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JANUARY 20, 2012

NO 1 ISSUE 19 JANUARY 20, 2012

VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND CHILDREN

Johnson speaks out about serial rapist 6

Dick Gregory case dismissed 3

Heart & Soul Magazine purchased 2

AAFCA Awards 8 PAGE 1

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JANUARY 20, 2012

Heart & Soul Magazine purchased:

New owners to expand focus to women of color

Patrick Detry

Clarence Brown

Silver Spring, MD – Heart & Soul magazine, an 18year-old national wellness publication, has been purcha sed by Brown Curr y Detr y Taylor & Associates, LLC (BCDT), a media content company based in Silver Spring, Md. Clarence I. Brown, BCDT president and CEO, has announced that the company acquired all assets of Heart & Soul Enterprises, LLC, the parent company of the magazine, from its owner, Edwin V. Avent, a Baltimore-based businessman.

“We are excited about our acquisition of this important brand and readers will quickly notice a revamped, first-rate edition and a more engaging digital version of Heart & Soul,” said Mr. Brown. “We will focus on repositioning the brand back to fitness, health and wellness and broadening the content, the audience, and the advertisers.”

Heart & Soul has historically targeted AfricanAmerican women. In one of its first moves, BCDT will broaden the magazine’s audience to include all women of color, one of the fastest growing segments in the nation. By broadening its audience, Heart & Soul becomes the only national publication that targets multicultural women ages 21 to 55 in the health, fitness and wellness category.

“When you look at the statistics and see the significant health disparities that exist between Caucasian women and women of color, you look for ways to close those health gaps,” Mr. Brown explained. “Women of color are disproportionately affected by a number of diseases and health conditions and many of those problems can be avoided or minimized through optimizing nutrition and regular physical activity. Heart & Soul will provide readers valuable information, expert advice and relevant resources that will help reduce the disparities and improve the lives of all women of color.”

BCDT, which stands for Brown, Curry, Detry and Taylor, was formed by four highly-respected media and marketing veterans: Clarence I. Brown, George E. Curry, Patrick H. Detry and Pamela E. Taylor. All the principals have past ties to Heart & Soul. Mr. Brown wa s responsible for dail y management of the magazine when it was owned by BET, Mr. Curry was editor of Emerge when Heart & Soul was part of the BET magazine group and Mr. PAGE 2

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George E. Curry

Detry and Ms. Taylor provided consulting services to the former owner.

“It helps that all of us are familiar with our new acquisition,” explained Mr. Brown. “Because we have a histor y with Heart & Soul, we are uniquely positioned to take it to a higher level.”

Pam Taylor Heart & Soul was first published in 1993 as part of a joint venture between Reginald Ware and Rodale Press. It was later owned by BET, Vanguarde Media and, more recently, Edwin V. Avent. The new owners have relocated the magazine’s headquarters from Baltimore to Silver Spring, Md.

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Parents, encourage your children to intern

JANUARY 20, 2012

Case against Gregory dismissed

Years ago a student told me that her college’s degree plan did not require that she have any internships. I was shocked because she was hoping to enter an industry where experience is required.

How do most college students get experience?

Internships!

When I taught at Paul Quinn College, internships were mandatory. If you wanted a degree in communications, you needed some work experience, practical work experience; not a position where they were manning the copier machine or serving coffee.

Sure those duties may be incorporated into their responsibilities, but I expected my students to also be learning about their chosen profession and putting into practice what they learned in the classroom.

Over the years I have had many interns and I always express to them the importance of taking advantage of opportunities to gain valuable experience. Never mind that many internships don’t pay and I wish that those employers would at least provide a small stipend-- still the experience gained at an internship is worth the sacrifice.

Texas State Sen Royce West (D-Dallas) established an excellent program for interns. The Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program just completed 19 years of providing a wholesome, educational and financially rewarding experience for area youth.

The students were taught the value of an internship, establishing relationships in the workplace, working hard Goldsmith (OCCUPY DC), Dick Gregory (actor/comedian and human rights activist), Dr. E Faye Williams and giving back to your community, by participating (National Congress of BlackGoldsmith Women, Inc-chair and attorney for Gregory) ABOVEinFrom L to R: Drew (OCCUPY DC), Dick Gregory (Actor/Comedian a service projects.

(Washington, DC) Dr. – OnE the Judge Marissa Demeo. circumstances to the court for Human Activist), Fayebefore Williams (National Congress of Black Women, IncSeveral of the students received job offers and long-Rights lasting relationships have been established. heels of the Martin Luther Ti m e s Pi c a y u n e a r t i c l e , not doing so. When they Chair Attorney for Gregory) Parents, many of you are sending your children awayand to King, Jr. holiday, legendary Gregory BP Trial Dismissed appeared before the judge, college, some for the first time. It is imperative that you civil and human rights activist, The case was dismissed by M r. G r e g o r y ’s a t t o r n e y s encourage them to study hard, stay focused and get plenty Dick Gregory, went to trial on Judge Demeo. Mr. Gregory’s requested a dismissal. The of experience by securing internships.

We’re dealing with some tough times but things are Tuesday, January 17, 2012 after attorneys, Johnny Barnes and judge granted the motion and looking promising for recent graduates, according to the having been arrested last E . Fa y e Wi l l i a m s , w e r e the case was dismissed.

National Association of Colleges and Employers.

September while representing prepared for trial and had Art Rocker said “Our 2012 Gregory reading Still, the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest figures RIGHT: report an cDick l a i m a n t s f r o m s e v e r a l submitted several motions to campaign against BP started From10L percent, to R: Drew Goldsmith (OCCUPY DC), Dick Gregory (Actor/Comedian and unemploymentABOVE rate of almost with about 14 southern states who are not about the BP 2012 Olympics, the government’s attorneys; on January 13, 2012 with the million unemployed.

Human Rights Activist), Dr. E Faye Williams (National Congress of Black Women, Incb e i n g p a i d b y Ke n n e t h their witnesses, Art Rocker— k i c k o f f o f h a v i n g D i c k Skills and education are important. vowing to continue to Chair and Attorney for Gregory) Sen. West and his staff should be applauded, along with Gregory speak on the Tom campaign against them. the many internship sponsors and supporters.

