JUNE 24, 2016
I Messenger JUNE 24, 2016
VOL 5 ISSUE 43
RISE iwillrise.org
A voice for the voiceless See pages 20-21
TO VICTIMS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE, THIS IS WHAT HOPE LOOKS LIKE
Tonya English
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JUNE 24, 2016
VOL 5 ISSUE 43
Congresswoman Johnson on gun control 19
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JUNE 24, 2016
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After Orlando, drive out hate with light and love
By Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. President, Rainbow PUSH Coalition via George Curry Media
Orlando now will be added to the haunting list: Newtown, Conn., Virginia Tech, San Bernardino, Calif., Charleston, S.C., Aurora, Colo. and more. USA Today provides a graphic of 310 mass killings since 2006 (with four or more dead), the dots tracking across the nation. Mass killings still shock us. Somehow we’ve grown accustomed to the daily terror - in Chicago, nearly five times as many people have been shot and killed since the beginning of the year than the 49 that died in Orlando. Orlando was, as President Obama said, “an act of terror and an act of hate.” The grisly toll was also a product of the easy access to guns, particularly guns made for the military at war. The killer called 911 in the midst of his rampage to announce his allegiance to the Islamic State, but this came as a surprise to his friends and former wife. His father said that his son was outraged by the sight of gay men kissing on the street, that he didn’t think that religion “had anything to do with it.” An act of terror and an act of hate. The human reaction is to want to strike back. Escalate attacks on the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. Redouble surveillance and crack down on Muslims at home. Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for president, went, characteristically, to the most extreme, calling on the president to resign and Hillary Clinton to withdraw
because they didn’t use the words “radical Islam,” as if that were a magical chant that would set everything right. He raised alarms about “thousands” of radical Muslims in the United States, and reiterated his call for banning any Muslim immigration. Hillary Clinton was more tempered, while arguing that we had the capacity to eliminate lone wolf terrorists at home and the Islamic State abroad. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. taught us a different lesson. Faced with the violence and terror unleashed against African-Americans in this country, he called on us to reach out, to love and not to hate. “Darkness,” he wrote, “cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate;
only love can do that. Hate multiplies hate, violence multiplies violence, and toughness multiplies toughness in a descending spiral of destruction.” This wisdom should not be forgotten now. We would do better to reach out to Muslims in this nation and respect their religion and their rights, rather than to hunt them, to isolate them or to denigrate them. Muslim organizations across the country have issued statements condemning this act of terror. We should embrace them as part of the
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American community, engage them in the effort to identify the violent extremists, not treat all Muslims like a threatening stranger. We would do better to reassess our strategy in the Middle East rather than double down on violence. We have displaced the Taliban in Afghanistan and killed Bin Laden; we’ve overthrown Saddam Hussein in Iraq and Moammar Gadhafi in Libya; we’ve decimated al-Qaida; our allies have carpet bombed Yemen; our drones bomb in seven countries. Yet the terror spreads, the violence spreads, the chaos spreads. More violence generates more terrorists. Redoubling our efforts can wipe out the Islamic State, but it will surely add to the terrorist ranks at the same time. Most mass shootings are not political; the victims most often are relatives or friends. Most casualties do not come from “radical Islamic terrorists.” More Americans have been killed by homegrown terrorists motivated by racial or anti-government or anti-gay hatreds than have been killed by those motivated by Islamic extremism. Gun control cannot end terror, neither the mass shootings like Orlando nor the daily horror as in Chicago. Omar Mateen, the killer in Orlando, was a security guard, apparently with a record clean enough that he was able to buy guns legally. But surely it is inconceivable that military assault weapons like the AR-15 semiautomatic rifle that he used (and that was also used in Aurora and Newtown and San Bernardino) should be so easily purchased. Reviving the ban on assault weapons that lapsed under President Bush is not a full remedy, but it is simple common sense. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is founder and president of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition. You can keep up with his work at www.rainbowpush.org
