I Messenger 12 16 16 by Cheryl Smith

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VOL 6 ISSUE 16

DECEMBER 16, 2016

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

Importance of spreading Joy

The holiday season is a time of family, community, and celebration. Many of us look forward to this time of year because we have the opportunity to relax and celebrate with our loved ones. While I hope that everyone in the greater Dallas area enjoys a restful holiday season, I want to point out that this feeling is not afforded to everyone. In fact, it is a great privilege. As a matter of fact, the holiday season can cause more stress than other times of the year. For people who are struggling, the needs of their lives do not take a break in order for them to convene around a Christmas tree or enjoy the tastes of a traditional holiday meal. Buying gifts and working to make ends meet during the holiday season can cause serious setbacks for a struggling family. Some families are forced to choose between having presents under the tree and having electricity for the month. This is a choice no one should ever have to make. And there are many elderly individuals who are often forgotten during this time of the year. However, everyone deserves joy in their holiday season. Therefore, I want to highlight the incredible and thoughtful work of places like the Salvation Army. Undertaking a massive organizational task and being keenly aware of the difficult decisions some families must make, the Salvation Army collects, sorts, and distributes donated gifts to families in order to provide joy to those who otherwise might not be able to have it. This organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graciousness allows families across the United States to not be burdened by the cost of giving to their loved ones while trying to maintain the basic necessities in their homes, such as food, running water, heat and electricity. Just this past weekend, my staff visited the Salvation Army location on Harry Hines Boulevard in Dallas. My staff works very hard to provide thorough solutions and resources that assist people of the 30th district, as well as propose and support legislation that is caring and thoughtful. Yet they were blown away by the dedication and compassion of the staff of the Salvation Army here in our great city. To them, there is still nothing better than a hands on experience that benefits the people. The staff of the Salvation Army is friendly, the music was festive, and they even did a mannequin challenge! The holiday season is about family and Dallas is a great family. So this year, in the spirit of the fine people at the Salvation Army, I urge you to help your greater Dallas family by volunteering for a cause. Dallas is a big city, and homelessness is pervasive and devastating our communities. As the temperatures drop, our cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homeless shelters will see an increase. And the men and women who come into those shelters for warmth or a meal deserve a joyous holiday season. Dallas is home to many veterans, fine men and women who have sacrificed a lot to protect us. They may be having problems readjusting to life at home or procuring the healthcare they rightfully deserve. Some simple time spent with these people during the holidays will help them relax and take their mind off of the stress of everyday life for a moment. Whatever the cause may be, Dallas has family members in need, so check out VolunteerMatch.org to find opportunities to help your Dallas family. WWW.MYIMESSENGER.COM The holidays are to be joyous so let us all help spread joy to others. Have a warm and restful holiday season, 1â&#x20AC;&#x192; and a healthy new year. - U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

29th Annual International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance honoring Robert Battle, Alvin Ailey's Artistic Director

will hold the 2nd Annual Ballet Audition for Women of Color who are seeking contracts VOL 6 ISSUE 16 and professional training opportunities with premier ballet companies. Confirmed ballet companies attending the NAACP President/CEO Cornell William audition are: Brooks heads to DFW to speak for the Ballet Austin, Austin, TX Arlington MLK Banquet on January 13, Ballet Memphis, Memphis, TN 2017. "Advancing the Dream: A Nation Charlotte Ballet, Charlotte, NC of Justice & Freedom. Reception 6pm The 29th Annual International Conference and Dance Theatre of Harlem, New York, NY | Dinner 6:45pm. Limited tickets for Festival of Blacks in Dance is honoring dance The Hartt School, Hartford, CT $45/ $360 per table. Get your tickets at industry trailblazer Robert Battle, the Artistic Nashville Ballet, Nashville, TN utatickets.com. Sponsorships available Director for Alvin Ailey American Dance ThePacific Northwest Ballet School, Seattle, WA at 212.920.9147. ater when it meets in Dallas, Texas January Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA 25-29, 2017. Robert Battle is the conference San Francisco Ballet, San Francisco, CA luncheon keynote speaker and will participate School of American Ballet, New York, NY NAMC in a panel discussion on "Transitions and StaThursday, Friday and Saturday evenings will bility of Today's Dance Companies." showcase performances by internationally reRobert Battle became the artistic director 7 nowned dance companies including Alvin Aiof Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in ley American Dance Theater and the founding July 2011. He is the third person to head the companies of The International Association of dance company since its inception in 1958. Blacks in Dance; PHILADANCO! (Philadelphia, Battle was a frequent choreographer and artPennsylvania), Cleo Parker Robinson Dance ist-in-residence at Ailey since 1999. Mr. Battle (Denver, Colorado), Dallas Black Dance Theatre also instituted the New Directions Choreog(Dallas, Texas), Dayton Contemporary Dance raphy Lab to help develop the next generaCompany, (Dayton, Ohio) and Lula Washingtion of choreographers. Battle founded his ton Dance Theatre (Los Angeles, California). own Battleworks Dance Company in 2002. He Thursday Evening: Emerging Artists & Youth was honored as one of the "Masters of AfriDr. Ben Ensemble Showcase can-American Choreography" by the Kennedy Friday Evening: Established Artists & MemCarson Center for the Performing Arts in 2005. bers Showcase More than 700 participants worldwide are !VAILABLE AT .EWSSTANDS IN Saturday Evening: Founders & International expected to attend the conference. The Inter15 Company Showcase national Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) !VAILABLE .EWSSTANDS IN (DBDT) has hostDallas BlackATDance Theatre is designed to meet the needs of professioned the conference and festival seven times Garland,Rowlett al, advanced, and student dancers as well as during its 29-year history and it is a part of DBMesquite dance administrators and instructors. The DT's 40th Anniversary Season. The conference Richardson conference will provide master classes, lecheadquarters is the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, loture/demonstrations, panels, workshops, and cated at & 400E.Dallas North Olive Street, Dallas, Texas performances. 75201. All public performances will be held at There will be a multi-company audition for the Majestic Theatre. professionals conducted by the founding and For more details visit http://www.iabdassomember companies of IABD. Following a maciation.org/conference. jor triumph from the 2016 conference, IABD

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Holiday season is do-or-die for small retailers

