Thought-provoking, informative, enlightening and entertaining news and commentary from around the world!
I MESSENGER
VOL 5 ISSUE 23
February 5, 2016
www.myimessenger.com
IN CONVERSATION REV. DR. ZAN WESLEY HOLMES, JR. , and AMBASSADOR RON KIRK WILL SIT DOWN WITH MODERATOR BOB RAY SANDERS AT ST. LUKE “COMMUNITY” UNITED METHODIST CHURCH I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
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Don’t miss this conversation! When the Honorable Zan Wesley Holmes, Ambassador Ron Kirk and veteran journalist Bob Ray Sanders pick up the microphones at St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church for a muchanticipated conversation, attendees will be in for a treat. Here are three of the most influential men you’ll ever meet and they are coming together for a noholds barred discussion about issues and events. Dr. Holmes and Ambassador Kirk have served as elected officials and Bob Ray Sanders has used his pen and microphone to share stories about the lives and times of politicians. There’s sure to be some quotable Tweets that come out of this gathering of powerful men who have involved in and with some of the most volatile and controversial events of the past five-to-six decades, if not longer. This year marks the third for “In Conversation - An Evening with Dr. Zan Wesley Holmes, Jr.,” pastor emeritus of St. Luke, raising funds to assist in programming for the non-profit arm of St. Luke. The inaugural year featured long-time broadcaster Clarice Tinsley of FOX4-TV in a one-onone with Rev. Holmes. The next year it was Dallas County’s senior elected official, Commissioner John Wiley Price, which proved to be an eyeopener for many, according to organizers who said the forum provided an opportunity to deviate from the hype that dominates headlines. Mr. Price and Mr. Kirk both attended St. Luke under Rev. Holmes’ stewardship and they are very close to the pastor. Mr. Sanders was just the person, with enough insight and historical perspective to lead the conversation with the Commissioner and expectations are that he will be just as effective and engaging with the Ambassador. While Mr. Price, who is currently seeking another term on the Commissioner’s Court -- has served 31 years, Mr. Kirk served as Texas Secretary of State before running for Mayor of Dallas. As the first African American Mayor of Dallas, it was in his second term that he stepped down to seek a senate seat.
Unsuccessful in that bid, Mr. Kirk next headed to the nation’s capital to serve as U.S. Trade Representative, under current President Barack Obama. Touting the importance of small business, Mr. Kirk garnered praise for his efforts and negotiating skills during the four years he served. Many expressed surprise when he announced he was stepping down and would not stay on for a second term with President Obama. Often quick to say that one of the best jobs he had was as Mayor of Dallas, Mr. Kirk never cut ties,
returning often and always accessible to local media and his former constituents, as well as the business and education communities. Then too his wife, Matrice, was here. So he returned back to Dallas and although he says he won’t seek public office again, Mr. Kirk remains very popular as is evidenced by the response to this event. Tickets are selling fast and that’s a good thing because proceeds benefit the Community Outreach Center named after Rev. Holmes and dedicated to many of the programs the former Texas State Legislator holds near and dear. The Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. Community Outreach Center, among its many programs, provides GED Training and Certification, computer literacy classes or mentoring; in addition to partnering with the school district to serve area youth. The board has ambitious plans for the 501 C3 non profit as this “non-profit arm of St. Luke” focuses on “creating self sustaining pathways out of poverty for young people and families.” Currently the board members, under the leadership of chair DeMetris Sampson, is full of
energy as they continue to elevate the Center which was established almost 15 years ago. Attorney Tonya Tarpeh and her husband are two of the 11- member board and their excitement is very noticeable as they talk about the programs and more and more members and people who respect Rev. Holmes’ works pledge their support. And the majority of financial support goes directly to those who need it, she noted, pointing out that the “vast majority of the money raised goes to programming” and that’s a good thing because there are so many places where funding is needed. “There’s no cap on where we’re going,” she continued. “There’s a lot of love for Rev. Holmes and the center is about everything that he stands for.” Her husband agreed as he talked about how people are fascinated by Rev. Holmes. “There’s always a positive reaction,” Mr. Tarpeh said. “When his name is brought up, people go into how they know him as a student, professor or legislator. He’s connected with so many people. He is so amazing!” And Rev. Holmes’ teachings are ingrained in the very fiber of the Center’s existence and mission. “As people of faith we should always continue to work to lift those who find themselves in difficult situations,” said Dr. Holmes. After serving almost three decades at St. Luke, Rev Holmes stepped aside, leaving an impressive legacy that is being continued by Texas Southern University alum Dr. Michael Bowie Jr., the Senior Pastor who previously served in Houston and Ohio before assuming leadership at St. Luke. Attendees on February 12 will also get to hear from Dr. Bowie and other board members. There’s still time to get tickets for the reception and conversation. WHAT: In Conversation with Rev. Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. and Ambassador Ron Kirk. WHERE: St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, 5710 East R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas WHEN: Friday, February 12, 2016. 6p.m. Reception 7:30 p.m. Conversation Call 214-324-4443 for tickets -CS
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Message to the People... Educator fasts for beliefs and encourages others Dallas-based educator Curtis Ferguson is no stranger to controversial issues. He speaks out and encourages others to take a stand on subjects many would rather care not to give any attention to, like the word “nigger.” This week he begins a fast for our children and the men and women charged with protecting and serving. Here’s his message: Mr. Ferguson is now embarking on a 10 Day Public Hunger Strike (Beginning Feb. 5, 2016) to bring about true positive relationships between EVERY Community and Law Enforcement. “Fasting for You and the Boys in Blue Campaign” sets out to value each and every life in any community and its law enforcement. We are asking EVERY American to support our campaign by purchasing and wearing an Official ORANGE Ribbon when you are “FASTING” for a youth and an Official BLUE Ribbon when you are FASTING for any Law Enforcement Officer. Sacrifice food for a youth or an officer for a day or just a couple of hours a day during our YEAR LONG Campaign. Obtain Official FASTING Certificates from our Non-Profit Mentoring Program. Let the officer and /or youth in the community know that you value them by giving them a Certificate that states YOU sacrificed food for them for a day or a few hours that day. Let them know that their LIFE HAS VALUE! JOIN US TODAY! Let the certificate/ ribbon initiate dialogue and build the relationship that will enable each group to create better circumstances for each to live. Then POST a photo with that individual on OUR Facebook page: Fasting for you and the boys in blue Since August of 2015, Mr. Ferguson, an ART teacher at David W. Carter High School in Dallas, Texas, has experienced the loss of three students to murder. None were killed by law enforcement. Law enforcement IS NOT the enemy of the community, he says. Mr. Ferguson’s biological brother is Major Kenneth Ferguson of the Hampton, Va. Police Department. Mr. Ferguson desires both his students and his brother, as well as, ALL law enforcement to arrive home safely EVERY NIGHT! Join him TODAY. www.cdferguson.wix.com/manupgroup http://www.cdferguson.wix.com/fergusonconnects
BROTHERLY BOND 9
DALLAS BLACK DANCE THEATRE 21
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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Embrace the Dark Side. Yours! Spiritually Speaking….
