I Messenger

I M essenger

AT LAST Residential Hall in Southern Dallas

VOLUME 8

APRIL 19, 2019

ISSUE 35

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Established 2011 CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

April 19, 2019

POL ADV., ERIC JOHNSON 2

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INSIDE

QUIT PLAYIN’

TRAGEDY

NEWS

The pen-ultimate Pastor/Preacher/ Prophet/Professor is coming to town April 28 and I can’t wait.

Dr. Jeremiah Wright Jr., whose quality of life was stolen by “Fake News” and fake friends, is coming to Friendship West.

In the interest of full-disclosure, I am not an HBCU graduate, nor am I affiliated with any Greek organization. What I am, is appalled that our esteemed places of higher learning are becoming campuses from hell.

In the wake of his announcement about sweeping reform policies that he says will have a positive impact on the criminal justice system, John Creuzot, Dallas County Criminal District Attorney also announced that his office is expanding its Gang Unit

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MY TRUTH

by Cheryl Smith, Publisher

Celebrating Women

Generations after generations have conflicts. The signs of the times make for great discussions as people of all ages try to co-exist in a rapidly changing world where the norm is to be abnormal.

Everyone want to walk to their own beat and that is good in many instances, however; there’s something to be said about traditions and understanding boundaries.

While I agree that we should revere our elders and hold them in high esteem; there are many who would argue that everyone is “equal” and you get what you give.

I hear young folks all the time saying, “if you don’t show me respect, I’m not going to show you any.”

To those who don’t see the value in honoring your elders, I say, “poppycock,” and “fiddle dee dee” because I have a feeling that some of the same ones showing disrespect are going to want

She’s also no-nonsense!

I remember attending an event at her home; actually there have been several, but this particular gathering was special.

It was a sleepover with a special group of women. I was the baby of the bunch and I was reveling in all the wisdom and love that was around me.

You see, Ms. Giddings wasn’t gathering women to sit around and gossip and tear others down. Instead there was plenty of love to go around.

The women talked about work, business ventures, families, men and female-related stuff, and more.

I felt honored to be included.

I saw in Ms. Giddings, then and now, over two decades later; a woman who was a nurturer, someone who wanted a better world. She knew that in order to have a better world, you really needed to start at home, in your own surroundings and with

concessions company.

A member of the Trinity Chapter of Links, Inc., Ms. Giddings had folks anxiously waiting to see if she was going to announce her candidacy for mayor of the city of Dallas.

Her victory would make her the first African American woman to hold the post, and who better to have that distinction than “Ms. International.”

That’s right, Helen Giddings is international. She is a globe trotter, having visited several continents and countries.

She is especially fond of Africa, as am I. Her fondness for the Motherland has resulted in numerous honors for her efforts to improve trade and cultural relations between South Africa and the United

She is gracious and kind, stylish and dignified, knowledgeable and compassionate. respect when they get older.

I usually tell these same folks that you have to determine who you are and don’t let anyone take you off course or have you act out of character; contrary to the person you say you are going to be.

Being disrespectful is a reflection on you, not the person you are disrespecting You don’t have to show your behind just because someone shows you theirs!

Which brings me to my truth.

The Honorable Helen Giddings is always a lady. She’s “Lady Helen.”

I want to be like her when I grow up.

She is gracious and kind, stylish and dignified, knowledgeable and compassionate. myimessenger.com

the people you know.

Ms. Giddings is a born leader. Among her many attributes is her pleasant personality and she definitely loves life.

If you ever see her on a dance floor, she’s definitely dancing as if no one’s watching and if anyone is, they can enjoy the show. The lights could be dim or the dance floor is her fully-lit stage; that sister is moving and grooving!

She also knows how to take care of business.

Recently she retired after serving over 25 years as a Texas state representative. Prior to that she was the first female chair of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce.

Ms. Giddings is also the founder and president of Multiplex, Inc. a specialty

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States. She has also been recognized by President Nelson Mandela. Even Prairie View A&M University has established the Helen Giddings Scholarships for Exemplary Students from South Africa.

When Lady Helen walks into a room, you know it. She’s not loud and attentiongrabbing. Her mere presence is felt and people like being in her company.

Now I must say, as another birthday approaches, she was born on April 21, and as Mother’s Day is just around the corner; it would be great if we could read her muchanticipated book. I know Lady Helen, it’s been a while but I am sure the wait is worth it and the book will most-definitely be a best-seller.

I can’t say enough about this diva!

No matter the situation, Lady Helen is always respectful and dignified.

Now what’s wrong with that, I ask of those who are not?

April 19, 2019

COMMENTARY

by Dr. Julianne Malveaux

TOWARD A LIVING WAGE

It is unfathomable that the federal minimum wage has not been increased in more than a decade, since 2007, that the wage, at $7.25 per hour has remained flat through recession and recovery, through extremely high unemployment rates and much lower ones.

Republicans have absolutely refused to consider minimum wage increases, and in early March rejected a bill that would increase the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2024. Still, with the Democratic majority in Congress, the bill came out of committee on a 28-20 party line vote.

While the federal government drags its feet, six states, the District of Columbia and several other cities now have a minimum wage that will rise to $15 in the next few years. In late March, Maryland joined California, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Illinois in increasing the minimum wage, even though Republican governor Larry Hogan vetoed the legislation. Both houses of the Maryland legislature overrode his veto, even though he melodramatically noted that a higher minimum wage would “devastate” the Maryland economy.

Unions, McDonald’s workers, and the Fight for Fifteen have fueled the national push to raise the minimum wage, especially as people have noted that wage stagnation has resulted in an extremely uneven economic recovery.

While those at the top are celebrating economic growth, those at the bottom have barely experienced it. And the current April 19, 2019

the folks who care for them as if they are. Parking lot attendants, who care for our automobiles, often earn more than the people who care for our children, mothers, and grandmothers. And yet the economy depends on them! How many working women would be hard pressed to work if their nannies or home health workers stayed home? And how would the economy adjust to the absence of nearly half of the labor force?

Ai-jen Poo, the Executive Director of the National Domestic Worker’s Alliance, minimum wage of $7.25 produces annual recently spoke about workers in the care pay of $15,080, assuming that someone industry, how poorly they are paid, and works a full 40 hours a week all 52 weeks how essential they are. Eighty-eight of the year, which is often unlikely because percent of these workers are women, many minimum wage jobs are part-time mostly women of color, and while demand for their services is increasing (with an jobs.