It is Joyner Morning Show. We imperative that we, adults do everything we can to ensure have fought for the claimants that our youth are successful in life. to be paid over 1 1⁄2 years. We Talking about and criticizing youth for their lack of are having a petition signed by experience or knowledge of history or facts is disingenuous, RIGHT: Dick Gregory reading especially when we are responsible for teaching and a l l o f t h e Gu l f C o a s t preparing them. about the BP 2012 Olympics, Ministers who support the to will continue Now there arevowing those who say thatto we don’t have movement to carry to the two responsibility to our youth. Such an assertion is not worthy campaign against them.

Presidents; Bob Dudley, who of a response, however with the current state of the is president of BP and the economy, the extremely high dropout and illiteracy rates, Pr e s i d e n t o f t h e Un i t e d and numerous other social ills, well, we can’t be quiet.

Those who are able must do everything possible to ensure S t a te s , Pr e s i d e n t B a r a c k that the next generation is better prepared. They must be Obama, in a few days.” taught quite a bit, in addition to the importance of Mr. Gregory, Mr. Rocker establishing an honorable work ethic, providing great and Dr. Williams have vowed customer service, honoring your commitments, exceeding expectations and giving your best. to continue their effort to get Last year I had two interns who joined the ranks of past the underser ved and the interns who valued the opportunity to learn and grow. Dick Gregory reading about the BP 2012 Olympics, vowing to continue to campaign against them. LEFT: E. Faye Williams, underrepresented paid for Esq. Jasmine Jhounkin is a senior at Xavier University and Jared the damages they suffered Tinner is a college freshman. They were eager to learn, from the April 2010 Gulf Oil Feinberg.

C h a i r m a n o f O p e r a t i o n took criticism with a smile and worked tirelessly to Spill. complete their assignments.

People for Peace-- and Mr. Feinberg is the BP CZAR E. Faye Williams, Esq. They remind me of so many others who came before them who was appointedLEFT: The BP office in London, to pay Gregor y were present and and I feel optimistic about the future. prepared to testify; however, E n g land has said that I salute the men and women who work with interns or claimants affected by the the government’s attorneys Ke n n e t h Fe i n b e r g in youth and really challenge them to be and do their best. I Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill applaud the young men and women who take advantage of from April 2010. The case was had filed no responses to Mr. Washington, DC is the person the opportunities and the parents who support their efforts. h e a r d a t t h e D i s t r i c t o f G r e g o r y ’s m o t i o n s a n d responsible for making those From my experience, great interns make excellent Columbia Superior Court presented no extenuating payments. employees and entrepreneurs.

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JANUARY 20, 2012

HOW TO RECEIVE A $100,000 FINANCIAL AID GRANT Millions of families are suffering financial hardships due to a serious down-turn in the economy.

Because of this, a special grant program is now available to assist individuals and families needing financial assistance. The proceeds from the grant can be used for the following: • College funding

• Supplementing retirement

• Paying off existing student loan debt

• Starting a business

• Paying off credit card debt

• And much more…

• Paying off a mortgage

As long as the proceeds of the grant are not used in any illegal manner, there are no restrictions on its use. For free information please send an email to: cheryllynnsmith@mcsgrantconsultants.com.

If you know of any high school or college students interested in sharpening their communications skills or pursuing a career in journalism, there’s still time to apply for the DFW/ABJ Urban Journalism Workshop.

www.dfwabj.org

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Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable... Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Want to keep up?

Follow Cheryl on Facebook and Twitter @penonfire Mention Cheryl's World or IMessenger to double the coupon

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SWAGGER MAGNIFIED NOW...

Since September 1 - I have been picking the men I think have serious swagger. These men are intelligent, strong, sharp, fierce, competitive, charismatic, spiritual, hard, caring, handsome, smooth, creative, energetic and so much more! Without any consideration or input from anyone, I am choosing the men who through personal experiences or history, I find to have so much going on. Stay tuned - I think it’s a great list! What do you think? !

THEN...

Sporting News Editor-in-Chief Garry D. Howard, Fort Worth Star-Telegram Columnist Bob Ray Sanders, Min. Robert Muhammad, NFL Great Emmitt Smith, business mogul Daymond John, noted psychologist Nai’m Akbar, publisher Danny Bakewell Sr., NBA great and business mogul Earvin “Magic” Johnson, singer Charlie Wilson, journalist George E. Curry, former NAACP head and U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, rapper, author Chuck D., Coach Doug Williams, businessman Charles O’Neal, comedian David A. Arnold, rapper Kool Moe Dee, businessman Jonathan Rodgers, Sports anchor Stephen A. Smith, basketball great Michael Jordan, Rev. Zan Wesley Holmes Jr., actor Billy Dee Williams, comedian and actor Chris Rock, FAMU President James Ammons, singer Nicholas Caldwell, actor/singer Leon, singer Morris Day, actor/rapper Will Smith, business mogul Sean Combs, journalist Ed Gordon, comedian/activist Dick Gregory, NBA great Allen Iverson, Hon. Minister Louis Farrakhan, journalist/historian Lerone Bennett, Rev. Frederick D. Haynes III, Ambassador Ron Kirk, Hon. Nelson Mandela, Rap mogul Jay Z, actor James Earl Jones, actor/director Denzel Washington, NBA star Shaquille O’Neal, actor/author Don Shield, Hon. Willie Brown, Hon. Marc Morial, CEO Oscar Joyner, Journalist Acel Moore, rapper/ actor Treach, journalist Dewayne Wickham, businessman Walter Williams, Sen. Royce West, media guru/activist Tavis Smiley, journalist T.J. Holmes, artist/singer Miles Jaye, journalist Roland Martin, singer Hon. Jerry Butler, actor Sidney Poitier, actor Jeffery Wright, Muhammad Ali, entertainer/activist Harry Belafonte, businessman Comer Cottrell, actor Fred Williamson, Dr. Steve Perry, actor Malik Farrakhan, Gen. Colin Powell, Hon. Dwaine Caraway actor Jim Kelly, educator Dr. Frederick Humphrey, Doug E. Fresh, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., Snoop, the Rev. Joseph Lowery, the Honorable President Barack Obama, actor Samuel L. Jackson, reggae artist Alpha Blondy, businessman and publisher Earl Graves, photographer Jesse Hornbuckle, actor/philanthropist Dr. Bill Cosby, journalist Brian Custer, LL Cool J, Dr. Ben Carson, Hon. John Wiley Price, Rev. Michael Eric Dyson, actor/author Hill Harper.. Entertainer Stevie Wonder, author/educator Dr. Cornel West, Publisher Jim Washington, comedian/ actor Steve Harvey,and athlete/actor Jim Brown, actor/director Robert Townsend, District Attorney Craig Watkins, entertainer Smokey Robinson, Mayor Antonio Blue, journalist Steve Pickett, Singer Ron Isley, Journalist Bernard Shaw, Actor Director Melvin Van Peebles, Actor/rapper/philanthropist Ludacris, singer B.B. King, actor/director Bill Duke, Rev. Dr. Rickie Rush and journalist Byron Pitts!

