I Messenger 2-15

I MESSENGER NO 2 ISSUE 15 DECEMBER 21, 2012

NO 2 ISSUE 15

BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

DECEMBER 21, 2012

Spread love and joy around the world!

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I MESSENGER

NO 2 ISSUE 15

BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

DECEMBER 21, 2012

Kwanzaa - A cultural holiday

As an African American and PanAfrican holiday celebrated by millions throughout the world Af rican community, Kwanzaa brings a cultural message which speaks to the best of what it means to be African and human in the fullest sense.

Given the profound significance Kw a n z a a h a s f o r A f r i c a n Americans and indeed, the world A f r i c a n c o m m u n i t y, i t i s imperative that an authoritative source and site be made available to give an accurate and expansive

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account of its origins, concepts, values, symbols and practice.

Moreover, given the continued rapid growth of Kwanzaa and the parallel expanded discussion of it and related issues, an authoritative source which aids in both framing and informing the discussion is l i ke w i s e o f t h e g r e a t e s t importance. Therefore, the central interest of this website is to provide information which reveals and reaffirms the integrity, beauty and expansive meaning of the holiday and thus aids in our approaching it with the depth of thought, dignity, and sense of specialness it deserves.

T h e h o l i d a y, t h e n w i l l o f necessity, be engaged as an ancient and living cultural tradition which reflects the best of African thought and practice in its reaffirmation of the dignity of the human person in community and culture, the well-being of family

and community, the integrity of t h e environment and our kinship with it, and the r i c h r e s o u r ce and meaning of a p e o p l e 's culture.

It is within t h i s understanding, then, that the Organization Us , the f o u n d i n g organization of Kw a n z a a a n d t h e authoritative keeper of the tradition, has established and maintains this website. /////// /////// ///////

Dr. Maulana Karenga

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I MESSENGER

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

Message to the People...

INSIDE I MESSENGER December 21, 2012

IMAJ 5

Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson

KWANZAA schedule 14

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.

IM ESSENGER is committed to informing, inspiring, enlightening and provoking thought in a forum that is international. Submissions for publication consideration may be submitted to www.myimessenger.com.

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For decades I have not placed much emphasis on the Christmas holidays. I usually take out time for reflection and preparation for the future, instead.

I still remember one Christmas morning when the phone rang as we opened gifts under our tree. The laughing and joyful noises were interrupted as the news came that my grandfather, the only grandfather I knew, had died.

Cheryl Smith I was 11 years old.

Now over the years, I have learned to appreciate the positive things about the holidays, instead of getting caught up in the paganistic or commercialization aspects.

Never one to feel pressured into purchasing gifts, I love the lights, decorations and beautiful songs that are a part of the season. I also love the way, for the most part, people are kinder and gentler. They seem to be more caring and loving, more generous and considerate.

Notwithstanding is the other element that exists and is more and more prevalent.

You know the persons who are attempting to use the season to their benefit, by hustling, robbing, murdering or scamming folks. Add those folks to the ones who are just unhappy, bent on destruction or are just bad elements, destroying the quality of life for others and you can see why some folks don’t look forward to the holidays There’s also the element taking advantage of a capitalistic society.

We know it all exists. Just look at how more and more stores are staying open longer as they entice and seduce shoppers.

I prefer to bask in the warm feeling I get from listening to “Silent Night” by the Temptations, “This Christmas” by the Whispers, “What do the Lonely do at Christmas” by the Emotions, and many of the other artists singing my favorite holiday songs.

For me, the holiday would be incomplete without hearing Donny Hathaway singing “This Christmas,” Nat King Cole singing “the Christmas Song,” Alexander O’Neal singing “My Gift to You,” or Kurtis Blow getting things started with “Christmas Rappin.

My mother’s favorites, “Please Come Home for Christmas” and “Christmas Time Comes but Once a Year” have become my favorite.

Oh, if only the spirit lasted year round. What a beautiful place this world would be.

This can be a lonely time also. Just like people are making sure that children have a merry Christmas complete with toys, we need to also make sure that the love reaches the elderly who are living alone, the lonely and sick and shut in, the homeless, and our military.

Whatever you choose to celebrate, this time and all times is a good time to reach out and touch someone’s hand.

Sing along with me: Bells will be ringing.....

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Cheryl

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CHERYL’S WORLD

The Pan-African Connection Bookstore Art Gallery and Resource Center

828 4th Ave., Dallas Texas 75226 (Across from Fair Park Music Hall)

Saturday December 22, 10 a.m.12noon Calling All Children!

Come join our City Wide Kwanzaa Youth Team (KYT) / Warriors Come learn how to Give a presentation about Kwanzaa at your church, school, or family event

DECEMBER 21, 2012

For more information contact Kwini Souleimane 214-897-3236 / 972-288-3988 Fun, Calming, and great class for parents and children!

Percussion/African Instrument and Rhythm Class

Tune in to Cheryl’s World on Blog Talk Radio, or call 646-200-0459 to hear informative, entertaining, enlightening and thought-provoking commentary and news with veteran journalist Cheryl Smith on Sundays at 8a.m. and “EDUCATING-The Good, The Bad, and The Hopeful” with Debra Brown Sturns on Mondays at 6p.m., aromatherapist Deborah Long Chambers on Tuesdays at 6p.m., Love A Natural Me with Yvette and Amy on Wednesdays at 6p.m., Young Generation Talk with Dareia Tolbert and Markel Slocumb on Thursdays at 6p.m., and See you at the Movies - with Jamille Bradfield on Fridays at 6p.m.

Age range Boundless' (everyone welcome) Learn to play Drums, alaphone, Shakeree, Agogo Bells, Kalimba, Kora and More

Instructor Professor 'D' $5.00 Donation

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I MESSENGER

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It Has Begun! Legendary multi-platinum country artist Collin Raye tells everyone everywhere he goes, “Imaj is country’s next big star!” What makes Imaj such an amazing anomaly is that her mission has always been simply, “Peace & Love” — a movement that has been advocated since The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Janis Joplin and Michael Jackson…then along came Imaj to continue the Peace Movement.

What makes this so great is that Team Imaj has begun to expand her mission to not only spread world peace but to spread the awareness of Imaj and make the world a better place. You’ve heard the Breaking News: “IMAJ: Self-Titled Debut Album Set To Release This Summer/Fall!” We can’t

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

wait for the release! And now…we’re joining hands nationwide. Join us at “Team Imaj” her official street team!

All you have to do is: 1. Click “Join Group” here http://www.facebook.com/groups/ 352164268186566/ 2. And register here: http://imaj.wufoo.com/forms/z7x3x5/ When you’re done please share the group on Facebook and be ready to have some fun!!!

For those sharing on Twitter: Please Tweet the following: #TeamImaj: IT HAS BEGUN. http://bit.ly/M4btHz (Please Re-

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SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT...

School district responds to violence Dear Duncanville ISD Parents, The community of Newtown, Connecticut and Sandy Hook Elementary has been in our hearts and minds since the news of the school shooting on Friday. All those affected remain in our thoughts and prayers, especially families who have lost loved ones.

