Thought-provoking, informative, enlightening and entertaining news and commentary from around the world! VOLUME 5 ISSUE 35
April 29, 2016
I MESSENGER
Vol 5 No. 32
April 8, 2016
Bye bye BLACKJACK pages 4-6
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All about the
IMAGE
Omicron Mu Omega’s Legacy of Service Foundation continues DOROTHY tradition with 2016 JONES Image looks at menu Award recipient from 1990
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Remembering Prince Rogers Nelson
1958-2016
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Black Wall Street Tour and Ceremony Tulsa, Oklahoma Sunday May 29, 2016 Charter Bus Departing Dallas to Tulsa at 7:30 am from The Act of Change 3200 Lancaster Rd Suite #623, Dallas, TX 75216 $60 per seat. Departing Tulsa to Dallas after Activities Late Sunday Evening Please bring your own food & drink as it will be a long day.
Egbe Egunfewa African Spiritual Society will host a community ceremony to pay homage to our ancestors that were murdered during the terrorist attack on Black Wall Street and during slavery. For more information call Bro. Fred at 214 607 6445 DEADLINE FOR ALL MONIES IS MONDAY, MAY 23, 2016
Please Donate Directly To The Black Wall Street Fund
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VOLUME 5 ISSUE 35
Message to the People... SALUTING THE WHO’S WHO AND INSPIRING THOSE TO COME Johnson, Parrish, City Wide Community Development given honors for impact Dallas – The third edition of Who’s Who In Black Dallas® will be unveiled at a networking reception and program at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Monday, May 2nd beginning at 6:30 p.m., officials announced today. Who’s Who In Black Dallas® will be celebrating the achievements of African Americans in the metropolitan Dallas area. Over 200 people will be highlighted in the publication. Joining the celebration for the third edition will be Matrice Ellis Kirk, Partner in RSR Partners and Chair of the AT&T Performing Arts Center and Levi Davis, investment banker and former Assistant City Manager for the City of Dallas. Kirk has written the Foreword and Davis the Introduction for the third edition. “Recognizing the achievements of African Americans in Dallas is significant. Sharing my thoughts among those affiliated with Who’s Who In Black Dallas®. is very heart warming,” said Kirk. “I was thrilled to be invited to write the Introduction for the third edition of Who’s Who,” said Davis who has been featured as one of the Most Influential in Dallas and completing a video history of the city. “I have been a student of this city for a long time and am encouraged about recognizing African American contributions.” “We are excited to be doing the third edition of Who’s Who In Black Dallas® and are equally excited to have Matrice Kirk and Levi Davis
UNCF
Levi Davis
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Matrice Ellis Kirk
penning the Foreword and Introduction for this edition,” says Carter Womack, Chief Operating Officer of Who’s Who Publishing. “Their respective impact on the African-American community goes hand in hand with the commitment and vision of Who’s Who Publishing.” An added feature to the third edition unveiling is the issuing of three awards – Trailblazer, Comer Cottrell Maverick in honor of the late Hair Care Manufacturing Entrepreneur and Community Impact. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson will received the Trailblazer, Roland Parrish, owner of numerous McDonald’s franchises will get the Comer Cottrell Maverick Award and City Wide Community Development Corporation, developer of the highly successful Lancaster Urban Village and other housing projects in Lancaster Keist area, the Community Impact Award. “We wanted to recognize three areas of impact,” said returning Associate Publisher Ken Carter, President and CEO of Focus Communications, a 36 year-old public relations, public affairs, marketing and crisis communications company “We strongly believe the recipients of these honors are truly noteworthy and Game Changers,” said Carter.
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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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What’s going to happen to
Black Jack Pizza? If there’s one thing customers have come to expect when they walk through the door of Black Jack Pizza in Sunny South Dallas, it has to be the big smile on Dorothy Jones’ face as she greets each and every man, woman or child; many by name. No matter what kind of day she’s having Mrs. Jones is going to show some love to her customers. She wants them to know she appreciates their business. That radiant smile was there during a recent visit, but it wasn’t too long before one could tell that something was wrong. Very wrong. Fred Conwright and James Runnels know exactly what Mrs. Jones was going through and why her heart was heavy. Around 1989, after almost eight years of operating their popular South Dallas restaurant, the two received a cease and desist demand from the owners of Ponderosa Steakhouse. It seems the owners of Ponderosa Steakhouse were going after any business using the name they had on their approximately 600 locations across the country. “They went after everyone using the Ponderosa name, except for a nudist colony,” said Mr. Runnels. “They watched us closely and let us know if they saw any use of their name.” After media attention, a contest to come up with a new name, and massive community support; the men chose Two Podners Bar-B-Que and Seafood. Fast forward to 2016, another century, another decade; but same story. Mrs. Jones is proud of the reputation that Black Jack Pizza has, not only in Dallas, Texas, but across the country. With locations in Sunny South Dallas and Pleasant Grove; there’s a constant stream of loyal customers who travel from near and far for their great pizza, which you can even purchase by the slice, and burgers.
But there’s more. Black Jack Pizza's iced tea is praised across the country, with customers clamoring for the family recipe. Business was good at both restaurants and customers seemed really happy. Everything was fine, or so Mrs. Jones thought. A LETTER IN THE MAIL Then she received a letter from Robert D. Carmignani, vice president of Internal Operations for Askar Management Group, LLC on behalf of Blackjack Enterprises, LLC. “Blackjack Enterprises, LLC is the franchisor of restaurants doing business as Blackjack Pizza. We recently learned that you and/or your business, located at 2536 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Dallas, Texas 75215, is using the trademark “Blackjack Pizza” as your business name, in connection with your services and products, on your store front signs, marketing pieces, social media sites, promotional materials, uniforms and menus, among other things,” wrote Mr. Carmignani on letterhead bearing a Commerce TWP, Michigan address. “Our Marks are an important, distinctive, and valuable representation of our company, products, and services, as well as our goodwill. We therefore ask that you immediately cease and desist any and all infringing activity, including, without limitation, any further use of Blackjack Pizza (or any other name or mark that may be confusingly similar) for any purpose in connection with the marketing, sale, promotion, distribution, or identification of your products, services or your pizza/ restaurant location at 2536 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Dallas, Texas 75215.” On the letter dated, March 18, 2016, was the threat of legal action to “enforce any and all rights we may have,” if the Jones Family did not provide the “requested assurance of compliance.”
WHY DALLAS, WHY NOW, AFTER ALMOST THREE DECADE? Mrs. Jones said she was confused and upset. She and her son opened their doors on the Boulevard in 1990. For over 25 years no one has said anything about the name and when she does hear from someone, allegedly her competition, well, they are operating thousands of miles away, in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Montana and Wyoming. “We’re here in Texas and they have no restaurants in Texas,” she said, clearly confused about why this big business was making a move that she felt could cost her dearly. “They want us to change our name and we have had the name for almost 30 years. We don’t want people to think we have sold out or that we’re just a front for companies that come into the community and take over.” And that is a major concern for Mrs. Jones because she says her customers have already been questioning the recent change she made to the restaurant, hoping that by changing the name to “ D J’s BlackJack Pizza” Mr. Carmignani and the “other” BlackJack would back off pursuing her business. NECESSARY FILINGS Sure the big company filed for a trademark in 1987, and they have been operating since 1983. Mrs. Jones said when she applied for an assumed name with Dallas County, no one alerted her that another business had the same name. The idea for naming her restaurant came from a relative who went by that name and the accompanying logo features a Black man in a chef’s hat, unlike the corporation’s logo which has the artwork of a man much like the one that appears on a deck of cards.
