VOLUME 4 ISSUE 45 July 10, 2015
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Eyesore is source of contention in South Dallas Black Jack Pizza owner apologizes for dumpster company’s negligence PAGE 1
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JOHNSON: The importance of Ramadan
By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
Muslims in North Texas and those throughout the world are experiencing the religious season known as Ramadan by refraining each day from eating and drinking from sunrise until sunset. This year the practice began on June 18th and concludes on July 17th. In addition to not eating and drinking during daylight hours, those who participate in Ramadan do not smoke, argue or engage in behavior
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that leads to acrimony or in activities that harm personal relationships. During the four weeks of Ramadan, the world’s 1.6 billion Muslims are urged to re-evaluate their lives. They are asked to repair broken relationships with friends or family members, and they are requested to remove negative thoughts from their minds. People of the Muslim faith believe that the prophet Muhammad was spoken to by God during the Islamic month of Ramadan, which is the most significant period of the Muslim calendar. Nearly four percent of the population of North Texas consists of people of the Muslim faith, according to census figures. Some of these individuals were born in this country while others have come from different parts of the world, including Asia, South America, Africa and
Europe. They contribute significantly to the social and economic fabric of our society, and are important members of our community. In August I will be privileged to convene the 9th Annual Youth Summit & Diversity Dialogue in Dallas. Young people of various races and faiths will come together to share and celebrate their similarities, and their differences. People of Muslim faith are among those helping to plan the summit. Each day America becomes a more diverse nation. As people, there are many things that we can learn from one another. Certainly there are practices of Ramadan that all of us, no matter our faiths, can admire and share with others. Ramadan is a time of selfrenewal, sacrifice, generosity and kindness.
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These are not only Muslim values. They are American values. They make all of us better people, and better members of the global community. To honor American Muslims who serve our country as proud members of our military services, federal and local elected officials, judges, teachers, nurses, law enforcement officials and many other professions, I recently introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives acknowledging the observance of Ramadan. Ultimately, Ramadan is a time for peaceful reflection and altruism, traits that all of us should adopt in our personal lives. Eddie Bernice Johnson represents Texas’ 30th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives. She is the first registered nurse elected to the US Congress.
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Here’s wishing you a safe and happy summer! Quit Playin 10
Take time to have fun, learn something and grow! In Memoriam 25 10
Message to the People... Apology accepted We need to celebrate entrepreneurs who are good corporate citizens and work tirelessly to serve their customers.
Cheryl Smith
That is the case with the owner of Black Jack Pizza. Despite being pillars of the community by employing many locals, donating money, items and products and giving back in every way imaginable, black businesses in America still tend to have problems garnering the same respect as other businesses. Dorothy Johnson Jones, owner of Black Jack Pizza – a fixture on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. in the South Dallas community for years is finding that out. Despite proof of paying the monthly bill… her trash and dumpsters behind her business were not being picked up. The result? An unsightly mess and smell and flies, lots of them. The Health Department was called and things grew worse as her business was affected. I want to apologize to the whole South Dallas community for the unsightly trash and smell during this time,” she said. “I fully understand my customer’s concerns. No one wants to see that (trash). This whole situation with Republic Service (dumpster company) has hurt my business. They were very unfair to us.” Ms. Jones wants to ensure her customers know that she appreciates their long-time support and promises the best is yet to come. “I’ve always been grateful for the long-term support I’ve enjoyed from my customers and the City of Dallas over almost three decades in business,’ she said. “ I try my best to do my part and help keep South Dallas clean. “I have the best customers in the world and I want to encourage them to hang in there with me. Things will get better,” she promised.” “I’ve got a new dumpster company and we are going to take measures to ensure this doesn’t happen again.” When I talked with Ms. Jones, it was clear that she was upset about how the eyesore looked to her customers. She showed me several statements, along with accurate records reflecting her payments to the dumpster company. She had letters, requests for service and cancelled checks. Still, when you went outside and walked toward the dumpster, you were met with a pungent odor and swarms of flies.
I MESSENGER Cheryl Smith, Publisher Established 2011 IMESSENGER is a tribute to Le Messager, founded by Cameroonian journalist Pius Njawe and The Messenger, an independent magazine, founded by labor activist A . Philip Randolph and economist Chandler Owen. IM ESSENGER is committed to informing, inspiring, enlightening and provoking thought in a forum that is international. Submissions for publication consideration may be submitted to www.myimessenger.com.
