WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
GARLAND JOURNAL
Garland
Volume X- Issue 243 August 1-15, 2012
JOURNAL
Published 1st & 15th Each Month
MY TRUTH By Cheryl Smith Publisher
Show some love to the home team Chuck D, of the rap group Public Enemy, has to be one of the great minds of our time! A consummate professional and thought-provoking deep thinker with great work ethic; he is phenomenal. I also consider him a friend. I picked him up from the airport once during a visit to Dallas, and I told him I had a stop to make because it was payday. When I arrived at the building that housed Service Broadcasting - the parent company
Phalconstar.com Garland, Texas
JULY 4, 2018
1
Free - Take One
!VAILABLE AT .EWSSTANDS IN
Garland,Rowlett Mesquite Richardson & E.Dallas
Phone (972) 926-8503 Fax (903) 450-1397
VOL XVII ISSUE 22
1 YearJuly Subscription 4, 2018 $45.00
Black Clergy jailed and shackled
By Dr. Julianne Malveaux
Faith and prayer have been the backbone of the African American community since we came upon these shores. We have counted on our faith leaders (the roll call would include Revs. Richard Allen, Absalom Jones, James Walker Hood, Martin Luther King, Jr., Wyatt Tee Walker, Jesse L. Jackson, William Barber, Barbara Williams Skinner, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, and many others) to articulate the justness of our cause and to mobilize us to work for the justice that is called for in the New Testament, especially in Matthew 25: 35-45. Our ministers are revered leaders who often stand in
Rev. Dr. William J Barber II
the face of injustice. We are not surprised, and indeed, encouraged, when their firm stands in the face of oppression lead to collisions with the law. Still, when faith leaders are treated harshly, it forces us to examine the injustice in
photo courtesy of Rev. Barber/Twitter
our system. When Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote the “Letter from the Birmingham Jail� in 1963, he chided White ministers who made a public statement about his methods, suggesting that segregation should be
fought in the courts, not in the streets. His letter moved the White faith community to confront some of the injustices of segregation and to form alliances with the Civil Rights movement. King spent eleven days in
the Birmingham jail in extremely harsh conditions. However, the oppressor does not learn from its excesses. On June 12, nine faith leaders were shackled and held for 27 hours after being arrested for praying at the Supreme Court. The multicultural group of men and women are part of Rev. William Barber’s Poor People’s Campaign (A National Call for Moral Revival). Their effort is to bring attention to the amazing inequality and moral bankruptcy of our nation. Their prayers at the Supreme Court were extremely timely given the court’s recent actions to make it more See CLERGY, page 8
Miami Times dominates 2018 NNPA Awards VirLinda Stanton
of K104, KKDA-AM and KRNB, Chuck came inside with me. Always gracious, he greeted folks and chatted while I took care of my business. When he was in the company of those who were in a position to effect change at the station, Chuck urged them to be kinder to the locals. He wanted locals to be showered with love on the way up, instead of waiting until they hit big time and then jumping on the bandwagon. Which brings me to my truth. Dallas has so many smart and talented people — people who are going places. I’ve always prided myself on being able to see the good in people. I also see the bad and ugly, but that’s another story for another day.
Ptosha Storey
Anyway, I applauded Chuck for looking out for those who don’t have. It’s amazing we live in a world where the person who could pur-
It was a night to remember as Karen Carter Richards, the first vice chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and publisher of the Houston Forward Times, received the highly-coveted Publish of the Year Award during the 2018 NNPA Foundation Merit Awards in Norfolk, Va. Richards, who remained in Houston recovering from an illness, was represented by her associate editor, Jeffrey L. Boney.
North Dallas Gazette Publisher Thurman Jones (winner of Best Editorial), with Honoree Rev. Jesse Jackson and Dr. Ben Chavis
chase the entire restaurant is offered a free meal but not the person who doesn’t have a pot or a window (you get my point?). Well, I want to shine a spotlight on three locals: Imaj, VirLinda, and PtoSee MY TRUTH, page 6
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 1
munities that we have always found value in.� The Merit Awards recognizes individual newspapers, publishers and other staff members that have excelled in various newspaper categories such as Best Editorial, Best Column Writing, Community Service, Best Layout & Design, Best Church Page, Best Sports Section and other areas. The NNPA Foundation also presented 21 scholarships that were funded by See AWARDS, page 8
NNPA Publishers’ Forum: Houston Forward Times’ Karen Carter Richards continues work of her Trailblazing Parents By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor)
Karen Carter Richards, the publisher and CEO of the Houston Forward Times, was born in a small town in Arizona; her family moved to Houston when she was just one month old. “I went to elementary, junior high and high school in Houston. After high school, I realized that I had an interest in the medical fields, so I applied for and got accepted to the DeBakey
High School for Health Professions,� said Richards, who serves as 1st Vice Chair of the NNPA Association Executive Board. “I’ve spent my entire life in Houston.� Fifty-eight years ago, Carter Richards’ father, Julius P. Carter, founded the award-winning, Houston Forward Times. By 1971, the Forward Times was one of the top three newspapers in Houston. Sadly, that same year, Julius P. Carter died leaving his wife, Lenora “Doll� Car-
Karen Carter Richards
ter, to run the family business. “As a child, I always had
to work in the family business,â€? Carter Richards said. “When I was 7 years old, I had a newspaper route in my neighborhood that my dad set up.â€? Carter Richards continued: “My father and mother always said that I needed to learn every aspect of the business‌the only thing I didn’t learn to do was run our press.â€? The Houston native left her hometown to attend Xavier University as a biology major, but returned to
Houston after being homesick and missing and worrying about her mother. Carter Richards attended college at the University of St. Thomas and the University of Houston-Downtown. Later, she returned to her roots and the family business, following in the footsteps of two publishing trailblazers, her father and her mother. Carter Richards was about 22 when she surmised that See RICHARDS, page 8
Joseph Jackson,
patriarch of Jackson family of superstars, has died By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor)
IMAJ
During an earlier interview, Richards expressed her undying appreciation for the Black Press. “The Black Press has always been and will continue to be relevant. We are the voice, the true voice of our people,â€? Carter Richards said. “We have recorded our history for 191 years like no other media could ever do. We have recorded many stories‌our celebrations, our injustices and those hidden, treasured stories that came from our com-
Family members said Jackson died at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday at a hospital in Las Vegas. Jackson was 89. After his own failed musical aspirations, Joseph Jackson help launch his children to international stardom in the 1960s and 1970s. He managed the Jackson 5 before the group left Motown and was rebranded as the Jacksons. Ultimately, the patriarch is responsible for the emergence of the biggest star in
Joseph Jackson
pop music history, the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Last week, the family announced that Jackson was terminally ill following a long battle with cancer. “He’s very frail. It’s any day now,� Jermaine Jackson
told reporters shortly before his father died. Born in 1928, in the onehorse town of Fountain Hill, Arkansas, Joe’s grandfather was a slave and he later described his upbringing as “lonely� and with “few friends,� according to his
biography. His parents separated when he was 12 and after a period living with his father in California, he moved to be with his mother and four siblings in a Chicago suburb and pursued his dream of becoming a professional boxer. It was while living with his mother that he met and married local girl Katherine Scruse and, in 1950, the couple moved to nearby Gary, Indiana, and within eight years had 10 children, including twins Marlon and Brandon, the latter of whom died at birth. The pressures of looking
after his family meant Jackson had to abandon boxing to work full time, though he also played guitar with a blues band named The Falcons. Although he remained frustrated at The Falcons’ lack of success, it was when he caught nine-year-old son Tito playing with his guitar in 1962 that Joe’s fortunes changed. Despite initially threatening Tito with punishment for snapping a string, he urged his son to keep playing. Jackson then encourSee JACKSON, page 7
7/3/18 2:02 PM
2
JULY 4, 2018
July 4
GARLAND JOURNAL
at Verizon Theatre Grand Prairie 7pm
Independence Day 2002 Benjamin O. Davis died. He was leader of “Tuskegee Airmen”
WELCOME TO DALLAS SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
Park Rd., Lewisville. 7:30-10:30pm Tickets: eventbrite.com
ter 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 1:30pm-5:30pm Call Antoine White 314-630-4465
Funnier Than A “Mutha #*@%!&” Comedy Festival staring: LaVell Crawford, Huggy Lowdown, Bill Bellamy, Dominique & Guy Torry at Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie 1001 Performance Pl. 7:30pm-9:30pm
July 23 --
18th Annual William “Bill” Blair Memorial Scholarship Golf Classic at Tension Park Golf Course 3501 Samuell Blvd., Dallas at 12pm. 1pm Tee time. Darryl Blair 214-372-6500
July 15
July 25
1867 Maggie L. Walker was born. Businesswoman and civic leader. She was the first Black woman to head a bank.
Where are you? King and Queen Servant Gala-Awards Host LeTitia Owens at Bela Luna Event Hall 11834 Harry Hines Blvd. Suite 101, Dallas 6pm-9:30pm FairPark Fourth at Fair Park 1121 1st Ave. Dallas 12pm10:30pm
Rep Your City-Day Party Vol. 1 at Avocado Restaurant & Lounge 220 Las Colinas Blvd. E, Irving 3pm-9pm
Frisco Freedom Fest at City of Frisco-City Hall 6101 Frisco Square Blvd. 4pm-11pm.
