VOL 4 ISSUE 19
February 26, 2016
www.texasmetronews.com
Texas Metro News
Hierarchy
Hijacking of South Dallas
JOHN PROCTOR PAGE 9
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AROUND THE WORLD
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Ellis supports Brown’s efforts to seek compensation for wrongful conviction (Houston, TX) // Sen. Rodney Ellis (D-Houston) recently joined Dewayne Brown and his attorneys in support of Dewayne’s efforts to seek compensation for the 12+ years he wrongfully spent behind bars, including nine on death row. IMG_0941�I am proud to stand with Dewayne Brown as he seeks the compensation he is rightfully owed under the law,� said Sen. Ellis. “Let’s face it: there is no amount of money that can repay someone for being on death row for nine years for a crime they did not commit. But the provisions of the Tim Cole Act, which I passed in 2001, exist to try to remedy the injustice that Dewayne suffered.� “It is days like today that make me so proud that I led legislative efforts to increase compensation for the wrongfully imprisoned,� Ellis continued. “Since I changed the law in 2001, the state has paid more than $92 million in compensation to wrongfully convicted Texans. Why? Because these men and women deserve some semblance of justice. After all, Texas leads the nation in the shameful category of proven wrongful convictions.� While in the Texas Senate, Ellis has “led legislative efforts to increase compensation for the wrongfully imprisoned,� according to the New York Times. In 2001, Ellis authored and passed legislation that increased the amount of compensation, increased the statute of limitations for claiming compensation, and allowed convicted persons found to be innocent to seek relief and compensation from the courts, rather than by pardon. In 2011, Ellis sponsored and passed comprehensive exoneree compensation reform legislation, which provided health care to the wrongfully convicted, established standards for attorney’s fees in compensation claims, and helped exonerees to receive compensation.
Alfred Dewayne Brown – his family and friends call him Dewayne – was convicted of capital murder on October 18, 2005 for a crime he did not commit. Dewayne was wrongly accused of robbing a check cashing store located off 610 in southeast Houston with two other individuals in April 2003, which left a cashier and a police officer dead. Dewayne, however, was at his girlfriend’s apartment sick in bed at the time of the murders. Indeed, he called his girlfriend’s workplace from her apartment at around 10 a.m. that day, which was shortly after the murders took place and while the actual killers where on the run elsewhere. Dewayne’s girlfriend and her employer both testified at trial that Dewayne had called about 10 a.m., but there was no evidence showing from where Dewayne made the call. Despite his alibi, which Dewayne maintained since the day of his arrest, the jury convicted him of capital murder, and he was sentenced to death on October 25, 2005. Nearly eight years later in 2013, one of the Houston police detectives originally assigned to Dewayne’s case was cleaning out his garage and found subpoenaed phone records from the phone company that the DA’s office had obtained during their investigation but had never been turned over to Dewayne’s lawyers at trial. Those phone records showed that a call had been made from Dewayne’s girlfriend’s apartment to his girlfriend’s place of employment at the time Dewayne, Dewayne’s girlfriend, and Dewayne’s girlfriend’s employer all say Dewayne called – thus proving Dewayne’s alibi. Once Dewayne’s lawyers obtained the phone records (8 years after the State should have turned them over) they 1BNFMB + %BZFT eventually were able to secure a reversal of his conviction -JDFOTFE 4BMFT "HFOU and his eventual exoneration.
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METRO
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Revitalizing South Dallas
Yesterday the weather cooperated with the spirit of the workers as the sun provided a little heat on a chilly day for the more than 150 Lowe’s volunteers who joined the Innercity Community Development Corporation (ICDC) and Rebuilding Together, helping citizens in the MIll City Community by making repairs. “We love to help folks,” said Dennis Luellen, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together - Dallas. “Our mission is to help improve the quality of life for homeowners in need by bringing communities and volunteers together to rebuild homes.” The national non profit Rebuilding Together led the two-day community revitalization effort, that will return next year. Dallas was the Beta test site before moving on to Seattle, Denver and then to New York. There was a lot of praise for ICDC, the nonprofit organization serving the Mill City Community and the homes of four local homeowners, provides home ownership opportunities, economic development and community education.
Dallas City Councilwoman Tiffinni A. Young thanked Rebuilding Together, Lowe’s, and the volunteers as she praised the work of former Dallas City Councilwoman Diane Ragsdale, who is the managing director of ICDC. “ICDC is a staple in South Dallas and the Mill City Community,” said Ms. Young. “ Thanks for giving that commitment to the MIll City Neighborhood. Partnerships are what makes things work!” Ms. Young also visited the homes where workers toiled for two days. Ms. Ragsdale praised the non profit and Lowe’s, along with the councilmembers who came after her for the district, noting that immediate past councilmember Carolyn Davis introduced her to Rebuilding Together. “What you do to improve the lives of people is unbelievable,” said Ms. Ragsdale. “We’’ve got to do what is necessary to improve the lives of the people in our communities.”
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El Centro College now offers EMT and Paramedic Program El Centro College is now making the road to becoming an EMT and Paramedic even shorter than you think! This spring, El Centro began offering classes for both at the Bill J. Priest Institute for Economic Development (1402 Corinth St., Dallas). EMT is the most common certification in emergency medical services; two levels of certification are common to almost every state: EMT and Paramedic. Becoming a Paramedic requires that you have an EMT certification first. The EMT Certification Program is 154 classroom hours, with three emergency room clinical rotations, and one 24-hour MICU ride out for a total of 202 hours. The Paramedic Certification Program is a 42 semester hour program that prepares you to provide advanced prehospital care to emergency patients. The program is full-time and lasts approximately six and a half months after EMT training and anatomy and physiology classes. This program is designed for you to become a successful entry-level paramedic. In fact, 99.75% of El Centro students go on to get jobs in their profession as paramedics or hired on to become professional firefighters/paramedics. This program continually has one of the highest pass rates on the National Registry. In 2014 there were over 130 students trained, with 94 percent of them passing on the first attempt. The remaining six percent were all successful on the second attempt.
Facts: National Registry Written: Percent of Grads Passing: 98.76%* National Registry Practical: Percent of Grads Passing: 100.00%* Comprehensive Final Written: Percent of Grads Passing: 100.00%* Comprehensive Final Practical: Percent of Grads Passing: 100.00%* Retention: Percent Retention: 85.26%* Positive Placement: Percent of Grads Positive Placement: 99.75%* *Average 2014+2013+2012 Students learn through lectures, hands-on skill development, scenario labs, and ambulance simulation labs. Students will be required to complete hospital rotations and ambulance field internships on a 24-hour on, 48-hour off basis with local fire departments. The Paramedic Program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions. To find out more about the EMT Certification program call 214-8602262; to find out more about the Paramedic Certification Program call 972-860-5003. Visit the El Centro website at www. elcentrocollege.edu.
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FEBRUARY 26, 2016
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MALVEAUX: Who
will work to earn the Black Vote?