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THE JONESES BROUGHT PIZZA TO THE AREA WHEN NO ONE ELSE WOULD! P.9
And legal experts say it was her responsibility to research the information when filing her paperwork. Sure she filed for an assumed name back in 1990 with then-Dallas County Clerk Earl Bullock, but there were other steps she needed to take including with the Secretary of State, said current County Clerk John Warren. Reached at a conference, Mr. Warren said, you begin the process by doing a search for the availability of the name of the business at www.roamdallaspropertyrecords.com. Unfortunately Mrs. Jones never attempted to trademark the name, or she would have found out that the folks in Colorado own a Federal Registration Number, filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Center and the State of Colorado. And when she filed for an assumed name with the County Clerk, there was no other Black Jack Pizza or any other businesses with the name in Dallas County. If there had been, she wouldn’t have received the name, which was only valid in Dallas County. GET READY FOR A FIGHT Now when a situation comes up like this, everyone has an opinion. Many are encouraging the Joneses to “Fight for their name.” The easiest way, some say, would be to change a few letters, add a vowel or another name to the current name. Nope, that is not the way to go. Efforts have to be made to ensure there is no confusion, that there is a clear distinction between users.
The whole trademark issue is one that few know about. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has a website and pamphlets to make the process simpler and more affordable. According to the website, you should search the USPTO database before filing your application, to determine whether anyone already claims trademark rights in a particular mark through a federal registration. You are also able to file your application and pay online. A trademark is a brand for goods and services, according to the USPTO. It is a word, slogan, symbol, design or combination of the aforementioned. It can also be a sound, color or smell. To enjoy the nationwide rights offered by a federal trademark registration, you must file an application and receive a registration from the USPTO. Individual states also offer to register trademarks, but any protection granted is limited to that state. By registering, you gain the right to use the “coveted ‘R in the circle.’” The process to get a trademark can seem cumbersome and for small businesses, costly. You can always hire an attorney. There is also the Patent and Trademark Resource Center program that can assist, but there are also other options. PREPARING BUSINESSES FOR BUSINESS The issues Mrs. Jones is having points to a need for business counseling like that provided by the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce. Wilton Munnings, president and COO of the Chamber says they established a business assistance
center to work with entrepreneurs, like the Joneses. They give one-on-one training and address many issues, like selecting an assumed name, developing a business plan, obtaining trademarks and understanding their marketplace and the importance of marketing their businesses. Mr. Munnings said he is not pleased that Dallas’ Blackjack Pizza is dealing with legal issues that the Jones family members say could really hurt their business. A patron of the restaurant, Mr. Mullins said, “It would be a sad day” for all of Dallas if a business of that magnitude and quality had to shut its doors. “We will work with them, he continued. “ I would love to see them take this opportunity to expand their business. “ And this is exactly what Two Podners has done with locations in the D/FW International Airport and a new facility opening next door to its present location on Robert B. Cullum Blvd. across from Fair Park. Interestingly Ponderosa has had challenges of its own, proving it takes more than a name to be successful. A POSITIVE SPIN Mrs. Jones and her son Terry manage the Martin Luther King Blvd. location and the 2120 North St. Augustine Drive location in Pleasant Grove is managed by her daughter and son-in-law Marilyn and Vincent Pond and grandson, Trevor. Daphne Hornbuckle is president of the business organization, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.
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I MESSENGER Upon hearing about Mrs. Jones legal troubles, Mrs. Hornbuckle said she was “heartbroken.” “I know Mrs. Jones and the type of person she is,” she said. “I felt we really needed to rally around her and her son to keep those doors open. She supports our community full force and its the least we can do.” As she plans for her sorority’s annual leadership forum, Mrs. Hornbuckle said there’s so much aspiring entrepreneurs need to know about starting a business because it goes “beyond having a great product or service.” When her members gather at the Frontier Flight Museum on June 4, 2016, she said they will be joined by a dozen “dynamic women” who will be discussing successes and failures, pitfalls and guides for understanding what needs to be done to be in compliance. And the legal components are an issue for Dallas City Councilwoman Tiffinni A. Young, who says it is imperative that steps are taken to avoid the problems that Conwright and Runnels, and now the Joneses are dealing with. Small businesses are important in her district and she is disturbed by the number of businesses and nonprofit organizations that need help with making sure
Foster returns to UNCF as Area Development Director in Dallas office Kristie Patton Foster comes to UNCF from Buffalo, NY where she managed her own fundraising consulting business, KQ Strategies. Previously, Ms. Foster served as the Chief Administrative Officer for The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation after serving as Executive Director of The Links Foundation.
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APRIL 29, 2016 they have all the right documents filed, including their taxes. Mr. Runnels agrees with Mrs. Hornbuckle and Mr. Munnings about turning this situation from lemons to lemonade. “We had it (our business) registered in Dallas, but Ponderosa was national and they were coming into Dallas,” he said, adding that he understands how Mrs. Jones feels. “I can understand protecting the name. We had the Ponderosa name for eight years, they have had Black Jack for almost 30 and they have been really good for the community.” He continued, “I don’t think it will affect business at all.” Mr. Mullins said it’s important that the Joneses let the public know that it’s the same product and same people, but a different name. Mrs. Hornbuckle concurred, “This situation could be really good. I know its upsetting, but she can look at it as a refresh, a time for rebranding. People will support the name change and the business because they will look forward to good food and having Mrs. Jones’ big, gracious smile to greet us.” -Cheryl Smith
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PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED WHO: Owners of the restaurant formerly known as Black Jack Pizza-Dorothy Jones, Terry Jones, Marilyn Pond, Vincent Pond, Trevor Pond Wilton Munnings - Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce COO and President Dallas City Councilwoman Tiffinni A. Young Dallas Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Erik Wilson Atty. Cheryl Wattley, UNT Law School Terry Allen, National Black Public Relations Society Texas James Runnels, Two Podners Restaurant list at press time
WHAT: Press Conference on status of Black Jack Pizza WHEN: Monday, May 2, 2016 10a.m. WHERE: 2536 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Dallas, TX 75215 WHY: If the Jones Family does not take drastic measures immediately, they could lose their family business. After lengthy
consultations with some great legal minds, and with help from the University of North Texas Law School and other organizations, the Jones' family has come up with a way to keep yet another South Dallas business from failing. They will announce their plans at the 10:00a.m. press conference.
She has worked in fundraising for over 20 years and has successfully raised more than $22 million in her career. Ms. Foster has held the positions of Community Relations & Corporate Development Director at the VHA Health Foundation and the UNCF Area Development Director in Dallas for more than seven years. Ms. Foster completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX.
