I made plans in July. I canceled those plans in November.
The plan was to spend January 20, 2025 in the nation’s capital showing my appreciation and love for the first Black woman to serve as president of these United States of America.
I was excited about the opportunity to celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by watching my sorority sister, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, swear in the Honorable Kamala Devi Harris as the 47th president.
What a day, what a day!
Well, despite a valiant effort, our ancestors wildest dreams and my hope for the future will not materialize in 2025.
But we must not despair. We must live to fight another day, and, we must march on until victory is won!
Which brings me to my truth.
In order to fight, we must be healthy —from the rooter to the tooter!
Prior to COVID-19, the Don’t Believe the Hype Foundation, along with other sponsors, began hosting the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo. Initially held in December and featuring the incomparable Dick Gregory as the headliner, the event was moved to Dr. Martin Luther King Day and partnered with the annual parade commemorating the Drum Major for Justice’s life!
This year’s presenting sponsors, Comerica Bank and Cre8ive Outlet, along with WAAITT (We Are All In This Together) are joining with the Don’t Believe the Hype and Celebrating Life Foundations, in conjunction with I Messenger Media LLC (Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger), SAADIA, African American Museum, MOCCA Cosmetics, Heroes House and others, to host the Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo — because together we want to build stronger communities.
The 8th Annual Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo is scheduled for Monday, January 20, 2025, at the African American Museum in beautiful Sunny South Dallas.
This family-oriented, fun and message-filled event is a wonderful way to pay homage to the man
$1,400 stimulus checks from IRS dropping into a million stockings
By Maggie Prosser and Chase Rogers Staff Writers
Everyone’s favorite Christmas gift giver, the Internal Revenue Service, has announced that it will be doling out more than $2 billion in checks to Americans this month as part of its effort to make sure everyone received their stimulus payments from 2021.
About 1 million taxpayers will automatically receive the special payments by direct deposit or paper check via the mail.
The federal tax agency has announced that an internal review showed many Americans had never received their economic impact payments, which were supposed to go out following the filing of 2021 tax returns. Because of this, the agency is paying out the money they still owe Americans who never received their checks.
Although most eligible Americans received their stimulus payments, the checks will be sent to those who qualified but filed a 2021 tax return that left the space for recovery rebate credit blank.
Those people are eligible for up to $1,400 from the federal government. The payments should be received by late January 2025, at the latest.
“These payments are an example of our commitment to go the extra mile for taxpayers. Looking at our internal data, we realized that 1 million taxpayers overlooked claiming this complex credit when they were actually eligible,” said IRS Com-
missioner Danny Werfel. “To minimize headaches and get this money to eligible taxpayers, we’re making these payments automatic, meaning these people will not be required to go through the extensive process of filing an amended return to receive it.”
Stimulus payments of $1,400 were sent out to Americans as part of a $1.9-trillion COVID-19 relief bill. Millions of Americans were eligible for the payments.
To get a check, Americans were required to make less than $75,000 per year or under $150,000 as a household.
Here’s what to know.
What’s the likelihood you’ll get a check?
Probably pretty low. The IRS said most taxpayers eligible for the federal stimulus payments, formally known as Economic Impact Payments, have already received them.
The special payments are being sent to those taxpayers who filed a 2021 tax return but left the data field for the Recovery Rebate Credit blank or they filled it out as $0 when they were actually eligible for the credit.
How will this work?
Eligible taxpayers don’t have to take any action. The payments will go out automatically this month and should arrive by direct deposit or check by late January 2025. They’ll be sent to the bank account listed on the taxpayer’s 2023 return or to the address IRS has on file.
Payments will vary but the maximum amount will be $1,400 per individual. The IRS
has posted information online about eligibility and how the payment was calculated. IRS plans to send separate letters to eligible taxpayers notifying them of the special payment.
What if I haven’t filed my 2021 tax return yet?
You still might be able to receive the money. However, taxpayers need to file a tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by the April 15, 2025 deadline, even if any income from a job, business or other source was minimal or nonexistent, according to IRS.
How many rounds of COVID stimulus payments were there?
There were three rounds of payments to households impacted by the pandemic, totaling $814 billion. IRS based the amounts that taxpayers received on their income, tax filing status and number of children or qualifying dependents.
In March 2020, eligible individuals received up to $1,200 per income tax filer and $500 per child under the CARES Act. In December 2020, eligible individuals received up to $600 per income tax filer and $600 per child under the Consolidated Appropriations Act. In March 2021, eligible individuals received up to $1,400 per income tax filer and $1,400 per child under the American Rescue Plan Act.
This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News is reprinted as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News and Texas Metro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ communities of color, particularly in southern Dallas.
Why voter education is so important
First-time voter, high school senior, and I Messenger Media intern, Emily Ramirez, pens her thoughts on participating in the election process.
By Emily Ramirez Intern Yvonne Ewell Townview Center
The 2024 presidential election was my first time voting, so I took some time to process the frankly overwhelming experience.
Thankfully, my immigrant mother encouraged me to participate, emphasizing the importance of exercising my right to vote.
However, because I have an immigrant family, even though they are here legally, many of them are not citizens and cannot vote.
As a first-time voter with no relatives to walk me through the process, registering felt daunting just as much as it felt necessary. Most of the time, I felt like I was floundering through the dark, piecing together information with online resources like Vote.org.
I pushed past the mild confusion and inconvenience (which usually comes with doing something for the first time) because I knew how important using my voice was—how
impactful it is when women of color show up at the polls to stand up for their rights.
So, I registered, showed up to the polls, and voted early. When I finally cast my ballot, I felt hopeful about the future of my country and my role in shaping it.
Then, I woke up the morning after Election Day and I was gut-punched. I cast my vote for what I had hoped would be the first woman president and for a country that protects our democracy. Instead, I was met face to face with
Donald Trump, a felon and now president-elect. My worries about the future became these overwhelming hurdles I didn’t know how to tackle on my own.
How would my sisters, mother, and I stay safe? How would we protect our bodily autonomy? Should we prepare for the possibility of deportation?
At school, the day after the election, this sentiment was shared by my peers (often in the form of tears or frustration). I realized in times of uncertainty, we can’t fall prey to pessimism or complacency.
And we can’t just dissociate past these four years unless we want more of our rights to be taken away while we turn a blind eye.
Now more than ever, communities have to band together-whether it’s a community project like period pantries, educating your family and friends, or joining a local advocacy group’s chapter.
I realize now especially, that voting is just one step in a lifelong process of enacting change.
Lawmakers Urge President Biden to Finalize Equal Rights Amendment Before Transition
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire
As President Joe Biden’s tenure ends, a coalition of more than 100 House Democrats has urged the administration to ratify and publish the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th amendment to the United States Constitution. The lawmakers claim that Biden’s actions will advance gender equality and defend constitutional rights, particularly as the country prepares for a new government that is openly hostile to reproductive freedom and LGBTQIA+ rights. In a letter led by Representatives
“Solidifying your legacy on equal rights with a final action on the ERA would be a defining moment for the historic Biden-Harris administration and your presidency,” the letter stated.
