I Messenger by Cheryl Smith

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

December 15, 2018

CAROLYN KING ARNOLD WINS!

WSSTANDS IN IN .EWSSTANDS

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

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I Messenger An IMM LLC Publication MAILING ADDRESS 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203 WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 214-941-0110 Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER - EDITOR news@texasmetronews.com Nina Garcia Marketing/Sales Manager EDITORIAL TEAM Lajuana Barton Eva Coleman L. Diane Evans Dorothy J. Gentry Vincent Hall Richard Alexander Moore Betheny Sargent Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dareia Tolbert Andrew Whigham III MARKETING TEAM Carlton McConnell Terry Allen PR DESIGN/LAYOUT 619 WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Alana King

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And then there were three... Congrats to Alice D. Walker, recently installed as third president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Omega Alpha Omega Chapter! Past presidents Patrice Withers-Stephens and Tuere Davis Williams have blazed a trail of success for this award-winning, three-year-old chapter that serves the greater Frisco area. We look forward to witnessing your leadership! Photo Credit: Eva D. Coleman

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CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

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I Messenger Retired educator and former Dallas City Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold returns to the Council to complete former Mayor Pro Tem Dwaine Caraway’s unexpired term, after defeating Keyaira Saunders in a run-off election this week. ABOUT COUNCILWOMAN CAROLYN KING ARNOLD Education: M.EDAD - Education Administration Highlights of current civic involvement/accomplishment President of Glen Oaks Homeowners Association/Crimewatch Precinct Chair 3056, President - Oak Cliff Leadership Council. Member of Friendship West Baptist Church, Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Community Volunteer - South Oak Cliff High School. Who's Who Inc - Named One of the Who's Who Recipients in Black Dallas Negro Council of Women - Recognition for Outstanding Service and Dedication to Home, Church, and Human Kind Previous public offices sought or held Served on the Dallas City Council - 2015-2017 Have you ever been arrested or involved in criminal proceedings? If so, please explain: no Have you ever been involved in any civil lawsuits or declared personal bankruptcy? no What is an example of how you led a team or group toward achieving an important goal? I worked with Councilmember District 3, City Staff, Cultural Arts Advisory Team to appropriate funding, select a design artist to build the Arthello Beck Statute that will be located at Twin Falls park during the next two years. What is your vision for District 4? What actions would you take immediately and during the course of your first term to help improve the lives of District 4 residents? The biggest opportunity would be to ensure the bonds are being sold in a timely manner and to released the deferred street maintenance funds for District 4. What is your position on building a deck park over Interstate 35, connecting the Dallas Zoo to northern Oak Cliff? If you support this plan, what would you do to help advocate for it? What should the city’s investment in the park be? The issue of the deck park has already been addressed and resolved. What is the district’s greatest challenge? How would you work to overcome it? I served as Councilwoman as District 4 and I believe one of challenges is the lack of fair equity in Economic Development. I am committed to working with the City Manager, Council, Community Stakeholders (residents, realtors, faith-based, business, educators) to develop a Master Plan which utilizes the MVA to address the short-comings for District 4. What project or projects could most improve your district in the near future? What long-term effort would you embrace for the district’s health? My top priorities would include (1) Public Safety (2) Code Compliance and (3) Job Creation/Employment Public Safety - Increase Neighborhood Policing Officers and D4 Neighborhood Crime Watch Programs. Expand the training opportunities for NPO to work with residents to develop a Public Safety Plan to reduce crime. Code - Change the reporting mechanisms, response time and create a constituent friendly system for understanding and reporting violations. Job Creation - Actively pursue the relocation of Corporate or satellite offices in District 4. Advocate the expansion of living wage and inclusion of paid sick leave What’s your view of the quality of DISD schools in your district and what would you do to support them? I have taught in the DISD for nearly 30 years. I served on PTA, Site-Based Decision and District Advisory Boards and have been a part of the assessments that determine

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the quality of the schools. In the position of Councilmember, I will work with the DISD administration and Trustees to provide any resources possible to ensure the success of the district. How would you work Dallas ISD to help leverage city resources for public schools? Provide assistance to the DISD Administration/Trustees as needed to provide for the success of our children. Many workers in Dallas work full time and are still in poverty. About 30 percent of Dallas children live in poverty. What would you do as a city council member to address this? One of the possible solutions among many is to support the District's education initiatives and to develop job training programs that are consistent with current and future industry needs. In addition, I will continue to support living wages for working families. What was your relationship, if any, with former council member Dwaine Caraway? Describe your opinion of his work in the district? Constituent Name your top 10 (or up to your top 10) financial supporters in this race? What is your relationship to these donors and why do you believe they are supporting your campaign? My donors support this campaign because they have faith in my leadership, experience and genuinely believe I am the most qualified candidate in the race. What is the most important asset in your district? How would you build on this asset? The most important asset in the district would be the people. We can build on this asset by crafting a master plan that provides for an infrastructure that becomes a catalyst that affords a decent quality of life for everyone. Describe your feelings about growth and gentrification in the district. How would you address these issues? My plans would include : (1) Submission of proposed adjustments in the Housing Policy to serve District 4 residents, from the working poor to the affluent, (2) Creating continuing education opportunities regarding the City Home Repair Program and (3) actively pursuing developers to build new homes that are compatible with existing neighborhoods throughout District 4. The City should take steps to manage gentrification. Establishing protective zoning, homestead preservation districts and other policies to prevent gentrification and thus displacement. What is your position on the future of Fair Park in southern Dallas? What role should the park play as a way to draw people to the area and to serve the people already there? The future of Fair Park remains in the hands of the Managing Group. The park should be a place where everyone can access and enjoy the destination site. Access should be available for the working poor to the affluent. As Councilwoman for District 4, I will work to support the direction and wishes of the Councilmember for District 7 and the constituents. What is your position on the city’s new comprehensive housing policy? The new comprehensive housing policy is a step toward change that is needed. We still have some work to do in District 4 to provide equitable access to housing - (for the working poor to the affluent) What is your opinion of the job the city manager has done in recent years? Mr. Broadnax has exhibited excellent leadership skills during his tenure. What is your opinion of Mayor Mike Rawlings’ GrowSouth initiative? GrowSouth was a step in the right direction and is need of more support to continue growth in the true Southern sector. Which council member, current or former, do you most admire and why? Jennifer Gates Sandy Greyson