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JANUARY 20, 2012

Singer Marvin Gaye, actor Calvin Lockhart, singer Teddy Pendergrass and Nat King Cole, comic/actor Bernie Mac, journalist Lawrence E. Young, entertainer Isaac Hayes, singer Gerald Levert, African activist and publisher Pius Njawe, attorney/media mogul Percy Sutton, Publisher extraordinaire John H. Johnson, atty. Johnnie Cochran, music great Curtis Mayfield, maestro Barry White, orator, writer and statesman Frederick Douglass, humanist Malcolm X, singer Johnnie Taylor, entertainer Lou Rawls, singer Rick James, Coach A.D. Jake Gaither, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, Hon. Mickey Leland, entertainer Sammie Davis Jr., the Chief Rocker Frankie Crocker, Tupac Shakur, Hon. Marcus Garvey, Hon. Al Lipscomb, Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth, journalist Ed Bradley, Hon. Arthur E. Teele, Jr., actor/comedian Richard Pryor, singer/songwriter Nickolas Ashford. Historian Ivan Van Sertima, musician Donny Hathaway, Hon. Adam Clayton Powell, businessman Alfred Huntsberry, Ossie Davis, actor extraordinaire Paul Robeson, journalist Vernon Jarrett, NFL Great Ron Springs, journalist Gerald Boyd, educator/inventor George Washington Carver, activist Huey Newton, educator Dr. Carter G. Woodson, NBA Great Maurice Lucas, activist Stokely Carmichael, entertainer Langston Hughes, Gospel great Pop Staples, entertainer Duke Ellington, entertainer Heavy D, Hon. Kwame Nkrumah, entertainer Miles Davis, actor Adolph Caesar, Dr. Percy Julian, musician Grover Washington Jr., activist A. Philip Randolph, activist Denmark Vesey, Nat Turner, singer Tyrone Davis, writer, journalist Paul Lawrence Dunbar, actor Paul Winfield, entertainer Ray Charles, Carl Brashear, journalist Max Robinson, musician Billy Preston, entertainer Cab Calloway, artist Ernie Barnes, Iceberg Slim, businessman Reginald Lewis, businessman Don Barden, THE MAN Joseph Smith, Sam Cooke, boxing great Joe Louis, educator Dr. Asa Hilliard, singer Levi Stubbs, activist Ben Hooks, tennis great Arthur Ashe, Hon. Ron Brown, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Gil Scott Heron, Major Robert Lawrence, Godfather James Brown, activist Medgar Evers, entertainer/philanthropist Michael Jackson, educator Dr. Booker T. Washington, scholar John Henrik Clarke, and historian/activist W.E.B. DuBois, Dr. John Hope Franklin, Dr. Benjamin E. Mays,reggae star Bob Marley, singer/producer Willie Hutch,musician Jimi Hendrix, eGn Chappie James, singer/dancer/actor Gregory Hines, Olympiad Jesse Owens, astronomer Benjamin Banneker, activist Ralph Bunche, astronaut Ron E. McNair, Hon. Cloves Campbell, Sr., and band director Dr. William P. Foster!

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JANUARY 20, 2012

Congresswoman issues call to action:

Says serial rapes are frustrating and “all of us have a responsibility to do something”

By Cheryl Smith Cheryl@cherylsmithonline.com

Violence against women and children is a serious problem, one worthy of discussion and that’s just what will take place this Saturday at the Roundtable discussion with U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX).

Joining Congresswoman Johnson will be Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins, First Lady Serita Jakes of the Potter’s House, Dr. Alina Suris, Det. Jon Lumbly, Debra Mitchell-Ibe from The Family Place, Annette Burrhus-Clay, Executive Director of the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault and Gloria Terry, president of the Texas Council on Family Violence.

Billed as a “Roundtable Discussion with Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, ‘MOVING UP, MOVING F O R WA R D : M o b i l i z i n g O u r Community to End Violence Against Women and Children’” will take place at Methodist Dallas Medical Center, 1441 N. Beckley Avenue, Dallas, in the Hitt Auditorium at 9a.m..

This is a subject that you shouldn’t get tired of and there should be a packed house of citizens interested in solving some of the many problems that are associated with violence against women and children in our community.

Rep. Johnson has been a vocal advocate for women and children’s rights.

Another advocate is Dr. Julianne Malveaux. During a recent visit to the Metroplex, the Bennett College for Women President encouraged support of the Violence Against Women Act, Dr. Malveaux cited disturbing statistics, like one in four women have experienced rape and only one in 16 men who commit rapes will go to prison.

"We must support the act and write our legislators and tell them to support it," said Dr. Malveaux, "We have to say that this (rapes) is unacceptable."

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was the first major law to help government agencies and victim advocates work together to fight domestic violence, sexual assault, and other types of violence against women.

It created new punishments for certain crimes and started programs to prevent violence and help victims.

In addition to the VAWA legislation, Rep. Johnson supported other acts, such as:

HR764—Child Abuse & Prevention Enforcement (CAPE) Act—To reduce the incidence of child abuse and neglect, and for other purposes. (Pryce) STATUS: Passed House, 10/5/99 HR1352—Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Victims’ Housing Act— A bill to provide housing assistance to domestic violence victims.

and women in labor, and provide additional protections to female inmates who report violations in order to protect them from retaliation. (Waters) HR3083—The Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act of 1999—A bill to provide protection for battered immigrant women. (Schakowsky/ Morella/Jackson-Lee)

Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for this serial rapist.

(Schakowsky) STATUS: Amended version added to HR 1073 (Homeless Housing Programs Consolidation and Flexibility Act), which passed Banking Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity, 4/15/99 HR1869—Stalking Prevention and Victim Protection Act of 1999—A bill to expand the prohibition on stalking, and for other purposes. (Kelly) STATUS: Hearing held, 9/29/99 HR2130—Date-Rape Prevention Drug Act of 1999—A bill to amend the Controlled Substances Act to add gamma hydroxybutyric acid and ketamine to the schedules of control substances, to provide for a national awareness campaign, and for other purposes. (Upton/Stupak/Jackson-Lee/ Bliley) STATUS: Passed House, 10/12/99 Protection of Women in Prison Act of 1999—A bill to require that facilities receiving federal funding develop and implement policies to restrict the role of male staff with regard to female inmates, address the particular health needs of female inmates, prohibit the routine shackling of pregnant women

So, it stands to reason that Rep. Johnson would take the lead, addressing the issue of the serial rapist. She said she was outraged and concerned when she heard that a serial rapist was terrorizing members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Although she is not a member of the organization, the congresswoman said she immediately reached out to the public service sorority’s national president, Cynthia Butler McIntyre, to offer assistance and support.