We recognize that some of our parents may have questions about safety procedures at their child's school, and the proactive measures that our district is taking to help ensure a safe environment for students and staff. This event has been a stark reminder of the importance of school safety, and prompts us to be reflective as we review our procedures.

We'd like to take this opportunity to share some of the processes we have in place, such as the Raptor visitor screening system, the 2001 bond-funded remodeling of all school entrances that requires visitors to enter through the office, regular evacuation drills, and close working relationships with local public safety officials.

The Duncanville ISD Board of Trustees also hired National School Safety and Security Services in 2010 to conduct a comprehensive safety audit that has helped strengthen our procedures. The CEO of this company has been interviewed by several news outlets over the past few days, and is considered the nation’s foremost authority on school safety The 2010 Safety Assessment included 140 individual interviews, site visits, and walk-through evaluations of all district facilities, a community forum, and a formal review of various safety documents. In their final report, National School Safety and Security Services identified 45 positive measures already in place within Duncanville ISD to promote school safety. Since that audit, we have continued to conduct regular safety reviews.

Although national safety experts have shared with the public over the past few days their belief that there is no way to guarantee that a tragedy like this will not happen in the future, we intend to continue to do all we can to keep students and staff as safe as possible while at school. Because this week may be difficult for our children, our counseling staff will be monitoring student behavior closely to ensure sensitivity to their responses to this difficult situation.

Below are some helpful tips from the National Association of School Psychologists about what parents can do at times like these: 1. Reassure children that they are safe.

2. Make time to talk.

3. Keep your explanations developmentally appropriate.

4. Review safety procedures.

5. Observe children's emotional state.

6. Limit television viewing of this event.

7. Maintain a normal routine.

A link to these tips with more detailed information is available on the district's Safety and Security web page. As the parent of five grown children and the grandfather of seven all under the age of seven, I assure you that my staff and I will continue to place a strong emphasis on safety in Duncanville ISD. Thank you for entrusting us with your children, and for your partnership in preparing them for the future.

Dr. Alfred L Ray, Superintendent Duncanville Independent School District The source of this message is the Duncanvi!e ISD website. More information on district safety and security measures can be found by visiting the Safety and Security department page on the website www.duncanvi!eisd.org.

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

School shootings: real solutions for parents

By Orrin Hudson The recent massacre in Newtown, Connecticut is a cry for help across our entire country. President Obama during a memorial service, said, "I'll use whatever power I have to prevent the type of tragedy that occurred... We all need to contribute in some way, shape or form to the betterment of our nation and communities."

And he was right!

Too often now, we are hearing about such massacres in different parts in the country.

Sometimes, they occur at schools, malls and even workplaces. Sometimes, the shooter is a child, sometimes he or she is an adult.

Regardless, we as a national community must start pushing the message to "THINK IT OUT, DON'T SHOOT IT OUT".

The problem is that many of us think we are separate from others; But we are universally one. One song. We normally

realize this when a tragedy strikes, but really we should realize this all along. Instead, we are walking in fear, not walking in love. We should be walking in love. We must move away from anger and fear towards each other.

We must embrace and promote life lessons, communication skills, and coping skills. We must teach to each other how to deal with life challenges, and solve problems peacefully. We must adapt slogans such as "Brain Before Bullets", and as mentioned before, "Think It Out, Don’t Shoot It Out." We must do more than talk; we must act and the time to act is now.

Parents: Talk to your children regularly and address their emotional needs. Learn how to identify the signs of depression and mental illness. Be on alert for signs that show mental instability, uncontrolled anger, and even unreasonableness. If needed, take action to get them the medical attention they need.

Also, take caution with the movies, video games, and music that your children are involved with. Garbage in, garbage stays!

Take caution when buying toy guns and such for your kids.

Such activities can stimulate violent desires and fantasies in your children Teach them to walk in love.

Teachers: Pay attention to your students.

Don't teach at them, teach to

them. Inspire them. Challenge them, but don't discourage them. Don't overwhelm them.

Don't create unnecessary stress for them that they can't handle.

Always remember that, in addition to school, students have a life at home. They are people, they are real. Be a friend, be a counselor.

Teach them to walk in love.

Communities: Embrace each other. Pay attention to each other's needs.

Eat meals together, and talk to each other - in person. If there is a problem or disagreement, settle it. And if someone has mental challenges, assist them.

Don't allow problems to go on unsettled. Also, don't be abusive in your speech towards each.

Words cut like knives, and some wounds never heal. Be effective.

Be compassionate. Be the solution.

Teach each other to walk in love.

This isn't where it ends, but it is definitely where it starts. So, let's start here, right here, right now!

Orrin "Checkmate" Hudson is an award-winning author and master motivational speaker who has inspired many to "make the right move" and solve problems peacefully.

He has taught many groups at churches, schools, organizations, and corporations. For more details and to watch his recent interview on CNN, visit www.besomeone.org or call (770) 465-6445.

I MESSENGER wants you to SPEAK YOUR MIND! Is there something on your mind? Is there something we should be thinking about? Your thoughts are welcomed on the opinion pages of I MESSENGER! We would love to hear from you. Send your thoughts to us at www.myimessenger.com along with your photo, a contact number and a brief bio. Submissions should not exceed 300 words.

The opinions expressed by columnists are not necessarily those of I MESSENGER.

Every manuntil hasa adesignated right to month his own opinion. Every race has a right Don’t wait to its own to go action; to the doctor-therefore let no man persuade you against your Cancer, hypertension, blood clots, kidney disease and will, let no other race influence you against your own. other ills are not paying attention to a calendar and neither should you!

Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey !

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OPINION

The Trotter Hypocrisy: Defend yourself - The hell with the community

By Charles Butler

-- Illinois Senator Donne Trotter (D-17), candidate for the now open 2nd Congressional seat, was arrested by TSA last Wednesday for trying to board an airplane at O'Hare Airport with a handgun and ammunition. He has been charged with a Class 4 felony.

Unfortunately, most of the coverage of this incident has missed the most important point: the double-standard of Sen. Trotter and other liberal politicians.

They vote time and time again for gun ban laws that enslave their constituents to the dictates of criminal gangs that have created war zones in their communities. A new gang member's rite of entry is to assassinate an innocent, law-abiding citizen. Sen. Trotter knows full well the many problems of the community and the fatal consequences of not being able to protect yourself on the street, which is why he carries a hand gun for protection, yet he votes against his constituents' right to protect themselves from criminals that are terrorizing the district.

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Community activists and Black politicians on all levels of government had sought to protect Black criminals from the criminal-justice system instead of the citizens they are preying on. This phenomenon started to the address police brutality against law-abiding black citizens, and protect and uphold our rights under the constitution. However, the focus became law enforcement's handling of black criminals as inhuman and undeserved. The result has been an abandonment of law enforcement in black communities across the nation. Law abiding citizens in our communities are left at the mercy of the criminals, and gangs, which I describe as Urban Terrorists. The killing in the black community will not stop as long as we have misguided politicians, preachers, and teachers about the right of black citizens to defend their life, family and property. The Congressional Black Caucus, and the rest of black politicians openly support the U.S. military freeing citizens from terrorist and the tyranny of brutal regimes while supporting the criminal control of it communities, by disarming law-abiding citizens.