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If I didn’t know the quality of service and cleanliness at Black Jack Pizza, the overflowing dumpster would have been a definite turnoff. For decades I have heard the wonderful stories about Black Jack Pizza’s great pizzas, burgers and tea. I accept Ms. Jones’ apology because I know that she is not the guilty party, that she is a good businesswoman and deserves our support. Now those businesses that pimp our community, well, they are a totally different story!
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NAACP Ends Boycott of South Carolina (PHILADELPHIA, PA) – Today, at the NAACP 106th National Convention, the National Board of Directors voted to end the 15 year economic boycott of South Carolina.
state of South Carolina. While the conclusion of our boycott is a proud moment, we will continue to demand more. All across the country, vestiges of hatred and oppression remain.
The NAACP is looking forward to the membership body of delegates casting an affirmative vote for this emergency resolution, Tuesday, July 14, 2015. You may read the emergency resolution here.
Removal of the flag is a symbolic victory, but we must not lose sight of the systemic challenges including discrimination in our criminal justice system, economic system, employment, education, housing, health care, or other barriers to full and equal protection under law and full first-class citizenship.
In light of these developments, the NAACP has released the following statement: From Roslyn M. Brock, Chairman, NAACP National Board of Directors: Today is a historic day as 15 years ago we waged an economic boycott against the
The NAACP will continue to move onward in the fight for justice until equality is achieved for all Americans. From Cornell William Brooks, NAACP President & CEO:
The NAACP’s decision to lift its economic boycott on the state of South Carolina comes 15 years after exerting consistent and aggressive economic pressure on state lawmakers to bring the well known symbol of racial oppression down. The removal of this emblem of hate is not only a victory for the state of South Carolina and the families of the nine students of scripture who
lost their lives in a historic church, but it is a victory for the NAACP and the nation as we all work together to a forge a more perfect union. In no way does removing the Confederate flag in South Carolina fix the problems of our nation that are rooted in racism and bigotry, but the flag’s removal is a very important step in ceasing to glorify a bygone era in which African Americans were treated as second class citizens. This is a vindication of the grassroots advocacy of the NAACP. ### Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities.
Concealed carry permit holders kill hundreds By Freddie Allen NNPA Senior Washington Correspondent
WASHINGTON (NNPA) – George Zimmerman, the former neighborhood watchman who shot and killed Trayvon Martin, an unarmed Black teenager in Sanford, Fla., three years ago was involved in another shooting in the Sunshine State, again raises questions about concealed carry permits and the billion-dollar gun industry that advocates for legislation aimed at making it easier for Americans to carry firearms everywhere, all of the time. Matthew Apperson of Winter Springs, Fla., who said that Zimmerman threatened him following a road rage incident last year, claimed that he was acting in self-defense when he fired a single shot through the passenger side window of the
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truck that Zimmerman was driving. Last Friday, police charged Apperson with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and firing a deadly missile into an occupied vehicle, according to the Orlando Sentinel. The dispute with Apperson follows a series of events where Zimmerman has been accused of threatening people with guns. In September 2013, just a few months after Zimmerman was acquitted of second-degree murder, his estranged wife and her father said that Zimmerman threatened them with a gun and in November 2013, Zimmerman’s thengirlfriend accused him of threatening her with a shotgun. The Orlando Sentinel reported that Don West, Zimmerman’s lawyer, said that his client was
armed and but didn’t wave the gun or shoot at anyone during the altercation with Apperson. West added that Zimmerman has a concealed weapons permit and often travels with a gun for protection. Despite the self-defense claims propped up by the supporters of concealed carry laws, the Violence Policy Center (VPC), a NONPROFIT group that seeks to address gun violence as a public health crisis, concealed carry permits holders are more likely to kill themselves or others during non-self defense events. The center tracks fatalities associated with concealed carry gun permit holders at ConcealedCarryKillers.org and found that 743 people have been killed, including 17 law enforcement officers. “In the vast majority of the 561 incidents documented (468, or 83 percent), the concealed carry
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permit holder either committed suicide (222), has already been convicted (184), perpetrated a murder-suicide (46), or was killed in the incident (16),” stated a press release about the website. More than 70 people have been killed in Florida alone by concealed carry gun permit holders. In a press release about ConcealedCarryKillers.org, Kristen Rand, the legislative director of VPC, said that research shows that concealed carry permit holders are involved in murders or suicides far more often than they act in self-defense. Rand added: “The NRA is relentlessly lobbying state and federal lawmakers to allow more concealed handguns in public despite the clear evidence that doing so puts more people in danger.”
