Thought-provoking, informative, enlightening and entertaining news and commentary from around the world! VOL 5 ISSUE 25
February 19, 2016
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www.myimessenger.com
Julia Pearl is a real
JEWEL New restaurant is a crowd pleaser
Chef Tre Wilcox and I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com Chef Jermaine Brown
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Reel-ality TV Talk By Marquesa LaDawn
Here we go again, Kenya causing drama for all the wrong reason. Here are a few examples: The Basis of Kenya's Insensitivity This season, we are finally getting a deep understanding of why Kenya is so pissed off: Her mother keeps rejecting her. I love my mom more than life itself and cannot imagine that type of pain. She keeps trying to open that door, only to get it slammed in her face and she takes the pain out on everyone around her. Her mother decided she didn't want to be a mother as a 16 years old. Not only was she pregnant girl, but had the baby for the father's family to raise. Technically, she's always had this position, but in Kenya's mind it hurts. Although she's accomplished some of the biggest goals in life, such as winning Ms. USA in 1993, she can't seem to win her mom's love. Kenya covets friends, but can't keep them As a real housewife, friends are a must for several reasons. First of all you need someone to share scenes with and if you are not liked, we will never see you. Secondly, the Bravo producers want as many housewives as possible in most scenes and if no one will hang with you, less screen time and a headache for your bosses. You are so insecure about what's being said about you when you are not around. You watch the season like every one else on pins and needles and must react sitting on the bravo couch with Andy Cohen months later. It's so interesting that viewers will call in and tear you down and add Twitter backlash to that and you've got Kenya's anti-fan club.
Cynthia, the friend expert, is trying to stay friends with Kenya, but with the pain Nene caused her, she's cautious. About six seasons ago, when Cynthia Bailey first entered the scene, friendship meant so much to her she created friend contracts. Now, several broken hearts later, she will not call you a best friend until a lot of time has passed. In Kenya's mind, more rejection, more pain, more anger. Oh, my. Only Kim Fields can handle Kenyna Kenya's most recent scene with Kim Fields was shocking. Out of anger she pulled Kim's chair from under her and pissed Kim off. Kim handled it like a pro and left the area; she shared her frustration with her husband but let Kenya believe, her moves don't matter. This is so interesting when you c o n s i d e r t h e f a c t t h a t Ke ny a introduced Kim on the show and acted as her hostess. They worked on a Tyler Perry show at the same time in the past. But during their first scene together, Kenya began insulting her; she just can't help herself. Phaedra is Glad the Attention is elsewhere It's so funny to see Phaedra hide behind Kenya's drama. She knows we are watching how she deals with Apollo being away and she wants a distraction. She's careful to stay out of the Kenya scenes but loves to talk about it during her interviews and with other cast members. Kenya's new man has positive impact on her I'm happy to see Kenya finally has a man. It was confusing to see such a beautiful woman with no man for so
long. She tried, but the relationships seem to not last. I'm impressed that Bravo did not air Kenya's drama around a man she dated from the Millionaire Matchmaker show who ended up marrying someone else before Kenya could announce the breakup. Her new guy is a muscle head and 15 years younger, but at least she's got a smile on her face. During one of the most recent episodes of "Watch What Happens Live," her man was the bartender and seem to soften Kenya's hard edge. When asked if he could handle Kenya's feisty spirit, he said, I love it. On top of that, Kenya actually apologized for pulling out Kim's chair in a heated scene - she never does that,. Her excuse: it just happened, I was in the moment. You mean, like Porsha was when she slapped you after a harsh comment you made on a passed reunion? Just saying. About the Real Housewives of Potomac ... I'm still not a superfan. These ladies confuse me; they seem to bicker over nothing. They seem desperate and sincerely unhappy. I'm hoping it gets better. So far, Booo! and Teresa Giudice She's out of prison and sharing many interesting details in her effort to become a NY Times Bestseller again. I'm buying the book and cannot wait to dig into the pages. Teresa (RHOP) shares how she passed the time and how everyone watched her every move. I'm intrigued. She also shared her plan to vote for Donald Trump d u r i n g o n e o f h e r t a l k s h ow interviews. I don't think she's aware of the prohibition on NJ felons voting while still on parole. Oh well.
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Message to the People...
Revitalization efforts in Mill City area
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Partnering with ICDC The national non profit Rebuilding Together continues its efforts to preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize communities in the Southern Dallas area as they lead a two-day community revitalization effort in partnership with Lowe’s. Approximately 100 Lowe’s employee volunteers from around the region will volunteer on February 24 and 25 to provide critical repairs and upgrades for Innercity Community Development Corporation (ICDC). The nonprofit organization serving the Mill City Community and the homes of four local homeowners, ICDC provides home ownership opportunities, economic development and community education. The event ribbon cutting ceremony will be February 25 at 2:00p.m. at the ICDC offices, 4907 Spring Avenue, Dallas, TX 75210. Yes, there are people and organizations working together to make this world a better place. ICDC has been focusing on the southern sector where so much is needed. In a class recently, students talked about areas that are not being revitalized and how people are always talking about the “ghetto.” One student said she hated that word because she knows people who live in the so-called ghetto and those people are hard working, neat, clean and take pride in their neighborhood. She said those who felt otherwise and did nothing to build up the areas where they live are not “ghetto.” Instead, she said, they are “ignorant.” And for her, ignorance has no color or even economic status. As a child I remember hearing that “just because you don’t have much doesn’t mean you don’t take care of what you have.” Rebuilding Together, Lowe’s, Habitat for Humanity, nor Innercity Community Development Corporation can do it all. Sometimes I wonder why folks don’t take matters into their own hands and take over some of the abandoned buildings and make them livable. I also wonder why people throw trash in their own communities. There was a time such behavior was not tolerated. That should be the case today. And, when someone helps as those will be doing on February 24 and 25 , we should be out in record numbers, if not to help, to at least say thanks! Mark your calendar and join me for the ribbon cutting on February 25 at 2p.m.
