I Messenger 3 2 2018

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March 2, 2018

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March 2, 2018

JUSTICE has a new face

TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION pages 22-23

Howard University’s and Fort Worth’s own Myra Mcintosh pages 6-7

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WSSTANDS IN IN .EWSSTANDS

wlett Rowlett quite esquite rdson hardson E.Dallas Dallas

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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 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 PHOTOGRAPHERS Wallace Faggett Kevin Griffith Richard Manson dgdaphotographer.com

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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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New Mavs Interim CEO Cynthia Marshall:

“This is personal; I want to do it for the Sisterhood� By Dorothy J Gentry Sports Editor Cynthia Marshall’s dad once hit her so hard he broke her nose. That was her experience with family violence. But it didn’t end there. She went on to endure more of it it later in life. “Domestic violence has been a part of our family, unfortunately, and I have personally been on the other end of it and there’s just no place for it,� she said candidly during her introduction to the public on Monday afternoon. And it is this background that motivates her as she takes the reins of the Dallas Mavericks organization as its interim CEO, charged with cleaning up a recently exposed culture of sexual harassment in the NBA franchise. “When I met with Mark (owner Mark Cuban) last week, he had passion about this and about the culture and about making sure this never happened again,� she said. “And I told him I share that passion for a lot of reasons. So we’re in this together. “I’m doing this obviously because a very passionate and heartfelt plea was made. It’s also personal and I want to do it for the sisterhood.� During her news conference, Marshall openly mentioned the broken nose she suffered after a particularly hard hit by her father. Specific details were featured in an AT&T promotional video she filmed while their senior vice president of

human resources and chief diversity officer. The relationship was so abusive that the family was forced to leave the house. When they returned, everything was gone with the exception of a mattress. “He said we’d be hookers on

the street without him,â€? Marshall, who was 15 at the time, said in the AT&T profile. “My mom said at 15 years old I responded, ‘No, we’re going to be the first in the family to go to college’ ‌ and that I was going to be the president of something one day.â€? She made good on her word – later receiving a full scholarship to the University of California at Berkeley. Marshall also shared a few details on Monday about growing up in public housing projects in Richmond, California after her parents left Birmingham, Alabama when she was a baby. She recalls a very special memory of the city. “Birmingham was important to me because the church that was bombed – where the four girls lost their lives – that was my mother’s church. So that connection is important to me,â€? Marshall said. The family moved to the Bay Area where Marshall remem-

bered growing up in a housing project. “I saw some very bad things in the housing project. I saw my father shoot a man in the head in self-defense when I was 11 years old because the man was pointing a pistol at me,� she said. “Then four years later my father left us. He left us with very little.� But her family and she thrived and she defeated the abusive and negative environment that threatened to engulf her and later became a survivor. In more ways than one. In 2010, Marshall received a diagnosis of stage 3 colon cancer. She was confident that she would beat it. She wrote an email to her boss with a message that she asked be shared with all of her colleagues: “I was uniquely qualified to get through this. And by the end of the summer, I will not have cancer,� Marshall recalls in the AT&T promotional video. By the end of that summer, Marshall was cancer-free. As she answered questions from the media on Monday, Marshall shared this and other stories of her life and would have willingly told more, if time permitted. “I’ve been through a lot, I’ve had cancer, I can tell it all now,� she said as laughter – hers included - rang out in the packed room. “But thank goodness we had people to rally around us. Police officers and others and it was dealt with and I hope you can see, we came out ok.�


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Joseph, John and Jeremiah My father was born on March 2, 1927, in a little Florida town, Plant City. Many people know Plant City as the Strawberry Capitol. Even during his campaign run, then-SenaJoe Smith tor Barack Obama stopped through Plant City for strawberry treats ranging from milkshakes, sundaes and shortcakes. Usually at least once a year my father would take us to Plant City to visit “our people.” We would spend weeks with his father and stepmother before going to my mother’s siblings to finish out the visit. My father moved from Plant City to Newark, New Jersey to become an entrepreneur. His company was called the Joseph Smith Bus Company and we were told that he was the first Black man in the country to secure Interstate Commerce Commission rights to transport people across the United States. I still remember his buses: There were the small blue and white buses that were used mostly for city jobs and yellow ones for hospitals. Then there were the beautiful brown and black buses that were used for longer trips, like bus rides to Atlantic City or traveling to Georgia to see the renowned Dr. Dallas Moore. Oftentimes many of the bus drivers came from Florida. They were either relatives or the relatives of family friends who came “up north” to make it and my father gave them jobs. Daddy would let my brother and I have a bus during the summer and we would make flyers and sell tickets for a bus ride to either Coney Island, Wildwood or Atlantic City. The mon-

MY TRUTH

By Cheryl Smith Publisher

ey we made we used to go school shopping. We always had a full busload, and sometimes two. My mother always went along as a chaperone! As a 7th grader, my father started hav-

ing me take the bus from East Orange to Newark, down to his office so that I could learn how to do his payroll. I really felt im-

portant! Now let me make my significant connection for you. January through April 2018, if you’re traveling around Dallas, TX you will see an advertisement on DART buses featuring Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, talking to a little baby. That baby is the great grandson of the one and only Joseph Smith! Little Jeremiah now graces a bus. The campaign features fearless leaders and future leaders. Commissioner Price has been a long-time proponent of the Black Press and he will call you out when you are wrong and support you when you are right! Jeremiah is the future. He needs to understand the importance of the Black Press, the struggle and his responsibility. His education begins with this campaign. Now every time I see his picture on the buses, I think about my father and how he worked tirelessly to build an empire. He exhibited the true spirit of entrepreneurship, a do-for-self mentality and he believed in hard work, supporting and taking care of your own, and building a better future. Unfortunately for a number of reasons, including my father’s health, he was unable to keep the business going until his children were in a position to take over. It was his dream; however, that his children would one day take all the information and tools he provided us with and revive the business. We had hopes, also. But journalism took me in one direction and my siblings pursued their dreams in other directions. In 2004 my father transitioned, without his bus company reestablished. He was happy, however, with the successes of his children. I think he would also be happy knowing that in a way the Smith legacy continues and still includes buses.