The poverty line for a family of three aging baby boom, and increased births (a working mom and two children) is to millennial women), pay is not. All $16,910. A woman working full time at the don’t make the minimum wage, but far minimum wage is living below the poverty too many do, and their efforts, though line. She qualifies for SNAP (food stamps), essential, are all too often invisible. Poo and possibly for federal housing aid if she and her organization are working to raise can get it. All too often, the list for housing the visibility of these workers, not just so subsidies is full, as is public housing, so we can see them, but so we can ensure that assistance is not an option. What is a they are adequately paid. Most Americans woman earning such a low wage to do, will have to interact with the care industry then, living at the economic periphery? at some point in their life, arranging help She house-shares lives with family or for elderly relatives or for children. The endures homelessness. She lines up to get movement toward a living wage must food at food banks or from other charities. include these workers.

Kudos to Maryland for taking a step She struggles to make ends meet, while her Congressional Representative earns in the right direction. Shame on House $174,000 a year whether they produce or Republicans who are enjoying economic not. (I’d suspend Congressional pay when recovery, but denying its benefits to those they choose to shut down the government). at the bottom.

The Fight for Fifteen has momentum Too many of the people who earn now.

This is a great time to keep up the the minimum wage, mostly women, are pressure on the states and on the federal caretakers. They mind our children and our elders, as nannies and home health government. Increasing the minimum workers. While we say that our children wage lifts people out of poverty. Shouldn’t and elders are precious, we don’t pay we all be able to support that?

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AT LAST! Breaks ground on first residence hall for families seeking better education outcomes

Breaking ground Tuesday on its first residence hall in Southern Dallas, AT LAST! will move forward with its innovative program for impoverished students and realize the vision of founder Randy Bowman, businessman and Dallas native.

Area elected officials including Mayor Pro Tem Casey Thomas, Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold, Councilman Tennell Atkins, community leaders, donors and members of the media gathered for this momentous groundbreaking on East Overton Road in Dallas.

Many kids in poverty don’t have some of the educational tools and resources that kids from more affluent families take for granted,” said founder Randy Bowman. “I know this challenge; I lived it. With the AT LAST! program, we intend to provide those necessities free of charge. We’ll have staff that can help with schoolwork, and our Scholars-In-Residence will have a quiet place to study, get a full night’s sleep and proper nutrition. We’re creating an urban boarding experience – at no cost to the families.”

“At the Hoblitzelle Foundation, we’re excited to support this transformational resource for children in the community,” said foundamyimessenger.com

tion president Katie Robbins. “Our founder Karl Hoblitzelle said that, ‘Foundations are most useful when they serve to telescope time. Thus a foundation may … help bring into being a project … of great promise and worth which might well fail or be long deferred because of lack of financial support from other sources.’

We believe that he was talking about projects like this.”

“When Randy Bowman submitted his proposal to the William Walter Caruth, Jr. Fund at Commu- Randy Bowman nities Foundation of Texas, we immediately saw that AT LAST! had the ability to unlock the potential of children growing up in tough circumstances,” said Nadine Dechausay, Director of Community Philanthropy. “We love that AT LAST! is an inherently collaborative project. It doesn’t attempt to reinvent schools but instead supports the mission of the schools to help them

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succeed. Neither does it attempt to replace the central role of the family. Single parents face numerous challenges, and this effort is designed to help them thrive. We are thrilled to be able to partner with AT LAST! in piloting an urban boarding concept in Dallas.”

Today’s groundbreaking is for the first of two initial campuses that AT LAST! intends to establish in Southern Dallas.

The Overton campus will be a 5,600-square-foot facility capable of housing 16 students and employing 14 educators and facilitators.

Taking an innovative approach to improving educational outcomes, the AT LAST! program is designed to end intergenerational poverty and empower families. During the afterschool hours, AT LAST! provides impoverished students with the educational resources and tools enjoyed by more affluent students. During school hours, the students attend the schools selected by their families (typically neighborhood schools).

April 19, 2019

WHO’S WHO in Black Dallas

April 19, 2019

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COMMENTARY

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April 19, 2019

QUIT PLAYIN

by Vincent Hall

God Damn America…Again?

The pen-ultimate Pastor/Preacher/ Prophet/Professor is coming to town April 28 and I can’t wait.

Dr. Jeremiah Wright Jr., whose quality of life was stolen by “Fake News” and fake friends, is coming to Friendship West.

Dr. Wright’s health has been an issue for the last few years, but if he doesn’t say a mumbling word, his presence will be sufficient.

The old folks used to say; “A lie could travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.”

If you have a problem believing that, consider that a lie is traveling abroad on Air Force One and Jeremiah Wright is moving at a mere fraction of the speed he once; like all of us, took for granted.

This is a great time to re-read his classic; “Africans who shaped our Faith.” Or review his scholarly interview with the National Press Club during the whole Obama debacle. He tied the fight for civil rights to the Black Church.

“Daddy J,” detailed the tenets of the theology that buttressed his “God Damn America” sermon. He, realizing that the larger culture doesn’t get the Black Church, prophesied that even Black Preachers would have to regroup.

“Over the next few days, prominent scholars of the African-American religious tradition from several different disciplines -- theologians, church historians, ethicists, professors of the Hebrew bible, homiletics, hermeneutics, and historians of religions -- those scholars will join in with sociologists, political analysts, local church pastors, and denominational officials to April 19, 2019

examine the African-American religious experience and its historical, theological and political context.”

Truth is, you can study all you want, but the Bible looks, feels and drives something different in us, because of the hell we go through.

Oh you didn’t know? Listen to the part of God Damn America that didn’t get aired on cable news. His prophecy was built on America’s evil history of public policy. His scriptural text, Luke 19, was one of three noted instances where Jesus shed tears.

“Prior to Abraham Lincoln, the

Government in this country said it was legal to hold Africans in slavery in perpetuity. Perpetuity’s one of those University of Chicago words, it means forever. From now on. When Lincoln got in office, the government changed.

Prior to the passing of the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments to the Constitution, the government defined Africans as slaves, as property – property!

– People with no rights to be respected by any Whites anywhere. The Supreme Court of the government, said in its Dred Scott decision in the 1850s: no African anywhere in this country has any rights that any White person has to respect, at anyplace, anytime.

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That was the government’s official position, backed up by the Supreme Court – that’s the judiciary – backed up by the Executive branch – that’s the President – backed up by the Legislative branch and enforced by the military of the government.

This Government lied about their belief that all men were created equal.

The truth was they believe all White men were created equal. The truth is they did not believe that even White women were created equal, in creation nor in civilization. The Government had to pass an amendment to the Constitution to get White women the vote. Then the Government had to pass an “Equal Rights” amendment to get equal protection under the law for women.

Prior to the Civil Rights and Equal Accommodations laws of the government in this country, there was Black segregation by the country, legal discrimination by the government, prohibited Blacks from voting by the government, you had to eat in separate places by the government, you had to sit in different places from White folk because the government says so, and you had to be buried in a separate cemetery.

It was Apartheid American-style from the cradle to the grave, all because the government backed it up. But guess what? Governments change!

