Thought-provoking, informative, enlightening and entertaining news and commentary from around the world!
I MESSENGER www.myimessenger.com
December 18, 2015
www.myimessenger.com
VOL 5 ISSUE 16
Veteran journalist Norma Adams-Wade with actress Nicole Barrett Veteran
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DFW-ABJ SALUTES NABJ
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Message to the People... The Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists recently held its annual mixer sponsored by AT&T, American Airlines and the Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation. Many are unaware of the invaluable work of our members but you’re going to hear more from us in 2016 as we celebrate 35 years. We have the Urban Journalism Workshop that begins in January and we want all of your help as we train aspiring journalists. We have scholarship applications, along with membership applications for DFW-ABJ. We also will be doing a community access forum - How to get into the News without committing Murder. There’s our Griot Awards that will be revamped and our 35th anniversary celebration. Check out our website www.dfwabj.com and our facebook pages for meeting dates and events. Our new calendar comes out in two weeks. At the event we collected clothing and money for Minnie’s Pantry. Dr. Cheryl “Action” Jackson continues to feed one mouth at a time. Those who haven’t written a story or reported on her, please help spread the word when someone like Dr. Jackson is doing such great things. We honored some wonderful people presenting them with Honorary Lifetime Membership in DFW-ABJ: Demond Fernandez, a stellar reporter and active member is a mentor, who believes in our youth. One of his • stories won a National Association of Black Journalists Salute to Excellence Award this summer. • Mollie Belt couldn’t be with us because of the wake for her husband, Atty. James Belt Jr. Our prayers are with the Belt Family. A former Community Service Award winner for the National Association of Black Journalists, the Dallas Examiner has won numerous awards and this past summer the Dallas Examiner won two Salute to Excellence Awards. We also observed a moment of silence in honor of James Belt, Jr. • John McCaa is a former president of the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Communicators (now Journalists) and the Press Club of Dallas. He has been at WFAA-TV for over 25 years and he is a long-time member of the National Association of Black Journalists. This year he received his Ph.D in Philosophy from the University of Texas at Dallas. • Bob Ray Sanders is the dean of area journalists! Bob Ray recently retired as an editor and columnist with the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He excelled in convergence, because before we knew anything about the word -- he was writing for newspapers, reporting and producing shows for television and hosting a radio talk show. He also taught at the collegiate level. • Robert Mong is the editor emeritus of the Dallas Morning News and he had a brief retirement before assuming the helm as the president of the University of North Texas-Dallas. Bob is a friend to aspiring journalists and prior to his appointment at UNT, I was called asking my thoughts about him at UNT and I talked candidly about the commitment I saw from him, decades ago and right up to today. Bob Mong cares about young people and he cares about the world we live in. We’re excited that he’s continuing to make a difference in the lives of others. • Norma Adams-Wade is one of the 44 founders of NABJ. There are no words to adequately address all of the contributions that Norma has made to journalism, society and this world. Her words have touched the lives of millions and although she could be retired and on an island, she continues to share her wealth of information with the world. In addition to life membership in DFW-ABJ, Norma we are flying her to NABJ’s National Convention this summer in Washington, DC, where she will join other NABJ founders. Guess what? DFW ABJ is about scholarships and one of our stellar Urban Journalism Workshop participants received a scholarship. Jershayla Johnson is a freshman at the University of Houston and she is a born leader. To close out the program Clarence Hill Jr., Dallas Cowboys beat reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and a strong member of DFWABJ and NABJ, also serving on the Sports Task Force led a discussion with one of the greatest Florida A&M University Rattlers of all time, former Dallas Cowboy Nate Newton. It was a great event and we are making a nice contribution to Minnie’s We are also looking forward to a great year in 2016. Join us!
Cheryl
Mr. Mayor
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Remembering James Belt 13
KwanzaaFest 2K15 18
I MESSENGER Cheryl Smith, Publisher Established 2011 IMESSENGER is a tribute to Le Messager, founded by Cameroonian journalist Pius Njawe and The Messenger, an independent magazine, founded by labor activist A. Philip Randolph and economist Chandler Owen. IMESSENGER is committed to informing, inspiring, enlightening and provoking thought in a forum that is international. Submissions for publication consideration may be submitted to www.myimessenger.com.