Just last Monday, 11 people were shot in Chicago, some in broad daylight. The sad irony is that 10 of the shootings occurred in Sen. Trotter's district. This is intolerable and reprehensible by any standard of civility. When there is a killing involving white students it becomes a national story, yet the wonton killing of

Black and Brown children in Chicago has not been a feature in mainstream media. In Chicago for the school year ending in 2009, Chicago Public Schools reported 399 children wounded and 144 killed, a tragedy on which I spoke and CNN's Anderson Cooper covered on AC360.

Meanwhile, Sen. Trotter and other Progressive (liberal) politicians inoculate themselves from the tragic lives to which their constituents are relegated, arming themselves while disarming law-abiding citizens. In Chicago, even after the famous Supreme Court ruling on McDonald vs.

City of Chicago overturned Chicago's gun laws, Mayor Daley passed new restrictive gun laws just a week later while leaving intact for Aldermen a legal process to own and carry a concealed weapon. This despite what Justice Alito opined in the ruling: If, as petitioners believe, their safety and the safety of other law-abiding members of the community would be enhanced by the possession of hand- guns in the home for self-defense, then the Second Amendment right protects the rights of minorities and other residents of high-crime areas whose needs are not being met by elected public officials This past election season, we repeatedly heard that the most important issues to voters across the country were the economy, jobs, and healthcare, issues that are no doubt important. But here in Illinois' 2nd Congressional District we would be delighted if those issues were our primary

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

concern. Instead, the safety of our children and the hope that our family can make it to tomorrow unharmed is at the forefront of our (black) community.

How can we hope to move our community forward if our residents must spend their time concentrating on avoiding stray bullets and living to see another day?

The single mother without the means to care for her children, the father working 3 part-time jobs who never gets to see his family, and the kid ducking through the alley to avoid a gang war zone on his way to a crumbling school whose only recent technological advance was the installation of new metal detectors don't get to talk about unemployment rates, healthcare costs, or the minimum wage. They're focused on one thing: survival.

The issue facing our community is not simply guns: it is our very lives. Only when we secure a safe future for our children and our families can we begin to address the pressing needs of employment and education. But when politicians isolate themselves from the problem, ensuring legal ways in which they can pack guns every day in their purses and coat pockets, is there any hope of them finding a solution? I've had enough of the hypocrisy: it's time we had representation that actually understands the problem and works tirelessly to make our streets safe. All Americans have the inalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as defined by themselves, not activists, gangs, or politicians.

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CHERYL’S WORLD

A Holiday Blessing

By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (30th Congressional District of Texas)

I would like to wish each of you and your families a wonderful holiday season.

It is my hope that grace and joy will fill your hearts and that the coming year will bring great blessings to you and to those you love.

This is recognized as the season of giving. During this time people give gifts to those who are close to them.

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There are even some who give to those who they do not know.

There is a spirit inside of them that allows them to give beyond themselves.

Not too long ago, a member of the New York City Police Department witnessed a homeless man who had no shoes and socks sitting on a cold pavement.

He rushed to a shoe store and purchased a pair of boots for the man and knelt beside him as he placed them on his feet. The act was recorded by a tourist, and people the world over saw it in newspapers, on television and on the internet.

The act of the police officer represented the goodness that is in all of us. While we live in a world that often appears harsh, goodness does exist in the human spirit, allowing us to give, and give unselfishly.

And that is what I wish all of us will continue to do during the

DECEMBER 21, 2012

holidays and throughout the New Year.

Tune in to Cheryl’s World on We must check on the elderly Blog Talk Radio, or call who live alone, help our young 646-200-0459 to hear informative, people as they struggle with the entertaining, enlightening and thought-provoking hurdles that life presents and commentary and news with veteran journalist volunteer with charities that reach Cheryl Smith on Sundays at 8a.m. and out to assist those who struggle to “EDUCATING-The Good, The Bad, and The survive.

Hopeful” with Debra Brown Sturns on Mondays at As an elected official, I promise 6p.m., aromatherapist Deborah Long Chambers on you the gift of continued Tuesdays at 6p.m., Love A Natural Me with Yvette meaningful public service. and Amy on Wednesdays at 6p.m., Young Generation Talk with Dareia Tolbert and Markel I promise you that I will look Slocumb on Thursdays at 6p.m., and See you at the after the best interests of those Movies - with Jamille Bradfield on Fridays at 6p.m. who elected me and others who live in Texas and in our country.

I will continue to pray for each of you and for your wellness. I ask that you keep me and my family in your prayers.

May you experience a bountiful holiday season.

May peace, joy and love continue to warm your hearts and your souls.

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ямА -

By Jamille Bradfield I Messenger

DECEMBER 21, 2012

Three reels

amille Bradfield

Film Critic and Entertainment Writer

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Ask Gwen My Husband Told the Children: “No Christmas This Year.”

Dear Gwendolyn: I know our budget is low, but I would still like to see my children with toys.

We have an 8-year- old, 5-year-old and a 2 months old. I asked my husband not to talk with the children until I hear back from you. What do you think Gwendolyn? Would it matter if they got no toys?

Patricia Dear Patricia Of course it matters, especially to the 8-year-old and 5-year-old. Let me tell

you this: Toys are extremely expensive. I suggest you purchase toys that are not electronic. Those toys run in the hundreds of dollars.

During the months of November and December, a mass of toys are given by organizations, churches, and private donations. Check to see when charity groups are giving out toys in your area. Put your children’s name on the lists. By receiving large-priced gifts from organizations, that will allow you and your husband to purchase cheaper priced items. I also suggest that you plan a special dinner for Christmas Day. Bake a cake so that the house can have the aroma of holiday cheer. Let the children participate in putting a slice of cake on the table for Santa.

Patricia, think about it. Give your children a happy childhood regardless to the economy. They will never forget the joy they had on Christmas 2012. Childhood is free of adult responsibilities. But as they grow into adulthood, they too will experience the troubles of this world, so — make them happy now.

Gwendolyn Baines is an author, lecturer and syndicated advice columnist. The “Ask Gwendolyn Baines” advice column is distributed by the National Newspaper Publishers’ Association. (NNPA)-Washington, D.C.

Faith leaders commit to addressing HIV/AIDS in the black community (Atlanta, GA) – The NAACP hosted its 14th annual National Religious Leaders Summit in Atlanta last week to help move the faith community back to its long-held leadership role in matters of social justice.

Faith leaders committed to working with the NAACP to address the HIV/AIDS crisis and other important issues.

“The NAACP is committed to strengthening our historical connection with the faith community at this crucial moment in our nation’s history," said NAACP Chairman Roslyn M. Brock. “We are excited to continue our partnership in the coming year.”

During the three-day meeting, held December 10 to 12, faith and lay leaders created a post-election political agenda for communities of faith, focused on protecting voting rights and advancing strategies for job creation in the African American community. Chairman Brock helmed a dialogue session with mainline protestant denominations to discuss the NAACP’s Five Strategic “Game Changer” areas.