By Yolanda Garcia Olivarez, SBA’s South Central Region Administrator

Tis the season to be jolly, not broke. Many small retailers earn 25 percent or more of total annual revenues during the Christmas shopping season. Stagnant holiday sales can be the beginning of a slow death-spiral in the coming year. Small locally-owned retailers don't typically have the sales volume and financial resources to compete with the huge discounts offered by big national chains. Small retailers' profit margins tend to be thinner than the big players, giving them less wiggle room on discounts. The SBA compiled the following six hurdles small retailers face during the holiday shopping season, and ways to avoid them in the future. 1. Lack of inventory control. Inventory control is crucial for all small retailers, especially during the busy holiday selling months. It is important to remember that inventory equals profits, and knowing how much product to order, when to order it, and what items to order can be the difference between having cash in the bank or aging inventory on the shelves. 2. Hiring the wrong employees for critical positions. There is a cost to hiring the wrong people for key positions. Small firms tend to have less layers of management between the owner and the employees, therefore new hires must be able to perform with less direct

supervision and be motivated to get the job done right the first time. Avoid this issue by writing a detailed job description, and immediately instilling a sense of extreme customer service in each and every new employee.

sales crunch time from Black Friday until New Year’s Day. Office parties can cause distractions at a time when a business needs to be especially productive. Too much food and drink can not only cause a nasty hangover, but sidetrack employee and management’s focus. Consider moving the company party until after New Year’s Day and call it the annual thank-you event. Tip: Involve the entire community in this thank you party.

3. Undercapitalization will kill the holiday spirit. Cash flow is the life blood of all small businesses. Cash flow allows a business to make payroll, pay suppliers, and keep its doors open. Business owners should immediately increase cash flow by collecting accounts receivables in a timely manner; don’t keep cash tied up in unnecessary inventory; and eliminate unprofitable account relationships. 4. Not embracing online sales and social media. U.S. Census Bureau data shows that more than $1.2 billion in e-commerce sales were made during the first three quarters of 2016 – a 15.7 percent increase over the same period last year. By the end of 2017 it is estimated that more than 60 percent of all U.S. retail sales will involve the web. To stay competitive small retailer must develop a retail web presence. Also, leverage Twitter and Facebook to promote one-day sales or plug special product lines and high inventoried merchandise. Use Facebook advertising to establish more of an emotional connection with shoppers. 5. Not delaying the employee office party and social events. It is

6. Innovation and creativity lost. Historically, locally-owned small retailers beat their big box and online competitors by providing outstanding individualized customer service. Internet sales events have pushed large retailers into flooding the market with lost leader pricing on a wide array of holiday products. Small retailers must take the offensive by selling creative and innovative products that cannot be found at the local mega mall or online. Create a unique customer experience that will draw shoppers to travel outside of their comfort zone, and discover that out-of-theordinary shopping district with ten trendy stores, not 100 traditional chain stores. For more information on ways the SBA can assist your small business this holiday season, visit www.sba. gov. (Yolanda Garcia Olivarez serves as the SBA’s South Central Region Administrator and is based in Dallas/Fort Worth. She oversees the agency’s programs and services in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.)

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

National Endowment for the Arts Awards Dallas Black Dance Theatre 2017 Challenge America Grant

- National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Chairman Jane Chu approved more than $30 million in grants as part of the NEA's first major funding announcement for fiscal year 2017. Included in this announcement is a Challenge America grant to Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) so it can feature guest artists from Ballet Austin during its Spring Celebration series during May 2017. The Challenge America category supports primarily small and mid-sized organizations for projects that extend the reach of the arts to underserved populations-those whose opportunities to experience the arts are limited by geography, ethnicity, economics or disability. The Spring Celebration Series May 19-21, 2017 marks the close of Dallas Black Dance Theatre's 40th Anniversary season. The series features guest artists from Ballet Austin performing a work by their Artistic Director Stephen Mills. In addition, DBDT dancers will perform a contemporary work by Mr. Mills. Directly following the Friday evening performance

DBDT will hold an artists' discussion, featuring dancers from both companies and the choreographer where audience members can ask the guest artists questions about the artistic process. "The arts are for all of us, and by supporting organizations such as Dallas Black Dance Theatre, the National Endowment for the Arts is providing more opportunities for the public to engage with the arts," said NEA Chairman Jane Chu. "Whether in a theater, a town square, a museum, or a hospital, the arts are everywhere and make our lives richer." "The NEA has two criteria for awarding grants, excellence and merit," explained Jane Chu when she visited DBDT on November 28, 2016 as part of a tour of the

Dallas Arts District. "We decide the grant amount on the project, not the size of the organization." The NEA has given grants to Dallas Black Dance Theatre for more than 30 years. In FY 2016, Dallas Black Dance Theatre was the only modern dance company in Texas to receive an NEA grant. "Dallas Black Dance Theatre is honored to receive this award to support guest artists' performances and engagement with community audiences," said Zenetta Drew, executive director of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. During its 40-year history, Dallas Black Dance Theatre has performed on five continents, in 15 countries and 31 states, including two Olympic Cultural events. Over the years, more than 4 million arts patrons and

2.6 million students, grades K-12, have experienced the dance company's performances and educational outreach programs. DBDT serves more than 100,000 people annually, including more than 20,000 youth in grades K-12 in Dallas-Fort Worth area schools. DBDT offers community outreach services through workshops, lecture/demonstrations, master-classes, residences, mini-performances and student matinees that are designed level-specific for elementary, middle, high school and university students. Another 40,000 youth and adults are reached through local, national and international festivals, tours, special performances at universities, social service agencies, professional and corporate organizations, civic events and community venues. Dallas Black Dance Theatre is a resident company of the Dee & Charles Wyly Theatre in the Dallas Arts District where the Spring Celebration series will be performed May 17-21, 2017. For details visit www. DBDT.com. For more information on projects included in the NEA grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news.

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

NAMC welcomes new Chapter contractors, and The National Association of Minority their craftsmen as well Contractors NAMC welcomes to initiate and operate training new Dallas/Ft. programs for Worth Chapter located in Arlingpersons desiring employment ton, TX. The Dallas/ Ft. Worth Chapter and procureDemetria Bivens joined NAMC in Febment opportunities in all areas ruary, 2016 with Sharon Douglas as its chairman. of the industry enabling the integration of ethnic groups, NAMC national board memraces, creeds and colors into ber Demetria Bivens says. “We’re an advocate for minori- the construction industry." ty contractors, including African Americans, Hispanics, NAMC Dallas/Ft. Worth Chapter Asian, American Indians, and Chairman: Sharon Douglas women. Our mission is to purExecutive Director: Demetria sue, win, and execute. There Bivens are other associations around, 2000 E. Lamar Blvd, Suite 600, and we’re looking to be able Dallas, TX 76006 to help them to create more Phone: (817) 303-2160 opportunities for minority Email: sharond@bradleysercontractors.” The specific vices.net, dbivens@namcdfw. and primary purpose of this org chapter is to initiate, encourWebsite: www.namcdfw.org age and assist construction

