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I MESSENGER BILLED NO JUSTICE PEACE VOLUME 4 ISSUE 13 NOVEMBER 28, 2014

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“The only way I can describe it, it looks like a demon” PAGE 1

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Regarding the shooting of Michael Brown, Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson says he acted according to procedure and he wouldn’t do anything different. !

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Message to the People...

Emotions Hon. Marion Barry 4

Once again, tough times. A week doesn’t go by that we don’t hear something to get upset about, especially when it comes to the high number of black children being buried. The Grand Jury in Missouri made its decision regarding the murder of Michael Brown by Police Officer Darren Wilson. After days of deliberations, they made a decision that they could live with, or at least they better get used to because their choice to not hand down an indictment set off a string of protests and unrest across the country. For a while I thought they would wait until closer to Thanksgiving to announce the results. Many, like me, felt that they just sped up a situation that would have had the same results no matter what. Did we really need to sit through another long trial when it appears that there is no value placed on the life of a young black man? Social media became the place for all minds, proving that a mind is a terrible thing to waste. Some of the comments were downright racist, while others were filled with compassion and hope.

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I had no business on Facebook. I went to bed very frustrated Monday night, because sometimes you just get tired. Folks say that people aren’t speaking out about murders until something high profile happens, but that is just not the case. People are speaking out daily and working tirelessly, but they aren’t getting the coverage and exposure. So, on Tuesday morning, against my better judgment, I checked Facebook. Everybody was talking about the non-indictment. Here are some of my comments:

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I MESSENGER Cheryl Smith, Publisher Established 2011 IMESSENGER is a tribute to Le Messager, founded by Cameroonian journalist Pius Njawe and The Messenger, an independent magazine, founded by labor activist A . Philip Randolph and economist Chandler Owen. 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. PAGE 2

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“Folks want the president to be stronger when he's one man but millions couldn't be strong enough to VOTE!” “How can you criticize something and then say you don't understand? If you don't understand, why not shut up until you do?” “It is imperative that we share info instead of criticize folk for not knowing. No one knows everything and it takes raised voices to get the messages out.” “Sometimes people say things that make you want to put them out of their misery!” “Raise those voices.” “Think i'll take pics of Black Friday. Folks berating looters, let's show those who don't circulate $$ in their communities.” “Of course you want the response to your violence to be peaceful!” “I'll be sharing perspectives and statements from various sources. Respond as you feel. Just remember I only get three strikes!” “Someone wrote, in defense of the grand jury's decision, that it was a mixed race panel. AND?!” “I would rather have a jury of all whites if they are committed to doing the right thing; than any blacks who are afraid, trying to please or lacking any consciousness or conscience.” “Just because you have a different level of consciousness, education or experiences does not give you the right to put others down. You don't understand their actions because you are not in their shoes! Or you lack compassion! Or you have amnesia!” “Folks are now criticizing our youth. Our folks are criticizing our youth. Question: Were they dropped on this earth from spaceships?” “OMG! the conservative antiBLACKs are coming out against the "thugs", naming Mike Brown and Trayvon Martin. I couldn't be with a Black man who looks down on his own people.” “Please don't cause me to use up my 3 strikes.” “You want folks to refrain from looting. Why don't you spend your $$ in your community?” “Burn your communities, take money out of your communities overspending and supporting other communities -- same result” “Same people who blast looters, will do their own looting on Black Friday when they empty store shelves with their $$$.” “As a symbol of solidarity, let's turn Friday into "BLACK POWER FRIDAY" and put your money to better use, forever and ever.” “Call for peace, how about a call for justice?”

Cheryl !

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Inside the 234

Inside the 234 Talk Show is brought to you by Cheryl Smith a Media Mavens Production 6pm-8pm every Thursday. Three Women Three Generations 20’s,30’s &Fab 40’s, Three Perspectives on Life, Love and everything in between. blogtalkradio.com/cherylsmith PAGE 3

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Nothing Shallow about Barry! Quit Playin’ By Vincent Hall Vincent Hall is an award-winning columnist and author.

The former Mayor of Washington D.C, Marion Barry is dead, and contrary to some dismal recollections of him, he was a great man. The Reverend Victor Hall of the Calvary Baptist Church in New York made a statement during a eulogy once that made me reconsider life’s personal mistakes. In positing the last rites and honoring the mortal remains of a lost soul, Reverend Hall said that the “Old Black preacher” made three simple prayers of God. First he said; “God, don't let me outlive all of my mourners.” What that prayer simply says is that I want to live a long life but when I leave I want someone here that remembers me for who I am and what I did. The second plea was; “God don't let my body outlive my mind.” That prayer was a humble request that God may grant mental clarity and lucidity throughout the course of one's life.

In a time in which dementia and Alzheimer's are rampant and routine, that request is viable and apropos. Finally, the Preacher would ask; “God don't let me die in shallow waters.” Now the first two were easy enough to comprehend, but this last one just points to the brilliance of the Black pulpit and their artistry of imagination and recitations. What “”shallow waters” referred to meant don't let me die in the midst of a public embarrassment; or during a period of a prolific shame and humiliation. When discerning how to editorialize a eulogy for Mayor Marion Barry, that series of prayers stood out. Especially since all anyone wants to discuss is his intersection with the “shallow waters.” Most of the media and its punditry will point you to one night in a hotel, when the mayor was accosted in a sting involving a hotel room, illicit drugs and a woman that he was not married to. But hold on… that was not the end of his story.

Greater yet, we should not let that be his lasting legacy. Marion Barry did not die in shallow waters. Not only did God allow him to see new streams of influence and power, but he never lost his passion for service. Dr. King said anyone can be great, anyone can serve. But he never mentioned how few have a heart for serving. The “talking heads” will fill the airwaves with pejoratives, but consider a few positive things about Marion Barry. Barry was born poor in Mississippi to a family of sharecroppers. He became known as a civil rights activist in his early college days and eventually earned a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Fisk University. Barry’s political star began to rise in the early 1960’s when he was elected the first national chairman of SNCC (the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.) In 1978, Barry defeated the incumbent mayor of Washington D.C., Walter Washington. Immediately the residents of D.C. who had always been neglected, noticed a marked improvement in city services and the number of African-Americans on the city payroll grew tremendously. Suddenly, African-Americans in the middle class grew. Barry developed a vibrant summer jobs program that buoyed the hopes and future prospects

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of young black people. Barry served four terms as Mayor as well as being elected to the council after a national scandal that would have been a lesser man's final demise. What makes Marion Barry great to so many is that above and beyond all of the reported scandals and scurrilous statements made about him, he remained the “People’s Mayor” and never dropped his head in depression or defeat. There was nothing shallow about his life’s work or how we should regard his legacy.

Urban League Dallas observes World AIDS Day With A! Day Education & Prevention Workshops, Free Testing and more In observance of World AIDS Day, the Urban League of Greater Dallas’ Department of Health and Quality of Life will host “The Red Room” on Monday, December 1, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Urban League Headquarters, 4315 S. Lancaster Road, Dallas, TX 75216. The public is invited to view movies including a documentary featuring singer Alicia Keys and women affected by HIV/AIDS, receive free confidential testing and attend educational workshops and panel discussions with expert health counselors. Here in Dallas County, the facts are clear. - The number of new persons diagnosed with HIV in PAGE 4

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2012 has decreased by 27% since 2003 - It is estimated that about 15,000 people were living HIV/AIDS in Dallas County, representing an increase of 62% over the past 10 years - Case rates remain disproportionately higher in African Americans, similar to

trends observed in larger urban areas in the US - In 2012, 55% of new HIV diagnoses were in persons less than 35 years of age Please join us to spread prevention messaging, provide educational services and HIV testing. The Urban League Health Department offers Education and Prevention programs with funding provided by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental !

Health Administration (SAMHSA). These programs target high risk heterosexual males and females, including men who have sex with men (MSM), IV drug users (IDU), and HIV positive individuals. DSHS and CDC programs has three components, Targeted Testing and Condom Distribution, Counseling services, and Outreach and Education Services. The CDD program also includes linkage to care for newly diagnosed individuals or those previously diagnosed and need medical care. The goal of these programs is to reduce and or eliminate high risk behaviors among the target population by applying safe sexual practices, participating in testing for HIV and linking individuals to early access to medical care. !

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Giving Thanks By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

This week, as we prepare to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, I am continually reminded of the importance family and the mandate of being thankful. It is important to give thanks for the people in our lives, for continued prosperity and for the blessings we receive every day. This year, as I prepare to celebrate with my own family, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve the people of my district. Today, there are nearly 750,000 people from various ethnicities, religions and socioeconomic backgrounds that make up the rich, diverse fabric of District 30. For 22 years, I have been fortunate enough to be the voice and champion of a district that has embraced its diversity and who remains committed to finding sensible, innovative solutions to big problems. I am thankful for the families who support educational opportunities for their children; for the business owners who accept social responsibility; and for the compassionate men and women who fight to ensure the safety and protection of our children and elderly. Their courage, humanity and vision for our district, city, state and nation fuel the passion with which I serve. I am thankful for your unwavering, relentless support. In November, the people of District 30 came out to the polls with intense support. Despite the newly imposed Voter ID law in Texas aimed to disenfranchise minorities, poor and elderly voters, the men and women of District 30 exercised their right to vote with great zeal and re-elected me to the U.S. House of Representatives

with 87.9 % of the vote. I am thankful for the change and resources this support helps me to secure for Dallas and the surrounding cities. As I draw upon the spirit of Thanksgiving, I am reminded of a powerful speech by President John F. Kennedy, and would like to share these words with you: “Today, we give our thanks, most of all, for the ideals of honor and faith…for the decency of purpose, steadfastness of resolve and strength of will, for the courage and the humility…we must seek every day to emulate. As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them. On that [Thanksgiving] day let us gather in sanctuaries dedicated to worship and in homes blessed by family affection to express our gratitude for the glorious gifts of God; and let us earnestly and humbly pray that He will continue to guide and sustain us in the great unfinished tasks of achieving peace, justice, and understanding among all men and nations…” Shared with the American people in great confidence on November 4th, 1963 these words still remain true as we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving Day in 2014. On Thanksgiving Day, we gather with our loved ones to share food and blessings. This year, as I prepare to celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday, I am more than thankful for the opportunity to serve. I continue to wish infinite blessings to you and yours.