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THELMA SANDERS CLARDY Experience - Integrity - Knowledge “Justice with a Mission”

Owner of the Clardy Law Firm with concentration in family, probate and juvenile law • Former Councilmember/Mayor Pro Tem, Desoto • Former member, State Bar of Texas and Dallas Bar Association Boards of Directions • Former President of J.L. Turner Legal Association, Dallas Association of Black Women Attorneys, and Concerned Desoto citizens • Current President of Best Southwest Bar Association, member of the councils of State Bar Family Law Section and General Practice, Solo & Small Firm Section • Former chair and member of Desoto Domestic Violence Advisory Committee (DVAC) • Volunteer: Big Brothers and Sisters, Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program, Desoto ISD • Former Chamber of Chamber of Commerce and Education Foundation Board Member • Member: NAACP, Attorneys Serving the Community. Southwest Democrats; political campaign volunteer and precinct chair • Active member of Church of the Disciple United Methodist Church • Recipient of Charlye Farris “Trailblazer” Award, Big Sister Southern Dallas Region award, DABWA’s “Sparkler” Award, pro bono participant award, NAACP “Juanita Craft” Award in law category • Married to the late Coach James “Jimmy Clardy”; one daughter and granddaughter 972-201-5426 Facebook.com/302judge

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I Messenger Media LLC celebrates the birthday of

Editor Eva D. Coleman March 7

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Myra’s Message

On June 17, 2013, a few days into my practice as a defense attorney, I learned first hand what it was like to be railroaded by the justice system from the standpoint of the accused. I walked into a cramped holdover cell where my client was being held prior to being seen by the judge in order to discuss the facts of his case and present the prosecutor’s offer. With a look of resignation my client slumped forward and locked eyes with me and said, “Ms. McIntosh, I didn’t do this crime. I did not.” He then looked down at the floor and exhaled deeply “… but I have to get back to my family, job and house before I lose it all. I have to take the plea.” I believed him. I wanted to fight for him– but our current criminal justice system left he and I few options. After serving as a prosecutor for over 12 years in Tarrant and Dallas Counties, I had grown accustomed to wielding the authority to act on my conscience. I could seek dismissal of cases I thought lacked merit or could plead down cases where the accused seemed to deserve a break. However, as a defense attorney I have had to have hard conversations with each one of my clients, many placed in impossible predicaments that no one should have to be faced with. There are only five ways to resolve a case in the criminal justice system: (1) dismissal, (2) plea bargain, (3) trial before the court, (4) trial before the jury, or (5) plead guilty and have the judge sentence you. Over the past five years, I have been confronted with client after client each grappling with the same bitter resignation of having to “take the deal” or be faced with a parade of pretrial-detention-horribles including loss of employment, stability and opportunity. As a practicing attorney for 17 years, I have had over 150 trials, resolved more than 10,000 cases, and represented more than 700 clients in 15 different counties as a defense attorney. My legal experience is vast and I represent clients in various facets of the law, including but not limited to criminal law, juvenile, family, wills and probate and civil. As

a prosecutor, I worked in various divisions including juvenile, grand jury, and felony family violence. All of these experiences have made me well rounded, and has taught me to look at all things from all angles. The law is not isolated and everything is connected. As a full-time professor and head of the Legal Studies Department at Paul Quinn College since 2009, I am excited to merge my love for education and the law. It is my mission to redirect the school to prison pipeline and create the pipeline school to college. I believe people need three things to be successful and to stop the revolving door to jail (1) a skill set or education (2) employment opportunity, and (3) community support and resources. In my court, I want to focus on preparing young men and women for a greater tomorrow and provide all of these things through partnerships. I want to incentivize individuals to receive vocational skills or a college education by releasing them early from probation if they provide successful attendance and grades for a period of time. As of now, to be on probation you are required to maintain employment, however, the problem with that is we don’t prepare or encourage suitable, quality employment. Additionally, so many times, young men and women are placed on long probation terms and then are unfairly sent to prison after minor probation violations. I vow to stop this inequitable cycle. Lastly, I want to implement and use alternative sentencing. I understand not everyone needs to go to jail. I believe it is important to

use creative measures to address some negative behavior, such as house arrest or curfews. BAD NEWS BENNETT BENCH The sad reality is the 265th Criminal District Court is very troubled, and the policies and procedures imposed in this court, are very detrimental to the accused, and leaves most begging for justice. There are three key problems taking place on the bench. The first problem is accused people who are indigent and in need of a court appointed attorney do not receive fair and equal representation. The presiding judge prominently displays outside of her office a list of action items that she will not pay attorneys to perform. The presiding judge is the only judge out of 17 felony court judges that does not pay for simple things like an attorney conferencing with his client, having phone conversations with witnesses, drafting subpoenas or conducting basic investigations. This is crucial because it fosters subpar representation. When asked why, she proudly proclaimed she is a stickler for the rules. While on this campaign trial, the presiding judge has indicated that this list was provided by the Auditor’s Office several years ago before she even became judge. However, after some fact checking, a representative from the Auditor’s Office in charge of distributing such a list claimed no knowledge of such list and indicated that the office pays the attorneys whatever amount and for whatever reason the judge deems appropriate. Additionally, it was identified that this list is not written on a government letterhead and lacks the appropriate authorizing signature. This list was generated by her to help expedite her bench at the cost of justice for the accused. This is not a mindset of a progressive judge, who understands that the influx of people in the criminal justice system and this systemic issue of mass incarceration are rooted in over-penalization, over-criminalization and the accused’s lack of money. For instance, if


I Messenger a person does not have the correct amount of money- he or she cannot retain an attorney or make bail. The accused is vulnerably left at the whims of the judge. The presiding judge fails to appreciate the gravity of not legitimately paying attorneys for their time, for the sake of saving taxpayers’ dollars, and that defendants are the ones who ultimately the most negatively affected by these policies. Secondly, there has been an abuse and unethical practices of how court appointed attorneys are assigned to represent indigent people. More than 80% of the 70 African American attorneys, who are qualified to handle felony cases by the judiciary committee, do not receive work out of the 265th Criminal Court. To put things in perspective, the average court appointed attorney receives five to 10 cases per court. Yet, the presiding judge has appointed well over a hundred cases to each person in her select group. The judge does not follow the systematic rotation that is operated by county-run software to ensure all attorneys are chosen, but she arbitrarily selects a special group of people to resolve these cases. At the Dallas Morning News, she says she was unaware of this unfair practice occurring in her court, and her coordinator handles the appointments. This statement may sound good to people who are not at the courthouse daily but for those who are there, we know that the courthouse is not that big; everyone pretty much knows each other; the judge knows what attorneys she is seeing on a regular basis in her court; and, the presiding judge has to sign every attorney’s pay sheet for each case resolved in that court. As the leader of that court, the presiding judge knows exactly what is occurring. Moreover, the presiding judge has repeatedly bragged that she has paid the most money to court-appointed attorneys than any other felony judge; however, this is a false equivalency because no two felony courts have resolved the same amount of cases in one year; attorneys’ expense reports may vary per case; and, her budget is inflated due to a death penalty capital murder case she tried in her court last year, which made her budget far exceed the other courts. However, why is this unethical practice of assigning attorneys to indigent people problematic to the accused? It takes away the safeguards to ensure that each person accused of a crime is receiving fair and just representation from his attorney. By appointing the same attorneys to defendants who have pending cas-