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APRIL 29, 2016
Equality Texas condemns Denton County Sheriff candidate, for inciting violence against transgender Texans Equality Texas, the largest statewide organization dedicated solely to fighting for LGBT equality in Texas, condemns Tracy Murphree, Denton County Sheriff Candidate, for inciting violence against transgender Texans. Tracy Murphree used his Facebook account on April 22 to say he would violently attack a transgender person who uses the same bathroom as his daughter.
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Praise Party with Dareia
“No Texan should ever have to live in fear of violence because of their gender identity or gender expression. At Equality Texas we believe it is inappropriate and unacceptable for any law enforcement official to make inflammatory statements that condone violence,” said Steve Rudner, Equality Texas Board Chair. Overwhelmingly, Texans believe that everyone throughout the state should be able to live without fear of discrimination or fear of being a victim of crime. Equality Texas is working with Resource Center and other local organizations on further planned actions in response to Mr. Murphree’s public attacks. For more information contact DeAnne Cuellar at 210-896-9141. Equality Texas is the largest statewide organization dedicated solely to securing full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Texans through political action, education, community organizing, and collaboration.
Local Law Enforcement to collect unused and expired Prescription Medication Cedar Hill, Texas – Impact Cedar Hill and Local law enforcement will host a Prescription Drug Take Back on April 30, 2016 from 10:00am to 2:00pm officers will be accepting unused and expired prescription and over-the-counter medications for disposal. This event is a partnership between the Cedar Hill Police Department, Cedar Hill ISD, City of Cedar Hill, Walgreens, and IMPACT Cedar Hill. The Prescription Drug Take Back is part of a national effort by the Drug Enforcement Agency to reduce the availability of unmonitored medications in home medicine cabinets. Each day, approximately 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, as well as the home medicine cabinet. Turning in medications to law enforcement officers is the best way to safely dispose of these potentially hazardous materials and keep them away from our youth. Please do not throw away or flush medications down a toilet, which results in contamination of our local water supplies and landfills. To participate, bring your unused or expired over the counter and prescription drugs to the Prescription Drug Take Back site at Walgreens located at 501 E. Beltline in Cedar Hill from 10:00am – 2:00pm. Pills and liquid medications will be accepted; however, officers will not be able to accept inhalers or injection (needle) supplies. The service is anonymous and free of charge. NoID will be required before disposal and no questions will be asked For more information regarding the Prescription Drug Take Back, please contact IMPACT Cedar Hill at telephone 469-523-1309 or email at achavez@dpri.com.
Ladies and Gentleman, boy and girls, Saints and the sinners get ready for Recording Gospel artist, Kathy Taylor. Kathy Taylor will be debuting her latest single on May 29, 2016 in Houston, TX. The night is promised to be filled with fun, anointed music, celebrity guests and much more. The event will be blasted all over social media to ensure everyone around the world will be able watch and participate in the evening’s festivities. The debut of this single will lead the way for Kathy Taylor’s fifth album. Her previous album, “Kathy Taylor Live,” which features “Oh How Precious” and “Corinthians” debuted in 2009, however its Holy Ghost power is still strongly propelling her career today. Kathy’s latest offering will continue to showcase her strong, highly anointed traditional voice that we all know and love but with a surprising twist. There is something for all ages on this album. Kathy’s love for God and His people is evident in every word and beat of her music. If you need any further information regarding this event, reach out to Zira Washington, at 601-519-1952 or zisdivine@yahoo.com. *Listen to audio interview www.dareiatolbert.com
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DALLAS/FT WORTH CHAPTER
NAMC
HOSTED BY:
DALLAS/FORT WORTH LAUNCH EVENT THE GLOBE LIFE PARK IN ARLINGTON CHOLULA PORCH ARLINGTON, TEXAS
M AY
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“Adversity can engulf the individual but not the group. If you are part of the group it weakens the adversity.”
2016
-Raymond Dones, Founder The National Association of Minority Contractors Dallas/Ft Worth Inc., is a nonprofit minority business trade, educational and advocacy association located
SPECIAL GUESTS
in Arlington Texas to address the needs and concerns of minority contractors, NAMC’s membership consist of all races and ethnic background; the organization’s mandated “ Building Bridges-Crossing Barriers” focusing on construction industry concerns common to African American, Asian
City of Arlington
MAYOR JEFF WILLIAMS ROB MATWICK Executive VP, Business Operations of the Texas Rangers
6PM8PM
Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans and Women.
Questions?
DINNER WILL BE SERVED
Please visit www.namcdfw.org or call 817 303 2160
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Monday, May 2, 2016 6:30 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE 2201 N Field St. • Dallas, TX 75201
Levi Davis
Matrice Ellis-Kirk
® Celebrating African-American Achievement
THE THIRD EDITION
Official Networking Reception and Book Unveiling of its 3rd edition will be held
Investment Banker | Developer Introduction Writer
Managing Director, RSR Partners Foreword Writer
Plan to be with us for the city’s most highly acclaimed event recognizing Dallas’ elite professionals and game changers
JOURNAL GARLAND w w w. g a r l a n d j o u r n a l . c o m
#WWIBDAL16
Tickets are $50 which includes a copy of the third edition of Who’s Who In Black Dallas® ($39.95 Retail Value) Purchase tickets at www.whoswhopublishing.com For more information call Ken Carter (214) 744-1428 ext. 206
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LORRAINE HOOD-JACK For District 4 - Duncanville City Council
Lorraine’s Priorities & Vision ! Targeted Economic Development ! HWY 67 Beautification Project ! Enhanced Communications & Outreach ! Citizens Governance Training ! A Strategic Plan outlining long and short-term objectives! Lorraine is a native Texan, born and raised in Taylor, Texas. She has lived in Duncanville since May, 2010 and brings with her over 25 years of professional leadership expertise. She has led award winning teams and been recognized for outstanding community service. Lorraine has a proven track record for working collaboratively with business, service, and youth organizations. Lorraine is an advocate for all and has given her life to serving others. Ms. Hood-Jack’s uncanny ability to resolve problems, her natural love of people, coupled with her extensive business and professional background, makes her the ideal candidate for the Duncanville City Council. The future is NOW! Vote HoodJack, District 4
Career and Service Highlights ! Bachelor of Arts – Government The University of Texas at Austin ! Master of Public Administration – Portland State University ! Leadership Southwest Graduate 2013 ! Corporate Sales Manager ! Regional Service Manager ! Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – International Strategic Planning Committee ! Duncanville Multicultural Commission – Chairman
! The Links, Incorporated – Chair Strategic Planning ! The Portland Rose Festival Foundation – Director ! Oregon Civil Rights Division – Senior Investigator ! Chairman - The Taskforce on Civil Rights ! Concord Church Dallas – Member ! Oregon Outstanding Women-March of Dimes ! Delta Sigma Theta Woman of Excellence Honoree ! Meadows at Daniel Farms – HOA Advisory Board, Vice-President ! 2011 Taylor’s Amazing Women
Paid for by the Campaign for Lorraine Hood-Jack-1502 Halsey Drive-Duncanville, TX 75137 – Charlotte Winters, Treasurer
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DCCCD, area chambers offer free workshops during National Small Business Week (DALLAS)—Entrepreneurs who want to learn how to expand their businesses are invited to attend the inaugural National Small Business Week Conference presented by the Dallas County Community College District, in collaboration with the Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of Commerce, the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Small business owners can attend free workshops that will teach them important skills such as accessing capital, hiring, bidding on contracts, how to get certified as minority businesses and more. The three-day program will be held Monday through Wednesday, May 2-4, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. each day at DCCCD’s Bill J. Priest Institute for Economic Development, located at 1402 S. Corinth St. Small business owners who have been established for at least two years and would like to attend can sign up through Eventbrite. (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/national-small-business-week-conferencetickets-24350218158) Participants must attend all three days of the conference in order to receive a certificate of completion.