Dr. Wright was right, governments do change and America was arguably on a progressive path, until November 11, 2016.

Donald Trump was a change for the worst no matter what side of the border you’re on.

God is unhappy…Again!! myimessenger.com

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April 19, 2019

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Wordz of Wilson

by Chelle Luper Wilson

Controlling Imagery

In 1850, a Harvard professor commissioned photographs for a study. The pictures, or daguerreotypes, as they were then known, were of Renty and Delia, father and daughter. The images were not meant to represent family life nor reflect the strength and beauty of African Americans at that time. The professor commissioned these pictures to support his racist argument that Black people were not only inferior but of an entirely different origin than whites. Renty and Delia were enslaved persons. Without the freedom to consent, Renty and Delia were stripped to their waists, positioned in both front and side views, and photographed.

While now housed in a campus museum, the images of Renty and Delia have continuously been used in magazines, journals, and other publications. In a 2017 Harvard conference on the links between academia and slavery, Renty’s image was used on the program cover and projected onto a giant screen as the backdrop. Currently, Renty’s image is featured on the cover of a $40 anthropology book available at Harvard. One could argue that not only has Harvard maintained, but they have also profited from these images for nearly 170 years.

I never thought in my lifetime, myimessenger.com

there would be serious debate around reparations and what those reparations might look like.

Yet, here we are. From politicians to barber shop patrons, everyone has opinions on what 40 acres and a mule would look like today? University of Connecticut researcher, Thomas Craemer, estimates reparations could cost: between $5.9 trillion and $14.2 trillion. This calculation does not include intellectual property, images, nor the many bodies sacrificed to “medical research.” It’s based on Craemer’s valuation of enslaved labor and services provided in relation to America’s accumulation of wealth. Considering how the many contributions of African Americans have been minimized, erased, or stolen and credited to another, how do we also calculate the value of the nontangible?

In keeping with the African tradition of oral storytelling, Tamara Lanier’s family, passed down from one generation to the next, a story about their ancestor who was taken from his home in the Congo and enslaved in South Carolina. He defied the law by teaching himself how to read and then teaching others. Lanier’s great-great-great grandfather was named Renty; she believes he is the same Renty from the Harvard

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photographs. Lanier has filed a lawsuit claiming wrongful seizure and possession, arguing that Harvard has been “shamefully” and illegally profiting from the images because Renty and Delia, as enslaved persons, were unable to give consent. The complaint also alleges failure of the university to recognize her as a direct descendant. Harvard has not yet commented on this complaint.

In an interview with the New York Times, Lanier’s attorneys state she is seeking a jury trial and unspecified punitive and emotional damages. However, what she wants most is possession of and the rights to these ancestral photos. The refusal to relinquish control of these images to Lanier reeks of residue from a time when marriages by enslaved persons were not recognized; therefore, neither were their families. Renty and Delia have been subjected to bondage, physical and material, for going on two centuries. I hope they will be able to go home soon, so their souls can finally rest in peace. After all, nothing is more valuable than freedom.

April 19, 2019

CAMPUS CRISIS: Handing out dangerous degrees

By Miles Jaye

Texas Metro News

By the time a son reaches his twenties, any tears shed for him should be tears of joy reserved for graduations, weddings, and grandchildren; however, we live in dangerous times.

Parents of young Black men face fears of constant threats of violence against their precious sons.

We can only hope our sons, raised in good homes, by Godfearing, church-going parents, follow the proverbial straightand-narrow and steer clear of trouble—be it a “bad crowd” or bad policemen. We hope they do well enough in high school to attend college, get a “good education” after which a “good job” is a sure bet.

Then we hope and pray that at some point in the foreseeable future, they find a “good woman” and start a family of their own -and the cycle continues.

What is not anticipated or in any April 19, 2019

way predictable is that once having steered clear of the pitfalls to their well-being— drugs, the bad crowd, and racist cops; they would find themselves unsuspecting victims to

to graduate next month from a local HBCU- a Full-Scholarship student-- no less, eager to pledge a fraternity, only to be drugged and tortured in the longheld hazing tradition;

disclosure, I am not an HBCU graduate, nor am I affiliated with any Greek organization.

What I am, is appalled that our esteemed places of higher learning are becoming

unspeakable, Medieval, torturous hazing practices that would most likely be banned on Guantanamo Bay. When I heard the horrific story of a young man scheduled

I was incensed. How ironic that this student is a Drum Major like the Drum Major who was killed at another Florida HBCU-- a victim of hazing.

In the interest of full-

campuses from hell.

When confronted by the mother of this young man, one college administrator advised her that careful action must be taken or the school might risk losing

WARNING: Please forgive the graphic photo We can’t hide the gravity of this situation.

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accreditation and funding. No mention was made by the official that careful action should be taken or they might risk losing the life of a student!

To fully understand the egregious nature of this “crime,” I should stress the fact that the pledgee was provided a synthetic drug called “Jig” in order to anesthetize him sufficiently to administer the brutal beating. It is likely that the injuries sustained in this torture will scar for life. I can only imagine the depth and extent of the emotional and psychological scars inflicted by this punishment. Imagine one day planning your son’s college graduation celebration and the next day attempting to Baker Act (involuntary commitment to a mental facility), as he had been rendered by the “Jig” pill, as his mother described him, “out of his mind.”

If we are truly sincere in our appeals that Black Lives Matter, if See next page myimessenger.com

Transgender woman assaulted, onlookers join in

Once again activist are speaking From Staff Reports

out about the brutal attacks on women while onlookers stand by, filming and observing, but not interceding.

Last month, it was L’Daijohnique Lee who was mercilessly beaten by a gun-wielding Austin Shuffield. That assault was caught on a cellphone camera.

Last week, Muhlaysia Booker was brutally beaten by what has been called a “transphobic mob,” outside of the Royal Crest Apartments, 3558 Wilhurt Avenue in Dallas.

Joined by members of the Next Generation Action Network (NGAN) and his five-year-old-son, Rev. Dr. Jeff Hood blasted those who he said should be standing up for those who are different, instead of assaulting them.

Holding his son, who Dr. Hood said likes to wear dresses, the

activist called on citizens to be more accepting and understanding.

According to reports, Ms. Booker was involved in a fender-bender.

When someone blocked her path so she couldn’t flee the scene, the situation escalated. She was then beaten by Edward Thomas, who was arrested, and several others joined in beating and kicking the “transgender woman.”

In an affidavit, Mr. Brown claims he was offered $200 to beat Ms. Booker.

The story of the beating has spread like wildfire.

“Time and time again black women are being brutalized,” said Olinka Green, as she praised the women who came to the aid of Ms. Booker.

She’s tired, however, of the continuous attacks on Black women and the seemingly lackluster response from men.

“Shame on you,” she said, in a a

statement that was similar to one she gave at City Hall learner this month.