By James A. Washington
Let me not be the one that says this spiritual thing is easy. Staying focused spiritually is difficult in a world hell bent on taking you out. I mean we live in a world where the evil one is supposed to have some power. Christ even calls the devil the prince of this world in John 12 and 14. This would suggest that evil has some (hopefully) limited power to function and act against the children of God in this realm. Now I know we are in a fixed fight and the outcome is already known. Christ defeated the devil via his death on the cross and His resurrection soon thereafter. My point here is that sometimes we can lose sight of the victory which is certainly ours when, as they say, all hell is breaking loose around us. Personally I am challenged when the world becomes such an
enticing place that seems to leave no room for meditation, prayer, worship and simple appreciation of the many blessings that are showered upon me by Him, who loves me like no other. One of the things I have come to appreciate about this walk of mine is that the Lord has shown me those areas of my life where I’m the most vulnerable. Rather than run from or deny them, I know I have to embrace them in order to fully understand and overcome them. It’s sort of like knowing what you’re praying for. I cannot claim ignorance of that which I know so well could destroy me. I have to acknowledge that when I’m confused tempted or just plain lost, I have to make a deliberate effort to reconnect to the body of Christ. I mean one of the reasons I stayed out of church was because I felt it was full of hypocrites to say the least. From the pulpit on down to the pews, there was no need for me to gather at the church house, or so I thought. The irony is the devil defeated me by giving me the ammunition I needed to think I was out of God’s eyesight. The trick of the devil had me thinking I had all the answers for my own salvation and therefore did not need the guidance of anyone else. Fortunately, as I have stated on many occasion, the fight is fixed.
All God did one day was have me stumble into church one Sunday after a multi year sabbatical. The preacher confirmed in my spirit the idiocy of thinking there was or ought to be a perfect church and a perfect congregation. His point was we’ve got to stay connected i.e. Holy Spirit connected. Christ said the Holy Spirit would remind us of everything He said and did and clarify their meaning to us and for us. So now when I’m stumbling I know I’ve got to consciously and with heaven aforethought, seek first the kingdom. It sounds simple. But when you have a 24/7 enemy plotting your assassination, it’s easy to stray. The devil is a liar and you are his prize. Remember he knows how much you mean to your Father. He’ll do anything to you to hurt the one who created and loves you. So remember this. Whatever your weakness is name it and claim it in the name of the Lord. I promise you, He will do the rest. May God bless and keep you always.
James
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From the U.S. Congress By Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson
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We are looking for order pullers, loaders & unloaders for Terrell, TX. Taking applications 9:00am 12:00pm Tuesday-Friday. Please apply in person @ Action Logistics 301 E. Apache Trail, Terrell, TX 75160
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All-girls assembly at Kimball inspires students An all-girls motivational assembly at Kimball High School encouraged the female students to realize that they have the potential to turn the world upside down in the best way possible. The theme of the school’s second-annual Girls Motivational Assembly was “Defining Moments.” The assembly’s goal was to bridge all ages and ethnicities and inspire the school’s female students to pursue greatness. “This program was designed to encourage, motivate, inspire and challenge you to think differently and to be the best you can be,” Kimball Assistant Principal Tracy Mayfield-Edwards said. Multiple female school and community leaders shared inspiring words with the students.
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They repeatedly told the students that they would face hardships and adversity, but that those are the defining moments that they can overcome and become stronger as a result. DeDe McGuire, radio host of DeDe in the Morning on K104, shared her own story of how she overcame
adversity to become one of the only women in the country with her own radio show baring her own name. “No matter what you face as young women, whatever adversity you have to overcome, I am living proof that you can achieve whatever you want,” McGuire said. “I believe in each and everyone of you.” Photo Courtesy: Dallas ISD
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Brotherly bond propels TJ football At 6-foot-2-inches and 215 pounds, Kendrick Bright flashes a coy smile when recalling his introduction to football at just five years old. Several years removed from his days in Pop Warner— a popular youth football league where his earliest lessons on the gridiron took place— Bright will see his hard work pay off when he walks the red carpet at Dallas ISD’s upcoming Athletic Signing Day. As he prepares to celebrate signing a football scholarship with West Texas A&M University, Bright, who doubles as quarterback and wide receiver for the Thomas Jefferson High School Patriots football team, reflects on his development over the years. “Growing up, while training, catching felt natural,” Bright said. “As I got older and learned to run routes, my footwork improved. I continually challenged myself to be faster, better.” His multi-sport skills in soccer, basketball and track might speak to his versatility as a well-rounded athlete, but, more than his athleticism, Bright has excelled as a team leader. “I didn’t really want to be a leader,” Bright said. “But Coach (Philip) Murray pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to be that for my team.” Murray, who has previously coached at schools such as W.W. Samuell and W.H. Adamson high schools, met Bright in the hallway when he started his coaching appointment in April. Murray describes Bright as “laid back until competition time.” “He’s a big kid, he stands out,” Murray said. “He’s a hard worker who
Kendrick Bright shared the field this season with his younger brother, Josh, a sophomore and first team all-district wide receiver for the Thomas Jefferson High School Patriots football team. Photo Courtesy: Dallas ISD
wants to do well for himself and his family, and when you put it all together, it makes for a very great young man with lots of potential.” Family is a motivating factor for Bright, who shared the field this season with his younger brother, Josh, a
Kendrick Bright Photo Courtesy: Dallas ISD
sophomore and first team all-district wide receiver for the team. Josh this season caught 13 passes for 396 yards a n d fi v e t o u c h d o w n s , a l l o n connections from his older brother. “Kendrick is always a good leader for his brother,” Murray said. “He always
demands the best from him and, as brothers, they know what the other needs. Their connection is good for both of them, their bond as brothers enhances that.” Bright this year was named the 2015 Co-offensive Player of the Year for district 11-5A, throwing for 764 passing yards and 10 touchdowns. He also gained 948 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns this season. Josh admits his older brother pushes him to be better and challenges him at the same time. Having survived some tough, off-field obstacles together, they prepare to now take on new challenges apart. Next season, as Josh prepares to fill his brother’s shoes as a team leader at TJ, Bright will make the 444-mile trek to West Texas A&M where he will compete to make his mark in the Lone Star Conference as a freshman on the Buffs football team.