Clergy vow continued support for youth activists seeking justice for Mike Brown and urge Governor Nixon and President Obama to de-militarize law enforcement Washington, DC-- In response to today’s grand jury decision against charging White Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson for the fatal shooting death of 18-year-old African-American youth Michael Brown, faith leaders with the PICO National Network, released the following statement: “Today’s decision is deeply disappointing, but it comes as no surprise. It is another unconscionable blow to the St. Louis community and communities of color across America who have suffered through painful patterns of police abuses, discrimination and aggressive policing tactics at the expense of human life. “Our children, our brothers and sisters, our loved ones have died at the hands of unrepentant law enforcement right in front of our eyes and enough is enough. “Not indicting Officer Darren Wilson highlights a clear pattern of injustice and sends this community a message: the Ferguson Police Department and St. Louis County officials do not value Black lives. Michael Brown’s body was riddled with bullets and left lying in the street for more than four hours. The police response to a grieving and traumatized community was shocking and shameful: PAGE 5

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Clergy across the country got involved. tear-gassing peaceful protesters, selective arrests, violations of the constitutional right to free speech and assembly, pointing military-grade weapons at unarmed young people, running police cars over Brown’s memorial, using dogs to intimidate community members, even urinating on the site of the shooting. In America, this should be a disgrace and does not look like the will of God. “The unwillingness to hold a public trial of Darren Wilson is rightfully seen

as a moral failure and a reflection of a biased judicial system that dehumanizes and devalues the lives of Black youth. St. Louis County Prosecutor McCulloch took a standard process designed to protect the public by determining whether there was probable cause in a murder case, and turned it into a charade to protect Darren Wilson from public accountability. In the face of this denial of justice, we say, Black lives do matter and as people of faith who stand on God’s word to love each other, we will !

not stand for the dehumanization of any of God’s children. “We are here to support peaceful protesters against another round of heavy-handed police violence. We are here to urge Governor Nixon, President Obama and Attorney General Holder to use all their powers to de-escalate the militarized police response to nonviolent demonstrations. “We are here to call on the Department of Justice to charge Officer Wilson for violating Michael Brown’s civil rights, as well as oversee negotiations between local community organizations, local faith leaders and law enforcement officials and require all St. Louis County law enforcement agencies follow the rules of engagement set up by its taxpaying residents. “As people of faith, we have a moral obligation to demand justice for the Mike Browns in this world and to stand firm for human dignity, respect and peace when people are being abused. Justice requires action and GOD requires justice. “We are committed to standing with the community of Ferguson and its courageous youth as an extension of our religious ministries.” !

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Congresswoman Johnson Releases a Statement on the Ferguson Grand Jury Decision WASHINGTON, D.C.—(November 25th, 2014) – Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement in response to the Ferguson Grand Jury’s Decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson for the death of unarmed teenager, Michael Brown: “I am deeply saddened by the Ferguson Grand Jury’s decision yesterday evening. The decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson for the death of Michael Brown is both a travesty and a failure by our justice system. As the proud mother of a black man and grandmother to three grandsons, I cannot imagine the depth of the wound left in the hearts of Lesley McSpadden and Michael Brown Sr. The death of their son at the hands of a police officer sworn to protect and serve, aggravated by the refusal of the District Attorney to prosecute, is a profound affirmation of the devaluation of African-American men in this country. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King once said: “we must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” Yesterday’s decision in Ferguson highlights that there is still much work to be done. Our charge now is to harness that anger into constructive change by initiating dialogue with our community members, our elected officials, and our police departments to ensure that there are no more senseless murders of young black men. In the wake of this inequitable decision, we must stand together—peacefully.

Mayor Johnson speaks to “understandable feeling of discontent” WASHINGTON, -- U.S. Conference of Mayors President and Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson issued the following statement in response to the grand jury ruling in Ferguson, MO:

The plea has gone out, to impact the economy on Friday, November 28 by not participating in the biggest shopping day - Black Friday, instead, turning it into a BLACK POWER Friday!

"Once again, our hearts go out to the family of Michael Brown who tragically lost his life much too soon, as well as to the entire Ferguson community, which has endured the consequences of this event and its aftermath. The nation's mayors strongly believe that there should have been open-court proceedings in the case of the officer-involved shooting of Michael Brown so that the evidence could have been presented in a public forum, and a verdict could have been rendered by a jury. "We hope that prosecuting attorney Robert McCulloch will release the full transcript and audio proceedings of the Grand Jury as he promised in September. This will ensure that Michael Brown's family, as well as the community and the American public will have a greater understanding of what happened on August 9. As leaders of cities across the country, we are committed to working with our communities to ensure that this tragedy is never repeated. "There is an understandable feeling of discontent in the community, and there will no doubt be protests. Our hope is that any demonstrations that occur will be peaceful and nonviolent so that we can begin to heal from this difficult time." The U.S. Conference of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are nearly 1400 such cities in the country today, and each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor. PAGE 6

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National Bar Association has questions about outcome WA S H I N G T O N , D C – T h e National Bar Association is questioning how the Grand Jury, considering the evidence before them, could reach the conclusion that Darren Wilson should not be indicted and tried for the shooting death of Michael Brown. National Bar Association President Pamela J. Meanes expresses her sincere disappointment with the outcome of the Grand Jury’s decision but has made it abundantly clear that the National Bar Association stands firm and will be calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to pursue federal charges against officer Darren Wilson. “We will not rest until Michael Brown and his family has justice” states Pamela Meanes, President of the National Bar Association. President Meanes is requesting that the citizens of Ferguson, Missouri not allow this decision to cause an unnecessary uproar in the community that could lead to arrests, injuries or even deaths of innocent people. “I am asking

for everyone to citizens should remain as calm as behave/respond if possible and to and when they join in solidarity as interface with we continue to police officers. support the family “The death of of Michael Brown Michael Brown and put our legal was the last straw plan into full and the catalyst for effect” says addressing issues President Meanes of inequality and “I feel the racial bias in opmagnitude of the licing, the justice grand jury’s ruling system, and as Ferguson, violence against Missouri is only members of miNational Bar Association President minutes from nority communPamela J. Meanes where I reside.” ities,” said Atty. Over the last Meanes. couple of months, the National Bar The family of Michael Brown Association has hosted Town Hall requested that District Attorney meetings informing attendees of their McCullough step aside and allow a Fourth Amendment (Search & Seizure) special prosecutor be assigned to the constitutional rights, whether it is legal investigation to give the community to record police activity, and how confidence that the grand jury would

FAILURE OF JUSTICE Race Forward's Official Statement on the Grand Jury Decision On August 9, 2014, a town in Missouri reminded the country and the world of the perils of being young and black. While tweeting and chanting “Black Lives Matter,” we waited and hoped that, this time, justice would be blind. That wait is now over. A grand jury has decided not to indict Darren Wilson in the killing of young Michael Brown, meaning there will be no charges, no further investigation, and no trial by the State of Missouri. Race Forward is deeply disappointed with this outcome. The many questions that arise in the face of this decision can be boiled down to one: “What do we do now?” There are two answers: First, we must continue to organize - in Ferguson and everywhere. The activism demanding police accountability towards communities of color has been nothing short of amazing and it must continue. To many Black people, this shooting had a recurring theme that re-ignited the emotions and indignation of millions. It is the same tragic story that spans from slavery to include Emmett Till, Tanisha Anderson, Rodney King, Trayvon Martin, Rekia Boyd, Tarika Wilson, Jordan Davis, Renisha McBride, Eric Garner and many, many more. One way you can organize right now is by joining our allies at ColorofChange in asking the Department of Justice to step in to pursue Federal charges in the murder of Michael Brown. Click here to sign the petition. Secondly, we must relentlessly focus on systemic racism, even while condemning the behavior of individuals. We cannot ignore the rules, both written and unwritten, that reduce Black existence to unfulfilled dreams. It is structural racism that allows the vast racial disparities between the police force and community. It is structural racism that leads to militarized policing of communities of color. It is structural racism that forces grieving parents to have to prove, and even appeal to the United Nations, that the life of their son or daughter did matter; that they did not deserve to die. Like you, we mourn the loss of Michael Brown and so many more. We pledge to keep fighting until the system refuses to tolerate the unjustified killing of any human being. We pledge to keep fighting because Black lives matter. PAGE 7

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conduct a complete and thorough investigation into the tragic shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Brown. The grand jury’s decision confirms the fear that many expressed months ago — that a fair and impartial investigation would not happen. “The National Bar Association is adamant about our desire for transformative justice. While we are disappointed with the grand jury’s ruling, we are promoting peace on every street corner around the world. The only way to foster systemic change is to organize, educate, and mobilize. We are imploring everyone to fight against the injustice in Ferguson, Missouri and throughout the United States by banding together and working within the confines of the law,” said President Meanes. For complaints related to Ferguson, please contact the FBI 24 Hour Hotline at 314-589-2500.