WELCOME TO DALLAS DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC
Star Spangled Spectacular 2018 at Firewheel Town Center 245 Cedar Sage Dr. Garland FREE EVENT 4pm-9-15pm. UniverSoul Circus at Southwest Center Mall 3662 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Dallas 7pm thru 7-8-18
July 5 1975 Arthur Ashe beat Jimmy Connors at Wimbledon. First Black man to win singles title there.
July 6 1854 Republican Party organized to oppose extention of slavery.
July 7 Walter White, NAACP leader DOB 1983. Died 3/21/55.
Wishing a very Happy Birthday to a dynamic young woman -- Shonedra M. Redd-a great team member. Enjoy your Blessings-- I Messenger Media. Run for the Blue Dallas 5K and 1 Mile Run/Walk at Trinity Groves 3011 Gulden Ln. Dallas 8am-11am tickets: raceroster.com Ultimate Boat Party at Lynn Creek Marina 5700 Lake Ridge Parkway, Grand Prairie 12pm-5pm. The Farmers Market at Firewheel Town Center 245 Cedar Sage Dr. Garland 0am-4pm.
July 8 The Great Xscape Tour with Special Guest Keyshia Cole
July 9 2004 Actress Isabel Sanford died. “(The Jeffersons)” DOB 8/29/17.
Boney James at the House of Blues 2200 N. Lamar St. Dallas 7pm.
July 26 Smooth R&B 105.7 presents Smooth Summer Grove II Feat: Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds & Brandy at Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie. 8pm.
July 10
July 27
Mary McLeod Bethune, founder of Bethune-Cookman College DOB 1875. Died 5/18/55
Forth Fridays Music Series: Presented by The DeSoto Arts Commission at the Outdoor Amphitheater DeSoto Town Center (behind the Library) 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd. 8pm every 4th Friday.
July 11 Rev. Vashti Murphy McKenzie was named first female Bishop of the African Methodist Espiscopal Church.
July 28 Texas Latino Comic Con 2018 at the Latino Cultural Center 2600 Live Oak St. Dallas from 11am–6pm Tickets: Txlatinocc.weebly.com.
July 12 July 20-29
2001 Moisant Field becam New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong Intl. Airport.
FPW Fellowship of Professional Women Luncheon Speaker Susie Hawkins at Park City Club, 5956 Sherry Ln. 17th Floor Dallas 11:45am-1:15pm
July 13 2013-The slogan “Black Lives Matter” emereged after Trayvon Martin case result. Nationally reconized 2014 after deaths of Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
August 4
“Kiss Me Kate” By Garland Summer Musicals Grandville Arts Center 300 N. 5thSt.Garland Call 972-205-2780.
Dave Koz & Friends Summer Horns Tour at Morton Meyerson Symphony Center 2301 Flora St. Dallas 7:30pm
July 20
August 6
We want to wish an Awesome Woman a Glorious Happy Birthday-- Diane Evans. We can always count on her to be there supporting the team -- I Messenger Media. Enjoy your Blessings.
Ella Mai: “Boo’d Up” The Tour at House of Blues Dallas 2200 N. Lamar St 7pm
August 7
Smooth R&B 105.7 Presents Sam Smith in concert at American Airlines Center, Dallas 7pm-12am. Tickets: krnb.com
Musiq Soulchild & Leela James at Fair Park Music Hall 909 1st. Dallas 8pm Kids Fest at Zeigler Park 400 Egale Dr. DeSoto 5pm-8pm Movie in the Park: CoCo at Central Park-Garland 1000 W. Ave. G. 9pm.
Tory Lanez Memories Don’t Die Tour at House Of Blues 2200 N. Lamar St. Dallas 7pm
July 14
July 21
August 8
Alice Coachman, ground breaking Olympian in 1948. First Black spokesperson for an international product (Coca-Cola) died.
Crown-n-Glory Natural Hair Expo at Doubletree 1507 N. Watson Rd., Arlington Tickets: www.
Gladys Knight & The O’Jays at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory 300 W. Las Colinas Blvd. Irving 7:30pm.
DFW’s 1st Annual Summer Boat Party at Pier 121 Marina 1481 East Hill
crownnglorynaturalhairexpo.com
August 11 Paws in the Pool-ooza Saturday Time TBA Crawford Park Pool 401 Straus Rd. Cedar Hill.
Christmas in July at Hawaiian Falls Water Park 4550 N. Garland Rd. Garland 11am Info: 972-675-8888.
Jim Buie’s Grown & Sexy Yacht Party! At Big Cats 1481 E. Hill Park Rd. Lewisville 7:30pm-11:30pm
July22
August 12
Black Woman’s Appreciation Event- Dallas Edition Host: Young Black Entrepreneurs at the City of DeSoto Civic Cen-
Charlie Wilson at Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie 8pm Tickets: via AXS Smooth R & B Groove 105.7
The Garland Journal welcomes Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc T:5”
LEGAL NOTICE These Texas Lottery Commission scratch ticket games will be closing soon:
Game #
Game Name / Odds
$
Official Close of Game
End Validations Date
1898
Texas Lottery® Gold Overall Odds are 1 in 3.09
$20
7/27/18
1/23/19
2024
Wild 9’s Overall Odds are 1 in 4.91
$1
8/22/18
2/18/19
2020
Money Overall Odds are 1 in 3.90
$5
8/22/18
2/18/19 T:10”
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. © 2018 Texas Lottery Commission. All rights reserved.
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 2
7/3/18 2:02 PM
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
GARLAND JOURNAL
Dorie Miller deserves to be honored
tack on the American naval fleet on December 7th, 1941 in Pearl Harbor led to his being awarded the Navy Cross. Miller, who served as a cook and was only 22 years old at the time of By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson the attack, was washing the clothes It was a welcoming gesture when of other sailors when the attack ocPresident Trump recently removed curred. He personally saved a numthe criminal conviction of former ber of sailors who were trapped beheavyweight boxing champion Jack low the deck of the ship in burning oil and water. He returned Johnson from the record time and time again, books by granting him a saving the lives of those presidential pardon. It onboard his ship. His was long overdue and life-saving deeds were certainly Johnson, a naacknowledged by the tive of Galveston, who ship’s senior officer. died in 1946 in an autoMiller’s actions, inmobile accident, would cluding attempts to be delighted, as are surshoot down attacking viving members of his Dorie Miller plans with the ship’s family. anti-aircraft weapons, Johnson’s conviction were beyond the call in 1913 was motivated by deepof duty and he was praised in an ‘afly-rooted unvarnished racial animus ter action’ report written by his ship’s that plagued our nation and Johnremaining commanding officer. The son’s reign as the greatest professionsenior officer, who Dorie Miller real boxer in the world. It was not unmoved from the site of battle, later common for some white citizens to died from injuries he suffered. physically attack black citizens across With all he had done, sadly, the the country after a Johnson victory. Secretary of the Navy chose only to I believe the administration needs award Miller a letter of commendato review and reconsider the case of tion, which came as a surprise and a another Texan, Seaman Dorie Miller, shock to other senior naval officers. a native of Waco whose acts of valor One of them, Admiral Chester Nimduring the devastating Japanese at-
itz, protested forcefully to President Roosevelt, arguing that Knox, a civilian, was wrong. Eventually, Miller was awarded the Navy Cross, personally presented to him by Admiral Nimitz on May 27th 1942; one year before he was killed at sea serving his country, having insisted that he return to battle. In years past, medal upgrades have been given to members of the Armed Forces whose supporters have shown additional acts of valor or racial discrimination in the awarding of the awards they received. Knox was seriously disturbed by the presence of minorities in the Navy. Once he wrote to President Roosevelt, stating that he would resign his position if the Navy were integrated. He did not believe that minorities were worthy of performing admirably in combat. For more than four decades members of Congress, naval historians and former members of the military have argued for the awarding of the Medal of Honor to Dorie Miller. Perhaps now is the time that justice, long delayed, will finally be done! It happened for Jack Johnson. Now it should happen for Miller.