Nikki Giovanni, Iconic Poet and Voice of the Black Arts Movement, Dies at 81
Nikki Giovanni, the groundbreaking poet, author, and professor whose work embodied the spirit of the Black Arts Movement and beyond, died on Monday in Blacksburg, Virginia. She was 81. Her wife, Virginia C. Fowler, confirmed the cause was complications from lung cancer.
Born Yolande Cornelia Giovanni Jr. on June 7, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Giovanni spent her formative years in Cincinnati, Ohio, but returned to Knoxville every summer with her sister to visit their grandparents. These visits helped shape her sense of identity and belonging, themes that would become central to her work.
She graduated with honors in history from Fisk University, a historically Black college in Nashville and her grandfather’s alma mater. While at Fisk, Giovanni’s defiant spirit and intellect were evident. Expelled briefly due to issues with authority, she returned after a period of reflection and was readmitted with the help of a supportive Dean of Women. This early experience of rebellion and reconciliation laid the groundwork for her unapologetic approach to life and art.
A Voice of Rebellion and Resilience
Giovanni rose to prominence during the 1960s as a fierce voice in the Black Arts Movement, alongside literary giants such as Amiri Baraka, Audre Lorde, Ntozake Shange, and Sonia Sanchez. Her early works, including “Black Feeling, Black Talk” (1968) and “Black Judgement” (1968), were steadfast in their militancy and pride. Her poetry grappled with the injustices faced by Black Americans, including the brutal murder of Emmett Till and the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, which killed four Black girls.
At a time when mainstream publishers showed little interest in the work of a young Black woman writing what they labeled “militant” poetry, Giovanni took matters into her own hands. She self-published her work, founding a company to distribute her collections. “No one was much interested in a Black girl writing what was called ‘militant’ poetry,” she once wrote. “I thought of it as good poetry.”
The ERA, which guarantees that “equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex,” was passed by Congress in 1972 with bipartisan support. The House approved it with a 354-24 vote, and the Senate approved it with an 84-8 vote. The amendment met its ratification
the lawmakers
and Jennifer
Her boldness paid off. In 1972, at just 29 years old, she sold out Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, reading her poetry to a crowd of more than 1,000 alongside the New York Community Choir. The following year, for her 30th birthday, she filled the 3,000-seat Philharmonic Hall, where the choir joined her again, along with Melba Moore and Wilson Pickett. The audience erupted joyfully when she recited her now-iconic poem, “Ego-Tripping.” The piece, a celebration of Black fe-
Cori Bush, Ayanna Pressley,
McClellan,
urged Biden to direct the Archivist of the United States to certify the ERA.
Nikki Giovanni
Emily Ramirez
Hon. Cori Bush
DECEMBER
Holiday at the Arboretum
November 13 – January 5
Holiday at the Arboretum returns with a garden transformed for the magic of the season including the return of the beloved Christmas Village and the 12 Days of Christmas Gazebos! This year’s celebration marks a significant milestone as the Arboretum celebrates the 10th anniversary of The 12 Days of Christmas, the exhibit that started it all.
KWANZAA CELEBRATIONS
KWANZAA is a African American cultural celebration that is observed each year from December 26-January 1. Events are free, family friendly and include candle lighting ceremony. Plus most events will be streamed live on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/thedockbookshop
Day 1 - - UMOJA (UNITY)
Shop The Dock Book Shop 1-9p TBA Live presents Unity “Umoja” Art and Music Experience, 6:30-9p at The Dock Book Shop 27
Day 2 - KUJICHAGULIA (SELF-DETERMINATION)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-5p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-9p at New Mount Rose MBC, Pastor Kyev Tatum. 2864 Mississippi Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl – at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth 28
Day 3 - UJIMA (COLLECTIVE WORK & RESPONSIBILITY)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 11a-6p
Kwanzaa Community Celebration, 12-3p hosted by The Dock Bookshop at The Dock. Family Story
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Time, Authors and more Kwanzaa Celebration, 6-9p at NOI MM #52
Texas Coalition of Black Democrats Kwanzaa Celebration 7 PM Pan African Bookstore 4466 Marsalis Ave Dallas, TX
*** Kwanzaa Celebration
Share the Kwanzaa spirit of unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility while visiting with community members, local vendors, and service providers at this event, 1300 Wilson St. Denton, TX 76205, from 10am-1pm.
***
6th Annual Jerry Pinkney Day & Kwanzaa Celebration
Bring the entire family and immerse yourself in African dance, music, storytelling, Kwanzaa crafts and the works of other African American children’s authors. At 9619 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75243, from 12-3pm. For more info: Dallas Public Library
29
Day 4 - UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-5p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6p Greater St. Stephen First Church, Pastor Bell. 3728 E Berry St, Fort Worth 30
Day 5 - NIA (PURPOSE)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-9p Kwanzaa Celebration, 6:30-8p hosted by MBK/MSK ***
DeSoto Kwanzaa Fest by Concerned DeSoto Kwanzaa Fest Come join us at the DeSoto Civic Center (Bluebonnet Room) for a day filled with celebration, culture, and community. Event will feature music, dance performances, and delicious food. At 211 East Pleasant Run Road DeSoto, TX 75115, 7-9 pm.
31
Day 6 - KUUMBA (CREATIVITY)
Shop The Dock Book Shop: 1-10p Kwanzaa Program, 5-7p at The Dock New Year’s Eve Open Mic, 7:30p hosted by Mike Guinn Entertainment at The Dock
JANUARY
1
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Day 7 - WEDNESDAY JAN. 1 - IMANI (FAITH) Rest, Reflect & Prepare for the New Year Host your own Karamu Feast with family & friends 3
SERVPRO First Responder Bowl – at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas 10
The Greater Fort Worth MLK Jr. Holiday Committee warmly invites you to an extraordinary evening of celebration at the MLK Dreamer
Inaugural Black Moms Fair educates and inspires
By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor
A young mother with her baby in tow was all smiles as she pushed her stroller out of the hotel doors and crossed the street, heading to the parking lot. Jazmine Warden had just experienced a first time event in Frisco, Texas, geared exclusively towards her and her child’s well-being.
“I loved the fellowship of mothers coming together; not only just mothers of color but also fathers too,” Warden said.
A chiropractic doctor at Palmercare Chiropractic in Las Colinas, Warden is used to providing helping hands to make others feel good. This time, she seemed joyful after having experienced The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo presented by The Mtoto Agency, a local nanny and household agency in Dallas-Fort Worth, founded by Stephanie Bauchum.
“I just loved all of us getting together and being able to see different holistic items that we can incorporate into our lifestyles that will help benefit our kids, you know, raising our kids to be the next best thing for our community,” Warden said.
The event on Nov. 23, 2024 transformed the seventh floor of Hall Park Hotel in Frisco into a winding oasis of motherhood and Black joy. From fertility, doulas, breastfeeding clothing for working moms, bookstore, ethnic gift wrapping vendors and more, there were options with welcoming faces at every turn. Targeted panel discussions throughout the day were a highlight as well, featuring Black nannies, ca-
reer moms in medicine, education and business owners, and a panel of fathers.