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JUNE 24, 2016
Do you really want this job? By Cheryl Smith I MESSENGER
I NEED HELP! I was contacted by a friend who is looking to hire a PR pro. The friend does not want to hire me, instead I am to refer someone. Now I take this request and all others, very seriously. After all, my reputation is on the line. SO here goes and if you are a serious candidate, someone who wants to pick a bone, or show some love, I am anxious to hear from you. If, however you take offense because you have the “let the hit dog holler syndrome” then I suggest you do as comedian David A. Arnold says, “GYST!” So here goes. The job is for a PR/Public Information professional, pays between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with full benefits and is in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Already you may have determined this is not the job for you. Now for the PR/public information pro, yes a degree is expected and yes, you should have experience. Does that mean you went to college, got a degree and immediately opened your own PR firm? umm who are your clients and how long have you been perfecting your craft? Does this mean you worked in radio/television/newspaper for years and you have plenty of contacts? well, you need more than that. Does this mean that you opened your own firm and you spend more time promoting yourself than your clients? Not at all! Good PR folks have their clients in the news more than they have themselves. Now, before we look at the requirements for the job, let’s explore expectations for ANY job. How’s your work ethic? Are you a skilled communicator who works well with others? Are you enterprising? Do you watch the clock? Are you a constant complainer or do you grumble every time you are given an assignment? Does someone have to kiss your butt to get you to do your job? Do you realize that in your business you should look a certain way every day (forget about casual days - tragedies occur every day)? Do you use illness, traffic, death (except yours) as an excuse/
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explanation for not completing assignments? (Face it, bosses are human and they share your grief, but where’s the assignment I gave you?) Do you perform the same when your supervisor/boss is in the room or building or do you act like a child who plays when your parent is not looking? Do you talk too much? Do you buckle under pressure? Do you close circles - meaning do you see each project/assignment/task through to completion? Are you star-struck? Are you trying to become a star? Do you know how to dress for success? Do you accept the job, with salary, hours, etc, knowing you will not be punching a clock and then begin complaining later? Do you take a job, looking for another one? Do you borrow money or items and not pay back or return? Are you prepared? Do your feelings get hurt easily? Do you poop out at parties? (Just kidding, was going to offer you some Vitametavegamin! Just a few questions to consider... before I tell you who the employer is. On a job specific tip: Are you well versed in AP Style? Are you skilled in conflict resolution and management? Are you social media savvy? Do you understand the media community in your market and across the country? Internationally? Can you write (REALLY write)? Can you address social threats? Do you know when and when not to call a news conference? Are you versed on media legal
issues? Do you know how to build relationships with media organizations and the people you are working for? Are you camera-shy? Can you take control of a situation (or the microphone) assertively versus aggressively? Do you realize the importance/significance of ALL media outlets and treat them fairly? Do you know how to establish protocol? Side note: Do you watch ABC’s #Scandal?
I’d better stop now. I’ve recommended quite a few people over the years and they’ve been hired. Just FYI, if I could get Jamille Bradfield to come back to Dallas, I would delete this post and give her a call!
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JUNE 24, 2016
Quit Playin’
by Vincent Hall I went to the Dallas Donald Trump rally and revenge tour as a reporter, so what I will say going forward is part report and part opinion. Trump drew a strange consortium of Whites; from the poverty riddled trailer parks to the property rich haven of Highland Park. I have lived in Dallas all my life; I know both crowds well. There was indeed a smattering of confused Black, Brown and Asian brothers and sisters who find inclusion in Trumps message. Can’t explain that, but what about the “Age of Trump” can anyone exegete with precision? The Age of Trump is an imbroglio of epic distortions. But Dallas Democrats better beware. Trumpism is not a joke. Democrats are situated in a feud between Hillary and Bernie. Meanwhile Trump and the Republicans have a straight shot at taking the presidency and Dallas County. If you give up the tea leaves and read the voting statistics you realize quickly that Republicans were sickened by George Dubya.