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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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Alone Now
Spiritually Speaking‌.
May God bless and keep you always.
By James A. Washington
James Dr. Raphael G. Warnock, Jr. to keynote scholarship banquet in Fort Worth
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From the U.S. Congress By Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson
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NEED A JOB?
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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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Keep
T B P N
“I need your vote to keep working for our community!”
Toni
Early Vote: February 16th - 26th Election Day: Tuesday, March 1st Pol Ad Pd for Toni Rose Campaign, Ada Williams, Treasurer
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Continental Societies, Inc. partners with McDonalds - hosts Read In Continental Societies, Inc. will join McDonalds and millions of others across the country to celebrate Black History Month by hosting the African American Read-In during the month of February. Each year the Dallas Continentals visit schools in the Metroplex to provide programming and activities associated with Black History. This year, in an effort to promote our literacy campaign, the chapter partnered with McDonalds of Greater North Texas to host African American Read-Ins in African American owned and operated McDonald restaurants in the Metroplex. The African American Read-In is a celebration of literary works by African American Authors. During the month of February, we encourage the community to read and read to children works by black authors. In 1990, the first African American Read-In was sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English. In 1991, the National Council of Teachers of English joined in the sponsorship. The Read-In has been endorsed by the international Reading Association. Over a million readers of all ethnic groups from 49 states, the West Indies, and African countries have participated. The goal is to make the celebration of African American literacy a traditional part of Black History Month activities. List of Read-In’s February 13 11:30 a.m. Reading Arlington, February 20 11:30 a.m. Reading TX February 27 11:30 a.m. Reading Arlington,
5404 S. Cooper Street, 10320 Lake June Road, Dallas, 2575 E. Arkansas Lane,
Continental Societies, Inc. is an international public service organization dedicated to the socioeconomic and cultural welfare of underprivileged children and youth, was founded in June 1956 and incorporated nationally in 1972. Continental Societies Inc. embraces 46 chapters in 20 states in the Continental USA, District of Columbia and Bermuda and is continuing to grow. Through our Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, Health, Education, Employment, Recreation (HEER), plus Arts and Humanities, Continental women internationally strive to adhere to the humanitarian precept of sharing with those in need. Nationally, regionally and locally, Continentals have created innovative activities while they volunteer their time through outreach programs in youth centers, schools, pediatric wards, homes for the delinquent, special needs and emotionally challenged youth. Continentals volunteer innovatively through tutoring, mentoring, after-school programs, apparel donations and Walk-athons. Mentoring programs are a major component of the Continental approach.
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State Comptroller’s Office Complicates Finding Unclaimed Funds Special to I Messenger North Dallas Gazette: Writer Nicole James Scott Finding money owed to you with the State Comptroller’s Office used to be as simple as 1-2-3 but as of September the process has become more difficult. Unclaimed money for years has been a guaranteed way of cashing in on some extra funds for a number of citizens. The amount can vary from as little as 25cents to thousands of dollars and until recently to claim your funds all you had to do was go to www.ClaimItTexas.org, type in your name and press search. If your name appeared you would fill out a form and send it to the Comptroller’s office. Now, if you visit the site, it states funds under $25 are not listed. So how do you know if you have money that is owed to you if it’s not listed? How will you go about claiming your funds if the State’s website does not list them? It may seem like a trivial amount, however last year alone the Comptroller’s office processed 34,000 claims for funds less than $25. The Comptroller’s office claims it is committed to transparency and keeping its citizenry informed so why the change? According to an official from the Comptroller’s office it’s a matter of numbers. The claim is, the average small claim is $10 and it requires $13 to process each request, alluding to the State losing money. According to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Annual Financial Report of 2014, the unclaimed property fund received $460 million in gross revenues, made $205 million in claimant payments and transferred $255 million to the general fund. Unclaimed money in the state of Texas is steadily rising and has hit an all time high, $4 billion according to the State Comptroller’s Office. And what do they do with all of those funds when no one claims them? According to the law, the State cannot use the funds, however they can be used as a source of state revenue. In other words, lawmakers can use these funds to inflate their state budgets. Unclaimed money comes from a number of sources. Some of which include: Dividend, payroll or cashier’s checks Stocks, mutual fund accounts, bonds Utility deposits and other refunds Bank accounts and safe deposit box contents Insurance proceeds Mineral interest or royalty payments Court deposits, trust funds, escrow accounts All businesses entities as well as government institutions are required by state law to report any funds or property when the rightful owner fails to claim it. However, until recently these businesses were not required to provide the owner’s details for properties under $50. So for example, in 2014 the Comptroller’s office received $9.5 million reported as aggregate properties that could not be published, claimed, or returned to rightful owners because the property was reported without the owner’s information. This restricted the ability of citizens’ ability to claim ownership of their property. It is not only the duty and responsibility of the State to make any and all public information easily assessable to consumers but also act in good faith. By removing funds under $25 from its website the State Comptroller’s Office is purposely engaging in trickery and disenfranchising a large portion of Texans. As it happens, one in four Texans has money being held by the State Comptroller’s Office waiting to be claimed.