“It was great to hear the Black dads panel,” Walden said. “It really gives you an insight of what Black dads go through and what they think about and how we can better serve our Black men.”
As the event curator, Bauchum has over 13 years of experience as a professional nanny and private household manager. She created The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo as an opportunity to empower and enrich the lives of Black mothers, nannies, doulas, birth workers, educators and others who support the family unit.
“It’s a God dream come true, just to get Black moms, doulas, nannies, doctors, educators and dad’s in the room,” Bauchum said. “We can’t wait to do it again and again!”
The Mtoto Agency is a nanny and household agency that provides families with nannies, sitters, household managers and family assistants. “Mtoto” is Swahili for “child.” Bauchum’s agency is keen on its approach to serving children and families.
For more information on The Mtoto Agency, visit themtotoagency.com
Panelist speaks during The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo at Hall Park Hotel in Frisco Nov. 23, 2024
Adjwoa _Adgy_ Tyehimba of Pan-African Connection at vendor table during The Black Moms Fair & Baby Expo at Hall Park Hotel in Frisco Nov. 23, 2024
By Sylvia Powers Senior Correspondent
SMOKEY JOHN’S BAR-B-QUE: A Legacy Built on Food, Family, and Faith
Nestled in the heart of Dallas, Texas, Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que & Home Cooking has served as a cherished culinary institution for more than four decades.
Known for its soulful barbecue and warm hospitality, the restaurant has earned loyal customers spanning longtime locals, out-oftown visitors, and even celebrities in search of authentic Southern comfort food. Yet, behind this success story lies a journey marked by cultivating challenges.
“One of the biggest challenges my brother and I faced was a fire that shut down the business for 16 months,” explained co-owner Brent Reaves, who runs the family restaurant alongside his brother, Juan. “At the time, it felt like the single most devastating experience we’d ever had.”
The fire proved to be just the start of a series of hardships: eight months after reopening, the Reaves brothers lost their father, who founded Smokey John’s, and soon after, the COVID-19 pandemic forced restaurants nationwide to close their doors for months.
Despite these daunting setbacks, Reaves refused to give up.
“There were so many lessons we learned,” he said. “Our faith deepened during that time. I think it’s important to share our story, because there are a lot of business owners out there who might be thinking about quitting. I want to use my testimony to encourage them to keep going.”
In the midst of overcoming adversity, Smokey John’s also achieved some remarkable milestones. Their barbecue and family-driven story caught national attention, garnering features on Good Morning America, the Food Network, the Cooking Channel, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and other popular television programs. In addition to its dine-in services, Smokey John’s has built a robust catering operation, ensuring that their hallmark flavors can travel to office parties, weddings, tailgates, and large-scale community events. They’ve earned a reputation for at-
tention to detail—carefully packed servings, punctual deliveries, and a determination to recreate that signature in-house taste wherever customers choose to gather.
Recently, Reaves shared the insights he’s gained through these trials with participants of the Empower Series, an initiative founded by Clifton E. Johnson.
The Empower Series is a grassroots movement dedicated to equipping individuals and families with the knowledge, confidence, and motivation needed to build stronger financial futures and foster
personal development.
“The biggest thing I want other entrepreneurs to take from our experience is that they’re not alone,” Reaves emphasized. “Many other business owners are going through the same struggles. Even after you’ve achieved some level of success, you’ll still face new challenges. The lessons you learn from your early setbacks will help you navigate the next ones.”
Reaves admitted that the core base of this family business is faith and family. Reflecting on his father’s legacy,
Reaves values something deeper than national fame. “The greatest thing my dad would be proud of is that Juan and I kept our faith. We haven’t walked away from God. “From when we were kids, my father always taught us that knowing Jesus as our Savior is key, and that only what we do for Christ will last.”
Reaves was the final speaker in Season 14 of the Empower Series, which will resume in January.
Inspired by Reaves’s testimony, Johnson shared an acronym—A.C.T.—that emerged from the lessons learned: Ask God, Commit to Excellence, and Take Action. Johnson’s vision for the Empower Series extends beyond one-time seminars. Over the years, it has grown into a trusted community resource benefiting students, working professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, homeowners-to-be, and seniors focused on preserving their wealth.
It aims to nurture a culture grounded in education, action, and accountability, ensuring that lessons of perseverance and faith continue to shine a guiding light for many.
“These programs educate people. We’re giving them hope, inspiration, education, and connecting them to resources to take that next step towards their goal,” said Johnson.
The Empower Series will resume on January 18. From January to November, it is held on the third Saturday at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 2901 Pennsylvania Ave., Dallas, TX 75215.
For more information about the Empower Series, visit www.empowerseries.com.
Juan and Brent Reaves embody the ideals of faith, family, and resilience as they continue the work their father began decades ago with Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que.
Brent Reaves shares the struggles that have made Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que successful during the Empower Series hosted by Clifton Johnson.
WAL-SMART - DEI or DIE!
Comedian Chris Rock tells you who, if anyone, you should be scared
By Vincent L. Hall
I can’t stand to see the slaughter, but still, I eat the meat, I can’t stand dishonest people, but still sometimes I cheat, I can’t stand this air pollution, but still, I drive a car
Maybe them’s the reasons why, things are like they are!
Tower of Power – circa 1975
My PawPaw, Ed Hall, used to take me “down home” with him. We would venture down I-20 past Jefferson, Texas, and into the piney woods of Kellyville, where he grew up. What? You didn’t know my folks were from East Texas? Quit Playin! Prior to the new millennium, Dallas was nothing more than an East Texas transplant. If you made everyone who had roots from Terrell, Texas, to Shreveport, Louisiana, leave Dallas, you could reduce the popu-
lation by 70%.
Me and pops used to go to the same country store every time. We’d get 35 cents worth of “hang down”, 10 cents worth of cheese, a Pepsi and a “hobo banquet.”
I finally deciphered the vernacular. “Hang-down” because summer sausage hung in 24-inch sticks from the ceiling of the butcher’s shop. The elders called a peanut patty a “hobo banquet” because it offered protein, carbs, sugar, and sodium. It’s a whole meal in one!
Unfortunately, our store “down home” gave way to a Wal-Mart.
I never despised Wal-Mart for creating a successful marketing plan; I hate that we lost so many small businesses and self-supporting entrepreneurs in the process.
Wal-Mart concerns many of us today because they are emblematic of what is wrong in and with America. We have lost our zeal to stand up to power. We can’t stand to see the slaughter, but we eat the meat anyway!
If it was ever true that the sun never set on the Roman or British Empires, then Wal-Mart owns the sun-
shine in America’s retail landscape. They have saturated us, urban and country alike. They muscled in on tax breaks, hijacked suppliers, and manhandled the union movement.
Organized labor finally got the merchandising giant in check. The United Food and Commercial Workers Union embarked upon a massive campaign to cut Wal-Mart down a bit.
After a while, the Walton family finally started to pay a semi-decent wage and offered baseline benefits. Wal-Mart succumbed to some pressures that allowed women and minorities to advance in their operations. MWBE suppliers and vendors became a small part of the team.
