Harrison Blair, Dallas Black Chamber Commerce

Former US Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson and Radio Personality with Magic 94.5, Veda Loca

Reverend Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III of Friendship West Baptist Church, giving the Invocation and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries stands by.

White House Exposes Republicans’ Plan to Gut Social Security, Medicaid

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

When Republicans like Georgia’s Marjorie Taylor Green and Utah’s Mike Lee interrupted President Joe Biden’s State of the Union Address to call him a liar, they may have forgotten their own words.

Worse, Lee doubled down on his own lie, claiming that “no Republican had made such a suggestion” of cutting or changing Social Security and Medicaid.

The White House exposed Lee and others on Thursday, just two days after their arrogant behavior during the globally televised event.

“Half of Sen. Lee’s statement is an admission that he did indeed call for eliminating Social Security outright,” White House spokesman Andrew Bates told reporters.

“But in terms of his claims that he’s aware of ‘no Republican – in either House of Congress – who has suggested any modification to Social Security as a condition for raising the debt ceiling,’ we can help.”

The White House then provided several news articles in which Republican members expressed a desire to cut or modify Social Security and Medicaid.

The articles were published by Fox News, the Washington Post, Reuters, and Bloomberg News.

The White House also noted that Biden has taken steps to protect Social Security and

strengthen Medicare, two foundational programs on which tens of millions of seniors rely for a living.

“Congressional Republicans, however, have a different record. For years, Republican members of Congress have repeatedly tried to cut Medicare and Social Security, move toward privatizing one or both programs, and raise the Social Security retirement age and Medicare eligibility age,” White House officials wrote in a Fact Sheet.

Earlier, House Republicans introduced legislation to repeal Biden’s inflation-reduction bill, a move that would raise prescription drug prices for seniors, raise taxes on an estimated 14.5 million people, and give Big Pharma tens of billions of dollars.

On Feb. 9, Biden visited Florida to highlight the work his administration is doing to protect and strengthen Medicare and Social Security.

According to the White House, Republican members of Congress have continued to push plans that would jeopardize the economic security of millions of people.

To back that claim, administration officials presented receipts detailing congressional Republicans’ long history of working to reduce Medicare and Social Security.

• Senator Mike Lee said, “One thing that you probably haven’t ever heard from a politician: it will be my objective to phase out Social Security. To pull it up by the roots and get rid of it.”

• Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin proposed sunsetting these laws every year.

of millions of seniors who had paid into the system for years.

• In November, John Thune, the number two Senate Republican in leadership, declared that Social Security and Medicare benefits should be slashed.

• Florida Senator Rick Scott is championing a plan to put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security on the chopping block every five years, which would put the health and economic security of 63 million Medicare beneficiaries, 69 million Medicaid beneficiaries and 65 million Social Security beneficiaries at risk.

According to Politico, the Republican Study Committee, which includes most House Republicans, released a budget plan that would raise the entry age.

The GOP would also raise taxes on some people who retire early or have a certain income, and they would privatize Social Security.

In addition, in 2015, the majority of House Republicans, including Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California, Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, and a slew of others in current leadership, voted to raise the retirement age to 70.

That move would reduce Social Security benefits for tens

Republicans in the House also proposed repealing the Inflation Reduction Act, including its provisions on health care.

Working families across the country, including in Florida, where Biden recently traveled, would see their insurance premiums rise by $7,000 per year as a result of such actions.

Approximately 14.5 million Americans would face higher health-care premiums and a tax increase.

If Medicare is unable to negotiate drug prices, everyone with Medicare will face higher drug prices, and the deficit will grow as tens of billions of dollars are returned to Big Pharma.

More than 3.3 million Medicare beneficiaries who use insulin will no longer have the peace of mind of knowing that their insulin is capped at $35, and drug companies may resume increasing drug prices faster than inflation with no accountability, as happened last year for 1,200 prescription drugs.

“In his State of the Union address, President Biden vowed to protect Social Security and Medicare while building on our progress in lowering healthcare costs for millions of seniors and American families,” officials said.

Sherman appointed to Key Committees

Austin, Texas - State Representative Carl O. Sherman has been appointed to the Corrections and Land & Resource Management Committees for the 88th Texas Legislature.

Rep. Sherman released the following statement:

"I am grateful to be reappointed to the Corrections

committee for the third consecutive term to advocate for humane criminal justice reforms and I am also excited to serve on a new committee, Land & Resource management during this session. I will continue to ensure that the more than 30 million citizens across our great state have what they need to realize the American

Dream. I look forward to collaborating with each Chairman and committee member to ensure that dream is accessible for every Texan."

Representative Sherman's experience as a City Manager and Mayor enables him to understand the value of local control more intimately. Local leaders are closest

to the citizens and are best equipped to know what is needed most in their community. During his tenure as the first African American Mayor of the City of DeSoto, Texas he focused on cultivating smart economically sound solutions that provided access to quality, affordable housing and safe neighborhoods.

President Joe Biden

Rep. Carl O. Sherman

Rep. Crockett assails Fellow Reps Taylor-Greene and Boebert

Texas Democratic Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett on Wednesday accused members of the Republican Party of pursuing narrow personal objectives while ignoring the needs of ordinary Americans. The Congresswoman made the remarks during a nationally-televised news show on MSNBC.

She harshly criticized Congresswomen Lauren Boebert (RCo.) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) for promoting what she described as personal political agendas that “do little to improve the plight of the average American.”

“They are about conspiracies and nonsense,” Crockett said while appearing on ‘The Reid-

Out,’ hosted by Joy Reid. “Both of them are are nothing but walking human-beings who would not know the truth if it slapped them in the face.”

Speaking about her fellow House members who sit with her on the powerful House Committee on Oversight and Government Accountability, she continued. “They do not care about the truth.”

Rebutting Crockett’s charges, a statement from Boebert ‘s office stated, “the Congresswoman is focused exclusively on legislation that will benefit the people of

Colorado’s Third District. She is a leader on issues important to the people of Colorado, like combating western drought and fighting inflation.”

Phones calls to Greene’s Washington and district offices were not returned.

The Oversight Committee met on Capitol Hill Wednesday to hear testimony from former employees of Twitter identify regulations that determined whether or not a tweet or individual was removed from the social media platform.

During her questioning of the former Twitter employees,

Greene said it pleased her that they had been fired when new management purchased the company. She accused some of the former employees of unlawful censorship because they banned tweets that she and other conservatives had written.