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There’s a Reason Life Happens Spiritually Speaking…. By James A. Washington
I subscribe to a personal theory that our suffering is an integral part of God’s plan to ready us for the struggle of spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. Suffering in some ways is a prerequisite fo r s t re n g t h e n i n g one’s spiritual muscle. I look at Christ’s time in the desert as a toughening or cleansing that readied Him for the task ahead. Given my perspective I offer to you that for me it is difficult to respect the opinion of someone who has led the so called “charmed life” or, someone who was born with the proverbial silver spoon in a cavity free mouth. It’s hard, if not impossible, to listen to someone talk with certainty about things they’ve never seen or places they’ve never been. My belief is that God teaches in a manner few of us will ever truly understand. I honestly believe that when He chooses you, when it’s your time, He has a unique way of communicating who’s really in charge. And, if the truth be told, it ain’t us. When God is talking to you, you eventually come to know it.
Take notes on this. “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but (rather) painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11. As far as I’m concerned, we’re all in training, believe it or not, to fight in God’s war. Whether being forged in a fiery furnace or stuck in a tailspin of perceived despair and hopelessness, each one of us is being battle tested in anticipation that one day, we will be called to arms. This struggle, these experiences, they bring about wisdom; a spiritual wisdom from a spiritual perspective that I believe must be shared. It must be. Otherwise, God keeps you in a perpetual classroom where life constantly gives you a new place to go to the bathroom. You haven’t learned anything, so life keeps kicking your… well, you get the picture. When you finally realize the One trying to tell you something is God, then a wondrous thing begins to happen. You listen more intently and learn more eagerly. Like the child who discovers walking leads to the joy of running, or the baby who discovers his own hand, the possibilities seem endless. The mind says ‘tell me more.’
The spirit says ‘Thank you Jesus.’ At that very moment, it is my belief that God let’s us know we’re able to withstand, overcome, rise above and win the battle of carrying the message of salvation. Christ is savior. At that moment, we also move from being in the classroom to being on the battlefield where Satan keeps score. You remember those days back in school when you actually studied and were prepared for the test? Confidence oozed from you. When God has been the lesson planner, the study partner, the instructor, it doesn’t matter how much Satan wants it to be a Net Flix Night. “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12. Our job then is to recognize and represent; recognize the hell we’re going through is not without purpose. The most important message of the day is to understand who (Jesus) has suffered the most and why. “It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom.” Luke 12:32. May God bless and keep you always.
James
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QUIT PLAYIN’: The Sound Doctrine of Prince!!! The Revolutionary voice we knew and respected as Prince Rogers Nelson, has been quieted. I didn’t know what to say publicly, so let me share my privacy with you.
Quit Playin’
“I knew a girl named Nikki, I guess you could say she was a sex fiend. I met her in a hotel lobby masturbating with a magazine.
By For decades, I harbored a desire to share dinner Vincent with two men who share my birth year…Michael Jackson and Prince. But I ain’t ready for that L. Hall soiree no time soon. The old Negro spiritual said Vincent L. it would be a day of rejoicing when we all got to Hall is an author and awardHeaven, however, it did not say we all had to winning columnist. arrive at the same time. LOL.
She said, “How’d you like to waste some time?” And I could not resist when I saw little Nikki grind.” Come back Nikki, come back!! The song was driven by syncopation, a hard beat and an acid rock guitar solo. The rest, as they say, was Negro history! Or was this Negro history?
Prince had been on my radar for a while, but I officially met his music at a disco in 1978. He was sassy, but classy and he had developed plenty of sweet–nothings to whisper to girls; an art that I had not yet perfected.
Long before America fell in love with a handsome mixed-raced President, Prince was a poster boy for the Mulatto club. Prince perfected an amorphous cultural and racial duality and dexterity that made everyone comfortable with him. The symbol once known as the “Artist formerly known as Prince” lived Frank Sinatra’s “I did it my way.”
“Hey, lover, I got sugarcane…that I want to lose in you, Baby can you stand the pain? Hey, lover, sugar don’t you see? There’s so many things that you do to me. Cuz you are “Soft and Wet.”
For me, Prince was a carbon copy of James Brown with better diction and a more expansive vocabulary. But simultaneously, Prince was a more soulful version of Mick Jagger or David Bowie.
This chance meeting occurred on a parquet floor and under the pulsating attack of colorful strobe lighting. But I had heard him suggestively seducing girls using metaphors involving automobiles previously.
Prince laid claim to a diplomatic immunity that wouldn’t allow him to be bound by race, sexuality or those who maintained music’s status quo. He, like Malcolm X, chose to change his name rather than be a willing slave. That was revolution…that’s when Prince went from promising to permanent for me.
That being said…
“I guess I should have known by the way you parked your car sideways that it wouldn’t last. You’re the kinda person that believes in making out once, love ‘em and leave ‘em fast.” She was a Little Red Corvette. Maybe she was still driving Prince because he died much too fast. The original fresh Prince and I maintained a casual, some-timey relationship until Purple Rain. In one scene, he took this beautiful girl to a questionable body of water that she assumed was Lake Minnetonka. She went skinnydipping in the wrong lake and blushed with embarrassment. But nothing like the public embarrassment she would suffer soon after.
So…“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life.” Don’t go crazy, but the man who declared; “I would die 4 U” has left the building. The sound doctrine according to Prince Rogers Nelson ain’t in the King James, but for many it was straight Gospel. Let me bid you adieu in Prince’s own words. “Sometimes it snows in April…Sometimes I feel so bad.” Prophetically, it is now April and some of us are feeling so bad. But Prince is kicking it with the King of Kings and will never have to ask “How come you don’t call me…anymore? Sounds good huh?
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He won’t take me to his house Dear Alma,
wife.