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DFW-ABJ Annual Mixer Sponsored by AT&T, American Airlines and the Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation
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CITY LOCAL TRUCK DRIVER
TRUCKING 519 N. Cedar Ridge Dr., Suite #7 Duncanville, TX 75116 www.mycrossroadtruck.com We are seeking Local City Drivers who must have a Class A - Commercial Driver License. NOTE: All Drivers must have a clean background (no felonies or misdemeanors) and at least one year driving experience with a clean MVR. Must have medical card, valid DL, SSC card, DOT card and must pass a required physical and drug screening. Driver should have a minimum of one year of driving experience in the last 3 years and 5 years of driving experience in the last 10 years. Must be 21 years of age and have a required High School Diploma/GED. Minimum Requirements Driver’s License Type: Class A - Commercial Commercial Driver’s License Endorsement: X - Combination of N and H T - Doubles/Triples Between $900.00 /WK and $1,000 / WK. Rotating Shift - home daily. Work week - full time 30-45 hours. Additional details: We are looking for drivers who are safe and will not have customer complaints. Driver must be free of accidents, service violations, and accident services. Cell: 214-475-3052 Office 214-245-5157 or email us at cr.trucking519@gmail.com
REGIONAL DRIVER
TRUCKING 519 N. Cedar Ridge Dr., Suite #7 Duncanville, TX 75116 www.mycrossroadtruck.com
Seeking Team Drivers (OTR). .42 cents per mile, must have a Class A - Commercial Driver License. NOTE: All Drivers must have a clean background (no felonies or misdemeanors) and at least one year driving experience with a clean MVR. Must have medical card, valid DL, SSC card, DOT card and must pass a required physical and drug screening. Driver should have a minimum of one year of driving experience in the last 3 years and 5 years of driving experience in the last 10 years. Must be 21 years of age and have a required High School Diploma/GED. Minimum Requirements Driver’s License Type: Class A - Commercial Commercial Driver’s License Endorsement: X - Combination of N and H T - Doubles/Triples Additional details: We are looking for drivers who are safe and will not have customer complaints. Driver must be free of accidents, service violations, and accident services. Cell: 214-475-3052 Office 214-245-5157 or email us at cr.trucking519@gmail.com
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JOHNSON: America is the Land of Immigrants America is a land of immigrants. Since its inception, the United States of America has been a place where persecuted people have come and been able to live freely. Our willingness to open our country’s doors to refugees of the world has been met with its fair share of dissension; however, America is great because of its great diversity. To be great, we must strive to include individuals from all walks of life. In the wake of the Syrian Civil War and the resulting Syrian Refugee Crisis, many elected officials have resorted to harmful rhetoric that is disparaging and disappointing. For instance, House Speaker Paul Ryan recently suggested that we should freeze the acceptance of Syrian refugees because “we cannot let terrorists take advantage of our compassion.” This way of thinking is misguided and misinformed. The fear that Paul Ryan and countless other Americans have of terroristic violence is the same fear that drives these refugees to our doorstep. Families have been torn
Ask Pam Q - I’ve been on Medicaid for several months and drawing SSI from Social Security Administration (SSA). I’ll be turning age 62 next month, I was informed by SSA that my SSI would go away because I’ll start drawing a Social Security Retirement check. Since my retirement income
From the Capitol By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
apart and forced out of their homes because of violence in their backyard. As Americans, we should greet suffering refugees with open arms and understanding hearts, not with prejudice and hatred. According to reports, roughly ten percent of the annual 70,000 refugees from all nations that the United States accepts settle in Texas. To date, 184 Syrian refugees have already been settled in Texas, many in the Dallas area. This leads to the question, why is it that one of the leading states in refugee resettlement be one of the most unforgiving when it comes to immigration? Our state has been made greater by those who have relocated, resettled,
will be significantly greater than the SSI I’ll no longer be eligible for Medicaid assistance. I’m concerned about keeping some medical assistance so my question is will I get Medicare too when I turn 62 next month? A - That depends; people are eligible to enroll in Medicare prior to age 65 only if they’re on Social Security Disability and have met the 24-month waiting period, or have a special condition. Check with the Social Security Administration to see when you will be eligible for Medicare. If you find that you’re not eligible for Medicare yet, then you can always visit yourtexasbenefits.com or call 2-1-1, that’s if you live in Texas, to find
and contributed so much to our communities and our state. The Syrian Refugee Crisis highlights a problem that America has seen time and time again—fear of the lesser known. Refugees fleeing Nazi persecution prior to and during World War II were met with fear before the Holocaust, and that is a mistake our nation now must live with. France, a country that recently suffered extreme loss at the hands of terrorists, plans to accept 30,000 Syrian refugees. That is a gesture that truly embodies compassion. It is time we overcome our fear and do the same. We must not forget that our country is one built by and made great because immigrants who have come from all parts of the world in search of a better life.. The Texas I know and represent is a warm and friendly place, where a stranger always has a seat at the table – where everything is bigger, including and especially our hearts. Exclusivity is not the culture of Texas, and it is not the culture of this great nation.
