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I MESSENGER VOLUME 3 ISSUE 19 JANUARY 10, 2014

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JANUARY 10, 2014

COUPLES Drs. Harville Hendrix and Helen Hunt help couples communicate at Free Workshop January 10-11 at St. Philip’s School and Community Center

50 Years After the Dream PAGE 1

Ninth Annual MLK, Jr., Symposium: January 20, 2014 ! !

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Featuring Iconic Journalist, Culture Critic, and TV Host Touré

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January 10, 2014

JANUARY 10, 2014

Message to the People...

People around the world will be commemorating the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Since we celebrate with a national holiday, many people will have the day off, from school or work. There will be those who will also commemorate the day by doing public service work.

Journalist Toure will be one of the many speakers for programs in the Metroplex. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Journalist Roland Martin for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a host of other speakers will reference Dr. King as they educate, inform, inspire, challenge and possibly admonish their audiences.

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Cheryl Smith

At the Ninth Annual Dallas MLK Symposium on January 20, 2014 from 7PM – 8:30PM at the Dallas City Performance Hall in the Arts District,Toure is sure to be an interesting and thought-provoking speaker.

Touré is the author of Who's Afraid of Post-Blackness? What It Means to Be Black Now, which was named one of the Most Notable Books of 2011 by The New York Times and The Washington Post. It was also nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work of Non-Fiction. He has published three previous books and is at work on three more: one on multi-platinum rapper Nas, one on legendary artist Prince called I Would Die For U, which was released in 2013, as well as What's a Real Man?, which investigates what it means to be a man in America today, scheduled for a spring 2015 release.

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He is an NBC contributor and a regular on MSNBC's The Dylan Ratigan Show, The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donne", and NewsNation with Tamron Ha". He is a columnist for Time.com.

Bishop McKenzie was an excellent choice for the Martin Luther King Center’s annual banquet on Friday, January 17 at the HYatt Regency, Dallas. She serves as the 117th elected and consecrated bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Her historic election in the year 2000 represents the first time in the over 213-year history of the A.M.E. Church, a woman had obtained the level of Episcopal office. Currently, she is honored to serve as the presiding prelate of the 10th Episcopal District, which includes the great state of Texas.

Bishop McKenzie was appointed to serve on the Advisory Council of the White House Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships by President Barack Obama in 2009.

She is Vice-Chairman of the Board of Trustee of Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas and is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the International Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

Laura Jenkins walks in her son's boots.

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Bishop McKenzie is the author of four books and is described as an "electrifying preacher." The National Chaplain for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., her messages and prayers can be read and heard at www.thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com.

Dallas is a place that Roland Martin calls home. He has worked for several media outlets in this market and is now chief political editor for TV One Cable Network and host of “News One Now.” When Jet Magazine readers voted in 2012 for who is “King of the Hill” in terms of who they turn to on issues of concern to African Americans, Martin came on top, ahead of the likes of the Rev. Al Sharpton and Donna Brazile. In his career, Martin has been showered with more than 30 awards for journalistic excellence, including being named the Journalist of the Year in 2013 by the National Association of Black Journalists.

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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In 2008, he was also inducted into the Texas A&M University Journalism Hall of Honor.

He is a two-time NAACP Image Award winner; and has been named by Ebony Magazine on three occasions as one of the 150 Most Influential African Americans in the United States. Martin spent six years as a contributor for CNN and is a life member of the National Association of Black Journalists and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. We will be hearing a lot of messages in the next few weeks. It’s imperative that we rise to the occasion and challenges.

Cheryl A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.

Nelson Mandela !

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Welcoming a Civil Rights Icon to Dallas

By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congressman John Lewis, one of the champions of the civil rights movement who risked his life nearly 50 years ago to win voting rights for racial minorities in this country, will be the featured speaker at my 21st annual prayer breakfast which will be held on Monday February 24th.

Congressman Lewis, who got down on his knees to pray just moments before armed Alabama state troopers viciously attacked him and others engaged in a peaceful march on the Edmund Petus Bridge on March 7th , 1965, will share his experiences, his faith, and his journey with community leaders, and local religious and elected officials.

People around the world witnessed on television the brutal beatings of Congressman Lewis and hundreds of other peaceful marchers.

Before going to the hospital to have doctors treat his fractured skull, Congressman Lewis appeared on television and pleaded with the nation’s leadership to guarantee equal protection under the law for racial minorities.

Four months later, President Lyndon Baines Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and also announced that the federal government would bring

legal action against states that used poll taxes to deny minorities the right to vote.

I can think of no other person who is more qualified to speak at a prayer breakfast in Texas during a time when the state legislature has drawn

Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson

years-old at the time of the demonstration, he was the youngest speaker to address the hundreds of thousands of people who attended the event.

At the 50th anniversary celebration of the event held this past summer, he was the only

A founding member the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, Congressman Lewis has led a life that has been shaped by activism and prayer. On Capitol Hill, he is known as the “conscience of the Congress.” political maps that discriminate against minority voters.

It is the same legislature that has enacted a voter ID law that is designed to suppress the votes of students, the elderly and the disenfranchised.

A founding member the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, Congressman Lewis has led a life that has been shaped by activism and prayer. On Capitol Hill, he is known as the “conscience of the Congress.”

Congressman Lewis was one of the organizers of the March on Washington In 1963. Only 23

surviving original speaker to address those who were in attendance.

Around the world and across this nation he is known as a champion of democracy. In 2001, Congressman Lewis was awarded the Profile in Courage Award by the John F. Kennedy Foundation.

In 2010, he was the first recipient of the Liberty and Justice For All award presented by the Lyndon B. Johnson Foundation.

Two years ago, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama for his outstanding

contributions to justice and equality in our country.

Now, it is our privilege to have this great humanitarian come to Dallas. He will be coming to pray with us, to fellowship with us, and to call attention to the efforts of some to damage the political progress that so many of us have fought for in Texas. He is no stranger to the battles that confront us.

He knows that we are on the principled and correct side of the issues, and of history.

It has been a privilege to work with him, and to stand with him for justice, fairness and equality during our time together in Washington.

Eddie Bernice Johnson represents Texas’ 30th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives. She is the first registered nurse elected to the US Congress.

Please join the I Messenger family in celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 1929-1968 PAGE 3

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God is a stand up guy; your turn “Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, let us march on ti" victory is won.”

To Be Equal

James Weldon Johnson As the sun sets over a tumultuous 2013 and rises over the promise of a brighter new year, we have put together a list of the top 10 events that have particularly affected African Americans and communities of color over the past 12 months. Presented in no particular order, this list is a mix of triumphs and tragedies that mark the progress we’ve made, highlight the problems that still plague us, and point the way forward in 2014. There is no doubt that all of our lives were touched in some way by these headline events of the past year.

1. Voting Rights/Voter Suppression: Despite an unprecedented outbreak of voter suppression efforts across the nation and the Supreme Court’s appalling ruling in June that Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act was unconstitutional, African Americans are going to the polls in record numbers. In fact, Black voters were decisive in ensuring the second inauguration of Barack Obama on January 20th. African American voter turnout in the presidential election surpassed white voter turnout for the first time in history. As voter suppression efforts grow more intense, African Americans must continue the fight where it matters most - at the polls.

