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VOL XVI ISSUE 11

Dallas County gets new district attorney

Johnson touts integrity and transparency

By Cheryl Smith GARLAND JOURNAL

Praising her predecessors and calling on citizens to join her as partners in justice and help her “to be the best I can be for you,�

Dallas County’s newest district attorney Faith Johnson had a strong message for citizens, law enforcement, and criminals.

"I am a woman of integrity and I want to remain a woman of integrity,� said DA Johnson."I am going to be transparent to the citizens of Dallas County."

Speaking before a standing-room only, wall-to-wall audience in the filled-to-capacity Central Jury Room at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, the former prosecutor and judge, while acknowledging the “deep division� in Dallas County, said she would do everything “in my power� to promote healing.� “I am there for you,� she continued, touting “even-handed� justice. “Our administration will be fair. We will protect and prosecute vigorously. Our administration

NBCDFW

Justice Carolyn Wright administers oath to Faith Johnson as Attys. Cynthia and Scottie Allen look on.

will be community-wide and expand our office outreach.�

It was a diverse gathering of elected officials, supporters, staff, citizens and invited guests for history in the making as former Judge Johnson was sworn in by her mentor, Chief Justice Carolyn Wright of the Fifth Court of Appeals.Appointed by Texas Gov.

Greg Abbott, to fill the unexpired term of Susan Hawk, who resigned due to medical reasons last year, DA Johnson was praised by her pastor, Bishop T.D. Jakes; Dallas County Republican Party Chair Phillip Huffines; Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings; and numerous others, including congratulatory letters from Gov. Abbott and former

TX Governor Rick Perry.

With the appointment, Johnson has the distinction of being the first African American female to hold the post, and only the second African American, after two-termer Craig Watkins who was defeated in a very contentious race that crossed over party lines, and caused division within the Democratic Party.

Mayor Rawlings said it was a new day, a “day that will be the beginning of a new year and a new partnership.� “We want to keep the citizens safe and growing in a spirit of social justice,� he added as he praised DA Johnson’s experience and leadership.

In addition to the swearing in of DA Johnson and two other elected officials, the oath of office was administered to her deputy district attorneys and investigators; and she introduced her 1st Assistant, former Judge Mike Snipes. A West Point graduate, Judge Snipes attended law school at UT. Boasting a distinguished career, he served in the U.S. Army and also as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s office.

From hell to hair to millionaire author shares story Dallas entrepreneur and philanthropist Kea Garrett celebrates the release of her inspiring autobiography From Hell to Hair to Millionaire: The Divine Journeys of Kea Garrett with a book signing Sunday, January 22nd at Lofty Spaces located at 816 Montgomery Street, Dallas, TX 75215.

From Hell to Hair to Millionaire chronicles the divine journey of Garrett from less than humble beginnings in South Dallas to becoming a “God made� millionaire! Always quick to credit the growth and abundance in her life to God, Garrett’s early life was riddled with the struggles, addictions and dire consequences of being young, black and left to her own devices from an early age.

Stability was an intangible luxury for

my son, but didn’t have anythe young girl who found where to live; so, my mom herself moving from vartook him and took care of ious sectors and schools him. I was young, in the around the city which streets and it was like nothtook its toll on her socialing really mattered.� ly and academically.

At 19 with two children By 17, Garrett was by this time, things culmiselling illegal drugs, nated to what would become stealing to survive, ina defining – or divining- movolved in an abusive rement for Garrett. After getlationship, pregnant and ting arrested on a robbery living from pillar to post. charge for which she re“Those were difficult years for me,� recounts ceived a probated sentence, Garrett failed to report to her Garrett. “I had moved Kea Garrett probation officer. in with my father and his girlfriend, and that arrangeThis act of defiance ment didn’t work out. He put me out. I had landed her on the DFW Most Wanted List

and ultimately in the Gatesville Texas Hilltop Unit where she was sentenced to spend the next three years of her life and where she would also suffer the miscarriage of her third pregnancy.

Incarceration seals the fate of thousands young African American men and women every year, but that was not to be the case with Garrett. For if by fire one is tried and through trials endurance is built, Garrett braved a towering inferno and like the Phoenix, rose from its ashes braver, stronger and determined to never return to a life behind bars.

During her time in prison, Garrett acquired her GED and certification as a

See HELL TO HAIR, page 7

Area Alpha Kappa Alpha members celebrate founding purchased online through, Tennessee State Univerhttp://tinyurl.com/2017dsity President Dr. Glenda fwfoundersday or through Baskin Glover will focus hosting chapters. on the theme, “Reflections The guest speaker for this in Time As We Launch New public event, Dr. Glover, is Dimensions of Service,� the International Vice Presiof the 109-year-old Alpha dent of Alpha Kappa Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority InSorority, and a member of its corporatedŽ, 2017 FoundBoard of Directors. ers’ Day Celebration.

Dr. Glover is serving as To honor its founding the eighth President of the members, Dallas/Fort Nashville, TN HBCU. She Worth Metroplex ChapDr. Glenda Baskin Glover is a certified public accounters, Beta Mu Omega, Fort Worth; XI Theta Omega, Arlington; Tau tant, an attorney, and is one of two African Rho Omega, Carrollton; and Chi Zeta American women to hold the Ph.D.-CPAOmega, Plano will host a Gospel Brunch JD combination in the nation.

Sunday on January 15, 2017, 11:30 a.m.

Dr. Glover has an extensive history of at the Crowne Plaza North Dallas Addi- serving on corporate boards of publicly son, 14315 Midway Road Addison, Tex- traded companies including the Citibank as 75001. Tickets are $65.00 and may be of Student Loan Corporation, Pinnacle Fi-

Garland Leadership Appointed to National Committees

SAT Testing at GHS January 21, 2017

Garland Mayor Douglas Athas and District 4 Council Member B.J. Williams have been appointed to federal advocacy committees for the National League of Cities (NLC). As members of these committees, Mayor Athas and Council Member Williams will play key roles in shaping NLC's policy positions and advocate on behalf of America's cities and towns before Congress, with the new administration and at home.

SAT Testing at GHS January 21, 2017 for Middle and High School Students January 21st, 2017 / SAT Testing at Garland High School On Saturday, January 21st, 2017, The SAT will be administered at Garland High School to middle and high school students who are registered through College Board. Students should report to GHS no later than 7:45 a.m. and enter the building through our court yard gate, which is located on the east side (back) of the building. All students must have their Admission Ticket and an acceptable photo ID or a completed Talent Search Identification form (7th-8th graders only) to enter the testing rooms.

nancial Partners and First Guaranty Bank of Louisiana. She is the author of more than 100 articles and papers, and regarded as one of the nation’s experts on corporate governance.

Vice President Glover is a longstanding member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedÂŽ.