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I Messenger 55-60 Ol' Skool Bday Party Celebration Keeping a Promise to Party

In 2014 Baba Esudele and I agreed to have a joint birth-earthday party fun-raiser to celebrate my 55th (Dec 6) and his 60th (Dec 30) Although he is not here to celebrate physically...he always remains with us in spirit.. He always loved a good party, especially with ol skool music... We will continue to celebrate his life, work and legacy..and I will keep the deal we made in 2014.. So get your Afro out the box….Iron that wrinkled Dashiki from back in the day

Fix the zipper on your 70’s mini-skirt Dust off those platform shoes you been keeping for years, just in case they come back in style… And get ready for the Sho-Nuff -Throw Down-Drop It Like Its Hot Pick It Back Up…If You Can Celebration Party Saturday, December 17 - 9pm – til ol’ folk get zzzzz Donation - $10 Featuring DJ WICKED..FOOD and FUN The Esudele Fagbenro Act of Change, Institute of Cultural Arts, 3200 S Lancaster Rd. Suite 623, Dallas, TX 75216 (Lancaster-Kiest Shopping Center..behind DD Discount) December 30th , his actually birthday...we will do our annual Kwanzaa Celebration of Nia..as we have done for years..and we will continue the tradition of our Lip Sync Concert...lots of fun and lots of laughter...just as Esudele loved...so please be on the look out for more info on this upcoming event..and if you want to get on stage and perform as your favorite artist...the opportunity is near.. More details coming soon... As always..we thank you for your continued support of The Act of Change... PLEASE SHARE WITH OTHERS..FOR MORE INFO..PLEASE CONTACT ME AT drsafisha@ yahoo.com 214 205 8804

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Community Calendar

The South Dallas Cultural Center is located at 3400 S. Fitzhugh Ave. Dallas, Texas 75215. For more information or to schedule a tour for your group call 214-670-1998. Admission is FREE ***** Free Reading Tutoring - Dallas Public Library; 1515 Young, Dallas 75201. Learn to read better program for adults. 214-671-8291; http://www.dallaslibrary.org/literacy ***** 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

Garland Civic Theatre presents the hilarious update of the classic fairy tale in Cinderella: The Musical. Tickets: $27 available at GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com, 972-2052790 or in-person at the Granville Arts Center Box Office, open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and two hours before each performance. Nov. 25-Dec. 17, Granville Arts Center - Small Theatre 300 N. Fifth Street, downtown Garland Please join The Honorable Carolyn King Arnold, Councilwoman District 4 for the following calendar events: District 4 Community Toy Drive

DECEMBER 16, 2016

Tickets: http://www.thetexastheatre.com/movies/can-youdig-this/

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.

December 17 The Magnificent Christmas Party benefiting the Officer Down Foundation presented by the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas (BPA) will be held December 17th, 2016 at the BPA Headquarters (211 Centre Street, Dallas, TX., 75208) Featuring a VIP Happy Hour 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., silent auction, live DJ and more.

12-17-16 FeedAMillionSoldiers.com will be at the Duncanville Luby’s - Larry Nelson is mgr. We’re feeding veterans @ 3p.m. and you can help

December 18 Join DST, Inc. Dallas Alumnae Chapter Family and Friends for aHoliday shopping excursion and fellowship TV Fashion Outlet 5-7PM 319 South Cedar Ridge Road Duncanville, TX

December 26

The workshop is limited to the first thirty people. To reserve a seat, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/faith-based-walkingrunning-program-dallas-tickets-29630578859 Date: Saturday, January 21, 2017 Time: 9:30AM to 4:00PM (lunch included) Location: Carter Room Cooper Hotel & Conference Center 12200 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230

2017 Bond Town Hall Meetings

December 16 “Can You Dig This” Film Screening Thurs Dec 16, 2016; 7:30pm; Texas Theater; 231 W. Jefferson, Dallas,75208. The film is about Ron Finley, “The Gangsta Gardener”, who teaches South Central Los Angeles residents to plant their own nutritious foods. Mr. Finley will be there.

The National Black Marathoners Association recognized that the one African-American institution, which has the biggest impact on our health, is the church. We go there every week to get spiritually motivated and inspired. We want to use this same platform to make the congregation physically healthy. A healthier congregation is the foundation of a strong church. We received a training grant from the USA Track and Field. We’re proud to host a FREE, one-day workshop for community and faith-based organizations. The health and wellness leaders are taught the proper techniques to start and maintain a year around walking and running program for beginners. This program was in the October 26, 2016 Wall Street Journal. And we shared our vision with the religious leaders at the three largest Black faithbased conferences · National Baptist Convention, USA in Kansas City · National Baptist Convention of America in Cincinnati · Church of God in Christ Convocation in St. Louis

Friday, December 16, 2016 District 4 Update A Holiday Evening with Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – VIP Meet & Greet 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM – Dinner & Music Dallas City Hall 1500 Marilla Street Dallas, Texas 75201 1st Floor Lobby (Green Elevator)

Thursday, January 19, 2017 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Beckley Saner Recreational Center 114 W. Hopson Avenue Dallas, Texas 75224

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

Saturday, December 17th – 01:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, January 17, 2017 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Kiest Park Recreational Center 3080 South Hampton Road Dallas, Texas 75204

January 18

For questions, email FaithAndWellness@BlackMarathoners.org

December 31 Ring in the New Year to the smooth grooves of AHYONZ featuring KENYA C. at the Austin Event Center (AEC) on Saturday, December 31st! Door open at 8 PM and the party doesn’t stop until 2017!

January 28 Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. celebrates

January 13 LADIES CHOICE Concert Series featuring Avant, Dru Hill and Jagged Edge Music Hall @ Fair Park 909 1st Ave Dallas, TX, 75210 Ticketmaster: 1-800-745-3000 SHADOWLAND by PILOBOLUS is coming to Dallas on Friday, January 13

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

JOURNALISTS INVITED TO APPLY FOR CAREER-CHANGING SCIENCE IMMERSION FELLOWSHIP Fellowship includes tuition, room and board for weeklong workshop that gives journalists the tools to break new environmental stories Would you like to take your reporting to the next level of excellence? Do you have the science background, tools, and sources to break new stories and advance your career?

• • •

break stories on a range of science and environmental topics Conduct a fisheries survey aboard a URI research vessel Interact with leading researchers, policy experts in an informal, off-deadline atmosphere to cultivate new sources Network and develop lasting relationships with journalists from around the globe

Call for Applications

Metcalf Alumni

The University of Rhode Island’s Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting is accepting applications for its 19th Annual Science Immersion Workshop for Journalists: Global Change in Coastal Ecosystems, June 4 – 9, 2017. Ten early- to mid-career journalists will be selected for the fellowship, which includes tuition, travel support, and room and board, thanks to the generosity of private donors and the Metcalf Institute endowment. Two of the ten slots will be awarded to internationally based journalists.