“You censored my right to free speech by removing me from Twitter,“ Greene said, directing her remarks to the witnesses. “You did not ban my Democratic opponent. Banning my tweets was not in the best interests of the American people.”

Greene was banned in January of 2022. Boebert was banned in January of 2021.

During the hearing some Republicans accused the former Twitter

employees of favoring President Biden during the 2020 president election. They also charged that Twitter officials wrongly demonstrated support for Hunter Biden, the president’s son who was accused of corrupt business practices by Republican members of the House and Senate.

“They were upset by what occurred with their personal twitter accounts,” Congresswoman Crockett said of Congresswomen Boebert and Greene. “They showed the American people who they really are,” she said. “We should not be using federal time and federal funds like that.” They do not want to talk about real issues, the first term Congresswoman added.

First United Bank Seeks to Break Kindness Record

Texas - Each year on February 17th, millions of people come together to change the world, one random act of kindness at a time.

First United Bank will be sharing this effort for the third year. Their goal is to complete 300,000 acts of kindness in one day.

United Acts of Kindness Day serves as a day for the people in our community to come together to spread joy, hope, and love to friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors through acts of kindness. Anyone can participate, and no act is too big or too small to elevate a life or make an impact.

With the help and generosity of our employees and partnering organizations like local area businesses, non-profits, churches, community leaders, and community members, First United hopes to spread hope in the world and spark a kindness revolution.

To learn more about First United’s United Acts of Kindness Day, download a business packet for your place of business, or log your individual acts of kindness, please visit www.unitedactsofkindness.org. You can share your

kindness stories on social media on February 17th using #UnitedActsOfKindness.

First United’s purpose is to inspire and empower others to Spend Life Wisely, which includes a holistic approach to life that encompasses financial well-being, faith, health and wellness, and personal growth.

About First United Bank: Established in 1900, First United has over 95 bank, mortgage, and insurance locations throughout Oklahoma and

Texas. It is one of the largest, well-capitalized banking organizations in the Southwest, with assets of more than $14.6 billion. It is among the largest privately held community banking organizations in the United States. First United provides a full range of financial services, including banking, mortgage, insurance, and investment products and services, and is dedicated to inspiring and empowering others to Spend Life Wisely®. Learn more at FirstUnitedBank.com. Member FDIC

Congresswoman Lee to run for U.S. Senate

By Joseph Green-Bishop Texas Metro News Correspondent

An announcement by California Congresswoman Barbara Lee that she will seek a seat in the United States Senate has rallied progressives and women who believe that the chamber’s membership should include an African American woman.

If elected, Congresswoman Lee, who represents the 12th Congressional District of California, which includes the city of Oakland, would become the only Black female in the 100-member U.S. Senate.

Currently there are three Black male senators in the body that

has been without a Black female presence since former California Senator Kamala Harris resigned her seat after being elected the country’s vice-president in 2020.

“Currently there are no Black women in the U.S. Senate,” Congresswoman Lee, who was born in El Paso, TX, said in a statement received Friday by Texas Metro News. “And there have only been two Black Women senators in our almost 250-year history.”

Congresswoman Lee, who has been a member of the House of Representatives since 1998, said that her life has been devoted to creating a more equitable society for people of color, women, residents of underserved com-

munities and others who exist on the economic margins of American life.

Veteran political consultant, Lauren Harper, said that Congresswoman Lee’s long list of impressive political credentials and experiences made her a very attractive Senate candidate.

“If elected I am certain that Congresswoman Lee will continue to govern in a manner that brings equity and integrity to the people of California, and our nation,” said Ms. Harper, the Dallas- ased co-founder of ‘Welcome

Party’ and ‘Welcome PAC,’ two organizations that work with elected officials and candidates in Texas and throughout the United States.

Stella Grace, the owner of a tax preparation business in Irving, said that Representative Lee’s life and political accomplishments inspired young African American women, and others.

“Her journey is one of the reasons that young Black women like me are encouraged to dream big dreams and believe that we can accomplish anything in life

that we set our minds to,” added Ms. Grace, of Grace Tax Services.

Diane Feinstein, one of two Democrats who represent California in the Senate, has not said whether or not she will seek re-election in 2024. Two Democratic members of the state’s congressional delegation, Representatives Katie Porter and Adam B. Schiff, have announced that they will be candidates in the senatorial race.

“Black women have been the backbone of the Democratic Party,” said Tracey Falon King, who leads Collective Pac, an organization that promotes African American women in political races. “We need a seat at the table.”

Rep. Jasmine Crockett

Congresswoman Barbara Lee

The Other Anthem! The Black Mystery Month Series

Hathaway. “Someday We’ll All Be Free” turns 50 this year. It seemed apropos.

By Vincent L. Hall

Hang on to the world as it spins around

Just don't let the spin get you down

Things are moving fast

Hold on tight, and you will last – Donny Hathaway, 1973

I laid across my mother’s bed the other day. There is no greater comfort in the world. Most Black men can attest that there is nothing more soothing. My mother's presence and persistence are what have always kept me sane.

I was prostrate across mama's bed, waiting for the spirit to move. I needed a topic for this week’s article. After all, it's Black History Month. Admittedly, it is passe, but if God lets fake Christians pervert his only son's birthday annually, who am I to buck tradition?

Anyway, it came to me. My spirit said to write about that other Black National Anthem. Not the one by James Weldon Johnson. The anthem by Donny

TEXASMetroNews

Publisher : Cheryl Smith

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Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75203

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Phone: 214-941-0110

Next up was the research. Believe it or not, I don't play with my audience. It takes much reading and researching to produce something worthy of your time. Delving into the life of Donny Hathaway killed my original thesis.

Here is what I came upon.

“The lyric was written by Edward Howard for and about the mental pain that Hathaway, who was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia when the song was written, was experiencing at the time. Edward Howard said:

"What was going through my mind at the time was Donny because Donny was a troubled person. I hoped that, at some point, he would be released from all he was going through. There was nothing I could do but write something that might be encouraging for him."

Years later, the song began to be interpreted as being written about black rights, primarily due to Spike Lee featuring Aretha Franklin's 1992 version at the end of his biographical film Malcolm X. However, as Howard said:

"A lot of black people have taken the song for some anthem. That's fine. I didn't write it for that, though. It doesn't have that significance for me. I take it with a grain of salt. I'm glad it has some significance."