The National Black United Front Ferguson Community Action Plan In an attempt to bring about more constructive and substantive change around the issues of police misconduct in the Black community in America, the National Black United Front has instituted eight organizing strategies. These points will help to provide more guidance and direction as we attempt to gain community control of law enforcement. 1. Join an organization that is working toward the self-determination, self-respect and selfdefense of Black people. 2. Sign the #DCFerguson Petition to end the "Jump out Boys" 3. Boycott holiday spending with non black business and instead hold cash mobs/flash markets at Black owned businesses. 4. Organize to have community trainings on civilian rights when dealing with law enforcement. Contact your nearest NBUF chapter to help facilitate a training event. 5. Demand a civilian review board with the power to subpoena and fire police officers found guilty of misconduct. 6. Demand that a minimum of 51% of a municipality's police department be residents of that city. 7. Develop a local based strategy to implement community safety patrols. 8. Hold voter education forums on how to nominate, elect and support progressive politicians in support of radical police reform.

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No indictment!

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Officer Darren Wilson processed after shooting Michael Brown Photos courtesy St. Louis County Prosecutor Office.

12 jurors heard over 60 witnesses and poured over pages of evidence before arriving at a decision to not indict Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson for the shooting death of 18year-old Michael Brown.

The decision resulted in responses, much like those following the trials of the officers who beat Rodney King, the O.J. Simpson trial, and most recently George Zimmerman who killed Trayvon Martin. Across the country, in addition to those held in Ferguson, thousands have gathered to protest the decision, even though Wilson had his share of supporters raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for his defense. Since the decision Wilson told interviewer George Stephanopoulis that District Attorney Robert McCullough he wouldn’t have done anything different on that fateful summer night when he said his instructions to Brown and a friend prompted a negative response, ending in Brown dead, his body riddled with 12 bullets. In his testimony Wilson refers to Brown as a “demon” who reached into his vehicle and attacked him. He said his conscience is clear because he did what he was trained to do. Wilson, 28, has been a police officer for six years. Recently married and expecting a child, Wilson received a commendation earlier this year. Prior to coming to the Ferguson police force, he was a member of the Jennings, MO, police department, which was disbanded, all officers fired by the City Council and new officers hired amid allegations of racial tension. Since the grand jury’s decision was announced on Monday at 8p.m. CST, protests have resulted in arrests, injuries, looting of businesses and calls for peace. President Barack Obama and Brown’s parents asked for peaceful gatherings while celebrities around the world shared their thought about the decision and many also sent prayers and expressed the need for peace, despite the frustration many were feeling. Brown’s family attorney Ben Crump said that a lawsuit would be filed and many are expressing disdain for the prosecuting attorney Robert McCullough, who has been criticized for his handling of the case.

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CBCF on grand jury decision in the shooting death of Michael Brown WASHINGTON—A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) released the following statement on the grand jury decision on the shooting death of unarmed teenager Michael Brown by Ferguson Police officer, Darren Wilson. “Our heartfelt prayers are with Michael Brown’s family as they cope with the pain and frustration of the grand jury’s decision. “Although our justice system may not always seem fair, violence and riots will not bring peace and balance to our country. CBCF will continue to believe in our judicial process. As a nation, we can move forward from this decision by reexamining law enforcement arrest procedures involving unarmed individuals. “As the CBCF continues its mission to develop young leaders, educate the public and inform policy, we encourage people to become more civically engaged and collaborate with community groups, faith leaders, legislators to reevaluate our social, political and moral commitment to building up the next generation. “Instead of letting this decision divide us, we A. Shuanise Washington should ask ourselves how we can prevent tragedies like this from happening again. That is the best way to honor a young man whose life was taken too soon.” The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated, established in 1976, is a non-partisan, non-profit, public policy, research and educational institute intended to broaden and elevate the influence of African Americans in the political, legislative and public policy arenas.

No indictment in the shooting of Michael Brown The grand jury's decision not to indict Darren Wilson for the fatal shooting of Michael Brown is a tragic reminder of the lack of value placed on African-American lives. Michael Brown is one of too many young African Americans who have died or been critically injured by those whose job it is to serve and protect. Just this past weekend, a 12-year-old black boy was gunned down on a Cleveland playground for holding a toy gun. This must END. The structural, systemic inequality that exists in Ferguson and across the country cannot be fixed until communities of color have Sherrilyn A. Ifill the power to hold institutions accountable. We have a responsibility to stand in solidarity with Ferguson and demand accountability, transparency, and an end to racial profiling in law enforcement. LDF continues to urge the United States Department of Justice to move forward with its investigation of Michael Brown's death and the Ferguson police department. We are also pressing for lasting reforms such as implicit bias training, increased community policing, and a national database of incidents of police violence. Community-based organizing will also continue. The people of Ferguson and communities around the country will not forget this miscarriage of justice and must continue to expose police violence to ensure this young man's death was not in vain. LDF will not stop planning, researching, organizing, and pushing for justice. And, we, too, will not forget about Michael Brown – or the countless others like him.

With you in struggle, Sherrilyn A. Ifill President and Director-Counsel PAGE 9

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How Boys/Men of Color can un-learn violence by understanding its roots By Ivan J. Juzang Recent events involving African-American NFL football players Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson were a missed opportunity to provide a teachable moment for America. Both men were widely criticized for their individual choices and behaviors, ones that led to a woman being battered and a child being abused. For the most part, however, there was no productive, public dialogue about the underlying issues and stigmas. Using physical abuse to resolve relationship conflicts or punishing children with switches rather than other, more measured forms of discipline are learned behaviors - and therefore can be "unlearned." Over the past two decades, I've had the opportunity to conduct research directly with hundreds of low-income boys and men of color (BMOCs). I've heard their reasons for their behaviors, even as l listened with an ear toward developing shareable counterarguments to their perceptions and the barriers to healthy behavior change. Men in domestic-abuse or corporal-discipline situations have modeled how others "handle their business" with anger, fists and domination. They see it in popular culture - on TV, at the movies and woven into music. They see it in their families (often passed on from generation to generation). Black men who use violence as a means of control may justify their actions by saying, "that's how I was raised." Others have come to believe that it is a cultural artifact among African Americans. Some men of color have internalized violence based on their interactions (both historical and contemporary) with mainstream society. Enslaved Africans brought to this country as free labor learned quickly that violence by those in charge was a way to control their actions - and even their thoughts of freedom. The seeds sown in this ugly period of American history are paying some disturbing dividends. We have to think about what kinds of messages boys and men of color receive, at the home, community and society level, about what it means to truly "be a man." In a nation where they often feel disempowered in the workforce and other venues and have had to face both overt and covert racism, sometimes these men choose negative ways to exert power and control in their "castle." Harsh discipline of children going back to slavery and into the civil rights movement was seen by some parents as a way of protecting them from the even harsher consequences (including run-ins with the police and even death) of "acting out" in public. We now need to create reframing strategies that enable prevention and recovery messages to be effective in changing abusive behaviors among some men of color. To do so, messages must be culturally relevant and engage men in a way that is not attacking, shaming or creating more stigmas or negative stereotypes about this population. I have personally witnessed young men internalize and act on messages when they are culturally relevant (and reflect oral communications culture), put in the proper context and provide a clear understanding of the costs-benefits of making a change. Once men are engaged properly (without talking down to or judging them about their current views), they, in turn, will generate the kind of word-of-mouth that creates norms change and stigma reduction within the community at large. Holding an open and honest dialogue and creating culturally relevant reframing strategies dialogue can encourage males who have exhibited violent behaviors to get treatment. Otherwise, we run the risk of driving domestic violence further underground, as both victims and perpetrators are silenced. Widely disseminating recovery messages at the community level can also serve as prevention for young men who are just starting their own families or engaging in intimate relationships. We can model what healthy parenting behaviors and partner relationships look like. We must go beyond the hype and understand what men like Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson need in their lives in order to react differently in moments of conflict. What's the recovery or prevention messages men like these could internalize and share with their peers? My goal is to be part of the solution. We can identify and replicate promising approaches and culturally relevant behavioral-health intervention strategies that can change male behavioral norms in communities of color.

Ivan Juzang is the Founder and President of MEE Productions Inc., a nationally

recognized communications and marketing firm specializing in public health messages for hard-to-reach audiences.

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Statement in Response to the Ferguson Grand Jury Decision

Mike Brown: Different Murder Same Verdict "... I cannot help but think – in their eyes, he is just another young, black ni$er whose life can be taken at any moment. We have failed him if we do not teach him everything he needs to know to survive, including his interactions with any police officer." By now, everyone knows the verdict regarding the Michael Brown case. To say I was surprised would be a lie but I still had hope for a different outcome. Maybe an outcome in which the police officer would have at least been charged with excessive force, or an outcome in which the police department took some responsibility for the over excessive force utilized by one of their own or lastly, a scene from

Ferguson, MO that does not resemble a throwback picture from the Civil Rights movement. In my opinion, there are two fundamental issues with this case and all the other Michael Browns in the United States. First, police brutality. Obviously, this has gone on for far too long. There absolutely has to be some repercussions for those who are supposed to protect us. I feel comfortable in saying there are many African Americans who do not hold police in high regard, especially those from inner city, low-income neighborhoods. In the black community, it seems that our young boys should be taught the protocol for how they should act in any situation with a police officer as a rite of passage. It could mean the difference between life and death.

I have a six-year old nephew, who is my favorite guy. He is a handsome, charming little boy who does not meet a stranger, he is curious and ornery but he is also loving and protective. This kid is persistent and so smart. With all his endearing qualities, when I hear about cases of police brutality against young, black males or cases like Trayvon Martin or Jordan King, I cannot help but think he is just another young, black nigger whose life can be taken at any moment because he is a young, black male. We have failed him if we do not teach him everything he needs to know to survive, including his interactions with any police officer. Let me preface my next thoughts by saying... READ MORE AT DIVERSITYCONNEX.COM

District Attorney-elect Susan Hawk

The tragedy in Ferguson should be a wake-up call for every community, including our own, to think about all we are doing not only to protect our citizens and their civil rights, but also to address racial attitudes that shape our perspective and impact how we treat one another. When it comes to a tragic issue like a police shooting, the biggest challenge is the unanswered questions. That’s why for the good of our citizens and officers, there’s no doubt that police should be wearing body cameras that will eliminate the guesswork that looms over so many of these cases, and add a level of accountability – especially in cases where force is used. I’ll be meeting with Police Chief David Brown within the next week, and if he is in agreement, it’s my goal to begin providing body cameras to our local law enforcement through forfeiture funds. The bigger and more difficult issue is that of racial relations, how we remove stereotypes, and how we build or rebuild trust between the patch work of communities that make us one. Trust is critical to the success of our criminal justice system, and this system can only be successful when there is trust on all sides. In the coming months, this is an issue that I intend to address as District Attorney.