In June of last year, CW33’s Giselle Phelps broke the story about a rapist north of Dallas. According to police and media reports, there appeared to be a pattern in the assaults. The four reported attacks were in Plano, Corinth and Coppell, and it was revealed that the man was targeting Delta members, aged mid 50s to mid 60s.

Covering the story was a priority for her station, said Ms. Phelps, who has been joined by other journalists in attempting to keep the story alive.

Rep. Johnson said the media could have done a better job with editorials

and alerts, to keep the story a high priority.

“There has been very little editorializing and that is unfortunate,” she said. “If this had been Delta Delta Delta (a predominantly white sorority) at Southern Methodist University, it would be a different story.

“It’s Delta Sigma Theta so it is left to us to make sure we lift our voices.”

Since the story broke, I have talked to many people who have expressed concern over “Pookie” the serial rapist.

Across the country men and women have asked me about the attacks and said they hope that Pookie is caught soon.

Pookie has been described as “a heavy set black man in his late 30s to mid 40s, between 5 feet 7 inches and 6 feet tall, 275 to 300 pounds and he has a trimmed beard, a short haircut and possibly a receding hairline.”

“Pookie” is not his real name (at least to my knowledge). I took the liberty of naming him “Pookie” because I know of Pookies who are always in trouble, like our serial rapist, and I wanted to make him a household name.

Several local journalists, including NBC5’s Randy Mcilwain and Julie Tam; WFAA-TV’s Debbie Denmon; and Ms. Phelps are looking for angles to keep the story alive. I receive calls on a regular basis and I hear the aggravation from people across the country as they continue to present details of the story.

This is an emotional issue. IT is very upsetting.

Rep. Johnson expressed the same sentiment.

“This situation is very frustrating,” she said. “Anywhere there‘s violence against women, more awareness is needed. I have been introducing legislation and will continue to address the issue.”

She continued, “ When it relates to us, we have to step out and take responsibility and make sure the word gets out. When one of us is attacked, all of us have a responsibility to do something.”

As long as headlines continue to scream about the violent acts perpetrated against women and children, someone has to speak out and give voice to these voiceless victims and we have to support legislation related to such assaults.

Continued on next page

A nation or civilization that continues to produce soft-minded men purchases its own spiritual death on the installment plan.

Martin Luther King, Jr. PAGE 6

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This story has been on local stations, in local publications and it has also made national news. There were quite a few tips after a segment of America’s Most Wanted featured the story.

The $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers is still on the table.

Police are following leads and there haven’t been any reports of any more attacks since the one in October 2011.

Sadly, while people from around the country are inquiring about the case, there are people right in the Metroplex who have no idea that a serial rapist is among us.

For some reason, and this isn’t the first case of a serial rapist in the area, there’s a hesitancy to sound the alarm.

Would you rather know so that you can protect yourself and take the necessary precautions, or would you rather just wander around totally oblivious to the possible dangers.

The press is taking hits left and right because of the perception that when something happens with white “victims” the coverage is more extensive than when people of color are the victims.

Unfortunately the Black Press has not been as vigilant in keeping the story on the forefront of folks minds.

We know the power of the Black Press. Just think back to the success of the Million Man March.

A Roundtable Discussion with Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson Saturday, January 28, 2012 9a.m.

Methodist Dallas, Medical Center, Hitt Auditorium

Mobilizing our Community to End Violence Against Women and Children Speakers include: Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins and The Potter’s House First Lady Serita Jakes

Other panel members: Gloria Terry, President of Texas Council on Family Violence Debra Mitchell-Ibe, Community Outreach Director for The Family Place Dr. Alina Suris, UT Southwestern Annette Burrhus-Clay, Executive Director Texas Association Against Sexual Assault Moderator - Cheryl Smith

JANUARY 20, 2012

So, why aren’t we seeing more coverage in the Black Press, and on stations targeting African Americans?

Sure there have been a few stories, but come on people, we can’t get mad at the mainstream media for not keeping attacks against black women on the front pages, if we don’t do it with our own publications and media outlets.

And its not just the media. What about the clergy, other women’s groups, public service organizations or even men’s groups? Dr.Malveaux is president of a college for women. She needed to address the issue.

But what about others?

Thanks to Rep. Johnson for pulling folks together to discuss this topic. The experts will provide solutions and share perspectives to empower folks to become active participants in the fight to put an end to violence against women and children.

It was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who said, “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

People have been way too silent on this issue. Is it that they are ill-equipped to address the issue, or is there a feeling of shame?

Rep. Johnson said “we all have a responsibility when people are assaulted, regardless of their color.”

Too bad so many of us are shirking our responsibility.

It’s a new year!

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Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.

Martin Luther King, Jr. PAGE 7

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JANUARY 20, 2012

African American Film Critics honor Hollywood’s best

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And the winner is......

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JANUARY 20, 2012

It was a star-studded night at PIPS in Los Angeles, for the African American Film Critics Association’s annual awards program., hosted by Kevin Frazier of The Insider.

Best Picture: "The Tree of Life" Best Director: Steve McQueen, "Shame" Best Actor: Woody Harrelson, "Rampart" Best Actress: Viola Davis, "The Help" Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer, "The Help" Best Supporting Actor: Albert Brooks, "Drive" Breakout Performance: Adepero Oduye, “Pariah" Best Documentary: "The Black Power Mixtape"

Best Screenplay: “I Will Follow" Best Foreign Film: “Kinyarwanda" Best Song: “The Show” from “Moneyball."

Best Independent Film: "Pariah" Legacy Award: Richard Roundtree Horizon Award: Hattie Winston Cinema Vanguard Award: George Lucas Special Achievement Award: Sony Pictures Entertainment

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in OUR library Reviewed by Cheryl Smith cheryl@cherylsmithonline.com

I Let All of Them Come Inside of Me

By Renee A. Get ready for a good read!

The title will grab you and then author Renee A. has you hooked.

A writer, reviewer and publisher, Renee A. Takes you on several journeys as you meet some interesting characters.