I Messenger
DONALD J. TRUMP A CLEAR & PRESENT DANGER
The Blues didn’t win Dallas, the Reds just forfeited. Remember that Dallas is only one of 254 counties in the state of Texas and the only one solidly blue. But don’t get it twisted. Democrats in Dallas County didn’t prevail because we had the numbers; we have won since 2006 because the GOP stopped voting. I know you are enjoying having all these Democrats in black robes. I know that you are touting the fact that Dallas has more African-American females on the bench than does any other county in the state and possibly the nation. But I also remember a song by B.B. King; “The same thing that will make you laugh will make you cry. Anywho….I didn’t see you at the rally, I’m sure you were too invested in LeBron James and the Golden State Wannabees. (Sorry GS fans)…But let me say this as honestly as I know how. You can sit in the comfort of your home and act as if all is well, but if you don’t show up en masse in November your world is going to change. No one will have to beg and cajole
you to come to a protest rally or a freedom fight; it will be your regular weekly ritual. The Donald Trump phenomenon is indicative of a Civil War brewing in America. It is a cold war at this point but the passions I saw let me know that some people will be killed
as a result of Trump’s vaulted vernacular and divisive vitriol. And I don’t say that without great caution. I admit that violence is on the horizon with disgust and a sense of loss. The (New) Republican Party has allowed Nationalism
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and racial arrogance to trump love and compassion. Ronald Reagan’s “Bootstrap” generation has finally come of age. And they aren’t listening to any excuses other than their own. Don’t look now, but Whites make up almost 70% of the “eligible” voting population and Trump is harvesting a whole new field of potential voters. When Robert Jeffress, the Pastor of the most resourceful “Christian’ congregation in Dallas is the opening act for “Trump’s Vicious Vaudeville” act, everything civil and spiritual goes out of the window. The message is clear, a large swath of Whites in America don’t give a damn about anyone who does not look or think like them, and Dallas is no exception. This election is a matter of hate versus love and it’s time for America to decide. But don’t forget...in the words of Langston Hughes; YOU are America too!!!
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Eva’s Events
JUNE 24, 2016
Join veteran journalist Eva Coleman this summer as she hits the hottest events! She’s on the road covering the Metroplex and sharing her experiences with I Messenger readers. Email her at publisher@myimessenger.com and invite her to your event!
Dick Gregory at the Addison Improv
Comedian, activist, nutritionist, actor and author Dick Gregory performed two nights to sold out audiences at the Addison Improv. Blacq Ron and June Bug opened up for the legendary entertainer.
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I Messenger Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce Reception and Luncheon featuring speaker Keith Clinkscales
JUNE 24, 2016
Media executive Keith Clinkscales discussed millenials, the wonderful world of technology and how we communicate with one another.
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JUNE 24, 2016
City Men Cook at Gilleys It was a packed house to taste some of the best dishes prepared by men who traveled from as far away as Houston and the East Coast to share their favorite recipes. Held on Father’s Day, this popular event, formerly known as Rela Men Cook, is the place to be.
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JUNE 24, 2016
I Messenger
Muhammad Ali's Toughest Fight: Parkinson's Disease By
Glenn Ellis George Curry Media Guest Columnist
glennellis.com
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JUNE 24, 2016
Frisco ISD Career & Technical Education Center FOX 4 News producer Kacinda Crump shared media advice with Frisco Independent School District TV students during annual MediaShowcase event!
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JUNE 24, 2016
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Take Me Out to the Ball Game! Kudos to the Frisco Independent School District TV crew! Winners of The Greatest Save PSA Contest Dallas. Entire crew enjoyed Texas Rangers game at Globe Life Park in Arlington.
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JUNE 24, 2016
Spring Soiree' ~ Sagittarius Style Day Party!
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JUNE 24, 2016
I Messenger
The Beauty Queen and Prince At the Prophet Bar, folks came out to celebrate Belinda Ramsey’s birthday and also to pay tribute to Prince, following his death. It was definitely a time to salute royalty. Belinda is a former Ms. Texas!
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JUNE 24, 2016
JUNE 24, 2016
Spiritually Speaking
I Messenger
God Still Does Not Need Your Money, But...?
all, as they are indeed gifts and blessings from Him. Without going into investing your talents and doing unto the least of these is doing unto Christ, the point is God is only seeking a tenth of what He has given to you so that we, you and me-the church, can invest back into His people for His purposes. by James A. Washington
I think I have written about tithing at least once or twice and also asked that you remember tithing comes in the form of time and talent as well as money. I can personally remember times in church when tithing was my least favorite part of the service. But as is my way, I have to read and understand things for myself as opposed to taking someone else’s word for things; that is unless that Word comes straight from the Lord. So I’m coming to you today with my interpretation of this tithing thing. And for my purposes let me simply say that my point is made by the phrase “putting God first.” I am convinced that God does not need my money, nor my time and certainly not my meager talents. But I believe He recognizes and appreciates how I use them
Again, God don’t need your money. What He expects is for you to put Him first in all that you have, all that you do and especially with the unique gift(s) He’s blessed you with. See, tithing is really not about giving. It is about receiving. I know that sounds backwards, however, the tithe represents a gift to be received by someone. That’s the point. I guess you could say God’s tithe is His grace to us.