3
JULY 4, 2018
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP! We specialize in promotional advertising, icluding political advertising,public relations, and campaign management
214-215-4991 www.mscasllc.com
T-shirts Yard Signs Push Cards Boad Signs Canvassing Promotional Products Mail and Print Services and much more........
National African American Insurance Association recognized for contributions By Machelle Allums The members of the Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter of the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) were recently recognized for their partnership and contributions to the Emmett J. Conrad High School Academy of Finance. Members of the organization facilitated the INVEST insurance curriculum to the students enrolled in the Academy of Business and Finance. NAAIA professionals working in many capacities of the insurance industry, presented classes weekly to the students for a 10-week period. Subject matters included Life & Health, auto, homeowners, commercial liability, and Homeowners - to name a few. Lessons were presented and the students were allowed to ask questions and tested on the info presented. Machelle Allums, the chapter’s Director of Education coordinated the project working closely with the instructor, Janel Humphries. Over 25 members of the organization served as teachers, or participated in mock interviews with the students on two different dates. The Conrad partnership is a win
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 3
NAAIA members
for the students as they have the opportunity to hear first-hand how the professionals got into the business and different occupations available in the Industry. NAAIA members were touched by the commitment of many of the students who in some instances had to overcome major obstacles to attend classes. Members met several students impacted by the “Dreamer issue” or who were dealing with other significant hardships. The NAAIA members work for many different companies that are
supportive of our efforts and mission to increase minority workers in the Insurance Industry. Conrad High School has done a great job of getting the community involved with their students. This recognition was given at the 2018 Career & Technology Senior Awards Banquet Held at the Magnolia Hotel – Park Cities. The hotel participates in the intern program. Graduating Seniors from all five academies were celebrated. The event was sponsored by the National Academy Foundation (NAF), the Schools advisory board, as well as other corporate sponsors and the faculty of Conrad. The NAAIA-DFW chapter is under the leadership of Dekia Henderson. The organization has partnered with the School of Business and Management at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center for the last five years. The chapter has been in existence for 10 years. Members are involved in the community via the awarding of scholarships and volunteering at local food banks and other events and looking forward to the continued relationship next term.
Subscribe, advertise, share your news items with the Garland Journal at 214-941-0110
7/3/18 2:02 PM
4
JULY 4, 2018
GARLAND JOURNAL
EDITORIAL/OPINION
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
WHIP Cracking Sessions! QUIT PLAYIN’
By Vincent L. Hall
“The irony of Mr. Sessions’ nomination is that, if confirmed, he will be given a life tenure for doing with a federal prosecution what the local sheriffs accomplished twenty years ago with clubs and cattle prods.� #CorettaScottKing, 1986 WHIP is my new acronym for “White Identity Politics,� and Attorney General Jefferson Beauregard Sessions along with his boss, Donald J. Trump, are in full campaign mode. My mother says it would be a bridge too far to channel comedian Chris Rock who used the pejorative; “Cracker Ass Cracker.� But if my dad was still living, he would approve. Daddy always referred to Martin Luther King’s nemesis, Bull Connor that way. Bull used clubs and cattle
prods in Alabama; Sessions adapted to technology and manufactured a concentration camp for children. Bull Connor was a Sunday school teacher and now Jeff Sessions is blaming his mistreatment of migrant children on the Holy Bible. Seems like Alabama serves a different God than the one slaves met in the brush harbors and eventually in the Black Church. American slaves weren’t theologians but they knew that everybody who proclaims Christianity ain’t a Christian. In a play to force Democrats to pay for Trump’s border wall, Jeff cracked the WHIP on asylum seekers. He quoted the Apostle Paul, a converted court master of the Jewish law, to justify his position. “I would cite you to the Apostle Paul and his clear and wise command in Romans 13, to obey the laws of the government because God has ordained the gov-
ernment for his purposes.� His actions, when taken in totality have millions claiming that his use of the WHIP is not American. I beg to differ.
Jeff Sessions
Sessions’ actions are as American as apple pie. America ripped children from the bruised breasts of slave girls, separated them and sold their husbands on auction blocks.
This atrocity lasted technically, from 1619-1865 or 246 years. In 2018 our nation will celebrate the 242nd anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. America repeated its acts of dehumanization and racial supremacy with the Native American and the Asians. There were well-supported barriers against Jewish refugees during Hitler’s Holocaust. White America has consistently exercised brutality on the poor and disenfranchised. If we could ever admit that, we could heal. Unfortunately, WHIP loyalists, and the proffers of the “American Exceptionalism� lie continue their residence in America’s 51st state; the State of denial!!! In mid-February this year, Jeff, the Keebler Company mascot; either by fate or Freudian slip, reinforced his WHIP appeal at the National Sheriffs Association quarterly
round-up. “Since our founding, the independently-elected sheriff has been the people’s protector, who keeps law enforcement close to and accountable to people through the elected process. The office of sheriff is a critical part of the Anglo-American heritage of law enforcement.We must never erode this historic office.� Jefferson’s insinuation, whether blind or blatant, that law enforcement was a legacy of the American White man, was preposterous, but profitable for WHIP. WHIP lends no responsibility to the “Children of a lesser God.� Coretta Scott King, who knew Bull Connor and Jeff Sessions, didn’t mince words about Jeff’s intent nor his intellect. “I do not believe Jefferson Sessions possesses the requisite judgment, competence, and sensitivity to the rights guaranteed by the federal
civil rights laws to qualify for appointment to the federal district court. Based on his record, I believe his confirmation would have a devastating effect on not only the judicial system in Alabama, but also on the progress we have made everywhere toward fulfilling my husband’s dream.� The same Jeff Sessions who wasn’t fit for Alabama is now the titular head of law enforcement for America. Trumpism and White identity politics have assumed reign, rule and residence in the federal government. America moved from closed fists, clubs and cattle prods to concentration camps for children. Sessions is cracking the WHIP! #QuitPlayin #WHIPappeal
#StayWoke
Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist and award-winning journalist.