Michelle Alexander, the brilliant author of The New Jim Crow, writes in The Nation – that Hilary Clinton does not “deserve� the Black vote. She makes a strong case. She reminds us that the Bill Clinton administration yielded a draconian crime bill and welfare deform (I call it deform instead of reform because the Clinton changes made a bad system worse) that demonized poor women. While Bill and Hilary Clinton are two different people, Alexander uses Hilary quotes to illustrate the ways she supported her husband’s policies. Michelle Alexander is right to say that Hilary does not deserve the black vote. She declines to endorse Bernie Sanders, though, describing him as “the lesser of two evils�. To his credit, says Alexander, Sanders opposed welfare deform and has been a far more vocal and aggressive critic of banks than Hilary. But Alexander says he still doesn’t get “it� around issues of racial justice, and notes that both he and Hillary supported the Iraq war. I’m intrigued by the concept of “deserving� a vote. From my perspective Bernie doesn’t deserve it, Hilary doesn’t deserve it, and none of the motley crew of Republican candidates deserve it. No Democrat or Republican has ever deserved the black vote. The dictionary defines deserve as, “to do something or have or show qualities worthy of (reward or punishment). To say someone “deserves� the black vote, suggests that someone is entitled to it or has a right to it. I don’t think any candidate has a right to the black vote. Frankly, with the possible exception of Lyndon Johnson in 1964 (after the passage of the Civil Rights Act) and Rev. Jesse Jackson (after his history of activism) I don’t think any Democrat (or Republican) for that matter. What has either Hilary or Bernie done to “deserve� the black vote?
In South Carolina, African-Americans will constitute a majority of Democratic voters in the primary on Feb. 27. On March 1, Super Tuesday, people of color - Blacks, Latinos, Asian-Americans - will constitute large portions of the voters. The press is focused on whom we want. But we would be far better off to be focused on what we want.
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The Last Word By Dr. Julianne Malveaux
Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist based in Washington, DC. She can be contacted at www. juliannemalveaux.com.
No candidate should claim the sentimental right to the black vote either, and I think, in some ways that is what Hilary Clinton is attempting. As Michelle Alexander correctly points out in her article, some African Americans are almost irrationally loyal to the Clintons. Many other African Americans, though, have a measured view of the Clinton years, celebrating historic appointments, like that of Alexis Herman as Secretary of Labor, condemning the ways that Lani Guinier and Jocelyn Elders were abandoned by the Clintons, and balancing policy failures like welfare deform with some policy successes. Hilary Clinton’s stand-alone record includes a sensitivity to diversity that Sanders lacks. As a Senator and as Secretary of State, she had staffs that were very inclusive, with several African American women, in particular, serving in leadership roles in the State Department. Her record shows that, as President, she would continue her commitment to diversity and that we might finally have a cabinet that “looks like America�. Does her commitment to diversity alone make her entitled to the black vote? The black vote should be earned, not bequeathed. But too many African Americans seem to think that voting is the most,
not the least, they can do. We must vote for politicians based on their track record and also on their promises. But then we must hold them accountable so that they keep their promises. We didn’t do it with Clinton in 1996 when we voted for him even after welfare deform. We didn’t do it with Obama in 2012, when we voted for him after a disappointing first term. African Americans, like others, must make demands of those who hold public office, or they are free to ignore us. The challenge is that our two-party system too often fails to provide us with a satisfactory set of alternatives to the status quo. While I was disappointed with President Obama’s first term, I probably would have cut my hand off before voting for Mitt Romney. Similarly, as disappointing as Clinton’s welfare deform was, another Clinton term was far preferable to a Bob Dole presidency. We too often are faced with imperfect options, and in choosing the lesser of two evils. Michelle Alexander addresses the flaws of the twoparty system in her article, and talks about a “revolutionary movement� of people who believe that human rights and economic justice are attainable goals. There won’t be a revolutionary movement before November 7, 2016. So who deserves the black vote? The candidate who works hardest for it. The candidate who addresses the black community most directly and with the most relevance. The candidate who not only schedules very public meetings with Rev. Al Sharpton, but less-well covered meetings at a day care center, in a halfway house, in a hospital. The black vote should not be something a candidate deserves. It should be something a candidate earns!
Minority Voters must focus on What, not Who
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EDITORIAL
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By Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. President, Rainbow PUSH Coalition
via George Curry Media
Democratic candidates - not just Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton, but contenders in Senate and gubernatorial races as well - have to listen and respond. They can no longer simply expect to inherit our votes or to ignore our concerns. Their prospects in both the primaries and the general election depend, in significant part, on giving us a reason to vote and to vote in large numbers. We’ve already seen the impact of this new reality. Black Lives Matter demonstrations across the country have raised the demand for criminal justice reform - and Sanders and Clinton have responded. The Dreamers and the Latino uprising raised the commitment to comprehensive immigration reform. So what do we want? We know the goal: a level playing field, equal opportunity and a fair start. Carolina lost the Super Bowl. Clemson lost in the college football championship game. But they accepted the result because of five fundamentals: the
playing field was level; the rules were public; the goals were clear; the officials were fair; the score was transparent. If the game had started with one team 21 points down, the protests would have stopped the game. Instead, both teams had a fair start and an equal opportunity to win. That is what we want in our society as well as our sports. But that is not what we have. We have entrenched and often concentrated poverty. Schools that are unequal. Criminal justice systems that are biased. Our neighborhoods are redlined by banks. We get charged more when we finance the purchase of a car. Fraudulent mortgage brokers have targeted Blacks and Latinos for loans that they knew they could not repay. There are active efforts to suppress our right to vote. The field is not level, the start is not fair, the rules are skewed, and the officials are too often biased. So we need targeted action to overcome targeted inequity. Rep James Clyburn (D-S.C.) has called for a 10-20-30 plan: arguing that 10 percent of all social spending be targeted on the 474 counties where 20 percent or more of the population has lived in poverty for the last 30 years. These counties are White, Black and Latino. They are represented by Republicans and by Democrats. They need targeted investment. That’s a good step, but not enough. We need a development bank to provide credit to communities that are written off by the big banks. We need a fair start for every child: adequate nutrition, health care, affordable quality day care, and universal access to pre-K. We need funding to insure our schools can provide the basics: safe buildings, modern learning materials, small classes in early grades, skilled teachers, after-school programs and more. We need advanced training and college to be tuition free, so all who qualify can pursue their dreams. We need a
jobs corps, with the government serving as the employer of last resort for young people who cannot find a job. We need a counteroffensive against the systematic efforts to make it harder for us to vote. Revival of the Voting Rights Act. A national constitutional right to vote. Universal sameday registration. A national floor on voting rights rules. Action to curb the role of big money, particularly dark money in our politics. We need an agenda to empower workers. Lift the floor with a $15 minimum wage and a union. Guarantee paid family leave, paid sick days, paid vacation days. This isn’t a radical idea: the U.S. is the only advanced country without these guarantees. We need universal, affordable health care. In South Carolina, the governor has turned away billions in federal funds by refusing to expand Medicaid. In the resulting crisis, even Bamberg County Memorial Hospital, where she was born, has been forced to close. Yes, we need police reform and sentencing reform. We need to give those who have served their time their full citizenship back, including the right to vote. And we need to challenge the private prison-industrial complex, in which prisoners serve as a kind of slave labor leased out to private companies as cut-rate rates. And this of course is but a beginning. We’ve learned that a rising tide doesn’t raise all boats. Some boats are buoyant yachts, others small row boats and some are stuck at the bottom. People of color represent a rising force in American politics. Many of our communities - as well as many White communities - are in deep distress. We need assistance targeted to those in need. So before we decide whom we support, let us make certain they have heard what we support. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is founder and president of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition. You can keep up with his work at www.rainbowpush.org
PERSPECTIVES
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HALL: Why you love Donald Trump!
