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• Vol. 9 • Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

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By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER

Your Walk

See MY TRUTH, page 15

read more at www.nnpa.org

Dallas Family creates HBCU Royal Dynasty

MY TRUTH

We’re rapidly approaching a special time. Well, it was supposed to be, for the class of 2021. COVID-19, however; has changed everything and there are some very unhappy and disappointed people.

Just imagine, all your young life you have heard about this wonderful time. I can remember being told, “your senior year is going to be the best year of your life.” I was also told that I was going to look back on that time and cherish the memories of prom, graduation, parties and saying goodbye to teachers, coaches and friends; some i’d probably never see again.

Which brings me to my truth.

I’ve heard a similar spiel about other key times in my life: Going away to college; pledging Delta Sigma Theta Sorority; obtaining the first, then the second college degree; purchasing my first car, then house; and, so on.

Yes, those were monumental times in my life and there have been many more.

Everyone’s journey is different and just like grieving, we have to let everyone do it in their own way. We may not have all of the backstory of what went into getting to a point. Then too, we each handle situations differently.

Recently a young man asked me if I had ever experienced anything like what we are going through now. Clearly I look older than I thought!

I explained to him that while there have been some catastrophic times in my life; there has been nothing compared to 2020. I also told him about times when I thought things were worse than they actually

Vernon Jordan, Civil Rights Icon and Clinton adviser, transitions at 85

By Skylar Boone

Erika Nicole Johnson Miss FAMU 2020-2021.

Some would say that a profile of the Johnson family would have been ideal for February during African American History Month, but when you have a family like theirs, full of accomplishments; any day and any month is a good one for a celebration.

And celebrate is what this family and many, still observing social distancing measures, will do when they witness yet another milestone this weekend, with all eyes on the youngest Johnson, Erika Nicole Johnson, at her Miss Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) coronation.

Although she has reigned the entire year, this weekend is her big weekend and she is more than deserving of all the pomp and circumstance that comes with this honor.

“Miss FAMU 2020-21, Erika Johnson, has served Florida A&M University with dignity and grace while lifting her voice in service and praise of the University,” said FAMU President Dr. Larry Robinson. “She has successfully

The Johnsons

fulfilled the legacy of Miss FAMU and within her own family, succeeding her mother and sister, both outstanding alumnae. She was one of the student recipients of the FAMU MLK Leadership Award for her commitment, dedication, and leadership.

She has reigned supreme as Miss FAMU.”

And reigning supreme comes naturally for Erika’s family.

MEET THE JOHNSONS: Dr. Vivian Bradley Johnson is the Senior Vice President of Clinical Services at Parkland Hospital Systems and a proud graduate of Florida See ROYAL DYNASTY, page 8

Price gives history lesson before taking vaccine

By Cheryl Smith

John Wiley Price, the Dallas County Commissioner for District 3, speaks to the media following his COVID-19 vaccination at the Ellis Davis Field House in Dallas, Monday, March 1, 2021.

Credit: Tom Fox / Staff Photographer- The Dallas Morning News

Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price is 70 years old, and according to established guidelines, he could have been at the head of the line to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

While many may have assumed that he, like so many other elected officials in his age group, had already taken the COVID-19 vaccine; he had not, until Monday.

At a press conference at the Ellis Davis Fieldhouse Complex, one of the sites selected in January to administer drivethru and by-appointmentonly vaccinations, Price discussed the Coronavirus and encouraged citizens to join him in line to get the vaccine.

There’s nothing ‘politically/ phobia-motivated or backroom concocted to explain why it has taken Price more See VACCINE, page 6

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• Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

Efforts to increase vaccine outreach successful communities of color targeted for latest efforts

By Ashley M. Moss Texas Metro NewsPoynter-Koch Fellow

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Publisher : Cheryl Smith Editor: editor@myimessenger.com Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, Tx 75203 Website: www.texasmetronews.com Phone: 214-941-0110

A soggy day didn’t keep scores of Dallas residents from lining up to get registered Saturday for the COVID-19 vaccine at Town East Mall in Mesquite.

At 91 and 86 years of age, respectively, Clinton and Ruby Worthy were determined to get the vaccine.

“We’ve tried to get an appointment (for the vaccine) a few times before but it hasn’t happened yet,” said Mrs. Worthy. “We’ve been putting this off but we know of others who have passed away and at our age we know we are at risk.”

Black Americans have been contracting and dying from the coronavirus at rates higher than other racial or ethnic groups in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The long-time area residents made the short trip to the mall from their home in East Dallas.

Dallas County and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have partnered to prioritize vaccinating residents in hard-to-reach ZIP codes, in-

cluding the one where the Worthys live, in 75228.

While recent state-level data from the Kaiser Family Foun-

dation showed that vaccine enthusiasm is growing, access still presents an issue, and Black Texans are getting vaccinated

at consistently lower rates than whites - just seven percent of the state’s vaccinations through February.

Zip code specific outreach is just one of many strategies being employed to educate the community designed to address both vaccine hesitancy and lack of access.

“Of equal importance is to register for the vaccine in as many places as you are willing to drive and to get your vaccine as soon as you are eligible,” said Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins. “If we do these things, we will defeat COVID and we will reach herd immunity in 2021.”

The Worthys had early reservations about taking the vaccine but knew their race and their age put them at high risk for contracting the virus.

With no email or internet they’d had difficulty getting an appointment before, but with help from family members and volunteers at Saturday’s event, they hoped this fresh effort would pay off.

“Our niece is going to help make sure we don’t miss the email or the appointment,” said Mrs. Worthy. “Whenever we can get it we will be there.”

NEW TOWNHOMES 2231 Dorian Place MLS #14379965

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.

WASH HANDS WEAR MASK

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Crisis Waiting for New Dallas Chief Eddie Garcia OUR VOICES

By John Fullinwider As Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia completes his first month on the job, it is not how he resolves the day-to-day problems of DPD that will determine if he succeeds.

Whether he realizes it yet or not, Chief Garcia confronts a deep crisis of policing in three interwoven challenges: 1) the challenge of legitimacy in the face of a history of unaccountable police brutality; 2) the challenge of leadership in the face of a police association that has consistently undercut reform-minded chiefs; and 3) the challenge of a divided public in the face of increasing violent crime.

It is how he navigates this crisis, years in the making, that will decide if he will successfully change the department or if the weight of the status quo will sink his administration.

From the killing of Michael Moorehead in 1970 through the

killing of Botham Jean in 2018, Dallas has suffered a half century of unaccountable deadly police brutality. From 1970 to the present day, exactly two officers have been convicted in literally hundreds of fatal police shootings.

In April 1970, two officers killed Moorehead, an unarmed Black teenager, shooting him 13 times.

There were protests, vigils, civic panels on race relations – but no charges, indictments, trials, or convictions of the officers. One of the officers transferred to another beat in Little Mexico where, three years later, he killed 12-year-old Santos Rodriguez.

A reader may be forgiven for thinking “this is all ancient history.”

But consider the fatal shooting of another unarmed Black youth in 2007, Brandon Washington.

Washington allegedly stole a candy bar from a Pleasant Grove 7-Eleven. As he walked along Lake June Road, Brandon was confronted by an officer and shot to death as he allegedly reached for a weapon.

After the officer involved was cleared, he went on to work in a special narcotics unit. On the night

that Amber Guyger killed Botham Jean, she phoned the man who was her friend, partner, and mentor at DPD. It was Martin Rivera – the very officer who shot Brandon Washington to death.

This long record of brutality, and the police culture that nourishes it, is history reaching into the present.

Lack of accountability breeds more brutality.

The Dallas Police Association has resisted almost every reform or attempt at oversight for decades.

“We would like his resignation immediately,” then DPA President Monica Smith told USA Today in 1990, speaking of Chief Mack Vines, who had a track record of promoting affirmative action and tightening rules governing use of deadly force.

Glenn Smith, DPA President in 2002, unconditionally defended officers charged in Dallas’s “fake drug scandal” in which informants were paid top dollar to produce tons of “cocaine” that turned out to be sheet rock; they did this in part by setting up Mexican immigrants.

It was, in the words of former U.S. Attorney Paul Coggins, “the worst law enforcement scandal I’ve

heard of in the Northern District of Texas.”

According to Smith, the officers were blameless, telling the Associated Press, “They went out and did their job, and they happened to have an informant that is unreliable.”

In March 2016, the city suffered a spike in homicides, reportedly fueled by drug-related murders and increased family violence.

Chief David Brown moved officers from desk jobs to patrol to reduce response times. Far from working with Brown, DPA President Ron Pinkston flatly blamed the chief, “Violent crime is up and murder is up and it’s all because of bad police management.”