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Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson not indicted by Grand Jury

NOVEMBER 28, 2014

“The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is troubled by the grand jury decision today. Although not deterred, the Lawyers’ Committee will continue to work with legal and community partners to seek justice for Michael Brown and his family, and work on ensuring that systemic change is brought in Ferguson and nationwide to address excessive force by law enforcement against people of color, particularly African American youth, who are routinely targeted by law enforcement.” -Barbara R. Arnwine, President and Executive Director, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

“The NAACP is deeply disappointed that the grand jury did not indict Darren Wilson for the senseless and tragic death of Michael Brown. While we are frustrated, we stand committed to continue our fight against racial profiling, police brutality and the militarization of local authorities. We will remain steadfast in our fight to pass the End Racial Profiling legislation. And we stand in solidarity with peaceful protesters and uphold that their civil rights not be violated as both demonstrators and authorities observe the “rules of engagement.” The grand jury’s decision does not mean a crime was not committed in Ferguson, Missouri, nor does it mean we are done fighting for Michael Brown. At this difficult hour, we commend the courage and commitment of Michael Brown's family, as well as local and national coalition partners." -Cornell William Brooks, NAACP President and CEO

Attorney General Holder’s Statement

WASHINGTON — Attorney General Eric Holder released the following statement Monday regarding the conclusion of the St. Louis County grand jury proceeding in the shooting of Michael Brown: “While the grand jury proceeding in St. Louis County has concluded, the Justice Department’s investigation into the shooting of Michael Brown remains ongoing. Though we have shared information with local prosecutors during the course of our investigation, the federal inquiry has been independent of the local one from the start, and remains so now. Even at this mature stage of the investigation, we have avoided prejudging any of the evidence. And PAGE 11

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although federal civil rights law imposes a high legal bar in these types of cases, we have resisted forming premature conclusions. “Michael Brown’s death was a tragedy. This incident has sparked a national conversation about the need to ensure confidence between law enforcement and the communities they protect and serve. While constructive efforts are underway in Ferguson and communities nationwide, far more must be done to create enduring trust. The Department will continue to work with law enforcement, civil rights, faith and community leaders across the country to foster effective relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve and to improve fairness in the criminal justice system overall. In addition, the Department continues to investigate allegations of unconstitutional policing patterns or practices by the Ferguson Police Department. “Though there will be disagreement with the grand jury's decision not to indict, this feeling should not lead to violence. Those who decide to participate in demonstrations should remember the wishes of Michael Brown's parents, who have asked that remembrances of their son be conducted peacefully. It does not honor his memory to engage in violence or looting. In the coming days, it will likewise be important for local law enforcement authorities to respect the rights of demonstrators, and deescalate tensions by avoiding excessive displays— and uses—of force.”

“The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and Black Women’s Roundtable are seriously troubled by the grand jury’s decision not to indict Darren Wilson for the violent and senseless killing of Michael Brown. It’s been a long road traveled in the civil rights movement, but the slaying of Michael Brown, followed by this decision, makes it clear that we can’t take off our marching shoes yet. We’ve got to keep the movement moving until injustice like this is only heard about in the history books. We pray for Michael Brown’s family and urge the public to engage in peaceful protests.” -Melanie L. Campbell, President and CEO, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and convener, Black Women’s Roundtable

“Today’s announcement makes clear that the systemic bias and dysfunction in our justice system that led to Michael Brown’s death extends all the way to the courthouse. We send our condolences to the Brown family and the community of Ferguson for today’s announcement that there would be no justice for this shooting death or the wounds it inflicted on the community. We will continue to partner with law enforcement at all levels to correct the systemic bias that exists at every juncture of our justice system and causes young men of color to be killed or unjustly targeted and subject to heavy-handed sentencing.” -Wade Henderson, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights "Today’s decision by the grand jury to not indict Officer Darren Wilson in the horrific killing of Michael Brown is disappointing, but not the end to the struggle for justice. Now more than ever, it is critical for the U.S. Department of Justice to take a leading role in changing policies that allow the police to target innocent people and engage in brutality against Americans. Michael Brown was an unarmed African American with his entire life ahead of him, and we must honor his legacy by continuing the fight against racial profiling and excessive use of force." -Farhana Khera, Executive Director, Muslim Advocates !

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

U. S. Commission on Civil Rights Issues Statement WASHINGTON, -- The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights by bipartisan majority vote today issued the following statement upon the completion of the work of the grand jury and the State of Missouri's decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson for the death of teenager Michael Brown: We understand the disappointment and anger that many in Ferguson feel with regard to the decision of the grand jury not to return an indictment in the shooting death of Michael Brown. But our nation's commitment to the rule of law requires that the decision must be afforded our respect and we must abide by the decision. However, this does not mean that inquiries into the deeper issues of inequality and racial disparities raised by members of the African American community in St. Louis County and others in the aftermath of the shooting should end. Conditions which deny individuals or groups equal protection under the law and which deny valuable opportunities for improvement are not the American way. The Commission applauds the citizens' work to educate the country about the tensions between communities and law enforcement that have long caused great loss. Although the grand jury has completed its work, the Commission encourages the continued

work of citizens and community organizations to address these issues. We also note the ongoing, in-depth investigation of this matter by the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding the issues of civil rights and police use of force is continuing. The DOJ investigation has been endorsed by this Commission. As President Obama remarked, "In too many communities around the country, a gulf of mistrust exists between local residents and law enforcement. In too many communities, too many young men of color are left behind and seen only as objects of fear." The Commission has long championed reforms that would combat these tensions and implement more just and effective policing. In its 1981 report Guarding the Guardians and the 2000 update Revisiting Guarding the Guardians, the Commission raised concerns about law enforcement practices that deny equal protection and opportunity under the law to minority communities. Those members called on lawmakers and civic leaders to enact

Miles’ Musings By Miles Jaye Miles Jaye is a musician, singer, author, actor, chef and award-winning writer.

“The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man.” - George Bernard Shaw President Obama authored a book titled “The Audacity of Hope.” Interestingly, “audacity” is defined as: “the willingness to take bold risks; rude or disrespectful behavior; impudence.” For that Black man or any Black man or woman to run for the Presidency of the United States of America requires an enormous dose of that thing, “audacity” or chutzpah, guts, nerve, courage. What’s not so obvious here is that “audacity” also requires deep resolve, vision, hope and faith. My People - Blacks, Americans, PAGE 12

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Christians, Jazz musicians, artists, the Davis family, are audacious, no apologies forthcoming! Whether you advocate violence or not is irrelevant. To think Change and Violence are not first cousins is naive, and suggests you know little about history, American, World or Ancient; and even less about nature and the natural order of things. Each one of us is intimately familiar with violence from the time of our birth, regardless of race. Once the water “breaks,” the sack is “ruptured” and the amniotic fluids run out, it’s likely soon after your mother screamed violently through the late stages of contractions and “pushed” your big soft head through her birthing canal and through her fully dilated

reforms that increase police accountability and reduce incidents of violence or injustice. We now call on lawmakers to revisit the themes in those 1981 and 2000 reports to review the need for independent community oversight of their law enforcement entities. Just a few days ago, the Commission's Advisory Committee in Missouri voted to investigate the issue of interactions in Missouri between law enforcement and communities of color, particularly those interactions that involve the use of force. The Committee will take testimony from police, government officials, community members and experts on community and police interactions. It intends to hear directly from Missouri residents who have been affected by police use of excessive force. It will also examine current federal legislation related to discrimination on the basis of race in the administration of justice and make recommendations regarding their findings. We fully endorse the

Missouri Advisory Committee's approach. We especially support the notion of Missourians looking into the situation within their own communities. There is nothing more valuable than neighbors seeking to improve their way of life and the way of life of their fellow citizens and communities. We look forward to the results of their investigation. The Commission and its staff will do our part to support them as they proceed. But while we feel some sympathy with those who feel disappointment with the grand jury decision, we cannot condone the violence and looting that has occurred. At the same time, the actions of a few individuals also cannot override the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceable assembly and protest in the days ahead. We urge restraint by all parties, law enforcement and protesters. We wish to express our condolences to the family of Michael Brown. The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is an independent, bipartisan agency charged with advising the President and Congress on civil rights matters and issuing an annual federal civil rights enforcement report. For information about Commission's reports and meetings, visit http:// www.usccr.gov.

vagina; introducing you to a world of beauty and horror, love and hate, joy and pain. Then there was the cutting of the umbilical cord or quite possibly they surgically removed you by Caesarean section. In other words, they cut you out. Either way, birth is a very dramatic time! It’s a very messy business! Have you seen placenta? There are no new birds, Eagles, Hawks, Blue Jays, Red Breasted Robins, Raptors, not even chickens or your Thanksgiving turkey, without a broken shell. Historically, rulers, oppressors and conquerors tend to advocate “peace.” Once they’ve kicked everyone’s butts and taken all their stuff, they go to great lengths to suppress civil disobedience and in doing so, their most effective tools are laws and law enforcement. Emperor Constantine went so far as converting to Christianity to keep the “peace.” Ironically, my most vivid memories of the Civil Rights movement are violent scenes of attacking police dogs and baton wielding officers breaking the flesh and drawing the blood of peaceful protesters.