me in this, says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” Malachi 3:10. From God’s mouth to your ears. Test me He says. This is one place in the bible that God says I dare you to test me. The tithe is the test as in testimony. I cannot speak for you but for years I was unwilling to take this test. The world has a way of clouding the ultimate point of just attempting to tithe with time talent and money. But if you put God first, you will find the time, the money and the opportunity to share our gifts for His glory. It’s all about attitude and
perspective.
But remember the servant who took the one talent and buried it and simply returned to the master one talent? It was taken from him and given to the one who took His five talents invested them, earned five more and returned 10 to the master. What are you doing with yours? God is only testing you regarding 10%. It seems like a small price to pay to open the floodgates to heaven. I ain’t saying. I’m just saying. Take the test and may God bless and keep you always.
James
REMEMBERING
EARLINE GADSON
Our tithe is our gift given to Him. He just lets us know that the attitude of putting Him first is rewarded. “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse that there may be food in my house. Test
9-10-1934 - 6-10-2014
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JOYCE ANN BROWN
2-12-1947- 6-13- 2015
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JUNE 24, 2016
JUNE 24, 2016
By Dareia Tolbert
I Messenger
Praise Party with Dareia
Soft is the New Power, Deya “Direct” Smith encourages women to tap into their God-given authority, intuition and femininity to experience the ultimate success in love and life. What if everything you thought you understood about communicating with men was wrong? Would you be willing to re-calibrate your thinking to possess the love and life you desire? From the creator of the Man Whisperer Multimedia Series comes the new book Soft is the New Power by Deya “Direct” Smith. Smith shows readers how to return to the organic softness that is feminine power. Many women are losing themselves in an effort to keep up with the male-dominated workplace and the new-age approaches to dating and relationships. Too many successful and ambitious, career-driven women for various reasons tend to use masculine or hard energy to survive or succeed, and as a result, not only are they exhausted, but
they become hardened in communications. Smith encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones of self-promotion and self-protection and take a stronger, yet softer position to gain what they want. She says women have an innate power to attract amazing relationships through initiative, understanding and acceptance, coupled with the ability to approach life with a soft touch. Knowing how and when to turn on your power, does not negate the need to play hard ball when necessary, but it definitely gives you an advantage in work, play and at home. God made us the softer sex for a reason. Use it to your advantage! Listen to audio interview on www.Dareia Tolbert.com Readers will: • Eliminate the pressure of being ‘on’ constantly; Define and embrace your feminine power; Understand that being soft does not make you weak it makes you wise; Improve communication with men in business and in your personal life; Learn the art of speaking to a man’s heart.
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I Messenger
ASK ALMA:
by Alma Gill NNPA News Wire Columnist Dear Alma, My friend of over 15 years recently made the decision it was time for her and her mother to live together again. After her father died, her mom never could really handle remaining in the childhood home and all the responsibilities that go along with it, so they decided it would be best for financial and health reasons if they sold the house and moved in together. A little over a year ago, she and her mom purchased a beautiful home and as far as she is concerned, all is well. But if you asked me, I’d have to disagree. The problem is, now her mother goes everywhere with us. When we go on a girls’ getaway weekend, to a friend’s
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A MOTHER’S LOVE Three really is crowd weddings or to a baby shower and even to the club. She even went with us to go see Charlie Wilson! Don’t get me wrong, I love my friends’ mother, but I don’t want to party with her or always have her around. I’ve become hesitant when making plans with my friend as she always assumes our plans include her mother. What can I do?
Stay with me now and hear me out. I think this situation is on overload, because it gives them both an opportunity to reconnect at a different phase of life. Two grown up women forming an adult-to-adult friendship as appose to the usual “I’m the mother, you’re the child” relationship.