I have been dating “David” for over eight months, but I have never been to his house. Every time I bring it up, he changes the subject or comes up with a lame excuse. I’m not sure what to think. He will stay with me for weeks at a time, so I don’t think he’s involved with someone else. I’m confused. Hello, Confused, This situation occurs more often than you might imagine. I’ve heard it pondered by countless co-workers and plenty of sisterfriends. I’m not going to make this long and drawn out. Bottom line: I suspect he doesn’t have a home. You guys are kickin’ it at your house because…
Ask Alma By Alma Gill via George Curry Media
No. 1: He might be married. I’m sure you’ve wondered the same thing. Or, he may be separated and still living with the
Reel-ality TV By Marquesa Ladawn George Curry Media Columnist
Yes, I'm addicted to the world of Reality TV. I experience a boat load of emotions with every season. I remember when Blood, Sweat & Heels first premiered on Bravo a couple of years ago, I was excited! Women my age, from my town, living my life, sorta! Forty-somethings living the Manhattan life, that includes, but is not limited to, opportunity at your fingertips, overwhelm of everything from fashion, to food, to fun; Contacts and connections that one only dreams about. Events, parties and invites that keep you connected to the energy of New York City. This is what this show focused on, specifically for the Black female, a younger and mostly safer version of The Real Housewives of Atlanta. You see as a 40-something living in New York City, you're still trying to figure out what's next. There's a chance you have not met your husband yet? There's a chance
No. 2: He could be living with his mom. Most men would hide this temporary, oh-I’m-just-passing-thru situation. No. 3: He could be homeless. It’s tough out there nowadays, with the economy the way it is. Maybe he’s stretching when it comes to his living conditions – a few weeks at your house, a few weeks at another woman’s house and a few weeks with his mom. Trying to pull together a security deposit and first month’s rent ain’t easy. I find it more disheartening that, after eight months, you haven’t said to him point-blank, “Take me to your crib.” He’s definitely hiding something, but you aren’t being honest, either…with yourself. You haven’t made a fuss because you really don’t want to know. Truth is easier to deal with when we deny it. This is real simple. The next time he comes by, ask him. But make sure you’re ready for the answer. Alma
you are completely career focused. I told you we where special living in NYC. Daisy Lewellyn, one of the reality TV stars of Blood, Sweat and Heels, comes to mind. A kind-hearted and ambitious 30-something, she celebrated every aspect of life. She refused to let any situation or person bring her down. If you haven't heard, she recently died at age of 36. I remember working and navigating Facebook on a regular day and seeing the news pop on my screen. My eyes begin to water as I remembered how much she fought to stay alive. In Season 1 of Blood, Sweat and Heels, she was the peacemaker who gave everyone a fair shake. She loved exploring life in the city by designing looks for women of every body type. She loved playing with various looks on her own and knew someday love would find her. But, she never imagined that within a year, after her make up artist told her that greenness in her eyes needed to be checked out, she would find out she had a rare cancer. We got a chance to see her navigate Season 2 with the confidence of beating this horrible disease. She refused to let it own her or shut down her life. She continued to go to events and support her friends and family. Anytime negativity or sadness showed up, she greeted it with a smile and a mindset for overcoming. I just knew that if anyone
could beat this disease, it was Daisy. Even, the kind-hearted Daisy lost her battle with cancer. As a motivational speaker, I travel the country inspiring and reinventing my audiences. In less than 24 hours of learning about Daisy's death, I found myself saying, how dare I complain about anything. I had a presentation coming up and was a bit nervous because of having to master some new material, but I visualized Daisy and her bright attitude. I immediately put on my happy mindset and gave an impressive presentation. In that moment, I committed to live for Daisy and honor her life by kicking any fear in the butt and doing my thing. You see, the real housewives and the like, are not actors, but real people that at times can do crazy things, but we come to care about them and love them, like they are our friends and family. As you end today and begin tomorrow, ask yourself if you are giving your entire self? If you are giving your very best? If you are appreciating every breath you take along with loving the ones around you that shape your day and your life. From one NYC girl to another... Your Life can be as Big and as Amazing as you Dream it. Love you Daisy. Thanks for inspiring me. 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.
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Women will bring peace in the world On April 30, hundreds of women, peace-builders, and peace activists from around the globe will gather in Dallas for the Annual “A World of Wo m e n f o r Wo r l d Pe a c e ” Conference. During the annual event attendees will share strategies for building bridges toward global peace, a role for which women are uniquely
of them have contributed significantly to the global effort to bring about peace. Last year, we held a peace conference in Taiwan. This year’s conference promises to be as exciting and productive as the others. Our featured panelists include Sister Rosemary Nyirume from Gulu, Uganda; Mu Naw Di, a teenage survivor of conflict in Myanmar and Nikiya Natale, a distinguished immigration attorney for Refugee Services of Texas.
I began the peace conference 15-years ago, shortly after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. I was horrified by a picture of boy-soldiers from Liberia, ages 12 and 14, on the front page of Newsweek magazine. They were dressed in war gear and armed with machine guns.
Sister Nyirume, sited as one of the most influential people in the world by Time Magazine, operates a shelter in her country for women and girls who have been the victims of rape, domestic violence, and war. She has also helped to change the lives of young girls who were once forced to become child-soldiers.
qualified to assume.
At the time, two of my grandsons were about the same age as these young boys, and I just thought “enough is enough!” I knew that I had to do something about the situation. I knew that every solider I saw had a mother, a sister, an aunt, or a grandmother. These women in their lives were uniquely positioned to influence these soldiers, no matter where they are in the world. My efforts started with women who are the mothers of young boys like the ones I saw on the cover of that magazine, whose lives are sacrificed in the name of war. We must recognize and empower these women to facilitate peace-building, peacemaking, and peace-keeping activities across the world.
When writing about Sister Rosemary, the academy award winning actor, Forest Whitaker, said “The traumas she heals are unfathomable, but the reach of her love is boundless.” Sister Rosemary’s commitment to healing the wounds caused by war and conflict are illustrative of the meaning and purpose of “A World of Women for World Peace,” and of the women whose lives are devoted to ending human conflict for the sake of our planet and for all of its inhabitants. I am looking forward to this year’s conference and hope that all of you will us re-emphasize in your own communities the necessity of peace and diplomacy, both here at home and across the globe.