Redlining Settlement: Fails to Provide Strong Penalties Speaking Truth to Power By Charlene Crowell
For as long as many people of color can remember, succeeding generations have called for justice. Despite these age-old pleas, justice is not only elusive, but frustrating since the enactment of a series of civil rights laws. Despite federal guarantees of equal treatment, much of Black America experiences something short of what was promised. A recent settlement of a federal redlining lawsuit is yet another sign that justice is still being denied. Even worse, those entrusted in key federal agencies are willing to accept much less than what is fair or just. On January 13, 2017 and as one of the last cases brought under the Obama Administration, the Department of Justice (DOJ) sued KleinBank, a lender in the Twin Cities’ metropolitan area with violations of both the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). The complaint said in part that from at least 2010 to 2015, “KleinBank’s discriminatory practices as described herein have been intentional and willful, and implemented with reckless disregard for the rights of individuals on the basis of their race and/or national origin.� The January 2017 lawsuit followed
a near two-year DOJ investigation that uncovered illegal redlining in neighborhoods of color. Within the metro area, lending in 78 of 97 majority-minority census tracts were excluded by the bank. Further, as KleinBank expanded to add at least seven full-service branches since 2007, not one is in a community of color. Beyond a failure to serve all consumers, mortgage applications and approvals among consumers of color were equally disturbing. Other metro lenders surpassed KleinBank by as large a ratio as five-to-one in serving consumers of color. For example, among the 5,837 single-family residential loan applications filed with KleinBank, only 1.06 percent – 62 – came from consumers of color. Of the bank’s approved 4,392 residential mortgages, only 51 were secured in neighborhoods of color. With these and other findings, DOJ’s complaint requested both monetary damages to those consumers who fell victim to these illegalities, and a civil penalty to vindicate the public interest. Yet on May 8 of this year when a settlement was reached with the current DOJ, there was no civil penalty or judicial oversight – two key elements in earlier settlements with similar charges. Among other requirements, a limited, three-year agreement authorized a $300,000 loan subsidy fund to increase credit access in predominantly minority neighborhoods, as well as another
$300,000 for credit repair initiatives, education, outreach and advertising that would include minority media. The settlement required the bank to redraw its Community Reinvestment Act assessment area. KleinBank also agreed to open a single branch in a neighborhood of color within the next year. According to the settlement, “The United States agrees to jointly stipulate with KleinBank to the dismissal of the Civil Action. The parties agree and acknowledge that this consideration is adequate and sufficient.� Pardon me, but I respectfully disagree—and so do others who believe in fair lending. A lack of civil penalty coupled with a brief term of compliance does not bode well for fair or just lending. “The absence of a civil penalty is noteworthy and inconsistent with past redlining cases,� noted Melissa Stegman, a Senior Policy Counsel with the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL). “Furthermore, unlike prior cases, the parties entered into a settlement agreement – not a consent order. A consent order is a more powerful vehicle in that it is subject to the judge’s approval. Also, with a court order, the court maintains supervision of the agreement. Arguably, it’s a stronger way to hold the bank accountable for meeting the terms of the settlement.� According to the original DOJ complaint the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) never conducted a redlining examination
of the bank, nor did it comment on or approve the bank’s CRA assessment area. It is also noteworthy that earlier this month HUD announced it planned to seek public comment to revisit whether its 2013 rule known as ‘disparate impact’ was consistent with the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Until this rule was adopted in the previous administration, many entities argued in fair housing lawsuits that lenders never intended to discriminate in housing. Disparate impact theory focuses on the effects of practices that foster housing discrimination and was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2015. HUD’s interest in public comment in 2018 sets the stage for weakening or reversing the rule and is yet another rollback of Obama-era initiatives. Unfortunately, these kinds of fair lending concerns are experienced across the nation. In 2017, 28,843 housing-related complaints were reported, according to the National Fair Housing Alliance’s 2018 Fair Housing Trends Report. Of these complaints, more than 70 percent were handled by private, nonprofit fair housing organizations. But the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is charged with ensuring effective enforcement of the Fair Housing Act. Even so, HUD processed less than five percent of last year’s complaints – about 1,311. Further, DOJ brought only 41 cases from the 6,896 complaints forward-
ed by Fair Housing Assistance Program agencies. The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act is the nation’s most comprehensive mortgage lending report for its inclusion of data on lending by race and ethnicity. It too will be under review by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and appears to be in jeopardy. Currently, this annual report informs the housing industry as well as consumers as to remaining disparities and challenges. Without its detailed data, fair housing measures would be watered down. When government offices charged and entrusted to enforce laws fail to fulfill their full duties, laws enacted to end discrimination become meaningless. If HUD turns away from fair housing enforcement, as recent actions taken by the agency indicate, or DOJ settles for far less than the law allows or what has even occurred as precedent, none of us should stay silent in the face of these failures. “It has been 50 years and the Fair Housing Act still has not been fully implemented,� noted Lisa Rice, President and CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance. “We cannot build a thriving society as long as our nation is plagued by discrimination, segregation, and severe economic inequality.� Charlene Crowell is the Communications Deputy Director with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org
MALVEAUX: Should we be dancing? Last Word by Dr. Julianne Malveaux
The most recent unemployment rate report seems to contain nothing but good news. The overall unemployment rate is down to 3.8 percent, the lowest that it has been since 2000. The Black unemployment rate, at 5.9 percent, is lower than it has ever been. With the white unemployment rate at 3.5 percent, the ratio between Black and white unemployment, usually stuck at around 2, is below 1.7 percent, a historic low. While it is risky to make conclusions about Black unemployment, given monthto-month fluctuations (the last time 45 crowed about
low Black unemployment rates in January, the number shot back up the following month by nearly a full percentage point), it is clear that the employment situation for African Americans has improved in the 500 or so days since 45 took office. To be sure, much of the improvement in the labor market can be attributed to the Obama recovery. President Obama put everything in place to ensure that the labor market improved. Still, it would be churlish to deny that some 45-inspired policies may have improved the employment situation. With economic growth nearing 3 percent, and with business confidence stable, more than 220,000 new jobs were created in May. Tax cuts have encouraged businesses to add employees; the fact that wages have
Garland
Journal Established 2002
An I Messenger Media Publication
increased by more than 2 percent suggests some slight tightening in the labor market. Good news, right? So why aren’t workers dancing? Black teens have hardly any reason to dance. Although the unemployment rate among Black teenagers dropped nearly ten percentage points, from 29 percent to 19.6 percent, a big part of this drop is contained in the fact that fewer teens are either working or looking for work. A year ago, there were 788,000 Black teens in the labor market, but the number had dropped to 681,000 last month. Thus, fewer teens were working last month (547,000) than a year ago (579,000). Even though many teens have dropped out of the labor market because they don’t think they can find work, it is likely that more will
look for work this summer. It is extremely unlikely that the lower unemployment rate for teens will sustain through the summer unless businesses are strongly motivated to hire part-time and temporary workers this summer. Teens have no reason to dance, but what about the rest of us? The unemployment rate for Black women is at an amazing low of 4.7 percent, more than two full percentage points lower than a year ago. The labor force participation of Black women is down slightly – there are about as many Black women in the labor force now as a year ago, despite population growth. Additionally, 45’s threats to cut the federal workforce, not yet substantially realized, will have a disproportionate effect on Black women, since about 20 percent of all Black
women work for the federal government. If you combine this with the threats to the social safety net, not yet realized, but anticipated, one can understand why few are dancing, even though the growth music is playing. After having passed massive tax cuts that will only increase the deficit, House Republicans are talking about budgetary “clawbacks�. Just this week, they have discussed cutting the food stamps by requiring more work of those who receive SNAP funding (a sizeable portion of SNAP recipients work but earn so little that they qualify for food assistance) and frozen some unspent funds from the child health program. House Speaker Paul Ryan, in his few remaining months in leadership, has pledged “entitlement reform� includ-
Cheryl Smith
Publisher publisher@garlandjournal.com
320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203
Advertising Editorial submissions Calendar
sales@garlandjournal.com editorial@garlandjournal.com calendar@garlandjournal.com
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
214-941-0110
ing Medicaid and Social Security cuts. Even with lower unemployment and modest wage growth, these “entitlement reforms� bode ill for many workers. Many would suggest that we simply celebrate the good news – lower unemployment rates and more new jobs are certainly worth noting. But some of the gains are shaky, not solid. Some are a function of people dropping out of the labor market. And some people’s economic condition will not improve, especially with anticipated policy changes. While aggregate numbers look great, some people aren’t dancing because they haven’t been invited to the party. Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist. Her latest book “Are We Better Off? Race, Obama and Public Policy� is available via www.amazon.com for booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com
CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS
The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no !VAILABLE .EWSSTANDS IN to help every person person, fearing no person, the AT Black Press strives Garland,Rowlett in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.
Free - Take One
Mesquite
Richardson GARLAND JOURNAL is published by I Messenger Enterprises, LLC., 320 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy, Dallas, TX 75203. GARLAND JOURNAL reserves all rights and privileges to accept or refuse any submissions to be printed in any issue of the publication. Views and opinions expressed by writers are not necessarily those of the publisher or our advertisers. GARLAND JOURNAL will, once notified, correct any error in the next issue. GARLAND JOURNAL is published & E.Dallas bi-monthly (1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month). Letters to the Editor are welcomed and encouraged but only signed letters will be published. All Ad submissions are due 3 days before publication date. GARLAND JOURNAL responsibility for unsolicited material Any use or reproduction in part or whole is forbidden without the express written consent of the publisher. Annual mail subscription rates are $60 for 12 months and $25 for digital subscriptions.