Quit Playin’ Vincent L. Hall Vincent L. Hall is an author and award-winning columnist. You’ve been wondering lately. It’s been a part of your conscious or your subconscious; but you been wondering. What is it that attracts me to Donald Trump? I think maybe I have an answer; maybe even a few answers. My thesis will suggest that you like Donald Trump because he spits on some part of American life that you’ve always wanted to but never had the big state or the courage. What makes him roundly and comprehensively effective, is that he gives every sector and culture in America something or someone
to hate. I came to this revelation while reading an article entitled; “Donald Trump’s worst 20 tweets.” Here’s an example from September 2012 after realizing that his Birther Movement wasn’t moving the media anymore. “If Obama resigns from office NOW, thereby doing a great service to the country—I will give him free lifetime golf at any one of my courses!” A few months earlier he had this to say; “An ‘extremely credible source’ has called my office and told me that @BarackObama’s birth certificate is a fraud.”
For the Obama haters, and that’s almost half the nation and 80% of the South, he gives them plenty of red meat. In fact the mantra of a good Republican these days is to find someone whom everyone can agree they hate. They don’t look to fix problems. The Republicans nowadays look to fix blame. For those of you who hate Hillary Clinton simply because she’s Hillary Clinton, he has a fix. Donald Trump tweeted his most heinous lines in April 2015. “If Hillary Clinton can’t satisfy her husband what makes her think she can satisfy America?” Yep he said it. He is more than just a “Billionaire with Bad Hair.” Maybe you still hate George Dubya Bush, Cheney et al. Not just for prosecuting and unjustifiable war, but for the eventual unraveling and destabilization of the Middle East.
You got your fix of hatred the other night during the debate when Trump spanked Jeb’s pink puny ass again. “Obviously, it was a mistake. George Bush made a mistake. We can make mistakes, but that one was a beauty. We should have never been in Iraq.” When the weak whining Jeb continued in his defense of everyone from his mom to his brother, Trump landed the coup de grace. He insinuated that the war was executed on a lie about weapons of Mass Destruction that did not exist. That wasn’t enough though. “The World Trade Center came down during the reign of George Bush. He kept us safe? That is not safe.” African-Americans understand that when Trump assaulted Mexicans, Muslims and Anchor Babies, his hatred or distrust for “The Blacks” was a fore gone conclusion. To understand Black history is to understand that we
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weren’t the first race of Americans that bore White hatred, they just didn’t annihilate as many of us as they did the Native Americans. For misogynists, there were the assaults on Megan Kelly and the ugly remark about Carli Fiorina being ugly. As to her ugliness, I agreed with him as it relates to her aesthetics and attitude. If you hate the “Mainstream media” he points them out in a specially constructed pen he has assembled in the middle of his rallies. If you hate the notion and nuance of political correctness, every damn word that comes out of his mouth is pure gold. But the real reason that Americans knowingly and unknowingly love Trump is because we are a nation rooted in hatred. We love to hate with bibles and without.We just gotta have somebody to HATE.
CURRY: Only Democrats compromise on Court Appointments TRUTH TO POWER
By George E. Curry
George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA.) He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge and George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook.
President Obama has announced that despite threats from Republican leaders, he plans to nominate someone to fill the Supreme Court vacancy created by the death of Antonin Scalia. I hope he ignores the advice of Vice President Joe Biden who wants him to select someone who isn’t staunchly liberal. Biden said, “... my advice is, the only way we get someone on the court, now or even later, is to do what we’ve done in the past... we have to pick somebody, as the president will, who is intellectually competent, is a person of high moral character, is a person who is demonstrated to have an open mind, and is a person who doesn’t come with a specific agenda. “...the idea that we’re going to go in and decide we’re going to pick an, I don’t know, a new Justice Brennan, I don’t think that’s going
to happen. That’s not how the system works.” That’s not how it works for Democrats. And it doesn’t work because they are such wimps when it comes to standing up for their beliefs. You have never heard nor will you ever hear a Republican talk about not nominating any judge because he or she is too conservative. In fact, they have made a point of putting right-wing reactionaries on the court: Clarence Thomas, John G. Roberts, Samuel Alito, Anthony M. Kennedy and, of course, Antonin Scalia. Yet, Democrats - and only Democrats - feel compelled to appoint less doctrinaire justices in order to appease Republicans who oppose them at every turn. That’s a one-way street to nowhere. Conservatives have created a vast network through The Federalist Society “dedicated to reforming the current legal order.” From establishing chapters on every law school campus, to arranging internships with likeminded lawyers, and screening potential judges for Republican presidents, The Federalist Society is leaving its right-wing imprint on the courts. To their disappointment,
David Souter was nominated to the Supreme Court by President George H.W. Bush, but ended up siding with liberals on the bench. “No More Souters” became the boisterous chant of disappointed conservatives. Though they are archconservatives, Chief Justice John Roberts and Anthony Kennedy have been sharply criticized by conservatives for certain votes. Roberts provided the deciding vote to uphold the legality of the Affordable Care Act and Kennedy voted to legalize same-sex marriage. The Washington Times noted in September, “As a precursor to the upcoming Republican presidential debate, a conservative group is starting a campaign push to get the candidates on the record about how they would approach Supreme Court nominations. “’Demand justices with a proven record of upholding the constitution. We can’t afford more surprises,’ a narrator says in the first advertisement by the Judicial Crisis Network, which features the faces of Justices John Roberts and Anthony Kennedy and retired Justice David Souter, all Republican picks to the court.”
The narrator added, “On the most important issues, the Supreme Court decides. The next president could appoint a new majority to last a generation.” Selecting a progressive to replace Scalia would shift the balance of the court, which is now tilted 5-4 in favor of conservatives. And the next president may get two or more additional appointments. All of the remaining Republican candidates for president are contending that President Obama should not appoint a replacement for Scalia, which would leave his seat open for a minimum of 11 months. And, according to FactCheck.org, critics of Obama are distorting the history of the Supreme Court to make their argument. “Let’s take Cruz’s statement first,” FactCheck.org states. “He’s right - or close to right - that it has been 80 years since a Supreme Court nominee was ‘nominated and confirmed in an election year.’ It has actually been 76 years. But here’s the missing context: There have been only six outstanding court vacancies in an election year since 1900, and in every case the vacancy was filled.” Rubio said on “Face the Nation” (Feb. 14): “...There’s been
precedent established over 80 years that, in the last year, especially in the last 11 months, you do not have a lame-duck president make a lifetime appointment to the highest court on the land.” Again, that is not true. FactCheck.org stated, “In fact, this is the first time in at least 116 years that a Supreme Court vacancy occurred in a lame-duck president’s final year in office. The chart above also shows there was only one lame-duck president Reagan - who had a vacancy to fill, but that vacancy occurred when Reagan had more than a year in office. Rubio said the precedent extends only to a president’s last year ‘especially in the last 11 months,’ which would only cover Obama.” Republican front-runner Donald Trump, who has dismissed Chief Justice John Roberts as “disgraceful” and a “disappointment,” named Clarence Thomas is his favorite Supreme Court justice. Critics notwithstanding, President Obama plans to nominate a judge to succeed Scalia. It would be the height of cowardice to shy away from nominating a progressive to the nation’s highest court.