Don’t get me wrong, I love my friends’ mother, but I don’t want to party with her or always have her around. I’ve become hesitant when making plans with my friend as she always assumes our plans include her mother. How can I explain to her, her mother is not “always” invited? Signed, Three’s a crowd Dear Three’s a crowd, Heavens to Hezekiah, girl, say it ain’t so! When ya’ll hanging out, her mama can’t go! From what I’ve read, here’s my take: when it comes to her mama, that’s not really your choice or decision to make.
Be that as it may, I don’t anticipate it will last forever. Her father has died, both are grieving and serving as the rock each one needs at this time. Sooner or later her mother will settle into a more independent space. Does your friend have family in the area, any siblings? Maybe you could encourage her to make plans for her mom to visit extended family for the weekend, alone. Maybe she can spend time with a sister, cousin or childhood friend in a neigh-
boring city. It sounds like her mom was used to having someone around, probably her deceased husband, and now she needs her daughter to fill that void. Your friend, obviously operating to be the best daughter she can, is ready, willing and able to do what’s necessary to make her mother happy. There’s nothing wrong with that. I can say for sure, your friend will never regret it. Any time we take or commitments we make, devoted to our parents at any age, is priceless. You miss your BFF, Sweetpea and I totally understand. But she’s the one experiencing this life change, you should cut her a break. Try to understand how her life has been rearranged. As much at this irritates you right now, the best part about it is – it ain’t your mama, LOL. Don’t make her pick, don’t make her choose. When it comes to her mama, you’re sure to lose. It’s not your place to dismantle this threesome, pull up a chair and rest in it. I’m sure your friend has enough room in her heart and space on her plate for the both of you. Alma
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JUNE 24, 2016
I Messenger
Our inaction is killing us! lethal firearms and explosives. The ‘No Fly, No Buy’ bill ends this Our inaction loophole – giving the Department is killing us! of Justice the ability to keep deadly Our inaction weapons out of the hands of wouldhas allowed be terrorists. mass shootings This is a common sense first legisto become lative step to plugging the different unacceptably loop holes in our gun laws. commonplace The legislation is based on proin our counposals also supported by former try. We have a responsibility to do President Bush’s administration. It more to keep guns out of the wrong gives the FBI the ability to prevent hands. those suspected of having connecOur inaction in our communities, tions to terrorism from purchasing our in action in Congress, and our weapons. inaction as consumers has contributed to a gun culture that has claimed too many American lives. The unwillingness of the Republican majority to pass sensible gun legislation to protect the American people is literally killing us. One of the largest mass shootings in American history recently took place in Orlando. This horrific incident brought an It has been proposed numerous even bigger spotlight to the various times over the last few years, and shortfalls in our gun laws. each time Republicans, allied with It is only prudent for Congress to such groups as the National Rifle pass the bipartisan ‘No Fly, No Buy’ Association, have fiercely fought legislation. against it. The FBI and the Attorney General We cannot let such loopholes reare not currently allowed to prevent main in place as we turn a blind eye suspected terrorists from buying to the mass shootings of children, By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
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Bible study participants, moviegoers, or college students. Like President Obama, and most sensible Americans, I believe that “no fly, no buy” laws must pass, and background check loop holes must be closed. Yet these are only the first steps, the low hanging fruit that we, here in Congress, can quickly fix. These steps will go a long way, but these measures alone will not eliminate all possibilities of mass shootings. We must continue to implement common sense rules and checks to make sure that those people that purchase firearms are qualified to do so. This means that people with histories of certain mental illness should be receiving treatment, not guns. Bans on assault weapons and military style firearms should be reinstated. Laws governing ammunition purchases, extended magazines, and gun show purchasing should all be explored. Too many innocent American citizens are dying for us to not explore every option that would lead to a more peaceful future.
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JUNE 24, 2016
The Founder’s Testimony
“My entire childhood was marred by domestic abuse. It was an every weekend event that happened in every household in my family. Weekend bouts were not only accepted, they were expected. I grew up and became a very tainted, distant woman. Unwilling to allow closeness for the fear of becoming a victim. Although very guarded, I was still affected because no one ever told me that abuse didn't have to be physical. Many years ago I lost my favorite cousin and my aunt to domestic abuse. I felt confused and helpless. I now have two grown girls...beautiful, educated, vulnerable babies. I'm no longer confused and I refuse to be helpless. What I am now is determined. I can't lose my girls, or anyone's girls, to domestic abuse...especially not because of ignorance. Now that I know better, I must do better." Tonya English
MISSION & VISION No need is too small and no voice is too quiet to be heard. We will devote the time and energy necessary to educate, advocate and assist.