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Oral Health Crisis Plaguing America’s Children: National Children’s Dental Health Month February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a time to recognize and combat tooth decay, the #1 chronic childhood disease in America. As many as 20 million children in the U.S. under the age 11 have had cavities in their primary teeth. Even more alarming is the nearly one-quarter of children who will never receive dental care for tooth decay. “The adverse effects of tooth decay reach far beyond a simple toothache,” says Dr. Leslie Townsend, DDS., Regional Dental Director,Jefferson Dental Clinics. “Dental decay affects a child’s quality of life, ability to succeed, and can cause adverse health risks.” Poor oral health in children has been linked to missed school days, poor concentration, lack of confidence, difficulty with speech and articulation, and difficulty with eating. Tooth decay rates range disproportionately high, and more severe in Hispanic and African American adolescents; as well as families with lower socioeconomic income levels. A study by the National Craniofacial Institute concluded that as many as 65% of Hispanic adolescents have cavities in their permanent teeth. “There is a misconception that tooth decay in primary teeth doesn’t matter because they are eventually replaced by permanent teeth, however tooth decay and poor gum health can negatively impact how permanent teeth develop,” says Dr. Townsend. “Moreover, establishing good care of primary teeth teaches kids proper oral health habits that last throughout life.” Parents are the greatest advocates in combatting tooth decay rates. Here are some expert tips for health professionals, parents and care givers to reinforce healthy oral hygiene practices for children from an early age: Tips: Oral Hygiene Practices for Children Begin caring for children’s teeth, even before they erupt. Wipe the gums of babies and toddlers after meals with a wet cloth or special wipes. Limit baby bottles to contain only water, formula or milk. The acidity of sodas and sugar in juices can lead to decomposition of tooth enamel.
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Children age 3 and older should brush with a child’s toothbrush and toothpaste. Flossing is an important step for all children with teeth. By skipping flossing you neglect up to 35% of surfaces of teeth. Children should regularly visit the dentist every year for professional cleanings and oral exams. Dental sealants, a plastic protective coating applied to the back of your child’s teeth, can help further prevent decay. Finally lead by example by modeling healthy habits yourself. Government plans such as Medicaid and CHIP cover the cost of dental visits for those who qualify. Many private health insurance plans cover the cost of up to two dental cleanings per year. “Every child deserves a healthy start,” says Dr. Townsend. “It’s never too early to reinforce the healthy oral hygiene habits our children need to avoid falling victim to our current dental crisis.” For more information about oral health care and prevention education, visit www.jeffersondentalclinics.com.
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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 will be significantly greater than the SSI I’ll no longer be eligible for Medicaid assistance. I’m
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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 what medical resources are available in your area.
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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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FAMU Grad on Shark Tank: Pitches Wearable Technology
Jason Peat, Chief Operating Officer at BearTek Solutions (Blue Infusion Technologies)
Caribbean born and U.S. raised Jason Peat is one of the owners and the Chief Operating Officer for a Dallas based company called Blue Infusion Technologies who has developed a wearable technology product called BearTek Gloves. The world will get a demonstration of the product on the ABC’s hit TV reality show, Shark Tank on Friday, February 5, 2016 but before that episode goes to air, explore Jason’s background, how the idea for the product came about and what’s next for the BearTek team. Jason’s Early Life Jason was born in Jamaica before his family decided to make the move to New York when he was seven years old. They eventually settled in the South Florida area and his family was very encouraging of him and his siblings getting a good education. “My mother and father were very instrumental in making sure that education came first. They definitely made sure that we still did our extracurriculars as far as social activities, athletics, etc, but definitely a strong work ethic was built in from very early on.” Jason explains. Education and Professional Career After attending Ft. Lauderdale’s Boyd Anderson High School through a magnet program, Jason attended a Florida A&M University on a music scholarship after playing trombone since fourth grade. While he was there on a music scholarship, he ultimately decided to pursue his passion for architecture instead and after graduating with his masters, he worked in Atlanta for various architectural firms having helped work on a lot of buildings in Metro Atlanta. He eventually moved to Dallas where he began working at a small startup company focusing on renewable energy and energy efficiency where he met his current business partner, Tarik Rodgers. BearTek Gloves His business partner had already moved onto BearTek and suggested that Jason join him there. Jason helped build the company from the ground up and is now currently a managing partner and runs all of the aspects relating to operations for the company. The idea for BearTek Gloves came from the original founder, Willie Blount, and his frustration with having to pull over constantly while riding his motorcycle to take off his gloves so that he could answer phone calls or adjust his playlist on his phone.
