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VOL 6 ISSUE 19

JANUARY 6, 2017

I Messenger

JANUARY 6, 2017

A Legacy of

Service

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I Messenger Dallas’ city manager ready for challenges

JANUARY 6, 2017

VOL 6 ISSUE 19

2017 is full of surprises and government management challenges to expect the unand he exudes confidence, expected. The year is about passion, enthusiasm, comchanges and new beginnings mitment and a genuine deas is evidenced in the activity sire to do the right thing. in Dallas and Dallas County.

While there are citizens The year begins with the who think that the city manswearing -in of former judge ager form of government is Faith Johnson as the Dallas not right for a city as large County District Attorney. as Dallas, Mr. Broadnax says T.C. Broadnax and Cheryl Smith The city of Dallas has a new it’s the best because the city city manager taking over on February 1 manager “has to be responsive� to the entire Quit Playin’ and in addition to dealing with a number city. He says he will listen to the mayor and of hot-button issues; T.C. Broadnax has the the rest of the city council and he will also 7 daunting task of hiring a new police chief. listen to the community.

During a recent visit with Mr. Broadnax, “I start with community first,� he said. “I the topics ranged from the weather, which wanted to actually get out, grab the streets, was double that in his present home of Taco- go to the communities and see the needs.� ma, WA, where it was 19 degrees, to underMany of those needs are daunting and standing the awesome task waiting for the could be overwhelming for some. but Mr. University of North Texas alum.

Broadnax says he grew up in some of the Admittedly there’s a lot going on and he same types of neighborhoods. expects to be busy, but Mr. Broadnax apHe knows that homelessness, redeveloppeared calm and excited as he discussed ment, gentrification, mental illness, affordlong-term solutions. able housing, employment will have to be He said he’s blessed and humbled by addressed. And yes, there’s also the budget the support and is committed to not letting and an upcoming city council election. !VAILABLE AT .EWSSTANDS IN those supporters down. And for the doubtGet ready because this Alpha male, who

AT of .EWSSTANDS IN Alpha FraterniAlpha Kappa

Alpha ers, if there are any, he says he plans to re- is also a!VAILABLE member Alpha Phi move those doubts and exceed their expec- ty,Garland,Rowlett says you will see him out and

about.

He

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tations. hopes to get Mesquite involved across the

city, espeAs he prepares to leave Tacoma, where he cially withRichardson youth programs like the Boys & has served as city manager since 2012, Mr. Girls Clubs. & E.Dallas Broadnax says he feels as though he will be He said he wants to inspire the next city on a “continual probation.� manager.

But he’s up for the challenge. He has alCheryl Smith 5th Each Month Phalconstar.com Garland, Texas Phone (972) 926-8503 Fax (903) 450-1397 1 Year Subscription $45.00 most 25 years of experience in city/county

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JANUARY 6, 2017

DISD urged to reject Anti-Diversity Proposal

By John Proctor

President and Chairman Regional Black Contractors Association of North Texas

The Regional Black Contractors Association’s mission is to advocate for and advance the development and growth of African-American owned businesses John Proctor and their capacity.

This contributes to and participates in the self-determination, economic growth and prosperity of African-American communities in North Texas, thereby creating a strong economic base that develops, empowers and supports the ongoing success of these communities and our businesses at large.

Unfortunately, despite the gains in civil and human rights experienced in America at large over the last five decades, the Architecture, Engineer-

ing and Construction (AEC) industry has lagged well behind in terms of diversity, inclusion and racial justice. And, we are sad to report, that a measure now being considered by the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) demonstrates why this shameful inequity persists.

Last February, DISD made a groundbreaking decision in awarding a minority-owned firm a prime contract as one of three project managers of a part of the historic $1.6 BILLION bond program. Despite the fact that minority contractors in general, and African American-owned contractors in particular, have over the past three decades have successfully worked on every capital improvement program, it is only now, well into the twenty-first century that they have been deemed worthy to be prime contractors and not just subcontractors.

And now, less than one year into the multi-year program, DISD management has proposed terminating these contractors and taking the project management function in-house. This proposal is deeply troubling on many fronts, and the RBCA

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believes it poses a threat to DISD taxpayers, to the voters who supported this bond program in good faith (including the African American voters who provided the largest percentage of support in the bond election), to the minority contracting community, and to the district itself, which deserves to get the utmost in value for its contracting dollars.

Let us elaborate: First, the whole reason that the project management has emerged as a distinct, separate discipline executed by separate companies is that it provides an important check and balance on major construction projects.