You also have several elements that make for good reading: sensuality, drama and eroticism.

There are the deceitful and conniving friends, cheating husbands, strangers with secrets and more.

While the author provides you with a myriad of characters in these short stories, she also lays the groundwork for future works featuring her very interesting characters.

The author is skilled at developing characters that will resonate with readers. Her characters are thoughtprovoking and believable I Let All of Them Come Inside of Me will have you shaking your head and rereading paragraphs in disbelief as Renee A.’s creative mind challenges, startles and entertains you simultaneously.

Red Light Special

By Risque Reading Red Light Special, I couldn’t help but think of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick because of some of the similarities between him and Risque’s lead character, Kenyatta Smith.

Mayor Smith is in

the bed with his lover when a bullet, seemingly from out of nowhere, snuffs out the life of his precious Eve. He is able to get the body moved and traces of Eve removed, but that doesn’t mean that he is out of hot water. And it doesn’t mean that he is going to get himself together and stop cheating on his wife, Monday.

Mayor Smith is arrogant and appears to think that he is invincible.

He continues to cavort around with other women while mentally and physically abusing his wife. He’s also running scared because he can’t get the thought of that last night with Eve out of his head.

Risque introduces other characters who will help to develop this intriguing tale that is full of erotica.

Collyn and Blessing are two interesting characters who have an exciting relationship and both are connected to the Mayor and Monday, for different reasons.

Red Light Special is full of intimacy and in some cases deviant behavior. It appears that while the women who are held captive by their sexual partners know that they need to get out of the relationships, they still have a hard time saying no.

Thankfully there are some men who know how to treat ladies.

Find out what happens if and when the Mayor has to pay the piper. The ending is a definite shocker.

Down and Dirty

By Gammy L. Singer Drugs, crime, greed and murder are just a few of the elements that make Down and Dirty so intriguing.

Amos, aka The Harlem Don has had a lot going on in his life over the years but he has mellowed out somewhat, leading a life as an

upstanding citizen.

Now this does not mean that he doesn’t have relationships with the down and dirty in Harlem.

One of those friends is in trouble and calls help.

Deacon Steadwell is Amos mentor, someone he has to be there for.

Steadwell is in quite a bit of trouble though and The Don is not so sure that he can help. Still he puts up the bond money to get his mentor out of jail, at least until the trial. He didn’t expect his mentor to do a disappearing act. But when you read further, you will find that there’s a good reason, a very good reason, that Steadwell went into seclusion.

There’s so much going on with the various characters that it’s a wonder that you can put them all together, but the author is skillful at creating characters that are endearing and engaging.

The Don has no idea what he has gotten himself into. Steadwell is going on trial for murder and The Don ends up dead, just because he is trying to help his friend.

There are some twists and turns in Down and Dirty and it will be interesting to see what comes of this diverse group of characters who are a part of The Don’s life.

Mr. Commitment

By Mike Gayle Many readers will not care too much for the lead character B e n j a m i n D u f f y.

He’s a stand-up comic but his girl finds nothing funny with his failure to commit to a woman he has been in an extended relationship with.

Mel is tired and so she finally proposes. When she doesn’t get the response she wants, she refuses to talk to him. Finally realizing that he is about to lose her, Benjamin acquiesces and starts getting prepared for marriage.

Now some will not feel that he is doing the right thing. There will be some who will feel that if he does not feel like getting married then he should live with that decision.

It doesn’t help that he has friends who are not in support of the marriage and do nothing to encourage the relationship.

There is definitely an adverse opinion about yielding to an ultimatum.

A freelance journalist and gossip columnist, Mr. Gayle’s characters are skillfully developed and easy to follow.

JANUARY 20, 2012

Commitment is a subject that can spark heated debates.

Mr. Gayle provides insight into the male’s perspective on the issue.

The ending will be something worth talking about.

Marry Your Baby Daddy

By Maryann Reid What an interesting concept--women marrying the men they have babies from.

When you consider the number of African American women who have children out of wedlock, many of them never developing a relationship with the fathers, it sounds good to hear someone saying those important words--marry your baby’s daddy.

Well, Ms. Reid’s most important character in Marry Your Baby Daddy, dies. Grandma June has a stipulation in her will that is sure to be an issue for her three granddaughters.

She’s leaving them each $1 million dollars, but they have six months to marry the father of their children!

Now the task would be so much easier if they could share the information, but they can’t. The baby daddies can not know that they stand to get a nice windfall if they marry their “baby mommas.”

Grandma June wants better for her granddaughters and their children, but she does not want money to be the driving factor for the fathers.

The story takes several different turns as the men deal with their own issues.

Readers will form their own opinions as to whether or not either of the men are even marriage material.

And the ladies have their issues, as well.

Can money make for a good marriage?

It will be interesting to see how these three women, at various stages in their lives, deal with the ticking clock.

Support Black owned book stores

All progress is precarious, and the solution of one problem brings us face to face with another problem.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

POLICE have not apprehended Pookie the serial rapist.

If you have information, call Crime Stoppers at

877.373.8477 Also, if you want extra protection, check out Street Safe at www.streetsafe.peopleguard.com PAGE 10

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DBDT does New York in a big way Ms. Ann Williams and the Dallas Black Dance Theatre performed at New York's Lincoln Center on the stage of the plush Alvin Ailey Theatre. For three days, they treated their audience to dance works filled with emotions ranging from laughable to fierce to breathtaking. Dancers Nycole Ray and Katricia Eaglin were exceptional, but all dancers were "phenomenal." The entire company prepared well and and had obviously worked very hard.

Following the performances, there was an on-stage panel discussion and Q & A led by choreographers Chris Huggins and Hope Boykin who were joined by DBDT veteran dancers Liz Mikel and Kathleen Sanders, both now NYC residents. Ms. Williams shared the vibrant history of the company along with visions for the future. Although New York is "usually" a pretty tough crowd, each performance received a "standing ovation" filled with love and appreciation.

The "vibrations" that DBDT left on Manhattan Island will be felt for a while.... for real ! / Leo Hassan

JANUARY 20, 2012

A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplif t is approaching spiritual doom.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Tuskegee University’s “Red Tails” Premiere Tuskegee natives Lionel Richie and Tom Joyner -- joined several members of the cast of "Red Tails," including star Terrence Howard, for a screening of the movie at Tuskegee University in Alabama and IMessenger was there!