DECEMBER 14, 2018

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith

Publisher

Wouldn’t life be so much easier if you could take everything you know by the age of let’s say 40, and go back in time and apply to the beginning of your life? Well that’s just not the way it is. We live and learn and keep it moving. It’s amazing how smart we thought we were until we get older and realize that we really were clueless and sometimes reckless. Well for those who “get it” we have to share the knowledge. We have to equip others and help them to realize some things we wish someone had told us. Which brings me to my truth. I was laying in a hospital bed. Alayna was 13 (going on 30), Annya was 7 (going on 20) and Ayanna was living life like it was golden at 4. My mother was holding my hand and talking about how she had gone through the same ordeal as I had, dealing with those abominable fibroid tumors. I

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If Only I Knew

asked her why she didn’t tell me. Gosh if I had known about them painful, uncomfortable and life threatening critters, I think I would have tried to beat them at their own game. See, when I went to Dr. Bill Glaze and was diagnosed with the tumors; I opted to participate in a study at UT Southwestern, to shrink the tumors. As part of the study, I couldn’t indulge in hormone-induced meats, dairy products or caffeine. Bulletin - They aren’t good for you. I learned that although Mother had fibroids did not mean that I would have them. I was told you don’t inherit fibroid tumors, but if you have the same diet as others who have them, you are likely to also! If only I knew what I know now, I’d eat better, exercise more and avoid stress. One time I wrote a story about a young man who after the second attempt, was successful in committing suicide. His relatives said

he kept telling them that he was going to kill himself, but they didn’t believe him; even after the first attempt. I don’t know what the young man was going through and I don’t know what goes through the mind of someone who takes another’s life. I feel they don’t value their lives or just can’t seem to get to the top of the mountain to see hope on the other side. If only I knew what I know now, when times were tough for me, I would get professional help, meditate and also probably take up yoga. Luckily for me, when in college I lived a very simple life. No credit cards or overindulging. It was amazing what I could whip up with a few dollars. My sorority sisters and friends loved my baked beans and tuna/mac salad! If only I knew what I know now, I probably would have invested the extra money I got from either work study or student loans. There

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were some things I didn’t need. I remember crying to my mother that I wanted a “perm” like the other girls at school. She said no. I begged. She finally said yes, and the woman who would eventually become my stepmother put the perm in my hair. If only I knew what I know now, I would have listened to my mother and went and read a book or something. The last thing I needed was those chemicals seeping into my body! When I bought my first home, I was so excited. The street reminded me of New Jersey streets, lined with trees. Andre, Alayna and Annya were happy too; while Ayanna was enjoying her first year on this earth. If only I knew what I know now, there are so many things I could have done, to pay the house off early, to prepare for the future and

to not work so hard! One day my mother called and asked me to come and get her and bring her from New Jersey to Dallas. I was shocked. She had spent 60 years of her life “up North” and she didn’t care too much for Texas heat. Still, I went home, loaded her up and she moved to the Big D. If only I knew what I know now, I would have heard what she wasn’t saying and I would have prepared better, if that is possible. I would have her for 18 months and there are so many things I could have done, but to do many would have meant acknowledging that her time was limited. Thanks to John Beckwith and Golden Gate Funeral Home, I was able to honor her wishes. I could go on and on with my “If only I knew” vignettes; and I will in the future. I encourage you to join me

DECEMBER 14, 2018

as we are going to be looking at the aforementioned, and many other issues surrounding healthy living, at the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo on January 21, 2019 at the African American Museum in Dallas. Call 214-941-0110 for info. Come out for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade at 10am then come over to the African American Museum where you can also see the Monticello Exhibit. Vendors, if you reference this article, you can get the early bird rate, but you have to do it soon, before the next issue comes out on Dec. 19. Learn to be financially, spiritually, socially, physically, mentally and holistically healthy! Then you can help build stronger, healthier families, communities and our country! And believe me, we need help, on all fronts, wouldn’t you agree?

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Opening Ceremony-City Hall WHEN: January 9, 2019 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm WHERE: Dallas City Hall 1500 Marilla St Dallas Texas COST: Free CONTACT: 214-6708418 The City of Dallas Martin Luther King, Jr. Planning Committee invites the community to its Inaugural Wreath Laying Ceremony celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King. The keynote speaker for this event will be Dr. Frederick Douglass Haynes, III a passionate leader and social activist. Youth Summit WHEN: January 12, 2019 allday WHERE: TBD The Youth Summit is a one-day interactive conference for high school students to engage with other students while addressing the challenges faced within their local communities. Faith Forward Dallas (An Interfaith Prayer Service) WHEN: January 14, 2019 Free Admission Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration

WHEN: January 15, 2019 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm WHERE: Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Ctr 2922 Martin Luther King Boulevard Dallas TX 75215 COST: Free CONTACT: 214-670-8418 Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King. The keynote speaker for this event will be Dr. Michael W. Waters, former Martin Luther King Advisory Board Chair, social activist, and Pastor of Joy Tabernacle Church. The birthday celebration will allow an opportunity for the community to rejoice in song and dance, as well as lay wreaths or flowers at the first original likeness of Dr. King located in the heart of the Sunny South Dallas community. Art of Oppression WHEN: January 16, 2019 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm WHERE: Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center (Activity Room B) 2922 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd COST: Free CONTACT: 214-6708418

Hosted by Miles of Freedom, this event will highlight the importance of art and showcase work from individuals who are incarcerated. King Shakur is a featured guest speaker. From Entry-Level to Executive: A Millennial Networking Event WHEN: January 16, 2019 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm WHERE: Dallas Executive Airport 5303 Challenger Dr Dallas Texas 75237 COST: Free CONTACT: City of Dallas Millennials will have the opportunity to network with executives who have had a rapid rise in their career at an early age. This evening is a chance to bring like-minded young professionals who are native to Dallas or newcomers under one roof to demonstrate the power of an inclusive and connected community. Headshots and professional development opportunities will be available. Workforce and Educational Opportunity Fair WHEN: January 17, 2019 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm WHERE: J Erik Jonsson Central Library 1515 Young Street Dallas TX 75201 COST: Free Job fair featuring on-site hiring