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Ask Amy: Let it Go, Please
WASHINGTON: Let it Go, Please Spiritual Speaking By James Washington
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23RD Annual Jethro Pugh Memorial Golf classic Invitational Thursday, September 17, 2015 7:00 am – rEGISTRATION & bREAKFAST 8:00 am – INSTRUCTIONS & SHOTGUN START 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM – AwARDS lUNCHEON
Cowboys Golf Club | Grapevine, Texas
HOSTED BY:
Benefitting United Negro College Fund
WELCOME
Instructions
The 23rd Annual Jethro Pugh Memorial Golf Classic Scholarship Invitational continues its tradition and important mission of providing scholarships to brilliant students attending Dallas-area UNCF universities. In its history, this event has raised more than $700,000 in support of these schools and students. No person embodied the spirit of generosity and support for this event and these students more than Jethro Pugh. In every phase of his life – as a championship player with the Dallas Cowboys, a business owner and leader in airport concessions, or a philanthropic giant in the community – he acted with class, energy and unwavering passion.
Please fill out the Sponsorship and the Players form, if you are playing in the tournament, and return to Christine Thomas before Wednesday, September 9, 2015. Please make checks payable to: The Paradies Shops Foundation, Inc. Please reference Jethro Pugh Memorial Invitational
UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND Our nation’s oldest and most successful African American higher education assistance organizations. Their mission is to enhance the quality of education by raising operating funds for member colleges and universities, providing financial assistance to deserving students and supplying technical assistance to member institutions.
Please mail this form and your check to: Christine Thomas Paradies 2849 Paces Ferry Road Overlook I, Suite 400 Atlanta, GA 30339
CONGRATULATIONS to the CLASS OF 2015
Although we were saddened by Jethro’s passing earlier this year, we will carry on his legacy and commitment to this cause in his honor and continue supporting UNCF, which enables more than 60,000 students each year to attend college and get the education they need.
Or scan and/or email your printed form or e-form to: christine.thomas@paradies-na.com Or fax this form to 404.349.3226
Proceeds from this tournament benefit the United Negro College Fund, a non-profit organization. Contributions are deductible to the extend allowable by law.
For tax purposes, the value of If you have any questions, player gifts that each player please call or email Christine receives totals $300 Thomas at 404.494.3459 or We look forward to your dedicated support this year christine.thomas@paradies-na.com Contributions to The "Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. As long as Paradies we agree on by playing, sponsoring or making a donation. Thank Shops Foundation, Inc., a objectives, we should never to fall out with each other just because we believe intax-exempt differentorganization methods,under or you in advance for your commitment this section 501(c)(3) of the incredibly important cause. tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in mind at all times that we are not fighting forRevenue separation. We are Internal Code, may be deductible to the extent Sincerely, fighting for recognition as free humans in this society." permitted by law.
Malcolm X
Trey Pugh
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Grandparents, Keep Your Meds Up and Away From Young Children (NewsUSA) - Grandparents love spending time with their grandchildren. Grandbabies bring so much joy. However, it's not unusual for the curious, tiny fingers of youngsters to end up in places they shouldn't. Putting precious or breakable objects out of reach is important, and so is keeping medicines and vitamins up and away and out of sight of young children. More than 70,000 children end up in emergency departments each year after getting their hands on medicines left within reach. That's 165 kids -- or roughly four busloads of kids -- per day. Far too often, that medicine belonged to a grandparent. Where are young children getting their hands on medicines? From countertops and bedside tables, purses and pockets, and loose pills on tables or floors. Weekly pill minders can help you keep track of multiple medications, but they rarely have childresistant features so a curious child can't get into the colorful medicines stored inside. "Grandparents and parents may not be aware of the danger posed by leaving medications where young children can reach or see them," says Dr. Dan Budnitz, director of the Medication Safety Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "A few simple steps -- followed every time -- can protect our children." So, grandparents, enjoy your precious time with your young grandchildren. But whether hosting them in your house or visiting at theirs, remember to store your medicines in a place they cannot access. Here are some tips from CDC's "Up and Away and Out of Sight" initiative: * Keep all medicines and vitamins up and away and out of sight in a high cabinet or other place inaccessible to your grandchildren. If you think you may forget to take your medicines if they are not in sight, leave yourself a reminder on the refrigerator or somewhere you check daily. * Never leave medicine or vitamins out on a counter or bedside table, even if you have to take the medicine again in a few hours. * Always relock the safety cap on a medicine bottle. If it has a locking cap that turns, twist it until you hear the click. * Never tell children medicine is candy so they'll take it, even if your grandchild does not like to take his or her medicine. * Keep purses, bags or coats that have medicines or vitamins in them out of reach and sight of young children. * Program the Poison Help number (1-800-222-1222) into your phone so you have it in case of emergency. Visit UpandAway.org for more tips on safe medicine storage.