2. George Zimmerman Acquittal: African Americans and people of goodwill throughout the nation were stunned by the July 13 not-guilty verdict in the trial of George Zimmerman, the man who shot and killed Trayvon Martin, an unarmed 17-year-old high school student on February 26, 2012. The killing of Trayvon Martin reminded us of the persistent gap in racial attitudes in America and generated new calls for an end to racial profiling.

3. March on Washington Anniversary: 2013 marked the 50th anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington and Martin Luther King, Jr’s historic “I Have a Dream” speech. On August 24th, the National Urban League joined thousands of citizens in a return pilgrimage to the Lincoln Memorial and the new King Memorial to commemorate that historic moment in a march for Economic Power and Justice - and to call for a continuation of the work that remains undone.

4. Affordable Care Act: While start-up problems have plagued the roll-out, the new law expands access to affordable health care to more than 30 million people, including 6.8 million African PAGE 4

By Marc Morial

Marc Morial is the CEO of the National Urban League

Americans who make up the largest share of the uninsured. This isn't about politics. It's about people.

5. Stop-and-Frisk/Shop-and-Frisk: On August 12th, a New York District Court Judge ruled that the New York City police department’s stop-and-frisk program, which disproportionately targets African Americans and Latinos, was unconstitutional. An appeals court subsequently overturned that ruling.

Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio has pledged to make changes in the policy - which is practiced in communities across the country - and has appointed a new police commissioner. African American shoppers in stores across the country have also been unfairly profiled. The New York State Attorney General has launched an investigation into security practices at a few retailers after at least four customers claimed they were unfairly targeted for police action while shopping in the stores. The National Urban League, National Action Network and other civil rights organizations were instrumental in working with several national retailers on the release of a "Customers' Bill of Rights" aimed at protecting customers from profiling practices. We will continue to work with the retailers on recommendations towards high standard, best-in-industry store security protocols and cultural sensitivity efforts that can be adopted by retailers across the country.

6. Government Shutdown/Effects of Sequestration: The across-the-board “sequestration” budget cuts that went into effect this year slashed funding for Head Start, youth job training, long-term unemployment benefits and other critical human service and safety net programs. With the nation’s highest unemployment rate at 12.5 percent, these cuts fell especially hard on African Americans, who still have double-digit unemployment. The 17day Government Shutdown in October also had an out-sized impact on African Americans who make up a large share of the Federal workforce.

Thankfully, Congress has taken necessary steps to avoid a repeat in January 2014. However, while "governing by crisis" has ended for now and there is partial relief from sequestration cuts, a major flaw of the budget deal is its failure

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to include a crucial extension of federal jobless aid where more than 1.3 million workers will immediately lose unemployment benefits a vital source of income that covers basic family needs.

7. African American Leaders Convening (AALC)/Release of the 21st Century Agenda for Jobs and Freedom: On August 23, 2013 at the National Urban League's "Redeem the Dream" Summit during the 50th Anniversary March on Washington celebration, national civil rights leaders joined together - for the first time - for an historic release of a policy agenda addressing five urgent domestic goals for the nation - the 21st Century Agenda for Jobs and Freedom. It covers critical areas including jobs and the economy, healthcare, education, voting rights and criminal justice system reform. The document was the result of months of joint meetings convened by me, along with Rev. Al Sharpton/National Action Network; Benjamin Jealous/NAACP; and Melanie Campbell/ National Coalition on Black Civic Participation with nearly 60 of America’s leading civil rights, social justice, business and community leaders.

8. Rise of Economic Inequality: While the richest one-percent have seen their incomes rise astronomically over the past 20 years, millions of middle class and low-wage workers are falling into poverty and struggling to make ends meet.

This phenomenon worsened in the wake of the recession - and has only widened through the recovery. This growing inequality is not only unjust; it is unstainable for our economy. This year, Pope Francis, President Obama and a growing number of economists sounded the alarm.

9. The Death of Nelson Mandela: On December 5th, the world lost one of the greatest champions for freedom, justice and peace ever to walk this Earth. After 27 years of political imprisonment as a leader in the fight against apartheid, Mandela was released from prison in 1990. In 1994, he became South Africa’s first democratically elected president.

His leadership was marked by his constant reliance on forgiveness, reconciliation and unity in the building of a new South Africa. His life and legacy will forever inspire the world.

10. Banner Year for Black Films: This year was a notable one for Black films ranging from the true event-inspired stories of the "The Butler," “12 Years a Slave,” “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” and “Fruitvale Station” to the highly anticipated “Best Man Holiday” and holiday classic “Black Nativity.” !

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Family Wellness Dallas!

Safe Conversations

™

WORKSHOPS! Presented by:

Harville Hendrix, Ph.D. & Helen LaKelly Hunt, Ph.D. .77!3&6*2$)!

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Friday, 2 hours Saturday, 6 hours

For more information please contact us! safeconversation@gmail.com; 469-269-0640

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JANUARY 10, 2014

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Family Wellness Dallas!

Safe Conversations™ Workshop The mission of the Family Wellness Dallas! (FWD!) is to disseminate relationship skills more broadly in Dallas.

We are creating a series of weekend couples workshops, conducted by Harville and Helen, where couples learn the skills of Safe Conversation™. Working with agencies that support the public schools, we are recruiting couples interested in improving the well-being of their families by improving their own relationship. Childcare will be provided. A curriculum designed to meet the needs of pre-school and elementary school-aged children complements the adult workshop training. A follow-up plan is in development that will reinforce lessons learned and help to sustain change on an ongoing basis.

The next two workshops are: ! !

January 10-11: For South Dallas couples whose children are in public, private and charter schools.

February 14-15: A special Valentine’s Workshop, details to follow.

Community organizations such as AVANCE, The Concilio, The Salesmanship Club of Dallas, and others are already recruiting parents and helping produce the workshops. A variety of clinical assistants will be trained to help couples practice Safe Conversations™ exercises throughout the day. The Southern Methodist University Center on Research and Evaluation is assisting with the creation, administration and evaluation of survey instruments collected to measure the impact of Safe Conversations™ on these families.

After February, the project will extend to include faith-based organizations and other school districts, with the aim of spreading these skills more broadly throughout the city.

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The Dallas Foundation is the fiscal sponsor of Family Wellness Dallas! (FWD!)

safeconversation@gmail.com; 469-269-0640

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Ask Alma!

Neighbor’s Love Making Too Loud Dear Alma,

I live in a lovely three-story apartment building and get along famously with most of my neighbors – except for one who occasionally makes love to his girlfriend very loudly. It doesn’t happen that often, and the other neighbors don’t seem to mind. I have tried talking to him about it, and I have even banged on the wall separating us, but it hasn’t stopped. I don’t want to be a nuisance, but this is annoying and awkward, especially when it happened when my dad was visiting.

What should I do?

Hey Sleepless,

Sleepless in Seattle

Ok, I’m embarrassed and red-faced, although my brown skin won’t let you see it. LOL. This is really, really funny and such an awkward position to be in, especially when you have company.

Despite it being so totally embarrassing, it’s not all that unusual. In fact, it has happened to me. When I was dealing with this situation, I put a note under the neighbor’s door. Did it stop the noises?

No. I think she enjoyed the attention.