Key positions previously held in Alpha Kappa Alpha include International Treasurer, the Legacy Endowment Fund and Corporate Support Committees. Dr. Glover is on-track to become the International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha in 2018. She is a member of several professional, civic and non-profit organizations, and recipient of numerous awards and honors, including being named to Diverse Issues in Higher Education’s prestigious list as one of the “Top 25 Women in Higher Education.�

Dr. Glover is married to Charles Glov-

er. They have two adult children, Attorney Candace Glover and Dr. Charles Glover II. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedŽ is America’s first Greek-letter organization founded by African American college women at Howard University in 1908.

The sorority cultivates and encourages high scholastic and ethical standards; promotes unity and friendship among college women; alleviates problems concerning girls and women; maintains a progressive interest in college life and serves mankind through a nucleus of more than 200,000 women in the United States, Caribbean, Europe and Africa.

During the Founders’ Day Luncheon members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedŽ will celebrate and reflect on their 109 year history, their Founders, and honor 30 members who have achieved their 25, 50 and 75 years of service.

28th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade/March 2017 Time: 10:00 A.M. (Parade line-up begins at 8:45am Route: Parade starts on Dairy Road @ Garden Drive (near Embree Park) North on Dairy Road to Highway 66 (Avenue D); West (left) on Highway 66 (Avenue D) to First Street; North (right) on First Street to Highway 66 (Avenue B); West (left) on Highway 66 (Avenue B) to Fifth Street; North (right) on Fifth Street to Austin Street (parade ends 330 North 5th Street) **Celebration continues @ the Granville Arts Center Main Auditorium** To enter the parade and march, a sign MUST be on vehicle or carried with each entry. The parade line up begins at Austin Academy, 1125 Beverly Dr., Garland, 75040. Mail all parade entries to: Attention Gwen Daniels, MLK Events Coordinator, NAACP Garland Unit, PO Box 460944, Garland, TX 75046.

For application log on to http://garlandtxnaacp.org/

GARLAND JOURNAL

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JANUARY 4, 2017

A Legacy of

Service

Iota Phi Lambda- Psi Chapter

Their green jackets often provide comfort in the most hectic situations. The soothing presence of these women in green and white is enough to ensure the success of almost any program. In addition to always being impeccable, professional and tasteful, the well-dressed members are in various communities acting as hostesses, overseeing registration or providing support to other organizations.

And when they aren’t helping others meet their goals and objectives; Iota women have their own lofty ideals that Psi Chapter has a very active youth program that is designed to develop leadership skills in youth and foster an appreciation for community involvement.

they fulfill through various programs that not only serve others but foster a spirit of sisterhood among their members.

Recognized for exemplary service, the Psi Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority received the Connie Davis Rosenborough Volunteer of the Year at the 90th Anniversary Gala of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce last Fall.

For local residents of Dallas, and many across the region and around the country, the award was well-deserved and not a surprise. The work of the Psi Chapter

Future Iota Leaders (FIL) - A program for youth ages 9-20 that encourages them to realize their fullest potential while providing socialization and leadership skills.

Toys U Can’t Return - A teen pregnancy prevention project designed to educate youth about teen pregnancy and prevention.

Career Exploration - Programs are designed to help broaden youths’ awareness of and to assist in preparing them for the “world of work.”

Tutorial Program - Members assist the educational system by providing remedial help for those with academic weaknesses, and work to eradicate illiteracy.

Over the years Psi Chapter has participated in numerous civic activities including: • Adopt-A-Highway • African American Museum • Coalition of Churches in Prison Ministry • Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce • NAACP • National Council of Negro Women • North Texas Food Bank • Parkland Hospital • Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure • Terrell State Hospital • Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon • Healthy Living Expo

is well documented by the efforts of its close-knit members and the communities they serve. The chapter is well-respected and members have received numerous honors.

A national business and professional women’s organization, Iota Phi Lambda was founded in Chicago, IL in 1929 and the Psi Chapter was chartered in July 1936.

Under the leadership of Daphne Hornbuckle, the Iota Chapter celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2016 and continues to Psi Chapter annually awards the Mackey-Tillman scholarship to a high school senior who plans to enter college and major in a business discipline. The scholarship recipient is supported financially for up to five years.

In addition, Psi annually awards its Mothers Pursuing Dreams scholarship to a single mother, ages 18-30 pursuing the dream of a college education for up to six semesters.

Check the website for additional scholarships and information.

GARLAND JOURNAL

fulfill an ambitious agenda that includes some very thought-provoking and informative community forums, and service programs that include their auxiliary groups.

Today there are more than 50 chapters and 900 members across the country and in the U.S. Virgin Islands. There are the Men of Iota and the auxiliary group, Pelatis; which “help to enhance the overall program of Iota.”

-CLS

To become a member of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, a candidate must: Be a graduate of accredited business college or university, or; Be a graduate of a 4 year college who successfully owns/operates a business, or; Meet the requirements of 48 credit hours in business related coursework; Meet financial obligations; and other criteria.

The membership intake activities usually begin in September.

The membership application is obtained from the Dean of Intake.

JANUARY 4, 2017

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JOHNSON: Hope for the Mentally Ill and Families FROM THE HILL

by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

The sight in many urban communities, Dallas for me, is painfully common – a person talking to him or herself on a street corner, perhaps looking unkempt.

Ordinary people drive and walk by, thinking nothing of the situation, calling the individual “crazy” or “nuts” under their breath.

What the passersby don’t know is that this individual is possibly struggling with severe mental illness. The individual deserves compassion and treatment, not harsh judgment.

As the former Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the VA Hospital in Dallas, Texas, I have witnessed the unin-

tended consequences of the deinstitutionalization process.

Many of my own patients diagnosed with severe mental illnesses were discharged with 30 days of prescription drugs and did not have stable housing.

Once they ran out of their prescriptions, their conditions worsened, they suffered psychotic breaks, and many became homeless or incarcerated.

Individuals with untreated psychiatric illness now make up one-third of the nation’s estimated homeless population that totals 600,000.

In Texas, there are 35,000 incarcerated individuals with a severe mental illness, but only 4,500 psychiatric beds are available in all Texas hospitals combined.

Because of my firsthand experience I know these numbers are more than statistics. I have worked for years in Congress to increase the number of beds available to treat individuals with serious mental illness by reforming Medicaid.

In response to the mass shooting at Sandy Hook

Elementary School in December 2012, Rep. Tim Murphy (R-PA) approached me to work on a bill for mental health reform.

We joined together, a former psychologist and a non-practicing registered psychiatric nurse, committed to contribute our firsthand expertise on this issue.

Our goal was to positively impact patients with severe mental illness.