Metcalf Institute Annual Workshop alumni hail from the U.S. and around the world, including Nigeria, Italy, Pakistan, Philippines, Israel, South Africa, China, Singapore, Brazil, and India. Metcalf Fellows represent all media types and a wide variety of large and small news organizations ranging from local and regional newspapers and broadcast outlets to online and national/international outlets such as National Geographic, The New York Times, CNN, Marketplace, The Associated Press and PRI’s The World.

About the Workshop The Workshop is held at the URI Graduate School of Oceanography one of the nation’s premier research institutions and home to Metcalf Institute. Using the world’s best-studied estuary, Narragansett Bay, as a living laboratory, the workshop gives journalists opportunities to explore and understand the effects of human activities on coastal ecosystems. In the field, lab, and classroom, Metcalf Fellows will: • • • •

Gain a greater understanding of how scientists conduct research Develop the skills and confidence to translate scientific publications for general audiences Build confidence in their abilities to discern the credibility of scientific sources Acquire the skills needed to comb through complex scientific data to

“It was one of the most extraordinary professional experiences of my life,” said 2016 Annual Workshop alumnus, Jeff Mosier of the Dallas Morning News. “I was absolutely floored.” “I can’t emphasize enough how important this opportunity was for me,” said 2016 Annual Workshop alumna Catalina Jaramillo, freelance journalist. “I learned so much and made connections that I hope will last for a long time.” “I now know how to interpret the science for my publications and actually tell the audiences the stories they need to hear,” said 2016 Annual Workshop alumna Doyin Adeoye of the Nigerian Tribune. “I’m ready to take African environmental reporting to the next level.” Apply for the Annual Workshop here before February 6, 2017. Eligibility

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The Fellowship is geared to early to mid-career, full-time journalists from all media who are looking to start or expand coverage of the environment. Applicants must demonstrate a need for training in topics relating to global change in coastal environments. The fellowship includes room, board, tuition, and travel support paid after the program in the amount of up to US$500 for U.S.-based journalists and up to US$1,000 for internationally based journalists. Journalists applying from outside the U.S. must provide written assurance that they have full travel funds and can obtain the appropriate visa. Applications for the 2017 Annual Science Immersion Workshop for Journalists must be submitted by February 6, 2017. About Metcalf Institute Metcalf Institute is a globally recognized leader in providing environmental science training for journalists. The Institute also offers communication workshops for scientists, science resources for journalists and free public lectures on environmental topics. Metcalf Institute was established at the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography in 1997 with funding from three media foundations: the Belo Corporation, the Providence Journal Charitable Foundation and the Philip L. Graham Fund, with additional support from the Telaka Foundation. Metcalf programming is underwritten by federal and foundation grants, as well as private donations managed by the University of Rhode Island Foundation. Contact: Karen Southern Director of Communications Metcalf Institute University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography 218 South Ferry Road

DECEMBER 16, 2016 I Messenger Congresswoman Johnson releases statement after attending signing of the 21st Century Cures Act Washington, DC - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) attended the signing of the 21st Century Cures Act by President Barack Obama at the White House. The bill was passed with bipartisan support from the Senate and House of Representatives. She applauded the signing of the Cures Act and is grateful for the support of the mental health advocates who encouraged her to continue fighting for mental health reform. “The 21st Century Cures Act is a step forward for biomedical research and will spur innovation to discover new treatments and cures,” said Congresswoman John-

President Barack Obama is joined on stage for the signing of the 21st Century Cures Act

son. “I am so proud to see much of the framework of the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act enacted into law today. As we finally address the opioid crisis that has overtaken many of our communities, I am hopeful that the funding for treat-

ment and resources available through the 21st Century Cures Act will be sufficient.” Congresswoman Johnson vigorously reiterated her commitment on this issue. “I am honored to see this group of colleagues from both sides of the aisle come

together on the issues of biomedical research, innovation, mental health reform, and opioid abuse treatment. Because of our efforts and the support of advocates across the country, we were able to pass legislation that will benefit millions of people in our nation. This is a pathway to further protect people in our communities who battle mental illness, addiction, chronic disease, and rare diseases. I remain persistent in my commitment to be a voice for those who seek treatment, cures, and solutions.” See video of Congresswoman Johnson applauding the passage of this legislation here: https://youtu.be/ iQCnFd0swXc

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

MALVEAUX: WILL WORKERS SWALLOW A BITTER PILL? The Last Word By Dr. Julianne Malveaux

NNPA Newswire Columnist

When Donald Trump was running for President, he specifically targeted the “white working class”, telling them that he’d prevent their jobs from leaving the country, that he’d bring back manufacturing jobs, and that he’d revive the oil and steel industries. He hasn’t taken office yet, but he has already celebrated the fact that Carrier, a furnace manufacturer in Indianapolis, Indiana, has agreed to keep jobs in the United States, even though they had earlier announced that they would have moved jobs to Mexico. The Carrier deal that Trump has been crowing about is so deceptive, that some business writers describe it as a scam and a union leader accused Trump of lying his hind parts off. Trump says he saved over a thousand jobs, but the real number may be closer to 730. Carrier will still relocate more than 500 jobs to Mexico, and they had already planned to keep about 300 jobs in the United States. So Trump may have “saved” 400 jobs, not 800 or a thousand, and Indiana governor Pence had to give up $7 million in tax benefits to keep the jobs here. Trump and Pence have also signaled that they are willing to play “let’s make a deal” on a case by case basis to keep jobs in the United States, instead of using public policy to encourage the development of US jobs and to limit the mobility of capital. And, Carrier is still closing another Indiana plant, but there has been no intervention for that closure. Now, Mr. Trump has indicated that Andrew F. Puzder is his choice for Secretary of Labor. Puzder, the CEO of CKE Restaurant Holdings, a company that franchises Hardee and Carl’s Jr. fast food outlets, has opposed minimum wage increases, worker protections, paid sick leave, and the Afford-

able Care Act. He has said that he welcomes automation in the restaurant industry because machines are “always polite. . . never take a vacation, never show up late, there’s never a slip and fall or an age, sex, or race discrimination case.” While the Department of Labor has been the advocate for workers, Mr. Puzder seems to be an advocate for worker exploitation. Okay, y’all working class white folks, those