Project management firms serve as owner’s representatives, and keep the general contracting firms on task, on time and on budget. Indeed, it is not unusual for project management firms to save project owners far more than they are paid.

The larger and more complex the program, the more crucial it is that sound, tight, and independent project management systems be in place, and DISD certainly doesn’t have this expertise inhouse.

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I Messenger

JANUARY 6, 2017

Iota Phi Lambda- Psi Chapter

Their green jackets or tee shirts 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

2002 - Past Psi President Vahnita Loud

1997 - Soror of the Year Shirley Pleasant

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1983 - Past Psi President Dwala Brown

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 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 is well documented by the efforts of its close-knit members and the communities they

Soror of the Year

2004 Soror of the Year Rosa Henderson

2000 - Past Psi President 1986 - Soror of the Talmadge Year Juanda Wallace Jacques

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 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.”

2012 Women of the Year- 2013 Woman of the Year

-CLS

2005 - Soror of the Year Nona Fisher

1996 - Emerald Ball

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I Messenger

JANUARY 6, 2017

Iota Phi Lambda - Psi Chapter - over the years

Psi Chapter Pelati

1982 - Membership 1977 - Sorors with Honorary Soror Julia Scott Reed

Sorors and Youth volunteering at Black Rodeo

Sorors meet with Dr. Robinson at African American Museum

1989 - Pledge Line

2016- Woman of the Year honoree Cheryl Smith

Psi Chapter hostesses at Frontiers of Flight Museum 1981 - McDonalds Golf Tournament 1984 Woman of the Year Celebration

Donating Clothes to Attitude and Attire

Men of Iota 2013 Regional Soror of the Year

1991 - National President Dorethea Hornbuckle

1979 - Group Photo

Psi Sorors volunteering at Girls Day

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1988 - Soror of the Year Gwen Brewer

1992 - National Pres - SWRD - Past Psi President

1992 - Queens for the Day

President Daphne Hornbuckle with Black Cowboys

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I Messenger Each April Psi Chapter celebrates women and youth in business. During the month, Psi Chapter hosts a business luncheon where the chapter honors women entrepreneurs, community leaders as well as youth entrepreneurs and youth community leaders. All of the proceeds from the luncheon is used to support the various scholarships we offer, including a scholarship for teen moms who plans to go to college. The 2014 - Business Month photos are from past Business Month - FIL Alexis Roberson performing celebrations.

JANUARY 6, 2017

Iota Phi Lambda

In 1929, Mrs. Lola M. Parker of Chicago, Illinois founded Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, a national business and professional women's organization. The sorority was established to offset the results caused by the great depression and to add prestige to career businesswomen and the field of business.

Stephanie 2014 Business Month - Psi Youth at business workshop

Dilworth

Psi Chapter has a very active youth program that is designed to develop leadership skills in youth and foster an appreciation for community involvement.

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.

2014 - Business Month - Honorees Group Photo

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

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

2014 - Business Month 2014 Business Month - Custom Security Doors Tour group

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.

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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.

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.

1979 - Psi President Joyce Jones.

Baylor Breast Cancer event with Ms TX

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I Messenger

JANUARY 6, 2017

Mine eyes - King in 2017

By Vincent L. Hall

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 “AltRight” 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 freemen 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

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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!

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I Messenger

Community Calendar

Community Lawyering Center Open for Business - Mondays – Saturdays; days and evenings by appointment. 4716 Elsie Faye Heggins, Dallas, 75210. For info, call: 469-351-0024 or x0025 Join The Honorable Carolyn King Arnold, Councilwoman District 4 2017 Bond Town Hall Meetings Tuesday, January 17, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Kiest Park Recreational Center 3080 South Hampton Road Thursday, January 19 11:30 AM–1 PM Beckley Saner Recreational Center 114 W. Hopson Avenue Dallas, Texas

January 6 Women of Influence Mixer Azure Restaurant 4080 Beltline Road, Addison 5-8pm

January 7

Reception honoring the newest Honorary Members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. at Hilton Lincoln Centre, Dallas 6:30p.m.

January 13

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

***** 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

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JANUARY 6, 2017

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.

January 14

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

January 15 “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.

January 17 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.

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

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 9:30 am WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE DALLAS MUNICIPAL COURTS

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The National Black Marathoners Association - A healthier congregation is the foundation 9:30AM to 4:00PM (lunch incl), Cooper Hotel & Conference Center, 12200 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230 For questions, emai 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

Jan 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 Author Ginger McKnight-Chavers will review and autograph IN THE HEART OF TEXAS 3p.m. at the AfricanAmerican Museum in Fair Park

January 16

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!