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QUIT PLAYIN’: Can’t Keep this Secret! In the old Black church, and this aligns with our Black History Month theme, there were a By Vincent number of gospel L. Hall songs and standards that regular churchgoers knew. Now Vincent L. Hall is an author growing up in and award-winning columnist. South Dallas in the church parsonage, I probably heard these songs more than most. But if you recognize this tune hit me back with an Amen!! There was one song that topped the Black testimonial charts; “Said I wasn’t gonna tell nobody, but I just couldn't keep it to myself.’ So let me be transparent. As an active native of Dallas, I saw something in the Dallas Morning News that bothers me. I just can't keep it to myself, despite having promised myself that I would keep it to myself. The Dallas Morning News’ opinionative and operative, Sharon Grigsby had an article that chilled me from its haunting headline to its declarative demand. “Where is the Dallas Business establishment in the Caraway/Price Race?” I tried my best to shrug this obvious act of North Dallas patriarchal desperation off, but I can’t. And I can’t keep it to myself. That headline didn’t persuade you, so let me give you her concluding paragraph. “I’m not trying to paint Caraway as flawless, and our editorial board doesn’t always see eye to eye with him. But I find it curious that so much of North Dallas is staying on the sidelines when there’s such an excellent alternative to a commissioner whom they have never been fond of.” Ok. So...You’ve endorsed Dwaine Caraway as the best successor to Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price. The same John Wiley Price that you have openly admitted is the most knowledgeable and hardworking elected official in Dallas County; bar none.
Quit Playin’
But you don’t understand why the North Dallas establishment, whom you conjecture hate Price, have not been sending large parcels of cash to Dwaine aka “The Nickel Bag Man.”) Or let me spin it the way I heard it as a Black man who has learned to train a jaundiced eye toward this news relic and sustainer of the status quo. What I heard was, “We don’t particularly like the Negro we picked either, but North Dallas has always said privately that it wanted to get rid of this uppity, rabble-rousing Negro, so put yo’ money where yo’ mouth is.” It was really getting to me. I went back on the website and there was a Caraway ad on the front page where mostly large national advertisers appear. I re-read what appears to be a quasi campaign donation letter and fastened on this paragraph. “I just took a careful look at Caraway’s most recent campaign finance report, covering the last six months of 2015, and it’s difficult to scare up more than a handful of recognizable names from northern businessmen and businesswomen: Henry and Lucy Billingsley donated $2,000. Mary McDermott Cook is in for $500. Ditto for Milledge and Linda Hart and Pete Schenkel. Emmitt and Patricia Smith also made a $500 contribution.”. That’s when I decided to get Caraway’s campaign finance reports for myself. I just had to know if Grigsby’s plea grossed him more donors. Being curious, I also want to know how much he paid for those DMN ads or if they were donated in-kind. So far, the report is late and the previous report is missing lots of info, both of which are violations. Grigsby failed to mention Roland Dickey is husband to Price’s nemesis Maurine Dickey. Hmmm My point is that DMN should state an opinion and then let the vox populi rule. The voters of Commissioner District Three have that obligation, but it sounds like Grigsby thinks folks in this district still don’t understand phonics, scribble or cipher much. Or at least that’s how it sounded to me and I couldn’t keep this to myself. I won’t keep this secret.
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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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NABJ Honors the Life and Legacy of NABJ Founder Acel Moore - The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) mourns the passing of Acel Moore, an NABJ founder and legendary Philadelphia journalist. Moore died Friday night at home in Wyncote, Pa. He was 75. Moore was a respected newspaper columnist, reporter and editor. He began his career with ThePhiladelphia Inquirer as a copy clerk in 1962 after working as a medic in the Army. He advanced to editorial clerk and then became one of the first black reporters at The Inquirer in 1968. His career spanned m o re t h a n f o u r decades. Moore won the Pulitzer Prize in 1977 for investigative reporting for a series of stories that depicted the abuse of inmates at Fairview State Hospital. "Acel was an icon to black journalists, he was an icon to journalists of color, he was an icon to all journalists. Acel was a legendary wordsmith whose impact resonates throughout the journalism industry," said NABJ President Sarah Glover. "Acel left a wonderful legacy as a humanitarian, truth seeker, fighter for equal opportunity and trailblazer who opened doors for countless journalists, especially those of color. We will honor his memory by continuing the fight for diversity in all newsrooms now more than ever." In 1973, Moore founded the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists with fellow Philadelphia journalists Chuck Stone and Claude Lewis. Their work and that of other early PABJ members laid the groundwork for the National Association of Black Journalists, which was founded in 1975 in Washington, D.C. "I traveled the world with Acel to my great benefit and our mutual delight, growth and sometimes close calls. We nearly missed our flight in Mozambique, for example, and would have been stranded in Maputo without a word of Portuguese, to say nothing of Tsonga, between us. OK, we knew one Portuguese word, 'uisque,'" said fellow NABJ Founder Les Payne. "Acel loved life as displayed by his heroic struggle over the last few years. Acel loved NABJ; and NABJ loved him back--I know I did." Not just a print journalist Moore and fellow NABJ cofounder Reginald Bryant co-hosted the public television program Black Perspectives on the News, which aired on WHYY-TV, Philadelphia's public T.V. station, but the program
was also broadcast nationally on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) from 1973-1979. In 1979, he completed the Nieman Fellowship at Harvard University where he focused his studies on law and urban studies. In 1981, he was named a columnist and began to pen editorials and columns for The Inquirer as part of the editorial board.