We sought to increase patient access to treatment, fund grant programs that were working and take a close look at programs that were not working, elevate mental health to a higher status within the federal government and promote inter-agency coordination, allow family members and caregivers to gain vital health and safety information, and increase the number of psychiatric beds available for treatment.

After years of working on the mental health issue the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act in July

METRO BRIEFS

Here’s wishing you the best in 2017 from the Garland Journal Family

Make Life-Sized Egyptian Sarcophagi at Art Explorers Kids ages 6 to 12 can create their own life-sized sarcophagi at Art Explorers, a monthly program offered by the Nicholson Memorial Library System.

The event takes place at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Walnut Creek Branch Library, 3319 Edgewood Drive. Kids will learn about ancient Egyptian art, then use craft paper and markers to trace and decorate outlines of their own bodies. Learn more and register by calling 972-205-2585.

Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant Workshop Garland neighborhood groups have until Monday, Jan. 23, to submit a Letter of Intent for a Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant (NVMG). Neighborhood groups are invited to learn more about the grant process by attending an NVMG Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Main Street Municipal Building, 800 Main St. Click here to register.

Learn more about the NVMG program at GarlandNeighborhoods.org.

Adult Origami Workshops

of 2016.

Later the Senate included portions of the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act into the bipartisan and bicameral 21st Century Cures Act, which was signed into law by President Barack Obama on December 7, 2016.

As a cosponsor of the original 21st Century Cures Act, I believe this bill has the opportunity to provide hope and healing to individuals and family members of those with a mental illness or battling an opioid addiction.

And I am proud of the investment that will be made in cancer research, innovation and treatments.

With the 21st Century Cures Act, I am hopeful that the individual on the street corner labeled as “crazy” will not only be able to receive the treatment he deserves, but also empathy and kindness from a stranger.

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LEGAL NOTICE These Texas Lottery Commission scratch ticket games will be closing soon: 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Granville Arts Center. Both events are free of charge. See details at GarlandTXNAACP.org.

Game Name / Odds

$

Official Close of Game

End Validations Date

1797

Cashword Multiplier Overall Odds are 1 in 3.65

$10

1/15/17

7/14/17

1758

$27 Million Payout Overall Odds are 1 in 4.02

$5

1/20/17

7/19/17

1757

$7 Million Payout Overall Odds are 1 in 4.54

$1

2/22/17

8/21/17

1735

Hit $50,000 Overall Odds are 1 in 4.69

$2

2/22/17

8/21/17

1597

Lucky Numbers Overall Odds are 1 in 4.00

$5

2/22/17

8/21/17

1784

Bonus Break The Bank Overall Odds are 1 in 4.29

$5

2/22/17

8/21/17

1803

Hit $200,000 Overall Odds are 1 in 4.13

$5

2/22/17

8/21/17

$200,000,000 Cash Blowout $10 Overall Odds are 1 in 2.82

2/22/17

8/21/17

Garland Police Department accepting Applications The Garland Police Department is accepting online applications for police officer recruits through Friday, Feb. 17. Click here to see minimum requirements, compensation information and to apply for the position.

A Lateral Transfer Program is available to applicants with qualifying current or prior experience as a police officer. Call Officer Jones at 972-487-7358 with any questions, or email GPDRecruiting@GarlandTX.gov.

Adults age 18 and older can learn origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, at the Nicholson Memorial Library System's Origami Workshops.

The next workshop will begin at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at the South Garland Branch Library, 4845 Broadway Blvd.

Participants will create their own origami hearts, stars and penguins. Register by calling 972-205-3931. Be on the lookout for a complete schedule of Origami Workshops at Library.

GarlandTX.gov.

1644

T:10”

Game #

28th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade The NAACP-Garland Unit will host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade at 10 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 14. The parade will begin on Dairy Road at Garden Drive (near Embree Park). The weekend celebration will continue as youth groups from area churches and the Garland ISD showcase their talents in praise dance, drill team and step routines at

The odds listed here are the overall odds of winning any prize in a game, including break-even prizes. Lottery retailers are authorized to redeem prizes of up to and including $599. Prizes of $600 or more must be claimed in person at a lottery claim center or by mail, with a completed Texas Lottery® claim form; however, annuity prizes or prizes over $2,500,000 must be claimed in person at the Commission Headquarters in Austin. Call Customer Service at 800-375-6886 or visit the lottery website at txlottery.org for more information and location of nearest claim center. The Texas Lottery is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets, or for tickets lost in the mail. Tickets, transactions, players and winners are subject to, and players and winners agree to abide by, all applicable laws, Commission rules, regulations, policies, directives, instructions, conditions, procedures and final decisions of the Executive Director. A scratch ticket game may continue to be sold even when all the top prizes have been claimed. Must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a Texas Lottery ticket. The Texas Lottery supports Texas education and veterans. PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For help with a gambling problem, ncpgambling.org. © 2017 Texas Lottery Commission. All rights reserved.

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JANUARY 4, 2017

HALL: Mine Eyes-MLK in 2017 Quit Playin’

by Vincent L. Hall Vincent L. Hall is an author and award winning columnist.

Five years ago, USA Today posed a question that fascinated me. The headline read; “If the Reverend Dr. Martin King were alive today, what speech would he give?�

Here’s me channeling MLK. To these Yet to Be United States, This letter finds me confined to the sanitized canons of history because you have edited or whitewashed my words and deeds. I am deeply saddened to read the “Cliff notes� version of the greatest movement in this nation’s scarred history. Somehow the unauthorized authors of history have reduced my life of service and sacrifice to a few well-timed and artfully delivered oratories.

When I unlatched my fingers from the podium after the “I Have a Dream speech�, I was elated, but it was far from my finest hour. Accolades and applause were never my calling or my charge.

I tried my best to make the case to America for why the Negro could never

be content swimming in its cesspool of second class citizenship. My intent and attempts were to prove beyond a preponderance of the evidence that White children can’t be free until all children, regardless of race; region or religion shares those same freedoms.

America will never be “Great� as long as racism, sexism and nationalism prevail.

Unquestionably the first step in this process was to grant the Negro and all Americans unfettered access to the electoral process.

I am saddened today because less than 50% of you vote and Republicans have proven a vociferous opponent to our right to vote.

The GOP’s alter-ego, aka the “Alt-Right� has enhanced these injustices by poisoning the wells of democracy with hate and the hubris of their believed “superiority.�

The party of Abraham Lincoln, who took pride in their efforts to make free-

men of slaves, has turned a blind eye toward justice. The Republican Party, which is dying in number and nobility literally and figuratively, is relentless in the pursuit of obstruction at the polls.

The GOP has shamelessly sought to abridge the rights of oppressed and underprivileged voters by enforcing unnecessary voter ID bills.