Beware politicians who advocate and fund violence abroad but won’t tolerate protest at home. Beware the preacher who preaches Jesus passionately but is mute for Justice. Beware a media which profits from scenes of burning police cars and looting. Beware members of your own race who refer to others in despair as “animals.” Beware your own soul if you are indifferent to others in misery, anguish, suffering and pain. Don’t stand down, don’t back down. Keep pushing till the shell breaks. Keep screaming and sobbing and cussing and pushing till the head pops out, then just maybe we can all sigh an exhausted sigh of relief and cry together great tears of joy and celebrate in the streets. One day I’ll be able to focus all my attentions and energy on making pretty music, romantic words, beautiful pictures and delicious foods for those I love, all of you! Imagine that!

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Till then; Love, Peace and Blessings! M !

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

MORIAL: Not a proud day for America

Marc Morial President National Urban League

“We are of course indescribably disappointed. We are disappointed in the grand jury’s decision. We are disappointed in St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Robert McCulloch’s focus more on the media’s reaction to this injustice than to the loss of Michael Brown’s life. We are disappointed that this does not reflect the best of what our nation can be. This is not a proud day for America. We uphold the justice system and legal structure that has

helped to guide the course of America and many of the rights we all enjoy today. But nothing is perfect. When we abandon the very foundational tenet of justice for all, we abandon a core part of who we are as a nation. We respect the grand jury’s decision in the course of due process of our legal system. We will, however, continue to fight for justice and

Dallas Career Fair Thursday, December 11, 2014 11:00am to 2:00pm

accountability in the death of Michael Brown. As such, we first and foremost urge the Department of Justice to continue a full and thorough investigation to determine whether federal civil rights charges should be filed against Officer Wilson, as well as to carry out federal reviews of police misconduct and implement key recommendations for police reform. The excessive use of force by law

enforcement in our communities is unacceptable, and we know that we cannot prevent future similar tragedies unless and until there is systemic change across the nation in the area of police reform. Most critically, we want to reaffirm our commitment to nonviolent peaceful protest and expression of our demands and to discourage any violent acts. We fully support and align with Attorney General Eric Holder’s comments on Friday that ‘History has also shown us that the most successful and enduring movements for change are those that adhere to nonaggression and nonviolence…Peaceful protest has been a hallmark, and a legacy, of past movements for change, from patriotic women who demanded access to the franchise, to the civil rights pioneers who marched for equal rights and equal justice.’ Those who seek to perpetuate injustice should know that we will not stop, we will not quit, we will not rest…until justice for all has been served.”

The Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce has a professional office space(s) available for lease at 1001 N. Bishop Ave.

Doubletree Hotel 2015 M arket Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207 M eet with the Hiring M anagers from some of the best Companies in Dallas

For more information and to Preregister for this event, please go to:

ChoiceCareerFairs.com Dress for success!!! Your first impression is very important -- Business attire is highly recommended. (A Dress Code will be enforced) Bring Your Resume, at least 25 copies. What to bring... You should bring plenty of resumes, as you will be giving them directly to the hiring managers at each company. If you have a multi-page resume, make sure your name and contact information is on each page. Be organized with supplies you might need i.e. pens, paper, business cards, etc. How long should you spend at the job fair... You can spend as little or as long as you want at the show. In one hour you should be able to speak with at least ten companies or more. What do I do at the job fair? Walk up to each company, introduce yourself, shake their hand, give them a resume and tell them about yourself. These people want to hear you talk and see if you can listen as well. Tell them about your success at your current or last job, describe your job duties and how you can help them.

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Dealing with Holiday Depression Alphonso Gibbs, Jr., LCSW-C, LICSW The six weeks encompassing Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s—collectively called “the holidays”—are for most a magically unique time of year. But for many, the holidays bring hurt. Caused by factors including the weather, separation, death, stress, unrealistic expectations, hypersentimentality, guilt, or overspending, holiday depression—also called the “holiday blues”— can zap the merriment out of even the most wonderful time of the year. Holiday depression affects one million people every year. Men and women, young and old, all fall victim to feelings of sadness, loneliness, anxiety, guilt, and fatigue during this emotionally charged season. Men’s Health Network offers the following 10 suggestions to help you identify and ward off—or at least better cope with—potential sources of holiday depression. 1. Acknowledge that you’re hurting – Others may expect certain attitudes and behaviors from you that you may not feel. The retail industry’s “holiday hype” presents an overly sentimental, nostalgic, and even imaginary notion of the holidays (usually to try to sell you something). Sill, feelings of sadness, loneliness, or depression don’t automatically vanish just because it’s the holidays. Acknowledge your pain, be open and honest with others, refuse to feel guilty, and get help if necessary. It’s ok to laugh! Don’t be afraid! You won’t be struck by a bolt of lightning for laughing! 2. Have a plan to deal with your feelings – Try to surround yourself with people who care about and support you—family, friends, or church members. Invest yourself in an exercise program (aerobic activities such as walking, running, cycling, etc., are recommended because of their mood-elevating ability). Take time to write your thoughts down, sort of a journal of your feelings. Sometimes, just the act

of putting your thoughts on paper helps to “get it out of you”. If necessary, see your doctor or therapist. And learn to say “no.” Others’ expectations are not a reason for your own mental health to suffer. 3. Set realistic expectations – Keep your expectations realistic rather than perfectionistic. Prioritize and reduce selfimposed holiday preparations. Delegate responsibilities. Realistically plan your budget, spending, and shopping. Do less and enjoy more. Obsessing over endless details is bound to change this long-awaited, once-ayear season from a time of exuberance to one of exhaustion. Make it a point to be honest with yourself, and if necessary and possible, limit the time and situations/people you want to be around. When you’ve had enough of either, make sure that you have a way to leave or step away. If possible, let someone you trust know in advance, so that you aren’t put in an even more stressful position of having to explain yourself when you “unplug”. 4. Take time for yourself – Why is it called holiday depression? Because, for most people, these feelings don’t occur at other times of the year. Remind yourself of what you enjoyed during the previous months, then continue them during the holidays. Make yourself a priority! Instead of a “Discount Double Check,” give yourself an “Emotional Double Check”. Give yourself permission to feel what you feel. Just don’t stay there too long! Getting enough rest, eating and drinking in moderation, exercising, and continuing other favorite activities can maintain normalcy, routine, control, and predictability. 5. Consider that your depression may actually be caused by this time of year – Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, occurs because of reduced exposure to sunlight—which is just what happens during the holiday season when daylight hours are shorter. Check with your doctor to see if light therapy might be beneficial for you.

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6. Help others – Soup kitchens, homeless shelters, nursing homes, churches, and scores of other organizations can always use volunteers, especially at critical times of the year. Additionally, you’ll benefit from the company of other people around you rather than being alone. And, help others help you! Tell those who care about you what you do or don’t need from them. They often don’t know how to help, or what to say, but want to. 7. Bury the hatchet – Perfect families don’t magically appear during the holidays, but family conflicts can. “Letting go” and forgiving can help heal past wounds. Additionally, family feuds can even be deliberately set aside until after the high-tension holidays in order to facilitate the peace and enjoyment of everyone at this special time. 8. Start your own traditions – Both families and traditions change with time. (Every tradition had to start somewhere!) Rather than reminiscing over the “good old days,” accept the fact that change may be necessary, grasp the season as it is now, look forward to the future, and create your own family traditions that can be enjoyed and even preserved for future generations. 9. Keep your alcohol intake low – Don’t pour gasoline on a fire. Remember, alcohol has a depressive effect on your nervous system, so if you’re experiencing the holiday blues, drinking too much alcohol will only worsen your depression. 10. Rededicate yourself to your spirituality – The “reason for the season” is often swallowed up by maddening materialism that can distract from the history, meaning, and significance of holiday celebrations. Step back, slow down, and refocus on transcendent, eternal matters. Rededicate yourself to spiritual pursuits, such as church attendance, church work, prayer life, and other disciplines. Regain the focus originally intended by this time of year.

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JOURNAL Send your books for review to: Cheryl Smith, 320 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Suite 220, Dallas, TX 75203 PAGE 14

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Johnson re-elected as ranking member of House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi announced 12 for 114th Congress

NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Lung Cancer and African Americans: Questions and Answers By the National Cancer Institute BETHESDA, Md., - November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer has been the leading cause of cancer deaths among all Americans, including African American men and due to later uptake of smoking, African American women since the early 1990s. The good news is that treatment possibilities for those with the disease are expanding. Targeted medicines guided by powerful new screening technologies have the potential to significantly improve lung cancer treatment.