Firmly committed to diversifying newsrooms, Moore began the Art Peters Memorial Fellowship Program in an effort to increase the number of diverse copy editors at The Inquirer. He went onto develop a program designed to introduce and prepare high school students throughout the Delaware Valley for careers in journalism. The First Take publication documented the students' work and the program was later renamed the Acel Moore Career Development Workshop. "I have so many, many fond memories of Acel, someone who welcomed me to Philadelphia before NABJ was founded. He was such a fine journalist, a trailblazer, a funny man, a proud black man who did so much for our craft and his community," said NABJ Founder Joe Davidson. "We so need programs like the PBS Black Perspective on the News that he and Reggie Bryant, another NABJ founder, produced. I'm proud to have been his friend for so many decades, proud to be an NABJ cofounder with him. It's a sad day as we celebrate his life." Founder Moore also had an impressive career teaching journalism. He served on the faculty at the University of California at Berkeley's summer program for minority journalists, worked as a journalism instructor at Temple University and Florida A&M University, and was a journalism consultant to Northwestern University, Duquesne University, the University of Kansas and Norfolk State University. "I am sad that my old friend Acel Moore has passed. He was a fine person, a good friend and he did much to make the National Association of Black Journalist an organization that
made a difference. During the conventions we attended I can well remember how he took time to talk to young journalist and give advice on how to succeed," said former NABJ President Merv Aubespin. "I will miss him and so will NABJ, an organization that he truly cared about. My condolences to his family and friends and do keep the faith." Moore met and covered Presidents Richard Nixon, Jimmy Ca r t e r a n d B i l l Clinton over the course of his career. He retired from the Inquirer in 2005 and held the title of associate editor emeritus at the time of his death. "I was blown away by Ace l ' s d e e p devotion to the next generation of journalists. After both our careers in daily journalism ended, Acel and I co-founded Prime Movers Media Philadelphia, an intensive journalism mentoring program within the Philadelphia Public Schools that still exists nearly ten years later," said former NABJ President Dorothy Butler Gilliam. "Even with startup funds from the Knight Foundation, we still needed Acel's sterling reputation to open the superintendent's doors in that problem-ridden school system. Acel and I had many adventures with this program. He was a fighter, an innovator, full of fun and a great journalist. I loved him very much." Moore was presented with NABJ's Legacy Award in 2005 and was bestowed with the NABJ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. He was greeted by a standing ovation as it was presented to him during the 36th Annual NABJ Convention and Career Fair in Philadelphia. NABJ extends its sincerest condolences to Founder Moore's family and the countless friends within the journalism community who he leaves behind. "I am beyond words and deeply saddened by this news of one of our most beloved Founders -- and a person I personally loved and respected," said Paul Brock, NABJ founder and the organization's first executive director. Moore is survived by his wife Linda Wright Moore, daughter Mariah and son Acel, Jr. Funeral services will be held Monday, Feb. 22 at Grace Baptist Church in Germantown.
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Southwest Center Mall Celebrates Local Legends The community is invited to join Peter Brodsky and Southwest Center Mall in honoring local legends during a Black History Month celebration on Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 3 p.m. at the Southwest Center Mall, 3662 West Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas, TX 75237. Outstanding community leaders Dr. E. K. Bailey, Louis Bedford, Dr. Emmett Conrad, Juanita Craft, Yvonne Ewell and Mildred and Fred Finch will be honored throughout the celebration. The program will include Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Erik Wilson, guest speaker Larry James, CEO City Square, St. Luke Community United Methodist Choir, Lyriq Turner, winner of the MLK Oratory Contest, Billy Prode, musical talent and South Oak Cliff Color Guard.