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Fresh Fruit delivers fun and nutrition
(NewsUSA) - It's a fact. When you give kids a chance to create their own meals, they're more likely to eat them. It's also true that kids don't often make the wisest choices. That's why parents are grateful for fruit. Naturally delicious and notoriously healthy, fresh fruit is the perfect ingredient for getting kids to the table. It's a smart food that tastes like a treat. A lot of parents can't wait for summer and the arrival of fresh fruit season. But thanks to another "best of both worlds" scenario, they don't have to wait. When it's winter in North America, the weather in Chile is just heating up, and its robust fruit industry ensures that fresh fruit is available year-round. So, what fresh ideas can parents spring on the kids this winter? A great place to start is "nature's candy," fresh Chilean grapes. The perfect finger food, grapes can also be the centerpiece of an appetizer plate, the sweet addition to savory snacks, and the fun ingredient in unexpected places. Green, red and black grapes provide endless inspiration for kids of all ages to be creative and enjoy. Here are a few ideas to inspire!
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* Grapes and cheese cubes on pretzel skewers * Grapes as the center of cheese sunflowers with a celery stem * Grape turtle with an apple slice as the body * Frozen grape caterpillars with mini chocolate chips for eyes * Grape salsa as a topping for tacos or baked brie * Roasted grapes tossed in grain salads and layered in yogurt-granola parfaits * Halved grapes tucked into grilled cheese sandwiches * Heart-shaped cookies decorated with grapes Winter is also a good time for fresh blueberries, the little blue dynamos that work magic in all manner of kid-friendly dishes. And if it seems like ages since you've enjoyed fresh plums and nectarines, you'll find ripe, flavorful stonefruit from Chile waiting for you in many American produce aisles. Year-round availability of fresh fruit and kidfriendly recipes give parents sweet options for long winter months.
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Jermia’s Testimony Jermia White’s Testim PHOTO BY LISA DAVIS
On October my mother proudly brought me Derek Harper28, of 1992 the Dallas Mavericks into this world, but low and behold I was in for the fight of and current members of the Dallas my life. Mavericks such as 2011 NBA Finals At the age of two doctors identified an affliction that would MVP,myDirk Nowitzki. I was also make years on this Earth brief, but my God said no interviewed and shown on ESPN’s 30the doctors and with the strength of my parents, I proved wrong. Since then I haven’t looked back and I continue to for 30 with Marion Jones.
On October 28, 1992 my mother proudly brought me into this world, but low and behold I was in for the fight of my life. At the age of two doctors identified an affliction that would make my years on this Earth brief, but my God said no and with the strength of my parents, I proved the doctors wrong. Since then I haven’t looked back and I continue to lead an exceptional life against the odds. When it comes to reaching goals in life some of us choose to shy away, politely bow out or allow what may appear to be impossible defeat us. I am not in the position to say that I am a Heisman Trophy winner, an AllAmerican or even a State Champion, but I stand as a champion in my own arena. Being born physically challenged, people didn’t really expect me to accomplish many things in life. In fact, they didn’t expect me to be as gregarious as I am, but determined to beat the odds at a very young age, I surprised many by out- performing my peers. At the tender age of four, I began singing in the church choir which prepared me for the school choir. Then cheerleading and modeling became my hobby at the age of six. My spirit soared as I cheered for the local North Texas Pop Warner football team in my community. Many people were shocked to see a six year old in a powered wheelchair able to keep up with the cheer and dance routines. Others were amazed to see me enter a Pageant Show in a Metroplex as large as Dallas, Fort Worth; and win it. Although I managed to stand out in various extra-curricular activities, my
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lead an exceptional life against the odds. My hard work and dedication to When it comes to reaching goals in life some of us media allowed mepolitely to be abow sports choose to shy away, out oreditor allow what may for theto newspaper. As a us. result of my appear be impossible defeat enthusiasm sportsto say I became I am not inabout the position that I ama a Heisman Trophy winner, an All-American or even State Champion, manager/statistician for the agirls’ but I stand as a champion ownalways arena. Being born varsity basketball team.in Imy have physically challenged, people didn’t really expect me to
been the student that was determined for success no matter what people said or thought. My parents and I simply made adjustments to make the best of my situation.