what medical resources are available in your area. Medicare Annual Open Enrollment period: October 15th thru December 7th. The Affordable Care Act - Federal Marketplace Exchange – 2016 Open Enrollment period: November 1st 2015 thru January 31st 2016. P A M E L A J. D A Y E S is a Licensed & Certified Health Insurance Agency serving North Texas area. She is passionate about learning and gaining knowledge in the area of HealthCare reform. She is devoted to passing on that knowledge in particularly to the Senior Market. Her expertise is in making Medicare clear and understandable. I look forward to answering your questions. Email questions to askpam@med-supps.com Follow me: Twitter: pjdayes Facebook: askpamdayes
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HALL: “Skullia” is Mighty White!! The other day I dialed 946-4910. T h a t w a s m y g r a n d m o t h e r ’s telephone number. She accepted her long distance call from glory years ago, but every once in a while I find myself calling that number. Whenever I needed the 411 on life in America, her seven digits were my first call. During her lifetime area codes weren’t required. Back in the day, Big Mama n’em could be reached at 821 Taylor in North Dallas, 428 Hamilton in South Dallas, 946 Whitehall in Oak Cliff, or 631 Melrose in West Dallas. That’s if she wasn’t working as a maid or nanny for the elite families of Highland Park or University Park, which was 521 Lakeside. Old school racism is making a comeback; we need some historical context and wisdom. Last week I saw Reverend Al Sharpton on MSNBC looking “Swole.” Now Rev. Al lost 150 pounds, so when I say “Swole,” you who know Black culture know I mean he looked mad as hell. He was standing on the steps where Supreme Court Injustice Antonia “Skullia,” was doing the Donald Trump. “Skullia” was spitting that Trumpbrand of racism, insensitivity and disrespect that you wouldn’t expect from a sitting jurist. “Skullia” took a solemn oath and a life sentence to craft law and equality in the world’s “most advanced democracy. What “Skullia” said in essence, was that the University of Texas didn’t need an Affirmative Action program.
Quit Playin’ By Vincent L. Hall Vincent L. Hall is an author and award-winning columnist.
He conjectured that most Coloreds aren’t intelligent enough to keep up with UT’s advanced curriculum. The Negroid would be better served by inferior HBCUs. That’s not verbatim, but in the
spirit of George Wallace and Bull Connor, that’s what he meant. I instinctively picked up the phone to call my late Grandmother to get an explanation. In my spiritual exchange with her she replied; “Yes Baby, I saw him…That was Mighty White of him.” “Mama,” I said, “when you use the adage, ‘Mighty White of him’ what do you mean?” She slapped her leg, laughed lavishly and commenced to break it down for me. She reminded me that the euphemism “Mighty White of you” had several uses. In some cases, it meant that you were a Negro who had assimilated and believed yourself as White as the Whitest
White man. Like “Injustice Clearance Thomass” or “Uncle Ben Carson” she elaborated. Thomass, regrettably, was too ignorant to know that he had been slandered and slighted as a Black Man and as a prized example of Affirmative Action programs on America’s “finest” campuses. Y’all talk about loudmouth brothers like the Rev. Jesse Jackson or Dallas’ John Wiley Price, but you know Skullia would at least think twice before he hurled those words in their midst. If respect in America is defined as a second thought before an intentional insult, then we get no respect at all. The insults in Black America from Trayvon to Trump have been incessant. The quip also refers to an overwhelming sense of race pride and entitlement. It’s that air of unfathomable, unreasonable and uncontested arrogance that only a few White men can muster. It’s like someone giving you back what they stole from you and expecting to hear thanks. To this day Republicans brag that Black folks owe the GOP because Abraham Lincoln announced emancipation over a people whom God Almighty created to be free. Those agonists and protagonists at Fox Noose and their ilk would prefer you believe that Skullia wasn’t being racist, he was being real. Racist or real, it was Mighty White of him to speak on our behalf. I utter imprecatory prayers for Skullia and Thomass daily. Mighty White of me huh?