In tears at that meeting, she cited several instances when Black women have been brutalized. She called on city officials to act and she called on bystanders to step up and help women in trouble, regardless of their status, transgender or not.

The disturbing video caused an uproar on social media. Many were concerned about the well-being of Ms. Booker, who had been taken to the hospital.

Minister Dominique Alexander, of NGAN, knows Ms. Booker’s assailant because they both grew up in that neighborhood.

“I went to school with his sister and he went to school with my sister,” he said.

Unlike the “mob” that people saw on the video, Min. Alexander said the Royal Crest Apartments are home to hard-working Dallas citizens. Outreach has already been

made to the owners of the complex and law enforcement officials.

Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings said he discussed the attack with Dallas Police Chief U. Renee Hall. Known for speaking out about violence against women, the Mayor didn’t hesitate to express concern.

Also, Dallas City Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold addressed the issue in a statement: “We are saddened to learn of the attack on Muhlaysia Booker on last Friday, April 12. I am soliciting your prayers for the immediate healing and comfort for Muhlaysia and her family. It is important for everyone to respect the human rights of others in our community by showing the highest level of dignity without violence and prejudice.

“We will continue to work with the Dallas Police Department and staff to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of our community.”

to begin, begin by calling or writing your local HBCU President’s office and raise hell. If you’re too Holy to say “hell,” don’t say it, but raise it anyway-- you may save a life.

Call or write anyone you know in a fraternity or sorority, even if they’re not a chapter officer, word of your outrage will go up the chain of command. If you are a Greek, choose which is more sacred, your oath of secrecy and silence, or the life of a young pledgee. Think of the most notable, high profile Greeks you know-- Shaq comes to mind- -find them on

social networks, and share this horrific story. (For the record— the young man I refer to in this piece is not a pledgee of the fraternity which Shaq holds membership in.)

Last but not least, please pray hard for this Jacksonville family-- the son, the mom and dad. The dream of their boy, proudly clad in cap and gown, strutting across the stage to accept his degree, has just turned into a horrible nightmare.

The pursuit of a degree has become a dangerous pursuit-it’s a Campus Crisis.

Campus, continued from previous page we are horrified by indignations and mistreatment inflicted by management of public eateries or by racist neighbors, if murderous atrocities inflicted by rogue police officers render us glued to coverage of grand juries and criminal trials, allowing these practices to continue on our HBCU campuses would amount to gross hypocrisy.

If every chapter of every fraternity and sorority on every campus had to be suspended or shut down until these matters are investigated, and where appropriate, prosecuted, then myimessenger.com

so be it! Are the Step Shows and various other activities worth another young life? The Catholic Church style, Blue Wall of Silence type cover-up practices designed to protect accreditation and jobs must cease. What will it take? If this culture continues, on our watch, we have only ourselves to blame-- this is not a Trump issue, nor is it a partisan issue.

The crisis is not at the Southern Border, it’s on your son’s college campus. What are you going to do about it?

If you’re outraged by this story but you’re not sure where

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April 19, 2019

Creuzot announces sweeping reform, focus on gangs From Staff Reports

In the wake of his announcement about sweeping reform policies that he says will have a positive impact on the criminal justice system, John Creuzot, Dallas County Criminal District Attorney also announced that his office is expanding its Gang Unit thanks to a new $1.2 million dollar grant awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) program, through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

The grant allows the District Attorney’s Office to add two additional prosecutors and one addi-tional investigator, for a total of three prosecutors and two investigators to its gang unit.

“The additional money will greatly assist in the prosecution of violent transnational gang members affiliated with groups like MS 13 and 18th Street gangs,” said Assistant DA Tommy Adams.

According to the Gang Unity, there’s a “troubling trend” with young teens being pulled into gang activity.

As part of the District Attorney’s approach, the office will continue to focus on keeping kids out of gangs through partnerships with the community and the Dallas Independent School District (DISD).

Our mission includes education about gang awareness, intervention, and one-on-one visits to schools by our Assistant District Attorney’s as part of our DAs in Schools program.

“These efforts help us reach teens before they become involved in gang activity and reduces the occurrence of youth gang-related incidents while increasing positive outcomes for young people with a high risk for gang involvement,” said Chief Jason Hermus who oversees the Gang Unit.

Keeping his campaign promise “to bring about positive changes to the criminal justice system,” DA Creuzot’s initiatives include reducing mass incarceration and saving taxpayer’s money.

“The policies that I have embarked upon this year are a first and important step toward shifting priorities, treating people with fairness April 19, 2019

District Attorney John Creuzot

and dignity, while keeping our community safe,” he explained. “The data-driven reform policies that I am implementing will help make our system more fair and just for everyone, without regard to race or financial standing in the community,” In an open letter to the citizens of Dallas County, DA Creuzot wrote he and his team have made impressive progress during the last 90 days. “I am proud to announce the following reforms: First-Offense Marijuana Although African Americans and people of other races use marijuana at similar rates, in Dallas County African Americans are three times more likely to be prosecuted for misdemeanor marijuana possession than are people of other races. After arrest, African Americans are assessed money bond at a higher rate for marijuana possession, and are assessed higher bond amounts than other races. African Americans are more likely to be convicted of marijuana possession once charged and are more likely to serve a jail sentence.

The District Attorney must take action to end that disparity. To that end, I have declined prosecution on misdemeanor possession of marijuana cases for first-time offenders whose offenses do not occur in a drug-free zone, involve the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon, or involve evidence of delivery.

After the first offense, people will be offered a program that, if successfully completed, will keep their record clear. I am also in the process of dismissing all pending misdemeanor marijuana cases filed before I took office, according to the new policy stated above.

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To date, I have dismissed over a thousand misdemeanor marijuana cases.

THC Possession Prosecution will be declined on State Jail Felony and 3rd Degree Felony Possession of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cases for first time THC offenders whose offenses do not occur in a drug-free zone, involve the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon, or involve evidence of delivery.

Trace Amount Drug Possession No person will be prosecuted in Dallas County for possessing less than .01 grams of drug “trace” evidence.

Drug Possession Cases w/o Laboratory Reports Historically, when an indivi-dual is arrested for State Jail and Third Degree Felony drug cases they are taken to jail. The accused may sit in jail for an extended period of time awaiting the testing of the alleged contraband.

My office is returning these cases until the laboratory report is completed. If, in fact, the substance is a controlled substance, we will be requesting that the District Clerk issue a summons instead of a warrant.

Criminal Trespass Right now, our county jail is the largest mental health provider in the county.