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FEBRUARY 26, 2016
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Today is That Day You Didn't Have to be Here Spiritually Speaking Spiritually Speaking…. My wife has a hand in reminding me about this one. She meditates in the morning. I remember a pastor friend of mine telling me that this was something he was also trying to develop into a habit of doing and upon further review, I’ve decided to try it too. Praying in the morning, as a concept, is actually pretty easy to do. In the morning I am not usually in need of anything but I do understand now that calling upon the Lord is an act of spiritual clarification. From evening prayer (which I do every night) to dawn’s affirmation of God’s power, I probably take this time as much for granted as anyone. After some Morning Prayer practice, it’s becoming apparent that I need to thank God for seeing me through
the night. At this point I ask Him to order my steps, guide my thoughts and allow me to do something during the course of the day to give indication of a deep appreciation for letting me wake up. If you allow yourself to concentrate on what God has done for you on any given day, then it becomes obvious that He is indeed here and working wonders on your behalf. If you do not believe, try this. At the end of today, take a moment and reflect on those things that you can think of, that prove God was walking with you all day. Now start with this morning because you really didn’t have to wake up. If you hadn’t noticed, some people didn’t. If you drove, flew, took a cab somewhere and arrived safely, you might want to give God a little credit for your being accident free. You might have even passed one or two accidents on your way. Can you remember seeing anyone in need of food, clothing, a few dollars, maybe a bath; but it wasn’t you? All “natural disasters” missed your house. No floods? No tornadoes? No hurricanes? No earthquakes?
While I’m at it, how’s your family? Are your kids healthy? Are they simply alive and still breathing today? Someone you know under intense pressure, emotionally, financially, physically? Can you begin to see where I’m coming from? God’s Hand is everywhere in your life today, if you just stop being busy and take a good look. I promise you if you just slow down a bit, you’ll see God’s presence time and again in your life and not always in the person’s next to you. Once you begin to realize that God is present all the time, then, prayer easily and rapidly becomes praise. I mean once you recognize the real possibility that God held “my” hand today, then it stands to reason to me that a genuine thank you is in order. So now out of any sleep I’m awakening from comes a palms open praise that goes something like this; ‘Thank you Father God for seeing me through the night. Stay with me and remind me during the course of this day of your infinite blessings bestowed upon me. Let me do something. Let me say something today to make you proud and
RLJ Companies commissions second nationwide African American Opinion Survey Hillary Clinton is the Dominant Choice for Sixty-Four Percent of African American Voters Who Are Likely to Vote in the Democratic Primary or Caucus BETHESDA, Md., /PRNewswire/ -- The RLJ Companies has announced the results of a nationwide African American survey conducted by Zogby Analytics. One thousand randomly selected African American adults nationwide were polled by telephone and online survey. The survey reveals current African American sentiment on a range of issues that include the 2016 Presidential Election, opinions about national and current affairs, the Obama Presidency, race relations, and social issues. Robert L. Johnson, founder and chairman of The RLJ Companies said, "The RLJ Companies released its Robert L. Johnson second survey in follow up to our 2013 survey as part of our ongoing efforts to ascertain the opinions and views of African Americans. The survey focused on issues most important to the African American community, as well as their attitudes and opinions towards a range of national issues. We hope the results will be informative to people and organizations who are concerned about the views and opinions of over 38 million African Americans represented by this statistically valid survey." AFRICAN AMERICAN OPINION SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS 2016 Presidential Election 87% of African Americans surveyed are registered to vote and 69% believe they will definitely vote in November. Hillary Clinton dominates the race among Democrats with 64% of African American voters who will vote for her and 20% of responders chose Bernie Sanders. Six-in-ten African Americans, or 59%, believe Hillary Clinton will be as good a President for African Americans as President Barack Obama. If the General Election were held today and Hillary Clinton was the Democratic nominee, the matchup against the following Republican candidates show: Clinton (83%) v. Trump (7%) with 10% not sure
Clinton (81%) v. Rubio (6%) with 13% not sure Clinton (81%) v. Cruz (6%) with 13% not sure National Issues 80% believe that eliminating illegal police shootings of young Black men is the most important issue and an important factor in deciding whom to vote for in the Presidential Election. Other issues include ensuring voting rights (69%), affordable college tuition (68%), income inequality (68%), and terrorism/ISIS (68%) also received a high percentages. A significant majority of respondents (58%) feel that Black Lives Matter should spend more time both calling for an end to Black on Black murders and drawing attention to police shootings. African Americans are divided when it comes to gay marriage. One third (33%) strongly agree with the U.S. Supreme Court decision to rule it legal, while 26% strongly disagree. Two-thirds (66%) of respondents believe that getting an education is an important factor for what African Americans can do for themselves to achieve progress. 59% of respondents would advocate for financial reparations for the past years of slavery. Obama Presidency 61% of African Americans surveyed strongly approve of President Barack Obama's job performance. Under President Obama, 48% feel better off financially than before he became President 44% believe President Obama did more than expected to help the African American community. There is a divide when it comes to President Obama's legacy: 45% believe his legacy will be defined by the fact that he was the first Black President. 46% believe it will be defined mainly on what he accomplished. Younger voters (58%) believe his legacy will be defined as the first Black President. Older voters (63%) believe his legacy will be defined by what he accomplished. The RLJ Nationwide African American Survey Report can be found at: http://www.rljcompanies.com/news/
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show you my appreciation of your giving me the time and opportunity to demonstrate who I am and whose I am to the world.’ The words might change from time to time, but the intent is the same. I hope to no longer take my consciousness for granted. There’s a reason my eyes were opened and I must acknowledge I had nothing to do with it. As such, I think it prudent to acknowledge the One responsible and look for His purpose after that. The next step for me then is to try and maintain a consistent spiritual posture. I know it’s not easy. The world will test you. But since God was gracious enough to give me the day, the least I can do is act like I know who the day belongs to. From goodnight in the evening to hello in the morning gives all of us a real opportunity to understand the simple gift of life. That time between sleep and awakening is worth praising God for. Kind of gives new meaning to that “joy comes in the morning” thing. May God bless and keep you always.
Make March 1 a real SUPER TUESDAY
VOTE!
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COVER STORY
Hierarchy Hijacking of South Dallas
Does the MBE/DBE Programs work for African Americans? Let’s cut to the chase. This is not about what someone else has done to the citizens of South Dallas, the landowners or stakeholders of color. This is about one rape of a race and where the blame should rest. Black-on-black favoritism is as tragic as black-on-black crime. Both ways we all lose. I place the “rape-of-a-race” in two categories. The vote certainly is upfront and foremost, no argument there. But we must face the possible absolute fact that our progress/regress is a direct descendant of our disrespect for each other and our voting loyalty to people that look/ act like they are texting and driving. The Regional Black Contractors Association opened their doors several months ago. The open house was welcomed by all with congratulations, food, spacious offices, wide grins, slaps on the back, visitors and an avalanche of fancy speeches. The stage was all set for a season to come to the side of town where the African Americans lived.