es in her court, the attorneys become more concerned about maintaining favor with the judge by ensuring cases in her court are resolved quickly for reporting purposes than advocating zealously for clients. They are less likely to set hearings to challenge constitutional issues or have trials, which tend to slow down how fast cases are resolved. When you have a speedy court sys-

tem it leaves less time for adequate investigation from both the prosecutor and defense attorney. The consequence is the pursuit of justice is overshadowed and marginalized by efficiency. While on the campaign trial, the presiding judge has repeated said, “Justice delayed is justice denied.” Well I say, “Speedy justice is seedy justice.” Dallas County leads the country in wrongful convictions, and justice means making sure we are getting it right, not reporting how many convictions the court has or cases are being resolved daily. Lastly, bail reform is urgently needed, and it is needed in this court. Any judge can set bail at any amount he or she deems appropriate for this case. In fact, a judge does not have to require a cash bail, and can require the person to come back to court just based on his word alone; this is called a personal recognizance bond. The presiding judge is head of the judiciary bail reform committee in Dallas County, and there has not been any substantive, real change until four months ago, when I decided to run for this bench. The bitter reality is that it has taken the presiding judge over two years to understand that bail reform is needed and to subsequently implement bail reform

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practices. The presiding judge is proud that she has the lowest number of people awaiting disposition of their cases in jail than any other felony court; however this statistical data is not the direct result of progressive actions like the implementation of lower bails or no cash bails by her. The reality is the prosecutor offers the defendants seemingly good deals, and because the person can’t make the high bail to fight the merits of the case on the outside of the jail while maintaining his basic needs such as shelter and employment, the accused takes the deal of probation or time served, not realizing he is being set up for failure. This inherently feeds mass incarceration because if the defendant misses reporting to his probation officer or a court-imposed drug class once and/or has a minor violation then the person’s probation is revoked and he is sent to prison. I understand that these so-called efficient numbers do not necessarily equate to justice or criminal justice reform. Unlike the presiding judge who has never been a defense attorney and represented not even one client; I understand the issues plaguing our criminal justice system for fairness and equality. It will not take me two and a half years to understand the learning curve of the issues and to implement reform. It will happen day one of my judgeship. The 265th Judicial District Court is an important felony bench in desperate need of reform. The current presiding judge often boasts about running an efficient bench. My experience in the defense bar taught me what that means to clients. It means that the courts dockets will be cleared no matter the consequences: coerced pleas, form sentencing and rapid expansion to the mass incarceration crisis. I ran because this has to change. The presiding judge can never wholeheartedly admit to these unfair ethical practices occurring in her court, and for the sake of re-election must downplay and divert blame. As a judge, I plan to bring my experience as a prosecutor and a defense attorney to the bench and take on bail reform and overcrowded prisons intentionally and methodically. We can fix our judicial system. I know we can. It will take people committed to reform, invested in the community and determined to make a difference. I am bringing that determination and courage to the 265th bench. I need your help getting there. Vote for Myra McIntosh in the Democratic Primary Election on Tuesday, March 6th. Paid Political Advertisement


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Ban Assault Weapons Now!

The number of Americans who lose their lives at the hands of firearms is unacceptable and shameful, particularly in a civil society which labels itself a shining example of a free nation. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 33,000 Americans are killed each year due to gun violence – either by suicide, homicide, unintentional, legal intervention, or other means. Enough is enough! The United States Congress must pass legislation that will help protect the people of this country. More and more, individuals are increasingly fearful that they might be among the next victims of gunmen with assault weapons in a church, at a concert, in a movie theater, or in a school. We cannot allow fear to drive policy, nor can we allow it to cripple us to the point of inaction. The issue of curtailing death in our country and banning weapons of war from purchase is not a Republican issue nor is it a Democratic issue; it is a human issue and Congress has a legal and moral imperative to address it now. There are a number of measures that I support and will continue to dedicate my legislative efforts towards its implementation. For example, I believe that raising the age from 18 the 21 for anyone who attempts to purchase an assault rifle would be a reasonable step that we could take today to limit the proliferation of these weapons. If an individual is too young

to own a handgun, then it is my view that they are also too young to own an assault weapon such as an AR-15. The Congress must also reinstate a ban on assault weapons. These military-style weapons are specifically designed to maximize their lethality, and they have no place in the hands of untrained civilians. Their utility exists only on battlefields and in theaters of war. We can promote responsible gun ownership without the need to equip firearms with pistol grips, high-capacity magazines, flash suppressors, telescopic stocks, and other accessories that enhance the lethality of these guns. I also support enhancing background checks for any individual looking to purchase a firearm. For instance, many states that do provide information to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) either provide too little information or are too slow to provide that information. The federal government should provide sufficient resources to enable states to provide complete informa-

tion and in a timely manner. Some interactions with law enforcement – such as the case with the Parkland, Florida shooter Nikolas Cruz – never rise to the level of a registered threat that NICS would could as disqualifying. These holes, among countless others, should be our focus in Congress as we look to strengthen background checks. The issue of gun safety should be approached on a bipartisan basis to ensure the safety of our citizens. Passing legislation today is a moral imperative. Histo-

ry will judge us harshly if we simply sit idly as our citizens are victimized by madmen with weapons that they should have never been able to acquire. Like many others, I am not willing to wait until other Americans have to lose their lives before taking action to reduce gun violence. • Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson represents the 30th Congressional District of Texas.