We must also recognize the experts and leaders who help us to plant the seeds of peace. As a result, the annual peace dialogue was born. I know that when women are at the tables of power and influence, they can directly influence a peaceful resolution to many of the world’s conflicts. Over the years, proponents of peace from throughout the world have participated in the event. Conference participants have included elected officials, international peace activists, victims of violence and aggression and ordinary citizens. All
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Curls celebrates 14 years of empowering women NEW YORK, NY – This month, CURLS, one of the bestrecognized natural hair care brands in North America, marks its 14 year anniversary of pioneering the burgeoning natural hair market with a festive celebration Saturday, April 30, 2016 at the MADI Museum (3109 Carlisle Street, Dallas, Texas). Led by CURLS CEO and Founder, Mahisha Dellinger, the anniversary celebration will recognize its historic past and meteoric growth, laud the company’s present success as well as pay homage to the Dallas community by celebrating industry trailblazers, Renee Cottrell-Brown and Eric Brown. ”According to statistics, I was not expected to succeed in life. The generational cycle of poverty was destined to continue. An unmarried, single mom stuck on welfare or in a deadend job was my fate. However, I had a vision for my life and was determined that my present circumstances would dictate my destiny,” said CURLS CEO & Founder, Mahisha Dellinger. “Creating CURLS from nothing and turning it in to successful international company that it is today has exceeded my expectations and I am incredibly grateful.” In 2002, Ms. Dellinger launched CURLS, a family of awardwinning organic hair care products, out of her frustration with the lack of effective products for natural and curly hair; a market previously unanswered by the beauty industry. Today, Ms. Dellinger’s astute business acumen and natural talent for delivering market-driven products has made CURLS into a multi-million dollar brand that continues to experience tremendous growth. As a “Modern Day Madame C.J. Walker,” Ms. Dellinger has singlehandedly built a strong demand for CURLS in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Africa and the United Kingdom. CURLS
has multi-channel distribution, including retail, where CURLS products can be found nationwide in Target, Sally’s Beauty Supply, Wal-Mart, Rite Aid, CVS and Duane Reed. The organic products have become a fan favorite amongst Curly Girls all over the world and celebrities like Alicia Keys, Halle Berry, Brandy, and Zoe Saldana, to name a few. Ms. Dellinger and CURLS have been featured in WWD, ESSENCE, Ebony, Black Enterprise, Glamour, InStyle, Lucky and on CNBC, News One Now, Bloomberg and more. The festive anniversary celebration, hosted by Jasmine Saunders, Co-Host of the nationally-syndicated D.L. Hughley
Show, and well-known Blogger, Eugenia Says, will spotlight the best that the CURLS company has to offer today’s natural hair consumer and more by featuring! The unveiling of the company’s entire CURLS Blueberry Bliss Curl Collection, which is exclusively available at Target. The enormously successful line features the unique and restorative properties of blueberry extract, proven to protect,
restore and grow hair. The Blueberry Bliss Curl Collection includes- Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash, Hair Mask, Leave-In Conditioner, Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste, Curl Control Jelly, Twist N Shout Cream, and Blueberry Bliss Hair Growth Oil. ! Recognition of the company’s newest philanthropic program that gives back to the CURLS consumer called, CURLS Girls Rule the World, which is devoted to empowering women and girls of color by encouraging entrepreneurship and excellence using mentorship as the foundation. Recently launched In New York City, CURLS Girls Rule the World hosted 100 girls from the New York City area and paired them with its CURLS Celebrity Expert Mentors, who included a NYC Supreme Court Justice, best-selling authors, as well as CSuite Corporate Executives and Media personalities. ! Honoring Hair Care Industry Trailblazers, Renee CottrellBrown and Eric Brown, for their pioneering work in the Black Hair Market. Building upon the legacy her father, Comer Cottrell, Renee Cottrell-Brown and Eric Brown have together launched multi-million dollar international hair care products that have revolutionized the market. From Just for Me to Ultra Sheen’s Ultra Care, Renee and Eric are known industry wide for their professional innovation and philanthropic efforts toward the Black community. “When you wake up in the morning, you have two choices: go back to sleep and dream your dreams, or wake up and chase your dreams. I chose the latter,” shares Ms. Dellinger.
Ask Pam Q - I’ve been on Medicaid fo r s e ve ra l 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 concerned about keeping some medical assistance so my question is will I get Medicare too when I turn 62 next month?
what medical resources are available in your area. Medicare Annual Open Enrollment period: October 15th thru December 7th.
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
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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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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Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists URBAN JOURNALISM WORKSHOP APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED
The Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists (formerly the DallasF o r t Wo r t h A s s o c i a t i o n o f B l a c k Communicators) will present its annual Urban Journalism Workshop for high school and college students 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 l o c a l l y a n d n a t i o n a l l y, a s w e l l a s internationally. The program, which emulates one started by George Curry, Gerald Boyd and other members of the Greater St. Louis Association of Black Journalists in St. Louis, has graduated students who have gone on to anchor newscasts, edit newspapers, open public relations firms and produce radio shows. Mr. Curry visits the Dallas workshop students annually to conduct his “basic training.” Mr. Boyd died of lung cancer in 2006. “We’re excited about continuing the tradition that was started almost 30 years ago,” said Eva Coleman, one of the instructors for the program. “I am looking forward to working with students this year.” Ms. Coleman, who teaches radio and television in Frisco ISD will be overseeing the radio and television segments of the
workshop, pulling together experts in the field. Previous speakers have included: Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk, Senator Royce West, Star-Telegram editor and columnist Bob Ray Sanders, Dallas Morning News columnist Norma Adams Wade, Our Texas Publisher General Berry, PR gurus Lyria Howland and Rose Gafford, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Irwin Thompson, K104’s Sam Putney, 97.9’s Gary with the T, Dallas Examiner Publisher Mollie Belt, Producer Haile Gerima and Dallas Weekly Publisher James A. Washington. Ms. Smith, who has been with the program since its inception, took over the directorship in the mid 90s and continued through 2004. Ms. Smith returned to the program as director in 2007. At the conclusion of the workshop, the students will participate in a closing ceremony where they will present a newspaper, television and radio broad-casts, a website and a special project. For more information about the workshop, contact Ms. Smith at 214-941-0110. Mail completed applications to: DFWABJ 320 South R.L. Thornton Frwy #220A Dallas, TX 75203
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AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 2016 The Science of Art Summer Camp
Grades -5th Ages3rd 8-15 Full Scholarships Are Available !
Application Deadline
May 3, 10,2016 2016 May Camp Time: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Fee:$200 per student
Ages 8-15
Drop - Off 7:30 am Pick - Up 6:00 pm
Breakfast and Lunch will be
Served
Space Is Limited
June 13 - July 22, 2016 For additional information
Contact Ms. Shelia Robinson at 214-565-9026 Ext. 301 srobinson@aamdallas.org www.aamdallas.org
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CURRY: Poor People are Discouraged By George E. Curry George Curry Media Columnist
Bernie Sanders on Sunday tried to attribute most of his losses to Hillary Clinton - his recent string of victories notwithstanding - to poor people not voting. “Poor people don’t vote,” he said on NBC’s Meet the Press. “I mean, that’s just a fact. That’s a sad reality of American society.” What’s a fact is that when poor people do vote, they are not voting for Bernie Sanders. As the Washington Post observed, “Sanders has lost Democratic voters with household incomes below $50,000 by 55 percent to 44 percent to Clinton across primaries where network exit polls have been conducted.” He lost to Clinton 21 percent among voters bringing in more than $100,000 a year and by 9 points among middle income voters, according to the newspaper. So if more poor people were voting, if the current trends hold true, Clinton would be beating Sanders by an even larger margin. There is no doubt that poor people are far less likely to vote than more affluent citizens. According to the Census Bureau, 47 percent of eligible adults with family incomes of less than $20,000 annually voted in 2012. By contrast, approximately 80 percent of those in families earning $100,000 or more a year voted in 2012. Similar patterns also held true to voter registration. Sanders said on Meet the Press, “If we can significantly increase voter turnout so that low-income people and working people and young people participated in the political process, if we got a voter turnout of 75 percent, this country would be radically transformed.”