A significant outcome of the dialogue was a national commitment from faith leaders to address HIV/AIDS in the black community, in response to the NAACP’s report The Black Church and HIV: The Social Justice Imperative. The leaders agreed to work with the NAACP to expand HIV testing opportunities and offer faithbased training and prevention education in

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Arbor Day Foundation build environmental leaders with support from Toyota

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– Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, launched an aggressive campaign to recruit and train environmental leaders at colleges and universities across the country through a new partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation and the sponsorship of Toyota.

Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded in 1908 in Washington, DC, and is the oldest Greek-lettered organization established by African-American, college-educated women.

Under the new partnership, nine paidinternships for college students will be offered to engage Alpha Kappa Alpha chapters in tree-planting events and help their respective campuses achieve Tree Campus USA recognition. Alpha Kappa Alpha previously worked with the Foundation and Toyota in 2012 on a series of campus tree-plantings, primarily at historically-black colleges and universities.

The Foundation will lead a pilot orientation training session today in Atlanta for the newly selected Arbor Day Foundation interns comprised of undergraduate members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., from various U.S. chapters. Attorney Sharon Bridges, chairman of the International Program Committee, and committee members !

DECEMBER 21, 2012

churches, seminaries, historically black colleges and universities and organizational national conventions.

The Summit featured a national training session on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention that was attended by approximately 100 pastors, faith leaders and members of local NAACP units and state conferences. Representatives attended from cities with some of the highest rates of HIV prevalence.

"The commitment to engage in this important work from the highest offices of these denominations solidified the Black Church's overall concern and commitment to reverse the HIV/AIDS epidemic,” said Ms. Brock.

Faith leaders also paid tribute to a leader of their own. A Master Preacher Award was bestowed upon Rev. Joseph Lowery for lifetime achievement in civil and human rights advocacy.

“Rev. Lowery represents a lifetime of preaching and living the gospel of justice and fairness,” stated Rev. Nelson Rivers III, Vice President of Stakeholder relations with the NAACP. “It was a powerful moment for all the generations present to see a civil rights icon like Dr. Lowery, as well as Dr. C.T. Vivian, another legend who presented him the award.”

The black churches represented at the meeting included AME Zion, Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME), Black Methodist for Church Renewal (BMCR), National Baptist Convention-USA, National Baptist Convention of America, Progressive National Baptist and Primitive National

Baptist.

Jennifer Congleton and Manitia Moultrie are among those participating in the training.

The initiative supports Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s programmatic theme: Global Leadership Through Timeless Service.

“Today we expand opportunities to Undergraduate members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., through our partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation,” said Carolyn House Stewart, the sorority’s International President.

“They will receive substantive training related to environmental stewardship and sustainability and will share this information by hosting a myriad of programs and events on their respective campuses.”

"Toyota is delighted by this exciting partnership to broaden the reach and diversity of the Tree Campus USA program and educate students about the importance of caring for campus forests,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, group vice president of National Philanthropy and the Toyota USA Foundation at Toyota Motor North America.

During 2011, the Arbor Day Foundation and Toyota helped campuses throughout the country plant 30,000 trees, and Tree Campus USA colleges and universities have invested more than $22 million in campus forest management. A complete list of participating colleges and universities is available at arborday.org/ TreeCampusUSA.

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

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• College funding • Paying off existing student loan debt • Paying off credit card debt • Paying off a mortgage • Supplementing retirement • Purchasing a home

As discussed on =YWO^RSXQ 8K^_\KV|

blog talkradio www.blogtalkradio.com

Aromatherapy That Works!

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• Starting a business • Church funding & building expansion • Paying off judgments • Eliminate Bankruptcies (Chapters: 7,8.11 & 13) • Any legal financial need…

Anyone can receive a grant if you know the secret to applying and how to access the grant providers. If you are interested in receiving a grant, let me show you how. Send an email to: clsgrant1@aol.com

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

Something Natural

DECEMBER 21, 2012

Dallas' newest restaurant & dinner club!

SPECIAL

with Deborah Chambers

Lavender – The Most Versatile of Essential Oils Lavender is regarded as the most versatile essential oil for therapeutic purposes. Its fragrance is easily recognized, as it has been used for many years in cosmetics and linen water.

René-Maurice Gattefossé, a French chemist, coined the term ‘aromatherapy’ in 1928.

He worked in his family’s perfumery business, and discovered that lavender was responsible for the rapid healing of a severe burn on his hand.

After this d i s c o v e r y, h e became fascinated with the therapeutic possibilities of oils and continued to study the effects of natural essences versus synthetic substitutes.

Essential oils should almost always be diluted because of their potency.

However, lavender is one of the few exceptions to this rule. It can be applied directly to the skin and is especially effective in the treatment of burns, insect bites, cuts, and abrasions. It is antiseptic and analgesic in nature. It even works well as an insect repellant!

Perhaps the most beneficial use of lavender for the aging is its calming properties. It tempers extreme emotional states with a sense of rationality and relaxes nervous tension. It is great for

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insomnia. To calm the restless mind at bedtime, 3 to 5 drops of lavender essential oil should be placed on a cotton ball and wrapped in a tissue. Place the tissue in the pillowcase near your nose. Breathing the aroma of lavender from your pillow will lull you into a peaceful state, facilitating a good night’s sleep. Because of the toxins found in synthetic chemicals, synthetic sleeping aids can cause bad dreams and leave you disoriented and drowsy the next day. This is not the case with lavender.

Essential oils are natural and leave no toxins behind.

Under the direction of a certified Aromatherapist, lavender can be used in many therapeutic essential oil blends to address a wide range of discomforts.

It blends especially well with chamomile for the relief of rheumatoid arthritis.

Leg cramps can be very painful and can sometimes wake you in the middle of the night. A blend of lavender, rosemary, and marjoram massaged into the leg and feet at bedtime can make a world of difference, and create a night of uninterrupted sleep.

Great place for lunch, happy hour and dinner!

Watch your favorite sporting events!

Enjoy scrumptious dishes and signature drinks!

Opening Schedule MTW 10 am - 9 p.m.

Thurs., Fri & Sat open 10 a.m. until close Sun. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

All-you-can-eat buffet Sat. 1-4 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Happy hour Mon-Fri 4 - 7 p.m.

$6.99 lunch special (Mon- Fri)

3662 W. Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas, TX 75237 (972) 298-2110 (Located at Southwest Center Mall between Sears and Macy's - free parking) bgofdallas@gmail.com www.bgofdallas.com

Let us host or cater your event!

The majesty of the plant world extends further than the eye can see. Lavender not only smells good, it is good for you in many ways.

For more information, call (972) 501-9470 Deborah Long Chambers, Certified Aromatherapist CEO, Designs for Living Comfortably www.livingcomfortably.com

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

ALL ABOUT BUSINESS FITNESS ACTIVATOR LAUNCHES MAD COOL FITNESS, A NEW HEALTH AND WELLNESS BRAND FOR REAL WOMEN

By day, Jennifer Turner is a highpowered media executive. By night, Ms. Turner lifes mission is to empower others to "activate" their innate ability to have a healthy lifestyle and achieve happiness. A certified American Council On Exercise (ACE) Group Fitness Instructor and a Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant, Ms. Turner was not always "fit." As a teenager, she developed eating

-- Accomplished Marathoner/ Triathlete Creates An Exciting New Total Body, Cardio Dance Workout -"Fitness Activator," Jennifer Turner.