You say you’ve knocked on the wall with no success. I’d suggest you contact the landlord or tenants association in writing.

Check your rental agreement. It should mention violations such as property damage, disruptive behavior and/or excessive noise. This situation falls under those parameters. Since you live in such a lovely building, I assume you won’t be moving anytime soon. While you’re waiting for the appropriate authorities to resolve this issue, I suggest you invest in a great pair of headphones and/or a white-noise sound machine. I hope your problem gets better soon. All the best to you, my friend.

Co-Worker Constantly Complains

Dear Alma, I have a co-worker who is unhappy with his job and isn't too shy to say it. If you greet him in the morning he will say, "Man I hate this job. I'm sick of this place." Then he will go on to disparage his supervisor and co-workers.

He never talks about projects he works on – just how he doesn't like this person or that. He is a real downer and can turn a good morning into a bad one quickly.

I try to disengage from conversation quickly, hoping he will get the hint that his comments about co-workers I happen to admire make me uncomfortable. But he doesn't get it.

Should I go to human resources or just tell him point blank to stop? I don't want to start an argument in the middle of the office.

Not an office snob Hey now NAOS, I've experienced this type of co-worker myself. Most times they start off being the friendliest one in the office. Not! It's a tease, LOL. That's how they draw you in.

I'm taken back to something my Mama use to say: "You catch more bees with honey than you do with vinegar." Of course, I didn't know what she meant until I turned 40. But that's another story for another time. My suggestion to you is to treat him with kindness. You become the shining light. Give him the exact opposite of what he's giving you. When he says, "Man I hate this job. I'm sick of this place," you say, "Wow, really? It's a tough time to look for a job, and we all should be grateful we're working, but good luck man. I hope you find what you're looking for."

When he starts talking bad about other coworkers, you say, "Oh, really? I didn't get that vibe from him. He was very helpful to me.

What project were you working on?" Do you see where I'm going with this? He's starting fires in the office, and I'm appointing you the new HFMIC – Head Fire Marshall In Charge.

So start putting out those fires. Use this experience as a teachable moment. When you do what's right in the middle of what's wrong, it makes you feel better. This applies anywhere – at work, at school or at home.

Present the positive. I promise; you'll catch more bees with honey.

Alma

JANUARY 10, 2014

Another year came to a close and we sti" have not caught Pookie the serial rapist.

We need to catch that man!

Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans over 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@yahoo.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.

Check out back issues of I Messenger www.myimessenger.com

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HALL: What the Blazes?

By Vincent L. Hall

The people of Colorado watched their antiquated and oppressive marijuana laws go up in smoke on New Year’s Day 2014. What did I think of the new legalization of pot for recreational use? I’ll toke to that!

Now let me confess right off the bat …I haven’t smoked a joint in years. It just never was my thing.

However, when you glance at America’s unfathomable race disparities as it relates to the so called “War on Drugs” you quickly surmise that something smells funky and it ain’t just the weed.

The whole nation is blazing on the latest kerfuffle aiming to curtail the practice of mass incarceration. America jails more of its population than any other nation and minorities are severely and disproportionately impacted. It’s enough to make even “Bible Thumpers” take another look at the question of legalized pot.

Even the politicians who stake their careers on the archaic and immutable philosophies of the Conservative and so called Evangelical movements, were awed by how smoothly the advent of

cannabis unfurled in the State of Colorado.

According to the Denver Post; “Some public officials predicted unruly customers would fight over scarce supplies when recreational marijuana went live in Colorado.

Others feared images of public toking would be beamed around the world.

Instead, a peaceful, respectful and mellow crowd greeted the advent of recreational marijuana sales on New Year's Day.” The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) released an explosive report mid-year 2013. It damned the American criminal justice system for the disparate treatment that Blacks receive at the hands of the law enforcement agencies around this country. African Americans are four times more likely to be arrested.

New York City gets a lot of heat for its publicized “Stop and Frisk” policy that enables cops to racially profile. But at least NYC gave you the real dope on their intentions.

The statistics released by the ACLU reveal that S&F is going on in every U.S. town and hamlet, and it has been for some time.

Now before my liberal White readers and my Black readers of low or no selfesteem go to their usual defense of the police and the criminal justice system, let me spit another fact at ya’. A Slate magazine article from June 2013 points to major inequities.

“A new report from the ACLU finds that blacks are arrested for marijuana possession 3.73 times more often than whites nationwide, even though the rate of marijuana use is relatively similar across races. The report, “The War on

Marijuana in Black and White,” claims to be the first comprehensive attempt to examine marijuana possession arrest rates, by race and by state, from 2001 to 2010. Its findings are further evidence that the “war on marijuana” is expensive, inefficient, and racially biased.

The report finds that between 2001 and 2010, there were over 8 million marijuana arrests in the United States, 88% of which were for possession.

Marijuana arrests have increased between 2001 and 2010 and now account for over half (52%) of all drug arrests in the United States, and marijuana possession arrests account for nearly half (46%) of all drug arrests. In 2010, there was one marijuana arrest every 37 seconds, and states spent combined over $3.6 billion enforcing marijuana possession laws.”

The fact that 52% of all drug arrests are related to marijuana begs the question of opportunity costs, especially when you realize how costly and criminally motivating drugs like crack, heroin, Methamphetamines and prescription drugs are. “Weed-heads” are generally peaceful and otherwise law-abiding. Crackheads and meth users will kill you to steal the plumbing under your house!

If you’re interested in starting a movement to legalize marijuana in Texas, the time to “Blaze” is now.

I Messenger celebrates the life of President Mandela and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Pay tribute to your loved one!

Call

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NAACP applauds federal guidance package that improves school discipline policies The U.S. Department of Education in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice today released a school discipline guidance package that will assist states, districts and schools in developing practices and strategies to enhance school climate, and ensure those policies and practices comply with federal law.

The NAACP has been on the frontlines of closing the school to prison pipeline. In November of 2013, the NAACP’s Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Chapter brokered a historic collaborative agreement on school discipline with Broward County Public Schools, law enforcement and its community partners to end the school to prison pipeline wreaking havoc in communities of color.

Our work in Broward County establishes proven alternatives to arrest for misdemeanor infractions by students that include common sense approaches such as counseling and mentorship. The guidance package released today expands on this approach.

Each year, significant numbers of students miss class due to suspensions and expulsions for minor infractions of school rules. The new guidance package, like the NAACP’s collaborative agreement in Broward County, provides resources for creating safe and positive school climates, which are essential for boosting student academic success and closing achievement gaps From NAACP Interim President and CEO Lorraine C. Miller: “The NAACP applauds Attorney General Eric Holder and Education Secretary Arne Duncan for taking this giant step in improving the disciplinary policies that impede the educational growth and development of students across the country, particularly in communities of color,” said Lorraine C. Miller, Interim President and CEO of the NAACP. “Like the historic agreement that the NAACP brokered in Broward County, this school discipline guidance package promotes effective discipline policies that help to plug the school to prison pipeline and create safer learning environments without excessive expulsions and suspensions.”