The DPA endorsement is probably the most sought after in city council elections. Yet no police chief in Dallas can succeed if he cannot overcome the Association’s impact on policing.

Finally, Chief Garcia faces a divided public. A substantial part of Dallas is fed up with over-policing, racial profiling, and police brutality.

They want city government to focus on the social origins of violent crime, with increased

funding for the unmet human needs of struggling communities.

They want strict oversight of the police, greater transparency, and tighter controls on deadly force. For another part of Dallas, prosperous neighborhoods with little direct experience of police misconduct, the top priorities are faster police response time, quick trial and punishment of criminals, and uncritical support for “our first responders.” These two major approaches to public safety were readily visible in the public meetings about strengthening the police review board in 2019 and in last year’s budget deliberations.

In 2020 with another homicide spike and large-scale protests against police brutality, these challenges were on full display and were, in fact, crucial to the fall of reform-minded Chief Renee Hall.

How effectively Chief Garcia meets these deep-rooted challenges will shape his term more than any other factor.

John Fullinwider is co-founder of Mothers Against Police Brutality and a longtime community organizer and educator in Dallas.

As Americans, we must stand on the side of what’s right OUR VOICES

By Donald Lee In response to text messages I’d gotten from friends outside of Texas Thursday, July 7, checking on my well-being as they followed breaking news reports of the fatal shootings of police officers in downtown Dallas, I posted on social media that I’d gone to the websites of two of Dallas-Fort Worth’s TV news stations to get a more indepth report of what was going on.

I mentioned that it was interesting that the news stations’ websites did confirm that there was an ongoing incident involving the sniping of police officers in a location at which peaceful demonstrators had converged to protest violence at the hands of police, but that I didn’t see where either said who the group was that was demonstrating.

In response to my post, I got a

couple interesting comments from an individual who (some kind of way) got it in his head that I was “condoning” violence against police officers.

His comment to me read: “We should all attempt to keep a watchful eye over the ones who try and protect us as citizens. While many don’t like cops they do keep a watchful (eye) over us and try to do the best they can.”

My response: It’s the rogue cops that people have a problem with, not all cops.

We’d be in a world of trouble if we didn’t have police. That’s a nobrainer. Therefore, we must pray for our police officers, I agree. But we also must pray for the civilians (all of them) that they accepted the charge to serve and protect.

His response: “The way you reply, you’re condoning these acts. Since I’m white and writing on your … page you should stand against this violence since you are a pastor and a leader of the Black community.”

My response to his comment (and

this is also my response to anyone who may erroneously confuse my stance for humanity with being anti-white or anti-police): No, Sir. I don’t condone these acts. I don’t see how you could actually think I would. I have not said one single thing that even remotely sounds like I condone violence against anybody. Period.

I don’t have a problem with you because of your ethnicity. For you to think that I do is an indication that you don’t know me nearly as well as you think you do. Make no mistake about it, my friend. I will speak out boldly against injustice whenever I see it, including when the human rights of people who look like me are being violated.

White people — white friends of mine — comment on my social media pages whenever they feel like it. I welcome their comments.

I welcome your comments. But when you accuse me of being racist, or you so much as insinuate it, understand that I’m going to have a response for you.

What I’ll need you to do is put

down your issue of race and join me in speaking out for an improved condition of humanity. You are getting all bent out of shape because you misperceive somebody, namely me, to be saying something that crystal clearly isn’t so.

The only thing that keeps me from being appalled by your insinuation about me is that I’m taking into account that you don’t know me. And as for me being a pastor: Jesus doesn’t have any wimps in His army.

His people are meek in one sense, yet bold when the situation at hand warrants it. You have absolutely no earthly idea that I prayed fervently for the families of all the white police officers who lost their lives in that horrible act of violence in downtown Dallas.

I prayed for their families just like I prayed for the families of the two men who were killed by those two police officers in Louisiana and Minnesota.

If you prayed, did you pray for the families of those two men who were killed, too, or did you just pray

for the police officers who were killed in Dallas? Before you try to pass unrighteous judgment on me, come and talk to me. Get to know me.

Hopefully, what you’d hear would change your misperception of who you think I am. And if it doesn’t, then oh, well.

Oh, and by the way. I’m not just a leader in the Black community.

I am a leader in the American community. Whose community are you a leader in?

Remember, people, this profound quote from the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr: “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”

Did you get that, (Texas) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick?

Donald Lee is a pastor, author and free-lance journalist. He may be contacted at (225) 773-2248 or leedonaldj@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @donaldj_lee.

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Lessons from Texas THE LAST WORD

By Dr. Julianne Malveaux Texas was freezing, and Senator Ted Cruz was looking forward to sizzling his way to a Cancun vacation.

People didn’t have drinking water and were advised to boil anything that came out of their faucets. That’s easy enough to do when you have no power. Some resorted to burning their furniture, fences, and anything else they could get their hands on.

A woman and her two grandchildren perished from flames when they lit a fire in their fireplace to stay warm. Children died from the cold, and Texas’s Electric Reliability Council (ERCOT) is being sued. They’ve sent people five-figure electricity bills, and the absentee governor says power cannot be cut off for nonpayment.

The rest of the nation is looking at Texas (and Louisiana and Oklahoma, but Texas is in the worst shape) with shock and horror. People have queued up for food, water, and heat.

Many have left their homes to shelter with friends, only to return to frozen pipes and flooded floors.

Others have thronged to Gallery Furniture, where the civic-minded “Mattress Mack’, Jim McIngvale, opened his store so people could rest in warmth. People slept on high-end beds, recliners, sofas, and other furniture, ate snacks, and drank water that they could not find at home.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner called the crisis the result of “twenty years of bad government.” He criticized state leadership for the situation and said the state, not individuals, should be responsible for excessive bills. Other mayors, leaders, and Congressional representatives talked about the lack of planning.

They seemed resigned to the crisis, which can’t be resolved until people have running water and their homes are repaired. Could this happen in Washington, DC, New York, Denver, or San Francisco? What can we learn from the Texas calamity?

Firstly, we must acknowledge that our infrastructure is crumbling. The American Society of Civil Engineers reports that our infrastructure – our highways and bridges, water systems, and dams – has long been ne-

glected and is crumbling.

President Biden has an excellent opportunity to generate jobs and repair our aging infrastructure, and it is an effort that should garner bipartisan support. Texas reminds us how fragile our infrastructure is and how much it will cost us, both in money and human misery, if we continue to ignore it.

The Texas debacle should also remind us how intertwined we are. The Texas swashbuckling “go it alone” attitude kept them disconnected from national electric grids that might have been able to help when ERCOT could not.

In the end, even though former Governor Rick Perry said he would prefer to freeze than have the federal government involved, President Biden declared Texas an emergency and ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to direct resources to Texas. The National Guard is delivering food, water, shelter, and other emergency relief.

New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio Cortez crossed both state and party lines to provide emergency supplies. I don’t think former Governor Perry would turn this assistance down. What a difference an administration makes!

While the previous president would have undoubtedly gone to one of the places where people have lined to throw water bottles just like he threw paper towels in Puerto Rico, President Biden has eschewed the spotlight and quietly directed resources to Texas.

Senator Ted Cruz provides a lesson from Texas regarding class, race, and access. He had the money to jump on a plane and take his family with him. Too many don’t have that access. Disasters hit most people hard, but they hit some people harder.

When we develop disaster relief, we must be mindful of the inequalities that every disaster reveals. Those who are privileged should not be allowed to exert their privilege during a disaster.

Kudos to AOC, Beto O’Rourke, Sheila Jackson Lee, among others who have stepped up to help. Texas is a tragedy, but it is also an opportunity to learn more about planning and prevention.

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, media contributor and educator.

Her latest project MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is available on youtube.com. For booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com.

Quit Playin’ with Guns!

QUIT PLAYIN’

By Vincent L. Hall My Grandmother would gently advise my mother back in the day. She would prophetically warn my mother about letting us watch, “them shoot-em’-ups! We are raising a violent generation!”

Between the Lone Ranger and Big Valley, Victor and I came to cherish our Second Amendment rights before age six.

We rode our stick horses, shooting at each other with cap pistols until the red ribbons turned dark and the smell of smoke filled the air.

We graduated from that fascination to Eliot Ness and Al Capone, whose machine-gun fire was intoxicating.

Mrs. Figures, my Grandmother, would be in full panic mode after reading the recent USA Today story that I picked up and can’t put down.

“The analysis, titled “A Public Health Crisis in the Making,” found that although Black men and boys ages 15 to 34 make up just 2% of the nation’s population, they were among 37% of gun homicides that year.

That’s 20 times higher than white males of the same age group.