See Jermia’s
parents have always emphasized the importance of academic excellence. Their advice paid off because I maintained an A-B Honor Roll status throughout my 13 years of grade school, making the National Junior Honor Society in junior high school and the National Honor Society in High School and graduating at the top ten percent of my class. Regardless of absences during the school year due to illness, I continued to study and work heartily to stay current with assignments and special projects. I also kept up my love of cheerleading by trying out and making the school’s cheer squad in Junior High. Consistently, I rebuff my physical limitations to halt my academic growth. High School is where I discovered my passion for sports writing, as I’ve loved sports since the age of nine. During my freshman year, I took Journalism and became a big part of my high school’s newspaper, The Skyline Tribune. My years on staff were amazing and I’ve relished the opportunity to interview people that my peers have been dreaming just to meet; such as former U.S. Olympic World Track and Field Champion Marion Jones, former NBA players Rolando Blackman and
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And now into my senior year at Dallas Baptist University, I have continued to be my normal, outgoing self. I’ve managed to make the Dean’s List three times and have been accepted into three honor societies on campus while participating in various groups. And this semester, when I found myself stressing over whether or not I would find an internship to ensure me of graduating on time, God showed up and showed out, providing me with an internship at NBC5 news. While I was stressing, He was working behind the scenes. I had applied at various companies and every door was shut. I applied at NBC in the early summer and didn’t hear from them until school started. I was beginning to get frustrated and question whether or not this was the field for me and God stepped in at the right moment to confirm that it was. You see, being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy has placed many barriers along my path to success. Physical barriers such as chronic upper respiratory issues and long nights spent fighting the flu and
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BR INGING ENLIGHTENING, EDUC ATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION pneumonia at the same time in the hospital. You know you’re in a life threatening situation when they send the chaplain around to your room. Although at times most would ask where I find the strength, this battle has taught me how to keep my faith in God and my parents have been right by my side the whole time. It’s just by the grace of God that I haven’t been hospitalized or even sick in some years and that I’ve been able to accomplish so much. In school and in life I’ve always been one to over-achieve never letting my disability define me. My parents instilled in me that anything worth having is worth working hard for and I have worked hard for every achievement I have attained. More importantly, it’s through DBU that I have grown closer to Christ. It’s one thing to grow up being a Christian, but it’s another thing to gain that personal relationship with Christ on your own. College can really make you call on His name sometimes. And while I don’t personally see my life as being inspiring, someone else might. I always pray for God to use me as a vessel, that I may be a blessing to others. . I guess that also goes back to the saying “be careful what you ask for” because I didn’t think you’d be reading my story, but where he leads me, I will follow. If there’s one thing I would encourage you all to do. It would be to
remember that we are blessed to bless others, and act accordingly. I was reading a book written by my pastor the other night before my English class started. The book was over Esther in the bible and how she was a diva with her blessing.
may be used for His glory. I don’t know if my story has touched any one. I’m just doing instructed to do.
Tuesday
We don’t often realize how God will put us in certain positions and surround us with the presence of certain people in order for us to pass our blessing on. Had Mordecai not convinced Esther of how she was put in a position to save lives, a lot of people would have died from her being selfish or a “diva” with her blessing.
FELICIA SHEPHERD
was
But there’s a difference in talking one on one and talking to a multitude. I’m slowly but surely coming out of my shell. But all that to say, I could be touching someone’s heart right now and not even know it. So who am I to say “no” to God? I can’t run from Him and if I try too long, then he’ll use someone else and I’ll miss out on other blessings. I asked him to use me and he’s doing just that in one way or another.
You may have been blessed with an excellent education, or great looks, or talents, whatever it is, remember that God makes no mistake and that He blesses us to pass it on.