Log on to www.iwillrise.org or call (888)230-RISE and see how you can help or get help!
REVOLT INSPIRE SUPPORT EMPOWER 20
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I Messenger DCCCD students overcome pain, poverty, disease; awarded Erin Tierney Kramp Scholarships
JUNE 24, 2016
Poverty, domestic violence, child abuse, breast cancer: these obstacles and more have not stopped three Dallas County Community College District students from building new lives for themselves and others. As a result of their bravery and perseverance, Susana Carrillo, Stephanie Johnson and Carolyn Iduh have been chosen recently to receive the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Endowed Scholarship. Carrillo, Johnson and Iduh all have overcome childhood hardships or domestic abuse. Johnson is a breast cancer survivor; Iduh left her native Nigeria to come to America, where she struggled when the funds promised to support her fell through; and Carrillo endured a physically abusive husband. All three students will be recognized as 20162017 recipients of the Dallas County Community College District's Kramp Scholarship during a special awards dinner on Wed., June 22, at a dining establishment in Dallas. The scholarship, which is administered by the DCCCD Foundation, will help Carrillo, Johnson and Iduh reach for their dreams with financial support from the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Foundation scholarship award, which covers full tuition and books for up to six semesters. The courage and perseverance shown by all three students in the face of adversity are traits exhibited by the person for whom the Foundation and scholarship are named. Erin Tierney Kramp, who fought breast cancer from 1994 to 1998, created a videotaped legacy on “life lessons” for her daughter, Peyton, prior to her death. The videotapes became tools that conveyed Erin's views and advice to Peyton as the young girl grew up, following her mother's death. Erin touched many lives and inspired countless strangers when she co-authored Living with the End in Mind (written with her husband and a family friend) and through appearances on programs like 20/20 and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Winfrey featured the Kramp story/segment as one of her “most memorable guests” during a May 2011 farewell show as the program reached its historic end. Erin's legacy lives on through the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Foundation, its scholarship program and the lives of all of its recipients. “The Erin Tierney Kramp program awards scholarships to students based on their courage and perseverance in the face of adversity,” said Michael Brown, president of the Erin Tierney Kramp Foundation. “We see these qualities in all three students this year – Susana, Stephanie and Carolyn– and
know that they are survivors. Their stories exemplify what our past recipients have demonstrated repeatedly through Erin's legacy. When individuals face adversity, the struggles they endure will either make them stronger or defeat them. Winning that battle requires both courage and perseverance – traits possessed by all of our former recipients and certainly these three new recipients as well.”
Susana Carrillo: Beating Abuse, Becoming a Role Model
Surviving her first marriage with broken bones and broken promises – and without support from her own family, Carrillo endured abuse, uncertainty and even the denial of a protective order until she documented her injuries. Finally able to file for di-
Susy Carrillo
colleges; and is majoring in computer information technology, specifically web production and design. Carrillo said, “I want to be able to help young girls avoid abusive relationships and to raise awareness about domestic violence, starting with my twins.”