Of all reported firearm homicides in 2019, more than half of victims were Black men, according to the study spearheaded by the Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence and the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence. Sixty-three percent of male victims were Black.

Black females had the highest risk of being killed by a firearm than females of any other race or ethnicity, and they were four times more likely to be victims than white females.

“Gun violence has for the longest time been a public health crisis in the Black

community,” said epidemiologist Ed Clark of Florida A&M University’s Institute of Public Health.

Read the report proffered

by The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (CSGV). Founded in 1974, they are the nation’s oldest gun violence prevention organization.

“We believe gun violence should be rare and abnormal.

We pursue this goal through policy development, advocacy, community engagement, and effective training.”

The CSGV must be as severely panicked as my late Grandmother.

This 30-odd page analysis is staggering.

Blacks” on Fox News, point to “Black on Black’ crime as their countering issue and reason to wholly dismiss support from the Black Lives Matter Movement. Their argument is a red herring “Between 1980-2008, the U.S. Department of Justice found that 84% of white victims were killed by white offenders and 93% of Black victims were killed by Black offenders,” according to a September 2020 USA Today article.

The Mills Brothers sang, “You always hurt the ones you love, the ones you love most of all.” The ironic truth in that verse is borne out in

“The proportion of homicides represent 36% of all gun deaths. More than 14,400 individuals were firearm homicide victims in 2019, including 2,023 children and teens (ages 0-19). This equated to an average of 39 firearm homicides every day.

Suicides continued to make up 60% of all gun deaths. Nearly 24,000 individuals died by firearm suicide, including 1,167 children and teens (ages 0-19).

This equated to an average of 66 lives lost every day.”

After reading the article, Former Mayor-Pro-Tem, Diane Ragsdale rightfully declared the staggering number of homicides, especially among young Black men, “a full-blown public health crisis.”

The subject is hard to breach because White Conservatives and their ‘bought

our national murder statistics. Blacks are about as apt to kill one of their own as Whites or Browns. Homicides are a crime of proximity in most cases.

But Mayor Ragsdale is right. The issue of gun-violence among Black men, which creates shrapnel that kills our sisters disproportionately, must be lifted up on the national stage. We need to ponder our community for answers and petition our congressional leaders for the required appropriations.

My Grandmother’s argument may be the place all of America needs to start. The glorification of guns begins far too early for boys and its killing us.

Quit Playin’!

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

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Lamenting is Necessary for Preservation FAITHFUL UTTERANCES

By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew That week was unprecedented.

If you weren’t directly impacted by the lack of electricity in your homes, you probably had relatives and friends over.

If that wasn’t your scenario, you witnessed or heard stories of despair and hopelessness through the consistent coverage in the news and social media.

It was a lot to experience and process. My irritation goes beyond the experience.

I am frustrated to see how so many of us went back to work Monday morning as If nothing happened and we continue to stay on the hamster wheel of non-stop motion---never taking the time to pause or even stop.

There were limited conversations or check-ins, just work as usual because we have fallen into the trap that profit and productivity rule over people.

In addition to last week’s debacle, over 500,000 people have died from COVID or COVID related complications. So many family members and friends have experienced loss.

The institutional knowledge as well as the potential that we will never realize and know is now gone. And yet, we continue to move on without taking the time to stop and realize the devastation of this unseen enemy that is taking a toll on life as we know it.

Our lives have radically changed. For many of us, we have been in our homes since March 2020 with limited human contact that is usually restricted to immediate family. Hugs and opportunities to experience the presence of others is almost nonexistent except for Zoom calls and Grocery store runs.

Dallas Morning News (February 4, 2021) headlines read, “With 1 of every 5 high schoolers not attending classes with regularity, Dallas ISD launches reconnection effort.” As much as we tell ourselves that our

children are resilient, obviously, they are not adjusting well, either.

We keep running, moving faster as if it will suddenly go away and things will go back to normal.

In our quest, to keep up this busyness and desire to move forward, we are neglecting to pause, stop, and lament. It’s interesting that in grammar, the comma represents a pause, and the period is designed to stop before moving to another thought.

Why is it that we understand that in language but have failed to see the correlation in our lives?

Right now, we need to really sit back, reflect, and listen. God is speaking and we are missing it big time by covering it up with more stuff to do that has yet to alleviate our pain and suffering.

The book of Lamentations is credited to Jeremiah. It is a Biblical book of poems that illustrate the pain of a people whose city had been destroyed and who had lost many loved ones.

It is a book that ponders on the suffering of man caused by the decisions and actions of men.

The city of Babylon had been invaded and destroyed. There was a need for food and people were desperate. Lamentations 3:17-26 states, “Peace has been stripped away, and I have forgotten what prosperity is.

20 I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. 21 Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: 22 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. 23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. 24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” 25 The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. 26 So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord.”

Maybe it is time for us to pause, stop, cry, reflect and wait quietly to hear from God. Our very lives depend upon it.

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the host of the Tapestry Podcast and the author of three books for women. She is also the Vice President of Community Affairs for the State Fair of Texas. To learn more, visit drfroswa.com.

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Enduring the Voter Suppression Supremacy WAKE UP AND STAY WOKE

By Dr. E. Faye Williams As one would imagine, recent social and political events have created a considerable increase in the volume of broadcast and print media. As with my friend, Dick Gregory, I try to keep up with as much as possible. My understanding must exceed the boundaries of the District.

ARIZONA FACE PUNCH My recent readings include reviews of the impeachment, a forwarded email sent by Marjorie Taylor-Greene, and an article by Arizona journalist, Brahm Resnik.

The byline that captured my interest was: ‘Punch in the face to voters’: Arizona bill would let lawmakers throw out presidential election results.

Several sentences condense its theme: We are seeing a slew of Republican bills at the Arizona Capitol in the name of “election integrity.” But many of the bills would make it harder to vote in an election.

A new piece of election legislation – the most extreme bill in recent memory – would give lawmakers the power to reject Arizonans’ votes for president.

“The Legislature…by majority vote at any time before the presidential inauguration may revoke the secretary of state’s issuance or certification of a presidential elector’s certificate of election.”

This would be easy to isolate to Arizona, but we’re presented daily with similar proposals throughout the country.

Apparently, the thrust of this legislation is the ability to isolate and eliminate votes from communities of color.

The bill proposed by State

Rep. Shawnna Bolick (R), gives the legislature the power to eliminate Arizona electors who pick the next president.

Passage of this bill would legalize and codify the infractions which are the basis of the current impeachment.

SUPPRESSION AND RACISM Recently, I wrote that voter suppression is the tool of a party with policies unacceptable to a majority of voters.

Suppression is the only way that type of party can maintain power. This is an accurate description of the Republican party.

Why, then, would a party be unwilling to present palatable policies? For the wealthy, Republican policies provide unchallenged and uninterrupted financial security. For the remaining 90% of Republicans, fear is the most common motivator.

Anti-Racist Jane Elliot suggests that Whites believe that a symbiotic relationship exists between political/social power and numerical superiority.

By extension, I believe they consider the loss of either as tragic but recognize that political power will allow them to maintain/sustain historic social controls necessary to appease their sense of entitlement.

PROCESS IS INCOMPLETE I cannot provide a reference, but, long ago, I remem-

ber reading an article in which a White high school dropout expressed belief that he was more entitled to a job opportunity than a Black person with a related college degree.

Merit-based competition is slowly changing socio-economic constructs, and increased voting participation is supplying legislators who are willing and ready to reduce social and employment barriers.

This process is incomplete, but currently poses the greatest threat to resident racists –overt and covert, alike – who fear their loss of control. This is evidenced by the public display of confederate, Nazi and supremist flags and symbols of those most committed to the continuance of racial/social injustice.

Whether we wish to acknowledge it or not, we have reached the nexus between enduring systemic injustice and the enduring demand for social equity and justice.

The aforementioned Marjorie Taylor Greene has said, “President Trump never backed down, and neither will I…Not when I have patriots like you standing beside me.”

To her, I say, “Stop PRETENDING your RACISM is PATRIOTISM.” To the Beloved Community, I say, “Our struggle continues, and our WILL must be ENDURING! Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.

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Betrayal - by any Vaccine from page 1 other name: BOYD WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND

By Miles Jaye Dear Pastor, You do realize that there could easily have been one of two tragic outcomes from that unfortunate en-counter of many years ago—you do remember that fateful afternoon in Manila.

One, had I been more vulnerable, more susceptible to your advances I could have been psychologically scarred for the rest of my life, much like Alter Boys in the Catholic Church. Two, I could have taken your life and spent the rest of mine incarcerated in a foreign land for your murder. Fortunately, God is an all-seeing, all-knowing, gracious and compassionate God who interrupted your advances and directed me out of your hotel suite in time to avoid either of the two dreadful endings. The fact that this many years since the days that I was just a young military man, that I am writing about this event may serve as evidence that it did have a life-long impact on my psyche.