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160th District Court DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY 2018

Vote Early Feb. 20 to March 2 Election Day Tuesday March 6 Pol. Ad paid for by Aiesha Redmond Campaign - P.O. Box 1252 Desoto, Texas 75123 - Lee Lemons, Treasurer

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NAAIA DFW hosts fifth annual scholarship Gala

Kathy P. Van Eeten was recognized at the National African American Insurance Agency, (NAAIA)- DFW Chapter’s 5th annual Scholarship Gala on Saturday February 17, 2018 at the Las Colinas Country Club. A former Sr. Vice President of Crump Insurance Services, Eeten, who played a significant role in the formation of the DFW Chapter, was acknowledged for “being the catalyst needed to get the vision off the ground.” The organization also presented its 2018 scholarship recipients – Trinecia Glover, formerly a student at Conrad High School and now a transfer student at Lancaster High School. The college recipient was Miranda Johnson, a senior majoring in Insurance Risk Management at the University of North Texas. The scholarship gala is the major fundraiser for the local chapter to raise money to provide scholarships to two students interested in pursuing higher education in the area of Business or Finance, with a preference to those interested in the Insurance Industry. The National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) was founded by Jerald L. Tillman, LUTCF, in 1997 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Early in his career he realized through his involvement with pro-

fessional organizations, that there was a disconnect, amongst fellow Black insurance professionals within the insurance industry. As a result, he began pondering the idea of establishing an association for Black professionals involved in all areas of insurance. NAAIA was charted in Cincinnati, Ohio March 5, 1997. NAAIA-Dallas Fort Worth became the first local chapter to be established in the western part of the country. The Dallas Chapter was ratified unanimously on December 18, 2008 by the NAAIA National Board. Under the leadership of then-Chapter President Brent Jenkins and 22 founding members it became an officially chartered chapter of NAAIA. The National organization currently has 13 chapters. The DFW chapter is currently under the leadership of Ms. Dekia Henderson. The membership grew tremendously after hosting the organization’s 2010 national conference. The organization is currently partnering with the Emmett J. Conrad High School to provide the INVEST Insurance curriculum to some of its students. The class was previously offered at the Yvonne Ewell Townview Magnet School. Insurance professionals volunteer their time to teach insurance courses. Members also participate in the Schools’

Trinecia Glover (c) is recognized

Miranda Johnson (c) attends UNT

Mock Interviews for students and the organization volunteers at the North Texas Food Bank and Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plano. Membership is open to anyone affiliated with the Insurance Industry. Additional information can be found at NAAIAdfw.org.


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HALL: Wakanda in Texas? QUIT PLAYIN’ By Vincent L. Hall

Every Sunday, or at least every Sunday when I’m not seated in the choir stand, there’s a guy I know who sits directly behind me. At least I thought I knew him. The brother’s name is Lucious Williams and he’s known to me and others in Dallas as a trailblazer, and a history maker. Besides what his website says about him at Dikita Engineering, he’s that kind of unspoken mentor you adopt silently. None of us ever get old enough or wise enough to outgrow the need for a role model. #YouAintNeverThatGrown “Mr. Williams has been a dedicated leader within private and public engineering consulting industry for more than 40 years. As founder of Dikita Enterprises, Inc., Mr. Williams has been involved in all facets of the marketing, development, and administration of engineering projects. He has a wealth of valuable knowledge of local issues gained through his 27 years of business in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.”I thought I had the gentleman pegged… Totally!! I know Mr. Williams as a Deacon and Trustee, as a

loving husband and as a great golfer; as far as I can tell. You know Nike be selling them clothes that have folks looking like Tiger Woods whether they play like the pros or not. I

Sports Hall of Fame. It was created to honor outstanding Black athletes, and coaches from Texas, because many of their contributions and achievements go unheralded. The list of Texas natives being inducted in 2018 was short, but nothing short of fantastic. Google these

gave him the benefit of the doubt.

names. Leonard Bishop, Dorothy Miles-Benefield,

QUIT PLAYIN’

Cedric Lyons of 411 Sports interviews Lucious Williams

So when I tell you how my mouth fell open when something new emerged about him, you’ll understand. Sitting through a litany of honorees at the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame had already been the most hilarious and proudest moments of my life. It was about to get gooder!!! In 1996, Dr. Harry Robinson, who founded Dallas’ African American Museum of Life and Culture, established the Texas Black

Lee Carter, Rita Crockett, Aaron Glenn, Allen Wilson, Artis Gilmore, and Houston’s John Lucas, to start. If you know anything about Black History you know “Billy “White Shoes” Johnson, whose “Funky Chicken” touchdown celebrations are still running on NFL highlight reels. Dallas Cowboy Russell Maryland did a 10-minute stand-up routine and Debra Rodman closed the comedy portion of the show. “Yes I am Dennis Rod-

man’s sister and no, I don’t know where he is. He’s either in rehab or in North Korea. Your guess is as good as mine. If you’ve ever seen Dennis in drag or in a wedding gown you should have known I’m his sister; Dennis looks just like me.” She wasn’t lying…the spitting image. Next to last, my hope-todie hero and favorite Businessman/Philanthropist, Roland Parrish announced the name of the next to the last inductee. “Next we have Mr. Lucious Williams who played for the Memphis Red Sox from 1947 to 1951.” So this dude I have been admiring all these years also played Negro League baseball? I was floored. I left there with three new resolutions. Never judge a book by its cover, without reading every page in between. Never miss another Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame Luncheon. And never, ever miss an opportunity to visit one of Roland Parrish’s McDonald Restaurants. (Parrish was a track star, is a former inductee and gives back to this community.) I’ve gotta talk about the Black Panther phenomena in the near future, but I felt like I was chilling in Wakanda today!!! #QuitPlayin #StayWoke Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist and award-winning journal-

ist.


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Dallas Black Dance Theatre dances to Live Brass Band in ‘Dancing Beyond Borders’ Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) has added crowd favorite Displaced, Yet Rebirthed featuring a New Orleans style live brass band to the ‘Dancing Beyond Borders’ Series that heads North to the Eisemann Center in Richardson on March 2 and West to the Scott Theatre in Fort Worth on March 10. Audiences will get to enjoy both DBDT and DBDT: Encore! performing on the same stage in the series. Choreographer and Hurricane Katrina survivor Michelle N. Gibson blends poetry, dance and video with the live music of the Kickin’ Brass Band in Displaced, Yet Rebirthed. The dance both honors survivors and is a tribute to the more than 1,800 people who tragically lost their lives. This emotional, yet jubilant work sparked an impromptu celebration of life in the audience every time it was performed during its Dallas premiere in February. “There is a void of missing home. This piece is snapshots of our experience,” explained Gibson who created Displaced, Yet Rebirthed as a proud New Orleans resident who had to flee her hometown in 2005 during Hurricane Katrina. Together with her family, she evacuated to Dallas and they have lived here since. DBDT: Encore! will dance Black Rose, a work choreographed for the company last year by former Ailey II dancer, Levi Philip Marsman. Set to contemporary string music, it conveys that our struggles help to make us beautiful. “Dancing Beyond Borders – North” in Richardson is presented by Texas Instruments. The performance will be March 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts and Corporate Presentations, 2351 Performance Drive in Richardson, 75082. For tickets, 972-744-4650 or visit www.eisemanncenter. com. “Dancing Beyond Borders – West” in Fort Worth is presented by American Airlines. The performance will be held March 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the W. E. Scott Theatre, 3505 West Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas. For tickets call 214-880-0202 or visit www. ATTPAC.org. For more inforegarding Dallas Black Dance Theatre, visit www.DBDT.com. Photo Credit: Niesha Lanae Graves