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as well as a showcase of workforce skills and credentialing programs to support job-seekers in preparing for new opportunities. The event will be hosted in partnership with Workforce Solutions of Greater Dallas. Candle Lighting Ceremony WHEN: January 18, 2019 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WHERE: Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center 2901 Pennsylvania Avenue Dallas Texas 75215 COST: Free The Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. hosts this annual ceremony which features a keynote speaker, entertainment, highlighting of essay contest winners, and a candlelit processional that concludes at the Martin Luther King statue on the campus of Martin Luther King Community Center. Millennial Action Day WHEN: January 19, 2019 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm WHERE: Throughout Dallas COST: Free Dallas Millennials will join together for a day of community service to give back to Dallas and move us closer to Dr. King’s

I Messenger vision of a “Beloved Community.” 37th Annual MLK Celebration Gala WHEN: January 19, 2019 @ 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm WHERE: Hyatt Regency Dallas 300 Reunion Blvd COST: $120 The 37th Annual MLK Celebration Gala will feature keynote speaker Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, an invocation by Most Reverend Edward J. Burns, awards presentations, and performances. This year’s theme is “Reconciliation: Moving the Dream Forward.” To purchase tickets using a credit card, please call 214-671-1505 to make a payment over the phone. “Selma” Screening at the Texas Theatre January 20, 2019 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm WHERE: Texas Theatre 231 W. Jefferson Blvd Dallas COST: Free CONTACT: Texas Theatre In conjunction with the City of Dallas’ Annual celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr., the Dallas Holocaust Museum will host a screening of Selma. The film is based on the 1965 voting rights marches from Selma to Montgomery led by Dr. King and other Civil Rights leaders.. Run time: 128 Minutes 36th Annual Emmy Award Black Music & Civil Rights Movement Concert WHEN: January 20, 2019 @ 7:30 pm WHERE: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center 2301 Flora St. Dallas TX 75201 CONTACT: The Black Academy of Arts and Letters Musical tribute with gospel songs honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King.

Half-Off Admission to Dallas Holocaust Museum WHEN: January 21, 2019 all-day WHERE: Dallas Holocaust Museum 211 N. Record St. #100 Dallas Texas 75202 CONTACT: (214) 741-7500 Admission will be half-off at the Dallas Holocaust Museum, an intimate museum dedicated to teaching the lessons of the Holocaust and memorializing its victims. The mission of the Dallas Holocaust Museum/Center for Education and Tolerance is to teach the history of the Holocaust and advance human rights to combat prejudice, hatred, and indifference. combat hatred and injustice. Martin Luther King Day March/Parade WHEN: January 21, 2019 @ 10:00 am WHERE: Starting at Holmes St. and Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd COST: Free CONTACT: 214-670-8418 Floats, marching bands, dance troops, and vehicles participate in a march/parade down Martin Luther King Blvd for 200,000 spectators. For more information about the parade, please visit www.dallasmlkcenter.com/2019mlk-parade. Realizing the Dream: Healthy Living Expo WHEN: January 21, 2019 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm WHERE: African American Museum of Dallas 3526 Grand Ave. Dallas Texas 75210 COST: Free admission, call 214-9410110 for vendors Making New Year’s resolutions for 2019 to lose weight, get out of debt, end an unhealthy relationship or seek help for depression? Learn how to improve your health physically, mentally, spiritually, financially, socially and holistically at the 2nd Annual Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo on January 21, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the African American Museum in Fair Park immediately following the historic Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade. Bring the entire family for a fun, informative community event featuring vendors, health screenings, educational workshops, food,

DECEMBER 14, 2018

entertainment, and giveaways! Admission is FREE. City-Wide Worship Service WHEN: January 21, 2019 @ 11:00 am WHERE: Friendship West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. Dallas 75232 COST: Free CONTACT: African American Pastors Coalition The citywide worship service is hosted by African American Pastors Coalition (AAPC), of which Pastor Carter serves as President. The AAPC, as a timeless model of ministry, demonstrates Christ’s relevance in the world by networking diverse ministries to effect change. The goal is to unite and mobilize member pastors for prophetic ministry that results in liberating and empowering the larger community. Dallas Dinner Table WHEN: January 21, 2019 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm WHERE: Throughout Dallas area CONTACT: Dallas Dinner Table The Dallas Dinner Table organizes dinners as an annual event on the third Monday of January to coincide with the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Holiday which provides an opportunity to hear and share diverse perspectives about the impact of race on the daily lives of DFW residents. Register by visiting: www.dallasdinnertable.com National Day of Racial Healing WHEN: January 22, 2019 all-day WHERE: Nationwide

DECEMBER 14, 2018

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DEMOCRATS 2020 – NOT THE PERSON, BUT THE PROGRAM

The Last Word By Dr. Julianne Malveaux

Now that the midterm elections are over, and Democrats are savoring their victory, more than a dozen Democrats say they are considering running for President in 2020. The Democratic Party needs to get its act together if any of them has even a prayer of beating the clown that white conservatives love to love. The fact that Republicans stole an election from Stacey Abrams in Georgia suggests that our electoral infrastructure isn’t what it ought to be. The fact that Republicans in Michigan, Wisconsin, and North Carolina are attempting to change electoral rules suggests that the Party and civil society organizations need to spend some money ensuring fair elections. From where I sit, the focus on personalities is poorly placed. We ought, instead, think both about our election mechanics and an economic agenda to empower the majority of our citizens who live in an economically precarious situation. Too many of us struggle to survive on the minimum wage, and too many unions have seen their influence erode in the face of hostile legislation.

Too many do not have access to health care. Too many cities and states are willing to offer exorbitant tax breaks to attract a few jobs. Meanwhile, our infrastructure is crumbling, our environment is decomposing, and civility is a thing of the past. There’s a lot of rhetoric, but Democrats have to explain what they stand for more clearly. Democrats have been so re-