The fact that it was my trusting mother whose idea it was to meet and greet you only adds to the level and depths of your betrayal. Truthfully, I don’t know if my siblings or my father were ever made aware of your indiscretion, but I never breached the silence to anyone but my mother.

She and I discussed the matter upon my return from the Philippines. I admit to my disappointment in the calm manner in which she managed the news.

“You have to remember pastors are just as human as we are,” or something to that effect. I wasn’t trying to hear that after all those months of waiting to discuss it with her in person. I was expecting or at least hoping for some blood boiling outrage.

It wasn’t until years later and long after my mother’s passing that I learned that she suddenly

ended her long-standing association with the church.

I grew up in that church.

Mom raised us in that church.

My church brother told me that no one knew what happened to mom, they just never saw or heard from her again. Two grown men wept in the park-ing lot of his Florida timeshare that day.

I was heart-broken when he told me that others in my church family assumed that I had grown too big for my britches or for the church; having made a few records and had a few TV appearances.

Nothing could have been further from the truth. Once I shared my story with him it all added up, it began to make sense. It was devastating. He went on to tell me stories of a long history of this pastor’s indiscretions within the congregation.

What troubled me as much as anything was the church’s tolerance for his errant behavior.

They say the coverup is always worse than the crime.

Is there a greater betrayal than that of a man of the cloth, other than that of his enablers? I have never looked at ministers or the ministry the same since those early days of my manhood. Nor have I viewed the church with the same open-minded trust and faith. I escaped with only a great sense of disappoint-ment and disenchantment. My fear is that every day in America, someone in a church large or small, regardless of denomination, some wide-eyed, unsuspecting, trusting seeker of truth, a right way of liv-ing, and God’s salvation, is being tricked and lured into some foul pastor’s lurid lair.

I only hope and pray that God protects them from the same harm and fate from which He protected me. Now, when I hear accounts of assault and sexual abuse, I thank God-- it could’ve been me too.

I hope you find peace and forgiveness from a merciful God. That’s what’s on my mind.

Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com

than two months after the first vaccine was administered on December 14, 2020 in New York, to get his shot.

Instead, he has been working to ensure fair and equitable distribution of services and vaccines; while also educating his constituents on information as quickly as it becomes available.

“Since the introduction of the Pfizer vaccine, I have been inundated with questions from people in this community and frankly across the country,” he said. “The doubt and skepticism around this issue concerns me.”

“

working to get influencers, “individuals who people listen to and respect,” in hopes that more people will sign up, get tested, and take the vaccine.

“People respect him (Price) in the community and they trust him,” said Dr. Johnson, who acknowledged that, “Blacks have experienced mistreatment so they don’t trust every person trying to get them to be part of a study or take medications.

Commissioner Price is very engaged.”

While yet another COVID 19 vaccine has been approved for use, concerns have been raised not only about the disparity in doses distributed to African Americans, but also the refusal by many to take the vaccine.

“This virus and its emerging

This virus and its emerging variants are too dangerous for a demographic that is already vastly underserved in terms of healthcare delivery.”

Commissioner Price

In addition to encouraging citizens to register and take the vaccine at their earliest opportunity, Price focused on dispelling and dismissing some of the misinformation and conspiracy theories surrounding the issue.

“Too many people in our community refuse the treatment based on an erroneous belief about the infamous ‘Tuskegee experiment,’” he explained, citing author James Jones’ book, “Bad Blood” by James Jones, and a June 2016 article about the “Tuskegee Study of Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male,” that appeared in the magazine, “The Atlantic.”

Dr. Vivian Bradley Johnson, Parkland Senior Vice President of Clinical Services, said she was pleased when she heard that the commissioner was taking the vaccine.

“I’ve been waiting for Commissioner Price to take it,” she said. “I believe he will help get others to accept it. If he is taking it then they feel that others will trust it.”

According to Dr. Johnson said health officials have been

variants are too dangerous for a demographic that is already vastly underserved in terms of healthcare delivery,” the commissioner said. “No one has lost more jobs, small businesses, or opportunities than the African American and minority communities. We have the hardest hit and we need to be the first ones to take advantage of any opportunity to secure our health and safety.”

That people are referencing a study that lasted over 40 years, 1932-1972; to justify their hesitancy to take the vaccine today should not be discounted, many say.

At a virtual town hall meeting hosted by the NAACP recently, experts talked about the mistrust that runs deep throughout Black and Brown communities. Callers into the program were concerned that while Blacks and Browns were disproportionately affected

by COVID-19, the vaccines appeared to be going primarily to other communities; and many cited historical “assaults” on people of color.

Price pointed out that

misinformation is an area that must be addressed if any effort is going to be successful, especially when you look at the devastating effects of those impacted by the Syphilis Study.

“The Public Health Service officials followed 600 rural Black men in Alabama who had Syphilis, over the course of their lives, refusing to tell patients their diagnosis, refusing to treat them for the debilitating disease and denying some of them treatment,” he said.

Price continued in his reasoning and rationale for taking the vaccine publicly.

“The common misunderstanding is that Black men were injected with syphilis,” he explained. “That is an erred notion that has never been widely challenged in the public square. The real travesty was that health professionals had a cure and refused to share it with men who looked like me.”

The Syphilis Study is just one of many atrocities that makes some say it’s no wonder that Blacks and Browns are hesitant about anything that is sanctioned by the government.

Price said “too many of us have the wrong information about the study,” the virus and the vaccine.

For Price, who also follows the science, as so many medical experts have implored, the vaccines that have been approved are the best bet for dealing with the pandemic.

With efforts to get more vaccines to Dallas County, such as the announcement that an additional 6,000 doses would be available for those in jail, all hands are on deck working to achieve some form of normalcy, led by President Joe Biden, who Price praises for also being serious about stemming the tide and surpassing “his goal of 100 million vaccinated in the first 100 days.”

Price admits, there’s more work to do and he’s going to continue doing his part.

“I fight daily for those who have been underserved historically,” he said.

“Our senior and indigent populations should at least get an equal shot at this vaccine.

We need to take the Moderna, Pfizer, or Johnson and Johnson version as quickly as possible.”

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Virtual and liVe Community Calendar

WOMENS HISTORY MONTH March 4

Policing Reform for Racial Justice. Feat: Detective Marquez “Marq” Claxton Event

by Anna Julia Cooper Center. RSVP: https:// bit.ly/3az3gwG. 5-6:30 pm. CST. Financial Planning for Women. Event by Savvy Chicks Rule & EA Wealth Management. Event: Eventbrite.com 6:30-8 pm.

ALL STAR WEEKEND Talent Competition. Host HBCU Heroes. 7 pm. Event is live on @ twitch.tv/hbcuheroes.

SoulJazz Thursdays Feat: Vandell Andrew. Hosted by Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 8 pm-12 am. sandaga813.com.

The Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Food and Financial Security. Event by Dallas Coalition for Hunger Solutions Reg: https://bit.ly/2MxDP6C 1-2 pm. CST.

17th Annual Women Empowering Women’s Conference.

Event by Daughters of Deborah, Inc. Reg: Eventbrite.com. 9:30 am. CST. Online: http://bit.ly/3selYAK. Girl Sip (Sisters in Pursuit) Event by Renew Church - Arlington, La Quinta Inn & Suites, 2131 W. 1-20, Grand Prairie. 12-1 pm. CST. Tickets: http://bit.ly/2NMaAh3.

Daiquiris & Chill 5 at Blends Daiquiri Lounge. Event hosted by The Socially Astute, DjDre Day. Blends Daiquiri Lounge, 2810 E Trinity Mills Rd #145, Carrollton. 4-9 pm. CST.

Energy Delivery and Texas. Event hosted

by Coffee and Politics 101. Message: Coffee and Politics 101. Virtual on: youtube.com 10-11 am CST.

March 7 Happy Birthday to Eva D. Coleman

March 5-7 56th Anniversary of Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee. A Historical Crossing Goes Global as a Virtual Event to fight COVID-19. Commemorating “Bloody Sunday.” Register: selmajubilee.com.

March 5 Texas became a Slave State in 1865 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Every Friday Night Don Diego and The Razz Band at Club Odyssey, 7439 Westmoreland Rd. 6 pm. Face Mask Required.

Elevation Comedy Tour 2021. Host Shavonda with a V. Feat: Anastasia The Bold. 9 pm-1 am. Tickets: Paypal.me/CarlJ23. Flores Ballroom, 4615 Singleton Blvd.