Volume X- Issue 243 August 1-15, 2012 Published 1st & 15th Each Month Phalconstar.com Garland, Texas Phone (972) 926-8503 Fax (903) 450-1397 1 Year Subscription $45.00 garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 4
7/3/18 2:02 PM
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
GARLAND JOURNAL
Our Nation’s Top Teachers Disagree with Ed Sec Devos on School Choice OP-ED by Dr. Elizabeth Primas
When the best educators in America traveled to Washington, D.C. for a series of events celebrating innovation in the classroom and to share best practices in K-12 education, they let officials at the Department of Education and the White House know exactly how they felt about the Trump Administration’s current push for school choice programs. According to edchoice.org, school choice programs allow, “public education funds to follow students to the schools or services that best fit their needs—whether that’s to a public school, private school, charter school, home school.” In April 2018, the Department of Education (ED) hosted the “Honoring Martin
Luther King Jr.’s Drum Major Legacy: Innovative Pathways to Success” celebration; the event was sponsored by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans in collaboration with the Center for FaithBased and Neighborhood Partnerships. The Education Department’s MLK Legacy event honored individuals who perform extraordinary acts of service in their communities, specifically those individuals who support high-quality education for children of color. Many of the awardees work with parents or community groups that provide primary care for children; some even provide educational support services outside of the traditional public school model. School choice became a hot topic during the event, as several attendees were visibly disgruntled at the
mention of the controversial approach. The Trump Administration has proposed to decrease funding to authorized investments for public schools while increasing funding opportunities for school choice programs and private school vouchers. Ninety percent of children in America attend public schools. Increased funding to school choice programs, while reducing funding to public schools is a strategy that leaves behind our most vulnerable students. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos has repeatedly said that she’s committed to uphold the intentions of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), the education law signed by President Barack Obama. However, the prioritization of school choice programs in the proposed FY2019 budget contradicts one of the original intentions of the law: to promote equity and increase access to high-quality education for all
students. Furthermore, prioritization of school choice isolates homeless children, migrant children, youth in foster care and children from military families. In fact, ESSA requires that school districts report student outcomes for these groups for the very first time. The 2018 Teacher of the Year awardees echoed similar concerns during their annual White House visit in April. The top teachers in the country reported that they did not approve of funding private schools at the expense of their most vulnerable, at-risk students. Every child should be entitled to high-quality education in the United States of America. Every neighborhood school should be equipped to provide high-quality courses and curriculum. Every student should have highly-qualified teachers and a menu of extra-curricular activities to choose from. Until the administration prioritizes the
equitable improvement of all schools, their verbal commitment to uphold the original intent of ESSA is just another “alternative fact.” Learn more about the Every Student Succeeds Act at nnpa.org/essa. Dr. Elizabeth Primas was the 2000 Teacher of the Year award recipient for Washington, D.C. Dr. Elizabeth Primas is an educator, who spent more than 40 years working towards improving education for children of diverse ethnicities and backgrounds. Dr. Primas is the program manager for the NNPA’s Every Student Succeeds Act Public Awareness Campaign. Follow Dr. Primas on Twitter @ElizabethPrima3. Dr. Elizabeth Primas, the program coordinator for the NNPA’s ESSA Public Awareness Campaign, says that, every student should have highly-qualified teachers and a menu of extra-curricular activities to choose from.
Dirk Nowitzki’s Heroes Celebrity Baseball Game Provides Healing, Laughter and Fun By Dorothy J Gentry Sports Editor
It was hot. A toasty 97 degrees – in the shade - when the game began. But the sell-out crowd didn’t notice. There was plenty of fun, food, laughter, dancing, cheering and more during Dirk Nowitzki’s Annual Heroes Celebrity Baseball Game. This year marked the 17th annual event and Dirk’s 7th year as host. Money raised benefitted the children’s charities of the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation and the Heroes Foundation. Big names such as current and former Dallas Cowboys Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, Sean Lee, DeMarcus Ware, Herschel Walker and Travis Frederick; Dallas Mavericks players including Dennis Smith Jr., Dwight Powell, Dorian Finney-Smith, Yogi Ferrell and Wesley Matthews, Mavs Owner Mark Cuban and DeSoto native and Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller were on hand to show their skills – or in many of their cases
Dirk Nowitzki
– lack thereof – on the baseball field as Blue Sox and White Sox. “We thank everyone for coming out and making this another special year, special event and sell-out, which for a charity baseball game is unbelievable,” Nowitzki said. “We don’t take that for granted. We are thankful for the fan support, the support from the community, local celebs, all the celebs that fly in to support this; we know you are pulled in a thousand different directions and we are humbled and glad that everyone is here.” One of the best moments of the night came just before the game be-
gan when Noah Silva, Rome Shubert and Trenton Beazley took to the mound. They are survivors of the recent Santa Fe High School shooting. Silva plays on the basketball team, while Shubert and Beazley play on the baseball team. They were there to throw out the first pitch. All three were shot May 8th when a teen gunman shot and killed 10 students, but showed heroism despite their injuries. Rome was shot in the back of the neck (the bullet went through) and Trenton was grazed in the back. Silva was
Ezekiel Elliott
struck in the buttocks and remains wheelchair-bound. “It’s really exciting. I feel real special to be here,” Noah said. “Noah is a basketball fan so Dirk is on his radar. The (Dirk’s) Foundation has been amazing and we are just grateful to be here,” NOah's momsaid. “He (Noah) is doing well.” Said Shubert: “It’s great seeing all these people out here and all the support. They’re showing their support for us and showing the support for everyone else.” Former Cowboy DeMarcus Ware led the Blue Sox to a 13-7 victory and earned MVP honors. Photo Credit: Dorothy J. Gentry
Dak Prescott
Muhammad sounds off on Dallas housing crisis By Thomas Muhammad
Nope I haven't written in a while, but after a friend brought to my attention a piece in the Dallas Morning News (many call the Dallas Morning Snooze) a “white” columnist --which is all they have since their “ethnic cleansing,” said a few things that pissed me off to the highest pissisivity!
slum-looking houses for poor black folks with new paint on them that lasts for maybe a couple of months and figure they should be satisfied. The writer then goes on to claim that the InnerCity Development Corporation (ICDC) or Diane Ragsdale “gave away a house to a woman who had been suffering from a domestic violence situation without a thorough explanation” when in fact HUD and the city had to sign off on that transfer. I won’t go into all that happened because of sensitive issues related, but you can say it was done for a greater good!
Homes built by ICDC
What he said could be seen as pure slander, if in fact we were that touchy. However there's one thing we’ve gotten used to is that “white” Dallas leadership will forever see "we people who are darker than blue" as impediments for their “gentrification plans” in the South Dallas - Fair Park communities. He showed a slum-looking house typical of what they believe ALL blacks should live in, completely surrounded with burglary bars. A prison! The house pictured was a Habitat for Humanity house. You know that white folks corporation providing
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 5
Then he says, "This latest look-see (Federal Audit) takes no one by surprise and has to do with something the City Council has spent a lot of time tussling over in recent months: community housing development organizations. Those are the private nonprofits that take federal money given to the city to build homes in their communities. In this town those communities are always South of Dallas." Yeah a real hater! Forgetting that ICDC has built over 250 homes with no burglar bars! He fails to mention they've (white North Dallas) has been taking money from this pot starting
with the $25 million dollar hit on those HUD funds back in the early 90s to start building "Yuppie" townhouses downtown, for decades. And none of those units were set asides for "Affordable Housing" as the money was supposed to assist! Remember especially you young people, a home is your best way to achieve the so-called American dream, so hurry and invest before white leadership catches up. Call ICDC at 214-915-9900. These white leadership people even misuse money meant for the homeless. Their Dallas mayor found The Bridge where they stockpile homeless people a million dollars just to close--their entrance from St Louis Street to a St Paul entrance, pitiful waste of tax payer funds to please white yuppies who complained they were seeing too many homeless people in the area. Fact is they were in the area long before them and they knew that before moving in! White leadership, led by the socalled King of the black people in Dallas, Lee Kleinman, has even convinced the damn Negro city council leadership to build a Deck Park in Oak Cliff near the Dallas Zoo. Yeah they always want to use our neighborhoods as play areas; forgetting a historic fact that President Barack Obama's Secretary of Transportation Ray Lahood came to Dallas and announced that they would provide $16.7 million in federal economic stimulus funds. At the time it was the largest funding for any transportation enhancement project in the state. Don't take my word for it look at the funding numbers in the box. Do you think those need-to-grow NEGROS will get that type of funds in Southern Dallas? HELL NO! And by the time you con-figure
(got that from the Clampits on The Beverly Hillbillies --yuck yuck!) numbers on the cost of the Margaret Hunt-Hill Bridge you'll really go nuts! Y'all betta pay attention to this notice below and get real! "How to Fund a Park Above a Freeway A little seed money helped turn a vision for Klyde Warren Park into a beautiful reality—just like in the movies!" Bottom line is we need to continue to sleep with our fists balled up cause they always comin G! Until then the Struggle Continues...