Elizabeth Warren took a blood test to prove that she is 1/1024 Native American, falling for 45’s BS. New Jersey Senator Corey Booker, also known as Spartacus, is considering the race, as is the incandescently intelligent California Senator Kamala Harris. Bernie Sanders, the 2016 independent candidate, keeps threatening to run again. That’s a non-starter for me! There are anoth-

active, so anti-45, that they’ve not spun out a positive agenda. Oh, they say they stand for a living wage, for criminal justice reform, for access to health care and education, for racial economic justice (actually, they didn’t say that I did), and more. But too often, Democrats have gone with the status quo instead of looking at the changing needs of our nation. And the party is expert at grabbing defeat from the jaws of victory, failing to support progressive candidates who sometimes upset the status quo. Now, former Vice President Joe Biden says he is the most qualified person to be President. Massachusetts Senator

er couple of dozen potential candidates, from the very well known to the lesser known. Democrats run the risk of having a Republican-style circus during the primaries unless the field narrows. Already, two who were considering the race have dropped out. Nobody will miss Michael Avenatti since many of us did not know why he was in the race in the first place, but former Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick, who has just announced that he will not run, might have brought gravitas to the primaries. Patrick told Obama advisor David Axelrod that “It’s hard to see how you even get noticed in such a big, broad field without be-

ing shrill, sensational or a celebrity, and I’m none of those things.” Our current President is shrill, sensational and a celebrity in his own mind. Democrats should not attempt to replicate that level of insanity that 45 brings to the table. The issue, also, should not be one of who is the most sensational, but who has the most focused program, and the basis of the Democratic program must be economic justice for working Americans. Back in the day, we used to say, “It’s not the man, it’s the plan.” In gender-neutral terms, it’s not the person, it’s the program. For Democrats to build on the momentum of the midterm election, they must drill down on communicating dynamic economic programs. I’m encouraged by folks like LaTosha Brown and Black Voters Matter. They are doing ground up, not top down, organizing, going into communities and focusing on the races they deem essential, which are not always national or statewide races. When people come out for a key local, they will also vote in the “big” races. But too often the Democratic Party focuses only on the biggest elections, with an agenda people can’t necessarily identify with. Democratic Party leaders need to sit down with Black Voters Matter as soon as they can and learn how to connect with the voters who can make a difference in 2020. Or, they can continue with business as usual and experience the consequences.

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

Black Nativity at Bishop Arts Theatre

Review by Nina G. (aka Mo’ka from Mo’ka n Co’ka) It is the 15th anniversary of Bishop Arts Theatre to present "Black Nativity" by Langston Hughes and opening night was on Dec. 7, 2019. It has become a tradition at Bishop Arts Theatre and is a seasonal favorite within the community. Although the longevity of the play, there is always a fresh take on the production. Each year it is slightly revised according to each new director's vision of the 1961 classic. This year it is directed by Selmore Lorenzo Haines. The play commences in darkness followed by the singing of a gospel song eventually opening to a scene within a church as members are there to rehearse for their annual Christmas play. In charge is Dr. Narramor, a newly hired Fine Arts Director, and that does not sit well with some of the parishioners. Aside dealing with the problems of being a new comer to the church, she is also facing issues of being in an interracial marriage. She reflects this within the Christmas play and Joseph and Mary is an interracial couple as well. Deacon Franklin is adamantly

against all of this and demands Pastor Kelsey to fix it. Due to this, conflict arises between the Deacon and Pastor which unleashes unwarranted opinions and judgments about the situation within the church. One particular scene that stands out to me was between the Deacon and Mr. Narramor, it was intense. Aside being white, Mr. Narramor happens to be a policeman as well and the Deacon expresses his hatred for all policemen. He explains that his dad was extracted from his childhood due to an unfortunate incident dealing with the law. The Deacon as well as the naysayers all come to a realization that living in misery is not the way. They cope with their differences and know that they must live according to God's way, especially in the spirit of the holiday. All ends well and the Christmas play is a great success! Traditional gospel songs, ballet, hip hop dance, spoken word and even rap music accompanies as you are taken on a riveting journey of righteousness. The cast’s acting was superb! They made me believe that these events were unraveling right before my eyes. Each cast member that had singing parts did an exemplary job.

Photos by Tony Boyattia

They dug deep down from within their soul and belted out such melodious tunes. The audience could not contain themselves and were moved to join in. Even the band was on point and

they played flawlessly. They were harmonious and it was a treat to our ears throughout the entire show. This version of Black Nativity at Bishop Arts Theatre was filled with much passion! It is truly a gift to all who see it!

DECEMBER 14, 2018

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

All-Girl Construction Team builds bird shelters

Birds squawk as Duncanville High School’s Tami Gurnell leads her students into the wooded backstage area at the Dallas Zoo’s bird show. On this day, Ms. Gurnell is taking her construction and building trades classroom outside. Her all-girl team of students carries steel beams, drills and a circular saw into their outdoor workspace. This real-world project has been in the works for 10 weeks. The client is an exclusive group of birds who perform for zoo patrons every day. “Some of the birds like to bathe and some of them like to shower just like people and so what I needed was a three-quarter roof,” said Director of Animal Encounters, Amy Robinson. Architecture students from Duncanville High School designed the awnings using computer aided design. The young women met with the birds’ care-

takers earlier this year to perfect their measurements and to make sure their design met expectations. “It’s very exciting because you get to see what you make can turn into something actual concrete and it can be used right now,” said junior Cheyenne Parker. Senior Saleen Donohoe cranks up the drill as she uses it to attach the steel beams. She has be-

and business in college to help her family’s c onst r u c t i on company. “It’s very unique to have just girls to come out and do this to show that we can do this kind of stuff and to show younger girls if they want to come up construction team builds bird enclosure roof and do this,” Saleen said. In the years Ms.

come a leader in her construction class after taking several years of courses. Next year she plans to study engineering

Gurnell has taught at Duncanville High School, most of her students have been young men. She advocates for the

young women because they still make up just a fraction of workers in the construction business. “Don’t make a mistake and think they’re blue col-

lar workers,” Ms. Gurnell said. “No, these are going to be skilled, craft professionals and that’s what we need in our

industry.” When this community service project is complete, the zoo will have 26 new awnings, ensuring its feathered performers perch in comfort, rain or shine. The original estimated cost came in at $35,000. Donated supplies and the girls’ elbow grease, brought the total to less than $4,000. The result is great deal for the zoo and a resume builder for the students. “I love this partnership,” Ms. Robinson said. "I love everything about it. Women helping animals and women helping women. I love the kids are learning something; it’s just a great community feeling.”