Photo courtesy of Mad Cool Fitness New York, NY (BlackNews.com) -- This week, self proclaimed Fitness Activator Jennifer Turner, an Athleta Sponsored Athlete and a 2012 ING New York City Marathon Featured Athlete, is launching her new health and wellness brand for real women called, MAD COOL FITNESS. She will feature the first product from the MAD COOL FITNESS brand, which is a new workout DVD called, MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY, at the Athleta store in New York City.

The MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY is a total body, cardio dance workout that is low impact, but, high in results. From working the abs and arms to toning the "junk in your trunk," the MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD is a great and fun way, for beginners to more health conscious persons, to combat the holiday season weight gain blues and take charge of their health.

"I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to launch the MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD. I wanted to create a fitness workout that was fun and accessible and that represents real women for real women," said Jennifer Turner. "I truly hope MAD COOL FITNESS and the MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD workout can be the tools to help people get started on a path towards living a healthier lifestyle."

The MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD features over 50 minutes of cardio exercise routines, including a warm-up and cool down, that targets the abs, arms and more, while rocking out to a great mix of pop, funk and R&B sounds. Shot on location in Brooklyn, New York, the MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD also features diverse women of all body types as well as interviews with them on what inspires them to be healthy. The MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD will be available on www.madcoolfitness.com for $14.95 on January 7, 2013.

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to move through content, social support, and multi-pronged tools to support long-term healthy and active living. MAD COOL FITNESS gives consumers the tools and inspiration to achieve long-term health and happiness.

For more information on Jennifer Turner, visit www.JenniferTurner.com.

For information on the MAD COOL CARDIO DANCE PARTY DVD, the MAD COOL FITNESS program, class schedule, and lifestyle tools, visit www.madcoolfitness.com

Single Moms Organization adds Dads to Christmas List Plano TX – Gifts For Moms, an organization that provides Christmas gifts and resources for single moms, has added fathers to the list of the hundreds of moms they provide for each year.

"Fitness Activator," Jennifer Turner.

Photo courtesy of Mad Cool Fitness

“This year we saw a surprising number of fathers who are the sole custodians of their children and we have found they struggle with the same issues that moms do; so this year, we gladly opened our group up to them,� said Stephanie Ward, Founder.

Every year, single parents of small children find themselves sitting alone on Christmas Day with no presents to open. They are glad that their children are happy, but secretly saddened because there is nothing under the tree for them. Gifts For Moms, a

DECEMBER 21, 2012

nonprofit organization that provides Christmas gifts to single mothers, has kicked o its 2012 gift drive with the hopes of providing more than 300 gifts to single moms and dads in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Stephen Thompson was the first father added to the list of over 300 moms. Thompson was recently divorced and given sole custody of children 1 and 5 years old. Since the divorce, Thompson has struggled to make ends meet. The task has been made more diďŹƒcult by high daycare bills and trying to furnish his apartment. “I never dreamt it would be this hard,â€? he said. “There is just nothing left for extras after all the bills are paid. Having a gift would be really nice,â€? he smiled.

Another man on this list is taking care of 6 small children after his wife recently died. He collects cans in his neighborhood to sell for extra money. “A single parent is a single parent,� said Ward. “My heart goes out to anyone struggling to raise children alone in a sagging economy with high unemployment.�

GFM is asking donors to visit the web site to review a list of requested gifts, make a cash donation or purchase a gift card from a department store, restaurant, or movie theater. Gifts For Moms is also accepting new gifts valued at $40 or more. To make a donation, go to the web site www.gifts4moms.org, or call 214.774.2194.

disorders and truly struggled with her weight. In 1998, while attending Stanford Universitys Business School, Ms. Turner was tired of crash diets and decided to make a life change. She embraced fitness and stopped focusing on the results, but rather

focused on the process of living an active lifestyle.

More than 40 years ago, Bailey's Furniture started out as a small, local antique store. Over the years, we have grown and expanded our inventory and services. Now we offer beautiful contemporary and Fast forward to traditional furniture, as well as design services.

2012, Ms. Turner Some of the things we offer include: has completed 7

12 Months no interest (subject to credit approval) marathons, 90 Days Same as cash financing including the 45 Day Price match guarantee Boston Marathon 6 Month Layaway (twice) and the New York City Whether for the home or office, you will find everything you need at Bailey's Furniture of Dallas, Texas.

Simple accessories, decorative accents, and full-size furniture and room collections make us the place to Marathon go for all your decorating needs. (twice). She has Located at 3910 W Camp Wisdom Rd. Dallas, TX 75237 also completed 12 Hours of Operation: (' 25 +# 2 & 5 ) & 4 -.+ 2 & 5 ) & triathlons.

Telephone:

Fax:

Visit our Website: Baileysfurnituresite.com

Leveraging her business acumen, along with her creative and fitness backgrounds, Ms. Turner founded MAD COOL FITNESS, a comprehensive fitness/lifestyle brand that works to inspire everyday people !

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

DECEMBER 21, 2012

THE THIRD EYE & Community Based Organizations Annual Citywide Kwanzaa Pre Kwanzaa 4p.m. Dec. 18 Griot Storyteller, Afi Bell, will share Kwanzaa stories, songs, drumming, dance, arts and crafts. Join the celebration at Nash Davis Recreation Center, 3710 N. Hampton Road. Call 214-374-1192.

3 p.m. Sun. Dec. 23 - Theme “We Love Mama Africa” - Storytelling, Arts and Crafts, Children’s Kwanzaa presentation, Poetry, Kwanzaa songs, Food and Speakers -Pan African Connection 828 Fourth St. 214-943-8262 Umoja (oo-MO E-jah)Unity Wed. Dec. 26, 2012 To strive for a principled and harmonious togetherness in the family, community, nation and race-UNITY. 10:30 AM Griot Storyteller, Afi Bell, will share Kwanzaa stories, songs, drumming, dance, arts and crafts. Join the celebration at Bookmarks Library at North Park Mall 8687 N. Central Expressway #1314 Dallas TX Call 214-374-1192 1:00pm “We Love Mama Africa” Kwanzaa Umoja Rally featuring our Kwanzaa Choir, live bands, speakers, and vendors.

Pan African Connection Bookstore, 828 Fourth Street. Call 214-943-8262 http:// panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net 3:00pm The Griot Storyteller, Afi Bell, will share Kwanzaa celebration activities at The Highland Hills Library, 3624 Simpson Stuart. Dallas, TX Call 214-374-1192 6:00pm The Forever Forward Youth Movement celebrates with “A Salute to Greatness: A Conversation with Our Elders”. Park Manor Senior Housing, 3333 Edgewood Dallas. African ritual, drumming, and the elders will share their life experiences. Contact 214-942-0117.