JULY 4, 2018
5
Ask ALMA By Alma Gill
Baby’s Daddy
Dear Alma I have made the mistake of a lifetime and I just don’t know how to get over it. I was out with friends, met a guy at the club and we hooked up. He was never anyone I’d ever want to get in a relationship with. He didn’t have a steady job and was still living with his mom. He is cute, but doesn’t have anything going on right now. I recently found out I was pregnant. Yep, I’m having a girl. I sent him a text for us to meet, so I could tell him, but he didn’t show up. I called and we talked and decided to meet. AGAIN, he didn’t show up. I have my own job and my own place. I don’t know why he won’t step up and take responsibility. He won’t even an- swer my text messages anymore or answer the phone. I don’t understand how he could act this way, when I meet all the requirements of being a good woman; he is just throwing it all away. I could go back to the club and see him. I know where he hangs out. How in the world can I raise my baby by myself? Alma, what can I do to get him to do the right thing? One-Time Hookup, Lifetime Responsibility
You put yourself in a position to become a single mom, so rise above the foolishness and handle your business. Dear One-Time, Stop blaming him for your baby blunder. That’s right, I said it. He wasn’t “good father” material when you met him. What were you thinking, if you watched “Daddy’s Girls” and clicked your heels three times, things would work in your favor? You put yourself in a position to become a single mom, so rise above the foolishness and handle your business. Do what you gotta do to build a home for you and your daughter. Plan, budget, save. You can do it. Stop depending on someone, who isn’t dependable. Stop reaching to rely on someone, who is not reliable. Stop reacting to someone, who is not dealing with the reality of having a child. I could see if he had a job, could pass a drug test and scheduled regular yearly teeth cleanings, but that’s not who you’re dealing with. The truth of the matter is, you don’t even know this guy Your daughter is a blessing, so act like it. This sweet baby can’t make your one-nighter all of a sudden become ma ture, love or want to be with you, so re- move her from that role. It won’t be easy cause life ain’t easy but your days can be full of love and laughter. Why don’t you focus and commit yourself to being the best mother you can be. This isn’t the end Sweet Pea, it’s the beginning. The beginning of a new love called parenting. Give her the amazing future she deserves and, in turn, she’ll be the motivation you need to be the greatest you can be. Why don’t you chose to make the rest of your life the absolute best of your life. I know you can do it! . . 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.
7/3/18 2:02 PM
6
JULY 4, 2018
A Way Out of This Out of the darkness, be drawn to the light. It will warm and comfort you and turn your day from the night.
Have a safe and happy summer! READ a few books, write some letters.
Do you know this man?
La Juana and Patricia Barton
authors of Faithful Remembrances Volume I
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 6
sha. Before I go any further, I must say, these darlings are bonafide, so book them. Come to them with an offer and make sure you put your money where your mouth is. They are proven, they’ve done the favors and it’s time for them to get paid! Now Imaj is a darling! Sure her father is actor Phillip Michael Thomas of Sparkle and Miami Vice fame, her Momager is the talented, smart and beautiful Kassandra, and her Godmother is none other than the beautiful activist/actress/author/ambassador Attallah Shabazz; but her claim to fame is her singing (in five different languages —English, Spanish, German, Chinese and French), writing, designing, instrument playing, directing, composing, and on and on. Imaj is a country-western singer with a beautiful voice. She travels the country performing and you can also purchase her book and CDs. She really is America’s Sweetheart! She’ll make a country-western music lover out of you! Check her out at www.loveimaj.com VirLinda, although hailing from Tyler, Texas still fits the bill. She’s one of our own. After appearing in The Color Purple, as the Church Lady Darlene and Shug Avery (us) in Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple national tour, she returned to Dallas where she continues to sing and star in plays. VirLinda has performed for President Barack Obama at the White House and most recently she appeared with another local sensation, Dareia
Tolbert, in the hit play, Soul Purpose. County Road (CR) 310 East & West, off of the main highway in Shady Grove, where VirLinda grew up, was renamed “VirLinda Lane East & West.” She has a CD for sale. Check her out at www.virlindastanton.com Then there’s Ptosha Storey. She has hit the big time and folks who are in the know remember her in her Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing Arts days or as a student at SMU. She’s never forgotten her roots and we can’t forget her. Petite but full of energy, talent and skills; Ptosha (the P is silent and the O is long) is an all-around athlete, singer, director, acting coach, voice over artist, and, she is my sorority sister — a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. A star of television, film and theatre, Ptosha plays Cookie’s ride or die friend behind bars, Chyna. As Tilda, she was definitely not the person to mess with in If Loving you Is Wrong and she’s the sister every woman wants by her side in the 2018 movie, Acrimony. All three were at this year’s Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon. You see, as we climb we should look back and also lift up others — as these women are all doing! And that’s a message we should all take under consideration. Look at the person next to you, in the next room, in your house, at your school
Autos Wanted GOT AN OLDER CAR, VAN OR SUV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1-855-558-3509 CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/ Models 2000-2016! Any Condition. Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-9851806
DISH Network. 190+ Channels. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/ month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1-855-837-9146
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
877-373-8477 Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU?
or workplace. Are you spreading and showing the love? Does someone else have to come to you and tell you how great someone close to you is or are you seeing the greatness? Sure some say familiarity breeds contempt. That is sad. During a visit to the nation’s Capitol, I watched as people seemed to part the waters for U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. At home I hear people saying “we need term limits” or criticizing with blanket statements that provide no context or research. In Washington DC, the only other persons I saw getting any real attention were senior legislators (like Mrs. Johnson), or the young Kennedy legislator (yeah, you know of THE Kennedys!) There are places where seniority is respected and actually necessary! It’s important to note that just like when you are looking for a leader, you should look in the mirror; you shouldn’t overlook the greatness that is right there amongst you! Try pulling back on the negativity and counter by showing love, volunteering support, giving a shout out or happy face emoji — something that shows that your heart is capable of loving. A good friend would always ask, “Are you capable of being lovable?” If you are you will see and appreciate more of what is offered during your lifetime.
CADNET CLASSIFIEDS
Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-520-7938
Everything imaginable rearranged by death.
Weep if you must but keep moving towards the light.
MY TRUTH, continued from front page
Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-800-508-2824
It will show, without a doubt, that your strength comes from Him.
Although weakened by sadness, muster all you might.
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
Miscellaneous
Allowing you to see the good times and find strength in them
Outlining the measure of the dash that you dwell on earth.
GARLAND JOURNAL
Become a published author! Publications sold at all major secular & specialty Christian bookstores. CALL Christian Faith Publishing for your FREE author submission kit. 1-855-548-5979 Lung Cancer? And Age 60+? You And Your Family May Be Entitled To Significant Cash Award. Call 866-428-1639 for Information. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket. A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation’s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-844-722-7993 TV INTERNET PHONE $29.99 each! We are Your LOCAL Installers! Bundle Services and Save Huge! $29.99 each! Hurry Call Now this Offer Ends Soon! 1-888-
858-0262 ENJOY 100% guaranteed, delivered to-thedoor Omaha Steaks! SAVE 75% PLUS get 4 more Burgers & 4 more Kielbasa FREE! Order The Family Gourmet Buffet - ONLY $49.99. Call 1-855-895-0358 mention code 51689LCX or visit www.omahasteaks. com/cook03 Cross Country Moving, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers. Get Free quote on your Long distance move 1-800-511-2181 HughesNet Satellite Internet ? 25mbps for just $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE OffPeak Data. No phone line required! FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation! Call 1-855-440-4911 Spectrum Triple Play! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-855-652-9304 Stop OVERPAYING for your prescriptions! SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy, compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1-855-541-5141 Promo Code CDC201725 Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: 1-888909-9905 18+. Wanted to Buy Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes. Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads.com for more information
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.