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“I rode motorcycles also so I got it immediately. This is definitely a good thing.” Jason said. Tarik Rogers, who is the CEO of the company, had the same pain point while skiing as it was difficult to access his phone and challenging to contact people who he had become separated from. It was obvious that all the people involved in the company could see how the product would be useful to a lot of people in a variety if uses. “That was the real concept of what birthed this whole idea of BearTek and then once a few prototypes were done and we got some validation out of the market, we said let’s go full speed with this thing. Let’s get some patents in place and let’s build a company around it. That’s the early version of the story,” Jason explained. The primary markets that Jason and his team set out to target were primarily sports such as skiing or other snow sports and motorcycle riders. This worked out well as these were the same areas that the team was particularly passionate about. The product itself is a glove that utilizes Bluetooth technology to connect to your phone or GoPro camera and allows you to remotely control your device by simply tapping your fingers together without having to stop your primary activity or remove your gloves. Combining the apparel and technology was a tricky process. “The manufacturing of apparel has its own set of problems and then the manufacturing of technology has its own set of issues and you combine those and you’ve got a quagmire of problems.” he said. Once the product had been developed prototyped, they began going to trade shows, events, conferences where they started to get a lot of attention from retailers, traditional media as well as online media. Being able to go out and demo the product in front of real people who could relate to the pain points had a bigger impact than describing the product via their online store ever could. “When you try and explain it, and even via this interview, it’s hard to really grasp the concept of what this product and what this technology is really about. But, when you get in front of somebody and literally click your fingers together and the music on the your phone, sitting five feet away, starts playing music, people’s jaws literally drop,” Jason explained. Shark Tank Appearance Shark Tank is the next big thing to happen to Jason and his team. After being suggested to him on many occasions, Jason and team decided to go through the audition process to get the product more public exposure and to help with developing the next generation of BearTek products. After the initial audition in Houston on May 5th, they advance to the next round where they were asked to put together a video pitch which would decide whether they got onto the actual show or not. The video pitch featured practical things like how the product came to be but also went into their personalities and backgrounds. They were then invited to California for filming with the Sharks and you’ll be able to see what happened on February 5th on the show! “They evaluated our audition and then about three weeks later, we got that call that said come on out to California. This was the third and final round and that was the filming. Yep, that’s where it all came down. We got in front of the sharks and the rest is history,” he said. Currently the first generation of the BearTek Gloves is available on their website, www.BearTekGloves.com, but they are planning to release the second generation BearTek when the episode of Shark Tank airs. “This is a sneak peak. You’ll see on Shark Tank and even on our website what our first generation product looks like. One of the things that’s happening simultaneously with this airing of the show is that we’re actually going to be announcing our second generation product which takes it to a whole other level.” Jason explains. Jason as married to Dr. Andreka Peat (an alumn of Xavier University). They reside in Dallas, TX with their two children Gabriel (7) and Alexa (4). He enjoys playing soccer, riding mountain bicycles and spending time with his family.
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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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MALVEAUX: This is the woman of the year By Dr. Julianne Malveaux
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Reel-ality TV Talk As a woman, you can ask us for most things, but not wearing our makeup is not one of them. After being a loyal Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) viewer for years, it’s extremely obvious that these ladies will rarely, if ever, get caught without a full face of makeup - the slang is show up with the face “beat!â€? Kim Fields sent a recorded voice message to the ladies (I love that she uses technology; a girl after my own heart) and requested they arrive at her special brunch with their face as natural as possible. I understand Kim wanting the ladies to embrace and show o their natural beauty. That being said, however, I don’t think it was realistic. They are on-camera and they get judged like crazy in the social media world. It’s like asking an anchor woman to get on camera without her face being made up. These ladies get a check for letting millions of viewers into their lives and it’s based on image. We may not like it, but image includes your look. As a Real Housewife, you must look wealthy, privileged and flawless. I also think, when they are o-season and ocamera, they are more casual but even then, the
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By Marquesa LaDawn - George Curry Media ColumnistÂ
paparazzi is always lurking. If they aren’t relevant and fancy, they are replaced. Still, Kenya was rude by aggressively taking oense that the girls were being asked to chill on the makeup. I admired the way Kim Fields heard her out and moved on. She did not engage and this irked Kenya. Brilliant move, Kim! By the way, Kim seems to be fitting into the RHOA just fine. She’s dierent and not intimated by the ladies. She’s made a name for herself and seems confident. Kim’s also smart about not allowing the shade from the other ladies take her down. Meanwhile, this leaves Kenya confused. You see, her mother has ignored her all of her life and that’s her biggest trigger. The other housewives are starting to ignore Kenya by not biting the “I just insulted youâ€? bone. I like Kenya and want her to overcome this massive emotional pain that causes her to go o on anyone who does not agree with her. I can admit that I had some of that in me for a while and I decided to let it go, forgive, heal and now I love my life so much more. Speaking of adjustments, Porsha is so much more interesting these days. As I have said, she went from Stepford wife to Loose Lucy and I love it. She’s her own
woman and every week another layer is peeled back and revealed: We’ve seen the “buttoned up married versionâ€? that wanted to please her then-hubby. We’ve seen the “I want to fit into the group version.â€? In this role, she agrees with whomever is popular at the time. We’ve seen the “I want to be a star version.â€? She loved the red carpet as a host and fits nicely into her role on a gossip show. We’ve seen the “I want a man now, he looks good, now lets get married.â€? This didn’t work well for her. We’ve recently seen the “I want a baby now, like my sister, why not me.â€? For some reason, this side makes us love her more. All in all, I’m loving the authenticity of Porsha in all her layers. Over on Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP), I’m not a superfan yet. These ladies confuse me; they seem to stress over stupid stu. You sat in my seat, you brought over your stylist with you to my home to help me and the list goes on... Marquesa LaDawn is a professional businesswoman who escapes the pressures of living in New York City by retreating into the real world of reality TV. Follow her on twitter @realityshowgirl, Periscope and subscribe to her podcast at www.RealitytvGirl.com
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Flint’s Water Crisis and the GOP’s Class By Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. President, Rainbow PUSH Coalition via George Curry Media
Why did Flint suffer a water catastrophe that now requires that children be treated as if they had been poisoned? It wasn’t because the people were negligent. From the moment Flint began taking its water from the polluted Flint River, residents warned about water that came out of the faucet brown, tasted foul and smelled worse. They began packing public meetings with jugs filled with water that looked like brown stain. It wasn’t because the democracy failed, because in Flint democracy had been suspended. The city, devastated by the closing of its auto plants and industrial base, has been in constant fiscal crisis. Republican Gov. Rick Snyder, one of the crop of proud conservative governors promising to cut taxes for the rich and get government out of the way, appointed an emergency manager to run the city. Elected officials had no say. It wasn’t because the city manager and the state environmental agency and the governor weren’t warned. Warnings were issued from the beginning. General Motors even suspended using the water because it was too corrosive for the auto parts it was making. Nevertheless, city and state officials assured the worried residents of Flint that it was still safe to drink. The result is that Flint’s children - particularly those in the older, poorer, disproportionately Black neighborhoods - have been exposed to elevated levels of lead. Lead poisoning isn’t like contracting a cold or getting the flu. Lead is an immediate and unrelenting threat to health. It causes miscarriages and births of low-weight babies.