From Dr. Niaz Kasravi, Criminal Justice Director for the NAACP: “Too many children in this country lose too much learning time due to excessive suspensions and expulsions for routine adolescent misbehavior,” said Dr. Niaz Kasravi, Criminal Justice Director for the NAACP. “The collaborative agreement brokered by the Fort Lauderdale/Broward County NAACP Chapter preserved the futures of scores of children who misbehave as young people sometimes do.

Today’s discipline guidance package will go a long way in curbing the destructive pipeline that funnels children from school into prison and alters the trajectory of their lives forever.”

From Marsha Ellison, President of the NAACP’s Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Chapter: “Disciplinary policies that rely too heavily on suspensions and expulsions have failed to improve the disciplinary culture of our schools,” said Marsha Ellison, president of the NAACP’s Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Chapter. “For eight years, we worked to close the school to prison pipeline in Broward County. Our success saved Broward County children from the type of disciplinary action that leads to criminal records and prevents them from becoming the successful adults they deserve to be. We are encouraged by the steps being taken by the federal government to close the school to prison pipeline for children across the country, just as we did in Broward County.”

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Focusing on Child Safety Awareness and Bullying

Sonia Denice is a children’s book author and an advocate for children’s safety.

“Every day the news media report tragic story after tragic story about the abductions, abuse, and murder of children,” she said.

“These heinous “crimes deserve our highest priority.

Her husband Ben De La Torre has joined her in dedicating their lives to conducting a Child Safety Awareness campaign in preschools, elementary schools and among parent and teacher organizations. She has written a book on child safety: “Saved by a Whistle,” which parents,

JANUARY 10, 2014

grandparents and educators are reading to children to educate them on ways to identify and protect themselves from people who seek to harm them and take them away from the people they love.

She also conducts informative power point presentations on child safety and bullying that includes educational videos and valuable safety information to groups and organizations.

Visit her website at www.kidshaveavoice.com to order the book “Saved by a Whistle” or to review additional information on child safety awareness.

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JANUARY 10, 2014

IN MEMORIAM

Amiri Baraka Amiri Baraka was a well known African-American writer of fiction, drama, poetry and music. With books such as Tales of the Out and the Gone, he has received the PEN Open Book Award and is also respected as one of the most widely published African American authors of his generation.

Apart from writing, Baraka was considered as a revolutionary political activist and has given lectures on various political and cultural issues extensively throughout

Europe, Africa, USA and the Caribbean.

Born in 1934, Amiri Baraka was raised in the USA. Having studied Philosophy and Religion at Columbia University, he had a sound knowledge of these subjects that also reflects well in his writings.

Baraka started his professional career by joining the US Air Force in the early fifties.

Destined to be an accomplished author, he did not serve the military for long and switched to a completely different domain by opting to work in a warehouse for music records.

Ramona C Franklin McCain

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This is where his social circle expanded and added the Black Mountain Poets, New York School Poets and the Beat Generation to it. Also, it developed his interest in Jazz music which later matured in making him one of the most sought after music critics.

Amiri Baraka for his work has taken influences from a number of musical orishas such as John Coltrane, Malcolm X, Ornette Coleman and Thelonius Monk which got him regarded as the founder of Black Arts Movement in the era of sixties. His study on 'AfricanAmerican music' and the play ‘Dutchman and Blues People’ is commendable. Also, his

Ramona C. Franklin McCain was born in Brenham, TX. She was preceded in death by her mother, Frankie Johnson Watson; father, Herbert Franklin; husband, Claude McCain, Jr; sister, Iris Franklin Knotts and brother, James C. Watson, Jr. After graduating from Phyllis Wheatley High School in Houston, TX; Ramona was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Wiley College (1952), a Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Texas Southern University (1957) and a Master of Arts degree in Guidance and Counseling from Southern Methodist University (1967). She retired from the Dallas Independent School District after 35 years of service as a teacher and guidance counselor In 1954, Ramona married her Wiley College sweetheart, Claude McCain, Jr. and planted roots in Dallas, TX. Their marriage flourished for forty years until his transition in 1995. As promised when he married her, they traveled across the United States throughout those years and

published collection of essays, ‘The Essence of Reparations’ and poems like ‘Somebody Blewup America’ added more fame to his name.

Amiri Baraka has been recognized with a long list of awards and honors that includes the James Weldon Johnson Medal for contributions to the arts, the American Academy of Arts & Letters award, the Poet Laureate of New Jersey and Professor Emeritus at the State university of New York at Stony Brook.

A prominent figure in the literary world he is included in scholar Molefi Kete Asante’s list of 100 Greatest African Americans.

lived for a period of time in Ithaca, NY and Philadelphia, PA while he continued his studies.

Since residing in Dallas, Ramona had been a devoted member of Warren United Methodist Church and an active volunteer. Following retirement, her time was spent in a number of various community activities. She was a Golden-Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (past president), an alumnae-status member of the Dallas Chapter of the Links, Inc. (past president) and a committed member of the Library Friends @ the Paul L. Dunbar Lancaster-Keist Library, the Cedar Crest Neighborhood Association, the Dallas Retired Teachers Association, the Dallas Metroplex Music Association and the United Methodist Women.

Ramona is survived by her son, Michael Ervell McCain; daughter, Demetria Lynn McCain, Esq.; granddaughters, Alexis McCain and Brianna McCain, several nieces, nephews, cousins and other devoted family members and friends. !

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The Gospel According to “Mr. B”

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JANUARY 10, 2014

City celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday

It’s a new year Make it a good one!

Events planned for January 17 and 18

What: The City has planned several events on January 17 and 18 in honor of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Planned events for the 32nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday celebration include: a CandleLighting ceremony, March/Parade, Awards Banquet, and Silent Auction.

The theme of this year’s celebration is “Freedom, Equality, & Opportunity, Forever!” All activities are free and open to the general public, however; there is fee to attend the awards banquet and dance.

When/ Friday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m. — Awards Banquet and Silent Auction Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel - 300 Reunion Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75207 Keynote Speaker: Dr. Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the first female bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Cost of tickets: $75 Individual, $750 Community Table (10 seats per table) For information about events and banquet tickets, call: (214) 670-8418 or visit the website at www.mlkcelebrationdallas.org.

When/ Friday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m. — Candle- Lighting Ceremony Where: MLK Recreation Center 2901 Pennsylvania Avenue, Dallas, TX 75215 This event is sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. For more information, please contact Craig Anderson at (469) 360-5688.

When/ Saturday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m. — Martin Luther King, Jr. March & Parade Where: The parade will assemble at City Hall Plaza to Ervay Street south, to MLK Jr. Blvd., past the MLK Complex to 2922 MLK Jr. Blvd.

Participants include bands, floats, community/civic groups, and churches.

If you can be kind, gentle and loving during the holiday season, imagine what the world would be like if every day were treated as a holiday!

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION JANUARY 10, 2014 Dallas Mavericks vs. Portland Trailblazers American Airlines Center Time: 7pm Contact Earlina Green 214.658.7137 January 10 earlina.green@dallasmavs.com *Group seats ask for Ron Fry birthday group rates.

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Mark your calendar

Dallas Black Dance Theatre Luncheon Hilton Anatole 2201 N Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207 Time: 12pm www.dbdt.com

Safe Conversation - Couples Workshop St. Philips School and Community Center Call 469-269-0640 for info

January 11 Roundtable Writer's Breakfast " HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF BLOODY Sunday” featuring The Honorable Cynthia McKinney @ 10 AM Room T-203 Dallas Convention Center Theater Complex

January 13 Phase I Opening Martin Luther King Jr. Family Clinic Balch Springs 10a.m.