IMPACT Cedar Hill Update

Impact Cedar Hill presents Drug and Alcohol prevention videos for Cedar Hill ISD. Provided are brochures on alcohol, marijuana, synthetics, cocaine, underage drinking, how to start a conversation with your kids about drugs, your Alcohol IQ and much more. As a Non-profit agency,the focus is advocating

the prevention of drugs and alcohol to the youths in the communities it serves. Impact Cedar Hill attends health fairs, events hosted by Dallas Police, Dallas Health and Human Services, Dallas Head Start, West Dallas Community, Loins Club in Cedar Hill, Cedar Hill ISD and many more. Impact Cedar Hill and Drug Prevention Resources is committed to helping prevent substance abuse and promote healthy youths in our community. This is done by making youths aware of the dangers and consequences, of long term and short-term effects that alcohol and marijuana have on the brain. IMPACT Cedar Hill: The purpose of Impact is to eliminate and prevent alcohol and other drug use and abuse in the City of Cedar Hill. We present Fatal Vision Goggles and Marijuana Goggles to the teens at the high schools to show the effects of drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana. For more information contact Agapito Chavez direct # 469-523-1309

Immigrant spending power Immigrant households earned nearly $8 billion in 2016 and contributed $2.5 billion to

local, state, and federal taxes in 2016, according to a new research brief released by New American Economy in partnership with the City of Dallas. The report will be published at a roundtable event at the Dallas Federal Reserve on February 28, 2018, “Immigrants in Dallas: Demographic and Economic Contributions of New Americans.” Release of the report will be followed by a panel discussion with local experts, including Dr. James Hollifield of the SMU Tower Center; Dr. Pia Orrenius, of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas; Laura Collins of the George W. Bush Presidential Center; and Luis Veras, a Dallas-based entrepreneur. The conversation will be moderated by Regina Montoya, Chair of the Mayor’s Task Force on Poverty. In addition to their financial contributions, the report shows the critical role the foreign-born population plays in the Dallas workforce. Immigrants make up a significant portion of several of the area’s most important industries, including science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), manufacturing and construction. Immigrants also account for nearly one-third of all entrepreneurs in the city. The more than 20,000 immigrant entrepreneurs in Dallas generated close to $496 million in business income in 2016.

Krewe de Etoiles. Dallas’ Mardi Gras. Fashion. Social. Charitable

I Messenger Come Saturday, March 4 2018, a grande and extravagant production is on the mark to stand shoulder to shoulder from backdrops, trappings, and e l o qu e n c e , with a striking resemblance to that of the poshly-noted annual Met Gala. The stage is poised for sophistication, as the spirit of the blacktie, evening, affair will be made apparent from the Celebrity VIP Red Carpet Reception to the high-flying aerialists, neon magicians, dance and jazz bands, authentic creole cuisine, overthe-top tablescaping, and 20ft tall stilt walkers, that will all enchant Gala-goers enveloped in an awe-inspired ballroom. Without a doubt, with a theme like Dallas Mardi Gras, Old Hollywood Glamour, the Red Carpet is sure to wreak of gorgeous, sleek, stunning and vibrant, to-die-for fashions. While Old Hollywood had its; Laurens, Lenas, Hedys, Betties, Humphreys and Clarks, Krewe de Etoiles, also known as the official Mardi Gras Krewe of Dallas, flaunts its impressive Red Carpet invitees along with reigning Royalty from it 2017 Royal Court that includes, Dallas Cowboys icon, King Drew Pearson, 2016 “Miss Texas” Honorary Queen Caroline Carothers, nationally acclaimed Concierge Guru, Grande Duke, “Jackson,” and Award winning, Good Morning Texas Host, Grande Duchess Jane McGarry. These Royalites, are few among a bevy of celebrities, elected officials, mega business owners and Dallas A-Listers that will delight in the over-spill of ambient grandeur that will boast an array of shiny vintage and classic cars. Additionally, nine (9) Dukes of Dallas and nine (9) Duchesses of Dallas, along with co founders; mother-daughter-duo Annia Jenkins and Cynthia Hightower-Jenkins will stock up with tons of Mardi Gras beads and trinkets for tossing during the high-spirited, pageantry styled, Tableau (Grande Parade) segment. This year’s chosen Spotlighted Charities are Love for Kids and the North Texas Food Bank, with a unique presentation of a crystal altruism award. The venue for the Gala affair is the renown Gilley’s South Side Ballroom at 1135 S. Lamar St. Dallas, and tickets are available by visiting www.dallasmardigras.ticketleap.com/ 2017galamasquerade ; Visit them on Facebook and at http://www.krewedeetoiles.com/


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March 2, 2018

Democrat for 68 District Court Judge th

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March 2, 2018

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Top Ladies of Distinction Blue and Silver Ball was held December 8, 2017 at the Doubletree HiltonLove Field

“A Night to Remember� ****** The Trinity West Chapter celebrated its 10th anniversary in October 2017

Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness


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March 2, 2018

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Celebrating African American History!