Trump says he saved over a thousand jobs, but the real number may be closer to 730. Carrier will still relocate more than 500 jobs to Mexico, and they had already planned to keep about 300 jobs in the United States. of you who voted for Mr. Trump, are you ready to swallow a bitter pill? Because Mr. Trump has shown you, yet again, what he thinks of you. The historian Doris Kearns Goodwin wrote about President Abraham Lincoln’s Team of Rivals. What Mr. Trump seems to have assembled is a team of war-mongering generals and bombastic billionaires. The Puzder appointment, then, is consistent with Mr. Trump’s philosophy, but it is inconsistent with the notion that the Labor Department should be an advocate for workers, and should regulate labor markets and enforce labor legislation. The minimum wage was stuck at $5.15 an hour for 10 years before it was increased in 2007. Then, Congress approved a three-step increase, raising the

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wage to $5.85 an hour in July 2007, then $6.55 an hour in 2008, finally increasing to $7.25 an hour in 2009. It has been stuck there ever since. President Obama has recommended an increase of the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour, less than the $15 an hour that many activists are advocating through the Fight for Fifteen. Puzder does not think the minimum wage should be more than $9 an hour. He also opposes Obama Administration efforts to give overtime pay to more workers. It would be crass to say that Puzder purchased his position, but it is important to note that he contributed more than $300,000 to the Trump campaign. His nomination is consistent with that of Oklahoma attorney general Scott Pruitt, a climate change denier, to head the Environmental Protection Agency. Just as Pruitt has no intention of protecting the environment, prioritizing energy production over environmental protection, Puzder has no intention of advocating for or protecting workers. Lots of people who voted for Mr. Trump swear they aren’t racists and say they simply voted for “change.” If Mr. Trump and Mr. Puzder have their way, they’ll get chump change for hourly pay. Is that the change they want to believe in? Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist. Her latest book “Are We Better Off? Race, Obama and Public Policy” is available via www.amazon.com

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

Spiritually Speaking

James

JAMES

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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

DECEMBER 16, 2016 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 December 31, 2016 to: DFW/ABJ c/o Cheryl Smith 320 South RL Thornton Freeway, Suite 220 Dallas, TX 75203

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I Messenger If confirmed, Carson will lead HUD with compassion

DECEMBER 16, 2016

By Armstrong Williams (NNPA Newswire Columnist)

In recent days, the media has been abuzz with speculation over cabinet appointments within the incoming President-elect Donald Trump administration. Specifically, much talk has focused on Dr. Ben Carson and his announcement that he was not interested in serving in a cabinet post. Observers have tried to read the tea leaves and read into some underlying story as to how Dr. Carson arrived at this decision and what it signals. However, they are missing the point. I have known Dr. Carson and his family for 25 years. This is a man who possesses remarkable vision. He imagined possibilities in his chosen field of medicine and then made them a reality. He was the youngest chief of pediatric neurosurgery in the United States at the age of 33 when appointed at Johns Hopkins Hospital in 1984. He has served on the boards of major companies like Costco and Kellogg, received more than 60 honorary doctorate degrees, numerous national merit citations, and was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2008. And yet, arguably the most important trait that makes Dr. Benjamin Carson a fantastic appointee for the cabinet position of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is his compassion. Dr. Carson believes that whenever there is a concentration of people with a lot of poverty, it doesn’t matter what their race is. A multitude of conflict and the types of trouble we have seen over the past decade will continue if we aren’t able to carry out the mission of HUD. HUD’s mission to create “strong, sustainable, inclusive com-

munities and quality affordable homes for all…improving the quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination.” In recent years, Dr. Carson was called to serve, and he accepted the call by running for the presidency. He would have made an outstanding President, but it was not to be. Part of what makes him so unique is his vision for what this country can achieve and how it can be shaped to reach its full potential. Growing up in inner city Detroit and Boston, Dr. Carson has seen a lot of trauma and has spent a significant amount of time in neighborhoods with

various problems. He has also spent time reflecting on the Obama Administration’s HUD rule designed to “desegregate” housing by withholding funds from communities that fail to further their projects “affirmatively further” fair housing. He has written: “The new rule would not only condition the grant of HUD funds to municipalities on building affordable housing as is the case today, but would require that such affordable housing is built primarily in wealthier neighborhoods with few current minority residents and that the new homes be aggressively marketed to minorities.

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In practice, the rule would fundamentally change the nature of some communities from primarily single-family to largely apartment-based areas by encouraging municipalities to strike down housing ordinances that have no overtly (or even intended) discriminatory purpose — including race-neutral zoning restrictions on lot sizes and limits on multi-unit dwellings, all in the name of promoting diversity.” Dr. Carson will continue to possess that vision and work toward its realization. Running an agency of the government is a management challenge that requires incredible organizational skills and expertise. The President entrusts his cabinet officials with enormous responsibility and looks to them to master the details and muster the men and women who work within their agencies to accomplish the objectives at hand. I have no doubt that Dr. Carson would have met and exceeded any challenge set before him and done a fantastic job. However, it’s important to keep in mind that you can hire management, but not vision. It’s a unique attribute that people either possess or not. In the end, Dr. Carson will work tirelessly on behalf of the American people, including those in our rural and urban communities to assure that all Americans have affordable, safe and quality homes.

Armstrong Williams is Manager / Sole Owner of Howard Stirk Holdings I & II Broadcast Television Stations and the 2016 Multicultural Media Broadcast Owner of the year. Watch our Right Side Forum every Saturday Live Newschannel 8 TV 28 in DC, 10:30 am – 11:00 am and repeats 6:30 pm EST. Read Armstrong Williams, author of the brand new book Reawakening Virtues, content on RightSideWire.com and Come join the discussion live at 6-8 p.m. and 4-6 a.m. est. on Sirius/XM UrbanView 126 , Become a fan on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter.