Through Jesus, we are royalty, but remember Jesus is looking for servants not celebrities and divas. In Matthew 23:11 he says “the greatest among you shall be your servant.”
We were made on purpose. Don’t be a diva with your blessing. I brought this up because as shy as I was growing up. I have a cousin that actually calls me the WB frog because he says I don’t speak when people are around but when everyone’s gone I start talking.
God wants to bless us, but He doesn’t want us to be stingy with the blessing. Doctors said I may not live past the age of two, and just at the end of last month I celebrated my 22nd birthday and I owe it all to Him. I have to live and serve others while I can.
I was that kid that if I didn’t have a really, really close relationship with you, I didn’t say much around you. He was one of those people I didn’t speak much around, but my mom would go back and tell people something funny I’ve said around her and my dad.
So, as I continue on my journey to becoming a sports producer, I will always keep God first never forgetting that I was uniquely made and I owe it to Him to allow Him to use me however he sees fit. Thank you.
Others always wanted to hear that sense of humor from me, but I never let them. And now, God has now placed me here for my story to be heard that I
IN MEMORIAM
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
I Messenger CHERYL SMITH
I
I can remember my mom saying “how do you want to be a sports commentator or reporter and you’re scared to talk.”
Cheryl’s World on Blogtalkradio.com at 6p.m. Monday
what
HOST - YVETTE BROOKS
Remembering Donna P. Charles FAMU BADST- Spr 78
HOSTS: DAREIA TOLBERT
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DT EC Education Recharge Rally
at the 52nd National Convention of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
JULY 28, 2015 Featured
Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre Mistress of Ceremonies and DST 24th National President
Speakers
Dr. Gwendolyn E. Boyd, President Alabama State University and DST 22nd National President
Manuel “Manny” Scott One of the original Freedom Writers and Motivational Speaker
Please Join Us! The Houston community will be energized, as we bring educators and education supporters to a rally to get a brief overview of DTEC and be recharged to become “Change Agents for Education.” 1:00 – 2:30 pm Four Seasons 1300 Lamar Street – Houston, TX 77010 Ballrooms A & B and Foyer TICKET PRICES: $40.00 Luncheon - pre-registration $50.00
Seating is Limited! Get Your Tickets Now for this Not-to-Miss event!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER AND PURCHASE TICKETS
On-site registration at the DTEC registration booth at the Houston Convention Center
For more information about DTEC and Teacher Efficacy go to www.deltafoundation.net
The Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign (DTEC) is a collaboration between The Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (DST) funded by a matching grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The three-year campaign is designed to enhance teacher effectiveness and promote learning among at-risk, urban students with the goal of increasing graduation rates. For more information contact: Dr. Johni Cruse Craig, Project Director ▲ Delta Research and Educational Foundation ▲ 1703 New Hampshire Ave., NW DTEC@deltafoundation.net ▲ www.deltafoundation.net ▲ (202) 347-1337
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"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
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Tune in to Cheryl’s World on Blog Talk Radio, or call 646-200-0459 to hear informative, entertaining, enlightening and thought-provoking commentary and news with veteran journalist Cheryl Smith on Sundays at 8a.m. , and 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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BR INGING ENLIGHTENING, EDUC ATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION “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?
MAXIMIZE
Your Exposure While We Have Your Audience’s Undivided Attention!
A FAMILY
.
POLICE have not apprehended Pookie the serial rapist. Aren’t you concerned? Do you care? We know he has attacked members A guy who hits aof woman can be called lots of things. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,“Man”Inc. is not one of them. and there is a $5,000I MESSENGER reward offered by Crime Stoppers. J L Your AD in print and in our online editions!
• Your ad will give you an opportunity to salute the spirit of freedom and equality. • Your ad will include your logo, company information, artwork and a personalized quote commemorating Black History Month 2013! • Your ad will show your support in the community and regenerate your audience.
DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY - ACT TODAY!
VOL XI ISSUE 7 NOVEMBER 15, 2012 www.garlandjournal.com
GARLAND
CIRCULATION*AUDIT*BY
OURNA
VOL.1 NO.16
By Cheryl Smith - Texas Metro News
KENNY JAY REVIEW: MakingBOOK Women Happy!