However, the jail is not a suitable place for the mentally ill and homeless -- those most often charged with misdemeanor criminal trespass -- whose only crime is not having a place to go. Around 90 percent of homeless individuals charged with trespass will receive an average jail sentence of 33 days. These prosecutions are an ineffective and inhumane approach to dealing with homelessness or mental illness, and yet since 2015, Dallas County has spent nearly $11 million just to incarcerate those charged with trespass, not including the costs and resources required to arrest and prosecute their cases. To that end, I have instructed my intake prosecutors to dismiss all misdemeanor criminal trespass cases that do not involve a residence or physical intrusion into property.

All pending criminal trespass cases meeting myimessenger.com

these guidelines will be dismissed, and where appropriate will be referred for outpatient mental health services. I urge Dallas County and its municipalities to use the savings to provide affordable housing and mental health services to this vulnerable population.

Theft of Necessary Items Study after study shows that when we arrest, jail, and convict people for non-violent crimes committed out of necessity, we only prevent that person from gaining the stability necessary to lead a law-abiding life. Criminalizing poverty is counter-productive for our community’s health and safety. For that reason, this office will not prosecute theft of personal items less than $750 unless the evidence shows that the alleged theft was for economic gain.

Driving While License Suspended (DWLI) Prosecuting a person for driving while their license is suspended is often just prosecuting a person for being too poor to pay off their fines and fees. I have developed a diversion program that will result in charges being dismissed for defendants who clear their drivers’ licenses.

Misdemeanor Pre-Trial Diversion Expunctions For those people who have successfully completed our pre-trial diversion program, a conditional dismissal or memo agreement, we will now be proactively expunging the arrest instead of the previous policy of waiting two years for the statute of limitations to run.

Probation While probation was originally intended to be an alternative to incarceration, it is often a lengthy and burdensome process that can actually increase recidivism. When people are kept on probation much longer than they should be, the system is overtaxed with supervision, and true rehabilitation becomes almost impossible. Our community is not made safer by long probation periods: research shows that probation terms should be only as long as needed to achieve its goal. Accordingly, I have instructed all prosecutors to presumptively ask for the following recommendations in cases where appropriate: myimessenger.com

Misdemeanor: Six months presumptive term State jail felonies: 180 days presumptive term Second and Third-Degree Felonies: Two years presumptive term First Degree Felonies: Five years presumptive term I have also instructed prosecutors not to ask for jail, state jail, or prison time for “technical” violations such as failing to pay fines or fees and other acts that do not threaten public safety.

Bail This county’s money bail system must be reformed. Our current system is uncoupled from physical safety and fairness, as people sit in jail not because they pose an identifiable danger to the community, but because they cannot pay their fee to go home. When lowincome people are held in jail simply because they cannot afford a few hundred dollars, they lose their jobs, housing, stability, and cannot take care of their children: this makes our communities less safe.

My own moral compass does not allow me to sit and wait for others to decide to act when I also have the power to do so. I am proposing an approach that makes public safety, not wealth, the determining factor in bail decisions.

The policy articulated below ensures that those who pose no safety risk can return to their communities, while those who do are either kept in jail or released with conditions.

Keeping safety, not wealth, at the centerpiece of policy is sensible and fair. Our system of justice cannot depend on whether individuals can afford to buy their freedom.

Accordingly, my office will adopt the following guidelines when recommending bail amounts: ● Misdemeanors: There shall be a presumption of release without pre-trial conditions subject to the below exceptions. ● State Jail Felonies: There shall be a presumption of release without pre-trial conditions for all people charged with a state jail felony who have no criminal convictions within the last five years.

Exceptions to misdemeanor and state jail felony presumption: If a prosecutor believes by clear and convincing evidence that the accused will fail to appear and/or is. a danger to the

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community or victim, then a risk assessment shall be requested to determine what, if any, conditions of release are appropriate to ensure return to court and community safety. The risk assessment shall be used to determine specific conditions that will aid return and protect community safety, not as a determinant of release.

Valid reasons for believing someone is a flight risk or danger: 1. Direct threats to victim during or after arrest, or; 2. Prior convictions for violence committed against same complainant or victim; or 3. More than two failures to appear within the last two years and proof that the failures to appear were an attempt to evade prosecution. Evidence of evasion may include incidents such as evading the police upon arrest on the warrant or using an alias upon police encounter that was used in an intent to evade prosecution. ● All other cases: The prosecutor’s recommendation is based on an assessment of risk. While a tool will be used, it is not dispositive, rather, it will be used as a guide for developing appropriate conditions of release.

The prosecutor’s presumption should be that, unless individuals pose a serious safety risk or flight risk, release remains appropriate, but with the least restrictive conditions imposed to ensure community safety and return to court.

Monetary conditions should never be requested by a prosecutor unless there has first been an ability to pay determination, and then the amount requested should be based on what a person can afford. High bonds should not be used as a form of preventive detention. Instead, people should only be preventively detained if they meet the statutory guidelines for preventive detention, and there is an articulated reason that the person poses a specific danger to the community.

Magistration As soon as construction permits, I will be assigning prosecutors to magistration so that they can screen cases and decline to prosecute those cases that fall within the above policy recommendations.

April 19, 2019

Vote for

Miguel Solis

for Mayor

to expand Pre-K access

to all Dallas Children MiguelForMayor.com

Vote Saturday May 4th!

Early Voting April 22nd - 30th Paid for by Miguel Solis Campaign

April 19, 2019

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SAVE THE DATE June 22, 2019 6p.m.

USA BOWL 10920 Composite Drive, Dallas

Cheryl Smith’s

Don’t Believe the HYPE Celebrity Bowl-a-thon Cheryl Smith’s

Hype

Don’t Believe the

6-23-2018

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Celebrity Bowl-a-thon

For vendor or sponsorship opportunities, or to register your team, call 214-941-0110 21

April 19, 2019

IN REVIEW:

Little

BY HOLLYWOOD HERNANDEZ Little is a movie with something for everyone. It’s a comedy with plenty of laughs. It’s a story that deals with bullying in school and what it’s like to be a 13-year-old in Jr. High, in case you forgot. But mainly it’s a very pro-black -woman movie that teaches the lesson of friendship between two women and how they support each other to help each other succeed.

Of course, there have been other “out of body experience” movies like “Big” and “13 Again” but “Little” puts a very funny twist on the genre. It was hilarious! I howled with laughter all the way through the movie. And while the trailer gives away a great deal of the movie, there is still plenty that will surprise you and make you laugh.

One of the movie’s executive producers is 14-year-old Marsai Martin, from Plano, TX, who pitched the movie to Girl’s Trip producer, Will Packer, after seeing the movie Big. The first-time movie actress stars in the TV show “Black-ish.” She’s the youngest executive producer in movie history.

Regina Hall plays the grownup version of Jordan, a take no prisoners boss who is mean and nasty to everyone she comes in contact with.

Issa Rae plays April, Jordan’s overworked and under-appreciated office assistant. After being bullied April 19, 2019

by Jordan, a little girl whose father On my “Hollywood Popcorn has a snack truck outside the office Scale,” Little gets my highest casts a spell on the mean executive rating, a JUMBO with EXTRA wishing she was little so she could BUTTER.” Go see it. get put in check. The next morning You will love it!