They hurt the poor, the elderly, students, minorities and any unmentioned category included in the litany of “the least of these.�

The last march I planned to lead was on behalf of workers being disrespected by their employers. Now I see that you have voted to “Trump� those strategies with a cabinet full of billionaires and war hawks that don’t reflect any ideals of my interpretation of the “Beloved community.�

It is a detestable fact that the wealthiest 1% of Americans enjoys 90% of the

wealth at the detriment and derision of the 99%. However, much of the blame for this evil imbalance must be laid at the feet of Democrats, labor leaders and laborers who have become complacent, if not complicit.

Where are the spiritual descendants of biblical freedom fighters like Nehemiah, Esther and Mordecai?

If you can’t find a cause worth dying for in this world’s present predicament, you are not fit to live in it.

The state of our public education is segregated and ill-suited to produce a strong multicultural nation. Far too many pulpits in America are more centered on profits than prophecy. The number of men and women in prisons is being reduced, but the plans for their re-entry are not yet resolved.

Police are killing Negroes like there’s an incentive program or some copious compensation plan. Lies and libelous language have replaced respect and responsible rhetoric. And yet there is no codified movement afoot that threatens evil... No edict that challenges the soul of the nation or its peoples. No fight against poverty, no fight for peace.  Not at home and not abroad.  There are some difficult days ahead, but the arch of justice bends toward karma for the oppressor and comfort for the oppressed. In either case, be ready. God is still in control!

DAVIS: Butt injections a diversion My Day

By Dr. J. Ester Davis I often say in my speaking engagements that the news is a major diversion to the public.

It is designed to move your attention to something else. . . away from the elephant-inthe-room, the situations-at-home.

Our motto to our audiences is ‘battles that matter’.

Butt injections are a battle that matter. Butt injections are a real profitable, in demand popular procedure in our society today. The cost ranges from $500 to $9,499. And believe it or not, African American women are direct contributors.

This article gained momentum over several weeks as I attended a round of events, parties and dinners in and out of the city. In addition, I attend my grandson’s high school football games; one in Katy, Texas and the other in Arlington.

As an astute seasoned student of the� high fashion� world, I noticed some “irregularies� watching the fashions shows at these gatherings.

I am familiar with couture, ready-to-wear, and casual chic in both men and women. At one

Christmas list of many women.

The Brazilian Buttock Lift started this rage supposedly to install confidence in women. “If you feel your bottom is not full and shapely, you can do something about it,� advertised one surgeon. It graduated to the ‘famous

event, I sat with a dear friend. “Jimmieâ€? and I caught up on world events and then I mentioned the extended ‘bodies’ on the rear of some younger women. She was quite amused at my naĂŻve-ness about today’s fashions, spandex and silicone. Butt injections or some form of plastic surgery are on the

tummy tuck�, exclusively for $9,499.

The demands grew to the facelift, Botox, the mini-facelift. These procedures were using your own fat cells, in a doctor’s office with health and safety as the primary premise.

Then we entered into the world of implants with everything. Breasts implants, eyelid im-

plants, chin and cheeks implants.

Oh, I forgot the nose jobs.

So, where are we now? Glad you asked. This crazy phenomenon has moved onto the black market, a very dark place of shady services starting at $500-to-$800 in a hotel room called “pumping parties.�

Kimberly Smedley, African American, known as the “Queen of the Butt Injections� has written a book entitled “The Backside of the Story.�

She cites a very sad, regrettable statement as to why she wrote the book. In the story is this statement. . . in a club of 100 women “you want an edge?

This battle matters because the percentage of black women is now rising using the illegal methods. The illegal solutions are mixed with ingredients (super glue in some reports) that are harmful and causing serious medical conditions, death in many cases.

In the new year, set and master your goals with all natural ole fashioned deliberate determination. You can do it and you are worth it.

Recognize and delete the artificial adjectives.

Get high on education, while redesigning your talents to meet these new challenges.

Happy New Year.

Ester Davis is a celebrated writer, speaker, television and internet host. She can be reached@www.esterday.com

JACKSON: As President Obama departs, We Owe Him Our Thanks The final days of the Obama presidency are upon us. His popularity is rising with the economy, and with the increasingly stark contrasts to his successor. It is worth being clear about

SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER by REV. JESSE JACKSON, SR

the legacy that he leaves behind.

Obama came to office facing the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. The global financial system teetered on collapse; the auto industry faced bankruptcy; the economy was shedding 400,000 jobs a day. He also inherited the catastrophe George Bush had created with the debacle in Iraq and government misrule dramatized by the shame of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, La. Now, eight years later, the economy nears full employment, with more than 15 million jobs created and private sector job growth at a record 81 consecutive months and counting.

Wages are beginning to rise, after long years of stagnation or worse. The auto industry has enjoyed some of its most prosperous years.

This isn’t an accident. Obama helped rescue the economy by passing the largest stimulus in history, the most ambitious financial reform since the 1930s, and daring and direct intervention to save the auto industry. Economic growth helped lower the annual budget deficit to less than half the level he inherited.

Garland

Journal

Established 2002 An I Messenger News Group Publication

Obama also passed the largest health care cy of embargo that had failed for five decades. reforms in six decades, providing health inHis most historic contribution was to unsurance for 20 million Americans. His reforms derstand the clear and present danger of catsaved those with pre-existing conditions, pro- astrophic climate change. The agreement with vided the young with protection under their China and subsequent Paris Accord cementparents’ programs and, although most Amer- ed a global consensus on the need for boldicans don’t realize it, slowed the rise of health er action on global warming. On his watch, care costs dramatically.

America began to reduce Running for re-elecits reliance on coal and its tion in 2012, Obama recgreenhouse gas emissions. ognized that income inObama won a majoriequality had become “the ty of the votes in both his defining issue of our time.� election and re-election, With his progressive tax something neither his reforms both in his health predecessor nor successor care plan and in the parachieved. He governed tial repeal of the top-end with grace and dignity, Bush tax cuts, and with despite grotesque and expanded tax credits for too often racist provocalow-income workers and tions. His family provided families with children, a model for all Americans, Obama made a significant with Michelle winning beginning in addressing hearts across the country. that inequality.

He and his administration Abroad, Obama strugwere remarkably free of gled against great opposcandal. His administration America’s First Family sition to reduce America’s demonstrated once more

exposure in the wars with-Courtesy: White House Photo that competence could be

out end in the Middle East. valued in Washington.

His nuclear agreement with He did all of this while Iran, not only dismantled its nuclear weapons facing unprecedented, unrelenting partisan capable facilities, it also provided the most obstruction, with the Republican leader of comprehensive and aggressive verification the Senate opposing him at every turn, intent mechanisms in the history of arms control. on making him a one-term president. In part In opening relations with Cuba, he helped because of that opposition, much remained reduce America’s isolation in our own hemi- undone. The stimulus would have been larger sphere and made the historic turn from a poli- and the recovery stronger except for Repub-

Cheryl Smith

Publisher publisher@garlandjournal.com

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lican opposition. The national minimum wage would have been raised. A national infrastructure project to rebuild America would have been launched. Progress on making America the leader of the green revolution, the next global industrial revolution, would have been greater. Guantanamo, the shameful prison in Cuba, would have been closed. The Voting Rights Act would have been revived, and much more.