7 p.m. “Africans Get Organized”- Inviting all progressive organizations to come together to discuss how we can collective work together for the Unity , Liberation , Africa and working class people around the world. . Pan African Connection Bookstore, 828 Fourth Street.

Call 214-943-8262. Call 214-943-8262 http://panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net Kujichagulia (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah) Self Determination Thurs., Dec. 27, 2012 To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves 7:00pm Concerned Citizens of DeSoto celebrates with a program of dancing, cultural presentations and the Kwanzaa ceremony. Please bring canned goods for their food pantry. A communal dinner will be served. DeSoto Civic Center-Hampton & Pleasant Run, DeSoto. Call 972-298-6001. thelclardy@aol.com 3:00pm “Kirikou and the Sorceress” a children’s traditional animated feature film drawn from West African folk tales, depicts how a newborn boy, Kirikou, saves his village. Pan African Connection Bookstore, 828 Fourth Street.

Call 214-943-8262 panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net Ujima (oo-JEE-mah) Collective Work & Responsibility Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 To build and maintain our community together and to make our Brother's and Sister's problems, our problems and to solve them together.

12 noon The Griot Storyteller will host a Ujima workshop on how to practice the principle daily by recognizing and respecting that without collective work and struggle, progress is impossible and liberation unthinkable at White Rock Library, 9150 Ferguson Road. Call 214-374-1174.

7:00pm “ A Tribute to Freedom Fighter Paul Robeson” A discussion and viewing of the documentary ‘The Tallest Tree in Our Forrest’. Paul Robeson was a genius who gave his heart and soul to the people. Community activists, labor organizers and human rights workers will share their insight and wisdom Pan African Connection Bookstore, 828 Fourth Street. Call 214-943-8262 http://panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) Cooperative Economics Sat. December 29, 2012 To build and maintain our own stores, shops and businesses and to profit from them.

5-7:00pm “Ujamaa Networking Session” Inviting all small non-profits and for profit businesses to come together to share how we can collectively build and sustain businesses in our community in these harsh economic times. Pan African

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Connection Bookstore, 828 Fourth Street. South Dallas, Call 214-943-8262 http:// panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net 7:00pm NCOBRA presents a discussion on “Why are African Descendants Entitled to Reparations? The Trans-Atlantic Slave "Trade" and chattel slavery, more appropriately called the African Holocaust, was a crime against humanity. Millions of Africans throughout the Diaspora were brutalized, murdered and kidnapped from their communities in Africa. Chattel slavery lasted officially from 1619 to 1865. Pan African Connection Bookstore. 828 Fourth Street. Call 214-943-8262 http:// panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net Nia (nee-AH) Purpose Sunday, December 30, 2012 To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

2:00pm St Luke’s “Community” United Methodist Church, 5710 East R L Thornton, celebrates creativity with a program of drumming, dancing, and the Kwanzaa ceremony. Contact Paula Watkins 214-926-0173 for more details.

7:00 pm “Culture as a Weapon In our Struggle: Music and Revolution” Come share with us how music can be used as a tool for our liberation. Special guest artists and young adults in the Hip/Hop business and various arts genres will discuss how to transform and organize our society through the cultural arts. Guests TBA. Pan African Connection Bookstore, 828 Fourth Street. Call 214-943-8262 http:// panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) Creativity Monday, December 31, 2012 To do always as much as we can in the way that we can in order to leaveour community more beautiful and beneficial than when we inherited it.

3:00pm “Salute to African Women”. A short film on Amy Ashwood Garvey and presentation on Amy Jacques Garvey - two Pan-African women who were organizers in the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League -both were the wives of the ‘Back to Africa Movement Leader’, Marcus Mosiah Garvey. We will salute the women in our personal families and histories. Please bring pictures and stories of strong women (big mama’s, play mamas, aunties, Sunday school teachers, educators, and neighbors, etc.) to honor their example and sacrifice they made for family and community. Pan African Connection 828 Fourth Street Dallas Call 214-943-8262 http://panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net 5:00pm “Creating Our Future” The South Dallas Cultural Center will celebrate with the Pan African Connection Bookstore at the store – 828 Fourth Street. Our youth will share their musical, literary and dance talents. Bring a dish for the Karamu Feast that will follow. Call Vicki Meek, at 214-670-0315. l 214-943-8262 http:// panafricanconnection.com or email panafric@airmail.net 7:00pm Join us for the “Kwanzaa Ancestral Masquerade Ball” Please come dressed as your favorite African/African American historical person or personality. African Market will be open. Please bring a dish to share. (No pork). The Act of Change Located at 3200 South Lancaster, Ste. 623. Call Esudele 214-500-7747. Afi, 214-374-1192, 214-434-8009, or ISIS – 214-329-3820. for more information about the celebration.

Imani (ee-MAH-nee) Faith Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013 To believe, with all our heart, in our Creator, our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.

No public programs scheduled. Celebrate at home with the “Day of Assessment and Meditation.” Historically Jan. 1st has been for African people a time of sober assessment of things done and things to do, of self-reflection and reflection on the life and future of our people and recommitment to their highest cultural values in a special way.

Kwanzaa is based upon the premise of Kawaida: "that social revolutionary change for Black America can be achieved by the act of revealing and disclosing individuals to their African cultural heritage." Each year, on January 1st, Dr. Karenga suggests that we ask ourselves the three (3) Kawaida questions, originally posed by Frantz Fanon, author of "Wretched of the Earth.“ 1. Who am I? "To answer the question correctly is to know and live one's history and to practice one's culture." 2. Am I really all I say I am? To answer we must employ cultural criteria of authenticity, i.e., criteria of what is real and unreal, what is appearance and essence, what is culturally-rooted and foreign. 3 Am I all I ought to be? “To answer the question is to self-consciously possess and use ethical and cultural standards which measure men, women and children in terms of the quality of their thought and practice in the context of who they are and must become – as African people, creators of Civilization." !

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IMESSENGER

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

Mark your calendar December 20 Balch Springs Chamber of Commerce Customer Appreciation Mixer Catering provided by La Iguana Taqueria La Quinta Inn 12875 Seagoville Rd Balch Springs TX 75180 6:00pm-7:30pm ********* Jan Tennyson is coming to Th3rd Thursday Champion's Luncheon on December 20th @12noon at Edison’s, 1724 Cockerel Ave, Dallas. . Jan is the Founder & Executive Director of Dare to Dream Children's Foundation. She will sharing her dazzling story of "DARE TO DREAM."

A CHRISTMAS BUFFET ON THE MOUNT!

Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1233 State Highway 66, in Garland, presents the Comedy Drama: The Christmas Buffet, Sunday, December 23rd, at both the 7:50 am and 11 am services. The presentation is centered around a Christmas Dinner Party, in which the invited guests include the poor and the rich. The end result is an Evangelistic awakening you don't want to miss! The Christmas Buffet is free and open to the public. For more information, call Mike Richards at 972-276-5218 or go to www.onthemount.org.

December 22 artcetera Invites you to an evening of art featuring Artist Frank Frazier Introducing the Shoe Polish series Saturday December 22, 2012 4 pm-7 pm Special Deals Available!!