My Day By Dr. J. Ester Davis
Dollars matter in the black community. Dollars matter for our children, our education of black children and the sincere welfare of our worth. Why aren’t the MBE/DBE’s working? Where do the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and the numerous black organizations that boast longevity in 100 cities stand? “The reason is largely due to there being no enforcement in the programs,” says Dr. Earl Mitchell, Stillwater, Oklahoma, who has lots of answers, and we look forward to talking with him. The mounting questions persist however, . . how did Marion Barry, Maynard Jackson, Carl Stokes and countless others get insurmountable things done in their cities?
For 20-plus years, make readiness in the community has been with high expectations. After all the Trinity River Project is the largest public works design in the country.
Most alarming is that there is not one successful MBE/DBE in the country, and I am writing this as presidential candidates are ‘courting the African American vote’ once again. Oh, sure, there are ceremonies, with press, where big awards are given out with fanfare, wel-dressed scripts and recipients with near authentic words of acceptance, but no big contracts to African Americans. Can we please cut to the chase?
On the S. M. Wright Project, the total sum was quoted as $100 million dollars into the Southern Sector. Doing simple math, ten percent (10%) of $100 million is $10 million dollars. One percent (1%) of $100 million dollars is one ($1) million dollars. The proposed ‘set aside’ for minority business is 3%.
I do not have time to go into the bidding process in this setting. The bids go out. Bids come in. In this particular case, a new bid went out. The current conversation is centered around a total of $746,000 into the African American community, which is . . . less than one (1%) percent. If I am incorrect, do indeed correct me. Constantly and continuously, the primary bids go out to large majority firms. I understand Webber is the prime contractor for the S. M. Wright Project.
Let’s cut to the chase. Mr. John Proctor, Chair, and the Regional Black Contractors Association (BCA) did not receive due process in this process.
Now, I have heard all of the comments, but this is not all old news. Around the country, according to my research, black politicians have united, making a difference in the lives of their constituencies.
Let’s be specific. Let’s start with the S. M. Wright Project. Rev. S. M. Wright was a very well-known pastor (Peoples Baptist Church) in South Dallas. He lived in the southern section and pastored in the southern section of Dallas for decades.
Please keep that in mind.
Carolyn Davis, former Dallas City Councilwoman, opened a job bank years ago, in anticipation of the southern sector readiness. Skilled jobs, dignity, respect, tree-lined streets, opportunity, finally the triumph of the human spirit for a section of Dallas that has been the tax base for growth in the other parts of the city for decades.
Despite endless meetings, luncheons, proper credentials, bondable, insured, qualified, the lion share of the construction, which equates to dollars, was awarded to major white entities. Who are they? Well, you will just have to keep reading my columns for designer brand names.
The program is a set aside or ‘good faith effort’ forminorities. Left completely out of this equation is African American men. The MBE Program for African American men is never met, has never been met and the future seems to be more of the same.
John Proctor I really did not realize how popular John Proctor was. Surprisingly, no one called or emailed to ask who he is. John Proctor’s most noted 2015 honor is his addition to Who’s Who in Black Dallas, which certainly in John Proctor’s case equals to “Who’s Who in Black America.” John Proctor is the Chairman of the Dallas/Fort Worth Black Contractors Association. In that role, he works to foster the development, growth and economic viability of minorityowned businesses by increasing their capacity and providing easier access to information, infrastructure, technical and business support. General consensus of the meaning and purpose of the Minority Business Enterprise system is that it does not work.
But the real issue remains. TexDot, NTTA, City of Dallas and DISD do not include African American businesses in their MBE programs. What is wrong? Why are we ‘underthe-floor’. . . not bottom? Coming up in the southern section are new DISD buildings, new courthouses and a proposed new Records Building for the County of Dallas. Simply math again -- this amounts to approximately $250 million dollars in the southern section which is quite a conservative figure. Does the MBE/DBE Programs work for African Americans? What must we do? Where is the enforcement behind this important act. Ask John Proctor. He will absolutely have an answer. Ester Davis is the Community Host. 214.376.9000. Keep those ‘essential(e)voices’ coming. Check her out at www. esterday.com or Ester Davis Show, ION Media Networks, Thursdays, 5:30 AM. Ester Davis can be reached at esterdayone@gmail.com
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Praise Party The Fight for Universal Pre-K remains a Moral and Economic Imperative with Dareia Tolbert
The 31th Annual Stellar Awards took place this weekend held at the Las Vegas Orleans Arena ! The Stellars (also known as the Grammys of Gospel). Stellar Award made history as the Tyscot recording artist , Anthony Brown and group Therapy took home statues in the 10 categories they were nominated in. Additional multiple winners included Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago, the Rance Allen Group, Tasha Cobbs and Tina Campbell. One of the most extraordinary moments was the James Cleveland Award tribute to the late Olanda Draper featuring a reunion of his beloved choir the Associates coupled with fellow Brat Pack members Ricky Dillard, Donald Lawrence and Hezekiah Walker. Be sure to watch 2 hour telecast will make its debut on Sunday, March 6 on TV One. Check out some of pictures with Dareia Tolbert fun times. Looks like she is having a Praise Party FUNTIME!
OP/ED
By State Representative Helen Giddings
Over the course of last year's Legislative Session, I was proud to see quality pre-K improvements be thrust into the spotlight as a bipartisan priority. Through emotional and sometimes heated debate, we were able to approve House Bill 4, a grant program of $130 million to Texas schools, in an effort to bolster existing pre-K programs. Although many of us argued this did not go far enough, it became clear that this was the best solution that the majority would embrace, and it passed with a 129-18 vote. It remains significant that we came together to create a new program to invest in kids across Texas. Unfortunately, this victory was not nearly enough. Although I am excited to see how districts take advantage of the available grants, our kids demand a far bolder change of course. Last year, the National Institute for Early Education Research released a study showing that Texas ranks dead last in the country in delivering quality
pre-K. In the ten policies of its quality standards checklist, Texas met only twofor teacher in-service and early learning standards. In areas from class size to teacher specialization, we continue to fall woefully short. We also fail to get enough kids in the door. Although we have seen incremental progress over the past decade, about half, 48%, of Texas 4-year olds still do not attend any pre-K whatsoever, and state spending per pupil has plummeted since 2011. To this day, there remains naysayers who find pre-K to be an unnecessary luxury. Why does it matter, they say, if a child stays at home when he or she is waiting for kindergarten to start? Research shows that 90% of a child's brain development happens by the time they turn five, and their access to education during those early years has turned out to be an incredible predictor of their future growth. A study from the National Bureau of Economic Research showed that economically disadvantaged Texans who attend pre-K were 23% less likely to be retained in the first, second, or third grade and 13% less likely to be assigned to a special education program. These outcomes are not just morally encouraging, they are smart economic policy. Among economically disadvantaged children alone, Texas pre-K saves the state upwards of $142 million due to these lower rates of grade retention and assignment to special education programs. Pre-K students are given an enormous head start in reading, math, and verbal and nonverbal communication skills. They are given a head start in working
in groups and respecting others. They learn empathy and compassion and the golden rule. Is it ever too soon to begin these lessons? We cannot allow pre-K to be considered "last session's issue." We cannot stop demanding far better for Texas children and families, and universal, full-day pre-K is the most critical investment we can make. Many who do not go as far as denying the irrefutable benefits of universal pre-K will simply argue that it's a worthy, but unaffordable cause. They will use phrases like "fiscal responsibility" and "waste of taxpayer dollars." As a senior member of the House Appropriations committee who wrote the state's budget, I unequivocally reject this notion. We can afford a revitalized pre-K system. We cannot afford continued inaction. We cannot afford providing the lowest quality pre-K in the country. We cannot afford half of our children being denied education in the most critical stages of their development. Their future and opportunities are in the balance. Complacency is unacceptable. Let's find common ground on new and innovative ways to make Texas early-childhood education the best in the nation. Let's not stop at funding. Let's train and certify more quality early-childhood teachers and encourage them to teach in our most vulnerable communities. HB 4 was an important step forward. Let's not let it go to waste. (Helen Giddings represents District 109 which includes Cedar Hill, DeSoto, Lancaster, Wilmer, Hutchins, and portions of Glenn Heights and Oak Cliff. For more information, call 512.463.0953.)