Wal-Mart started supporting BET and Telemundo. They feature lots of Negroes and Hispanics in their multi-million-dollar ad campaigns to get us to make them richer.
At some point, even their most fervent enemies, like me, gave in and
Our
started to shop them sporadically, but lately, they showed their true colors.
CBS News reported out in late November.
“Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, is rolling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, joining a growing list of major corporations that have done the same after coming under attack by conservative activists.
Additionally, Walmart will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts.
The company said it didn’t have quotas and won’t do so going forward. It won’t be gathering demographic data when determining financing eligibility for those grants.
Walmart also said it wouldn’t renew a racial equity center that was established through a five-year, $100 million philanthropic commitment from the company with a mandate
to, according to its website, “address the root causes of gaps in outcomes experienced by Black and African American people in education, health, finance, and criminal justice systems.”
Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including Ford, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, and Harley-Davidson.”
Wal-Mart and others will retreat from the LGBTQIA community and any other alphabets that don’t combine to spell RICH WHITE MALE!
We must be strategic and well-calculated in our efforts to punish these business entities. Because according to recent rulings from this jaded Supreme Court, the “poor have no rights for which the rich must respect.”
American businesses don’t have to acknowledge or make concessions for the 400 years of slavery, patriarchy, and economic injustice.
The tradition of using immigrants as prosperous pawns that switch from valuable commodities to the scourge of our nation can continue for all Clarence Thomas et al care!
If PawPaw were still living, he would never walk into a Wal-Mart, buy a Ford and he would tell Harley where they could stick that bike! PawPaw always told me one thing.
“You don’t have to whip every bully on the block son, just whip the sh!t out of the biggest one!”
We need to go “Wal-Smart “on Wal-Mart! The rest will fall in line!
DEI or DIE!
Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, award-winning columnist and a lifelong Drapetomaniac!
Understanding The United States of Hypocrisy
By Kenneth L. Hardin
I was never great at math so I won’t pretend to do it here.
But the 71, 35 and 31 words from oaths and pledges I was force-fed to learn throughout my formative education years, supposedly to ensure loyalty and commitment to this Country, have turned out to be merely suggestions.
106 of those words are spoken with a forked tongue by men and women elected to ensure this Nation operates with integrity and holds true to the freedom and values we’re trotting around the globe
telling other countries we stand for and asking our sons and daughters to die behind.
Those numbers represent the Presidential and Congressional Oaths of Office as well as the Pledge of Allegiance.
The latter, those 31 words, is what I learned going back to elementary school. Even as a child, I took them seriously enough not to engage in any behavior that may have brought shame on my Country or myself.
I understood the significance of its meaning enough to realize it wasn’t a suggestion or a recommendation that I could adhere to if the wind blew just right or if my stomach didn’t hurt that day.
Viewing this hypocrisy through older eyes now, I imagine after Thomas Jefferson finished his forced sexual liaison with his slave,
Sally Hemings, and checked on his other human property, he felt compelled to write that all men were created equal and had the inalienable right to declare their independence.
The hypocrisy of this country astounds me.
Maybe those 31 words that debuted in 1892 and were adopted by Congress as our pledge in 1942, should be revised a wee bit to read more honestly, “I pledge allegiance to the hypocrisy of the United States of America and for the arrogant hate inspired vitriol, which is allowed to stand in this Nation, Godless, easily divisible, and with a lack of liberty and injustice for all.”
That would be a more accurate representation of this nation, especially the one that was allowed to thrive and flourish under our incoming Racist in Chief and his
insurrectionist wing of the MAGA Republican Party.
I wasn’t surprised at the January 6th “ish” show attempt to overthrow our government and murder our elected leaders. The fact that you would commit such a heinous and traitorous crime and have the audacity and arrogance to feign anger at being held accountable for your actions is the pinnacle of out of control white privilege.
Even crazier is that so many now view this as patriotic and they may receive pardons next month.
The domestic terrorists on January 6th and their sympathizers were upset they lost the election. They were afforded their constitutional right to vote, but because their cult leader fell short, the process was called fraudulent, so they decided to riot.
Africans in America have been denied equal voting rights and had freedoms restricted for centuries. With Project 2025 looming, the MAGA Administration will again try to deny voting rights to Africans in America while also stripping away civil, religious and other basic human and constitutional rights. But I guarantee you not one person with a dark skin hue will storm a building or threaten to kill any elected official as a result. There are many other privileges rooted in hypocrisy that those with the complexion protection enjoy that Africans in America are denied, but I’ll just continue to place my hand over my heart and still silently mimic those 31 words.
Kenneth L. (Kenny) Hardin is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
Will The New President Play The Role As A Political Bully?
By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.
Have you ever been around a bully?
My friends and I saw one on a street corner when we were in elementary school. He spoke to us, and we spoke to him.
Upon reflection, he must have surmised that our milk money of ten cents wasn’t worth the aggravation.
It wasn’t too long before he left the corner. We never found out what happened to him. We think he ran afoul of the law.
Usually that is what happens to bullies. They get into trouble and if they don’t straighten up, they go to juvenile detention or to jail when they are older.
Publisher: Cheryl Smith Deputy Publisher: Stewart Curet
Phone:214-941-0110
Website: www.garlandjournal.com
Editor: editor@myimessenger.com
Some pundits believe that in January, we’ll get a bully in the White House. So far, the incoming president is getting anything and everything he wants. The Republicans think they are in control of the House of Representatives and the US Senate.
Wrong! The incoming president controls the House and the Senate.
In the coming weeks and months, he is going to try to impose his will on the GOP. Will they be able to stand up to him? We will be watching as this political drama unfolds.
There is still a level of reason and sensibility in both chambers. We know who they are and their policy philosophies. As Americans, we too, will have to stand up and speak out.
For example, do you think he will be able to dissolve the Affordable Healthcare Act? The answer in my opinion is no.
Elected officials from these red
states will get an earful if they try to get rid of it. Rest assured, the Affordable Healthcare Act will remain.
Already, one of his supporters, Rep. Matt Gaetz from Florida had to back out of being nominated for the position of attorney general. Why? The short answer is alleged inappropriate behavior.
Chalk one up for sensible legislators who distanced themselves from him. Records show he removed his name from consideration on November 21. Gaetz has also resigned from Congress. At this point, Ron DeSantis, governor of Florida is being considered for the post of secretary of defense. It appears that Mr. Trump is growing sour on Pete Hegseth. In other words, the thrill is gone over the Fox News commentator. We know why so there is no need to repeat it here.
I believe Mr. DeSantis will be confirmed if he is nominated. With this
turn of events from Hegseth to DeSantis, the Senate is saying to the next president that you can’t bully us.
Mr. Trump’s nominations are being challenged and so are his conversations with foreign leaders. Just a few weeks ago, the incoming president had a conversation with Mexican president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
He claimed it was a wonderful conversation. President Sheinbaum stated that wasn’t true. Mr. Trump wants to impose a 25% tariff on Mexico to combat the fentanyl problem.
President Sheinbaum said, “Mexico does not produce weapons. We do not produce synthetic drugs. Unfortunately, what we do have is the people who are being killed by the crime that is responding to the demand in your country.”