“Revisiting Our Root…Looking at the Present…Foreseeing the Future.” Saturday February 17,

Trinity West Chapter of Top Ladies

“Serving Youth and Adults” Top Ladies Of Distinction, Inc. was chartered in the state of Texas on September 8, 1964 as a non-profit educational, humanitarian organization with the following as charter members: Mrs. Franchell Boswell, Tyler, Texas; Mrs. Ina Bolton Brown, Houston, Texas; Mrs. Augusta R. Cash, Memphis, Tennessee; Major Ozell M. Dean, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Willie Lee Glass, Tyler, Texas; Mrs. La Verne R. Madlock, Tyler, Texas; Mrs. Ruth Payne Smith, Navasota, Texas; and Mrs. Georgia B. Presswood Nelson, Dallas, Texas. The vision and service of these eight dedicated women created the TLOD Story. In 1964 while serving as “first lady” at Texas College in Tyler,

Texas, Mrs. Willie Lee Glass was the recipient of a luncheon invitation from Mrs. Lyndon Baines Johnson, “First Lady” of the United States of America and a fellow Texan. Mrs. Glass, with her wisdom, summoned a former student, a Texas College graduate and a Major in the United States Air Force, to represent her at this power luncheon. Major Ozell M. Dean, a resident of Washington, D.C., answered the call to represent one of her mentors; and she was among a multi-disciplinary bevy of outstanding women from all over the world to attend the luncheon. The first meeting to establish policies and to enact governing laws for the organization was held June 4, 1964 at Texas College in Tyler, Texas. The purpose of the organization was to marshal the talents, energies, and skills of women national-

ly in a collaborative effort to help alleviate the moral and social problems confronting our youth in the mid-sixties. Thus, the organization was born. Since its inception, the organization has expanded its objectives to include its focus on youth (known as Top Teens of America), improving the status of women, service to senior citizens, community beautification, and community partnerships. Chapters nationwide support the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and the awarding of national scholarships to at least one in each of TLOD’s six geographic areas. Moreover, TLOD has included in its program, a cooperative peer education facet with Top Teens of America and the Na-

tional Foundation, March of Dimes. Membership in TLOD has grown to include thousands of dedicated, concerned, hardworking members. The Ladies represent a cross-section of resourceful woman power, all of who work in the interest of the more than 4,000 Top Teens. Top Ladies support other major thrusts of the organization geared toward enhancing the quality of life for our fellow human beings. Ongoing programs and projects are important to the fulfillment of TLOD’s mission. As “shapers of change,” members of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. have, through each administration, continued their efforts toward “Serving Youth and Adults.”


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March 2, 2018

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR March 1 K. Michelle in Concert House of Blues 2200 N. Lamar St. Dallas. 8 pm Tickets: http://livemu. sc/2FrcJpk “Macbeth” presented by: Austin Academy Plaza Theatre 521 W. State Street, Garland. dates/times: 03/01 at 7 pm, 03/03 at 2 pm and 6 pm The Savannah Sipping Society Host: Garland Civic Theatre Granville Arts Center - Small Theatre, 300 N. 5th Street, Garland. 7:30 pm Paul Cannon “Love & Heartbreaks” House of Blues 2200 N. Lamar St., Dallas. 7 pm

March 2 Dancing Beyond Borders Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts and Corporate Presentations 2351 Performance Dr. Dallas. 7:30 pm Tickets: http://bit.ly/2h1CH8k North Texas Irish Festival Fair Park Dallas Host Southwest Celtic Music Assoc. Tickets: Tom Thumb & Albertsons March 3

Info: http://bit.ly/2tqsCtj

972-495-8085 5pm-8pm

Photography Training at TCU Texas Christian University 2800 S. University Dr., Fort Worth. 9:30 am - 2:30 pm Tickets: http:// bit.ly/2CcZIOs

Black Violin Presented by: AT&TPerforming Arts 9:45 pm at Strauss Square 2389 Flora St., Dallas. Info: 214-880-0202

Citywide Neighborhood Block Party/Recreation Center Anniversary Sponsored by: Cedar Hill Parks & Recreation. Alan E. Sims Cedar Hill Rec. Center 310 E. Parkerville Rd., Cedar Hill A FREE family event. 10 am – 2 pm Gospel Stage Play “Church Folks” Host: Star Entertainment The Black Academy of Arts & Letters 1309 Canton St., Dallas 7 pm

March 4 PNB Rock Live House of Blues 2200 N. Lamar St., Dallas. 8 pm Tickets: http://livemu. sc/2mjedZX

March 7 Dame Lovett w/ DJ Khaled: The Tour American Airlines Center 2500 Victory Ave. Dallas.7:30 pm Tickets: http://bit.ly/2y8ZY2I Magic Mike Show Live. Host: Fifty Shades of Magic Pete’s Burgers, Wings & Drinks 695 Town Square Blvd, Garland, 8 pm - 10 pm

March 8

KXT Presents 91.7 George Clinton & Parliament & Funkadelic House of Blues 2200 N. Lamar St, Dallas. 8 pm

Los Lonely Boys House of Blues Dallas 2200 N. Lamar St., Dallas. 8:30pm

Camp Congress for Girls Renaissance Dallas Hotel 2222 N. Stemmons Fwy. Dallas. 8 am – 5 pm

Food Truck Friday at Firewheel Town Center 245 Cedar Stage Dr., Garland.

March 9

March 10 Drinking Lemonade: Feminism, Womanism, & Beyoncé J. Erik Jonsson Central Library 1515 Young St., Dallas. 2 pm - 3:30 pm Register: http:// bit.ly/2FtJzGf Prison Reform and Money Hosted by Coffee and Politics 101 Sat. 10 am –11am African American Museum 3536 Grand Ave. Dallas. Guests: Grand Prairie State Rep Rodney Anderson and Keenan Williams 2018 Women of the World Poetry Slam Majestic Theatre 1925 Elm Street Dallas. March 14th March 15th, 2018 Times Vary Tickets: http://bit. ly/2FxklGL Website: http://bit. ly/2mkUXLV “Nava Rasa” Granville Arts Center Brownlee Auditorium, 300 N. Fifth Street, Garland, 5:45 pm

March 16 Garland Symphony Orchestra Feat: Pianist Rachel Kudo 300 N Fifth St Garland at 8 pm Tickets: www.GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com, 972-205-2790.