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Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists URBAN JOURNALISM WORKSHOP APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED The Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists (formerly the DallasF o r t Wo r t h A s s o c i a t i o n o f B l a c k Communicators) will present its annual Urban Journalism Workshop for high school and college students on January 23, 2016. This 12-week workshop is open to students in Dallas, Tarrant, Ellis, Collin and Denton counties. Students receive hands-on experience working with seasoned professionals who have gained a reputation l o c a l l y a n d n a t i o n a l l y, a s w e l l a s internationally. The program, which emulates one started by George Curry, Gerald Boyd and other members of the Greater St. Louis Association of Black Journalists in St. Louis, has graduated students who have gone on to anchor newscasts, edit newspapers, open public relations firms and produce radio shows. Mr. Curry visits the Dallas workshop students annually to conduct his “basic training.” Mr. Boyd died of lung cancer in 2006. “We’re excited about continuing the tradition that was started almost 30 years ago,” said Eva Coleman, one of the instructors for the program. “I am looking forward to working with students this year.” Ms. Coleman, who teaches radio and television in Frisco ISD will be overseeing the radio and television segments of the
workshop, pulling together experts in the field. Previous speakers have included: Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk, Senator Royce West, Star-Telegram editor and columnist Bob Ray Sanders, Dallas Morning News columnist Norma Adams Wade, Our Texas Publisher General Berry, PR gurus Lyria Howland and Rose Gafford, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Irwin Thompson, K104’s Sam Putney, 97.9’s Gary with the T, Dallas Examiner Publisher Mollie Belt, Producer Haile Gerima and Dallas Weekly Publisher James A. Washington. Ms. Smith, who has been with the program since its inception, took over the directorship in the mid 90s and continued through 2004. Ms. Smith returned to the program as director in 2007. At the conclusion of the workshop, the students will participate in a closing ceremony where they will present a newspaper, television and radio broad-casts, a website and a special project. For more information about the workshop, contact Ms. Smith at 214-941-0110. Applications must be turned in by January 11, 2016. Mail completed applications to: DFWABJ 320 South R.L. Thornton Frwy #220A Dallas, TX 75203
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ICYMI: Money, Black Men & Power "This is about more than making the decision to bank with a Black bank, this is about Black business owners taking one of their most valued resources (money) and making the choice to put their money in the hands of a Black-owned business. -said USBC CEO Ron Busby Sr. The stats on the rate in which money circulates in our community is alarming and calls for each and every Black American to reconsider where they're putting their money. The saying goes 'Money, Power and Respect.' Until we have total control of how we circulate our money, our power and respect will continue to be marginalized." In closing an excerpt from the Houston Forward Times: USBC CEO Ron Busby Sr. (center left, red tie), with Industrial Bank CEO Doyle Mitchell along with members of the Black Male Entrepreneurship Institute. Washington, DC- Today, marked a momentous occasion in Washington, DC's Black business community. In a strategic effort to keep Black dollars circulating in the Black business community, a group of Black male entrepreneurs led by the U.S. Black Chambers Inc. (USBC) opened individual bank accounts with Industrial Bank-- one of the nation's most prestigious Black-owned banks.
The dollar circulates almost ten (10) times within the Jewish community before it reaches the outside. The dollar circulates almost six (6) times within the Asian community before it reaches the outside. The dollar circulates an infinite number of times within the White community; more than all other groups. Sadly, the African American dollar does not even circulate one time within its own community. As a matter of fact, the Black dollar only stays in the Black community less than six (6) hours.
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I MESSENGER Sylvester Turner elected Houston mayor Sylvester Turner was born and raised in the Acres Homes community in northwest Houston. His parents moved to Acres Homes in 1954, the year Sylvester was born. Recently he was elected mayor of Houston, TX. Sylvester’s mother worked as a maid in the old Rice Hotel in Houston. His father worked as a painter for Continental Ensco and on the weekends, cut yards with his sons to make extra money. The Turners raised nine children in their modest twobedroom home in Acres Homes. Sylvester lost his father to cancer when he was 13 years old. Sylvester attended neighborhood public schools until forced integration came to Houston and he was bused to Klein High School. After a predictably rocky start, the student body adapted to its new enrollees – and Sylvester was later elected president of the student body and graduated as a valedictorian. Sylvester went on to attend the University of Houston and Harvard Law School before joining the law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski. He later founded the Houston law firm of Barnes & Turner in 1983. In 1988, Sylvester was elected to the Texas House of Representatives to serve the people of House District 139 in Harris County.