Children exposed to lead can have disabilities that afflict them for their entire lives. Lead stays in your bones. Yet even after a federal EPA official warned that the tests were being skewed to underreport levels of lead, even after heroes like LeeAnne Walters reported that her children’s hair was falling out and that they were developing rashes and constantly sick, even after the heroic pediatrician Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, an IraqiAmerican, reported elevated levels of lead in children’s blood, their concerns were dismissed, their alarms scorned, they were attacked for sowing hysteria and the poor residents of Flint were told the water was safe to drink. Why were the people and the obvious signs and the experts ignored? They would not have been ignored if these were wealthy suburban neighborhoods and the water suddenly turned brown. They would not have been ignored if the children of an all-white community were at risk. State officials dismissed the complaints as exaggerated. The brown water was just rust. Officials thought people ought to be grateful for what they had. The laws, they wrote, ensure the water is “safe to drink.” It doesn’t regulate how it looks, its “aesthetic values.” The water looks bad because it’s from the “Flint River.” Flint is old and poor. The pipes are old and poor. The people are black and poor. They just have to learn to put up with it. And if the lead seems to be at dangerous levels, flushing the system before the tests, skewing the sample to the most recently built systems can jigger the results to get by. Some might get hurt, but no one worth caring about. This is the ugly reality of the right-wing assault on America’s working people and particularly on people of color. They want to get “government out of the way” - out of the way of their greed. The successful have earned special treatment - in taxes, in contracts, in interest rates, in public investment. The unsuccessful need to learn self-
reliance. They need to accept what they get and be grateful for it. Flint is not a bug in their perspective; it is a feature. They fought against African Americans getting the right to vote. Now they use “emergency” to set up dictators - emergency managers - to occupy predominantly AfricanAmerican communities. They worry that the poor get too much “free stuff” - food stamps (once a Republican program), health care through Medicaid (so they refuse to expand it), unemployment insurance when they lose their jobs (so they limit its coverage), minimum wages (which they fight against) and “costly regulations” that require safe water and clean air and safer workplaces The “establishment” Republican candidate Jeb Bush has called for a “regulatory spring cleaning” to strip away regulations that protect health and safety. The Republican Congress annually seeks to cut backs EPA’s budgets and authority. The Republican governors gleefully gut the budgets of their own state agencies. They don’t worry. The children of the rich will be protected. It is the poor - of all races but disproportionately people of color - who will be left at greater risk. Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder should have the common decency to resign. The state and the federal government should step in and rebuild Flint’s water system immediately. A federal investigation should issue indictments where justified. But this isn’t simply about water and Flint. This is about an ideology that believes in this rich country, the privileges of the few must be protected, even if the necessities of the many are sacrificed. “Of course there is class warfare,” billionaire Warren Buffett once acknowledged, “and my class is winning.” Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is founder and president of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition. You can keep up with his work at www.rainbowpush.org
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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 Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Communicators) will present its annual Urban Journalism Workshop for high school and college students in 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 locally and nationally, as well as 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. Mail completed applications to: DFWABJ 320 South R.L. Thornton Frwy #220A Dallas, TX 75203 I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
I MESSENGER Let’s make 2016 a better year by doing more than we did in 2015 to make this world a better place for ALL.
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You don’t go to church! Dear Alma, if you rarely go to church or don't go at all ... Then why do you wish for a wedding ceremony at a church? I don’t understand Ask Alma why if you By Alma Gill are not a via George Curry Media member of a church or if you don’t go to church on a regular basis, why do you want to have your wedding in a church. Why do couples think they can just have a church wedding when they’re not members? Alma, tell me, what do you think? Unsigned Hmm, I’m glad you asked Mary Magdelene. While exercising my opened mind, I think some see churches as a location site while others see them as a sanctuary. For those of us who attend, it’s not our place to judge. I personally see the church as a public domain. A tabernacle that should be used as a refuge, especially for the homeless, hurt and hungry. A building that provides daycare for our children, as well as
afternoon gatherings for our elderly. It’s a “house of prayer” to look for unconditional love and acceptance, where you can release all your troubles, grief and unspeakable sins only to be reminded you aren’t participating in life lessons - alone. The church, my dear, should be an extension of family. Who are we to decide who can or cannot use the chapel for whatever reasons they seek? A wedding, why not? Churches should symbolize the best in us, making them a residence for renewal and unprejudiced. I say all this as kindly as I can, to lead you back from a place of being critical. I know you need a nudge to work at it “Church Lady,” cause you think your anointing gives you authorization to regulate all the goings on in the “house of the Lord,” but ahrahh, no! Swallow this teaspoon of sweetness I’m offering and volunteer to do something with the seniors. Now there’s a place that could use all this extra time, on your mind, you’re wasting. Alma
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Crockett presents Duncanville High School with NFL Golden Football Duncanville High School graduate Ray Crockett presented a NFL Golden Football to DHS Principal Carlos Meekins at a ceremony on Wednesday, January 27. Duncanville High School is being named to the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as part of the nationwide Super Bowl 50 celebration. The NFL started the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll program to acknowledge schools and communities that have directly influenced Super Bowl history and impacted the game for the better. By being a member of the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll, DHS will receive an NFL Character Education Curriculum and is eligible to apply for a grant from the NFL Foundation to help support the school's football program. After graduating from DHS in 1985, Crockett played for Baylor University where he was a three-year letterman and First Team All-Southwest Conference selection. Crockett was drafted to the NFL in 1989, and played for the Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs during his 14-season career.