Mexico’s president will not be intimidated by him.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of
Canada met with Mr. Trump to discuss the relationship between the two countries. Again, Mr. Trump is suggesting a high tariff because of the trade deficit and border issues and if not adhered to wants to make Canada the 51st state. You know what Mr. Trudeau thought of that idea.
I would opine that world leaders are waiting anxiously to see exactly what the new president is going to do. Will his bully tactics and tantrums turn into regulations and laws? That is the question. Will the Trump administration be desultory lacking a plan or will they be consistent in steering the country in the right direction. Stay tuned.
Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr. is a longtime educator who hails from Winston Salem, N.C. Ewers is a life member of the NAACP and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
Voices
Our Voices
Mexico’s first female president gets glory of history that USA neighbor rejected
I Was Just Thinking...
By Norma Adams-Wade
Touché! Karma has Trumped a victory! President-elect Donald Trunk and his minions appeared confident that his victory over Vice-President Kamala Harris had put women in their place and the gender issue to rest.
Alas. Along comes Mexico’s newly-elected first female president -- right across the Southern border -- to be a too-close thorn in Trump’s chauvinistic and misogynistic side.
The world watched as the newly-elected Claudia Sheinbaum was sworn in as Mexico’s new head of government on October 1, 2024 –slightly over 200 years since that country officially declared independence from Spain in 1821.
Signaling poetic justice, President Sheinbaum -- a climate scientist and former Mayor of Mexico City -- did not hesitate to send bold messages to the new incoming U. S. head of government in Sheinbaum’s first standoff against Trump’s new administration.
President-elect Trump threatened that on his first day in office he would impose a 25 % tariff on Mexico, Canada and China as his way to control import issues including illegal immigration and the flow of the Fentanyl drug into the U. S.
Mexico’s first female president stands her ground President Sheinbaum responding directly to Trump, saying: “President Trump, migration and drug consumption in the United States cannot be addressed through threats or tariffs. What is needed is cooperation... For every tariff there will be a response in kind, until we put at risk our shared enterprises. Yes, shared.”
Sheinbaum further made her tariff position clear in a press conference. She remarked about Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent, apparently amiable meeting with President-elect Trump at his Mar-aLago resort to discuss Trump’s tariffs threats. Sheinbaum said simply but boldly: “Mexico must be respected.” And so, the drama begins.
Envision Kamala Harris and others as U. S. First female President
Had our vice-president won the election, allow me to imagine the conversation of the two women conversing on a first name basic. Claudia and Kamala – as supporters affectionately call our vice-president -- would have been a mindboggling duo, deciding border and economic issues together. But in reality, although the U. S. and Mexico share a southern border, our two countries have very little else in common, certainly not vision -- more lack thereof.
I was just thinking...The legacies of so many strong, bold, talented, smart, and sassy women would have been ground Kamala (the endeared first name) would stand on to lead our country were it not for her gender. I envision many female leaders who blazed trails with strong leadership qualities, vision, and conviction and could have competently worn the U. S. presidential clock, were it not for deep-seated national gender, and perhaps racial, bias.
Here are some women from present and past generations who come to mind: Barbara Jordan, Sheila Jackson Lee, Ann Richards, Shirley Chisholm, Condoleezza Rice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Eddie Bernice Johnson, Dianne Feinstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, Nancy Pelosi, Michelle Obama (who says no thank you), Cherokee Nation Chief Wilma Mankiller; and in my second tier -- Fannie Lou Hamer, Ida B Well-Barnett, Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Maya Angelou, and yes, Whoopi Goldberg.
Mexico said yes, USA said no
The citizens of Mexico and a huge contingent of its female population gave Sheinbaum her victory on a sil-
ver platter on June 2, 2024. She won over her opponent – also a female –and was sworn-in Oct. 1, 2024. One month later on November 5, 2024, the American people rejected our opportunity to follow suit by electing our own first female president in our nation’s 248-year history.
Instead, American citizens took what some would consider the coward’s exit. Voters symbolically declared, “Give us Barabbas!” Then voters -- running away from the apparently frightening aspect of a female making decisions for the nation -placed at our helm what has become the familiar cliché “a convicted felon.”
Kamala Harris’s credentials
Among female U. S. presidential contenders, Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton seem to have come closest to achieving the power and position Sheinbaum now has in Mexico. Kamala’s credentials and achievements speak volumes. Historians describe her as “the highest ranking woman in American political history.”
Harris has been San Francisco District Attorney, California Attorney General, California U. S. Senator. She was president of the national Senate, and first female African-American and Asian-American U. S. vice-president. Historically, in her position as VP, she was the first woman and third person to assume the powers and duties of the presidency, as acting U. S. President She did so for an hour and 45 minutes on Nov 19, 2021 while President Joe Biden underwent colonoscopy. Her enthusiastic, wide- cheeked laugh and full-teethed smile has become both a beloved and vilified personal trait. The U. S. has not yet accepted the concept of strong female leadership at the helm of the country. Yet, our bor-
der-neighbor and other warriors are showing us the ropes.
Hillary Clinton’s presidential run still opening doors for future generations
Hillary Clinton is one of those warrior-female leaders. She has worn so many hats that likely, her head regularly is re-measured for size. She has been an attorney, former “first lady” as wife of former president Bill Clinton (1993-2001), first woman elected to the U. S. Senate in 2000, and was former U. S. Secretary of State (20092013) in the Barack Obama administration.
Clinton challenged Barack Obama in the 2008 Democratic primary. Obana won and defeated Republican opponent John McClain in the general election. In 2016, Hillary Clinton was the Democratic Party presidential nominee but lost to Republican challenger Donald Trump. Media reports say she surpassed Trump by nearly 2.9 million in the popular vote, winning 48.2 percent of all popular votes cast, while Trump won 46.1 percent.
Trump won the general election with 304 electoral college votes to Hillary Clinton’s 227.
Clinton, the glass-ceiling breaker, has been shining light on female heads of government and female leaders around the world as her legacy before and since her devastating 2016 presidential defeat.
In 2011, she became the appointed Honorary Founding Chair of the Institute for Women, Peace and Security at Georgetown University in Washington, D. C. That body presents annual awards named in her honor to women working to bring peace and security around the world. Clinton said at the Oct. 1, 2024 event that the awards were created “to recognize the impor-
tance of women’s participation and leadership in global peacebuilding.”
Since 2020, she has served as the first female Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Also, Swansee University in Swansee, Wales (UK) has the Hillary Rodham Clinton School of Law named in her honor. In 2023 she joined Columbia University in New York City as co-founder of the Institute of Global Politics and a leader in the school’s other international public affairs services.
She is the namesake of the Hillary Rodham Clinton Center for Citizenship at her alma mater Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, and the namesake of the Hillary Rodham Clinton Chair of Women’s History at Oxford University in Oxford, England. Brenda E. Stevenson, herself an African-American woman -- and award-winning historian of gender, race, conflict, slavery, and family – is chair. Clinton further is an author, podcaster, and produces television, broadcast, and stage shows highlighting women’s achievements.