Jordan “The Executive” wakes up as the 13-year-old version of herself and has to go back and try and correct the things in her past that have made her so evil today.

Little is a hilarious film that does not disappoint. In the end, April comes to the rescue of her boss and Jordan finally learns how to make a friend; if you want to have a friend, you’ve got to be one.

The movie is rated PG-13 for a little sexy talk and has a run time of 1 hour and 49 minutes.

It’s a movie you’ll want to watch more than once (as soon as it was over I was ready to see it again).

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April 19, 2019

Featuring UBER EATS

April 19, 2019

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LIFESTYLE

by Valder Beebe

That Celebrity Interview:

Vanessa Lachey

I love the way life unfolds for the Valder Beebe Show. Just when I think who will be my next guest? An interesting celebrity is booked by a publicist on our show. Vanessa Lachey is interesting, admired and very private about her personal life. Her career is on display as she most recently competed on this season of DANCING WITH THE STARS for ABC. She is currently cohosting the Food Network TOP CHEF JR with Chef Curtis Stone for Universal Kids. As leading lady Vanessa will next be seen in the Lifetime movie “Christmas Toy Swap.”

Her personal life is more out of the limelight, yet open to the public. Vanessa, 37, was born in the Philippines, now married to musician Nick Lachey (Jessica Simpson’s former spouse) and the mom of three children; Phoenix, Brooklyn and Camden.

VBS: Vanessa Lachey along with guest Dr. Michael Forbes was invited into the Valder Beebe Show studio to discuss and to raise awareness of myimessenger.com

(RSV). Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or R-S-V, is the leading cause of hospitalization for infants (most time premature but RSV, I was not aware of at infants) in the U.S. during the the time. I am so proud to be on The Valder Beebe Show.

Sitting here with Dr. Forbes so that I can help parents in my small way that is why I partnered with AstraZeneca to get the word out about RSV. VBS: Vanessa I feel the deep feelings you are experiencing at this moment.

VL: Listening to Dr. Forbes talk about RSV reminds me of what we went through, please forgive me for being Vanessa Lachey emotional……….

The complete interview first year of life. Vanessa and visit SoundCloud.com/ Nick’s son contracted RSV valderbeebeshow months after his release from the NICU. VL: This was the hardest ValderBeebeShow.com, 411RadioNetwork.com, time with our baby. We knew Youtube.com/valderbeebeshow, he was a high risk baby, he 411RadioNetwork.com; Podcast audio: was born at 30 weeks. He was Soundcloud.com/valderbeebeshow, Soundcloud.com/kkvidfw, a preemie and we knew there 411RadioNetwork.com, were things that went along PChatman Streaming TV Network and VBS affiliate broadcasters. with that. There were things Now available on 411RadioNetwork App that I was on the lookout for

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April 19, 2019

Long-time educator, Dr. Areatha Simmons Jones, was initiated through the Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc at Florida A&M University on April 11, 1957.

Visitation Wednesday, April 17, 2019 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Evergreen Memorial Funeral Home 6449 University Hills Boulevard Dallas, TX 75241 (214) 376-1500 Funeral Thursday, April 18, 2018 12:30 PM Oak Cliff Presbyterian Church, 6000 South Hampton Road, Dallas, TX 75232.

As an education CEO, Lynn McBee helps young women get to college.

As mayor, she’ll be a role model for young women across Dallas.

As a scientist and CEO, I’ve broken down barriers for myself and young women in science and education. Now I want to bring down barriers for all of Dallas. Let’s strengthen our roads and infrastructure, make neighborhoods safer and improve our schools. Becoming the real city of opportunity starts with better basics for everyone. That’s how we build the Dallas of tomorrow.

POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY LYNN MCBEE CAMPAIGN, P.O. BOX 191733, DALLAS, TX 75219

Early voting begins Monday, April 22.

April 19, 2019

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Let’s talk!

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April 19, 2019

ASK ALMA You are not ready for marriage Dear Alma, I’m 25 and getting ready to marry a wonderfully fantastic man. We are totally compatible and get along in every way.

Our sex life is amazing, and I really love him. However, I recently met a new man to whom I am unbelievably attracted, but just physically. I know deep inside that I want to be with my fiancé forever. My question to you is: Would it be so wrong to have sex with my new friend just one time? So far we’ve only gone to lunch and out for drinks.

I see this as my last chance to hook up before I say “I do.”

Vonda M. Wheeling, W.V. Honey Chile, please, This is easy. All you want is for me to tell you, “Sure, girl, go on and get

April 19, 2019

your swerve on before your wedding night.” NOT! Keep it moving, sister, cause you won’t find that train on the Ask Alma railroad tracks of life. Of all the things you could have on your mind before your wedding, you’re daydreaming about another man.

Really!?

Let me school you for a minute.

Take a bus to Fantasy Land. That way you’ll have your moment of satisfaction (just not for real) and you won’t hurt your new husband or yourself by making the worst mistake of your life. What if you do it and you don’t have a good time.

Then, you’d be mad you put yourself out like that. What if you do it and you like it? Then you’ll want more, and you couldn’t because you’d be married. Back up, take a chill pill and remind yourself of the morals that I’m sure are somewhere within your

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reach. You’ve found a great fiancé, and you want a quickie before you march down the aisle. You’ve made that perfectly clear. However, my brain is on pause and I just have to say – the real question here should be: Are you sure you’re even ready to get married?

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

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April 19, 2019

SPIRITUAL AND CRYSTAL ADVISER Veronica Perez

FEATURED STAR: PISCES - The Fish - 02/19 - 03/20 Your health is a big deal; make sure you are not neglecting it.

Inspiration/Influence: Taking positive steps to keep your body and soul healthy.

Lucky Numbers – 22.06.19.44.25.11 ARIES - The RAM - 03/21 - 04/19 Your inner strength is matching your outer; it is much easier to take care of all kinds of business.

TAURUS – THE BULL – 04/20 - 05/20 Struggles in family or at work. You need to keep your end; this is not the time to allow them to win.

GEMINI – The Twins - 05/21 – 06/20 Your mentality has been sharp lately, it’s a good time to start a new class and gain more knowledge.

CANCER – The Crab – 06/21 – 07/22 Spend your money wisely, let it sit and collect . Use this time to re-direct your energy to nature.

LEO – The Lion – 07/23 – 08/22 Greater achievements came unexpectedly. You were surprised but ought not be, enjoy the victory.

VIRGO – The Virgin – 08/23 – 09/22 Be more flexible with your time, others are counting on you. Make most of your energy, as you have too much to do.