Martin Luther King Jr. Family Clinic 3515 Shepherd Ln. Balch Springs, Tx. 75180

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the first female bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Cost of tickets: $75 Individual. For information about events and banquet tickets, call: (214) 670-8418 or visit the website at www.mlkcelebrationdallas.org.

When/ Friday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m. — Candle- Lighting Ceremony at MLK Recreation Center 2901 Pennsylvania Avenue, Dallas, TX 75215 This event is sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. For more info contact Craig Anderson at (469) 360-5688.

Saturday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m. — Martin Luther King, Jr. March & Parade. The parade will assemble at City Hall Plaza to Ervay Street south, to MLK Jr. Blvd., past the MLK Complex to 2922 MLK Jr. Blvd.

TITAS PRESENTS, in association with the AT&T Performing Arts Center, two special return performances of PILOBOLUS at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, January 17 & 18, 2014 at the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House in the Dallas Arts District.

January 19 NFL Game Watching Party Hosted by Ron Towles of TSU and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity

"AN EVENING WITH CHARLIE WILSON" VERIZON THEATER @GRAND PRAIRIE 1001 Performance Place Grand Prairie

Ron Fry and Devon White Annual Birthday Party Westin Park Central Hotel 8pm - 1am *Partnering with the Tom Joyner Foundation *Sponsored by 40Creek,Viking J Ford, Twenty Grand ******** Day Party Top Golf 3760 Blair Oaks Drive The Colony, TX 75056 Time: 1pm - 4pm *Donation $10 | http://topgolf.com/thecolony/

**********

January 23

January 15 Mayors Reception "Marcus Knight" Jazz reception Terrance Hunt Scholarship Fund and Tom Joyner Foundation Time: 7pm-12am

The Church of Christ at Cedar Hill is hosting a free World Convention of Overcomers Outreach, January 17-19, 2014.

The convention is open to anyone who wants to know how to use faith to battle addictions and habits such as alcoholism, drug abuse, pornography, gambling, overeating, and codependency.

The conference will be held at the church located at 535 South Clark Road, Cedar Hill, TX 75104.

January 16

January 18

****Annual Ron Fry Attitude Adjustment Weekend**** Buttons 15207 Addison Rd Addison, TX 75001 Time: 7pm - 11pm

Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Founders Day Luncheon Where: Sheraton Dallas Hotel, 400 North Olive Street, Dallas, TX 75201

January 17 Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Friday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m. — Awards Banquet and Silent Auction Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel - 300 Reunion Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75207

Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, & Zeta Phi Beta!

FAMU DFW Alumni Brunch Location: Caribbean Grill Time: 10am - 1pm Speakers: Dr. Thomas Haynes VP FAMU, Oscar Joyner President Reach Media, Stacy Hunt sister of Terrance Hunt Proceeds benefit: DFW FAMU Alumni Association & Tom Joyner Foundation

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

Tuesday

Monday

CHERYL SMITH

FELICIA SHEPHERD

Wednesday

HOST - YVETTE BROOKS

Thursday

IN MEMORIAM Friday

Donna P. Charles

HOSTS: DAREIA TOLBERT HOST: JAMILLE BRADFIELD

Call in to 646-200-0459 PAGE 16

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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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January 24

Take in the smooth sounds of saxophonist Paul Rogers. Once again we will feature Sociologie Wine.

6:00 pm - 9:00pm Tickets: $35 Hor d'oeuvres Silent Auction Valet parking available event 1013 1013 E 25th St Plano, TX 75075

January 25

Omicron Mu Omega Chapter AKA Sorority, Inc. Founders' Day Celebration February 2

JANUARY 10, 2014

the last hour with Dr. King before he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.

February 10 Dallas / Ft. Worth National College Fair Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas Monday 4:00pm – 8:00pm

HBCU College Fair & Workshop at Hamilton Park United Methodist Church

February 11 Austin National College Fair Austin Convention Center Tuesday 5:30pm – 8:30pm

February 7 College Fair and Expo One Community Church 2400 Texas 121 Plano, TX 75025 Time: 10am - 2pm Speaker: Mariane Ragins - FAMU Alumni.Washington DC chapter www.scholarshipworkshop.com

February 15

*******

DFW NC A&T Alumni Association

Black Heritage Night Dallas Mavericks vs. Utah Jazz American Airlines Center Time: 7pm

chapter meeting will be held Saturday, from 2pm-3:30pm at the Center for Community Cooperation, 2900 Live Oak St., Dallas, TX 75204 Financial Freedom Seminar Westside Baptist Church 900 Bellaire Blvd., Lewisville TX. 75067 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

January 26 The Boox Club is a discussion group that meets once a month to discuss a book on various topics from economic empowerment to professional development.

This group is open to all who seek challenging and intellectual conversations that can expand the growth of your mind and provide personal and professional development. The Boox Club encourages open conversation for individuals to express their opinions, likes, dislikes, and topics from the book of the month.

6:00pm - 7:30pm Book: The Wealth Choice Author: Dennis Kimbro Location: Mercy Wine Bar Address: 5100 Belt Line Rd #544, Dallas, TX 75254 Questions? Contact Jasmine Dunbar (jasminen.dunbar@gmail.com)

******* Join Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Kappa Zeta Chapter on First Fridays as we roll, bounce, and skate for a cause! During our 2nd Annual Skate for Babies campaign we will raise money for stronger, healthier babies in support of the lifesaving work of the March of Dimes. Four evenings full of skating and family fun: So come out to Redbird Skateland at: 1206 N Duncanville Road Duncanville, TX 75116. $8 includes admission and skate rental; mention Kappa Zeta chapter and $4 will be donated to the March of Dimes March for Babies.

February 22 The Dallas Division of the American Heart Association will host the 2014 Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Hilton Anatole. This year’s luncheon will feature Vice President Dick Cheney as the keynote speaker. Mr. Cheney has had a long battle with cardiovascular disease having suffered his first of five heart attacks in 1978, and ultimately undergoing a heart transplant in March of 2012.

FAMU Alumni Meeting Blue Mesa 14866 Montfort Dr, Dallas, TX Time: 12pm - 2pm

February 8 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Area Founders Day Luncheon When: Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 11:30 AM Where: Irving Convention Center, 500 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039

New Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church of Fort Worth, 9th annual Raymond B. Spencer Scholarship Banquet The guest speaker will be the Reverend Samuel "Billy" Kyles, the only witness still alive who spent

February 1

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MOTHER SEEKS JUSTICE FOR IMPRISONED SON Walks in His Shoes to Show Discrepancies Fort Worth, TX - The temperature was 17 degrees. The windchill factor was 3 degrees when Laura Ann Jenkins began taking steps to picket in front of the Curry Criminal Justice Center on Monday January 6, 2014 at 10:00am.

She is seeking justice for her son, 37year-old Roy Adams Jr. Adams has served eight years of a 12½-year sentence after a jury found him guilty of intoxication manslaughter in the 2004 death of Grapevine Police Officer Darren Medlin. Jenkins walked all day in her son's boots until 3:00 p.m.