So, it wasn’t an anthem after all? Or was it?

Last week, Xavier Becerra, President Biden's cabinet member and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, came to my church. Friendship-West Baptist was lit. The discussion, hosted by Dr. Freddy Haynes, centered around the skyrocketing numbers of young Black men committing suicide.

This moving session featured young brothers from three local high schools and a panel of young brothers who were older. Executive Pastor David Malcolm McGruder was diligent in securing some brothers who were well-versed and not afraid of sharing their mental health struggles. More succinctly, the lack of mental health care options on high school and college campuses.

The panelists ranged in age from a 17-year-old high school student to a 26-year-old Ph.D. candidate, and each was transparent to the point of vulnerability. They bared their lives for us in an unselfish attempt to bring light to the issues we as a community suffer for lack of awareness, treatment and opportunity.

Brighter days will soon be here

Take it from me, someday we'll all be free, yeah

… Keep on walking tall

Hold your head up high

Lay your dreams right up to the sky

Sing your greatest song

And you'll keep going, going on

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.

So, maybe my original thought was right. Donny Hathaway's song is an anthem of sorts. Black America has always had to fight for freedom from without. However, now we know that freedom from within is equally important.

Donny Hathaway and Edward Howard went further.

Keep your self-respect, your manly pride

Get yourself in gear

Keep your stride ….Never mind your fears

I laid across my mother’s bed the other day. There is no greater comfort in the world. The problem is that for too many children of all races, there is no place where comfort can be found. No one to listen. No one who understands.

Hang on! Your world may be spinning, but take it from me, someday…

We have wo Black National Anthems, and we need them both.

The Attack On Black History And What We Must Do

Black lives and communities.

OUR VOICES

By Dr. John E. Warren

As we begin to celebrate Black History Month, a barrage of attacks appears to continue, from police officers beating and killing a Black man in Memphis to two police murders of two Black men in separate incidents in Los Angeles. We have the war on Critical Race Theories, which most White people in opposition neither understand nor can explain. At the same time, efforts are underway to remove from school libraries books on slavery, race, and the attacks on

While we must acknowledge these attacks and their efforts to remove our gains in equality and Civil Rights, let us not get preoccupied with these issues even as we fight against them.

We must regroup, rethink and shore up our weaknesses in this ongoing battle for what is now a battle for human rights, fairness, and equality as citizens of this nation; entitled to every right of every other citizen and immigrant.

First, let us revisit and remember who Dr. Carter G. Woodson was and what he did. He was born to former slaves. He started High School at age 20. He was the second African American to earn a doctorate from Harvard University. He wrote more than

12 books about the Negro. Some of his better-known works are: The Mis-Education of the Negro (1933), The History of the Negro Church (1921), A Century of Negro Migration (1918), Negro Orators and Their Orations (1925), and African Heroes and Heroines (1939).

Dr. Woodson also created what was then called “Negro History Week” which has since become Black History Month. He created the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History which continues today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). He published the first Journal of Negro History in 1916 and in 1921 organized the media company, Associated Publishers, to make books avail-

able about the Negro.

The point of all this is that we as a people, because of Dr. Woodson, are more educated in numbers than was ever permitted in his day. We have libraries, Google, the internet, and untold opportunities to learn. We have witnessed the first Black President of these United States, elected twice to that Office; and now have the first Black woman to serve as Vice President of these United States, with African Americans serving in the U.S. Congress and having served more than once in the positions of Secretary of State of the United States. There is no office we can’t aspire to and nothing we can’t build on that people like Carter G. Woodson left for us.

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

Donny Hathaway

Photo: Val Mazzenga

Service at Friendship-West Baptist Church

What’s Your Why with Work?

FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

By Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

Since I was a child, I knew the importance of work. When I was about twelve years old, my parents opened up a restaurant. I remember working after school and on weekends to help my parents from the time I was in middle school until I graduated from high school with their business. I learned such a strong work ethic and learned very quickly that if I wanted something, I had to work for it.

As an adult, that work ethic has not changed but I’ve had to re-evaluate the why behind the work. We all work because it helps us to pay our bills, take care of children and help our families. Research states that

the average person will spend 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime. How we spend our time at work and even outside of work is important in shaping the life that we are called to live.

It's easy to forget that our purpose is much bigger than what we do or the titles we possess. Making money is a means but it is not the end. Work can be a vehicle to build and utilize our gifts but ultimately, all that we do should glorify God. If we are going to spend so much time working, it is imperative that we seek God about our work. For some reason, we tend to separate God from our work lives. It’s as if we go to church on Sunday and the rest of the week, we fail to recognize the role that God has in our daily lives and interactions, especially on the job. Many of us are miserable because we’ve sought human advice and instruction instead of seeking God even in the very

mundane tasks that we encounter every day. How is God a part of your work life?

Scripture reminds us of the bigger purpose for work:

• “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” (Ephesians 4:28). Work is not only for us but a mechanism to use our resources to bless others.

• “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” (John 6:27) We are not only working for just a life on earth but one that will allow us to ultimately reside with God in eternity. Is your life one you can be proud of? One that God will acknowledge because you were a ‘good and faithful servant’? (Matthew 25:23)

• The "Parable of the Talents", in Matthew 25:14–30 tells of a master who was leaving his house to travel, and, before leaving, entrusted his property to his servants. According to the abilities of each man, one servant received five talents, the second had received two, and the third received only one. Each one of the servants doubled what they were given with the exception of the servant with the one talent. He chose to bury his without maximizing what he was given. How are you multiplying the gifts, talents, and resources God has given you? Are you burying them in the ground waiting on the perfect opportunity to walk into your purpose or are you trusting God to multiply what you have in faith?

• “Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from

all the work of creating that he had done.” (Genesis 2:3) If God understood the importance of rest from work, are you, too, taking the time to rejuvenate? Rest is essential not only for our bodies and minds but to hear from God.

We can be too busy that we miss the divine opportunities. Proverbs 8:12 talks about wisdom which comes from God and in this wisdom, God can give knowledge of witty inventions. Are you missing the great idea because you are too busy with many good ideas?

Work can be a gift but don’t miss out on the many gifts God gives for us to live a life of abundance in not only work but in time with God, play, and rest as well.

Path to White House Cuts Through Swamp of White Supremacy

olent resistance that guided the civil rights movement through the 1950s and 1960s.