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My friend is an alcoholic Dear Alma, van. Nevertheless, there’s no excuse to ever park I have a dear friend on the street of silence. who is the sweetest, She needs you and I commend you for stepping kindest person you could up. Now, let’s take a minute to weigh in on the ever hope to know. good, the bad and the ugly that stands before you. She remembers The good: she’s your dear sister-girlfriend and everything you’ve ever told you love her. It breaks your heart to think she’s her, and always follows pained in any way. You want to protect her from up to find out how any hurt, harm or danger. Ask Alma things went. The bad: She’s a functioning alcoholic. So far, to By Alma Gill But, she’s a drinker. our knowledge, she has never been confronted via George Curry Media The last time we met for about her problem or had to admit to it. She’s brunch, there was allowed to continue this charade because she’s unlimited champagne, and she had seven or eight composed, calm, employed and performs as if she glasses. When we go out for dinner, she always has it all together. has multiple glasses of wine. There is no way I can The ugly: She doesn’t have it all together. She keep up with her, so I just nurse my drink so she knows how much she drinks, but she thinks she doesn’t feel like she’s drinking alone. can handle it because of the enablers she has The drinking doesn’t change her personality, surrounded herself with. And yep, you’re one of she basically stays the same, not louder or sadder ‘em. or sillier. I’ve never once seen her out of control. My Uncle Dan (God rest his soul) was an What concerns me most is when she drives home absolute drunk from 5:00 pm on Friday until 10:00 after we go out. pm on Sunday. Come Monday morning, he was I usually try to drive, so she can feel clean as the Board of Health, and never missed a comfortable if she wants to drink, but once in a day of work. while she insists on driving because she feels like Where I’m from it’s called “carrying your liquor.” she should share it. For most of us, when we think of an alcoholic, Then, I’m petrified for what comes to our mind’s both of us. I know I should be is a person who’s Bottom line is, if you abuse eye, ordering cabs, but I don’t unkempt, homeless, alcohol every day or just on unemployed with no family want to offend her. I know she’s unhappy in the weekends, you have a to speak of. But that’s not her job and she’s living far problem and it’s up to your the truth of the matter. from her family, although she Everybody knows an Uncle family and friends to call you Dan. is so upbeat that you would out on it. never know if she had Bottom line is, if you abuse anything on her mind. I have alcohol every day or just on never said anything about the weekends, you have a her drinking to her, but I’m wondering if maybe I problem and it’s up to your family and friends to should. If I did, what would I say? Or should I just call you out on it. not bring it up? Allow me to reiterate for loves sake, yes, have that hard conversation with your friend. I’d Dear Friend: suggest you go to alcoholic.org; it explains how to I’m so glad you’re pondering this. Oh yes, take the first step with love and kindness. It tells sweetie pie, you’ve got to bring it up. It’s your you what to say, how to say it, and what to expect sister-girlfriend duty to help save her life. after you’ve said it. I know, I know, confronting a loved one about All best of blessings to you both, my dear. It an addiction is a rough road to travel. Once the may not feel like it right now, but let me be the words come out, you’ve gotta dodge speed first to say, you’re doing the right thing. I pray your bumps, gravel pits and potholes the size of a minifriend will be able to receive it.
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December 18 "Holiday Treasures!" and Carol SingAlong Concert The Garland Symphony Orchestra presents the annual holiday hit, "Holiday Treasures!" and Christmas carol sing-along concert. Celebrate the holidays with music guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit! 8 p.m. Tickets: $17.50-37.50 at GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or 972-205-2790. Granville Arts Center Brownlee Auditorium 300 N. Fifth Street Downtown Garland
PAGE reservation, call 972-205-2790. Visit GarlandTx.gov for more information.