Sanders failed to address why poor people are less likely to vote. A study for Caltech and MIT reported that people generally failed to vote for a variety of reasons, including dissatisfaction with the choice of candidates, other obligations, transportation problems and registration issues. Under the headline, “Why Are the Poor and Minorities Less Likely to Vote?,” an article in Atlantic magazine noted, “While income and education levels were not recorded in the survey, race and age were major factors influencing who made it to the polls on Election Day and what kind of barriers they faced. Black and Hispanic citizens, for whom the poverty rate is close to three times that of whites, were three times as likely as whites to not have the requisite I.D. and to have difficulty finding the correct polling place. They were more than three times as likely as whites to not receive a requested absentee ballots, and roughly twice as likely to be out of town on Election Day or to have to wait in long lines. “They were also substantially more likely than whites to report transportation problems and bad time and location as reasons for not getting to the polls, while white voters were the most likely to cite disapproval of candidate choices. Taken together, the surveys suggest that white citizens who abstain from voting do so primarily by choice, while the majority of minority nonvoters face problems along the way.” And the problems faced along the way are considerable. According to the Caltech/MIT survey, between 910,000 and 3 million votes were lost in 2008 as a result of registration problems. Another 1.5 million voters said the polling places were poorly run and 1 million reported feeling intimidated at the polls. Of those asked to show a photo ID, 70 percent were Black, 65 percent were Latino and only 51 percent were White, according to the study.
According to the Pew Research Center, the U.S. turnout rates in 2012 was 53.6 percent, compared to 87.2 percent in Belgium, 86.4 percent in Turkey, and 82.6 percent in Sweden. Numerous suggestions have been made to make it easier for Americans to vote, including weekend and online voting, extending voting over several days and making the hours more convenient. But instead of doing that, many states are moving in the opposite direction. The Brennan Center for Justice at the New York University School of Law reported 17 states will have new voter restrictions in place for the 2016 presidential election, ranging from strict Photo ID requirements to curtailing voting hours and adding more registration restrictions. The 17 states are: Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. A survey by the Brennan Center found: Seven of the 11 states with the highest Black turnout in 2008 have new voter restrictions in place; Eight of the 12 state where Latino population growth was greatest from 2000 to 2010 passed laws making it harder to vote; Blacks were four times more likely than Whites to stand in voting lines for more than 30 minutes; Latinos were six times more likely than Whites to stand in voting lines more than 30 minutes and Voters in precincts in Florida, Maryland and South Carolina with higher percentages of voters of color have fewer voting machines. It’s not easy being poor in this country. And, by design, we seem to be doing very little to increase the number of poor people voting.
The United States voter turnout consistently trails most developed countries.
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national and political Index, which tracks inflation by observing changes over time conversations, private in consumer pricing for a variety of goods. If prices are going corporations and states are up - and they are - wages that don’t reflect these hikes in taking matters into their prices translates into working-class employees never getting own hands, bridging the ahead and being forced to make difficult choices to survive, dueling divides of income provide for themselves and their family. a n d o p p o r t u n i t y b y The current federal minimum wage stands at $7.25. increasing the minimum President Barack Obama, during a State of the Union To Be Equal wage. address, said, “Let’s declare that in the wealthiest nation on Target is reportedly raising employee wages to a $10 Earth, no one who works full-time should have to live in By Marc H. Morial minimum in May. This would be the second wage hike in a poverty.” Well, on $7.25 an hour, you can bet they will. In President and CEO year for the retail giant. Only a few weeks ago, the governors fact, if the minimum wage kept pace with inflation, the National Urban League of New York and California signed bills that would gradually current minimum wage would be $19. We support a $15 increase their states’ minimum wages to $15, the highest in minimum wage, tied to inflation. “We find our population suffering from old inequalities, the nation. With more Americans surviving on minimum wage than at little changed by vast sporadic remedies. In spite of our In the face of the Congress’ refusal to increase the federal any other point in our history, to ignore the issue of wages is efforts and in spite of our talk, we have not weeded out the minimum wage, these gestures from private enterprise and to ignore the problem of income inequality, and to ignore over privileged and we have not effectively lifted up the legislative offices reflect a new reality in our post-recession the struggles of men and women left behind as the underprivileged. Both of these manifestations of injustice economy: jobs are coming back, but, for the most part, they economy recovers. have retarded happiness. No wise man has any intention of aren’t the kinds of jobs that pay a living wage. While I applaud the initiative taken by states and businesses destroying what is known as the profit motive; because by Very often, they are not the kind of jobs that serve as a to provide employees with living wages, we must put an end the profit motive we mean the right by work to earn a platform to better paying work. And they are the kinds of to the “vast, sporadic remedies” condemned by President decent livelihood for ourselves and for our families.” jobs that predominately employ young people, minorities Roosevelt. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, State of the Union Address, and women - the most vulnerable members of our lowThe current patchwork of state minimum wages is not a January 4, 1935 wage, slow growth recovery economy. solution. Congress needs to do its job. Republicans Day in and day out, men and women all over our country What was a Franklin Roosevelt era labor law meant to put a supported minimum wage increases under President George work hard at their jobs - but hardly have anything to show floor on poverty in America has become a low ceiling barring W. Bush, but have blocked all efforts to raise it since then. for it. millions of American workers from present and future Rather than condemn a generation to a lifetime of poverty, prosperity. let’s afford them the opportunity to earn living wages and As the debate over income inequality and narrowing the For 10 years, the National Urban League has advocated for a climb the economic ladder of opportunity and success. ever-widening wealth gap continues to dominate our wagehim hike tied to the Consumer Price law. Already a registered voter, Boynton Dallas County federal Voters minimum League asking Perry County, was shot by a state trooper
Lifting communities from poverty by raising the minimum wage
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April 30 Get to Know Garland Race Get to know Garland while supporting a local nonprofit. Similar to a scavenger hunt, the Get to Know Garland Race requires participants to solve a clue sheet that leads to local destinations. Cost for registration is a $20 charity donation. The race begins at 8:45 a.m. Saturday, April 30, at the Central Fire Station, 1019 Austin St. Visit GarlandChamber.com for details and registration. ******** Local Law Enforcement to Collect Unused and Expired Prescription Medication Impact Cedar Hill and Local law enforcement will host a Prescription Drug Take Back on April 30, 2016 from 10:00am to 2:00pm officers will be accepting unused and expired prescription and over-the-counter medications for disposal. This event is a partnership between the Cedar Hill Police Department, Cedar Hill ISD, City of Cedar Hill, Walgreens, and IMPACT Cedar Hill. To participate, please bring your unused or expired over the counter and prescription drugs to the Prescription Drug Take Back site at Walgreens located at 501 E. Beltline in Cedar Hill from 10:00am – 2:00pm. For more information regarding the Prescription Drug Take Back, please contact IMPACT Cedar Hill at telephone 469-523-1309 or email at achavez@dpri.com. ***** 2016 Oak Cliff Chamber Gala - SOARING TO NEW HEIGHT from 6PM to 10PM CDT at the Hilton Anatole, Imperial Ballroom, 2201 N. Stemmons Fwy. Dallas, TX 75207 **** American Broadcasting School will be hosting a HUGE sports symposium at the Arlington campus! The event will be starting at 9am and lasting until 3pm Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosts
APRIL 29, 2016 The 16th Annual “A World of Women for World Peace” Conference 9.30-11.30 am at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center 2301 Flora Street, Dallas RSVP at 214-922-8885 ***** Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s Alpha Merit Group Beautillion Hilton Garden Inn located at Market Center in Dallas, TX. The key note speaker will be Dallas Mayor ProTem Erik Wilson. The theme of this year’s event is “Motivating Young Men for Leadership, Service & Excellence. ****** A Red Carpet Event will announce the winners of the 2016 ACT-SO competition on April 30, 2015 at the DeSoto Clarion Hotel, 1515 N I-35, DeSoto at 7 PM.