Jenkins plans to return to picket on the first Monday of every month when the Curry Criminal Justice Center is open.

Jenkins carried a sign that paralleled her son's case to that of a 16year-old North Texas teenager who used an "affluenza defense" to win a sentence of 10 years probation in a drunk driving case where he killed four people.

Jenkins is concerned because, in her opinion, the jury ignored expert testimony stating her son had a seizure at the time of the accident. "My son's seizures were verified by a doctor, yet it had no impact on his case. In contrast, another court gave a drunk driver probation for a made-up condition called affluenza," said Laura Jenkins.

"I am committed to doing this no matter the weather conditions," said Laura Jenkins as she walked the sidewalk in front of the Curry Criminal Justice Center in Fort Worth. "It was a horrible accident, but I know my son is not guilty. I am seeking justice for my son."

Neurologist testifies to "absence" seizures Dallas neurologist Dr. Robert Leroy testified at the trial of Roy Adams Jr., "I

feel that there's a reasonable probability that this horrible tragedy occurred because this was a seizure." Dr. Leroy's testimony was based on viewing a videotape of Roy Junior in the police station, listening to Roy's voice when he made a 911 call, and reviewing police reports from two police investigators assigned to the case. (Note: The video was not shown in court.)

Dr. Leroy treated Roy Jr. after he suffered an epileptic seizure two weeks after the accident. Roy Jr. had been in another doctor's office being treated for allergies when the doctor witnessed a seizure. Dr. Leroy tested Roy Jr. and confirmed that he was susceptible to seizures. Roy Jr.'s seizures were diagnosed as absence seizures, which are mild and in many cases cause the

sufferers to think they have just fallen asleep.

Jenkins adds there are other discrepancies in her son's case.

1. Blood Alcohol Test Redirected A police officer took our son's blood-draw packet and placed a preprinted mailing label on it that would have sent the blood sample to the certified DPS lab in Garland, Texas.

However, the Tarrant County District Attorney's office redirected the blood sample and sent it to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's office. His bloodalcohol level was tested there and shown to be .11.

2. Evidence of Tampering with Accident Scene Video

When Officer Deana Ramsour arrived at the accident scene, she claims she turned off her car video recorder; so there is no video on how our son was acting during his initial contact with police. She claims she always turns off her video camera when she gets out of the car; however, the camera does not shut off until she gets out of the car and walks in front of her police unit. We did not find out until after the trial that on the same day there is a video of another traffic stop Officer Deana Ramsour made. There she kept the camera rolling and did not turn off the camera when she got out of the police unit.

In addition, in 2011 (as a part of a writ of habeas corpus), Herbert Joe, Board Certified Forensic Audio/Video Examiner, stated that the video evidence reviewed is materially inconsistent with the comments of Officer Ramsour.

3. No Observed Evidence of Roy Adams Jr. Being Drunk a. The nurse who administered his blood-alcohol test testified that Roy Jr. did not smell of alcohol. b. Officer Shimmick says he did not hear a thick tongue or incoherent speech on Roy's 911 call following the accident.

"We have exhausted our appeal options involving the discrepancies," said Laura Jenkins, who refuses to give up hope of exonerating her son. "Our only hope is to focus attention on the case so the FBI will reconsider investigating whether or not evidence was fabricated and if there was a "Civil Rights-Color of Law" statute violation."

For more details on the case visit www.justice4royjr.com

Overcomers Convention focuses on addictions and habits Cedar Hill Mayor Rob Franke to speak at free event Cedar Hill, TX - The Joshua Slaven, who was Church of Christ at Cedar addicted to drugs. They Hill is hosting a free World lost that battle recently Convention of Overcomers when he died tragically Outreach, January 17-19, as a consequence of 2014. addiction.

The convention is open Other speakers include: to anyone who wants to Former Texas Rangers know how to use faith to player Ellis Valentine. battle addictions and habits Valentine turned to drugs such as alcoholism, drug after retiring from a 13abuse, pornography, year career in gambling, overeating, and professional baseball. codependency.

He will share his story, The conference will be from addiction to held at the church located at Ellis Valentine sobriety, and talk about 535 South Clark Road, the drug counseling Cedar Hill, TX 75104. program he operates.

During the convention on Saturday, January 18, at 4:30 p.m. Cedar Hill Following his speech, Valentine will Mayor Rob Franke will share the story be available to talk to people on a oneof his family's struggle to help their son, to-one basis about drug recovery.

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Polly Wright, the founder of the We are Cherished ministry, helps women start a new life free of the sex trade industry.

Mrs. Wright is also the author of Cherished: Shattered Innocence.

Restored Hope.

She will speak on how she left her life in the sex industry and encourages both men and women that regardless of your past or current life: you are loved, valued and cherished.

Karl Berry is Polly Wright organizing the Overcomers Convention.

Berry has been sober for 19 years after overcoming a 28-year drug addiction. !

"All of these addictions and habits can be overcome by faith. Many people consider these addictions a disease.

However, if you acknowledge that they are a sin, God can help you because sin is a disease of the soul."

There is free child care throughout the entire convention. The Fridaynight session includes a free dinner and concert featuring the Walk of Faith band. The Saturday session includes free breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For more details on the free Overcomers Convention visit http:// www.chcoc.org/overcomers.html !

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JANUARY 10, 2014

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Felicia N. Shepherd M. Ed Founder/CEO

Booking Contact Information: info@fnsconsultingservices.com 972-638-SHEP (7437) Visit our website at www.fnsconsultingservices.com FiNeSse Consulting Services Staff Development, seminars on Relational Aggression, Conference/webinar presentations, motivational speaking, school and workplace conflict workshops

“Let me put my experience to work for you.”

In our library

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“Man” is not one of them.

Bradfield

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Join the rally,

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3.23.13

Join Mayor Mike Rawlings for The Ten Thousand Man Rally Against Domestic Abuse at 10am on March 23rd at Dallas City Hall. (DART exit at Convention Center Station.) It’s time for the men of Dallas to say, enough is enough.

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CHERYL’S WORLD DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC 1913 - 2014

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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 open lines with Cheryl on Mondays at 6p.m., Felicia Shepherd 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 Lady D on Thursdays at 6p.m., See you at the Movies - with Jamille Bradfield on Fridays at 6p.m. and Conversations and Tea with Toni at noon on Saturday

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By Cheryl Smith - Texas Metro News

Recycle this newspaper when finished reading

KENNY JAY REVIEW: MakingBOOK Women Happy!

INTIMATE SEDUCTION

City of Dallas Sanitation Dept.

www.DallasWeekly.com

INSIDE Speaking of People Ron Price elected to national organization post

Light rail, Trinity River road highly scrutinized in South Dallas

By Patrice J. Holmes

INSIDE

Page 2

Studies by the University of Texas at Dallas Institute of Urban Policy, United Way and Texas A&M are taking place now to assess the quality of life in the South Dallas community before billion dollar projects involving the new DART Light Rail and the Trinity

National

Toll Road are brought to the area. Some construction has begun with the demolition of homes to follow later this year.