Continental Societies, Inc. Dallas Chapter takes Mardi Gras to new heights "Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler" Mardi Gras may be a reason to party for many, but for the members of the Dallas Chapter of Continental Societies, Inc., it’s more than a reason, it’s a cause. Dallas Continentals' annual Naw'lins Mardi Gras Jam, is set Saturday, March 12, 2016, at 7:00 P.M. Crowne Plaza Dallas Hotel, 14315 Midway Road, Addison, Texas 75001. Admission is $85 per person. The Naw'lins Mardi Gras Jam is a fundraiser benefitting the Dallas chapter's Children’s Programs and Scholarship Fund. The evening will feature Dinner, Dancing, Mask Judging Contest, and a Silent Auction. The Dallas Chapter is proud to announce the 2016 Naw'lins Mardi Gras Jam King
Mr. La Troy Hawkins, Major League Baseball Pitcher and Queen is Anita Hawkins, Author, Model and Philanthropist. The Honorary Chair for the evening will be Mr. Stacy Marshall, Executive Director, Southeast Fort Worth, Inc. The purpose of Continental Societies, Inc. is to promote, foster and develop the welfare of children with special needs to improve their recreational facilities, advance their educational opportunities, and sponsor a climate of security and well-being in their environment. To inquire about the reading program contact: Judith T. Nix, Dallas Chapter President (214) 985-1809, judithn.csi@gmail.com or Contact: Rita C. White (972) 523-7046 rwhite1117@gmail.com For more information on the Dallas Chapter of Continental Societies, Inc., visit the web site at http://www.csidallaschapter.org
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Reel-ality TV Talk
By Marquesa LaDawn George Curry Media Columnist
These are the questions and thoughts in the minds of all the Real Housewives... Should I say what I really think? If I’m conservative with my thoughts, will they bring me back? What if I offend another housewife and lose a friend? I need to add spice, which means more scenes, more fame and more money She dissed me last season I must position myself if I want this show to raise my profile What we LOVE as viewers from the Real Housewives... If I’m keeping it REAL... we want authentic, organic and entertaining television. Sometimes this means drama, love, anger, fantasy, failure, success and every emotion that exists. We want life on steroids. Watching Nene lose her cool along with other housewives trying to get along with her is interesting. In life, there’s always someone we cannot connect with who causes us stress. We also understand having difficult family members, such as cheating husbands, children that may act out, siblings that may not make the right choices and the list goes on. On some level it makes us feel better to see others deal with similar issues. Fantasy and Success is also another important component of the real housewives world. Every time I see Lisa Vanderpump’s closet, I’m inspired. Yolanda’s famous refrigerator was shocking and exciting; Nene moving on up professionally and personally, made us smile. In addition, seeing Teresa Giudice go to jail was shocking and scary. Phaedra’s husband on RHOA going to prison was just sad. All the drama with Kandi’s mother was unbelievable. Seasons later, we also saw Kandi find her prince charming, get married and expand her family. This encourages us! An A-list actress from the 80s and 90s joining the Real Housewives is always interesting. Kim Fields seemed like a
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misfit from the start, but she’s proven she can play on any field. In the same breathe, we see the shock as she navigates this crazy group of ladies. We also see the lessons housewives learn and how they change. Money does not equal a perfect life. Sometimes in the Real Housewives world it means being “less than.” In some scenes, we see the beautiful mansions with unlimited fancy rooms and spas, plus so much more. A few scenes later, we see the same housewife being treated like a child by her husband. We see housewives working hard to keep up with the Joneses and fighting even harder to not show vulnerability. At times it’s a circus that’s mega fun. There are also moments we see the pain and it’s hard to watch. What we see as important is not on the housewives radar and what they see as important is not within our reach. Know this for sure... Every housewife risks losing her marriage when she’s in the spotlight. Even the most secure marriages, like Yolanda and Dave Fosters from RHOBH, cracked. Some are a bit more predictable, like Phaedra and Apollo, we knew it wouldn’t last. Porsha Williams, entered the scene as a stepford wife and a couple of seasons later she’s single and sassy. One more common thread shared by all the real housewives is promoting a product or service. After Skinny Girl, Bethenny Frankel, made a fortune doing her early housewives run, Bravo decided to take a piece of the pie with future housewives. Now, most housewives have another show, a product, a service, wine, or a song, they promote. No matter what they do, many of us are hooked for life; I along with millions of others, enjoy every minute! Marquesa LaDawn is a professional businesswoman who escapes the pressures of living in New York City by retreating into the real world of reality TV. Follow her on twitter @realityshowgirl, Periscope and subscribe to her podcast at www.RealitytvGirl.com
My best friend is marrying ‘wicked witch of the North” Dear Alma: This is a question about my best friend. He and I have been best friends forever and we are just that – friends. I’m a woman and he’s a man, but, never at anytime did we think it would be anything else. So I guess you could say it’s like we’re brother and sister. We have been there through family issues, heartbreaks, lost jobs, college graduations, I mean everything. Whenever I have a new friend I’m dating, if it starts to get serious, this person has to meet my one and only best friend for approval and vice-versa. About a year ago, he met and fell hard for a coworker. Initially, she seemed to be OK. When we finally met, at the table she was courteous, very friendly and I was thinking, I like her. But wait, we walked to the bathroom together and she became the wicked witch of the north. She did a complete turn around and was mean to me and told me she knew that I wanted him, but to watch out because that wasn’t gonna happen. I tried to explain we are just friends. She said she knew what we were and that my friend talks about me all the time and he has made it clear we were to remain the best of friends. She told me she didn’t like me and she didn’t like our friendship but she would do whatever it takes to keep him happy. She turned and walked out the bathroom and once we sat down at the table she became the really, sweet, friendly woman he thinks she is. Fast forward and now they are getting married. Of course, he wants me to be in the wedding. He asked me to be his best woman and he also wants me to do things with her while they make all the
Ask Alma
Alma Gill’s news-room 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.