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I MESSENGER MICHAEL J. FEENEY WASHINGTON -- The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) mourns the loss of member Michael J. Feeney, a former reporter for The New York Daily News, immediate past president of the New York Association of Black Journalists, and a past recipient of NABJ's Emerging Journalist of the Year Award. Feeney, 32, died Sunday after going into cardiac arrest while being treated for a staph infection in his kidneys, according to an obituary published in The Daily News. "I am shocked to learn of Michael's passing. He was a respected leader within NABJ having served with distinction as chapter president of the New York Association of Black Journalists for years. His leadership led to that chapter receiving the NABJ Chapter of the Year Award," NABJ President Sarah Glover said. "He was a tenacious journalist who possessed a passion and energy for telling stories reflective of diverse communities -- stories which otherwise might not have been told." Glover first met Feeney in 2003 at the NABJ Region II Conference in Atlantic City, as he traveled with other Delaware State students to their very first NABJ conference. She fondly remembers his ambitious desire to learn the craft and meet working black journalists. Feeney learned journalism from the best. He was taught by NABJ founder DeWayne Wickham at Delaware State University and was a founding member of the university's student chapter. "Michael Feeney was friend, a mentee and a former student of mine, whom I admired greatly. He was far more talented than he allowed himself to believe; much more the master of his destiny than he was willing to contemplate," Wickham said. "He was an immensely talented young black man for whom -- like far too many of our young black men -death came way too early. I trust that he is already at work in God's newsroom." "I am heartbroken to hear of Michael's untimely passing as I have watched him grow from a young inquisitive child into a remarkable man and journalist," said Allison J. Davis, an NABJ founder. "Michael often thanked me and the late great Reggie Harris for igniting the spark that ultimately became his profession, but it was I who thanked him for making us so proud of his many accomplishments in the industry we so dearly loved. His death is a great loss to journalism, NABJ and to our community of Teaneck, New Jersey, a place he still called home. He will truly be missed by all the lives he touched." For five years, Feeney distinguished himself as a versatile reporter at The New York Daily News. Feeney advanced from being a crime reporter to covering Upper Manhattan, which included the Harlem, East Harlem, Washington Heights and Inwood neighborhoods.
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IN MEMORIAM
While excelling as a beat reporter, he also covered entertainment and culture showing an innate ability to shift from hard news to feature reporting. As a freelancer, Feeney covered the riots in Baltimore following the death of Freddie Gray for NBC BLK. Prior to the working for The Daily News, he covered entertainment and culture for The Record in North Jersey and news and entertainment for TheGrio.com. He contributed to EBONY Magazine, including a feature story on actress and HIV/AIDS activist Sheryl Lee Ralph and Hairfinity owner Tymeka Lawrence. "The New York Association of Black Journalists is saddened by the passing of former President Michael J. Feeney. It is with deep sorrow that we mourn him," NYABJ President Julie Walker said. "He was a dedicated leader of the organization and an outstanding journalist. Michael, who served four years as president of NYABJ, worked tirelessly furthering our goals and revitalizing the chapter. He was a mentor to so many just starting out as journalists and a constant voice for those working tirelessly in media." A proud native of Teaneck, New Jersey, he was a 2005 graduate of Delaware State University. Feeney was a champion of historically black colleges. Upon being honored with NABJ's Emerging Journalist of the Year Award in 2010, he went on a speaking tour which took him to several HBCU campuses. "Michael was a gregarious, warm, and joyous person," Glover added. "'Feeney,' as he aectionately was known, inspired veteran journalists and aspiring journalists because of his energy, his enthusiasm and his commitment to helping others. He was a little brother to me and so many NABJers." NABJ extends its sincerest condolences to Michael's mother Ms. Reba Willis, his twin brother, Anthony, their family, and Michael's colleagues and friends who also mourn his passing. An advocacy group established in 1975 in Washington, D.C., NABJ is the largest organization for journalists of color in the nation, and provides career development as well as educational and other support to its members worldwide. For additional information, please visit www.nabj.org. Services have been planned for NewJersey and New York. Homegoing Services for Michael J. Feeney. To accommodate the outpouring of love and support for Michael, his family will host funeral services in Harlem, NY and Englewood, NJ. Harlem, NY Homegoing Service: First Corinthian Baptist Church 1912 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd, NY, NY 10026 (Formally 7th Ave) and 116th St. Date: Monday, February 8, 2016 Time: Viewing 9-11 AM. Funeral Service Immediately Following. Englewood, NJ Homegoing Service: Community Baptist Church 224 First St, Englewood, NJ 07631 Date: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Time: Viewing 4-6 PM. Funeral Service Immediately Following. Street parking is available and early arrival is highly suggested. For the Alpha’s Omega Service, Please contact Steven Lewis for further details
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JOHN MASTER SPENCER
John was born in WIlls Point, Tx to Ruby Lee and Sylvester Spencer on August 6, 1951. He attended elementary school there and went on to high school in Dallas at Booker T. Washington High School. He accepted Christ and always aspired to help others. He spent most of his career working at State hospitals in Texas, Virginia and Louisiana. John was married to Evelyn Redic of McKinney for 22 years and to that union two children, Rhonda and John were born. In later years he married Mayme Stringer of Benbrook. He leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Ruby Lee Kelley and stepfather Robert Joe Kelley; daughters, Rhonda Pennington-Lamb (Vernon) and Sharita Lyons; sons, John Spencer Jr., Rodney Lyons (Karen), and John Keith Spencer; sisters Mary Spencer-Black (Bennie), Vickie Spencer-Wilson (William) Jean Lynn Reed (Richard), Judy Jones (John), Tangila Thomas (Walter), Addie Spencer, Stacy Spencer, Debra Lyons and Patricia Wright; brothers Robert Earl Spencer (Barbara), Horace Spencer, Marvin Kelley, Sylvester Spencer Jr. (Debra), Jimmy Spencer (Brenda) and Lago Spencer (Taneiceya; a host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and other relatives.