Spring THINGZ featuring Johnnie Blu & Shugga. Event by Allure Jazz & Cigar Lounge, 110 S. Cockrell Hill #A. DeSoto. 8-11:59 pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

March 6 Developing and Leading Multi-Ethnic Congregations: Host: Rev. Dr. Joseph W. Daniels, Jr. Online: prophetic-activism. org. 11:45 am-1:15 pm. CST.

Andrew’s World with host, Andrew Whigham III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. Sundays. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459.

Women Make History. Event by Eventura Event Planning a celebration of International Women’s Day. Reg: Eventbrite. com. 1 pm. CST. Ubuntu Market for Small Business. Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 12-5 pm. For vendor Info: Email: adjwoahogue@yahoo.com, or call 214-943-8262.

March 8 International Women’s Day Phyllis Mae Daley, first of four African American Navy Nurses to serve in WWII in 1945 Women of Impact: Celebrating Women in Photography!

In celebration of International Women’s Day, join Nikon Ambassadors Tamara Lackey, Ami Vitale and Michelle Valberg.

Reg: Eventbrite.com 7 pm. CST In the Middle with Ashley Moss. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@ TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio. com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Against Gravity: Flying Afrikans and Other Urban Legends.

Event by Hi-ARTS, Renegade Performance Group and André M. Zachery. 5 pm. CST RSVP at bit.ly/hiartsRSVP.

March 9

THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @ docshepspeaks

DFW News & Tings with Jirah Nicole.

From 11 am-1 pm. CST Tuesday’s on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Williams Chicken Presents Entrepreneurs are Innovators! Panel Tim Williams, Carlos White, Carl Shields, & Victor J. Elmore. Webinar Series. Reg: www. williamschicken.com 5:30-7 pm. CST. LitNight Reading Series. Event by LitNight. Zoom Meeting https://smu.zoom.us/j/91910236244, Meeting ID: 919 1023 6244 Passcode: 967699 7-8:30 pm.

March Town Hall w/ Rep. Crockett. Hosted by Rep. Jasmine Crockett. Online event: http://bit.ly/301RAO9. 7-9 pm. CST.

March 10 I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

Saxophonist Andre Cavor performing songs by: Drake / Jay Z/ Snoop Dog. Live on Facebook @ Saxophonist Andre Cavor. 6-7 pm.

Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson. 12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson.

March 11 Ralph David Abernathy was born in1926 Lunch & Learn: Understanding the Sales Game. Event by Zan W Holmes Jr Community Outreach Center. Feat: Audrey Brown Event online: zwhjcoc.org. 11:30 am CST.

March 12 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm.

CST, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

AARP Fitness Friday, Aerobic Dance. Event by AARP Florida. Online: local.aarp.org 8:30-9:30 pm.

Black Mental Health Matters. Event by Circle of Arms.2 pm.

CST. Reg: http://bit.ly/3bNuobN.

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March 13

In 1932 the first Black Daily Newspaper was published Deep Dive into Money In Politics. Event by American Promise - North Texas. Online Register: us02web.zoom.us. 10:30 am–12 pm CST. Pop Up Day-Smooth Jazz Edition. Event by DFW Social 40.

The Dojo-Dallas Fashion District2414, Converse St, Dallas. 4-9 Pm. CST. Pre Registration-Online Only www.dfwsocial40.com Dallas Mavericks vs Denver Nuggets. 9 pm. CST in Denver at the Pepsi Center.

March 14 Eli Whitney patented the Cotton Gin in 1794 The Roast of Royce West. (Virtual) Special Appearance: Dale Hanson. Event by Dallas County Democratic Party. 3 pm. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/springroast.

Women’s History Month HERstory Conversation. Host Shanon Skipworth. Feat: Syreeta Martin of WURD Radio, and State Representative Joanna McClinton. Reg: Eventbrite.com.

1-2:30 pm CST.

March 15 In the Middle with Ashley Moss. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com.

Call in and join the conversation at 646-200-0459.

National Women’s History Month Series. Elizabeth & Emily Blackwell the first woman in America to receive an M.D. Reg: Eventbrite.com 3-4 pm. CST. Virtual Book Club Meeting for Women’s History Month: The Colour Purple. Host: Haringey Libraries. Celebrating Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize Winning 1982 novel. Reg: Eventbrite. com 8-9 pm. CST.

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Royal Dynasty from page 1

A&M University (FAMU), where the names Bradley and Johnson are legendary; almost as much as they are in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Frederick Johnson, Sr., a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, was a leader on campus, graduating from FAMU’s renowned School of Business and Industry (SBI). He brought those skills to Dallas and is a successful entrepreneur.

Vivian served as Miss FAMU her senior year, in 1981, and she said she had no idea that she was beginning what many have dubbed “the royal dynasty” and a true Black History footnote.

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Links, Inc., she is also a former Vice President of the D-FW FAMU National Alumni Association, and she and another FAMU Rattler were the inspiration behind the formation of the Dallas Metroplex Council of Black Alumni Associations.

In 1980, Frederick graduated from FAMU and a job offer helped him decide to move to Dallas. Vivian graduated with a degree in pharmacy and then obtained her doctorate degree and completed a residency in New Orleans.

Then the two Lake City, FL. natives tied the knot and settled in the Metroplex where a thriving economy was just the place for an enterprising and successful accountant and a brilliant pharmacist.

They immediately became

Michelle Marva Miss FAMU 2017-2018

Venom and Miss FAMU

involved in their community; finding a church home at First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park in Richardson, locating other FAMU alumni and friends from their home state and eventually following their plans to start a family.

Little did they know it would be one of royalty, FAMU Royalty!

Everyone knew that Vivian was a songbird and their three children were also gifted in the arts; whether it’s singing, acting or playing an instrument, so it was only natural that they would find their way to The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL) where some of the most talented artists were either trained, like Erykah Badu; or commanded sold out audiences, like Miss Ruby Dee. TBAAL founder Curtis King describes Erika as “absolutely, totally amazing.”

“Fifty years from now we’ll be talking about her, like we do other greats, like Leontyne Price,” said King. “She’s got that ‘it,’ thing. I recognize it in her. She is an amazing artist and singer and she’s going to be huge.”

NOW MORE ABOUT THE DYNASTY Frederick II (you may recall seeing him on the Bachelorette as he tried to capture the heart of the first African American bachelorette Rachel Lindsay), graduated with degrees from both FAMU and FSU the same semester; all while serving as Mister FAMU. Then here comes Michelle Marva who followed in her mom’s footsteps and was crowned Miss FAMU in 2017.

Both are products of Newman Smith High School and like their parents Frederick II is a Kappa and Michelle (her friends call her “Marva”) is an AKA. And if that wasn’t enough Black History, here comes Erika Nicole, the baby of the bunch;

who will be crowned Miss FAMU on March 7, 2021 (a little late because of COVID-19). The graduate of the prestigious Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing Arts knew she was going to be asked one question once people knew that she was from that family of not one, but two, Miss FAMUs and a Mister FAMU! Each Johnson heir to the throne took a different approach on their journey to the crown.

Frederick II, was ready to make a change on FAMU’s campus, he was ready to make it “A Different World” as the 12th Mister FAMU. Marva was providing a dream with a “MARVAlous Beginning,” as the 111th Miss FAMU and Erika has recently just brought the university into a “New Era” on the Royal Court for the 2020-2021 academic year.

“She gives you hope by providing a new perspective on a situation.”

The girls said their mom reminds them to look for the positive in everything. During their campaign weeks, each one shared how their mom supported them with encouragement and how their dad also was supporting them through much-appreciated prayer.

Erika Nicole Miss FAMU 2020-2021

university had in our family’s hearts,” Erika said.

Marva said her mother was very spirited growing up and that even in the church you could see the connection between her mom and other HBCU alums.

She also shared she was nervous

Miss FAMU 2020-21, 2017-18, and 1981-82

Vivian said that the people, businesses, and loved ones in the Dallas area provided support during each of their campaigns.

Getting support in Dallas was a team effort with the Johnson children and their parents.

“The Dallas community has been very supportive of our family,” she said.

It wasn’t hard to embrace the Johnsons because of their involvement and efforts at home, work, church, schools, and throughout the community. And that school in Tallahassee, FL where such local notables as former Dallas Cowboys Bob Hayes and Nate Newton, businessman and philanthropist Oscar Joyner, 94.5’s Indy B, and former Dallas City Councilwoman Tiffinni Young was always present in their lives.

“Even though we were in Dallas, growing up we knew about FAMU and the significance the

about running since her mom held the position but had to pray and reflect on her reason for running.

“My mom is the person to remind you of the bigger picture when you are down,” said Marva.