Cash Sales Are Wonderful! artcetera 1808 Wheeler Ave. Houston, TX 77004

Environmental Waste Services will run residential trash, recycling and brush/bulky goods collections a day late, with Tuesday routes collected on Wednesday, Wednesday routes collected on Thursday, Thursday routes collected on Friday, and Friday routes collected on Saturday. All containers and brush and bulky goods should be at the collection point by 7 a.m. on collection day. The Recycling Center, Transfer Station and Hinton Landfill will be open Dec. 24, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

December 26 FIRST DAY OF KWANZAA December 28 Verizon Theatre Grand Prairie 8:00pm KEM & Rickey Smiley ****** New Orleans native Lynette Norris Wilkinson will sign copies of her awardwinning book, “UNTOLD: The New Orleans 9th Ward You Never Knew” at Barnes and Noble—Uptown Village Cedar Hill, Friday, Dec. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. UNTOLD features the riveting true stories of 16 Hurricane Katrina survivors young and old from the New Orleans Lower 9th Ward, and is one of the few books that focuses on the devastated area. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to know the real story behind the faces and images shown during Katrina, and learn from the touching stories of survival, faith, history and community. UNTOLD was named Book of the Year by the Sankofa Literary Society, nominated for the Christian Literary Award, and received film credit in the National Geographic film Forecast Disaster: Deadly Floods. Proceeds from the Godinspired book will be donated to an organization helping residents recover. For more information, call 972.283.0586 or visit www.HurricaneKatrinaStories.com. Barnes and Noble—Uptown Village Cedar Hill is located at 305 West FM 1382 Suite 520, Cedar Hill, TX 75104, 972-291-1169.

200 Head Start Greater Dallas families and Grandparent Raising a Child. The goal was to invite them to attend a holiday event and donate toys. As of today we have more children than toy donation attending and we don't have the heart to turn children away.

Jan. 6 Enjoy Inspired Spoken word * World Class Clean Comedy* Live Entertainment* Singing* Dinner Buffet a special musical performance from BET's SUNDAY BEST show (Andrea Helms) & Much More....Including JUST added "Yarbrough & People's" live performance of there brand new Gospel single entitled "I'm In" "FIRST SUNDAY'S" Jan. 6th, 2013 Enjoy Inspired Spoken word * World Class Clean Comedy* Live Entertainment* Singing* Dinner Buffet a special musical performance from BET's SUNDAY BEST show (Andrea Helms) & Much More....Including JUST added "Yarbrough & People's" live performance of there brand new Gospel single entitled "I'm In"And Live Performance by "Norris Spivey" A 5 Time Rhythm Award Nominee. *If you've been then you know & if you haven't then please join us for this fun & dynamic experience! **And Exclusive Vendor Opportunities***

*** Starting Sunday Jan. 6, 2013 (12 consecutive Sundays) 4 to 6:30PM Path~Way to Life Center of Hope 302 West Palestine Street Hutchins, TX 75141

(12 minutes South of Downtown Dallas off HWY 45)

January 1, 2013

Register NOW Space is limited WWW.CynthiaMickens.com

Will you please help us by donating a toy or two, more if you can but at this point helping with one additional child is better than none; age ranging from 3-8 years old. The event is Saturday, December 22nd @ Southwest Center Mall from 1-4pm. You can drop toys off at the mall or I will gladly come and get the toy donations. Contact me @ 214-957-1486 or via email @ cmoretrio@yahoo.com.

December 23 Tune in to Cheryl’s World with guest HealthyWage co-founder David Roddenberry

December 25 Merry Christmas! !

Jan. 9

Featuring: Avery Sunshine, Melanie Camacho, & Junior 2013 Heart of Dallas Bowl Game: Purdue Boilermakers vs.

Oklahoma State Cowboys Jan. 1, 2013 11:00 a.m.

Cotton Bowl Stadium: 3750 The Midway Dallas, TX 75210

The Heart of Dallas Bowl presented by PlainsCapital Bank will kick off at Cotton Bowl Stadium on Jan. 1, 2013, at 11 a.m. The Purdue Boilermakers will face off against the Oklahoma State Cowboys and be broadcast live on ESPNU-TV. Net profits from the event will benefit charities serving the homeless population in Dallas. For tickets and more information, visit theheartofdallasbowl.com, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @WeHeartDallas.

Contact Number: 214-774-1370 email: tickets@theheartofdallas.org

http://www.theheartofdallasbowl.com

DECEMBER 21, 2012

WATCHNIGHT SERVICE ON THE MOUNT!

You are invited to bring in the new year on THE MOUNT! The Celebration will take place at 1233 Highway 66, in Garland.

Come out and hear the children's choir (Genesis of Praise), the youth choir (True Praise), the Senior Choir (Spirit Of Caleb), The Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church Mass Choir, plus the combined Praise Dance Ministries. Senior Pastor Leonard O. Leach has prepared and inspiring and moving message to launch you into 2013, and, breakfast will be served immediately following the Service. Don't miss Watchnight Service on THE MOUNT! For more information contact Aaron Gaddis at 972-276-5218, email socialmedia@onthemount.org or call 972-276-5218 or go to www.onthemount.org.

Happy New Year

******

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Most City of Garland offices and facilities will be closed Dec. 24 and 25 for Christmas.

GLOSSARY w/ Telegraph Canyon 8pm at Dan’s Silverleaf, 103 Industrial Street, Denton, TX $10 adv/$13 dos

January 11

December 31 !

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

NO 2 ISSUE 15

January 13 100th ANNIVERSARY DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC

show, festivities will include DJ music, food, door prizes, casino games, vendors and formal check presentations!

January 31 JANUARY EDUCATION PROGRAM STUCK IN TRAFFIC......STILL

January 30

January 15 Irving International Women's Consortium Getting The Job You Want In a Tough Market 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM WHERE: Irving Chamber of Commerce 5201 N. O'Connor Blvd., Vault Room Irving TX 75039

January 23 SAVE THE DATE: BET VINDICATION featuring JOYCE ANN BROWN 1.23.2013

hosted by MORRIS CHESTNUT

http://www.bet.com/shows/ vindicated/morrischestnut.html

November 9-14

Art Centre Theatre 2012 Awards Ceremony

ACT's 2012 Awards banquet will be at Prestonwood Country Club - Creek this year 15909 Preston Rd. Dallas TX 75248

January 31

Beauty Industry Champions Cruise & Educational Summit 2013!

Cruise dates are November 9-14, 2013

SEND US YOUR CALENDAR ITEMS! Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce

registration at 11:30 am, program from Noon-1:30 pm WHERE: Center for Community Cooperation (2900 Live Oak, Dallas, TX 75201) Gulf/Rio Room

2013 Event Schedule

WHAT: As anyone who drives our streets and roadways knows, transportation has an enormous impact on our quality of life.

Come hear Ron Natinsky, former Dallas City Councilman and Chair of the Regional Transportation Council, discuss the state of transportation issues in our North Texas region. Learn about current projects and future transportation solutions and how they will affect our pocketbooks, our air quality, and our lifestyles.