Christopher S. Lathan, M.D., Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, treats patients with the disease and discusses lung cancer among African Americans. Does lung cancer affect African American men more than other groups? Of all ethnic/racial and gender groups in the United States, African American men are the most likely to develop lung cancer and also to die from the disease. We don't know why that is. Smoking alone cannot explain the high incidence and mortality from the disease in African American men. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi What causes lung cancer? The main risk factor for lung cancer is cigarette smoking. However, · Congressman Eliot Engel – Ranking WASHINGTON, D.C.—Last week Democratic smoking does not explain all cases of the disease. About 15 percent of Member, House Foreign Affairs Committee Leader Nancy Pelosi announced that the Demo· Congressman Bennie Thompson – Ranking cases occur in nonsmokers. More research is ongoing to understand the cratic Caucus has approved an additional 12 role of risk factors other than smoking. Member, House Committee on Homeland Ranking Members for the 114th Congress. “Our Security Is lung cancer always fatal? Ranking Members embody energy, insight and · Congressman John Conyers – Ranking creativity,” said Leader Pelosi. “They represent No. When detected at an early stage, lung cancer can be treated with Member, House Judiciary Committee the determination and drive of our talented Causurgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the disease is · Congressman Raúl Grijalva – Ranking cus, and they are fully committed to fighting for frequently found at more advanced stages, when it cannot be cured. This middle-class families and hardworking Americans Member, House Committee on Natural Resources is a tough disease to treat—we're curing only about 15 percent of people · Congressman Elijah Cummings – Ranking with lung cancer. everywhere. With their strong, informed, and Member, House Committee on Oversight and focused leadership guiding the way, we look Do beliefs about lung cancer differ among different racial and ethnic Government Reform forward to advancing solutions to create good groups? · Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson – paying jobs and renew opportunity for all.” Ranking Member, House Committee on Science, My research suggests that African Americans are less likely than whites to think that changing their behavior or lifestyle would decrease their risk of Space, and Technology · Congressman Collin Peterson – Ranking developing lung cancer. This concerns me because getting people to quit · Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez – Member, House Committee on Agriculture smoking is critical for making progress against this disease. Ranking Member, House Small Business · Congressman Adam Smith – Ranking What should the public know about smoking and lung cancer? Committee Member, House Armed Services Committee We stress two messages. First, if you smoke, the best thing you can do for · Congressman Peter DeFazio – Ranking · Congressman Robert “Bobby” Scott – your overall health is to stop. You don't have to quit on your own—help is Member, House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member, House Education and the available (such as the toll-free quitline 1-877-44U-QUIT). Second, if you Committee Workforce Committee smoke now or smoked in the past, talk to your doctor about whether you should be screened for lung cancer based on your age and smoking Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. history. North Dallas Suburban Alumnae Chapter What do you hear about the disease from your patients? is seeking participants for its Many African Americans in my clinics tell me that they never thought lung cancer would affect them or their community, even though the disease clearly has a large impact on their community. I also hear people say that th 9 Annual there are no treatments for lung cancer, yet treatments are available. Project SEE: Science and Everyday Experiences Have treatments for lung cancer expanded in recent years? Science Camp We now live in an age of personalized medicine. We can identify subgroups of patients with lung cancer who are likely to respond to new treatments. These new therapies are often better at controlling cancer and th th th Who?! Middle School (6 , 7 , 8 grade) students that are excited have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. about science!! Are you optimistic about our ability to combat lung cancer in the What?! Science camp that will allow them to perform live science future? experiments, participate in fun team challenges and more!! I am. In the future, we're going to detect more lung cancers at earlier When?! January 10, 2015 – February 28, 2015 (Select Saturdays only)! stages, when they may be treatable. We're also making progress in treating lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. And, finally, fewer Where?! The University of Texas at Dallas! people smoke today than in the past. All of these things make me hopeful Cost?! FREE!! that things are going to get better with this disease. We just have a ways to How?! Please visit www.dstndsa.org for application! go. NCI leads the National Cancer Program and the NIH effort to dramatically reduce the prevalence of cancer and improve the lives of cancer patients and their families, through research into prevention and cancer biology, the development of new interventions, and the training and mentoring of new researchers. For more information about cancer, please visit the NCI web site at www.cancer.gov or call NCI's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). More articles and videos in the culturally relevant Lifelines series are available at www.cancer.gov/lifelines.

‘SEE’ you there!!

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Health screenings

Demonstrations

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Debate contest

Emancipation, Education, Enterprise: Taking Care of Your Health

KwanzaaFest 201 The area’s ONLY cultural event of its kind

$1 million in FREE comprehensive health outreach Celebrating 23 YEARS of serving the citizens Location: Automobile Building, Fair Park in Dallas Saturday, December 1 : 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, December 1 : 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

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INSIDE Learn about each component of this FREE two-day event. Read a special message from Commissioner John Wiley Price. Find out how you can sign up to be a sponsor of KwanzaaFest! www.johnwileyprice.com | 214-653-6671 PAGE 16

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You know it has been a several years since I started writing this column and it has evolved into being a great source of humility and spiritual guidance for me. The blessing of this kind of service opportunity in the name of my Lord and savior Jesus Christ is certainly understood and appreciated by me and I hope, also, by you. One of the keys for my personal salvation in coming to Christ was an acknowledgement that I cannot put limits on God. As much as I might try to, it is impossible for me to see God by some human definition that I’ve concocted after reading some metaphysical narrative on the spirituality of nature and the perpetual existence of the cosmos. Rather, my faith and my experience tell and confirm for me that I have no idea about the real power and the ultimate omniscience of the Lord Almighty. That’s why I cannot place Him in one denomination or the other. Would you dare say that God is Catholic? Maybe He’s Baptist. Or

No Limits Spiritually Speaking By James A. Washington better yet is He interdenominational? The very question presupposes that God somehow, can be defined in the human terms of secular beliefs. Denominations have doctrine. Denominations have rules. Denominations will have you believe yours is somehow better than theirs. Now how ungodly is that? I guess the point I’m trying to make is through the blessing of this column and the gift of this platform, I’m compelled to at least say that God is bigger, better and greater than that. One of the beautiful things about faith is that it allows you to dwell in possibilities in a manner that befits the best dreams that you’ve ever

had. God is all that. He is the Alpha and the Omega, as if we could understand endless time without beginning and without end. God is everything and everyplace at the same time. He exists as endless time and space. Even the terms time and space are secular words for our description of how we as human beings relate to the world in which we live. I’m just not so sure they are accurate measures of a God who created both. My point? Faith in the known is a powerful thing and faith in the unknown is even more powerful. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways

NOVEMBER 28, 2014

acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6. I don’t know about you but the awesomeness of that trust and that reality has made me grateful to know my acceptance of Christ has straightened my path and I wish the same for you. I no longer try to make the image fit the mind. It’s too confining and God ain’t having it. Our nature is to try to meet God on our terms. His nature is to meet us on His terms, wherever and whenever the time and space are right. The preparation for this almost guarantees it happening. Our job is simply to get ready. God does the rest. He’s been waiting for you for an eternity and He knows an eternity awaits you. He has blessed and kept you always. I know I’m better for it. Be thankful for this and Happy Holidays. May God bless and keep you always.

James

We must mentor our children. It really does take a village!

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

UPS is hiring individuals to work as temporary, seasonal Driver Helpers in the following cities... Decatur, Roanoke Denton, Richardson, Frisco This is a physical, fast-paced, outdoor position that involves continual lifting, lowering and carrying packages that typically weigh 25 - 35 lbs. and may weigh up to 70 lbs. It requires excellent customer contact skills and a lot of walking. As a Driver Helper you will not drive the delivery vehicle but assist the driver in the delivery of packages. Driver Helpers usually meet the UPS driver at a mutually agreed upon time and location each weekday (Monday through Friday) and typically do not work on weekends or selected holidays. Hours vary but usually begin after 8:00 a.m. and end before 8:00 p.m. Driver Helpers must comply with UPS appearance guidelines.

Driver Helper seasonal opportunities are typically between the Thanksgiving and oo.com, (214) 514-9553 or Christmas holiday time period. Pay is $8.50 per hour + bonus. E mail tstoker@ups.com<mailto:tstoker@u ps.com> to schedule an interview today!!

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"Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. always‌ As long as we agree on objectives, we should never fall out with each other just James because we believe in different methods, or tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in Speaking mind at all times that weSpiritually are not fighting for separation. We are fighting for recognition as free humans inbythis Jamessociety." A. Washington

Malcolm X

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SPORTS

NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Bethune Cookman defeats FAMU in OT

FAMU defender Romari Chisholm (#91) trips up BCU QB Q. Williams (#3) from behind.

FAMU's world famous Marching 100 showed up and showed out! Photos by Richard A. Moore

FAMU Team Shows Great Discipline in Loss to BCU 18-17 By Richard Alexander Moore In what was perhaps one of the most exciting games played in this series in years, Rattler fans saw a team they had not seen all year play Bethune Cookman to a virtual defensive battle that took them to overtime. Both teams played well, but for FAMU it was somewhat monumental in that the team only had two penalties for a total of 5 yards. They gave themselves a chance to win this time. FAMU showed more discipline than they have for many years. One fan even went so far as to say somewhere beyond the Billy Joe days. He could not put a finger on it, but James Simmons said, “I am an Earl Holmes supporter, but this team showed me a lot yesterday.” JHe added that perhaps “we should allow Cory Fuller a chance to audition next year and see what we get with a cheap one year contract.” FAMU and BCU played to a 0-0 tie through 1:16 of the third quarter when BCU’s Michael Jones was able to finally punch a score in PAGE 19

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from the 9-yard line. Many thought the rout would be on at that point, but FAMU came right back with a 12 play, 77 yard drive down the field that tied the score when QB Damien Fleming capped the drive with a 2 yard run followed by a Chase Varnadore extra point. The next series saw BCU go 3 and out and FAMU took possession at the FAMU 30 yard line. The Rattlers inept offense could only make it to the BCU 41 yard line this time in spite of being so hyped on the field. But then, on the ensuing punt, return man Frank Brown fumbled the punt and FAMU’s Tyler Riley pounced on it at the BCU 7 yard line to give FAMU a big boost. But bad play calling once again staved off a FAMU touchdown and the Rattlers had to settle for a field goal to take their first lead in the game at 10-7. The final drive of regulation gave the Wildcats 3:41 to score or go home as they have many times in the past, defeated. But as has been the case in recent FAMU

FAMU QB Damien Flemming leaps over the BCU defensive line to score FAMU's first touchdown to tie the score at 7-7 in the third quarter.

history, it was the other way around. BCU drove the ball to the FAMU 16 and kicked a field goal of their own to tie the score and send the game to overtime. Prior to the overtime, FAMU had great field position after the score and kickoff with a great return by Javarri Johnson’s 33-yard return to the FAMU 46. But Damien Fleming proceeded to do what has plagued the Rattlers many times this season as he threw and interception on the first play from scrimmage to end FAMU’s hopes of getting in field goal range and give Chase Varnadore a chance to win it for FAMU in overtime. In overtime, Florida A&M wasted no time scoring after winning the toss. On the 5th play of overtime, Damien Fleming found Kareem Smith in the end zone for a 13-yard touchdown and Chase Varnadore kick was good to put FAMU up and in position to win. Bethune Cookman’s final possession started off with FAMU’s Trevor Bone tackling Michel Jones for a loss of 2 yards. From there it got ugly. FAMU !

held the BCU offense in check denying two consecutive pass attempts. With 4th down and 12 to go, it was looking good. In the post game press conference, Coach Fuller said, “One kid played cover two and everyone else played man. It was a bad call. I just don’t feel like in that situation I should have over-ruled the call and played zone and just knock the ball down.” That allowed BCU’s Jhomo Gordon to pick up the first down and more. It was a 26-yard pick up and took the ball to the FAMU 1-yard line. It looked as if FAMU would put together another strong goal line stand as they did on a second quarter drive in the game when they stuffed BCU’s offense with a first and goal from the FAMU 3 yard line and denied them admission to the end zone four straight times. But it was not to be, BCU was able to score and quickly assemble to go for the 2-point conversion and the win as FAMU only had 10 men on the field to defend the try and BCU walked away with an 18-17 victory. !