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

The Day that Rev. Jesse Jackson took Fidel Castro to Church

By Don Terry (NNPA Newswire Guest Contributor)

HAVANA — On the evening of December 1, six days after Fidel Castro’s death at age 90, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., stood in the pulpit of the packed First Presbyterian Church of Havana. Applause washed over him and moonlight danced on the warm waters of the nearby Caribbean. The international human and civil rights legend from Chicago was one of only two Americans invited by the Cuban Council of Churches to speak at an ecumenical memorial service that evening for the nation’s former president. The other American was Rev. Joan Brown Campbell, a longtime advocate for social justice and the first clergywoman to lead the National Council of Churches. Projected on the wall behind the pulpit as he spoke was a visual reminder of why Jackson is held in such high esteem by the country’s religious community: a black and white photograph, taken on June 28, 1984, of Jackson and Castro – the reverend and the revolutionary – at an event that continues to reverberate through Cuban society 32 years later, government officials and church leaders say. On that day, Jackson pulled off a near-miracle in a daring act of citizen diplomacy and liberation theology. He took Castro to church and in doing so helped open a door to the possibility of change and increased religious freedom across the island nation of 11 million souls. For the first time in 27 years Castro attended church. Although invited on many previous occasions over the years by Cuban and foreign church leaders, Castro always declined until Jackson persuaded Castro to accompany him to a Methodist church in Havana. “That visit was central to the new relationship between the state and the church,” Rev. Pablo Oden Marichal, an Episcopal priest and member of Cuban’s National Assembly, who was at the church that day in 1984, said during Jackson’s recent trip to Cuban. “From that circumstance a new relationship with the church and the government started. And Rev. Jesse Jackson was at the center of it.” While there remains much work to be done, that day was the beginning of a thaw in the icy — often repressive — relationship between the Cuban government and the country’s religious community. Cuba was officially an atheist state

and “believers” like Rev. Marichal were barred from serving in the government. Slowly, that began to change after the two leaders walked into church together, joking and laughing when Jackson asked Castro, who was dressed in his green army fatigues, to take off his hat and remove his cigar before entering the sanctuary. “I want to remind you in these very brief remarks,” Castro told the crowded church that day, “of the very profound impression that the Rev. Jesse Jackson has made on all of us, because of his honesty, his talent, his sincerity, his honor, and the profound passion with which he fights for peace and friendship…And I consider him an extraordinary spokesman of the highest ideas of Christian thought.” It was Jackson’s first trip to Cuba; his first meeting with Castro. At the time, Jackson was running for President of the United States and arrived in Havana with a delegation of clergy and scholars, dozens of Secret Service agents and even more reporters and television news camera crews. Cuba was the third stop on Jackson’s four-nation fact-finding and peace-making tour of Central America. The drums of war were echoing through much of Latin America. Right-wing death squads were murdering peasants, priests and nuns. Cuba was in the crosshairs of the Reagan Administration, which accused the Castro government of exporting arms and rebellion from El Salvador to Southern Africa. Any talk of ending the crippling trade embargo against Cuba and normalizing relations was laughed at in Washington. At a news conference upon his arrival, Jackson said that he was “hopeful that our visit to the island will help break the cycle of misunderstanding and bring our people and our governments closer together so that we can begin to relate to each other as the neighbors that we are.” He had reason to be confident. A few months earlier, Jackson had pulled off his first near-miracle of the campaign season. No one believed he could do it, but he negotiated the release of an American Navy pilot, Lt. Robert Goodman, shot down over Syria and brought him home. Yet, Washington insiders told Jackson he was naïve and should not waste with his breath talking to Castro about setting captives free. The two men talked for eight hours. By the time they were finished, Castro had agreed to send home 22 Americans imprisoned in Cuba, mostly on drug charges. He also agreed to re-

lease and fly to Miami 26 Cubans, some of whom had been in prison for 20 years. The United States referred to the newly released Cubans as political prisoners. The Castro government called them terrorists and enemies of the state. Jackson simply called them free. Castro wanted something from Jackson during the trip. He asked Jackson to join him in speaking to 4,000 students at a local university. Jackson agreed. Then, as he told the congregation at the recent Havana memorial service, he asked Castro “point blank” why he did not go to church. Castro told Jackson that he grew up in the Catholic Church and loved it. He took to heart the teachings about defending the poor and weak. But when he came down out of the mountains after defeating dictator, Fulgencio Batista in 1959, he was shocked to find, Jackson said at the memorial service, “priests in the courtyards with guns, aiming at us, defending the graveyards of the rich.” Castro was bitterly disappointed and angry. He thought about burning the churches down. Instead, he turned his back and stayed away. “I reminded Fidel of minsters who preach and practice the theology of liberation,” Jackson said, “ministers and visionaries like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I told him, ‘That’s the church of your dreams, so don’t give up on the church.’” The next day, Castro accompanied Jackson to the Methodist church where an ecumenical group, including various Cuban clergy and a delegation of African American ministers from the National Council of Churches and the Black Theology Project, was holding a service and meeting to study and commemorate the work of Dr. King and liberation theology. “Nobody knew Fidel was coming,” said Dr. Benjamin Chavis, a longtime civil rights activist and former head of the NAACP, who is now president of National Newspaper Publishers Association. “It was an exciting moment. Everybody stood up and clapped. The Cuban people were overjoyed. They were glad to see their leader coming to church.” Chavis was there that day. He appears in the photograph of Jackson and Castro taken at the church. Chavis is standing next to Castro on the right, preparing to introduce the Cuban leader. “We all knew we were not only witnessing history, we were participating in history,” Chavis said. “I’ve thought about that day a lot since then. It was inspirational.”

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

How Do I Comfort a Friend That’s Been Cheated On? Dear Alma:

I would like to know how to comfort a close friend who has a cheating spouse. My friend, who has been faithful, has distanced herself from the relationship because of the cheating, but doesn’t want to rip the family apart due to her spouse’s infidelity. I would like to know how to comfort my faithful friend, although she knows the relationship includes another woman.

Signed, A Loyal Friend Dear Loyal Friend, What a great friend you are, and here’s how to be an even better one: Just listen and keep it to yourself. Evidently, that’s what you’ve been doing since your friend is comfortable

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.

enough to confide in you thus far. Cause we don’t and won’t to just anybody, I’m just sayin, you two must have history. It’s hard to pull back the veil and reveal your heartbreak, your embarrassment or your dirty laundry. It’s one thing to put it in the dryer, but when you’re left with your business hanging on the clothesline, good googoolly moogoolly, you just want to run and hide. I know you’ve asked how to comfort her, but unfortunately no matter how hard you try, that won’t happen. She doesn’t need a comforter; she needs a confidant. To comfort means to “ease” to “relieve, cheer” and unless you’re the cheating, philandering, good for nothing…oh, wait I’m sorry, I digress. Unless you’re the spouse, that isn’t your position or place to fill. I know you mean well, but you, an outsider, can’t heal this kinda hurt for her. It is totally and wholeheartedly between her and

beginners. This program was in the October 26, 2016 Wall Street Journal. And we shared our vision with the religious leaders at the three largest Black faith-based conferences · National Baptist Convention, USA in Kansas City · National Baptist Convention of America in Cincinnati · Church of God in Christ Convocation in St. Louis The workshop is limited to the first thirty people. To reserve a seat, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ faith-based-walkingrunning-program-dallas-tickets-29630578859

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her husband. What works for or against one couple may not for another. It’s wrong, there’s no doubt about it and a legitimate reason for divorce. But that’s not always the answer one or both participants in the relationship are seeking. When you’re on the receiving end of infidelity, you feel depleted, worthless and downright not “good” enough. Your confidence takes a leave of absence and you just can’t find it anywhere. Deciding to deal with the deceit and pretending it doesn’t bother you is foolish. It’s an internal war you cannot win. I hope she’s able to fuel her soul during this most difficult time. A trusted friend provides an advantage against the enemy, and that’s exactly what you are. Without comment or judgement towards her, remain a shoulder soldier, strong and upright, ready for your friend to lean on.