INTIMATE SEDUCTION
Just+ like+ a+ potential+ target+ can+ not+ immediately+ identify+ a+ predator,+ it+ is+ often+ hard+ to+ point+ out+ the+ victim+of+sexual+assault+or+domestic+abuse.++There’s+ no+ big+ letter+ tattooed+ on+ their+ forehead+ or+ a+ certain+ look,+smell+or+hairdo+that+will+alert+you+that+the+person+ you+are+looking+at+is+the+survivor+of+what+many+have+
NO 2 ISSUE 32 APRIL 19 2013
BRINGING YOU ENLIGHTENING, EDUCATIONAL, EMPOWERING, INSPIRING, THOUGHT-PROVOKING INFORMATION
NO 2 ISSUE 32
APRIL 19, 2013
p.7
BRINGING NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM ACROSS THE STATE AND AROUND THE WORLD
APRIL 1, 2013
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
WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM
Martin named NABJ Journalist of the Year
WASHINGTON**+**+The+Nation* al+Association+of+Black+Journalists+ tually+ dated+ her+ (NABJ)+ has+ announced+ that+ Ro* neighbor,+ was+ land+ S.+ Martin,+ nationally+ syndi* caught+ before+ cated+ columnist,+ television+ host,+ he+ was+ able+ to+ and+radio+and+television+commen* rape+her,+but+the+ tator,+ is+ to+ receive+ the+ organiza* Recycle this assault+ was+ so+ tion’s+Journalist+of+the+Year+award.+ newspaper brutal+ that+ the+ when It+ is+ one+ of+ NABJ’s+ most+ covet* scars+left+behind+ finished ed+ honors+ celebrating+ the+ accom* reading could+ have+ con* plishments+of+black+journalists+and+ tinued+to+assault+ City of Dallasthose+ who+ support+ blacks+ in+ the+ Sanitation Dept. her,+ if+ not+ for+ a+ media.+Martin+was+selected+for+the+ No. 1 serving the African American Community loving+ family,+ award+by+NABJ’s+Board+of+Direc* November 6 - 12, 2008 www.DallasWeekly.com church,+ com* tors. munity+ and+ her+ faith. G w e n d o l y n+ Debra Mars Jones+ was+ as* The election is over saulted+ by+ her+ step*father.+ + She+ asked+ herself+ the+ * now we can begin son+act+this+way+toward+me?+Am+I+responsible?++Did+I+ Election night coverage on do+something+to+cause+this?++Did+my+caretakers+know+ KKDA focuses on issues
BOOK REVIEW:
THE BISHOP’S DAUGHTER
If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers City of Dallas Sanitation Dept.
Page 13
No. 1 serving the African American Community 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
The Dallas Weekly
years celebrates 56 Black of serving the Community
Timothy Bray, director of the Institute of Urban Policy Research. He helps
YVETTE BROOKS Your Curlfriend!
assault. April+is+Sexual+Assault+Awareness+Month+(SAAM)+ and+there+are+full*scale+efforts+to+“raise+public+aware* ness+ about+ sexual+ violence+ and+ to+ educate+ commu* nities+and+individuals+on+how+to+prevent+sexual+vio* lence.” This+year’s+campaign+“focuses+on+healthy+sexuality+ and+ child+ sexual+ abuse+ prevention.”+ +Advocates+ are+ encouraging+“everyone”+to+join+the+conversation+and+ start+talking+about+“healthy+childhood+development+to+ prevent+child+sexual+abuse.” Almost+two+decades+ago,+January+1,+1996,+Tamecka+ Grate+ was+ violently+ attacked+ and+ her+ recovery+ has+ been+ called+ a+ “miracle.”+ It+ wasn’t+ long+ after+ the+ attack+ before+ the+ valiant+ 24*year*old+ was+ giving+ interviews,+ telling+ of+ the+brutal+assault+that+almost+ ended+her+life+as+doctors+op* erated+for+over+13+hours+to+re* move+a+pair+of+scissors+from+ her+skull.+ If+you+saw+her+today,+you’d+ Tamecka Grate Frazier see+ just+ another+ beautiful+ woman+ who+ is+ in+ love+ with+ her+ life,+ her+ family+ and+ living.+ Ms.+Grate’s+attacker,+Emanuel+Moffert,+26,+who+ac*
Page 10
Volume No. 55 Issue No. 44
INSIDE
877.373.8477 3.23.13 Page 2
FAMU Rattlers victorious
Studies by the University of Texas at Dallas Institute of Urban Policy, United Way and Texas A&M are taking place now to assess the quality of life in the South Dallas community before billion dollar projects involving the new DART Light Rail and the Trinity
National
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
oversee the The Field Research Team which underwent 80 hours of
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.