March 17 Nature Journaling Workshop North Haven Gardens 7700 Northaven Rd. Dallas.10 am – 5 pm info: http://bit.ly/2yuD0yB 14th Annual Dallas Blues Festival Host: North American Entertainment Group Verizon


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March 2, 2018

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Gospel Maestro & Songwriter honored by Dallas County’s oldest African American Baptist Church Nationally-recognized organist, songwritKeith (son and Lead Percussionist) and Meler and arranger of gospel music, Charles E. ody (daughter, recording artist, soloist and Mitchell, will be celebrated by his church Praise Team Leader). congregation and musicians from across the Over the years, Mr. Mitchell has published musical pieces that include Si’ Down county on Saturday, March 3, 5PM at The Servant, God Is a Good God, Home, ProvRock – Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, 1020 S. erbs 3:5-6 (Trust in the Lord), Psalms 133:1 Sherman Road in Richardson, Texas. (Brethren in Unity), Sing, O Sing Unto the Well-known within the nation’s African Lord and Hallelujah-Amen. He has also American gospel community, Mitchell began penned new arrangements of Just As I Am, I his gospel ascent when he was 14, serving on Charles E. Mitchell Do, Don’t You, Abide in Me and many other the musical staff at local area churches, including Greater Mount Zion Baptist, St. Luke Baphymns and songs. tist and most recently serving at The Rock for 38 years. His long list of gospel performing partners includes the In the early 70’s he was one of the three organizers of the later Rev. James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar, Donald Vails, North Park Community Singers who performed through- Ricky Womack, Margaret Douroux and Chester Baldwin, out Texas, as well as in cities from New York to Los An- with whom he has performed in New York, Florida, Caligeles. In his tenure at The Rock, Charles served as Mu- fornia, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas and DC. sic Director for the Mass Choir, the Women of Praise and the Worship Chorus. He was blessed to serve alongside his family: Linda Mitchell (wife and Minister of Music),


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March 2, 2018

Spiritual and Crystal Adviser by Veronica Perez

FEATURED STAR: PISCES – The Fish – 02/19 – 03/20 Don’t give up! You’ve come so far with your efforts. They’re due recognition. Happiness/ Well-Being– Free yourself of thinking twice. Don’t hesitate. All you’ve worked for is within reach. Love/ Romance – You’re aware of the truth regarding your situation. Don’t deny what is evident. Work through for positive resolution. Inspiration/Influence–Rest is essential to your healing. Quiet your mind for a short while, ask for clarity on things in question Your Chosen Healing CrystalBERYL– Promotes power through your vision. There’s always a way forward, becoming clearer & easier, giving you a clearer sense of purpose, allowing you to move on. Lucky Numbers – 22.34.11.08.15.13 ARIES – The Ram – 03/21 – 04/19 Find more balance in trying to keep many things going simultaneously, work, home and finances. Trust your judgment. Look past what’s in front of you, look deeper for answers. TAURUS – THE BULL – 04/20 - 05/20 Be comfortable with what you have in daily life now. Allow the good and bad to flow. Try to see a lesson in it to not be repeated. See the blessing, allow freedom to breath. GEMINI – The Twins - 05/21 – 06/20 Stop arguing with yourself. You can clearly understand the matter at hand. There’s no more time to deny. Work on what takes less of your energy. Allow yourself time alone to sift through your inner needs. CANCER – The Crab – 06/21 – 07/22 Some changes aren’t warranted. Some are needed without our knowing. Ask for reasoning to keep from being diluted of false expectations. Be aware of your surroundings and whom you’re giving your energy to. Use it wisely. LEO – The Lion – 07/23 – 08/22 Giving yourself praise is okay. You deserve all that comes your way. Embrace positive love shown from all angles of your life. It's okay to be

proud of your accomplishments. Realize to stay humble throughout your recognition. VIRGO – The Virgin – 08/23 – 09/22 Don’t mask your individuality. Allow free flow of your inner glow. Only you know what’s best for you. Share your talents with all whom are ready to receive. Keep grounded in all you apply yourself. LIBRA – The Scales – 09/23 – 10/22 Pleasant surprises to you. Congrats! Don’t allow the inflation of ego during your time of success. Help your fellow neighbors to see how you cleared your path, the sky’s clear and blue for you. SCORPIO – The Scorpion – 10/23 – 11/21 Some things aren’t always in our best interest. Use great discernments in making fast decisions. Slow your approach. Think twice on your final conclusion. SAGITARIUS – The Archer – 11/22 – 12/21 Great things come to those who work hard. Thank yourself for your efforts. Give back to your community with deserved abundance. CAPRICORN – The Goat – 12/22 – 01/19 Bouncing back from a "mud party", dust yourself off. You are given a new day to re-apply yourself. Handle this approach with great care and an optimistic outlook. AQUARIUS – The Water Carrier – 01/20 – 02/18 Stress is not your friend. Take some needed time to re-charge. Re-analyze what’s at hand in the moment. You don’t owe anyone quick decisions on anything at this time. Allow yourself to dissect options. Daily Oracle Reading: Ask and it is given – Love is in the air. Look past the flesh, see individuals as they are to you. Show them you care. All greatness you provide, you’ll be rewarded. You can’t attain without all honesty.

Guide Your Light Right Mother Earth is going through transformations, frequency changes, an “Upgrade” a “Makeover”, causing human energies to shift into higher consciousness awareness, this can be intense, and at times, a hurtful experience to the unprepared humanity. Let’s work as ONE! Seek within, to win! “V” is calling on you to challenge inner-self and reach higher to shine brighter!! Call on “V”, your Starseed Lightworker for Tarot readings and Crystal readings. Pleiades Renegade Member Family of Light, system buster on call! Text Starseed Lightworker: 214-710-0418 Email: vperez311.unity@gmail.com

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MAYOR KEISHA Reception held for Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, Florida A&M University graduate and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., during her recent visit to the DFW Metroplex


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Hard time handling pregnancies Just leave me out of the conversations

Ask ALMA

nant, but I could not carry a baby to full term. It hurts deep in your heart, and you wonder why you. Then you have the friends and family members who innocentDear Alma, ly ask, “When you gonna have a Two of my co-workers are preg- baby?” I don’t have the answer, but I do nant. I am truly, truly happy for them…but I am unable to have children (and still struggle with it after 11 years). I have gone home in tears more than once. I have been careful to stay positive at work and to be supportive, though I stay out of the baby clothes and accessories conversations. I don’t plan to tell anyone about my situation, but I am having a hard time handling this. Any suggestions? From, Childless and in pain. suspect from our letter that you have a lot of love in your heart. Hello C&P, First, let me say how sorry I Don’t waste it. Cry when you am. I normally add some flair and want to cry, but also find ways throw in a joke or two, but this is to redirect your emotions, your no laughing matter. In fact, I ac- mind and your time. Are you a godmother? Are there tually can relate to what you are going through. I could get preg- children in your family who could

use some extra attention? You can volunteer to work with children at a church or a local Boys and Girls Club. What about becoming a Girl Scouts leader? Have you considered becoming a parttime foster parent? Take it slowly and figure out a balance that feels right for you. Many of us think it’s important to have a child physically, but until that happens, or even if that never happens, you can give your time to a child who is already here. Go on, girl; you can do it. Release the love you’re holding inside. There’s a child waiting to receive it. I’ve got a feeling you will change many lives for the better.