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Hosts

Town Hall Meeting MOVING UP, MOVING FORWARD: Mobilizing Our Community to End Violence Against Women and Children

Sinners and Saints

Advertise your business, product, service, event or organization

Saturday, January 21, 2012 9am-12pm

HERE Authors Victoria Christopher Murray and ReShonda Tate Billingsley at book signing for Sinners and Saints at Jokae’s African American Books.

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Only $100 4-week run

Methodist Dallas Medical Center Hitt Auditorium 1441 N. Beckley Avenue Dallas, Texas75203 Please enter the campus at 221 W. Colorado (at Bishop), which is the main Entrance to the hospital

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JANUARY 20, 2012

He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

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60-second commercials per weekday for a month for $500

Due to the current stats of a miserable economy, a special loan program named Second Chance Personal Loans has been created to help individuals and families needing financial assistance. Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $49,000. There is NO COLLATERAL required to secure a loan. If you have a job, you can qualify for a Second Chance Personal Loan.

• Poor credit or No credit history is acceptable

Buy two months, get two free!

• Amount of outstanding debt is not a factor • Must be currently employed • No collateral required • No liens required on property or hard assets

That’s 4 months of prime advertising for LESS THAN $10 A DAY!

• Easy repayment terms • Minimum 10% cash contribution towards required loan A Second Chance Personal Loan can be used for a variety of purposes such as: • Debt elimination or consolidation • Paying off existing student loan debt

Includes 1/4 page ad in IMessenger

• Paying off credit card debt • Paying off a mortgage • Supplementing retirement • Starting a business

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The Second Chance Personal Loan program was designed to help the millions of struggling families and individuals to receive a Second Chance to get back on stable financial ground. Many people because of circumstances not under their control need a fresh and Second Chance. If you would like additional information on how to apply for a Second Chance Personal Loan, simply send an email to Cheryllynnsmith@mcsgrantconsultants.com consultant@mcsgrantconsultants.com.

972.572.0088 PAGE 12

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In Memoriam Lillian Earl Peterson

August 19, 1916 - January 17, 2012 The year was 1916, the date August 19th, Lillian Earl Peterson was the fourth of twelve children born in Upton, Texas, to the union of General and Susie Burgess Peterson.

Preceded in death were her mother and father, and the following siblings (in order of their birth): Lois P. Davis, Ernestine Peterson, Leroy Peterson, Floyd Peterson, Julia Peterson Powell, Vivian Peterson Baldwin, Dorcas Mildred Calvert, General Peterson, Jr. and Stimmie Peterson. Also preceded in death were brothers and sisters from another paternal union: Bobby T. Peterson, Julie Mae Peterson Jamerson and Fairbanks Peterson.

Lillian was educated in the Smithville Schools and continued her education at the now Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, graduating in 1943 with a bachelors degree in Physical Education.

After her graduation, her first teaching position was with the Marble Falls School District. After the birth of her two sons, Willie Earl Johnson, Jr. and Marvin ‘Hannibal’ Lokumbe, she moved to Texas City, Texas where she was a teacher at Booker T. Washington School and later became a social worker with the Galveston County Community Action Center where she retired after more than 30 years of meritorious service.

Ms. Lillian or Ms. Peterson, as she was affectionately called, became a voice of reason for all seasons in the Texas City community as she showed a strong presence at Barbour’s Chapel Baptist Church as a Sunday School teacher and choir member; an active member with the School PTAs; a multiyear treasurer of the Mainland Branch of the NAACP; Treasurer, Community Development Council; Capernium Chapter 211 - Order of the Eastern Star Texas City TX (her point was Esther).

One of her proudest moments was being crowned Ms. NAACP, Mainland Branch. After the death of her sister PAGE 13

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Vivian, she became guardian of Vivian’s minor children, Beauford Earl and Katha Anderson.

Left to cherish her memories with a yearning to honor her legacy are her sons, Willie Earl (Ella) Johnson, Jr., Dallas TX; Hannibal (Sumai) Lokumbe, Bastrop TX; grandchildren Tobian (Taivaya) Johnson, Dallas TX; Jabari Johnson, Dallas TX; Nile Peterson, New York, NY; Haile Lokumbe, Bastrop TX and Eternal Lokumbe, Chicago IL; Sisters Jewel Peterson McMillan, Washington DC and Gladys Peterson Green, Bastrop TX; Brothers (from another paternal union) John T. Peterson, Houston TX, Robert T. Peterson, Houston TX, Lawrence (Cotton) Peterson, Houston TX, and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, friends and former coworkers.

In keeping with Mrs. Peterson’s philanthropic spirit, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Heads Up! Foundation (a nonprofit organization founded by Mrs. Peterson’s grandson, Jabari Johnson) P. O. Box 763757 Dallas TX 75376-3757

The celebration of her life will be held Saturday, January 21, 2012, 1:00 p.m. at Antioch Baptist Church, 147 E. Clearview Cemetery Rd. in Bastrop, Texas. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Pendergrass-People’s Mortuary in Smithville, Texas.

James Walter "Jimmy" Castor

Your Mama's Callin' You" on Smash Records in 1966. Castor also played sax on Dave "Baby" Cortez's hit "Rinky Dink." He formed the Jimmy Castor Bunch in 1972 and signed with RCA. As leader of The Jimmy Castor Bunch in the 1970s, and also as a solo artist, he has released several successful albums and singles. The group reached the peak of their commercial success in 1972 with the release of their album, It's Just Begun, which featured two hit singles: the title track and "Troglodyte (Cave Man)," which was a large hit in the U.S., peaking at #6 in the Billboard Hot 100 Castor continued the trend in 1975 with "The Bertha Butt Boogie" and later recorded "E-Man Boogie," "King Kong," "Bom Bom," and "Potential."

The Castor band included keyboardist/ trumpeter Gerr y Thomas, bassist Doug Gibson, guitarist Harry Jensen, conga player Lenny Fridle, Jr., and drummer Bobby Manigault. Thomas, who simultaneously recorded with the Fatback Band, left in the '80s to exclusively record with them.

Castor was a solo performer from 1976 until 1988. He had one of his bigger hits in many years with a 1988 revival of "Love Makes a Woman," which paired him with disco diva Joyce Sims. Castor had his own record label, Long Distance, in the 1980s.

He died from heart failure.

Johnny Otis

December 28, 1921 – January 17, 2012

June 23, 1940 – January 16, 2012 James Walter "Jimmy" Castor was an American pop and funk musician. He is best known as a fun disco/funk saxophonist, with his biggest hit single being 1972's million seller, "Troglodyte (Cave Man)."