wedding plans. Things did not get better with us over time and I still don’t like her at all. I was just going along with it because I love him and I tried to suck it up for the past year, but now that they are getting married, I just can’t do it. I cannot participate in this. My mother says I have to be there for him and not make it about me. Help Alma! I just can’t. How do I break it to him without losing my friend? FriendTillTheEnd Ain’t nothing like ordering a Famous Dave’s praline sauced bread pudding, a la mode and a diet soda. Two selections that have absolutely nothing to do with each other, but they sure do taste good together. Ummhmm, that just made me hungry. You don’t mind if I eat while we’re talking do you? Sometimes I eat when I’m sad, and your question sure did make me blue. I couldn’t help but think about the friendship that you and he shared, how special it is and how it’s about the end. I’m a firm believer that a man and a woman can be just friends, but not everyone will agree. Ask my friend, Richard. I love him and he means the world to me, but he’s not my husband, he’s my dear, dear friend. We don’t hide or sneak around to see each other when meeting for
Do you know this man? POLICE have not apprehended Pookie the serial rapist. We know he has attacked members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and there is a $5,000 reward offered by Crime Stoppers. If you have ANY information, PLEASE call Crime Stoppers
877.373.8477
Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE? Will it matter when it is your sister, mother, aunt or grandmotheror maybe YOU?
a meal. We knew each other before I married and we were able and approved to continue our individual relationship, because my husband trusted what we shared. Partways, I’m sure is because my husband has Gail, one of his best and dear, dear friends. When I met Gail, early on in our relationship, I thought she was awesome, too. What I also thought was, if they haven’t hooked up and made it work by now, it ain’t ever gonna happen. So I made my peace. Men and women are smart enough to know when friendships are ready or capable to moving to the next level. That’s not the case for the two of you and it’s sad his new wife can’t or is choosing not to understand it. I gotta say though, I agree with your mom. You should suck it up and stand by your best friend. You don’t have to accompany Glozilla on her whirlwind of wedding trudges, but you do have to show up and take your rightful place at the wedding. Once they’ve married, she may no longer see you as a threat and that should change things for the better. TBT, it’s time for you to prepare yourself to move over. You need to make room for her in his full life. Things don’t have to change but they should become different. Richard and Gail are very supportive of our marriage and both are always equally inclusive with everything they plan, say or do. You have to adjust to the new rules of friendship, engagement and marriage. As he becomes one of your dearest friends, but no longer your only best friend, because he has a new BFF in the soulmate that he’s marrying.
Alma
CALENDAR February 26 New Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church will host its 11th Annual Raymond B. Spencer Scholarship banquet on February 26th 2016, at 7:00 p.m. at the Fort Worth Hilton Hotel. The Featured keynote speaker will be Dr. Rev Raphael G. Warnock, Ph.D., a civil rights leader and new generation trailblazer. Dr. Warnock is the senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, Atlanta, Georgia, the church home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr
February 27
JD Lawrence presents Martin, Malcolm and Me at the Majestic Theatre. Call 888-929-7849 for tickets ****** Theta Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc the Talent Hunt program is designed to showcase the performing art skills of high school students. Theta Alpha Chapter will be hosting their program at Billy Dade Middle School in South Dallas at 5:30 pm. **** Student-Athlete Symposium “Preparing For Success On and Off The Playing Fields” SATURDAY, February 27, 12pm-4pm; Friendship West Baptist Church Calling All Student-Athletes!!!!!!! On Saturday February 27, Pass’N’Play Sports, The Heads Up! Foundation and their coalition of community partners will host the Pass’N’Play StudentAthlete Symposium, a half-day conference for Dallas county studentathletes, created to inspire and empower our studentathletes and future leaders of tomorrow ****** Kathllyn Joy Gilliam Museum Official Opening TIME: 12:00 noon - throughout afternoon
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LOCATION: 3817 Wendelkin (Mrs. Gilliam’s March 5, 2016, at 12 noon. Wendy Calhoun is former home in South Dallas, designated an the speaker. historic Dallas landmark in 2015) FREE/Public is invited to attend. MAJOR SPONSORS (Collaborators): The Honorable Ralph White, The Foundation for Community Empowerment, ElstonAire, The Fellowship of Professional Women United Methodist Church Marti Martin knows first hand about letting Website: www.KathlynJoyGilliamMuseum.org go of childhood scars, coming from a very Contact: Connie Harris (KJGM board president/ difficult and humble beginning, including daughter of Mrs. Gilliam): charris830@ childhood domestic violence. sbcglobal.net, Tel. 469-878-3945 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM CST GUESTS/HIGHLIGHTS: Reverend ZAN W. Park City Club HOLMES (author/lecturer and Pastor Emeritus 5956 Sherry Lane 17th Floor of St. Luke Community United Methodist Dallas, TX 75225 Church; veteran Hollywood actor and former South Dallas teacher, IRMA P. HALL; DR. STANTON E. LAWRENCE, Sr., Asst. Supt.Elementary School Leadership, San Antonio ISD; KJGM curator DR. W. MARVIN DELANEY, chair of History Department, University of Neighborhood stories @ The SDCC Texas at Arlington; LEO HASSAN & FRIENDS Drumming Circle, and Dallas recording artist You’re invited to the free screening of the latest film in our “Neighborhood Stories” and model, TORI CAGE. program. This film explores the Bonton and Ideal neighborhoods in South Dallas. Initially it was a series of segregated developments built for black Dallasites We discovered DBCC Power Lunch! the neighborhoods have a rich legacy of Bill J Priest Institute soulful music, black-owned businesses, and close social ties. As with other segregated 1402 Corinth Street Dallas 75215 1-3pm March 2, 2016 How to do a Business with DART neighborhoods in the American South, Bonton and Ideal neighborhoods have struggled with the effects of political decisions aimed to  isolate the neighborhood physically, socially, and economically. The love and dedication South Dallas Cultural Center presents Tim of long time residents has spurred city-led revitalization, though not always with the Seibles: A Homecoming! Tim Seibles comes back to Dallas for the neighborhood’s interests in mind. Join us for “African Diaspora: New Dialogues Series” this film and discussion to find out what the future holds for this community. presented in partnership with Wordspace. The Panelists will be: 7:30pm Milton Baker, former Bonton resident, H.I.S. Where: South Dallas Cultural Center Bridgebuilders 3400 S. Fitzhugh Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210 Gerald Britt, former Ideal resident, CitySquare For more information call 214-939-2787 Sherri Mixon, Ideal resident, T.R. Hoover Clifton Reese, Bonton resident, H.I.S. Bridgebuilders Craig Weflen, Filmmaker, bcWORKSHOP Moderator - Vicki Meek BOOM! Are you ready? @ 7pm Cynthia Oliver and Leslie Cuyjet are going South Dallas Cultural Center Theater to take us on a true sister journey as they
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Friday, March 11, 2016 10:00 am Paul Quinn College 10am - Vicki Meek: Black & Blue: Cultural Oasis in the Hills A part of the Nasher XChange 2013 Exhibition 10:15 am - Artist Talk Free- Open to the public Lunch - TDB South Dallas Cultural Center Wonderful Weekend at the Center 7pm – 8:30pm Film Screening “BONTON + IDEAL” – A Dallas Neighborhood Stories Film by BC Workshop Narrated by Vicki Meek Jammin’ @ the Center Jazz Jam Session 12midnight -3 am Free- Open to the public Saturday, March 12, 2016 5 -7pm - Arthello Beck Gallery Opening T Vasquez and Montoya Williams Free- Open to the public 8pm Dinner – La Calle Doce Lakewood Jazz Karaoke TBD Sunday, March 13, 2016 Vicki Meek 365 CELEBRATION! City Performance Hall 4pm - 6pm Ticket information to follow