At a meeting held by the three institutions, a focus group of sorts dished ideas and findings on the surveys that have told the story of the residents of South Dallas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are measuring conditions that may vary from street to street,â&#x20AC;? said Dr.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;OVER THREE TO FOUR YEARS THERE ARE CHANGES IN CONDITIONS AND WE WANT TO KNOW HOW IT AFFECTS THE AREAâ&#x20AC;?

YVETTE BROOKS Your Curlfriend!

training in administering the anonymous surveys. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over three to four years there are changes in conditions and we want to know how it affects the area.â&#x20AC;?

Evaluating President Obamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First 100 Days Political analysts, both mainstream and Black news media and intellectuals around the country have given their grade evaluation on President Barack Obamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first 100 days in office, marked on April 30. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how several people from the local front graded the new president.

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Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

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Grade: A Page 4

Metro

Timothy Bray, director of the Institute of Urban Policy Research. He helps

oversee the The Field Research Team which underwent 80 hours of

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am deeply impressed with the progress that President Barack Obama has made during the first 100 days of his administration. Already we are seeing evidence of the administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan to dig our country out of recession and develop long-term, sustainable prosperity. President Obama has made two trips abroad, proving to us and to the world that he intends to repair our frayed alliances and restore our international leadership.

Finally, the Obama administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s code of ethics has brought much-needed transparency and accountability to the White House.

President Obama is delivering on the change that he promised.â&#x20AC;?

FOUR MORE YEARS

Mavericks surpasses Spurs in playoffs

PRESIDENT OBAMA VICTORIOUS

Available at newstands in Garland, Plano, Balch Springs, Seagoville, Rowlett, Mesquite, Richardson, East and North Dallas

Page 9

Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison

C

Grade: C â&#x20AC;&#x153;In just 100 days, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen an alarming acceleration of policies that will take America down the wrong track. The administration has proposed trillions of dollars in new spending, which will result in higher taxes on Americans, while sharply raising our indebtedness to foreign creditors.

On the national security front, I am very concerned about the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intention to close Guantanamo without a workable plan to relocate detainees. It is my sincere hope that, moving forward, the administration will adopt the productive, responsible approach to our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges that Americans deserve.â&#x20AC;?

(The office of John Cornyn of Texas was contacted but did See 100 DAYS, page 19

SPIRITUAL

ETS OF THE SECR

Remebering Joe Hudson Jr. Page 1 0

The Dallas Weekly

years celebrates 56 Black of serving the Community

THE HUNDRED DAY SCORE

Why Democracy hangs in the balance

JOURNA

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Volume No. 56 Issue No. 18

The Long and Winding Road editorial@dallasweekly.com

FAMU Rattlers victorious

Page 13

No. 1 serving the African American Community

April 30-May 6, 2009

TIME TO FORGIVE?

In having the conversation about building within South Dallas, many issues arise with respect to GWENDOLYNand JONES education business in Ask The Advocate See ROAD, page 19

PROPOSITIONS 1 AND 2 Why YES means no and NO means yes Dallas is abuzz at the election issues before them on May 9 when citizens are asked to vote on the controverDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LYTE sial & EBONY Convention Music Happenings Center Hotel that is being backed by Mayor Leppert. But what does voting â&#x20AC;&#x153;noâ&#x20AC;? and voting â&#x20AC;&#x153;yesâ&#x20AC;? mean?

It is important to remember that the propositions are to amend the Dallas City Charter which, among other things, gives the MISSpower RAY to acquire city the Going Deep in Roots property fortheany public purpose. The propositions are worded to prohibit the city from acting on these before stated powers.

Therefore, if a citizen would like the city to maintain those powers, they are to vote NO and vice versa.

See VOTE, page 38

VALDER BEEBE That Celebrity Interview

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BUSINESS

X-Men Origins: WOLVERINE Movie Tidbits Pg. 12

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future with President Obama

APRIL 19, 2013

BOOK REVIEW:

THE BISHOPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAUGHTER Page 10 Volume No. 55 Issue No. 44

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Prevent heart attacks Heart disease remains high on list of illnesses Page 15

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

INSIDE

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Say NO to any ASSAULT

New Voices

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Welcome Home Ambassador Ron Kirk!

TEXAS METRO NEWS

Single Mom Chronicles p.12

!!"""#$%&'()%$*+,%"(#-+)!

Digital Illustration: Joseph Shelby

VOL XI ISSUE 7 NOVEMBER 15, 2012

NOVEMBER 4, 2008 ELECTION

!

Republican

!

Joyce Ann Brown lost Nine Years, Five Months and 24 Days of her life !

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JOHN

V.S. MCCAIN BARACK

OBAMA

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NO 3 ISSUE 19

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

GIFT IDEAS!

The Lap Log"Making Life a Little Easier"

Customized Bespoke Clothing for the Well-­Dressed Man

Knot Standard (www.knotstandard.com) is an online bespoke clothing company that makes customized clothing including suits, shirts, blazers and slacks for men.

The New York City-based firm combines the latest in cutting edge technology with the skills and talents of a master tailor to deliver customers the perfect fit every time – guaranteed.

“We take pride in every single item of clothing we construct,” said Knot Standard CEO Matt Mueller. “We invest 100% in getting the absolute perfect fit for each individual customer and we take very seriously our customer satisfaction.”

Launched in 2010, Knot Standard is the brainchild of John Ballay and Matt Mueller, two Americans then living in Dubai. They later partnered with Tarig El Sheikh, an experienced finance executive and have now expanded operations globally.

Memorable Keepsakes Get in the holiday spirit with the unique wares available from the exquisite boutique known as Bella Merce.

At Bella Merce it's their goal to make decorating

Don't Let Your Charger Get Lost in the Crowd CableKeeps™ useful features add both personality and utility to the everyday Apple Charger.

They are designed so that the cable that attaches to your Apple device stays with it, nicely wrapped around the base and secured so that it will remain free from tangles when shoved into a bag, pocket or purse. This same design feature allows you to keep the cable short and neat while the charger is plugged into the wall fueling your iPad, iPod or iPhone.

Secondly, CableKeeps™ come in beautiful bold Apple-

Knot Standard’s value proposition is straight forward: Allowing gents from all over the globe access to a world of talented tailors, Knot Standard offers handmade bespoke suits at price points that customers would usually pay for an off the rack, run of the mill suit.Upping the stakes, Knot Standard uses innovative 3D imaging via webcam to get the most perfect measurements for clients and laser cutting technology at the workshop to ensure each suit is cut to fit the individual customer.

“The perfect fit, individual style, and impeccable tailoring.” explains Ballay.

“The key to being well dressed is always fit and that’s what gives Knot Standard a competitive edge. We don’t use patterns. Each bespoke suit is cut directly from a bolt of cloth to the measurements of the individual customer. We like to joke that our suits come in just one size – yours.”

From Wall Street to the West Coast, Knot Standard makes suits for every important occasion. Bespoke advisors are on hand 24 hours, seven days a week to help guide customers through the measurement process. They can also advise on suit types, fabric choice, slim vs traditional fit and an array of fashionable options including contrast color buttonholes, peak vs shawl collar lapels or spread vs straight collars.

Knot Standard uses the best of Italian and English fabrics, offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and round the clock customer service.

and gift giving as easy as eating that warm slice of holiday pie, which is why they have dreamed up an endless assortment of accoutrements to make the festivities truly shine.