Date: Saturday, January 21, 2017 Time: 9:30AM to 4:00PM (lunch included) Location: Carter Room Cooper Hotel & Conference Center 12200 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230 For questions, email FaithAndWellness@BlackMarathoners.org The coaching instructors are Monisha Randolph and myself. We have a combined 50 years of running experience. And we’ve trained over 500 walkers and runners, including through church

Alma

programs. Our running experience includes finishing over 300 races. We’ve won age group and weight division trophies, while completing over 130 marathons (26.2 miles) in all fifty States, and seven continents, including Antarctica. We’ve authored six books and over 50 articles. And we’ve appeared in newspapers and publications ranging from Ebony, Upscale, the Black MBA magazine, and the Wall Street Journal to Runner’s World, Black Sports – The Magazine, Southern Living, the Dallas Morning News, and the Star-Telegram.

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

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I Messenger NNPA President Benjamin Chavis recalls Fidel Castro’s fight against Apartheid

DECEMBER 16, 2016

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor)

The death of Fidel Castro has been met with varying reactions, including condolences to the fallen Cuban leader’s family by former President Jimmy Carter and President Barack Obama. For some, like Dr. Benjamin Chavis, the president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, remembrance of Castro’s reign will always include his support of the imprisoned Nelson Mandela. Chavis vividly recalled the Cuban leader’s fearless intervention against Apartheid South Africa. “Fidel Castro’s unprecedented contribution to liberate humanity from imperialism will live forever,” Chavis said on Sunday. A lifelong and dedicated civil rights activist, Chavis knew first-hand the battles of Apartheid and what Castro did to assist the oppressed in South Africa. Chavis recalled the time he spent shoulder-to-shoulder with Cuban and African troops as they fought against the oppressive South African government during the 1988 “Battle of Cuito Cuanavale.” In the 1980s, the frontline African nations that bordered South Africa were periodically being militarily violated with the brutal violence and repression that became routine of the Apartheid regime, said Chavis who first wrote about his experience three years ago, in a column published by the L.A. Watts Times. South African military attacks directly on the African National Congress (ANC) inside South Africa and in Angola, South West Africa and in other areas of southern Africa had escalated. South Africa invaded South West Africa – which is now Namibia – and the Republic of Angola. “Castro urgently dispatched more than three hundred thousand Cuban soldiers to Angola over several years to help stop and to eventually defeat the South Africa military on the ground in Angola in 1988,” Chavis said, noting that, by contrast, U.S. President Ronald Reagan tacitly supported Apartheid South Africa and tried unsuccessfully to have a “constructive engagement” with Apartheid under the guise of preventing communism in southern Africa. Chavis traveled to Angola in 1988 on more than one occasion to witness how Cuba was helping the MLPA (Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola) in Angola and the ANC as well as SWAPO (South West Africa Peoples Organization). “I visited the battleground area in the aftermath of the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale that took place during a six-month period from the end of 1987 to the spring of 1988,” he said, noting that that battle was the largest, single armed conventional warfare on African soil since World War II. “I went down into the foxholes with Cubans, Angolans, Namibians and native South Africans, all fighting together heroically to liberate southern Africa from

oppression, colonialism and imperialism.” “One of the key commanders of all the Cuban troops in southern Africa was Raul Castro Ruz, Castro’s younger brother,” he said. In a statement issued this weekend, the Nelson Mandela Foundation noted its sympathies for the government and people of Cuba in the wake of Castro’s death, calling him “The revolutionary father of the South American country.” “On behalf of our Chairman, Trustees and Staff, the Nelson Mandela Foundation would like to send our deepest condolences to the people and government of Cuba on the passing of Fidel Castro,” Foundation officials said. “President Mandela had a close relationship with President Castro and always remembered his solidarity with

the anti-apartheid movement. He even went so far as to suggest those who criticized his relationship with Cuba and Libya, for instance should jump in the pool.” In 1998, Mandela and Castro met during the NonAligned Movement Summit in Durban, South Africa where 60 Heads of State attended two days of meetings. Later, Castro was accompanied by Mandela as he addressed the South African Parliament and the Cuban leader visited Mandela’s old cell at the Robben Island Prison. In 2001, Fidel Castro again traveled to South Africa, meeting Mandela at the Civil Rights Icon’s home in Houghton, Johannesburg. Because of his declining health, Castro did not attend Mandela’s 2013 funeral, but Raul Castro did. Foundation officials quoted Mandela talking about his solidarity with the Cuban government in a 1990 documentary. “The first country we approached was the United States of America. We could not even succeed to come close to the government, and they refused to assist us,” Mandela said. “But Cuba, the moment we appealed for assistance they were ready to do so and they did so. Why would we now listen to the Western world when they say we should have nothing to do with Cuba? It is just unreasonable.”

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Following his death, social media was inundated with posts about Castro, including photos of the fallen leader with Mandela, African-American political activist Angela Davis, Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. “[Castro’s] fight for the poor was his religious fulfillment,” said the Rev. Jesse Jackson. Born near Birán, Cuba, in 1926, Castro successfully overthrew the government to take control in 1958. His communist domestic policies and military and economic relations with the Soviet Union led to strained relations with the United States that culminated in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, according to Biography.com. Castro was also responsible for fomenting communist revolutions in other countries around the world. Under Castro, improvements were made to health care and education, while civil liberties were severely eroded. However, the 1991 collapse of communism in the Soviet Union and its negative impact on Cuba’s economy led Castro to relax some restrictions over time. Amidst failing health in 2008, Castro officially handed over power to his brother, but he still wielded some political influence in Cuba and abroad. His death on November 25 at the age of 90 was met with celebrations in strong Cuban-American populated cities like Miami and New York. “Rosalynn and I share our sympathies with the Castro family and the Cuban people on the death of Fidel Castro,” Carter, the 39th U.S. President said. “We remember fondly our visits with him in Cuba and his love of his country. We wish the Cuban citizens peace and prosperity in the years ahead.” Obama also offered condolences to Castro’s family. “We know that this moment fills Cubans in Cuba and in the United States with powerful emotions, recalling the countless ways in which Fidel Castro altered the course of individual lives, families, and of the Cuban nation,” Obama said. “History will record and judge the enormous impact of this singular figure on the people and world around him.” Trump, who is set to take office on January 20, said Castro’s legacy is one of “firing squads, theft, unimaginable suffering, poverty and the denial of fundamental human rights.” “Today, the world marks the passing of a brutal dictator who oppressed his own people for nearly six decades. While Cuba remains a totalitarian island, it is my hope that today marks a move away from the horrors endured for too long, and toward a future in which the wonderful Cuban people finally live in the freedom they so richly deserve,” Trump said in a statement. “Though the tragedies deaths and pain caused by Fidel Castro cannot be erased, our administration will do all it can to ensure the Cuban people can finally begin their journey toward prosperity and liberty.”