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JANUARY 6, 2017

The State of the Affordable Care Act As we enter a new year with a new Congress, many Americans have begun reflecting on how their families will be affected by legislation that could possibly impact their access to health coverage.

FROM THE HILL by

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Normally people approach a new year with joy, happiness and hope for the opportunities that are ahead.

vices, and holding insurance companies accountable to their patients and their policies.

However, in the first few days of 2017 the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is once again being challenged by a Republican-led Congress whose goal is to repeal and dismantle the health coverage for thousands of people in our district and millions in our state.

For millions of Americans who struggled to afford health insurance, including Americans with pre-existing conditions, young adults, and low-income families, the ACA finally put affordable health care within reach.

Over the past six years families were able to take comfort in the security that they and their loved ones gained -- treatment for a pre-existing condition, or a regular check-up without paying out of pocket. Yet for many Americans, it is now a time of anxiety.

The Affordable Care Act has improved the health care and financial security of every American, no matter where he or she gets health insurance.

For those already with insurance, the law made health coverage more affordable, more reliable, and higher quality – guaranteeing access to free preventive check-ups and health ser-

The ACA also saved seniors thousands of dollars in drug costs and put Medicare on a more sustainable path, helping protect the Medicare promise into the future.

Repealing the ACA without a new plan to replace those who are currently insured will bring about unwarranted chaos and confusion. Thanks to the enactment of the ACA in 2010 – the uninsured rate in Texas has fallen by 28 percent, which resulted in more than 1.7 million Texans gaining health coverage.

More than 4.7 million Texans (seniors, children, and people with disabilities) are covered by Medicaid, Medicare or the Children’s Health Insurance

Program. The people affected most will be the middle class and low-wage working families.

Additionally over 13 million Texans were able to receive health insurance through employer-sponsored health plans.

While there are of course improvements that could be made to the health care law to strengthen the protections and further lower costs, the ACA is paving the way for increased access to affordable insurance for working people.

We cannot lose sight of the millions of Americans who depend on the ACA to keep their families happy and healthy all year round. I will continue to work to ensure that the Affordable Care Act stays in place, despite the uproar and support Republicans have put forth to dismantle it.

I will push for Texas to expand Medicaid so that more Texans can receive the same benefits that millions of Americans in Medicaid expansion states currently receive.

During the 115th Congress, I will make it my goal to improve the law so that we can fulfill the generations-long struggle to make health care a right, not a privilege, for all Americans.

Learn how you can receive $100,000 for college funding, by investing $7,000.

This little known unique financial strategy is used by wealthy individuals to create large amounts of money daily. To receive free details on how to get access to this financial strategy, please call 214-962-0951. This opportunity is available only for those who can invest $7,000. This program is limited so call today.

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I Messenger

JANUARY 6, 2017

I’m trying to be his ride or die chick but I don’t want to go to jail!

Dear Alma:

I can’t give you all the details, but let’s just say my boyfriend is doing something that makes a lot of money, but it’s illegal. If he gets caught, “we” could go to jail.

I love him and I’ve always supported him. He was there for me when I didn’t have anyone and helped me financially complete my degree and purchase my condo. I don’t want to leave him now that I’m gainfully employed, but I do worry about him getting caught.

Sometimes I feel like I’m living a double life. Now that my feet are firmly planted and I’m making a good salary, I would like for him to go legit, but he’s not having it.

He says the money’s too good.

How can I get him to see, we can leave

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Ask Alma:

by Alma Gill

NNPA News Wire Columnist 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.

that life and do well and have a good life?

Down for My Man Dear Down for My Man,

Some people will sell their soul for a diamond-crusted, fried bologna sandwich, while others will work hard, all day long at doing what’s right.

The road to righteousness is long, undoubtedly unfair and ruthlessly rough. The sidewalk leading to half-baked shenanigans won’t let you stand up on a slippery slope.

You have to decide which path is best for you right now, today and tomorrow, not yesterday, six months ago or the year before.

Honestly girl, if your Mr. Do Right is do-

ing wrong and you know it and support it, you’re Mrs. Do Wrong your dang self.

Don’t start trippin’ now that you have a degree.

Who you think you’re fooling? You’ve been in this from the jump.

Your condo won’t keep you out of jail.

Your degree won’t prevent you from serving time.

You can’t dissect, analyze and redirect this negative into a positive now, because you’re getting an authentic paycheck.