REIGNING SUPREME The Johnson family is excited to celebrate the reign of Erika, the 114th Miss Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Erika successfully navigated the first-ever completely virtual campaign season in FAMU’s history, executing a well-put-together campaign during a pandemic.

After yet another year of serving the college of love and charity with innovation, the Johnson family has worked together to host a virtual crowning celebration before the coronation.

Unlike most coronations that include a weeklong of activities with tens of thousands of alumni and friends participating, this new norm is the first of its kind and family and friends want Erika’s crowning moment to be just as special as in previous years.

The pre-coronation event is “A Royal Celebration and Crowning AFFAIR.” The coronation will air via @famu_1887 Facebook, YouTube and the @famuroyalcourt YouTube page on Sunday, March 7, at 5 pm CST/ 6 pm EST. The link to register for the pre-coronation Royal Celebration is https://www.eventbrite. com/e/a-royal-celebration-andmiss-famu-crowning-affair-tickets-143304352175.

ZAN WESLEY HOLMES JR. COMMUNITY OUTREACH CENTER PRESENTS IN CONVERSATION WITH DALE HANSEN, WFAA -TV Title Sponsor:

Roland Parrish and Parrish Restaurants Ltd.

Honorary Chairs:

In Conversation is the primary fundraising effort that helps to make possible the programs and operations of the Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. Community Outreach Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The “Conversation” hosts a distinguished guest each year who helps to shine a light on the life and events of our city, state, nation and world.

This year’s guest is Dale Hansen, WFAA-TV Sports Anchor, an award-winning journalist who has been a part of the WFAA-TV team for 37 years. He is the weeknight sports anchor and also hosts Dale Hansen’s Sports Special on Sundays, which is one of the highest-rated sports shows in the DFW area. The virtual event will take place at 11:30 A.M. Streaming information will be shared after guests are registered.

Please visit www.zwhjcoc.org or email inconversation@zwhjcoc.org for additional information.

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THE UNITED STATES VS BILLIE HOLIDAY AT THE MOVIES

By Hollywood Hernandez If a movie keeps you entertained I consider that a good movie. However, if a movie teaches you something you didn’t previously know or affects you on an emotional level, I consider that movie to be stellar.

THE UNITED STATES VS BILLIE HOLIDAY is a stellar movie.

The movie tells the story of Harry Anslinger’s personal crusade to bring down Holiday because of one song she usually closed her show with each night called, “Strange Fruit.” The song was a subtle protest against lynching in the United States.

Although “Strange Fruit” made no direct mention of lynching it had a haunting melody and was an obvious socially conscious song which was based on a poem written by a white New York poet who was horrified after seeing a picture of a lynching.

“Black body swinging in the Southern breeze/ Strange fruit hanging from the poplar trees.”

“Strange Fruit” became Holiday’s signature song.

The song was so offensive to Anslinger, who was the head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, he became obsessed with jailing Holiday to the point of pursuing her all the way to her death bed (where he still tried to arrest her).

Trevante Rhodes plays Jimmy Fletcher who was a real life narcotics agent. Rhodes is a conflicted character who

gets close to Holiday, and then betrays her when he arrests her for drug possession, and then becomes her lover after she is released from prison one year later.

Andra Day, who plays Billie Holiday, doesn’t just play the character.

She seems to channel Holiday’s spirit and really gets into the essence of the singer with a drug addiction and a troubled past where she was forced by her mother to have sex with men starting at the age of 10.

Day also sings the Billie Holiday songs in the movie and while no one can be Billie Holiday she does an incredible vocal performance interpret-

ing “Lady Day’s” songs.

The movie, while not rated, is an adult film that shows nudity, sex, and drug use. THE UNITED STATES VS BILLIE HOLIDAY is showing exclusively on Hulu.

It’s a timeless story that is still relevant today. In 1918 a federal anti-lynching bill was introduced in the senate.

The bill failed to pass. As of January 21, 2021 the senate still hasn’t passed a bill to make lynching a federal crime.

On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate THE UNITED STATES VS BILLIE HOLIDAY a JUMBO!

VITAMIN D LEVELS and COVID19 THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

By Valder Beebe I invited Dr. Redcross, MD, into the Valder Beebe Show studios to discuss the much talked about topic of Vitamin D deficiency and how to develop a bonding relationship with your physical. Dr. Ken Redcross, MD, is the author of, “Bond: The 4 Cornerstones of a Lasting and Caring Relationship with Your Doctor,” says vitamin D has been in the spotlight during 2020 because of how it reduces COVID symptoms, however he says this inexpensive, simple vitamin solution has been a secret weapon of his for improving many other health concerns for patients, including depression, viral respiratory infection, premature births, sleep deprivation and Type 2 diabetes. With nearly 90% of Americans being vitamin D deficient, absorbing vitamin D from sunlight is even more challenging, especially for those with darker skin tones. Redcross stresses the importance of having your doctor test your vitamin D levels (or testing with an at-home kit), so you know exactly how much vitamin D to supplement with, especially since everyone’s body processes vitamin D differently.

Dr. Redcross also shares his Black doctor’s perspective on the FDA approved COVID vaccine, and his own experience with getting the COVID vaccine. Dr. Redcross inform us about the newly FDA approved COVID-19 vaccine, especially in regards to how people

in communities who are most at risk for the coronavirus can feel safe about being targeted in the first round of vaccinations. Dr. Redcross publicists provided text in conjunction with the Valder Beebe Show VBS: Dr. Redcross, give us a course of action for COVID19 prevention that you can recommend for us as an audience and what you are telling your patients.

DRRC: First line of prevention is the mask, washing your hands, social distance.

You are also hearing a lot about Vitamin D which is not a treatment for COVID19.

Vitamin D is not a treatment for Coronavirus, we want everyone to know.

Dr. Redcross MD

Vitamin D is incredibly important to help support our immune system.

That’s exactly what we want to have booted and ready to go. While we are not only dealing with COVID fatigue but influenza is still circulating. When you are thinking of the things you know you are supposed to do, think about knowing your Vitamin D levels. You want to have your levels between 40-60. You can find out your levels with your doctor you can also order an at home test kit at………

Dr. Redcross complete interview……

SoundCloud.com/valderbeebeshow; YouTube.com/valderbeebeshow: Broadcasting to a national & global audience: ValdeBeebeShow.com ; KKVI FM Radio, KRER FM, Streaming TV, Social Media, Print Publications I MESSENGER, Texas Metro News, and Garland Journal News.

Celebrating Women’s History Month with Tracey Pugh FROM MARVA WITH LOVE

By Marva J. Sneed This month is Women’s History Month and who better to celebrate with than educator Tracey Pugh, who is also the author of four books on parenting and social skills, and the Lil’ Tracey series?

In 2019 she founded Sociallywize, an online platform to provide social skills, tools, and encouragement gifts. Tracey has spent more than 20 years working with students and families, and implementing skills and life lessons, giving kids confidence one social skill at a time.

MS: Thank you, Tracey for joining the show today. Tell us about yourself and your journey.

TP: Well, I’m an educator, raised in Richardson, Texas.

I have taught in Cedar Hill and DeSoto. And now I’m at a private school. I’ve been teaching for over 25 years. I have two grown children, 23-year-old graduate student at SMU, and a junior daughter at Hampton University. And so, I’m blessed. But growing up in Richardson when I was a little girl, I was the only little girl of color, and you know, it shaped me especially as I grew. Then I went to an HBCU because I really wanted to make sure that I knew my roots and my people. But then when I became a teacher, and I had children, I realized I was teaching my children history. It was really important to me to see that my children became readers and that I wanted them to see themselves and to be able to identify and see a representation of someone like themselves. I began to write Children’s books with African American

characters as the main protagonist, and as the main character, so they’re fun everyday stories and not always about race or a particular situation.

MS: You tell the story about you and your sister having good manners. Is there a skill for switching behavior for your environment?

TP: Well, you know, there’s something called code switching which is that as African Americans, we tend to do it and it comes naturally when we’re with our own people. When we’re comfortable with our relatives or friends, we talk in a normal voice. My kids would laugh when the telephone rang, I would say hello in a different tone.

They would say ‘Mom, What is that?’ You know, that’s a code. That’s something that we do naturally.

Tracey Pugh

MS: Tell us more about SociallyWize.

TP: That’s pretty much what my passion is. So that is why SociallyWize is a platform for people who want to acquire and inspire social skills and By social skills, I mean you know how to resolve conflict, you know, how deal with being bullied, how to join a group, and how to sharpen interview skills…

To hear the full interview, go to BlogTalkRadio. com: http://bit.ly/3pLEyPa and the video on the TexasMetroNews Facebook page. Follow Tracey Pugh on FB, Twitter, IG & YouTube.