Other USA women with calibers equal to a Claudia Sheinbaum, Kamala Harris or Hillary Clinton have always been there before our very eyes. We refuse to see them. What are we going to do about it? We will learn more about women who head governments around the world – except in the U. S. -- in a future column. Stay tuned.
Norma Adams-Wade, is a proud Dallas native, University of Texas at Austin journalism graduate and retired Dallas Morning News senior staff writer. She is a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists and was its first
Capital One’s $265 billion Community Benefits Plan
By Rep. Ron Reynolds Chairman Texas Legislative Black Caucus
The Texas Legislative Black Caucus is very proud of the work we have done for our communities. Helping improve the lives of our constituents and working to strengthen small businesses is a great privilege.
I am always looking for ways to improve the lives of our constituents, whether it’s supporting legislation or backing private sector initiatives, like the Capital One-Discover merger and its accompanying Community Benefits Plan (CBP), that we feel will benefit our district’s neighborhoods.
We are thrilled about the potential impact of Capital One’s $265 billion Community Benefits Plan (CBP) for the Black community in our state.
This comprehensive initiative, developed in partnership with respected organizations like the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) and NeighborWorks America, promises to bring substantial
positive change to our underserved communities.
For far too long, Black Texans have grappled with limited access to credit and financial services.
The CBP’s commitment of $200 billion in lending for low-and moderate-income (LMI) individuals and communities represents a unique opportunity to expand credit access to communities that are often overlooked by other financial institutions.
This substantial investment has the potential to unlock financial possibilities for many of my constituents who have traditionally been left behind by mainstream banking institutions.
We understand how hard it can be to launch and sustain a company, that is why
CBP’s allocation of $15 billion for small business lending in LMI areas is particularly heartening.
In Texas, 69 percent of Black-owned businesses have reported facing barriers to accessing capital, in part due to unaf-
fordable interest rates and low or poor credit scores.
This CBP’s focused investment could prove instrumental in stimulating economic growth and employment opportunities within our communities.
But the plan goes beyond that. The CBP includes a $600 million investment in Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) that focus on small businesses and consumer lending.
Minority-owned businesses often rely on CDFIs to access capital, and this investment means CDFIs will be better
equipped to meet their needs so that they can continue to create jobs and drive economic growth.
Moreover, the plan’s commitment to allocating $5 billion for spending with diverse suppliers is a key feature that aligns well with the needs of our Black community. This initiative will help ensure that minority-owned businesses in Texas have increased opportunities to secure contracts and expand their operations, thereby contributing to our state’s overall economic growth and vitality.
Another crucial aspect of the CBP that addresses a pressing need in many Black neighborhoods across Texas is the $44 billion pledge for community development financing, including investments in affordable housing.
Access to stable, safe, and affordable housing is essential for building robust communities and paving the way for upward economic mobility.
As public servants who wants to do right by our constituents, the Texas Leg-
islative Black Caucus views Capital One’s Community Benefits Plan as an opportunity to drive positive change in our communities.
The collaborative approach employed in developing this plan, involving non-profit partners, ensures that it addresses genuine needs that we have.
In closing we know that reaching the American dream is no small task, but initiatives like this one put it within reach for so many people.
We strongly urge for regulators to greenlight the Capital One-Discover merger, thereby enabling the implementation of this comprehensive Community Benefits Plan.
This merger and its accompanying CBP present a valuable opportunity to promote financial inclusion, bolster Black-owned businesses, and foster economic development in Black communities throughout Texas and across the nation.
On behalf of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus,
If There Is No Enemy Within, The Enemy Outside Cannot Get In!
Mama Said
By Terry Allen
Proverbs often carry wisdom passed through generations, and this one is no different: “If there is no enemy within, the enemy outside cannot get in.” On the surface, it tells us that enemies exploit our weaknesses. They know what buttons to push, using our fears and insecurities against us. But Lucille “Big Mama” Allen taught
us to dig deeper. Our enemies, she said, are not the ones who exploit our weaknesses; they are the fears and insecurities we allow to fester within us. Those external forces are merely opportunists capitalizing on what we haven’t conquered inside ourselves.
Lesson One: The True Enemy Lies Within I remember when a colleague who had once leaned on my expertise began flipping every move or activity, I made into something negative. After years of using my ideas and facilitation skills to win over clients, they’d become my harshest critic. The verbal jabs, ostracism, and undermining felt
personal—until I realized the battle wasn’t about me. It was their insecurities lashing out, a fear that their new authority couldn’t stand on its own. Big Mama’s wisdom rang true: the real struggle wasn’t with them, but with how I allowed their actions to challenge my confidence. Once I embraced that understanding, their power to disrupt me diminished.
Lesson Two: E.G.O. –Easing God Out Big Mama warned that our biggest enemy often masquerades as pride—the ego (E.G.O. – Easing God Out) Fear and insecurity feed that ego, whispering lies that convince us we
must prove ourselves, fight back, or retreat in shame. I have seen this in work teams that are steeped in negativity vs. celebration. But these are just states of mind we haven’t learned to control. When we let them reign, we edge God’s guidance out, losing sight of our purpose.
Lesson Three: Control Brings Confidence Big Mama’s words were a call to action. She urged us to embark on an exercise of self-control over our darker elements. Recognizing and addressing our fears and insecurities doesn’t weaken us; it strengthens us. The Biggest lesson was “my reaction
to you has more to do with how I feel than what you said to me!” Through this process, we rise up, more confident and capable because we understand ourselves. As Big Mama often said, “We are created to serve God by loving and serving one another.” So today, let’s honor Big Mama’s wisdom. Let us identify the true enemy within and take away its power. When we do, no external force can shake us. And that, she’d say, is the gift we give ourselves—and the world.
Terry Allen is an award-winning media professional,
Big
Hillary Clinton former U. S. Secretary of State, former U. S. “first Lady,” prolific mentor for future female leaders.
Harris
Mottley Barbados Prime Minister, longest-serving female head of government among 193 U. N. member countries.
Claudia_Sheinbaum Mexico’s first female President
Rep. Ron Reynolds
who
Dr.
financially, socially and holistically. Through the Healthy Living Expo, we will be addressing all of those areas. We will have vendors, speakers and programming geared toward building
families and communities. There
will be community activists, educators, advisors, and just like in the past, we will also have entertainment, screenings and opportunities to assist attendees in bettering their lives. There will be college representatives, insurance and financial planning advisors, voter registration and education booths and much more.
According to Dr. King, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
He also said, “Of all the forms
of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane.”
Together we will be filling a void on January 20.
And guess what? This year’s cookoff features Collard Greens and Cornbread! So you think you can cook, well come on and enter (see form).
And we’re joining with Pastor Jackie Tolbert to feed 500 families! Stay tuned for more details
Many are looking for places to eat and something else to do on this national holiday and we’re providing the venue, the information, food, entertainment and
programming that will engage the masses. We also know that in spite of what is going on in life, we must continue to live until we take that last breath. Admittedly, we have some challenging days before us. Let’s get together, collaborate, support one another and grow together. Plan to join us!