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MALVEAUX: Addicts and Junkies By Dr. Julianne Malveaux Nick Cocchi would like to be the Sheriff of Hampden County, an Eastern Massachusetts county of half a million people. Springfield, Massachusetts, a city that is about 22 percent African American, is the county seat. Eastern Massachusetts (and indeed, much of New England) is experiencing the devastating fallout from the heroin and opioid abuse epidemic. The centers for Disease Control say that deaths from heroin overdoses have quadrupled in the past decade, and that heroin use has doubled among whites. Thus, it is entirely appropriate that Mr. Cocchi’s candidate website includes a page that talks about opioid abuse in Hampden County. Far less appropriate, and indeed, repugnant, was a statement that Cocchi made when he testified at a November hearing before the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse. According to Victoria Kim, a writer for The Fix, a newspaper that reports on addiction and recovery issues, Cocchi said as part of his testimony, “What was once the heroin junkie in the dark inner-city back alley has now become brother, sister, mom, dad, son and daughter. Its hit suburbia USA.” Should the issue of addiction be treated more compassionately and humanely now that it has “hit suburbia USA”? Wasn’t that “heroin junkie in the dark inner-city back alley” somebody’s brother, sister, mother, dad, son or daughter? This is why it is so important to lift up the Black Lives Matter movement. Cocchi has, implicitly, said that he values the person in suburbia USA more than the person in the inner city. And his characterization of the inner-city drug
abuser as someone in a back alley reeks of his biases. Bishop Talbert Swan II, the President of the Springfield NAACP and pastor of Spirit of Hope Church of God in Christ, strongly objects to the racially coded language that Cocchi used to talk about the problem of addiction. He is not the only person who has noticed the increasingly humane way addiction is being managed as the epidemic devastates the white community, in contrast to the way addiction has been managed in the past (consider the language around the crack epidemic) or even now, when African Americans are addicts. Even Cocchi’s use of is term “junkie” lacks humanity. To call someone a “junkie” is far less humane than calling them an addict. Before votes support Cocchi in his quest for Sheriff, they might push him to get some sensitivity training. They might also ask if he would treat the inner city addict differently than he would treat one from a Hampden suburb. The larger question, though, is why there is such sudden empathy for addicts, an empathy that was utterly lacking when the crack addiction increase devastated the African American community, and when zero tolerance policies and mandatory drug sentencing placed people who were seriously ill behind bars for decades. Addiction, after all, is more an illness than a crime. In Gloucester, a city about 40 miles north from Boston, heroin and opioid addicts who voluntarily turn themselves in at the police station are provided with
treatment services, and not charged with any crime. The program has gotten national attention. Some addicts from outside Massachusetts have come to Gloucester because they can’t find affordable drug treatment where they live. Imagine that there were such a program for crack addicts when the inhumane “war on drugs” was little more than a war on black people. Even as I applaud the new empathy toward addicts, I mourn the years that so many have spent behind bars, denied of the kinds of “innovative” treatment options available in Gloucester. Irreparable damage was done to the A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n c o m m u n i t y, especially the inner city community, because of the draconian and racist “war on drugs”. Now, because the face of addiction has changed, so has public policy, and treatment options are preferred to incarceration options. Even as today’s addicts are being treated more humanely, where is the compassion for the addicts of two decades ago, many who remain incarcerated? President Obama’s efforts to pardon nonviolent drug offenders are a step in the right direction toward repairing individual lives. Is there a step our nation might take to repair the lives of these individuals and their communities?
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Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc., unveils new National Headquarters OďŹƒce On Wednesday, January 21st, the 22nd National President, Stephanie Dilworth, welcomed a small and quaint audience of Iota members and supporters to Carr Workplaces, 1325 G Street, NW, for Iota’s Open House and Reception, which included unveiling the new headquarters office and archives space. She alongside the newly appointed Executive Director, Vonetta Martin, welcomed guests and informed the crowd that the headquarters is officially open and now includes the Lola M. Parker Foundation for Economic Empowerment of Business and Professional Women (LMPF). Those in attendance enjoyed the atmosphere, networking, tour of the space, refreshments, and had nothing but positive notes of reflection about the event and Iota’s new home. Recognition was given to members and supporters that had assisted with this specific transition and development of the national headquarters. Gifts of appreciation were given to Montrose Cones (Past National Executive Director), Nicole Gray (National
Headquarters Development Committee member and of Gamma Chapter), Preston Ford (Painter of Headquarters, MOI of Gamma Chapter), Gamma chapter membersNicole George, Jennifer Sinkfield, Angela Homer, Cory Milam,Rashida Ashman, Shirley Dean-Johnson (Kappa) and Ahmad Williams (Volunteer Mover and Supporter). “Without the support of these core individuals we could not have made the transition any better than it was,� Madam National President Stephanie Dilworth said. To the surprise of the National Board, it received a beautiful artistic piece showing of a women dressed in emerald green and white
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standing tall, from Kappa chapter that was presented byJanet Brown, Kappa Chapter President, and Betty Wilson-Jones, Past Eastern Regional Director. In addition, Nicole Gray, donated a beautifully mahogany framed collage of Founder Lola Mercedes Parker surrounded by tokens and artifacts of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. that now hangs in the National Headquarters office. Appreciation and gratitude was given by National President Dilworth. New office hours include Tuesday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 4:00PM. T o schedule a visit to the National Headquarters this form is available to members and the general public to schedule time to visit: http://goo.gl/forms/ q8ypb0RX2f. The National Executive Director is accessible by calling 202-462IOTA. For more information on Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. and its newly established Lola M. Parker Foundation for Economic Empowerment of Business and Professional Wo m e n ( L M P F ) , e-mail at executive.director@iota1929.org and/or stephanie.iota@gmail.com .
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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
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Oh Taste and See!