DECEMBER 14, 2018

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re harboring unforgiveness in your heart, know that it is not worth blocking your blessings By Donald Lee Connect with him on LinkedIn and follow him at @donaldj_lee on Twitter. Donald Lee

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

Endless Entertainment Options NIELSEN REPORT

By Cheryl Pearson-McNeil NNPA Columnist

Remember back-in-the-day when you used to poke your mouth out, bug your parents (or whatever adult was in charge) about being bored? Well, today’s kids can’t use that tired, old excuse. Neither can we, as grown folks, for that matter. We’ve been spoiled rotten and have access to endless entertainment options at our fingertips, 24/7. So, I’m excited to share with you insights from Nielsen’s first-ever Entertainment Consumer Report, which breaks down, in detail, the myriad of ways we are entertained – whether it’s game playing, watching movies or other video content, listening to music or reading a book. As entertainment consumers, we fall into three categories: high, moderate and low entertainment spenders. Although just one-third of the population qualifies as high entertainment spenders, they account for more than 70 percent of entertainment

spending. This segment of spenders are more likely to be ethnically diverse and women with young children than moderate and low entertainment spenders. Makes perfect sense to me since moms are usually the ones charged with keeping the kids occupied. When it comes to how we listen music, long gone are the days portrayed in the musicals “Cadillac Records” and “Dream Girls.” But wait. Though digital music leads overall music sales with 118 million digital albums and 1.3 billion tracks purchased last year, the sales of old-school vinyl LPs jumped nearly 18 percent over the last year. As the saying goes, “everything old is new again.” African-Americans index on the lower end of the demographic spectrum of digital music buyers. We, however, index slightly higher than other consumer groups in purchasing physical CDs. We make up 12 percent of on-demand music streamers. And, although all age groups enjoy music across all platforms, young adults between 18 and 24 spend the most time listening to music, about six hours a week, which is an

hour more than those 25 and up. You know how big companies sponsor concert tours and pay big bucks for an artist to endorse their product? It’s good business. Hitching to a star’s wagon has been shown to increase buy rates of a product by as much as 28 percent among the artists’ fans. Switching gears to what and how we watch video content at home, well, the sky is pretty much the limit with multiple devices to choose from. Some examples of those are: DVR/Blu-Ray, video-on-demand, plus subscriber servic\ es like Netflix and/or Hulu. There are also video game consoles, computers, tablets and/or mobile devices. Here are some quick facts: 25-34 year olds are the biggest buyers of movie/TV DVDs and streaming video. African-Americans index lower than other demographics in movie/TV DVD and streaming video purchases. Females index higher than males in movie/TV DVD purchase, while men outrank women when it comes to buying streaming video. What are some other forms of entertainment we have available to us? Well, I am glad

you asked. Some, like me, still love the feel of a good book in your hands. But, I know some of you may also appreciate the convenience of e-readers. Turns out, there’s not much difference between print and eBook buyers. Among adults online surveyed in this report, both groups of readers are more likely females between the ages of 55 and 64. African-Americans index slightly higher with purchasing eBooks than print books. Can you guess at our favorite books from last year? If you guessed E.L. James’ Fifty Shades trilogy, followed by Suzanne Collin’s Hunger Games series, you were correct. And, when we like something, we want to enjoy the experience in all ways possible. Case in point: “The Hunger Games,” which was also a box office success, was the fourth best selling print book of 2012, the top selling music soundtrack and the third most-purchased DVD. So now you see even how your various entertainment preferences matter. And even though there are many choices, every choice is important. Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information and studies go to www.nielsenwire.com

DECEMBER 14, 2018

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

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Movie review

Hollywood Hernandez Live

My Golden Globe Picks Nominees for this year’s Golden Globes were announced last week, with a very diverse list of movies and actors (four out of 10 of the top movies featured people of color including Black Panther, Blackkklansman, and Crazy Rich Asians), so I figured I’d join in with my nominations for the best of 2018. Hands down, the best movie for me was Green Book. It’s based on a true story about an African American pianist, Dr. Don Shirley, played by 2016’s Oscar winner Mahershala Ali, who embarks on a tour of the old “Jim Crow South” along with his driver “Tony Lip”, played by Oscar nominee Viggo Mortenson. The movie paints a very rich tapestry of the history of the civil

rights era, where Blacks, even talented artists like Dr. Shirley, were second-class citizens who could play in upscale concert venues but who couldn’t eat or use the toilets there. But more than any other subject in the film Green Book is a movie about the friendship that develops between two men of different backgrounds and races. I found the inspiring message in the movie to be the world would be such a better place if we could all just get along. My runner-up for best movie of the year is The Hate You Give. It’s based on a novel by a young African American writer, Angie Thomas, that tells the story of a tragic police shooting of an African American teen boy which is witnessed by a young black girl, Star. Her character is well played by Amandla Stenberg, who gives a

very strong and emotional performance. These two movies are playing in theaters now. I urge you to please support some great filmmaking in these two Black films. Just a few footnotes about this year’s Golden Globe nominations; Spike Lee is nominated for Best Director for Blackkklansman and Denzel Washington’s son, John David Washington is nominated for Best Actor for his work in the same movie with Spike Lee. Crazy Rich Asians has two Golden Globe nominations; one for Best Movie and a Best Actress nomination for Constance Wu, an American born Asian actress. The 2018 Oscar nominations come out in January. My hope is that they follow suit with such a diverse group of nominations as did this years’ Golden Globes.

HOLLY WOOD ON THE SCENE:

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QUIT PLAYIN’ By Vincent L. Hall

WE WON’T FORGET! Trump voters must re-apply

To my lifelong friends Carrol and Delton, Bonnie and Summer, and a few others I can’t mention here; this “Bud” is not for you. However, for an increasing number of the White folks I thought I knew, the time has come to put up or shut up. If you ride with Donald Trump, who controls 40% of the national electorate, this missive is for you. For those who gifted him with a questionable 50% Job Approval rating in a recent Rasmussen poll…this is for you! As it relates to our friendship; you must re-apply. Some of the empathetic, engaging, encouraging White friends and “Coloreds for Trump” that I’ve always valued, have turned on me. I don’t mean any harm, but I need to see your updated resume. I hear you asking…But Vincent; why…why after all these years would you doubt our bond? The short answer is that Donald Trump’s daily attempts to prove that he is by White people, for White people and with White people, suggests that neither he nor you are working in my best interest. This request did not come without serious thought and consternation. I painstakingly thumbed through 30 months of Donald’s political plundering and came to this resolution, solemnly and soberly. When you add it all up, “White privilege or superiority” is the only coagulant or commonality in Trump’s pursuit of homogeny. I listened intently to all the advances of a soon-to-be former friend, and all to no avail. His application was denied!