For most Americans, the recovery was slow; for many it was invisible. Donald Trump won election promising working people a better deal. He appealed to our weariness with war, suggesting a less interventionist policy. He played upon divisions, rousing fears about immigrants and Muslims. He pledged to “Make America Great Again,� in part by undoing everything Obama.

So it is worth marking what Trump will inherit, as we head into what is already a rocky and tempestuous presidency. Unemployment under 5 percent. Eighty-one months of jobs growth and counting. Average wages rising at 2.4 percent over the last year. Growth at 3.5 percent over the last full quarter. Inflation at 2 percent. 20 million more Americans with health insurance. America, one of the global leaders in the green industrial revolution.

A president respected at home and abroad, known for his thoughtfulness and his great eloquence. Let us hope that Trump can build on that legacy, and not lead us into a far deeper hole.

Keep up with Rev. Jackson and the work of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition at www.rainbowpush.org.

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JANUARY 4, 2017

Rep. Keith Ellison throws Min. Louis Farrakhan under bus for DNC

By Richard B. Muhammad (The Final Call/NNPA Member)

Minnesota congressman Keith Ellison is seeking to lead the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as the party seeks someone to bring Democrats Rep. Keith Ellison into the political Promised Land. There is nothing wrong with Rep. Ellison’s desire to move his party forward or his desire to help make America progress.

But he must be condemned and lambasted for trying to make his political bones by smearing the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. The Minnesota congressman has been attacked for a connection with the Nation of Islam years ago, while in college and for support of the Million Man March.

The Anti-Defamation League and others have branded Rep. Ellison as unfit for office; they said he is tainted by the anti-Semitism of Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam. Given that neither the Minister nor the Nation are anti-Semitic, a man with principles and courage would have stood up on the truth, the track record and the history of the Minister and his followers.

Over the past 40 years, the Nation and the Minister have not harmed nor prohibited any Jewish person from exercising their rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It was not Muslims who chanted in the 1980s, “Who do you want? Farrakhan! How do you want him? Dead!” as the Jewish Defense Organization did.

It was not the Nation of Islam nor the Minister who were involved in a 1990s alleged death plot featuring Jewish federal stooge Michael Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick seized on the pain and vulnerability of Quibilah Shabazz, a daughter of Malcolm X, and federal authorities charged her with planning the murder of the Minister. It was the Minister whose blast of truth shook the feds as he declared the FBI has never been his friend.

The Minister declared he wanted nothing to happen to Malcolm X widow Dr. Betty Shabazz, or her daughters and pulled the covers off of an old enemy, while seeking

reconciliation. His stand was so incredible the feds essentially dropped the charges against Qubilah Shabazz and a rapprochement between the Nation and Dr. Shabazz started. She was featured as one of the speakers of the 1995 Million Man March. The prosecutors in this fiasco, by the way, were located in Rep. Ellison’s home state of Minnesota.

Mr. Ellison, who was captured in at least one photo distributing The Final Call while

community who have been lead to believe that Minister Farrakhan is anti-Jewish. I believe they should do two things: engage in a dialogue with Black people who support Minister Farrakhan (which includes Cornel West, Jesse Jackson, Ben Chavis, Dorothy Height and many others) and urge their leadership to engage in the dialogue proposed at the Million Man March.

“The White community, however, must come to the realization that there are too

The Minister’s forgiveness and willingness to suffer insults apparently has led some to think that there is no end to his patience and smearing him is acceptable— just come back and apologize in the dark later. No. This man’s life’s work, his status as a vibrant elder and indispensable leader in our community cannot and must not allow that. in college, condemned the Minister as he sought his new place. But his cowardly and baseless repudiation is nothing new. While running for Congress a decade ago, his “I’m not with Farrakhan and he’s a hater” narrative started.

But let’s go back and examine words published in the Nov. 6, 1995 edition of Insight News, a Black weekly in Minneapolis: “Third, Minister Farrakhan is a role model for Black youth; however he is not an anti-Semite. He is a sincere, tireless and uncompromising advocate of the Black community and other oppressed peoples in America and around the world. Despite some of the most relentless negative propaganda anyone has ever faced, most Black people regard him as a role model for youth and increasingly, a central voice for our collective aspirations.

“I am sensitive to members of the Jewish

many Black people who have been cleanedup, taught and uplifted by Minister Farrakhan for us to let anyone gratuitously insult him anymore.”

That’s pretty powerful language and a powerful argument penned by one Keith X Ellison. Yes. That’s the same Rep. Keith Ellison who represents the Fifth Congressional District in Minnesota and seeks to chair the DNC. He was also once known as Keith Ellison-Muhammad.

If Mr. Ellison once believed those things about the Minister and changed his mind, that’s his business. We will leave Allah (God) to judge and handle the hypocrites. But what cannot be tolerated are the lies, the slander and false narrative against Min. Farrakhan. These lies cannot be proven, nor can these false charges be sustained. The Minister has been a strong voice for Black

self-determination, a warrior against Jewish paternalism and control of Black people and a sledgehammer against the wall of White supremacy and neo-colonialism. None of that work would make him the favorite of a system or wicked people whose demonic rule he is working to destroy.

But Mr. Ellison knows better. Years ago. sitting in my Chicago office here at “The Final Call,” when I was managing editor, there was no question about Min. Farrakhan and who he was. There was no question when Mr. Ellison, aka Keith X Ellison, aka Keith Ellison-Muhammad, came to Chicago for an urban peace summit in October 1993 that featured Min. Farrakhan, or a vital summit in Kansas City that included Min. Farrakhan as the major speaker and one who helped legitimize the anti-violence movement in April 1993.

The problem comes from a simple place: “All of you that want national and state prominence: Sometimes I am the ‘litmus test’ to see if White folk can do anything good for you. And some of you are so weak and so cowardly, that your desires mean more than the integrity of your being. But every time I forgave my brothers, and kept moving forward,” observed Min. Farrakhan in a message delivered Oct. 30.

The Minister’s forgiveness and willingness to suffer insults apparently has led some to think that there is no end to his patience and smearing him is acceptable— just come back and apologize in the dark later. No. This man’s life’s work, his status as a vibrant elder and indispensable leader in our community cannot and must not allow that.