By Marc Morial

“Ron DeSantis has clearly demonstrated that he wants to dictate whose story does and doesn’t belong. He wants to control what our kids can learn based on politics and not sound policy … He wants to say that I don’t belong. He wants to say that you don’t belong. Whose story does and doesn’t get to count. But we are here to tell him, we are America. Governor, Black history is American history, and you are on the wrong side of history.”

— Florida state Rep. Fentrice Driskell

Bayard Rustin, as most students of American history now know, was one of the key organizers of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. It was Rustin who introduced Martin Luther King Jr. to the Gandhian tactics of nonvi-

Because Rustin was a gay man at a time when same-sex relationships were criminalized, he often was forced to work from behind the scenes, allowing others to take the credit for his achievements. For decades, his transformational influence was downplayed and devalued. A warped history of the movement was allowed to take shape, one that historians only recently have begun to correct.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wants to shove the legacy of Rustin and others like him back into the shadows, perpetuating a warped history of the nation.

DeSantis’ reactionary move to ban an AP course on African American studies is loosely based on his opposition to what he calls Critical Race Theory, a legal concept taught in law schools and little understood by the general public. Rightwing activists and politicians like DeSantis have co-opted and corrupted the term to undermine any effort to confront or even to acknowledge sys-

temic racism.

As CNN political writer Brandon Tensley noted, “Because so many Americans don’t know what CRT is, it’s the perfect tool for scaring white conservative voters with made-up problems — for mobilizing them against the racial awakening of the past year.”

The course itself is organized into four major units: Origins of the African Diaspora, including topics such as “The Strength and Reach of West African Empires” and “Intercultural Forces in African Kingdoms and City States;” Freedom, Slavery, and Resistance, which covers the period from the origins of the transatlantic slave trade to abolition; The Practice of Freedom, focused on African-American experiences since abolition including Reconstruction and the Negro Renaissance, and Movements and Debates, which examines the civil rights movement, Black feminism and intersectionality, and the diversity within Black communities.

DeSantis’ feeble efforts to rationalize the ban are so vague

they are essentially meaningless. “Intersectionality is foundational to CRT,” his Department of Education howled, without even attempting to explain why either concept represents a threat. His “concerns” reflect a profound ignorance — or deliberate misrepresentation — of both the curriculum and the legal theory he claims to oppose, but the ignorance is largely the point. The ban, like the ludicrous Stop WOKE Act that the course allegedly violates, is less about the details of a specific curriculum and almost entirely about weaponizing white grievance and resistance to a multicultural democracy.

DeSantis has charted a course to the White House that cuts straight through the swamp of white supremacy.

After all, if white people experience “guilt, anguish or other forms of psychological distress” as a result of acknowledging systemic racism, they might be inspired to alleviate that distress by dismantling systemic racism. That’s a terrifying prospect for people who

are so accustomed to the status quo that even the slightest effort to level the playing field feels like an earth-shattering cataclysm.

It’s impossible to know whether DeSantis genuinely shares that fear. But it’s undeniable he’s eager to exploit it for political advantage. His opponent in his first gubernatorial campaign famously remarked, “I’m not calling Mr. DeSantis a racist. I’m simply saying the racists believe he’s a racist.”

Three Florida students are poised to sue DeSantis if he does not lift the ban and allow the AP African American studies to be taught in schools. But because the College Board has agreed to revise the course, it’s likely that future students will be taught a watered-down curriculum that avoids the harsh realities that cause “distress.” This injustice gives DeSantis and his allies the power not only to distort the past, but to shape a future where structural inequalities persist and racism is allowed to flourish.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the President and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, LLC, the founder of the R2 Foundation, and author of four books including the recent, Empowering Charity: A New Narrative of Philanthropy.

Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.

Get Focus, Get Clarity and do not Defer the Solution! Let Tyre Nichol’s Legacy be one of Clarity

BLACK CARD

By Terry Allen

Thanks to all of you who took a stance, read my column and called me asking me, “Should my organization declare and publish a statement about the death of Tyre?”

My answer is YES.

This is not us and we must create a universal clarity that we want focus and change. I don’t think I will get much disagreement, when I showcase “Big Mama” rules out of her Playbook.

I witnessed an overflowing joy on the back porch or front porch, where my grandmother, Lucille “Big Mama” Allen poured into her three sons and three

CEREMONY HELD

cont. from page 1

daughters, 16 grandchildren, 50 great grandchildren, 38 greatgreat grandchildren, seven great great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and bonus family members with simple, Bible-based logic for us to use all throughout our lives.

Standing in her “hands on hips stance,” “Honey, you need to be quiet, be still, be focused and get clarity, Amen!”.

She left legacies that became part of lifetime lessons. She taught me how to seek knowledge, recognize support and to express gratitude.

Today, I can truly believe that being optimistic and able to find victories in small daily things are skills that can be learned, but it takes conscious effort. Big Mama would say, You will know how God sends you what you ask for (Jeremiah 29:11) if you focus!

What I learned about clar-

“Each day I am fueled by this community’s support and genuine care for the common-good. I am proud of our movement and am committed to doing the good work to bring equity back to Texas’ 30th Congressional District.”

During remarks, Clark, Johnson and Jeffries praised the freshman congresswoman, who was tapped by Johnson as her successor. Jeffries and Clark talked about the energetic, well-prepared young attorney who has already gained the respect of her peers.

It is a position that Rep. Crockett does not take lightly. During her remarks she introduced her staff and talked about priorities at home and in Washington, like immigration and transportation; while also serving on the House Oversight Committee.

Rep. Crockett also took time out to meet with Mayors of District 30. She represents portions of Dallas and Tarrant Counties —the cities of Dallas, Grand Prairie, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Lancaster, Duncanville, Glenn Heights, Hutchins, Wilmer, Arlington, Ovilla, and Seagoville.

She said, “I remain steadfast in my dedication to ensuring the needs of this community are at the forefront of my work. This is only the beginning.”

ity: Clarity is a deep sense of knowing and recognition that expands beyond yourself. The feeling, the vision, the sense, whatever it may be, you have it in your bones.

If you're clear, you don't, won't, and cannot doubt what you know. So, getting focused for me is a daily thing. I begin to absorb and know that clarity and focus is rooted in being selfaware!

If I seek guidance, understanding, clarity, or peace of mind, I must first master the art of silence. Like Lucille “Big Mama” Allen said “be still, be quiet and go with God to get focused!”