For information, contact Tracey at the website: www. sociallywize.com.

Tune into “From Marva with Love” Fridays from 11 am-1 pm. on BlogTalkRadio.com and Texas Metro News Facebook page. marvasneed@myimessenger.com

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Love Delayed / Love Always Photos and Story

By Eva D. Coleman

Lifestyle & Culture Editor

It was an extravagant event with an elite clientele!

I’m so grateful to event planner extraordinaire Lesia Ramsey of Extravagant Events for entrusting me to execute her vision for the Delta Mu Boulé - Sigma Pi Phi Fort Worth chapter’s St. Valentine’s Gala, that was actually postponed a week due to the Texas Winter Storm.

I served as the Virtual Event Producer, handling Zoom technology, customizing video elements, graphics, playing music and more.

It was an entertaining and heartfelt evening for 30 couples, with Archons professing their love for Archousai through setting the atmosphere from a custom box filled with everything needed for their table decor, complete with setup instructions and photo guides; with meals featuring steak, lobster, salmon, veggies and dessert catered and delivered to each of their homes by The Date.

The virtual event was emceed

by Lynne Haze of Smooth R&B 105.7, featuring a hilarious dinner chat with celebrity comedienne Nanette Lee and poetry by renowned artist Hank Stewart from Atlanta.

Surprise gifts of commissioned jewelry and custom chocolates from Chocolate Secrets were presented to Archousai as well.

Most touching was a portion of the program, “Expressions of Affection,” where selected Archons shared sentiments of appreciation for their loved one’s commitment in times of trials and triumph. The emotions permeated the screen.

It was heartwarming and inspiring to see love on display, albeit via multiple video screens.

The Delta Mu Boulé was determined to continue their annual Valentine’s Day tradition. The smiles and laughter of the 60 attendees spoke volumes.

While internet connectivity may have occasionally been spotty, one thing is for certain. Love never fails.

Extravagant events CEO Lesia Ramsey decorates table in Barnett Home

Dr. Arlene Barnett opens archousai gift of commissioned jewelry

Lobster dinner is served at Delta Mu Boule St. Valentine’s Gala

Crowd laughs during chat with Nanette

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BRIEFS

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-9

by Ashley M. Moss

• Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

New artist residency program launched by South Dallas Cultural Center

Traci Dunn joins VillageMD as Chief Human Resources Officer and Head of DEI Traci Dunn has joined VillageMD as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, as of March 1.

Dunn has more than 25 years of HR experience with a proven track record of identifying, developing, and leading the best and next practices in talent strategy. Prior to VillageMD, Dunn was vice president of inclusion, diversity and corporate impact at McKesson where she was responsible for inclusion and diversity, culture and engagement, and corporate impact.

“Traci will be a key leader as we continue to grow and hire talented team members throughout our organization,”

Traci Dunn

said Tim Barry, chairman and CEO of VillageMD. “Her proven background driving outcomes in building diverse talent bases while supporting inclusive work

Abbott, HHSC Announce Federal Approval Allowing SNAP Clients To Purchase Hot Foods

Photo Courtesy Stock Footage/Canva

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) received federal approval to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to use their food benefits to purchase additional food options due to the continued impact from the severe winter storm.

“As we continue to recover from this winter storm, the state is ensuring that Texans in need have access to hot food to feed their families,” said Governor Abbott. “I thank our federal partners at the U.S. Department of Agriculture for approving this waiver.”

SNAP recipients can now use their benefits for hot foods and ready-toeat foods, such as rotisserie chicken or grocery store deli foods, at retailers that accept SNAP anywhere in the state. The waiver allows purchases through the end of March.

Additionally, Texas received federal

approval Feb. 19 to allow SNAP recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed due to the severe weather.

“We’re doing everything we can for Texans who were affected by this extreme winter storm,” said Wayne Salter, HHS Access and Eligibility Services deputy executive commissioner. “These added federal flexibilities will go a long way in helping SNAP clients feed their families.”

Administered by HHSC, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1.6 million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Texas. Texans in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP and Medicaid, at YourTexasBenefits.com or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to manage their benefits. To find local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 and select option 1.

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culture perfectly complements our organizational talent priorities.”

Dunn was recently named to the Dallas 500 as one of the most powerful business leaders in the Dallas-Fort Worth area by D CEO Magazine. She also held senior positions at Accenture, Huntington National Bank and The Timken Company.

“I’m honored to join VillageMD and thrilled to have the opportunity to make an immediate impact in helping this talented team transform healthcare by delivering the most accessible, efficient, effective and compassionate healthcare,” said the graduate of UNT, who is also a member of National Black MBA Association.

Texas Coronavirus Relief Bill Rental Assistance Program The Texas Rent Relief Program provides emergency funds to help Texas renters pay rent and utility bills (including past due rent and utilities).

Both landlords and tenants can use this website to create an account and submit their application. If you need assistance completing an application, our customer service staff can complete the application with you by phone by calling 1-833-9TXRENT (1-833-989-7368).

The Texas Rent Relief Program can help renters with the following costs starting as far back as March 13, 2020 (this means you could potentially request assistance for up to 11 months of past due bills): • Past due, current and up to 3 months of expected rent costs • Past due, current or up to 3 months of expected utility and home energy expenses • After the initial 3 months of forward assistance, you can apply for 3 additional months of assistance if funds are still available

Photo Courtesy Stock Footage/Canva

Photo Courtesy South Dallas Cultural Center (SDCC)

Dallas’ Office of Arts and Culture’s (OAC) South Dallas Cultural Center (SDCC) has launched the Juanita J. Craft House Artist Residency Initiative, an interactive program for artists. The residency initiative supports artists by offering non-living studio space and connecting them with residents, organizations and institutions to develop a unique artwork, art series, or body of work centering community activism.

“I am a native of South Dallas and dreamed of making an impact on my neighborhood,” said South Dallas Cultural Center Manager John Spriggins, who has led the cultural center since 2017. “My hope is to connect creativity with the community in South Dallas. It is the right time to launch the residency with all of the changes happening in the area.”

In Fall of 2020, Spriggins worked with artist Nitashia Johnson to pilot the program. Johnson, a South Dallas native and a graduate of Booker T. Washington

High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, created The Smart Project, a creative after-school program for artistic teens. Her 2018 photographic book series, The Self Publication, was created to uplift the Black community and dismantle harsh stereotypes associated with the culture.

“The art of storytelling has always influenced my multimedia artwork,” said Johnson. “My eagerness and love for the world and others have pushed me to produce a body of work highlighting environmental spaces, communities, and individual muses. When I started working on the residency project which I’ve titled The Beauty of South Dallas, Capturing the Now Before the Future, I was excited yet nervous about where to begin. South Dallas is a large area, and I wanted to make sure to capture the spirit of the people and the land.”

The Juanita J. Craft House Artist Residency Initiative , which will begin accepting applications in April 2021.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science Sponsors Engineers Week The Perot Museum of Nature and Science will kick off Engineers Week with several days of activities, including engineering-themed activities, experiments, challenges, crafts and more from Thursday, February 25 to Sunday, February 28.

From the gadgets and gizmos behind the world’s greatest innovations to robotics, games and TECH Truck activities, Engineers Week will be packed with amaze-your-brain adventures to appease all ages.

Guests can explore the field of engineering firsthand with professional engineers and educators, enjoy interactive demos, tinker with VEX robotics and partake in building challenges, games and more. Outside, visitors can check out the science-onwheels TECH Truck for experiments led

by Museum educators as well as takehome activities.

Children ages 5 and under can learn about robotics, make binary necklaces,

Photo Courtesy The Perot Museum of Nature and Science

and enjoy engineering-themed crafts in the Moody Family Children’s Museum.

Sponsored by VEX Robotics, Engineers Week is free with general admission.

Member-only hours will be offered from 9-10 a.m. Saturdays and from 10-11 a.m. Sundays. As always, interactive activities will be disinfected regularly and hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout the Museum.

The Perot Museum is currently operating at limited capacity with strict safety protocols in place. Timed-entry tickets should be reserved in advance at perotmuseum.org.

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• Vol-9

THIS IS, INDEED, OUR GRANDPARENTS’ MOVEMENT March 7, 1965.

More than half a century has passed (56 years, to be exact) since a peaceful march was met by brutal violence at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, and the nation was forced to face the ugliness of its history of racial injustice.

The civil rights movement experienced stratospheric highs and devastating lows before and since, and the fight is not even close to being over.

One doesn’t have to look far to see the rise in blatant racism, anti-Semitism and other acts of hatred and intolerance which prove that -- while the players have changed -- the issues of inequity and injustice our elders and ancestors faced years ago are just as insidious today.