Mr. Ellison and those who would misuse the Minister’s name for their personal advancement must be confronted and their hypocrisy and cowardice must be condemned. How can Rep. Ellison speak of justice for the poor, a just U.S. foreign policy, social change that improves the lives of people and respect for all and denigrate a man who has worked to achieve those goals for longer than the congressman has been alive?

Shame on you, Mr. Ellison, for your pandering and shame on us, if we don’t call you out for it.

Richard B. Muhammad is editor in chief for The Final Call Newspaper. Follow Richard on Twitter: @RMfinalcall.

Hidden Figures is a must-see and a must-read

By Dorothy Gentry Garland Journal

I walked out of the screening of Hidden Figures feeling cheated and robbed.

As a 50-year-old middle school educator why did I not know this story?

How did I make it through elementary, middle school, high school AND college and NEVER hear the names Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson?

They weren’t in a textbook. They weren’t in a history book.

They weren’t taught during Black History Month, Women’s History Month or any other month for that matter.

They simply weren’t taught. Their story simply wasn’t told. It’s as if they didn’t exist.

They were truly Hidden Figures.

Until now.

Thanks to Margot Lee Shetterly, the stories of these three remarkably talented and educated African American women and many more who played key roles in technology and the NASA space program is now being told on the big screen for all to see. And applaud.

Shetterly is the author of the must-read book “Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race.”

Wait.

Black Women Mathematicians. Space Race? Who? When? Where? How? And more importantly…What?

Her book detailed the story of Johnson

(played by Taraji P Henson), Vaughan (played

by Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (played by singer Janelle Monae) who were hired by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va. in the 1940s and 50s. The Center is now the modern-day NASA. As so vividly and sometimes uncomfortably portrayed in the movie, they were treated

forth a mile several times a day to use the “colored women’s restroom,” located in a whole different building; a room full of nothing but her white, male “co-workers” bringing in her own separate coffee pot because they didn’t want her to drink from theirs, and Johnson debating whether to put her name on a report that SHE completed next to her supervisors.

Early scenes in the movie show the depth

as though they never even existed. But in the midst of segregation and gender inequality, these women stood tall within themselves despite the odds.

Scenes from the movie that drive home how hidden and non-existent they were include Henson’s character Johnson running back and

of character and strength these women had in spite of their circumstances.

These included Vaughn’s refusal to continue to be overlooked for a supervisor’s position she was so clearly qualified for.

Her reaction: take a book from a library on understanding computers and read it cover to

cover to her sons. “Learn all you can and make yourself valuable” she said to them and a room full of equally brilliant black women.

Jackson, portrayed with humor, sassiness and a deep level of courage by Monae, made me proud as she stood up to a judge, national guardsman and laws that prevented her from going to school with white people.

It was a beautiful sight to see.

Jackson died in 2005 and Vaughan in 2008.

Johnson, now 98, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015 and a Langley research building was named in her honor in 2016.

Hidden Figures is a long-overdue movie parents should take their daughters and sons to see…AFTER they read the book.

It is a movie that gives them not only a significant history lesson but gives them tools and hope and courage to learn all they can, keep striving, keep going forward and upward despite the circumstances and the limits others try to put on them.

The book, the movie, the lives that are shared and the lessons that are learned are important tools to give our kids.

Tools to encourage them to keep working toward their dreams so they won’t become the Hidden Figures of their generation.

Hidden Figures is now playing in select theaters. It opens nationwide Friday, Jan. 6, 2017.

Dorothy Gentry, a graduate of the University of North Texas currently pursuing her Masters Degree, is a journalist and educator. She is a senior editor and sportswriter for I Messenger News Group.

HELP: I am featured in Pastor’s Sermons

Ask Alma I’m not sure how to handle this problem. My sister in-law is a pastor of the church we, and our family attend. I often confide in her because we’re friends and she’s easy to talk to. She always gives me sound advice and I appreciate that.

But the problem is, she’s always using my business in her sermons, and I don’t like that.

What should I do?

Hey now C.B:

C.B., Milwaukee

You emailed this to a PK (Preacher’s Kid), for cussions as casual conversations? She may not God’s sake. My father, Rev. Ulysses Martin, was know she’s offending you. Where do these disa Baptist preacher for more than 30 years. When cussions take place? Are you at church in the it came to his sermons, he knew that we were pastor’s study or driving in the car to the mall? off limits under any and all circumstances; my Depending on where you are would explain how mother made that clear. I she comprehends what’s Either way, you’re entitled to said. mentioned this to let you know that I have some your privacy, and you should Okay, I know I’m familiarity with your cir- not be exposed to “shout outs” stretching it, but stay with cumstances. from the pulpit. It’s time to nip me for a minute.

I’ll start by telling the this and bring your concerns to She could easily be truth and shaming the having a conversation her attention. devil. LOL. My first reacwith her SIL, while you’re tion was:Whaaaat? Ohnohaving a conversation shedidn’t! But since we’re talking about a min- with your pastor. The roles need to be estabister, I should ease up and give her the benefit lished. of the doubt.

Either way, you’re entitled to your privaIs there a possibility that she sees your dis- cy, and you should not be exposed to “shout

outs” from the pulpit. It’s time to nip this and bring your concerns to her attention. Don’t do it during the sermon, girl, while you’re sitting in the congregation. LOL. Here’s what you do: The next time yawl are caring and sharing, ask her specifically not to use your situation in her “say no to sins” parable.

Tell her you expect her to keep your conversations confidential.

Don’t tiptoe through this prickly conversation; be firm. She should understand exactly where you’re coming from. After your discussion, if things don’t change, I’d suggest you seek new pastoral counselor.

Alma Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans more than 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and Twitter @almaaskalma.

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JANUARY 4, 2017

Mavs sign former Baylor standout Pierre Jackson

ishing this moment. I from College of Southern Idaho to play the fi- friends kept me confident and above water,� am real fortunate to be nal two years of his collegiate career at Baylor he said. “Once I got back on my training and in this position.�

University in Waco. my physical therapist helped me and kept my The 9-23 Dallas Mavericks, Head Coach Rick CarWhile at Baylor, Jackson averaged 16.7 confidence up as well. I was able to bounce looking for some scoring punch, lisle called Jackson “a points, 6.5 assists and 3.3 rebounds in 74 back pretty fast. signed free agent guard and forpure point guard. This games while earning Second Team All-Big 12 “It (the injury) can happen to anyone. I mer Baylor University standout is an opportunity for twice and Associated Press Honorable Men- had to work from the bottom. It was definitely Pierre Jackson to a reported twohim and an opportuni- tion All-America in 2012. one of the hardest times of my life,� Jackson year partially guaranteed deal. ty for us to look at him “Once I signed with the Legends a lot of added. “I’m glad I had to go thru that to get to Per team policy, terms of the deal and see where it goes.� the Baylor fans reached out to me and made it where I am today. were not disclosed. Jackson played his to some games. Now that I am at the highest Jackson played with the 76ers Summer Jackson (5-11, 176) has been first ever NBA game level hopefully they will come down and catch League team in 2015, but was later waived playing with the Mavericks’ NBA Tuesday night – only hours after he was signed some more,� he said. after appearing in three preseason games for D-League affiliate, the Texas Legends. He - in front of the home crowd against the HousJackson was drafted in the second round (No. Philadelphia. started 10 games for the Legends this season, ton Rockets. In 11 fourth-quarter minutes he 42 overall) by the Philadelphia 76ers in the Jackson, 25, holds career D-League averagaveraging 29.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.0 as- scored 7 points, one rebound and two assists.