Metro 3 Perspectives 5 Community Calendar 6 Lifestyle 12 HBCU Homecomings 19
JOURNA
“OVER THREE TO FOUR YEARS THERE ARE CHANGES IN CONDITIONS AND WE WANT TO KNOW HOW IT AFFECTS THE AREA”
THE HUNDRED DAY SCORE
Why Democracy hangs in the balance
INSIDE
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.
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
* * ed+ afternoon+ drive+ radio+ programs+ heard+in+the+top+urban+markets.++ Exum,+his+business+manager. He+ is+ also+ a+ TV+ talk+ Baisden+ began+ his+ career+ as+ an+ New$
See Baisden, page 6
future with President Obama
See Martin, page 11
INSIDE
International
Metro
Page 15
BUSINESS
X-Men Origins: WOLVERINE Movie Tidbits Pg. 12
How to brand you
Nation elects first African
Page 6
Perspectives 4L5 American president , as Barack wins handidly INSIDE PAGES: Community Calendar 6 Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Is gospel music dying? Page 8
Swagger Puzzle
15
Business
17
Business Food for thought Congresswoman addresses
Page 16
Heart disease remains high on list of illnesses Page 15
CHANGE! Join the rally, See PAGE 7
12
Management blamed for issues
Michael Baisden Oak Cliff Chamber Page 12
Prevent heart attacks
all the Find out on Marvel’s lowdown mutants PG. 12 weirdest
2
Obama3wins election and makes ...
HISTORIC 3
Servicemen
Health
How to avoid the Swine flu
ALL
See Sexual Assault, page 18Curry looks at the George
Michael Baisden leaves airwaves -Skip Murphy moves to slot
+ Nationally+ syndicated+ radio+ York$Times+best*selling+author+with+ personality+ Michael+ Baisden+ an* nearly+two+million+books+in+print.+ nounced+a+hiatus,+from+his+radio+on+ Now+ in+ his+ tenth+ year+ on+ the+ air,+ his+ Facebook+ page.+ Baisden,+ who+ Baisden+ wants+ his+ radio+ family+ to+ commands+a+daily+audience+of+over+ know+he+did+everything+in+his+pow* seven+ million+ listeners,+ said+ he+ is+ * unable+to+discuss+the+particulars+but+ concluded+ that+ a+ deal+ could+ not+ be+ made+on+mutually+agreeable+terms.+ the+air+as+soon+as+possible+in+a+way+ Recognized+as+one+of+the+most+in*
HEALTH
Choose either or
stop+it? She,+like+so+many+other+young+victims,+was+not+be* Roland S. Martin lieved+**+which+caused+considerable+trauma+as+the+vic* tim+is+twice+victimized.++ Admittedly+some+“victims”+have+lied,+producing+an* “I+ am+ enormously+ thankful+ and+ other+level+of+victims+in+the+wrongfully+accused,+but+ humbled+that+NABJ+has+bestowed+ there+ are+ other+ levels,+ like+ that+ victim+ who+ remains+ this+amazing+honor+on+me+for+my+ silent+ for+ whatever+ reason+ and+ the+ family+ and+ loved+ work+ as+ a+ fearless+ voice+ in+ advo* ones+ of+ the+ aforementioned+ who+ oftentimes+ don’t+ cating+ the+ critical+ issues+ facing+ Page 5 know+what+to+say+or+do. voters+ in+ the+ 2012+ election,+ but+ Now+who+is+the+victim?+ especially+as+they+relate+to+African+ It+ could+ be+ a+ newborn+ baby.+ + Of+ course+ you+ think+ Americans,”+ said+ Martin.+ “I+ hope+ that+this+couldn’t+be+the+case.+Unfortunately+there+are+ Obama’s win may this+honor+serves+as+a+lesson+to+any+ so+ many+ cases+ of+ very,+ very+ young+ babies+ being+ as* young+ or+ veteran+ journalist+ that+ face limitations
Digital Illustration: Joseph Shelby
By Patrice J. Holmes
editorial@dallasweekly.com
SPECIAL COLLECTOR’S EDITION PAGE 1
Democrat
!
!
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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