Get yourself out of this mess, before it’s too late.

When it all comes crumbling down, and it will, you’ll be on your way to lock down, for love’s sake.

Here’s my question to you: Is it worth it?

Alma

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JANUARY 6, 2017

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I Messenger ACA Marketplace open Enrollment period runs through Jan. 31, 2017 The fourth open enrollment period into the Health Insurance Marketplace begins Nov. 1, 2016 and runs through Jan. 31, 2017. Through the Marketplace, individuals are able to go to one place to search for health coverage options and choose from the health plans available in their area.

The best source for information about the Marketplace is the website www.healthcare. gov.

The website is available 24/7 and provides information on how the Marketplace works, what the benefits are and key deadlines. Individuals can also call 1.800.318.2596 to speak with trained customer service representatives 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For individuals needing further assistance, Parkland Health & Hospital System will have certified application counselors available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday thru Friday in Parkland’s Business Office to answer questions about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and provide help enrolling in the Marketplace.

The Business Office is located on the first floor of the old Parkland OPC, 5201 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, 75235. Certified application counselors will not be available at any of Parkland’s Community Oriented Primary Care health centers.

“We will have a limited number of certified application counselors available to assist patients with the enrollment process,” said Rhonda Miller, Parkland’s Senior Vice President of Revenue Cycle. “We encourage those who may qualify for the Marketplace to log into the government’s website or speak to one of the government’s trained customer service representatives.”

Most people must have qualifying health coverage or pay a fee for the months they don’t have insurance.

Health coverage exemptions are available

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JANUARY 6, 2017 based on a number of circumstances, including certain hardships, some life events, health coverage or financial status and membership in some groups. Additional information on exemptions is available at www.healthcare.gov.

In addition, a special enrollment period (SEP) outside of the yearly open enrollment exists for those with certain life events including losing health coverage, moving, getting married, having a baby or adopting child.

If an individual qualifies for an SEP, they usually have up to 60 days following the event to enroll in a plan. If they miss that window, they have to wait until the next open enrollment period to apply.

Those who may need assistance can contact Parkland’s Customer Service department at 214.590.4900. For more information about Parkland’s services, visit www.parklandhospital.com.

Calling NABJ Students!

Applications for the 2017 Short Courses are now open!

Join NABJ and our partner universities for the 2017 Short Courses!

During the Short Courses participants will receive instruction from faculty and experienced industry reporters, news directors, producers, videographers and graphic designers. Participants will produce newscasts, webcasts, podcasts, video slide shows and social media sites, as well as learn strategies on how to market their skills to secure a job after graduation.

Applicant must be: A current member of NABJ Be currently enrolled in a four-year accredited college or university Majoring in journalism or communication Be a junior, senior or graduate student Possess a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 Applications will be accepted online only. Please the following documents ready to upload before beginning the ap-

plication: Cover Letter A high-quality professional headshot with a white or black background A 200 word summary of your current experience and what you hope to learn Resume (one page) Transcript (Scanned, low resolution PDF or JPG) Contact information for three references (Full name, title, phone number, and email) NABJ membership number Web links to your most-recent work samples

DFW-ABJ URBAN JOURNALISM WORKSHOP APPLICATIONS

The Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists (formerly the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Communicators) will present its 28th annual Urban Journalism Workshop for high school and college students. For more information or to apply, log on to www. dfwabj.com Applications must be returned by January 31 to: DFW/ABJ c/o Cheryl Smith 320 South RL Thornton Freeway, Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203

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JANUARY 6, 2017 I Messenger Area Alpha Kappa Alpha members celebrate founding “Reflections in Time As We Launch University in Nashville Tennessee. She New Dimensions of Service” is the is a certified public accountant, an attheme of the 109 year old Alpha Kap- torney, and is one of two African Amerpa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®, 2017 ican women to hold the Ph.D.-CPA-JD Founders’ Day Celebration. To honor combination in the nation. Dr. Glover its founding members, has an extensive history Dallas/Fort Worth Metroof serving on corporate plex Chapters, Beta Mu boards of publicly tradOmega, Fort Worth; Xi ed companies including Theta Omega, Arlington; the Citibank of Student Tau Rho Omega, CarrollLoan Corporation, Pinton; and Chi Zeta Omenacle Financial Partners ga, Plano will host a Gosand First Guaranty Bank pel Brunch Sunday on of Louisiana. She is the January 15, 2017, 11:30 author of more than one a.m. at the Crowne Plaza hundred articles and paNorth Dallas Addison, pers, and regarded as one Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover 14315 Midway Road Adof the nation’s experts on dison, Texas 75001. Tickcorporate governance. ets are $65.00 and may Vice President Glovbe purchased online through, http:// er hails as a longstanding member of tinyurl.com/2017dfwfoundersday or Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorthrough hosting chapters. porated®. Key positions previously The guest speaker for this public held in Alpha Kappa Alpha include event is Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, International Treasurer, the Legacy EnInternational Vice President of Alpha dowment Fund and Corporate Support Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Committees. Dr. Glover is on-track to and a member of its Board of Directors. become the International President of Professionally, Dr. Glover is serving as Alpha Kappa Alpha in 2018. She is a the eighth President of Tennessee State member of several professional, civic