Castor started as a doo-wop singer in New York. He wrote and recorded "I Promise to Remember" in 1956.

Castor then replaced Frankie Lymon in The Teena gers in 1957 before switching to the saxophone in 1960.

He had a solo hit with "Hey Leroy,

Ioannis Alexandres Veliotes better known as Johnny Otis, was an American singer, musician, talent scout, disc jockey, composer, arranger, recording artist, record producer, vibraphonist, drummer, percussionist, bandleader, and impresario. Born in Vallejo, California, he is commonly referred to as the "Godfather of Rhythm and Blues. Otis was the child of Greek immigrants Alexander J. Veliotes, a Mare Island longshoreman and grocery store owner, and his wife, the former Irene Kiskakes, a painter.

He was the older brother of Nicholas A. Veliotes, former U.S. Ambassador to Jordan (1978–1981) and to Egypt (1984–1986).

Otis wa s wel l-known for his choice to live his professional and !

JANUARY 20, 2012

personal life as a member of the African-American community. He has written, "As a kid I decided that if our society dictated that one had to be black or white, I would be black."

He was the father of musician Shuggie Otis.

After playing in a variety of swing orchestras, including Lloyd Hunter's Serenaders, he founded his own band in 1945 and had one of the most enduring hits of the big band era, "Harlem Nocturne". This band played with Wynonie Harris and Charles Brown. In 1947, he and Bardu Ali opened the Barrelhouse Club in the Wa t t s d i s t r i c t o f L o s A n g e l e s , California.

In the late 1940s, he discovered Big Jay McNeely, who then performed on his "Barrelhouse Stomp." In the 1950s he discovered Etta James, for whom he produced her first hit, "Roll With Me, Henry" (also known as "The Wallflower "). Otis produced the original recording of "Hound Dog" written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller with vocals by Big Mama Thornton, and was given a writing credit on all six of the 1953 releases of the song. As an artist and repertory m a n f o r K i n g Re c o r d s h e a l s o disco vered Jackie Wilson, Hank Ballard, and Little Willie John, among others. He also became an influential disk jockey in Los Angeles.

He continued to perform and, in April 1958, he recorded his best-known recording "Willie and the Hand Jive", which relates to hand and arm motions in time with the music, called the hand jive. This recording went on to be a hit in the summer of 1958, peaking at #9 on the U.S. Pop chart, and becoming Otis' only Top 10 single. The song was covered by Eric Clapton in 1974, and became a staple of his live repertoire.

Otis' most famous composition is "Ever y Beat of My Heart", first recorded by The Royals in 1952 but which became a hit for Gladys Knight and the Pips. Otis continued performing through the 1990s and headlined the San Francisco Blues Festival in 1990 and 2000, although because of his many other interests he went through long periods where he did not perform. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994 as a non performer for his work as a songwriter and producer.

In the 1960s, he entered journalism and politics, losing a campaign for a seat in the California State Assembly (one reason for the loss may be that he ran under his much less well known real name). He then became chief of staff for Democratic Congressman Mervyn M. Dymally.

Otis also founded and pastored a new church, Landmark Community Gospel Church, and hosted a radio show on KPFA, !

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Become a mentor of young Black men and boys!

To become one of the the Servant Leaders in your city planning and directing this effort, please call 773.285.9600. We will provide you with an organizing kit that will help you step-by-step to create, manage or support an outstanding mentoring program in your city. We will also provide technical assistance and ongoing support. Schools, faith-based organizations, fraternities, Masonic organizations, veterans associations, community-based organizations, affinity organizations, military service personnel, social service agencies, companies and corporations will participate in this effort. Most mentoring events will occur on January 31, 2012. The last event will occur on February 29, 2012.

JANUARY 20, 2012

Center for Nonprofit Management February 2012 Events

Register online at www.cnmdallas.org call 214-826-3470, ext. 239.

501(c)offee Club FREE Nonprofit networking for those who work and volunteer at nonprofit organizations. We meet the first Wednesday of every month and discuss a different topic every time. All are welcome!

Fee: FREE Date: Wednesday, February 1, 7:30 am to 9:30 am Location: Café Express, 3230 McKinney Avenue, Dallas Nonprofit Legal Forum: Advice From Attorneys Sponsored by Dallas Bar Foundation and the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers

The Nonprofit Legal Forum is a FREE program intended to provide information and education needed to address the legal issues crucial to running nonprofit organizations.

Session Topics Include: - Employment Law Update, Social Media in the Workplace, the NLRB and Nonprofits.

President Obama will give his State of the Union address on Tuesday, January 24 -- his last before the 2012 election.

If you've been waiting for the right moment to get involved in the campaign, this is it. In Dallas, folks who support the President will be coming together to watch the address and talk about the agenda he lays out -- then plan out how to organize locally in the coming months to spread the President's message and keep growing this campaign.

What: State of the Union watch party in Dallas Where: 1226 Commerce St 415 Dallas, TX 75202 When: Tuesday, January 24 6:30 pm

Panelists: Michael Bell of Ogletree Deakins, Michelle Morgan of Jones Day, and Chris Antone of Jackson Lewis Fee: FREE Date: Thursday, February 2, 9 am to 12 pm Location: Center for Nonprofit Management, 2902 Floyd Street, Dallas Managing the Development Office What does it take to run a productive development office?

There are many roles and competing demands that a development officer must be attentive to in the course of raising funds. Staying focused on your organizational and fundraising goals, while planning, crafting, forecasting and reporting on them is a challenge. Join a seasoned fundraising professional for this careful examination of all the aspects of running a productive development office.

Topics to be discussed include: organizational and development planning, crafting and using a case for support, gift acceptance and fundraising policies, income reporting, deadline tracking and grants management, gift processing and reporting principles, income tracking and acknowledgment systems and personal development Instructor: Carole V. Rylander, CFRE, principal of Rylander Associates Fee: $65 members/ $115 non-members Date: Tuesday, February 14, 9 am to 12:30 pm Location: Center for Nonprofit Management, 2902 Floyd Street, Dallas

All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and import ance and sh o uld be unde rt ake n w i t h painstaking excellence.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Lunch & Learn: Managing Public Perception Reputation Management and Building Trust Learn how to balance furthering your organization’s mission, achieving the milestones that will make an impact for your cause, and making a difference overall, with the need to tell your story in just the right way that you gain the external support you need. This session will teach some specific steps you can take to build a good foundation of materials and messages about your organization that will establish and enhance your reputation.