National Council of Negro Women - Goodloe Section Inaugural Golf Classic , Country View Golf Club 240 W. Beltline Road, Lancaster, TX 75146
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May 1
May 2 10A.M. PRESS CONFERENCE FOR BLACK JACK PIZZA, 2536 MARTIN LUTHER KING, BLVD. SAVE THE DATE for the unveiling of the third edition of Who’s Who In Black Dallas will be at the Perot Museum beginning at 6:30 p.m.
May 3 Stuffed Animal Sleepover Children ages 18 months to 8 years may enjoy stories and crafts with their favorite plush pal at the Garland library’s stuffed animal sleepover. The free event will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, at the Walnut Creek Branch Library, 3319 Edgewood Drive. For added fun, kids are encouraged to leave their stuffed animal at the library overnight. See a
"Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. As long as we agree on objectives, we should never fall out with each other just because we believe in different methods, or tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in mind at all times that we are not fighting for separation. We are fighting for recognition as free humans in this society." MALCOLM X I Messenger 320 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 | 214-941-0110 | www.myimessenger.com
I MESSENGER schedule of stuffed animal sleepovers on the Garland library webpage. ****** More than 343,430 children in Dallas County – one in two -- are overweight or obese, and the problem keeps getting bigger. The Cooper Institute and SMU’s Maguire Center for Ethics & Public Responsibility are bringing together respected thought leaders to tackle one of the most pressing ethical issues of this era: childhood obesity. A first-of-its kind event, Tipping the Scales for Children: From Ethics to Action to Wellbeing will be held May 3, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the George W. Bush Institute to examine how Dallas can pull together for the sake of its children. The event is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend to hear from leading experts and participate in the discussion. Tickets are $50 and are available now for the one-day event. To purchase tickets or for more information, including a full conference schedule, please visit www.smu.edu/tippingthescales.
May 5
APRIL 29, 2016 Waterview Golf Club 9509 Waterview Parkway Rowlett TX, 75089 Friday, , 2016 - Tee off Time: 1:00pm Check-In and Lunch at 11:30 Partial Proceeds to Benefit Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation
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 ***** Derrick L. Geter’s Kids’ Day in the Park @ Derrick L. Geter Park in Oak Cliff 11am - 3pm 2300 Scotland Drive | Dallas, TX 75216 *Open to the Public* | *Free Admission*
CINCO DE MAYO
MAY 14 Richard Sayles & Veronica Roth Sayles Invite you to attend a General Election Reception for JUDGE PHYLLIS LISTER BROWN, 162nd Civil District Court 6:00-8:00 p.m. at 3930 Shorecrest Drive Dallas, Texas 75209 ******** Free Block Party Workshop Block parties are a great way to get to know neighbors, celebrate accomplishments and just have fun. Learn best practices and event planning basics at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 5, at the Main Street Municipal Building, 800 Main St. Your neighborhood group also will have a chance to win a free bounce house rental for its next block party! Click here to register or visit GarlandVitalNeighborhoods.org.
May 6 Balch Springs Chamber 5th Annual Celebrity Golf Classic
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May 21 Community Garage Sale Vendor spaces are still available for the Community Garage Sale scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at Granger Recreation Center, 1310 W. Avenue F. Sell your treasures or discover new finds! All advertising, promotion and permits will be handled by the City of Garland. After the garage sale, any unwanted or leftover items will be donated to a local nonprofit organization. Cost for vendor space is $30. Register by calling 972-205-2771.
May 27 The “All White” Multicultural Affair is a fundraiser for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center & its Social Services Program, which provides financial assistance to more than 29,000 families annually in the form of food, utility, & rental assistance. This event is from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. at the Women’s museum, 3800 Parry Avenue. Guests can enjoy a fashion show sponsored by the Modeltude Agency, live performers, an art exhibit, vendors, food, drinks and music. White attire is required. Visit www.mlkculturalaffair.com for more information regarding tickets and sponsorship opportunities.
POETIC VISIONS WILL PRESENT “THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE @ 730PM at THE BLACK ACADEMY OF ARTS & LETTERS IN THE NAOMI BRUTON THEATRE , FEATURING AN EVENING OF POETRY & LOVE SONGS WITH DFW FAVORITE RUDY VEE, MUSIQ SOULCHILD and GRAMMY WINNER LALAH HATHAWAY, WITH A LOVING TRIBUTE TO HER FATHER ,DONNY HATHAWAY ****** The Miss Black Texas US Ambassador Pageant is currently accepting applications and is open to any young ladies, 14-26. The pageant is August 6, 2016 in Dallas with the location tbd
May 19 Launch of the DFW Chapter - NAMC at Globe Life Park, Hosted by the Texas Rangers on May 19, 2016 from 6pm to 8pm.
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APRIL 29, 2016
IN MEMORIAM -
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BILLY PAUL Billy Paul (born Paul Williams; December 1, 1934 – April 24, 2016), was a Grammy Awardwinning American soul singer, known for his 1972 #1 single, "Me and Mrs. Jones", as well as the 1973 album and single "War of the Gods" which blends his more conventional pop, soul, and funk styles with electronic and psychedelic influences. He was one of the many artists associated with the Philadelphia soul sound created by Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Thom Bell. Paul was identified by his diverse vocal style which ranged from mellow and soulful to low and raspy. Questlove of the Roots equated Paul to Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, calling him "one of the criminally unmentioned proprietors of socially conscious post-revolution '60s civil rights music." He died April 24, 1016, after recently being diagnosed with cancer.
Willie Williams October 1, 1943 - April 27, 2016 Atlanta, Georgia | Age 72 Willie Williams, the first AfricanAmerican chief of the Philadelphia and Los Angeles police departments, died April 27, according to the Los Angeles Times. He was 72. Williams died after a battle with pancreatic cancer, his wife, Evelina, said in a phone interview with the Los Angeles Times. Williams started out as a police officer in the Philadelphia Police Department. He spent over 20 years working his way up in the department and was selected as the first African-American police commissioner in 1988. He was appointed to that position by then-Mayor Wilson Goode.
In 1992, he was appointed as the Los Angeles Police Department Chief by Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, not long after the Rodney King riots. He was the chief of the department until 1997, when the Los Angeles Police Commission declined to renew his contract. In 2002, Williams was appointed federal security director for Atlanta’s Hartsfield International Airport. Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross said, "Truly was my inspiration. People have asked me multiple times when I knew or aspired to be the police commissioner and it was when I met him. "He was a guy who was even-tempered, but a firm guy, had strong leadership skills, but he was also one of the initial proponents of community policing and he pushed that very hard."
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Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? POLICE have I MESSENGER
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