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

Democrats Refuse to Hire Blacks for Top Jobs in the U.S. Senate By Raynard Jackson (NNPA Newswire Columnist)

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “one of the shameful tragedies [of our nation] is that eleven o’clock on Sunday morning is one of the most segregated hours, if not the most segregated hour in Christian America.” King referred to the segregation within American churches on Sunday mornings. I would say that the most segregated place in America is the Democratic Party, especially when it comes to Blacks holding senior-level staff jobs. According to The Gallup Organization, Blacks make up 22 percent of the Democratic Party and Hispanics 13 percent. For decades, Blacks have been the most loyal voting bloc within the Democratic Party, but as Obama has proven, when it’s time to reward that loyalty, Blacks are often forgotten. The Joint Center for Economic and Political Studies did a fascinating study on this issue last year. The Joint Center used to be the premiere Black think tank in the U.S., until they decided to become a radical liberal group and tool of the Democratic National Committee. The report is titled, “Racial Diversity Among Top Senate Staff,” conducted by James R. Jones. This is one of the most explosive, damning reports of the Democratic Party’s racism I have ever read. Some of the highlights of the report are: • Although people of color make up over 36 percent of the U.S. population and over 28 percent of the citizen voting-age population, they represent only 7.1 percent of top Senate staffers. Of the 336 top Senate staffers, our analysis finds evidence of only 24 staffers of

MY PERSPECTIVE by Raynard Jackson (NNPA News Wire Columnist)

color (12 Asian-Americans, 7 Latinos, 3 African-Americans, and 2 Native-Americans). African-Americans make up 13 percent of the U.S. population, but only 0.9 percent of top Senate staffers and Latinos make up over 16 percent of the U.S. population, but only 2.1 percent of top Senate staffers. • African-Americans represent from 17 to almost 38 percent of the population in ten states (Ala., Del., Ga., La., Md., Miss., N.C., S.C., Tenn., and Va.), yet hold only 1.7 percent of the total top staff positions in the U.S. Senate offices of these states (one position in S.C.). • Top Democratic Senate staff members are much less diverse than the Democratic voting base. While those who self-identified as Democrats nationwide were 22 percent African-American and 13 percent Latino, top Democratic U.S. Senate staff as a group is 0.7 percent African-American and 2.0 percent Latino. There is no African-American chief of staff, legislative director, or communications director in the Washington, D.C. personal office of any Democratic Senator, according to the Joint Center’s 2015 study. According to table 3 of this same report, “While people of color make up approximately 37 percent of those who identify as Democrats, they account for 8.1 percent of top Democratic Senate staff. In comparison, people of color make up 9 percent of those who identify as Republicans and 6.7 percent of top

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Republican Senate staff, the Republicans’ percentage of key staffers of color is closer to the share of their party’s voters who are people of color.” In other words, a far left, radical Democratic group, The Joint Center, admits that the Republican Party has more diversity among their Senate staffers than their Democratic counterparts as a percentage of their makeup in their respective parties. Why has the mainstream media not reported on this fact? They report on the fact the Democrats have little to no diversity on Senate staffs, but they never take the next step and say that the Republicans are doing a far better job than the Democrats, because to do so would undercut the liberals constant argument that Republicans are racist. So, if the Republicans are racist, as Democrats constantly allege, what does that make the Democrats? One of their own radical liberal think tanks has now provided empirical data that shows Republicans are more diverse. Isn’t it amazing that the only U.S. Senator that has a Black chief of staff is South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, who is Black. New Jersey Senator, Corey Booker, the only other Black Senator, doesn’t think enough of his own community to hire a Black for this position, but yet he constantly lectures others about the lack of diversity. How ironic! So, to all my Black Democratic friends, why do you continue to work for a party that doesn’t reward your loyalty? Raynard Jackson is founder and chairman of Black Americans for a Better Future (BAFBF), a federally registered 527 Super PAC established to get more Blacks involved in the Republican Party. BAFBF focuses on the Black entrepreneur. For more information about BAFBF, visit www.bafbf.org. You can follow Raynard on Twitter @Raynard1223.

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

Nowitzki honored

By Dorothy Gentry I Messenger News

Dallas Maverick star Dirk Nowitzki was recently honored with the first Derek Harper Media Assist Award for his consistent availability to the media and cooperation during the 2015-16 season. Every season, local chapters of the Professional Basketball Writers’ Association honor a player on their team who exhibits professionalism and an uncommon willingness to devote time when dealing with members of the media. The award was presented during halftime of the Mavericks vs. Indiana Pacers game Friday night at Ameri-

Dirk Nowitzki

can Airlines Center. Presenting Dirk the award were co-chairs of the Professional Basketball Writers Association, Dwain Price of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and Eddie Sefko of The Dallas Morning News. “Nowitzki truly is a blessing not only

for fans on the court, but for media members in the interview room,” said Price. The award is named after former Maverick and NBA star Derek Harper, who was one of the most media-friendly players in Mavericks’ history. Harper is currently a game analyst for the Mavericks on their locally broadcast games. Nowitzki has been the face of the Dallas Mavericks franchise where he has played his entire 19-year-career. He is considered one of the greatest power forwards in basketball history and led the Mavericks to the franchise’s first Finals appearance in 2006 and only Championship in 2011.

Mavs play home-heavy December schedule MFFL’s (Mavs Fans for Life) and even those who aren’t – have several opportunities to see the Dallas Mavericks play this month as the team plays 8 home games in December. Rest of their home schedule for December: Dec. 18 vs. Sacramento Kings, 6 p.m. Dec. 27 vs. Houston Rockets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now! 214-747-MAVS or visit www.mavs.com. All games are played at the American Airlines Center and can be heard on 103.3FM (ESPN) and seen on Fox Sports Southwest.

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DECEMBER 16, 2016

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DECEMBER 16, 2016