My #BlackHistoryMonth focus is out of another Sisterfriend’s playbook, Iyanla Vanzant. She said,” When we start the day with a spirit of joy, openness, peace and love, we put the universe on alert, we want more of the same.”

Focus is real. In the movie, Book of Eli (Denzel Washington) They were trying to destroy all the Bibles - Denzel had oneWhen they finally took the Bible from him, they found out that it was in Braille. They were angry yet Denzel dictated it from memory. We also discovered he was blind! He was focused, and I need that kind of focus!

So, readers, I heard you! So yes, we must all make a statement on the death of Tyre Nichols and put in action steps to create system wise change to a systemic issue in our culture; Here are a few steps.

1. Demand and mandate a new, effective reform in our police departments. My mentor Amos F. Wilson called the police, the biggest gang in America who can legally kill you without remorse or repercussions. Reform the culture!

2. Create a public statement con-

firming the injustice and allow the community to address this incident with “authentic and unapologetic” conversations in churches, town halls and classrooms - no disinformation allowed.

3. Protect and invest in moment that address our mental health and resources for our community, and also the same resources for those who are charged to protect and serve our community. That is a start. So, let’s get focused and get clarity.

Lucille “Big Mama” Allen would get busy, and so should we! If you are ready contact the paper and request a presenter, speaker and facilitator. Or email me at terryallenpr@gmail.com

Being Mentally Healthy is Also About Balance cont.

money purchasing airline tickets on an airline where the phone customer service was so poor.

I went so far as to spend a significant amount on another ticket just to ensure I didn’t get screwed by Jet Blue.

So, by the time I had made two trips to the airport and traveled more than a thousand miles out of the way to get to my destination; I was sick and tired of Jet Blue’s shenanigans and unfortunately a representative named Cindy at a gate in JFK Airport was the recipient of my frustration.

Still two weeks later, I am frustrated because I lashed out at Cindy.

No, I didn’t call her out of her name or yell. No, I didn’t turn into a Karen.

But I did say a cuss word and I was immediately embarrassed and regretted my actions.

I thought about all the shame, disgrace and degradation that Black women have been subjected to and I felt like crap.

I went to Cindy before I boarded the plane and I apologized profusely.

I had no excuse, nor explanation and no justification for lashing out at her and I told her this.

She graciously accepted my apology.

And I thanked her for that, but it didn’t make me feel better because too

often we feel we can say or do anything and issuing an apology will make everything better.

What is better, though, is my attitude. It has been adjusted and I will work even harder to ensure that I never ever disrespect another woman, and especially another Black woman.

After all there are so many others out there who don’t feel the same and will continue to beat us down with their words, deeds and fists.

With Brittney, being imprisoned was more than enough, but to have people back home —instead of praying opting to cast dispersions or become the jury and executioner; well, enough is enough.

Just like I’m pleased that I took responsibility for my actions and inactions with Cindy, I am excited about Brittney’s next steps. She can return to basketball, if she desires. She can stay home with her wife, if she desires. She can write a book, teach, coach; whatever heart desires.

It is her decision.

I pray for her mental health and well-being. I pray the same for this world we live in.

I pray we will become kinder and gentler and that we will see the value in everyone, especially our women; who’ve

from page 1

for far too long have had to swallow so much only to receive so little in return.

And on the same note, I found that the Jet Blue Crew was so much better with their in-person customer service. I have to give a shout out to Mr. Zaccaneli, whose father I interviewed decades ago at KKDA-AM; Alexis in Puerto Rico, Shanaye in Dallas; and so many otherseven New York-based Omar!

Jet Blue’s customer service was so much better than the airline I regularly fly! Jet planes were nicer and cleaner with televisions and FREE Wi-Fi. Although they didn’t have First Class, Jet Blue had better snacks and the other airline’s meals have suffered tremendously. Jet Blue’s employees on the plane, at the ticket counter and even throughout the terminal. They were neatly dressed and clean too!

Now all of that doesn’t wipe out the mishandling of Brittney, my rudeness to Cindy, nor Jet Blue’s phone reps — but it does point to a society that is in need of help.

Balance is important and comes with being mentally healthy. As we deal with so many challenges, we need to seize every opportunity to achieve that balancing act that will help us navigate through life with a better outlook and attitude!

We all need help!

Terry Allen is a best-selling author, small business consultant, founder of City Men Cook Dallas and Sister CEO) and an award-winning journalism and PR expert.

Salsa Queen Honored by U.S.

By Joseph Green-Bishop Texas Metro News Correspondent

Celia Cruz, celebrated around the world as the “Queen of Salsa,” will soon have her likeness on American currency. Ms. Cruz, who died in 2003, will become the first Afro-Latina to have such an honor bestowed upon her, according to officials at the United States Mint. A coin honoring Ms. Cruz is scheduled to be released this summer.

The Grammy Award winning artist, born in Cuba in 1925, helped to make Salsa popular in the United States, Europe and in many other parts of the world.

Her image will appear on the United States quarter as part of a special program entitled ‘The American Women Quarters Program’ which honors women who have made significant contributions to American culture and social progress.

“My wife and I are very excited about Celia Cruz being honored by the United States government,” said Jimmy Sosa, the owner of Highway 10 Tire Shop in Euless. “It is fantastic that this is being done. I believe that the coin will quickly become a collector’s item.”

The three-year program honoring outstanding American

Seven Additional Police Officers

cont. from page 1

Next week, the agency will hold administrative hearings.

Six officers have already been fired for their roles in the incident, five of whom have been charged criminally with second-degree murder.

The announcement came during a meeting of the Memphis City Council on Tuesday, where members were scheduled to discuss nearly a dozen public safety proposals and reforms, as well as question the city’s police and fire chiefs.

It was the council’s first public hearing since the video of police beating Nichols was released by the city.

January “has deeply affected all of us and continues to do so,” serving as a clarion call for action, councilwoman Rhonda Logan said.

“Today our focus will be on peeling back the layers of public safety in our city and collaborating on legislation that moves us forward in an impactful and intelligent way,” she stated.

According to an online agenda, the council’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee was set to take up 11 proposals in total, including an ordinance requiring police to only make traffic stops in marked cars, a presentation on a civilian law enforcement review board, and an ordinance establishing a procedure for an independent review of police training.

Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn

“CJ” Davis and Fire Chief Gina Sweat both spoke at the hearing

women was started by the Mint in 2022. It will honor women for two additional years. The first quarter in the program honored Maya Angelou, making the illustrious author and thinker the first African American woman to appear on such a coin which

appeared in 2022.