Stephanie Johnson: Overcoming Poverty, Abuse and Breast Cancer
Faced with extreme poverty and childhood abuse, El Centro College student Stephanie Johnson grew up without a father (who was serving a 10-year prison sentence) and finally ended up in foster care. She lived in a facility with other disadvantaged and troubled youth, fighting to graduate
Stephanie Johnson
vorce, Susana tried to start a new life. Unfortunately, Susana became engaged to a supportive man who eventually became jealous and abusive, too. Despondent inside, she hid her problems at work, sleeping little and eating even less. She was devastated to find that what appeared to be a new, positive relationship had crumbled into dust. Carrillo began to see a psychiatrist and a psychologist so that she could share her problems with family members, grieve and change her own thinking process. That’s when she decided it was time to go to college and enrolled at Brookhaven. The mother of four children (including one set of twins) and proud grandmother wants her family to remember her for overcoming the adversity she faced instead of those early years of abuse and despair. Susana currently has earned a 3.92 grade point average; is co-vice president of leadership for Phi Theta Kappa, an academic honorary for two-year
Carolyn Iduh
from school on time and to overcome the psychological scars from her childhood. After marriage and motherhood at an early age, Johnson escaped a violent relationship and learned to love herself for who she is, only to face a battle with breast cancer in 2011 at age 38. Johnson’s battle with cancer lasted a year, including four months of chemotherapy and three operations. A self-employed artist with no health insurance, she was faced with finding health care providers and facilities that would treat her – and she prevailed. Starting yet again, Stephanie decided to go to college and pursue her dream of becoming an artist. Using a portion of her tax return, Johnson paid for her first class. She remains involved in neighborhood activities where she lives, and helps others in need. Her dream is to transfer to Southern Methodist University to earn a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. Johnson said, “I have worked over this lifetime to grow into the woman I am today. I truly believe that it would be a great dishonor to the life I have
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been granted to not do what is in my soul: to earn my bachelor’s degree and become the artist I want to be.”
Carolyn Iduh: Conquering Adversity, Becoming a Doctor
Nigerian native and El Centro student Carolyn Iduh had dreamed about becoming a doctor since she was a young child. She excelled in school but also experienced firsthand the challenges of coming from a home where her once-loving dad abandoned the family and constantly beat her mother. Carolyn grew up quickly, working part time to help her mother, whose own job kept her away at night. She made sure her siblings stayed in school and eventually began to work full time, again to help her mom. Sometimes Carolyn cried herself to sleep at night, sad about her situation and yet determined to go to school and become a doctor. She became a tutor, learned and used some nursing skills, and began helping people online who were sick, young or from broken homes. Iduh taught in her church; she also served as a motivational speaker and counselor in communities, schools and online. In spite of the challenges she has faced, she continues helping many young people fulfill their dreams. Iduh’s dream to enroll in college in the United States and to become a neurosurgeon became reality a year ago when one of her pastors in Nigeria sponsored her to come to the U.S. to study. Joyfully, she left her country and came to America, without a home or friends. Then the funds to support her fell through. Since then, she has been working on campus and struggles to pay for her education. She said,” I refuse to give up. I wake up each day not knowing how I am going to survive, but I smile, knowing that God loves me and that he brought me here. Reaching out to others daily gives me strength and joy to overcome and stand up to any adversity.” Iduh has earned a 3.7 cumulative GPA. She also wants to establish a scholarship foundation to help young people; to help women and children fight HIV/AIDS; and to celebrate young people and their impact by starting a television show. For more information, contact Kathye Hammontree with the DCCCD Foundation at 214-378-1536 or at khammontree@dcccd.edu.
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Community Calendar during regular gallery hours.
June 29 Comedian Joe Torry, Live at the Arlington Improv! June 23 -26
June 24 QUESINO HAPPY HOUR 6-10pm FREE Ten Eleven Grill 1011 Corinth St. Dallas, TX 75215 Relaxed dress code We will have Quesino tickets available so you can avoid the door price Saturday. The kitchen will be open with the full menu available along with drink specials until 10pm. Come out and get primed for the premiere event of the summer. ****** RIBBON CUTTING Join the Balch Springs Chamber of Commerce to Welcome A New Chamber Member! Fast Fuels 12531 Lake June Road, Balch Springs TX 75180 (across from Taco Cabana)
June 25 Talley Dunn Gallery will be having a silent auction called “The Big Bang.” It will take place Saturday, from 6:00PM9:00PM. Viewers will have the opportunity to preview the artwork before the auction
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Ribbon Cutting at The Island Spot: A Special Oak Cliff VIP Launch Event 8 PM Where: 309 W. Jefferson Blvd ********** Dallas County Community College District and the Dallas Independent School District’s Postsecondary Success Department are presenting “Destination Registration 2016,” a free half-day program featuring a series of activities for recent DISD graduates who may not have acted on their college plans. Hundreds of students are expected to participate in the one-stopshop, open-house-style events scheduled at several locations and two different dates: at Eastfield College on Wed., June 29, from 9 a.m. to noon; at Cedar Valley College, on Wed., June 29, from 1 to 4 p.m.; and at Mountain View College on Thurs., June 30, from 1 to 4 p.m.