WHAT: Realizing the Dream Healthy Living Expo
WHEN: Monday, January 20, 2025 - 10am-4pm
WHERE: African American Museum in Fair Park
Admission: LOVE
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Meet Wiley Jackson –General Manager at Mesquite KIA
By Gwendolyn H. Daniels Correspondent
Although Wiley Eugene Jackson, Jr. was born in Dallas, he was raised by his grandfather and grandmother in Whitehouse, Texas, a small city just 10 miles north of Tyler. In addition to his grandparents, Wiley grew up in a household that included two aunts, two uncles, a cousin and himself.
When asked about his childhood in Whitehouse, Wiley fondly recalls “Home life was great and a loving environment with all holidays being the best, especially at Christmastime.”
Wiley has a combined 21 years of experience in auto sales. He
had a goal of climbing the sales ladder at Lithia Motors, Inc., and three years ago Wiley reached his goal being named General Manager at Lithia’s Southwest KIA of Mesquite. He credits putting in long hours, maintaining strict discipline to daily work ethics and his strong will to succeed as the reason he now holds the title of GM with Lithia.
Recently, his dealership was renamed Mesquite KIA. Wiley is currently overseeing a complete renovation of the grounds at 1919 Oates Drive in Mesquite, Texas. It includes a massive expansion of the showroom and all sales quarters. This major project is scheduled to be completed in October, 2025.
In the midst of renovating Mes-
quite KIA, Wiley manages a staff of primarily young auto sales associates (not including his auto repair and finance departments).
Karen Renee Holland is his mastermind in finance and his right arm at the dealership.
Wiley highly praised his staff, saying “even though they are young, they are very innovative, paying attention to detail like me.”
He continued, “I don’t ask them to do anything I wouldn’t do myself, as I lead by example. Success comes to us here at Mesquite KIA through hard work and a clear vision to execute daily.”
He concluded, “None of us at Mesquite KIA is bigger than the program, so we strive to be our best each and every day.”
Meet the Mesquite KIA Sales Staff
Brae is a native of Dallas and a graduate of Lakeview High School in Garland. One of his best friends since high school encouraged him to start selling vehicles after he went through a layoff in corporate America. Brae now has five years in auto sales. He began working at Mesquite KIA last April. His success in auto sales gives him empathy that “people are people. They may have had financial challenges, but they are still people needing my help to get them into an automobile.” Brae feels confident selling KIAs. He’s impressed with how KIA “rebranded itself” and he says KIA’s 100,000 mile warranty on its motor is “an amazing seller.” Brae considers Saturdays as “the Super Bowl of sale days.”
Contact Brae at: 318-990-3335 or on Facebook at: MrDunnDeal.
Jonathan Tristan Payne
Jonathan was born in Garland. He is a graduate of North Forney High School and has been an auto salesman for two and a half years. Jonathan has worked at Mesquite KIA the entire time. While waiting tables at a restaurant, he said his customer spoke to him. “Mr. Antonio Ayala saw something in me and asked me to come and try my hand at selling automobiles where he works as a Manager at Mesquite KIA.” Jonathan shared that he “has always naturally enjoyed talking with people.” Before I started selling KIAs they weren’t that appealing to me, but once I began selling KIAs, the product itself made a huge believer out of me. The KIA technology, the warranty, and the smooth, quiet driving experience won me over.” He stated that “first-time buyers are the type of customers he’s learned a lot about.” Jonathan shared, “It’s important to meet their needs on the personal budgets that they have set.” You can reach Jonathan at: 469-886-6320.
Emiliano (Emi) Martinez
Emi is a native of Dallas and a graduate of Skyline High School. As an auto sales associate for one year and eight-months, his entire time has been at Mesquite KIA. Before selling autos, Emi worked with his dad as a painter. Seeking something less labor intensive, Emi was grateful that he knew Mr. Wiley Jackson who offered Emi the opportunity to be a salesman. Emi’s philosophy is “approaching my job with the daily motivation of being the best I can be to get the job done.” Emi feels that KIA’s “price to quality is one of the best in the industry and that KIA’s manufacturer warranty is a hit.” Emi says he is “brutally honest with customers that he interacts with day in and day out.” His mentor taught him to “focus heavily on his customer and to look out for their interests.” Emi can be reached at: 214-986-8402.
LaShay Antonette Blair
LaShay is a native of Dallas. She has been an auto salesperson for three years, but she’s really been employed by Southwest KIA of Mesquite for seven years. The first four years, LaShay was in Internet sales before joining the floor sales team. Her interest in auto sales was primarily due to the pay! She’s been very successful because she describes herself as “a people person.” Possessing that trait has been a big asset for her. LaShay was quick to point out that her job of selling KIAs “is much easier due to the overall KIA features, designs and KIA’s 100,000 mile warranty, plus the price point.” To remain a success in auto sales, LaShay shared that “it’s important to be driven, to be intentional and confident in my abilities to close sells.”
Customers can reach LaShay by phone at: 469-655-0456 or by email at: Lashayblair@lithia.com.
Marco Vinicio Hernandez
Marco was born in Dallas. He is a graduate of Skyline High School. For the last two years he’s sold autos, but Marco has only been with Mesquite KIA for six months. He first began in auto sales after a friend referred him for a job at a Toyota dealership. Marco says “I stayed with it because I really like the work!” He says “helping people is important to me - I’m patient in guiding my customers through the process.” Marco was quick to explain, “KIA is a very good and reliable vehicle which makes it easy for me to sell.” Plus, Marco said, “KIAs are not as expensive as some other autos.” He shared that “anyone wishing to become an auto salesperson must believe in themselves and establish good work ethics.”
Customers interested in shopping for a vehicle with Marco can reach him at: 214534-8830.
Levi Slape
A native of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Levi relocated to Texas and graduated from Juan Seguin High School in Arlington. He’s been selling autos for three and a half years and has worked at Mesquite KIA a little over two years. Levi explained he began selling autos “during the really bad ice storm when there was no electricity in DFW.” He’s learned one valuable lesson about selling autos and that is “Don’t let the slow times get you down.” He said what works for him is “to put in extra hours and speak with any and every customer that I can.” Levi shared that, “the transition KIA has made in the last five years makes my job much easier!” He is impressed with the advertising dollars KIA puts into marketing their vehicles and he said “the new model designs have been awesome!” Levi feels it’s important that he continues raising his level of knowledge about KIA automobiles.
To reach Levi, dial: 817-876-7711.
A native of Akron, Ohio, Willie’s family transitioned to Texas while he was a minor. He is a graduate of North Mesquite High School. He’s been on the Mesquite KIA sales team the entire two years of his career selling autos. Willie’s family has a long history of buying vehicles from Mr. Jackson, the GM, and he gave Willie a chance at KIA. Willie prides himself on “providing great customer service.” He’s found by doing so, it’s provided “repeat customers and helped to spread a positive word of mouth for me,” Willie said. He’s glad for the rebranding of KIA and its new technology has yielded a great customer base. Willie has found that “there are new things to learn about the industry every day.” He’s learned a lot from who he calls “the veterans.” Contact Willie at: 469-410-9378 or Email him at: Willieporter@lithia.com.