7/3/18 2:02 PM
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
GARLAND JOURNAL
JULY 4, 2018
7
Hollywood Hernandez LIVE By Hollywood Hernandez
Ladies are great in OCEAN'S 8 Ocean's 8 is the female version of the Ocean's 11-13 series that starred George Clooney and Brad Pitt. Sandra Bullock is the ring leader of this crew and after five years in prison she's devises a plan to steal a necklace with a value of $150 million dollars. To the film's credit there is no time in the movie where the female players are short changed because of their gender. These ladies are great at the con game and they give the good old boys
a run for their money. Bullock plays Debbie Ocean, the long lost sister of Danny Ocean. Fresh out of prison she goes to work gathering a team to help her with her plan to steal a priceless piece of jewelry right off the neck of a famous actress (Anne Hathaway) at a big fashion gala in New York. Her crew includes Cate Blanchett as her main partner, Mindy Kailing as the on the spot jewelry maker and a small but pivotal role by
Rihanna as the computer hacker and security specialist who wisecracks her way through the movie. Ocean's 8 is a really well done "caper film" with enough interesting plot twists to keep you engaged for the entire hour and 50 minute movie. The best part of the movie is watching Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett hand pick their crew of criminal experts. It is a movie that is very "star driven." It also, very smart-
ly, uses real fashion icons and celebrities to give the high fashion gala a good dose of realism; including the Kardashians, Tommy Hilfiger, Matt Damon, Katie Holmes, and Tyga in cameo roles. Ocean's 8 is a fun ride and a welcome reprieve from all of the summer's super hero and special effects movies. The movie is light summer fare during a summer of serious films with more gun play than a graphic video game. It's also a movie
Johnson and Culberson
S
By Sameer Assanie Washington, DC – Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Congressman John Culberson recently attended a presentation of the Hearing Voices of Support Perception Changing Art Installation created by the Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America (SARDAA). “Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses affect far too many Americans for the stigma around such ailments to exist,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “My experience as a nurse provided me a unique perspective, and my work in Congress has attempted to address this. Much more needs to be done to give Americans living with neuro-psychiatric illnesses access to the health care treatments and support they need to lead positive, fulfilling lives. " I am appreciative to my colleague, Congressman Culberson, and to SARDAA for their commitment to improving the lives of those battling these illnesses.” “It’s an honor to support
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 7
THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW
tacey Abrams is the former Democratic Minority Leader in Georgia’s State Legislature, the first woman to lead either party in the Georgia General Assembly, and the first African American to lead in the House of Representatives. She is also running in Georgia to become the first female African American Governor in America in May, 2018. The first elected black Governor in the U.S. was Lawrence Douglas Wilder. He was elected Governor of Virginia on Jan.13, 1990. As I interviewed Stacey Abrams I knew it did not matter if she won the race for Georgia Governor, for me this was a history making moment. I call these moment ‘standing in the energy of greatness.’ Her experiences growing up poor in Georgia, and how she beat the odds to succeed are what she has articulated in her new book, MINORITY LEADER:
that title is that a number of us who come from positions that are considered to have less power than majority. Weather it is because of race, gender, region, ethnicity, economics, sexual orientation, we don’t see ourselves as the most power or the most likely to hold power. To me this is a conversation how do you get power and how do you do the best that you can with it. VBS: Your book will tell us how to get power? Everyone wants power so give us an example. SA: The very first chapter is dare to want more. A
Attendees view messages about schizophrenia and psychiatric illnesses
the work of the Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America, and to be a part of ending the stigma that surrounds this disability,” said Congressman Culberson. “There is hope, treatment and a bright future for our neighbors and loved ones living with a psychosis disorder. I’m proud to join my colleague, Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30) to raise my
voice in support of everyone in this community – the patients, families and caregivers – so that people living with schizophrenia and related disorders will feel more supported and accepted throughout their treatment and recovery.” Founded in 2008, Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America is a national non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to
Joseph Jackson aged Jermaine and Jackie to join Tito in forming a group, later adding Marlon to it, and eventually Michael. Five years later The Jackson 5 played New York’s Apollo Theatre in Harlem and in 1969 they were signed to Motown Records. Their first single, “I Want You Back,” was released that same year and shot straight to No. 1. The Jackson 5 set a world record as the first musical act ever to sell 10 million records in 10 months. With Jackson managing his children, they became world-renown stars. “If I could go back there, to us being those kids in Gary, I’d trade all of this in for that,” Jermaine Jackson said. “To much has happened, you get lawyers, agents and everyone pulling at you. It wrecks
Read more and win tickets at www.hollywoodhernandezlive.com
Valder Beebe Show
Working to end Psychiatric Illness Stigma
Congresswoman Johnson speaking at a ceremony where she and Congressman John Culberson were presented awards by the Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America.
that empowers women. It shows what woman can do when they all work together for a common purpose; even if that purpose is committing a crime. The movie is rated PG-13 and on my "Hollywood Popcorn Scale" I rate Ocean's 8 a LARGE.
the family,” he said. As the calendar turned to the 1980s, the patriarch began to lose his grip on his sons’ careers, particularly Michael, who under other management would turn out the groundbreaking album, “Off the Wall,” and then the supremely popular and world’s bestselling LP, “Thriller.” Jackson also earned a reputation as a strict disciplinarian who sometimes went over the top when administering punishment. During a 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jackson described “regurgitating” whenever he’d see his dad. “Yeah, he regurgitates all the way to the bank,” Joseph Jackson said after Michael’s comment. “I taught them to be tough. We raised them in a tough neighborhood, where
improving the lives of people living with schizophrenia and related neurological brain illnesses through support, education, and collaboration. SARDAA believes that with appropriate medical treatment and support, a person with schizophrenia or a related brain illness has the opportunity to live a life free of discrimination.
continued from front page
other kids were in gangs and getting into drugs. I didn’t want them to be soft. I whipped him with a switch and a belt. I never beat him. You beat someone with a stick.” Jackson also managed the careers of his daughters, Latoya and Janet, who first earned fame as “Penny,” an abused foster child on the 1970s hit television show, “Good Times.” She later appeared on “Diff’rent Strokes,” and “Fame.” Today, Janet is considered one of the world’s biggest music stars and she also has several film credits under her belt, including Tyler Perry’s “Why Did I Get Married?” In 2011, Janet reflected on her relationship with her father. “I wish our relationship
was different,” she said. “I think my father means well and wants nothing but the best for his kids… but that is not necessarily the right way.” Although Jackson remains married to Katherine, in 1974 he fathered another daughter, Joh’Vonnie, out of wedlock. Earlier this year, Joh’Vonnie described Joseph as a loving father. For his part, Joseph Jackson said he held no regrets. “I’m glad I was tough, because look what I came out with,” he said. “I came out with some kids that everybody loved all over the world.” Stacy Brown is an NNPA Newswire Contributor and co-author of “Michael Jackson: The Man Behind the Mask: An Insider’s Story of the King of Pop.” Follow Stacy on Twitter @stacybrownmedia.