be able to enjoy LIVE music, delicious food from local vendors, bounce houses for the kids, and the return of Duncanville’s traditional Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza! Admission is FREE and open to the public, though wristbands will be required for entry into the evening festivities
will celebrate Independence Day throughout 13 acres of Dallas Heritage Village, 1515 S. Harwood Street, with picnicking and a parade as well as fun games and activities. *****
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July 6
One of Dallas Heritage Village’s most beloved annual events, Old Fashioned Fourth, will offer free admission this year in honor of the Village’s 50th Anniversary. On Monday, July 4, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., families, decked out in red, white, and blue,
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is preparing to establish its Fiscal Years 2017-2019 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Tri-Annual Goal for projects funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
July 4 The City of Duncanville invites you to bring your family and friends to its annual Independence Day Celebration. The day will begin with a parade sponsored by the Duncanville Lions Club, and will close with a host of evening festivities in Armstrong Park. Attendees will
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Community Calendar July 8
As a component of the goal-setting methodology, TxDOT will host public forums for interactive exchange and consultation with organizations and chambers representing minorities, women and general contractors. These public forums are being conducted pursuant to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 49, §26.45(g), (1), (i). The public forums have been scheduled in regions across the state as follows: Wednesday, July 6, 2016: Dallas District Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Location: 4777 E. Highway 80 Mesquite, TX 75150-6643 Dallas Room If you have any questions regarding the public forums, please e-mail: OCR_businessoperations@txdot.gov.
“Poets N Jazz #6” featuring 39 Poets Step up to the mic and toast the end of 39 seasons when 39 young TBAAL poets, singers and actors celebrate 39 glorious years of triumphs! Come lift your flute and have a good time as TBAAL sails into our 40th SEASON! Produced by Curtis King with Jiles King.
of Commerce will be hosting the “Entrepreneur’s Toolkit Brown Bag Lunch Series. This will focus on four key areas for healthy business growth- marketing, finances,human resources, and technology. Through this series of quick yet information packet sessions, new and experienced entrepreneurs will gain the skills they need to lead their business. It will be wedneday at 11:30 AM- 1:30 PM. Go online to register.
****** Friday and Saturday,
July 15 Chrisette Michele will be performing at the Verizon Theatre, Friday at 8pm. Go online to purchase your ticket.
July 8 and July 9, 2016 @ 9pm Clarence Muse Cafe Theater Dallas Convention Center Theater Complex Physical Address: 1309 Canton Street | Dallas, TX 75201
July 9 Cheryl Smith’s Don’t Believe the HYPE Celebrity Bowlathon 2016 USA Bowl 10920 Composite Drive, Dallas Call 214-941-0110 for team registration and sponsorship opportunities
July 13 The Dallas Black Chamber
July 23 Chris Tucker Will be live Saturday at 8p.m. @ the Verizon Theatre in Grand Prairie TX. Go online to purchase your tickets.
August 5 K.Michelle will be performing at the House of Blues in Dallas TX Saturday @ 8:30 PM. Doors open at 7:30 PM. This is an all age event, however, there is an 8 ticket bit per household. You can purchase your tickets online.
August 13
Maze featuring Frankie Beverly & Chaka Khan with special guest Raheem DeVaughn
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will be at the Verizon Theatre Saturday at 8p.m. Tickets prices ranges from $34.75$150.00. You can purchases your tickets online. *****
August 30 Save the Date! Business Expo/Taste of Balch Springs Tuesday, August 30, 2106 5-7pm Tickets $4 in Advance $5 at the door
September 24 Live Well-Go Green Expo: Exhibitors Wanted The City of Garland is seeking exhibitors for the Live Well-Go Green Expo (formerly the Healthy Living Expo), scheduled on Saturday,. Those interested may download an Exhibitor Application at GoGreenGarland.org. Contact GoGreenGarland@ GarlandTx.gov for additional information.
November 5 ICDC Kick-off reception for the formal 30th anniversary celebration, Our Journey to Thirty... an exhibition celebrating the 30th anniversary of ICDC.
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