Consequently, we must be just as dedicated as they were to galvanize, strategize and organize as we honor those who came before us, learn from them and build upon the foundation they laid with steadfastness, strength, strategy, courage, and (for some) their very lives. This weekend, you’ll hear from many elders who served alongside Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian, Rev. Joseph Lowery, Bruce Boynton, Representative John Lewis, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Marie Foster, and Amelia Boynton-Robinson.

They are treasure troves of wisdom and insight. We would be remiss not to acknowledge them and other icons in the movement, even as we strive to take the movement forward.

The theme of this, the 56th Anniversary Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee, is “Beyond the Bridge: People Power, Political Power, Economic Power.”

History is filled with examples of the victories won when we work together for common goals. There is no “old guard” and “new guard” when it comes to oppression; evil has not stopped to rest and it is always looking to recruit.

The enemies of equity and justice don’t draw a line in the

DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

Drew Glover

Amessage from Principal Coordinator Drew S. Glover - March 2021 sand to delineate between one generation of supporters and another -- and neither can we.

This is, indeed, our grandparents’ movement. We can only hope to carry on their indomitable legacy and pray we make them proud.

On behalf of the dedicated individuals who have banded together to create this, our first-ever completely virtual experience, I want to thank you for joining us as we make “history on top of history.” Thank you for spending this weekend with us, and please invite your

friends and family to do the same; there’s something for everyone.

Even after the Virtual Bridge Crossing is over and the sweet sounds of gospel have closed out the Jubilee on March 7th, the 56th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, we invite you to stay close and stay connected. You see, we’re not simply moving from Jubilee to Jubilee. We’re already planning educational, entertaining, informative, and empowering events that will take place throughout the year.

It’s a new direction for us; we’re excited to keep the dialogue flowing and the community growing -- and we hope to be able to gather in person for the 57th anniversary event in 2022.

Head over to selmajubilee. com and sign up for our digital newsletter to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

We hope this Jubilee weekend leaves you inspired, encouraged, and confident in the power of your own voice and your ability to make a difference. If you’re already a part of the work, we salute you. If you aren’t yet a part of the work, we encourage you to find a way to get involved. Together, we are unstoppable.

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MARCH 1-4, 2021: KINGIAN NONVIOLENCE CONFLICT RECONCILIATION VIRTUAL TRAINING* *Presented by the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation (visit www.selmacntr.org for more information)

FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021: 10 am – 12 pm: Children’s Sojourn ATTENTION:

6:30 – 7 pm: Mass Meeting

ALL EVENTS ARE

7 – 9 p.m. : Freedom Flame Awards

VIRTUAL

SATURDAY MARCH 6, 2021:

THERE WILL BE NO

9:45 – 10:05 am: 15-Minute Countdown + Welcome

IN-PERSON EVENTS

10:05 – 11:50 am: Foot Soldier’s Breakfast

PLANNED OR

11:50 am – 1 pm: Step Show/Battle of the Bands

PRODUCED BY THE

1:00 – 1:30 pm: Black Music Experience

BRIDGE CROSSING

3:00 – 4:00 pm: Legacy Panel

JUBILEE IN 2021 TO

4:30 - 6:00 pm NAACP Legal Defense Fund Panel

FIGHT AGAINST THE

7:00 – 9:00 pm: Virtual Music Festival

SPREAD OF COVID-19.

Breakout room events: 11:45 am – 3:00 pm: Symposium for Social Change 11:30 am – 5:00 pm: Film Festival All Day:

Storytelling and Jim Gavenus Photography Display

SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021: 7:30- 9:30 AM: Unity Breakfast** **Not coordinated by the Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee. This event Is a paid fundraiser for the Selma-to-Montgomery March Foundation.

10 am - 12:30 pm: Brown Chapel Service 1:00 – 2:00 pm: Pre-March Rally + Speeches 2:00 – 2:30 pm: Virtual Bridge Crossing 3:00 – 5:00 pm: Gospel Concert 5:00 pm: Closing

OFFICIAL 2021 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

NOTE: SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

WWW.SELMAJUBILEE.COM

• Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

13

Multiplex, Inc., Part of New Innovation at Dallas Love Field

Good news about a business thriving is something to cheer about during a time when so many have suffered or even closed down.

Harrison Blair of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce (DBCC), has been focused on supporting Black businesses and encouraging members through turbulent times, which he says for some is constantly because of underfunding, redlining and other unfair practices.

So he immediately perked up after hearing about a joint venture between Multiplex, Inc. and Dallas Love Field Airport, because he believes that collaborations are helping keep many businesses afloat.

It was also a plus as the venture involved someone who has a long, impressive history, some as a leader of the DBBC, of helping businesses.

Businesswoman and former state legislator Helen Giddings agrees and on Tuesday, she along with Dallas Love Field Airport Executives announced a new venture at Dallas Love Field Airport and Hudson Just Walk Out; providing a contactless shopping experience that meets the customer needs.

As the first airport in the country to offer this new concept, the Dallas Love Field/ Just Walk Out, provides customers with a non-friction experience that is “quick and secure.

“This is very exciting,” she said, adding that the venture is another first for Multiplex, Inc. and Dallas Love Field.

“Customers can shop and not have contact with an associate.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted travel, and at airports usually the focus is on the airlines and their employees; there’s another area that has also been hit hard, and that is airport concessions.

Stores and restaurants that oftentimes have a captive audience; especially during travel mishaps, like inclement weather and delayed, canceled or overbooked flights, saw their businesses plummet.

Giddings knows the concession business.

Long before there was a Starbucks, in 1989, Multiplex, Inc., opened the first Brewed Gourmet Coffee at any airport in the Southwest.

Dallas Love Field is a city-owned public airport six miles northwest of downtown Dallas and it was Dallas’ main airport until 1974 when Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport opened. Recent renovations, upgrades and more frequent flights; as well as easy access and parking has caused it to grow considerably, pre COVID-19.

Although the TSA reported a boost in air traffic overall around the end of 2020; the numbers are still significantly lower, by more than 500 million passengers, from previous years.

According to UNITE HERE, which represents 45,000 employees in the airport concessions and airline catering industries at over 75 airports in the U.S. and Canada, navigating during the pandemic has been challenging. ”The pandemic has been tough and particularly on airport concessions. This is an indicator of the kind of innovation and creativity needed in the future if we are to be successful,” Giddings said.

In 1989, Giddings founded Multiplex, Inc. and began operating food and beverage concessions at Love Field Airport in Dallas, Texas. Multiplex, Inc. was the first to sell gourmet coffee and frozen yogurt at an airport in the southwest. Other delicious and appealing food and beverage concessions were also offered including highly sought-after brands of dried fruits, nuts, trail mixes, and chocolates.

Multiplex, Inc. is a certified minority and woman-owned business enterprise (MBE, ACDBE, and WBE) through the North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency.

Multiplex, Inc. operates at both Dallas Love Field Airport and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and continues the tradition of offering premium brands of specialty concessions along with excellent customer service. Not only does Multiplex, Inc. provide food and beverage concessions, but its concessions portfolio also includes stores that sell books, magazines, and newspapers; jewelry; eyeglasses; cosmetics; baggage; technology; coffee; clothing; and other specialty retail. From A to Z, Multiplex, Inc. offers the specialty concessions that customers desire.

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DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-9

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• Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

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Forced into a reality not of my choice.

Often finding myself screaming although I don’t hear my voice.

Comforted by friends and family who can.

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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.

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My Truth from page 1

turned out to be, but I made it. I also listened to those with more knowledge.

News flash: You don’t know everything and while everyone you talk to doesn’t either, less talk and more listening can be beautiful, enlightening and empowering.

Arm yourself with knowledge and don’t take the position that people owe you something because you are here.

I think the Staple Singers made that

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• Vol-9

• Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

15

line famous!

Class of 2021, I know it is tough. I wish you the best and it is my hope that everything you have had to deal with surrounding COVID-19 will be the biggest disappointment or pain you experience in your entire lives.

Use that education you received. Do your own research. Check your sources.

And just as it has been said, especially during times like these, tough times don’t last forever.

In the meantime, let your “walk” be with grace, honesty, love, justice, compassion, wisdom, faith and integrity.

T:5”

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T:5”

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Txlottery.org is the official source for all pertinent game information. Game closing procedures may be initiated for documented business reasons. These games may have prizes unclaimed, including top prizes. In addition, game closing procedures will be initiated when all top prizes have been claimed. During closing, games may be sold even after all top prizes have been claimed. Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket. For help with a gambling problem, ncpgambling.org. © 2021 Texas Lottery Commission. PLAY RESPONSIBLY.

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DELIVERING NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Vol-9

• Mar. 4 - 10, 2021

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