Julia Pearl brings much desired flavor to North Texas By Eva D. Coleman
Southern cooking has to be done with confidence. It’s an art form that oftentimes conjures up memories that end with the words, “Just like grandma used to make.” While Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine in Plano, Texas pays homage to two matriarchs, it will have you grabbing a seat at the table, anticipating what’s coming out of the kitchen. Husband and wife Darcy and Vivian Dudley’s dream has been fulfilled with the opening of this establishment that bears the first names of their grandmothers combined. From the moment I stepped inside during a recent media dinner event, the friendly faces, beverage offerings and plain old southern charm made me feel at home. “It’s about more than southern food, it’s a community, it’s togetherness,” co-owner Darcy Dudley said as he addressed attendees. The Dudleys teamed up with Top Chef celebrity Tre Wilcox who is also co-owner and culinary director. Jermaine Brown serves as executive chef on the team. With his daughter now in her teenage years, it’s a top chef spot Wilcox no longer wants. “I don’t want to be an executive chef anymore,” Wilcox said. “I want Jermaine to do his thing.” Brown is doing just that and says he enjoys, “Bringing Tre’s concepts to the menu.” The synergy among the entire staff was evident, and you could clearly taste the love they have for each other in every bite.
“The gumbo is Darcy’s recipe,” Brown told the crowd as he detailed how he brought the flavorful dish together. Seven plates were set before me. I felt obligated to eat them all. A crowd favorite was the black-eye pea hummus which Wilcox originally felt wouldn’t go over very well. “The ones [dishes] you feel the best about are usually the ones that suck,” he laughed. Plate after plate was taken away leaving little evidence there once was something there. Tummies all around were not the only thing filled. “We’ve been here in North Texas since 2007 and felt there was a void in southern cuisine,” Dudley said. With the recent closing of a popular establishment that served similar fare, Julia Pearl has clearly filled that void. Bringing family to the table. “They’ve wanted this for a long time,” Jazmine Dudley said. “I’m just here helping my parents out tonight.” Jazmine is an Emerging Media / Communications major at the University of Texas at Dallas. She’s making sure her parents stay current to maximize success. “I’ve stressed the importance of social media to them and the role it plays,” she said. Other members of the Julia Pearl family were on their toes throughout the night, making sure patrons were happy. Front-of-the-house consultant Kenny Wynn quickly obliged when I requested a non-alcoholic version of Julia’s Berry Mint Julep. “Of course we can do that!” Wynn said. Wynn works with Wilcox and says he’ll be around until March. “We’re just ready to start getting people in here and bodies moving,” floor manager Mandie Miller said. “That’s how we learn.” The bodies will come. They’ll leave satisfied. Exceptional service and tastes make for a wonderful reason to travel north of the metroplex. Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine boldly takes the palate on a revolutionary journey. I’m confident you’ll enjoy the landing spot. Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine is located at 2301 North Central Expressway, Suite 195, Plano, Texas 75075. website juliapearlsoutherncuisine.com
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SO now I’m the liar Dear Alma: Five years into my marriage my husband moved himself into the downstairs bedroom. The initial reason given was, “He didn’t want to disturb the babies” (including a newborn) with his late-night arrival, and early departures Ask Alma for work. By Alma Gill via George Curry Media
Some months later, after a “marriage check-up” with our Pastor, he confessed to me out of euphoria! He admitted that he had started smoking, you know; one of those things I never wanted in my life! Smoking is one of those “THINGS,” you know, those things you list as true deal-breakers, with regard to dating and relationships… FROM THE START! He admitted that he knew how strongly I felt about this, but he figured it was no longer a deal-breaker since we are married! On the one hand, I don’t see using this makes me feel as a justification for divorce. On the other hand, I feel betrayed, belittled, devalued, and bullied into being with someone I would NEVER had been with, if given the choice of him as a smoker. He has made a liar out of me! Dear Liar: Holy hot water hose, you’re infuriated! I can see the flames flickering from your email. Luckily I’m here to distinguish this dilemma. Lawd knows what would happen, had you not reached out for help. Quick, duck, here comes a splash of reality – this ain’t about you, it’s about him. Him and his habit, he owns an addiction.