How to Lead From the Outside and Make Real Change (Henry Holt, April 2018). An empowering blueprint for outsiders who seek to lead and challenge the status quo. Written with the awareness of the challenges that hinder those who exist outside the traditional structure of power – women, people of color, LGBTQ, millennials – it aims to show readers that they can use their differences to rise to the top and leverage real, world-affecting change. VBS: What is the title of your book? SA: MINORITY LEADER: How to Lead From the Outside and Make Real Change VBS: Why that title? SA: I served as the house Minority Leader in Georgia for seven years. The large ethos behind
number of us edit our sense of our ambitions. We let ourselves settle. Before anyone tells us no, we tell ourselves no. And what I want people to understand is that we capable. We have the capacity for more. I gave myself a list of things I wanted to accomplish. Because I was able to do this I’ve been privileged to meet many of my goals. I think that sense of method, that animation of who I wanted to be has helped me to over a number of obstacles that may have stopped me if I was another person. Hear Stacey Abrams …..Complete interview and more THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW; soundcloud.com/valderbeebeshow, 411RadioNetwork.com [Jazz & Gospel stations] and VBS affiliate broadcasters. ValderBeebeShow.com
7/3/18 2:02 PM
8
JULY 4, 2018
Karen Carter-Richards continues legacy at Houston Forward Times, continued from front page her mother really needed her assistance. “[My mother] had been running the newspaper by herself since the death of my father in 1971,” Richards said. “I found it very hard to walk away from a business that had taken care of me all of my life.” For Carter Richards, who took over after Doll Carter’s death in 2010, everything has proven bigger in Texas. Through hard work and being dedicated to her parents’ legacy, Carter Richards has helped cement the Houston Forward Times as the South’s largest Black-owned and independently published newspaper, carrying on the legacy of her parents. She’s expanded the newspaper’s mission and has worked diligently to ensure that it remains the most trusted voice for African Americans and all readers in and around Houston. The Forward Times has been honored with various local and national awards and now boasts a paid circulation of roughly 65,000, according to its website. “My parents always had a love for the community and I guess it passed on to me,” Carter Richards said, admitting that running the newspaper wasn’t something that she thought she’d ultimately do. With great power comes even greater responsibility and Richards said that she understands what can’t be broken is the trust and commitment that the Forward Times and other African American-owned newspapers enjoy in the community. “The Black Press has always been and will continue to be relevant. We are the voice, the true voice of our people,” Carter Richards said. “We have recorded our
garland journal 7 4 2018 .indd 8
GARLAND JOURNAL
WWW.GARLANDJOURNAL.COM
The Garland Journal welcomes Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc
history for 191 years like no other media could ever do. We have recorded many stories…our celebrations, our injustices and those hidden treasured stories that came from our communities that we have always found value in,” she said. Serving on the board of the NNPA has been a tremendous honor, Carter Richards said; it’s just another way in which she walks in her parents’ footsteps. “My family has been a part of NNPA for over 50 years. Both of my parents held positions on the executive board, so I am very proud to carry on that legacy,” Carter Richards said. Carter Richards also expressed some pride when noting how the Forward Times has adapted to digital formats and the World Wide Web. Carter Richards said the Web has, in a sense, transformed the weekly into a daily and the Forward Times’ digital and print demographics provide the paper with great coverage. The Houston Forward Times has won the MillerCoors NNPA Merit Award for Digital Excellence multiple times. Of the more important messages she can relay to readers and others, Carter Richards said that one stands out. “Support the Black Press,” Carter Richards said. “If you are not subscribing to the Black newspapers in your city, please do it today. No one will tell your story like the Black Press will. There is strength in numbers and we need the support of our community.” Stacy Brown is an NNPA Newswire Contributor and co-author of “Michael Jackson: The Man Behind the Mask: An Insider’s Story of the King of Pop.” Follow Stacy on Twitter @ stacybrownmedia.
Black Clergy jailed,
difficult for people to vote in Ohio, and given the injustices, this court continues to perpetuate. Like Dr. King, the nine who were arrested—Poor People’s Campaign cochair the Rev. Liz Theoharis, D.C. clergy the Revs. Jimmie Hawkins, Graylan Hagler and William Lamar IV, and the Revs. Rob and Hershey Stephens from the Fort Washington Collegiate Church in New York City)—were subjected to extremely harsh conditions. No threat to anyone, they were shackled, placed in handcuffs and leg irons, confined to roach-infested cells with nothing to rest their heads on, but a metal slab. This is the 21st century, but you wouldn’t know it by the way these clergies were treated. Yet, their actions and those of the Poor People’s Campaign are writing the contemporary letter from the Birmingham jail. Their brief incarceration, in the name of justice, is part of a larger movement to bring attention to increasing poverty and injustice, even in the face of economic expansion. Like Dr. King’s Poor People’s campaign, this 21st century Poor People’s Campaign, launched fifty years later, is an attack on poverty, racism, and militarism, and also ecological devastation and our nation’s “moral dev-
astation.” At the 2018 Rainbow PUSH International convention on June 15, Rev. Barber railed against interlocking injustices that did not begin with our 45th President, but have been exacerbated by the depravity he represents. In a rousing address that wove humor, statistics, public analysis and a scathing attack on our nation’s immorality, Barber argued that “the rejected,” which may comprise more than half of our nation, will lead to the revival of our nation. Who would have thought that nine faith leaders would be among the rejected? Who would have thought that Dr. King would have been? But Dr. King eagerly embraced the status of “rejected.” He once preached, “I choose to identify with the underprivileged. I choose to identify with the poor. I choose to give my life for the hungry. I choose to give my life for those who have been left out of the sunlight of opportunity.” Rev. Liz Theoharis told Democracy Now’s Amy Goodman that the conditions she and fellow clergy experienced, while uncomfortable, were the same conditions poor inmates experienced. That’s the power, in some ways, of the Poor People’s Campaign. Clergy and others are forcing the
NNPA Awards, sponsors that included Ford, General Motors and Coca-Cola. The Miami Times took home 12 Merit Awards. The Birmingham Times won the John H. Sengstacke Award for General Excellence Award. The Miami Times also earned an award in the General Excellence category that focused on the number of points earned throughout the ceremony. The North Dallas Gazette earned first place in the Robert S. Abbott Best Editorial Award while The Washington Informer and The Final Call, respectively, took home second and third place awards in the category. The Los Angeles Wave took first place in the Emory O. Jackson Best Column Writing category with The Washington Informer and Insight News earning second and third place finishes. The St. Louis American, a perennial winner at the NNPA Merit Awards, cashed in eight awards, this year, including first place finishes for Best Entertainment Section, Best Use of Photographs, Best Original Advertising, Best Circulation Promotion, and the Miller Coors A. Phillip Randolph Messenger Award for Digital Excellence. The Philadelphia Tribune won seven awards, including first place awards for Best Church Section, Best Business Sec-
continued from front page issue, lifting their voices, making connections, claiming the discomfort and pain of the rejected, embracing the fact that they, too, are among the rejected. To shackle clergy simply for praying is to exhibit a peculiar form of cruelty and inhumanity. Shackling is reminiscent of enslavement; shackling is a method of humiliation; shackling is an attempt to use the harsh lash of unjust law on the backs of those who pray for just law. Rev. William Lamar IV, who has been arrested on three consecutive Mondays for protest action said that the June 12 arrests and treatment were the harshest, he has yet experienced. In Washington, D.C., people who are arrested for protesting are usually given a ticket that requires a court appearance and a likely fine. What did the shackling say about the hallowed sacredness of the “Supreme” Court? Shackling clergy for praying is like condemning the Sun for shining. Unjust law enforcement can shackle arms and legs, but not movements. Harsh treatment of leaders in the Poor People’s Champaign only strengthens resistance against injustice, racism, poverty, and ecological devastation.
continued from front page
tion, and Best Sports Section. Other winners included the Chicago Crusader, the AFRO-American, Seattle Medium, Los Angeles Sentinel, Houston Defender, the New Tri-State Defender, Richmond Free Press, the New Journal and Guide, the Atlanta Voice, the Indianapolis Recorder, and Insight News. “We are all winners even if you didn’t hear your named call,” said Amelia Ashley-Ward, NNPA Foundation Chair and publisher of the San Francisco Sun-Reporter. “When one of us wins, we all wins.” For the 2018 Merit Awards, publishers were independently judged in 20 different journalistic categories and Ashley-Ward said it’s all part of the Foundation’s goal of continuing to deliver on its vision to preserve the historical legacy of the Black Press while expanding its reach and impact in the United States and abroad through technology and innovation in today’s marketplace. Following the awards presentation, Macy’s hosted an after party where publishers, writers, sponsors and others enjoyed cocktails and live entertainment. The theme of the 2018 convention was “Celebrating 191 Years of the Black Press in America: Sustaining, Engaging and Mobilizing Black Communities.” “Since the first publication of Free-
dom’s Journal in 1827, the Black Press has remained on the frontlines of reporting and distributing the news, achievements, challenges, aspirations and ongoing advances in the cause and mission of sustainable development and progress for African Americans and all others who cry out for freedom and justice,” said NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. Brenda H. Andrews, the publisher of the New Journal and Guide and host of this year’s convention, said that the Black Press lends an authentic and needed voice to the issues and concerns of continuing racial economic, income and health disparities. The Black Press also highlights the need for quality education for children, who live in inner city and rural communities and are often forgotten. Andrews said the high mass incarceration rate of people of color and other vital quality of life challenges are highlighted each week on the pages of the Black Press. “We also offer those feel good stories that enhances our communities’ esteem about who we are, as people of color,” Andrews said. Stacy Brown is an NNPA Newswire Contributor and co-author of “Michael Jackson: The Man Behind the Mask: An Insider’s Story of the King of Pop.” Follow Stacy on Twitter @stacybrownmedia.
7/3/18 2:02 PM