“Donald Trump tells it like it is. Donald Trump calls it like he sees it. Donald Trump is a straight-shooter.” My retort was equally compact. ‘Donald Trump don’t know what he don’t know. Donald Trump’s vision is jaundiced and impaired. Donald Trump has a crooked aim.’ (Double entendre: intended, intended.) This megalomaniac told you that he

Donald and Melania Trump

was bringing his business acumen to Washington. That was an easy lie to detect. Trump is the CEO of a momand-pop shop, selling his celebrity on a piecemeal basis. He has a linear understanding of economics. How can you bet on a guy who lost a casino for God’s sake? Common sense tells you to be wary of any politician who calls himself, the “Tariff Man.” Trump rode in on the wheels of White evangelical inevitability. He dispatched angelic heretics like Robert Jeffress and Paula White. Trump either rented or bought a lowly cast of famous Negro preachers that most Negroes have never heard of. Trump, a known heathen and philanderer, with five kids and three baby mamas, couldn’t qualify to sit on the deacon’s

bench at First Baptist Dallas. Then there was the argument that his pedigree and pelf prepared him to be the next Commander-in-Chief. Instead, we have a Maniac and a Mannequin in the Rose Garden. We went from branded American pseudo-royalty to “Pomp and Uncircumcised.” The splendor and symbolism of “Ruffles and Flourishes,” giving introit to “Hail to the Chief,” is wasted on Trump and his mail-order or made-to-order bride. Don’t get mad; the standards were set before we were born. The world is bewildered with our classless, clueless Chief and a First Lady whose singular goal is to be “Best Dressed.” Trump’s declaration of Nationalism was another hint. As someone so aptly put it; “Not all Trump voters are racists, but all racists vote for Trump.” This desire to purge the “other” is offensive to 150,000,000 of us who are non-white and none too happy with Donald Trump’s daily regimen of racial division. Black comedians have long espoused the need for having good white friends in your circle. Richard Pryor, Chris Rock and Katt Williams have been stalwart in advocating close, cross-cultured relationships. I’m a believer and a subscriber. But with racism and xenophobia spiraling out of control; I can’t take a chance. Some of my dearest and most trusted White allies must reapply. If you’re a Negro, or your Brownness was ordained by the Creator; don’t even bother. I have even less confidence in you! Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist and

award-winning journalist.

DECEMBER 14, 2018

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Russians, Collusion, Conspiracy, Cover-ups and Lies with a game called “Three of These Things.” “ Three of these things belong together, three of these things are

Then, little by little, there’s nothing left but the thread. As my mother might have said; give them enough thread and they’ll hang themselves. In this case the unraveling began with Mike

Tax Evasion to the Emolument Clause, campaign violations, and perhaps even Treason. “Collusion” is buddying up with someone to cooperate in the commission of

way of collusion with a foreign government. A general, two attorneys, a Vice-President, two children of the President, and the President himself, constitute this band of miscre-

kind of the same. One of these things doesn’t belong here, now it’s time to play o u r game.” Russian deals, Russian money, Russian banks, Russian spies in our midst, Russian oligarchs buying million-dollar Trump condos… cash—then the lies. The best-selling Trump title, “The Art of the Deal” might better have been titled “The Art of Lying and Denying.” Denying there were no discussions with Russians is like denying the prelude to Trump’s announcement to run for office was a slow but grand descent down an escalator in Trump Tower. One of the biggest takeaways of Watergate was that cover-up can be worse than the actual crime. Perhaps the number one takeaway from Trumpgate should be, the problem with cover-ups is that they rarely go as planned. Human nature dictates that there is always someone who begins to unravel the very fabric of the cover-up itself.

Flynn. The unraveling not only continues with the President’s ongoing Twitter campaign, where he tends to confess and admit to intentional wrongdoing, but where he actually commits new offenses in plain sight and light of day—although much of his tweeting takes place in the wee hours of the night. Collusion, conspiracy, cover-ups and lies consist of emails, phone calls, discrete pull-aside meetings at public events, and secret Trump Tower meetings with Jared, Don, Jr. and others of who have become “The Usual Suspects.” Ongoing investigations by Special Counsel, Robert Mueller and much anticipated subsequent investigations by eager, incoming Democrats are likely to reveal additional crimes and wrongdoing ranging from Money Laundering and

a crime. However, I’ve recently learned that “collusion” itself is not a crime. In other words, buddying-up is not a crime, but lying to Congress or to the F.B.I. about buddying-up is. “Conspiracy,” and here is where it gets a bit tricky, to buddy-up to plot or plan a criminal act is a crime. Again, it’s not the buddying-up, but the intentional scheming to commit an unlawful act, such as Conspiracy to Defraud the American People. The cover-up, the lies, denials, disclaimers, double-talk, lawyer-speak, and my favorite, the 5th Amendment. Flynn, Manafort, Cohen, Giuliani, Pence, Ivanka, Don Jr. and the Donald himself. This is the group, the cast of characters that candidate Trump referred to many times as, “the best people.” These are the players in the conspiracy to defraud by

ant misfits. I suspect the list will grow. The investigation is not concluded, Mueller is not done, and the Democrats have not yet begun. There will be others. Men and women in high places, complicit by their very silence in the face of known mistruths and misconduct on the parts of Trump campaign officials, and the subsequent Trump Administration. There will be more. Ryan, McConnell, Ramsey to name a few. When incoming Congressmen and Senators investigate the motives behind the firing of Sally Yates, James Comey, and Jeff Sessions, among others, and the hiring of Matthew Whitaker, the Acting Attorney General, and discover overt Obstruction of Justice, the thread will continue to unravel and more of the President’s men will hang themselves—all over discussions with Russians.

MILES’ MUSINGS

By Miles Jaye Former Lt. General, Michael Flynn, Campaign Manager, Paul Manafort, Trump Attorney and ”Fixer”, Michael Cohen, Roger Stone, Trump TV Attorney, Rudy Giuliani, Vice-President Mike Pence, George Papadopoulos, Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, Donald Trump, Jr. and Donald Sr., some indicted, some convicted, some confessed, all accused of one or all of the crimes of Perjury, Collusion with the Russian government, Conspiracy to Defraud America, Obstruction of Justice and Witness Tampering. This, all in the first two years of the Trump presidency. This is not typical; nor is it normal. In eight years, two terms of the Obama Presidency, not one member of the Obama campaign, his cabinet or his White House staff, were indicted, much less convicted of a felony— not one. This is different, an anomaly, an aberration from other Presidencies. Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, all two term Presidents, successfully completed their terms of service without indictments. What’s different about these three Presidents? Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump! As children we learned how to spot differences on Sesame Street

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Promoting Poor Nutrition From the Capitol By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

A recent decision by the United States Agriculture Department to lower nutritional standards in foods that are served to public school children is unfortunate, unwise and could lead to additional children in our country becoming victims of life-threatening health challenges such as obesity, and diabetes. The policy is an affront to those of us that worked to pass the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Acts of 2010 which was signed into law by President Barack Obama, who, with his wife, Michelle, advocated for higher nutritional standards for school

children. The legislation was designed to increase the daily nutritional intake of low income children in our nation’s schools. The school meals that many of these children receive are the only nutritious ones that they receive during the day. Sociologists and health experts have found links between proper foods and the ability to learn. The welfare of poor children does not seem to be the concern of the Trump administration and its agriculture secretary, Sonny Perdue, a trained veterinarian who had been in his position since the spring of 2017.