Jerry Tonubbee
A native of Santa Maria, CA, Jerry has sold automobiles for 20 years. He became interested in selling vehicles because he needed a job and he said “the rest is history.” Jerry has been a salesman at Southwest KIA of Mesquite (now Mesquite KIA) for 15 and a half years. When asked what his philosophy is that has made him so successful all this time, Jerry answered, “I love God with all my heart.” A great mentor of Jerry’s taught him that the five keys to success in selling autos are: “Everybody is a buyer; stay off the subject of price; continue learning; follow up; and stay in one place.” Jerry shared that staying in one place has helped him with repeat customers. Jerry’s learned over time to “stick to the basics; be attentive to my customers; and meet their needs.” Call 214-537-9618 to reach Jerry.
Wiley Jackson General Manager, Mesquite Kia
Braeshaun (Brae) Dunn
Willie James Porter, II
AROUND TOWN WITH EVA
Kappa Fusion Drives Joy
Greek organizations combine forces for impact
By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor
Overheard on Dec. 11, 2024 at the Shark Bar in Plano with lots of “pretty” people in the place…
A fraternity brother joked with another that one of their brothers was there “looking for a wife.” They laughed and enjoyed eyeing his “many options.” Women were in a festive mood, giddy and all smiles. There was great music, food, crowd chatter and toys… plenty of them. From bikes, playsets, athletic balls and boardgames, tables overflowed with donations.
This was the fourth year for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporat-
ed Omega Alpha Omega Chapter and Frisco Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated’s Holiday Toy Drive benefiting the Boys & Girls Club and Martin Luther King Center in Denton.
The event was energetic and will surely make kids happy this holiday season. With so many gifts and people in a giving mood, I hope Santa is nice and gives the fraternity brother a wife!
Principles at Work
Kwanzaa & African celebration reinforces community
By Eva D. Coleman Lifestyle & Culture Editor
The village was in full force to support the Kwanzaa & African Celebration at Verona Villa in Frisco, Texas Dec. 10, 2024. From education, performances, shopping and collaboration, the event embodied the seven principles of Kwanzaa: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).
Highlights included the explanation of the principles of Kwanzaa and lighting of candles, a fashion show conducted by House of Dasha, Bandan Koro African drummers, vendors featuring handcrafted items and ethnic foods, and many attendees decked out in African attire. Teen entrepreneur Kennedy Laster of Candy Curls, a cotton candy company, held her own during the vendor showcase among seasoned adults. Frisco city leaders were also in the mix greeting participants and attendees.
2024
Lawmakers Urge President
threshold in 2020 when Virginia became the 38th state to approve it, fulfilling the requirement for three-fourths of state legislatures to ratify it.
Despite meeting the requirements outlined in Article V of the Constitution, the ERA still needs to be certified. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), tasked with certifying and publishing amendments once ratified, has yet to take action due to a 2020 opinion issued by the Trump administration’s Office of Legal Counsel (OLC). The opinion argued that because the ERA did not meet Congress’s 1982 deadline, it “expired and is no longer pending before the states.”
Federal law (1 U.S.C. § 106b) mandates the Archivist to certify an amendment once three-fourths of states have ratified it. Lawmakers contend that the Trump-era opinion should not obstruct the certification process and called on Biden to issue a proclamation recognizing the ERA.
“While there are federal laws that protect against sex discrimination, these protections are not explicitly enshrined in the Constitution,” the letter noted. “Adding the ERA to the Constitution would establish an unambiguous guarantee that sex-based discrimination is unconstitutional.”
Bush added, “We were hoping to be progressing forward on gender equality and women’s rights, but we are going backward. At this point, we have an avalanche of destruction coming our way.”
The Biden administration has previously
expressed support for the ERA. In his August 23, 2024, proclamation on Women’s Equality Day, Biden called Congress to recognize the amendment’s ratification. ERA supporters insist that no further action from Congress is needed, as the amendment has already met the constitutional requirements.
Polling indicates broad public support for the ERA. A 2020 Pew Research Center poll found that 78% of Americans believe the amendment should be part of the Constitution. Recent state-level votes further demonstrate this support, with Nevada and New York enshrining state-level ERAs into their constitutions by significant margins.
“With a hostile administration on its way to strip us of our freedoms, we must do everything to address this injustice and enshrine the ERA,” Pressley said.
By certifying the ERA, lawmakers believe that legal safeguards against sex discrimination would strengthen. They said that would help address concerns that include salary discrepancies, employment injustices, and reproductive rights. The legislators believe that the move is essential to preserving advancements in gender equality and shielding weaker rights from political changes and court interpretations.
“By directing the Archivist to publish the ERA, you will leave an indelible mark on the history of this nation, demonstrating once again that your legacy is one of expanding rights, protecting freedoms, and securing a more inclusive future for all Americans,” the letter concluded.
Nikki Giovanni Dies at 81 cont.
male strength, begins with the lines:
“I was born in the congo I walked to the fertile crescent and built the sphinx…”
And concludes triumphantly:
“I am so perfect so divine so ethereal so surreal I cannot be comprehended except by my permission I mean…I…can fly Like a bird in the sky…”
A Prolific Career
In addition to her poetry, Giovanni wrote children’s books, essays, and a memoir, “Gemini: An Extended Autobiographical Statement on My First Twenty-Five Years of Being a Black Poet (1971).” She was known for her candid reflections on race, gender, and identity, blending the personal with the political in provocative and deeply human ways.
Giovanni’s interview with James Baldwin on the television program Soul! in 1971 remains a touchstone in American cultural history. Their two-hour conversation, filmed in London, explored the intersections of race, gender, and societal expectations. At one point, she posed a raw question about the cycle of violence affecting Black families: “What do you do about a man who is mistreated in the world and comes home and brutalizes his wife? Where does that leave his daughter?” Baldwin’s response: “Sweetheart. Our ancestors taught us how to do that.”
from page 1
An Educator and Mentor In 1987, Giovanni joined the faculty at Virginia Tech, where she became a University Distinguished Professor. She remained there for 35 years, influencing generations of students with her wit, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to truth.
Even in academia, her rebellious spirit shone through. Giovanni famously supported her student, Seung-Hui Cho, before he committed the tragic mass shooting at Virginia Tech in 2007. She had him removed from her class when she sensed his troubling nature.
Giovanni earned seven NAACP Image Awards, a Grammy nomination, and the distinction of having three of her books listed as New York Times and Los Angeles Times Best Sellers—a rare feat for a poet. Giovanni described herself as a dreamer. “My dream was not to publish or to even be a writer,” she remarked. “My dream was to discover something no one else had thought of. I guess that’s why I’m a poet. We put things together in ways no one else does.”
A Legacy of Dreams and Defiance Giovanni’s poetry was a lifeline for many, especially young Black women who saw their power and potential reflected in her verses. She wasn’t just a poet but a cultural force who celebrated Blackness, womanhood, and the art of dreaming. “I’m a writer. I’m happy,” she demanded.
The
Kwanzaa & African Celebration was presented by Pioneering Excellence with sponsors: Frisco Arts Foundation, Verona Villa, Credit Union of Texas, New York Life, Pepsico Multicultural and the Frisco Diversity Leadership Council.