I know you feel betrayed tossed and lost in the hot sauce, but the reality is, we’re talking about a serious dependency, a desire that requires you to fully satisfy by any means necessary. Do you wanna know how I know? I smoked for over 20 years before I could quit. Your body craves for the nicotine. That’s why people stand outside in a cold, snow, icy rain to take a smoke. As a non-smoker, what you don’t know is, smoking can be soothing, a stress reliever, it relaxes you. If you’ve never struggled with a compulsion, you just don’t get it. It’s his choice to make. He won’t win unless he’s all in. So, encourage your husband to make up his mind to quit smoking because it’s the healthy thing to do. Remind him you’d like for him to be around a long time for you and the kids, blah, blah, la-dee-da…you know what I’m talkin’ bout. Ask your doctor for brochures and suggested websites to share with him. Tell him you want him back upstairs, now! Yes, you’re right, smoking is a game changer, but you two can commit to get through this. Stop, read that again, I said you two. Handle your husband’s addiction with patience and tolerance. Don’t nag him, offer support. This will take time. I recall a conversation I had with a loved one who had battled a drug problem. During her last days, I asked, “why didn’t you ever just quit?” Her answer, “for every time you think I didn’t, I did times a million.” I assure you he’s trying, that’s what many smokers do, more than you and the rest of us non-smokers will ever know. Alma
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B v M
J C p r D a K
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DART President Receives Coveted C.A.W. Clark Human Relations Award Gary Thomas, DART’s 3,300-plua employees recognized for connecting people to 13 Dallas area cities Dallas, TX -- Recognized for empowering people with a viable public transit option to go to work, worship, shop, recreate and conveniently get to other destinations, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) president was recently awarded the prestigious C.A,W. Clark 2016 Human Relations Award. Gary C. Thomas, DART President/Executive Director, was selected by the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Greater Dallas & Vicinity, Inc. (IMA) to receive its top award at the group’s annual awards ceremony banquet recently. IMA is a diverse consortium of 300-plus churches across the Dallas Fort Worth area that has been providing quality of life support services for underserved communities for more than 50 years. The C.A.W. Clark Human Relations Award is
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named in honor of deceased legendary pastor and iconic national clergy and longtime local leader Rev. Dr. Caesar Arthur W. Clark, one of the founding IMA pastors. “DART is proud to help people from all walks of life discover the places they want to go,” DART President Thomas said, adding “DART provides mobility, stimulates economic development, and like IMA, improves quality of life.” Thomas, an engineer and architect, joined DART in 1998. DART’s board of directors named Thomas the transit agency’s President and Executive Director in 2001. DART has grown to provide more than 90 miles of light rail, serving more than 13 Dallas area cities. The local public transit agency has the largest rail footprint in the nation. The American Public Transportation Association recognized DART for its “innovative and efficient” best practices in public transit service. “When IMA asked the question who or what is making a measurable difference in the quality of life for the communities served by IMA, we immediately focused on DART,” Rev. Stephen C. Nash, Sr., Ph.D., IMA President observed. “DART under Gary Thomas’ operational leadership embodies the principles of service to community that make Gary [Thomas] and DART worthy of our top award, the C.A.W. Clark Human Relations Award,” Rev. Nash said. “IMA was delighted to acknowledge DART for its exemplary service to community.”
Resume: raylcarr@yahoo.com, (214) 514-9553 or
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IN MEMORIAM
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Maurice White
Maurice White was born in Memphis, Tenn.. He began singing in the church with a young group of singers at the age of six. After viewing a drum and bugle corps marching down the street, he was more impressed than ever before -- it touched his soul and gave him a vision for a new life. As a kid -- Reese as everyone called him -was very quiet. Always thinking, planning, etc. All the kids knew that he had raw talent. At the age of 14 he began playing with local bands. His best friend was Booker T of the M.Gs. After finishing high school he left Memphis and moved to Chicago where he remained for 12 years -- putting his craft together while studying music formally. Maurice worked at Chess Recording Company for five years where he learned to master all types of music. He was in demand as a drummer for many sessions. Some of the artists he recorded with are: Jackie Ross, Betty Everett, Minnie Riperton, Sugar Pie DeSanto, Little Milton, Billy Steward, The Radiants, Ramsey Lewis, Rotary Connection, Sonny Boy Williams, Buddy Guy, Willie Dixon, Junior Wells and Chuck Berry. After a three-year stint with Ramsey Lewis, Maurice went on to develop Earth, Wind & Fire with local singers around Chicago. Later moving Earth, Wind & Fire to Los Angeles in 1970, the band was reformed with new members in 1971 and experienced major success with 15 hit singles and 26 Gold and Platinum albums. Maurice has produced many famous artists, i.e. Barbra Streisand, The Emotions, Ramsey Lewis, Jennifer Holliday, Deniece Williams, Neil Diamond and also many Japanese and International artists -- I + II Urban Knights with Ramsey Lewis.
I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
I MESSENGER February 19 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. 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.
February 20 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. 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
February 21 African-American History Program & Reception - 4PM Irving Arts Center - Dupree Theater 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, TX Admission: FREE
FEBRUARY 19, 2016 Come spend some time with your family and friends at the Irving Arts Center. Irving Black Arts Council and the City of Irving will present our annual African-American History Month family program. This year's program will highlight "A Conversation with Robert Haynes", Curator of the Interurban Railway Museum in Plano, TX, Special Guest Tuskegee Airman Homer Hogues and the 2016 U.S.P.S. Heritage Stamp Honoree Richard Allen Unveiling by Irving Postmaster Rodney Malone.