29th Annual Quest For Success Awards Luncheon Monday, February 4, 2013 @ 12:00 noon Dallas Convention Center-Ballroom A

January 25

COST: This program is free and open to all. A boxed lunch may be reserved with a $10.00 advance payment.

Crimson Sunset An Evening of Jazz 6:00 pm - 9:00pm

Tickets: $35 Hor d'oeuvres Silent Auction

RSVP: Click here or via mail-- checks payable to WCDC, P.O. Box 833004, Richardson, TX 75083-3004. Please indicate if you want a vegetarian/cheese or chicken or beef salad box lunch. Lunch orders are due by Monday, January 28.

Reservations without lunch- online, email toprograms@dallaswomenscouncil.orgor leave a message at 972-238-5508.

event 1013 1013 E 25th St Plano, TX 75075

February 9 Grambling State University Marching Band to perform at halftime for our annual African American Heritage Night.

After party on the Platinum Level at the AAC (Audi Club) post game with DJ Ro Parrish.

January 26 The 2013 UNCF’s An Evening of Stars® television special promises to be an awesome show! It will broadcast locally on TXA21 Saturday January 26th. We invite you to be a part of the local celebration by attending the “Super Viewing” party fundraiser benefiting UNCF’s Campaign for Emergency Student Aid.

The party will held on Saturday January 26th at 6:30 pm at Eddie Deen’s Ranch in downtown Dallas. In keeping with the fun "Texas theme" of this popular establishment guests will be invited to come dressed in their finest "Western Attire” (think “cowboy boots, stetson hats….”denim & diamonds”). In addition to the AEOS

16th Annual Excellence In Education Scholarship Luncheon Friday, April 5, 2013 @ 12:00 noon Dallas Convention Center-Ballroom A 24th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament Monday, June 10, 2013 @7:30 a.m. (shotgun) Thorntree Country Club, DeSoto, TX.

National Capital Area Cowboys & Cowgirls 7 Springs Mountain Ski Resort, Champion PA

Ȃ ʹͶͲǦͶ͸ͳǦͳ͹͸Ͳ Ǧ ǡ ʹͲʹǦͶͻ͹Ǧ͹ͺ͵Ͳ ǡ ͵ͲͳǦ͸ͶʹǦͻ͹ͳͲ

2 Per Room $573 (pp) 3 Per Room $473 (pp) 4 Per Room $423 (pp) Child (6-11yrs) $220 (Slope Side Rooms Additional Fee)

Children Welcome w/limited Parlor Room Access!

$100 Non-­Refundable Deposit Required

Call About Non-­Transportation Prices

Game Date: Saturday, February 9, 2013 vs.

Golden State

Bus Departs: Greenbelt Metro Park & Ride (Greenbelt, MD) Thursday, January 24th , 2013 @ 10AM Bus Returns: Sunday, January 27th, 2013 approximately 6PM

Visit us at http://www.ncacowboy.com

Ticket prices:

IN MEMORIAM

Cheryl’s World on Blogtalkradio.com at 6p.m.

Monday, December 10

HOST: DEBRA BROWN STURNS

Tuesday, December 11

HOST: DEBORAH CHAMBERS

Wednesday, December 12

HOST - YVETTE BROOKS

Thursday, December 13

HOSTS: DAREIA TOLBERT AND LADY D

Friday, December 14 HOST: JAMILLE BRADFIELD

Call in to 646-200-0459 PAGE 16

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

$17 (discounted internally to $14) $3 per ticket sold – upper level $33 (discounted internally to $27) $6 per ticket sold – upper level $79 (discounted internally to $71) $8 per ticket sold – platinum $84 (discounted internally to $76) $8 per ticket sold - lower level corners

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Donna P. Charles 5/20/1958 - 3/23/2012 Elusive Lady #22 Spring 1978 Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., FAMU !

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

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DECEMBER 21, 2012

IMESSENGER

NO 2 ISSUE 15

BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

In our library Katrina Book Author featured in New Anthology about New Orleans

New Orleans native Lynette Norris Wilkinson is one of 100 writers and artists featured in an exciting new book anthology about New Orleans written by members of its community.

Support Black -owned bookstores

DECEMBER 21, 2012

An excerpt from her awardwinning book, “UNTOLD: The New Orleans 9th Ward You Never Knew” (www.HurricaneKatrinaStories.com ) appears in the anthology, “New Orleans by New Orleans,” written

by Ryan Smolar & Rachel Potucek, a collection of flash fiction, essays, poetry, song lyrics and art, all inspired by New Orleans, with each work created from a different perspective. The book is a powerful read, with poignant anecdotes, childhood memories of buildings long gone, family lineages, harrowing hurricane experiences, a talking cockroach, everyday life in the city, and a lot more. Wilkinson’s excerpt, “My Story: New Orleans Ninth Ward,” depicts in heartwarming detail her memories of growing up in the New Orleans Lower 9th Ward, the area that was devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

Support the Black Press

Texas MetroNews

GARLAND

JOURNAL

Send your books for review to: Cheryl Smith, P.O. Box 860 Grand Prairie, TX 75053 PAGE 18

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ELITENEWS !

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IMESSENGER

BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

NO 2 ISSUE 15

The I MESSENGER Family gives thanks and extends heartfelt wishes for the best for each and everyone.

And remember that for this short time we are on this earth, we can do so much to make this world a better place.

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2012 Dallas Cowboys(NFC East) Date

Opponent

Time/TV

Wednesday 09/05/12

at New York Giants MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

Sunday 09/16/12

at Seattle Seahawks Loss CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA

Sunday 09/23/12

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Won

Monday 10/01/12

Chicago Bears Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Loss

BYE

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Sunday 10/07/12 Sunday 10/14/12

:;!M#%?13=!2I#!L677&312(

DECEMBER 21, 2012

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Won

at Baltimore Ravens Loss M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD

Sunday 10/21/12

at Carolina Panthers Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC

Won

Sunday 10/28/12

New York Giants Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Loss

Sunday 11/04/12

at Atlanta Falcons Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA

Won

Sunday 11/11/12

at Philadelphia Eagles Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA

Won

Sunday 11/18/12

Cleveland Browns Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Won

Thursday 11/22/12

Washington Redskins Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Loss

Sunday 12/02/12

Philadelphia Eagles Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Won

Sunday 12/09/12

at Cincinnati Bengals Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH

Won

Sunday 12/16/12

Pittsburgh Steelers Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

Won

Sunday 12/23/12

New Orleans Saints Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

1:00 p.m. ET FOX

Sunday 12/30/12

at Washington Redskins FedEx Field, Landover, MD

1:00 p.m. ET FOX

Note: Game times for weeks 11-17 are subject to change

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NO 2 ISSUE 15

BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION

DECEMBER 21, 2012

“We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the vitriolic words and actions of the bad people, but for the appalling silence of the good people.” . Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? POLICE have not apprehended Pookie the serial rapist.

Aren’t you concerned? Do you care?

We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers.

If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers

877.373.8477 Also, if you want extra protection, check out Street Safe at

www.streetsafe.peopleguard.com

DON’T BE SILENT Join I Messenger in the call for justice. Turn Pookie in today!

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