Resume: raylcarr@yahoo.com, (214) 514-9553 or
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DBDT alumni making mark on the globe Between being a visiting professor at Sungkyunkwan process and received a choreography fellowship from the University in Seoul, South Korea, creating a new Princess Grace Foundation in 2012. It was an dance work for Dayton Contemporary Dance honor to be acknowledged with this Company in Dayton, Ohio, and choreographing prestigious award, but it was equally an honor a world premiere for Dallas Black Dance Theatre, to work with a critically acclaimed company Bridget L. Moore is used to crisscrossing the such as Dallas Black Dance Theatre," said Ms. globe enjoying the ability to work in the field of Moore. "I set my first work on the company her passion - dance. titled, Southern Recollection: For Romare On Thursday evenings you will find Katricia Bearden." Eaglin at the Dallas Black Dance Theatre Katricia Eaglin says it has been a dream Academy working with the 14 students in the Katricia Eaglin, come true to have a professional dance career Allegro ensemble. Katricia is the director of the Choreographer at Dallas Black Dance Theatre. She was a teen-performing group that gives about 10 charter member of the second company, performances a year in the community. All of DBDT II, that was formed in 2000. Katricia the Allegro students take classes at Dallas Black danced with DBDT's first company from Dance Academy (DBDA), the official school of 2005-2015. Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Her Allegro During that time Katricia was assistant ensemble students are aged 14 to 18 and are rehearsal director for five years and rehearsal from Dallas, Fort Worth, Lake Dallas, Plano, director for the company last season. She has Garland, and Arlington. The ensemble recently taught classes for DBDT Academy for 17 years. Bridget L. Moore, performed in Denver, Colorado at the Choreographer Katricia says she first saw the Dallas Black International Association of Blacks in Dance Dance Theatre while on a field trip with the Conference. Katricia is an American Ballet West Dallas Community Center. Theatre (ABT) certified instructor and teaches classes at DBD "It was my dream to be a part of the company since I was Academy. 14 and saw them perform at a dance festival," said Katricia Princess Grace Foundation Choreography Fellowship Award Eaglin. At that time I did not know they were from Dallas." recipient Bridget L. Moore is choreographing a world Katricia says her mentor made her audition for the Booker T. premiere performance for Dallas Black Dance Theatre's Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts Cultural Awareness series. Katricia Eaglin is setting a Dallas and she was accepted. Katricia earned a BFA in dance from premiere for the same series taking place February 19-21, the University of North Texas. 2016, at the Wyly Theatre. Bridget L. Moore created a world premiere titled Both Bridget and Katricia grew up in Dallas. Katricia credits Unearthed for Dallas Black Dance Theatre. "Unearthed is a the company leadership with shaping her career. Bridget creative protest against violence and racism in America. The says just seeing the dance company inspired her in iconic song, "Strange Fruit," is also a protest song against the elementary school. inhumanity of racism," explained Ms. Moore. "Abel Meeropol "Dallas Black Dance Theatre came to my elementary school originally wrote it as a poem, after seeing a photograph of a once a week for a short period of time through an arts and lynching. The song first gained its notoriety through Billie education program. It was my first time ever moving in a Holiday." dance class and I believe the exposure sparked my curiosity," Katricia's work, Testament, makes its Dallas premiere explained Bridget L. Moore. Ms. Moore later auditioned for during the Cultural Awareness series. Testament abstractly the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing depicts five biblical themes, using a blend of modern and and Visual Arts. contemporary dance set to contemporary classical music. She was accepted in the music department as a pianist and "This work has allowed me to combine my two passions eventually switched clusters to start training in dance. faith and dance," said Ms. Eaglin. Bridget went on to earn a MFA from New York University, Katricia earned a Masters in Biblical Studies from Dallas Tisch School of the Arts. Theological Seminary while dancing with DBDT. "During my Bridget toured professionally with Ronald K. Brown's last two years in seminary, DBDT Founder Ms. Williams and EVIDENCE, A Dance Company, in New York City. She later Melissa Young, the DBDT Associate Artistic Director, helped returned to Dallas to teach at her alma mater Booker T. me so I could go to class, tour with DBDT, and take tests Washington HSPVA. Dallas Black Dance Theatre gave Bridget online. God really worked." her first opportunity to choreograph a dance. Two other world premieres are included in the Cultural DBDT Founder Ann Williams nominated Bridget for the Awareness series. Former DBDT dancer and Southern Princess Grace Award. "I went through the application Methodist University graduate Jamal Story choreographs The
Parts They Left Out, a series of three gravity-defying aerial duets. Story trained as an aerial dancer during his current duties as dance captain for Cher's Living Proof: The Farewell Tour. He also previously danced with Madonna. Former Alvin Ailey dancer Kirven Douthit-Boyd choreographed Furtherance, a ballet based on overcoming a personal struggle that ends with a celebration of triumph, taking the audience on a journey from anguish to bliss. Douthit-Boyd sets the dance to a musical score of Japanese taiko drums with additional sounds and effects of Asian gongs and bells. Douthit-Boyd is the Co-Artistic Director of Dance at the Center of Creative Arts in St. Louis, Missouri. Instinct 11.1 captures the essence and strength of Francesca Harper's mother, Denise Jefferson, who was the director of The Ailey School from 1984 until her death in 2010. Harper says she felt her mother was born with a warrior spirit. Harper likes to see dancers moving with a sense of empowerment and ferocity. Through the complex layers, the dancers inhabit that power with a sense of community, even when there is a feeling of invasion at times. The Cultural Awareness series is presented by Wells Fargo and supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. For the sixth year, Wells Fargo returns as a presenting sponsor of the series. "Wells Fargo is committed to supporting organizations and events that make significant contributions to the communities where we do business," said Wells Fargo Area President Scott Wallace. "Cultural programs like this greatly add to the quality of life in our communities, and this is why we are active supporters of this wonderful organization. We are honored to have supported Dallas Black Dance Theatre for more than 10 years and look forward to continuing to partner with them for many years to come." Jamal Story is a recipient of a grant from the TACA Bowdon & Embrey Family Foundations Artist Residency Fund. The two sold-out student matinees on February 18 are supported by Katherine Carmody Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee. Cultural Awareness evening performances will be held Friday and Saturday, February 19-20, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday matinee performance on February 21 is at 2:30 p.m. For tickets, call 214-880-0202 or visit ATTPAC.org. For group ticket sales, call 214-871-2390. After the curtain closes, audiences can stay and enjoy DBDT ALL ACCESS for a Talkback with Choreographers after the Friday performance and an On-stage Dance Celebration following the Saturday performance. For more information regarding the Dallas Black Dance Theatre, visit www.dbdt.com.
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February 5
February 7
Feb. 5-6 and 12-13, 8 p.m. Garland Civic Theatre's production of the hard-boiled comedy, "The Man with Bogart's Face," has only four performances left!
South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s ClubAnnual Founders' Day Observance Focus: Celebrating 62 Years of Community Service "Continuing The Legacy of Community Service, Lifting Others As We Climb" Time: 3:00 -6:00 PM DeSoto Civic Center, 211 E Pleasant Run Rd, DeSoto, TX Bluebonnet Room $25.00 per Person Honoree: Linda Darden Lydia, Sojourner Truth Award
Synopsis: a man obsessed with Humphrey Bogart changes his appearance and name to resemble the classic Hollywood star, while opening a detective agency and taking on a case with which Bogie would be proud. Tickets: GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or 972-205-2790.