Topics to be discussed include: elements of a strong reputation, how to address your brand, tone and messaging in materials to build trust, issues management and tips for crisis communications, public relations strategies to build your reputation and how to work with the media Instructor: Tina Young, founder of TechCom Partners, LLC Fee: $25 members/ $35 non-members Date: Wednesday, February 15, 9 am to 12 pm Location: Center for Nonprofit Management, 2902 Floyd Street, Dallas

HappyNia Dance Theatre Productions, Inc.

Nonprofit Financial Essentials Not a “Numbers Person”? This session is for you!

You don't have to be an accountant or finance person to understand the basics of nonprofit financial management. Participants will gain a general understanding and some useful tools thus enabling them to: --Know how to see the "hidden" messages in nonprofit financial statements, Use financial statements as a management tool, Understand the basics of budgeting, Realize the importance of linking the budget to the strategic plan.

Instructor:William A. Albright, CPA, Principal-Albright, Hill & Sumpter, PC

Come learn and take classes in various styles of dance.

Now Accepting Students Contact us today to register for 2012 classes www.happyniadance.com 214.434.7851 Studio Address 3200 Lancaster Rd., Ste. 623 Dallas, Texas 75216 PAGE 14

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Fee: $65 members/ $95 non-members Date: Thursday, February 16, 9 am to 12 pm Location: Center for Nonprofit Management, 2902 Floyd Street, Dallas Strategic Planning for Nonprofits Get the support you need from Board and Staff for priorities in serving the community.

Strategic Planning is critical to getting the alignment you need to further the mission of your organization. Learn how to develop a Strategic Plan in five phases: 1) Get organized 2)Take stock 3)Set direction 4) Develop your action plan and 5)Implement.

Instructor: Mary Jones, consultant for the Center for Nonprofit Management, Dallas Fee:$65 members/ $115 non-members Date: Wednesday, February 29, 9 am to 12 pm Location: Center for Nonprofit Management, 2902 Floyd Street, Dallas

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Mark your calendar

January 26

January 21

The Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture is bringing Isabel Wilkerson, author of Warmth of Other Suns for their Martin Luther King Day Celebration.

Pulitzer Prize winning author Isabel Wilkerson writes one of the great untold stories of history: the decades-long migration of Black folks who fled the South for northern and western cities, in search of a better life. From 1915 to 1970 almost six million Black families -- our cousins/ uncles/aunts/parents -- left the South, "went up North" or "out West to California" and changed the face of America. In Feb. The Third Eye will review the book.

Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012 3:00pm FREE at South Dallas Cultural Center 3400 S. Fitzhugh St. South Dallas, BLUSH Concert - Imaj performs in concert at the Black Academy of Arts and Letters in the Clarence Muse Theatre at 9p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or the TBAAL box office

Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Pan African Connection at 7 p.m.

The New Year Book Jubilee 2012 will be held from 11a-4p at the Southwest Center Mall, 3662 West Camp

January 20 Students, take time out from your super busy schedules, go to www.dfwabj.org and complete the application.

Teachers, professors and counselors, urge your students to apply. We extended the deadline to have your application in to January 20 and the program is scheduled to begin on January 28 at 9a.m. sharp at Lincoln Humanities and Communications Magnet High School.

Wisdom Road. Hosted by Texas Literacy connection and the Dock Bookshop.

January 29 BLUSH Concert - Imaj performs in concert at the Black Academy of Arts and Letters in the Clarence Muse Theatre at 9p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or the TBAAL box office

January 31

JANUARY20, 20,2012 2012 JANUARY

February 10 The Urban League Guild of Greater Dallas & North Central Texas in collaboration with Harwood 609 is excited to host this Pre-Valentine's So YOU Think YOU Can SWING! Competition and Love Celebration $10 presale tickets.

February 18 UNCF presents Red Hot & Snazzy at the Hyatt Regencydowntown Dallas with Morris Day & The Time. For tickets, call 972 234-1007.

February 24 The Marketing Lady presents SPEED M.I.N.G.L.E. FROM 6-8P.M. At the McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant , 307 NorthPark Center. For more info, call 972-985-5056.

Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas’ Annual Meeting and Community Report Luncheon will be held at the Hilton Anatole at 11:45 a.m.

Listen to and discuss excerpts from King’s Birth of a New Nation Speech

4:00pm - 5:00pm Dallas Public Library.

Jamal Joseph, author of PANTHER BABY: A Life of Rebellion and Reinvention. Jamal Joseph, author of PANTHER BABY: A Life of Rebellion and Reinvention (February 2012) who, in the 1960s, exhorted students at Columbia University to burn their college to the ground.

Today he's Chair of their School of the Arts film division.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosts A Roundtable Discussion - MOVING UP, MOVING FORWARD: Mobilizing Our Community to End Violence Against Women and Children.

9am-12pm at Methodist Dallas Medical Center Hitt Auditorium, 1441 N. Beckley Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75203. The panel members are: Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins First Lady Serita Jakes of the Potter’s House Gloria Terry - President, Texas Council on Family Violence Debra Mitchell Ibe - Director of Community Outreach at The Family Place Det. Jon Lumbly - Dallas Police Department Dr. Alina Suris - UT Southwestern.

Moderator - Cheryl Smith

January 22 Childrens' Story Time, 3 p.m.

Pan African Connection

Bring the Whole Family for an Afternoon of Fun and Learning.

Skits, Storytelling, Arts & Craft all Celebrating the Life and Work of Dr. Martin Luther King Refreshments Provided Free and open to the Public

Tune in to Cheryl’s World on Blogtalkradio.com weekdays at 9a.m.

Monday, January 23 Join Cheryl, Phyllis Alphabet and Lady T • Black Economic History Fact of the Day

Tuesday, January 24

Wednesday, January 25

Thursday, January 26

Friday, January 27

J o i n C h e r y l , P h y l l i s J o i n C h e r y l , P h y l l i s J o i n C h e r y l , P h y l l i s Join Cheryl, Phyllis Alphabet and Lady T Alphabet and Lady T Alphabet and Lady T Alphabet and Lady T • Black Economic History Black Economic History Black Economic History • • Black Economic History • Fact of the Day Fact of the Day Fact of the Day Fact of the Day

Tune in to Reporters Roundtable on Soul 73 KKDA Sundays at 8a.m.

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I Messenger Cheryl Smith, Publisher Established 2011 IMessenger is a tribute to Le Messager, founded by Cameroonian journalist Pius Njawe and The Messenger, an independent magazine, founded by labor activist A . Philip Randolph and economist Chandler Owen.

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