Start an all new Christmas tradition that can be enjoyed throughout the years with Bella Merce's Christmas Wish List Keepsake Ornament.

Each one is etched with either the child's name and the words "Letter to Santa" or "Christmas Wish List," and can then be filled with their notes.

This fun twist on the glass ornament features frosted words, a colorful bow, and a

inspired colors, orange, sky blue, true red, lime, royal blue and purple. The clean lines and noticeable colors mean you won’t lose them among all the dull black chargers belonging to co-workers, fellow passengers and classmates. CableKeeps™ are molded in Santoprene thermoplastic rubber which makes them durable, recyclable and non-toxic. More good thinking.

Mothers will love these—no more wondering who owns

Instant Glamour: Slip on Cuffs

removable cap, making it easy to replace or continue filling the ball with their special letters.

Indulge in a holiday purchase that can be enjoyed year round with their Engraved Wood Photo Tags. Touted as a unique way to display a family tree, these tags are engraved with the photos of choice and then can be personalized with optional text on the backside.

Create a series of holiday memories to hang upon the boughs, or choose a set of wedding or family vacation snapshots to display year round www.bellamerce.com and give as gifts. which cable charger—no fussing to find the right one just as you have to tear out the door in the morning. Your family can each have their own colour, and what a great stocking stuffer they will make. CableKeeps™ will keep everyone happy. The cost of the US model, “Goldie”, $16. www.nicebydesign.com.

Bamboosa, a well-known U.S. manufacturer of unique eco-friendly products, has acquired the exclusive rights to manufacture and distribute a new product designed to make the everyday use of iPads® and similar devices a more comfortable experience. The Lap Log© tablet holder is already in production at Bamboosa’s Andrews, S.C facility and will be distributed worldwide.

The Lap Log is one of the most universal tablet holders on the market. The cylindrical shape of the stand differentiates it from similar products in that it allows the user to adjust the angle of the iPad, tablet or eReader for better viewing without changing their body position. The wooden insert accommodates most tablet and eReader devices and works equally as well in either portrait or landscape mode.

Furthermore, the “bean bag” design is made from all natural buckwheat hulls and provides for a stable platform on almost any surface. Most importantly- it’s made in America!

“Almost 200 million tablets and eReader devices have been sold worldwide,” said Mindy Saintsing, VP of Marketing at Bamboosa. “Now consumers are looking for a more comfortable way to use them without holding them or propping them on their laps or knees. We think this product delivers on that promise better than any other we have seen. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and made in America!”

The Lap Log is made of sustainable materials, including certified organic 100% cotton twill and naturally grown buckwheat hulls. A removable wooden insert that holds the tablet is crafted locally and is hand-sanded and stained with a natural, non-toxic finish.

Washable – If you happen to get a little dirt on your Lap Log when you're at the park, simply remove the wooden insert, dump the natural buckwheat filling into a container, and put your Lap Log into the wash.

Flexible – The durable bean bag design lets you view any tablet or eReader at almost limitless viewing angles, and the buckwheat hulls allow your Lap Log to conform to any surface.

Versatile – Use your Lap Log in bed, on the couch, sitting at your desk or on the kitchen counter. No straps, Velcro, or clips, and it easily adjusts to eliminate glare.

Remove the wooden insert, and your Lap Log can be used as a comfy travel pillow!

Travel Ready – The Lap Log weighs a little more than a pound, so you’ll be able to take yours anywhere. It's light enough to throw in your carry-on, and has the added bonus of doubling as a neck pillow! Going outdoors? Toss it in your backpack and have a convenient and stable stand for your device at the beach or on the trail. www.thelaplog.com

Luxury Handbag Brand, Deondra Jereé debuts

Shaun Robinson updated her LBD with a flick of the wrist. Did you see Shaun on the set of Access Hollywood sporting that gorgeous black dress with gold cuffs? Guess what? Her cuffs are actually removable! Her secret: Invisibelt KCuffs. These elastic, sparkly cuffs instantly transform any simple sweater or dress. Just slip them on your wrist for an entirely new, chic look. Choose from 5 fashionable, fun KCuff styles.

Shaun recently discovered Invisibelt KCuffs and not only wore them on the set to spruce up her outfit, but sent us a video from her dressing room encouraging her fans to try her new holiday accessory choice!

Known for her impeccable fashion sense, Shaun is only reiterating what thousands of other fashionistas have been saying...”why spend thousands of dollars on a new outfit when you can stock up on wardrobe staples and turn a blah to bling with a "flick of your wrist”. In a season of parties where busy days quickly turn to party grand entrances, it is hard to stay organized and find the time (and money) to make each outfit special. KCuffs can be stashed

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www.knotstandard.com

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in your handbag or luggage for quick access and amazing results, for a fraction of the price.

With New Year’s around the corner and Valentine’s day soon to follow, we are all under pressure to wear something fresh and exciting... yet save a penny or two.

KCuffs by Invisibelt are the answer to your Christmas wish, and with her ingenious line of practical and stylish accessories, creator Kathy Kramer has provided the perfect gift for your girlfriends or yourself for any special occasion. www.invisibelt.com

JANUARY 10, 2014

With each handbag embodying its own unique, modern, and sophisticated design, NY-based handbag line Deondra Jereé launches its collection in time for the Winter 2013 season.

Emerging handbag brand, Deondra Jereé distinguishes itself from the current fashion world with its innovative design, high quality materials, and reasonable pricing.

By infusing the combination of edginess and sophistication into each handbag, NY-based handbag line Deondra Jereé wishes to produce unique, everyday styles that are not currently available in the mass market. Each luxury handbag showcases its own modern and bold design. The winter 2013 collection is available online at deondrajeree.com.

“I wanted to design handbags today¹s sophisticated women would wear, including myself

because I'm confident in my style and like to wear original pieces,” said Deondra. “Our pieces are alluring, fashion forward, bold, and high-end. I wanted to give women who desire the finer things in life a handbag that is sophisticated, yet edgy.”

With each handbag made from the finest genuine lizard skins and Italian-glazed leather, the Deondra Jereé winter collection ultimately takes today¹s f e m a l e consumer from day-to-night.

With the fashionforward woman in mind, the Deondra Jereé winter 2013 collection prices range from $290.00 to $1,190.00 and feature six high-quality designs.

Deondra Jereé is a luxury handbag brand that was founded in 2013 by designer and creative director, Deondra Morris.

Deondra Jereé wishes to deliver the finest quality, original, and on-trend handbags at an affordable price point. www.Deondrajeree.com.

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I MESSENGER

NO 3 ISSUE 19

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

JANUARY 10, 2014

“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?

A FAMILY

.

POLICE have not apprehended Pookie the serial rapist.

Aren’t you concerned? Do you care?

I A guy who hits a woman We know he has attacked members of can be called lots of things. is not one of them.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,“Man”Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers.

If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers

877.373.8477 3.23.13 Join the rally,

Join Mayor Mike Rawlings for The Ten Thousand Man Rally Against Domestic Abuse at 10am on March 23rd at Dallas City Hall. (DART exit at Convention Center Station.) It’s time for the men of Dallas to say, enough is enough.

39946_MOROCH_MAA_NP_Ad_BW.indd 1

2/28/13 1:41 PM

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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I MESSENGER