2013 NBA Draft and had his draft rights, along es 25.9 points, Arts & Entertainment, Education, of Health, Style 3.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.7 - and ED sists,C 1.9O steals 35.7 minutes per game in “I was extremely nervous but it was a great with Jrue Holiday, traded to the New Orleans steals and 36.9 minutes in 49 games (37 starts) those 10 contests. experience. I’m just tremendously thankful. Pelicans in exchange for Nerlens Noel. with the Idaho Stampede and Texas Legends. “A lot of people have been showing me love My family got a chance to see me play in the Jackson spent the 2013-14 season with On Feb. 4, 2014, he set the D-League sinD and hitting me up on social ASVEL Basket in France. He returned from gle-game scoring record with 58 points against AN media. My family Mavs jersey. “ is real excited,� Jackson said. “I am just cherCarlisle said he liked “quickness and ability overseas to compete with the Pelicans Sum- the Legends Jackson was named to the Futures toDIANE score.XAVIER He made a couple of REGARDING good mer the REPELLENTS summer ofAND 2014, but All-Star roster.ILE for6IRUS the 2014 INSEC ABOUT 7EST AND NBA D-League HOWLeague ONE CANsquad AVOID in USE TICIDES ACCORDING TO LABEL MOSQUITO SPRAYING

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Community Calendar

Community Lawyering Center Open for Business - Mondays – Saturdays; days and evenings by appointment. 4716 Elsie Faye Heggins, Dallas, 75210. For info, call: 469351-0024 or x0025

January 6

Women of Influence Mixer Azure Restaurant 4080 Beltline Road, Addison 5-8pm

2017 MLK Day Parade! For more information about The 35th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration or to register for the parade, visit www.dallasmlkcenter. com/2017mlkcelebration!

January 14

January 17

Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough will be the speaker at the 35th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Banquet, Fairmont Dallas at 6p.m.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) with the city of Irving, proposes the extension of existing Conflans Road, on a new location, from State Highway 161 (SH 161) to Valley View Lane in Dallas County. TxDOT will hold a public meeting to discuss and receive public comments on the proposed project from 6 to 8 p.m. at the city of Irving council chambers, 825 W. Irving Boulevard in Irving. Representatives from TxDOT and the city of Irving will be available to talk about proposed improvements in an informal open house format.

January 15

January 13 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

LADIES CHOICE Concert Series featuring Avant, Dru Hill and Jagged Edge Music Hall @ Fair Park 909 1st Ave Dallas, TX, 75210

January 16

Banquet “Advancing the Dream: A Nation of Justice & Freedom. Reception 6pm | Dinner 6:45pm. Limited tickets for $45/ $360 per table.

Get your tickets at utatickets.com. 212.920.9147.

“Reflections in Time As We Launch New Dimensions of Service” is the theme of the 109 year old Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®, 2017 Founders’ Day Celebration. To honor its founding members, Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex Chapters, Beta Mu Omega, Fort Worth; Xi Theta Omega, Arlington; Tau Rho Omega, Carrollton; and Chi Zeta Omega, Plano will host a Gospel Brunch Sunday 11:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza North Dallas Addison, 14315 Midway Road Addison, Texas 75001. Tickets are $65.00 and may be purchased online through, http://tinyurl.com/2017dfwfoundersday or through hosting chapters.

The guest speaker for this public event is Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, International Vice President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, and a member of its Board of Directors.

***** SHADOWLAND by PILOBOLUS is coming to Dallas on Friday, January 13 and Saturday, January 14, 2017 following four wildly successful years touring Europe and Asia.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.attpac.org. TITAS Presents at Dallas City Performance Hall. ***** NAACP President/CEO Cornell William Brooks to speak for the Arlington MLK

January 18 Join the Dallas Black Dance Theatre for the 2017 Founder’s Luncheon! Purchase your tickets by contacting the DBDT Development office - development@dbdt.com or (214) 871-2376

The National Black Marathoners Association recognized that the one African-American institution, which has the biggest impact on our health, is the church. We go there every week to get spiritually motivated and inspired. A healthier congregation is the foundation of a strong church.

Time: 9:30AM to 4:00PM (lunch incl) Cooper Hotel & Conference Center 12200 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230 For questions, email FaithAndWellness@ BlackMarathoners.org

January 22

Dallas entrepreneur and philanthropist Kea Garrett celebrates the release of her inspiring autobiography From Hell to Hair to Millionaire: The Divine Journeys of Kea Garrett with a book signing Sunday, January 22nd at Lofty Spaces located at 816 Montgomery Street, Dallas, TX 75215.

January 28 Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. celebrates Founders Day at Sheraton Dallas, 11:30 am Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook is the speaker

January 21 Join The Judges, Prosecutors, Clerks and Defense Attorneys of the Dallas Municipal Court System and the Honorable Judge Dominique Collins C. A. W. Clark Legal Clinic Good Street Baptist Church 3110 Bonnie View Road, Dallas, TX 75216 9:30 am WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE DALLAS MUNICIPAL COURTS ****

Hell to hair, continued from front page graphic artist. Her hard work on the hoe squad, which involved grueling physical labor, and diligence paid off with an early parole after serving a year and a half of the original sentence.

Upon her release, she resolved to apply her new found work ethic to legal pursuits. “When I think back on that time in my life, I really believe that it was God making me sit down and pay attention to what I was doing with my life,” says Garrett. “He was preparing me to embrace and fulfill my true purpose. I spent countless hours praying and reading my bible and really getting closer to God while I was in prison. That time equipped me with the tools I needed to come out and be successful doing things the right and legal way. I promised Him that if he let me get out of prison, that I would never steal or do anything illegal again. And I’ve kept that promise to this day.”

Garrett obtained a series of jobs following her release from Gatesville, but she found her true passion and

calling when she went to barber college in 2000. She obtained her license and opened her first salon in 2001, the Pampering Palace Salon and Spa. The business flourished and Garrett soon found herself inundated with a substantial client load many of whom she serviced up until she retired from working as a stylist in 2016. In 2010, she opened her training center, Preparing People Barber & Styling College.

It was important to her to stay close to her roots and to give back to the community; so, she established the college in the heart of South Dallas.