2016 January 22 -23 Friday, January 22, 2016 @ 8:15pm Saturday, January 23, 2016 @ 3:15 & 8:15pm Clarence Muse Cafe Theater Dallas Convention Center Theater Complex
December 19 KwanzaaFest Fort Worth Austin Event Center
Frank & Judy Frazier are inviting you to An Evening of Art 12 noon - 8:00pm 1718 Ramsey Ave Dallas Texas,
******** Breakfast with Santa Treat your family to a holiday breakfast buffet from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Branding Iron restaurant, 1535 E. Brand Road. Children may enjoy crafts and a photo with Santa! Reservations are required for Breakfast with Santa; cost is $13.95 for adults and $7.95 for children. Guests are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to donate to local children. To make a
Physical Address: 1309 Canton Street | Dallas, TX 75201 Admission - $16.50
April 2 HERB ALPERT & LANI HALL 8 p.m. Majestic Theatre The nonprofit AT&T Performing Arts Center and AEG Live announced Herb Alpert and Lani Hall will perform at the Majestic Theatre in downtown Dallas. Center Members get access to the best available seats. Call Membership Services at 214-978-2888 or go to www.attpac.org/support to join. Center
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Membership presale began Tuesday, September 29 at 10 a.m. Ticket prices for Herb Alpert & Lani Hall range from $76.75 to $36.75 and can be purchased, beginning on October 2 at 10 a.m., online at www.attpac.org, by phone at 214-880-0202 or in person at the AT&T Performing Arts Center Information Center at 2353 Flora Street (Monday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.). The Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) will celebrate the 9th annual Appetite for Advocacy Luncheon featuring keynote speaker Brené Brown on Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at 12 p.m. at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, 400 N. Olive Street. A VIP sponsor reception will be held following the luncheon in a private room at the Sheraton from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. The luncheon highlights the importance of education and child abuse awareness in the community. Proceeds support DCAC’s work in improving the lives of abused children in Dallas County and providing national leadership on child abuse issues. This year’s event is co-chaired by Paula Richmond and Megan Steinbach
May 7 Woman of Strength Ministry, Inc Mother's Day Luncheon Back by Popular Demand!! Ed Johnson, III "Will The Real Woman Please Stand Up?" (Part 2) Tommy Young West National Gospel Recording Artist Cheree Cooks Created2Worship YOU CAN RSVP NOW! email: gantt.donna@gmail.com or call: 214-538-7008
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Legendary Black attorney succumbs to pancreatic cancer The Dallas Examiner and the Law Office of James C. Belt Jr. mourns the loss of Attorney James C. Belt Jr. For close to 40 years, he has served the community as a civil and criminal lawyer. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from Pan American University, Edinburg, in 1968. And went on to earn a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in Houston in 1977. He opened his private practice in the heart of South Dallas, where he served those who needed him most. Belt, who was also a Dallas Examiner copublisher, sat on the board of the National Newspaper Publisher Association, the official Black Press of America and the NNPA Foundation Board. He served as more of a silent partner and advisor, but it was his support that has helped The Dallas Examiner continue to serve the community for almost 30 years. He was the founder of the Dallas Black Criminal Bar Association – an organization of Black lawyers in the private practice of law in Dallas County. He was a member of the National Bar Association, Texas Bar
Association, J.L. Turner Legal Association and the Inns of Court. In September, he received the Living Legends award from J.L. Turner Legal Association. As a well-respected leader in the community and activist, he also served the community by offering his words of wisdom and years of knowledge and experience. During the early 2000s, he co-hosted Dallas Examiner Live on KNON Radio. He previously sat on the Texas Southern University Board of Regents in Houston, Dallas Area Rapid Transit Board and the Texas Rural Foundation Board.
GET YOUR TICKETS FOR MERRI DEE Legendary TV Anchor Merri Dee is coming to The Black Academy of Arts and Letters to discuss her memoir. To look at the polished and poised Merri Dee you would never guess that she was shot in the head twice and left for dead one night after a broadcast. She wasn't expected live, and was even given her last rights by friend, Reverend Jesse Jackson. Surviving this harrowing event caused Dee to live life with PURPOSE and encourage others by writing her story. Ms. Dee is a part of TBAAL's Roundtable Writer's Breakfast Series. Get your tickets from the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists. Call 214- 941-0110.
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He was also a lifetime member of the NAACP. Belt held strong spiritual beliefs and was dedicated to serving the Lord. For close to 40 years, he was a dedicated member of St. Luke Community United Methodist Church, where he was an active member of the Good News Sunday School Class. Each year, the class would offer scholarships to college students and automobiles for those in need of transportation. He was a founder and tri-chair of the St. Luke Community Leadership Luncheon. He also served as a trustee board chairman at St. Luke. At the end of a long battle with pancreatic cancer, Belt was admitted to Baylor Medical Center, where he died Sunday at 5 p.m. due to complications. He was 71 years old. He was a dedicated family man. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mollie F. Belt; his children, James C. Belt III, Melanie Belt, MD and Carlos Cavazos; 10 grandchildren, Brittany Cavazos, Jerry Cavazos, C.J. Cavazos, Joshua Cavazos, Michael Cavazos, Lejond Cavazos, Chloe Cavazos, Bryce Belt, Dylan Belt and Melania McDaniel; two daughter-in-laws, Melba Cavazos and Cherrese Belt; and one son-in-law, Demetrius McDaniel, Esq. The wake will be held on Thursday at 6 p.m. at Black and Clark Funeral Home, located at 2517 E. Illinois Ave. The funeral will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, located at 5710 E R L Thornton Freeway, 75223. For inquiries, please call Robyn H. Jimenez at 214-941-3100.