He’s Here

Proper child nutrition for our nation’s school children began in 1966 when President Lyndon Baines Johnson, who had been an educator before going into politics, signed into law the Child Nutrition Act which, among other things, made school lunches available to children from low income households. As a member of the Texas State Senate, I sponsored and helped to pass legislation mandating that children in Texas schools be provided with meals during the school day. Like President Johnson I understood that young minds needed to be fed properly. This thinking seems to escape Secretary Pursue who plans to implement the changes in 2019. The Secretary, a former Governor of Georgia, said that one of the products that sustained him while growing up was chocolate

milk, suggesting that the sugar-loaded beverage is fine for public school children. The new rules will not impact the children of rule-makers who, in most instances, send their children to schools where nutritional standards are high, and where foods with high sugar and salt content are rare, if they are available at all. Under the legislation signed into law by President Obama schools were obligated to serve foods that contained at least 50 percent whole grains. A rule requiring schools to serve students nonfat milk is also being curtailed by Secretary Purdue, allowing for milk products that contain sugar. Our nation’s children from vulnerable homes deserve better than what is being proposed. They are once again being told by the administration that they do not matter!

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

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Keymáh battles with Jesus in new Gospel Musical Film

T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh

Actress T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh is part of an allstar line-up in the new gospel musical, Revival!, (www. revivalthemovie.com) an imaginative retelling of the gospel according to John the Apostle featuring original and contemporary gospel music, which is being embraced by churches all over the country. Revival! opened on Friday, December 7, 2018 in theaters in or near New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami, Houston, DC, Detroit, Dallas and Los Angeles. In January, it will expand to screens in Memphis, Baltimore, New Orleans, Norfolk, St. Louis, San Francisco, Cleveland, Orlando, Boston, Tampa, Indianapolis and Milwaukee. The all-star cast includes 10-time Grammy winner Chaka Khan, Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child), Sie-

dah Garrett, Mali Music, T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh, Dawnn Lewis, Niki J. Crawford, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Paula Newsome, Victoria Gabrielle Platt, Harry Lennix (Blacklist), Roland Buck III (Chicago Med), and Broadway’s Chester Gregory. Keymáh will be among the films stars appearing at the film’s world premiere in DC, at Atlanta’s Word of Faith Church (212 Riverside Pkwy, Austell, GA 30168), Fountain of Praise & Windsor Village churches in Houston and in Detroit. Keymáh, known worldwide for her television roles on Fox’s Emmy Award-winning ‘In Living Color,’ Disney’s ‘That’s So Raven’ and CBS’s ‘Cosby,’ recently played

Johnny Carson’s gate keeping secretary in her seventh series, Paul Reiser’s comedy “There’s… Johnny,” now airing on Hulu. A graduate of Florida A&M University, she is also the author of the popular coffee table book, Natural Woman / Natural Hair. A licensed minister, Keymáh was eager to join her long-time friend and fellow Chicago native Harry Lennix on Revival, eventually serving as Co-Executive Producer of the film, along with actor Steve Harris. “This film is important on so many levels,” Keymáh said. “I don’t think you can watch the film and not leave the theater excited, engaged and uplifted. Revival reaches back and forth in time to under-

line themes and challenges faced by humans throughout the ages. I’m proud to have been a part of it, and to have helped to bring forth such an inspirational story.” Revival! was directed by Danny Green and Obba Babatunde from a screenplay by Lennix and Holly Carter. Original music score and arrangements are by Mali Music, ELEW, Donald Lawrence and Abdul Robinson Royal. Lennix, Carter and David C. Waite are producing the film through MergeXJR: Exponent, Jupiter Film Group and Relevé Entertainment. The film is distributed by TriCoast Entertainment Worldwide. For more information please visit www.revivalthemovie.com.

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

Bring an unwrapped toy

Saturday, December 15, 2018

DECEMBER 14, 2018

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Can women be head coaches of NFL teams? Jenny Ziegler, Miami Times Zsportsreport@gmail.com

This [NFL] is a man’s world, but it would be nothing without a woman or a girl … (speaking in my James Brown voice) Sure, we are on the sidelines as cheerleaders, owners, reporters and such, but there has never been a female head coach manning the sidelines in any male professional sport. There’s always a first time for everything. Well, hold that thought as we are not there yet. Recently, Condoleezza Rice was trending on social media when it was reported by NFL insider, Adam Schefter that the Cleveland Browns were considering the former secretary of state for its most recent head coaching vacancy. Recently, Condoleezza Rice was trending on social media when it was reported by NFL insider, Adam Schefter that the Cleveland Browns were considering the former sec-

retary of state for its most recent head coaching vacancy. Recently, Condoleezza Rice was trending on social media when it was reported by NFL insider, Adam Schefter that the Cleveland Browns were considering the former secretary of state for its most recent head coaching vacancy. Rice, though hailed as being intelligent, a great leader and a woman of great character, is an unrealistic candidate for the head coaching gig with the Browns, yet she has brought the discussion of coaching opportunities for women in male professional sports to the forefront. Condi, as she is affectionately called, is also an adamant Cleveland Browns fan. “I love my Browns,” she said. Her love for the team stems from times when her and her father watched games together and cheered on Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown. But a love of the

game does not make a head football coach. She acknowledged that she doesn’t possess the experience needed to take on such a role and had this to say on Facebook: “I do hope that the NFL will start to bring women into