***** Empire of Dreams, LLC. first author showcase: Chapter's and Cupcakes 210 S. Main Suite 27 Duncanville, Texas 75116 Sunday Feb. 21st 3-5pm Enjoy chatting with first time author's Author Romella Vaughn and Timika Edwards about the publishing process and what it is like to see your dream go from "mental to manifestation"
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performing art skills of high school students. Theta Alpha Chapter will be hosting their program at Billy Dade Middle School in South Dallas at 5:30 pm. **** Student-Athlete Symposium “Preparing For Success On and Off The Playing Fields” SATURDAY, February 27, 12pm-4pm; Friendship West Baptist Church Calling All StudentAthletes!!!!!!! On Saturday February 27, Pass’N’Play Sports, The Heads Up! Foundation and their coalition of community partners will host the Pass’N'Play StudentAthlete Symposium, a half-day conference for Dallas county studentathletes, created to inspire and empower our student-athletes and future leaders of tomorrow
March 2 DBCC Power Lunch! Bill J Priest Institute 1402 Corinth Street Dallas 75215 1-3pm March 2, 2016 How to do a Business with DART
February 22 21st Annual Prayer Breakfast Hosted by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson 9 a.m-11 a.m. Music Hall at Fair Park Speaker: Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner RSVP at 214-922-8885
TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION, INC. TOP TEENS OF AMERICA 45TH Area One Leadership Conference March 3 - March 6, 2016 Hilton Fort Worth - (817) 870-2100 815 Main Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76102
February 26 New Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church will host its 11th Annual Raymond B. Spencer Scholarship banquet on February 26th 2016, at 7:00 p.m. at the Fort Worth Hilton Hotel. The Featured keynote speaker will be Dr. Rev Raphael G. Warnock, Ph.D., a civil rights leader and new generation trailblazer. Dr. Warnock is the senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, Atlanta, Georgia, the church home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr
February 27 JD Lawrence presents Martin, Malcolm and Me at the Majestic Theatre. Call 888-929-7849 for tickets Theta Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc the Talent Hunt program is designed to showcase the
Contact Person: Lady Estell Phillips (214) 948-1691 marg27fork@aol.com
March 5 The South Central District of the National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc., will hold their 2nd “We Speak Your Name & District Awards Luncheon” in the Malachite Showcase Ballroom of the InterContinental Dallas Hotel, 15201 Dallas Parkway, Addison, TX 75001, on Saturday, March 5, 2016, at 12 noon. Wendy Calhoun is the speaker.
March 12
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I MESSENGER MaDea’s on the Run - Two shows 3p.m. And 8p.m. At the Verizon Theatre in Grand Prairie. Call 888-929-7849 Community United Methodist Church at 4501 S. Marsalis Ave. in Dallas, 75216. We are hosting a FREE health and wellness fair this spring and I'd very much appreciate promotion of this family fun event on your community calendar. The Health and Wellness Fair will be held at Community United Methodist Church, at 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Participants are Methodist Dallas Medical Center and Mammogram ***** Jazz is hot in "Big D" and jazz lovers and would be jazz lovers don't want to miss one of America's most beloved jazz performer, WILL DOWNING! Get your tickets and prepare for a fantastic Dallas night on the town. We can't rock without you, so come on out and rock at TBAAL for another memorable Jazz Weekend! Hosted by TBAAL Board of Directors and Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Saturday, March 12, 2016 @ 8pm Naomi Bruton Main Stage Admission $25 // $30 Jazz Appreciation Educational Youth Workshop Saturday, March 12 , 2016 @ 12pm Clarence Muse Cafe Theatre Admission-Pay What You Can
March 19 2016 National Women’s History Month Program Women’s Education – Women’s Empowerment 12:00 Noon Black Police Association of Greater Dallas,211 Centre St, Dallas, TX 75208 $10.00 per Person
March 24 An Evening With Great Women WHEN: Thursday, March 24th, 2016; 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
FEBRUARY 19, 2016 WHERE: Tarrant County College - Trinity River Campus Join us for a night of networking, learning how to #BeHeard & celebrating Women's History Month. ************ 53rd Annual V. Alyce Foster Trailblazer Awards Luncheon Theme: Lifting Others As We Climb" Date: Saturday, April 16, 2016 12:00 Noon Hilton-Anatole Hotel, 2201 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207 Imperial Ballroom Ticket Price: $60.00 per Person
April 2 28th Image Awards Celebration on Saturday, April 2 at the Anatole at 7:00 p.m. This year’s theme is Pink Jazz - Providing Inspiration – Nurturing Knowledge. Our 28th Image Award Honoree is Steven L. Hayes, Professor of Music, Lecturer and Director of Choral Music at Wiley College. 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 Ticket prices for Herb Alpert & Lani Hall range from $76.75 to $36.75 and can be purchased, 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 2016 Maura Women Helping Women and Young Leader Awards. It is such a privilege to recognize these leaders who have made an impact on the lives of women and girls in North Texas. The award recipients will be honored on April 21 at the Leadership Forum & Awards Dinner, presented by AT&T, and co-chaired by Margaret Jordan and Debbie Taylor. The Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) will celebrate the 9th annual Appetite for Advocacy Luncheon
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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. Proceeds support DCAC’s work in improving the lives of abused children in Dallas County and providing national leadership on child abuse issues.
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, Cheree Cooks Created2Worship YOU CAN RSVP NOW! email: gantt.donna@gmail.com or call: 214-538-7008
You’re Invited to Black History Month Restaurant Row Hosted by MOSAIC Join us as we celebrate Black History Month by showcasing your business’ menu and offerings to over 3,000 Frito Lay employees. Black-Owned Restaurants and Food Businesses (Pepsi Pour preferred, others will be considered) When: Week of February 1st, 2016 Frito Lay North America Headquarters 7701 Legacy Dr., Plano, TX 75024 If interested, contact Courtney M. Cola Courtney.cola@pepsico.com for more information
MAY 14 POETIC VISIONS WILL PRESENT "THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE @ 730PM THE BLACK ACADEMY OF ARTS & LETTERS IN THE NAOMI BRUTON THEATRE DOWNTOWN DALLAS ACROSS FROM CITY HALL FEATURING AN EVENING OF POETRY & LOVE SONGS WITH DFW FAVORITE RUDY VEE MUSIQ SOULCHILD
"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
Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? POLICE have I MESSENGER
not apprehended PAGE24 Pookie the serial rapist. Aren’t you concerned? Do you care? We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers. If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers
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