Mint officials, in a statement, described Ms. Cruz as “one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century.” Like others honored, Ms. Cruz made remarkable contributions to the development and growth of American society and positive cultural norms, said Ventris C. Gibson, the director of the U.S. Mint, which is responsible for the production of American coins.

Known for her magnificent voice, flamboyant costumes and incredible hair pieces, Ms. Cruz left Cuba in 1959 after the government nationalized

the music business. Settling in New Jersey, it did not take long for her career to blossom in the United States. She recorded 37 albums during her professional life, and urged listeners to pursue happiness in their lives, no matter the depth of their pain. For some she was not unlike a therapist. She performed for 60 years.

Honorees of the coin program are selected by the Secretary of the Treasury, a panel of Congresswoman, and representatives from the Smithsonian. The Mint, founded in 1792, is a division of the U.S. Treasury Department.

and discussed their future plans for their departments.

The officials also answered questions from council members who were dissatisfied with the answers.

The hearing occured about a month after Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, was beaten by Memphis police officers from the specialized SCORPION unit after a traffic stop near his family’s home.

He was rushed to the hospital and died three days later.

The city released body-camera and surveillance footage of officers repeatedly punching and kicking Nichols while his hands were restrained in late January.

According to the video, they then left him without medical care for more than 20 minutes.

According to a falsified police report, Nichols began fighting with them and grabbed one of their guns.

His death has reignited calls for police reform and reignited a national debate about policing justice.

Five officers involved in the beating, all of whom are Black, have been fired and charged with second-degree murder.

A sixth officer was also fired, and a seventh was placed on leave. In addition, the Fire Department terminated two EMTs and a lieutenant for failing to provide emergency care.

The specialized SCORPION unit was also disbanded less than two years after it was established.

Celia Cruz

Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Carolyn King Arnold takes time out to serve senior citizens

Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Carolyn King Arnold takes time out to help serve senior citizens.

Seniors in line

Photo: Nina G. Baskets for raffle

Photo: Ayesha Shaji Valentine decorations

Photo: Nina G.

Council Member Carolyn King Arnold speaks about Black History Month

Attendees at tables

Photo: Nina G.

Pastor Marion Barnett of Church Information and Forum, on 89.3 KNON, was a guest speaker at the Hearts to Hearts Luncheon

New Book, “Not No, WAIT” Reveals A Painful Journey Through Infertility, Deceit

and Death Coming January 10, 2023

make a major decision.

“Just 2 percent of pregnant women experience two pregnancy losses in a row, and only about 1 percent have three consecutive pregnancy losses. ‘Not No, WAIT’ gives women around the world an opportunity to renew their strength and fight for their families. Through my faith and perseverance, I was able to learn that God is waiting to give you the desires of your heart because He did it for me when no one else thought I could” said Dr. King.

DALLAS - In her first memoir, “Not No, WAIT,” internationally acclaimed minister and community leader, Dr. Angela S. King offers personal stories on her difficult journey to motherhood, deception in marriage and death. From the suffering of her five miscarriages to the emotional challenges involved in pursuing parenthood, King reveals what it was like to discover infertility was just the beginning of her problems.

“I decided to write this small painful portion of my life story. This book focuses on my very private season of infertility, deceit, and death,” writes Dr. King in the preface to Not

No, WAIT. “I didn’t realize that I had buried so many of the events deep down in my subconscious.

Reading this book will truly show you how much God loves us all. It will also remind you that you must have faith

in God and never give up. You will come to realize that you are stronger than you think. I would have never thought that I could have gone through the things I have in my life, been in my right mind, and written a book about it.

“Not No, WAIT” shines a light on the mental strain surrounding reproductive health, the loss of a parent, and broken trust. Dr. King’s heart wrenching memoir takes you to a place where you have to look deceit and death in the eye and

“TEEN CLICK IT OR TICKET” URGES BUCKLING UP TO SAVE A LIFE

Too many parents are living their worst fear: losing a child. These parents have lost teenagers in vehicle crashes in which they weren’t wearing their seat belt.

Vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death for U.S. teenagers, and TxDOT’s Teen Click It or Ticket campaign is urging teens to buckle up — every seat, every ride.

Seat belts offer the best protection in a crash, but sadly seat belt use remains low among teen drivers and passengers. In 2021, 45% (144 of 318) of teens killed in vehicle crashes were not wearing seat belts.

“We want to remind teens to always buckle their seat belts. Everyone must buckle up: every rider, every ride,” said TxDOT Executive Director

Nov. 7, 2000, was last deathless day on Texas roadways

Marc Williams. “It takes only a few seconds to put on your seat belt, and those few seconds can save a life.”

During Feb. 1- 15, the Teen Click It or Ticket campaign will be rolled out statewide, seeking to reach Texas teens with its imperative seat belt safety message. The outreach will include TV, radio, digital advertising and social media. Additionally, an interactive element will be introduced as the campaign makes visits to several high school campuses across the state with its Teen Click It or Ticket

mobile digital vehicle.

Teens will also learn about the Texas law which requires drivers and all passengers to wear seat belts. Unbuckled drivers and passengers — even those in the back seat — can face fines and fees of up to $200.

TxDOT’s Teen Click It or Ticket campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths.

The book will be released to the public on January 10, 2023. The print edition of “Not No, WAIT” will have a list price of $22.99 for paperback and $32.99 for hardcover in the U.S. and Canada on Amazon. Books will include an author signature, personal note card from the author, and book bag only during pre-order for a special price on Dr. King’s website.

Information about the book is available to consumers at www.angelasking.com/notno-wait

Promotional plans for “Not No, WAIT” will be announced at a later date. For press inquiries, please contact info@angelasking.com.

Attack on Black History

cont. from page 4

What do we do?

We must remember who we are, who died for us to have the quality of life we enjoy, and, most of all, we must remember that we do not need government permission or assistance to teach our history to our own and others, or to teach that the right to vote and the correct use of that right is how we overcome the Conservative Right and not accept their agenda as a weapon of defeat. We must remember that in many instances since the George Floyd murder, there are often more young Whites march-

ing with us than Blacks sometimes.

We must do like the people of the State of Georgia and use education and our votes to overcome the roadblocks. We have our communities, our churches, and an army of educators, some retired; as well as Black elected Officials.

Let’s rally our resources as those before us, like Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Look at what he did. Think about what we can do.