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and non-profit organizations, and recipient of numerous awards and honors. Dr. Glover was 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 Glover. They have two adult children, Attorney Candace Glover and Dr. Charles Glover II. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® 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, Incorporated® 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.

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Wishing you a great 2017!

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

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JANUARY 6, 2017

Prayer Is My Daily Weapon of Choice Spiritually Speaking

by James A. Washington

The closest person in the world is responsible for this one. It’s all about praying and meditating in the morning. I have watched a personal transformation right before my very eyes.

I’ve watched as the quest for the habitual has become the reality of ritual, so much so, that it’s something I am trying to emulate.

As a concept, it’s actually pretty easy to do. In the morning, I am not particularly in need of anything, but I understand now that calling upon the Lord is an act of spiritual clarification. From evening prayer to dawn’s affirmation of God’s power, I have definitely taken this time as much for granted as anyone.

After some Morning Prayer practice, it’s becoming apparent that I need to thank God for seeing me through the night. I ask Him to order my steps, guide my thoughts and allow me to do something during the course of the day to give indication of a deep appreciation for allowing me to wake up.

If you allow yourself to concentrate on what God has done for you on any given day, then it becomes obvious that He is indeed here and working wonders on your behalf. If you do not believe, try this. At the end of today, take a moment and reflect on those things that you can think of that prove God was with you all day. Start with this morning, because you really didn’t have to wake up.

If you hadn’t noticed, some people didn’t. If you drove, flew, took a cab somewhere and arrived safely, you

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might want to give God a little credit for your being accident free. You might have even passed one on your way. Can you remember seeing anyone in need of food, clothing, a few dollars, maybe a bath? But it wasn’t you? All “natural disasters” on this day missed your house. No floods? No tornadoes?

No hurricanes? No earthquakes? While I’m at it, how’s your family? Are your kids healthy? Are they simply alive and still breathing today? Is someone you know under intense pressure, emotionally, financially or physically? Did you get called about a now deceased dear friend, colleague or relative? Can you

But since God was gracious enough to give me the day, the least I can do is act like I know who the day belongs to. begin to see where I’m coming from?

God’s Hand is everywhere in your life, if you just stop being busy and take a good look. I promise you if you just slow down a bit, you’ll see God’s presence time and again in your life; that is, if you can see past your ego or maybe it’s your never thought about it attitude.

Once you begin to realize that God is present all the time, then, prayer easily and rapidly becomes praise. I mean once you recognize the real pos-

sibility that God held “my” hand today, then it stands to reason that a genuine thank you is in order. So now out of any sleep I’m awakening from comes a hand palms open with a praise that goes something like this: ‘Thank you Father God for seeing me through the night. Stay with me and remind me during the course of this day of your infinite blessings bestowed upon me.

Let me do something.

Let me say something today to make you proud and show you my appreciation of your giving me the time and opportunity to demonstrate who I am and whose I am to the world.’ The words might change from time to time, but the intent is the same. I hope to no longer take my consciousness for granted.

There’s a reason my eyes were opened and I must acknowledge I had nothing to do with it. As such, I think it prudent to acknowledge the One responsible and look for His purpose after that.

The next step for me then is to try and maintain a consistent spiritual posture. I know it’s not easy. The world will test you. But since God was gracious enough to give me the day, the least I can do is act like I know who the day belongs to. From “goodnight” in the evening to “hello” in the morning gives all of us a real opportunity to understand the simple gift of life. That time between sleep and awakening is worth praising God for. Kind of gives new meaning to that “joy comes in the morning” thing.

May God bless and keep you always.

James

James Washington is a father, husband, Christian and writer. James is also the owner and publisher of the multimedia company The Dallas Weekly. You can follow James on Twitter at @ JAWS_215.

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