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"Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. As long as we agree on objectives, we should never fall out with each other just because we believe in different methods, or tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in mind at all times that we are not fighting for separation. We are fighting for recognition as free humans in this society." MALCOLM X I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
I MESSENGER President Obama commutes sentences of 95 inmates In his first clemency grants since July, President Barack Obama commuted the sentences of 95 prisoners today, 27 of whom were applicants whose petitions were supported by Clemency Project 2014. "While it is my hope that President Obama will increase the use of his clemency power going forward, one can only be happy for each and every of today's grantees and their loved ones." said Cynthia W. Roseberry, project manager for Clemency Project 2014. "Clemency Project 2014's unprecedented army of volunteer lawyers has been steadfast in its efforts to meet the Project's commitment to ensure that every applicant who appears to meet the criteria has a volunteer lawyer to prepare and submit a timely clemency petition. We are determined to do our part to make clemency a cornerstone of the Obama legacy." "We take President Obama at his word that there is no ceiling on the number of commutations he will grant before leaving office. And so while we are grateful for
Spiritually Speaking every single commutation, there are many hundreds more who deserve relief. We urge the President to confound the skeptics by making 2016 an historic year for clemency grants," said Norman L. Reimer, executive director of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, a partner organization in Clemency Project 2014. Clemency Project 2014, an unprecedented, independent effort by the nation's bar, has recruited and trained nearly 4,000 volunteer lawyers from diverse practice backgrounds and completed screening of more than 25,000 of the more than 33,000 federal prisoners who have requested volunteer assistance. As of today, Clemency Project 2014 has submitted 263 petitions to the Office of the Pardon Attorney, with approximately 100 more nearing submission. The balance of the requests are at some stage of the review or drafting process. This significant progress has been made despite the myriad challenges faced by the Project, from the July 2014 decision of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to prohibit federal defenders from representing their clients in this historic effort to the difficulties involved in securing the necessary documentation to prepare a petition. Lawyers hailing from more than 70 of the nation's largest and most prestigious law firms, 500 small firms and solo practitioners, 30 law schools and clinics, leading not-forprofit organizations, and the criminal defense bar are
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answering the call made last year by former Deputy Attorney General James Cole before the New York State Bar Association. Cole announced that the Obama administration would consider commuting the prison sentences of non-violent offenders who had received severe prison sentences and who would, were they sentenced today, likely have received significantly lower sentences under current sentencing law and policy. He appealed to the legal profession to provide free assistance to help identify eligible prisoners and assist them in the preparation of clemency petitions. According to the criteria released by the Department of Justice, prisoners must: currently be serving a federal sentence in prison and, by operation of law, likely would have received a substantially lower sentence if convicted of the same offense(s) today; be non-violent, low-level offenders without significant ties to large-scale criminal organizations, gangs, or cartels; have served at least 10 years of their sentence; have no significant criminal history; have demonstrated good conduct in prison; and have no history of violence prior to or during their current term of imprisonment. For more information and to volunteer for Clemency Project 2014, please visit www.clemencyproject2014.org.
I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
I MESSENGER Umoja (Unity) - Saturday, December 26, 2015 3 p.m. – Candle lighting C e r e m o n y a n d Vi d e o Lecture/ Discussion on PanAfricianism by Kwame Ture (Stokely Carmichael). PanAfricanism is the Unification of African People throughout the world. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave.,Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE 7 p.m. - Candle lighting ceremony, performances by Kwanzaa Youth Warriors, Bandan Koro African Drum & Dance Ensemble with Collective discussion on Celebrating African Unity in our Community, throughout the African Diaspora and the world. . The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/ panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE Kujichagulia - Self Determination - Sunday December 27, 2015 2:00 PM – The Black Church and Self Determination. Join us for the Kwanzaa ritual and a discussion on defining ourselves as African people. St. Luke Community Church, 5710 East R. L. Thornton Freeway Dallas 75223 214-821-2970 3:00p.m. "Healthy Families, Healthy Communities". Candle Lighting ceremony, healthy food tasting organized by Unified Hands Food Co-op and Children’s and Parents Fun Fitness workout with Aaron Johnson Fitness Club, a non-profit organization developing the minds of students ages 4 - 91. #GetFitStayFit. After working out wind down with an African Rhythm and Percussion Class with Professor D. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE Ujima, Collective Work and Responsibility Monday December 28, 2015 3:00pm - A Tribute to Paul Robeson by Kwanzaa Youth Warriors including the film“The Tallest Tree in our Forest”. Paul Robeson ws the epitome of the 20th-century Renaissance man. He was an exceptional athlete, actor, singer, cultural scholar, author, and political activist. His talents made him a revered man of his time, yet his radical political beliefs all but erased him from popular history. Today, more than one hundred years after his birth, Robeson is just beginning to receive the credit he is due. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/ panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE 7p.m. --Kwanzaa Candle Lighting Ceremony, Community Forum with Grass Roots and Political Organizations, Churches, Youth Groups and Elected Officials. Join Dr. Robert Edison and