Where will you stand?

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

Dr. Angela S. King

HSC Brings Awareness to Health Disparities

In celebration of Black History Month, the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth (HSC) is engaging in multiple events throughout DFW to expand the Health & Aging Brain Study, previously known as the Black Alzheimer’s (ALZ) Brain Study, launched in 2021 to address why Alzheimer’s disproportionately impacts Black families. In continuing the study, HSC seeks to increase awareness for women and families, of not only the disproportional impact of Alzheimer’s on the Black community but also of the research surrounding it.

In Fort Worth, on February 18, 2023, from 10 AM to 4 PM, HSC is hosting the Black Men in White Coats Youth Summit (BMWCx) in celebration of Black History Month. The interactive summit will take place at the HSC’s Medical Education and Training Building (1000 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107). The event is free and open to elementary, middle and high school students (grades 3-12), parents, students from two- and fouryear colleges and universities

and pre-health advisors.

On the same day in Fort Worth, at 7:30 PM, HSC’s Health & Aging Brain Study will be a featured partner at the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum (121 E Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76164). The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrates and honors Black cowboys and cowgirls and their contributions to

and TikTok while at the Black Men in White Coats event and give a “half-time” performance during the 7:30 PM performance of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. The group is made of four sisters, one of whom is a STEM student and two of whom are currently in college.

In addition to The BoykinZ social media recordings on HSC’s campus, elementary

will host Black Men in White Coats and the need for this event in Fort Worth has never been more urgent. A 2020 New England Journal of Science study found that the number of Black men applying to medical school has dropped over the past four decades. While Black male medical students accounted for 3.1% of the national medical student body in 1978,

First of its Kind Healthy & Aging Brain Study Creates Space for Black Science History; TikTok Sensations

BoykinZ Will Perform at Black Men in White Coats

Youth Summit & Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo

building the west. With two performances, one at 1:30 PM CST and the other at 7:30 PM CST, tickets can be purchased at pbr. com or cowtowncoliseum.com.

Additionally, viral TikTok sensations The BoykinZ will be present at both events to bring additional awareness to HSC’s leading health disparity research study. The emerging African American country music group will record social media content for Instagram

and middle school students attending the Black Men in White Coats event will participate in a mini medical school and other activities in HSC’s osteology and anatomy labs. High school and undergraduate students will learn more about careers in health care and take part in clinical activities such as suturing and intubation in the university’s state-of-the-art simulation lab.

This is the first year that HSC

they accounted for just 2.9% by 2019; without the contribution of historically Black medical schools, this number would drop even lower to just 2.4%. Studies also show that access to care and health outcomes improve when physicians more closely represent the patients they care for, partly because of increased trust.

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible brain disease that slowly destroys memory skills,

thinking skills and eventually the ability to carry out daily activities. A myriad of health disparities surround research into Alzheimer’s disease: Today, an estimated 2.2 million African Americans have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, 1 in 2 Black households is impacted by Alzheimer’s or some form of dementia. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among people 65 and older, African Americans have the highest prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease, followed by Hispanics and non-Latino whites. While there are many theories about why African Americans are at a greater biological risk of Alzheimer’s disease, medical researchers do not yet know exactly why. HSC’s presence at multiple Black History Month celebrations is an opportunity for HSC and guests alike to engage in meaningful, impactful conversations. It is also an opportunity for guests attending the event and across DFW to become familiar with the ground-breaking Alzheimer’s research study being conducted on campus.

Food Basket brings fresh food cont. from

page 1

don't stay here five years and nine months," said the Honorable Tennell Atkins, Council Member, District 8. "They plan to stay. It's up to you to shop here!"

Located at 3540 Simpson Stuart Road, in southeast Dallas County is this mod-

est neighborhood of older apartments where some tenants without cars need a place to walk for food. There is a new apartment complex under construction on Simpson Stuart Road just west of the new grocery store. This could provide new potential customers.

Food Basket Grand Opening District 8

Metro Community Calendar powered by

FEBRUARY 1-28 17

In Conversation with special guest THE HONORABLE EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON Moderated by AWARD WINNING JOURNALIST CHERYL SMITH St. Luke “Community” United MethodistChurch 5710 E. R. L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas Fri., 7pm Join In Person or Virtually for Free bit.ly/InConversation2023 ***

The Dallas Black Dance Theatre present “Cultural Awareness” in honor of Black History Month Fri., 7:30 pm Wyly Theatre 2400 Flora St, Dallas, TX ***

Join us for a 1970s Soul Train Celebration live music by Soulful Soundz, performances by Dallas Black Dance Theater’s Fri., 7 pm at The Sanctuary Event Center 6633 Virginia Blvd. McKinney, TX. www.Mckinney BHM.com

The Soul II Soul Tour: KEM, Ledisi Musiq Soulchild Sat. Feb. 18, 8pm Texas Trust CU Theatre, 1001

Performance Place Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (972) 854-5050 ***

Frost Fest Levy Event Plaza Feb.18,10am 501 E. Las Colinas Blvd. Irving, TX, 75039

Cost: Free admission Ages: All ages Website: https://www.cityofirving.org/ 20

Educational First Steps proudly announces the benefit, “An Evening with the Great Nowitzki,” Tues., 6:30 pm at The Ritz Carlton, 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX

Texas Coalition Of Black Democrats - Collin County -Join the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats to network, discuss the 118th Congress, 88th Texas Legislature and upcoming elections. Tue, 6:30 pm Common Desk - Granite Park, 5830 Granite Parkway #100 Granite Park, Building 5 Plano

Lincoln Butler Sr.’s “Book Signing” for “My Journey” at the African American Museum in Solarium Sat., Feb. 25, at 1pm. 3536 Grand Ave · In Fair Park, Dallas, TX. (214) 565-9026

Event by Young Professionals Division find out about what’s happening in DFW; looking for social or business connections

6:30 pm 1601 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75201 ***

Fort Worth Operais is hosting a concert. Listen to celebrated opera singers and artists, The event will also feature a special tribute to Opal Lee, a social impact leader in Fort Worth who is considered the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” 2 pm. 1411 I M Terrell Circle S., Fort Worth. 817-731-0726. 20-24

Announcing Inaugural BrainHealth Week Feb. 20-24 Celebrates Brain’s Ability to Get Stronger. Call for info. (972) 883-3007

Southwest Suburban Dallas Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, invites you to the 20th Anniversary Foundation Fundraising Gala Feb. 25, VIP Reception at 6:30 pm and General Admission 7:30 pm Midlothian Conference Center, 1 Community Dr, Midlothian, TX 76065

March 21

Join us for a conversation with Indra Nooyi, business executive and former CEO and chairperson at PepsiCo, at UTA’s Texas Hall Tuesday, March 21, at 7:30 p.m., as part of UTA’s Maverick Speaker Series. For event details, go to https:// www.uta.edu/maverick-speakers

Black History Month Community Celebration

The Frisco Arts Foundation and Oasis Accents will feature a food truck, face painting, art exhibits, live music, etc. All ages are welcome to celebrate- Sat. 5 pm. Nack Theater, 6711 Oak Street, Frisco. Free.