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perform this dancework choreographed by Oliver. BOOM!, a new duet by Cynthia Oliver, features Oliver and Cuyjet as individuals, friends, strangers, family and younger/older versions of themselves, negotiating relations that are persistently in flux. Building upon a non-linear sequence of narratives around a life and a relationship—of a woman to herself, her history, her present and her future— BOOM! is a choreography of shifting realities. It is a looping, fractured unfolding, examining the notions of destiny, when life happens and when “fairness” and cause and effect do not necessarily align. 8 pm South Dallas Cultural Center Theater 3400 S. Fitzhugh Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210 For more information call 214-939-2787
March 5 The South Central District of the National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc., will hold their 2nd “We Speak Your Name & District Awards Luncheon” in the Malachite Showcase Ballroom of the InterContinental Dallas Hotel, 15201 Dallas Parkway, Addison, TX 75001, on Saturday,
March 10-13
SAVE THESE DATES! March 10 - 13, 2016 Friends of the South Dallas Cultural Center cordially invites you to celebrate the retirement of Vicki Meek Thursday, March 10, 2016 Preview Opening Reception: T Vasquez and Montoya Williams show All artists who have shown in the gallery during Vicki’s tenure. Free- Open to the public
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March 12 MaDea’s on the Run - Two shows 3p.m. And 8p.m. At the Verizon Theatre in Grand Prairie. Call 888-929-7849 ***** Community United Methodist Church at 4501 S. Marsalis Ave. in Dallas, 75216. We are hosting a FREE health and wellness fair this spring and I’d very much appreciate promotion of this family fun event on your community calendar. The Health and Wellness Fair will be held at Community United Methodist Church, at 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Participants are Methodist Dallas Medical Center and Mammogram ***** Jazz is hot in “Big D” and jazz lovers and would be jazz lovers don’t want to miss one of America’s most beloved jazz performer, WILL DOWNING! Get your tickets and prepare for a fantastic Dallas night on the town. We can’t rock without you, so come on out and rock at TBAAL for another memorable Jazz Weekend! Hosted by TBAAL Board of Directors and Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Saturday, March 12, 2016 @ 8pm Naomi Bruton Main Stage Admission $25 // $30 Jazz Appreciation Educational Youth Workshop Saturday, March 12 , 2016 @ 12pm Clarence Muse Cafe Theatre Admission-Pay What You Can
March 13 Vicki
Meek
Cultural Icon Retirement Celebration Sunday, March 13, 2016 City Performance Hall
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Issues versus individuals It was supposed to be a forum, a discussion about the issues on KHVN-AM’s Community Forum with veteran host, Robert Ashley. Nothing uncommon. Happens all the time. This time four candidates (incumbent Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price and challengers Dwaine Caraway, Micah Phillips, and Cedric Davis) gathered in the studio and since that fateful Monday, little talk has focused on the issues of the District. Instead the conversation has focused on the altercation in the studio, blame games and the media’s role. The story has gone viral after a video was released that included
DWAINE CARAWAY
foul language and ended with police called to the station. Some of the memes are hilarious! You’ll have to check out news reports and social media to gather your information and you may join the many others who have an opinion. I have received calls, emails and texts from across the country. Sadly misinformation or partial information, exacerbated by some blatant lies and half truths has added fuel to the fodder and given everyone with an opinion an opportunity to add to the debate, which is more about individuals than issues. Below are responses from the key figures in the controversy.
JOHN WILEY PRICE
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Ask Pam about healthcare
Q
- I’ve been on Medicaid for several months and drawing SSI from Social Security Administra-tion (SSA). I’ll be turning age 62 next month, I was informed by SSA that my SSI would go away because I’ll start drawing a Social Security Retirement check. Since my retirement income will be significantly greater than the SSI I’ll no longer be eligible for Medicaid assistance. I’m concerned about keeping some medical assistance so my question is will I get Medicare too when I turn 62 next month?
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That depends; people are eligible to enroll in Medicare prior to age 65 only if they’re on Social Security Disability and have met the 24-month waiting period, or have a special condition. Check with the Social Security Administration to see when you will be eligible for Medicare. If you find that you’re not eligible for Medicare yet, then you can always visit yourtexasbenefits.com or call 2-1-1, that’s if you live in Texas, to find what medical resources are available in your area.
Mavs welcome David Lee to roster
Medicare Annual Open Enrollment period: October 15th thru December 7th. The Affordable Care Act - Federal Marketplace Exchange – 2016 Open Enrollment period: November 1st 2015 thru January 31st 2016. P A M E L A J. D A Y E S is a Licensed & Certified Health Insurance Agency serving North Texas area. She is passionate about learning and gaining knowledge in the area of HealthCare reform. She is devoted to passing on that knowledge in particularly to the Senior Market. Her expertise is in making Medicare clear and understandable. I look forward to answering your questions. Email questions to askpam@med-supps.com Follow me: Twitter: pjdayes Facebook: askpamdayes
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FEBRUARY 26, 2016
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me: raylcarr@yahoo.com, (214) 514-9553 or The Dallas Mavericks announced earlier this week that they have signed
800-481-7894
free agent forward/center David Lee. With Lee's signing, the Mavs have brought aboard another cerebral veteran big man who fits right in with what the club wants to do offensively. That Lee has been an excellent rebounder throughout his career is an added bonus.
NEED A JOB?
We are looking for order pullers, loaders & unloaders for Terrell, TX. Taking applications 9:00am - 12:00pm Tuesday-Friday. Please apply in person @ Action Logistics 301 E. Apache Trail, Terrell, TX 75160
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w w w. T E X A S M E T R O N E W S . C O M
þON BALLOT NUMBER 1 Marilynn Mayse DALLAS COUNTY CRIMINAL DISTRICT COURT 2 Committed Life Of Service
I am a Christian and I have served my church, Saint Luke Community United Methodist Church for 33 years. Ÿ I am a lawyer and a seasoned litigator who has served you as Criminal Defense Attorney for 22 years. Ÿ I have served as a Democratic Precinct Chair, election Judge, and worker since 1992. Ÿ I am a Veteran who served our country for 11 years as a member of the United States Air Force, The United States Air Force Reserve and the Texas National Guard.
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I Need Your Vote and Support to Win this Election. You can help by Volunteering to: Go door-to-door in your precinct/neighborhood. Place a yard Sign in your yard Host a meet and greet Marilynn for your neighbors Make phone calls for the Campaign Make a donation to the Marilynn Mayes Campaign Pass out literature at Early Voting Locations and Election Polling Places To Join The Justice Team call our Election Hot-Line (214) 518-2321
My commitment to service,my passion justice and my belief in the Constitution is what has compelled me to continued service as your Democratic Candidate for judge of Dallas County Criminal Court 2.
Final Request: To assure “Justice For All” you the People must make a Commitment to SERVE on a Jury when you are Notified. True Justice is ultimately in your hands !
JOIN THE JUSTICE TEAM