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Not Singing Her Praises Dear Alma, Recently a woman joined our church and has joined the choir. She relocated from out of town, so none of us have a longtime relationship with her. We, as in our choir, love her dearly but she is too loud. When she talks you can hear her all the way down the street. She’s so loud, it’s embarrassing. You know when she arrives for choir practice because you can hear her all the way out in the parking lot. She seems to really like me and we talk often. Of course now I’ve been elected to tell her. I just don’t know what to say. I don’t want to hurt her feelings. What do you suggest? Sherree from Alabama

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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.

When she talks you can hear her all the way down the street. She’s so loud, it’s embarrassing. You know when she arrives for choir practice because you can hear her all the way out in the parking lot. Looks like your new friend hasn’t learned how to use her inside voice

Hi Sherree,

PAGE 20

Ask Alma

I know it’s a tough assignment, but you can do it. There’s no easy way to slide into this home run, so why don’t you just take it head first. Don’t make it a long conversation, say it and let it go. The next time she’s shouting, whisper in her ear, inside voice, smile and keep it moving. Yes, it will take more than a few reminders, but your concern is honest and sincere. As long as you don’t put her on the spot in front of everybody, I think this approach can be heartfelt, nice and easy. The outcome, fingers crossed, will be one she eventually learns to accept and appreciate. Alma

and you’ve been nominated the one to teach her.

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NOVEMBER 28, 2014

Ęå ŞåųüåÏƋ čĜüƋ üŅų ƋĘå ŅĹå ƼŅƚ ĬŅƴåú

Felicia N. Shepherd M. Ed Founder/CEO

Booking Contact Information: info@fnsconsultingservices.com 972-638-SHEP (7437)

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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.”

kųÚåų ±Ƌ ƵƵƵţŸĜĵŞĬƼüŅųƼŅƚţƚŸ Ņų ±Ƌ eĵ±DŽŅĹ FĬĬƚŸƋų±ƋåÚØ âŎĉţĿĂ ŎŎƀ ޱčåŸ

"I want Dr. King to know that I didn't come to Selma to make his job difficult. I really did come thinking I could make it easier. If the white people realize what the alternative is, perhaps they will be more willing to hear Dr. King." Malcolm X

CHERYL’S WORLD

Robert Hallback Jr. Owner / Operator

408 West Renfro St, Ste 105 Plant City, FL 33563 rhallback57@gmail.com

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 Mondays at 6p.m., Felicia Shepherd on Tuesdays at 6p.m., Love A Natural Me with Yvette and Amy on Wednesdays at 6p.m., Inside the 234 with Dareia Tolbert on Thursdays at 6p.m., and open lines at noon on Saturday

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BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION NOVEMBER 28, 2014 performances, millions of sparking lights and exciting laptop fully charged and the information you need to write family fun that includes costumed elves and other your press release. she will give you a step-by-step format to characters, Victorian carolers, live reindeer, and train and follow. December 1 carriage rides around the park. Musical entertainment will On Day 2, feature the Dallas Wind Symphony Tuba Quartet and e Saturday 12/13/14, World AIDS Day Voices Choir of Salem Institutional Baptist Church. A laser you will be trained on how to be confident and comfortable light show over the iconic Esplanade Fountain concludes while being interviewed by the media. the festivities. Course number BUSG-1091-22010 When: 6 - 8 p.m. Fee $50.

13

CALENDAR

December 9

December 3 Dallas Urban League - TXU JOB FAIR Position - Outside Residential Sales Rep Wednesday, December 3, 2014 ursday, December 4, 2014 9 am - 2 pm Urban League Headquarters 4315 S. Lancaster Road Dallas, TX 75216

December 5

Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce for our monthly morning networker entitled "Coffee & Commerce." It's a chance to get in front of other businesses and let them know what you have to offer. Don't miss this opportunity to grow your business.

December 11 Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce Membership Meeting 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM CST Dallas Baptist University, Great Hall 3000 Mountain Creek Pkwy Dallas, TX 75211

e Irving Salvation Army Super Lunch XXII will be Dec. 1 at 11:30 a.m. at the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, 500 W. Las Colinas Blvd. e doors will open at 11. ere will also be a silent and live auction during the event. e keynote speaker will be Pat Smith, founder and CEO of Treasure You, president of Pat and Emmitt Smith Charities and founder and owner of Pat Smith Enterprises. Tickets are $80; parking is free. Reservations must be made by ursday by calling Carol Boyer at 972-252-7476 or going to irving conventioncenter.com and clicking on

December 12 Christmas Store w/Valley Ranch Baptist Church Friday, December 12th & Saturday, December 13th In partnership with Valley Ranch Baptist Church, Cornerstone will provide gis and toys for over 400 families and 1200 children from the South Dallas community. For more information or volunteer opportunities, please visit www.christmasstore.org. Women of Influence Holiday Gathering from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM CST Destiny Pointe Christian Center 2350 East Mayfield Road Arlington, TX 76014

“Events Calendar.”

December 6

Holiday shopping for Veterans in the hospital at Dallas VA begins December 1. Patients can place orders from the gi shop for family members on their shopping list. Volunteers take the orders, and gis donated from the local American Legion Auxiliary are wrapped and provided free of charge to Veterans who are hospitalized and may not be able to be with their family during the holiday season. 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Dallas VA Medical Center 4500 S. Lancaster Rd. Dallas, TX 75216

HOMEBUYER WORKSHOP Saturday, December 6, 2014 9 am - 4 pm Urban League Headquarters 4315 S. Lancaster Road Dallas, TX 75216

December 2 Political Correspondent Byron York in Dallas for NCPA New NCPA CEO Allen West to be Introduced at Event WHAT: National Center for Policy Analysis’ Hatton W. Sumners Distinguished Lecture Series Luncheon WHEN: Tuesday, December 2, 2014, 12:00PM – 1:30PM WHERE: Renaissance Dallas Hotel, Landmark Ballroom, 3rd Floor, 2222 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207 Holiday DeLights at Fair Park offers all ages exciting events that include musicals to markets and festivals to football What: City of Dallas’ annual tree lighting festival. is free holiday event will delight visitors with musical PAGE 22

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My Possibilities, a non-profit center dedicated to empowering disabled adults, is launching the center’s fourth annual North Texas Santa Run Campaign. is year, the My Possibilities elves have set a goal of attracting more than 4,000 Santas to participate in the outdoor event. Both the 5K and One Mile Walk are presented by the Dr Pepper Snapple Group, and will be held from 8 a.m. to noon at the company’s headquarters in Plano. JOIN RAMONA LOGAN AT B R O O K H AV E N COLLEGE IN DECEMBER FOR A TWO SESSION CLASS ON MEDIA TRAINING AND CREATING POWERFUL PRESS RELEASES. In this course, on Day 1, Saturday 12/6/14, you need to bring your

Senior’s Community Christmas Party Saturday, December 20th – 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon In partnership with First Baptist Church, Richardson, Cornerstone will have a Christmas Party for many of the seniors in the South Dallas community.

December 12--13 22nd ANNUAL CHRISTMAS/KWANZAA CONCERT Friday, December 12, 2014 @ 10am Student Morning Performance $5 Saturday, December 13 @ 8pm Public Performance Naomi Bruton Main Stage $10

December 13-1 KWANZAAFEST 2014 Automobile Building in Fair Park 10 a.m. Until Health screenings, vendors, entertainment, speakers, and more. Fun for the entire family And it’s free! !

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FAMU Association Alumni - D-FW Chapter Monthly Meeting.

Dallas is the host for the June 21-26, 2015 35th National Veterans Wheelchair Games with the theme, “BIG City, BIG Wheels, BIG Heart,” and City of Dallas, VA North Texas and Paralyzed Veterans of America made the public announcement today, encouraging attendance and participation in support of the weeklong Games

Saturday, Dec 13, 10A-12P. Center for Community Cooperation. (2900 Live Oak, Dallas)

NOVEMBER 28, 2014

June 27 21st Annual Cheryl Smith’s Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon, USA Bowl, featuring comedian DIck Gregory and a host of other local and national celebrities

January 11 Pastor Dr. Cynthia Mickens Ross Author and Instructor Scholarships and Payment Plans Available WWW.CynthiaMickens.com Or www.pathwaytopurpose.org Start Date - Sunday Jan. 11, 2015 12 consecutive Sundays 4 to 6:30PM Location: Path~Way to Life Center of Hope 302 West Palestine Street Hutchins, TX 75141

January 16 33rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Hyatt Regency Hotel, 300 Reunion Blvd. 7p.m. January 18 Elite News Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Festival January 28 Motivational Speaker's Leadership Conference e North Texas Christian Speaker's Association is looking for Motivational Speakers & Authors: Where: Texas Motor Speedway 3445 Lone Star Circle Fort Worth, TX 76177 When- 9AM-4P

June 21-26

IN MEMORIAM

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

Monday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

I Messenger CHERYL SMITH

FELICIA SHEPHERD

HOST - YVETTE BROOKS

HOSTS: DAREIA TOLBERT

Call in to 646-200-0459 PAGE 23

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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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NOVEMBER 28, 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?