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The Drifters' lead tenor, Charlie Thomas, dies

By Joseph Green-Bishop Texas Metro News Correspondent

Charlie Thomas, who sang lead tenor with “The Drifters,” and who performed for more than 60 years, died from cancer on January 31 at his home in Bowie, MD, according to a spokesman for his family. He was 85 years old.

Mr. Thomas performed live into his 80s until the COVID 19 Pandemic shut down many of the venues where he was scheduled to appear. His health began to decline when he could no longer perform, one of his

associates said.

The Drifters, one of the country’s most popular vocal groups in the early 1960s, recorded hits such as “Under the Boardwalk,” “Up on the Roof,” and “There Goes My Baby,” which reached near the top of the record charts.

Their song, “Save the Last Dance for Me,” did become number one.

While a small boy in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he was born, Mr. Thomas participated in church services while his father, Reverend Lewis Thomas, preached and his mother, Lucinda, sang in the choir.

on a tambourine.

When his family moved to New York, Mr. Thomas earned money singing on street corners with other teenage talent. It was not long before he was discovered by a music promoter and placed in a group named The Crowns.

Mr. Thomas became a member of The Drifters when he and three other young singers were selected to replace the original members of the group who were dismissed after a heated disagreement with their manager.

He became lead vocalist in

Reverend Leonard Charles Stovall

Reverend Leonard Charles Stovall was born on October

7, 1954 in Lexington, Mississippi. Stovall grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where he attended high school, college and seminary school.

He gives much credit to his father, the late Reverend Dr. Robert C. Stovall, for his passion in activism and the political struggle in both Atlanta, Georgia and Dallas, Texas.

Much of his passion and activism against apartheid comes from his wife, the late

Denise Johnson-Stovall, who was a longtime response contributor and communicator of the United Methodist Church and Dallas journalist, who wrote much about her experiences in Africa and the struggle against apartheid. Being a former member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, or SCLC, Stovall dealt with political upheaval and issues while in Atlanta and in Dallas.

After receiving much instruction and teaching in At-

lanta, Georgia, Stovall moved to Dallas, TX and worked with individuals, such as Reverend

the group, which had a contract with Atlantic Records, when his predecessor died suddenly. With Mr. Thomas singing lead vocals on many songs, the group had hit after hit, including “Sweets for My Sweet,” and “When My Little Girl is Smiling.”

When The Drifters disbanded in the late 1960s, Mr. Thomas continued to sing, performing as Charlie Thomas’s Drifters. He is survived by his wife, Rita; two daughters, Crystal and Victoria; three sons; Charlie Jr., Brian, and Michael and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

October 7, 1954 - February 1, 2023

Peter Johnson, John Wolfe and Reverend Dr. Zan Wesley Holmes, Jr. in the struggle against apartheid in South Apartheid.

Throughout his time in Dallas, Stovall recalls the demonstration of not standing for the American flag due to the call for divestment of all companies and businesses that supported South Africa and apartheid. During the 1980s, Stovall collaborated with the Dallas chapter of the Southern Christian Lead -

ership Conference, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and the Dallas City Council.

Even after the end of apartheid in 1994, Reverend Stovall continued to advocate for change throughout South Africa and the City of Dallas, in addition to educating others to stand up against the wrongs of the world. No arrangements for the Celebration of Life are available at this time.

Student Leader, Bishop College Faculty

By Joseph Green-Bishop Texas Metro News Correspondent

Dr. Roslyn Pope, a former chairman of the Humanities Department at Bishop College, who while a college student co-authored an influential civil rights manifesto that defined the objectives of the civil rights movement, has passed.

Dr. Pope, who died January 19, was 84 years old and lived in Arlington, TX, according to her family.

Dr. Pope wrote the manifesto while a student at Spelman College in Atlanta, where she was student body president.

The manifesto outlined grievances that students at Spelman and other academic institutions had. Inspired by Black student

activism in the south in the early 1960s, the document harshly criticized segregation, substandard housing, racism in healthcare, police bias and the lack of equitable employment opportunities for African Americans.

“Every normal human being wants to walk the earth with dignity,” it stated. “…..and abhors any and all proscriptions placed upon him because of race or color.”

Assisted in the writing of the document by former NAACP President Julian Bond, who was a student at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Dr. Pope wrote that sit-down demonstrations at segregated lunch counters throughout the nation were an example of the aspirations of Black people.

The manifesto, titled ‘An Appeal For Human Rights’, was well received in the national civil rights community, particularly in organizations founded and led by young people.

It received national attention when it was published in newspapers in Georgia and in the New York Times. It was also entered in the Congressional Record by a member of the United States Senate.

Dr. Pope was born in Atlanta, GA where her father, Rogers, was a union activist while working for the United States Postal Service and her mother, Ruth, was a homemaker.

They assisted Dr. Pope in the distribution of the manifesto.

An enthusiastic and academically superior high school stu-

dent, Dr. Pope won a scholarship that allowed her to study music and French in Paris during her junior year.

She also participated in a national Girl Scouts convention

where she was the only African American in attendance. Additionally, she was an accomplished piano player.

An active participant in civil rights demonstrations while a college student, Dr. Pope earned a master's degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta, and a doctorate from Syracuse University in New York.

After teaching at Penn State University, she returned to the South where she joined the faculty at Bishop College, which closed its doors in 1988.

Dr. Pope, who once worked in advertising sales for Southwestern Bell, is survived by two daughters, Rhonda and Donna; one brother, Webster; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

The young Mr. Thomas spent much of the church service banging

Charlie Thomas

Dr. Roslyn Pope

Rev. Leonard Charles Stovall

Dr. Zan Wesley Holmes Jr.