The school has graduated over 150 students since it opened its doors five years ago and has grown to become a multi-million dollar business for Garrett. Her life today is a far cry from that of her youth.

An all but nonexistent childhood filled with despair and often danger has become a life of faith, family and fortune…the first fruits of the love and labor of Kea Garrett and many bless-

ings from above. “My journey wasn’t easy,” concludes Garrett. “I know there will be many more obstacles along the way. I also know that God will keep me and see me through every situation in my life, good or bad, because I am His forever.”

Dare to be inspired to embrace your purpose and begin your life’s divine journey. Join Kea Garrett for her book launch and get your signed copy of From Hell to Hair to Millionaire on Sunday, January 22nd at Lofty Spaces in Dallas. The event begins at 6 PM. This motivational event is free and open to the public. All proceeds from the book will benefit Mrs. Garrett’s non-profit organization South Dallas Kids Cabinet.

For more information or to RSVP, email Vivian@vlfmediaandpromotions.com. For more information on South Dallas Kids Cabinet visit www. southdallaskidscabinet.net.

Two Women One Man 10 Years Later

Taalibah Islam and Typhenie Johnson are both missing and both dated the same man, Chris Revill. According to reports, they were both last seen with Chris in Tarrant County. Where are they now? Help find them!

Do you know this man?

POLICE have not apprehended “Pookie” the serial rapist. We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered

by Crime Stoppers. If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU? GARLAND JOURNAL

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JANUARY 4, 2017

Driving around the Metroplex in my RAV 4

By Cheryl Smith aka JWA

Have you ever made a decision that you just wanted to immediately null and void?

Ever felt like kicking yourself?

Well, it’s too late for me right now, but when you know better you do better. So hopefully there’s a lesson here for others.

About a month after I signed on the dotted line, drove off the car lot and began adjusting my account to make a monthly payment for the next few years; I sat in the passenger seat of a Toyota RAV4 XLE. Talk about a wonderful ride! My thoughts immediately went to the new car sitting in the garage.

I am #SMH (shaking my head) and wishing I had waited a little longer before purchasing it. Now don’t get me wrong. I bought a nice car. A really nice car. But the RAV 4 XLE had my investment beat in so many ways.

My mind was racing as I pondered how I could get out of what I had previously thought was a great deal.

I’m a woman who likes things that look good, are strong and able to hang in there for the long haul. The RAV 4 XLE looks good, is smooth and proved durable.

Driving on Texas highways, where sometimes it can get rough, the RAV 4 XLE is able to hang with anything on the road.

As I sat inside the RAV 4 XLE for the first time, immediately I told myself, “okay, this feels nice, real nice,” in my best Bernie Mac impression!

First the seats were so comfortable. I felt like I was sitting in a chair at some swanky spa. As someone who was dealing with back pain, the seats seemed designed for comfort and I thought at any moment they would start vibrating.

Adjusting the seats I took off determined to see what the ride would be like. Opening the sunroof and settling in, I turned quite a few heads and I’m not kidding myself. I know they were looking at the car!

Admittedly the word “hybrid” was new to me, especially pertaining to cars. I didn’t have a positive thought about anything “hybrid.”

Instead I thought of the lowly form of dog referred to as a “mutt,” or a chemically engineered food that while it may taste great, has no nutritional value.

In contrast, when you’re referring to a car, a hybrid seems to be the best of two worlds.

For those, like me, who don’t spend a lot of time on the mechanics of cars, a hybrid car is a fuel efficient car that has two motors — electric and gasoline powered. While they have smaller engines, there are some key points to consider when purchasing a car.

According to phys.org, “The motors and batteries in these cars do not require main-

tenance over the life of the vehicle. The engine doesn't need any more maintenance than in any other car. Because hybrids have regenerative braking, brake pads may even

we should all be concerned about!

It’s important to note that according to www.hybridcars.com out of the top five most fuel-efficient Hybrid cars, Toyota has

last longer than those in normal cars.”

As someone who has been told that my driving is bad on brakes, I found that point of interest of great value! Also, if you do a lot of city driving where you deal with stop and go traffic, this is big!

Still, I had a lot more to learn about this RAV 4 XLE. You get the power, great gas mileage and, guess what, hybrids are good for the environment and that’s something

two of the spots!

Also, in the Editors’ Choice for best hybrids of 2016-2017, on www.caranddriver. com, Toyota claims four of the 10 spots.

I’m feeling more and more like a hybrid!

Granted, this XLE has a lot of bells and whistles, like: Smart Key System24 on Front Doors + Push Button Start. Now this is important to me because I’m always searching for my

Please Join The Judges, Prosecutors, Clerks and Defense Attorneys of the Dallas Municipal Court System and the Honorable Judge Dominique Collins at the C. A. W. Clark Legal Clinic Good Street Baptist Church 3110 Bonnie View Road, Dallas, TX 75216 Saturday, January 21, 2017, 9:30 am As we present

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keys and I have been known for locking the keys in the car. Sometimes you can forget that you need a key since you don’t need it to start the car if the key is on you. Well, I left my keys in the car and thought I was about have a serious issue. Lo and behold, the car does not lock when your key is in your purse in the passenger seat.

Entune™ Audio Plus With Connected Navigation App22 and Toyota Safety Sense. You know, sometimes it helps to have a little help and that is just what comes in not only the form of the navigation system, but being able to see in front of you as you navigate yourself into a parking space, or backing out as you don’t have to look back to see what’s behind you. And the Safety Sense technology is like having a guardian angel in the car with you.

Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control.

I love to ride alone, but I picked up some “friends” and luckily for us all, the friend in the back with the hot flashes was able to cool off without disturbing the comfort of us in the front. Complaining about temperature was kept to a minimum and there were no hurt feelings.

And there’s more. So much more to this vehicle that makes it a must-have in my book. I’m an SUV kind of girl and I need to be able to feel like I am safe and in control.

I need to be able to get in and out without a lot of hassle and damage to my clothes.

After all, who wants to get out of a good-looking car looking like your clothes have been rolled up in a ball?

Driving the RAV 4 XLE gave me a sense of comfort and power. I made sharp turns, U-turns and a few “you know you are wrong turns.”

The RAV4 XLE passed my tests!

There are so many other features to the RAV4 XLE that make driving a pleasure, like syncing my phone so that I can avoid the perils of using a handheld device, having my text messages read to me over the system and operating key functions from the steering wheel; as well as the quiet, smooth ride.

Nothing, however, beats feeling safe.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ranks RAV4 as a 2017 TOP SAFETY PICK+.

In order to receive that ranking, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five crashworthiness tests, an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention and an acceptable or good headlight rating.

The Toyota RAV 4 HYBRID XLE Mileage 23/30 est. mpg