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VOL XI ISSUE 7 NOVEMBER 15, 2012 www.garlandjournal.com

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By Cheryl Smith - Texas Metro News

KENNY JAY REVIEW: MakingBOOK Women Happy!

INTIMATE SEDUCTION

City of Dallas Sanitation Dept.

Page 13

No. 1 serving the African American Community

The Dallas Weekly

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NO 2 ISSUE 32 APRIL 19 2013

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NO 2 ISSUE 32

APRIL 19, 2013

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Say NO to any ASSAULT

New Voices

Recycle this newspaper when finished reading

Welcome Home Ambassador Ron Kirk!

TEXAS METRO NEWS

Single Mom Chronicles p.12

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Martin named NABJ Â Journalist of the Year

!"#$%&'()&**+**+(,-+&./012* .3+"44150./012+16+73.58+91:;2.304/4+ /:.33C+ >./->+ ,-;+ <&"79=+ ,.4+ .221:25->+ /,./+ ?1* 2-0F,K1;B+ J.4+ 3.2>+ #@+ A.;/02B+ 2./012.33C+ 4C2>0* 5.:F,/+ K-61;-+ 5./->+ 513:D204/B+ /-3-E04012+ ,14/B+ ,-+ J.4+ .K3-+ /1+ .2>+;.>01+.2>+/-3-E04012+51DD-2* ;.L-+,-;B+K:/+/,-+ /./1;B+ 04+ /1+ ;-5-0E-+ /,-+ 1;F.20G.* Recycle this .44.:3/+ J.4+ 41+ /012H4+91:;2.304/+16+/,-+I-.;+.J.;>@+ newspaper K;:/.3+ /,./+ /,-+ when %/+ 04+ 12-+ 16+ &"79H4+ D14/+ 51E-/* 45.;4+3-6/+K-,02>+ finished ->+ ,121;4+ 5-3-K;./02F+ /,-+ .551D* reading 51:3>+ ,.E-+ 512* L304,D-2/4+16+K3.58+M1:;2.304/4+.2>+ /02:->+/1+.44.:3/+ City of Dallas/,14-+ J,1+ 4:LL1;/+ K3.584+ 02+ /,-+ Sanitation Dept. ,-;B+ 06+ 21/+ 61;+ .+ D->0.@+A.;/02+J.4+4-3-5/->+61;+/,-+ No. 1 serving the African American Community 31E02F+ 6.D03CB+ .J.;>+KC+&"79H4+71.;>+16+N0;-5* November 6 - 12, 2008 www.DallasWeekly.com 5,:;5,B+ 51D* /1;4@ D:20/C+ .2>+ ,-;+ 6.0/,@ ' J - 2 > 1 3 C 2+ Debra Mars 912-4+ J.4+ .4* The election is over 4.:3/->+ KC+ ,-;+ 4/-L*6./,-;@+ + #,-+ .48->+ ,-;4-36+ /,-+ TXHVWLRQV WKDW PDQ\ YLFWLPV DVN :K\ we GLG WKLV now canSHU* begin 412+.5/+/,04+J.C+/1J.;>+D-\+"D+%+;-4L1240K3-\++N0>+%+ Election night coverage on >1+41D-/,02F+/1+5.:4-+/,04\++N0>+DC+5.;-/.8-;4+821J+ KKDA focuses on issues DERXW WKLV DQG LI VR ZK\ GLGQ W WKH\ GR VRPHWKLQJ WR 4/1L+0/\ #,-B+308-+41+D.2C+1/,-;+C1:2F+E05/0D4B+J.4+21/+K-* Roland S. Martin 30-E->+**+J,05,+5.:4->+51240>-;.K3-+/;.:D.+.4+/,-+E05* /0D+04+/J05-+E05/0D0G->@++ ">D0//->3C+41D-+OE05/0D4S+,.E-+30->B+L;1>:502F+.2* O%+ .D+ -21;D1:43C+ /,.286:3+ .2>+ 1/,-;+3-E-3+16+E05/0D4+02+/,-+J;12F6:33C+.55:4->B+K:/+ ,:DK3->+/,./+&"79+,.4+K-4/1J->+ /,-;-+ .;-+ 1/,-;+ 3-E-34B+ 308-+ /,./+ E05/0D+ J,1+ ;-D.024+ /,04+.D.G02F+,121;+12+D-+61;+DC+ 403-2/+ 61;+ J,./-E-;+ ;-.412+ .2>+ /,-+ 6.D03C+ .2>+ 31E->+ J1;8+ .4+ .+ 6-.;3-44+ E105-+ 02+ .>E1* 12-4+ 16+ /,-+ .61;-D-2/012->+ J,1+ 16/-2/0D-4+ >12H/+ 5./02F+ /,-+ 5;0/05.3+ 044:-4+ 6.502F+ Page 5 821J+J,./+/1+4.C+1;+>1@ E1/-;4+ 02+ /,-+ PQRP+ -3-5/012B+ K:/+ &1J+J,1+04+/,-+E05/0D\+ -4L-50.33C+.4+/,-C+;-3./-+/1+"6;05.2+ %/+ 51:3>+ K-+ .+ 2-JK1;2+ K.KC@+ + )6+ 51:;4-+ C1:+ /,028+ "D-;05.24BS+ 4.0>+ A.;/02@+ O%+ ,1L-+ /,./+/,04+51:3>2H/+K-+/,-+5.4-@+]261;/:2./-3C+/,-;-+.;-+ Obama’s win may /,04+,121;+4-;E-4+.4+.+3-4412+/1+.2C+ 41+ D.2C+ 5.4-4+ 16+ E-;CB+ E-;C+ C1:2F+ K.K0-4+ K-02F+ .4* C1:2F+ 1;+ E-/-;.2+ M1:;2.304/+ /,./+ face limitations

BOOK REVIEW:

THE BISHOP’S DAUGHTER Page 10 Volume No. 55 Issue No. 44

If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers www.DallasWeekly.com

April 30-May 6, 2009

INSIDE

TIME TO FORGIVE?

Speaking of People

Ron Price elected to national organization post

Volume No. 56 Issue No. 18

The Long and Winding Road Light rail, Trinity River road highly scrutinized in South Dallas

By Patrice J. Holmes

editorial@dallasweekly.com

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

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. “We are measuring conditions that may vary from street to street,� said Dr.

years celebrates 56 Black of serving the Community

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

“OVER THREE TO FOUR YEARS THERE ARE CHANGES IN CONDITIONS AND WE WANT TO KNOW HOW IT AFFECTS THE AREA�

YVETTE BROOKS Your Curlfriend!

INSIDE

National

INSIDE

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

A

Grade: A

Page 4

Metro

“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 administration’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 administration’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.�

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

training in administering the anonymous surveys. “Over three to four years there are changes in conditions and we want to know how it affects the area.�

Evaluating President Obama’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 Obama’s first 100 days in office, marked on April 30. Here’s how several people from the local front graded the new president.

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oversee the The Field Research Team which underwent 80 hours of

THE HUNDRED DAY SCORE

Why Democracy hangs in the balance

Page 9

Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison

C

Grade: C “In just 100 days, we’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 President’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 nation’s challenges that Americans deserve.� (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

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 controverD’LYTE sial & EBONY Convention Music Happenings Center Hotel that is being backed by Mayor Leppert. But what does voting “no� and voting “yes� 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

How to avoid the Swine flu Page 15

BUSINESS

X-Men Origins: WOLVERINE Movie Tidbits Pg. 12

How to brand you Page 16

ALL

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See Baisden, page 6

future with President Obama

See Martin, page 11

INSIDE

3>?@A>B?CD>BE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!;

Obama wins election and makes ...

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HISTORIC

(@AFCG@H@>!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!=

Nation elects first African

Page 6

9@AIJ@G?CF@I!!!!!!!!!!!!!KLM American president , as Barack wins handidly INSIDE PAGES: -DHHN>C?O!-BE@>PBA!!1 Lifestyle

See PAGE 7

SPECIAL COLLECTOR’S EDITION

(RBSS@A!9NTTE@!!!!!!!!!0M

Page 8

Business Food for thought Congresswoman addresses

PAGE 1

Democrat

2NIC>@II!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!0U!!!!

Prevent heart attacks

all the Find out on Marvel’s lowdown mutants PG. 12 weirdest

CHANGE! Join the rally,

/CQ@I?OE@!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!0;

Is gospel music dying? Management blamed for issues

Michael Baisden Oak Cliff Chamber Page 12

Health

HEALTH

Choose either or

See Sexual Assault, page 18Curry looks at the George

Michael Baisden leaves airwaves -Skip Murphy moves to slot

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Digital Illustration: Joseph Shelby

877.373.8477 3.23.13 Page 2

FAMU Rattlers victorious

Heart disease remains high on list of illnesses Page 15

!

!

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

I MESSENGER

Join Mayor Mike Rawlings for The Ten Thousand Man Rally Against Domestic Abuse at 10am on March 23rd at V.S. M CAIN OBAMA Dallas City Hall. (DART exit at Convention Center Station.) It’s time for the men of Dallas to say, enough is enough. NOVEMBER 4, 2008 ELECTION

Republican

JOHN

C

BARACK

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