I don’t have the answer, but I do suspect from our letter that you have a lot of love in your heart. Don’t waste it. Cry when you want to cry, but also find ways to redirect your emotions, your mind and your time.

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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March 2, 2018

Hollywood Hernandez Live

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By Hollywood Hernandez

Diversity pays off at box office Hollywood seems to be learning a lesson about diversity in movies. Diversity pays! So far in 2018 the top grossing movies have been films with a predominantly African American cast. In January, usually a slow grossing month at the movies, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, starring Dewayne Johnson and Kevin Hart, was the #1 movie for the month with box office receipts of $171 million. The movie helped to make Sony the only company to gross over $200 million for the month. Disney's mega franchise, Star Wars (The Last Jedi), finished third for the month with ticket sales of $120 million. Of course, the month of February belongs to Black Panther. The movie continues to roll over box office records with no signs of slowing down. The Disney/Marvel movie continued its dominance in its second week of release, finishing #1 at the box office for the second week in a row and surpassing $700 million in worldwide ticket sales. Black Panther is currently the fifth

highest grossing movie of all time and it joined a very short list of movies with over $100 million in its second weekend of release. (Only three films had done it previously.) The month of March could be a big one for African American director Ava DuVernay. She directs the Disney "fantasy/adventure" A wrinkle in Time, which also stars Oprah Winfrey. Also due out in March is the Tyler Perry directed movie Acrimony, starring Taraji P. Henson and April delivers a new movie starring Halle Berry called Kings. Previously when Eddie Murphy or Will Smith had a big hit movie Hollywood would simply give us more Eddie Murphy or Will Smith movies and when those movies tanked at the box office they would say, "see, minorites don't come out and support movies.� But now, the lesson seems to be sinking in with Hollywood executives. If you put people who look like us in positive roles in movies we will come out and see them. http://www.hollywoodhernandezlive. com/

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March 2, 2018

Thanks for your support!

Judge Stephanie N. Mitchell

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A Democratic Party That Includes YOU!

Ambassador Ron Kirk

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Judge Mitchell’s Second Chance Community Improvement Program (SCCIP) and Pipeline to Possibilities are just Dr. Fredrick Rev.Rev. Dr. Frederick III HaynesHaynes III

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Black & Clark

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March 2, 2018

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And Justice For All

Trump v. Mueller is inevitable…in some form or another

Reports are comard Nixon tried to ing out that Special avoid complying Investigator Robert with a subpoena Mueller wants to during the Waterinterview President gate scandal, but Trump about the the Supreme Court possible ties to Ruseventually stepped sian interference in in. In ordering that the 2016 election. even a President From all of these re- BrandonJudge can be compelled Birmingham to produce eviports, 2 main questions emerge: dence pursuant to 1. Can the President could a subpoena, such as his own be forced to testify pursuant tape recorded conversations, to a subpoena? Nixon’s fate was sealed. He 2. If he were under subpoe- resigned within two weeks. na, would he testify or remain 25 years later, President Clinsilent? ton delayed and stalled for The answer to the first ques- months before finally testition is clear – the President is fying during the Lewinsky subject to a valid subpoena scandal. That testimony lead just like us regular folks, a to him being impeached in lesson from history. Rich- the House. The Senate voted

Women’s History Month “Hidden Figures” Panel As part of Women’s History Month, the local black public relations (BPRS) and black sports professionals’ (BSP) societies are hosting “Hidden Figures” a

to keep him in office. The Second question is exclusively up to the President. He has the right to remain silent, and that right is absolute. I’ve read a lot of articles written by legal experts on both sides of the issue-some say testify some say don’t. Some point out that Mueller is armed with an investigative arsenal that includes over a million documents and 50 interviews with White House and Campaign personnel, and answering questions under oath is way different than Twitter. Others point out that Trump has never shied away from anything or anyone, and has testified in over a hundred different depositions, and re-

mains steadfast in his denial of any wrongdoing whatsoever. Regardless of what Trump’s lawyers are advising, though, the decision will be up to Trump. He has to consider the the potential criminal consequences, possible impeachment proceedings, and the political ramifications. For now, we wait and see. A formal request by Mueller has not been made, either orally or in writing, nor has a subpoena been issued. Yet.

panel discussion celebrating successful women in public relations and sports marketing, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., March 21 at the African-American Museum of Dallas Fair Park, 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, Texas. The featured speakers are women who have made history in their fields of expertise, but rarely made headlines:

basketball for the past 26 years;

cluded MGM Mirage, DART, and Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk.

René Young, broadcast television professional with Fox Sports. Young has served as Stage Manager with the Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars, Texas Rangers, FC Dallas soccer club, and Men and Women’s college

Lyria Howland, ATR, president at Howland PR. Howland has over 30 years of experience as an award winning public relations professional with strong expertise in diversity and inclusion. Howland’s clients have in-

Keisha Dunlap, senior associate commissioner/chief operating officer at Conference USA. Dunlap has served over 15 years as a sport administrator and currently oversees the operations of the League office and assist with each governance group within the Conference; and

A Column by Judge Brandon Birmingham, Presiding over the 292nd Judicial District Court, and Presiding Judge of the Felony District Courts in Dallas County. Join him on his Facebook Page – Judge Brandon Birmingham – LIVE at FIVE on “Fridays in Chambers,” a weekly video summary of what’s happening in the criminal justice system.

The Moderator: Michelle Newsome, CEO and president at Newsome & Associates. Newsome has spent 25 years generating over $50mm in revenues using sports properties and assets for corporations and sports venues as a sales executive and PR expert. For more information, contact Neil Foote, 214448-3765, neil@neilfoote. com


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Learn about bitcoin

BUY- SELL - MINING

903-268-7390


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March 2, 2018

I Messenger


I Messenger

March 2, 2018

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A Way Out of This Out of the darkness, be drawn to the light. It will warm and comfort you and turn your day from the night. Allowing you to see the good times and find strength in them It will show, without a doubt, that your strength comes from Him. Everything imaginable rearranged by death. Outlining the measure of the dash that you dwell on earth. Although weakened by sadness, muster all you might. Weep if you must but keep moving towards the light.

La Juana and Patricia Barton authors of Faithful Remembrances - Volume I


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March 2, 2018

I Messenger

Do you know this man?

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

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST

He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority. We’re talking about a community. Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmother or maybe YOU?

877-373-8477


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