KWANZAA CALENDAR Commissioner John Wiley Price for a collective discussion on Justice or Else. Organized by the Million Man March Dallas Local Organizing Committee (DLOC). The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE Ujamaa – Cooperative Economic Tuesday December 29, 2015 2:00PM Children’s Adinkra Symbol (cloth) Making Workshop. Adinkra (ah-DEEN-krah) cloth is a hand-printed fabric made in Ghana. Developed by the Ashanti people, Adinkra cloths were traditionally made for royalty to wear at religious ceremonies. Through the years, people have also decorated the cloths to tell a story or to express their thoughts or feelings. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/ panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE 6p.m. - 7 p.m. - Business Networking Session. Inviting all small businesses, non-profits and those who want to start businesses to come together to see how we can collectively build and sustain businesses in our community without exploiting our people. Special Tribute to Ancestor Bandele Tyehimba owner of Pan-African Connection Bookstore and Resource Center. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/ panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE. 7pm - Candle Lighting Ceremony. The National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America (NCOBRA) will discuss why we need to organize for reparations. The National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America is a mass-based coalition organized for the sole purpose of obtaining reparations for African descendants in the United States. For more information contact, 214-670-6445. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, TX All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE. Nia, Purpose – Wednesday December 30, 2015 10:00a.m. Join Melody Afi Bell Bey, the griot/storyteller, for a morning ritual of drumming, storytelling and African inspired songs for the whole family. Bookmarks Dallas Public Library, North Park Shopping Center, Dallas TX 2 p.m. Special tribute to Amy Jacques Garvey and Amy Ashwood Garvey, two Pan-African women who were organizers in the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA-ACL). They were the 1st and 2nd wives of "Back to Africa" movement leader, Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Young folks will discuss the role of youth and students in liberation movements and issues facing the African community and humanity. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE
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7:00 p.m. “I am…because we are…we are…because I am.” Celebrating our Purpose-A Tribute to Esudele Fagbenro, Founder of the Act of Change, Inc. The Youth of Acts of Change are organizing this Nia celebration which is also the earth/birthday of Baba Esudele Fagbenro. Join us for an evening of lip sync performances, drumming, dancing, spoken word in honor of the memory of our brother warrior. Act of Change 32 00 S. Lancaster Rd. #623 Dallas, TX call 214-205-8804 for information. All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE however you may make a donation. 7 p.m. An interactive evening Celebrating Kwanzaa, African culture, storytelling, folktales, songs and dance with award winning poetic storyteller Oba William King, from Chicago, Illinois. Since his debut with the National Association of Black Storytellers at the San Diego conference in 2006, Oba has ignited audiences with his ability to capture their attention and gently release them into the playful realm of rhythm and rhyme. He masterfully combines professional theatrical training with a distinct poetic style. The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center New Address inside Glendale Shopping Center 4466 S. Marsalis Ave. Dallas, Texas 75216 214-943-8262/panafric@airmail.net All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE
Kuumba –Creativity Thursday December 31, 2015 2PM . –- Zawadi (Gift Making) Making workshop. Make the gifts, rather than buying them. Handmade gifts are consistent with the principles of Kwanzaa. Wrap the gifts in African prints or papers, or in the traditional colors of Kwanzaa - red, green and black. Free and open to the public, call 214-943-8262 for more information. 7:00 p.m. Join us for the Karamu Feast and Celebration.Please bring a pork free covered dish, drinks, vegetables and dessert. Come dressed in your regal African attire and dancing shoes.We will celebrate our victories and prepare for a new year using our creativity to make our local and world community a better place. Bring the whole family . Act of Change, 3200 S. Lancaster #623 Dallas TX Call 214-205-8804. All Kwanzaa celebrations are FREE. Donations are welcomed. Imani – Friday Jan. 1, 2016 No public programs. Please observe the principle Imani in your home with family and friends.
I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
I MESSENGER
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Scenes from KwanzaaFest 2015
I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
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