February 6 Annual Sweetheart Dance Dads, granddads, brothers and uncles are invited to watch their little princess shine at the annual Sweetheart Dance on Saturday, Feb. 6, at The Atrium at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St. Cost is $16 per person and will include dinner, dancing and a professional 5x7 photo. Registration is required and may be completed in person at any Garland recreation centeror by calling 972-205-3991. Space is limited, so register early! For more information, visit GarlandTx.gov. ********* Artist Exhibition/Reception Saturday, February 6, 2016 - 5PM Featuring works of Johnathon Foster, Kirk Garnett, ShaLana Mitchell, Kevin Owens & C-Ray Rayson Irving Arts Center - Main Gallery 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, TX Admission: FREE **** Straight Talk about the use of the “N-Word” with Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III at the Black Academy of Arts and Letters.
***** Know Your Status Dallas 10 a.m. – 2p.m. (Panel discussion with elected officials and local celebrities at 12p.m.) Guest of Honor: Sheryl Lee Ralph Southwest Center Mall 3662 W. Camp Wisdom Road Dallas, TX 75237
February 8 BB&T's Financial Literacy Workshop Session Two Monday, February 8, 2016 Starts at Noon "Borrowing Basics" Financial Management With economic development in mind, BB&T has partnered with the Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce to provide FREE education and financial literacy to take pre-existing businesses to the next level. BB&T recognizes that the heart of the community is small business and in order for it to grow, small businesses must grow. Presented by: BB&T's Community Development Team FREE to Chamber Members, Non-Chamber Members and the Oak Cliff Community. RSVP is required. Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce "Community Development Room" 1001 N. Bishop Ave. Dallas, TX 75208
February 10 Eugene O’Neill’s Long Day’s Journey Into Night, running February 10th - March 6th. All evening performance for this show will start at 7:30 at the Undermain Theatre
February 12 Feb. 5-6 and 12-13, 8 p.m. Garland Civic Theatre's production of the hard-boiled comedy, "The Man with Bogart's Face," has only four performances left!
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Synopsis: a man obsessed with Humphrey Bogart changes his appearance and name to resemble the classic Hollywood star, while opening a detective agency and taking on a case with which Bogie would be proud. Tickets: GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or 972-205-2790. The NAACP Garland Unit Hosts Its 16 th Annual Winter Ball “Recognizing High School Cafeteria Employees in the Garland ISD” 8:00 p.m. @Hyatt Place Garland 5101 N. George Bush Highway Garland, Texas 75040 Attire: Black Tie Evening Includes: Recognition of 2016 Honorees, Dinner, Live Entertainment, and Dancing For tickets, send check or money order to: NAACP Garland - Attention: Gwen Daniels PO Box 460944 Garland, TX 75046-0944 Ticket sales end on February 9, 2016 For more information, call the NAACP: 972.381.5044, Voice Box 5 Balch Springs Chamber of Commerce Balch Springs Chamber Presents 2nd Annual Daddy/Daughter Dance Winter Wonderland Friday, February 12, 2016 7- 9pm Tickets $20 - Daddy & Daughter | $5 - Each Additional Daughter Balch Springs Civic Center 12400 Elam Road Balch Springs, Texas 75180
February 13 AMOUD FOUNDATION ANNUAL FUNDRAISER at 6:30 PM ****** “Pathway to Success" 3rd Annual Scholarship Gala Honoring: Zeronda D. Smith Director – Office of Risk Management for the City of Dallas “New” Location: Cowboys Golf Club, 1600 Fairway Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051
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I MESSENGER Cocktail Hour - 6:00 PM Dinner - 7:00 PM Silent Auction (Sports Memorabilia and More) Attire: Black Tie Optional Musical Entertainment provided by: Popsicle Toes Go to www.naaiadfw.org to Purchase Tickets, Tables and Sponsorships . All proceeds will benefit the NAAIA DFW Scholarship Fund
February 14 12th Annual Dallas Blues Festival featuring Latimore, Sir Charles Jones, Theodis Ealey, TK Soul, Shirley Brown, Cupid, Bobby Rush Sun, Feb 14, 2016 - 6:00PM Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
February 17 DBCC Power Lunch! Bill J Priest Institute 1402 Corinth Street Dallas 75215 1-3pm Understanding the RFP &RFB Process February 18 Balch Springs Chamber of Commerce Network Luncheon Guest Speaker: Aerica Karriem Founder of CEO's Are People Too 11:30AM-12:30PM 12400 Elam Road, Balch Springs TX 75180 Chamber Members w/ RSVP $5.00 Non-Members w/RSVP $7.00 Chamber Members without RSVP $10.00 Non-Members without RSVP $12.00 -------------
February 19
FEBRUARY 5, 2016 Princess Grace Foundation Choreography Fellowship Award recipient Bridget L. Moore is choreographing a world premiere performance for Dallas Black Dance Theatre's Cultural Awareness series. Katricia Eaglin is setting a Dallas premiere for the same series taking place February 19-21, 2016, at the Wyly Theatre.
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“Pathway to Success" 3rd Annual Scholarship Gala Honoring:
"Soul at the Muse: Trouble Man" featuring Chico DeBarge Call the TBAAL Box Office 214-743-2400 The Legends Reception, featuring past and 2016 inductees into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame will be held at the African American Museum in Fair Park, 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.
Zeronda D. Smith Director – Office of Risk Management for the City of Dallas
February 20
“New” Location: Cowboys Golf Club, 1600 Fairway Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051
Former Cowboy quarterback Roger Staubach and former Texas A&M University Football Coach R.C. Slocum will be inducted into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame along with 10 others at the Parrish Restaurants Induction Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. At the Crowne Plaza Dallas Market Center, 7050 N. Stemmons Frwy, Dallas.
Date: Saturday, February 13, 2016
Cocktail Hour - 6:00 PM Dinner - 7:00 PM Silent Auction (Sports Memorabilia and More)
UNCF Masked Ball at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel. Call 972-234-1007 for tickets. Orange Girls Rock Annual Luncheon Wear Orange! Commemorate Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Awareness Month, Promo Respect and Healthy Relationships. Make your community Aware LADIES THAT WEAR ORANGE ROCK! Hilton Garden Inn - Duncanville 800 North Main, Duncanville 11a.m. http://orangegirlsrock16.eventbrite.com
Musical Entertainment provided by: Popsicle Toes (formerly known as Buster Brown Band) Go to www.naaiadfw.org to Purchase Tickets, Tables and Sponsorships All proceeds will benefit the NAAIA DFW Scholarship Fund
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