somethin’, somethin’. For three years, she was a part of the College Football Playoff selection committee responsible for determining the top college football teams in the country; ultimately deciding what four teams would compete in the playoff. How’s that for “women don’t know jack about football?” The former secretary of state is wise enough to Recently, Condoleezza Rice was trendknow that ing on social media when it was reported by NFL insider, Adam Schefter that the though she Cleveland Browns were considering the is not ready former secretary of state for its most recent head coaching vacancy. to be a coach in the NFL, the coaching pro- there are womfession as position en who can do the coaches and eventu- job with the proper ally coordinators and training and opporthen head coaches.” tunities. Rice went on to She has expressed say, “One doesn’t an interest in the role have to play the of NFL commissiongame to understand er. If she can broker it and motivate play- peace deals in the ers, but experience Middle East, ceasecounts – and it’s time fires and deal with to develop a pool of terrorists and drug experienced women lords on behalf of coaches.” our country — then Though Rice never why not? played the game beShe ended her post cause she is a female, by saying, “BTWshe knows a little I’m not ready to

coach, but I would like to call a play or two next season if the Browns need ideas!” At 4-6-1, the Browns could perhaps use a few plays this season as opposed to waiting until next season. I’m just saying. The league however is making strides, as there are few teams that have opened their doors and are affording women the type of on-the-job-training required to be able to take that next step toward coaching in the NFL. The Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, Arizona Cardinals and the New York Jets all have hired females in some form of football operational capacity (offensive assistant, special team’s coach, strength and conditioning coach, and assistant coach). Kudos to all of them! Rice is advocating for more training opportunities for women to get the locker-room credential that will enable them to climb that proverbial NFL coaching ladder.

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

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DECEMBER 14, 2018

Valder Beebe Show

THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW:

Tia Mowry

Every day God’s blessings are renewed and I can count on His direction, guidance and blessings. My blessings come in many forms, yet I am most delighted by wonderful guests for the Valder Beebe Show. I am delighted that you may read [Garland Journal News], connect digitally [IMESSENGER newspaper] or view on ValderBeebeShow.com, my interview with Tia Mowry, a young successful actress, author and entrepreneur talks about her role as mom to her oldest who has peanut allergy. Actress Tia Mowry, best known for her role in the sitcom Sister, Sister and her digital series Quick Fix. Tia is married to actor Cory Hardrict [Battle

Los Angeles] and they are parents to two, Cree and their daughter Ciaro, a toddler. Tia is now a part of a new educational awareness campaign, “Talking Peanut Allergy,” aimed to ignite a conversation around the challenges of living with a peanut allergy. Mowry shares her journey and the challenges of protecting her son Cree with peanut allergy while helping ignite a national dialogue on the condition. Mowry is joining the ‘Talking Peanut Allergy’ campaign to share her story with the hope that parents of children with a peanut allergy realize they’re not alone. She hopes the campaign can help create a community

where people can inspire, three, now he’s 7. There educate and support each are actually 1.5 million other. children in the U.S. with peanut allergy. VBS: Your cookbook, Whole New You: How Real Food Transforms Your Life, for a Healthier, More Gorgeous You is #1 on New York best seller list. Congratulations! I have Whole New You, at my home. TM: Yes, its number one in the endometritis category that is one of the main reasons I decided to write this book is because I suffer Tia Mowry from the condition of Endometriosis. VBS: Tia, you are lend- I’m happy you have the ing your celebrity and cookbook, what’s your your voice to this cam- favorite in the book? paign, “Talking Peanut VBS: I’m a healthy eatAllergy,” er so your veggie focus is TM: I just want to ig- my favorite. nite and spark a converTM: I really appresation about children ciate you loving my with peanut allergy. My book………. son Cree has had peanut allergy since he was

DECEMBER 14, 2018

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Family is trashing this girl

Dear Alma, My brother and his fiancée broke off their engagement, which was a surprise to my whole family. Nobody totally knows the story, but she moved out of his house, unfriended him on Facebook, the whole shebang. Over the holidays, we all got together, and everyone started trashing the girl. My brother got really awkward and left, saying he didn’t feel up for hanging out. Fine, right Except I just found out he and his girlfriend have still been talking, and they haven’t told the rest of my family yet. The problem is, my family’s still badmouthing this girl at every opportunity, but it’s starting to look like they might get back together. My brother doesn’t want me to say anything, so how can I tell my family to cool it without spilling the beans? Name withheld Dear Name Withheld, Your brother asked you not to say anything because this is his issue, not yours. He knows the hardest part of this debacle is going back

to family members, face-to-face, asking for grace. Not for himself, because as a family member, he understands he gets a pass. It’s the outsider, his unrelated other half he’s pleading a case for. Yep, the one that hurt him. The one that everybody knows, or at least think they know, hurt him. Indulge me for a minute. This takes me back to a time when I was

Ask Alma by Alma Gill Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans more than 25 years. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.

bad-mouthing my first husband. My Mama was like, ahhh, no, rule #1: What happens in your house, stays in your house, I don’t wanna hear it. I was like whaaat? Really?? You gotta be kidding me. Then she said to me, keep it to yourself until it’s over. You’ll be back on his pillow in the morning and I’ll still be sipping on a glass of wanna kick a** – well, you know what I’m sayin, LOL. I was ticked at first, but over time, I totally understood where she was coming from. I stand firm to that same rule with

my family members to this day. Some relationships are like beach water, back and forth. One minute they’re breaking up, no making up – throw your hands up – who really knows for sure? Nonetheless, it happens, this isn’t that unusual at all. So here’s my suggestion of what you can do to help. Like an All-Pro left tackle, safeguard your brother. When the family’s on the sideline having a field day, rooting against his fiancé, you say, “She’s not all bad” (bob ‘n weave, here come the side-eye, LOL). Follow up with “I like her and I hope they get back together.” Whaaaat, you just scored a touchdown! I betcha over time, this, my friend, will set your brother up for win-win. Remind him to take it slow, your Mama’s still sipping on her glass of – you know. Just make sure your bro knows you’ve got his back. That’s the best way you can help him right now. If he and his fi’ decide to weather this storm and get married, Mr. & Mrs. must, under any and all situations, stick to, adhere, follow and abide by rule #1. Alma

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

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Butterfly I emerge from this darkness changed. Leaving behind so much of what was me; whole but with missing parts. Pushing myself through a realization that does not include you, physically. Your transformation complete. Mine ... only beginning. La Juana and Patricia Barton

authors of Faithful Remembrances - Volume I

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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.

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