LIBRA – The Scales – 09/23 – 10/22 Perfect time to give small token of your affection. Spend time with friends they need you to do right by them.

SCORPIO – The Scorpion – 10/23 – 11/21 New challenges are coming, you need them, start your step up “game” now.

SAGITTARIUS – The Archer – 11/22 – 12/21 Time to kick back and enjoy good times, parties or casual hangouts.

CAPRICORN – The Goat – 12/22 – 01/19 Work issues are worse than ever, make a power play or wait on someone else to do it. Go for it!

AQUARIUS – The Water Carrier – 01/20 – 02/18 You need to find compromise with someone important, it very well could be yourself.

Daily Oracle Reading: Ask and it is given: Your thoughts about him/her are only an inner self reflection and truest feelings of self.

April 19, 2019

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Soul Jazz Thursday’s with Vandell Andrew at Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. Dallas. 8pm-12am.

D-Town Food Fest at City Hall Plaza 1500 Marilla St. Dallas 2pm-8pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.

2019 Easter in the Park at Turtle Creek Conservancy 3333 Turtle Creek Blvd. Dallas. 1pm-4pm.

Arlington Chamber of Commerce Meeting & Mixer at Brickhouse Arlington 2525 Arkansas Ln. Ste. #253, 6pm.

National Minority Health Month

Dallas Mayoral Form Host: Dallas County Young Democrats at Moorland Family YMCA 907 E. Ledbetter Dr. 6pm-8:30pm.

All Blue Everything Jam Session/ Open Mic at Aldeez Caribbean Restaurant & Event Center, 7879 Spring Valley Rd. 9pm-12am. Tickets: www.instaseats.com

Neo Soul Sunday’s at Blue Martini Lounge 7301 Lone Star Dr. Plano 4pm-12am.

Soul Jazz Thursday’s at Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. Dallas. 8pm-12am.

45th Annual Education and Scholarship Awards Luncheon Host: Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. at The Double Tee Hilton 8250 N. Exp, Dallas. 11am. April 21.

Cathy Hughes Founder of Radio One DOB 1947

Sarah Boone got the patent for the Iron Board in 1892

Child Abuse Month Early Voting 4-22 to 4-30

Cocktails and Connections at The Pelican House Restaurant 107 S. Cedar Ridge Dr. Duncanville. 6pm.

Recurring Events

Thursday Night Comedy Showcase at Club Odyssey 7439 S. Westmoreland Rd. Dallas. 8pm

Feeding The Needy Hosted by: Hollywood Hernandez Live 1698 Corsicana St. Dallas. 3pm-5pm.

PV Alumni Chapter Meeting at Concord Church 6808 Pastor Bailey Dr. 7pm-8pm.

Marvelous Marriage Monday’s at Friendship-West Baptist Church 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. Dallas. 7pm-8:30pm 1st & 3rd Monday Info: covent@friendshipwest.org.

Hamilton in Dallas at Music Hall Fair Park 909 1st Ave. Dallas Dates & times vary.

Tickets: allmusicaltickets.info 4-2-5-5-19.

All You Can Eat Crawfish! at The Oasis at Joe Pool Lake 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy. Grand Prairie. 6pm-8pm. Tue & Thur.

Sip & Hop Adults Only Easter Egg Hunt at The Star The Star Blvd. Frisco. 6pm-9pm. Tickets: eventbrite.com.

April 19

Friendship-West Presents: Holy Week Observance 2019 at 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 6pm. Info: www.friendshipwest.org

April 17 In 1983 Alice Walker won a Pulitzer Prize for “The Color Purple”

Peoples Town Hall w/ DA John Creuzot at Texas Theatre 321 W. Jefferson Blvd. Dallas. 6:30pm8:3-pm.

DeSoto Works Job Fair at Disciple Central 901 N. Polk St. 2pm-6pm.

Free.

Neighborhood Legal Clinic at Friendship-West Baptist Church 2020 W Wheatland Rd. Dallas 5:30pm-7:30pm.

Easter Egg Hunt at Softball Complex in Audubon Park, 550 W. Oates Road. Garland. 6pm.

7pm-12am.

After 7 & more.. Tickets: www.Dfwliveevents.tix.com.

Friday Night Live Feat: Andre Taylor & Brian Wave at Sway’s Room – Inside American Celebrations 921 W. Belt Line Rd., Ste. #110, DeSoto. 9pm. Tickets: www.instaseats.com.

Star 102.1’s Second Chance Prom Feat: Tone Loc at The Statler Hotel 1914 Commerce St. Dallas, 7pm-11pm. Tickets: www.prekindle.com Trevor Noah: Loud & Clear Tour at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory 300 W. Las Colinas Blvd. Irving via Live Nation 7:30pm.

2019 Perkins BSA 7 Last words Worship Celebration at Salem Institutional Baptist Church 3918 Crozier St. Dallas 7pm-9pm.

90’s & 2000’s Hip-Hop-R&B Party at Foundation Room 2200 N. Lamar St. 10pm-2am. Fridays Happy Hour with Don Diego at Chocolate Lounge Exclusive 4222 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. 6pm-8pm. Fridays

Free Tickets! Addison Improv Stand Up Comedy Club at Addison Improv 4980 Belt Line Rd. Ste. #250 8pm-10pm.

B2K Millennium Tour 2019 Mario at The Theatre at Grand Prairie 1001 Performance Pl. 8pm. Tickets: axs.com

April 18

Americans Landscapes with Lonnie Holley Host: Soluna Festival at Dallas Museum of Art 1717 N. Harwood St. 9pm-10pm.

April 20-21

The Gospel Live: No Greater Love at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church 1808 W. Camp Wisdom Rd. Dallas Sat. 3&7pm Sun. 7:50am & 1pm.

South Oak Cliff Community Job Fair at Singing Hills Baptist Church 6550 University Hills Blvd. 10am. www.TheSHBC.org Tri-Cities NAACP Monthly Meeting at The International Museum of Cultures 411 Hwy 67, Duncanville. 7pm.

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April 20

The Black Police Association Community Town Hall Meeting at The Black Police Association of Greater Dallas 211 Centre St. Dallas 2pm.

18TH Annual Youth Empowerment Fest. Showcase & Art Competition at Kirkwood Temple CME Church 1440 Sunny Glen Dr., Dallas.

1:30pm-5:30pm. Info: Wana at 469-563-4574.

Michael Clayton Productions Presents: Brunch On Top Host Comedian Tony King at Southside On Lamar Roof Top 1409 S. Lamar St. 4pm-8pm.

School Daze Day Party Host: Ft. Worth Alumni Ch. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority at Landmark Bar & Kitchen 3008 Bledsoe St. Ft. Worth. Tickets: www.fortworthdst.org

April 21

Easter Sunday

Friendship-West Presents: Resurrection Sunday He Is Risen at 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 7:30am, 9:45am, 12pm.

Willow Grove Baptist Church Grief Counseling at 1222 W. Kiest Blvd., Dallas Info call, Kim Fincher at 214-371-7325.

5:30pm.

Easter with Dallas Black Dance Theatre & St. Paul Fine Art Ministry at St. Paul UMC 1816 Roth St. Dallas 7am-9am.

I Am Beautiful Stage Play Screening Party at Studio Movie Grill 225 Merchants Way Arlington. 7:45pm-10:45pm.

Tickets: eventbrite.com.

Dallas Dinner Party at JC’s Event Center 901 N. Polk St. Ste. #370 DeSoto. 7:30-10:30pm. Tickets: www.grandexhibit.com.

Monday Jazz Happy Hour w/ Willis Duo at The Balcony Club 1825 Abrams Rd. Dallas 6pm-8pm. Tickets: eventbrite.com.

April 26

Al Green at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory 300 W. Las Colinas Blvd.

Irving. 7:30pm.

IHCC Annual Golf Classic at Bear Creek Golf Club 3500 Bear Creek Ct. Dallas.

Fourth Friday Music Series Inside Gospel Feat: Chadney Christie, E.J. Fields & Reggie Strong at DeSoto Corner Theatre 211 Pleasant Run Rd. 7pm.

NPHC Tarrant County Greek Weekend Kickoff and Scholarship Mixer at Bar Louie 4001 Bagpiper Way Arlington 6pm-10pm.

April 23-28 BTAC 2019 Conference Journeying Together: Living in Greater Truth & Healing at Wyndham Dallas Suites 7800 Alpha Rd. 9am.

April 23

DFW/ABJ Black News Paper Form at TBAAL 1309 Canton St. 5pm-9pm.

The Jazz Jam at Jazz BeCuzz Art Center 9319 LBJ Fwy. Ste. #120.

Karaoke Night $2 Tuesday’s at Hero’s Lounge 3094 N. 35 Fwy. Dallas. 7pm-2am. Tickets: eventbrite.com.

Dallas Equity Plan w/ Mayor Casey Thomas at Friendship-West 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. 6:30pm-8pm.

April 24-28 49th Annual USA Film Festival at Angelika Film Center 5321 E. Mockingbird Ln. Dallas Tickets & Info: www.usafilmfestival. com

Porgy & Bess at Bass Performance Hall 4th & Calhoun Streets, Ft. Worth 7:30pm-10pm. Tickets: fwopera.secure. force.com.

Black Friday-DFW African American Unity Mixer at JC’s Event Center 901 N. Polk St. Ste. #370 DeSoto. 7pm-10pm.

Tickets: eventbrite.com Dominique Cares Autism Golf Awareness Tournament at Tierra Verde Golf Club 7005 Golf Club Dr. Arlington 8am.

Tickets: eventbrite.com.

9th Annual Ankara Festival at The Vineyard Event Place 2217 W. Jefferson St. Grand Prairie 9pm-3am. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

April 27

Last Day of Passover

April 24-27 The Message is in the Music Workshop & Concert at St Luke Community UMC 5710 E. R.L. Thornton Fwy. 7pm. Concert on the 27th at 4pm.

April 24

Resurrection Sunday at Westside-The Greater Works Church 900 Bellaire Blvd. Lewisville 10am-12pm.

Rise Up Easter Service at Concord Church 6808 Pastor Bailey Dr. Dallas 7am-1pm.

Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Business Mixer 5:30pm-7pm. Location: TBA Visit Website: IrvingHCC.com.

Bishop Arts Theatre’s 25th Year Anniversary Jazz Bash.

Feat: Peter White & Euge Groove At Moody Performance Hall 2520 Flora St. Dallas.

Wednesdays Swing Dance Class at Allure Jazz & Cigar Lounge 110 S. Cockrell Hill, DeSoto. 7:30pm-9:30pm. Instructor: Lady Champagne. Free before 8pm.

For the Love of Jazz & Poetry at Athletic Zone 423 Singleton Blvd. Dallas. 9pm-12am. Tickets: www.instaseats.com.

Ragge Wednesdays at Aldeez Caribbean Restaurant & Event Center 7879 Spring Valley Rd. #115 9pm-2am. Tickets: eventbrite.com

First Day of Passover

Jennifer Hudson w/ Dallas Symphony Orchestra at Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center 2301 Flora St. 8pm. Tickets: mydso.com.

Early Voting Begins

Annual Spring Revival 2019 at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1819 N. Washington Ave. Mon. & Tue. 7:309:30pm.

Smooth Funky Town Grove at will Rogers Memorial Center 3401 W. Lancaster Ave. Ft. Worth.

Neighborhood Conversations with Mayoral Candidates at Bread Winners at Inwood Village 5560 W. Lovers Ln. Dallas.

6pm-8pm.

Justice of Peace Reception Judge Shasa Moreno & Judge Mike Jones at The Auditorium a 801 W. Irving5:30pm

Divorce Reform and CPS Coffee & Politics 101 at African American Museum 3536 Grand Ave. 10am-11am.

Mimosas, Martinis & Line Dancing at Sway’s Room inside American Celebrations 921 W. Beltline Rd. Ste #110, DeSoto 2pm-6pm.

Good Friday New York Slave Revolt of 1712

Bubbling Brown Sugar at Jubilee Theatre 506 Main St. Ft. Worth. 8pm-10:15pm. Tickets: www.jubileetheatre.com March 22- April 28.

April 17-19

16th Annual “Hatting” Prayer Brunch Host: National Council of Negro Women at Renaissance Hotel 2222 N. Stemmons Fwy., Dallas. 10am.-1pm.

April 22

Jazz Brunch Sundays at Vinetti’s 14833 Midway Rd. Addison.

11am-3pm.

Soulful Sunday Brunch at The Lemonade Lounge 1411 E. Campbell Rd. Ste. #1200, Richardson. 12 noon.

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Melanin & Mimosas at Bar Louie 2973 W. 7th St. Ft. Worth, 12pm-5pm. Tickets: eventbrite.com.

April 25

Pumps & Politics: A Social Action Soiree on Women’s Issues at Paul Quinn College 3837 Simpson Stuart.

1944 UNCF was incorporated by Fredrick D. Patterson & Mary Bethune

Kids Fishing Day at Briarwood Park 1625 Belt Line Rd. DeSoto, 9am-12pm. Kids. $5.Register: www.desototexas.gov/reg.

For the Love of Poetry- Open Mic at Sway’s Room – Inside American Celebrations 921 W. Belt Line Rd., Ste. #110, DeSoto.

8:30pm-11:30pm. Tickets: www.instaseats.com.

Tea Party Girl Stay Up Host: First Lady Ebony King Guest Speaker: DeDe McGuire at 9350 Pasadena Dr. Frisco. 1pm3:30pm.

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